The Royal Monceau first opened on the 1st of August 1928 and rapidly became a favourite haunt for rich artists and intellectuals.
It was designed by architect Louis Duhayon, whose work includes the Lido arcades. With its esthetic qualities and beautiful proportions, this Roaring Twenties palace quickly came to incarnate Parisian elegance.
After the Starck tornado between 2007 and 2010, this is the only physical aspect that remains of that distant past. In fact, rather than renovating the palace, the designer led a small revolution.
As soon as you step in, the reception area gives you an idea of what is to come: spaciousness, a monumental stairway leading up to the rooms, abundant use of marble, columns, a large crystal chandelier... at least the basic features of a palace are there!
The space remains the same, but its use has been completely rethought out. Starck saw the 'Grand Salon', which extends from the reception area, as a sort of gallery of mirrors and chandeliers, dotted with small private sitting rooms and mini glassed-in displays. There are large armchairs and numerous stools with mixed colours, shapes, and textures. In fact, there are all sorts of seats, and your
(wealthy) posterior sure to find a nice fit.
The common areas were designed by Starck as places where a strong statement can be made. They boast varied styles, textures, and colours, and are designed to give guests a bit of a stir, as seen in the cigar lounge, the 'Fumée Rouge', which is entirely upholstered in red.
The Royal Monceau is completely dedicated to arts and was the first palace to incorporate the seventh art on its premises, as it houses its own private cinema with a hundred white leather seats. Another area dedicated to relaxation is the Spa My Blend by Clarins, with 1500 m² dedicated to relaxation and escape, and a 26m long swimming pool, which you can get a glimpse of from the garden, a fantastic world of plants designed by Louis Benech.