atelier

American  

[at-l-yey, at-l-yey, at^uh-lyey] / ˈæt lˌyeɪ, ˌæt lˈyeɪ, atəˈlyeɪ /

noun

plural

ateliers

1. a workshop or studio, especially of an artist, artisan, or designer.

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atelier British  

/ atəlje, ˈætəlˌjeɪ /

noun

1. an artist's studio or workshop

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Etymology

Origin of atelier

First recorded in 1830–40; from French: literally, “pile of chips” (hence, “workshop”), from Old French astele “chip (from Late Latin astella “splinter,” diminutive of Latin astula, assula “splinter,” equivalent to ass(is) “plank, board” + -ula ) + -ier noun suffix; see -ule, -ier ²

Explanation

An atelier is a workshop where an artist creates. An atelier is basically a studio, but it sounds way cooler. It’s a French word, so say it with an accent. An atelier is a room where artists make their work. A painter’s atelier will be full of paint, brushes, canvases, and other tools of the trade. Sculptors and designers also have ateliers. An atelier gives the artist the space and privacy needed to create. An atelier is a place of creativity.

Example Sentences

Seamstresses from the Valentino atelier, next to the Foundation, joined the hundreds of mourners paying their respects, while the windows in the Valentino shop were shrouded by blackout blinds.

From Barron's • Jan. 21, 2026

The article says Nicola and her mother made multiple trips to the Valentino atelier in Rome for the fittings, "over the year-long design process".

From BBC • Jan. 20, 2026

He enrolled in a traditionalistic atelier poorly suited for forward-thinking painters.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2025

Inside, the atelier is showcasing a meticulous couture bridal collection in a museum-style exhibition.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2024

He resented the intrusion of the children, who gaped with wondering eyes at him, sitting so stiff up there in their mother’s bright atelier.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin

Related Words

• library
• office
• salon
• shop
• workshop