It’s a personal conviction of mine: Paris in the Spring is simply unbeatable. At this time of year, the city puts on a true performance. Parisian hotels, in particular, have a way of flaunting their best assets, architecture, design, history, and gastronomy all peak at once, wrapped into one brief, intense experience.
When Condé Nast Traveller recently published its list of The 20 Best Hotels in Paris, I was honored to see that I had photographed five of them. Each one possesses its own distinct identity and atmosphere—like unique galaxies within the wider Parisian universe.
I’ve always loved a good show, and these hotels put on an exceptional one. Here is a look at a few of my favorite captures.
Maison Delano
A masterful play on white, Maison Delano blends classic Haussmannian features with sharp modern design. The aesthetic relies on the natural textures of wood, wool, and linen to wrap the guest in a soothing, textural cocoon.
Because gastronomy is so central to the hotel’s identity, capturing their culinary craft was an essential part of the shoot.
So Paris
Self-described as a « Front Row » experience, So Paris is located away from the typical tourist hubs, offering unobstructed views of the City of Light through a lens of art and fashion.
Working with stylist Virginie Dubosque, we developed a visual concept inspired by the quiet melancholy of American artist Edward Hopper—a style designed to resonate with the creative « movers and shakers » who frequent the hotel. The entire vision was tied together by the artistic directors at Ennismore. (Note: Link to the Australian design firm/publication mentioned here).
Bulgari Paris
The « Golden Triangle », formed by Avenue Montaigne, the Champs-Élysées, and Avenue George-V, is the heart of Parisian Haute Couture and wealth. The Bulgari Hotel brings a powerful Italian presence to this iconic landscape.
Entirely designed by the ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel studio, the hotel exudes that unmistakable Milanese flair from the other side of the Alps. A personal highlight of this project was discovering the work of Lison de Caunes, who transforms humble straw into breathtaking marquetry, proving that ancient craftsmanship still holds the ultimate place in modern luxury.
Monsieur George
Dark, sexy, and intimate, Monsieur George embodies that discrete « rendez-vous » atmosphere for which Paris is famous. The rich, « Orient Express » style of designer Anouska Hempel is on full display here.
There is mystery, romance, and a touch of drama in every corner—a utopian whirl of stories waiting to be told. Though it sits near the pulsing heart of the Arc de Triomphe, the hotel remains an island of calm and polished moods.
Lutetia Paris
« It needs a little warming up. » That was the exact brief I received from the Jean-Michel Wilmotte Agency when I arrived to shoot the only « Palace » hotel on the Left Bank.
Wilmotte had just completed a monumental restoration of this landmark institution, injecting a sense of modernity into the historical masterpiece for a new generation.
I remember the finishing touches were still being applied when we started; no one quite knew how the light switches worked yet! Despite the chaos, we captured the timeless history and romance that make the Lutetia legendary. Truly unforgettable.
