The Samaritaine, a mythical department store founded in 1870 by Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jay, has had an extensive and innovative makeover. Its buildings, listed as historical monuments, overlook the Seine (on one side), and the Rue de Rivoli on the other. Passers-by can admire the structure, the glass roof and monumental staircase in the art nouveau style. The art deco facade (on the Seine side) by Henri Sauvage is equally impressive. On Rue de Rivoli, a 25-metre-high contemporary facade in glass was created by the agency Sanaa. The Samaritaine houses a department store, the luxury hotel Le Cheval Blanc, as well as offices, social accommodation, and a nursery.
