The distinctive architectural style of Paris, known as the City of Lights, is well-known around the world. Much of the city's beautiful architecture, expansive boulevards, and balanced layout is the work of one man, Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann. His work gave rise to the iconic Haussmann architecture, a style that has become synonymous with Paris and captures the essence of the city in the minds of many.
Today, 60% of Paris's buildings are in Haussmann design. These Haussmann-style apartments boast spacious interiors, soaring ceilings, and intricate detailing both inside and out. The splendour of these apartments, which capture the essence of Haussmannian luxury, is a reflection of the wealth and social standing of its tenants or owners. For those looking for apartments for rent in Paris, these stunning residences offer a blend of historical charm and modern convenience.
Key Architectural Elements of Haussmann Apartments
A Haussmann apartment is easily recognisable from the outside. The buildings are quite similar and adhere to a strict architectural unit. One distinctive feature is the use of cut stone, which was once only seen in monumental structures but is increasingly common in residential construction. Another defining feature is that building facades are consistently at the same height.
The height must be proportional to the width of the street, not exceeding 18 meters for a six-story building. Many investors are drawn to this design principle because it offers an aesthetically pleasing look and a feeling of external balance. This makes Paris apartments for rent in Haussmann buildings particularly appealing.
Moreover, zinc plates are an ever-present component of roofing materials. The material is inexpensive and simple to cut and shape. And since it was revolutionary at the time, it stood as a symbol of progress toward a more contemporary world.
The harmonious ornamentation, which mimics the stone joints and maintains a constant focus on horizontal lines, is impossible to miss. This element is typical of the Haussmann design and adds visual attractiveness, which makes the property more appealing to renters.
Interior Features That Define Haussmann Apartments
Haussmann architecture and design extend beyond the exterior to the interior of the apartments as well. A hallmark feature is the solid parquet flooring, often laid in herringbone or chevron patterns. This classic flooring choice adds an inherent touch of charm and elegance to the property.
No Haussmann building would be complete without its renowned moldings. You can find these decorative elements along the walls or at the ceiling corners made of wood or plaster. Often reflecting the Louis XV or Art Deco geometric style, these minute details contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic and highlight the defining style of the age.
The Haussmann chimney is another appealing element that draws in prospective renters. Even though it may no longer serve its purpose, many apartments include this marble structure. The chimneys could formerly provide enough heat for the whole house. However, these days, they are mostly used as ornamental pieces that add to the allure of the Haussmann design.
The Adaptability of Haussmann Apartments
Floor Plans of Haussmann Apartments
Many Haussmann apartments include a large entryway known as a "galerie d'entrée" as you get inside. This is a spacious area where guests are greeted and given time to wait. Although some may see them as a waste of space in modern times, they give reception rooms a sense of more space and dimension.
There are two or three reception areas that run parallel to the entry gallery. The rooms are located next to one other and are accessible via a lengthy hallway. The kitchen is located at the end of this hallway; from there, you may access the service stairs via the door. The service rooms, situated on the top level under the roof, can be accessed by the same staircase.
Modern Renovations to Classic Haussmann Apartments
When renovating a Haussmannian apartment, it is common practice to move the kitchen to the living room rather than the other end of the building. The kitchen room is then often transformed into a bedroom. Many kitchens include beautiful parquet flooring made from Hungarian points.
Elevators in Haussmann Buildings
As elevators became more commonplace in buildings during the 1900s, buyers began to choose units located on upper levels. They shield you from the increasingly loud and congested Parisian traffic, while simultaneously letting in more light and offering more picturesque vistas. An apartment on the fifth level of a Parisian Haussmannian building is now priced roughly 20% more than the second floor, which is considered the noble floor.
Which Parisian Neighbourhoods Have Haussmann Apartments?
If you are acquainted with Paris, you may have noticed that some areas have a higher concentration of Haussmann flats. To understand this distribution, it's essential to consider Baron Haussmann's vision. Haussmann, who loved symmetry, order, and good views, wanted to restore Paris's glory by emphasising alignment instead of just expanding the streets. His plan was to compensate property owners as he cut large, straight boulevards through pre-existing buildings.
Additionally, the streets have maintained their breadth, which facilitated the movement of cavalry. In addition, the Haussmann flats are situated on axes that link the six major stations in Paris. They were built at a period when the railway network was quite significant. That is why streets, boulevards, avenues, and squares are necessary to link them. It is a very dense network that targets certain areas west of Paris.
Conclusion
Even after all these years after their construction in the 19th century, apartments created by Haussmann still manage to captivate. From the time they were built until now, they have been undergoing constant reinvention. These luxurious residences have served as an inspiration to many famous architects. Their work has brought out the best in the Haussmann apartments' marble fireplaces, exquisite moldings, Hungarian point or straight slat parquet floors, and the abundant natural light streaming in through the expansive windows. Additionally, the classic design of apartments designed in the Haussmann style harmonises very well with modern furniture.
By investing in a Haussmannian apartment, one can ensure that their living quarters are steeped in the illustrious history of Paris while still catering to all the contemporary comforts one might want.
