CRAFTMANSHIP, HERITAGE AND INNOVATION
Following a series of award-winning design and renovation projects last year, Belmond today reveals details of seven highly distinctive developments across its unique portfolio of hotels, trains and cruises in 2018.
The launch of three new Art-Deco Grand Suites on board historic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Belmond’s diverse range of designs honour timeless craftsmanship, celebrate heritage and tradition and look to the future working with innovative designers and local materials.
This year will see the introduction of a new era of exploration and discovery at Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge in Botswana; celebrate local culture and traditional arts in Mexico with the re-imagination of Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada; the completion of a historical renovation of Belmond Cadogan Hotel in London as well as the opening of the ultimate in beach-chic and relaxed luxury, Belmond Cap Juluca in Anguilla.
“When you walk into a Belmond property you can feel the ‘soul’ of the place, and it’s our job to keep the soul and spirit alive with the design concepts. We are working with talented designers to carefully merge the genuine elements of the local culture with a modern-day relevance that resonates with our guest’s lifestyle and aspirations,” comments Joe Ferry, Art & Design Director at Belmond.
No two properties are the same, but each is influenced by local cultures and traditions and many are strongly connected to the history and heritage of the destination. Belmond’s properties are defined by their authentic designs that stand the test of time; classical and elegant they embrace the unique personality of each destination.
TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP – VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS, EUROPE
Three new private ‘Grand Suites’ launched last week aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, creating new levels of luxury accommodation aboard the historic train. Named after the romantic cities to which the train travels, Paris, Venice and Istanbul; interior designs of each cabin reflect the spirit of each city whilst staying true to the original 1920s Art-Deco design.
Working with the very best craftsman including a traditional glassblower who has created the spectacular glass sinks and delicate light fixtures and famed mosaicist Jerome Clochard, an expert in the restoration of ancient mosaics, who piece by piece created the stunning patterns using marble, onyx, Venetian granite and Italian glass. Master atelier, Philippe Allemand has created the striking marquetry, an ancient skill that has passed through generations and has worked with the train since its restoration in 1997. The delicate process requires the layering of hundreds and thousands of exotic pieces of wood that are lacquered to create the most luxurious finish.
MEXICAN MASTERPIECE – BELMOND CASA DE SIERRA NEVADA, MEXICO
In April 2018, Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada, in the heart of Mexico re-emerges from a masterful renovation as a timeless Mexican retreat. This ambitious restoration project carefully protects the property’s original 16th–18th century features whilst finding new and inspiring ways to represent Mexican traditions and modern artisans.
