Design hotel fanatics certainly wouldn’t wish to forgo a stay at Le Cinq Codet while adventuring in Paris. Its eye-catching aesthetics are the product of architect-trained interior designer Jean-Phillipe Nuel, who transformed the former 1930s telephone exchange into the stylish five-star hotel it is today.
Located in the 7th arrondissement just a stone’s throw from Les Invalides, Nuel’s vision for the historic building was to achieve “refined simplicity” to complement the traditional elegance of its neighbours’ exteriors. Arriving at the hotel by car from the bustling scene just across the Seine (I’d spent the morning walking through the Tuileries Garden and taking in treasures at the Louvre), the quiet road where the hotel stands- Rue Louis Codet- harbours calm and clarity for the restless soul.
Stepping into the lobby of Le Cinq Codet offers an immediate taste of what fun lies in store in terms of its quirky modern interior. The hotel boasts 29 room types among a total of 67 where guests are treated to a welcoming space decorated with a likeness to an artist’s studio. In fact, the entirety of the hotel is littered with works by established and up-and-coming contemporary artists; Cyril Destrade-Léveille, Caroline Touzet, and Julio Rondo to name but a few.
Having already spent a busy few days in Paris, I checked in for a night in a duplex room for an eagerly awaited dose of R&R. Close to some of the city’s most prized attractions (the Eiffel Tower is but a short walk away), Le Cinq Codet is tucked away just enough so those in need of a sanctuary to reboot the mind and body are able to switch off with ease.
The hotel’s atmospheric lounge bar allows travellers a safe haven in which to enjoy a few cocktails; given its conception as a natural extension of the greenery-filled patio, guests will appreciate the juxtaposition of an art deco inspired interior with the soft, romantic lighting seeping in from outside- especially during the late evening. However, it was Le Cinq Codet’s steam room and outdoor jacuzzi I looked forward to spending time at the most.
By the time I stepped out of the fluffy bathrobe I grabbed from my room and sat comfortably ensconced in the jacuzzi’s bubbling heat, the breeze of the crisp night air ceased to feel chilly but rather refreshing in contrast. Savouring the chance to unwind, I could definitely see Le Cinq Codet as being a Paris five-star whose relaxation amenities will please lone travellers and those in company alike. The deck’s soft lighting and bamboo surroundings create an ambiance that makes animated chit-chat in this jacuzzi completely non-compulsory, which I’m sure there are some who’ll really appreciate after a jam-packed itinerary.
Returning to my room after a quick detour to the steam room, I was delighted to find slippers laid out by the bed along with chocolates from Angelina on the bedside table (for those who don’t know, Angelina Tearoom makes some of the best hot chocolate and confectionery in Paris). The hotel offers guests free high-speed wi-fi in addition to a comprehensive entertainment system through which recently released blockbusters are available to watch in multiple languages; I took made good use of both of these before falling into a deep sleep courtesy of the room’s blackout curtains.
In the morning, I ordered breakfast via room service before stepping under the rain shower where I indulged in bath products from Fragonard’s VRAI range, a skin-soothing product line combining natural formulas with high-quality ingredients.
Le Cinq Codet certainly lives up to its name as a five-star hotel but does so in a way others in Paris have yet to master as artfully; this is a tastefully eccentric design hotel packing a refined feel and service with an emphasis on serenity and wellbeing.
Rooms at Le Cinq Codet are available from €300 a night and can be booked via the hotel website or by calling +33 (1) 53 85 15 60.
Address: 5 Rue Louis Codet, 75007 Paris, France
