The first in a series of exhibitions responding to iconic pieces of architecture, Genius Loci explores the influence and inspiration of Gio Ponti.

Built in 1927, and set in Garches in the outskirts of Paris, L’Ange Volant was the only piece of architecture Ponti completed in France, and his first project outside of his home country of Italy.

The villa cuts a striking figure, with its red roof, whitewashed exterior and pair of entrance columns. Ponti’s touch is also evident inside, where the architect installed a painted ceiling in the two storey-high entrance hall.

Genius Loci brings together work by the likes of Studio KO and Mathias Kiss, many of which were commissioned for the show. Kiss has added a white marble artwork to the well-manicured front lawn of the villa, while Franklin Azzi’s Le Saint light piece comes to life in the trees surrounding the property, once the sun has set.

The interiors also hold a range of artworks, from ceramics and homeware to sculptures, a sound installation, and a perfume created by Barnabé Fillion in direct response to Ponti’s villa. Genius Loci is open until 24 October, however, the exhibition is set to travel to other architecturally significant buildings in cities elsewhere in the future.

Inside the magical world of Gio Ponti