Maison internationale de la Cosmétique

Located in the heart of the city of Chartres, opposite the 13th‑century cathedral, the Maison Internationale de la Cosmétique celebrates the excellence of the Cosmetic Valley. The educational architect proposes a dialogue between a contemporary glass pavilion and restored heritage buildings, which embody the union of tradition, craftsmanship and innovation within a unified architectural and landscape composition.

Opening onto the cathedral forecourt, the square reception pavilion is wrapped in a silk‑screened glass façade that mediates between reflection and transparency, mirroring the cathedral while revealing the building’s inner life. A rooftop terrace frames panoramic views, while a material palette of stone, glass and copper establishes a refined dialogue with the historic context. The educational architect thus affirms the Cosmetic Valley’s international identity and innovative spirit.

Within the heritage building renovation of the MIC, visitors move through permanent exhibitions, including the “cosmétopée” gallery and boutique. Upper levels accommodate a flexible events hall oriented toward the cathedral, a tasting lounge, and a generous terrace seamlessly extending the interior.

The pavilion is set within a landscaped garden and a cluster of restored heritage buildings. The educational architect returned the 18th‑century hôtel particulier to its original layout, while the 19th‑century municipal school and 1930s brick school have been adapted for new commercial uses. The ground floor hosts exhibition and projection spaces; upper levels accommodate Cosmetic Valley enterprises and collaborative work areas. The dialogue between historic architecture and flexible contemporary interiors of the heritage building renovation fosters creative exchange and innovation.