Hotel Bachaumont
"How did it strike you on arrival?After three years of renovations, the former Grand Hotel Bachaumont—which checked out its last guests in the ’70s—has been transformed into an Art Deco dream that’s as much a hit with locals as visitors. Designed by Dorothée Meilichzon, who’s also envisioned several of Paris’s recent boutique hotel projects, the breezy spaces are accented by black-and-white geometric tiles, marble floors, and sculptural furniture. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Swap Instagram follows with a young, buzzy crowd of foodies, trendy locals, and travelers in search of the "real" Paris. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Rooms run small and can be oddly shaped due to the historic building, but Meilichzon has made them feel both warm and uncluttered, with wall-mounted marble-and-wood desks, brass globe lighting, chevron wood flooring, handpicked furnishings, and accents of periwinkle and pale green, plus headboards wrapped in Pierre Frey fabrics. Four of the 49 accommodations are suites, which offer perks like balconies, living areas, or rooftop views. Amenities are limited in most rooms, but suites have little conveniences like Nespresso machines and tea kettles. Choose a room with a balcony if you want to feel like a part of the neighborhood—or the back of the building if you need it quiet. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Mattresses are by French brand Epeda, and come in Twin, Queen, or King versions, depending on the room configuration. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The Art Deco flair continues in the bright, white bathrooms, most of which are equipped with a large shower; only the two suites have bathtubs. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is complimentary. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?Like the guests, the staff is young, passionate, and quick to help when needed. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Under a glass roof, and surrounded by Art Deco detailing and dangling copper pots, the chefs at the on-site restaurant work their upscale brasserie magic using fresh, seasonal ingredients; the pastries are pretty stellar, too. The intimate Bar Chaumont is the place for creative cocktails and tapas. Room service comes from the same kitchen as the restaurant, while the daily breakfast and Sunday brunch get laid out in the restaurant or on the terrace. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Be prepared for small rooms and some street noise. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Though the smaller rooms may seem like a splurge, given their size, the excellent location in the Montorgueil neighborhood—surrounded by an array of foodie favorites and indie shops—grants guests instant local cred." - Sandra Ramani
