W Hotels Worldwide, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Inc., will make its debut in Switzerland on 1st December 2013 with the opening of W Verbier and The Residences at W Verbier. Owned by Les Trois Rocs, the W brand’s first alpine and ski retreat is ideally situated at the foot of the slopes beside the Médran gondola. Featuring four traditional wooden chalet-style buildings, each connected by a contemporary glass atrium, the retreat will offer global jetsetters and Verbier enthusiasts immediate ski-in, ski-out access to all of the exciting alpine action. Dutch design agency, Concrete Architectural Associates, has created a design ethos for W Verbier inspired by the dynamic carve of the ski through the snow. Introducing a completely new concept to Switzerland and Verbier – one of the world’s hottest ski destinations – W Verbier’s innovative interiors will juxtapose New York’s urban cool against traditional Swiss design and the stunning mountainscape. The design also brings to life the energy of the alpine sporting world, whose presence is so strongly felt in Verbier, with the interiors allowing guests to carve their own trail of experiences through the hotel.
“For the first W alpine retreat, we wanted to provide guests with an unforgettable experience using interiors that complement the breathtaking scenery surrounding the hotel”, said Rob Wagemans, founder and creative director, Concrete Architectural Associates. “Our design introduces smooth lines that carve through the spaces with contrasting materials reflecting the simplicity, beauty and energy of Verbier and the contemporary cool of New York”.
In the public spaces and guest rooms, natural materials will be juxtaposed against sporty synthetics and contemporary fabrics. Seating areas will be carved out of solid wood blocks; climbing ropes will be used to hang lamps; local stone will clad walls and Welcome desks; upholstery and soft furnishings will be covered in leather, nylon, fur and lycra. Cosy fireplaces will appear throughout the public spaces and will be a key feature in each of the hotel’s 123 stylish guest rooms and suites, including one Extreme WOW Suite (W’s interpretation of the Presidential Suite). In the guest rooms, rustic wooden, chalet-style features will provide a warm contrast to sleek furnishings and contemporary lighting with mischievous animal footprints in the corridor carpets leading a pathway to the rooms. All guest rooms and suites will boast balconies, many offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountainscape.
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