La Grande-Motte, a resort town in southern France, originally constructed between the 1960s and 1970s, is gaining renewed popularity among modern architecture enthusiasts. Situated a short drive from Montpellier, the town was initially developed as part of a government effort to keep French holidaymakers from travelling to Spain’s Costa Brava. Its distinctive design, influenced by Mayan pyramids and futuristic aesthetics, is attracting new visitors.
A Unique Architectural Vision
The vision behind the town’s creation belonged to architect Jean Balladur, who drew inspiration from ancient Mesoamerican pyramids and imagined futuristic living spaces. The result was a series of modernist structures with futuristic curves, breaking away from traditional architecture. La Grande-Motte, with its lack of typical right angles and its intergalactic design, was designed to stand out as an alternative to other French beach destinations.
A New Cultural Hotspot
Despite undergoing periods of decline, La Grande-Motte is experiencing a resurgence, appealing to the younger generations of families who first owned properties there. Fashion designer Simon Porte Jacquemus, inspired by the town’s unique character, highlighted its “trashy reputation” while recalling his childhood holidays there as inspiring. This revival aligns with broader rediscoveries of cultural and architectural value in retro locations.
Modern Amenities with Vintage Charm
Visitors today can enjoy the town’s blend of historical and contemporary offerings. The Hotel Le Quetzal, a three-star establishment dating back to the original development phase, offers a nostalgic 1970s vibe with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy their meals from nearby eateries, like L’Atelier de la Pizza, on their balconies designed as optical illusions. The hotel’s design features theatre box-style balconies, enhancing the architectural experience.
An Architectural Playground
La Grande-Motte offers an array of intriguing sights from its open-air theatre, designed to host shows, to its striking religious architecture, such as Saint-Augustin’s church. Its promenade is adorned with solar-powered features and environmental sculptures by artist Joséphine Chevry, originally intended as wind breakers and now partially buried in sand. These elements contribute to the town’s distinct landscape.
A Must-Visit Destination
For visitors, La Grande-Motte not only offers sunny beaches awarded for their environmental management but also an opportunity to immerse themselves in a bygone architectural era. With its pedestrian pathways, cycle routes, and thousands of trees, the town is a showcase of forward-thinking urban design. This retro futurist vision remains an unparalleled exploration of how past architectural dreams envisaged the future.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.