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The Architecture Lover's Guide to Paris
Unlock the secrets of Paris’s charm with this handy visual guidebook.
Unlock the secrets of Paris’s charm with this handy visual guidebook. Learn the history of the city’s most famous landmarks, grasp their fascinating details and discover dozens of lesser known architectural gems. Whether you are a Paris regular or visiting for the first time, this guide will help you understand how the city acquired its unique and beautiful design palette and recommend ways to experience it more fully with self-guided walking tours and suggestions of some of the best hotels, restaurants, cafés, churches, parks and more. You’ll also discover ancient Roman baths, seventeenth century mansions, Art Deco theaters, contemporary cultural complexes and find out where to kick back, cocktail or mock-tail in hand, with a panoramic view over the capital. Written by Ruby Boukabou, author of The Art Lover’s Guide to Paris , and part-time Parisian, this book is the perfect companion for anybody intrigued by Paris’s seductive magic.
Unlock the secrets of Paris’s charm with this handy visual guidebook. Learn the history of the city’s most famous landmarks, grasp their fascinating details and discover dozens of lesser known architectural gems. Whether you are a Paris regular or visiting for the first time, this guide will help you understand how the city acquired its unique and beautiful design palette and recommend ways to experience it more fully with self-guided walking tours and suggestions of some of the best hotels, restaurants, cafés, churches, parks and more. You’ll also discover ancient Roman baths, seventeenth century mansions, Art Deco theaters, contemporary cultural complexes and find out where to kick back, cocktail or mock-tail in hand, with a panoramic view over the capital. Written by Ruby Boukabou, author of The Art Lover’s Guide to Paris , and part-time Parisian, this book is the perfect companion for anybody intrigued by Paris’s seductive magic.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2021
91 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 28, 2023
"When François Mitterrand became President in 1981, his aim was to restore France’s reputation in the world, not on defence policy, but on buildings. He immediately acknowledged the need to revive the nation’s architecture, telling his cabinet, ‘There can be no policy of greatness for France without great architecture’.
You can find many history books on Paris that touch on its architecture. You can find many guidebooks that do it in a different way. This book may not be for everyone but it combines enough history with a keen eye for what is available for those whose curiosity exceeds the average tourist.
"Haussmann and his team of architects created a unifying façade that is now the unmistakable symbol of Paris: apartment blocks made of beautiful locally-mined Lutetian limestone. The height of the new buildings was restricted to six storeys, with balconies and a mansard roof made of zinc and angled at 45 degrees to allow more sunlight for the street below, and dormer windows. The finishing touch on this is the distinctive chimney pots. Coal was expensive in the nineteenth century and a chimney pot, signifying a centrally heated home, became a symbol of wealth. These pots are ubiquitous today, but are mostly ornamental."
I liked the author’s approach and the combination of outlining and deep dives into various periods.
"The Art Deco period (1913–1939) introduced a style of sleek lines and strong colours influenced by Modernism and Cubism. The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées (15 ave Montaigne 75008), with its reinforced concrete, symmetry, simplicity and functionality, and the Folies Bergères music hall (32 rue Richer, 75009) are prime examples. Art Nouveau and Art Deco came together in 1924 at Piscine de la Butte aux Cailles (5 place Paul Verlaine, 75013). The exterior of this swimming pool is curvaceously Nouveau while the interior has Deco-style exposed concrete arches. It is one of Paris’ best-kept secrets."
If you are interested in a particular period, there is a section that gives you a start on key structures in that particular style. I wish I had purchased it before I went to Paris, rather than after. But, having tried other approaches, I am sure that it will be with me on my next trip.
