19, rue de l’Ancien Manège, just next to the Ville de La Chaux-de-Fonds centre. A house which doesn't strike you from its exterior. Even so, this relatively unknown address is a small jewel that draws its inspiration from several artistic movements.

As its name suggests, the building, constructed in 1855, was first used as a horse-riding hall. It was quickly transformed into a residence, more precisely, a «phalanstery». Inspired by the social concept of philosopher Charles Fourier – which was to bring families together in small autonomous units in order to maintain a support system – the place housed a working-class population until the beginning of the 1970's. It was declared insalubrious in the beginning of the next decade, and the building was taken over by the cooperative society of the Ancien Manège, which restored the building in 1983. Today, the frescoes, small fountains and friezes have regained their shine, and the rooms are full again. This residence has managed to keep up some of its social vocation, as the rent depends on the tenant's income. This location is now complete with a brasserie that serves the luckiest and fastest guests in the interior courtyard.

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Brasserie de l'Ancien Manège
Rue du Manège 19-21
2300 La Chaux-de-Fonds
Tél + 41(0)32 968 62 02
Photo: CCA