Pavillon de l’Arsenal

What secrets does a former wood merchant’s mansion hold? Here, at the Pavillon de l’Arsenal, we uncover the story of Paris itself. The Pavillon de l’Arsenal isn’t just a beautiful building. It’s a living archive, breathing the history of Parisian architecture and urbanism. Originally built in 1878 for Laurent-Louis Borniche, a wood merchant and art enthusiast, the Pavillon de l’Arsenal was intended to house his personal art collection. Imagine, nearly 2,000 canvases filling these very halls. Borniche envisioned a “popular museum,” a place where art could be accessible to all. Sadly, his dream didn’t fully materialize during his lifetime. After his death in 1883, the collection was sold, and the building took on various roles. From an alcohol sales depot to a clothing workshop for La Samaritaine department store, the Pavillon de l’Arsenal seemed to be searching for its true purpose. In 1954, the City of Paris acquired the building. The Pavillon de l’Arsenal then housed city archives, another chapter in its evolving story. It wasn’t until 1988 that the Pavillon de l’Arsenal finally found its calling. Architects Bernard Reichen and Philippe Robert renovated the building, transforming it into the center we know today. The original metal structure, a hallmark of late 19th-century architecture, is celebrated throughout. Light streams through the glass and metal roof, illuminating exhibits on Parisian urban planning. The Pavillon de l’Arsenal now houses both permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibits, spread over 800 square meters, delve into Parisian architecture and the city’s evolution. Temporary exhibits tackle diverse themes. These range from housing projects to the legacy of Baron Haussmann, offering a glimpse into Paris past, present, and future. The Pavillon de l’Arsenal invites you to explore the city’s transformation. It’s a journey through time, from a wood merchant’s artistic aspirations to a vibrant center for urban planning. The Pavillon de l’Arsenal isn’t just a museum. It’s a conversation about Paris, a city constantly in the making.