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The Park Hyatt Paris Vendome is not just any hotel. It's a fantastic, artfully decorated, courteously staffed hotel, with a newly renovated, gorgeous site that has been brilliantly constructed out of five different buildings. The neighborhood is first-class, a brisk walk from some of the most chi-chi shops in all of Paris, and so is the staff.
But first, a little history. Place Vendome, created in the 17th century by Louis XIV, was the political and artistic focal center of the city. During the French Revolution, Louis lost public favor (to say the least) but Napoleon re-established the importance of the area. And how did this diminutive leader do that? By erecting a column glorifying the French army’s victory at Austerlize. Today a copy of the original Napoleon statue (dressed as a Roman emperor) stands at the top of the landmark column.
Situated smack in the heart of the City of Light, the Park Hyatt contains artwork, sculpture and décor worthy of any of the famous museums found nearby. Now, frankly, when I ordinarily think of the “Hyatt,” brand I don’t think “Luxury Hotel.” However, you would be wise to park your preconceptions at the door. Because this particular hotel is on par with any luxury hotel in which I have ever been privileged to visit.
First of all, the location is prime. It’s a short jaunt to Place de la Concorde, the Champs Elysees, Place de la Tuillieries and the shops of Faubourg St. Honore. But what sets this amazing facility apart from any other hotel I’ve visited is its astounding reverence for art.
Combining original contemporary masters including Ed Paschhe, Sam Gilliam and Roseline Granet (who has been rightly dubbed “the Rodin of our century”) the Park Hyatt reflects architecture Ed Tuttle’s vision to bring the natural world indoors. From intense, shocking colors to rich mahogany and sculptural details to swoon over, this is not your typical nose-in-the-air hotel.
The art works on premises reflect an intelligence and respect for the dynamic of art and reality cushioned by aesthetic appeal. Acquired by Ed Tuttle and art gallery owner Darthea Speyer (who has “discovered” many artists during her career) the collection includes glorious paintings and delightful sculpted doorknobs and cabinet handles in the public and private areas.
Wandering around the vestibule, restaurant and lobby area I was constantly surprised and delighted by all the treasures within. The muted earth-tones complement one another everywhere; from hallways to guest rooms. And in each room you’ll find a continuation of understated simplicity--warm tones play with bronzes, deep brown and creamy beige. Bathrooms (my favorite place in hotels) feature sliding mahogany floor-to-ceiling “disappearing doors.”
Classical French limestone complements the matte bronze fixtures that have been specially designed. And heated floors, deep-soaking tubs and stone-enclosed rain showers with sinks for in-shower shaving (!) offer a private water wonderland experience. And the amenities! Shampoo, conditioner, gel and soaps are all marked by my personal favorite parfameur, Blaise Mautin (who is now a good friend so I’m a little biased, I confess). In fact Blaise is creating a signature perfume for the Hyatt which, hopefully, will be made available for purchase in a boutique. I know lots of people who would love a gift of such scents! (Are you reading this, Phillippe Roux-Dessarps, Director of Rooms?)
It was very hard to tear myself away from my room, but boy, was I glad I did.