Tadao Ando's redesign of Paris' La Bourse de Commerce integrates a minimalist, cylindrical concrete wall within a historic rotunda, creating a space where architectural heritage meets contemporary art.
The project, which began in 2017 and concluded in 2020, revives the building as a space for contemporary art while preserving its architectural heritage. Originally a grain exchange, and later a stock exchange, the structure embodies layers of history, from the 16th-century residence of Catherine de Medici to its 19th-century metal and glass cupola. Today, it stands as a symbol of the dialogue between the past and present.
Ando's redesign deftly introduces contemporary architectural elements into the historical framework of the La Bourse de Commerce. At the heart of his intervention is a striking 29-meter-wide, nine-meter-tall cylindrical concrete wall, inserted into the central rotunda beneath the building’s iconic glass dome. This modernist gesture creates a dramatic yet harmonious contrast with the building’s classical structure, setting the stage for the exhibition of François Pinault’s extensive contemporary art collection. Ando’s minimalist approach amplifies the historical resonance of the space while carving out an innovative, contemplative environment for art.
The interior design, orchestrated by the Bouroullec brothers, complements Ando's architectural vision. They introduced sleek, industrial elements, such as wrought iron in the restaurant and minimalist metal furnishings throughout the exhibition areas. The dialogue between the old and the new is further enhanced by these subtle, thoughtful additions, underscoring the building’s transformation into a contemporary cultural landmark. Visitors are invited to engage with not only the artwork but also the very structure of the building, as they ascend concrete staircases that wrap around Ando’s cylindrical insert, offering views of the glass oculus and 19th-century murals.
By embedding a bold new form within the historic architecture, Ando’s design offers a space where heritage and contemporary art can coexist and converse. The building’s revival not only enriches Paris’ cultural landscape but also reaffirms the city’s commitment to preserving its architectural past while embracing the future of artistic expression.
