Bar-le-Duc, Lorraine 55000

An 18th-century townhouse and garden, in Bar-le-Duc. Although the person who commissioned this residence is unknown, the architecture of this townhouse leaves little room for doubt: the quality of its layout and ampleness of its volume unquestionably point to it being the former residence of one of society's leading lights in Bar-le-Duc in the Age of Enlightenment. Set between the street and its garden, it follows a classic layout. The main section that stands alongside Rue Voltaire is prolonged by two wings protruding in L-shapes out into the garden and framing it at the same time. Originally, each of these wings was terminated by a square, protruding pavilion, bestowing absolute symmetry on the edifice. The probable disappearance of one of these pavilions has not greatly altered the general appearance, for the preserved false openings pay witness to a desire to maintain the original architectural balance. To the rear, the garden forms an L-shape around the remaining pavilion to reach the rear of the garage that opens onto the street.