The first alterations that converted the original building into an auberge are attributed to Nicolò Flavari, the Order's architect who had accompanied them after the fall of Rhodes.

[5] In the early 19th century, the former auberge was acquired by the rich Vella family, and it became informally known as il-Palazz tal-Miljunarju (The Palace of the Millionaire).

[5] In 1921, Auberge de France was rented to Lorenzo Zammit Naro, and it was converted into a furniture factory.

[6] The building was acquired by the government in 1938, on the urging of Canon Gian Mari Farrugia and Sir Harry Luke.

[12] The ornate main doorway is topped by a wrought iron lattice bearing the fleur-de-lys, the symbol of France.

The entrance hall and most parts of the building receive natural light from the backyard, and the ground floor is connected to the upper one by a covered staircase.

In the middle landing of the staircase there is a carved stone lion, a common feature in palatial buildings at the time.