Once home to a French princess, this magnificent 19th century private mansion close to the Champs Elysees has been transformed into a luxury hotel. Baroque Travel finds out more
Hotel de Berri opened officially early December 2018 just in time for the Festive Season. One of Paris’ latest luxury addresses, the hotel boasts a fascinating history: once home to Princess Mathilde, daughter of Jerome Bonaparte (Napoleon’s brother), the mansion was also home to 1930s fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli for 40 years.
When it was decided to turn the magnificent mansion into a luxury hotel, designer and artistic director Philippe Renaud took inspiration from creative masters such as Jeanne Lanvin, Coco Chanel and Salvador Dali. The result? A dramatic use of colors, themes, textures and details that is quite extraordinary. Whilst the rooms and suites are colorful, black and white reigns supreme on the ground floor, mixed with leopard print armchairs, Roman columns and busts and antique Chinese furniture. In keeping with its historic footprint, there is a Sculpture Room, home to numerous statues, busts and sculptures including some from The Louvre’s castings workshop.
Hotel de Berri belongs to A Luxury Collection hotels, and is located in a stunning lush oasis in the heart of the city in Paris’ fashionable 8th arrondisment. It’s just 4 minutes’ walk from the Champs Elysees, within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, Grand Palais and the Arc de Triomphe.
The hotel, which opened with aplomb in December, offers 75 eclectic guest rooms including 35 exquisite suites, all with marble bathrooms, heated flooring, Diptyique products and special aromatherapy showers. Most rooms and suites overlook the hotel’s beautiful 3,000-square foot private garden. Guests also enjoy an Apple TV and Hi-Fi speaker system, iPad with automated control center, high speed WiFi and universal plugs in the rooms. The hotel also offers 24-hour room service.
Other facilities include an excellent Italian restaurant, Le Shiap, which is open for lunch and dinner, and a cocktail bar, Le Bizazz that overlooks the lush garden. Here, guests enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner al fresco inside or on the terrace, as well as light snacks, coffees and signature cocktails. There is also a spa offering various wellness and beauty treatments as well as 2 Hammams.