When the makers of the new Netflix sensation Emily in Paris were looking for somewhere to stay in the City of Light, naturally they came straight to VINGT Paris. Here we bring you the inside story…
With everyone in need of some light-hearted escapism right now, it’s perhaps not surprising that Emily in Paris has turned out to be one of the Netflix sensations of the season.
For those who haven’t had a chance to catch the show as yet, the 10-part series tells the story of Emily Cooper (Lily Collins), an ambitious young executive from Chicago, who lands the job of her dreams in Paris. Only problem is, she hasn’t bargained on some serious cultural differences, a handsome neighbour and the boss from hell…
Shot entirely on location in the French capital, the city looks stunning in the show. However, this did present some logistical challenges for the production crew – not least where everyone was going to stay. Thankfully, this is where VINGT Paris comes into the story.
“We were approached by the production manager, over a year ago now, to see if we could help,” says founder and CEO of VINGT Paris, Susie Hollands. “Naturally, we were delighted to assist.
“In the end, we provided rental apartments for several members of the cast and crew – including for the star of the show, Lily Collins. However, we had to keep it all top secret, of course, at the time!”
Unlike the rather more modest chambre de bonne that we see in episode one of the series, the real Lily Collins stayed in the elegant apartment Etoile Victor Hugo Balcony. Located in the best part of the 16th arrondissement, this gorgeous residence is found on the fourth floor of a Haussmann-era building.
Featuring lovely historic features, it also offers a state-of-the-art kitchen, designer furniture and a fabulous balcony. Best of all, there is also a view of the Arc de Triomphe – something the actress apparently referenced on her Instagram account at the time, we are told!
Among the other apartments utilised by the crew, there was one in the historical Marais district – Marais Turenne Picasso Museum – and another on the Left Bank: Saint-Germain de Pres Bonaparte Pont des Arts.
“We actually work quite regularly with film crews coming into Paris,” adds Susie. “And, in fact, we have quite a few famous actors on our books, too! So, if any producers out there are reading this, we can help with all your location needs.”