Along the pristine shores of the French Riviera, Monaco shines as a captivating jewel of luxury, glamour, and refined elegance. Renowned for its opulent lifestyle, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural tapestry, this sovereign city-state beckons visitors from around the world to experience the epitome of sophistication—from fashion and fun to fine dining and world-class entertainment. At its heart, the legendary district of Monte-Carlo greets global travelers to a pristine principality, featuring unparalleled hospitality, views, and more.
In the arena of extravagant offerings, Société des Bains des Mer (SBM) emerges as the custodian of Monte-Carlo’s most exclusive and exquisite experiences. With a legacy dating back to the 19th century, SBM has curated an unparalleled portfolio of hospitality destinations that redefine luxury and set the standard for world-class service, including Monte Carlo Beach, Monte-Carlo Bay, Hotel de Paris, and Hotel Hermitage, which all feature their own their food and beverage concepts—including Coya, Buddha Bar, Em Sherif, and Jimmy’z. Earlier this summer in June, two new spaces opened, as well: Maona and Club La Vigie.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
In the heart of Monaco, diagonal to Hotel de Paris, is an iconic symbol of luxury, opulence, and high-stakes entertainment: Casino de Monte-Carlo. Established in 1863 by Charles III of Monaco, the historic establishment has since become synonymous with sophistication—featuring a side of thrill for gambling. The allure of the Casino de Monte-Carlo is a combination of details, from its rich history and architectural marvels to the unique atmosphere that continues to attract visitors from around the world.
Historic Details
Dating back to the 19th century, it was commissioned by Charles III to revive the economy of Monaco, becoming a symbol of the principality’s prosperity. Designed by architect Charles Garnier, renowned for his work on the Paris Opera House, the casino boasts a blend of Belle Époque and Beaux-Arts architectural styles. The grand opening in 1863 marked the beginning of an era, attracting royalty, celebrities, and socialites from across Europe.
Courtesy of Société des Bains des Mer.
An Architectural Marvel
The Casino de Monte-Carlo is a visual masterpiece, with its ornate façade, intricate interiors, and lavish furnishings. The exterior features Corinthian columns, sculpted friezes, and a domed roof that adds to its regal charm. The gaming rooms are adorned with crystal chandeliers, intricate frescoes, and gilded moldings, creating an ambiance of luxury and sophistication.
The casino complex comprises several rooms, each with its unique character. The Salons Privés cater to a more discreet clientele, offering a private and exclusive gaming experience; and The Salle des Amériques, adorned with magnificent tapestries, is dedicated to slot machines, providing a modern contrast to the classic table games in other areas. Known for its traditional table games and modern slot machines, the space also welcomes visitors to other games—like blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat— between hosting prestigious poker tournaments that attract top players from around the globe.
Courtesy of Société des Bains des Mer.
Entertainment Galore
Beyond the excitement of gambling, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is a social hub where guests can savor gourmet cuisine, sip on exquisite cocktails, and attend live performances. The casino’s commitment to offering a well-rounded entertainment experience adds to its allure, making it a destination for both avid gamblers and those seeking a taste of the high life.
Casino de Monte-Carlo’s Workshop
As a testament to Monaco’s commitment to luxury, elegance, and entertainment, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is upheld by an onsite atelier, which uniquely crafts, repairs, and builds all furnishings and design objects by hand. Behind the scenes are two carpenters in the workshop who have worked at Société des Bains des Mer for more than 10 years. Experts in their craft, they are maestros of furniture design, ensuring that each piece produced embodies the quality and excellence that the brand and the casino are renowned for. By working with respect for the quality and the luxury found in every fiber of the Société des Bains des Mer brand, the workshop uses both artisanal and modern tools and methods to produce bespoke high-quality items.
Whitewall spoke with Eric Constantini, the Chief Technical Officer of Casino de Monte-Carlo, to hear what working inside the workshop is like and how it reflects SBM’s dedication to luxury, esteemed experience, and craft.
Courtesy of Société des Bains des Mer.
WHITEWALL: How do you typically approach furnishing and renovating a historical place like the casino? Are there details you must consider that the public doesn’t see?
ERIC CONSTANTINI: We always use a careful selection of fine metals and materials to craft the casino furnishings and the approach is deeply rooted in consistency. Every casino furnishing that comes from our workshop is identical and of impeccable quality. One of the most appealing attributes of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer brand is its signature attention to luxury in the small details and its unwavering standard of excellence. We aim to infuse this in the furnishings. A visit to the Casino de Monte-Carlo shouldn’t just sound luxurious, it should look and feel that way, too. Our work reflects the brand’s larger principles of offering the finest quality amenities and experiences to visitors from around the world.
Courtesy of Société des Bains des Mer.
WW: Does your approach of working with existing materials to renovate old pieces—instead of completely rebuilding or buying new—relate to an overarching message of sustainability?
EC: Our ability to repair and refurbish old furnishings internally truly works to our benefit when it comes to the team’s efficiency and attention to sustainability. Because of the workshop, we don’t have to outsource materials or furnishings as much and thus are able to reduce imports related to the casino furnishings substantially. We’re also able to maintain quality control. We directly oversee the materials used and how each piece is made and ensure that they are built to last. Strong, quality materials and design techniques rooted in decades of experience, allow us to produce items that withstand the test of time.
Courtesy of Société des Bains des Mer.
WW: What materials are seen in the space? Why these?
EC: We use materials gilded with fine gold, and stainless steel in the mechanical sector, but also precious woods—such as rosewood and rosewood—in the carpentry sector. Finally, wool rugs are printed by us in the tapestry sector. These quality materials combined with our know-how produce an unrivaled visual result.
WW: What is the atelier working on right now?
EC: We are currently working on improving the ergonomics of certain game tables for user comfort and improving playing conditions.
Courtesy of Société des Bains des Mer.
