Belmond Splendido Mare — Photo by LVMH Hotel Management

Seaside grandeur awaits at historic Belmond Splendido Mare, which will reopen in June 2020 after a complete refurbishment. The small seaside retreat nestled in the heart of Portofino Harbor has been re-imagined by Paris-based FESTEN Architecture. Inspired by its maritime heritage, the design will reflect the elevated but casual atmosphere with natural woods, ropes and brass accents along with traditional Ligurian colors of sea green, terracotta and amber.

The décor of the 14 guestrooms will draw inspiration from the interiors of a traditional Italian fishing boat. Nautical details include bespoke wooden latticed flooring and headboards hand-crafted by renowned textile designerVéronique de Soultrait who creates geometric patterns with braided ropes. Each room and suite will feature local antiques including fruitwood armchairs by Italian architect Paolo Buffa and fabric from Italian producers such as Loro Piana and Rubelli. Wall lamps made from Murano glass will complement the original art sourced from Italian artists. The bathrooms will be inspired by the cabins on neighboring Santa Margherita beach. The walls will be outfitted with white and yellow geometric tiles to create bold stripes in contrast to the pure white marble floor.

Encapsulating the cheerful character of Portofino, the hotel's open lobby space will reflect the vibrancy of traditional Ligurian colors with bright furniture including antique pieces from well-known Italian architect Gio Ponti and terracotta floors resonant of the seaside location.

"The new Splendido Mare will celebrate that timeless Italian sophistication by incorporating the highpoint of Italian mid-century modern design that corresponds to the incomparable spirit of Portofino. This new chapter will embrace the philosophy of simple pleasures, the art of good living, scooping the sauce of your pasta with the last bit of bread! Belmond Splendido Mare will maintain its distinctive and iconic character and charm, the Ligurian way!" comments Arnaud Champenois, SVP of Brand & Marketing.

Hotel website