A rural haven of peace where the glories of the café-concert and the boards used to rehearse their lines between two flowering avenues? This is the singular backdrop that houses the Maison de retraite des artistes de Couilly-Pont-aux-Dames, tucked in the heart of the vallée du Grand Morin in Seine-et-Marne.
The National Architecture Days return from 16 to 18 October 2026 to animate Paris and the Île-de-France. This cultural event invites everyone to lift their eyes from their surroundings, to understand the art of building, and to open the gates to exceptional properties. On the fringe of the loops along the Marne, this century-old institution tells a compelling story of solidarity in support of live performance.
Founded at the very dawn of the 20th century at the initiative of the comic singer Armand Dranem, the house opened its doors in 1905 on the site of a former Cistercian abbey. The main pavilion belongs to the eclectic Francilienne resort architecture, very fashionable in the early 1900s. This style is characterized by the use of local meulière rubble stones paired with decorative brickwork in red brick, tall, hipped roofs crowned with cresting and expansive glass galleries designed to bring in the natural light from the surrounding wooded park.
The sprawling, tree-filled park hides a string of delightful surprises, including an unexpected open-air theatre. It is said that Sarah Bernhardt, a longtime friend of the house, would rehearse tragic monologues after nightfall, while Jean Gabin would discreetly leave generous tips during his Sunday visits.
Visit to the Artists' Retirement Home
### Tour of the Artists' Retirement Home
The Artists' Retirement Home has been designated a Regional Heritage of Interest by the Île-de-France region. This work by architect René Binet, who created the monumental gate for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, showcases an Art Nouveau marvel. Expect to be impressed by its social purpose and its distinctive architecture.
Participation requirements: Free | Booking required - 0637091607, musee@mnataylor.fr
Schedule: Saturday, October 17, 2026 — 11:00 ⤏ 12:00
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Dates and Opening Time
On October 17, 2026
Location
Artists' retirement home
30 Avenue Constant Coquelin
77860 Couilly Pont Aux Dames
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