Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino has unveiled the first stage of its redesign, led by Martin Brudnizki. Set to open to the public in June 2023, the hotel’s pool, pool restaurant and Baronessa Suite are the first of its spaces to be transformed.
Brudnizki has adopted local materials and styles to create a warm space inspired by Ligurian coastal living, with delicate touches from the region throughout, including black and white Carrara and Lavagna stone flooring, and the original Margerin frescos.
The hotel’s swimming pool has been redesigned by Italian landscape designer Marco Bay to reflect the green-blue tones of the sea below, while the surrounding sun terrace now uses contrasting hues of pink, red, and white stone, embedded with mosaic sea creatures.
Adjoining the swimming pool terrace, the Splendido Grill restaurant will feature traditional green and white tile frontages inspired by Albissola ceramics, also found in the hotel’s guestrooms. The restaurant’s lush green surroundings will blend seamlessly with a retractable sunroof in tones of acorn green and terracotta – a striking contrast against the red-flecked composite stone floor. In the evening, vibrant striped Murano glass pendant lights are set to illuminate the terrace, which is furnished with Bonacina chairs dressed with coral and green piped cushions.
“Splendido’s multi-phase renovation is undoubtedly an extraordinary project that brings this historical hotel into the future, keeping the spirit that made it the legend that it is, completely intact,” says Alberto Pirozzini, Managing Director of Splendido. “Considering the novelties that await our guests, a stay at the Splendido will continue to be not only a memorable experience, but an unforgettable journey both exclusive and unique.”
Turning to interiors, the newly designed Baronessa Suite – courtesy of Martin Brudnizki – sees design inspiration stemming back to the mid 20th century. Inspired by the noble Palazzos of the region, rich fabric wall coverings contrast with Graniglia alla Genovese flooring and a mosaic border finish, while antique furniture has been reupholstered in bespoke fabrics. A grandiose carved timber headboard depicts unfurling agapanthus, contrasting against the upholstered insert. To accompany, painted Genovese antique bedside tables are topped by Albissola table lamps. Heading to the suite’s outdoor terrace, the space is furnished with rattan seating and a dining area.
Martin Brudnizki comments: “Splendido is an icon and so our approach to the project was similar to that of a portrait painter, creating a design centred on the building and one that is as much a restoration as a rejuvenation. We looked to the local flora and fauna and architecture for influences while also championing Ligurian craft to ensure the rooms felt luxurious as well as contextual. It was important the design situates guests in Portofino, creating that comforting feeling of being at a friend’s holiday home while allowing them to experience the beauty, art and life of this magical place.
“Within this historically sensitive design there is a layer of amenities to make Splendido the most comfortable in the world. Technology like the lighting control that changes smoothly according to the time of the day, energy saving features and enhanced sound insulation help make the guest experience seamless.”
Taking place over several years, the restoration of the former 16th-century Benedictine monastery is set to be completed in 2026, with the hotel planning to unveil new spaces over the course of each summer reopening.
