Grand Hotel des Balcons in Paris, France

Given the work I do, I am fortunate to portray some very interesting buildings, and such is the case with the portrait I completed on May 20th — the elegant Grand Hotel des Balcons in Paris, France. The 11″ x 14″ watercolor was commissioned by my clients and their family members to be a gift to their beloved relatives, Denny and Kathy, who will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary at the hotel next month. The artwork includes my client’s request that the couple be depicted standing at the front entrance of the hotel, which is a very sweet and thoughtful personal touch! The couple will be treating their whole family to stay with them at the hotel to share their joyous special occasion — what a wonderful and generous thing to do and what great memories they will create together!

While researching the property prior to beginning the watercolor portrait, I learned some interesting information that makes me want to visit some day. This 19th century, six- story Parisian townhouse hotel has elegant exterior architectural features and gets it’s name from french doors leading to small balconies outside most guest rooms, complete with ornate black wrought iron railings holding decorative containers of flowers — so lovely and picturesque! The interior features an Art Nouveau inspired lobby with carved wood paneling, stained glass windows, and decorative mirrors which make it warm and inviting to guests.

The hotel is located on a quiet street in the Saint-Germain/Latin Quarter Districts with dozens of charming antique shops, quaint bookstores, restaurants and cafes, and a quick walk to the Notre Dame Cathedral and Luxembourg Gardens — so much to do and see! For more information on this gorgeous hotel, visit http://www.balcons.com/

It was a joy to portray this property and be a small part of this special occasion. Congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple and their whole family!