Mama Shelter Nice: A Vibrant New Addition to the Côte d'Azur

by Sanda Ferreira, Content Manager & Hotel Researcher
In the summer of 2024, Nice, the crown city of the French Riviera, welcomed a refreshing new addition to its luxurious hospitality scene—Mama Shelter Nice. Situated in the Riquier district, an area quickly rising as one of Nice’s most dynamic neighborhoods, Mama Shelter Nice promises to be much more than just a place to stay.

Mama Shelter Nice is located near the Old Port, placing its guests right in the middle of Nice's historical and cultural heart. This proximity allows for easy exploration of the city’s most iconic attractions, whether it's the Promenade des Anglais, the lively markets of Cours Saleya, or the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town. 

Occupying three distinct buildings, one of which dates back to the early 20th century with its façade beautifully preserved, Mama Shelter Nice embodies the perfect marriage of old and new. The architectural and design vision of Mama Shelter Nice has been masterfully brought to life by Benjamin El Doghaïli, the architect and head of the Mama Shelter design studio. 

The design of Mama Shelter Nice is a love letter to the great artists who found inspiration in the Côte d'Azur—Matisse, Braque, and Picasso, to name a few. Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by white walls adorned with hand-painted frescoes that pay homage to these masters. The lobby, with its large mirrors and giant hangings by artist Kate Mary, is both expansive and intimate, setting the tone for a stay that is as much about experiencing art as it is about enjoying the comforts of a luxury hotel.

This artistic touch extends into the guest rooms, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated. The rooms feature white textured walls that evoke the look of 19th-century Niçois architecture, complemented by ochre curtains that add warmth and depth.

 
The bathrooms boast playful color and pattern, with powdered pink tiles forming an infinite checkerboard that stretches from floor to ceiling, offering a delightful contrast to the more subdued tones of the bedrooms. In true Mama Shelter fashion, the rooms are also infused with whimsical touches, such as the brand’s iconic cartoon masks hanging from bedside lamps. These playful elements add a touch of humor and lightheartedness to the sophisticated design, reminding guests that luxury doesn’t have to be taken too seriously at Mama Shelter.

Throughout the hotel, El Doghaïli’s love for vibrant hues is on full display. Saffron yellow, red ochre, ultramarine blue, and Nice olive green are splashed across the interiors, reminiscent of the smeared palettes of impressionist painters. Collaborations with talented artists and artisans like Lola Mercier and Beniloys further enrich the space, with bouquets of Mediterranean fruits, flowers, and vegetables adorning columns in a style that echoes Van Gogh’s still life paintings. These seasonal decorations, enhanced with plaster capitals, evolve with the changing seasons, ensuring the hotel remains connected to the region's natural beauty.

At the heart of Mama Shelter Nice’s social scene is its vibrant restaurant, where culinary artistry meets the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. The restaurant’s menu celebrates local cuisine, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients from the surrounding region. The dishes are a testament to Nice's rich culinary heritage, infused with a modern twist that reflects Mama Shelter’s playful and innovative spirit.


One of the hotel’s most unique features is its rooftop, which boasts a pool adorned with Bisazza mosaic tiles, providing the perfect spot for a refreshing dip on a sunny day.

Mama Shelter Nice is set to become the beating heart of the Riquier district, drawing in both locals and tourists with its unique blend of style, culture, and hospitality. The hotel’s vibrant social spaces, combined with its deep connection to Nice's artistic and cultural heritage. As Mama Shelter continues to expand its footprint in France and beyond, the opening of Mama Shelter Nice marks an exciting new chapter for the brand.