Simplicity is usually a great asset in design. Matali Crasset’s Hi Matic Hotel in Paris takes the concept of simple to a whole new level. The hotel is the result of Crasset’s ongoing collaboration with Patrick Elouarghi and Philippe Chatelet to create fuss-free, urban-eco accommodation that stimulates a new kind of conversation between hotel visitors, the hotel itself and the surrounding community.
Hi Matic is 100% internet-based and completely void of concierge and staff. Upon making a reservation visitors are issued a unique code which allows them access to the building. Inside the hotel there are computers where visitors check in, pay and receive their room key, all without human assistance.
Organic food, books, music and other things can be purchased from vending machines 24 hours a day. Large communal tables and cabin seating arrangement in brightly coloured spaces encourage social gathering between visitors. The Hi Matic concept, underlined by the contemporary layout, aims to see to the urban needs of young, creative and adventurous travelers.
A big map of Paris gives visitors suggestions of interesting venues to visit, including shops and restaurant. Breakfast (organic, of course) is served each morning, though the coffee machines is self-serve.
The materials used in the Hi Matic are ecologically sounds across the hotel of 42 rooms over five floors.
