Page 80 - Designing Ways 275
P. 80

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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