The interior décor of the hotel most definitely reflects the quirky, flamboyant style of fashion guru Christian Lacroix.  Inspired by his creation, it's almost impossible to pick one favourite element.

Addicted to colour, ironically I was instantly attracted to the black and white polka dot carpet that leads the way to the 17 bedrooms. The print almost seems like fabric sweeping across the floor, the large scaled polka dots distort as they fold onto the steps like a stunning dress, spanning down the spiralling 17th-century staircase. Juxtaposed against the wooden balustrades, the retro pattern boldly contrasts with the varied decorative palette.

From shag carpets, taffetas, linens and leather, the combination eclectically mixes with the unusual colour scheme and decorative patterns, creating the kitsch.

Discreetly tucked within an exposed brick nook stands a truly stunning polished aluminium grandfather clock, a hidden treasure. Cast from aluminium with a bespoke glass front, the ‘Atlas' clock was designed by Mark Avis. Its fluid and obscure style contrasts with the solidity of the materials, its humourous nature has parallels with Salvador Dali's work.

Inspired by the subject of time and how we waste it, Mark has attempted to playfully illustrate how time tips away from us. The ‘tipping' element is visualised through distorted lines and curved droplets.

La Residence is exquisitely decorated with eclectic mixes of ornate antiques, plush Persian carpets and artworks. I particularly fell in love with The Disa Suite, a girly boudoir layered with French and Asian antiques. I relished in the vibrant shades of greens, pinks and mauves and the impressive four-poster king-sized bed dominating the room with its grand size and artistic coloring. 

In keeping with the charming, intricate, colonial shape, the light shade of pale apple-lime green bed instantly brings a sense of the exotic to the space. The tone and distressed finish cleverly keeps the piece sophisticated, steering away from the garish and tacky to create the elegant. It transforms the masculine grand stature of the bed and washes out the regal ball and claw feet details, camping it up, injecting fun and youth.