As you stroll down Rue Bergère, nothing hints at the excitement hidden behind the fences. Yet, 14 Rue Bergère is far from an ordinary building. Built in the late 19th century, it was conceived as a manifesto of industrial progress. At that time, it housed the central services of the Comptoir national de réescompte, the predecessor of BNP Paribas.
With stone facades, metal structures, spacious skylights reaching 17 meters high, and large bay windows: the architecture combines technical prowess and aesthetic ambition. Back then, the building already featured central steam heating and a pneumatic tube mail system, a true luxury. Listed as a Historic Monument, it embodies that era when Paris saw architecture as a total art. A special mention goes to the skylights, true signatures of the period.
in place, that bathe the spaces in a spectacular light..See this post on Instagram
A colossal construction project to create a hybrid living space
For several months now, the building has been undergoing major renovations. The goal? Transform these 26,000 m² into an open, vibrant, and diverse space. Here, there's no intention to freeze the building in the past. On the contrary, the project embraces a complete reinvention.
On the agenda: a grand restaurant nestled under the glass roofs, a bar, a hotel, coworking spaces, a gym, two levels of gardens and even a rooftop. There will also be spaces dedicated to exhibitions and events, designed to welcome both local residents and visiting guests. The idea is clear: to transform the office into a place for gathering, relaxation, and mixing, striking a balance between work, culture, and leisure.
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Bringing Heritage and Modernity Together
What makes the project at 14 rue Bergère particularly interesting is its approach to architectural heritage. The stained glass windows are preserved and restored, the original volumes are respected, and the circulation areas are redesigned to highlight what exists. Each intervention seeks to find a balance between conservation and creation.
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In a Paris where many buildings are being transformed without mercy, this careful approach stands out as an exception. The craftsmen and architects involved in the project talk about a constant dialogue with the past, without excessive nostalgia or harsh erasure.
The reopening is set for 2026. Until then, the building continues to unveil itself behind its scaffolding. And if you pass by Rue Bergère, take a moment to look up: this stone giant is on its way to becoming one of the liveliest spots in the 9th arrondissement.