Step inside the Grand Palais during Paris Design Week and you’ll find uchronia‘s towering floral installation by French design studio Uchronia. Known as “Le Grand Bouquet,” this piece sits at the heart of the Antin Rotunda, captivating visitors with its vibrant and surreal presence.
An Architectural Dialogue with the Piece
This impressive sculpture is not just an art piece; it’s a conversation with the historic architecture around it. Uchronia’s founder, Julien Sebban, worked with the Grand Palais and Paris Design Week to ensure that the installation wouldn’t just occupy the space but would complement it. Drawing inspiration from the intricate mosaic floors and decorative mouldings, the sculpture’s stylised petals rise from the floor and lead the eye up to the ornate ceiling. The floral design naturally integrates into this historic setting, creating a seamless blend of past and present.
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Craftsmanship and the Masterpiece
Creating “Le Grand Bouquet” was a highly collaborative process, pulling in expertise from various French artisans. Atelier François Pouenat crafted the internal metal structure, giving the piece its generous and playful form. Pulling from their expertise, PPG Group‘s Seigneurie provided Chromatic paint for a luminous finish that captures the installation’s joyous spirit. This floral presence adds an extra layer of vibrancy to the setting.
The base of the sculpture is encircled by inviting circular beds crafted by Tréca Paris. Their plush upholstery was done by silk weaver Manufacture Prelle, offering visitors a tactile experience while they pause to absorb their surroundings.
Interactive and Inviting Floral Arrangement
“Le Grand Bouquet” is more than just a visual spectacle. It incorporates furniture created for Tiptoe, including tables with durable FENIX surfaces made by Arpa Industriale, ensuring visitors can fully engage with the space. Along with this, a vibrant inflatable structure outside invites people into this colorful world. The towering arrangement serves as both a physical and a thematic centerpiece of the exhibition, drawing attention and admiration.
A Celebration of Joy and Craftsmanship
This exhibit, free to visit, is a key feature of the Grand Palais Design and Arts and Crafts Boutique, showcasing exclusive works that celebrate craftsmanship. Following a major renovation by Chatillon Architectes, the Palais is enjoying a new vibrancy that this installation captures beautifully through its innovative design.
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The exhibit stands from 11 to 20 September and embodies Uchronia’s playful and colorful aesthetic. It’s a celebration of joy, imagination, and shared experiences, acting as a form of resistance to life’s uncertainties. Founded in 2019, Uchronia has a history of creating provocative, emotion-driven designs, such as a monumental bed for a previous Paris Design Week and unique interior spaces across the globe. This floral work always promises to surprise and delight its audience.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the name of Uchronia’s installation at Paris Design Week?
The installation is named ‘Le Grand Bouquet.’
Who collaborated on creating ‘Le Grand Bouquet’?
Creating ‘Le Grand Bouquet’ involved a highly collaborative process, with contributions from Atelier François Pouenat for the metal structure, PPG Group’s Seigneurie for the paint, and Tréca Paris for the crafted circular beds, upholstered by silk weaver Manufacture Prelle.
When is the ‘Le Grand Bouquet’ exhibit open to the public?
The exhibit is open to the public from 11 to 20 September.