Hong Kong, 9 December 2024 – Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced the option to sign two iconic additions to its portfolio of exceptional hotels from early 2025: Hôtel Lutetia in Paris and the Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam. The acceptance of the offer is subject to the completion of a consultation process with the relevant Works Councils, which will begin shortly.
Following completion of the transaction, Hôtel Lutetia will be rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris, while the Conservatorium Hotel is set to be rebranded as Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium, Amsterdam in January 2026, following a comprehensive upgrade (the hotel will stay open during that period). The opportunity to manage these two hotels marks a significant milestone in the Group’s newly unveiled brand-led growth strategy, under the leadership of Group Chief Executive Laurent Kleitman, to deliver exceptional guest-centric experiences while accelerating the brand’s global expansion: strengthening its presence in two of Europe’s most iconic cities, and perfectly complementing Mandarin Oriental’s current portfolio.
Both properties are renowned for their historic significance and architectural grandeur, and Mandarin Oriental is committed to ensuring that each property’s unique character and local cultural essence is preserved, while seamlessly delivering the brand’s unique approach to luxury hospitality, steeped in the brand’s dual Asian roots.
Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental, commented: “Mandarin Oriental is focused on being a global leader in luxury hospitality. These new long term management agreements with two of Europe’s great heritage hotels are core to our strategy of expanding and strengthening our brand’s presence in world destinations that appeal to our fans."
He added, “Welcoming the legendary Hôtel Lutetia to our portfolio, 115 years after its opening, further strengthens Mandarin Oriental’s foothold in this key luxury market, where we are successfully operating Mandarin Oriental, Paris on Rue Saint Honoré since 2011. Having soon, two Palace hotels in Paris, one on the left and one on the right bank, we are proudly reaffirming our relentless commitment to the French hospitality market and creating a compelling choice for our guests. Indeed, we have significant experience of operating two hotels in key city centre destinations – including Hong Kong, London, Beijing and soon, Dubai – where we have successfully showcased two distinct facets of each destination. Likewise, adding the Conservatorium Hotel to our portfolio will bring a new dimension to our presence across Europe’s leading capitals, where we are already well versed in delivering world-class service in cities that value luxury and heritage."
The Hotels are part of the Locka Holding BV. Founder, Alfred Akirov, commented, “Since we opened both Hotels, we have seen the growth in results and guest satisfaction, making both Hotels desired leading destinations in Europe. I am thankful to the Hotels’ teams for their great work together. We are delighted to be collaborating with Mandarin Oriental to rebrand our heritage landmarks and bring a new energy to the experiences that both have to offer. This partnership marks a significant chapter in the illustrious history of both hotels and we are confident that Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s legendary hospitality expertise will further elevate these iconic properties and bring new fans to enjoy the delights of each destination and each hotel’s unique spirit."
Introducing Hôtel Lutetia
Founded in 1910 by the Boucicaut family, owners of Le Bon Marché, Hôtel Lutetia has long been a symbol of Parisian elegance and culture. Designed with a harmonious blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, the hotel quickly became a hub for the city’s intellectual and artistic elite. Over the years, it has hosted luminaries such as Picasso, Matisse, Charles de Gaulle and James Joyce, who famously completed Ulysses within its walls. During World War II, the hotel was requisitioned by the occupying forces, then, after the liberation, it served as a refuge for displaced individuals returning from the camps, adding to its rich historical significance. Contributions from modern cultural icons such as Sonia Rykiel, David Lynch, and Serge Gainsbourg have helped to cement Lutetia’s status as a meeting place for creative minds and global leaders.
As the only luxury Palace hotel on Paris’s Left Bank, Hôtel Lutetia underwent a comprehensive restoration led by renowned architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte and reopened in 2018. The renovation carefully preserved its storied heritage while introducing contemporary luxuries to enhance the guest stay. Joining the Mandarin Oriental portfolio, this iconic property will further benefit from the Group’s renowned DNA of legendary service, craftsmanship, culinary excellence and unsurpassed wellness, as well as a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. Parisians and global travellers alike can appreciate its imposing style, which combines traditional elegance with modern amenities, ensuring the ultimate comfort.
The hotel offers 184 spacious and beautifully appointed guest rooms, including 47 suites. Many of the signature suites have been designed by creative icons, including the Saint Germain Penthouse by Francis Ford Coppola, Suite Parisienne by Isabelle Huppert, who has been a Mandarin Oriental Celebrity Fan for more than ten years, and the Joséphine Baker Suite, which features private terraces with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Notable highlights include the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, a 7,500-square-foot sanctuary dedicated to rejuvenation, Brasserie Lutetia, located at the iconic corner of Boulevard Raspail and Rue de Sèvres, a Parisian dining institution for over a century, and artistic highlights such as the stained glass ceiling in the central salon and restored Romanesque frescoes at Bar Josephine.
A Dual Perspective on Paris
With Mandarin Oriental’s expanded presence in Paris, the Group now offers an unparalleled view of the city’s luxury hospitality landscape. Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, on the Rive Gauche, blends historical grandeur with modern refinement, providing a cultural retreat steeped in Parisian heritage, while seamlessly incorporating Mandarin Oriental’s style. Meanwhile, Mandarin Oriental, Paris on the Rive Droite, captures the energy of the city’s most fashionable district, offering a contemporary sanctuary with sophisticated design and a hidden garden. Together, these two extraordinary properties offer guests an exceptional experience of Paris, from its artistic heart to its vibrant luxury scene. Reflecting Mandarin Oriental’s role as shapers of culture, they combine the essence of Parisian charm with the brand’s legendary service and dedication to delivering exceptional experiences.
Introducing Conservatorium Hotel
Located in Amsterdam’s renowned Museum Quarter, the Conservatorium Hotel is a striking fusion of historical grandeur and modern sophistication. Originally designed in the late 19th century by architect Daniel Knuttel, the building has a storied past as a former bank and music conservatory. Today, it stands as a symbol of refined luxury, reimagined by celebrated Italian architect Piero Lissoni. The hotel features 129 spacious rooms and suites, where modern elegance and craftsmanship seamlessly blend with the building’s historic architecture.
Taiko Restaurant, under the guidance of Executive Chef Schilo van Coevorden, offers innovative Asian-inspired dishes, while the Brasserie & Lounge provides all-day dining beneath a stunning glass atrium. The award-winning Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre is an immersive wellness sanctuary designed to promote balance of the body and mind, while the hotel’s deep connection to culture is reflected not only in its design but also in its partnerships with artists, musicians and local institutions.
Perfectly situated near cultural landmarks such as the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum and Concertgebouw, the Conservatorium Hotel is ideally placed for a truly immersive experience in the heart of Amsterdam.
About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Renowned for creating outstanding properties, each destination reflects the Group’s dual Asian heritage, local culture and unique design. Driven by a passion for the exceptional, every day, everywhere, the Group’s mission is to craft time enriching experiences that transform the ordinary to the exceptional and guests to fans through its legendary service. The Group now operates 41 hotels, 12 residences and 25 exceptional homes in 26 countries and territories with many more projects under development. Mandarin Oriental continues to drive its reputation as an innovative leader in luxury hospitality, delivering sustainable growth over the long term.
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