Each of the signature suites in the recently opened Orient Express La Minerva has been designed to distill the soul of Rome and the codes of the railway legend: spaces conceived as richly layered cabinets of curiosities, where original frescoes converse with golden coatings, deep walnut and Rosso Verona marble.
The suites bear names that connect with history: Stendhal, Obelisco, La Minerva, and Orient Express. Stendhal, honouring the illustrious guest; Obelisco, recalling the Piazza’s iconic monument; La Minerva, a tribute to the guardian goddess; and Orient Express, a celebration of the house’s legendary travel legacy. Each, in its own way, creates an intimate scenography that weaves together the magic of Rome and the imagination of travel.
Along with books, games, as a a nod to the leather backgammon set created by designer Hector Saxe for Orient Express, and objects of curiosity, each suite also houses unique contemporary artwork commissioned for Orient Express La Minerva: Alexander Onimus captured a series of photographs during the construction works; Lucy Naughton created Cloth map collage mounted on board and bound in black leather; Studio Blaau contributed geometric wood paintings; Studio Ulgador designed Eglomised glass pieces; and Gaultier Rimbaud-Joffard conceived a collection of artworks inspired by the lights of Rome.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Hotel Designs.
