Rue d'Uzès - our street
A Chronicle of Historical Developments and Architectural Transitions
In the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, the Rue d'Uzès stands as a significant representation of the city's historical and architectural evolution.
Section I: Historical Context
The Rue d'Uzès was officially established in 1870, marking a significant phase in the urban development of Paris. Its nomenclature is derived from the Hôtel d'Uzès, a prominent structure that previously occupied the site. Initially, in 1739, it was the residence of the Marquis de l'Hôpital and later underwent substantial modifications between 1767 and 1769 under the guidance of architect Claude-Nicolas Ledoux. In 1824, the property was acquired by Benjamin Delessert, who was the last owner before its demolition in 1870. This period also saw the disappearance of the Grands Magasins de la Ville de Paris, a notable commercial establishment that existed before the Franco-Prussian War.
Section II: Architectural Transitions
The decade following 1870 witnessed a surge in construction activities on the land where the Hôtel d'Uzès once stood. This phase saw the erection of industrial buildings, showcasing a homogeneous architectural style that characterizes the street today. Noteworthy structures include:
- No. 5: A building conceived by architect Edmond Guillaume in 1878, with partial renovations undertaken in 2004 by Marc Mimram.
- No. 13: Initially established in 1887 as clothing workshops, this building signifies the street's connection to the textile and clothing industry. Over the years, it transitioned into an office space, notably housing the Directorate General of Taxes and being the target of a bomb attack in 1991.
Section III: Contemporary Developments
Today, Rue d'Uzès is home to several notable establishments that contribute to its vibrant and diverse character.
Lafayette Saltiel Drapiers is a renowned establishment in the textile industry, situated at 11 Rue d'Uzès, 75002 Paris. The company specializes in offering a wide range of textiles both in stock and on order, with no minimum purchase quantities, providing maximum flexibility for various projects. Their inventory includes over 3500 articles for tailoring, dressmaking, and alterations, encompassing products like Gutermann threads, fusible interlinings, canvases, and linings, among others.
Franklin Azzi Architecture, located on Rue d'Uzès, is a hub of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration in the field of architecture and design. Led by Franklin Azzi, a visionary architect, the agency is housed in a 700 square meter industrial studio, a space fostering creativity and collaboration among a diverse team of professionals. The agency is known for its significant contributions to Paris's urban landscape, including the redevelopment of the banks of the Seine and the renovation of the Nantes School of Fine Arts. They are also actively involved in promoting contemporary art through annual exhibitions and collaborations with artists.
Recently, the Carnavalet Museum reopened after a renovation project that saw the restoration of the Salon d'Uzès, a room from the original Hôtel d'Uzès. This project involved meticulous restoration efforts to bring back the aesthetic and authentic appeal of the salon, which now stands as a testament to the rich history of Rue d'Uzès.
Sources
- Wikipedia
- Leborgne, Dominique. "Le Guide du promeneur. 2e arrondissement", Paris, Parigramme, 1995. ISBN 2-84096-042-7.
- Loyer, François. "Histoire de l’architecture française. De la Révolution à nos jours", Éditions du Patrimoine, 2006. ISBN 978-2-8562-0395-8.
- Les Ateliers de la Chapelle
- Carnavalet Museum website
- The Socialite Family
