La long-awaited completion of the La Samaritaine Pont Neuf project is finally on the horizon. This ambitious venture by luxury construction giant LVMH is set to unveil a dazzling array of offerings that include a revamped department store, a luxurious hotel, cutting-edge office spaces, and even public housing. Anticipated to be fully operational by April next year, this €750 million endeavor has been nearly two decades in the making.
Among the highlights of the project is the relaunch of the iconic Samaritaine department store, spanning an impressive 20,000 square meters. The opulent Cheval Blanc hotel, designed by renowned architect Peter Marino, is set to offer 72 rooms with stunning views of the Seine, starting at a cool €1,500 per night. The complex will also feature a diverse selection of top-tier restaurants, some of which are poised to earn Michelin stars. Additionally, there are plans for 96 public housing units and a spacious two-story childcare facility.
Originally established in 1870 by the esteemed Cognacq-Jay family, LVMH acquired La Samaritaine in 2001. However, the property was shut down three years later due to serious asbestos and structural concerns. Following a lengthy period of negotiations with Paris City Hall, construction work finally commenced in 2015, marking the beginning of a new chapter for this historic landmark.
The architectural marvels within the La Samaritaine complex include a striking blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences. The department store, designed by Frantz Jourdain, boasts exquisite details such as ornate cast-iron staircases, intricate mosaics, and grand frescoes depicting majestic wildlife. On the other hand, the Cheval Blanc hotel resides in a magnificent Art Deco structure on the south side, providing guests with a luxurious retreat amidst the bustling cityscape.
As the grand opening approaches, LVMH’s partnership with DFS, a subsidiary specializing in duty-free retail, adds an intriguing layer to the project. With a global network spanning airports and multi-brand stores, DFS brings a wealth of expertise to the management of La Samaritaine. The launch of this landmark development will position LVMH as a premier player in the hospitality industry, further solidifying its presence in the luxury market.
In line with LVMH’s upscale accommodation portfolio, the Cheval Blanc hotel at La Samaritaine is set to redefine luxury hospitality in Paris. Boasting scenic views of Pont Neuf and the historic Ile de la Cité, the hotel will offer plush rooftop suites, a state-of-the-art spa in collaboration with Dior Beauté, and a lavish pool overlooking Montmartre. With spacious rooms starting at 45 square meters, the establishment aims to provide a truly indulgent experience for guests.
In addition to creating thousands of jobs, the completion of the La Samaritaine Pont Neuf project represents a significant milestone for LVMH’s expansion into the hospitality sector. With a growing portfolio of upscale properties and a strategic acquisition of the Belmond Group, LVMH is poised to establish itself as a key player in the luxury hotel market. The opening of Cheval Blanc at La Samaritaine signals a new era of extravagance and sophistication in the heart of Paris.
If you are interested in learning more about LVMH and its prestigious properties, you can visit the official website here. For updates on the latest developments at La Samaritaine Pont Neuf, you can explore the project’s dedicated page here.
