Travel writer Sophie Demetriades takes a look at the much anticipated opening of the Nolinski hotel in the French capital of Paris.
Moments away from the Comédie Française and the Palais Royal gardens, enclosed between layers of history and Haussmann elegance, lies a temple to art and life à la française: the Nolinski. Owned by the Evok group, this breathtaking, characterful haven bears the hallmark eclectic refinement of decorator Jean Louis Deniot.
A minimalist reception made from Carrara marble. Excellence in respecting our guests. Excellence in hospitality. In the quiet discretion of its private apartments, this private home safeguards the secrets of the art of living, in a space where contemporary aesthetics and classical prestige meet enchantment and flair. Designed for locals and travellers alike.
From bright, luminous rooms and a mineral spa to the Réjane brasserie and the hushed tones of the Grand Salon, each space is an invitation to let the senses roam and emotions rise. An intimate setting scented with spices and musk, a musical atmosphere and the warm softness of velvet or tweed. Hues of blue and emerald green, precious materials and custom-made furniture and furnishings intertwine to orchestrate a lyrical and harmonious ensemble. Conviviality served with passion, the passion of Epicurean experiences and unimaginable dreams, where the art of attention to detail intuitively paves the way for mystery. Visitors wander through a world in which luxurious comforts, works of art and Parisian authenticity coexist.
Welcome to the inner circle, a gallery of precious moments.
RÉJANE BRASSERIE
Traditional wood panelling has been given a new lease of life with blackened oak, abstract paintings and cubist-inspired tiling. Locals and travellers rub shoulders at the same table, tucking into Parisian specialities of stewed dishes or a classic breakfast of a croissant and coffee. The Réjane provides a traditional French brasserie experience with a modern twist for post-theatre dinners, business meetings or quick stop-offs between museums.
A tale of architecture in four acts: three spaces laid out around the central room for a different experience every time. An intimate atmosphere in the geometric lighting of a private nook. A convivial atmosphere at the bar counter, embellished with brass and painted mirrors. A bucolic atmosphere in the winter garden greenhouse, planted with bronze flowers.
To each client their preference, à la carte hedonism at its best. The ultimate Parisian experience!
GRAND SALON
Literary discussion, private tables, opera concerts, jazz…
The Grand Salon invites House guests and regulars to relax in the room’s swivel armchairs around its bronze fireplace and under a silver leaf ceiling.
Secluded comfort behind heavy tweed curtains that keep the world at bay, a warm explosion of paintings unfurling over the sprawling carpet and wall coverings by Florence Girette. Tucked away in this secret little exclusive boudoir, music lovers freestyle on the piano. Soothing teas, private lunches and late-night cocktails quietly coexist.
Time is no more – there is but the hushed moment that lingers in this theatre of the senses.
SPA
The soft whisper of the water, granite flooring, warm wood panelling, flickering candles: at the spa, the four elements collide in a natural source of cosy well-being. Guests are invited to sit back and relax in the Louis XIV armchairs and sofas that line the pool. A gentle urge to return to the simple life. Breathe. Soak up the silence.
On the ceiling, a mirror reflects an endless swimming stroke gliding across an abstract landscape. On the dark rock that slinks from the walls to the pool, shimmying waves of light cast by the torches play hide-and-seek. After a session with a personal trainer on-site or in the neighbouring Louvre gardens, a sense of deep serenity takes over. The sauna and hammam give way to the clear night sky, where three massage huts await to treat skin to the sheer excellence and revitalising powers of the La Colline beauty treatments.
A private aside, a promise of harmony.
ROOMS
A six-floor odyssey through the clouds created by the sweeping staircase or the painted mirrors of the lift whisks you up from the hustle and bustle of the ground floor to the hushed heights of the rooms and suites. Bright, spacious and intimate hideaways that extend out from the warm depths of the corridors.
Green, raspberry, beige, blue and yellow, each private apartment reveals its own colour scheme to enhance the harmony of greys and waxed concrete. All share the same comforts of beautiful materials, dimmed wall lamps, mouldings and neoclassical wood panelling, interwoven with a thread of refinement. A lacquered wardrobe watches over an elegant desk, bearing sculptural and ceramic souvenirs from its travels in faraway lands, while heavy curtains and plush carpets provide the ultimate indulgent finishing touch to these little Haussmann lofts.
In an exclusive gift to residents, the windows and balconies open out onto the heart of Paris itself.
Address: 16, avenue de l’Opéra, 75001 Paris, France
