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Monday, May 6, 2024

Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid 

Strategically situated within Madrid's prestigious "Golden Triangle of Art," the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid boasts an unparalleled location. This coveted position grants guests immediate access to the renowned Prado and Thyssen museums, fostering an immersive cultural experience. Its prime address at Plaza de la Lealtad 5, 28014 Madrid, Spain, positions the hotel at the epicenter of Madrid's vibrant core. This central location allows for seamless exploration of the city's premier shopping district and the expansive Retiro Park

Housed within a grand Belle Époque palace meticulously restored to its former glory, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid embodies a timeless elegance synonymous with lavish luxury . Guest accommodations reflect the hotel's unwavering commitment to excellence. From plush guest rooms to the expansive two-bedroom Presidential Suite boasting captivating vistas, every space guarantees an unforgettable sojourn. To further elevate the guest experience, the hotel curates a diverse culinary scene. Distinguished restaurants and bars cater to a variety of palates, featuring a dedicated caviar bar and a venue celebrated for its sophisticated afternoon tea service . For those seeking rejuvenation, the hotel's world-class spa and wellness facilities provide a sanctuary of tranquility

While details regarding the original developer remain undisclosed, historical context suggests a potential connection to Spanish royalty. The hotel's inauguration in 1910 coincided with the wishes of King Alfonso XIII, hinting at a possible involvement by the Royal family in its development.  Currently, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group meticulously manages the property, ensuring its continued legacy of excellence .

The Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid showcases a masterful fusion of historical preservation and contemporary luxury achieved through a collaborative design effort.

Architect by enowned Spanish architect Rafael de La-Hoz led the meticulous restoration of the hotel's exterior. His focus was on meticulously preserving the grandeur of the original Belle Époque architecture, ensuring the building's historical integrity remained paramount.

Interior by Acclaimed French design duo Gilles & Boissier orchestrated the hotel's interior design. Their vision centered on achieving a harmonious dialogue between the building's historic features and modern elegance. This resulted in a timeless atmosphere that feels both classic and fresh

De La-Hoz's restoration meticulously revived the building's original architectural details. A key element of this was the revival of the grand glass roof, a signature feature of the Belle Époque era. This restoration bathes the public spaces in natural light, echoing the design principles of the original architects. Gilles & Boissier further emphasized the hotel's rich history by incorporating many of the existing art collection, featuring antique paintings and sculptures, into the design. This seamless integration creates a cohesive narrative that honors the past.

While preserving the historic charm, the interior design incorporates modern elements to ensure unparalleled guest comfort and functionality. Guest rooms exude a "classic but contemporary residential style," offering a luxurious yet inviting and functional environment

The design successfully bridges the gap between eras. Ornate moldings from the 1900s find harmony with wooden architectural features reminiscent of the 1930s. This juxtaposition creates a visually intriguing narrative that celebrates the building's architectural evolution.

While the overall aesthetic leans towards European luxury, some specialty suites, like the Royal Suite, subtly incorporate design elements that nod to the hotel's connection to Spanish culture and art. This adds a layer of depth and context to the overall design scheme.





































Conrad Osaka

Conrad Osaka occupies a prime location within Osaka, Japan. Situated within a five-minute walk of Higobashi Station and a convenient seven-minute train ride from JR Osaka Station, the hotel offers excellent connectivity to the city's public transportation network. Additionally, its proximity to shopping centers further enhances its appeal for business and leisure travelers alike. 

The hotel boasts luxurious rooms and suites, each designed to provide guests with breathtaking city or river views. For a truly exceptional dining experience, Conrad Osaka presents a curated selection of restaurants on the 40th floor. These establishments showcase unparalleled panoramas of the city alongside diverse culinary options, including Teppanyaki stations, authentic nigiri sushi, and a fresh seafood bar. Beyond its impressive dining scene, the hotel offers guests the opportunity to unwind at its tranquil pool or rejuvenate at the on-site spa. Furthermore, Conrad Osaka features over 700 square meters of dedicated event space, ideal for hosting momentous occasions such as meetings, weddings, and various celebrations. 

It's operates under the renowned Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand. Notably, Conrad Hotels & Resorts is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hilton Worldwide Holdings, a global hospitality leader. For further insights into the hotel's development or investment history, consider contacting Hilton directly or exploring industry publications focused on the hospitality sector around the time of Conrad Osaka's opening.

The architectural design of the Conrad Osaka is credited to Nikken Sekkei, a renowned Japanese architectural firm. Their design team aimed to create a "villa in the sky" experience, capitalizing on the building's height and location.

For the interior design, a collaborative effort was undertaken between Yukio Hashimoto of Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio Inc. and Nikken Space Design. Their focus was on crafting a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere that reflects the natural elements surrounding the hotel and integrates seamlessly with the architectural vision.