This isn’t your typical hotel experience. The W Rome is a vibrant tapestry woven with Italian history, modern design, and sheer exuberance, a testament to the creative genius of Meyer Davis, a design firm known for pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations.
Imagine a hotel that embodies the spirit of Rome itself, a city layered with history and culture, where ancient ruins meet modern marvels. This is the vision that fueled the design of the W Rome. By delving into the city’s rich past, the designers discovered a captivating narrative, a story of civilizations and cultures intertwined. They embraced this narrative, transforming it into a tangible experience for hotel guests.
From Humble Beginnings to Glamorous Destination
The W Rome’s journey began as two separate buildings, one six stories high and the other four, dating back to 1889. These buildings had seen it all: a hotel, shops, a restaurant, even a period of occupation by Nazi troops. After years of neglect, they were acquired by Omnam Group and King Street Capital Management, waiting for a new chapter to begin.
Meyer Davis stepped in, breathing new life into these historical structures. The designers faced a challenge: how to seamlessly connect two buildings into one cohesive and luxurious hotel? Their solution? A “gasket,” a glazed cube that serves as a breathtaking entrance, instantly captivating guests and drawing them into the heart of the W Rome.
A Symphony of Design and Luxury
Once inside, guests are welcomed by a kaleidoscope of design elements, each carefully curated to evoke the grandeur of Rome. From the fantastical Roman garden with its verdant mural and shimmering stainless-steel check-in kiosks to the opulent lobby with its carved stone walls and black-and-white marble floors, every detail tells a story.
The heart of the lobby is a stunning oval lounge with luxurious rosewood paneling and a gilt ceiling, a clear nod to the majestic Pantheon. This space serves as a vibrant gathering place, a testament to the hotel’s commitment to social interaction and luxurious experiences.
A Feast for the Senses
The W Rome offers a diverse culinary landscape, from the Giano restaurant helmed by acclaimed chef Ciccio Sultano to the Zucchero cafe, catering to a diverse clientele. Each space is unique, meticulously designed to create a sensory experience, from the disco music reverberating off stone and brass surfaces to the prismatic effects of backlit acrylic and glass.
The guest quarters are a testament to the designers’ creativity and attention to detail. Each room feels unique, a blend of classic Italian design and modern sensibilities. Channeled leather headboards draw inspiration from Carlo Scarpa, while tables reference Memphis and iconic Arco lamps illuminate the presidential suite. Every element, from the hand-painted textiles to the outdoor seating, tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
A Journey Through Time
The W Rome is more than just a hotel; it’s a journey through time and culture. It’s a place where history meets modern design, where luxury meets authenticity, and where guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant heart of Rome. It’s a testament to the power of design to transform, inspire, and captivate, leaving an indelible mark on the hospitality landscape.
