Fernand Pouillon, a prolific and controversial French architect, is the subject of a new documentary titled 'Fernand Pouillon: France’s Most Wanted Architect'.
Known for his dramatic life story, Pouillon was not only an architect but also a painter, novelist, and convicted fraudster.
His career spanned postwar reconstruction projects in France and Algeria, including the largest housing development in North Africa at the time.
In the 1960s, Pouillon was imprisoned for corruption but famously escaped using a rope smuggled in by his brother, only to return for his trial by taxi.
While in prison, he wrote the bestselling novel 'Les Pierres Sauvages'.
Pouillon’s architectural philosophy emphasized beauty and efficiency, favoring traditional stone over modern concrete.
His work in Marseille and Algiers reflected a deep understanding of urban dynamics and public space.
Despite his criminal record, Pouillon was later awarded the Legion d’Honneur and received a pardon from the Algerian government.
His final years were spent restoring a medieval chateau in Belcastel.
The documentary, directed by Jean-Marie Montangerand, showcases Pouillon’s enduring impact on architecture and urban planning, portraying him as a visionary who believed that beauty should be accessible to all.
His legacy remains divisive, but his buildings continue to be appreciated for their human-centric design and historical sensitivity.
Known for his dramatic life story, Pouillon was not only an architect but also a painter, novelist, and convicted fraudster.
His career spanned postwar reconstruction projects in France and Algeria, including the largest housing development in North Africa at the time.
In the 1960s, Pouillon was imprisoned for corruption but famously escaped using a rope smuggled in by his brother, only to return for his trial by taxi.
While in prison, he wrote the bestselling novel 'Les Pierres Sauvages'.
Pouillon’s architectural philosophy emphasized beauty and efficiency, favoring traditional stone over modern concrete.
His work in Marseille and Algiers reflected a deep understanding of urban dynamics and public space.
Despite his criminal record, Pouillon was later awarded the Legion d’Honneur and received a pardon from the Algerian government.
His final years were spent restoring a medieval chateau in Belcastel.
The documentary, directed by Jean-Marie Montangerand, showcases Pouillon’s enduring impact on architecture and urban planning, portraying him as a visionary who believed that beauty should be accessible to all.
His legacy remains divisive, but his buildings continue to be appreciated for their human-centric design and historical sensitivity.
