.png)
If you’ve ever wandered through the grand department stores of Paris, you’ve likely marvelled at their architectural beauty, their history, and the world-class shopping experiences they offer. But have you ever wondered about the stories behind these iconic spaces? La Saga des Grands Magasins exhibition at the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine brings this fascinating history to life, and I’m thrilled to share that I had the privilege of recording the English audio guide.
A Journey Through Time
The exhibition takes you on a journey through the evolution of Paris’s grand department stores, from their humble beginnings in the 19th century to their status as architectural landmarks today. You’ll learn about the bold visionaries behind stores like Le Bon Marché, Galeries Lafayette, and Printemps, and how they revolutionised the concept of shopping.
Behind the Scenes: Recording the Audio Guide
I had the pleasure of working with Thomas Dormoy at Presta Voice, recording in his very cool studio in the 20th arrondissement. Together, we made sure to get every detail right, especially when it came to the pronunciation of French names and places in English. Some of those names (like les Magasins Vaxelaire!) presented a bit of a challenge, but Thomas’s guidance helped me get them just right.
I really enjoyed the process—it was an opportunity to dive deep into the history of Parisian culture and share that excitement with listeners. We made sure the tone was approachable and friendly, so anyone visiting the exhibition can easily follow along, whether they’re history buffs or just curious about the world of Parisian shopping.
A Surreal Experience: Hearing My Voice at the Exhibition
After the guide was finished, I had the chance to visit the exhibition myself. I have to say—it was a strange yet wonderful experience to hear my own voice coming through the headphones as I walked through the displays. It felt surreal to experience the exhibition not just as a visitor, but as someone who had helped shape the way people would engage with it. There’s something uniquely rewarding about knowing your work is part of such an incredible experience.
Why You Should Visit
The Saga des Grands Magasins exhibition isn’t just for history enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in architecture, fashion, or simply exploring a different side of Parisian culture, this exhibition offers something for everyone. And if you’re planning a visit, don’t forget to grab the English audio guide—I’d love for you to hear my work and experience the history of these magnificent stores through a new lens.
The exhibition runs until April 2025, so there’s plenty of time to stop by and explore!
Credits:
Casting & Production: Thomas Dormoy, Presta Voice