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Haussmannian and Post-Haussmannian Style: How to Make a Difference?

In a real estate sale announcement in Paris, a simple word can increase the price: “Haussmannian”. Typically Parisian, this style concerns just over half of the capital's heritage. Whether it is the ashlar facade, the long balconies or the rich decorations in the window frames, several elements are characteristic of this period during which Baron Haussmann wanted to transform the city. But for the greatest architecture enthusiasts, it is useful to know that there is a distinction between Haussmannian and post-Haussmannian: how to achieve it? If you wish to be accompanied to find this type of property, do not hesitate to call on a Paris real estate hunter.

1. A Matter of Dates Above All

To make the difference between a Haussmannian building and another post-Haussmann building, a few short historical reminders are necessary. Between 1830 and 1850, Parisian buildings adopted the “Louis-Philippe” style, quite similar to the “Restoration” style that preceded it. Rather simple, the facades began to feature more decorations around the 1840s... These were the beginnings of the Haussmann style!

The latter clearly appeared in 1850, when Napoleon III came to power: he dreamed of a healthier but also more beautiful Paris. It is Baron Haussmann who manages this vast urbanization project aimed at demolishing old buildings and building numerous ones (around 34,000). The Haussmannian style survived for about 60 years in all, until 1914, but we must not forget that it nevertheless encountered some evolutions (we started with buildings of 5 floors maximum, before going up to 6 floors in 1859, for example).

Finally, in the fifteen years following the start of the Haussmann project, between 1870 and 1895, we no longer speak of a Haussmann style strictly speaking, but of “post-Haussmann”.

2. Haussmann Style: Symbol of Elegance and Opulence

Throughout the Haussmann period, efforts were made to build magnificent ashlar buildings, with very specific characteristics:

  • Structured and elegant facades : cut stone with horizontal striations on the ground floors and entresols.
  • Winged balconies : present from the second floor, decorated with beautiful consoles and sometimes repeated on other floors.
  • Ornamental mouldings and decorations : windows and doors are framed by decorative elements, valuing the expertise of architects.
  • Dating and architectural signature : each facade is dated and signed, adding a unique touch to each building.
  • Mansard roofs : typical of Haussmann buildings, they often house maids rooms.

These buildings are designed to offer great visual harmony in the streets of Paris, promoting uniformity and grandeur.

Les Haussmannian apartments are distinguished by their elegant facades and architectural harmony, but it is inside that the charm truly operates.

3. Post-Haussmann Style: Still Creative, but Subtler

In the early 1870s, Paris experienced a troubled period with the Franco-Prussian War and the economic repercussions of this period. However, the city continued to beautify and expand, giving rise to the post-Haussmann style. The latter maintains some of the features of the Haussmann style while bringing new features:

  • Simplifying ornaments : the decorations are less busy, with more sober and refined details.
  • Introduction of oriel windows : these multi-level glass advances became authorized as early as 1884.
  • Relaxation of the rules : as early as 1885, architects explored more styles, integrating neo-classical, Gothic or even Art Nouveau inspirations.
  • Enlarged balconies : allowed up to 1.20 meters deep from 1902, they offer a more modern aesthetic.
  • New roofs and corners : the attics are more spacious, and the corners of buildings are often rounded, decorated with characteristic domes.

This style reflects a transition towards freer and bolder architecture, foreshadowing the arrival of Art Nouveau.

4. The Latest Achievements of the Haussmann Style (1895-1914)

Between 1895 and 1914, we witnessed the end of the great Haussmann period. The new building regulations allow:

  • Of deeper balconies and loggias between the ears.
  • One increased creativity in facades, with decorative elements borrowed from other styles.
  • Of bulkier roofs, thanks to a better height under the eaves.
  • Of elegant domes on the rounded corners of the buildings, accentuating their majesty.

These latest constructions marked the heyday and gradual decline of the Haussmann style, while leaving room for innovations that foreshadowed the 20th century.

5. Building Classes: Another Differentiation Criteria

In addition to periods, Haussmann and post-Haussmann buildings are distinguished by their classification into several categories:

  1. First class buildings : 4 floors, large family apartments, often without shops on the ground floor.
  2. Second class buildings : up to 5 floors, with service stairs.
  3. Third class buildings : 5 or 6 floors, smaller volumes and few decorations.

These classes influence not only the exterior aesthetics, but also the comfort of the homes.

6. The Charm of the Haussmann Interior

Beyond the facade, the interiors of Haussmann and post-Haussmann buildings seduce by:

  • Massive parquet floors : often in a Hungarian point, bringing a warm touch.
  • The elegant moldings : present on walls, ceilings, doors and fireplaces.
  • Decorative fireplaces : real aesthetic advantages for each room.
  • The big windows : offering abundant light.

These interior elements contribute to the timeless appeal of these apartments, which are highly sought after on the Parisian real estate market.

7. The Post-Haussmann Style: Precursor of Art Nouveau?

Post-Haussmann buildings, especially from the 1890s, opened up to various influences and heralded the beginnings of Art Nouveau. More exuberant wrought iron balconies, curved lines and elements inspired by nature are beginning to appear, starting a true architectural revolution.

The 5 Key Points to Remember

  1. The Haussmann style epitomizes opulence, with rich facades and detailed ornaments.
  2. The Post-Haussmannian style is distinguished by increased sobriety and openness to varied inspirations.
  3. Haussmann and post-Haussmann buildings are classified into several categories, influencing their standing.
  4. Post-Haussmannian innovations herald the arrival of Art Nouveau.
  5. Apartments of these styles remain very popular properties on the Parisian market.

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