Crédits : Lina Tchalabi. Translation: Jill Harry. Pictures: Anne-Emmanuelle Thion, Royal Champagne Hôtel & Spa, Gilles Pernet, Éric Laignel, Lucas Muller / Lukam
Heritage
From tapestries to classical draperies, not forgetting designer pieces by top names in interior decor, French stylishness pervades each corner of these venues waving the flag of France's heritage and excellence in craftsmanship.
In Obernai, the 2-star restaurant La Fourchette des Ducs is one of these buildings marked by time, with the fragrance of yesteryear wafting within its walls. Built in 1921 by car manufacturer Ettore Bugatti (1881-1947) to welcome his friends, this half-timbered house – then known as Le Clos-Sainte Odile – has lost none of its splendour. A listed historic monument, designed by architect Lucien Weissenburger (1860-1929), the "Lalique" winter lounge offers a monumental fireplace overhung by the family coat-of-arms, refined marquetry by Charles Spindler, and crystal wall sconces by René Lalique. In summer, the "Baccarat" room astutely pairs modernity with tradition. Its finely clad walls are joined by Baccarat chandeliers and Philippe Starck candle holders. Works by Spanish artist Jaime Hayon add a touch of fantasy. The centrepiece is undoubtedly the Aubusson tapestry by Marc Petit, which seems to hold a dialogue with precious objects on the tables. A score of sheer excellence, from decor to dishes, orchestrated by Chef Nicolas Stamm and Restaurant Manager Serge Schaal, proud owners of this gastronomic address – and honoured ambassadors of Alsatian culture.
In a 14.82-acre park at the edge of the forest of Wingen-sur-Moder, the Villa René Lalique was built in 1920 by the famed jeweller and master glassmaker of the same name. Fully rehabilitated by interior architects Lady Tina and Pietro Mingarelli, this half-timbered Alsatian residence plays host to a 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel, a 2-star gastronomic restaurant, and an exceptional wine cellar. Behind its famous blue shutters, guests are subjugated by the setting's refinement. The staircase of honour – a replica of the original one – sets the tone. Hallways bearing family photos lead to six exclusive suites, each one inspired by iconic collections of creative genius: Hirondelles, Zeila, Dahlia, Masque de Femme, Dragon, Rose… References continue in the restaurant clad in glass and designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, where culinary creations by Chef Paul Stradner are presented in crystal tableware of high finesse signed, of course, by Lalique.
One of the finest showcases of the French art of living, Domaine Les Crayères stands on the Saint-Nicaise hill in Reims. Built by Madame Pommery for her daughter, the Marquise de Polignac, this gem built of stone – by architect Charles Dauphin, and transformed into a 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel by the Gardinier family – embodies refinement at its purest. Signed by renowned interior architect Pierre-Yves Rochon, its decor in classic French style celebrates craftsmanship in all its forms. Period wall panelling, antique furniture, noble fabrics by Pierre Frey, embroidered materials by Lelièvre, and artworks all rub shoulders in harmony. Each bedroom is unique and personalized to the very last detail. Wallpaper with historic motifs, sumptuous Dedar velvets, and refined Veraseta silk create a timeless atmosphere. A "château" style, cultivated with subtlety, and offering a memorable experience at the heart of the Coronation City.
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