The house is often referred to as 'Villa Jika,' named after the initials of Louis Majorelle (J.K. for Jean-Louis-Joseph Majorelle and his wife Marie-Jeanne Kretz).
It was the first house in Nancy built entirely in the Art Nouveau style, marking a departure from the city's traditional neoclassical buildings.
The staircase is considered a masterpiece of metalwork, featuring a sinuous design that reflects the plant-inspired aesthetics of the era.
During World War II, the villa suffered significant damage, particularly to the studio roof, requiring extensive postwar restoration efforts.
The furniture displayed within the rooms remains largely in its original, documented position from the early 1900s.
Henri Sauvage, the architect, was only 27 years old when he designed this landmark building.
The villa features a specific room dedicated to Majorelle’s artistic production, located on the top floor to maximize natural daylight.
Many of the interior decorative elements, such as the fireplace and wall paneling, were integrated into the architecture rather than being added as independent furniture.
Villa Majorelle is the foundational icon of the École de Nancy, representing the pinnacle of French Art Nouveau domestic architecture. Designed by architect Henri Sauvage and completed in 1902, the villa was commissioned by furniture designer Louis Majorelle as his personal residence and studio. The exterior features a distinctive asymmetrical façade adorned with floral motifs, curved lines, and balconies that embody the 'art in everything' movement. The interior restoration highlights original furniture, ironwork, and stained glass, many of which were designed by Majorelle himself. As a museum-home, it serves as a primary reference for early 20th-century decorative arts. The building showcases the integration of structure and ornament, where iron and concrete are blended with traditional stone and brick. It remains one of the few completely preserved Art Nouveau estates open to the public in France. Its architecture prioritizes light, with large windows designed to flood the interior studios with natural illumination. The property underwent significant restoration to return its rooms to their historical 1900s state.
The main staircase view from the ground floor, which captures the curve of the banister against the stained glass windows.
Book your entry slot online well in advance, as the house has strict capacity limits and sells out quickly.
Download the official museum guide app before arriving to better understand the specific design elements in each room.
Focus your attention on the transition between the structural ironwork and the carved wood elements, as these demonstrate the core Art Nouveau philosophy.
Do not attempt to visit without a pre-booked reservation, as walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Open Wednesday through Sunday.
Large bags must be left in lockers; touching of furniture, walls, or decorative elements is strictly prohibited.
