It’s check-in time at the BHV Mahfouf pop-up Hotel!
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After taking her community camping and to a chalet, the Mother of Paris, understand Léna Situation, has chosen the BHV Marais as the backdrop for her new pop-up. Just that! Windows, corners, and a café are waiting for visitors to unveil various pieces from her ready-to-wear brand. We went there to check it out, and today we’re sharing our thoughts on this stay at the BHV pop-up Hôtel Mahfouf.
Léna Situation paints the BHV in pink and green
Present from April 5 to 27, the pop-up Hôtel Mahfouf at BHV shows us life in pink and green – with notes of leopard and feathers. This new event, conceived by Léna Situation and her teams, differs from her previous pop-ups dedicated to her brand. Here, Hôtel Mahfouf is hosted in one of the most famous Parisian stores, and that’s over 3 floors and more…
When the windows of BHV embrace the colors of Hôtel Mahfouf
Before we check in, a detour to the windows is a must, as they too are dressed in the colors and illustrations of the brand. We discover creations signed by Hôtel Mahfouf in 6 setups depicting a day. From the bathroom to a car trip, then from a festive moment to a well-deserved post-party pizza break… Pajamas, pouches, dresses, and accessories are unveiled here, setting the tone for this new pop-up.
2 corners to explore the products of Hôtel Mahfouf
Inside, the one and only Lobby Boy welcomes us, arms loaded with suitcases and surrounded by some key products from the collection. Once checked in, we set off to discover the various corners set up in the BHV.
On the first floor, we discover a few small installations here and there, showcasing products like mugs, plush toys, combs, and clips… all in pink and leopard print. The heart of the pop-up is located a few aisles further, where a small shop has been set up, dressed entirely in pink. There, we find the entire ready-to-wear collection, as well as accessories and other products like candles and Hôtel Mahfouf branded card games.
Displays section this ephemeral space into a living room, bedroom, and bathroom, echoing the products offered. Not far away, a photobooth and a bed become a must-stop for those who have come to shop and wish to immortalize the moment.
The pieces from the collection are also present on the shelves of the 2nd floor.
On the pricing side, they are similar, if not higher, than those applied by similar brand profiles. Given the target audience, this can quickly become too pricey. We notably heard numerous comments on this point during our visit. Additionally, the materials and production of some pieces may be a barrier to purchase considering the prices at which they are offered.
Nevertheless, we observed an effort made in this regard, with new pieces produced in France or including recycled materials.
What do we order at the café of the pop-up Hôtel Mahfouf at BHV?
Located on the 3rd floor, the café of the pop-up Hôtel Mahfouf at BHV invites you to take a break between two purchases. On the menu, we discover hot and cold drinks, as well as pastries and savory options. Expect to pay between 4 and 7 euros for crepes, cookies, donuts, brookies, lemon cake, and acai bowls. And, 8.50€ for a hot dog and 6€ for a spicy cucumber dish.
On the beverage side, a nice variety is offered, with prices ranging from 4.5€ to 8€ depending on the size chosen (180ml, 300ml, 400ml, or 600ml). And if you can’t find a seat, you can take your snack to go.
This café nicely complements the pop-up experience and echoes what has been done previously. However, again, the prices are quite high – but fit the nature of this type of Parisian event, let’s say.
So, what do we think of the pop-up Hôtel Mahfouf at BHV? First of all, we applaud the scale of the event. Having 6 windows, several corners, and a café within BHV is a great achievement, highlighting how invested Léna Situation and her teams are in developing the brand. And that they have a large community supporting them in return.
On the visit side, we would say our feelings are 50/50. There are beautiful creative ideas, both in the art direction of the event and in the pieces of the brand. However, the finishes of the decor and products did not completely convince us. After all, the brand is still young and seems to be listening to feedback given the recent changes made. This is a good sign for the evolution of such a project. It’s up to everyone to take a look and form their own opinion!
Cover: ©Hôtel Mahfouf – Instagram
