Built at Jas de Bouffan, west of Aix-en-Provence, the Fondation Vasarely's architectonic centre is a listed Historic Monument and carries the Musee de France designation. Its premise is radical: seven hexagonal alveoli of one hundred and seventy square metres each, wholly occupied by Victor Vasarely's monumental integrations. You do not look at hung paintings here, you step inside the work.
The foundation offers these spaces for private hire, singly or in combination. Beyond the alveoli, it lists a conference hall that can be reconfigured for other formats, a meeting room, Victor Vasarely's former office with its adjoining patio, a cafeteria suited to small gatherings, and three hectares of grounds looking out to the hills. Seminars, gala dinners, receptions and discreet meetings each find volumes of a very different character.
Other experiences in Vieux-Port de Marseille
At Le Puy-Sainte-Reparade, a biodynamic wine estate where Jean Nouvel's cellar and a contemporary art trail answer one another.
Food & VineyardsLe Petit Nice Passedat, the table above the coveAbove the anse de Maldorme, below the corniche Kennedy, a Marseille house whose dining room and terrace can be hired for small groups.
Shopping & CraftsmanshipSavonnerie Fer a Cheval, cauldron-made soapA Marseille soap works active since 1856, listed as a Historic Monument, which receives constituted groups at its Sainte-Marthe site.
Shopping & CraftsmanshipAteliers Marcel Carbonel, the santon maker's craftIn the Saint-Victor district, a house of santon makers opens its production workshops, by appointment only and from Monday to Thursday.
Culture & HeritageHotel de Caumont, the privatised town houseA town house in Aix-en-Provence's Mazarin quarter whose salons, auditorium and formal gardens can be hired once the site closes to the public.