The Lutetia Hotel, a Parisian landmark nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, has emerged from a grand renovation, restoring its historic charm while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. This iconic hotel, known for its artistic past and connections to legendary figures like Pablo Picasso and Ernest Hemingway, is now a vibrant hub for art and culture once more.
A Legacy Restored
This magnificent hotel, built in 1910 as accommodation for patrons of the nearby Bon Marché department store, has seen a succession of owners, including the Taittinger Champagne family and Starwood Hotels. In 2010, property group The Set purchased the Lutetia and embarked on an ambitious four-year, £179 million renovation project overseen by renowned French architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte. The project aimed to breathe new life into the aging hotel while preserving its timeless character.
Wilmotte, a frequent guest at the old Lutetia, understood the hotel’s special place in Parisian hearts. He embraced the challenge of reviving this iconic building while respecting its rich history and unique personality. Collaborating with Parisian architectural firm Perrod & Richard, experts in historic building restoration, Wilmotte meticulously oversaw the restoration process. The stone façade, adorned with intricate floral and grapevine details, was painstakingly restored to its former glory, while the hotel’s emblem, a mosaic of a ship, was faithfully reinstated on the lobby floor. The team also spent over 17,000 hours revealing hidden frescoes, bringing the hotel’s artistic heritage back to light. A new central courtyard was created by removing the roof of an inner salon, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces.
Modern Elegance Meets Classic Charm
The renovated Lutetia boasts 184 rooms and suites, each featuring spacious bathrooms and soundproofing. A luxurious spa, a refreshing pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness area have been added to cater to modern travelers. Wilmotte’s vision was to create a contemporary aesthetic that complements the hotel’s original DNA. This is evident in the carefully curated interiors, where navy and cream hues, mirrored surfaces, bronze accents, and long, dark corridors create a sense of timeless elegance. The hotel’s luxurious touches extend to every detail, from the Hermès cushions and Murano glass lights to the linen on the beds.
The hotel’s seven Signature Suites, ranging in size from 57 to 169 square meters, offer a refined escape. These suites, designed by Wilmotte, feature breathtaking Eiffel Tower views and private terraces. The St Germain Penthouse, designed in collaboration with frequent hotel guest and renowned film director Francis Ford Coppola, stands out as a true masterpiece. Featuring artwork from Coppola’s personal collection, film memorabilia, George Nakashima furniture by Knoll, Fortuny lamps, and a stunning Carrera marble bathroom, this suite offers an unforgettable experience.
A Hub for Art and Culture
The Lutetia’s history as a creative hub is woven into the fabric of the hotel, evident in the art that adorns its spaces. In the lobby, guests can sit at a table with violin-themed legs, a unique piece of furniture left by the artist Arman in lieu of payment for his room. The glass ceiling of the Le Saint Germain restaurant is adorned with vibrant images by contemporary artist Fabrice Hyber, adding a touch of modern art to the elegant dining experience.
The hotel’s Bar Joséphine, with its floor-to-ceiling glass doors behind shelves of colorful bottles, invites guests and locals alike to step inside and experience its vibrant ambiance. “A new life is ready to unfold here,” says Wilmotte. “I believe that people from the local neighbourhood will incorporate the hotel into their lives, tourists will discover something genuinely new, and the dream of the Lutetia will start again.”
From £750 per night, hotellutetia.com
The Lutetia Hotel, once a Parisian legend, has been reborn. With its restored grandeur, contemporary elegance, and vibrant artistic spirit, the Lutetia offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of Parisian culture.
