Following on from the success of the launch of its very first Hotel in Wroclaw in 2012, PURO Hotels re-appointed Blacksheep to collaborate on creating the design strategy for what would be their second hotel in the region. Ideally located in the heart of Krakow, the hotel offers affordable luxury to all, whether one’s aim is business, pleasure or both. Close to the picturesque old town boasting numerous bars and restaurants and conveniently located nearby to Krakow’s rail station, it provides a window of opportunity for those looking to experience all Poland has to offer.

As a growing brand, the brief was heavily influenced by the values and ethos of Puro, which when combined, aim to redefine affordable luxury as we know it. The brand itself is youthful, fun and innovative with a passion for technology and growth. Similar to its sister property, the hotel needed to integrate into the very heart of the community and entice locals and guests alike to enjoy the facilities on offer. Putting the guest in control of their own Puro destiny was key to the brief.

It is these core elements which the Blacksheep team looked to drive through the overarching design strategy for the hotel.

The Solution

Blacksheep first sought to infuse the brand’s natural affinity for light, vibrancy and modern design into the public spaces within the hotel, consisting of 4 zones - media, lounge, café and conference room. A range of furniture and materials were carefully selected to bring this direction to life. Glass walls, natural timbers and a palette of light colours are used throughout to evoke a feeling of light and space to the overall environment. These elements were then mirrored in the bedrooms, creating a link between the spaces. Corner bedrooms, which incorporate larger open windows, further push the concept and give the guest an insight into the buzz of everyday Krakow life. A mix of classic furniture pieces are layered with modern and bold items to help maintain a traditional yet urban feel, whilst adding to the vibrancy of the hotel.

The team next looked to convey the brand’s generosity of character through various touch points within the environment as a first phase in translating Puro’s core values. Free coffee machines were implemented throughout the public spaces to give something back to guests whilst encouraging them to stay and enjoy the hotel’s facilities. This also entices guests and locals alike to mix and socialise together, further serving to educate and integrate the guest into the local culture of the region. Free wireless is also available throughout the hotel as a symbol of the hotel’s friendly nature.

During the design process, the team also recognised the importance for the hotel to feel like a home away from home so that guests could enjoy the hospitality and culture which Poland has to offer. The lounge area answers this need by providing an open plan space which offers a cosy and comfortable atmosphere. Deep seating and warm vibrant colours invite guests to pick up a book, watch the large screen and relax. In the summer months, doors open into an enclosed private garden where guests are free to enjoy a coffee and the taste of urban greenery .The café come bar also provides an integrated environment where guests can enjoy the very best of local craft beers and wine as well as experiencing a range of traditional polish dishes alongside a selection of popular European favourites.

Lastly the cultures and traditions of Poland are weaved throughout various design elements to capture the essence of the country. Wycinanki inspired patterns with a contemporary twist are a key feature in the hotel’s identity and are also translated through the design in the hotel’s bedrooms and other public spaces in the form of  wall coverings, carpets and glass frostings. The ancient Polish art form, dating from the mid-nineteenth century, originated from shepherds cutting designs out of tree bark and leather paper and can still be seen in modern day Poland where it is typically used to decorate windows, furniture and roof beams. These colourful and eye catching designs where used to act as a link between the Puro brand and the country.