Before I leave this review, let me share comments on one of Paris’ most famous edifices, Cathedral Notre-Dame. This book is current in noting its damage and that is “part of the heart and soul of Paris. ‘Notre-Dame is our history, our literature, part of our psyche, the place of all our great events, our epidemics, our wars, our liberations, the epicentre of our lives,’ President Macron told reporters…” The author also notes that we are approaching the time when reconstruction should be finished. I was there last month and it was hard to tell how much was left to be done. However, the cathedral is surrounded by large barriers that have been effectively used to tell the story of the damage and the various workers and artisans whose efforts will result in a magnificent achievement. No one in all the centuries previous will have seen the windows, sculptures, paintings, etc. all cleaned and in their most presentable state.
5*
You can find many history books on Paris that touch on its architecture. You can find many guidebooks that do it in a different way. This book may not be for everyone but it combines enough history with a keen eye for what is available for those whose curiosity exceeds the average tourist.
"Haussmann and his team of architects created a unifying façade that is now the unmistakable symbol of Paris: apartment blocks made of beautiful locally-mined Lutetian limestone. The height of the new buildings was restricted to six storeys, with balconies and a mansard roof made of zinc and angled at 45 degrees to allow more sunlight for the street below, and dormer windows. The finishing touch on this is the distinctive chimney pots. Coal was expensive in the nineteenth century and a chimney pot, signifying a centrally heated home, became a symbol of wealth. These pots are ubiquitous today, but are mostly ornamental."
I liked the author’s approach and the combination of outlining and deep dives into various periods.
"The Art Deco period (1913–1939) introduced a style of sleek lines and strong colours influenced by Modernism and Cubism. The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées (15 ave Montaigne 75008), with its reinforced concrete, symmetry, simplicity and functionality, and the Folies Bergères music hall (32 rue Richer, 75009) are prime examples. Art Nouveau and Art Deco came together in 1924 at Piscine de la Butte aux Cailles (5 place Paul Verlaine, 75013). The exterior of this swimming pool is curvaceously Nouveau while the interior has Deco-style exposed concrete arches. It is one of Paris’ best-kept secrets."
If you are interested in a particular period, there is a section that gives you a start on key structures in that particular style. I wish I had purchased it before I went to Paris, rather than after. But, having tried other approaches, I am sure that it will be with me on my next trip.
Before I leave this review, let me share comments on one of Paris’ most famous edifices, Cathedral Notre-Dame. This book is current in noting its damage and that is “part of the heart and soul of Paris. ‘Notre-Dame is our history, our literature, part of our psyche, the place of all our great events, our epidemics, our wars, our liberations, the epicentre of our lives,’ President Macron told reporters…” The author also notes that we are approaching the time when reconstruction should be finished. I was there last month and it was hard to tell how much was left to be done. However, the cathedral is surrounded by large barriers that have been effectively used to tell the story of the damage and the various workers and artisans whose efforts will result in a magnificent achievement. No one in all the centuries previous will have seen the windows, sculptures, paintings, etc. all cleaned and in their most presentable state.
5*
February 9, 2021
This book made me want to pack a bag and go to Paris! This exquisitely done travel book tells you where to stay, where to eat, what’s free, and how many stairs you will need to climb to get the best view. A great way to get lost in the beautiful architecture of Paris. I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 12, 2021
As a City of Light fan, I thoroughly enjoyed this gorgeous guide to Paris’ elegant architecture, with beautiful color photos and helpful tips on self-guided walking tours, hotels, cafés, restaurants, 17th Century mansions, and more. Highly recommended!
5 of 5
Pub Date 31 Mar 2021
#TheArchitectureLoversGuidetoParis #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Pen & Sword, and to NetGalley. Opinions are mine.
5 of 5
Pub Date 31 Mar 2021
#TheArchitectureLoversGuidetoParis #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Pen & Sword, and to NetGalley. Opinions are mine.
January 31, 2022
This is a beautiful book and had me wanting to return to Paris immediately! If I am ever lucky enough to return, I’m definitely taking a copy with me. It’s also a great choice for those looking for virtual travel from the safety of their reading spot.
This unbiased review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
This unbiased review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
March 19, 2021
A big thank-you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for giving me a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
4/5 - Really liked it.
