Vogue reviews the iconic Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s Paris.
Photo: Barriere Fouquets
More than a century ago, at the crossroads of the Champs-Elysées and Avenue Georges V, Louis Fouquet opened the doors to his brasserie. In the years that followed, the historic Parisian establishment was frequented by a cultured and creative crowd – past patrons include Liza Minnelli, Josephine Baker, and Jean-Luc Godard. This hallowed reputation is exalted today by the Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s Paris, which remains housed in buildings surrounding the original brasserie. The property presents itself as an ideal stay for anyone who is infatuated with the quintessential experience of Paris. With clear views of the Arc de Triomphe and shoppers bustling in and out of the flagship Louis Vuitton store across the road, it really doesn’t get more Parisian than this. Inside, a bygone era seems to merge with modern amenities and the most impeccable service to craft a stay unlike any other. Designed by the legendary Jacques Garcia, the interiors carry his penchant for opulence and gilded glamour, perfectly mirroring the Haussmann style façade by the architect Edouard François.
Photo: Barriere Fouquets
In the lobby, plush velvet details are accentuated by crystalline lights, while black-and-white photos pay an ode to the property’s cinematic connections. When it comes to accommodation, Garcia has once again outdone himself. While each of the 101 rooms offers a very comfortable stay, the four signature suites remain unrivaled. Imagined as an ode to the French way of living, the suites emulate real Parisian apartments with magnificent living areas, original moldings, and fireplaces. This sense of space is exacerbated by three suites named as if you were walking up the Champs-Élysées, from the George V suite to the Arc de Triomphe suite. Here, Garcia departs from the warm colors he has employed elsewhere at the Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s and instead relies upon light, soothing tones embellished by touches of black and gold to evoke serenity and well-being.
Photo: Barriere Fouquets
At the very top, the Harcourt Suite pays homage to the collaboration between the hotel and Studio Harcourt, the Parisian photography studio whose signature black-and-white portraits can be spotted throughout the hotel and this suite. Harcourt’s fair and style are evident within the space, from the wall sconces to the spotlights, through the gold leaf and black and white throughout. Uninterrupted views over the Champs- Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe are provided by bull’s eye windows mirroring the shape of a camera lens. However, what makes the Harcourt Suite the ultimate accommodation is its ability to transform into a real photography studio and professional make-up area for an unforgettable shoot. With these exceptional accommodation options, the Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s firmly establishes itself as an unparalleled Parisian institution more than worthy of its legendary status on the most beautiful avenue in the world. From €1,150 per night.
Originally published in the January 2024 Vogue Arabia issue.
