André Tardieu was prime minister and president of France between 1929 and 1932 and a dominant figure in French political life with a strong intellectual reputation. He withdrew from political life in 1934 and settled permanently in his Menton villa until his death in 1945. Tardieu was a politically strong-willed figure known for his love of luxury and modernity. He was nicknamed “The Miraculous,” He chose the Annonciade hill in 1928, the most temperate location in France, to have his villa built. He entrusted the design to the famous Art Deco architect Pierre Patout, decorator of the Île-de-France and Normandie ocean liners. Long horizontal lines, accentuation of curves and bends, walkways, and a rooftop terrace conceived like a bridge: Pierre Patout designed an architecture characteristic of the “Paquebot Style.” This specific aesthetic, combined with the personality of its owner, naturally led the Villa Tardieu to be nicknamed “The Commander’s Head.” While the architecture of this white, sleek, and modern villa stands out from the traditional Belle Époque villas of Menton, the interior decoration proves equally refined. As President of the Society of Decorative Artists, André Tardieu called upon the finest designers.
Built in 1930 as the private residence of President Tardieu, this spacious villa with 18,300 sq ft of living space is considered one of the most prestigious estates on the Côte d’Azur. The 22 acres of rare lands with amazing landscaping cover an entire hill situated only 12 minutes from Monte-Carlo in the best microclimate of France and offers a 360° panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea and mountains. The villa was built by the master of Art Deco architect Pierre Patout, renowned for the world-famous ocean liner Normandie. The entire home and furniture were designed by Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, known as the “Art Deco’s greatest artist.” In 2011, a desk designed by Ruhlmann from this villa that belonged to President Tardieu sold for $4 million at Christie’s auction; the world-class crystal craftsman Lalique crafted amazing ceiling lights and wall lamps completed by original crystal pieces throughout the house, and Edgar Brandt designed the ironwork. The most prestigious designer of the Art Deco period, Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, designed The Grand Library, a gift from the French Senate. The office, a gift from Mr. Clemenceau (Head of the French State), and the dining room were all designed and signed by Ruhlmann.
The villa also features a fantastic heated swimming pool of 148 feet, a beautiful guest villa of 1,615 sq ft, a driveway of 2,300 feet, ample parking, and a private heliport (the villa is 25 minutes from world-renowned beach resort Saint-Tropez and 45 minutes from ski resort Courchevel by helicopter).
The magnificent villa entertained some of the world’s most influential artists, politicians, and royalty, including Sir Winston Churchill, René Coty (French President), famous French actress Mary Marquet, and many European royal families. Other world-renowned former owners included S.A.S Prince Rainier de Monaco and Monaco real estate tycoon Mr. Jean-Baptiste Pastor.
Price upon request.
