“Fashion stills” on show at Sofitel St James.

The photo exhibition at Sofitel St James is an exciting use of the hotel's public areas

London Hotels Insight recently attended the opening of a photo exhibition launched by Sofitel St James – alongside its sister hotels around the world – showcasing famous “fashion stills” from the Paris-based Polka Gallery.

The idea is interesting and would add vibrancy to any hotel.  The thinking behind it is not dissimilar to the philosophy of the Andaz London which also likes to arrange cultural events in its public areas.

Photographers of the caliber of Derek Hudson, Cathleen Naundorf, Jean-Marie Périer and Gérard Uféras are featured at the Sofitel, many of which capture famous celebrity faces (which you’ll instantly recognise), often in some fairly unconventional poses.

This unusual pose of the French Prime Minister's wife Carla Bruni with Yves Saint Laurent was one of the many unique pieces on display

The idea is to provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the secret world of haute couture, with the likes of Kate Moss, Yves Saint Laurent and Carla Bruni prominent.  The event adds a lot of “buzz” to the hotel.

You can still catch the exhibition around the Sofitel St James lobby area, bar and corridors for a few more weeks.

Check the best rate for the Sofitel St James from 30+ hotel booking sites

The hotel's beautiful lobby area - including a piano which is played every evening at mezzanine level - is the perfect venue for displaying art

But it may not be the only reason to visit this immaculate hotel, where a certain French flair (including reminders of Paris throughout) and top-notch service are keeping it firmly within TripAdvisor’s elite top 10 London hotels.

Check the best rate for the Sofitel St James from 30+ hotel booking sites

The Sofitel’s distinctive spa and gym are also well worth checking out.

Get the best-value London hotel deal from 30+ booking sites in 1 click

Photo credits: Sofitel St James.

Tagged as: Sofitel St James