This book is a brilliant, well-researched and all-encompassing guide to Paris from the perspective of the city's unique architecture. The descriptions of Paris's most beloved architectural and historic landmarks are accompanied by beautiful photography. Boukabou focuses on different styles featured within the city, as well as different types of architectural wonders a visitor may want to see - she covers everything from bridges to streetlights to columns to hotels particuliers. I've visited Paris many times and found so many new locations to put on a map for a future visit.
The highlight of this book is a selection of six curated walking tours with local tips for hidden gardens, rooftop viewpoints, and various architectural gems.
My only criticism is that this book contains so much information. I found myself skimming through some of the passages which were less interesting to me - for example, I'm not particularly interested in shopping venues or cinemas. However, I understand that someone else may be - I for one loved the section on street lights.
Overall, I would strongly recommend this book to any architecture lovers considering a visit to Paris.
4/5 - Really liked it.
This book is a brilliant, well-researched and all-encompassing guide to Paris from the perspective of the city's unique architecture. The descriptions of Paris's most beloved architectural and historic landmarks are accompanied by beautiful photography. Boukabou focuses on different styles featured within the city, as well as different types of architectural wonders a visitor may want to see - she covers everything from bridges to streetlights to columns to hotels particuliers. I've visited Paris many times and found so many new locations to put on a map for a future visit.
The highlight of this book is a selection of six curated walking tours with local tips for hidden gardens, rooftop viewpoints, and various architectural gems.
My only criticism is that this book contains so much information. I found myself skimming through some of the passages which were less interesting to me - for example, I'm not particularly interested in shopping venues or cinemas. However, I understand that someone else may be - I for one loved the section on street lights.
Overall, I would strongly recommend this book to any architecture lovers considering a visit to Paris.
May 12, 2025
A very well written book with fascinating details and information about not only the most prominent buildings and structures in Paris, but also many lesser known places with architectural significance. Highly recommended to anyone who loves The City of Light.
January 3, 2022
Beautiful travel book to one of my favorite cities in the world. I have been to Paris many times, usually with my Rick Steve's guidebook in tow. Many of the places in the book I have visited but this gave me whole new understanding and information about the architecture and history of Paris and its structures. Paris is so unique because of its architecture and it is wonderful to have a book with that as its focus. I found it very readable and easy to understand. Beyond basic tourist information it adds some suggestions for hotels, restaurants and bars. I understand the focus is the architecture and not the latest pricing or hours for different venues. The photos were beautiful and added greatly to the book.
I appreciate that I have an e-book as it will be easy to take with me on next adventure to Paris. Thank you NetGalley and Pen & Sword for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I appreciate that I have an e-book as it will be easy to take with me on next adventure to Paris. Thank you NetGalley and Pen & Sword for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2021
I enjoyed this book because it took me back to my Paris travels. It included so many of the sites that I had visited, and expanded on the history and architecture of each. Beautifully photographed, great descriptions, and an abundance of locations covered. I will definitely have a copy of this book on my next visit!
February 15, 2021
Everyone who knows me knows that I love Paris. It’s a place I’ve been five times spending everything from a few days to a couple weeks exploring the city. I’m still amazed that there more places for me to see and while reading this book I made a list of places to find on my next trip… because there will always be a next trip to Paris for me. Like London and New York, Paris is just not a city I tire of.
This book does a wonderful job of blending tourist information and architectural information. There is a good overview of the city’s history with explanations of the major architectural movements. Most of the content is divided into types of buildings such as train stations, department stores, and churches. The book provides one itinerary for 36 hours in Paris and six self-guided walks. The pictures are absolutely gorgeous and I liked that the author included some pictures she took herself. The book includes addresses and websites for the various locations featured so readers can easily find additional information if they need it.
I don’t know that this could be used as someone’s only guidebook to Paris, but I think it would be a great supplement to guidebooks that provide more specific tourist information. If you’re not looking for architectural information this is not the book for you. While I like the categories in the book, I could also see it being difficult for people not familiar with the city to not quite grasp how spread out the various locations each category really are. But for someone who knows the city it’s a very fun guide. Honestly I could see my dad having an absolute blast running around Paris tracking down all the different architectural styles.
