Guide Tour of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Paris, France
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a Parisian department store, the largest department store in Europe and the second largest in the world after Macy’s Herald Square. It belongs to the “Department Stores” branch of the Galeries Lafayette Group, which operates in a number of other locations in France and other countries. The architecture of the store is art nouveau, with a remarkable dome and a panoramic view of Paris that has made it a tourist attraction of the French capital city.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, the flagship store, is located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, near Opera Garnier, at the corner of Rue La Fayette, close to Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette Paris Métro station. It is a 70,000 m2 fashion flagship store. A wide range of brands are available at the store to suit all budgets, from ready to wear to haute couture. Galeries Lafayette in Paris hosts a popular weekly fashion show for visitors.
Since their creation in 1894, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann beats in the heart of Paris. This capital and mythical “world store”, both precursor and prescriber, offers French and international visitors a concentrate of surprise and astonishment. This century-old store and its legendary Art Nouveau dome reveal the energy of creation and show the spirit of the times by welcoming more than 2,000 brands from all over the world.
French leader of department stores and famous throughout the world, Galeries Lafayette has been an undisputed specialist in fashion and event trade for more than 125 years, with the aim of making each visit a unique experience and offering its French and international customers a constantly renewed selection of the best brands, ranging from affordable to premium and luxury.
Cultivating since their creation their imprint beyond borders and relying on the strength of their brand, Galeries Lafayette aims to develop flagships in major international cities, with the ambition of making them ambassadors of reference for Art de Vivre and French fashion. Present in the fashion and accessories, decoration, food and catering segments, the Galeries Lafayette brand shines thanks to a network of 65 stores in France and internationally, and its Galeries Lafayette L’Outlet clearance business.
A fashion specialist located in the heart of cities, the Galeries Lafayette group is developing as a reference in omnichannel commerce. It contributes, in France and around the world, to promoting a certain French Art de Vivre through all its brands. The territorial network of the 57 Galeries Lafayette stores in France represents a singular strength of its model, actively contributing to local attractiveness. In Paris, the brand is developing large-scale projects driven by the same ambition: to contribute to the renewal of the capital and design experiences in tune with the times.
Backed by its architectural heritage and a solid culture of innovation, the Galeries Lafayette group welcomes more than 60 million visitors every year in 290 stores and on its e-commerce sites. It maintains a historical and emotional bond with its customers which continues to live on all its meeting points, physical or digital, to offer them the best of commerce and creation.
History
In 1893, Théophile Bader and Alphonse Kahn opened a 70-square-metre store in Paris, on the corner of rue La Fayette and rue de la Chaussée d’Antin, selling novelty gifts. In 1896, the company purchased the entire building at number 1, rue La Fayette followed in 1903 by numbers 38, 40, and 42 on Boulevard Haussmann, as well as number 15, rue de la Chaussée d’Antin.
October 8, 1912, the immense Art Nouveau dome was inaugurated: a circular architecture, its highest point is located 43 meters above the ground, this glass dome is crowned by ten concrete pillars. Théophile Bader liked to use very modern materials for the time, as well as reinforced cement on the upper floors. The decorations are made by masters of the school of Nancy: Édouard Schenck (metal beams sculpted with floral motifs), Jacques Grüber (neo-Byzantine stained glass windows) and Louis Majorelle (ironwork on the balconies and triple flight staircases).
It is made up of 96 departments, a tea room, a library and a hairdressing salon. It has five floors, balconies and a large dome. This one, inspired by the Byzantine style, is 33 meters high, is made up of ten bundles of painted stained glass windows, enclosed in a metal frame richly carved with floral motifs. The balusters on the lower floors, decorated with foliage, are signed Louis Majorelle. According to Théophile Bader ‘s wishes, a golden light, coming from the dome, floods the great hall, with its main staircase, and makes the merchandise sparkle. At the top of the building, a terrace allows you to discover Paris and its newEiffel Tower. The windows play a big role in this staging: they must awaken all desires and all desires. Everything is done to make the customer feel good and want to buy.
The store is entirely devoted to novelty and fashion. The democratization of fashion is underway and success is there. Then the store diversifies its offer: to the traditional departments are added clothing for men, furniture, toys, tableware.
