It's a unique and discreet address, and one that residents of the city centre stroll past every day. Toulon without always imagining what lies behind these vintage or ageing walls. The façade of theformer bishopric is more often than not camouflaged by building site fences, which don't necessarily encourage you to go through the door. And yet... On the occasion of the Design Parade ToulonOver the last few years, the building has been transformed into a museum of contemporary art, providing a magnificent setting for the works on display*. Works of art will probably remain in the new life that awaits the former bishop's palace, that of the Mama Shelter Toulon. This is because the future occupant of the premises has a habit of inaugurating colourful and resolutely modern establishments. arty.
hosts the annual Design Parade (Photos FG)
The lifestyle brand founded by Serge Trigano - and has since become part of the Accor and its subsidiary Ennismore - has clearly got its hands on a exceptional property. Its unique architecture should be a perfect match for the creativity of Mama Shelteras Josée Massi confirms: " The project conceived by Mama Shelter in partnership with the Sebban Group and the town of Toulon will offer a unique place to live. Nestled in a completely renovated historic building, this hotel will stand out for its bold, playful and non-conformist spirit, true to the brand's DNA. "says the Mayor of Toulon. Mama Shelter will write a new page in the rich history of the former bishop's palace which, since its last reconstruction in 1786, has in turn housed the episcopal palace, the headquarters of the departmental administration, a school and a library.
Around a hundred rooms, a restaurant under a glass roof...
Expected in early 2028 - a priori in January - the Mama Shelter Toulon should total 100 rooms on five levels. They will range in size from 21 m² to 32 m², and some of them will have a private terrace. The hotel's restaurant and bar will be set up around the plane tree in the heart of the grounds, under a glass roof, with a capacity of over 150 seats. A terrace is also planned - taking advantage of the city's record sunshine levels - overlooking the adjoining square to the right of the building. For business customers, the hotel will offer two high-tech seminar rooms. All this just a stone's throw from the port of Toulon and the historic Halles, which recently reopened as a " food court "And more generally, a city centre that is moving upmarket every year. As well as the Lycée Hôtelier Anne-Sophie Pic, whose upcoming classes could well fill the ranks of the future Mama...
" With Mama Shelter ToulonWe're going to breathe new energy into the city and create a space where locals and travellers can come together, celebrate and enjoy the unique Mediterranean way of life. "promises Cédric Gobilliard. The Managing Director of Mama Shelter at Ennismore adds: " This project embodies the spirit of Mama: playful, non-conformist and always full of life, while embracing the rich history and coastal charm of Toulon. ".
After Rennes, Dijon and NiceMama Shelter will therefore continue its tour of France in a new destination. has undergone a major transformation in recent years. " I'm delighted to see this ambitious project taking shape in the heart of our old town centre, which is the focus of a major redevelopment programme. a vast urban regeneration project undertaken by Hubert Falco and his successive municipal teams for over 20 years "Josée Massi, the mayor of Toulon, expressed her satisfaction on LinkedIn. Mama Shelter is set to capitalise on the gentrification of Toulon's city centre, and contribute in its own way, as it has often done in towns and districts undergoing a renaissance. A small revolution for ToulonIts residents are more accustomed to strolling along the Cours Lafayette for its popular and authentic market than for a lifestyle hotel... However, they are beginning to get used to seeing brands that are well known to the business clientele, such as theOkko hotel which has opted for another central location, the Place de la Liberté, and independent addresses such as l'EautelPlace de l'Equerre.
" This project will contribute to Toulon's reputation well beyond our city, while blending harmoniously into its architectural and historical heritage. "promises Josée Massi. And with good reason: the inauguration of this new address will mark the entry of Toulon in the highly sought-after "Destinations Mama. This club will soon be joined by some of the biggest names in business travel, including Singapore, CasablancaZürich and Los Angeles. A real accolade for the economic capital of the Var.
* The Design Parade will remain in the former bishop's palace for at least the 2025 edition, before being transferred to other sites, including the Hôtel des Arts.
