The author of this organic madness? Antti Lovag, a visionary Hungarian artist who defines himself as an “habitatologist”. In 1977, he was entrusted the construction of this unique project by Pierre Bernard, a rich industrial type… who unfortunately died before it was finished. So, seduced by the site, Pierre Cardin bought it up in the early 90s and called on the architect to finish the project. The inventor of futuristic fashion, creator of the bubble dress, obsessed with roundness, affirms: “This house corresponded to my emotions, to what I had in the deepest depths of myself. I love this house, as natural as a matrix. Ever since my beginnings in fashion, roundness has remained constant. It symbolizes infinity, perpetual movement, perfection, in short, life.”
The “theoretical” starting point here is a desire to create an envelope for the practical daily needs in the life of man. Conviviality, a harmonious relationship with nature, functionality, and comfort. The interior is composed of spatial sequences with an organic and matrix-like spirit, heavily relying on marble and stone. Neither angles nor sharp corners, everything is round: the doors, tables, beds, bathtubs, and even the television! Also round are the two interior swimming pools and the amphitheater that Pierre Cardin had built last. “It was the first round house in history to spread out over such a surface. There exists nothing like it. It’s truly unique.” In 1999, the Palais Bulles was officially labelled a historical monument in France. It is today one of Monsieur Cardin’s private residences. Raf Simons, creative director for Dior, chose the emblematic Palais to present his Cruise collection this year.
It’s a return to the roots for the couturier, who originally worked for Christian Dior at the beginning of his career in 1946. “I was the Dior brand’s first employee! And for three whole years too.” And so great minds unite, memories intertwine, and silhouettes go down the runway in this truly unique place: the Palais Bulles.
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