A reinforced concrete church? What a strange idea! It’s true that, at first glance, Notre Dame du Raincy is anything but classic. This grey cement chapel is the first of its kind in France. Behind this idea, somewhat audacious for its time, is the genius architect Auguste Perret. A true pioneer in the use of “aesthetic” concrete, Le Corbusier’s former master was undeniably one of the most important architects of the XXᵉ century. However, the latter is under threat and in dire need of renovation…
Notre Dame du Raincy: a stunning chapel 45 minutes from Paris
In the 1920s, when Art Nouveau was in full swing, Auguste Perret chose to work with a raw material that was not considered noble at the time: concrete. An unconventional choice for a chapel, yet one that had a major advantage at the time: its price. Indeed, in the aftermath of the First World War, finances were far from flourishing… Ashlar was far more expensive than reinforced concrete, making it an obvious choice. What’s more, the architect was already experienced, having used concrete to build the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées from 1911 to 1913.
The Gothic-inspired building took just over a year to complete, from April 1922 to June 1923. Thanks to its sealed light walls, enhanced by hand-painted stained glass windows by artist Maurice Denis, the church gains in luminosity and lightness. Moreover, the choice of colors was not left to chance: different shades of blue are found around the entrance, fading to warmer tones in the sanctuary. An ingenious and subtle way of renewing the dialogue with the divine. A feast for the eyes, contrasting with the cold, austere look of concrete. As the sun shines, the light changes, giving these places a truly unique atmosphere.
A masterpiece under threat…
Unfortunately, this historic church is in urgent need of serious renovation. Over the years, the concrete surface has cracked, the stained glass putty is cracking and the iron fittings are corroding…Regular exhibitions, concerts and conferences are organized to collect donations, which are reinvested in the restoration of the church and its steeple.
So, if you too would like to support the restoration of the “Sainte-Chapelle du béton armé”, you can make a donation here. So far, 18,200 euros have been raised! The goal is to raise 30,000 euros.
📍 Location: 83 Avenue de la Résistance 93340 Le Raincy