576- Chambre de Bonne

99% Invisible

Primary Topic

This episode delves into the historical and contemporary significance of "chambre de bonne" apartments in Paris, exploring their social and architectural impact.

Episode Summary

"576- Chambre de Bonne" on 99% Invisible, hosted by Roman Mars, examines the unique Parisian housing type known as "chambre de bonne" or maid's rooms, historically small apartments located typically on the top floors of Parisian buildings. Originally designed during the Haussmann renovation of Paris in the 1850s, these apartments served as live-in spaces for domestic servants. The episode features personal stories from former residents who discuss the physical and psychological challenges of living in such confined spaces. Additionally, it addresses the broader social implications, such as class divisions and housing affordability, and explores how these apartments have transitioned from servant quarters to sought-after spaces due to their low cost and location, despite being extremely small.

Main Takeaways

  1. Chambre de bonne apartments were created during Paris's major redesign by Haussmann in the 1850s to house domestic servants discreetly close to their employers.
  2. These small apartments are emblematic of wider social and class divisions in Paris, historically and in contemporary times.
  3. Despite their size and initial purpose, chambre de bonne have become desirable due to their affordability and central locations in Paris.
  4. The adaptation of these spaces from servant quarters to student and low-income housing reflects broader changes in society and the economy.
  5. The ongoing disappearance of chambre de bonne raises concerns about the loss of affordable housing in a city with a severe shortage.

Episode Chapters

1. Introduction: The History of Chambre de Bonne

Explores the origins and architectural significance of chambre de bonne in Paris. Highlights the social history of these apartments as they transitioned from servant quarters to popular low-income housing. Roman Mars: "Chambre de bonne was invented during a major redesign of Paris in the 1850s."

2. Personal Stories: Living in a Chambre de Bonne

Features personal accounts from individuals who lived in chambre de bonne, discussing the challenges and peculiarities of living in such small spaces. Clementine Spilleur: "I had to be in a lot of denial to be able to have a daily life in such a tiny space."

3. Social Implications and Modern Relevance

Discusses the current relevance of chambre de bonne, focusing on issues like housing affordability and social stratification in Paris. Jean Borsec: "Chambre de bonne is becoming more expensive but also beginning to disappear as a housing type."

Actionable Advice

  1. Consider the efficiency of small living spaces and how they can be improved to offer better quality of life.
  2. Explore community-driven solutions to address housing shortages, particularly in historic urban centers.
  3. Support local and national policies that promote affordable housing development.
  4. Advocate for the preservation and improvement of historical housing to meet modern standards.
  5. Engage in local community discussions about urban planning and housing to ensure diverse needs are met.

About This Episode

A chambre de bonne is usually one small room, on the top floor of a five- or six-story apartment building, and it’s usually just big enough to fit a bed and a table. It’s affordable housing in a city where finding housing is nearly impossible. Reporter tells about the history of the chambre de bonne apartments, and how while cute, they are also cramped and can be unpleasant spaces for people who have to live there, a living embodiment of the gap between the rich in Paris and everyone else.

People

Clementine Spilleur, Jean Borsec, Roman Mars, Marie Jeanne DuMont, Manisha

Content Warnings:

None