The Génin-Louis Building

The Génin-Louis building, Nancy Art Nouveau

The Nancy audio-guided tour has you admire the fine blue Génin-Louis building, a perfect example of Art Nouveau, that style characterised by curves and motifs inspired by nature. A façade that does not go unnoticed in the heart of the city.

A former seed shop by Henri Gutton

Built at the beginning of the twentieth century by the Nancy architect Henri Gutton, the building was long a seed shop. Extraordinary use, extraordinary appearance: it is the only construction in all of Nancy to display an apparent metal structure, integrated into a plant decor of iron and ceramic. This technical and aesthetic boldness makes it a unique testimony of Nancy Art Nouveau.

What there is to see

The blue façade, adorned with plant motifs and a visible metal frame, marvellously illustrates the creative freedom of Art Nouveau. The details of ironwork and ceramic evoke the ears of grain, the leaves and the flowers, in tribute to the former seed-shop vocation of the place. It is a choice stop for lovers of the architecture of 1900 Nancy.

Practical information

The Génin-Louis building is in the centre of Nancy. The façade can be contemplated freely from the street, at all hours and on the level. The building cannot be visited; it is a stop to admire from the outside, along the Art Nouveau walk.

What makes the Génin-Louis building unique?

It is the only construction in Nancy to display an apparent metal structure, integrated into an Art Nouveau decor of iron and ceramic.

Who built the Génin-Louis building?

The Nancy architect Henri Gutton, at the beginning of the twentieth century; the building was long a seed shop.