Gutters & Downspouts
A gutter was installed around the sides and rear to keep the Parisian rain from seeping into the limestone (it’s already a major problem since moss and lichen has settled in). S-curve class French downspouts were added and a collection box on one side—all painted to look like weathered zinc. Paynes grey, black and white acrylics are layered and more white dry brushed.
Zinc turns white due to white rust, a chemical reaction from moisture with little airflow or high humidity. In Paris, the signature zinc roofs are cleaned every 5 to 10 years by couvreurs. These specialized roofers also remove the moss (the démoussage) and clean the gutters, keeping the metal from damage. Hope they get around to this pâtisserie.
I had left a space in the stone work for the faux delivery door. It is trimmed out and a doorbell added. Originally, cornerstones were intended until I realized the facade would not fit on properly if they were added. Nonetheless, the area turned out to be a great place for the downspouts.
“Hand Lettered” Signage
The font chosen for the facade lettering is similar to Didot, a specific style immensely popular in France during the 19th century. There is a stark dramatic difference between the thick vertical stems and thin horizontal lines. It would have been hand lettered, possibly gilded. Historic districts in Paris have strict laws on shops, requiring classic fonts.
Retractable Awnings Create the Terrasse
Retractable awnings were a defining feature in Paris early 1900. They fundamentally shifted French social life into the streets by creating an extension of the café; the awnings claimed public property for sidewalk seating areas—the terrasse. Furthermore, the rolling out of the massive awnings at dawn was the visual signal that the pâtisserie was open for the day.
The awnings are made from long skewers and brass jewelry finding to resemble the retractable ones with lateral extension “arms.” These worked by spring-loaded iron “scissor arms." When a gear was cranked by hand, these iron arms unfolded outward extending the canvas over the sidewalk, defining the terrasse and sheltering patrons from sun & rain. Unfortunately, the arms only theoretically extend, as the skewers are glued to the wall. A classic scalloped valance graces the front, split into two sides so it is easier to retract. The awning fabric is a woven canvas used for fine art—not that different than a real one. It is painted a neutral pastel peach in keeping with the 7th arrondissement.