Updated on April 30, 2026
Summary
- Meet the team behind the project
- FAQ: Everything you need to know about Bar Gustave at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
Highlights:
- An interview with Johanna Bollaro from the Design Office of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, who is involved in the project’s implementation.
- A design conceived by Shirine Zirak, blending modernity with respect for the historical heritage of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo.
- A showcase of craftsmanship and bespoke details: fine materials, unique pieces, and lighting effects combine to create a distinctive atmosphere.
In late May 2026, Bar Gustave will open its doors in the heart of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. Located in the lobby, two adjacent rooms, and on the terrace of the Jardin d'hiver, the bar’s design is the work of interior architect Shirine Zirak. The design team at Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer is overseeing its implementation within the historic setting of this iconic Monaco hotel. Project Manager Johanna Bollaro gives us a sneak peek at this new space.
Why a new bar at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo?
Johanna Bollaro: Since the Crystal Bar closed—making way for the restaurant L'Abysse Monte-Carlo—there has been a real need for a new, authentic bar at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. We therefore needed to create a venue with its own distinct identity that aligns with the Hermitage’s DNA. Bar Gustave is a blend of modernity and the Belle Époque spirit. It features a contemporary design while blending seamlessly into the hotel’s historic spaces. We made very few changes to the layout.
A Franco-Iranian interior designer, Shirine Zirak has developed a distinctive aesthetic informed by her dual cultural heritage, blending French refinement with Persian richness. Specializing in high-end international projects, she has worked with leading figures such as Jacques Garcia and Karl Lagerfeld. Her style—elegant, timeless, and sophisticated—blends French classicism with modernity, with a particular focus on fine materials and bespoke craftsmanship.
The bar occupies the lobby, in particular, beneath the Eiffel-style dome. How can the new design be reconciled with respect for this architectural gem?
Shirine Zirak’s design fully respects the character of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo's lobby. For example, the historic chandelier suspended beneath the dome has been preserved. She has not altered the space, particularly the moldings on the ceiling and walls. Only the furniture has been replaced, in keeping with the bar’s design. And screens have been added to create a slightly more intimate space. But, apart from that, the flow of movement around this central space has been preserved.
We also hired a lighting designer, who developed a new lighting plan for all areas of the bar. We also asked him to integrate the lighting ambiance of the mezzanine, above the lobby, to ensure everything is cohesive. The dome will be highlighted thanks to this lighting.
Did you say... Gustave?
Located partly beneath the glass-and-steel dome dating from the Belle Époque, Bar Gustave is a direct reference to Gustave Eiffel. But was the famous engineer really behind this iconic glass roof?
“It’s certainly inspired by Eiffel.” says Johanna Bollaro. “But there is no evidence or signature proving that he designed it. We searched the archives of the Eiffel workshops, and this dome is not mentioned. However, Gustave Eiffel and his workshops were commissioned at the time for projects in the Principality.” The mystery remains...
There is also a new terrace...
Johanna Bollaro: It was a space that was rarely used. Shirine Zirak’s design renovates and showcases it to welcome guests. The terrace at Bar Gustave captures the Belle Époque spirit with a checkerboard floor made of beautiful stones and custom-designed wrought-iron furniture. And plenty of plants, echoing the Winter Garden—inside—where greenery is omnipresent in the decor and moldings. This is what creates the link between this new outdoor space and the hotel’s interior decor.
What decorative elements have been chosen for the interior?
Johanna Bollaro: The decor features a very warm color palette, with shades of amber, copper, and bronze, as well as luxurious fabrics, notably mohair velvet armchairs. Each table will be unique. The tabletops are crafted by a Parisian metalwork studio that uses patinated metal plates. It’s true craftsmanship.
The standout feature will be the small room housing the bar counter, a stunning showcase entirely covered in champagne-colored glass. At the back, a lighted wall with glass inserts will display exceptional bottles and spirits. This will be the centerpiece of Bar Gustave, featuring a very distinctive material: fluted glass covering a mirror, creating a textural effect and a play of reflections. Above the counter, a chandelier composed of thirty-three suspended faux candles. It will be truly beautiful, with a striking theatrical effect.
In your opinion, what emotions will visitors feel when they discover Bar Gustave?
Johanna Bollaro: Our hope is that they’ll discover a unique new space unlike anything they’ve ever seen before, either at our resort or anywhere else in the world. In all our projects, our goal is to be unique, and that’s exactly the aim of Shirine Zirak’s project: novelty, wonder, and surprise.
The Design Office of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer: The Art of Reinvention
Stéphanie Rainaut, Johanna Bollaro, Marianne Turco, Emanuela Passani, Amandine Blot Mouden, and Christian Bonis: working in synergy with the teams from the Construction and Built Heritage Department, the members of the Design Office adapt projects by renowned designers, such as the Cigar Club or Bar Gustave, while overseeing the artistic direction and execution of numerous renovations throughout the Resort.
The new room designs for the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo and the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort are among their recent achievements.
An endless playground at the heart of an exceptional heritage for these passionate professionals. Their mission? To reinvent what already exists and elevate it to new heights. To achieve this, the team draws on archival plans, enlists the best artisans from around the world, and tackles technical challenges to maintain the Resort’s properties at the highest standard.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Bar Gustave at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
Do I need to make a reservation at Bar Gustave?
You can make a reservation directly on the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer website, but it is not required.
How many people can Bar Gustave accommodate?
Across its various spaces (the Jardin d’Hiver terrace, the lobby, and its two adjacent rooms), Bar Gustave can accommodate a total of about 100 people.
Will Bar Gustave offer a food menu?
Yes, Bar Gustave will offer a selection of finger foods created by Chef Piolti to accompany signature cocktails and drinks, as well as hot and cold dishes.
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