Monaco, 2018

Le Bar Américain at Hôtel de Paris Monte Carlo

Le Bar Americain in Monte Carlo is a beloved destination, where amber hues and a striking verre églomisé back bar create a timeless atmosphere. With its classic design and glamorous charm, the bar offers an unforgettable setting for sophisticated cocktails and conversation.

Le Bar Américain unveiled its new look in the summer of 2018, sensitively revived by David Collins Studio to retain the glamour and charm for which it is known. Polished wood and burnished leather armchairs accompany deep-pile rugs and soft lighting to create a scheme that changes mood depending on the time of day. The bar really comes into its own after dark, when decadent cocktails and live jazz music bring a 1920s-era vibe.

Catherine Martin, Sleeper

A lot of trust was placed on David Collins Studio to reimagine this much loved and respected institution. My approach was to work with its successes and improve and add to them. We want this bar to have the same connection with new visitors, as we know it will have with all those who have loved it for years - and who will continue to do so.

Simon Rawlings, Chief Creative Officer at David Collins Studio

Situated within the legendary Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo, Le Bar Américain has been refashioned to capture its historic elegance while introducing a contemporary sensibility. Commissioned by Monte Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, the interiors honour the venue’s rich heritage through an enhanced sense of luxury, texture, and charm.

Walls are lined with amber raw silk with burgundy gimp trim, framed elegantly in rosewood, creating a warm and enveloping backdrop. The overall colour palette of amber and rosewood glows, enhancing the inviting and timeless atmosphere. Bespoke leather furniture, including the iconic bar seating, in tones complementing the walls enhances the design, while a marble mosaic floor and deep-pile carpets contribute to the bar’s tactile richness. The intricate interplay of materials—wood, leather, and marble—ensures the space feels enduringly refined. Soft, warm lighting allows the atmosphere to transition seamlessly from a glamorous daytime lounge to a seductive evening retreat.

The bar itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring timber marquetry and bespoke detailing that reflects the venue’s unique personality. A memorable brass horse head table lamp adds a whimsical touch to the design. Behind the bar, églomisé mirrors evoke vintage Monaco Grand Prix illustrations, adding a layer of nostalgia and glamour. A live music stage and terrace seating harmonise within the room’s layout, ensuring every seat offers a privileged view of the entertainment and surroundings. The terrace offers stunning vistas of the sea, the Casino, and Place du Casino, further elevating the guest experience.

Artful details, including stitched lighting fixtures and embossed leather finishes, add layers of refinement to the space, reinforcing its status as an icon of understated luxury. The addition of a humidor provides an exclusive touch, allowing prestigious guests the privilege of personalised cigar storage.

Le Bar Américain celebrates its heritage through a meticulous reinterpretation of its signature features, creating a timeless yet vibrant destination where the past and future harmoniously converge.

Photography by Kensington Leverne