Should large housing complexes and high-rise buildings be classified?
Architects and associations in France advocate for the recognition of 20th-century concrete architecture, despite its negative image from the 1960s.
In France, a movement is underway to recognize the architectural significance of large housing complexes and high-rise buildings from the 20th century, particularly those built during the 1960s. One specific case is the 6-28 building on Rue du Commandant-Mouchotte in Paris, which was constructed between 1954 and 1964 by architect Jean Dubuisson. The building features a long faΓ§ade with thousands of identical windows creating a kinetic art effect, representing a period when Paris embraced modernity and concrete as a solution to urban housing needs.
The call for classification as a historic monument is spearheaded by the association Sauvons Mouchotte, which has initiated efforts to preserve this piece of architectural heritage. The debate highlights the evolving perception of mid-century architecture, as many of these structures are often seen as unattractive or representative of urban blight rather than valued historical assets. Advocates argue that these buildings tell an essential story about the architectural and social ambitions of post-war France.
The outcome of this campaign could have broader implications for how modern architecture is appreciated in the context of French heritage. By classifying such buildings as historic, it would not only acknowledge their architectural merit but also could influence future urban development and preservation policies in France, reflecting changing attitudes toward 20th-century design and its place in the historical narrative of the nation.