Our beloved Ville Lumière, recognizable among so many others, is known the world over for its emblematic streets and buildings. But for this selection, we’re moving away from the traditional Haussmann façades and focusing instead on all the sights that give us the impression of being everywhere but Paris. Here are a few of the capital’s most unusual architectural landmarks.
The Flanders Organs
In a complete break with the bland architecture of the 1950s, Martin Schultz von Treeck wanted to create a monumental, geometric post-modern complex in the heart of the Villette district. The 4 towers and 2 buildings that make up the Orgues des Flandre were born of this desire. Striking in its symmetry, the building complex is also striking in the contrast created by its entrance portal. The former vestige of the Cité des Flamands, dating from 1850, is the only one to have survived the test of time. Today, it’s almost wedged between contemporary buildings.
Orgues de Flandre – 24, rue Archereau, 75019
Reiffers Art Initiatives
Since October 24, the discreet 30 rue des Acacias has sported a familiar black-and-white motif. It’s actually the Reiffers Art Initiatives, which commissioned a work of art from the famous Daniel Buren. So, after the famous columns, the French artist has put his stamp on a new Parisian venue, and the result is there!
Reiffers Art Initiatives – 30, rue des Acacias, 75017
The Lavirotte building
One of the most beautiful symbols of Art Nouveau in Paris, the Lavirotte building attracts curious onlookers in droves in the middle of Avenue Rapp. Whether we’re talking about its front door, balconies or facade, there’s no better example of the aesthetic lines and curves so characteristic of the artistic movement. Look up and admire – every detail of this century-old building hides its secrets!
Immeuble Lavirotte – 29, avenue Rapp, 75007
Institute of Art and Archaeology
Between modernity and Art Deco, the Institut de l’Art et de l’Archéologie creates a big contrast with the surrounding buildings. For inspiration, architect Paul Bigot drew on Moorish and Venetian styles to build a remarkable red-brick edifice. And the closer you get, the more you notice the building’s small details!
Institut de l’Art et de l’Archéologie – 3, rue Michelet, 75006
43 bis de la rue Desnouettes
In the midst of the somewhat dull buildings of the peaceful rue Desnouettes, a real UFO stands out at 43 bis. It’s Emmanuel Saadi’s creation, which has been installed there for ten years. While the structure surprises passers-by with its unorthodox neon-green appearance, it’s also unusual in its function. This strange building also houses the command post for metro line 12. Good to know!
43 bis, rue Desnouettes, 75015
La Maison Loo
At the corner of Rue de Courcelles, Rue Rembrandt and Rue Monceau, a stunning building stands majestically overlooking the surrounding area. It’s impossible to miss this magnificent pagoda with its vermilion-red façade. This is the Maison Loo, which is not only sumptuous, but also houses many Asian art treasures.
Maison Loo – 48, rue de Courcelles, 75008
Espaces d’Abraxas
A short stopover beyond the capital’s borders. Head east to Noisy-le-Grand to discover one of the most unusual architectural ensembles in Greater Paris. The architecture of Espaces d’Abraxas seems to come straight out of a dystopian future. It’s no coincidence that the site was chosen to film a scene from the Hunger Games saga.
Espaces d’Abraxas – Clos des Aulnes, 93160 Noisy-le-Grand
Front page photo: Fullphoto, CC BY-SA 4.0