Architectural styles in Paris

The architectural style of the early 19th century

Paris went through a period of regeneration during the first part of the 19th century. Following the Revolution, the Napoleonic era brought a sense of order to Paris. The buildings that were constructed during this time were huge and of a classical style. Next came the Restoration which marked a period of political change along with a break of architectural style. The reigns of Louis XVIII and Charles X saw a halt in the construction of luxurious buildings, and in their place came clean facades with rectangular windows. These straight buildings with four or five floors were uniform in style with little decoration.

The unlimited power of Haussmann in Paris from 1850 to 1914

Baron Haussmann is associated with the period of the Second Empire (1852-1870) as he was commissioned by Napoleon III, however, the Haussmann project of renovation stretched until the eve of the First World War. This well-known architect was responsible for demolishing Medieval buildings, introducing sewers and sanitation, and widening avenues. He removed 20,000 buildings to rebuild 34,000 in their place in a style that still dominates the city. Haussmann buildings are four or five storeys high with freestone facades. With their wide windows and balconies on the second floor, these buildings are still easily identifiable throughout Paris.
The collapse of the Second Empire and the advent of the Third Republic led to more sobriety. The post-Haussmann era evolves with a relaxation of planning regulations. In 1914, we see little ornaments appearing on buildings facades. Greek, Roman and Renaissance-inspired details are added along, such as the bow window (also called the oriel).

Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Contemporary architecture

At the beginning of the twentieth century, the Art Nouveau style appears in Paris as architectural norms become free from standards. Curved shapes, mixed materials and a spectrum of colours are introduced. This style was criticized for its exuberance after the trauma of the Great War and so Art Deco replaced Nouveau. Art Deco has straight lines and discreet decoration, which is the symbol of a more classical architecture in Paris.

From the 1930s, Parisian architecture is driven by economic and demographic restraints. Reinforced concrete becomes widespread in our capital used for residential and social housing, with tower blocks appearing in consequence to the need for an increasing hosting capacity. However, in the last few decades, some architects have turned to older styles, creating building in neo-Haussmann and neo-classical styles.

Many possibilities for a real estate project

The city of Lights is full of different architectural styles, property buyers and potential real estate investors have unlimited possibilities to find the place matching with their expectations. Paris is the place to invest in a property with character and history.