Picture the elegant Rue Patou in Lille. This tranquil street nestled between the Boulevard de la Liberté and Square Rameau whispers stories of Lille’s past. Rue Patou’s charm lies in its understated elegance. The architecture is predominantly bourgeois dating from the 1870s to 1900.
However one house demands attention. It’s the home of architect Albert Baert built around 1910. Its neoclassical style is striking. There’s no Art Nouveau influence here. But look closely. The sandstone and lave émaillée decoration is incredibly rich.
Notice the rounded pediments. They showcase symbolic representations of technology. Chemistry industry geography geometry and the fine arts painting sculpture music and architecture are all depicted. Between the first-floor windows are cartouches. They feature profile portraits of women perhaps representing Day and Night.
The interior of the triangular pediments are adorned with vegetal scrolls. These repeat the ground floor decor. The neoclassical door features beautiful stained-glass double imposts. Rue Patou holds more treasures.
Nearby are other architectural gems. The Hotel Castiaux built in 1886 is a masterpiece by Emile Vandenbergh. Its systematic use of arched windows gives it an exotic look. Admire the wrought ironwork and the sculpted decoration. An artist’s studio occupies the roof terrace. The building’s exuberance and design foreshadow Art Nouveau.
Another magnificent building is a neo-Baroque hotel built by Armand Lemay in 1910. Between the first-floor windows is a trophy-shaped cartouche. It blends an allegory of music with a cascade of flowers and fruit. Only the window frames hint at Art Nouveau. Rue Patou is a delightful mix of architectural styles.
At the corner of Rue Desmazières and Rue de Solferino stands a neo-Gothic mansion. It shows strong English Revival architectural influences. Note the beautiful pointed arch doorway adorned with yellow and blue irises. Also notice the large pointed arch bay window with a wooden oriel overlooking Rue de Solferino. It dates from around 1880-1890.
The large glass roofs decorating the garden facades of the houses on Rue de Solferino are also remarkable. As you walk down Rue Patou remember that this seemingly quiet street is brimming with history and architectural artistry. Each building has its own story to tell. They all contribute to the unique character of this charming Lille street. Rue Patou is a treasure waiting to be discovered.