Thank you to NetGalley and White Owl for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book does a wonderful job of blending tourist information and architectural information. There is a good overview of the city’s history with explanations of the major architectural movements. Most of the content is divided into types of buildings such as train stations, department stores, and churches. The book provides one itinerary for 36 hours in Paris and six self-guided walks. The pictures are absolutely gorgeous and I liked that the author included some pictures she took herself. The book includes addresses and websites for the various locations featured so readers can easily find additional information if they need it.
I don’t know that this could be used as someone’s only guidebook to Paris, but I think it would be a great supplement to guidebooks that provide more specific tourist information. If you’re not looking for architectural information this is not the book for you. While I like the categories in the book, I could also see it being difficult for people not familiar with the city to not quite grasp how spread out the various locations each category really are. But for someone who knows the city it’s a very fun guide. Honestly I could see my dad having an absolute blast running around Paris tracking down all the different architectural styles.
Thank you to NetGalley and White Owl for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2021
Ahhhh...Paris. This delightful book took me right back in a split second. It is an extraordinary city, enchanting and endlessly fascinating. And there is only one Paris. I like that this book focuses on architecture of all kinds...not just buildings but also bridges, markets, columns, gardens, arches and catacombs.
The author describes architectural styles and periods, very useful. She also gives examples of features and where to find them such as The Renaissance and its shapes and perspectives, found in the Louvre, Pont Notre-Dame, Fontaine des Innocents, etc. There is a section on eateries including a few I've had the fortune of experiencing. As an arch and columns fan, I was thrilled to see a section devoted to them. There are other quintessential Parisian bits of architecture, seemingly small but impactful such as lamps, newspaper kiosks and public toilets.
Museums, palaces, chapels and cathedrals are detailed as well. You can see the largest pipe organ in France and Syrian influences. There are so many things I have yet to see such as The National Museum of the Middle Ages, Palais Garnier, The Paris Sewers Museum and Parc Monceau. It would take a few years to "see" everything, let alone experience and live it. Many are passionate about the Eiffel Tower but my favourite monuments are lesser known, some of which are included here.
Paris is about discoveries and living. Though not a modernist fan, I like that old and new blend so well. If you are at all beguiled with Paris, do pick up this book which is an excellent complement to other guidebooks as it is specific.
My sincere thank you to Pen & Sword and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this enticing book!
The author describes architectural styles and periods, very useful. She also gives examples of features and where to find them such as The Renaissance and its shapes and perspectives, found in the Louvre, Pont Notre-Dame, Fontaine des Innocents, etc. There is a section on eateries including a few I've had the fortune of experiencing. As an arch and columns fan, I was thrilled to see a section devoted to them. There are other quintessential Parisian bits of architecture, seemingly small but impactful such as lamps, newspaper kiosks and public toilets.
Museums, palaces, chapels and cathedrals are detailed as well. You can see the largest pipe organ in France and Syrian influences. There are so many things I have yet to see such as The National Museum of the Middle Ages, Palais Garnier, The Paris Sewers Museum and Parc Monceau. It would take a few years to "see" everything, let alone experience and live it. Many are passionate about the Eiffel Tower but my favourite monuments are lesser known, some of which are included here.
Paris is about discoveries and living. Though not a modernist fan, I like that old and new blend so well. If you are at all beguiled with Paris, do pick up this book which is an excellent complement to other guidebooks as it is specific.
My sincere thank you to Pen & Sword and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this enticing book!
February 10, 2021
The Architecture Lover's Guide to Paris by Ruby Boukabou was everything I hoped for and even more. The only thing that would have made it better would have been a ticket to Paris since it has been a while since I have been and a while before I go again, if I do.
