The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Poland with the Iconic Hotel Bristol in Warsaw

    150 150 Daniel Fountain
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    Following a meticulous and extensive multi-million dollar renovation, Hotel Bristol, one of Warsaw’s most iconic establishments, joins The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts’ ensemble of the world’s finest hotels. Owned by Starman Poland, Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Warsaw marks the luxury brand’s first hotel in Poland, combining its authentic, artistic spirit and its cultural heritage with contemporary glamour and elegance. Situated in one of the most prestigious locations in Warsaw, next to the Presidential Palace and on the historic and fashionable Royal Route, Hotel Bristol has been at the centre of Varsovian society since it was founded in 1901 by Ignacy Paderewski – a renowned composer, piano virtuoso and former Polish Prime Minister. The hotel continues to provide unrivalled hospitality for discerning global travellers, with 168 guestrooms and 38 suites clothed in understated shades of ivory and blue, creating a soothing backdrop for the contrasting charcoal and ebony furnishings. Subtle Art Deco accents are used alongside classic elements, a gentle reminder of the hotel’s historic roots. Softly polished nickel, rich timbers, generously proportioned bevelled mirrors and high-gloss lacquer combine with indulgent satin, mohair and fine wool to encapsulate the glamour and decadence of the 1920s.

    A Renewed Masterpiece
    Offering a mesmerising experience reminiscent of Warsaw’s Belle Époque era from the early 20th century, Hotel Bristol is a unique masterpiece with an enduring artistic spirit coupled with contemporary amenities. Behind the hotel’s majestic neo-renaissance façade, the interiors were created by acclaimed London-based hotel designer, Anita Rosato, to recapture its illustrious history and romantic aura with subtle references to the aesthetics of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. Rosato worked closely with the city’s Architectural Conservator during the renovation of the 110-year-old hotel to ensure that Hotel Bristol’s historical charm is preserved.

    The restoration and re-branding of Hotel Bristol as a Luxury Collection hotel reinforces its position at the heart of Warsaw’s cultural and social scenes, as well as one of the city’s beloved landmarks. The place to meet, relax and absorb the grandeur of the historic building, the reception has been returned to its original location next to the main entrance with an enlarged lobby lounge. The decor features deep-buttoned armchairs and marbled walls with antiqued mirrors in brass frames. With the restored chandelier illuminating the grand floral display of palm trees and freshly cut blooms, the lobby is a contemporary re-interpretation of the original winter garden by Otto Wagner the Younger, the hotel’s first interior designer.

    Influences from the Art Nouveau and Jugendstil movements can be seen in bespoke design accents throughout the hotel: from the intricate installation of over 600 handmade brass leaves – inspired by the organic forms of a Secessionist brooch, in the reception and an elaborate handcrafted rug that was developed from a remnant fabric with Art Nouveau design, to nickel-glass wall fittings, embellished wool drapes and embossed white leather panels influenced by Wagner’s contemporaries.

    Exquisite Culinary Experiences
    Hotel Bristol introduces Advinture, a new wine bar offering wines from renowned vineyards and pairing them with delicacies created by Chef de Cuisine Michal Tkaczyk to provide an unforgettable oenological discovery. Intimate yet vibrant, Advinture features cast bronze light fittings that are a modern take on the organic forms of Art Nouveau, alongside black lacquer, bevelled mirror and cracked gesso panels within its monochromatic palette.

    Featuring an original plaster frieze by Wagner and elegant columns adorned with restored Art Nouveau light fittings, the majestic Column Bar captures the essence of Hotel Bristol, which is renowned for its annual New Year’s Eve grand ball. Curved leather banquette seating and tall-back wingchairs have been added to evoke the glamour and elegance in the intimate setting complemented by the handcrafted rug running the length of the grand hall and whose design was inspired by the historical frieze. Guests are invited to enjoy signature cocktails like The Nocturne Fizz, a vodka-based concoction inspired by the Mazovia region.

    Marconi Restaurant reflects Tkaczyk’s culinary passion with its delectable Polish and Mediterranean cuisine, including the signature roasted duck with caramelised apples, abundant with flavours of rosemary, garlic and clove. The restaurant’s elegant classical interiors with rich dark parquet contrasted against soft white panelled walls, together with a delicate colour palette and exquisite details like crystal chandeliers and fine porcelain, provide a sophisticated and romantic ambiance.

    Tradition meets metropolitan lifestyle at the legendary Café Bristol, which has enchanted its guests since 1901 with original Viennese-style interiors, aromas of freshly brewed coffee, delicious traditional dishes and sophisticated patisserie.

    Leisure Facilities and The Luxury Collection Concierge
    A gold and white light installation hangs above the exquisite reception desk at the wellness area, exuding a calming, ethereal atmosphere when one enters. In this intimate and serene retreat, guests can make use of the indoor pool and gym, enjoy a pampering massage, as well as relax in the wet and dry saunas.

    Hotel Bristol also introduces the brand’s signature Luxury Collection Concierge service to all guests, offering the most discerning global travellers an extraordinary experience and impeccable service. The concierge provides guests recommendations to discover and experience the city in an authentic and indigenous way, reinforcing Hotel Bristol’s position as the Varsovian destination authority.

    Daniel Fountain / 15.02.2013

    Editor, Hotel Designs

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