As the oldest hospital in Paris, the Hôtel-Dieu has played a pioneering role in the major milestones of healthcare history. Over the centuries, the Hôtel-Dieu has been extended, partially demolished, rebuilt, burnt down, and relocated, always continuing to pursue its original mission: welcoming the most vulnerable. For centuries, in addition to caring for the sick, the Hôtel-Dieu has served as a leading center for medical research, placing a strong emphasis on innovation.

Installed in the courtyard of the hospital, this mediation initiative is geared towards the users of the site (staff, patients, caregivers, innovation/healthcare startups, etc.). Designed by scenographer Cyril Delhomme, this contemporary and colorful modular system draws inspiration from the building’s architecture, playing with contrasts to enrich the site and spark curiosity. These modules invite passers-by to make the space their own, functioning either as benches or elevated tables, while providing information about the site’s history.

The transformation of the site is expressed starting from the entrance hall, with symbolic illustrations evoking the hospital’s past, present, and future. Alluding to the stained-glass windows of Notre-Dame on one side and the mediation installations on the other, these illustrations cleverly play with perspectives, establishing a connection between the interior and exterior spaces.

This project was designed and funded by APHP and Novaxia
Design, coordination, and production: Manifesto
Scenography: Cyril Delhomme
Graphic design/Illustrations: Maison Solide
Texts: Lazuli Culture
Printing: Traphot
Module design: Studio Boloz

Acknowledgements: Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu - Groupe Hospitalier Centre Université Paris Cité; Department of Cultural Heritage at AP-HP; @Hôtel-Dieu initiative, Anne Demians Architectes, Camille Gharbi, Dan Bensadoun, Jacques Deschamps