The Heritage Days 2026, held over the weekend of September 19 and 20, once again invite Île-de-France residents to step behind the doors of unusual venues. Among them is La Hublotière, also known as Villa Berthe, in Le Vésinet, Yvelines. Behind its distinctive name lies one of the early major works of Hector Guimard, the architect who became famous for the iconic entrances to the Paris Metro. A fine opportunity to discover a building that marked the beginnings of Art Nouveau in the Île-de-France region.
Built in 1896, La Hublotière is regarded as the Guimard’s first Art Nouveau villa. While its architecture still carries hints of Neo-Gothic influence, it already reveals the signature traits of the architect: sinuous lines inspired by the plant world, flowing wrought-iron details, a keen attention to light, and a philosophy of designing the house as a cohesive whole where architecture and decoration dialogue with each other. This approach, which Guimard would later call the “Guimard style”, is expressed both outside and inside the residence.
Visit La Hublotière, Hector Guimard's Art Nouveau villa, this summer 2026 in the Yvelines.
Do you know Hublotière? This Art Nouveau villa, designed by Hector Guimard, hides in the heart of Le Vésinet in the Yvelines. Although it is inhabited year-round, it opens its doors to the public each summer, for just a few euros. [Read more]
The villa owes its nickname « Hublotière » to its small circular skylights evoking portholes, an architectural detail that has, over time, become its true signature. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1979, it remains a private property and opens to the public only on rare occasions.
La Hublotière opens during the Heritage Days, offering a clearer view of how Art Nouveau evolved in Île-de-France and a fresh look at the work of Hector Guimard beyond his iconic Paris Metro entrances. Nestled in the green setting of the garden city of Le Vésinet, this villa embodies a period when architecture strove to combine beauty, innovation and everyday comfort, cementing its place as one of the most distinctive gems of Yvelines’ heritage.
Guided tour of Hublotière
Guided tour of La Hublotière led by its owners.
Information: lahublotiere.com
Participation terms: Special rate | No reservation required
Schedule : Saturday, September 19, 2026 – 08:30 to 14:30 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 – 08:30 to 14:30
And for more ideas on things to do around town, head here:
During the Heritage Days on September 19–20, 2026, stop by Le Vésinet, a true green oasis just outside Paris. Start planning now with the schedule of activities and tours in the charming commune of the Yvelines! [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Prices
Free
Visit La Hublotière, Hector Guimard's Art Nouveau villa, this summer 2026 in the Yvelines.
Heritage Days 2026: hidden historic gems tucked away in lush greenery in Le Vésinet (78)
