The Arc de Triomphe was constructed between 1806 and 1836 by architects Guillaume-Abel Blouet, Jean-François-Thérèse Chalgrin, and Jean-Armaud Raymond. It is one of Paris’ most visited monuments. Each year almost two million tourists from all around the world climb to its terrace to look out over the 360° view of the city.

In 2016, the “Centre des monuments nationaux” (National Monuments Centre) appointed us with making improvements to its areas dedicated to reception, security, and public access.

We designed an interior staircase in one of the columns, new washrooms in the interstices of the monument, and a lift and ramps on the terraces to allow access for people of reduced mobility. We also designed a set of external furniture for public use, such as the panoramic table and the revolving shelters for use by the security staff.

Close attention was paid to detail, with the interventions fitting into the restrictive spaces of the stone giant with great precision. The decisions to use brushed steel and to install the lighting and information systems in an architectural framework are contemporary touches that gracefully harmonise with the existing materials.

Location
Paris, 8th arrondissement

Project type
Contemporary renovation
and compliance with standards

Program
Culture

Project owner
Centre des monuments
nationaux

Team
Chatillon Architectes

Budget
3.4 M€ HT

Timeline
2015-2020