This weekend a friend and I were exploring the streets of the 7^th arrondissement, when unexpectedly we stumbled upon the gem that is 29 Avenue Rapp. Right in front of us was an amazing Art Nouveau building, and we just had to go and have a closer look!

After some research, I found out that this building is much more famous than I had first imagined. Built in 1901, it was designed by Jules Aimé Lavirotte, a famous French architect whose theatrical designs are typical of the Art Nouveau moment, and today there are just around nine of his buildings left in the whole of Paris. It is a truly unique building, with a stunning façade that had me transfixed. Adorning the façade are beautiful sculptural designs, figurative symbols and exquisite balconies. Unfortunately (or fortunately to the residents), you cannot go inside, so one can only imagine if the interior is as opulent as the exterior.

I also read online that a myth of this building is that it is “a private residence for widowed military spouses”, so it would be interesting to find out if this is true or not!

This really is a hidden gem of Paris, and is well worth a look at if you’re anywhere near this part of the city. So the next time you make a trip to the Eiffel Tower, why not also wonder around the streets in the 7^th arrondissement, you’re never too sure what you will find.

In addition to this amazing find, if you venture further down the road and go to Square Rapp, you’re once again provided with a spectacular sight. From this space you can view the back of the building, as well as a fascinating design by Jules Lavirotte on the adjacent wall.