Guided by Anouk Solanet-Receveur and Louis Solanet, Orso Hotels champions the revival of independent properties steeped in local charm – in Rochechouart’s basement lies the Mikado Ballroom, once the site of candlelit tango soirees and spirited gatherings
Hotel Rochechouart – Capturing the spirit of Montmartre’s historic allure
Stepping into the Rochechouart feels a bit like traveling back to a 1930s Paris that never lost its sense of style. The lobby greets you with warm wood paneling and vintage-inspired seating, but the lines remain clean, the atmosphere light. In the corridors, echoes of old Montmartre swirl around you, the black-and-white photography capturing local scenes of yore. The rooms continue the story, offering gentle references to the past—Art Deco-style headboards, geometric bedside lamps—while ensuring modern comforts remain at the forefront.
Meanwhile, the restaurant seamlessly marries tradition and invention, offering local classics with a creative twist, and the rooftop terrace bestows a panorama of city rooftops, culminating in that quintessential view of the Sacré-Cœur.
Descending into Le Mikado, you encounter an altogether different kind of magic: the subdued lighting, mirrored details, and plush seats evoke an intimate hideaway where one might sip a cocktail before venturing onto the dance floor. Far from a static museum piece, it’s an evolving space open to private events or lively evenings of music, fully in tune with the city’s nightlife renaissance.
A Parisian Thirties Gem by Anouk Solanet-Receveur and Louis Solanet
On the bustling Boulevard Marguerite de Rochechouart in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, just a short stroll from Montmartre and the iconic nightlife of Pigalle, stands Hotel Rochechouart. This historic property traces its origins to 1929, when it was built with the ambitions of a grand hotel—a distinct rarity in an era already brimming with Belle Époque nostalgia. Over the decades, the building’s fortunes waxed and waned. Yet, its spirit—steeped in the vibrant artistry and bohemian charm of early 20th-century Paris—remained. Thanks to the vision of Anouk Solanet-Receveur and Louis Solanet, the husband-and-wife duo behind Orso Hotels, the Rochechouart has reemerged as a sophisticated and authentic tribute to its original Art Deco legacy.
A Brief History of Boulevard Rochechouart
To appreciate Hotel Rochechouart, one must understand the cultural tapestry of its surroundings. Boulevard Marguerite de Rochechouart sits at the base of Montmartre, an area that has long been synonymous with creativity and counterculture. From the 19th century onward, the district attracted writers, painters, and performers, from Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec to Pablo Picasso. By the 1920s and 1930s, Montmartre and its environs were a hotbed of jazz clubs, cabarets, and avant-garde movements, establishing Paris as the epicenter of modern art and music.
When Hotel Rochechouart first opened its doors in 1929, it represented the tail end of an era often referred to as the Années Folles (the “crazy years”), spanning the post–World War I period. This epoch saw the birth of daring fashions, the rapid evolution of music, and a general thirst for celebration. In this spirit, the Rochechouart began its life, hosting travelers, artists, and those drawn to the capital’s inimitable sense of romance and possibility.
From Grand Opening to Wartime Occupation
During the 1930s, Hotel Rochechouart attracted a diverse clientele of performers, painters, and writers who converged on Paris in search of inspiration. This creative milieu made the property a perfect retreat for free-spirited souls who wanted proximity to Montmartre’s emerging cultural scene without straying from the main arteries of the city.
However, like many Parisian landmarks, the hotel’s history also reflects more sobering chapters. During World War II, parts of the building were repurposed by the occupying forces. In the postwar period, the property struggled to regain its earlier status, inching toward neglect over the subsequent decades. Yet, even as it faded from the limelight, the underlying architecture and original features remained largely intact, awaiting a thoughtful revival.
A Family Tradition: Anouk and Louis Solanet
Enter Anouk Solanet-Receveur and Louis Solanet, co-founders of Orso Hotels and custodians of Hotel Rochechouart’s rebirth. Anouk grew up near the district and recalls passing by the once-glamorous edifice, imagining what it might look like if returned to its former grandeur.
“I come from a family deeply rooted in the hotel business,” Anouk explains. “We lived close by, and whenever I spotted this building, I thought it was like a Sleeping Beauty. It deserved someone who would understand its story and awaken it—not as a lifeless replica of the 1930s, but as a vibrant property that nods to the past and speaks to modern travelers.”
Louis shares this commitment to marrying heritage with innovation. After gaining experience in larger hotel groups, both Anouk and Louis saw a gap: a need for a hotel collection that would celebrate individual character while offering a consistently high standard of hospitality. Thus was born Orso Hotels, a portfolio that now boasts seven boutique addresses scattered across Paris, each property reflecting its neighborhood’s unique flavor.
