A preserved and revitalised industrial heritage, evolving from an “electric cathedral” into a “cathedral of cinema”!
Founded in 1903 by Baron Empain, the Société d’Électricité de Paris (SEP) committed, from 1906 onwards, to supplying the electricity required for the Paris Métro, inaugurated in 1898.
To achieve this, the company acquired a 60,000 m² site in La Plaine Saint-Denis, where it built a thermal power plant in record time. Designed by engineer Nicolini, the facility stood out for its exceptional scale, notably its 240-metre-long central nave — a true industrial cathedral.
After decades of dormancy, the former industrial site was reborn as La Cité du Cinéma, thanks to major investment.
This unique complex brought together the entire film production chain, including offices, screening rooms, 11,000 m² of film studios, as well as workshops and a film school. The central nave, fully restored, was transformed into the “Rue de la Machine à Rêves” (Dream Machine Street).
Since its reopening, La Cité du Cinéma has hosted several major exhibitions dedicated to iconic works from the world of entertainment.
Up to 28,000 meals were served each day at the heart of the Olympic Village.
12,000 m² of this exceptional heritage complex are undergoing major renovation works, delivering state-of-the-art event spaces with the highest standards of technology and guest experience.
Dedicated areas for large-scale exhibitions and immersive experiences around film and the performing arts are also being redeveloped.
Seine & Watts, the event space operating company behind the project, now aims to become the leading reference for French cultural and event excellence, at the heart of what is set to become the region’s premier hospitality destination in Île-de-France.
