by Discover the magnificent HĂ´tel de la Rochefoucauld-Doudeauville, also known as HĂ´tel de Boisgelin, at 47-49 rue de Varenne in Paris’ prestigious 7th arrondissement. This exceptional 18th-century mansion exemplifies the architectural evolution of Parisian aristocratic residences, from its 1732 origins through its transformation into one of the most distinguished diplomatic residences in the capital.
Built in 1732 by architect Jean-Sylvain Cartaud for GĂ©rard Heusch de Janvry, a Secretary to the King of France, the hĂ´tel initially showcased the refined elegance of early 18th-century design. Cartaud’s vision created a harmonious ensemble that would serve as the foundation for centuries of architectural enhancement and adaptation.
The mansion’s most significant transformation occurred in 1864 when Marie-Charles Gabriel Sosthene of La Rochefoucauld, future Duke of Doudeauville, acquired the property. Under his ownership, architect Henri Parent designed some of the building’s most striking features, including the majestic staircase inspired by the Queen’s staircase at Versailles. This addition brought the grandeur of royal architecture into the heart of the Faubourg Saint-Germain.
A remarkable architectural document from 1777 provides insights into the mansion’s design evolution. Architect HuvĂ©, trained in the tradition of Andrea Palladio, created detailed ground plans showing his adjustments to the building for the Vicomte de Rochefoucauld’s sister-in-law, the Comtesse de la Suze. HuvĂ©’s Palladian influence is evident in the strictly symmetrical arrangement of rooms and the elegant belvedere in the garden, which follows classical Italian design principles.
The building’s gardens were designed to complement its architectural grandeur, creating a harmonious ensemble that reflected the period’s taste for formal French landscape design integrated with Italian architectural elements. The symmetrical layout and carefully planned sight lines demonstrate the sophisticated aesthetic theories of the 18th century.
Recognized for its architectural and historical significance, the mansion was listed as a Monument Historique in 1926, ensuring the preservation of its exceptional features. After changing hands several times over the centuries, the property was eventually acquired by the Caisse des DĂ©pĂ´ts et Consignations, the financial arm of the French state.
Today, the HĂ´tel de la Rochefoucauld-Doudeauville serves as the seat of the Italian Embassy in Paris, continuing its role as a center of international diplomacy. This function honors the building’s cosmopolitan heritage, from its Palladian-influenced design to its status as one of the Faubourg Saint-Germain’s most architecturally distinguished residences.
The mansion stands as a remarkable testament to French architectural refinement, successfully bridging Italian Renaissance principles, French classical traditions, and the grandeur of Versailles within a single harmonious ensemble on one of Paris’ most elegant streets.