Années folles, meaning the “crazy years,” refers to the bohemian lifestyle that emerged in France during the 1920s. The movement encouraged artists, intellectuals, and activists to mingle and debate, so it's no wonder WeWork modeled their first Parisian location after this collaborative style.
The start-up, known for creating co-working spaces across the world, opened their first Paris location in collaboration with Axel Schoenert Architectes, called WeWork La Fayette, this past May.
“We used materials that alluded to opulence of les Annees folles but focused on the concept that WeWork La Fayette would embody the bohemian energy of Paris in the 1920s as a space for our members to meet, create, and collaborate,” the company said in a statement.
The office space opens to a grand atrium with 22-foot ceilings serving as the central meeting point for members and guests. While the space is modernized with brushed brass and walnut wood finishes, the history of the circa-1930s building is preserved. The roof boasts the original glass blocks, while the grand staircase, flooring and walls are all original marble and granite.
