| Architect |
M. Patrice
Bonnet |
| Date
Built |
1925 |
| Location |
17 Queensberry Place |
| Description |
|
Number 17
Queensberry Way is part of a complex of
buildings on a site in South Kensington that
are home to the Institut français du
Royaume-Uni, founded in 1910. The
institute offers a language centre, a
multi-media library, a cinema, and a French
bistro. The Institute says that, "At
the heart of (our) mission is the
teaching of the French language. The
language centre, which attracts 7000
students every year, offers traditional
language courses as well as business
French and courses on various aspects of
French culture and current affairs." Number 17 is a Grade II Listed Art Deco building designed by M. Patrice Bonnet, the architect-in-chief to the French Government and architect-conservateur of the Palaces of Versailles and the Trianon. The building is constructed of red brick and cream faience with complex three-dimensional geometric designs in the brickwork. The ceramics that decorate the facade were made in France and sent to London to be put in place. At the top of the building on Queensberry Way are, ".... the graces of Minerva, the Goddess of Intelligence: the owl, the asp, the cockerel and the branch of Olive-wood symbolizing wisdom, knowledge, courage and peace."  The Institute's name is displayed in ceramic letters above a row of first floor windows that are separated by ceramic columns with a woven design.    |
|
|
Institut
Francais, South Kensington, London
 |
