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Rodolphe Parente and Marion Mailaender Revive 1985 Paris Ken Club

architecture-design · 2026-09-09

Rodolphe Parente and Marion Mailaender have transformed the Ken Club, a renowned fitness and social venue located in Paris, directly across from the Eiffel Tower. This initiative, described as an 'architectural remix,' seeks to restore the club's essence from 1985 without imitating its historical appearance. Established by Mireille and Pierre Benzaquen, the Ken Club became a vibrant center for both exercise and social interaction. The renovation incorporates elements from the 1980s, showcasing vivid colors, rounded shapes, and reflective materials. A ceiling adorned with irregular green patterns on a yellow backdrop serves as a striking graphic feature, while circular openings provide framed views. The pool area continues this theme of curved geometry. Mathias Benguigui and Ludovic Balay documented the project, which harmonizes 1980s aesthetics with contemporary utility.

Key facts

  • Rodolphe Parente and Marion Mailaender renovated the Ken Club in Paris, France.
  • The Ken Club is located opposite the Eiffel Tower.
  • The club was founded by Mireille and Pierre Benzaquen in 1985.
  • The renovation is described as an 'architectural remix' and a 'sample of a state of mind.'
  • The design includes saturated colors, rounded forms, reflective surfaces, and theatrical light contrasts.
  • A patterned ceiling with irregular green forms on a yellow surface is a key feature.
  • Circular openings in walls frame views between rooms.
  • Images were captured by Mathias Benguigui and Ludovic Balay.

Entities

Artists

  • Rodolphe Parente
  • Marion Mailaender

Institutions

  • Ken Club

Locations

  • Paris
  • France

Sources