Radisson Hospitality has signed the first Radisson Collection hotel in France, in the La Défense business area of Paris.

The Radisson Collection Hotel & Suites, Paris La Défense will bring the group’s portfolio in the country to 17 hotels and more than 3,000 rooms in operation or under development.

Situated in the heart of France’s prestigious business district, Europe’s largest and second-most-important business and commercial centre, the hotel will provide a unique opportunity for guests to combine business and leisure.

With its exceptional architecture designed by Christian de Portzamparc and interior design by Jean-Philippe Nuel, the hotel is an experience in itself.

Set between the famous Grande Arche and CNIT building, the hotel will sit on the doorstep of European business – while offering easy access to the French capital’s many iconic landmarks and attractions.

The hotel will be located in the Sisters Towers, a new iconic development by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield in the La Défense district.

By gathering offices, a hotel and services in the same location, the project perfectly illustrates the new generation of developments, where a greater variety of activities maximises the use of space for users and operators.

As an example, the two towers will be connected by an observation deck run by the hotel, which will include a large, versatile room that can be turned into an auditorium or a banqueting room.

Elie Younes, chief development officer, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “The Radisson Collection La Défense will be an addition to the Parisian skyline – a destination in itself.

“In an evolving real estate market, it’s increasingly critical to have the right neighbours around a high-profile hotel asset, and the Sisters Towers development is the perfect blend – combining luxury hospitality with state-of-the-art commercial real estate.

“We’re glad to continue our strategic partnership with Unibail Rodamco Westfield – the largest and strongest player in the European real estate market.”

The signing of the first-ever Radisson Collection hotel to arrive in France perfectly complements Radisson Hotel Group’s development strategy, which has identified the country as a key target market.

The Radisson Collection Hotel, Paris Champs Elysées will also join the premium lifestyle collection after an upgrade to the existing Radisson Blu hotel at this iconic location.

It follows strong development activity in other French locations, including the opening of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Bordeaux and the signing of the Radisson Resort Sangatte Blériot-Plage.