Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris

The interiors of Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris are all about style, elegance and sophistication rounded off by a hint of ostentation, just enough to keep you wonderfully mesmerized. Located in the chic 8th arrondissement and minutes from the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, it is one of the handful of exceptional hotels in France to receive the official French ministerial ‘Palace’ distinction.

Laying emphasis on art, culture and the exploration of the nouveau, this historic luxury hotel underwent a two-year long makeover by renowned French designer Philippe Starck. Located in a Haussmann-era building, the new look is a nod to the belle epoque sensibility of the 1920’s which it dates back to, without overdoing conventional Parisian décor. The end result is contemporary interiors blended with traditional glamour, a muted colour palette paired with bold splashes, and an eclectic collection of furniture, furnishings and fittings complemented by a massive one-of a kind art and photograph collection that adorns the walls. 

Starck uses accents like hand-painted porcelain plates, massive black and white photographs, stone-topped centre tables, sleek mirror-lined doors and columns, Murano-glass black pendant lights, tall white vases, winged armchairs with matching ottomans, and tan-coloured leather upholstery that pairs impeccably with the soft pink walls. The dramatic bathrooms boast floor-to-ceiling mirrors, crisp white free-standing bathtubs, leather poufs, industrial-chic mirror-finish metal shelves and a few gold accents thrown in for good measure.     

Incorporating this style into your home requires a deep appreciation for the traditional while firmly holding on to a sense of innovation and creativity. The main takeaway from Starck’s design of Le Royal Monceau is the blurred lines between artistic styles and the shunning of so-called décor do’s and don’ts. Aim for an eclectic mix that is harmonious rather than overpowering and you will have a space that is both glamorous and utterly homely.