The MADD – Musée des arts décoratifs et du design de Bordeaux – partially reopened at the end of April, marking the first phase of a major renovation project that will be completed in several years. Led by the city with support from the state and public and private partners, the project combines heritage restoration with ecological transition. The work, carried out by Agence Antoine Dufour, reunites an 18th-century mansion and a 19th-century former prison while improving accessibility and conservation conditions. The museum aims to reduce energy consumption by 40%, notably through the use of recycled and reused materials. Upon reopening, the public can explore the Rue Boulan wing, the rehabilitated prison, and three inaugural exhibitions, ahead of a full opening in 2027.
This reopening matters because it exemplifies how a mid-sized French museum can integrate ambitious sustainability goals with heritage preservation, setting a model for other institutions. The MADD's renewed focus on eco-responsibility, social inclusion, and design also signals a shift in how decorative arts museums are redefining their cultural mission for contemporary audiences. The project's phased approach and public-private funding structure offer a case study in museum renovation that balances historical integrity with modern environmental standards.