Steps away from the flamboyant Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Hôtel Balzac has reopened its doors following a redesign by Paris-based Festen Architecture, which drew inspiration from the understated refinement of the 1930s.
Step inside Hôtel Balzac in Paris’ 8th arrondissement
Charlotte de Tonnac and Hugo Sauzay, the creative minds behind Festen Architecture, have crafted a distinctive space that embodies Parisian identity through neutral and organic tones, minimalist clean lines and refined material effects. Their décor concept, featuring bespoke furniture, subtle lighting, sumptuous materials and sleek lines, exudes mid-20th-century elegance.
Inside, Hôtel Balzac epitomises French luxury, far removed from ostentation. Behind its majestic doors lies an intimate and inviting atmosphere, transporting guests to the life of a privileged Parisian insider. The lobby exudes a subdued appeal, mirroring the aesthetic of the 58 rooms and suites, some offering breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.
Whether they choose to dine at Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire’s restaurant or in the exclusive alcove bar, guests enter a realm of culinary delights and subtle sophistication. The Japanese-inspired spa, meanwhile, provides an experience steeped in century-old customs, with a symphony of holistic treatments for the mind, body and soul. It’s all perfectly in line with the refinement of this hotel, shaped as a dapper homage to Paris’ timeless chic.
Hôtel Balzac is located at 6 Rue Balzac, Paris, hotelbalzac.com
-
Fluid workspaces: is the era of prescriptive office design over?We discuss evolving workspaces and track the shape-shifting interiors of the 21st century. If options are what we’re after in office design, it looks like we’ve got them
-
This collection of slow furniture is a powerful ode to timeA serene exhibition of David Dolcini's 'Time-made' collection has fast-tracked its place into our hearts and homes
-
Is the Pragma P1 the most sustainable watch yet?Geneva-based brand Pragma combines industrial design with real sustainable credentials
-
The warmth and comfort of Paris restaurant Margaux: ‘It’s like feasting at grandma’s’Located on the 16th arrondissement, Margaux dishes up timeless French classics in a setting that feels like home
-
Saint Laurent unveils Sushi Park Paris: the Los Angeles omakase’s new outpostA beloved Californian restaurant finds a second home at the Saint Laurent Rive Droite flagship, merging the worlds of haute couture and high-end gastronomy
-
Must-visit cinemas with award-worthy designThere’s more magic to the movies at these design-led cinemas, from Busan Cinema Centre’s ‘flying’ roof to The Gem Cinema Jaipur’s art deco allure
-
All aboard the world’s most luxurious train journeysStay on track with our pick of the most luxurious train journeys around the world, whether in 1920s-style opulence or contemporary chic
-
Night at the museum: the best art hotels to book nowSleep amid surrealists at London’s Broadwick Soho, or wake up to contemporary favourites at New Hotel in Athens – indulge in an immersive art hotel experience
-
Shop hyperlocal gifts, from Harlem to Hawaii, at R Finds’ global online storeWallpaper* goes shopping with R Finds, Renaissance Hotels’ digital marketplace, which connects travellers – and armchair travellers – with local makers and stores, one gift at a time
-
This Italian Bistrot in Paris offers all-year-round ‘felicità’A diminutive of the Italian word for family, Miglia is a cosy trattoria radiating warmth, friendliness, and traditional flavours
-
Ski in, ski out at Courchevel’s hot new piste-side dinerLoulou, the new Courchevel restaurant inspired by Yves Saint Laurent’s muse, is playfully elevated by Jean-Charles de Castelbajac’s pop art branding
