The red-hot hotel scene in Paris always gets lots of buzz—whether it’s the sizzling new openings, renovations, or new experiences and amenities. While we excitedly anticipate the debut of JK Place and Sinner by Evok Hotels, established properties are competing for attention. Case in point: Le Meurice has just unveiled a makeover of 29 rooms and suites, including the sprawling penthouse, the Belle Etoile Suite, on the 7th floor. Le Meurice has been around since 1835 and hosted personalities like Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Jay-Z; the palace hotel has an enviable perch on the rue de Rivoli overlooking the Tuileries Gardens in the very heart of Paris.
Now, this grande dame is showing off a new look that’s a melange of 18th century classical style and contemporary chic. The renovated rooms are located on the third through sixth floors and have panoramic city views. Designer Charles Jouffre, who has worked on the interiors of Le Meurice for more than a decade, invited two young designers, Margaux Lally and Luc Berger, to come up with the new design. The duo already worked their magic at Le Meurice two years ago, in designing the Pompadour Suite.
Their theme? Imagining the “Versailles of today,” they sought to showcase the finest French craftsmanship (bespoke furniture and fine fabrics, such as silk, damask and velvet) in lighter, more refined spaces. Guest comfort was key, and the rooms have been enhanced with intuitive technology.
The crème de la crème is the Belle Etoile Suite, with its 360-degree panoramas from its 3,175-square-foot landscaped terrace. Done up with unique artwork and custom furniture by Ateliers Jouffre, this penthouse has a home cinema, a dining room for 10 people and a bath tub with views of Montmartre. At nearly 7,000 square feet, this is one of the biggest suites in Paris.