1515 Rte du Puy Ste Réparade, Puyricard
The History of an Iconic Place
The story of Le Quinze Quinze, nestled in the heart of Puyricard, near Aix-en-Provence, dates back more than six decades. According to archives from remonterletemps.ign.fr, the first traces of the current building date back to 1959. The metal framework of the structure confirms this historical reference.
At that time, the site was surrounded by the tranquil Aix countryside, offering a typically Provençal setting. Initially, it housed a construction materials merchant alongside a small hardware store—a first link to the world of home and interior design. In 1981, an expansion project was submitted to the town hall. By 1983, an 800 m² warehouse had been added to the original building, along with a small annex and a workshop. The site then changed purpose, becoming for several years a logistics hub for Spar grocery stores, a well-known brand in Aix-en-Provence.
A Turning Point in 1986
In 1986, the site’s destiny shifted. Carocim, a company specializing in handcrafted cement tiles, moved in, restoring the location’s original purpose: a space dedicated to artistic creation and interior design. Under the creative influence of Martine Murat, wife of Carocim’s founder, Christian Berthéas, the building was painted in Mexican red, an iconic color that would define the site’s identity. In her workshop, she designed new collections of handcrafted cement tiles, which would later become emblematic of the brand’s success. By 2002, Carocim officially acquired the site, cementing its place in the world of high-end interior decoration.
A New Chapter:
The Renaissance of Le Quinze Quinze
Twenty years later, the site underwent a revival. In 2022, Marta Pignol and her husband fell in love with both the location and Carocim’s artistic legacy. With a vision for modernity and innovation, they acquired Carocim and its buildings on February 14, Valentine’s Day—a symbolic purchase marking the beginning of a new love story with craftsmanship and design.
Under their direction, Carocim expanded its color palette and collaborated with renowned designers to redefine the role of cement tiles in contemporary interior design.
At the same time, the site underwent a major architectural transformation to become Le Quinze Quinze, a creative hub dedicated to high-end design and decoration.
An Architectural and Eco-Friendly Transformation
Sustainable Renovation for a Contemporary Space
- Energy-Efficient Roofing: The old asbestos roofs were replaced with insulated steel roofing, ensuring better energy performance.
- Bright and Modern Design: Large windows were added, allowing natural light to flood the interiors.
- A Contemporary Aesthetic: The original metal framework, a historic element, was repainted in deep black, adding a modern and elegant touch.
- Revamped Facade: The exterior walls were given a Terra Cotta finish, creating a warm and luminous appearance.
- Energy Autonomy: A 800 m² photovoltaic roof (166 kWc), partially funded by the Région Sud, now makes the site self-sufficient in energy.
- A Provençal-Inspired Garden: A landscaped entrance recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Provençal square, inviting visitors into a unique and immersive experience.
Le Quinze Quinze
A Place of History & Inspiration
After a year of renovation, Le Quinze Quinze is set to open its doors in June 2024. The name is a tribute not only to its address but also to the standard size of the first cement tiles (15 x 15 cm).
Additionally, the historical reference to 1515 resonates with French heritage. The Battle of Marignano, won by King François I, marked a major shift in French architecture, transitioning from cold medieval castles to brightly decorated Renaissance palaces.
A powerful symbol that aligns perfectly with Le Quinze Quinze’s essence—a place that celebrates beauty, creativity, and design, blending tradition with modernity.
> Visit Le Quinze Quinze and Experience Its Unique Atmosphere