Banke Hotel, facade.
The classic Banke is located inside an early 20th-century building, a former bank remodeled in 2009 by the architects Paul Friesse and Cassien Bernard. The style of its majestic facade evokes the magic and grandeur of the Belle Epoque in Paris.
The immense and spectacular glass-domed hall is particularly impressive as is the refinement and good taste of its 94 rooms and suites. The accommodations are decorated in attractive earth tones, purple curtains, plaited leather carpets, damask leather headboards, marble bathrooms and designer furniture. The design combines original architectural features with contemporary style, bringing to the 21st century the classic flair of Baron Haussmann, who transformed Paris during the reign of Napoleon III. The hotel also has an extensive art collection of great historical value, which includes works from different cultures from around the world: Egyptian, African, pre-Columbian, Roman and Buddhist, among others.
Banke Hotel, interiors.
The exclusive Lafayette Suite, located in the former offices of the old bank maintains the original moldings on the ceilings and the marble fireplace that adorned the building before it was transformed into a hotel. Custom-made furniture embellished with Swarovski crystals, Japanese-style cabinets, huge closets and Kartell chandeliers by Philipe Starck are some of the many treasures found inside this suite, which also boasts spectacular views of Pillet Will Street, where the newspaper Le Figaro has its headquarters.
With a modern bar and two excellent restaurants, the Banke delivers an interesting gastronomic offer. The Josefin restaurant is your best bet, with a warm, relaxing and intimate ambiance frequently visited by personalities from the worlds of art, politics, and communication. Located next to the lobby, its crimson walls create a sophisticated and elegant environment with a majestic décor that includes glamorous golden sofas, stunning chandeliers and Marteen Baas chairs made of smoked black wood. The Josefin is known around Paris for its charm and its Mediterranean cuisine with French and Spanish influences.
There are a great number of places to stay in Paris, but the Banke Hotel is probably the perfect place for those looking for a superb location, exclusivity, and genuine luxury. ■
