Imagine a haven of Parisian elegance nestled in the heart of the city’s most fashionable district. The Hôtel San Régis is more than just a hotel; it’s a testament to a family’s unwavering passion for creating an experience that embodies the essence of classic Parisian charm. Owned and managed by sisters Zeina and Sarah Georges, the hotel is a former mansion that whispers tales of Parisian history and exudes warmth and intimacy.
From Private Mansion to Parisian Retreat
Just a short stroll from the luxury boutiques of Avenue Montaigne, the Hôtel San Régis stands as a testament to enduring elegance. Originally built in 1857 for renowned decorator Edmond Petit, the mansion transformed into a hotel in 1923 under the ownership of Simon André Terrail, owner of the historic Parisian restaurant La Tour d’Argent. In the 1950s, the hotel became a favored destination for Hollywood stars and socialites, drawing the likes of Lauren Bacall, Gene Kelly, and Jacqueline Bisset to its elegant embrace.
But it was in the 1980s that the Hôtel San Régis truly found its soul. Lebanese hotelier Elie Georges fell in love with the neoclassical facade and the antique-filled interiors, recognizing the property’s immense potential. His vision was to revive the mansion, breathing life into its grandeur while preserving its Parisian spirit.
A Father’s Dream: Rediscovering the Essence of Parisian Charm
“Our father fell head over heels for the San Régis,” explains Zeina Georges, the hotel’s current deputy managing director. “It was the hotel of his dreams, captivating him with its architecture, its character, and its quintessentially Parisian style.” Driven by a desire to revitalize the house while honoring its classical Parisian aesthetics, Georges embarked on a complete renovation in 1985, enlisting the talents of renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.
“He was given the task of giving each room a unique character, emphasizing the feel of a private home,” Zeina shares. “The result is a remarkable blend of artistry, reflecting our father’s passion for art and the designer’s exceptional vision.”
A Family Legacy of Hospitality
The Hôtel San Régis is more than just a hotel; it’s a family affair. Zeina and her sister Sarah, who took over management in 2017, continue to uphold their father’s vision, guided by his motto: “Live with passion and talent today and every day.” The sisters, who grew up in Paris, bring their own unique experiences to the hotel. Zeina honed her marketing skills at Dior and Van Cleef & Arpels, while Sarah delved into the world of consumer products at L’Oréal.
“We feel incredibly fortunate to have this little gem in our hands,” the sisters share. “It’s a joy to offer our guests the warmth and hospitality that we’ve been taught since childhood. Our mother instilled in us the art of generosity à la libanaise, while our father taught us the importance of attention to detail.”
Every Detail a Work of Art
The Hôtel San Régis is a testament to the enduring value of meticulous detail. The hotel’s transformation wasn’t just a renovation; it was a labor of love. From the furniture to the artwork, every element is carefully curated to create a truly unique experience.
“Our father meticulously hunted down most of the furnishings and paintings in the Marché aux Puces in Saint-Ouen,” Sarah, the hotel’s general manager, reveals. “It’s one of Europe’s largest flea markets, and his dedication to sourcing treasures there contributes to the San Régis’ unique ambiance.”
A Symphony of Elegance and Comfort
Each of the hotel’s 30 rooms and 12 suites is a haven of comfort and elegance. Fine fabrics by Pierre Frey, Manuel Canovas, and Lelièvre adorn the rooms, complementing period furniture, including chests of drawers, writing desks, and wing chairs. The rooms are adorned with paintings, Baccarat crystal, sculptures, bronze pieces, and Italian marble, showcasing the hotel’s commitment to art and luxury.
“We strive to preserve the authentic feel of a Parisian home while incorporating a touch of modernity,” Zeina explains. “The result is a harmonious blend of light tones, white paneling, and bright hues, creating a truly captivating ambiance.”
Les Confidences: A Haven of Parisian Charm
The hotel’s Les Confidences restaurant and tea room embodies the spirit of the San Régis: a place where classic Parisian charm meets modern elegance. The restaurant, with its green walls, mirrors, china pieces, and fine furniture, is a celebration of Parisian chic.
“The green walls, mirrors, china pieces, and fine furniture mixed with art deco touches and silky fabrics create a beautiful decor that balances between classic and contemporary,” Zeina says.
The restaurant is a haven of intimacy, offering three distinct lounges: Boudoir, with its gilded chandelier; Boiseries, with its oak paneling; and Verrière, bathed in natural light from its glass roof.
A Legacy of Passion and Excellence
“We are driven by a passion to preserve the essence of this classical Parisian spirit, to maintain the special atmosphere of a private home, and to emphasize the feeling of an art-loving hotel,” the sisters share. “Luxury, for us, means exclusivity and discreet service.”
The Hôtel San Régis is a testament to a family’s dedication to creating a truly exceptional experience. In a world of ostentatious luxury, the San Régis offers something far more precious: intimacy, warmth, and a genuine love for the art of hospitality. It’s a place where guests are treated like family, embraced by the spirit of Parisian elegance and the legacy of a family who understands the true meaning of luxury.
