Philippe Starck, a renowned name in the world of design, doesn’t just build hotels; he crafts experiences. He sees each project as a story waiting to be told, a journey waiting to be embarked upon. “The hotels I create are like a movie of which I am the director. I imagine the coming and going of people, what they are going to experience, what they will feel, I create stories borrowed from love, humor, poetry, tenderness, surrealism, and art,” says Starck about his creative approach. His designs are instantly recognizable – elegant, sophisticated, and timeless, leaving an indelible mark on every space he touches.
A Glimpse into Starck’s Vision: Four European Gems
Let’s embark on a journey through four of Starck’s latest hotel masterpieces in Europe, each offering a unique blend of luxury, design, and cultural heritage.
A Lakeside Retreat: La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich
Imagine a modern Yacht Club nestled by the serene waters of Lake Zurich. That’s the vision Starck brings to life at La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich. This hotel, housed in a 1909 Neobarock building, marries history and modernity with an elegant grace. Its fabled facade – adorned with blue and white striped blinds, elaborate balconies, lion heads, and historical sculptures – whispers tales of the intelligent and stylish leisure spirit of the early 20th century. The hotel’s interior embraces a minimal yet not minimalist approach, showcasing the raw poetry and structural soul of the place, offering a luxurious modern escape that seamlessly blends with its surroundings.
Provençal Charm: Lily of the Valley
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Lily of the Valley embodies the region’s rich charm and proximity to the glamorous cities of the French Riviera. This haven of peace is a testament to Starck’s ability to create spaces that seamlessly merge with their natural environment. Drawing inspiration from the hanging gardens of Babylon, the architecture of Provençal abbeys, and the design of Californian villas, Lily of the Valley offers 44 rooms and suites that exude comfort, culture, and generosity.
Parisian Panache: The Brach Hotel
Imagine a huge glasshouse bathed in the warm glow of Parisian sunlight. That’s The Brach hotel – a contemporary marvel nestled in the 16th arrondissement. This modern architectural masterpiece embodies the spirit of the 1930s, offering a bold and sophisticated interpretation of hospitality. With its signature Starck elegance, The Brach unveils a space filled with freedom and light. Warm and vibrant, it features custom chairs made of leather and sticks, Masai beadwork tables, and elegant glass doors, creating a unique blend of bold and classy, perfectly complementing its posh surroundings.
Intimate Elegance: 9 Confidentiel
Tucked away in the heart of Le Marais, 9 Confidentiel is a haven of intimacy and elegance. Housed in an Art Deco building, the hotel’s 29 rooms evoke the subtle and sophisticated poetry of the 1920s. Pastel hues blend seamlessly with light wood, brushed stainless steel, rose brass, and wrought iron, creating an eclectic and sophisticated ambiance. A touch of surrealism is added through a series of outsider art pieces, enhancing the hotel’s unique character. 9 Confidentiel embodies a casual and effortless luxury, embracing its guests in a warm and inviting embrace.
More Than Just Hotels: A Legacy of Design and Experience
Philippe Starck’s hotels are more than just places to stay; they are immersive experiences, captivating journeys into the heart of his artistic vision. Each hotel is a unique expression of his creative spirit, blending history, culture, and modernity to create spaces that are both breathtaking and unforgettable. So, when you step into a Philippe Starck hotel, prepare to be transported to a world of unparalleled elegance, artistry, and dreamlike escapism.