In 1916, Galeries Lafayette came out the luxury bazaar concept imagined by its founders Théophile Bader and Alphonse Kahn has met with success in Paris. The two cousins decided to export the concept to other countries, notably Morocco, then under French protectorate.
Their sons-in-law, owners of the company under French law “Paris-Maroc”, already have a newly built building in the heart of downtown Casablanca., place de France, a stone’s throw from the defunct Vox cinema. They set up the “Modern Stores” there on the ground floor, with the annotation at the bottom: “Branches of Galeries Lafayette Paris”. The history of the Galeries de Casablanca has since been closely linked to that of the building. Work of the “fathers of concrete”, the famous brothers Auguste and Gustave Perret, designers among others of the Champs-Élysées theatre. This architectural gem was then “one of the first buildings of the modern Casa. Its construction site was also opened at the same time as that of the Grand Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris”.
On January 19, 1919, Jules Védrines landed his plane, a Caudron G III, on the terrace of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. There is a stele commemorates the event.
After the Great Depression and World War II, the 1950s saw recovery. Many commercial operations appeared, such as the arrival of Edith Piaf, who agreed to come and sing in 1950 when she was the favorite star of the French. In 1953, Galeries Lafayette inaugurated a new conception of commerce by launching the first of a long series of exhibitions. In 1958, “the 3Js” were launched, topical and good quality items on sale at exceptionally low prices for three days.
Galeries Lafayette has established itself as a major player in creation and reveals new talents each season by providing them with small boutiques in the store. This is the case of Daniel Hechter, Pierre Cardin, Cacharel, Yves Saint Laurent, among others.
From 1975, the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, with their 47,800 m2 of sales area, occupied the first place in France by achieving a turnover higher than that of Printemps, BHV Rivoli, Samaritaine and Bon Marché. In 1980, the store further affirmed its vocation for fashion by creating the Festival de la Mode, which met with great success.
In 1996, Galeries Lafayette celebrated their hundredth anniversary. For the occasion, some big brands are reissuing one of their great classics. In 2012, for the centenary of the dome and after its complete cleaning, a new lighting was installed, signed by the artist Yann Kersalé.
Architecture
An unique and inimitable architecture which will seduce those who above all wish to visit Paris and discover the architectural prowess of the city. Enjoy breathtaking views of the capital, from the Eiffel Tower to the Montmartre district, passing through the beauty of the city’s rooftops. This haven of peace is the ideal place to take a break from your shopping day by taking to the heights of the hustle and bustle of the Grands Boulevards.
Emblem of Art Nouveau, the Coupole of Galeries Lafayette is an architectural feat appreciated by all. Located in the heart of Paris, Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann dazzles visitors with the majestic dome, which has become one of Paris’ most iconic architectural landmarks. Admired by the department store’s 37 million annual visitors, this architectural jewel of Art Nouveau contributes to the attractiveness of the capital. Discover its history which takes root with its construction in 1912 by businessmen Alphonse KAHN and Théophile BADER.
La Coupole has lived to the rhythm of the evolutions and works of the department store for nearly 110 years, in particular successive elevations. Enjoy the unique and inimitable architecture which will seduce those who above all wish to visit Paris and discover the architectural prowess of the city.
This architectural feat is the result of the collaboration of three iconic artists, Ferdinand Chanut for the geometry and structure, Jacques Grüber for the stained glass windows and Louis Majorelle for the ironwork. Built by the master glassmaker Jacques G rüber in an “Art Nouveau” or “Art Deco” style, the Coupole is a real architectural gem attracting crowds from all over the world.
The objective is to give light and cachet to the Main Store of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, and in particular to the marvelous golden balconies created by Louis Majorelle, to whom we also owe the monumental banister of the main staircase, which was removed from the store in 1974. The current stained glass windows take the form of a huge flower composed of 10 beams, and making a total of 1000m². La Coupole is the unmissable element when visiting the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann.
Enjoy a magnificent view of Paris for free by going to the roof terrace of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann located on the 8th floor, you may have the opportunity to admire a sunset over the capital which attracts many photographers and influencers.
The rooftop of the Parisian department store offers you an exceptional panorama of Parisian monuments: the Opéra Garnier, the Eiffel Tower, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. You can also admire a huge glass roof which is none other than the majestic dome.
