Say Bonjour to the New Carreau du Temple in Paris

There’s not another day that goes by in Paris without a new café or hip boutique opening in the Upper Marais. (For insider addresses, check out the article by local designer Kasia Dietz.) Perhaps nothing symbolises the neighborhood’s renaissance than the renovated Carreau du Temple, the old covered market in the 3rd arrondissement that has recently been converted into a cultural and recreation center.

Dating from 1863, the building hosted the first Foire de Paris in 1904, and the mayor’s office describes it as “a place emblematic of the history of Paris.” As such, former mayor Bertrand Delanoë prioritised its restoration, and the project was awarded to the architects Jean-François Milou and Thomas Rouyrre at Studio Milou.

After four years of renovation work, which preserved original glass and metalwork, the Carreau du Temple opened its doors with an official inauguration in late April. The ground floor houses an auditorium, a boutique, and a bar with a terrace, while downstairs, there’s a gym, martial arts room, a lounge, and a sound studio. A dedicated Facebook page promotes the music concerts, theatre, art events, and pop-up salons that have already thrilled the quartier.

Carreau du Temple , 4, rue Eugène Spuller, 75003, Paris. Tel: +33 1 83 91 93 30. Open Monday through Saturday from 8 am-9 pm.