Nestled snugly between Le Havre’s stately architecture lies a peculiar neighbor that could pass as a building on a diet!
Erwin Wurm’s Narrow House, a permanent installation since 2022, has found its forever home in France’s charming city—and it’s turning heads for all the right (and hilariously squished) reasons!
Wurm, known for his uncanny approach to art, first introduced the Narrow House in 2010, but this latest iteration is truly putting down (very narrow) roots in Le Havre.
At just over 4 feet wide, this skinny legend isn’t here to compete with spacious French villas. Instead, it pokes fun at societal expectations, architecture, and maybe even your last attempt at parallel parking!
1. A Room With a Squeeze
Walking into the Narrow House is like stepping into an architectural optical illusion.
The space is fully furnished, complete with squished furniture and walls so close together they might spark a claustrophobia trend!
The irony, of course, is that despite its cozy dimensions, the house feels impossibly big when it comes to the ideas it represents.
In Wurm’s special style, the house contains photographs of his parents, letting us know who the residents of the Narrow House are and reflecting the post-war Austrian narrow-mindedness.
2. Le Havre’s Slim-Fit Star
Since its installation, Narrow House has become a must-see attraction, drawing art lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a quirky selfie!
Its contrast with the surrounding buildings highlights Le Havre’s ability to embrace both tradition and whimsy.
Indeed, Narrow House has sparked conversations about suburban living, and the gap of the living standards between each household.
3. A Reflection of Modern Life (Literally)
Beyond the humor, Narrow House invites visitors to reflect—sometimes uncomfortably—on how we navigate space, both physically and emotionally.
In a world where bigger is often seen as better, Wurm’s work challenges that notion with a wink and a squeeze. Le Havre’s latest resident might be narrow, but its impact is anything but!
So next time you’re in the city, stop by and see the house that proves good things really do come in small packages. Just don’t forget to breathe in on your way through the door!