Reviving the Art Deco Spirit: The Imperator Hotel

Marcelo Joulia's Award-Winning Restoration of a Historic French Landmark

The Imperator Hotel, established in 1929, is an iconic building in Nîmes, South France. Its Art Deco facade, a symbol of the city's rich history, was carefully restored by Marcelo Joulia and his team. The project was driven by a desire to magnify the Art Deco spirit while modernising the hotel's offerings. The result is a perfect blend of history and modernity, a testament to the timeless appeal of Art Deco design.

One of the unique features of the Imperator Hotel is its size. Covering an area of 5513 square meters, the hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant led by three-time Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire, a brasserie, and a wellness area. The hotel's interior design, which was inspired by the geometric shapes found in old postcards of the hotel, adds a touch of nostalgia to the modern amenities.

The restoration of the Imperator Hotel was not without its challenges. The team had to balance the need to preserve the building's history with the demand for modern conveniences. They also had to ensure that the project was in line with the expectations of the city's inhabitants, who hold the hotel in high regard. Despite these challenges, the team was able to successfully restore the hotel to its former glory, thanks to their creativity and dedication.

The Imperator Hotel project is a testament to the power of design in preserving and enhancing cultural heritage. It shows how architects and designers can use their skills to breathe new life into historic buildings, ensuring that they continue to serve their communities for generations to come. As Marcelo Joulia puts it, "This project was fascinating."

In conclusion, the restoration of the Imperator Hotel is a shining example of how design can be used to preserve and enhance cultural heritage. It is a testament to the creativity and dedication of Marcelo Joulia and his team, and a worthy winner of the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award. The project serves as an inspiration for architects and designers around the world, showing them that it is possible to create something new while respecting and preserving the past.