Elite Traveler September-October 2018

Penthouse Floor MANDARIN ORIENTAL, PARIS 1ST ARRONDISSEMENT

Only in Paris could a hotel in a 1930s building be considered contemporary. Set on Rue Saint-Honoré near Place Vendôme, modern styling meets Art Deco in the Mandarin Oriental. It opened just seven years ago, and was perhaps one of the catalysts for the recent flood of multi-hundred-million-dollar renovations of the city’s grande dame hotels. Here, there are no antiques honoring French kings or ornate moldings to be found. Instead, architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte and designer Sybille de Margerie deftly transformed the former office building by highlighting 1930s French style. This contemporary yet thoroughly French approach shines in the penthouse. Combining the Royale Mandarin Suite and two Panoramic Suites allows you to take over the entire floor, creating a three- bedroom oasis. The main lounge has double-height ceilings so light can flood through the bright, white space, achieving a near-blinding effect that would be impossible in an 18th-century building. Two modern crystal chandeliers hang from the high ceilings, and hints of plum and gold accent the chic space. An intriguing staircase composed of guilloché metal circles, practically a work of art itself, leads to the upper-level bedroom. There’s also a separate dining room, kitchen and gym. Outside, narrow balconies running the length of the building take you to two large terraces with incredible views and inviting couches, as well as a modern pergola to shade you on sunny days. L’Art de Vivre Head on a gourmet scavenger hunt curated by Thierry Marx, executive chef at the hotel’s two- Michelin-starred restaurant, Sur Mesure par Thierry Marx. Each of the 12 destinations is personally selected by Marx and represents the best in their craft. From incredible chocolate creations to the best charcuterie in the city, you’re bound to find a new favorite shop to visit every time you head to Paris. Size 4,381 sq ft Nightly rate from $23,200 Contact Philippe Leboeuf, general manager, mopar-reservations@mohg.com, +33 170 987 888, mandarinoriental.com