Les Frigos.

In an area slated for redevelopment on the Rive Gauche between the Seine and the Bibliotheque Nationale, Les Frigos is inconsistent with the modern structures that surround it. Originally a refrigerated warehouse with trains passing through, “Les Frigos” is the French word for refrigerators. With the closing of Les Halles Market in the 60s, the refrigerated warehouses including Les Frigos saw their demise. An artists’ squat, it was sited for demotion in the mid-80s. Quoting those who supported its demolition, “Vous etes le germes de vie du quartier futur,” it’s apparent that the graffiti covered structure provoked controversy. Nonetheless, artists formed a coalition to save Les Frigos and establish a community where they could both live and work. Its supporters view it as a modern example of integrating artists into a city in general and Paris in particular. Currently, artists of different disciplines are in residence at Les Frigos. It opens to the public one weekend each year in the spring. Special expositions are listed on its site, www.les-frigos.com, along with contact information for individual artists if you wish to schedule a “rendez-vous.” Les Frigos, really cool.

Les Frigos, 19 rue des Frigos [13e].
Metro: Bibliotheque F. Mitterand.
www.les-frigos.com

Contemporary River Seine.

The Allee Arthur Rimbaud on the River Seine is a delightful area for strolling, sunning or even swimming in the Piscine Josephine Baker, a floating swimming pool on the river. On one side, the River Seine with its boats, stationary and otherwise. On the other, riverside restaurants populate the Allee with just a strip above to protect diners and revelers from the sun. Lots of people-size plants, colorful table settings and chairs just for sunning, leave you hoping for a Jimmy Buffett tune. There are even lovely gardens between the Allee and the street above. Descending the steps to the Allee, you sense that an oasis resides below. A part of the city, yet a place apart. I entered the Allee on a weekday before noon so I didn’t get to feel its vibe when it is populated by “les gens.” But in an area that is home to contemporary architecture, the Bibliotheque Nationale de France and a glamorous strip of interior design shops, I am hedging that the Allee attracts.

Allee Arthur Rimbaud between Pont de Tolbiac and Pont de Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir [13e].
Metro: Bibliotheque F. Mitterrand