Hôtel d'Aux, Neoclassical private mansion in Nantes, France.
Hôtel d'Aux is a three-story mansion in Nantes featuring limestone walls divided by Corinthian pilasters that frame seven windows on each floor. The neoclassical design creates a balanced facade with clear proportions and clean lines characteristic of its architectural period.
Construction finished in 1770 for René Louis d'Aux, a plantation owner whose wealth from Caribbean trade prompted him to build this grand residence. The building later served a military purpose during World War II before being registered as a protected historical monument.
The building reflects how wealthy residents of the 18th century used grand homes to express their social standing and success. These mansions served as physical symbols of their prosperity and importance in the expanding city.
The mansion is located at the intersection of Place du Maréchal-Foch and Rue Tournefort in central Nantes, making it easy to find. As a protected monument, it is not open for public visits inside, but the exterior facade can be admired from the street.
Upon completion, the owner was so impressed with architect Jean-Baptiste Ceineray's work that he offered to pay him additional fees beyond their agreement. The architect refused the extra compensation, believing the quality of his creation spoke for itself.
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