Hôtel Balzac opens off the top of Paris' Champs-Elysées

Hôtel Balzac, just off the top of Paris’ Champs-Élysées, reopened its doors June 1 after a total reinvention of its interiors by the renowned French architecture firm Festen.

The hotel is housed in a turn of the century building that sits on the site of the former home of the 19^th century French novelist, Honoré de Balzac.

Charlotte de Tonnac and Hugo Sauzay, the duo behind Festen, transformed Hotel Balzac into a unique destination, blending grand hotel spirit with intimate chic.

“Balzac perpetuates a timeless Parisian hotel heritage with its classicism,” they said. “It’s a place full of atmosphere, with a history that we have respected and extended. You need to experience this place to understand it.”

Inspired by the hotel’s facade and architectural details, the pair created a distinctive atmosphere while honouring its history and heritage.

The space offers a cozy and welcoming ambiance, decorated with neutral tones, clean lines and refined materials, such as wood, velvet and natural stone.

Custom-made furniture, reminiscent of the 1930s and ’40s, is reinterpreted with creative modernity and a constant focus on comfort.

A member of Relais & Châteaux, the new, 5-star luxury Hotel Balzac features 58 rooms and suites—some with views of the Eiffel Tower and open-air terraces—a glass-domed lobby lounge, a discrete bar and the 3-Michelin star restaurant Pierre Gagnaire in its lobby.

The hotel’s Japanese-inspired Ikoi Spa will open this summer.

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