Designed by Alvar Aalto in 1959, Maison Louis Carré was classified as an important historic building in 1996. It is protected in France by law and is now owned by the Association Alvar Aalto en France.
In the commune of Bazoches-sur-Guyonnes, about 40 kilometers southwest of Paris, sits one of the most important private houses designed by Alvar Aalto: Maison Louis Carré. The client, Louis Carré, was a prominent French art dealer who was also very interested in architecture. He desired a house that would be able to accommodate many guests for art viewings, but also incorporated a private component. He commissioned Aalto to design his house in 1956, and Louis Carré and his wife, Olga, were able to move into their new home three years later.
As in many of his other works, Aalto created a complete work of art with Maison Louis Carré, combining buildings, garden, furniture, and interior design. Much of the furniture and light fixtures in the house were specifically designed just for this building. Aalto included many subtle, yet substantial details as well, both interior and exterior. A swimming pool, a plant-room building, and a garage are all located behind the house.