Orso Hotels: A Boutique Vision for Paris
Hotel Rochechouart sits comfortably in this ecosystem. It is, in many ways, Orso’s crown jewel, embodying the brand’s passion for revitalizing historically significant buildings and infusing them with contemporary warmth.Orso Hotels is dedicated to bridging the gap between large chain establishments—with their meticulously streamlined operations—and the unique allure of independent boutique hotels, where every property carries its own distinctive personality. The founders have embraced a philosophy that celebrates the best of both worlds: delivering exceptional comfort through refined service while fostering community-driven values and showcasing a deep respect for craftsmanship. Every Orso property is carefully shaped by its local culture, design traditions, and the heritage of the building in which it is nestled. Yet, despite their individuality, all the hotels share a common DNA.
This ethos is most evident in the way Orso Hotels connect guests with the neighborhoods that surround them. On arrival, visitors are not met with generic, plastic-wrapped treats but are warmly welcomed with selections of pastries and local specialties sourced from nearby bakeries. This personalized welcome is an authentic reflection of the area’s character, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the local way of life from the very first moment. Each hotel is presented as a gateway to its district, with carefully curated maps highlighting the finest boulangeries, intimate cafés, hidden gardens, and cultural hotspots all within a leisurely walk. This thoughtful touch not only enhances the visitor experience but also reinforces the hotels’ commitment to fostering genuine connections with their surroundings.
In keeping with a commitment to sustainable hospitality, Orso Hotels also prioritize artisanal and environmentally conscious amenities. By reducing reliance on single-use plastics and showcasing products that are regionally sourced, the hotels reflect a dedication to both exceptional service and responsible practices. Hotel Rochechouart, in particular, stands out as a crown jewel in this ecosystem. It embodies the brand’s passion for revitalizing historically significant buildings, seamlessly blending its rich past with an infusion of contemporary warmth. Here, heritage and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, offering guests an experience that is as memorable as it is authentically Parisian.
The Role of Festen Architecture
One of the cornerstones of Hotel Rochechouart’s impressive makeover is the collaboration with Festen—the design duo of Hugo Sauzay and Charlotte de Tonnac. Widely recognized for their refined approach to interior architecture, Festen excels at weaving period references into modern spaces without succumbing to pastiche. Their philosophy is less about replicating Art Deco and more about interpreting it through the lens of the present, creating environments that are both historically resonant and effortlessly contemporary.
In their design work, Material Authenticity is paramount. Instead of relying on cheap imitations, the hotel features real brass, marble, and wood—materials emblematic of early 20th-century Paris that lend an enduring air of elegance and substance. During the refurbishment, workers uncovered stunning details that had been hidden under layers of carpeting, such as Beaujolais ceramic tiles and antique parquet floors. These Original Floors and Staircases were not replaced but carefully restored, respecting the building’s history while aligning with Orso’s sustainable outlook.
The design is further elevated by Ethereal Lighting. In many of the hallways and communal spaces, understated fixtures evoke the geometric precision of Art Deco without feeling kitschy, casting soft glows that enhance the space’s inherent charm. This is complemented by Clean, Bold Lines—Festen’s hallmark—which infuse each space with strong silhouettes and simple forms. Subtle textures and patterns play against these clean lines, preserving the spaciousness reminiscent of a luxurious 1930s hotel lobby.
The result is a design language that, while steeped in a specific period, resonates with modern travelers. There is an unmistakable sense of glamour in polished brass accents, plush fabrics, and bold black-and-white contrasts, yet the overall atmosphere remains refreshingly uncluttered and inviting. Hotel Rochechouart, with its seamless blend of historical integrity and contemporary refinement, stands as a prime example of how thoughtful design and local authenticity can create a space that is both timeless and thoroughly modern.
Le Mikado: Rebirth of a Legendary Ballroom
Deep within Hotel Rochechouart lies one of its most enticing secrets: Le Mikado. In the early 20th century, this basement ballroom hosted glamorous events where revelers danced the night away to live jazz, tango, and the spirited anthems of Paris’s Roaring Twenties. Adorned with delicate lanterns and swirling patterns, Le Mikado was a rendezvous point for avant-garde artists seeking inspiration and socialites craving a dash of intrigue.
Over time, as the building’s fortunes changed, the ballroom fell into disuse. When the renovation team gained access to the space, they found relics of its original opulence—faded wall motifs, vintage hardware, and a wealth of photographic evidence capturing jubilant scenes from the 1930s.
The architects sought to preserve the sense of intimate enclosure that once defined the space. Plush carpets, low-slung sofas, and a scattering of cozy poufs encourage guests to settle in for an evening that feels both decadent and comfortably private.
