Samaritaine is a historic department store located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, situated between the Pont Neuf and the Rue de Rivoli. It was founded in 1870 by Ernest Cognacq and his wife Marie-Louise Jay. The complex grew progressively over the following decades, becoming one of the largest and most recognizable retail landmarks in the city.
The principal architectural identity of La Samaritaine was established by architect Frantz Jourdain, who designed the first major expansion between 1905 and 1910 in the Art Nouveau style. Jourdain’s use of iron and glass structures, together with enamelled panels and large windows, reflected the industrial and decorative innovations of the early 20th century.
After decades of decline, the building was closed in 2005 for safety reasons. A major renovation project led by LVMH began shortly thereafter, overseen by the architectural firm SANAA. The restoration, completed in 2021, preserved and restored Jourdain’s Art Nouveau façades.
Samaritaine - facade
Samaritaine - interior
Samaritaine - interior
Samaritaine - ceiling
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