A wonderful era: a hotel in a building of the beginning of the XX century in France
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09 Jun 2022
The Bachmann Associés bureau has given a new sound to the interiors of the former Savoy Palace Hotel, located at the foot of Mont Blanc
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
La Folie Douce Hôtel Chamonix is located in the ski resort of Chamonix and occupies the former building of the Savoy Palace Hotel, which was built in 1904 on the wave of popularity of the palace style. In the 1920s, lavish balls and tennis tournaments were held here, and then the building fell into disrepair and stood abandoned since 2018. Now, by order of the new owners, the hotel operators La Folie Douce and Les Hôtels Très Particuliers, the Bachmann Associés studio has decided to return the hotel to its former charm and at the same time show its rich history.
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
The architects Christophe Bachmann and Jerome Gesret left part of the walls and ceilings of the hotel deliberately shabby and highlighted all the cracks and irregularities with the help of lighting. Rough textures contrast with luxurious antique furniture, custom-made velvet armchairs and brass accents. Small cozy spaces with dim lighting are interspersed with spacious halls with views of the Alps.
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
Having dismantled the partitions and suspended ceilings, the team turned the lobby into a grand atrium, which, instead of old-fashioned chandeliers, is decorated with modern lamps from Moooi. A steep staircase leads to the second floor, where there is a lounge area with a brass bar and arched windows to the floor.
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
"This project has become an interesting experience for us. It was very difficult because we had to bring the old palace back to life by completely rethinking the codes of the classic hotel industry. But that's what attracted us," the architects add.
Photo
Gael Le Bulico
