Coco Chanel’s Iconic Villa La Pausa Reopens for Artists

ROQUEBRUNE-CAP-MARTIN, France — In the 1930s, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s villa, La Pausa, was a creative haven for innovators like painter Salvador Dalí, filmmaker Luchino Visconti, and writer Colette. After extensive renovations, this historic villa is set to reopen next month, inviting artists to engage in its serene surroundings once more.

The Reimagining of La Pausa

Peter Marino, an esteemed architect with over thirty years of collaboration with Chanel, meticulously restored the interiors of La Pausa. By examining numerous archival photos, he has recreated its original ambience, featuring elements such as a mirrored bathroom that reflects the aesthetic of her Parisian couture salon’s Art Deco staircase.

A Peaceful Retreat

Though the villa captures echoes of Chanel’s glamorous fashion empire, it was born out of her desire for tranquility. Constructed as a personal refuge, Chanel cherished midnight train rides from Paris to Monte-Carlo, arriving just in time for dinner. During a recent visit, the villa’s serene olive grove, with panoramic views stretching from Monaco to the Italian Riviera, was punctuated only by birdsong.

Welcoming Back Artists

Next month, La Pausa will host a select group of art world luminaries following the Art Basel fair in Switzerland, paving the way for its inaugural writers’ retreat set for November. Chanel envisioned La Pausa as a sanctuary for reflection and creativity, a space free from daily distractions where artists could gather to innovate and inspire one another.

A Commitment to Cultural Heritage

Chanel’s legacy continues under the guidance of Yana Peel, president of arts, culture, and heritage at Chanel. Peel envisions La Pausa as a space to nurture new ideas and facilitate cultural exchange, extending the elevated hospitality Chanel once offered. The villa is among several heritage sites supported by the Chanel Culture Fund, which champions long-term artistic projects in collaboration with curators and institutions.

The Architectural Marvel of La Pausa

Chanel commissioned Belgian architect Robert Streitz to construct La Pausa in 1928, ensuring that no trees would be uprooted during its development. The design features a cloister-like patio and a grand entry hall that showcases Chanel’s affinity for the Italian Renaissance. Her preference for minimalist aesthetics, shaped by her teenage years at an austere convent, is evident throughout the villa.

A Legacy of Artistic Collaboration

The villa has hosted notable artists such as Dalí, who found refuge here during the Spanish Civil War, completing eleven significant paintings while staying in the charming guesthouse. Now, with modern updates—including renovated plumbing and guest accommodations—La Pausa is ready to inspire a new generation of creators. The resident chef, trained at a Michelin-star restaurant, will provide locally sourced culinary experiences for guests.

A Special Place for Inspiration

As La Pausa reopens its doors, it continues to embody the spirit of collaboration and creativity that Chanel fostered. Inviting both established artists and Chanel’s creative teams to draw inspiration from its picturesque setting, the villa remains a special and intimate space, cherished not only as a historical landmark but as a contemporary haven for artistic exploration.