In the contrast to the abundance of luxury hotels in the capital, Hi Matic -a simple, affordable hotel, stripped of all pomp and circumstance-is a breath of fresh air.

Set in a subtly trendy and slightly down at heel area just a short walk from bustling Bastille, this 42-room hotel describes itself as an “urban eco-lodge”. Designed by Matali Crasset, the French design guru and protégée of Philippe Starck, Hi Matic is the Parisian sister to the Hi Hotel in Nice.

Natural materials have been used in the bright and basic decor, with blond wood used throughout for the made to measure furniture, and non-toxic paint in punchy blues, purples and greens on the walls. All superfluous human interaction is done away with and the guest is fully independent with self check-in computers in the lobby, a swanky vending machine selling smart guide books and coffee table type tomes, and a fully organic self-service breakfast. Rooms are cosy with a futon style bed cocooned in a wooden cabin structure in each, and a small ensuite bathroom kitted out with REN bath products. The overall effect is part modern hostel, part basic country cabin, and whilst the prices aren’t dirt cheap, they are certainly reasonable for a hotel of this quality in Paris.