Le Méliès, an independent cinema in Saint-Étienne, set out to refurbish a modest annex and turn it into a multifunctional space for workshops, intimate screenings, conferences and community events. The cinema wanted the room to feel practical and welcoming, but also aligned with its artistic identity. To achieve this, the space needed a curtain system that could adapt to multiple functions while remaining visually discreet.
At first glance, the challenge seemed straightforward. In reality, the room’s long spans, curved walls and frequent manual operation demanded a curtain track system that was both technically resilient and visually discreet. The installation needed to feel integrated rather than added-on, and it had to function reliably under daily public use.
Understanding the project needs
Le Méliès is known for its strong cultural mission and commitment to artistic programming. The cinema hosts a wide range of screenings, festivals and community events, and often collaborates with local artists and creative partners. Because of its active role in the city’s cultural life, the venue needs spaces that can adapt easily to different formats and audiences.
Fashion designer and creative consultant Renaud Aivaliotis, who led the textile work, approached Goelst with a clear set of requirements. He needed a track system strong enough for a cultural venue, subtle enough to maintain the interior’s simplicity and flexible enough to follow the room’s irregular layout. The system also had to deliver smooth and silent movement along its entire length, which is essential in a cinema environment.
These requirements highlighted the need for a technically precise and architecturally responsive solution.
Choosing a track system built for daily performance
The project team chose the Goelst 4100 manual track system for its strength, versatility and minimal design. Its aluminum profile provides the stability needed for long spans and frequent public use. The track’s smooth and quiet gliding performance made it especially suitable for a space dedicated to film and performance.
The 4100 system also supports custom bending, which was crucial for this project. The room required the track to follow several curved sections, and the system’s adaptability made it possible to match these lines without compromise.
Shaping the track to match the architecture
In the Goelst workshop, technicians shaped each track segment to match the room’s geometry. They formed every curve with care to ensure the track aligned cleanly with the architecture. This precision allowed the curtains to glide smoothly across the full layout, even along complex curves and extended distances. The finished track now feels like part of the room; it supports the architecture rather than interrupting it.
Combining textile craft and technical precision
Renaud Aivaliotis created the deep navy curtains, custom cushions and decorative elements that complete the room. His craftsmanship paired naturally with the technical reliability of the track system. Together, these elements created a warm and flexible environment suited for a wide variety of cultural activities.
A space built to adapt and inspire
The refurbished room now moves effortlessly between screenings, workshops and community gatherings. The custom-bent 4100 track follows the architecture with quiet precision, allowing the curtains to define the atmosphere without drawing attention to the mechanics behind them. The deep navy textiles create a calm, intimate backdrop that supports both concentration and conversation.
This transformation highlights the impact a carefully selected curtain track system can have on the quality and flexibility of a space. Are you planning a project? Feel free to reach out to our expert team. We’re more than happy to offer you our tailored technical support and system recommendations.
