In Paris’s 7th arrondissement, a building that doesn’t go unnoticed. Wedged between two classic Haussmann buildings, 29 avenue Rapp catches the eye with its richly decorated facade. It’s the Lavirotte building, named after its architect, Jules Lavirotte, and built in 1900 for ceramist Alexandre Bigot.
The most beautiful Art Nouveau façade in Paris is hidden in the 7th arrondissement.
From the outside, it’s clear that this is a rare example of Art Nouveau architecture in Paris. Bright ceramics, ornate columns, sculpted ironwork… The façade plays on contrasts, textures and irregular shapes, in a style very different from what you see in the neighborhood. Often cited as one of the great wonders of its kind in France, the Lavirotte building has won the competition for the most beautiful facades in the city of Paris.
Since 1964, the building has been listed as a historic monument, and the listing was extended in 2015 to include the entrance hall and staircase. It has also been awarded the “20th-century heritage” label. Jules Lavirotte drew inspiration from Gaudi’ s creations in Spain at the same time, playing with curved lines, reliefs and natural materials. The windows are not always aligned; some protrude or are slightly offset. The whole gives an impression of movement, very typical of Art Nouveau.
But the detail that immediately catches the eye is the front door: massive, carved wood, framed in stone and wrought iron, with plant motifs that echo the whole building. In the middle, we can agree that the motif chosen is very suggestive… In any case, it’s what makes this entrance so original, and what shocked the whole of Paris in the early 19th century.
Even today, this building remains a curiosity in the Parisian landscape. It can’t be visited, as it’s still inhabited, but the façade alone is worth a detour. For anyone interested in architecture or unusual strolls through Paris, the Lavirotte building is clearly an address to remember. And even more so if you’re particularly fond of Art Nouveau.
📍Location: Immeuble Lavirotte – 29, avenue Rapp, 75007