Building à Bordeaux en Gironde

Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The building located at the 7 quai de la Grave in Bordeaux is part of an ambitious urban project launched in the 18th century, aimed at creating a uniform facade along the Garonne. This project, initiated by the intendant Claude Boucher in 1746 with the agreement of the jurats, was based on earlier plans of architect Jacques Gabriel, who had proposed three projects for the wharves since 1729. In 1731 Gabriel realized the Quai de la Douane and the first facades bordering the river, laying the foundations of a monumental perspective.

When Boucher died, the project was taken over by Aubert de Tourny, in collaboration with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel. In 1748, under their direction, a homogeneous architectural ordinance was built extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse). This architectural program was characterized by a ground floor and an arcade basement, topped by two square floors and a Mansard attic. The facades, although partially altered (disappearance of balconies or wrought iron supports), retain their unit thanks to their original frames and larmies.

Ground floor arcades, originally designed for public or commercial use, have sometimes been modified to accommodate stores, partially altering their integrity. Despite these transformations, the ensemble retains its monumental character, testifying to the urbanistic ambition of the Enlightenment in Bordeaux. The façade and roof of this building were protected by a registration order under the Historic Monuments on 14 April 1951.

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