The Future of Paris

But what's next, you ask? One major art space is expanding, while two other entirely new projects move in fits and starts toward completion.

Cité de la Mode et du Design, 13th Arr.: This formerly defunct warehouse on the Seine will (with hope) soon become the city's next fashion and design hub. Even though the eagerly anticipated concept shops and restaurants aren't in place yet (completion is slated for late 2011 or early 2012), it's worth a stroll down the Seine to admire the building's surprising new green skin (pictured). While you're there, check out the nearby Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir, a pedestrian bridge that arches gracefully over the river without putting a foot in the water.

Musée Picasso, 3rd Arr.: Home to the single largest collection of Picasso's works in the world (over 5,000, including many paintings from what was his own collection), the Musée Picasso is more than doubling its exhibition space and giving its visitor areas a face-lift. Currently closed, the museum is bound to be swarmed the minute its doors reopen in February 2012.

Fondation Louis Vuitton pour la Création, Bois de Boulogne: Vuitton's personal collection of modern and contemporary works, as well as rotating temporary exhibits, is scheduled to go on display in a new Frank Gehry–designed building in the Bois de Boulogne in 2012. It's been touch-and-go (the building's construction permit was temporarily rescinded in January 2011), but as of February, it's back on track. Stay tuned.

Where to stay: The sumptuous Peninsula Hotel chain will make its European debut in the posh 16th arrondissement in 2013. As far as we're concerned, it's just one more reason to book yet another trip to Paris.

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