A remarkable piece of modernist architecture that has captivated residents of Bergerac for generations is now on the market. The Maison Pic, an iconic modernist masterpiece with avant-garde lines and a vast terrace overlooking the Dordogne River, represents a rare architectural gem in the Périgord region of France. This extraordinary 2,690-square-foot residence has been listed as a Historic Monument since 2008 and is currently owned by a British couple who have decided to put it up for sale.
Built between 1956 and 1959, the house stands as a testament to modern architectural history and showcases the innovative design principles of its era. The structure was conceived through a collaborative effort between Bergerac-based architect Georges Lacaze, the client Jean-Paul Pic, and René Fray, who handled the interior decoration. The dwelling's most striking feature is its elevated design, resting on stilts like a suspended volume that offers a unique panoramic view of the river below.
The interior design reflects the modernist philosophy of open, flowing spaces optimized for natural light and communication between rooms. The living and dining area is modular and flexible, featuring an impressive 36-foot-long glass bay window that floods the space with natural light while providing unobstructed views of the Dordogne. This expansive glazed facade serves as both a functional element and a dramatic architectural statement, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.
Jean-Paul Pic, a sculptor from Bergerac who became an industrialist, employed the most advanced construction techniques and domestic equipment available during the 1950s. According to documentation from Architecture de Collection, the firm handling the sale, the house's floor plan was specifically designed to maximize sunlight exposure and facilitate seamless flow between different living areas. Every element of the construction, both exterior and interior, was conceived as an integral part of the overall design aesthetic.
The Maison Pic's significance extends beyond its architectural merit, representing a bold departure from traditional Périgord construction styles and embodying the optimistic modernist vision of post-war France. Its designation as a Historic Monument in 2008 recognizes its importance in the evolution of contemporary French architecture and ensures its preservation for future generations.