I'll admit that all I was expecting was some nice photography, some information about key sites (mostly buildings), and the very basics of actual travel info (websites, hours, etc). There is some wonderful photography, the descriptions of the places were more than I expected and, thankfully, the architecture of the title includes the spaces such as parks. Space is to architecture as silence is to music, every bit as important as buildings or notes. I was particularly impressed with the suggestions on when to do things to get the most out of them, as well as the inclusion of some less visited locations.
All in all, if I do get back, I will be bringing a copy of this book. I feel like I would have a good visit without it because I know enough (barely) to have a nice time. The Architecture Lover's Guide, however, will elevate the trip from good to great, and probably far more memorable.
Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.
I'll admit that all I was expecting was some nice photography, some information about key sites (mostly buildings), and the very basics of actual travel info (websites, hours, etc). There is some wonderful photography, the descriptions of the places were more than I expected and, thankfully, the architecture of the title includes the spaces such as parks. Space is to architecture as silence is to music, every bit as important as buildings or notes. I was particularly impressed with the suggestions on when to do things to get the most out of them, as well as the inclusion of some less visited locations.
All in all, if I do get back, I will be bringing a copy of this book. I feel like I would have a good visit without it because I know enough (barely) to have a nice time. The Architecture Lover's Guide, however, will elevate the trip from good to great, and probably far more memorable.
Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.
February 22, 2021
To me, Paris is a magical city. The first time that I visited, I could not believe that I was standing in front of so many places that lived in my imagination. On that first trip, I cried when I left the city; that is how much being there had meant to me.
Of course now, travel is much more complicated and I don’t see a trip to the City of Light in my near future. So, I was delighted to come across this book that allows for a lovely virtual visit. Early in the book, there is a helpful architectural timeline that helps readers to recognize the styles and periods in Paris’s history. From there, some of the topics covered in this title are cafes, restaurants and bars; train stations; Metro entrances; churches; museums, public parks, cemeteries and more. Also included are hotels and information on shopping. In addition, there is a helpful section of sell-guided walking tours. Throughout, the book is filled with photos that bring Paris to life. .
Take a look at this guide. Dream of when it will be possible to visit again.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
Of course now, travel is much more complicated and I don’t see a trip to the City of Light in my near future. So, I was delighted to come across this book that allows for a lovely virtual visit. Early in the book, there is a helpful architectural timeline that helps readers to recognize the styles and periods in Paris’s history. From there, some of the topics covered in this title are cafes, restaurants and bars; train stations; Metro entrances; churches; museums, public parks, cemeteries and more. Also included are hotels and information on shopping. In addition, there is a helpful section of sell-guided walking tours. Throughout, the book is filled with photos that bring Paris to life. .
Take a look at this guide. Dream of when it will be possible to visit again.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2021
This book is WONDERFUL. I thought this will be a simple touring Paris book, but I was wrong. Do not judge the book by it's cover, I suppose.
Paris, the city of love, enlisted in many bucket list place to go. And here the author wrote in detail how they build Paris. I still remember the old apartments of Paris, with their musty odor, old wooden gate and cobblestones street outside, sometimes I asked myself how did they build the city neatly? Here I found the answer.
Moreover the author highlight the less known buildings such as Musée Picasso, or even Parisians Metros. And I can also find a spot written about Bataclan and it's tragedy last 2015. Even sitting cozily in your chair can bring you a glimpse of Paris.
Paris, the city of love, enlisted in many bucket list place to go. And here the author wrote in detail how they build Paris. I still remember the old apartments of Paris, with their musty odor, old wooden gate and cobblestones street outside, sometimes I asked myself how did they build the city neatly? Here I found the answer.
Moreover the author highlight the less known buildings such as Musée Picasso, or even Parisians Metros. And I can also find a spot written about Bataclan and it's tragedy last 2015. Even sitting cozily in your chair can bring you a glimpse of Paris.
