So far I’ve shared 2 specific buildings from my most recent trip to Paris. While I wandered many other areas and did a little scouting of some locations I’ve already been to, photographically I mostly focused on shooting things I haven’t shot before. This final stop is the 1st arrondissement and includes a couple interesting locations.
First up, the Châtelet-Les-Halles subway stop, which is the largest underground station in the world. This renovation was recently completed and connects directly to the large shopping area, Forum des Halles. More from here soon, but first some shots from the subway stop. A, rare, wider view from me because I definitely think you need context for this space, it’s pretty amazing!
Love the contrast in materials – the warmth of the wood against the coolness of steel and tile. I also love the contrast between the modern architecture of the station along with the historic building in the background. In my opinion, one of the best contrasts to look for in this historic city. Love bridging these different eras within one frame.
I thought the next three images worked best in black and white, loved the play of light on the tile.
Just through the station is the Forum des Halles shopping center, which apparently has Europe’s busiest cinema. When I was here in 2014 this was fully under construction, it was completed in 2016. The entryway to the mall is this huge sweeping Canopy of glass and steel. I really don’t love the color of steel, not really sure why they’d choose this color but the shape is certainly interesting. Again, the play on the modern/historic in one frame.
Because I really don’t love the yellow/green color of the steel, a couple black and whites to draw the focus to the shape and form of the structure.
