Manuel Nùñez Yanowsky adds a sculptural touch to a residential complex in Villaroy, France. Les Caryatides features classical statues against a backdrop of modernist forms. It reflects on the cultural heritage of Paris as it infuses new developments with a time-tested twist.
Drawing from design practices of ancient times, a caryatid is a sculpted female figure that acts as structural support for buildings. This motif returned to prominence during the European Renaissance period and was deeper ingrained into other architectural features (Ex. Fireplace, doors, etc.).
Les Caryatides draws upon this design technique with a new perspective. Yanowsky’s previous projects, such as the Hotel de Police project in Paris, reflects his acumen in working in statues into modern structures. Commissioned by Logement Francais cie, the designer’s objective was to design a structure that would add an artistic touch to the area.
Yanowsky skillfully proportions the structure in response to its immediate vicinity. Each caryatid establishes a strong presence as they strategically take advantage of the corner lot. Directly opposite as well is the Renault Technocentre, a leading automotive R&D center in Europe.
The building itself features a rectilinear form typical of the International Style of architecture. Architectonic concrete clads the exterior with solidity and durability. Large windows, balconies, and openings, especially in the lower floors, overlook the inner garden. Contextually, the building itself appears to set itself back quite extensively from the street. It makes room for the grandeur of the sculptures to be fully appreciated.
Les Caryatides features 18 magnificent caryatids patterned from the iconic Venus de Milo. These statues appear to carry the weight of the building on their shoulders. Artisans meticulously crafted them from resin and color matched it to the ile de France stone.
The raw and industrial aesthetic of the concrete juxtaposes against the refined elegance of the resin sculptures. It captivates with its interplay of textures and forms of workmanship. The attention to detail involved goes to show how architecture can fit in a component of high art.
The design clearly showcases how art and architecture can unite in symbiosis. Les Caryatides brings together these two distinct aesthetics, classical and modernist, in dialogue with its locality. The utilization of art forms and the potential for architecture to become a work of art in itself.
Read more: The Heart of an Artist: Who is Jefrë
Photo credit: GIAIME MELONI
Contemporary design refers to the constantly evolving design trends of today. With the power to design our built environments, architects have been experimenting with various architectural approaches. Whether that is through unconventional forms or the integration of smart technologies, BluPrint lists down Filipino architects who are defining contemporary architecture. Deo Alam Architect Deo Alrashid Alam […]
In the Philippines, adaptive reuse gained traction during the 1970s with the rise of conservation and environmental preservation movements. It offered an architectural solution that reuses existing spaces to fit modern needs. Across the country, several projects demonstrate how this approach is being applied—transforming heritage structures into active spaces for culture, hospitality, and community life. […]
From residential spaces to civic structures, lighting dictates the mood of a space. It controls the visual dynamics of an interior, serving as a guiding tool that highlights key design elements, including materials and textures. Related Reading: Lampscaping: How to Light up Your Home like a Pro Regulating the Mood: Natural and Artificial Light in […]
More and more Filipinos are flocking to condominium communities. Often tucked within busy city centers, condo living acts as a small respite from urban chaos. Faced with the challenge of transforming a cramped condominium into a warm living space, BluPrint lists condo interior design ideas that can maximize each square foot of small spaces. Purposeful […]
Modern bathrooms are no longer purely functional spaces. Increasingly, they are being designed as environments that support cleanliness, ease, and quiet restoration within the home. As daily life becomes more demanding and health awareness continues to rise, homeowners are beginning to expect more from the spaces where daily rituals begin and end. For architects and […]
From the moment a diner steps through the door, each detail shapes how a meal is experienced. Restaurant design has evolved, with architects and culinary professionals collaborating to create built spaces that are as intentional as the menu itself. The spatial atmosphere acts as an additional ingredient that can define the culinary experience. Taupe and […]
