Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Lombard Building, located at 69 Foch Avenue in Nancy, is an iconic Art Nouveau building built between 1902 and 1904. Sponsored by Jules Lombard, master-carrier of Cousances-les-Forges (Meuse), it was designed by architect Émile André, major figure of the École de Nancy. The land was acquired on 14 and 20 June 1902, and the building permit issued on 25 June 1902. The building, 21 meters high with five floors, used for the first time in Nancy reinforced concrete, executed by the company France Lanord and Bichaton, dealer of the Hennebique system. The ironworks were designed by André himself, although a floral decoration intended for the door door was never made.

The Lombard building was originally intended for rent, welcoming its first tenants as early as 1904. Its bold architecture, combining organic curves and modern structures, reflects the influence of Art Nouveau in Lorraine. The facade and roof on the street, remarkable by their ornaments and harmony, were classified as historical monuments by order of 28 November 1996. This building also demonstrates collaborations between local artisans and industrialists, such as France Lanord, a pioneer in the use of reinforced concrete.

Integrated into the Poincaré-Foch district, the building is part of an urban complex marked by Nancy's economic and cultural boom at the turn of the 20th century. The École de Nancy, an artistic movement of which Émile André was a key actor, developed a unique style, combining naturalistic aesthetics and innovative techniques. Today, the Lombard building remains a symbol of the heritage of the Netherlands, attracting lovers of architecture and industrial history. Its protection as historical monuments underlines its importance in the French Art Nouveau heritage.

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