Hôtel de Chaulnes, Private mansion in Place des Vosges, Paris, France.
The Hôtel de Chaulnes is a private mansion at Place des Vosges composed of two pavilions made of brick and stone that span eight arcades. The building reflects Renaissance architectural principles and forms part of the harmonious ensemble that defines this historic square.
Built in 1607 by Pierre Fougeu d'Escures, the mansion later served as a vantage point for royal celebrations and court activities. The structure underwent several transformations over centuries before finding new purpose with the Academy's arrival in the modern era.
The building has housed the French Academy of Architecture since 1967, serving as a center for architectural knowledge and preservation. This institution shapes the character of the interior and makes it a gathering place for professionals and enthusiasts.
The mansion sits directly facing Place des Vosges, accessible via metro stations Saint-Paul or Bastille nearby. Visitors can view the exterior facade and arcades clearly from the square, making it easy to appreciate the architectural details without requiring special access.
The mansion contains an original grand staircase and a former duchess chamber decorated with intricate 18th-century plasterwork and cornices. These spaces reveal the craftsmanship of the period and offer glimpses into how nobility once lived within these walls.
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