In fine weather, taste the delicious dishes of Galeries Lafayette’s ephemeral restaurants in an exceptional setting overlooking All of Paris. The terrace is the ideal place to share a romantic meal, have a drink with friends or get together with family while enjoying a beautiful view of the rooftops and monuments of Paris.
Services
Galerie Lafayette Paris Haussmann is a 70,000 m2 store. Mostly dedicated to fashion, it also has other offers and services.
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann’s food tasting bars offer French food together with produce from around the world.Cafés, bars and restaurants are located in the store for drinks and meals. The rooftop has a bar, restaurant and terrace with a panoramic view of Paris and its monuments including the Eiffel Tower, the Montparnasse Tower, Invalides, and Opera Garnier.
Events
Every Friday visitors can attend the store’s free fashion show at 3 pm. These events can only be attended if reservations have been made in advance.
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann’s cultural space “Galerie des Galeries” holds three to four exhibitions a year, showcasing both French and international design.
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann has a suspended Christmas tree every year, the first of which was hung from the dome in 1976. The store also organizes a range of exhibitions and shows and during the festive period.
Branches
Galeries Lafayette Champs-Elysées – Established at 60 avenue des Champs-Elysées in Paris since 2019, the Galeries Lafayette Champs-Elysées aim to offer Parisian, French and international visitors a unique store model in line with new forms of consumption. Benefiting from the largest commercial area on the avenue, this 6,500 m2 concept offers an inspiring and surprising fashion, food and lifestyle selection as well as exclusive collaborations and events, to provide a unique shopping experience, amplified by the architecture of the place and a series of digital innovations.
BHV MARAIS – A true place of life and inspiration, the BHV MARAIS is positioned as a “Beau Bazar de Passionés”, offering a creative and responsible selection combining home, decoration, DIY, design, leisure, fashion, beauty and catering. Its flagship store, located on rue de Rivoli in Paris for 160 years, contributes to the attractiveness of the historic Marais district and offers its local, French and international customers a personalized and constantly renewed shopping experience, supported by a suite of ideas and meetings, services and expert support.
La Redoute – For 180 years, La Redoute has made the French Art of Living accessible in fashion and home to as many people as possible. La Redoute is a timeless company, a transgenerational story based on creation and permanent innovation. From wool spinning to the mythical catalog, La Redoute is today the French leader in fashion and home e-commerce. Through its three inspiring fashion and home brands -AMPM, La Redoute Intérieurs and La Redoute Collections- La Redoute aims to promote “French style” within everyone’s reach, both chic and casual, inspired by a art of living recognized all over the world.
Eataly Paris Marais – the Galeries Lafayette group holds the exclusive franchise in France, opened its doors in 2019 in Paris. A global phenomenon created in 2007 by Oscar Farinetti, this Italian market contributes to the revival of the capital’s grocery, fresh produce and catering supply by promoting short, safe and healthy circuits. Located at 37 rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, Eataly Paris Marais offers over 2,500 m2 products that are both accessible and of high quality, selected from responsible artisans, breeders and producers.
Louis Pion – Louis Pion is the French leader in multi-brand watch distribution based on a network of 140 stores across France, a merchant site and an offer of more than 80 brands of watches and jewelry at an affordable price. A trendsetter, expert and committed to more sustainable consumption, the brand has fun, innovates and reinvents itself over the years to always better serve its customers.
Galeries Lafayette-Royal Quartz Paris – A reference in fine watchmaking and jewelry in the city center, Galeries Lafayette-Royal Quartz Paris offers its French and international customers privileged access to the most prestigious watch and jewelry brands as well as a unique quality of service in luxurious and contemporaries.
BazarChic – The BazarChic group has been one of the leaders in event sales in France for more than ten years. A leading e-commerce player, the BazarChic group is a specialist in the worlds of fashion, delicatessen, wine, home, decoration and travel.
Maison Mauboussin – Maison Mauboussin, founded in 1827, has for almost two centuries been considered one of the jewels of French fine jewelry. Innovative and avant-garde, the Artist Jeweler conceives his fabulous creations as a decorative art, earning him recognition in France and beyond the borders. The House carries high the colors of French creation with audacity and originality through jewelry and watch collections that are voluntarily accessible and intergenerational, designed and created above all for Women.