Birth and Legacy, a Pioneering Architect
Tony Garnier (born August 13, 1869 in Lyon, France – died January 19, 1948 in Roquefort-la Bédoule) is considered one of the precursors of 20th-century French architects.
He is famous for his "Cité Industrielle", a visionary project for an industrial city. Garnier is also recognized, alongside Auguste Perret, for having been a pioneer in the use of reinforced concrete.
The Industrial City: Visionary Planning for an Industrial City
With the Prix de Rome grant, Garnier developed plans (beginning in 1898, exhibited in 1904, and published in 1917) for an entire industrial city, embracing new concepts in urban planning: long, narrow plots oriented east–west, buildings separated by large open spaces, separate levels for pedestrians, and houses with roof gardens. The plan called for extensive use of reinforced concrete.
Architect of Lyon: a Period of Influence and Significant Achievements
In 1905 Garnier was appointed city architect of Lyon, a position he held until 1919. The most important achievement in Lyon resulting from his Cité Industrielle was the vast cattle park complex from 1908 to 1924. Other projects include the stadium (1913–1918), the Hôpital de la Grange Blanche with its 22 pavilions (begun 1911, completed 1927), the War Memorial (1924), and the housing project known as Les États Unis (1920–1935; The United States).
