By Norah Bradford

Vernet was a painter expert in producing paintings of the sea and bought by royal command back to Paris from Italy where he was also an integral piece of the social fabric of Rome and well known to the circle of aristocrats participating in the Grand Tour of the 18th Century – an older version of what today we would refer to as the "Jet-set".

The hotel Vernet, a luxury boutique property located in a secluded street just off the Champs-Elysees and a three minute walk from the venerable Four Seasons Hotel George V draws on thespirit of Vernet in terms of providing somewhere aesthetically pleasing and somewhere to socialize whilst visiting Paris.

The comparisons with Vernet end there. Thoroughly renovated to celebrate the building's 100th anniversary the Vernet is very 21st Century inside though retaining many of the distinguishing architectural features that make it oh-so-Parisian courtesy of Interior designer François Champsaur, who pays tribute to Parisian elegance and French craftsmanship. The stand out example of this is the stained glass dome of the restaurant designed by Gustav Eiffel of Eiffel Tower fame.

The rooms and suites are cleverly designed with a design aesthetic that is quite unique. The bathroom has a large curved wooden door which integrates seamlessly with the wall to create privacy inside and a feeling of space in the main bedroom. Modern touches in terms of appliances, amenities and free wireless internet access all help make the guest feel welcome in a modern space that is there home whilst visiting Paris.

The Bar at the Hotel Vernet is a centerpiece of the social life of the hotel and has a fabulous ceiling fresco, painted by internationally celebrated Jean-Michel Alberola, which contrasts against the dynamic design on the carpet designed by the same artist. The bar serves classic cocktails with thoroughly modern execution. Try the Martini Royale Bianco or the non-alcoholic Fruits de Vernet.

Dining at the restaurant V by Executive Chef Richard Robe offers a sense of theatre as a large glass window enables diners to see the kitchen in action akin to watching a very large television screen. The menu is designed like a travel diary with the aim of creating a gastronomic journey for every visitor.
For more information:
hotelvernet-paris.com