After designing the Lobby, the Relais Plaza, the Gallery and the reception rooms in 2014, Bruno Moinard and Claire Bétaille’s architectural firm will give a signature re-design to the decoration of 22 rooms and suites at the Hotel Plaza Athénée.

 

A beautiful story 

 

Between the Plaza Athénée Hotel and Bruno Moinard’s and Claire Bétaille’s architecture and interior design agency, there is a story like no other. 

 

When, back in 2011, a design competition was launched to revamp the hotel’s public areas including the lobby, the Le Relais Plaza restaurant (already an Art Deco masterpiece in its own right) and the iconic inner courtyard, the agency put itself forward and easily saw off the competition. 

 

They gave the Plaza regained a new sense of energy and dynamism, whilst all those who frequent this palace-rated luxury hotel (guests, admiring visitors, staff), have even more reason to come ‘home’ to this incredible place, whether for an hour, a day, or a lifetime. 

 

In 2018, a new competition was organized to renovate the Art Deco-inspired floor. Bruno Moinard’s and Claire Bétaille’s proposal was selected. The approach to the public areas that had already undergone a make-over and the 25 Art Deco style rooms and suites perched on the 7th floor couldn’t have stood out more  These rooms had always been appreciated for their intimate feel and ‘homely’ vibe, making any stay here unforgettable. The slightly less spacious rooms almost under the eaves boast a very special atmosphere. 

 

Once again, the idea was to completely reshape the client experience in these rooms whilst still preserving their original essence and ambiance. The agency wanted to take the current classic ‘Art Deco’ design - perhaps a bit staid and little too much by the numbers - and instead bring a certain dynamism to bear, making a clean break with the contrasting black/white color scheme. In a nutshell, return to Art Deco’s rebellious, activist roots. 

 

Overview of the the design details 

 

From furnishings to the layout and accessories, the real challenge was to blend what was already there with new elements and by doing so create an experience that exceeds every expectation. 

 

Starting at floor level, the carpets specially designed for the rooms are laid in a random pattern - there’s no need for an exact ‘match’ with the floor plan. This creates a contrasting, free-spirited patchwork. 

 

The headboards, which are all original, are upholstered in inviting soft-feel linen, whilst the bedding proudly sports an energetic design characterized by striking red lines. 

 

The sofas, whether original or created specifically for the occasion, are unashamedly angular yet also wonderfully comfortable thanks to their soft cushions, making them absolutely irresistible if you feel like taking the weight off your feet. Light oak end tables with glass tops also make an appearance. 

 

The writing desk, featuring a thick glass top and a steel base, is the very epitome of a new take on Art Deco style that’s both impactful and graceful. 

 

The linen blinds that filter the light entering the smaller windows on the 7th floor are the fruits of the labour of one of the last professional fabric pleaters in France and a tour de force.

Plaza Athénée and Moinard and Bétaille are set to continue their adventure together. 

 

Once again, the design duo has won another competition which will shortly see them embark on the renovation of the rest of the hotel’s bedrooms and “classic” suites.