In recent times, the reputation and appeal of the Ritz Paris has taken a beating. The landmark luxury hotel has slipped from its premier position. So it is understandable that the owners are closing the hotel for a two-year luxury hotel renovation. Once the most high-profile hotel in Paris, the Ritz has famously accommodated the likes of Coco Chanel, Charlie Chaplin and Ernest Hemmingway. Even Princess Diana and Dodi Al Fayed dined in the Ritz just before the accident that killed them. But the Ritz Paris has lost its former sheen. The overhaul is an attempt to retrieve that former glory.
The property, which is owned by Egyptian businessman Mohamed Al Fayed, failed to earn the prestigious “palace” designation earlier this year. Earlier, in 2005, allegations of price fixing impacted its reputation. Al Fayed will be hoping to restore the hotel to its former glory following the “unprecedented” two-year renovations.
French architect and designer Thierry W. Dupont will be supervising the renovations. Dupont has an admirable portfolio, having renovated other luxury hotel properties like the Dorchester in London and Chatwal New York. According to reports, 160 rooms and suites will be renovated, as will the hotel’s restaurants, bars, spas and common areas. The historic style of the property will be maintained. The property is a French landmark, having been founded by Cesar Ritz and French chef Auguste Escoffier.
The renovation will begin from the summer of 2012. It is estimated that the entire overhaul will take 27 months to complete. The two-Michelin star L’Espadon restaurant and the Ritz-Escoffier cooking school will also be shut during the period.
