In an age where celebrity homes often feel like extravagant showcases of wealth, Lenny Kravitz's Parisian residence offers a strikingly personal narrative filled with emotional significance and cultural homage. The musician recently guided Architectural Digest through his home, cheekily named “Hotel Roxie” in honor of his mother, the late actress Roxie Roker. His heartfelt connection to both the home and the city makes for a unique tale that intertwines his family history with his artistic journey. Here, we unravel not just Kravitz's lavish lifestyle, but the deeper stories that resonate from his life in Paris.
Lenny Kravitz has lived in Hotel Roxie for over two decades, a space enriched with memories and aspirations. The name itself pays tribute to his mother, Roxie Roker, an accomplished actress most recognized for her role in “The Jeffersons.” Kravitz recalls her long-held dream to retire in Paris—a dream that tragically remained unfulfilled before her passing in 1995. This house, he expresses, is a realization of that dream, a living memory that adds a dose of soul to its alluring façades.
The private tour offers viewers not just a peek into lavish interiors, but an introspection into Kravitz's artistic sensibilities.
The central location of Kravitz's heart, however, lies in the basement—a converted nightclub designed to host intimate gatherings and vibrant celebrations.
Kravitz emphasizes that the basement is the "heart and soul" of Hotel Roxie. This bespoke nightclub boasts a rich atmosphere ideal for entertaining friends and collaborators in style.
The tour highlights not only a home filled with Kravitz's personality but also rooms dedicated to influential figures in his life.
In a room adorned with photos and memorabilia, Kravitz shares his mother’s influence on his artistic journey. He pays homage to her warmth and talent, explaining how her aspirations fueled his own, instilling a desire for creative freedom.
Kravitz also honors Muhammad Ali, a legendary figure in sports and social justice. The room dedicated to the boxing champion showcases Ali not just as a sports icon, but as a humanitarian and civil rights activist. Kravitz underscores Ali's legacy and how deeply it resonates with the values that guide his own life and career.
Kravitz's affinity for Paris runs deep. He recounts a pivotal moment when record executives sent him to the city after struggling to market his music in the U.S. What began as a professional endeavor evolved into a personal journey of discovery and belonging.
Beyond Hotel Roxie, Kravitz has an impressive real estate portfolio that reflects his eclectic style and wanderlust:
Kravitz's trajectory offers invaluable lessons for young artists navigating their pathways in the music and art industries. His journey underscores the importance of authenticity, emotional connection to one's work, and the significance of heritage and memory in artistry.
Kravitz named his home after his mother, Roxie Roker, who always dreamed of living in Paris but never realized that dream. Naming the house reflects his homage to her aspirations.
The interior combines contemporary and classic designs, featuring art pieces, a grand piano designed by Kravitz himself, and rooms dedicated to important figures in his life, such as his mother and Muhammad Ali.
Kravitz views Paris as a source of inspiration, having developed a deep appreciation for its culture, art, music, and history. His journey to settling in Paris after a divisive start in the U.S. music market solidified his connection to the city.
Yes, Kravitz also owns a customized Airstream trailer in the Bahamas and a sprawling former coffee plantation in Brazil, further illustrating his unique lifestyle and interests.
Kravitz's story emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's heritage, the value of personal spaces in the creative process, and the ability to transform dreams into reality through hard work and passion.