inside chatillon architectes' grand palais restoration in paris with photographer danica o. kus

grand palais restoration through the lens of Danica O. Kus

In her latest architectural photography series, Danica O. Kus captures the transformation of the iconic Grand Palais in Paris, casting her lens on the restoration led by Chatillon Architectes. Her images reveal the details of the renovation and how the project seeks to breathe new life into the Beaux-Arts landmark while addressing needs for accessibility, sustainability, and technical functionality.

Built as a symbol of the 1900 Paris Exposition, the monument combines glass and steel architecture with intricate facades that have become timeless emblems of Parisian culture. Kus’ photography offers a unique perspective of the restoration process, revealing renewed perspectives. This series is released as Paris Photo 2024 marks the return of the fair to the Grand Palais, welcoming artists and visitors to experience the renewed interiors of the building.

all images by Danica O. Kus

Chatillon Architectes revive original perspectives of the building

Originally designed as a temporary exhibition hall by Henri Deglane, Albert Louvet, Albert Thomas, and Charles Girault, the Grand Palais was envisioned as a striking design of glass and steel. Over a century later, French firm Chatillon Architectes undertook its restoration, reinstating the original perspectives of the building, improving circulation, and strengthening its structure. Using a detailed 3D model crafted from archived plans, the team has revived the axial views and vast spaces of the building, revealing a coherent design and open layout. ‘The Grand Palais is unlike any other monument. Its history makes it a place able to undergo transformation and adaptation—qualities that must be reconciled with the restoration project,’ shares the team. Completed in time for the Paris 2024 Olympics, this restoration, captured in this series by the Slovenian-born architectural photographer Danica O. Kus, reestablishes the Grand Palais as a cultural venue, hosting events like Paris Fashion Week, Art Basel, and Paris Photo 2024.

in her latest architectural photography series, Danica O. Kus captures the transformation of the iconic Grand Palais

landscape and interior upgrades meet the visitors’ needs

Chatillon Architectes also focuses on unifying the layout of the Grand Palais, revealing the interconnected spaces and illuminating the expansive halls. The architects preserve the National Galleries designed by French architect Pierre Vivien and add contemporary features like insulated flooring in the Nave, the central part of the building, for climate control and sustainable operation. New pathways connect the interior spaces, allowing visitors to traverse from Square Jean Perrin to the Seine, rediscovering the architectural grandeur of the Nave.

Beyond physical renovations, the project aims to enhance the cultural significance of the Grand Palais. Restored interior volumes, along with a children’s education center in the former horse-riding ring, reflect a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. The redesigned gardens and urban integration result in a public space that resonates with the evolving needs of its visitors.

her images reveal the details of the renovation