How have the recent renovation works revived the soul of the Lancaster?
Valentino Piazzi - The soul of the Lancaster... The building was constructed in 1890 and the owner, Émile Wolf, converted it into a hotel in 1925. Through these renovations, we wanted to perpetuate the spirit of that era: that of an elegant, noble, discreet residence, which now obviously lives with the times while retaining the style of a private residence, a private mansion. We've restored the parquet flooring, but we've also pared down the scenography and worked on the lighting to rediscover the simplicity that characterised the glamour of the time.
Why have you chosen to highlight Marlène Dietrich, Boris Pastoukhoff and Émile Wolf by naming three of your suites after them?
V. P. - Because they have contributed to the history of the hotel. This hotel has been lucky enough to welcome stars and icons who have given the hotel its glamorous character. Marlène Dietrich was one of them. She lived here for several years. The Ukrainian impressionist painter Boris Pastouckhoff also lived here. But as he didn't have much money, he paid his bills by painting. He left us almost all of his work, which is now on display in the rooms and suites as well as in the public areas. As for Émile Wolf, he is the man behind the hotel.
Who are your customers today?
V. P. - We welcome a lot of well-known directors and artists, but we also welcome anonymous people; both private individuals and businessmen. Especially as we are lucky enough to have a Michelin-starred restaurant, overseen by Michel Troisgros.
