The Norman Hotel, Paris

A Chic and Intimate Retreat in the Heart of the 8th Arrondissement

I love researching boutique hotels in Paris—there are so many choices! While I normally lean toward something very “Parisian,” when I visit Paris, The Norman Hotel stood out with its unique blend of American 20th-century modernist influence and the refined Paris of the 1960s. As a child of the ’60s and a fan of Norman Ives’ iconic graphic design, it felt like the perfect match.

The hotel has a quirky yet elegant charm, with artistic touches that immediately appeal to me. From the soft rugs and polished woodwork to curated art, custom-made spirits and bespoke bathroom amenities, every detail feels thoughtfully chosen. It’s furnished with vintage sofas, eclectic objets d’art and even a fireplace.

The Norman opened in September 2023 and at the time, it was still under the radar, making it all the more exciting to experience in 2024. Located in the 8th arrondissement, my favorite area in Paris, it’s within walking distance of my must-visit spots. I spent an entire day strolling from one end of the Champs-Élysées to the other with plenty of café stops—it was the perfect way to take in the city.

Seasonal Note: My March visit coincided with early spring in Paris—the ideal time to experience The Norman. The city wasn’t yet crowded with summer tourists and the weather was mild enough (around 12-15°C) for comfortable exploration. Fall (September-October) offers similarly pleasant conditions with the added charm of changing colors in nearby Parc Monceau.

Lobby

Despite its proximity to the Champs-Élysées, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat, providing a surprising contrast to the vibrant area. I loved returning to it to catch my breath and relax at the bar before heading out for the evening.

Dining and Relaxation

Restaurant

The Norman’s elegant Thai restaurant, Thiou, offers an unexpected yet delightful culinary departure from traditional French cuisine. The restaurant transitions seamlessly from an intimate indoor space to a stunning courtyard setting when weather permits. Chef Thiou Bandasak’s menu balances authentic Thai flavors with French techniques, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising.

Bar

The hotel bar deserves special mention—the bartenders craft exceptional cocktails using spirits made specifically for The Norman. My evening ritual became a pre-dinner “Norman Negroni” with its distinctive house-made bitter orange aperitif.

Suite Lounge

The rooms are superbly designed, seamlessly combining modern comfort with a chic 1960s aesthetic. Modernist abstract paintings, inspired by Norman Ives, adorn the walls and the rosewood and oak furniture is complemented by pieces sourced from antique dealers. I especially loved the snug bathroom with ceramic mosaic walls and the vanity made of rosewood, glass and steel. The view from my window overlooked 19th-century Haussmann-style buildings—a sight I never tired of and a lovely reminder that I was truly in Paris.

Suite Bedroom

Insider Tip: Book room 403 for the best combination of space, light and quintessential Parisian views. For a truly special experience, request the breakfast picnic basket and enjoy it at nearby Parc Monceau—the hotel will arrange everything, including a beautiful vintage blanket and map marking the perfect spot under the chestnut trees.

Spa

The tucked-away spa features a lap pool and sauna that became my sanctuary after long days of exploring. While compact, the attention to detail—heated marble benches, custom aromatherapy blends and plush Turkish cotton robes—made each visit a luxurious experience.

What I love about The Norman Hotel:

• The 1960s-inspired design, adding a sophisticated yet edgy flair
• The attention to detail, from curated art to custom-made amenities
• The prime location in the 8th arrondissement, with easy access to my favorite Parisian spots
• The peaceful setting, despite its proximity to the Champs-Élysées
• The warm, welcoming staff who always made time for my endless questions
• The handcrafted spirits and luxurious in-room offerings
• The tucked-away spa with a lap pool and sauna
• Thiou, the elegant Thai restaurant in both indoor and courtyard settings

What to Expect: The Norman Experience

As a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, The Norman commands boutique luxury pricing that reflects its artistic character and coveted 8th arrondissement address. During my visit, standard rooms started at €680 per night, with the larger suites reaching €1,600 during high season. While certainly an investment, The Norman delivers exceptional attention to detail that larger Parisian palace hotels often miss. The intimate scale (just 37 rooms) ensures personalized service worth the premium. Spa access is included for guests, though I recommend booking the signature €150 “Parisian Renewal” treatment for the full experience. The hotel occasionally offers “Cultural Immersion” packages that include museum passes and insider experiences for extended stays.

Norman Hôtel & Spa

9 Rue Balzac, 75008 Paris, France
Tel: +33 1 42 99 80 80

Ready to experience the magic of Parisian boutique hotels? Book your stay at The Norman Hotel and immerse yourself in the art of quiet luxury. If you’re dreaming of a luxurious escape in Australia, The Langham Hotel, Sydney offers an unforgettable experience. Or if Spain is on your radar, The Wittmore Hotel in Barcelona promises an equally breathtaking retreat.

Don’t miss out on exclusive travel tips and hidden gems—subscribe to my newsletter for the latest luxury destinations and insider insights!