When world-renowned design firm PYR, founded by legendary designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, invites you to preview their latest luxury makeover, you don’t say no. I didn't and was lucky enough to get a sneak peek of the jaw-droppingly gorgeous St. Regis Rome before its unveiling. During an exclusive interview with PYR Senior Project Director Dean Morrison, I got the inside scoop and some fabulous inspiration.
You’d be forgiven for thinking this was a private room rather than the hotel’s check-in desk. “We introduced as many soft elements as possible here, including the hand-tufted inset carpet and the double-height drapery, to create a residential feel,” says Morrison. I love the lengthening effect of the drapes extended to the ceiling and how the design team thought outside the box. “We used seated desks instead of the expected check-in counter.”
It’s easy to imagine sipping prosecco in the hotel’s stunning Caelum Bar. “Here, we mixed traditional and opulent accessories [those chandeliers!] to reinforce the spirit of the renovation,” says Morrison. “This more contemporary-style bar contrasts the traditional architectural details and re-energizes the space with modern functionality.” I love the way the gold accents enliven the cool greys.
The hotel’s rotunda seating area exemplifies the design power of something as simple as mirror panels. “The mirrors have a light and modern effect that further reinforces the hotel’s seamless blend of history and modernity,” says Morrison. It’s true - imagine this space without them and that sophisticated airiness gets lost.
The dove grey, deep yellow and powder blue of the bar extend to the hotel’s library. “It’s actually an aristocratic Roman palette,” Morrison says. “Here, the powder-blue dominates and ties the space together.” I love the boldness of using one colour for the walls, furniture and carpeting.
The kitchen continues the marriage of history and modernity with a dynamic mix of materials, from stainless steel and heavily veined marble to the wonderfully intricate floor. “The mosaic marble is an authentic Roman material and technique,” says Morrison. I love how the grey tones in each material unify the space.
I think flowers are the barometer of a hotel’s taste level and fresh blooms can be found everywhere in the St. Regis Rome. “White fresh flowers extend a sense of luxury even in the corridors and the arrangements provide visual interest. While the lilies are symbolic of the ‘mind and spirit,’ the roses symbolize ‘love.’ The combination is a visual feast of well-being.” Gold-framed prints and console details complete the visual harmony.
There are so many inspirational design ideas in the guest room that I want to try at home: the matching curtains, bedding, cushions and rug; the wallpapered gallery wall and the subtle reading sconces positioned ingeniously on the headboard. All work individually and combined create a luxurious space that begs to be lingered in.
The relatively small square footage of this superior room is maximized with bold scale and thoughtful details. A full-size sofa makes the room feel bigger, intricate molding and wainscoting add visual interest and, once again, a mirrored panel is at play. It feels modern amongst the traditional decor, while visually expanding the room.
If you’re thinking beyond the all-white bathroom, let this be your inspiration. The floor is traditional Italian terrazzo with an inset mosaic frame, which creates a neat bath mat effect, and the walls are glossy Italian Nero Marquina marble. Timeless and chic, the monochromatic palette feels a bit palatial, which is apropos considering the St. Regis Rome is just steps from the city’s presidential palace. A stunning hotel well worth a visit.
