New properties to explore in the world’s buzziest destinations.
PARIS STEEPED IN HISTORY
True, Paris hardly needs another luxurious hotel but every city, we believe, deserves something like Hotel de Berri. The Luxury Collection hotel is located on the historic rue de Berri in the fashionable eighth arrondissement, a short walk away from ChampsElysees and Parc Monceau in the heart of the Triangle d’Or shopping district. Previously a 1970s office building, the hotel sits on the site of what was formerly the residence of Princess Mathilde Bonaparte and legendary couturier Elsa Schiaparelli.
The reimagined space exudes a unique atmosphere and timeless elegance, with eclectic, refined and bold interiors that pay tribute to 20th century French decorative arts. The individually decorated 75 rooms – 35 of which are suites – are engaging yet homely, replete with vibrant colours, paintings and antique furniture.
The Italian restaurant Le Schiap – apropos the address’ former occupant – fittingly features a large fresco celebrating Parisian joie de vivre, while the bar, Le Bizzaz, is a highlight with neo-classical reliefs and craft cocktails. Le Bizzaz also overlooks the hotel’s private garden, a miraculously preserved 3,000 sq m landscaped area.
ROME NIGHT AT THE PALAZZO
If nothing else, one of the Eternal City’s newest hotels has a great address. The Rooms of Rome is housed in the Palazzo Rhinoceros, a refurbished 17th-century palazzo in the city’s Velabro quarter that is now the new seat of the Fondazione Alda Fendi – Esperimenti. Along with offices for the foundation, the six-floor palazzo will also have spaces devoted to exhibitions, research and experimentation, as well as a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of Rome, especially of the Forum Boarium, the Arch of Janus, the splendid church of San Giorgio al Velabro, the temple of Hercules Victor and the Palatine Hill.
Mr C Seaport is a luxurious oasis with views of New York’s Brooklyn Bridge.
NEW YORK PIER LIVING
Located in New York’s Seaport District, the city’s original commercial hub, Mr C Seaport provides a luxurious oasis amid the bustling backdrop of the city, offering idyllic views of the nearby East River, Brooklyn Bridge and New York skyline. A contemporary yet classic retreat, the hotel, founded by the famed Cipriani family, boasts 66 finely appointed guest rooms and premium suites. Location is key to the hotel’s unique appeal. It’s steps away from Pier 17’s iconic waterfront that serves as a cultural, dining, retail and entertainment anchor for Lower Manhattan.
Mr C Seaport offers refined and elegant living with personalised service and amenities. All rooms feature lustrous teak veneer, rain showers, 50inch interactive 4K televisions and the finest Italian linen. Ten premium suites include panoramic balconies overlooking the nearby East River. Thoughtful amenities, including the use of a house car within a 20-block radius of the hotel, heighten the experience of staying here. Our vote, however, goes to the fact that guests are welcomed with a bellini, the classic cocktail created by Giuseppe Cipriani in 1948 at Harry’s Bar in Venice.
