Do you like architectural discoveries? The selection presented and discovered by the editors highlights Paris' unusual buildings, veritable heritage treasures, reflecting the stylistic evolution of Paris through the ages. The abundance and diversity of architectural styles, from mansions in the Middle Ages to Art Nouveau and modern creations, offer a vibrant testimony to the eras we've passed through. This discovery allows you to appreciate Paris in a new light, far from the tourist clichés and beaten tracks, and to feel the city's historic and artistic pulse.
n immerse yourself in a Paris where every stone, every facade, tells a story. The editors have compiled a list of buildings to discover throughout Paris, revealing a variety of buildings with unique characteristics. It's a chance to explore the capital off the beaten track, and to be surprised by its architectural audacity.
The selected buildings, from different eras, illustrate the passage of time and the dialogue between tradition and modernity. They reflect the ambitions, aspirations and influences that have helped shape the face of Paris. Some buildings stand out from the ordinary for their bold design, their history or their harmonious integration into the urban fabric, renewing the way we look at the city.
The original building facade on rue Blomet, Paris 15th arrondissement
Flanking rue Blomet in the 15ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, you may come across the facade of this unusual and original Paris building. This 1909 building, designed by architect Charles Lefebvre, is reminiscent of the grand houses of Normandy. [Read more]
Did you know? Why does the McD's in Saint-Lazare have the façade of an Alsatian house?
Does the unusual facade of the McDonald's at 119 rue Saint-Lazare in Paris appeal to you? Discover the history of this Alsatian house that contrasts with the capital's Haussmann-style buildings. [Read more]
Les Arènes de Picasso, the emblematic real estate complex in Noisy-le-Grand (93)
The Palacio d'Abraxas, designed by Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill, is well known in Noisy-le-Grand, but you may have already caught a glimpse of this unusual building nicknamed "les camemberts de Noisy". [Read more]
Did you know? Charles Klein's unusual building, Les Chardons, is a listed and award-winning building.
In the heart of Paris's 16th arrondissement, the Immeuble de Charles Klein stands out for its unique representation of thistles. Built in 1903, this Art Nouveau architectural jewel invites you on a voyage of discovery rich in history and aesthetics. [Read more]
Discover the magnificent cathedral building on rue Réaumur and its astrological clock
For a little architectural stroll, choose Paris's 2nd arrondissement, and rue Réaumur in particular. It's packed with exceptional facades, including a cathedral building with a clock and astrological wheel. [Read more]
Immeuble Lavirotte: Art Nouveau jewel on Avenue Rapp in Paris
The Immeuble Lavirotte is a masterpiece of Parisian Art Nouveau, located on Avenue Rapp in the 7th arrondissement. Erected between 1900 and 1901 by Jules Lavirotte, this award-winning building's dreamlike facade is particularly appealing if you're walking near the Eiffel Tower. [Read more]
La Pagode de Paris - the unique and unusual Maison Loo in Paris
The Pagode de Paris - Maison Loo, located in the heart of the Plaine Monceau between the 8th and 17th arrondissements, is an unusual architectural treasure. Revamped in 1926, this former residence now stands like a private museum, a building of one man's love for his native China, right in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Did you know that a sublime and unusual Parisian façade is hidden in Cité Malesherbes?
Among the most beautiful facades and buildings in Paris is the one designed by the architect Anatole Jal, made for and by the painter Pierre-Jules Jollivet. Nestled in the peaceful and hidden Cité Malesherbes, this marvel with biblical scenes is worth a visit. We tell you its history. [Read more]
The Musée de la Pharmacie, Paris' most hidden, unusual and free pharmacy - closed for renovation
In the heart of a private mansion near the Parc Monceau lies one of the capital's most discreet museums: the Pharmacy Museum! Here, you can discover, free of charge, the history of the site, which now houses the Ordre National des Pharmaciens and a number of unusual collections. Currently closed for renovation until May 2025. [Read more]
Did you know that? Discover the history of the Journal du Soir - La France building - rue Montmartre
Immerse yourself in the history of journalism in Paris by visiting the façade of the Journal du Soir - La France, located at 144 rue Montmartre, a witness to a bygone era. [Read more]
Did you know that the Céramic Hôtel and its unusual façade are listed as Historic Monuments?
The Céramic Hôtel, which today is still a hotel named "Hôtel Elysées Crémac Paris", boasts one of the most original façades in Paris. We tell you the story of this Art Nouveau building designed by architect Jules Aimé Lavirotte, winner of the City of Paris facade competition in 1905. [Read more]
Did you know that? The Castel Béranger is one of the emblematic buildings of Art Nouveau in Paris
Did you know that? The Castel Béranger is an emblematic building of Art Nouveau in Paris. It was designed by the architect Hector Guimard, famous for his Art Nouveau creations, including the famous Parisian subway entrances. Located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, the Castel Béranger is a true architectural gem, a testimony to the refined aesthetics of the period. [Read more]
Did you know that this historic building and its clock once belonged to Le Temps magazine?
We often pass in front of it and marvel at the beauty of its facade and its clock, but do you know the history of this building that was once the stronghold of the magazine Le Temps? We tell you... [Read more]
L'hôtel Henri Menier - Conservatoire international de musique de Paris
En 1880, Henri Menier sollicite l'expertise de l'architecte Henri Parent (1819-1895) pour ériger sa demeure parisienne aux abords du parc Monceau. Durant cette période, l'aristocratie et la haute bourgeoisie se disputent les services de cet architecte, spécialisé dans les résidences luxueuses. Une décennie plus tôt, Parent avait déjà conçu les plans de l’hôtel Emile-Justin Menier, demeure du père d'Henri Menier, située sur l'avenue Van Dyck voisine. [Read more]
French Ministry of Culture
Dans un quartier où prédominent les édifices sobres et bourgeois, cet immeuble qui abrite le Ministère de la Culture et de la Communication surprend par son originalité. La rénovation et restructuration de 2004, orchestrées par les architectes Francis Soler et Frédéric Druot, lui ont conféré une résille argentée inattendue, enrichissant son allure. [Read more]
And there you have it!
