Suddenly, colorful ceramics catch your eye. You are standing on Rue Eugène Flachat. This street unveils unexpected architectural gems in north-western Paris.
Rue Eugène Flachat earned its name from Eugène Flachat. He was the chief engineer of the Compagnie des Chemins de Fer de l’Ouest. The street’s opening decree dates to April 30, 1879. It showcases the late urbanization of the Plaine Monceau.
Picture this street vacant of buildings. It attracted the interest of the new bourgeoisie after 1883. They desired to establish their fresh social status. They erected prestigious private mansions. These buildings reflect the aesthetic movements in vogue. Rue Eugène Flachat became an expression of late 19th-century styles. These included eclectic, neo-Gothic, and neo-Louis XIII styles. They were early examples of Art Nouveau.
Note the even side of the street. It has remained almost entirely intact. It has resisted developers’ appetites. The street illustrates a break from uniformity. Architects experimented with new techniques. They also used new materials. Iron, concrete, and flamed stoneware appeared.
Let’s focus on some architectural highlights. At number 8, discover a charming neo-Gothic building. Gaston Aubry designed it in 1881. It features balconies with fleur-de-lys. Window frames show sculpted heads.
A few steps away at number 32 stands Maison Dumas. Paul Sédille designed this eye-catching building in 1892. Its facade features blue-green glazed brick. Ceramic tiles create a frieze of lemon branches. The building makes references to the Italian Renaissance.
Continue to numbers 16 and 18. Here, find a double building in the Louis XIII style. Georges Louis Bayard designed it. Red brick and geometric patterns define the exterior. Dragon sculptures guard the sides.
Finally, admire number 14. Charles Girault created an elegant facade. Green and yellow ceramics add to its beauty.
These architectural treasures exist here for a reason. Rue Eugène Flachat sits near the Plaine Monceau. The Parisian bourgeoisie settled here in the late 19th century. Many private mansions arose.
Take a closer look at number 34. Notice the bas-relief. Joseph Chéret created it. It depicts a woman with a paintbrush. She seems inspired by the surrounding landscape.
Between 1880 and 1895, numerous private mansions appeared. The even side of Rue Eugène Flachat is remarkably preserved. It presents an eclectic mix of architectural trends. The street exemplifies the originality of Parisian buildings.
The inventiveness of the architects has left its mark. As you stroll down Rue Eugène Flachat, the passion of late 19th-century Paris comes alive. It’s a feast for the eyes and a testament to architectural creativity.