In the heart of Paris, GA Smart Building is carrying out the restructuring of the 9,200 m² Paris Grands Boulevards site for Covivio. This technically and patrimonially ambitious operation addresses all the challenges of a complex urban renovation and aims for high environmental performance.
A historic site in transition
Located at the corner of Rue Bergère, Rue du Conservatoire and Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, the “Paris Grands Boulevards” building is undergoing a bold transformation led by Covivio and executed by GA Smart Building. Built between 1911 and 1929, this historic landmark—partially listed as a Historic Monument—is notable for its grand volumes, Art Deco façade, and iconic dome.
Having served as a telephone exchange and then a post office, the building was recently activated by Covivio as a temporary cultural space, transformed into an urban laboratory open to creative industries.
A high-level architectural project
Led by GA Smart Building, the 9,200 m² heavy restructuration has been designed by a team of renowned architects: CALQ for heritage enhancement, Gensler for architectural design, and Sisto for interior design. The project includes:
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Restoration of the original façade, altered in the 1970s
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Relocation of structural cores
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Partial excavation of the basement
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Reinforcement and realignment of existing floor slabs
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Renovation and creation of double-height windows and steel-framed skylights
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Careful restoration of the dome and original mosaics
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Creation of a new access to a green rooftop
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Contemporary interior design blending high-end finishes with the site’s raw, industrial character
A highly technical project in central Paris
Due to its dense urban context—facing the Conservatoire National d’Art Dramatique, residential buildings and BNP Paribas headquarters—the site requires precise logistics. It also houses operational technical facilities owned by Orange, which must remain functional throughout the works.
Balancing heritage preservation and sustainability goals, GA Smart Building brings to the project its full technical, construction, and operational expertise to manage disruption and meet deadlines. Construction began in July 2025 and is scheduled to last 24 months.
Strong environmental ambition
The project targets several leading certifications: HQE Bâtiment Durable, BREEAM, WiredScore, BiodiverCity, and WELL. It reflects the shared ambition of Covivio and GA Smart Building to combine architectural quality, user well-being, and environmental performance.
The project was awarded the Special Jury Prize “Heritage & Renaissance” at the 2024 SIMI Grand Prix, recognizing the quality of its approach to both heritage transformation and environmental excellence.
Contact
Gilles De Jouvencel
Managing Director, Renovated Unit