Le Grand Mazarin, a new five-star hotel nestled in the heart of Paris’s Marais district, is not just a place to rest your head. It’s an immersive experience, a tribute to the rich and varied past of this iconic neighborhood. The hotel’s interior designer, Martin Brudnizki, envisioned a space that feels like it’s always been a part of the Marais landscape, drawing inspiration from the grand houses of the aristocratic era.
The Marais, a district transformed. This once-fashionable haven for noble residences during the 17th and 18th centuries, underwent a dramatic shift after the French Revolution. The aristocracy was displaced, and the Marais became a working-class neighborhood, attracting a diverse population, including many Jewish immigrants. However, the Holocaust cast a dark shadow over the neighborhood, leading to further change and a sense of decay.
A renaissance in the Marais. The preservation of the Marais was ultimately saved by a national law in 1962, which led to historic restoration and a surge in investment, paving the way for a vibrant transformation. From the arrival of Sephardic Jews to the opening of the Picasso Museum, the Marais evolved into a dynamic center of culture, art, and commerce. This evolution continued through the 2000s, with the rise of luxury boutiques and the ever-increasing popularity of Airbnb rentals. Today, the Marais is known for its trendy, bourgeois-casual lifestyle, its charming streets, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere.
A Modern Interpretation of Marais History: Le Grand Mazarin Hotel
Le Grand Mazarin, situated at the heart of the Marais, perfectly embodies this dynamic evolution. Its 19th-century building, standing across from the BHV Marais department store and near Place Harvey Milk, is a nod to the layered history of the neighborhood.
The hotel’s interior, designed with a muted flamboyance, pays homage to the elegance of the past while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. The soft greens, reds, and blues used throughout the building create a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere. The 50 rooms and 11 suites feature a collection of unique furnishings, each carrying a hint of 18th-century style, offering a glimpse into the era’s petite noblesse. However, the design is far from overly ornate, embracing comfort and style. The modest size of the rooms echoes the historic architecture of the Marais.
Boubalé: A Taste of Tradition with a Modern Twist
Le Grand Mazarin’s restaurant, Boubalé, is a culinary adventure in itself. Led by Jerusalem-born chef Assaf Granit, a Michelin-starred Israeli chef, the restaurant offers a celebration of traditional Ashkenazic/Israeli cuisine.
The menu is a symphony of familiar flavors, showcasing dishes like challah, pastrami, gravlax, and chopped chicken liver, each prepared with meticulous care and attention to detail. Seafood knaidlach, goulash with gnocchi, strudel, and babka are just a few of the other culinary delights on offer.
The atmosphere is lively and inviting, attracting a younger crowd. The upbeat vibe is a testament to the restaurant’s success in capturing the energy and excitement of the modern Marais.
Beyond the Hotel: A Vibrant Marais Experience
Le Grand Mazarin is not just a hotel; it’s an invitation to explore the soul of the Marais. With its ground-floor bar, featuring playful kitsch-chic décor, and basement pool, adorned with a fresco reminiscent of Cocteau’s work, the hotel provides unforgettable experiences. The basement club/bar, designed for a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, will soon open its doors, offering another captivating venue.
The hotel is part of the Maisons Pariente collection, a growing family of distinctive five-star hotels, each meticulously crafted to reflect the unique spirit of its location. Le Grand Mazarin joins the ranks of other notable properties like Crillon Le Brave in Provence, Le Coucou in Méribel, and Lou Pinet in Saint Tropez.
Le Grand Mazarin is not just a hotel; it’s a testament to the enduring charm of the Marais. It’s a perfect blend of history and modernity, offering a luxurious escape in the heart of one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods.
