InterContinental opens debut hotel in Bulgaria

Lobby area
800 400 Hamish Kilburn
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InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts has brought modern luxury to Bulgaria with the opening of InterContinental® Sofia, an IHG® hotel, in the culture-filled capital city…

Marking the brand’s debut in Bulgaria but seventh opening in Eastern Europe, the hotel features 194 rooms, including 27 Club rooms and 37 Suites. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding city and its vibrant history, every touchpoint of the hotel’s interior is designed to deliver exceptional comfort while embodying the unique spirit of Sofia. From the statue of a girl blowing a dandelion that signifies hope and unity in the lobby, through to the rooms that mimic architectural influences of the 1960s, the design of the hotel truly signifies the unique spirit of Sofia throughout.

Narodno Sabranie Square is the birth place of hope for Bulgarians – uniting the nation to overcome hardships and celebrate victories. This energy is incorporated in the lobby with the statue of the girl blowing a dandelion. The artwork signifies our belief that one small act can bring together like-minded people and cause a future to be shaped for the better. This captivating notion has its culmination with the fireplace at the end of the dandelion’s path. The symbolism is also manifested in our bar and lounge concept. The name Floret is the term for an individual flower that makes up the complete dandelion. The menu is also inspired by the destination – using local ingredients in a creative manner. Our main goal is to connect people and create extraordinary experiences and memorable moments. The entire ground floor concept was created by IDEA – a Bulgarian company.

The marble flooring of the area is designed by the London-based designer Francis Sultana. The chevron pattern of the marble is incorporated in the InterContinental Club Lounge interior and the design of Floret Social Bar & Lounge. On the mezzanine level, Sultana’s passion for Art Deco is manifested in the railing of the staircase and the entire bar area.

Nestled in the centre of the city, guests have stunning views of some of the city’s local attractions including Bulgaria’s Parliament building, dating back to the 1880s. The Tsar Liberator Monument, a famous statue in honour of Russian Emperor Alexander II, and the gold-covered domes of the St Alexander Nevski Catherdral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, are just moments from the hotel.

All guestrooms and suites are fully equipped with a flat screen TV, couch to relax on and a large desk for those who are travelling on business. Guests staying in the Club InterContinental Rooms have full access to the Club InterContinental® Lounge, an exclusive area that serves both business and leisure travellers. The lounge allows guests to relax, work and is open all day for light dining with complimentary breakfast or for evening drinks and canapés.

The interior of the rooms was designed by the Turkish company Metex. The contemporary and fresh interior incorporates details resonant of the destination –Bulgarian shevitsi on the bed frame and art pieces from the Bulgarian author Vasil Stoev. The digitally edited photos present a modern twist on Sofia’s architectural landmarks. The furniture, designed by the Bulgarian company Retro-M, reflects the Art Deco style that corresponds to the architectural influences in the 1960s when the hotel was constructed.

Tom Rowntree, Vice President Brand Marketing, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, IHG, Europe commented: “InterContinental has pioneered luxury travel for more than 70 years, through constant innovation and openings in emerging luxury destinations. The world of luxury travel is evolving and we know our discerning guests want to explore new cities and cultures, including emerging travel hot-spots such as Bulgaria. We are delighted to mark the InterContinental brand’s debut in Bulgaria with such a stunning hotel, and we’re sure our guests will be delighted with such a beautiful addition to our portfolio.”

Home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, Bulgaria is fast becoming high on the agenda for travellers after a luxury escape. Rich in traditions and culture, travel to Eastern Europe is on the rise as guests look for unique experiences and unspoilt locations.

 

Hamish Kilburn / 18.05.2018

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