Project Overview

Originally established in 1933, Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is steeped in history since it was the first purpose-built hotel on the island and has been declared an asset of cultural interest by UNESCO. A colonial building that became a military headquarters during the Spanish Civil War with an historical white and yellow facade, which had to be respected during the refurbishment. It has been a main factor in the social life of the island since it’s opening, hosting personalities such as Orson Welles, Princess Caroline of Monaco and Pink Floyd.

Project Commissioner

Hilton Hotels

Project Creator

Lazaro Rosa Violant

Project Brief

The property has been fully refurbished. An icon redefined and crafted by the most skillful of hands, a classic monument redressed for future generations to delight in and find inspiration. Open year-round, the main desire while designing it was to create an urban ambience away from the traditional beach hotels that could link the existing facade with the interiors. Attention to detail has been another priority for a hotel where nothing happens by chance.

The ground level deviates from the traditional distribution of hotels, avoiding the separation between reception and the Café Montesol. A single space full of theatrical elements to explain the story of the island. A dinosaur skeleton is used as a reminder of the rich past of the island and the fact that when you dig to build you will always find some remembrance of the past. The ceramic mural explains the symbiosis between the inhabitants and nature that has been always part of life in the area.

Cafe Montesol has been a hub for social life in Ibiza since it was open in 1933. The ambience was created to evolve according to the what time of the day it is and so the activity developed. Light, music and even the staff uniform are changed for this purpose.

Project Need

The hotel's 33 elegant guest rooms have been decorated by famed interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán. Bright rooms, of which 3 are suites, 12 are premium, 6 are superior and 12 are classic. All of them reflect the character of the area, with its materials, tones and that special Mediterranean light that has made Ibiza famous around the world. A subtle and warm palette of natural colors with the blue used to create a contrast that makes you feel welcome as soon as you step into the room, and the impeccable lighting uplifts the spaces to make every guest feel unique. The use of high quality natural materials has been the priority of this project to ensure the caliber of luxury required in this lifestyle hotel.

Design Challenge

The biggest challenge was to create an operational design that could answer to our guests needs and relate to the island at the same time.

Things like a bespoke concierge that offers a private service to help plan and manage a trip prior to or during a stay is the way to enhance guest’s comfort. This assists with anything they may need during their stay in Ibiza including restaurant reservations, yacht rentals, diving experiences and more work to ensure full guest satisfaction.

At the same time, local materials and decorative elements have been carefully chosen to blend with hotel soul and historical glamour while explaining a bit of its history in every detail.

All designed and thought out to ensure that it will be a place where exceptional experiences become unforgettable memories, ideal for passionate travelers looking for local discovery.

Sustainability

In an island where the nature is part of its day by day life, sustainability was one of the main goals of the project. Ensure the use of local eco-friendly materials and suppliers as much as possible was the approach during design and construction.

Once opened, the use of products that respect the environment as well as local food for the guests are always the objectives. That last fact also helps the guest to enjoy the real character of the place providing authentic islander experiences.