Castel Béranger

About

Castel Béranger, located at 14 rue de la Fontaine in Paris's 16th arrondissement, is a landmark Art Nouveau building designed by Hector Guimard. Built between 1895 and 1898, it was one of the first Parisian residences in this style. The building features organic forms and floral motifs, reflecting Guimard's inspiration from nature. Its facade is adorned with wrought iron balconies, bean-shaped windows, and colorful mosaics, showcasing a mix of materials like brick, stone, and metal. The building's interior is equally impressive, with spiral staircases, stained glass windows, and mosaic walls. Castel Béranger won the first prize for the most beautiful facade in Paris in 1898, catapulting Guimard to fame. Despite initial criticism for its eccentric design, it became a symbol of Art Nouveau and the avant-garde, attracting notable tenants. Today, it is a historical monument and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Guimard's creative universe and the Art Nouveau movement's influence on Parisian architecture.