Mandarin Oriental has officially assumed management of the legendary Hôtel Lutetia, unveiling its new identity as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris. As the only Palace hotel on the Left Bank, this celebrated landmark now joins Mandarin Oriental, further enhancing the Group’s presence in the French capital with an exceptional hospitality experience on both sides of the Seine.
The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental, and other members of the Group’s senior leadership team, as well as the Akirov family as owners of the hotel and Jean Pierre Trevisan, Managing Director of Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris.
With the addition of this landmark property, Mandarin Oriental strengthens its presence in Paris with a second hotel, complementing its renowned address on Rue Saint-Honoré. This dual presence allows Mandarin Oriental to offer two distinctive, yet harmonious Palace experiences: an intimate, contemporary, ultra-chic retreat on the Right Bank and a vibrant, heritage-rich icon on the Left Bank.
“Today marks a new chapter for Mandarin Oriental as we officially welcome this legendary Parisian landmark Palace into our portfolio” said Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. “In addition to our beloved Saint Honore gem, with Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris, we celebrate not only the rich heritage of the Left Bank but also our vision for the future of luxury hospitality – where history, culture and legendary service come together to create unforgettable experiences. Our dual presence in Paris emphasises our deep commitment to this iconic city, offering our guests two distinct expressions of Mandarin Oriental’s hospitality.”
Honouring its commitment to authenticity and excellence, Mandarin Oriental embraces the soul of Lutetia, preserving its rich heritage while elevating the guest experience with its legendary service and expertise, shaped by its dual-Asian roots. The hotel remains a vibrant destination for both travellers and Parisians, offering an exceptional setting where culture, gastronomy and wellbeing converge. From the iconic Parisian Brasserie Lutetia to the serene Akasha Wellness space, from the lively Bar Josephine, to the many amazing suites, every element reflects a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary luxury.
Georgi Akirov added: “The Akirov family is the proud owner of Lutetia, Paris is Lutetia and Lutetia is Paris! We are deeply committed to the success of the hotel — one of Paris’ leading Palaces and among Europe’s most distinguished hotels. We are pleased that Mandarin Oriental will be managing the property. We share a common vision for Lutetia: to honour its heritage and spirit, while elevating the hotel to new heights of excellence. Since its reopening in 2018, Lutetia has quickly become one of Paris’ most sought-after Palaces. We look forward to supporting and working closely with Mandarin Oriental to ensure Lutetia’s continued success, and I extend my best wishes for the future of this partnership. I would also like to thank Lutetia’s many loyal guests, the supportive travel agent community, and the exceptional team led by Jean-Pierre Trevisan.”
A Legendary hotel with a rich history
Founded in 1910 by the Boucicaut family, owners of Le Bon Marché, Hôtel Lutetia has long been a symbol of Parisian elegance and culture. Designed with a harmonious blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, the hotel quickly became a hub for the city’s intellectual and artistic elite. Over the years, it has hosted luminaries such as Picasso, Matisse, Charles de Gaulle and James Joyce, who famously completed Ulysses within its walls. During World War II, the hotel was requisitioned by the occupying forces, then, after the liberation, it served as a refuge for displaced individuals returning from the camps, adding to its rich historical significance. Contributions from modern cultural icons such as Sonia Rykiel, David Lynch, and Serge Gainsbourg have helped to cement Lutetia’s status as a meeting place for creative minds and global leaders.
As the only luxury Palace hotel on Paris’s Left Bank, Hôtel Lutetia underwent a comprehensive restoration led by renowned architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte and reopened in 2018. The renovation carefully preserved its storied heritage while introducing contemporary luxuries to enhance the guest stay. As part of Mandarin Oriental, this iconic property will further benefit from the Group’s renowned DNA of legendary service, craftsmanship, culinary excellence and unsurpassed wellness, as well as a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. Parisians and global travellers alike can appreciate its imposing style, which combines traditional elegance with modern amenities, ensuring the ultimate comfort.
