Hospes Lancaster will unveil its new look in February 2012 after a major renovation. Original features have been expertly restored and while modern luxury comforts have been incorporated, guests will experience the same elegance, sensuality and glamour which made the historic hotel a favourite with Hollywood greats.

Antique desks, paintings, wooden floors and white Carrara marble bathrooms have been restored to their original splendour, while Louis XV armchairs have been reupholstered with rich fabrics by Kvadrat and Fanny Aaronsen. Rooms feature antique lampshades reconditioned by Anne Sokolsky while modern LEDs are hidden behind rich draperies. A stylish new lamp in the Wolf suite accentuates the high ceilings and focuses the eye on intricate original floral wall decorations. New golden carpets by Tai Ping, monochrome curtains by Créations Bauman and chromed brass mirrors add light, space and opulence.

Built in 1889 and originally the private residence of British born Cuban plantation owner Santiago Drake del Castillo, the property was converted to a hotel by Swiss hotelier Emile Wolf. Seeking to create light, luxurious and above comfortable spaces for his guests, Wolf scoured local markets accompanied by his housekeeper, daughter of an antiques dealer for specialist furnishings, opening his hotel in 1930.

The hotel was a firm favourite with screen icons including Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Frank Capa and Grace Kelly and Marlene Dietrich made the hotel her home for three years. Today, Dietrich’s grand piano takes pride of place in the Dietrich suite, accompanied by a portrait of the diva signed by Producer of The Blue Angel, Erich Pommer. Russian artist Boris Pastoukhoff also stayed frequently and over 80 of his paintings hang on Hospes Lancaster’s walls in tribute.

Located on the Champs Élysées, with views stretching to the Sacre Coeur, all 57 hotel rooms feature king size beds, plasma screen TV-DVD players and iPod stations. High-speed internet access is available in all areas of the hotel, and all guests enjoy complimentary access to the fitness centre and sauna. Hospes Lancaster owns Michelin star rated La Table du Lancaster, which runs under the direction of the award-winning Chef Michel Troigros.