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Low-key” is a word that frankly doesn’t adequately describe enough Parisian hotels. Such is the hospitality situation in the French capital that when you do find someplace that’s both thoughtfully designed and humanely spacious, you’re practically deafened by the five-star fanfare. So maybe the residential approach is the way to go. Résidence Nell, in the 9th arrondissement, means the “résidence” bit quite literally: its seventeen apartments come with functional kitchenettes, and, even in the studios, enough space for a bit of proper relaxation.

They also come with quietly chic contemporary interiors by Patrick Jouin, a man who knows his way around a Parisian residential vibe. Matters are helped along by some thoughtful touches, like top-shelf bath products, Alessi crockery, plush bathrobes and monogrammed slippers. And you don’t have to use the kitchen — Résidence Nell’s own version of room service delivers orders from some fifteen local restaurants. Which, as we never tire of reminding you, is probably the way to go when you’re in Paris. If you’re a big fan of the whole lobby-lounge scene, this might not be the hotel for you — but if you’re choosier upstairs than you are downstairs, you’ll likely be looking into Résidence Nell’s long-term rates.