Pierced in 1895, rue Reaumur is the most important symbol of Paris architecture in the early 20th century, bearing the signs of a new urbanism imagined at that time.
This street has been built after several modifications of Parisian buildings specifications, previously governed by the strict Haussmann rules. Whereas the buildings had to respect similar height and facades to form a master plan, new decrees in 1882, 1884 and 1902 permitted a relaxation of those standards.
The inventiveness of architects was then released again, and they will experience rue Reaumur new urban forms along with the use of new materials (iron and concrete). The City of Paris also created for this street a “facade contest “, competition that will be later extended to the all Paris.
Strolling rue Réaumur from la Bourse to Arts et Métiers is both a discovery of architectural researches in the early 20th century, and a pleasure for the eyes!
Note : Rue Reaumur had above all a commercial purpose . The buildings had to house wholesale and textiles. The architects coped so with two challenges : design a building in which you can both produce and sell, and propose an original architecture unknown until then.
- Immediately after la Bourse, look at the no 132-134. This cut stone building was built in 1899-1900 for a bank. Winner of the facade contest.
- In front of 121 rue Réaumur, enjoy the rotunda composed of Bow Windows, and the use of ironwork for small balconies,
- 124 rue Réaumur. This building is typical of industrial buildings during art nouveau (modern style) period . Its most original elements are apparent steel frame, the bow windows on the 4th floor and the surprising appearance of bricks on the 5th floor.
>> Art Nouveau buildings in Paris
- 118 rue Reaumur, built in 1900, also illustrates the Art Nouveau adaptation to business imperatives. Appreciate the large 3 levels glass facade.
See also n° 97 a building looking like the n°118.
- 82-96. A typical construction of a department store in the 19th century. Opened in 1897 along with the inauguration of the street, it housed the store A Réaumur until 1960. You can find there now various shops and offices. At the corner of rue Saint-Denis , do not miss the beautiful clock surrounded by polychrome mosaics.
- In front of the department store, n° 69, is a beautiful cut stone building topped by a stunning metallic glass roof. Built in 1898.
- Further, at 61-63 rue Reaumur, you will discover one of the most beautiful buildings in the street. Built in 1898, it has a Gothic façade topped by a monumental clock. The sculptures above the door represent the 4 seasons and the 12 signs of the Zodiac.
Rue Réaumur, always keep your head high and your eyes open !
