The CAUE: free advice from an architect in France
Before you even choose an architect, you can show your project to an architect-adviser for free: that is the job of the CAUE in your department.
A public advice service created in 1977
The French law on architecture of 3 January 1977 provided for a council for architecture, planning and the environment (CAUE) in each department. It informs the public, trains local officials and professionals, and advises individuals who want to build, extend or renovate.
Its advice to individuals is free. The CAUE does not do the project for you, though: it does not draw the plans or run the works.
What an appointment can give you
- an opinion on where to place the house or extension on the plot;
- ideas on volumes, orientation, light and materials;
- a reading of the local plan (PLU) rules that apply to your plot;
- pointers on procedures and on when an architect is needed;
- for a renovation, advice suited to old buildings.
Preparing the appointment
Consultations are by appointment, and are generally held in French. Bring whatever helps explain the project: cadastral plan or exact address, photos of the plot or house, an extract of the local plan if you have it, existing sketches or drawings, and your intended brief and budget.
Finding the CAUE in your department
The national federation of CAUEs publishes a contact map of all councils: fncaue.com, "Contactez votre CAUE". There is currently a CAUE in about 90 departments. The network is going through a difficult financial period, linked to delays in collecting the planning tax (taxe d'aménagement) that funds most of it: some councils are under threat, and the Manche CAUE was wound up in 2025.
The CAUE advises individuals for free, by appointment, before and during the design of a project. It does not replace an architect, but helps you choose one and prepare your brief.
Next, the full directory lists the architecture practices in every department, and the guide how to choose an architect lists what to check.
Frequently asked questions
Is the CAUE really free?
Yes, its advice to individuals is free. It does not, however, draw plans or supervise works.
How do I book an appointment with a CAUE?
Contact the CAUE in your department; its details are on the national federation's map (fncaue.com). Consultations are by appointment.
Is there a CAUE in every department?
No, in about 90 departments. The national federation's map shows which ones exist.