In the enchanting embrace of Rome, a captivating symphony of history and modernity unfolds with resplendent grace. A new chapter is born.
Embarking on a remarkable journey to establish its presence in a city that holds profound significance in its illustrious legacy, Bulgari Hotel Roma officially opened its doors on June 9.
Emerging as a meticulously curated masterpiece, the 114-room property is a testament to the brand’s homage to its roots and unwavering commitment to the art of hospitality, poised to ascend to new heights of excellence.
The rooms’ interior design concept is centred around the use of exquisite colours, taking inspiration from Bulgari’s precious high jewellery collections. Furniture is crafted by Italian producers: the upholstery by B&B Italia and Maxalto, the marble tables by Mangiarotti for Agapecasa, the wild silk carpets by Altai, and the lamps by Flos and FontanaArte. The décor of rooms is completed with historic Bulgari advertising posters.
This new endeavour transcends the realm of mere hotel additions to Rome’s grand tapestry; it symbolises a profound celebration of the timeless allure of the eternal city, and the pivotal role it played in shaping the very essence of Bulgari. It is not merely a homecoming, but a momentous stopover, a resplendent pause, where the soul of Bulgari is honoured in all its grandeur.
In an exclusive interview, we speak with Jean-Christophe Babin, the visionary CEO of Bulgari, who shared captivating insights into the significance of having a property in Rome under the esteemed luxury brand…
Can you elucidate the importance of having a property in Rome for Bulgari?
Rome holds an indescribable significance for Bulgari, representing not only a nostalgic connection but also an exalted celebration of the city that played a seminal role in shaping our brand’s identity. It is not a mere return to our origins but a pivotal moment to pay homage to the place that truly defines the essence of Bulgari. Our intention was to make a distinctive contribution to Rome, surpassing any previous endeavours by collaborating closely with the authorities to ensure the preservation of the property’s historical value as a national heritage site. As part of our ambitious plan to establish 20-25 properties worldwide, Rome stands as an integral pillar of our mission. With over two decades of experience, we meticulously crafted this property to deliver an exclusive and evocative experience for our esteemed guests.
What sets Bulgari properties apart and imparts them with a unique allure?
The allure of Bulgari properties stems from a harmonious fusion of Italian hospitality, exceptional gastronomy, and an unwavering commitment to selecting extraordinary locations. We seek cities that seamlessly blend business and leisure destinations, creating a haven for discerning travellers. Take, for instance, Dubai, where we successfully realised an urban hotel and resort within a single location, transcending conventional boundaries. Our pursuit extends beyond adequacy; we relentlessly strive for the extraordinary. Each property location is chosen with utmost care, ensuring a seamless alignment with our overarching concept.
How does Bulgari ensure its hotels boast designs that withstand the test of time?
The designs of our hotels are purposefully conceived to transcend temporal constraints. While we organically evolve with the changing landscape, we never deviate dramatically from our core principles. Renovations may be undertaken for older properties, but their fundamental essence remains steadfast. Intricate design elements and sophisticated features, such as the graceful incorporation of Roman marble, elevate the overall experience. Our initial concept embraces a minimalist foundation that adapts and layers harmoniously with the unique cultural context of each country. This flexibility enables us to scale our designs while preserving the inherent essence of the Bulgari brand.
What future endeavours lie ahead for Bulgari in terms of expanding its property portfolio?
Over the forthcoming year, we eagerly anticipate unveiling new hotels in captivating destinations such as Miami, Los Angeles and the Maldives. Moreover, we harbour exciting plans for two or three additional locations, the details of which will be unveiled in due course. While our ultimate objective remains to establish 20-25 hotels worldwide, our focus has shifted from mere expansion to cultivating a solid portfolio of loyal guests, and to intimately understand their desires and curate a collection of hotels that caters precisely to their preferences.
How does Bulgari prioritise sustainability and address environmental concerns in its hotel operations?
Sustainability ranks among the paramount concerns for Bulgari. For numerous years now, we have adopted a comprehensive plastic-free approach. From the selection of bathroom amenities to the use of shampoo dispensers and elimination of straws, we conscientiously strive to minimise our environmental footprint. Our hotels are meticulously designed to optimise energy efficiency. For example, the windows and doors in Bulgari Hotel Roma are crafted to facilitate natural air circulation, reducing the reliance on excessive air conditioning. Similarly, during winter, minimal heating suffices to ensure guest comfort, further exemplifying our commitment to environmental responsibility.
Visit Bulgarihotels.com and follow @bulgarihotels on Instagram.
Images: Gabriel De La Chapelle courtesy of Bulgari
