In the realm of fashion, certain moments and places become etched in history. One such moment occurred in 1947, when the then-editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar, Carmel Snow, declared Christian Dior’s newest collection a “new look.” This phrase, synonymous with the revolution in fashion, was uttered in a very special place: the Hôtel San Régis, located just a short walk from La Galerie Dior in Paris’s prestigious Golden Triangle. This iconic hotel, steeped in history and elegance, has played a pivotal role in the world of fashion.
Snow was a frequent guest at the San Régis, considering it her Parisian home. Her love for the hotel, coupled with her status as a fashion icon, propelled the San Régis into the limelight. Snow’s influence, coupled with the hotel’s charm, made it a favorite haunt of fashion enthusiasts and a popular spot for industry meetings. The hotel was her sanctuary, where she conducted business and enjoyed the luxurious atmosphere. Her connection to the San Régis highlights its significance in the world of fashion.
From Private Residence to Parisian Jewel
The San Régis has a rich history, starting as a sumptuous private residence. Simon André Terrail, the original owner, transformed this grand home into a luxurious hotel in 1923. The hotel’s centennial anniversary in 2023 celebrated its enduring legacy. Terrail, also the owner of the George V hotel, brought some of its opulent furnishings to the San Régis, adding to its grandeur. The hotel stands as a testament to the past, blending the elegance of a private residence with the hospitality of a luxury hotel.
A Modern Touch in a Timeless Setting
The current owners, Zenia Georges-L’Hénoret and her sister Sarah, are committed to preserving the San Régis’s historical charm while infusing it with a contemporary sensibility. They strike a delicate balance between tradition and modernity, ensuring that the hotel remains relevant in today’s world. While respecting the hotel’s heritage, they are constantly enhancing it, ensuring a comfortable and modern experience for guests.
The Georges sisters have embarked on a journey to preserve the San Régis’s beauty and grandeur. Each year, they renovate rooms and bathrooms, upholding the hotel’s standards of excellence. Their recent renovations included a modern revamp of the lobby and reception desk, which added a touch of contemporary flair without compromising the original character of the hotel. The restaurant, Les Confidences, has undergone a transformation, adopting a garden-like ambiance while retaining its historical wooden panels.
A Haven of Uniqueness and Comfort
Every guest room and suite at the San Régis offers a unique experience. Each features distinctive wallpaper and a distinct color palette, creating a sense of personalized elegance. Despite the variations, the rooms share a common thread of comfort and tranquility. They are bathed in natural light, making them feel spacious and inviting. The marble bathrooms feature Diptyque amenities, emphasizing sustainability and luxury. Four junior suites offer breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, while the hotel’s thoughtful amenities cater to long-term guests, providing a true home away from home.
The San Régis has cultivated a sense of community, attracting loyal guests who return year after year. Families create lasting memories at the hotel, finding a sense of familiarity and warmth. The hotel’s long-term residents enjoy a feeling of belonging, fostered by the familiar faces of the staff and the intimate atmosphere. The concierge, with over 50 years of service, and other employees, with decades of experience, create a sense of continuity and comfort for guests.
A Place for Celebrities and Ordinary People
The San Régis has hosted its fair share of celebrities and VIPs, including renowned figures such as Lauren Bacall, Gene Kelly, Jacqueline Bisset, Richard Avedon, and Candice Bergen. Despite the discretion the hotel maintains about its current guests, it remains a favorite destination for those in the fashion and film industries. However, the San Régis welcomes all guests with warmth and sincerity, providing an unforgettable experience regardless of their background.
The Georges sisters prioritize creating a welcoming and intimate atmosphere for all guests. They are committed to exceeding expectations, treating every guest with the same level of care and attention, The family-run hotel fosters a sense of belonging, offering a personal touch that is uncommon in a bustling city like Paris. This heartfelt dedication to guest satisfaction is evident in the hotel’s exceptional service and attention to detail.
A Legacy of Charm and Attention to Detail
The San Régis might not have all the amenities of a large palace hotel, but it makes up for it with its unique charm and unwavering commitment to exceptional service. The hotel’s 100th anniversary saw the creation of its own toile de Jouy, a beautiful patterned fabric that showcases the hotel’s elegance and historical significance. This distinctive toile de Jouy graces the hotel’s menus, key cards, and more, adding a touch of French artistry to every detail.
Les Confidences, the hotel’s restaurant, located in a glass-covered courtyard, reflects the San Régis’s dedication to refined service. The restaurant’s breakfast service is a testament to this commitment, offering a delightful start to the day. Recently introduced “goûter,” or “snack time,” led by Jessica Prealpato, the 2019 World’s Best Pastry Chef, elevates afternoon indulgence to an art form. The beautifully presented snacks showcase Prealpato’s talent and the hotel’s commitment to using the finest seasonal ingredients.
A Parisian Experience, Captured on Screen
The San Régis has even made its way onto the silver screen, appearing in the Apple TV+ series The New Look, which chronicles Dior’s rise to fame. The hotel’s onscreen presence, while capturing the spirit of the era, unfortunately, did not include its exterior. Despite this, the Georges family embraced the opportunity to be part of this historical drama. The connection between the San Régis and Dior runs deep, particularly for Zenia Georges-L’Hénoret, who began her career in the jewelry and watch department of the renowned fashion house.
The San Régis offers a unique Parisian experience that transcends fashion and trends. The hotel’s staff is dedicated to showcasing the best of Paris, catering to guests’ desires and preferences. They strive to ensure that every corner of the hotel reflects the spirit of the city, creating a truly memorable Parisian experience for each guest. The San Régis, with its rich history, impeccable service, and commitment to excellence, continues to be a destination of choice for those seeking a taste of Parisian elegance.
