Reflections: Grace Leo-Andrieu

By Staff -- HOTELS Magazine, 8/1/2006

Grace Leo-Andrieu, president, GLA Hotels, Paris

The business my father was involved in while I was growing up in Hong Kong is a far cry from the demanding and complex industry that hotelkeeping has become today.

When I renovated and re-opened the Montalembert Hotel in Paris in 1989, the notion of “design hotels” was practically unheard of. This 56-room hotel was hailed as the forerunner to the “boutique hotel” movement.

One thing became evident to me: The public was more than ready for a new concept that was more adapted to the 21st century way of life. In reality, the boutique hotel syndrome was founded on the principle of recognizing the need for individuality of our guests; we created an atmosphere of luxury with charm, supported by a level of attentive yet unobtrusive service.

For many years, the large hotel chain operators did not take us seriously. We were considered mere artisans doing customized, exquisite properties for the connoisseur, while the big boys continued to turn out industrial, cookie-cutter products that were intended to suit everyone. But our hotels always captured the media’s attention— each property was unique, original, with its own character and attributes, and therefore photogenic and press worthy. The standard hotels, however, with their lackluster décor, didn’t offer the sense of place nor history and consequently not the draw.

Some 15 years later, I smile to myself when I see how the major hotel companies are trying so hard to emulate the concept of “smaller is beautiful.” Yes, travel trends and habits are evolving constantly—no one can afford to rest on one’s laurels.

I take this opportunity to applaud a few like-minded entrepreneurs such as Robert Burns, Ian Schrager, Chris Blackwell and Adrian Zecha, who took the risk, defied the system and raised the bar of hotelkeeping.

I believe hotels, more than ever, have been elevated to another sphere—way beyond the business of keeping good clean rooms to the wayward traveler. They are now considered trend-setting, glamorous and sexy places to go to because upscale and savvy consumers are constantly on the lookout for a fresh and exciting experience, ready to be astonished and pampered. Whether you are ready or not, we are committed to providing these extraordinary services and facilities to ensure that our following are happy. A disappointing stay would be catastrophic and unforgivable. I hope you, my esteemed colleagues, are game to meet the ongoing challenge.