batiment-etroit-architecture

The incredible prow building, the mini Flatiron tucked away in the heart of Lille

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The Editor

Good morning Lille

Just a couple of steps from the Grand'Place, a corner of Lille takes you straight to Manhattan. No need for a plane, just look up! At the corner of Rue de la Clef and Boulevard Carnot, the prow building rises with its triangular silhouette, like a little Flatiron in Lille style: elegant, unique, and filled with history.

A gem of architecture... born from an unfinished project

Built in 1912, this building was meant to be the first link in a grand Haussmannian dream. The idea? To redesigned the entire Boulevard Carnot with majestic facades. But this vast project never saw the light of day. The prow building remains the only vestige of this ambition, standing proudly as a survivor of pre-war modernism.

And what charm it has! With its angled facade, elegant lines, and unique position, it seems to slice through the city like a ship. In fact, that's where its name comes from: the prow, referencing the front part of a boat.

Between History and a Nod to New York

It's hard not to think of the Flatiron Building in Manhattan when discovering this architectural gem. A true local curiosity, it's been captured thousands of times by photographers (and proud locals).

Before its construction, this spot was home to the Place des Guinguants, a small square that has now disappeared, where a store selling corks and ropes was run by the Six family—definitely a blast from the past! Three streets led to it: Rue de la Clef (still around today), Rue des Suaires, and Rue des Oyers, all swallowed up by the big construction projects of the early 20th century.

At the base of the building, there was also the Mongy tramway terminus, designed by engineer Alfred Mongy, which connected Lille to Roubaix and Tourcoing. Nowadays, it has been moved to Lille-Flandres, but the essence remains: this place has long been a starting point to other cities, other times, and other dreams.

A Little Slice of New York, Flemish Style

During the Music Festival, the café on the ground floor transforms into a vibrant hub where melodies and laughter bounce off the bricks. With its popular spirit and Haussmannian heritage, this iconic building perfectly embodies what we love about Lille: a delightful mix of history, charm, and surprises around every corner.

So, the next time you're strolling down Boulevard Carnot, look up!
You'll see: even without skyscrapers, Lille has nothing to envy from New York.

Proue Building
Corner of Rue de la Clef & Boulevard Carnot – Lille
Sources: Good Morning Lille, Nord Evasion