Playing hooky. It's a childish prospect that's sure to appeal to business travellers passing through Rouen. And yet. This invitation to indulge in pleasures rather than professional concerns has taken a very business-like turn in the city of Normandy. L'Ecole buissonnière is the name given to a new office complex being developed by one of the major local companies, Matmut Group.
On the site of a former teacher training college dating from 1886, the insurer has built an 8,000 m² office complex for boosting the attractiveness of the Rouen area for businesses in the service sector. But that's not all: travellers are also welcome. Located close to the centre on the Route de Neufchâtel, overlooking the town of 'Les Cent Clochers', its facilities are complemented by a Hyatt Group hotel, housed in the main building once used by future schoolteachers.
Marking the first steps taken by the American hotelier in secondary French towns - a Hyatt Centric is also due to open in Reims shortly - the Rouen establishment bears the hallmarks of a Hyatt Centric. the mid-range Hyatt Place. Reflecting the spirit of the city and the past in its contemporary design - a dominant steel blue evoking the Seine and the stormy skies of Normandy, stripes recalling the half-timbered architecture of the old town, slates and scientific illustrations in the rooms - the establishment has 85 rooms and suites, the latter including a coffee station, bathrobe and slippers.
" The Hyatt Place Rouen captures the essence of Rouen's rich history while offering the modern traveller a comfortable, convenient and memorable stay, whether for a short business trip or a leisure getaway." said Michel Morauw, Hyatt's Managing Director for Northern Europe. Business travellers will also be able to hold meetings and events with a flexible 135 m² space that can be divided into three separate rooms.
Spa Phytomer, relaxation pool: well-being is also part of the Hyatt Place Rouen offer. Catering is provided by a Market where you can find sandwiches, drinks and other small snacks, but above all by a table focusing on the "French cuisine". French regional cuisineThe Zoom, with its outdoor terrace and garden. The garden features three remarkable sculptures, adding to the hotel's charm and character. " We are proud to have preserved a historic Rouen landmark through this project. The spirit of the old school is revived by the aesthetics of the Hyatt Place Rouen." said Christophe Bourret, Chairman of the Matmut Group.
