Born Nov. 6, 1825, in Paris; died there Aug. 3, 1898. French architect.

Garnier studied at the School of Fine Arts in Paris (1842-48). His main work is the Opéra in Paris (1861-67, finishing touches in 1875). A grandiose structure (with its ground plan of 11,000 sq m), its composition is eclectic, with excessively ornate architectural forms and with a pompous decoration of the interior that made an impression on the taste of the nouveau riche bourgeoisie. It inspired many imitations in a number of European capitals. Other works by Garnier include the Monte Carlo theater (1878-79) and Casino (1861-1910), built in the same pompous eclectic style.