March 23, 2021
Having been to Paris, albeit twenty years ago, I was interested in reading this as the architecture of the place was simply astounding. At first glance, this appears to be a standard travel guide, but what sets it apart from all the others that line bookstore shelves, is the emphasis on architecture. this book provides things such as lists of different architectural elements, from lampposts to columns, and where to find them as well as the history of why they're there. This book also contains your standard lists of various hotels, cafes and restaurants as well as contact info, as well as a travel guide, with a three day itinerary the author has written up in order to see significant architectural sites. I loved the large colorful photographs of various places, it makes me wish I didn't get stuck with a cheap 35mm camera all those years ago.
July 15, 2021
The Architecture Lover's Guide to Paris by Ruby Boukabou is a lovely, full of history with so much information, well illustrated book. throughout. I really enjoying reading and going to different places around the world and this book was spot on.
Sorry hurry up lockdown to be lifted and I can plan my holiday back to a place I love to visit. So looking forward to see more of this Place I love so much.
I had to go out and buy it in the end to plan my next holiday in Paris.
Big Thank you to Ruby Boukabou the author, Pen & Sword, the publishers and to NetGalley.for giving me a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
Sorry hurry up lockdown to be lifted and I can plan my holiday back to a place I love to visit. So looking forward to see more of this Place I love so much.
I had to go out and buy it in the end to plan my next holiday in Paris.
Big Thank you to Ruby Boukabou the author, Pen & Sword, the publishers and to NetGalley.for giving me a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
February 7, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Pen & Sword who granted my wish for The Architecture Lover’s Guide to Paris.
Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world and I’ve had the opportunity to visit it multiple times . This guide book captures my Paris - from the palaces and famous monuments to the beautiful street lights and fountains that can be found all around this gorgeous city - with of course a focus on the architecture and gorgeous photos .. it’s one id love to have on my bookshelf for my next trip .
Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world and I’ve had the opportunity to visit it multiple times . This guide book captures my Paris - from the palaces and famous monuments to the beautiful street lights and fountains that can be found all around this gorgeous city - with of course a focus on the architecture and gorgeous photos .. it’s one id love to have on my bookshelf for my next trip .
February 22, 2021
Excellent travel guide for anyone visiting or planning a trip to Paris and interested in architecture and photography. The book is laid out well with suggested walking tours and loads of hints and tips. There is sections on history and the design influences through the centuries, Recommendations for where to find coffee and food along your chosen route which is very useful. Also some great photo spots for the landscape photographer. A book i shall refer back to and use as soon as I can travel to Paris again. Thank you to #NetGalley for the advance copy to read.
February 13, 2021
Wonderful book full of gorgeous photos and interesting history. I found myself brought back to my visit to Paris quite a few years ago - remembering many of the beautiful sights, including favorites like the palace & Gardens of Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens and more. I wish I'd had a book like this at the time - I hope to visit again someday and when I do, this book will be a great companion.
March 28, 2021
I really enjoyed my time reading this book. It is great to drop in and out of, and the layout and illustrations/ photographs are beautiful. The information is concise, and could be used ‘on the move’ in the city, if you like to take a guide with you. The sections for each ‘type’ of building - such as ‘Bridges’ was useful, and made it interesting to compare across the range of architectural types of such a wonderful place. As a collector of books on Paris, this will be joining my bookshelf!
May 4, 2021
Best suited to those who have visited Paris before.
November 15, 2022
Found the walking tours useful but otherwise it had the feeling of being somewhat cobbled together rather than coming from an architecture or design specialist.
October 19, 2024
This is a kind of mini encyclopedia of the buildings and monuments in Paris.
"There can be no policy of greatness for France without great architecture." — President François Mitterrand
"There can be no policy of greatness for France without great architecture." — President François Mitterrand
April 25, 2021
A great big Thank you to NetGalley and Pen & Sword/White Owl for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is a nonfiction book. What a wonderful book! Perfect for those of us unable to travel at the moment to remind us of the beautiful architecture and history of Paris. It has been several years for me and what a beautiful book and reminder of all I am currently missing. 5 stars Anyone who loves to travel should read this book. And architecture fans as well. Beautiful photography as well.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews