Simply Abu Dhabi XXVI

Jacques Garcia’s choice of opulent leather and velvet fabrics in the hotel responds to Rémi Tessier’s clever use of slate in the apartments. At La Réserve Paris Hotel and Spa the style of a period is displayed down to the smallest detail. In every suite and room, the walls are graced with a delicate play of carved mouldings, finely worked cornices and decorative sculpted friezes. From the first steps on the Versailles parquet, the spectacular staircase soaring upwards captures the eye. All around are immense spaces bathed in light, barely muted by the rich fabrics of the hangings. Notable details delight, such as a library with an honesty bar reserved for guests and friends, a smoking room, a 16-metre indoor pool (a rarity in Paris), and a candle-lit spa with three treatment rooms including one specifically for men. The in-room technology is high-tech and impressive, with televisions disguised in mirrors, high-quality speakers that connect wirelessly to devices, temperature- controlled kettles (in case you fancy brewing specialist teas at 70C, rather than 100C) and touch-screen phones and tablets. Little extras range fromRiedel glasses, thick, soft padded mats beside the bed, jars of sweets and adjustable reading lights to Toto WCs (which allow guests such options as front wash and blow dry). Meanwhile, intended to be a private pied-à-terre in Paris, each apartment offers the freedom of serving as a second home. Ranging from 150 to 300sqm, each of the ten apartments offers ample space. The chocolate suite, designed by Karl Lagerfeld, was used as a pop-up store for the launch of the Monette luxury lingerie brand, and all the apartments offer services to ensure peace of mind, including valet parking, concierge available on request, secure access and a library. Every morning, the housekeeper takes care of preparing breakfast as well as doing the shopping. And of course, a shuttle is available for guests free of charge to take them to other La Réserve establishments. 1 3 2 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I