Babel Belleville: A Parisian Hotel Inspired by History and Diversity
In the heart of one of Paris' well-known neighbourhoods, Belleville, soared as a vibrant district, leading to BABEL, an awe inspiring blend of cultures and contemporary. The wooden arches, the panels, and the opening with carefully curated lamp posts give the street a comfort of home to incremental waves of immigration from cultures around the world. Offering different dazzling contemporary ethnic rooms whose lobby and restaurant feel like a combination of Asian, Western, Indian, and Arabic styles—in other words, Babel is a space full of little places to stumble upon, each giving the feeling of an exotic, faraway destination.
Every corner of Belleville tells a tale, as its life pulses through the pavement. With tourists and Parisians on its streets, artists’ ateliers and bars, halal butchers, and synagogues, Babel centred wanderers' attention on this very lively district. The displayed artistry is breathtaking, not just with their intricate designs and ornate detail, but also, for a city notorious for its luxury and high prices, Babel is surprisingly “affordable”. Conveniently situated just a short stroll from a metro station, the hotel provided us with an opportunity to explore a less touristy part of Paris.
Babel's inspirational journey: Unveiling the vision and evolution of a hospitality concept
Babel Belleville is the inspired creation of a group of visionary friends who sought to craft a space that pays homage to history and embraces diversity. Conceived as a sanctuary for global citizens, this boutique hotel serves as a hub for like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds to form connections and exchange narratives. Above all, the hotel embodies a heartfelt tribute to Belleville, a legendary neighbourhood that is a melting pot of cultures and ideologies. Babel exemplifies the beauty of simplicity, where the joys of life are celebrated with elegance and grace. It is a welcoming space that exudes warmth, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
The L’escale Tote Bag
The tote bag that holds it all, a timeless companion through life's journey, through all moments, never leaving your side.
The interior & rooms
The aesthetic spirit continues strong and flows evenly, just like the concept suggests. The rooms have a mixed style yet radiate a strong and independent identity. An antique wood mantel with a patina so deep it's almost amber and a history all its own stood proudly against the opposite wall, reflecting the reds, oranges, and yellows of sunset. The entire room is sculpted from contrasting soft stone and dark tones, echoing the colours far and back.
When you look closer, you'll spot their attention to detail. Olive, ivory, and terracotta make for a timeless colour scheme that stands out among the fabrics of upholstery, tiles, wood, and cane. Every shape and texture has been carefully selected and arranged in an eye-catching arrangement that leaves nothing to be desired, skilfully complementing each other in a captivating way.
A comfortable bed draped in the same contradicting coloured fabrics had been placed near the door, leaving space for other rooms on either side. The aesthetic of the rooms remains coherent, yet there is a certain range of colour variation in all of them, from blue to yellow and red. The layout is timely, as it was picked to harmonise with the shifting hues of the sky and complement each other.
As for the usual coffee fare, a french press sat there accompanied by aromatic coffee beans, brown sugar, tea, and water with a gorgeous kettle and serving mugs to round out the exquisite set up. Although the rooms may not be the most spacious, they never feel cramped, but rather cozy, exuding a welcoming sense of home where we can truly relax.
Babel rituals & neighbourhood reserves
In addition to its stunning aesthetics, the hotel offers a truly transformative experience of self-discovery. Guests have the opportunity to indulge in healing massages or participate in meditation classes as part of the hotel's wellness rituals, designed to facilitate reconnection with oneself. For those seeking rejuvenation, a plethora of unique activities await, including full moon rituals, tarot readings, magnet therapy, and cocoa ceremonies, all aimed at uplifting the spirits and promoting relaxation.
Moreover, the hotel is committed to environmental preservation, as evident in its thoughtfully curated selection of ethically sourced products that prioritize local procurement and sustainable production processes. Handcrafted items and low-impact fixtures adorn the restaurant, bathrooms, and bar, showcasing a conscientious approach to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting sustainability. The hotel's dedication to eco-friendly practices creates a delightful atmosphere that resonates positively with the surrounding neighbourhood, leaving a lasting impression from the interactions and experiences throughout the stay
A culinary fusion of cultures and flavours
The restaurant's interior mirrors the aesthetic of the exterior, with a similar colour palette. Hanging lamps, wooden chairs, and vertical slats create an intriguing interplay of space. Various eccentric pieces add to the ambiance.
Heading up the kitchen, Chef Clarie Feral Akram has crafted an exciting menu that brings together Middle Eastern hummus, Alepo terrine, and Croatian wine, celebrating diverse ethnicities while staying true to the restaurant's concept. The restaurant is bustling from 7am, serving breakfast, afternoon tea, lunch, and dinner until 11 p.m. The menu features delicious dishes, from portobello stuffed with labne to Sriracha-glazed herbed rice balls and homemade pesto-filled challah. With options to cater to diverse tastes, including chicken yakitori with a date molasses glaze, succulent spiced suckling lamb, and tempting vegetarian delights, there's something for everyone.
Babel restaurant also features a hybrid bar offering a variety of beverages, including organic and biodynamic wines, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, perfectly complementing the vibe and food. The small-plate, seasonal food, natural wine, energetic music, and lively conversations create the ideal antidote for anyone's spirits after a long day at work.
Embracing Diversity, Creating Familiarity
Paris is always welcoming and inclusive, embracing everyone without bias. The addition of Babel to this vibrant city is unquestionably the perfect fit. Nestled in a well-connected neighbourhood, just a stone's throw from the metro, on a serene pedestrian street, Babel exudes a sense of stillness and elegance, invigorated by good vibes.
There's a bistro-like ambiance in the air, with the bustling bar, the inviting interior, and the diverse cuisines on offer. But it's more than that - it's a sense of familiarity, a feeling of coming home after a long journey, while being surrounded by people from all corners of the world. Babel resonates perfectly with the picture of Paris, offering a unique and enriching experience. It's a stationary journey that feels like a home away from home, where people from all walks of life come together in a harmonious celebration of diversity