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The wit of a 17th century literary A-lister sparks a mid-tier hotel’s style-setting makeover.
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By Mary Scoviak
Tired and predictable, the Hôtel de Sévigné wasn't exactly channeling the wry brilliance of its celebrity literary namesake, the Marquise de Sévigné. Undoubtedly, its chintz-and-prints style would have provoked some barbed commentary in the archly observant letters in which she chronicled celebrity life and political machinations during the reign of Louis XIV. Nor was this 30-room property maximizing a great location on the Champs-Elysées.
The owners turned to Paris-based interior architects Didier and Fabrice Knoll to develop a new look that married a contemporary feel with the marquise's timeless appeal. “Basically we had a free hand in interpreting Madame de Sévigné's wit and spirit, and the owners were willing to make an investment into creating a new atmosphere. They invested more than a hotel chain would usually spend,” says Fabrice Knoll.
Infrastructure improvements accounted for nearly 40 percent of the interior architectural budget. “It was a big line item, but it was necessary since we needed to improve the HVAC, the fire safety systems, the plumbing and electricity,” says Knoll. Because of these technical issues, the first phase of the renovation focused on the upper floors' guest rooms. “We actually demolished 80 percent of the existing fifth and sixth floors to simplify the layout, facilitate circulation in the corridors and rethink the interior wall that separated the bathroom and sleeping area,” says Knoll. “As with any renovation, we had to analyze the existing technical and aesthetic aspects of the spaces, making sure that we were improving their functionality along with the design.”
Optimizing space became a key theme. Instead of structural walls, the team used a sliding door between the bedroom and bathroom. Now, an interesting surfacing material from 3form frames an interior window to allow light to flow in even when the door is closed.
Furnishings keep to a smaller scale. But dramatic lines make sure they don't lose impact. Modern patterns in the carpet and draperies add interest without clutter. The guest rooms expand visually thanks to a frame of light fabrics on the windows and pale walls.
The designers customized elements to work within the proportions of the rooms. “We chose everything, from the towel rack to the desk chairs, from the linens to the lighting. We designed our own furniture. That actually made it easier because we could select suppliers based on their ability to deliver on time, with good quality at a good price. These were people we work with year round. They know our clients will respect their work and pay them on time, so they wiling to work with us on all kinds of jobs, even small ones,” Knoll adds.
Reflective surfaces and the color lavender clearly reference to Madame de Sévigné's roots in Provence while underscoring a feel that is completely au courant. Soon, the rest of the hotel will match. In addition to finishing the guest rooms, the Knolls are in the midst of a redo of the reception desk/lobby area leading to the elevator that will carry through the feel of the renovated guest floors.
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