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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Galeries de Jaude is an iconic department store located on the Place de Jaude in Clermont-Ferrand, built in the early 20th century. This building, designed by architects Léon and Marcel Lamaiziere in 1906, is distinguished by its metal frame covered with a white stone facade. Originally, it served as a local branch for Nouvelles Galeries, a network of French department stores. Its architecture, inspired by Parisian models, breaks with classical codes by its asymmetry and lack of axial span, while borrowing ornamental elements from the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

In 1920, the store was enlarged by Marcel Lamaiziere, keeping its large glass windows with low arches. Over time, he underwent several major transformations: in 1963, the 4th floor was radically redesigned, and in the 1990s, after its acquisition by Galeries Lafayette, the facade was changed again. These developments reflect its adaptation to modern business needs. The building was finally listed as a historic monument in 2006, recognizing its heritage value.

Architecturally, the Galeries de Jaude illustrate the Fine Arts style, combining technical innovation (metal frame) and tradition (cut stone). Their bold design, with bay windows on two levels, marks a break with classical architecture while being part of the urban landscape of Clermont-Ferrand. Today, the site remains a major commercial place, testifying to the economic and architectural history of the city.

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