Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The building at 41 Foch Avenue and 37 Jeanne-d-Arc Street in Nancy is a private hotel built between 1905 and 1907 for Dr Paul Jacques, oto-rhino-laryngologist and professor at the Faculty of Medicine. Designed by the architect Paul Charbonnier, this iconic Art Nouveau building incorporates modern techniques such as reinforced concrete, designed by France-Lanord and Bichaton, the Hennebique system dealer. The ground floor initially housed the doctor's medical office, while the front door, located on Rue Jeanne-d.

The decorative elements of the building reflect the savoir-faire of the then-Nancean artisans. Louis Majorelle, famous cabinetmaker and ironmaker, designed the ironwork and the staircase ramp. Leopold Wolff, a local sculptor, made the carved decorations, while Jacques Gruber, master glassmaker, created the glass windows. These collaborations illustrate the importance of the École de Nancy in the Art Nouveau movement, combining aesthetics and functionality.

Ranked among the historical monuments since 28 December 1979 for its facades and roofs, the building is also distinguished by technical innovations such as a ceiling with air mattresses to mitigate noise. Its umbrella terrace, although unused, remains intact. Located near the train station, it reflects the urbanization and cultural dynamism of Nancy at the beginning of the 20th century.

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