by Zawani Abdul Ghani
The Scheufele family, renowned for their mastery in jewellery and watchmaking through Chopard, has unveiled a gem of its own — the 1 Place Vendôme luxury hotel. Positioned on the corner of Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme, this opulent 18th-century listed building was meticulously renovated and redesigned by Pierre-Yves Rochon.
It stands as a six-story mansion, with only 5 rooms and 10 suites, spanning 28,000 sq ft. With access exclusive to stay-in guests and VIP Chopard customers (meaning you can’t simply pop in for a peek), guests are welcomed by a monumental Murano glass necklace by artist Jean-Michel Othoniel, symbolising the union of art and luxury.
Unlike traditional hotels, 1 Place Vendôme subtly integrates Chopard’s brand elements, most notably the mosaic in the winter garden, reminiscent of the Animal World high jewelry collection.
The project is a culmination of almost a decade of meticulous planning and execution — a result of Chopard’s acquisition of the Union Hôtelière de Paris in 2014. The five-year renovation is a nod to the grandeur of French architecture, revealing 17-ft ceilings and showcasing architectural details like wood beams in the Rubis suite.
Art, carefully curated from the Scheufele family home, adorns the hotel’s walls, add a personal touch to the ambiance. From 1960s Marc Chagall lithography to an Andy Warhol print in the Ruby suite, every piece was thoughtfully chosen to enhance guests’ experience.
The rooms themselves are a tribute to gemstones, precious materials, and themes like navigation and astronomy reflect the family’s deep connection to watchmaking.
Dining at the hotel is an immersive experience overseen by chef Boris Algarra, an alum under chef Thierry Marx. Eschewing the traditional restaurant concept, the hotel offers an all-day snacking menu and a more elaborate French cuisine option, with focus on seasonal products.
Room rates start from 1,400 euros ($2,042) for a 350-sq ft room, excluding breakfast, and the Appartement Chopard on the second floor commands a starting rate of 14,000 euros. This lavish setting is also occasionally transformed for Chopard’s events during Paris Fashion Week and its couture counterpart.