As one of just a handful of hotels on the island to enjoy an enduring and ever-evolving legacy, Corinthia Palace Hotel in Attard lives up to its regal name. From the Belle Epoque architecture of Villa Corinthia to lush green public spaces, the hotel’s design is a reflection of its origins, fused with the hospitality group’s forward-thinking vision.
The classic interior of the Corinthia Palace remains one of its greatest appeals, a factor that design, engineering and management firm QP embraced in its design brief for the first phase of renovations, which resulted in the subtle transformation of several of its guest rooms and suites.
Ekaterina Nazarova, partner and interior design architect at QP who led this project, describes it as one that is “very dear to our hearts. The very first Corinthia hotel where the legacy of the 5-star hospitality chain began. It has been an honour to be a part of the next chapter for this iconic property.”
Over a period of nine months the team brought a refined and modern elegance to the hotel by introducing two new room categories: the Grand Deluxe rooms and Grand Suites.
“17 guestrooms underwent a full update involving both bedroom and bathroom renovations – resulting in the ‘Grand Deluxe’. It was important for our interior design team to stay true to the historic style of the hotel by keeping architectural details and enhancing them where possible,” says Ekaterina.
It included decorative corbels, arches and inset fluted panels, all of which add to the light period flare of the property, coupled with a fresh, airy colour palette that derives its richness from the subtle mix of tones and textures.
“Vastly inspired by the lush gardens of the hotel, the rooms incorporate tones of sage green, which can be found in the drapery panels, custom seeded glass of the bedside table lamps, and the upholstery,” Ekaterina explains.
“Existing wing-back chairs were given a new lease of life while incorporating the traditional floral upholstery fabric, creating a statement inside the room. By layering various textures and patterns in neutral tones, we set a serene and elegant retreat for hotel guests to relax in.”
For the Grand Suite, a new layout was developed to allow for a foyer, walk-in closet, and a spacious bathroom with space for a separate tub and shower.
“The colour palette chosen for these rooms brings the essence of the island to life: the blues of the Mediterranean, the golden sandy beaches, Malta’s old cities with its limestone-lined narrow streets, and pops of colour of the signature balconies. A Matisse-inspired artwork, ‘Swimmers’, discerningly hints to one of the favourite pastimes of the islanders.”
Ekaterina adds that architectural interest was added to the living room by way of a TV panel with decorative stepped details, flanked by two minibar units – one as a tea and coffee station and the other serving as a lavish private mini-bar.
“This calming yet stately ambience is further layered with Italian marble, aged brass details, and luscious soft furnishings, all meticulously curated to exude tranquillity and elegance within this historic hotel.”
Photography: Brian Grech
