Hôtel Follot

Introduction: Hôtel Follot's Importance in Parisian Heritage

Hôtel Follot is a remarkable testament to Paris's transition from Art Nouveau to Art Deco, situated at 5 rue Victor Schœlcher in the 14th arrondissement. Designed by the acclaimed Paul Follot between 1911 and 1913, this mansion encapsulates the elegance and innovation of the early 20th century. Today, Hôtel Follot is home to the Institut Giacometti, a cultural center dedicated to the celebrated Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti. The mansion’s intricate façades, custom furnishings, and original interiors make it a must-see for those interested in Paris's decorative arts, architecture, and modern art.

Visitors at Hôtel Follot can immerse themselves in both the building’s striking architectural details and the recreated atmosphere of Giacometti’s Montparnasse studio. The Institut Giacometti curates exhibitions, guided tours, and educational programs, offering insights into both Follot’s design mastery and Giacometti’s artistic genius.

This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips—equipping you to make the most of your visit to one of Paris’s most treasured cultural sites.

For the latest details and to book tickets, visit the Institut Giacometti website or consult Paris Promeneurs.

Discover Hôtel Follot: A Parisian Architectural Gem

What to Expect When Visiting

Hôtel Follot, now the Institut Giacometti, offers visitors the chance to experience a masterful blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The building’s interiors feature original furnishings, intricate wall coverings, and decorative objects designed by Paul Follot. Within, the meticulously reconstructed Montparnasse studio of Giacometti provides an intimate look at the artist's creative world.

Visitor Information: Tickets, Hours, and Tours

• Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
• Tickets: Adults €12; discounts for students and seniors; children under 12 enter free.
• Booking: Purchase tickets online at the Institut Giacometti official website. Advance booking is highly advised.
• Guided Tours: Offered in English and French; private group tours available by appointment.

Accessibility

The main entrance and public areas are wheelchair accessible. Visitors needing assistance should contact the Institut Giacometti in advance.

Nearby Attractions in Montparnasse

• 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: Ideal for relaxation post-visit.

Travel Tips

• Best Time: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
• Getting There: Nearest metro: Pernety (Line 13). Other convenient stops: Raspail, Denfert-Rochereau.
• Photography: Permitted in designated areas; no flash or tripods.

Origins and Vision

Paul Follot, a leading figure in French decorative arts, conceived Hôtel Follot as both a private residence and a showcase for his work. Its façade combines white stone, gold mosaic, ochre, and deep blue ceramics, blending organic Art Nouveau motifs with early Art Deco geometry.

Follot’s Design Innovation

The mansion’s interiors feature custom furniture, rare woods, gilded accents, and bespoke textiles. These elements are seamlessly integrated, reflecting Follot’s philosophy of total design.

The Belle Époque and Montparnasse

During the Belle Époque, Hôtel Follot was a salon for artists and patrons, embodying the era’s fusion of art and daily life.

Architectural Features

• Grand salon for entertaining
• Personal atelier and gallery spaces
• Custom furnishings inspired by nature and classicism
• Restored hand-painted friezes and original parquet flooring

From Residence to Cultural Landmark

After Follot’s death, the mansion was preserved and, in 2018, transformed into the Institut Giacometti, a major site for modern art research and exhibitions.

Visiting the Institut Giacometti at Hôtel Follot

Architectural Context

• Origins: Built in 1911 for Paul Follot, designed by Pierre Selmersheim on Follot’s plans (Paris Promeneurs).
• Style: Synthesis of Art Nouveau and Art Deco, with influences from the Viennese Secession.
• Distinctive Features: Mosaics, floral motifs, stained glass, custom woodwork (Wallpaper*).

Interior Design & Decorative Arts

• Wood paneling with custom carvings
• Stained glass windows and doors
• Botanical-themed textiles and friezes
• Original fireplaces and custom furniture

Paul Follot’s Legacy

Follot contributed to major projects like Hôtel Georges V and the ocean liner Normandie (Paris Promeneurs). Hôtel Follot remains his most personal creation.

