Sowing the seeds of a new look
The lush canopies and flourishing beds of Munich’s Botanical Garden have long proved a source of interior inspiration at The Charles Hotel, and the refreshed appearance of its spacious rooms builds on this rich horticultural legacy. Polizzi and her team explain, “We continue to use the greens and verdant colours that you see in the flowers and foliage. However, we have expanded upon this, bringing accents of yellow and turquoise, which add an element of brightness to the spaces.”
Polizzi emphasises how a continued evolution is key to success, even for designs that are considered ‘timeless’: “A designer's work is never done. We can still excite and surprise guests with thoughtful developments and embellishments. The simple additions of wallpapers or reupholstering furniture in more contemporary designs, these are the essence of timeless design.”
Designing for the future
When envisioning any space, sustainability plays a crucial role for Polizzi – beyond the positive impact of her designs on the guest experience, there’s a broader consideration for the planet. She explains, “We consider sustainability, not just in the high-quality materials, which we want to be sure will stand the test of time, but in importing materials. All upholstery used is sourced from Germany and any additional fabrics are European.”
An enduring appeal
The Charles Hotel’s charm lies partly in its ability to seamlessly blend the city’s outdoors with its elegant interiors, “It remains imperative to ensure our hotels reflect their surroundings, capturing the essence of the location. The Charles has always told the story of Munich, both through design and the building itself - the new design hopefully takes this a step further, blending the interior with the view of the Old Botanical Garden.”
Polizzi explores the inclusive appeal of The Charles Hotel, with its balance of contemporary style and traditional Bavarian hospitality. “The hotel has always attracted a range of guests, both young and older, and the new design lends itself to both.” After all, the enchanting beauty of nature is something to be admired and appreciated by all.
With an array of new details to uncover, guests are invited to enjoy The Charles Hotel’s central location overlooking verdant surroundings
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
They say the lobby is the beating heart of any hotel; where first impressions linger, inspiring journeys begin and end, and friends and lovers reunite. Upon entering Hotel de Rome, an immediate sense of calm is restored, as light pours in from the glass atrium and plants and palms breathe new life into the space. Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, shares her inspiration behind the hotel lobby’s new look.
This summer, Masseria Torre Maizza turns up the volume on a cause that needs our attention. Save the Olives, a non-profit organisation championed by Dame Helen Mirren, whose mission is to raise awareness of Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium devastating Puglia’s olive trees and impacting the local economy and ecosystem. In support, we have devised an incredible calendar of music and art amidst our Masseria’s olive groves – a poignant setting, grounded in the cause.