Page 80 - Designing Ways 275
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The second building, named the Pavelló, is an annexe that takes shape
with a modern, rational approach. Both volumes are connected by a
terrace, or the ‘heart’ of the hotel. Endowed with a small swimming
pool, abundant ferns, and a poetic central sculpture (titled Font de
Gararotes) by renowned local artist Frederic Amat, it provides a
serene oasis for guests and a natural connection between the two
buildings.
The rooms
For the rooms in El Palauet, El Equipo Creativo reimagined the
sumptuous décor of the fin de siècle through a prism of contemporary
design and art. The designers' goal was to instill a ‘feminine’ presence
throughout, recreating the warm and eclectic ambiance of a noble
family nest. Careful attention to detail and the selection of materials
and textures create a rich visual experience. This is further enhanced
by a collection of paintings, sculptures, murals, and photographs - all
of which are original works by local artists.
Although each room and suite presents a design story in itself, gothic
arches and porticoes, a dominant architectural motif of Girona’s Barri
Vell, are a recurring influence and narrative.
Curvaceous chaise longues, bespoke rattan bedheads, and avant-
garde lighting enfold the guest. Surfaces and textiles, from velvet
drapes to strategically placed mirrors, invite the user to linger and
relax in this historic setting. Anchoring each room is a custom-
made marble vanity unit, a monolithic interpretation of the tocador
(dressing table) that exemplifies domestic life of the period.
The rooms in El Palauet are filled in a palette of natural stone shades
and soft blues, greys, and blush tones, creating an elegant mise
en scène that is very contemporary, and lends new life to original
features such as ceiling roses and carved balcony shutters.
This mood changes in El Pavelló - an ode to ‘la dolce vita’ of the
Mediterranean. A palette of terracotta, locally made ceramics and
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