Louis Le Vau: The Architect of France

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Louis Le Vau: The Architect of France
The 1600’s were influential years for interior design and architecture throughout the world, specifically in France. Design was becoming something to be celebrated, and with the Council of Trent calling for art that was less academic and more appealing to the public it was the perfect setting for a new era of design.
Born in 1612 in Paris, Louis Le Vau would live on to become Chief Architect to the King. Originally from a wealthy family, Le Vau was trained by his father; a stone mason employed at Fontainebleau; and developed his skills in stone masonry. His career began by designing elegant hotels for the bourgeoisie in France.
He predominately designed hotels and townhouse on the Ile Saint-Louis where he incorporated French and Baroque styles. One his most prominent designs on the Ile Saint-Louis were the remodel of the Hotel Lambert. Begun in 1640, Le Vau extended the main floor gallery towards the river allowing for a pleasant scenic view. When climbing the staircase the viewers enter an oval shaped vestibule which allows them to look down the enfilade layout rooms, through the vestibule, gallery and out to the Seine.
The Le Vau name began to garner more traction and became synonymous with extraordinary and opulent designs. Despite that, his past project paled in comparison to his newest feat, the Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte, which was designed for wealthy finance minister to the king Nicholas Fouquet. His ideas were revolutionary and so grandiose it was unlike anything seen in France before. The salon was two stories with an oval dome and was placed on the garden façade. It conveys a sense symmetry and power through the use of large pediment, oval dome as well as alternating windows...

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...ommon in public buildings such as, banks, museums and even national buildings like the White House. Grand opulent staircases like the Escalier des Amassadeurs are popular in focal pieces in public spaces such as theaters and performing art centers.
Le Vau talent as a designer was apparent in magnificent buildings he was able to create and build. His success is attributed to his sheer talent, classical influences, and Baroque aesthetic. He was able to define and categorize the Louis Quatorze style truly making him the architect of France.

References
Curl, J. S. (2006). A dictionary of architecture and landscape architecture. 2nd ed. Oxford [England]: Oxford University Press.
Placzek, A. K. (1982). Macmillan encyclopedia of architects. New York: Free Press.
Yarwood, D. (1993). International dictionary of architects and architecture. Detroit: St. James Press.

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