Maison Heler Hotel Is Now Accepting Reservations: Showcases a 9-Story Foundation Crowned with a 19th-Century-Inspired Mansion
Title: Maison Heler: Philippe Starck’s Dreamlike Hotel Materializes a Literary Fantasy in Metz
Famed for his bold creativity and innovative design, French mastermind Philippe Starck has introduced one of his most fantastical creations to date — now with a literary flair. Located in the historic city of Metz, France, Maison Heler transcends the concept of a hotel; it is an enchanting, livable narrative, a striking blend of architecture, design, and storytelling.
A Hotel Emerged from Imagination
Distinct from conventional luxury hotels, Maison Heler emerged from the whimsical tale penned by Starck himself. Titled “The Meticulous Life of Manfred Heler,” this fanciful narrative — published by Allary Éditions — chronicles the surreal adventures of the orphaned Manfred Heler, whose residence mysteriously ascends into the skies, disconnected from the ground beneath. This tale serves as both the structural and philosophical foundation for the nine-story hotel bearing the same name.
Dominating Metz’s skyline, the most notable aspect of Maison Heler is the rooftop mansion that resonates with the city’s 19th-century architectural style. It appears to defy physics — a poetic tribute to the literary transformation in Starck’s narrative. As Starck remarks, “Maison Heler was born from a surreal, poetic tale that I envisioned. It is a hotel designed as a habitable piece of art, a literary concept realized in physical form.”
Creating an Imaginary Realm
Upon entering, visitors are embraced by what resembles the very universe of Manfred Heler. The hotel boasts 104 rooms and suites dispersed over seven floors, each thoughtfully adorned to reflect the warm yet imaginative spirit of Manfred’s fantastical existence. Cozy fabrics, ambient lighting, quirky furnishings, and whimsical design accents turn every room into a haven of comfort and narrative experience.
Maison Heler is adorned with a collection of photographs, sculptures, mementos, and even an invented alphabet crafted by Manfred himself. Each item invites guests to engage with and interpret the character’s restless and creative essence.
Sara Heler’s Heritage and Artistic Roots
Starck describes the hotel as “a play on uprooted roots” — a metaphorical reflection on Lorraine, the region’s rich history, diverse cultures, and evolving identities. By creating a new persona for the area through Manfred Heler, Starck reimagines heritage architecture and storytelling into an artistic representation of place.
Even Manfred’s imaginative legacy is intricately woven into the design. The crowning element of Maison Heler is the rooftop villa, which houses La Maison de Manfred — more than just a restaurant, it signifies an extension of the family dwelling from Starck’s narrative. The dining area exudes warmth and eccentricity, featuring 19 stained glass windows crafted by Starck’s daughter, Ara Starck, an acclaimed artist renowned for blending traditional stained-glass methods with contemporary artistry.
“These stained-glass artworks invite guests into the core of a conceptual and habitable artistic creation,” Starck explains. “They dramatize the space with symbols reflecting the city’s history and surrealist motifs, changing with the light throughout the day in scenes of living anamorphosis.”
A Blend of Hospitality and High Art
Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, Maison Heler officially began welcoming guests in March 2025. More than just a luxury getaway, the hotel acts as a gateway to a fantastical realm — a tale guests can enter, investigate, and inhabit.
The establishment features two on-site dining venues, two bars, and various event spaces perfect for both visitors and locals seeking engaging experiences. Every nook is enriched with layers of significance and narrative elements, transforming each visit into a theatrical and emotional odyssey through design, literature, and art.
A New Chapter for Boutique Hotels
Maison Heler signifies a noteworthy advancement in the realm of boutique hospitality. Beyond stylish interiors and themed beverages, Starck’s methodology injects deep narrative and artistic boldness into every structure and beam.
As design evolves into an experience, Starck demonstrates that hotels can transcend mere lodging — they can embody stories to engage with, characters to encounter, and artistic aspirations brought to life.
For those eager to delve into this visionary endeavor, Maison Heler is now open for reservations. Immerse yourself in the surreal and poetic world of Manfred Heler and uncover a destination where imagination takes shape — in the heart of Metz.
Maison Heler: Website | Instagram
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Discover more at: www.maisonhelermetz.com
Images provided by Julius Hirtzberger and Maison Heler. Used with permission.