HOK revealed its design for the interiors of the new St. Regis Belgrade hotel, which celebrates the history and culture of Serbia’s famed ‘White City.’ The luxury hotel will occupy the first nine floors of the 40-story Kula Belgrade, the signature building of the larger Belgrade Waterfront development that includes private residences, retail and ample public space. In addition to 119 well-appointed guestrooms, the hotel will feature restaurants, bars, a fitness center, a spa and meeting space. Currently under construction, the tower is expected to open in late 2020.
“As a result of its strategic location at the convergence of the Sava and Danube Rivers, Belgrade has long been a place where worlds collide,” said Julia Monk, HOK’s director of hospitality interior design. “It’s a place where East meets West and ancient history intersects with the contemporary age. Our design is inspired by this this dynamic tension and weaves together a sense of community with historic cultural jewels and new architectural landmarks.”
A Tasteful Welcome
The Long Gallery is the heart of the St. Regis Belgrade entry experience. Evoking the confluence of the two rivers, this is where the excitement of Belgrade Waterfront meets the gracious St. Regis hospitality. Its grand stair, carefully curated artwork, embossed metal finishes and elegant furniture extend a warm welcome to guests and visitors and lead them into the hotel’s public areas.
Belgrade’s coffee culture dates back to the Ottoman period. HOK’s design of the Salon (above) and Patisserie honor this tradition, tempting visitors with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee among elegant, modern surroundings. Guests will enjoy coffee and treats in the Patisserie, which anchors a corner of the Salon, or in the more private atmosphere of the adjacent Library Lounge.
Two strong focal points—a grand fireplace and sculptural bar—define the St. Regis Bar (above), a beloved signature of the brand. A handcrafted, bespoke textile art piece will wrap the walls, telling the story of the rebirth of Belgrade in an abstract and modern style while evoking Maxfield Parrish’s famous “Old King Cole” mural in the hotel’s flagship New York City property.
The Highland Dining Room celebrates classic Serbian and international cuisine in an ultramodern setting. The 80-seat restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner from its ground-level dining room and outdoor terrace overlooking the River Sava. Rustic interior elements resembling traditional Serbian highlands vernacular architecture are juxtaposed with bespoke lighting and furniture.
Conservatory and Spa
Designed as an extension of the adjacent outdoor plaza, the Conservatory will host weddings, celebrations and corporate events. Its sculptural walls and ceiling complement the dynamic architecture of the tower podium. The Fitness Center, Salon and Iridium Spa will occupy the second level overlooking the River Sava.