Overseas Premier Hospitality Scotland

A Stay in Style

Ibis Styles, Geneva, Edinburgh
Written by Roma Publications

Ibis Styles,  Geneva, Edinburgh

Ibis Styles at St Andrews Square is a quality hotel at an affordable price, located in Edinburgh’s financial district.

As a company specialising in architecture, interior design and hotel consultancy, Ica was approached to add their special touch to this promising hotel.

Premier Hospitality caught up with Interior Designer of Ica, Kim Vass to ask a few questions about the project, she said:

“Ica was asked to design the interior for a 103 bedroom Ibis styles in Edinburgh, and we were happy to take on the task.”

Ibis Styles is a chain of national and international hotels with few restrictions or mandatory design standards. One key principle of the brand however, is that all hotels within the chain must have their individual theme representing the site and its geographical location. To maintain this tradition, Scottish inspired detailing on the case goods and the use of large digital wall coverings and themed artwork is utilised.

Ibis Styles,  Geneva, Edinburgh

Scottish inspired materials and fabrics united with stylish furniture bespoke light fittings and specially commissioned artwork fashion an atmosphere to compliment the building. Contemporary tartan carpets and vibrant colours are dotted throughout the hotel to provide the guests with a distinctive experience.

Alterations on the building began in June 2013, and were fully completed by June 2014. The ground floor was transformed to accommodate a reception bar, restaurant and back of house areas. 103 guest bedrooms were created over six floors; it was a challenge to produce enough seating in the venues communal areas for this many rooms within a particularly tight footprint.

In order to deliver a layout that provided sufficient seating capacity, swanky banquette seating and loose furniture has ingeniously been positioned whilst also breaking up the space. Communal dining areas and also more intimate spaces for groups have been added for guests’ needs.

Ibis Styles,  Geneva, Edinburgh

“It was extremely important for Ica to be involved with the projects on Ibis. We have been working closely with Accor on a number of projects and this was our first opportunity to work with the brand. Ibis is a great brand and I think having one in a prime location in Scotland’s Capital with such a unique design will ultimately raise the brand’s profile.”

Ica was also asked to design the interior of an Ibis Styles in the heart of Geneva, a slightly smaller scale hotel with 52 guest rooms. The developments began on 28th October 2013 and consisted of reconfiguration of all bedrooms and public areas. The project was finalised on 30th May 2014.

The team of designers with Ica cleverly devised a room utilising appropriate materials and colour schemes to evoke the landscape. Geneva themed imagery such as that from Geneva’s world renowned watches contribute fascinating detail to furniture and carpets, allowing the guests to appreciate their striking surroundings.

Ibis Styles,  Geneva, Edinburgh

The Ibis Styles concept for this particular hotel was a simple combination of Geneva’s stunning surrounding landscape, artistic quality and excellent craftsmanship.

Speaking to Associate of Ica, Craig McKie, he said:

“It was great for Ica to be involved with Ibis Styles in Geneva. This was our first opportunity to work with Accor on an Ibis Styles project in Europe.”

 

About the author

Roma Publications