Les Bains, the iconic Paris nightclub, has reopened as a 39-room hotel five years after partygoers last enjoyed a drink and a dance. It’s the latest chapter in the life of the 1885 Haussmannian building, which has played host to a who’s who of the creative world.
French literary greats Marcel Proust and Émile Zola visited Les Bains after its opening as a bathhouse in the late 19th century. Decades later in 1978, designer Philippe Stark transformed the place into a nightclub, welcoming a different calibre of guests through its doors. David Bowie, Mick Jagger and Karl Lagerfeld were among the people to make a splash at this Paris institution.
Les Bains’ restored facade stays true to its Haussmannian roots. Photography: Guillaume Grasset
This light-filled courtyard was one of architect Vincent Bastie’s updates to the place. Photography: Paul Raeside
Designer Denis Montel was the creative mind behind the interiors of the hotel’s restaurant and bar. Photography: Paul Raeside
The hotel is already open but guests will need to wait until later this month for Les Bains’ bar, nightclub and restaurant. Photography: Paul Raeside
The new Les Bains hotel, revamped by architect Vincent Bastie, features a restored grand entrance that stays true to its Haussmannian roots. Designers Tristan Auer and Denis Montel were drafted in to design the interiors, while outdoor areas have also received an update, including the courtyard, opened up to draw in more light.
Les Bains will retain its famous party spirit when the bar, club and restaurant open later this month. And the likes of Jagger and Bowie might still feel the need to let their hair down when they step onto the dance floor, which mimics Stark’s chequered design from 1978.
Les Bains, 7 Rue du Bourg-l’Abbé 75003 Paris; www.designhotels.com
