In 1920, Henri Deneux, the architect in charge of rebuilding the framework of Reims Cathedral, tested a revolutionary process on the framework of the Saint-Jacques church in Reims. He replaced the wooden elements with reinforced concrete beams 2 to 3 metres long, with a uniform section of 0.20 x 0.04 m. Lightweight, the pieces could be handled by one or two workers. They were connected to each other by cement keys and wooden wedges. The experiment tried at Saint-Jacques was a success and Henri Deneux implemented his innovation at Reims Cathedral. The structure, which is fireproof, is still standing.