A parisian hotel restoration combines historical elegance with modern luxury, showcasing refined interiors.

Parisian Grandeur Meets British Elegance in Hotel Westminster’s Historic Revival

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Written by John Oliver

2026-10-29

In the heart of Paris, the Hotel Westminster stands as a testament to elegant transformation and rich history. Nestled at 13 rue de la Paix, between the iconic Place Vendôme and Palais Garnier, this historic hotel recently underwent a stunning renovation. Spearheaded by interior architect Laurent Maugoust and British designer Helen Stephens, the refurbishment seamlessly blends the building’s classic architectural elements with contemporary design.

Haussmannian architecture defines Hotel Westminster's character, seen from its grand exterior design.
Haussmannian architecture shapes the hotel’s character | images courtesy of Hotel Westminster

Hotel Transformation: Laurent Maugoust’s Artful Reimagining

Laurent Maugoust’s revival of the Hotel Westminster delves into bridging the past and present. The hotel showcases 102 rooms, including 20 opulent suites, where historic features like marble fireplaces, exquisite decorative moldings, and herringbone oak floors are complemented by modern furnishings and a palette of beige, green, and violet. The renovation work emphasizes continuity, crafting a dialogue between eras that redefines the classic haussmannian architecture.

Scattered throughout the hotel are antique clocks and historical photographs, speaking to its storied past. Some suites provide views of the bustling rue de la Paix, while others overlook a serene, flower-filled courtyard. Each space resonates with the hotel’s lengthy narrative of transformation, capturing its timeless charm through the meticulous restoration.

Green awnings adorn Hotel Westminster's facade along the quaint rue de la Paix.
the hotel’s facade is distinguished by its iconic green awnings along rue de la Paix

Duke’s Bar: A Nod to British Heritage

The hotel’s British connections are most evident in Duke’s Bar, echoing an English club style with its dark wood panelling, plush armchairs, and ambient lighting. As part of the overall hotel renovation, the bar once hosted the likes of Winston Churchill and other luminaries, making it a beloved haunt for British aristocrats and cultural icons. Portraits lining the walls tell stories of its colorful past, bridging British and French social worlds through time.

Le Céladon, reimagined by Helen Stephens, reflects this British influence through its green hues inspired by the Vendôme Column and Tuileries Garden. This thoughtful design echoes the bar’s aesthetics and emphasizes the interconnectedness with the lush Parisian landscape.

The executive room pairs historical elements with modern furnishings for a sophisticated feel.
the executive room combines historic architectural details with contemporary furnishings

Unified Past and Present

Beyond its interiors, the Hotel Westminster celebrates cultural convergence with events that blend literature, music, and history. Collaborations with Galignani, a historic English-language bookstore, further position the hotel as a cultural nexus. Here, Parisian architecture and British tradition meld effortlessly, the results of a comprehensive refurbishment creating an enduring legacy in one of the city’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

Elegant interior features blend with classic accents, showcasing luxury hotel design.
Renovation maintains the hotel's original charm while adding contemporary design touches.
the renovation preserves the hotel’s original character while introducing modern touches
Hotel offers 20 suites with views over rue de la Paix, highlighting central Paris location.
the hotel features 20 suites, many overlooking rue de la Paix
Duke's Bar features decor inspired by traditional British clubs, enhancing the hotel's ambience.
Duke’s Bar reflects the hotel’s longstanding connection to British club culture
Historic Duke’s Bar showcases a defining original fireplace among elegant furnishings.
the original fireplace remains a defining feature of the historic Duke’s Bar
Modern fitness space enhances the hotel’s amenities with bright and spacious facilities.
a dedicated fitness space complements the hotel’s guest facilities
Le Céladon restaurant redesigned by Helen Stephens features elegant dining room ambiance.
Helen Stephens redesigned Le Céladon restaurant
Decorative hotel hallway lined with artwork and elegant lighting, leading to guest rooms.
A parisian hotel restoration combines historical elegance with modern luxury, showcasing refined interiors.

Sources & Links

Source: designboom.com

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Hotel Westminster located?

The Hotel Westminster is located at 13 rue de la Paix, between the iconic Place Vendôme and Palais Garnier in Paris.

Who led the hotel’s renovation?

The renovation of the Hotel Westminster was led by interior architect Laurent Maugoust and British designer Helen Stephens.

What style does Duke’s Bar reflect?

Duke’s Bar reflects an English club style with dark wood panelling, plush armchairs, and ambient lighting, embodying the hotel’s British connections.

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