GAULT MILLAU
The Five Hotel, Paris
Psychedelic destination
In the heart of Paris’s Latin Quarter, there is a spot reserved for fans of vibrant visual and olfactory experiences. The design concept has courageously gone for the mind-blowing, and visitors will be taken from contrast to contrast, from the reception lobby all the way to the bedroom.
In all, there are nine different design concepts revolving around an explosion of color: white, black, pistachio, turquoise, gold, mauve, red, orange and chestnut, courtesy of architect Vincent Bastie and interior-designer Marie-Paule Clout. As soon as you enter, you will find yourself immersed in a world where colors and matter abut. Surprising explosive harmonies progress one after the other in a parade where geometry, symmetry, volume and detail all take on a different meaning. Each universe has its own personal touch, with a variety of exclusive fabrics and textiles sporting patterns ranging from straight and symmetric lines to flowers, polka dots and waves.
Exclusive lacquer artwork
Black and white abstract patterns in the lobby where a central, dual-hearth red fireplace stands pride of place. The black floor complements the lighting, among white veils and ultra-contemporary couches. At the check in, each guest chooses the design of their room, as well as its olfactory ambiance from among five different fragrances: Delicious, Zest, Relaxing, Natural and Sensual.
The décor’s other strong point has to be the original artworks by Isabelle Emmerique. An innovative artist trained in the arts of lacquer work and Japanese discipline, she has created sculptures-slash-paintings in a dreamlike idiom. Angular and dynamic or soft and rounded, the shapes are graced with the strength of the abstract, echoing the design of their surroundings. Curved and fluid, they bring a nice feminine touch to the place and are unique testaments of the union between the French art of living and the Far Eastern philosophy of well-being. Also painting an otherworldly atmosphere are the hotel’s ubiquitous fiber optic lights. She has created scintillating celestial forms, here and there, and put her mark on a magical and romantic atmosphere. Blissful nights guaranteed.
The Five*: 24 rooms and suites, from €150 to €270. Buffet breakfast for €15.
Vivid abstract design and hallucinogenic effect guaranteed.
Mysterious atmosphere for black and white dreams.
At the heart of the lobby, the fireplace calls you in for a spot of relaxation.