Apart from a retreat in Cannes, Mondrian Hotels does not have much of a presence in our region, yet its name is a tribute to a Dutch painter who played quite a role in the history of French haute couture. As fashion enthusiasts may be well aware, Piet Mondrian’s signature minimal paintings were the inspiration behind Yves Saint Laurent’s breakthrough collection. The founder of the chain, American entrepreneur Ian Schrager, known as one of the central figures in the legendary Studio 54, opened the first Mondrian hotel in Los Angeles in 1997, naming it after a work by the artist in the building. This summer, the chain is opening a new property in the Calvet Wine Cellars, in a 19th-century wine cellar, a landmark for Bordeaux’s long legacy of premium winemaking. Philippe Starck has been entrusted with the task of redesigning the interior and the 97 rooms. The swimming pool, spa and Japanese chef are a breath of fresh air for a city that has been struggling to make it to the top of our weekend destinations. Just one more reason to visit.