A.R.P. for Minvielle – Rare suspended buffet-bar with secretary, 19th century.

Superb suspended buffet-bar designed by A.R.P. (Atelier de Recherches Plastiques) for Minvielle, around 1955. An emblematic piece of French design from the 1950s, combining architectural elegance, ingenuity, and remarkable functionality. Its horizontal composition, clean lines, and warm wood veneers give it a particularly light and refined silhouette. The piece features two drop-down compartments, with white interiors creating an elegant contrast with the wood: On the left, a secretary-desk, offering a practical work surface and storage spaces. On the right, a bar, fitted with glass shelves to accommodate glasses, carafes, and bottles. The open upper section provides a generous display space, ideal for a collection of vinyl records, a turntable and hi-fi equipment, or books and decorative objects. Completely suspended, the piece appears to float against the wall, freeing up floor space and highlighting the modernity of its design. A particularly appealing creation by A.R.P., at the intersection of furniture and interior architecture. Design: A.R.P. – Pierre Guariche, Michel Mortier, and Joseph-André Motte.