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Origin and history

The building at 52 quai Richelieu in Bordeaux is part of the ambitious 18th century urban project to create a homogeneous facade along the Garonne. This project, initiated by intendant Claude Boucher in 1746 with the agreement of the jurats, was based on plans of architect Jacques Gabriel, who had already designed the Quai de la Douane and its facades in 1731. At the death of Boucher, the project was taken over by Aubert de Tourny and Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques, to lead in 1748 to a coherent architectural order, extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse).

The facades, characterized by an arcade base in the middle of the hangar, two square floors and a mansard-drilled attic, reflect a rigorous classical style. The splits and carved patterns of the arcade keys highlight this harmony, although some original elements, such as wrought iron balconies, have partially disappeared. The arcades on the ground floor, originally designed for public use, now house shops, sometimes altering their original integrity.

Ranked Historic Monument in 1951 for its facade and roof, this building illustrates the heritage of architects Gabriel, father and son, and their contribution to the beautification of Bordeaux under the Ancien Régime. The project was part of a desire for urban modernization, combining royal prestige and port functionality, typical of the expanding cities in the 18th century.

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