Nostalgic Hotel by Philippe Starck Opens in French Resort

In the heart of Cap Ferret, a small seaside resort on France’s west coast, the Villa Colette hotel has recently opened its doors, becoming the first Utopik Collection property outside Paris. It is an intimate project and a joint creation of French entrepreneur Laurent Taïeb and designer Philippe Starck. The two friends set out to capture what they call “joyful nostalgia”—a poetic interpretation of a place to which they feel deeply connected.

The hotel is housed in an elegant building inspired by 19th-century architecture and offers just 28 rooms and suites.The entire concept has been conceived more like a home than a traditional hotel.The interiors are kept in soft, washed-out tones—powder pink, pale yellow, and beiges.Mahogany furniture, soft textiles, mirrors, and photographs appear throughout, giving the space a subtly dreamlike character.

Starck explains that the inspiration for the design was the imagined story of a French actress who, at the end of her career, leaves Paris and moves to a quiet village by the ocean.In her home, traces of her former life remain—mementos, paintings, and small objects.This motif runs throughout the entire hotel.

The shared spaces have a distinct character.The entrance area—decorated with paper flower bouquets, geometric cushions, pleated lampshades, and a 1950s Klein piano—combines the functions of a lobby, lounge, and bar.Here, guests can have a coffee, sit by the fireplace, or simply look out over the bay.

The restaurant menu is overseen by chef Benjamin Six, who focuses on internationally inspired dishes with a clear emphasis on lightness and simplicity.The interior is built on contrasts: mirrors, portraits, and shimmering details create a distinctly theatrical atmosphere.A defining feature is the retractable glass roof, which lets in plenty of natural light during the day and opens the space to the night sky in the evening.