Saut Hermès: A tantalising sneak peek into the anticipated grand unveiling of Paris's Grand Palais come June
The Grand Palais in Paris, a Beaux-Arts iron and glass edifice constructed for the 1900 Exposition, reopened its doors to the public on June 6, 2023, following a significant four-year renovation project. This historic venue, which suffered structural problems since its first completion in 1900, was restored to its former glory by Chatillon Architectes at a cost of €500 million.
The renovation aimed to restore the building's original architectural vision while adapting it to meet contemporary needs, such as improved accessibility and modern infrastructure. The project included the restoration of 150 massive windows, over 1,000 statues and ornaments, and the removal of later additions to reveal the original structure's openness and clarity.
Rosie Paterson, the Digital Content Director and Travel Editor for the platform, played a pivotal role in coordinating the platform's own 125th birthday celebrations at the Grand Palais. Rosie joined the platform in July 2014 and has since been instrumental in its growth, also editing the platform's special Queen's Platinum Jubilee issue in 2022.
Prior to joining the platform, Rosie had a brief stint in the art world, and she studied Art History at university. Beyond the platform, she has written for Mr & Mrs Smith and The Gentleman's Journal. Her extensive knowledge of art and travel has earned her invitations to judge a travel media award and chair live discussions on the London property market, sustainability, and luxury travel trends.
The Grand Palais reopening coincided with the return of Saut Hermès, an equestrian show, to the Grand Palais' nave for the first time in five years. British competitor Robert Whitaker placed second in the Grand Prix Hermès 1.60m class at Saut Hermès, adding to the excitement of the occasion.
The Paris Exposition of 1900, also known as Les Exposition Universelle, opened in Paris, France on April 14, 1900. The event was a celebration of France's achievements in engineering, architecture, cinema, and other fields as the world progressed into the 20th century. Forty-seven countries and colonies were invited to exhibit thematic pavilions, with Germany's pavilion resembling a traditional beer hall and Britain's taking the form of a Jacobean country house.
As the Grand Palais continues to serve as a hub for large-scale cultural events, Rosie Paterson's role as Travel Editor promises to bring a wealth of insightful coverage and engaging content to the platform's audience. With her extensive experience in the art and travel industries, she is well-positioned to share the stories of the Grand Palais' past, present, and future.
The Grand Palais, following its renovation, aims to host a variety of events, including art exhibitions and sports events, such as Saut Hermès, which returned to its nave after a five-year hiatus. Rosie Paterson, the Travel Editor for the platform, will provide coverage of such events, drawing on her extensive knowledge of art and travel to share engaging stories about the Grand Palais.
