17 July 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of the inscription of ‘The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier: An Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement’ on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Foundation is presenting an exhibition to celebrate this anniversary. Plans, original models, photographs and archival documents from the Foundation’s collections will be on display to highlight the 17 components of the Series. Documentary films directed by Stefan Cornic for Beall Productions on the La Roche and Jeanneret Houses, the Cité Frugès, the Villa Savoye, the Molitor Building and the Duval Factory will be screened for the first time.
Inclusion on the World Heritage List recognises a transnational series of 17 works and sites spread across seven countries (Germany, Argentina, Belgium, France, India, Japan and Switzerland), bearing witness to the universal significance of Le Corbusier’s work and his major influence on the architecture of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Through the diversity of his works (detached houses, collective housing, religious buildings, cultural and administrative facilities), this series illustrates the invention of a new architectural language, breaking with academic tradition and seeking solutions adapted to the transformations in modern lifestyles.
This anniversary, a time for collective celebration, is also, and above all, a key moment to take stock and outline future directions regarding the management, conservation and promotion of Le Corbusier’s architectural work. It calls for sustained attention to be paid to the actions to be initiated and pursued in order to preserve what constitutes the Outstanding Universal Value of the Site.
«The insights gained into the seventeen components of the Property now shed light on all of Le Corbusier’s other architectural projects. From now on, all owners, all residents, and everyone who lives, works or visits a Le Corbusier building has a greater awareness of the importance of this body of work, the challenges involved in its conservation, and the attention that must be paid to its presentation. […] I believe that this awareness is beneficial and that it has a positive impact on all his works, including those that some might sometimes describe as minor.»
Interview with Philippe Prost, architect, President of the Fondation Le Corbusier, by Arnaud Dercelles
in LC. Revue de recherches sur Le Corbusier, Nº 13, May 2026