It seems everyone is a buzz about the re-opening of Hôtel de Crillon last month after three-and-a-half years of renovation. The Parisian gem, which dates back to the 18th century, has undergone a complete transformation under the careful direction of architect Aline d’Amman, who tapped a select group of Paris-based designers to help modernize the historic property. Tristan Auer, Chahan Minassian, Cyril Vergniol and even fashion icon extraordinaire, Karl Lagerfeld, were each given reign over various spaces and the result is an exquisitely balanced curation of old and new. The revitalised hotel, whose façade was designed by the builder of the Petit Trianon, pays homage to the building's legacy in a refreshingly contemporary way, mixing antique furnishings with ultra modern details amid a sea of gilding and marble.

For our part, it’s Tristan Auer’s sharp design of the men’s grooming area, La Barbiere de Paris, that has caught our eye. Conceived as a “concierge for men” where one can get a haircut, a shave, a shoe shine, there's something very James Bond about the subterranean lair. Perhaps it's to do with the custom-made chairs which take their inspiration from the seats of a 1960s Aston Martin.  They sit atop a strikingly graphic floor, laid in a geometric pattern of black and white marble. While we might not recommend wood paneled ceilings for a bathroom, the mood is easily replicated by palette and furnishings. We are particularly smitten with the modern brass mirrors, flanked on either side by globe lanterns. For similar, look to our Augustus mirror and Overton white globe wall light. Best of all, you need not be a guest of the hotel to book a service at La Barbiere so do pop in on your next trip over.

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