La Traverse: An Inventive, Everything-On-Wheels Pied-a-Terre in Marseille

The reasons to go to Marseille are stacking up lately—and here’s another:

Margot and I have been smitten by La Traverse, a contemporary art and design space helmed by gallerist-curator Catherine Bastide. Housed in “a southern-style house overlooking Malmousque Cove in Marseille, built in the early 20th century and renovated in 2020 by Marion Bernard Architects,” it also includes The Little Terrace, a top-floor pied a terre where everything’s on wheels. Have a look at this “attic studio with a sea view,” available for stays.

Above: The attic studio has modernist appeal: a tile floor, painted rafters, and bed on wheels. All the furniture is designed by upcycling workshop Ateliers Laissez Passer in Marseille from materials salvaged from the Grand Port Maritime de Marseille. Above: For maximum flexibility, everything’s on wheels. Above: Beside the kitchen space: bookshelves built under the eaves and a spare bed. Above: The modular kitchen features a sink, tile and wood worktops, and storage aplenty. Above A look at the reclaimed drawers… Above: …and yellow bowl sink. Above: The glossy floor tiles have a glowy effect in the evening light. Above: The balcony and—not pictured—a shower room with a view. Above: The studio is available from €140/night. For more info and to book, head to La Traverse.

P.S. More for your Marseille itinerary:

• Tuba Club: Marseille’s On-the-Rocks Hideout
• Equal Parts Humble and Chic: A Seaside Romantic Ruin for Rent in Marseille
• American Style in Marseille: Studio Classico Designs a Shaker-Inspired Bakery
• Atelier Vime’s Just-Reopened Emporium in a Restored House in Provence