Jaime Hayon Creates an Unconventional World of Design at Hotel Barceló Torre De Madrid
Jaime Hayon Creates an Unconventional World of Design at Hotel Barceló Torre De Madrid
The Hotel Where History, Culture, and Surrealism Meet in Modern Sophistication
Project:
Barceló Torre De Madrid
Design:
Jaime Hayon
Location:
Madrid, Spain
Photography:
Klunderbie, Courtesy of Hayon Studio
Words:
Erica Nichols
These days, when you travel, where you stay is just as important as where you explore. Accommodations meant solely for dropping off your bags and grabbing a few hours of rest are no longer the status quo. Now, hotels are an experience all their own. A place to drop your bags and rest, sure, but also one to spend as much time exploring as the city itself. A place with just as impressive sights and luxurious details as the city it resides in. A place a lot like Hotel Barceló Torre De Madrid. Housed in the beloved Torre Madrid, an icon of the city since its construction in 1957, this unconventional stay blends together Madrid’s unique history with a rich and modern design from native designer Jaime Hayon.
For Hayon, it was important to come up with a design that encapsulated a new vision of Spain, a chance to steer away from tradition and embrace Madrid’s contemporary, cultural identity. “Aside from being my hometown,” he says, “Madrid represents Spain’s diversity and richness.” Much like the city, the concept for the hotel was to create a space where history, culture, and unconventionality meet in modern sophistication.
Step inside, and you’ll see what we mean. Roman-inspired arches, vibrant jewel tones, European finishes—all stylish details that pay homage to the past in a modern twist. Of course, Hayon let the city’s natural beauty shine, taking advantage of swoon-worthy views and tons of natural light to give the space a bright and inviting ambiance. And when it comes to making a statement? The designer didn’t hold back. Surrealist elements are incorporated throughout the hotel, like in the lobby, for example, where you’re greeted by a towering zebra-striped bear sculpture tipping his brass hat in welcome.
It’s in those playful elements where Hayon’s identity as an artist shines brightest. Most of the furnishings and fixtures incorporated are from previous collaborative projects with some of Europe’s finest design brands. Quirky sculptures, detailed masks, and imagined characters from Hayon’s design are tucked into every corner of Hotel Barceló, showcasing Hayon’s refined ability to create totally imaginative works that still feel sophisticated and luxurious. Spanning across nine floors of this grand building, Hayon breathes an intimate, boutique feel into an otherwise dauntingly expansive space. With his clever design, Hayon has created an experience unlike any other, an opportunity to indulge in artistic glamour and appreciate the history that makes Madrid the captivating city it is.
