Grands Boulevards

A place steeped in history

An iconic building in Paris’s 9^th arrondissement, Grands Boulevards was designed by architect François Le Cœur between 1911 and 1935. Originally intended to house a telephone exchange and offices, the building was known as ‘Provence’ and then ‘Bergère’. It is currently being renovated by Covivio, combining modernity with respect for heritage.

A true testament to early 20th-century industrial architecture, this building stands out for its majestic dome, monumental arches and ceilings over 7 metres high.

Since 1999, the building has been listed as a historic monument.

An ambitious architectural project entrusted to a renowned trio

The building’s renovation is being carried out by a consortium of architects comprising CALQ (heritage), Gensler (architecture) and Sisto (interior design), in collaboration with the Architectes des Bâtiments de France. The project involves restoring the original façade, which was altered in the 1970s, levelling the floors, restoring the steel canopy, and meticulously renovating the dome and mosaics. An opening will also be created from the Trudaine extension, providing access to a green rooftop.

Grands Boulevards, a lively place

While awaiting its transformation, Covivio has taken an unprecedented step by temporarily opening the premises to players in the creative industry: events, exhibitions, artist residencies – notably, four female entrepreneurs have been engaged in a collective reflection on the workspaces of tomorrow. This experimental approach has turned the building into a veritable urban laboratory, open to the city.

These experiments have also helped to make the building a place that is open to the city – for example, by hosting exhibitions open to the public such as Paris Internationale, a contemporary art fair, and Briller Fort by Le Cercle de l’Art.

Covivio took advantage of this ‘laboratory’ to redefine the guidelines for the future renovation of the premises, drawing inspiration from feedback from users and visitors during this period. The historical heritage will be particularly highlighted in the future development project, and a space dedicated to events could remain. Covivio will thus be able to offer, within the building, a design and layout of the space in line with the expectations of players in the creative industry, who are very present in the neighbourhood.