Following a multi-million dollar renovation, Hotel Bristol, one of Warsaw's iconic establishments, has announced that it joined The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts' portfolio. Owned by Starman Poland, Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Warsaw marks the luxury brand's first hotel in Poland, a move said to “combine its authentic, artistic spirit and its cultural heritage with contemporary glamour and elegance”.
Situated next to the Presidential Palace and on the historic and fashionable Royal Route, Hotel Bristol has been at the center of Varsovian society since it was founded in 1901 by Ignacy Paderewski, a composer, piano virtuoso and former Polish Prime Minister. The hotel boasts 168 guestrooms and 38 suites, clothed in shades of ivory and blue, creating a backdrop for the contrasting charcoal and ebony furnishings. Art Deco accents are used alongside classic elements, a design move said to be a “gentle reminder of the hotel's historic roots”. Softly polished nickel, rich timbers, bevelled mirrors and high-gloss lacquer combine with satin, mohair and wool to encapsulate the era of the 1920s.
Reminiscent of Warsaw's Belle Époque era from the early 20th century, Hotel Bristol has been coupled with contemporary amenities. Behind the hotel's majestic neo-renaissance façade, the interiors were created by London-based hotel designer Anita Rosato, to recapture its history and romantic aura with 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 value is preserved.
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 display of palm trees and blooms, the lobby is described as 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, including in the installation of over 600 handmade brass leaves - inspired by the organic forms of a Secessionist brooch, in the reception; a handcrafted rug that was developed from a remnant fabric with Art Nouveau design; nickel-glass wall fittings; embellished wool drapes and embossed white leather panels influenced by Wagner's contemporaries.
Hotel Bristol also features Advinture, a new wine bar that 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 columns adorned with restored Art Nouveau light fittings, the Column Bar is said to capture the essence of Hotel Bristol, which is known for its annual New Year's Eve grand ball. Curved leather banquette seating and tall-back wingchairs have been added, as well as the handcrafted rug running the length of the grand hall and whose design was inspired by the historical frieze.
Marconi Restaurant’s classical interiors include rich dark parquet contrasted against soft white paneled walls, together with a delicate color palette and details like crystal chandeliers and porcelain.
A gold and white light installation hangs above the reception desk at the wellness area. In this retreat, guests can make use of the indoor pool and gym, enjoy a massage, as well use the wet and dry saunas.
Hotel Bristol also introduces the brand's signature Luxury Collection Concierge service to all guests.
