On the legendary Croisette, where the Mediterranean waves lap the shore and palm trees sway lazily in the breeze, Malmaison is reborn. More than a simple renovation, it is a metamorphosis that restores this historic 19th-century landmark to its former glory while infusing it with a bold modernity. A true showcase dedicated to contemporary art, Malmaison opens its doors, offering visitors a unique immersive and sensory experience.

An architectural renaissance between heritage and modernity

The walls, steeped in history, seem to whisper the stories of artists and passersby of yesteryear. Nelson Wilmotte, who led the architectural project, masterfully combined respect for heritage with contemporary innovation. Oak wood and Chassagne Beauharnais stone converse with bright, uncluttered spaces. "Preserving the charm while modernizing was the challenge," explains the architect. A challenge met: the 600 square meters of exhibition space, spread over three floors, reveal a fluid circulation and a masterful lighting of the artworks.

"Luxury, calm and pleasure": an inaugural exhibition that invites escape

To celebrate its reopening, Malmaison is hosting the exhibition "Luxury, Calm, and Pleasure" until April 20, 2025. Inspired by Baudelaire's verses, this artistic journey is an invitation to travel, both geographically and sensorially. The 129 works, by 56 modern and contemporary artists, unfold like windows opening onto the Mediterranean. Visitors lose themselves in Monet's deep blues, are soothed by the gentleness of Renoir, before being surprised by the vibrant modernity of canvases by Robert Combas or Karine Rougier.

Each floor offers a different immersive experience. The ground floor plunges visitors into the Mediterranean golden age, an imaginary world where leisure becomes an art of living. On the first floor, the cities of the South are revealed through brushstrokes that are sometimes realistic, sometimes abstract, while the top floor opens its bay windows wide onto the sea, echoing the vibrant landscapes adorning the walls.

An artistic experience beyond the gallery walls

But Malmaison is much more than an exhibition space; it's a vibrant place, designed for encounters and sharing. From the rooftop, the view encompasses the Bay of Cannes, the sparkling waters seeming to echo the works displayed inside. The tea room invites you to pause, while the bookstore is brimming with literary treasures to extend the artistic experience.

For younger visitors, cultural mediation workshops are offered, making Malmaison a place of awakening and discovery. "We wanted everyone, regardless of age, to find here a space for dialogue with art," explains Hanna Baudet, director of the center.

Cannes, a burgeoning cultural hub

Alongside the renowned Cannes Film Festival, the city is enriching its artistic and tourist offerings. "Culture is the soul of a city. Through Malmaison, we want to offer our residents and visitors from around the world a place for contemplation, emotion, and reflection," declares David Lisnard, Mayor of Cannes.

This ambition is part of a broader dynamic of heritage enhancement and the development of innovative cultural projects. La Malmaison has now established itself as an essential destination for contemporary art enthusiasts and those seeking beauty.