Jean Prouve Facade element in enemal France 1965 grey

This rare facade element designed by Jean Prouvé was created for the André-Argouges high school in Grenoble, France, in 1965. Made from enamelled metal with internal insulation, this piece is part of a modular system that Prouvé developed for the school’s architecture. The system consists of three types of panels: one with fixed glazing, one with a sliding window, and one solid panel like this example. These interchangeable panels are attached to the façade mullions of various buildings according to specific interior needs. This flexibility allows for both a cohesive architectural appearance when using a single module and a dynamic visual rhythm through a varied arrangement of panels and colors.

The glazed panels are constructed from drawn aluminum sections, while the solid panels have an external facing of steel, kiln-lacquered or enamelled, with internal insulation and a wood interior facing. This particular facade element showcases the innovative approach of Prouvé to architectural design, where functionality and aesthetics meet. It’s a unique piece that represents Prouvé’s commitment to modular design and adaptability. Besides the enamelled metal panel available in this listing, there’s another similar panel in white, reflecting the varied color palette that could be achieved within this modular system. As an architectural artifact, this facade element is not only functional but also decorative, offering an intriguing glimpse into the design evolution of 1960s France. Whether used as an architectural piece or as a collector’s item, this facade element carries the legacy of Prouvé’s innovative design principles.