It was just way too big.
I don't see what purpose could have a such huge building after the demise of the department store in its former size.
Especially in Barbes, it's one of the most working class area in the City of Paris.
Just like in America, department stores have almost disappeared in France.
Of all the grand department stores of Paris built in Paris during the 19th century, just 4 remain.
After the closure of Dufayel department store and its destruction, a bank took a large part of the site but the computerization of services has led to a reduction of the staffs during the 1990s
The site was then redevelopped in the early 2000s with more modern offices and parts were converted into residencial spaces.
Today there is a mix of residencial and office space with older and more recent buildings.
Part of the former facades have been reused, it could have been worse.
Dufayel 1 by
Minato ku, sur Flickr
Dufayel 2 by
Minato ku, sur Flickr