29-31 Rue du Poitou (3e), Paris, France.
As the home to Paris’ gay, Jewish and couture communities, it seems only fitting that the character-laden Marais should be home to a hotel as character-laden as the Hôtel du Petit Moulin. The 17th-century building was originally the site of an ancient bakery said to be patronised by celebrated writer Victor Hugo, who lived in nearby Place des Vosges. When the current owners bought the place four years ago, they were quick to secure the services of local resident Christian Lacroix. The famed couturier designed every one of the 17 rooms differently, describing his work as “17 different ways to discover Le Marais”. Each room is exuberant, flamboyant and provocative. Some boast giant flower prints, others sequined drapes, bold panels, punchy stripes or even retro mirrored ceilings. Unlike some early “design hotels”, however, attention has also been paid to boring things such as bedding and plumbing. Not surprisingly, the hotel draws an international fashion-friendly crowd, so bear that in mind before you venture into the little breakfast room or across the road to Chez Nenesse, one of the last family-owned, old-style Parisian bistros.
See full article: Parisian hotels: Chic magnetSource: Qantas The Australian Way November 2008