On Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:30 a.m., the president of the Alpes-Maritimes Department inaugurated the Maison Arson, located at 35 Rue Arson in Nice, in the presence of the vice-president responsible for Health and Seniors. This new 140 m² facility, completely renovated, embodies the Department’s commitment to healthy aging and social connection. A versatile and modern hall at the service of seniors.
Located in the heart of Nice, at 35 Rue Arson, a building rich in history is beginning a new chapter today. Acquired by the Department on May 27, 2025, this site, which previously served as a meeting place, has been completely redesigned with the aim of offering a modern, practical and welcoming space for seniors in Nice.
“The Maison Arson is not merely an additional facility. It is a symbol,” stated Charles-Ange Ginésy, president of the Alpes-Maritimes Departmental Council. “One that carries recognition, attention and above all the crucial importance you hold in our society.” Designed with a balance between modernity and Nice character, the venue features a multifunctional hall of 140 m², fully equipped with sound system and a stage. Adaptable, it can accommodate up to 100 participants in conference layout, 80 guests for a meal or 70 dancers. “Indeed… this place will be a hub of activity, music and happiness,” he declared.
The facility includes accessible restrooms, a welcoming herbal tea preparation room, an office and a technical control room. The Department’s investment amounts to 805,000 € including all taxes. It is more of a rehabilitation than a simple renovation, designed to create a true living space, gathering place and venue for exchange.
Senior wellbeing, a departmental priority
Since 2012, the Alpes-Maritimes Departmental Council has implemented a bold strategy for “healthy aging“, which is part of the Departmental Autonomy Plan for the 2022-2026 period. This strategy is materialized in particular through the Seniors in Action program, which targets Alpes-Maritimes residents aged 55 and over.
“Aging is living to the fullest,” emphasized Charles-Ange Ginésy. The goal: to promote independence, safeguard dignity and stimulate social and cultural dynamism among seniors. Currently, over 38,000 seniors are registered in the program. Each year, more than 74,000 activity opportunities are offered and for the first half of 2026, 25,000 new slots have already been opened. Whether cultural, sporting, tourism or leisure activities, the objective is to offer a varied and accessible program to combat isolation and strengthen social cohesion.
The President also highlighted the success of the Departmental Seniors Fortnight and the upcoming Seniors Spring, which will offer 40,000 Alpes-Maritimes residents the opportunity to enjoy free activities and outings throughout the territory.
More than statistics, the speech aimed to convey a vision of society. Charles-Ange Ginésy affirmed that a society is defined by the importance it gives to its seniors, citing Japan as an example where elderly people are perceived as foundations of social cohesion. “There is no intergenerational conflict. There is continuity. The knowledge of elders illuminates younger people’s understanding.” Thus, with the Maison Arson, the Department reiterates its commitment to placing seniors at the heart of its public policies. A tangible and human commitment, so that everyone can “age with dignity, dynamically, surrounded and respected“.
By unveiling this freshly renovated space, Nice is not merely celebrating the inauguration of a building. It is displaying an ambition: to transform longevity into a common good and to prioritize social connection collectively.
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