Hôtel Costes, a Parisian institution known for attracting celebrities and discerning travelers, has just unveiled a stunning new wing on the rue Castiglione. This expansion boasts 38 magnificent rooms and suites, adding to the already iconic hotel’s allure. The man behind this legendary establishment, Jean-Louis Costes, has never given an interview to international media, until now.
In this exclusive conversation, Jean-Louis reveals his philosophy on design, explains the “legend” of Costes, and shares his vision for creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience for guests.
The Costes Design: A Story of Collaboration
“I don’t have a design philosophy,” Jean-Louis asserts. “I choose people.” His career is a testament to this philosophy, with each project a collaboration with a distinct talent. He worked with the then-unknown Philippe Starck on the iconic Café Costes, which launched the Costes brothers to fame in 1984. He then collaborated with Jacques Garcia on the original Hôtel Costes in 1995, again selecting an up-and-coming designer.
And now, Jean-Louis is working with Christian Liaigre, a designer who is both a father and a friend. Their sons attended the same school, and their shared experiences led to a natural collaboration. This approach, choosing people based on personal connections and shared values, forms the bedrock of the Costes design ethos.
A Legend Born from Chance
Jean-Louis demystifies the “legend of the Costes.” “There is no legend,” he insists. “We are different.” The unique atmosphere of the Costes is not the result of a carefully crafted plan, but rather a series of serendipitous events.
The iconic music, for example, was born from a chance encounter with a former waiter who had just completed rehab. Jean-Louis entrusted him with creating a musical atmosphere for the hotel, and the waiter’s talent resulted in a compilation CD that sold millions of copies. The scent of Costes, too, was a happy accident. A chance encounter with a renowned perfumer, Olivia Giacobetti, led to the creation of the now-famous Costes candle, a unique fragrance that sets the hotel apart.
The Costes’s signature ambiance is a result of intuitive decisions and a focus on creating a space that feels genuine and welcoming. It’s not about following a predetermined design philosophy, but rather embracing the unexpected and crafting an experience that resonates with guests.
A Hotel for the City
Jean-Louis’s vision for the Costes is a hotel that immerses guests in the heart of Paris. He encourages guests to explore the city, to interact with locals, and to experience the vibrancy of Parisian life. “I don’t like people who stay in their rooms,” he declares. “The guests have to meet and see real Parisians.”
The Costes is not a sterile, business-focused hotel. It’s an urban resort, a place where guests can relax, enjoy themselves, and connect with the city around them.
A Touch of Enigmatic Luxury
The Costes stands apart from other luxury hotels in its commitment to authenticity and genuine hospitality. It’s not about marketing or branding, but about creating a space that reflects the owner’s personal vision and resonates with the spirit of Paris.
“I wanted to make an urban resort, not a business hotel,” Jean-Louis explains. “We can be more joyful, more dynamic.” He emphasizes the importance of personalized service, of treating guests with care and respect.
The new Costes Castiglione wing is an extension of this vision, a seamless blend of modern luxury and timeless Parisian charm. Jean-Louis approaches the hotel as a home, a space that embodies his personal taste and values. He believes that true success comes not from advertising, but from creating a space that speaks for itself.
And so, the legend of Costes continues, a testament to Jean-Louis’s unique vision, his unwavering commitment to authenticity, and his passion for creating a truly unforgettable experience for guests. The new Costes Castiglione is not just an expansion, it’s an evolution, a testament to the enduring appeal of this Parisian icon.
