Review: Maison Barrière Vendôme, Paris

3 weeks ago

This newly opened hotel pays homage to remarkable women in history and is situated in Paris’s most lustrous quarters

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Maison Barrière Vendôme, a new Parisian hotel, pays tribute to remarkable women of history within its luxurious walls. Avalon Afriyie explores this unique townhouse-style stay, nestled in one of the city’s most prestigious locations.

Check Into… The Maison Barrière Vendôme, Paris

Stay

Place Vendôme (one of Paris’s famed neoclassical squares), welcomes the new Maison Barrière Vendôme – a well-appointed and charming hotel with the spirit of a townhouse. The location is just one of the many perquisites. An antithesis to Place Vendôme, which garners a flurry of visitors, Maison Barrière Vendôme replicates the comfort of home. Once settled, you’ll hear but a pin drop, but peer through the velour drapes for an uninterrupted view of grandeur.

The entrancing reception is decorated with aquatic-hued dividers, an expanse of terrazzo flooring and textured wallpaper, leading to twenty-six rooms (including suites and self-catering apartments), with the design conceived by Daniel Jibert – each dedicated to illustrious female figures – from Nina Simone to Joséphine Baker, thus, inspired by their exuberant lives.

My experience of the Simone Signoret suite was immaculate. The door flung open to gold-swathed handles, tapestry-clad walls, crystalline textured marble and a portrait of the woman in question. Further in were separate living and dining quarters – comprising a two-seater chaise longue, work space and vast windows, beckoning an expanse of light. Intricate tapestry and artwork can be located at every corner, denoting sheer opulence. From John Dickinson-style organic tree branch table lamps to Clémentine De Chabaneix’s teasing sculptures, you’re enveloped by beauty. Themes of opulence continue with Officine Universelle Buly toiletries at your disposal and a plush foot cushion at turn-down.

I was particularly impressed by the bathrooms, wrapped in marble, gold valves, and a sizeable walk-in shower (minimise water waste by sharing, maybe), in addition to plentiful amenities and complimentary entertainment dotted around the room – including inspired literature, a hand-held Steamone and a fully stocked wine cooler.

Eat

A homage to Frida Kahlo, the FRIDA restaurant resides in a snug, dimly lit segment on the hotel’s first floor, and draws inspiration from her work (and wider Mexican Folk Art) through spirited motifs and clashing colourways.

Under the helm of Chef Claudia River, the offerings combine upmarket Parisian gastronomy, with a nod to Latin America. Upon much deliberation (the menu in its entirety was beguiling), I settled on Ceviche De Daurade to start. I was presented with an artistic offering of coconut mousse atop fresh seabream and delicately placed pickles. This was followed by Dos de Saumon Vapeur (fresh and tangy) and concluded with Christophe Adam’s signature Tasse De Tiramisu – perfectly proportioned café to mascarpone, served in an edible cup, no less. To elevate your experience further, don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable waiters for recommended wine pairings.

Come breakfast, attention to detail follows suit. Expect the components of a French-style breakfast with customisable options including finely diced tropical fruits, avocado on crisp toast, eggs made-to-order and crepes.

Do

With central Paris on your doorstep, you’d be remiss not to tread the city and devour its ample delights. The first arrondissement (synonymous with opulence) is ideal for a day of exploration. Firstly, pass through the Paris Vendôme square, typically occupied by provoking art installations (the latest being a hallucinogenic mushroom with an oversized red chapeau, courtesy of Carsten Höller). Nearby is the Jardin du Palais Royal carpeted with perfectly preened lawn and blossom year-round but particularly appealing for a spring day, particularly with a book in tow. The spectacular Musée du Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, and Grand Palais are all within walking distance too.

Should you feel thirsty along the way, perch in Café Nuances – a laid-back venue for specialist drinks and artisanal coffee.