Fondation des États-Unis

US Foundation is a Paris Centre D'hébergement Pour Étudiants landmark located in the 14 arrondissement.

<\!-- wp:heading -->

An Art Deco masterpiece fostering Franco-American cultural exchange

<\!-- /wp:heading --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Overlooking the serene Parc Montsouris in the 14th arrondissement, the Fondation des États-Unis stands as one of the most significant examples of Art Deco architecture in Paris and a testament to enduring Franco-American friendship. This remarkable 8,000-square-meter residence at the Cité internationale universitaire has been fostering cultural exchange between France and America since its inauguration in 1930.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Born from the vision of Ambassador Myron Timothy Herrick and the generosity of American surgeon Homer Gage and his wife Mabel, this foundation represents the collaborative spirit that has defined transatlantic relations for nearly a century. The project brought together American universities, private donors, and French institutions to create a lasting symbol of international cooperation.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->

Architectural excellence by Pierre Leprince-Ringuet

<\!-- /wp:heading --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Designed by Prix de Rome winner Pierre Leprince-Ringuet in 1929, the building showcases the sophisticated elegance of Art Deco design. The U-shaped structure features a central section facing Boulevard Jourdan and two wings extending toward the park, creating an embrace-like configuration that welcomes residents and visitors.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

The distinctive peach brick façades, punctuated with strips of treated stone, demonstrate the refined material palette that characterizes the best Art Deco buildings. Leprince-Ringuet, who also designed the Beirut archaeological museum and London Michelin workshops, brought international expertise to this uniquely Franco-American project.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->

Treasured Art Deco frescoes

<\!-- /wp:heading --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

The foundation\u2019s crown jewel lies within its Grand Salon, where five extraordinary frescoes by Franco-American painter Robert La Montagne Saint-Hubert and his students Ethel Wallace and James Newell adorn the walls. Completed in 1930, these artworks represent the only intact Art Deco frescoes remaining in Paris.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Classified as historic monuments, these frescoes were meticulously restored between 1994 and 1996, preserving their vivid colors and intricate details for future generations. During European Heritage Days each September, the public can admire these masterpieces, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic collaboration that defined the foundation\u2019s early years.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->

A living center for cultural exchange

<\!-- /wp:heading --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Today, the Fondation des États-Unis houses 267 accommodations along with eight artist workshops and nine music studios, maintaining its original mission of supporting American students and researchers in Paris. A recent renovation completed in 2019 by Circonflexe Architectes has modernized living spaces while preserving the building\u2019s historic character.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Since 1930, the foundation has awarded the prestigious Harriet Hale Woolley scholarship annually to American artists, musicians, and psychiatric interns, as well as French and Swiss recipients. This program has supported countless creative and academic endeavors, strengthening the intellectual bonds between nations.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->

Cultural programming and public engagement

<\!-- /wp:heading --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

As a non-profit organization, the foundation opens its doors to the broader Parisian community through concerts, exhibitions, workshops, conferences, and performances—all offered free of charge. This commitment to public accessibility ensures that the foundation\u2019s cultural mission extends far beyond its residential function.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

The foundation\u2019s programming celebrates both contemporary creativity and historical heritage, creating a dynamic space where past and present converge. Visitors can experience everything from cutting-edge musical performances to scholarly lectures, all within the inspiring context of this architectural and cultural landmark.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->

Historic inauguration and enduring legacy

<\!-- /wp:heading --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

The foundation\u2019s official opening on April 28, 1930, brought together an extraordinary assembly of dignitaries: founders Homer and Mabel Gage, American Ambassador Walter E. Edge, and French President Gaston Doumergue. This ceremony marked not just the completion of a building, but the realization of a shared vision for international understanding through education and culture.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph --><\!-- wp:paragraph -->

Nearly a century later, the Fondation des États-Unis continues to embody the ideals of its founders, serving as a bridge between cultures and a sanctuary for intellectual and artistic pursuits. For visitors to Paris interested in Franco-American relations, Art Deco architecture, or the vibrant international community of the Cité universitaire, this foundation offers an unparalleled window into the enduring power of cultural diplomacy.

<\!-- /wp:paragraph -->