The legendary Hôtel Costes in Paris is about to get even more magical, with the addition of 38 spectacular new rooms and suites in a brand-new wing on the rue Castiglione. This iconic hotel, known for attracting celebrities from all over the world, is a testament to its owner, Jean-Louis Costes, a man who has never before granted an interview to the international media. In a rare and exclusive chat with LUX Editor-in-Chief Darius Sanai, Jean-Louis reveals his unique approach to design, the secrets behind the hotel’s success, and his enigmatic charm.
The Power of Choosing People
Jean-Louis Costes, the visionary behind the hotel’s success, has a simple yet profound approach to design: “I don’t know what you mean by a design philosophy,” he says. “I choose people.” This simple statement reveals his intuitive ability to spot talent, often before it even becomes known. His journey with design began with Philippe Starck who, at the time, was an unknown designer but went on to create the renowned Café Costes in 1984, a landmark that propelled both Jean-Louis and his brother Gilbert to fame. Later, he collaborated with Jacques Garcia, another undiscovered gem, to create the original Hôtel Costes in 1995. And as Jean-Louis himself says, “As I am getting older, I have taken on Christian Liaigre, because we are both young fathers and our sons were at the same school.” Their shared experiences fostered a deep bond that eventually led to Liaigre’s design for the new wing of the hotel. Jean-Louis’s dedication to collaboration and his trust in people, coupled with his keen eye for talent, have been the driving forces behind the Hotel’s unique style.
The Unintentional Legend
What is the “legend of the Costes” that everyone talks about? Jean-Louis simply shrugs it off, “There is no legend. I don’t know. I didn’t do anything deliberately, but it happened.” He attributes the hotel’s charm to a combination of seemingly insignificant details that have taken on a life of their own.
Take the iconic music that fills the air at Costes. A chance encounter with an old waiter, fresh out of rehab, led to the creation of a signature compilation CD, which eventually sold over 5 million copies, This was a far cry from the sterile silence that was commonplace in hotels 25 years ago. But Jean-Louis simply saw an opportunity to create an atmosphere that felt more like a home than a hotel.
The signature scent of the Costes is another serendipitous story. Jean-Louis recalls a chance encounter with a woman who, upon her first visit, remarked on the hotel’s “bad smell”. It turned out the woman was Olivia Giacobetti, France’s leading perfumer. The encounter led to the creation of the now-famous Costes candle, a scent that has become synonymous with the hotel and is sold worldwide.
These “accidental” elements, born from intuition and spontaneity, have transformed the Costes into a legendary destination, an experience that transcends the ordinary.
Beyond the Walls: An Urban Resort
For Jean-Louis, the hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience. “I don’t like people who stay in their rooms,” he declares. “The guests have to meet and see real Parisians. People eating in the restaurant need to feel like they are in their own town.” He aims to create an urban resort where guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of Paris, experiencing the city from the inside out. This philosophy, coupled with his dedication to exceptional service, sets the Costes apart from ordinary business hotels.
The Costes Difference: A Touch of Enigmatic Charm
What makes the Costes different? “I am one of the hoteliers who, over the past 25 years, has created this ‘entertainment’ style,” Jean-Louis states confidently. He believes in treating guests better than anyone else, creating a space that is not only beautiful but also exceptional.
The Costes Castiglione, the new wing of the hotel, reflects this commitment to excellence. “I treat this hotel as if it’s my home,” Jean-Louis shares. “I always created it as if I were decorating my own home.” This personal touch, combined with the hotel’s commitment to discretion and its enigmatic charm, has created a space that is both luxurious and intimate.
Jean-Louis’s refusal to be a part of a larger hotel group further reinforces his unique vision. His independence allows him to embrace joy, dynamism, and the freedom to create a space that feels truly personal.
In a world where every hotel strives for media attention, Jean-Louis Costes remains an enigmatic figure, a true embodiment of the Costes spirit: understated, luxurious, and authentic. The Hôtel Costes is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience, an escape, and a testament to the power of choosing people and creating spaces that resonate with the soul.
