A competition of ideas was launched in 1894 to prepare for the 1900 World Fair. The project to build an avenue between the Champs-Elysées and the Invalides, via a bridge over the Seine, was adopted. It was also planned to build a fine arts palace on each side of the avenue, the Grand and Petit Palais. The competition jury divided the work between four architects. Henri Deglane was commissioned to design the facade (photo) and a portion of the nave of the Grand Palais, while the Salon d’Honneur was entrusted to Albert Louvet. The west wing was awarded to Albert Thomas. Charles Girault was given the Petit Palais and the coordination of all the work.