Discover the Stunning Art Deco Architecture of Aix-en-Provence

What is the typical architecture of Aix-en-Provence? It’s a mix of architectural styles, including Roman, Romanesque, Gothic, Haussmann style, and contemporary. The city has a rich history reflected in its architectural elements, ranging from Roman baths and Gothic churches to the organized grid pattern of the 17th-century Quartier Mazarin. Yet it might be surprising to know that there are also several examples of Art Deco design buildings from the 1930s in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.

During the 2025 edition of the Journées Nationales de l’Architecture, the association Atelier Devenir conducted a guided architectural tour that highlighted Art Deco-style buildings. We extend our gratitude to L’association Atelier Devenir for sharing the information below, which includes insights on Art Deco architecture in Aix and details about the tour.

What is L’association Atelier Devenir?

Founded in the early 1990s, the Atelier Devenir association is a think tank comprising more than 40 architects, urban planners, and city stakeholders. The organization’s mission is to fuel public debate on urban development and encourage reflection on urban and architectural projects in Aix-en-Provence, the Pays d’Aix region and the Aix-Marseille metropolitan area.

Atelier Devenir’s mission is to promote an authentic urban project that includes the development of business parks and suburban areas, urban renewal, urban densification, and the revitalization of public spaces. Their efforts aim to enhance the living environment and mobility while organizing neighborhood centers to rekindle the joy of city life. Their commitment and vision inspire optimism for the future of urban development in Aix-en-Provence and Pays d’Aix.

What is Art Deco Architecture?

Art Deco is an architectural style that emerged in France between the two World Wars, featuring distinctive characteristics. Unlike Art Nouveau, it emphasizes simpler geometric lines and symmetrical design in staircases, windows, and decorative elements. Street-facing facades are often elaborately adorned, while non-public sides are more straightforward. Common materials include reinforced concrete, molded stone, and elements like bas-reliefs and wrought iron. Understanding these features enhances your appreciation of Art Deco architecture.

Image ©l’association Atelier Devenir

The Art Deco Tour

On October 17, 2025, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Journées Nationales de l’Architecture, the Atelier Devenir association organized a visit to explore 1930s architecture in the Parc Jourdan neighborhood of Aix-en-Provence. This era, significantly influenced by the Art Deco movement, played a vital role in the city’s urban aesthetics and social identity.

Image ©l’association Atelier Devenir

Key sites feature notable works by architects such as Gaston Castel, Fernand Pouillon, Jean Louis Sourdeau, and Georges Salomon. These architects were influential in the Art Deco movement, each offering unique designs and ideas.

The tour, organized by the Atelier Devenir association, aimed to raise awareness and appreciation for the architectural style. Art Deco is defined by geometric forms, decorative facades, and modern materials. It offered an in-depth exploration of 1930s architecture in Aix, emphasizing the importance of Art Deco in shaping urban aesthetics and social identity during that period.

Art Deco Highlights in Aix

• 6 Avenue du Parc: Designed by Jean Perrier. This six-story building features a bow window and rich hall finishes, emphasizing social status.
• 10/12 Boulevard du Roi René: Two adjoining buildings by Georges Salomon exhibit symmetrical designs and Art Deco ironwork, with the corner building showcasing a bow window.
• 23 Avenue Victor Hugo (Palais Victor Hugo): A six-story structure by Fernand Pouillon and Henri Enjouvin. Of note is the building’s stone facade and rounded balconies, exemplifying rationalist Art Deco.
• 30 Avenue Victor Hugo: This building, designed by Sourdeau and Huot, features a distinctive facade with bow windows and sculptural details.
• Cité Gontard: A modest housing project by Gaston Castel, showcasing functionality and simplicity in design, with a central courtyard and arcade entrance.
• Palais Albert 1er: Another Pouillon creation. A six-story building featuring a central balcony and regionalist Art Deco style.
• Cité Universitaire Abram: Designed by Castel. This university residence combines modern materials with distinctive architectural features, including rounded projections and a unique roof design.

Image ©l’association Atelier Devenir

Contact information for Atelier Devenir

Atelier Devenir is a non-profit organization based in Aix-en-Provence. For more information and details on upcoming events please consult the website:

Facebook page Atelier Devenir

Instagram @atelier.devenir

Journées nationales de l’architecture (takes place in October) website.

Aix-en-Provence City Guide for Visitors

Full day Bandol & Cassis Discovery Wine Tour from Marseille

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).