Villa Demoiselle: A Champagne Jewel

Villa Demoiselle, located in Reims, France, is an architectural gem that beautifully marries Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Commissioned in 1890 by Henry Vasnier, the director of the Pommery Champagne house, the villa was intended as a reception house for distinguished guests. Construction began in 1904, with architect Louis Sorel employing innovative techniques like a concrete structure and metal framing. The villa's design reflects the "Art in Everything" movement, striving for perfect unity in its architecture and decor. Inside, visitors can admire stained glass windows by Auguste Labouret, sculpted fireplaces and wood carvings by Camille Lefèvre, furniture by Tony Selmerscheim, paintings by Georges Picard, and murals by Félix Aubert. The villa also features chandeliers from the Baguès workshops and opaline globes by René Lalique. After Vasnier's death in 1907, Louis Cochet, the new director of Domaine Pommery, renamed the villa after himself. However, the villa fell into neglect after 1970, suffering looting and facing demolition threats. In 2004, Paul-François Vranken and Nathalie Vranken purchased the villa and began a meticulous five-year restoration. Today, Villa Demoiselle stands as a testament to artistic vision and Champagne heritage, offering guided tours and housing a prestigious wine library.