Bordeaux’s alternative hotspots
Far from the city’s former and somewhat tepid image, Bordeaux proves on a daily basis that she’s got more than one string to her bow, with more and more alternative spots popping up. Dotted around every part of the city, these places are a compelling mix of art, fun and solidarity. Let’s take a look at 7 of these hotspots that are worth checking out (again) ASAP!
La Fabrique Pola
Beside the Garonne, on the right bank, this place is described as “a shared space”, an “ideas factory” and a “multi-purpose tool box”. Indeed, this hybrid space is dedicated to contemporary creation, as well as the production and circulation of art in all its forms. Its raison d’être is to host artist workshops and provide access to spaces for production and circulation. Today, 19 visual arts structures, 9 resident artists and 3 production workshops share this space.
10 quai de Brazza 33100 Bordeaux. Phone: 05 56 40 62 85. www.pola.fr
Les Vivres de l’Art
Occasionally, you just know that Art is simply innate in some places; it’s something tangible. ‘Vivres de l’art’ is one such place, and the name suggests as much. This wide-reaching artistic project was set up in Bacalan, a district undergoing regeneration and finding a new sense of purpose. It centres around the workshop of Jean-François Buisson, a sculptor of monumental pieces, creator of metal objects and the manager of this unique site. Artists can come here for residencies and, if they’re lucky, stay in an unusual apartment, known simply as ‘Chez Michèle’. ‘Vivres de l’art’ comprises a large courtyard and a listed 18th-century architectural ensemble, and the site regularly plays host to many events and exhibitions. All year round, you can find themed nights and music, bringing the neighbourhood to life. The old, not so old and young all come together here to bask in the great atmosphere, in what looks something like a Berlin squat...
4 Rue Achard, Bordeaux, 33300. Phone: 05 56 10 80 94. https://lesvivresdelart.org/
Le Garage Moderne
Just a few cable lengths away in this up-and-coming neighbourhood, Bacalan, lies a garage that is so very different from any other. Created in 2003, this 2200 m² hangar is home to the most modern and socially-conscious garage in all of France and Navarre. In this hybrid and alternative space, an association organises participative mechanic workshops, in addition to cultural, culinary and artistic events. With a canteen, an automobile and bike garage, a resource centre, a DIY workshop centre, and events, Le Garage Moderne is never idle!
1 Rue des Étrangers, 33300 Bordeaux. Phone : 05 56 50 91 33. https://www.legaragemoderne.org/
La Chiffonne Rit
Despite the allusion to laughter in the name, there isn’t quite so much laughter here at the moment, as the premises are in the process of being sold off. This shared space for work and creation was set up in La Bastide in 2014, and today this old car garage is home to around 30 artists and artisans… much like Le Garage Moderne! Operating under a 1901 association law, they also organise cultural events and run a little association café. Anyone who wishes to is invited to sign a petition to save La Chiffonne, which could bring the smile back to their faces!
77 Rue Reinette, 33100 Bordeaux. Phone: 05 24 54 70 47. https://www.lachiffonnerit.com/
Le 308+
The building where Le 308+ now stands originally housed a power plant. It was completely renovated in 2009 and is now home to ‘Le Conseil de l’Ordre des Architectes’, ‘La Maison de l’Architecture en Aquitaine’ and the regional training centre for architects. The building is a testament to the region’s industrial heritage, particularly that of this district, La Bastide. Its superb early 20th-century facade is quite the sight! Inside, you can often find free exhibitions that are open to everyone!
308 Av. Thiers, 33100 Bordeaux. https://www.le308.com/
Moxy
The international Marriott hotel chain is behind this trendy new place, which opened in 2021. Moxy is primarily a bar, but it’s so much more besides and aims to be a meeting place that centres around a number of eclectic events: jumble sales, DJ sets, DIY workshops, yoga (or ping-pong, or table football) sessions, association meetings, and more… With their trendy terrace and garden-jungle vibe, this cool new spot perfectly reflects the philosophy of the new Bassins à Flot neighbourhood.
25, Quai du Maroc 33 000 Bordeaux. Phone: 05 33 52 13 26
L’Eco-système Darwin
For locals, this place no longer requires any introduction. For 14 years now, ‘Darwin’, as it is known, has been a beacon of solidarity on the right bank. It was set up in the old Niel military barracks in 2007 and has become the second-most visited site in Bordeaux, just behind the Miroir d’eau. Though it may be constantly threatened by expansion in the area, it still manages to hold out and provide plenty of reasons for tourists and locals alike to visit, as it is home to some impressive street art, a skate park, brunch spots, various and varied events, a hub for start ups… and more!
87 Quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux. Phone : 05 56 77 52 06.