The name “Mikado” and the choice of Japanese-style lanterns hint at the early 20th-century European fascination with Far Eastern arts. Festen’s design nods to this historical curiosity through subtle references in color palettes and ornamental details. A series of disco balls overhead add a playful twist, bridging the gap between 1930s Paris and modern nightlife. It is not a slavish re-creation of the Roaring Twenties but rather an homage to the spirit of celebration that once defined Le Mikado. After its grand reopening on, Le Mikado ball dance once again invites locals and travelers to gather in the heart of Paris—rekindling the lively social flame for which the city has always been revered.
Art Deco Influences, Modern Comfort
To fully appreciate the interior design, one must look closer at the hallmark elements of Art Deco that the property retains and reinterprets: The hallway motifs and bedroom furniture often exhibit streamlined, symmetrical lines. Doors and window frames are sometimes highlighted by geometric inlays or metal edging that underscores the aesthetic of the 1930s. The bar areas, tables, and bathroom vanities feature materials such as green marble, rose-hued marble, or even tinted mirrors that reflect an Art Deco sensibility.
While the overarching palette leans toward warm neutrals, surprising bursts of color—such as deep emerald, terracotta, or mustard—add depth and conjure the eclectic vibrancy of 1930s Paris. Light fixtures with frosted glass and brass or nickel plating reference vintage designs without feeling antiquated.
Yet, comfort remains a priority. The bedding is plush and contemporary, the in-room technology discreet but state-of-the-art, and the common areas encourage a relaxed lifestyle akin to a stylish Parisian apartment.
Culinary Notes: Restaurant and Rooftop
Though the design and history are major draws, no Parisian hotel is complete without a nod to the culinary arts. Hotel Rochechouart offers a French brasserie-inspired restaurant, celebrating classic dishes with a fresh, modern twist. While the interior of the restaurant mirrors the hotel’s Art Deco influences—think mosaic floors uncovered during renovation and restored to their original luster—the menu pays tribute to timeless French fare, from onion soup to carefully sourced cheeses, all served with a contemporary flair.
An additional highlight is the hotel’s rooftop, a relatively rare feature in this part of Paris. From this vantage point, one can admire the Sacré-Cœur basilica perched atop Montmartre or enjoy sweeping views over the city’s zinc rooftops. While the design up here is simpler and more streamlined—an open-air terrace that invites conversation—the continuity of style remains evident in subtle flourishes, ensuring every detail aligns with the Rochechouart’s overarching identity.
Sustainability and Local Engagement at Hotel Rochechouart
Under Orso Hotels, a significant emphasis is placed on sustainability and the celebration of local craftsmanship. Although the renovation is anchored in preserving the building’s heritage, it also aligns with contemporary environmental values:
Instead of gutting the building, the design team salvaged much of its existing parquet, tiling, and stone surfaces. These elements were painstakingly restored, showcasing original craftsmanship that would be difficult to replicate today.
The hotel partners with French artisans for everything from bespoke furniture to linens and toiletries. This approach not only reduces the carbon footprint tied to imports but also supports regional economies and cultural heritage.
Reflecting the Orso brand’s Corsican inspiration (the name “Orso” and “Colomba” both stem from a well-known Corsican tale), the in-house toiletries are sourced from Grasse, capital of French perfumery. Evoking the scents of Corsican landscapes—think aromatic shrubs and sun-baked herbs—the range is packaged responsibly, respecting the environment while offering guests a uniquely French indulgence.
For Anouk and Louis, these steps toward sustainability are not mere trends but part of a broader mission: to blend the elegance of yesteryear with the values of today.
The Corsican Tale: Orso and Colomba
At the heart of the Orso Hotels story lies a nod to Corsican culture: the names “Orso” and “Colomba” are drawn from a 19th-century French novella set on the Isle of Corsica. In this tale, a soldier named Orso returns to his homeland, torn between the codes of traditional honor and a more modern worldview, while his beloved Colomba represents a steadfast link to his roots. It is a narrative of dualities: tradition vs. progress, loyalty vs. adventure.
For the Solanets, this theme resonates with their project. They embrace the tension of preserving a hotel’s historical authenticity while infusing it with a forward-thinking, guest-centric approach. The Orso brand binds each hotel in the group through shared values—chief among them, a deep respect for local culture, art, and design—while allowing every property to maintain its individuality.
Hotel Rochechouart on your agenda
Hotel Rochechouart
Address: 55 Boulevard Marguerite de Rochechouart, 75009 Paris, France
District: Pigalle/Montmartre (9th arrondissement)
Style: Art Deco-inspired boutique hotel, dating to 1929, renovated by Festen in 2019–2020.
Features: Rooftop terrace with panoramic views, Le Mikado ballroom, brasserie-style restaurant, and a focus on local artisanal collaborations.
Website: www.orsohotels.com
About Orso Hotels: A collection of seven boutique addresses in Paris founded by Anouk Solanet-Receveur and Louis Solanet. Each property offers its own unique design story, embedded in local culture and craftsmanship, while sharing a unifying philosophy of personalized, community-rooted hospitality.