Transformation & Exhibitions

The 2018 restoration by Pascal Grasso and Pierre-Antoine Gatier preserved the mansion’s integrity while adapting it for exhibitions (Wallpaper*). The Institut Giacometti features the reconstructed Montparnasse studio and regular exhibitions from its collection.

Visitor Services

• Guided Tours: Available by reservation.
• Audio Guides: For self-guided exploration.

Institut Giacometti Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets & History

Historical Context

Hôtel Follot’s design exemplifies the fusion of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Its preservation allows insight into both Follot’s vision and the broader trends of early 20th-century Paris (pariscrea.com).

The Foundation’s Mission

The Fondation Giacometti holds the largest collection of Giacometti works worldwide, including sculptures, paintings, drawings, and notebooks (pariscrea.com).

Reconstructed Montparnasse Studio

A highlight is the faithful replica of Giacometti’s studio, allowing visitors to experience the artist’s creative environment (publicdelivery.org).

Temporary Exhibitions

The institute hosts rotating exhibitions and collaborations with contemporary artists, such as the June 2025 “Giacometti/Petrit Halilaj” exhibition (cntraveller.com).

Practical Information

• Address: 5 Rue Victor Schoelcher, 75014 Paris
• Transport: Metro (Raspail, Denfert-Rochereau), RER B, bus lines 38, 68, 88, 91 (publicdelivery.org).
• Tickets: €12 adults; reduced rates for students/seniors; booking online is strongly recommended.
• Accessibility: Due to historic features, accessibility is limited; contact the institute for details (fondation-giacometti.fr).

Educational Programs

Guided tours (in French and English), family workshops, and architectural tours are available (fondation-giacometti.fr).

Hôtel Follot in the 7th Arrondissement: Occasional Access

History and Location

Another Hôtel Follot, located at 11 Rue de Grenelle (7th arrondissement), is an Art Deco landmark designed in 1911 by Charles Plumet for furniture designer Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann. Though it remains a private residence, it occasionally opens to the public, most notably during European Heritage Days (European Heritage Days).

Visiting Details

• Access: Generally closed; public access during special events only.
• Nearby Attractions: Musée d'Orsay, Musée Rodin, Le Bon Marché, and iconic cafés.
• Transport: Metro Line 12 (Rue du Bac, Solférino), bus lines 63, 68, 69 (RATP Paris Transport).

Tips for Special Event Visits

• Register early for tours during European Heritage Days.
• Arrive early to avoid queues.
• Photography policies may vary; always check event guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the regular visiting hours?
A: For Institut Giacometti at Hôtel Follot (14th arrondissement): Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and holidays.

Q: How do I get tickets?
A: Book online in advance at the Institut Giacometti website. On-site purchases are limited and card-only.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: The main entrance is accessible, but interior access may be limited for those with reduced mobility. Contact in advance for assistance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in English and French, with private group options.

Q: Can I visit Hôtel Follot in the 7th arrondissement?
A: Only during special events like European Heritage Days.

Visuals and Media

• Browse images of Hôtel Follot’s façade and interiors on the Fondation Giacometti website.
• Use official maps to locate nearby metro stations.
• Virtual tours and multimedia content are available online.

Summary and Recommendations

Hôtel Follot represents the innovative spirit of early 20th-century Parisian decorative arts, uniquely blending Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Its transformation into the Institut Giacometti preserves this legacy while highlighting the genius of Alberto Giacometti. Advance booking, guided tours, and a thoughtful approach to accessibility ensure a rewarding visit. For rare glimpses into additional architectural gems, plan ahead for special openings like European Heritage Days in the 7th arrondissement.

For further details and to secure your visit, consult the Institut Giacometti official website, Wallpaper*, and Paris Promeneurs.