“Rue aux enfants” or children’s street. That’s what they call Rue Guillaumot these days. It is a transformation that started in July 2023. But it has a much longer story.
Rue Guillaumot is nestled in Paris’s 12th arrondissement. It is a small street. It stretches just 72 meters long. The street is about 10 meters wide. It connects Avenue Daumesnil to Rue Jean-Bouton.
Once known as Cité Guillaumot, Rue Guillaumot officially became a street in 1927. The street is named after a former landowner. This street’s origins trace back to 1862.
Now, imagine this street in 1914. Around that time, the Baron de Corbera commissioned the construction of three buildings. These buildings border the south side of Rue Guillaumot. Architect Bignand designed them. The buildings stand six stories high. They reach about 23 meters. They blend residential living with commercial activity. The buildings add an eclectic architectural touch to the area.
Rue Guillaumot sits near the Gare de Lyon and Place Henri Frenay. It is primarily residential. It also features some ground-floor commercial spaces. The neighborhood is getting a makeover to make it more pedestrian-friendly. The goal is to transform Rue Guillaumot into a “rue aux enfants”.
The project includes several key changes. Asphalt sidewalks now cross the street. These improvements bring the road and sidewalks to the same level. The new clear pavement brightens up the area.
At the entrances and exits, there are new gates. Pedestrian crossings were created near Place Henri Frenay. The renovation added planted strips and climbing plants. Eight new trees now line Rue Guillaumot.
Benches were installed on grassy paving stones. A water fountain was added. There are hooks for strollers. The renovation includes parking for children’s scooters and bikes. An educational planting area was created for children.
Rue Guillaumot has evolved. It became a haven for families and children. The street’s redesign promotes community interaction. It also offers green spaces in the city.
The transformation of Rue Guillaumot is more than cosmetic. It mirrors Paris’s ongoing commitment. The commitment is to improving urban life for its residents. This small street shows how thoughtful design can change a neighborhood. It creates a more inviting and livable environment. Rue Guillaumot is a testament to the power of community-focused urban planning.