Hôtel Follot and the Institut Giacometti
Hôtel Follot at 5 rue Victor Schœlcher in Paris’s 14th arrondissement is a mansion associated with the transition from Art Nouveau to Art Deco. It is now home to the Institut Giacometti, a cultural center dedicated to Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti. Its façades, original interiors and custom furnishings reflect the decorative arts of the early 20th century, while the institute’s exhibitions and reconstructed studio evoke Giacometti’s Montparnasse years.
For current details and tickets, consult the Institut Giacometti website or Paris Promeneurs.
History
Hôtel Follot
The mansion was built in 1911 for Paul Follot, a leading figure in French decorative arts. It is also described as designed by Follot between 1911 and 1913, and as designed by Pierre Selmersheim according to Follot’s plans (Paris Promeneurs). Its style blends Art Nouveau and early Art Deco, with influences from the Viennese Secession.
The façade combines white stone, gold mosaic, ochre and deep blue ceramics, alongside mosaics and floral motifs. Inside, custom furniture, rare woods, gilded accents and bespoke textiles reflect Follot’s approach to total design. Other features include stained glass, custom woodwork, botanical-themed textiles and friezes, original fireplaces, hand-painted friezes and original parquet flooring. The mansion also includes a grand salon for entertaining, a personal atelier and gallery spaces.
During the Belle Époque, it served as a salon for artists and patrons. Hôtel Follot remains Follot’s most personal creation; his other major projects included Hôtel Georges V and the ocean liner Normandie (Paris Promeneurs).
After Follot’s death, the mansion was preserved. In 2018, it became the Institut Giacometti, a site for modern art research and exhibitions. A restoration by Pascal Grasso and Pierre-Antoine Gatier adapted the building for exhibitions while preserving its integrity (Wallpaper*).
Institut Giacometti
The Fondation Giacometti holds the largest collection of Giacometti works worldwide, including sculptures, paintings, drawings and notebooks (pariscrea.com). The institute presents exhibitions from the collection, rotating exhibitions and collaborations with contemporary artists. One example was the June 2025 “Giacometti/Petrit Halilaj” exhibition (cntraveller.com).
What to See
The mansion’s original interiors and decorative details include carved wood paneling, stained-glass windows and doors, bespoke furniture, fireplaces and decorative friezes. Visitors can also see the meticulously reconstructed Montparnasse studio of Giacometti, a faithful replica of the artist’s creative environment (publicdelivery.org).
The institute offers guided tours, educational programs and exhibitions exploring both Follot’s design and Giacometti’s work.
Practical Visiting Information
Address and Transport
- Address 5 rue Victor Schœlcher (5 Rue Victor Schoelcher), 75014 Paris.
- Metro Pernety (Line 13); Raspail and Denfert-Rochereau are also convenient stops.
- Other transport RER B and bus lines 38, 68, 88 and 91 (publicdelivery.org).
Hours, Tickets and Tours
- Opening hours Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
- Tickets Adults €12; reduced rates for students and seniors; children under 12 enter free.
- Booking Online booking is strongly recommended through the Institut Giacometti website. On-site purchases are limited and card-only.
- Guided tours Available in English and French, by reservation; private group tours are available by appointment.
- Other programs Family workshops and architectural tours are available (fondation-giacometti.fr).
- Audio guides Available for self-guided exploration.
Accessibility
The main entrance and public areas are described as wheelchair accessible. Accessibility is also described as limited due to the mansion’s historic features, and interior access may be limited for visitors with reduced mobility. Contact the institute in advance for details or assistance (fondation-giacometti.fr).
Tips
- Weekday mornings are suggested for fewer crowds.
- Photography is permitted in designated areas; flash and tripods are not allowed.
Nearby Places
Around Hôtel Follot in the 14th Arrondissement
- Montparnasse Tower Panoramic city views.
- Montparnasse Cemetery Final resting place for many artists and writers.
- Musée Bourdelle Museum dedicated to sculptor Antoine Bourdelle.
- Luxembourg Gardens A place to relax after a visit.
Another Hôtel Follot in the 7th Arrondissement
A separate Hôtel Follot is located at 11 Rue de Grenelle in the 7th arrondissement. This Art Deco landmark was designed in 1911 by Charles Plumet for furniture designer Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann. It remains a private residence and is generally closed to the public, but occasionally opens during special events, most notably European Heritage Days (European Heritage Days).
Nearby places include Musée d'Orsay, Musée Rodin, Le Bon Marché and cafés. Transport includes Metro Line 12 at Rue du Bac and Solférino, and bus lines 63, 68 and 69 (RATP Paris Transport).
For special-event visits, register early for tours during European Heritage Days and arrive early to avoid queues. Photography policies may vary, so check event guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the regular visiting hours?
For the Institut Giacometti at Hôtel Follot in the 14th arrondissement, hours are Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. It is closed Mondays and holidays.
How do I get tickets?
Book online in advance at the Institut Giacometti website. On-site purchases are limited and card-only.
Is the venue accessible?
The main entrance is accessible, but access to the interior may be limited for visitors with reduced mobility. Contact the institute in advance for assistance.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available in English and French, with private group options.
Can I visit Hôtel Follot in the 7th arrondissement?
Only during special events such as European Heritage Days.
