Review of Hotel Square, by Chloe Loyd

Situated in the heart of Paris's media land, in the 16th arrondissement, Hotel Square is a lone star in terms of a chic contemporary hotel in this area. The grey-green Indian granite building, strongly geometric in design but softened by curves and mirror windows is eye-catching and intriguing, a tribute to the vision of owner and restaurateur, Patrick Derderian.

The interior does not disappoint. The spacious lobby illuminated by natural light is backed by an 18 metre high hanging gallery. The lifts are summoned by proximity sensors. The art gallery on the first floor displays 6 week shows of renowned contemporary artists such as Viallat, Ben, Celice and Slagermann.

The hotel also offers a Reading Room (a comfortable alcove on the first floor), two separate function rooms, a recently refurnished basement lounge bar and restaurant. Zebra Square, the restaurant is a fashionable eatery popular with Parisians, featuring an open terrace, bar dominated by a 4 metre high wine library and indoor zebra themed eating area where hotel guests can enjoy breakfast.

The guest rooms are located on the second and third floors with access from a balcony walkway overlooking the central art space. The Square's 22 rooms have curved walls creating a zen-like feel augmented by the wooden shuttered blinds and Asian and Japanese artefacts. The colours are natural, either saffron and brick, ivory and grey or anthracite and gold. Doors and furniture are rosewood and each furnishing has been designed with care.

The Carrera marble bathrooms have huge tubs, unique designer basins and steam resistant mirrors. Undoubtedly the technology is equally as impressive with two direct dial telephones, voice mail, fax, cable TV, state-of-the-art CD player and remote controlled air conditioning.