Paris Haussmann Buildings and Architecture
The Parisian Haussmann buildings and architecture renovations were works commissioned by Napoléon III and led by the Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann between 1852 and 1870.
The project encompassed not only architecture but also several aspects of urban planning, from streets and boulevards to buildings’ front facades, public parks and monuments.
Haussmann has really fashioned the way Paris looks today as well as its architecture. He created very long and wide boulevards with
cafés and shops influencing a lot Parisians’ lives.
The classic Haussmann building architecture is not treated independently but is part of the quarter, the block, and thus its style has to be coherent and in harmony with the other buildings architecture.
The ground floor has thick walls. The second storey boasts gorgeous balconies and the third and fourth floor are built in the same style, though their windows frames have a less elaborate stonework.
The classic Haussmannian façade architecture is organised around horizontal lines. These lines are continuous from one building to another and are formed by balconies and cornices perfectly aligned.
On some Paris Ile de France buildings, simple stone facades were replaced by massive stone blocks, that allowed to create differents aspects.
Parisian Haussmann buildings, with their very typical architecture are monumental and do not demand any decoration, sculpture or other stonework to be outstanding and prestigious.
Bienvenue à Paris!