Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, welcomes a newly redesigned pool, Splendido Grill restaurant and Baronessa Suite.
Led by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the hotel will reveal the transformation of the celebrated pool area, famously overlooking the sparkling Ligurian Bay; as well as introducing the new Splendido Grill restaurant and the renovated Baronessa Suite. Each seasonal reopening promises new, elevated spaces that capture the spirit of Ligurian craftsmanship and design.
A Celebration of Ligurian Craft
One of the leading restaurant and hotel designers of his generation, Martin Brudnizki reinvigorates spaces with his unique and contemporary point of view, seamlessly blending tradition with design, synonymous with Belmond’s own vision. Through the use of local materials and traditional craft, Brudnizki layers different colours, fabrics, textures and styles, with an inspiring and emboldened outcome.
“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,” says the Swedish architect. “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.”
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However, modern touches still prevail. “Within this historically sensitive design there is a layer of amenities to make Splendido the most comfortable in the world,” says Brudnizki. “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.”
The result is a warming space combining family heirloom antiques with a modern elevated perspective. Inspired by Ligurian coastal villa living, delicate touches from the region are observed throughout the hotel’s design, from black and white Carrara and Lavagna stone flooring, to the local Albissola ceramics through to the original Margerin frescos.
A New Chapter for an Iconic Pool
Splendido’s cinematographic swimming pool is legendary in its own right; a glamorous destination where guests including renowned film directors, actors, artists and even royalty have soaked up the Portofino Bay panorama. Newly redesigned by the talented Italian landscape designer Marco Bay, the iconic 1970s pool has been updated to reflect the deep green-blue tones of the sea below, while the surrounding sun terrace now features 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 hand-painted green and white tile frontages inspired by Albissola ceramics, also found in the hotel guestrooms. The restaurant’s lush green surroundings blend seamlessly with the interior detailing, furniture and greenery, whilst the retractable sunroof in tones of acorn green and terracotta against a bright white background, provides a striking contrast against the red-flecked composite stone floor.
At night, vibrant striped Murano glass pendant lights illuminate the terrace, furnished with Bonacina chairs, dressed with piped cushions in coral and green tones and tables adorned with custom-designed fine bone china inspired by the local flora and fauna.
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The Baronessa Suite, Reimagined
The newly designed Baronessa Suite combines the design details and language of the guest suites with enchanting frescoes, artistic elements and handcrafted decorations dating back to mid 20th century, evoking all the splendour of the Ligurian Riviera – with the addition of curios, antiques and richly layered furniture. Inspired by the noble Palazzos of the region, a particular emphasis has been placed on striking the balance between comfort and elegance.
Rich fabric wall coverings contrast beautifully with the Graniglia alla Genovese flooring, with a mosaic border finish. Antique furniture, thoughtfully curated from local auction houses and estate sales, has been reupholstered in bespoke fabrics, including a statement chaise longue and carved timber side table, as well as a petite vanity table with contrasting footstool. A grandiose carved timber headboard depicting unfurling agapanthus leaves contrasts against the soft fabric of the upholstered insert whilst painted Genovese antique bedside tables are topped by Albissola table lamps.
The suite’s magnificence extends outdoors to the expansive terrace, furnished with rattan seating and a dining area, where guests can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast whilst basking in the warm morning sun. The Baronessa Suite is a true testament to tradition and cultural heritage, offering guests unparalleled style and comfort
