The original building facade on rue Blomet, Paris 15th arrondissement

As you stroll through the 15th arrondissement of Paris, you'll catch sight of a building with a strange facade at 83-85 rue Blomet that catches the eye and amazes passers-by with its originality and uniqueness. Built in 1909, this architectural masterpiece is one of the creations of Charles Lefebvre, an architect who left his mark on his era through his boldness and creativity.

83-85 rue Blomet is distinguished by a facade that breaks with Parisian architectural standards. Orange brick walls contrast with green railings, window surrounds and gates. A style that, let's face it, is more often found by the sea. So, this unusual building facade almost gives us a taste of vacation.

Charles Lefebvre was born on August 19, 1867 in Roubaix, in the Nord region of France. He studied at the École des Beaux-arts, graduating on December 8, 1893, before moving to the 17th arrondissement of Paris the following year.

Asarchitect for the Ministry of the Colonies in Paris, he was responsible for the interior design of all the pavilions in the French Colonies and Protectorate Territories section at the 1905 Liège Exhibition in Belgium, held in the Parc de la Boverie.

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From 1910, he surrounded himself with Marcel Julien and Louis Duhayon, first as collaborators, then as partners in the Lefebvre, Julien et Duhayon agency. After his death in 1924, Julien and Duhayon continued to run the firm, which completed a series of landmark projects until the late 1930s.

Best known for his Haussmann-style buildings, Charles Lefèbvre left behind major works such as the Millenium Paris Opéra hotel, the Royal Monceau Raffles hotel and the Frazer Suites Le Claridge Champs Elysées hotel.

Among his works are apartment buildings which, although less exuberant, are not lacking in charm and character. The façade of 83-85 rue Blomet leaves an original mark on the Parisian architectural landscape. For lovers of Parisian architecture and history, this is one of a number of fine examples. And if you're in the area, don't miss the Boulangerie Pâtisserie l'Équilibre, which offers exceptional sweet treats in a setting classified as a historical monument.