La Fantaisie, which opened in July 2023, is a dreamy Parisian escape in the lively Faubourg-Montmartre shopping district in the 9th arrondissement. The boutique hotel was transformed by Swedish design master Martin Brudnizki, who revived the former L’Opéra Cadet Hotel. Now a jewel box loved by tourists and locals alike, La Fantaisie centers around a dazzling courtyard garden that nods to the area’s rich history.
Here, we ask Brudnizki about the inspiration behind La Fantaisie’s design.
What level of transformation were you faced with in reimagining La Fantaisie?
“The design concept for La Fantaisie was inspired by the horticultural history of Rue Cadet, which was transformed into market gardens by Jean and Jacques Cadet in the 18th century. We wanted to create a serene oasis in South Pigalle, centering the hotel’s design around the landscaped garden—a rare feature in Paris.”
In what ways did the 9th arrondissement influence your design?
“We drew significant inspiration from South Pigalle’s bohemian ambiance. Our vision was to create an environment that offers charm and relaxation while staying close to the dynamic opera and bar scene. We wanted La Fantaisie to be a destination for both tourists and locals, seamlessly integrating into the neighborhood.”
What did your vision board look like as you prepared the hotel’s design?
“Following the botanical theme, we were inspired by the rich colors of natural vegetation. From floral motifs to hand-painted murals, it was important to work with artisans who captured the essence of nature, which is what we feel we achieved with La Fantaisie.”
How did your time spent as a guest of boutique hotels inform design decisions for La Fantaisie?
“Boutique hotels are intimate and memorable. It’s essential that the spaces feel comfortable and intrinsic to the surrounding area without losing the local essence to whimsy. That balance was key in designing La Fantaisie.”
In what ways does the aesthetic of the hotel’s public spaces carry over to guest rooms?
“We selected a nature-inspired color palette for the guestrooms, incorporating verdant greens, sunshine yellows, and true reds found in lush gardens. These colors create a serene and grounded atmosphere while reflecting the joyous energy of the hotel’s overall theme.”
Why do you think La Fantaisie has become popular with tourists and locals?
“We wanted La Fantaisie to feel rooted in the Faubourg-Montmartre neighborhood. The café and restaurant are open to the public, encouraging locals to become part of the hotel’s evolving story. It’s an extension of the neighborhood’s bohemian charm.”
In what ways did you transform the courtyard garden and Bar Sur Le Toit?
“The secret garden is the centerpiece, offering a sun-dappled retreat in the heart of Paris. Bar Sur Le Toit features rose panels designed for the hotel and a rooftop terrace with views over the city, creating a magical experience for guests.”
What inspired you to transform the hotel’s former underground parking garage into a luxury spa?
“The spa, located on the hotel’s lowest level, provides a secluded setting for relaxation. Inspired by Turkish Hammams, it features a mosaic mural depicting perennial flowers, continuing the hotel’s overall botanical story.”
