"How did it strike you on arrival?I was stunned, initially, by the sheer size and openness of the ground-floor spaces upon arrival. And having seen the building's capsule windows from the street (see answer below), I was impatient to get into my room and see how that impacted the space's design. But first, I strolled the common areas, the Martin Bar, the restaurant and was impressed by the furnishings (armchairs, tables) that I learned were by Jean Prouve and Charlotte Perriand. There were also vintage pieces by Genevieve Dangles, Christian Defrance and Joseph-Andre Motte picked up in the flea markets at Clignancourt. For a Marriott, I thought this was already a good sign.
Nice. What’s the crowd like?During my stay, guests appeared to be from all over the world – US, UK/Europe, Asia, India. Most were smartly dressed – the Americans dressed more in athleisure, while others were in casual business attire. I’d see a tech entrepreneur wanting to stay here-- someone looking for an upscale experience without the stuffy design. During the week, the guests lean more business-y, ranging in age from late twenties to mid forties. But there were also young couples on holiday and families who appeared to stay through the weekend. It seems well suited for both leisure and business travel. For business travelers, they’ll be thrilled to stay in the least cookie-cutter of Marriott group properties and in a bustling neighborhood, full of excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes.
The good stuff: Tell us about your room.My room was a junior suite on the 6th floor (but it should be noted that any room between the 6th and 9th floor offers incredible, unobstructed views of the city). The penthouse suite, certainly the largest and most impressive, has a private hot tub and a private terrace overlooking the Mansard rooftops of Paris. Most memorable about the room is its design and functionality: interior designer Didier Gomez, known for his work decorating the head offices of YSL, Louis Vuitton, Dior, demonstrated his penchant for retro furnishings in the common spaces and rooms here. The rooms were inspired by artist studios and art from the 50’s and 60’s. Each room has a custom-made sofa, high-end bed linens, Tom Dixon lighting, etc. The windows recall Courreges -- the back story there: the 9-storey building was designed by Jean Jacques Fernier in the 1970s and was a former legal artist’s squat in the 1990s. It stands out for its capsule-shaped windows and gunmetal silver exterior which give it a distinctly futuristic look that is unique to the neighborhood. At least one of those windows were turned into a little reading nook in each room -- a feature that is impossible not to love.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The bed was elevated relatively high off the ground, which I liked. Linens were perfectly pressed and the mattress and pillow selection was comfortable. Many good night sleeps to be had here.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?The mini bar was well stocked with local snacks and drinks, from Le Chocolat des Français chocolate bars to Michel et Augustin savory and sweet crackers, and cider from a popular Parisian brand called Sassy. Beauty amenities came from the 60-year- old Parisian brand Sothys (also used in the spa). Coffee was standard Nespresso but downstairs in the restaurant and lounge, they brew Caron, a local roaster founded in 1974. As a huge fan of Sassy cider, that would be the first thing I'd snatch from the mini bar but I'd wager that the average guest would be more inclined to pack the Marshall amp that sits on each bedside table.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Nothing crazy here but the bathroom was spacious, complete with a tub and Italian shower. They also feature glassed-in bistro windows so that you can see if/when someone walks by the bathroom. Everything was clean and comfortable, and the Sothys line of beauty amenities was a nice change from the usual suspects.
Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Very strong and reliable and free!
Room service: Worth it?Didn't order room service but I can speak to the restaurant: the menu was modern French, mid-range in price, and changes frequently. The restaurant’s draw is the chef Benedicte Van der Motte who has worked under top chefs from Yannick Alleno and Eric Frechon (at Le Bristol). The dishes are made from locally grown and seasonal-only products and the dessert list includes gluten and lactose free options that are actually delicious. The churros (with gluten !) were a standout the night I dined there. The Martin bar, in the space adjacent to the dining room, was popular at apéro hour and in the morning for coffee.
Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?It's all about casual luxury here – the staff is attentive but doesn’t overdo it like most luxury properties.
Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The design of the building, the room decor and the gym facilities (plus spa) are big wins here. But there's also an artistic element: Ceramicists like Georges Sybesma and Gaudebert have their work presented in common areas of the hotel, alongside works by collage artists, sculptors, and illustrators. This is obviously meant to recall the building’s past as a haven for artists. Each month, the hotel also hosts artistic events with painters, tattoo artists,etc. who customize the bar menu.
What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?No complaints on design, amenities, location or service and many travelers will like that they're part of a big group (Marriott) with the attendant benefits but don't FEEL like they're in one.
Bottom line: worth it, and why?The property has the benefits of a large hotel group – loyalty program, consistency in service, ample space – without necessarily feeling like one. The rooms are spacious and smartly designed ; comfort and convenience is key. I would definitely recommend to friends who want to be close to the city’s best dining, drinking, and shopping, and in close proximity to several public transport lines to reach the major landmarks. I liked that it appeals to both leisure and business travelers (will check the right boxes for them but feel more like an independent property)." - Lindsey Tramuta
