Celebrating Sustainability and Heritage: Strandhotel Atlantic & Villa Meeresstrand's Feature in "Beachhotels Europe"

I am thrilled to share that Strandhotel Atlantic and Villa Meeresstrand, part of the Seetelhotels group, have been featured in a new publication that has just been released, a testament to a major renovation project where we transformed these two once-tired hotels on the Baltic Sea. This extensive overhaul, encompassing both exterior architecture and interior design, has been recognized following their inclusion in last year's 'Best Contemporary Hotels' book and the receipt of the OPAL award for the best global boutique hotel.

As an international architect and impact designer, my projects are more than structures; they are narratives woven from the history, culture, and environmental consciousness of their locations.

A Deep Dive into Local History

In Bansin, a town with a rich literary and historical backdrop in the Baltic Sea, the design for these hotels was inspired by the discovery that Maxim Gorky and Leo Tolstoy had penned some of their significant works here. This connection to the past is celebrated through pixelated portraits of these authors, integrated into the very fabric of the hotels. In Strandhotel Atlantic, these portraits are displayed on wallpapers behind the beds, accompanied by inspirational quotes printed on suspended ceilings, ensuring guests are surrounded by positive thoughts as they wake up or go to sleep. Each room features a different citation, offering a unique experience and a personal touch without incurring additional costs.

Sustainability at the Forefront

Embracing my philosophy of combining functionality with beautiful aesthetics, the design across these hotels meticulously incorporates tiles in the rooms that resemble washed-out wood planks, echoing the weathered wooden walkways along the beach. Furthermore, the woodwork of cabinets and the use of fabrics in the lobby are inspired by this same washed-out look, reinforcing the connection with nature and translating the outdoor environment indoors. These choices reflect the natural beauty of our surroundings, ensuring greater functionality and ease of cleaning, and perfectly embodying our commitment to innovative and sustainable design in the hospitality industry.

Villa Meeresstrand, a suite-only hotel, deepens this concept with backlit portraits of the authors positioned behind the beds, creating an intimate atmosphere of reflection and inspiration, fostering a deeper connection to these literary giants for every guest.

As guests enter Strandhotel Atlantic, they are immediately greeted by the reception area's dynamic, flowing design. This thoughtfully crafted space serves as a natural guide, leading visitors effortlessly into the heart of the hotel. Its entrance, subtly positioned to the side, is enhanced by this welcoming design, ensuring a smooth and inviting transition into the captivating ambiance that defines the entire space

In the lounge area, a rectangular fireplace wraps around the space from the entrance lobby, serving as a striking focal point that warmly guides guests into the inviting lounge.

Innovative Design Elements

The local history influenced not just the thematic elements but also functional aspects of the design. In 1928, a landmark decision allowed women to wear bathing suits on this Baltic Sea beach, marking a significant moment in history right where our hotels stand. To commemorate this, we have pixelated a historic black and white photograph of women from that era on the beach, meticulously reproducing this image on tiles that form the pool area's back wall. This artistic approach not only celebrates a pivotal event but also introduces a playful visual effect: as guests approach, the clear image dissolves into a blur, seamlessly blending historical reverence with modern design.

The bar, a dynamic space between the lounge and restaurant, features a black granite surface with backlit bubbles that transform the atmosphere from day to night, addressing the challenge of creating a versatile environment in hotel settings.

Lighting throughout the hotels was carefully selected to mirror the natural environment, with fixtures designed to resemble the flight of seagulls, enhancing the connection between the indoor spaces and the surrounding nature.

Every detail in the restaurants has been thoughtfully considered to ensure an exceptional dining experience, including the strategically placed washed-out mirrors. These mirrors not only allow guests seated facing walls to enjoy views of the sea but also maintain the aesthetic theme of blurring past and present, resonating with the design elements of washed-out wood and pixelated images throughout the hotels.

Conclusion

The journey of Strandhotel Atlantic and Villa Meeresstrand from conception to global recognition is a narrative of innovation, sustainability, and deep respect for local heritage. These projects exemplify how design can transcend aesthetics to foster a connection with history, culture, and the environment, setting new standards in the hospitality industry.

Invitation to Connect

Exploring the boundaries between innovative design and practical functionality is a journey we all navigate. If the stories of Strandhotel Atlantic and Villa Meeresstrand spark any thoughts or parallel experiences, I welcome your insights. Feel free to share, comment, or like, as each interaction enriches our collective understanding and shapes the future of hospitality design. Your perspective is invaluable to the ongoing dialogue in our industry.

• #YasmineMahmoudieh #InnovativeHospitality #SustainableDesign #HotelArchitecture #HospitalityTrends #hoteldesign
• High on Living "Beach Hotels Europe" curated by Patricia Parinejad www.booqpublishing.com