Shortlisted for the Bar / Club / Lounge Award in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2013, Anita Rosato Interior Design have restored the Column Hall, situated within Hotel Bristal, Warsaw, to exude glamour and charm.
Design brief: To create a destination Lounge Bar at the heart of the hotel capturing the essence of the Bristol.
This huge and imposing space lacked in warmth, intimacy and glamour. Once used as a workers dining room during the communist era, this hall had become a lost spirit of a space and was greatly underused; it was cold, dull and austere and all concerned were baffled as to how to rectify it, due to the stringent demands of the local conservation office to preserve the historic remnants of a past era. The challenge was to create a space that both hotel guests and the discerning clientele of Warsaw would want to gather in, and to provide a place of desired destination.
To showcase therefore the Otto Wagner plaster frieze with integrated wall lights, the hand painted ceiling and the columns adorned with brass Art Nouveau decorative light fittings was also an integral part of the brief.
To showcase the Otto Wagner plaster frieze with integrated wall lights, the hand painted ceiling and the columns adorned with brass Art Nouveau decorative light fittings was an integral part of the brief.
Favourite/key aspect of the project: The intricately faceted mirror wall, the bespoke brass framed back bar and the bracelet chandelier of bronzed interlinking hoops that illuminate the bar are the new signature of the Column Hall, heralding a new period of modern glamour and indulgence in a room full of memories. The desire was to capture the romance and history of the building whilst avoiding pastiche.
Why does the design work so well? The original details and impressive scale of the room provide a wonderful setting for a grand cocktail lounge. From morning coffee, through to decadent lunchtimes to evening cocktails, the curved high backed banquettes and tall back wing chairs provide an intimate seating arrangement – perfect for people watching. The layout has structure and rhythm creating different experiences throughout the space without being too formal. The monochrome colours of black and cream provide the perfect back drop to the jewel-like features; seamlessly integrating old with new. A custom hand made rug runs the full length of the Hall, illustrating a modern interpretation of Otto Wagner’s school of design. Simple silhouettes and luxurious textiles combined with one off custom design make this a unique, indulgent Lounge Bar.
The monochrome colours of black and cream provide the perfect back drop to the jewel-like features; seamlessly integrating old with new.
Final thoughts: The refurbishment of the Bristol has redefined glamour and luxury in the region. The hotel, adjacent to the presidential palace, is once again the centre of Warsaw culture and we are delighted with the hugely positive feedback we are receiving. It was a rare opportunity to be involved in the process of restoring the hotel to its former glory and one that Anita and her team felt privileged and trusted to undertake.
Hotel Bristol has also been shortlisted for the Hotel 50-200 Rooms Award. Read more here.
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Hotel Bristol www.hotelbristolwarsaw.pl
Anita Rosato Interior Design www.anitarosato.com
Enter The International Hotel & Property Awards www.design-et-al.co.uk