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ROLEX HOTEL

LOCATION:

Warsaw, Poland

CLIENT:

Magmillon Developments

SIZE:

7,535sm

YEAR:

2018

Warsaw, a city steeped in history, has always been a canvas of architectural evolution. Nestled within its heart is a structure that stands as a testament to time - the iconic 19th-century edifice, locally revered as “The Rolex Building.” When the opportunity arose to breathe new life into this historical marvel, the vision was clear: to seamlessly merge its storied past with the elegance and functionality of contemporary hotel design.

The Rolex Building's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Having withstood the ravages of both World Wars and later serving as an office space during the communist regime, its walls whisper tales of resilience and endurance. Such a profound legacy demanded an interior design approach that would honor its past while ushering it into the present.

Magmillon Developments, with their keen eye for potential and respect for heritage, envisioned the transformation of this structure into a boutique 5-star hotel. The challenge was to craft a space that would exude luxury and sophistication while preserving the essence of its historical roots.

Architecturally, the building's original infrastructure was to remain largely untouched, a nod to its resilience. However, the myriad of ad hoc additions from the communist era, which lacked the finesse and quality befitting such a structure, were proposed to be meticulously removed. This delicate balance between preservation and innovation is where architectural solutions played a pivotal role.

The hotel's layout was thoughtfully designed to optimize space and functionality. Guest suites, echoing luxury and comfort, were strategically positioned above the ground level. The ground floor, a bustling hub of activity, houses the hotel lobby, exquisite restaurants, and curated retail spaces, all gracing the street-side elevation. But perhaps the most breathtaking feature is the interior courtyard. Encased in a full-height glass atrium, it boasts a dramatic dining room, where guests can dine under a canopy of stars, with unobstructed views of the sky above. The top floor, nestled under the expansive sloped roof, is dedicated to conference and ballroom functions, offering a panoramic view of the city's skyline.

The interior design philosophy was clear: to create a harmonious blend of the building's 19th-century charm with modern interventions. Every corner, every nook of the hotel was to be a symphony of the old and the new. Original architectural elements were to be highlighted and celebrated, while contemporary touches added layers of sophistication. The result? A space that feels both timeless and avant-garde, a true reflection of Warsaw's spirit.

In essence, the Rolex Hotel is not just a place to stay; it's an experience. It's where history meets luxury, where every brick, every beam tells a story, and where guests are invited to become a part of that narrative. Through innovative hotel design and meticulous attention to detail, this project stands as a testament to how architectural solutions and interior design can come together to craft a masterpiece that pays homage to the past while looking firmly towards the future.

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