Welcome to the design and lifestyle world of Curated by Candi! As a licensed interior designer with a background in fashion, the world of Haute Couture and French style holds a special place for me. I love the art, architecture, and style of not only Paris, but the historically robust French culture and especially the vibe of the famous Parisian hotels such as the Ritz Paris, the George V, Le Maurice or Plaza Athenee.
As a child of the 1970’s and 80’s I longed for the French provincial bedroom suit that donned the floor of every department store of that era. I have for years gravitated to the beauty of French style from the austere lines of Louis XIV and his beautiful Chateau de Versailles to the lighter and more graceful Louis XV period with its curves and feminine feel. And Paris wouldn’t be Paris without the Hausmann architecture lining every street and the remnants of the Belle Epoque era evident in every door in the great City of Lights.
That being said, I am always intrigued, like a moth to a flame, by a restaurant, residence, or hotel with the French joie de vivre. So, imagine my delight on my recent stay at one of Walt Disney World‘s newer hotel offerings, Disney’s Riviera Resort!
IMAGE © Walt Disney World Resort. All Rights Reserved
Entering a European Postcard
Nestled in the heart of the Epcot resort area, the property feels more like a weekend in the South of France than a theme park vacation. Like a love letter to European grandeur, Riviera Resort towers over arriving guests with a magic only Disney can deliver. Before even stepping inside, the exterior of the resort sets the tone with its limestone-colored facade, oval dormer windows, wrought iron Juliet balconies, and a classic Hausmann-esque symmetry in the architecture. This is not just a hotel, it’s a European-inspired sanctuary that transports you to the banks of the Seine or the beaches of the Cote d’Azur.
Stepping into the lobby, guests are welcomed by resort staff and, as in any Disney destination, they are dressed according to location and theme, with a smile and warm greeting. The curated touches in the hotel lobby include a boutique and cafe, reminiscent of any Parisian Street. Le Petit Cafe beckons with its chic Art Nouveau signage, inviting you to indulge in fresh-baked croissants, madeleines, macarons, and expertly crafted coffees by day. Come evening, the cafe transforms into a moody cocktail bar offering European-inspired drinks and artisan chocolates. Its ambience rivals any corner cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Pres.
Ritzy Rooms: French Elegance Meets Disney Magic
As a lifelong lover of all things French, this hotel stole my heart from the moment I arrived, and our one-bedroom villa sealed the deal. We stayed in the East Tower and our room seamlessly merged the luxury of a Paris apartment with all the comforts of home – with a little Disney enchantment thrown in.
Upon entering, a pair of gilded antiqued mirrors flank the foyer, giving a warm, reflective welcome. The ubiquitous chevron wood floors add a timeless elegance underfoot, while panel and crown molding elevate the space with classic Parisian architectural detailing.
The studio-style kitchen is a beautiful blend of modern function and traditional style. Quartz countertops simulating elegant marble cap the combination painted and stained wood cabinetry, fully stocked with everything you need to create your own in-room gourmet meal whether you’re there for a week or a weekend. Full-size appliances, including refrigerator with icemaker, electric range, dishwasher, and full-size sink, make this eat-in kitchen both stunning and practical.
In the living area, an aquamarine blue velvet button-tufted sofa sits like a jewel against the creamy neutral backdrop. But here’s where Disney’s clever design shines and maximizes comfort for families: that same sofa doubles as a full-size pull-down bed, hidden by a molded wall covered with Impressionistic art featuring beloved Disney characters as the subject matter.
Flanking this space are European-style upholstered armchairs and accent tables, perfect for sipping espresso in the morning or journaling your park adventures at the end of the day. Additionally, the decorative carved console under the television hides a twin mattress that folds down, adding more sleeping space without sacrificing elegance. And all of this is wrapped in a soft glow from cove lighting and Art Deco style wall sconces, with layered window treatments – both sheer and blackout – for optimal privacy and drama.
A Primary Bedroom Fit for a Princess
A king-sized carved bed takes center stage in the main bedroom, adorned with Louis XV-style wood legs and a tufted velvet headboard framed with carvings containing hidden Mickeys. On one side of the bed, a modern European deco desk is perfect for those who travel with work (or want to write a postcard to family at home). A crystal chandelier, full-length gilded mirror, and wooden dresser with ample storage complete the room, along with more Impressionist artwork with the signature Disney vibe.
But the crown jewel of this suite is the uber luxurious bathroom and water-closet, which feels more like a private spa retreat. Carrera marble covers the walls behind the modern freestanding bathtub and the walk-in shower, enhanced by porcelain tile floors, crystal light fixtures and a combination rain head showerhead with a handheld option. All of this is crowned with gilded mirrors, antique brass towel bars, and marble counters that mimic the style of a luxurious French hotel.
Exterior Extravaganza: Balconies, Beauty, & Enchanting Amenities
Our villa included a private balcony with outdoor aluminum seating for two etched with the double RR logo of the resort. The balcony overlooked one of the resort’s swimming pools where children and adults could play or relax. And the railing, of course, included the ever-present nod to Walt’s main character.
In the distance, you can spot the Disney Skyliner gliding overhead, connecting Riviera Resort to Epcot, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort or Disney’s Hollywood Studios allowing ease of convenience with the artisan beauty that Disney is so good at. And topping all of these exterior features are a pair of tile mosaic murals flanking a passageway to the entrance of the Disney Skyliner. Be sure to look for these exterior art features depicting scenes from the films, Tangled and Peter Pan, bringing magical touches that make a walk around the grounds feel like a fairytale.
Final Thoughts: A Parisian Paradise in the Heart of Walt Disney World
For lovers of French design, European elegance, and of course, Disney magic, the Riviera Resort is an absolute must. Every corner is infused with the romance of the continent and the whimsy of Disney storytelling. For me, this was more than just a place to stay – it was a dream come true and the perfect blend of all the things I love: refined style, artistic details, and enchanting design elements.
So, whether you’re planning your next Disney vacation or simply gathering inspiration for your own home project, the Riviera Resort proves that elegance and magic can indeed live under the same roof.
wish i could’ve been there !! sounds absolutely magical 🙂