• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Location: Nice, France

Interior Design: David Collins Studio

Architect: Jean Paul Gomis Architecture

Hotel Group: Anantara Hotels

Construction: Lindera

Lighting: Maurice Brill Lighting Design Ltd

Photography: Ben Broomfield

Following a two-year full closure and renovation, David Collins Studio has designed the public areas and F&B rooftop spaces at Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, for Anantara Hotels. The design celebrates the golden era of the Côte d’Azur, preserving the historic building whilst emphasising the hotel’s impressive coastal location.

Dating back to the 19th century, in the Belle Epoque architectural style, the building has a rich history as a grand hotel in the ‘salon of Europe’. The brief focused on a desire for the interiors to reflect and emphasise the building’s rich history, prime waterfront location and unparalleled views over the Baie des Anges. As such, the design concept is heavily inspired by Nice’s locale, with bespoke furniture and lighting that reference the sea and its organic forms.

Upon entering the hotel, the Entrance Hall, Reception and adjacent Les Colonnades Lounge are architecturally pared back, with classical forms treated in contemporary ways. Stucco plaster finishes, limed oak and natural stone are layered with unique pieces of craftsmanship and commissioned artwork. The Entrance floor is a monochrome mosaic floor in stone, directly inspired by the black and white marble floor at the Place Masséna in Nice.

David Collins Studio have created schemes that are in keeping with the brand and sensitive to the building’s architecture and location. The interiors are considered, with layers of luxurious natural materials and architectural details that reveal themselves upon closer inspection. The choice of materials and colour palette creates the desired ambience, creating spaces that feel at ease with the location and landscape, rather than detracting from the incredible views.

Whilst the hotel is the Studio’s first project in Nice and pared back architecturally, the design is in many ways in keeping with the Studio’s signature elements of colour, texture and detail. A mix of custom and specified furniture was chosen, as well as known and emerging craftspeople, to work within the client’s budget.