Hôtel Présent

Arles, France - map
www.hotelpresent.fr

Welcome to Hôtel Présent, a captivating oasis of culture, gastronomy, and design nestled in the heart of Place Voltaire. Ideally situated between the train station and the historic arenas, this 1950s architectural gem, conceived by the not-so-famous yet visionary architect Pierre Vago, graces the pedestrian square with its imposing presence.

As the sun bathes the square in a golden glow and the plane trees offer their comforting shade during the hottest hours of the day, Place Voltaire comes to life. This picturesque and historic square transforms with the seasons, offering a delightful blend of sidewalk cafes, restaurants, and the company of both locals and enthusiasts of ancient relics and contemporary art. It's a slice of the south in all its splendid glory, pulsing with an overflowing but always benevolent energy.

Hôtel Présent is more than just a place to rest your head; it is a dynamic hub where time's worth is determined by how you choose to spend it. It encourages you to fully embrace life and express your innermost self. This establishment embodies a holistic design approach that seamlessly integrates architectural references into its spaces.

The hotel is a tribute to the architectural legacy of the 20th century, a living museum that transcends boundaries and traditional constraints. It's a constantly evolving collection of lighting fixtures, objects, furnishings, artworks, and books from the 1950s to the present day, with no fixed place in either space or time.

Hôtel Présent's aesthetic is a daring modernist fusion of raw and refined materials, expertly combining wood, mirrors, ceramics, and concrete to create a visually striking juxtaposition. It offers a unique retro-futuristic perspective on the present day, a bold nod to the past while embracing the future.

Within its walls, you'll find 13 thoughtfully-designed rooms that provide not only comfort but also a sense of beauty. These rooms are not mere accommodations; they are individual expressions of artistry, each adorned with a curated mix of objects, artistic pieces, light fixtures, and furnishings personally selected by the owner over time. No two spaces are alike, making each stay a distinctive experience.

At its core, Hôtel Présent is a culinary destination. It boasts a restaurant, bar, and a rooftop terrace that offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city. The restaurant collaborates with a rotating roster of visiting chefs, both friends and longer-term guests, to showcase the flavors and products of the local terroir and, on occasion, from further afield. Every dish is crafted from ingredients sourced within a limited perimeter, emphasizing the importance of locality.

The cuisine is meant to be shared, mirroring the welcoming and hospitable spirit of the hotel's team. The bars, located on the restaurant level and the rooftop "La Piscine," feature an ever-changing selection of natural wines and a potent cocktail menu that's both straightforward and daring. The drinks are crafted from carefully sourced spirits that rotate just as frequently, ensuring a unique libation experience with every visit.

The rooftop terrace, designed as a surrealistic pool without water, offers not only a refreshing retreat for your body but also for your soul. Sip on a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages while basking in the ambiance that is both relaxing and inspiring. In an age when many hotels prioritize multimedia amenities, Hôtel Présent has chosen to elevate culture in one of its most ancient and alluring forms.

Passionate about objects and their contents, the hotel believes that reading and exploring books, magazines, or fanzines are the essence of living in the present moment. Guests, whether dining at the restaurant or lounging on the sunny terrace from morning till night, have access to a bustling library filled with editions that span the spectrum from common to rare. Dive into topics like architecture, imagery, philosophy, pop culture, and even eroticism.

For those who seek a private retreat, the guest rooms at Hôtel Présent are a haven. Personalized bookshelves take center stage, curated with love and passion by favorite independent publishers. These are the very editions that your favorite booksellers are reading in their own beds, ensuring that you're surrounded by intellectual and artistic inspiration.

In every corner of Hôtel Présent, you'll find a celebration of the present moment, an invitation to indulge in culture, fine cuisine, and design that transcends time. It's a place where history and the future coexist in perfect harmony, offering an unforgettable experience to those who seek something more than the ordinary. Come, immerse yourself in the living tapestry of Hôtel Présent and let the beauty of the present envelop you.