Paris-based architecture firms Freaks Freearchitects, in association with New York–based firm SO-IL, won a competition to reenvision the Site Verrier in Meisenthal, France, a village known for its premier glassmaking—most notably Christmas decorations—since the 18th century.
The site, located in the country’s Lorraine region, consists of three entities: a museum (Musee du verre de Meisenthal) opened in 1983, which focuses on the site’s rich history in glass; an international glass art center, opened in 1992, where age-old craftsmanship is still respected; and the Cadhame, opened in 1996, which is a large warehouse space that hosts events throughout the year and can hold more than 3,000 people.
The redesign aims to bring Meisenthal’s cultural relevance back to where it stood in past centuries, with adaptable spaces to host a multitude of events, both indoors and outdoors, such as theaters and a Christmas market. Harnessing the site’s historical significance as a backdrop, the firms are hoping a new architectural dialogue will in turn cultivate a fresh identity.
