Audio GuidePavillon de l'Arsenal
Architecture is celebrated at this 19th-century building with a permanent exhibition on Paris.
Museum
Paris, France
Pavillon de l'Arsenal stands at twenty-one Boulevard Morland in Paris' fourth arrondissement. Originally built in the late nineteenth century for Laurent-Louis Borniche, a wood merchant and amateur painter, the building began life as a wood warehouse and later served as an annex to a famous department store. In the mid-twentieth century, the City of Paris acquired the site, and after renovations by architects Reichen and Robert, it reopened in the late eighties as a center for urban planning and architecture.
The architecture of the building reflects the style and spirit of nineteenth-century Paris with its robust and functional design that blends history with modern use. Located in the historic Arsenal district, it shares its surroundings with landmarks that echo Paris’ evolution from medieval fortifications to today’s dynamic metropolis.
Inside, the ground floor hosts a permanent exhibition titled Paris, la métropole et ses projets. Spanning a vast area, the exhibition includes archives, photographs, maps, films, and a digital model of Paris produced in partnership with tech innovators. The first and second floors change regularly with temporary exhibitions focused on topics like housing, urban development, and landmark projects, as well as showing current urban projects and architecture competitions. Conferences featuring noted architects further enrich the experience, while multimedia resources, including films and digital archives, bring Paris’ past and present to life.
Pavillon de l'Arsenal is a must-visit destination for those eager to explore the rich tapestry of Parisian history and contemporary urban design.
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