Hotel Nikol’skaya Kempinski Moscow celebrates its Grand Opening

150 150 Daniel Fountain
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Hotel Nikol’skaya Kempinski Moscow is located at the corner of Nikol’skaya Street and Lubyanka Square in the very centre of Russia’s capital. Built in the 1870s, the building has a wonderfully rich history: until the early years of the 20th century it was the residence of Count Orlov-Davydov. The exclusive retail frontage was well known for the Koeller perfumery business, and the many fine chocolate shops it hosted. Six years of careful restoration and interior construction by Leo International Design Group unveiled the historical façade in its original glory.On seven floors, Nikol’skaya Kempinski accommodates 211 spacious rooms and suites including two Presidential suites, as well as six restaurants and bars, L. Raphael Spa, a fitness centre and five conference halls.

The hotel is offering views of the capital’s historical downtown area, including major landmarks such as the Red Square and the Kremlin. In addition, guests are only a few minutes’ walk from the Bolshoi Theatre, Duma and the famous GUM department store.

An abundance of light meets guests when they first step inside and palatial chandeliers feature prominently throughout the Nikol’skaya Kempinski. Like an old-world ocean liner with an upper deck and curved staircases, the lobby area welcomes guests with a multi-coloured stained glass dome and art deco furniture.

The 157 Deluxe and Superior rooms, many of them with their original high ceilings, are decorated in pale brown and muted beige, giving them a contemporary feel. All the technical facilities are cutting edge: each room offers complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a 42-inch flat-screen interactive TV and a smart control pad. A number of rooms will have a view of the interior courtyard patio, which offers natural light, peace and quiet.

Junior suites (55 sqm) are laid out in a studio style, with both city and courtyard views. Executive suites (55 sqm to 75 sqm) have two spacious rooms – a bedroom and a living room – and great views of the city. The unique Orlov Suite (83 sqm) has a view of Lubyanka Square and is decorated in a style reminiscent of the Belle Époque. The two Presidential Suites, decorated in a palette of gold, white and beige, each measure 250 sqm in size and have panoramic views over Lubyanka Square and the Historical Museum.

One of the main discoveries awaiting the guests of Hotel Nikol’skaya Kempinski Moscow is the hotel’s overall passion to provide an exquisite and innovative culinary experience. Executive Chef Marco Alban atMosaiK creates a culinary medley in an open kitchen. Guests are invited to enjoy seafood and grill as well as dishes from traditional Russian cuisine.

Italian Bistro A Tavola offers guests a comfortable and lively atmosphere with cosy seating arrangements. Acknowledging the principle that ‘simplicity is the new elegance’, A Tavola presents a seasonal menu inspired by different Italian regions.

Orlov Lobby Lounge and Bar bears the name of the first owner of the building. Day and night, Orlov is the beating heart of Hotel Nikol’skaya Kempinski. Relaxed and casual, this bar is a tempting showcase of the good things in life: chocolate fountains, freshly made cakes, Blue Peak tea and Masala Chai.

At Robusto Cigar Club, connoisseurs will enjoy after-dinner spirits in a contemporary club. Soft background jazz music, high-quality robusto cigars and a sophisticated environment make for an experience to remember.

The Parisien Café Vendome which will open its doors at the end of this year, brings the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore to Moscow, featuring tempting home-made cakes, mousses, tarts and eclairs. Café Vendome will also sell selected cheeses, as well as home-made baguettes and other breads for customized sandwiches

The laidback Latin Mojito Lounge boasts a rooftop terrace with a panoramic 180-degree view of downtown Moscow. This venue which will welcome its first guests at the beginning of December, blends delicate cocktails with a genuine city vibe. The bar’s outdoor summer terrace and cosy indoor lounge make the breath-taking views of Moscow available year-round.

The hotel’s conference facilities accommodate up to 180 people and feature an abundance of natural light and contemporary chandeliers. Highlights include Kandinsky grand ballroom, with an area of 200 sq m, designed for receptions, cocktail events and important celebrations, as well as Malevich boardroom, which overlooks Lubyanka Square.

The Spa at the Nikol’skaya is operated by L.RAPHAEL, coming from Geneva, Switzerland to Russia for the first time. Facilities include an indoor 10 sqm swimming pool and a fitness centre.

Daniel Fountain / 05.12.2013

Editor, Hotel Designs

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