One of the two Sofitel chain hotels that contradict the typical blandness associated with hotels owned by large hotel groups. The hotel is themed on Paris’ world of Haute Couture: original fashion illustrations as well as photo-shoots adorn the walls.
Telephone: +33 (0)1 44 94 14 14
Price: from EUR 580
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Le Faubourg is tucked away between the Place de la Concorde and rue Faubourg-Saint-Honoré, one of Paris’ most exclusive shopping addresses.
The hotel takes the fashion industry as its theme, with original fashion illustrations by Jeanne Lanvin, one of the great couturiers of the early 20th century, along with classic black-and-white fashion photography, decorating its walls. Japanese fashionistas dressed in black with funky haircuts and chunky designer glasses mill about the lobby, alongside a clientele of elegant Parisiennes of a certain age drinking coffee and discussing the latest edition of Vogue.
Architect Richard Martinet and designer Pierre Yves Rochon have worked closely together to maintain the classic charm of the original building while adding functional features and more modern touches (updating classic furniture with contemporary fabrics, for example). The hallways are decorated with original drawings by Jules Chéret of Moulin Rouge/Belle Époque fame.
The hotel’s communal spaces – including the restaurant and bar – are worth visiting even if you’re not staying there (see Eat and Drink). A favourite spot in the hotel, overlooking the main lobby, is a small library lined with lacquered ebony bookshelves and – for once – containing books you might actually want to read. It’s a wonderful oasis of calm (if a celebrity interview isn’t in progress) where you can enjoy a cocktail, and with its central fireplace it’s super-cosy in the wintertime. Don’t be put off by the fact that it’s big – 173 rooms – as it is elegant, lovely and comfortable.
