Design doesn’t always have to equal modern. It’s easy to mix brilliant vintage and historic elements with current trends. Hotels have long been transforming historical houses and buildings, harmoniously blending the old and new to create unique spaces that become the best new places to stay. Combine historic buildings and contemporary interiors at these four European gems in Italy, Spain and France.
Hotel Único, Madrid
Located behind the elegant façade of a 19th-century mansion in Madrid’s fashionable Salamanca district, Hotel Único Madrid is perfectly positioned for you to enjoy the best of Madrid’s art, culture and shopping. The building’s heritage is evident with a marble mosaic floor in the lobby, high ceilings and large windows. A modern sculpture by Jacinto Moros takes centre stage in the spiral staircase, while modern and classical touches have been used to great effect by interior designer Maria José Cabre.
GombitHotel, Bergamo
Medieval meets modern at Bergamo’s GombitHotel. The first design hotel in Bergamo’s historic centre, it features the original stone walls and wooden beams from the 13th-century medieval structure throughout. Modern furnishings and flamboyant accents contrast brilliantly with the historical structure and a permanent collection of art integral to the design of the guest rooms and the lounge.
La Monnaie Art & Spa, La Rochelle
La Monnaie Art & Spa is located in an historical building in La Rochelle that dates to 1656. Architect and interior designer Philippe Lucazeau has successfully combined the building’s historical elements with contemporary furnishings and modern art to create this fresh-faced treasure. Art, photographs, paintings and sculptures are on display in co-operation with the Albane Gallery in Nantes.
Puro Oasis Urbano, Palma de Mallorca
Puro Oasis Urbano can be found in the La Lonja district of Palma de Mallorca. This ancient port city is defined by its mix of gothic and renaissance styles, while the hotel itself is a former 18th century city palace transformed into a modern hotel. Expect mosaic floors and high ceilings in typical Mallorcan style, with contemporary art and style, smart leather furniture and earthen fabrics used to offset the pure white setting.
Search Villas