“Who was Henri Duchêne?” might be the question on your mind as we stand here. Rue Henri Duchêne is named after a man who left an indelible mark on the landscape of France. This street in the 15th arrondissement of Paris is a tribute to Eugène Henri Olympe Duchêne.
Henri Duchêne was a renowned French landscape architect. Born in Lyon, he later died in Lorient. Henri’s passion for architecture led him to the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers de Paris. Soon after graduation, he was recruited by the city of Paris. He worked on the grand projects led by Adolphe Alphand. Henri made a significant impression creating squares and promenades.
Introduced to high society by architect Ernest Sanson, Henri quickly gained a prestigious clientele. Starting in 1877, he worked for owners of grand estates. Henri imposed his taste for the traditional French gardens of the 17th century. This was a reaction against the popular gardens of the 19th century.
Henri Duchêne dedicated his life to restoring the French garden to its former glory. He aimed to bring back the magnificent gardens of old estates. He passed on his knowledge to his son, Achille. Achille joined his father’s firm early in life. Together, they were inseparable in their designs and renovations.
Henri and Achille Duchêne worked together for many years. Many of their creations were collaborative efforts. Henri Duchêne poured himself into his work. He loved his clients like friends. Sadly, he overworked himself. In 1899, he suffered from hemiplegia. Despite this, he continued working for three more years before passing away in his country house in Lorient.
Achille Duchêne easily entered the world of landscape architecture. He amplified the work his father started. During the first half of the 20th century, Achille continued his career.
Henri Duchêne left behind a legacy of stunning landscapes. He helped with the development of the Champ-de-Mars for the Exposition Universelle of 1889. The duo designed the landscape of Château de Baudries in Belgium. They also worked on Château de Beaufossé and Château de Vaux-le-Pénil.
Henri and Achille Duchêne designed the romantic park of Château de Suisnes. It spans 17 hectares. They realized this design for Jacques de Noirmont. Their work extended to Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire for the Prince De Broglie and Château de Balleroy.
Rue Henri Duchêne, a public road, begins at 32 Rue Fondary. It ends at 133 Avenue Émile-Zola. The street was opened and named in 1924. It is named after the landowner.
A commemorative plaque is located at 10 avenue de New York. This marks where Henri Duchêne lived. The street is relatively short. Rue Henri Duchêne stretches about 80 meters. It has a width of 14.1 meters. As you walk along Rue Henri Duchêne, remember the legacy of Henri Duchêne. He reshaped the landscape of France with his passion and artistry.