The Charles, Munich, unveils renovation

The Charles, a Rocco Forte Hotel in Munich, has unveiled a glamorous new makeover as it completes the extensive renovation of its ground floor.

The new design, created by Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen in collaboration with Olga Polizzi, features a vibrant new colour palette complimented by a lush botanical theme, which flows from the redesigned lobby, to the stylish Florio Restaurant and Bar, and through to the newly opened Circle Bar.

The reimagined lobby offers a grand welcome to hotel guests and visitors, featuring a striking central table framed by elegant statues and lavish floral arrangements. A curved plaster work by French artist Francois Mascarello on the back wall of the reception completes the transformation, adding to the refined atmosphere of the space.

Florio restaurant, created by Italian culinary icon and Rocco Forte Hotels Creative Director of Food Fulvio Pierangelini, draws its inspiration from the neighbouring Old Botanical Garden. The space features moss-green linen wallpaper and silvery olive trees bathed in natural light, with framed prints of colourful plants and fruit.

Now joined by the newly opened Florio Bar, the botanical theme continues with the rainforest green marble of the reception counter, two magnificent strelitzias and newly upholstered green benches. The Indian Rainforest Gold marble used for the bar counter, compliments the wood-clad columns that frame the entire bar table, creating a sophisticated ambience to enjoy a drink. In addition to small dishes and snacks, the menu offers a large selection of drinks in the style of the Italian aperitivo tradition, complimented by open wines and premium spirits.

Charmingly integrated and separate from the restaurant by two semi-transparent sliding doors, the new Private Dining Room features beautiful parquet flooring in various shades of brown and floral murals. Used in the morning to present the sumptuous breakfast buffet, the room can be transformed into a private dining room for intimate events and dinners.

The newly designed terrace offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spanning 200 square meters, it continues the botanical theme. Sitting under large parasols, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink on warm summer days, while in the evenings the large floor lanterns provide a sense of warmth and comfort. The new wrought iron furniture in soft shades of green is complimented by cushions in a variety of different fabrics and patterns, creating a serene atmosphere. Two elegant light sculptures by Haberdashery, featuring 258 porcelain leaves, some adorned with precious metal glazes, gracefully complement one another, suspended from delicate strands of shimmering micro-fine threads.

Circle Bar’s name is derived from the shape of the room and the red steel ring by Italian artist Mauro Staccioli in the square at the front of the hotel. The inviting Art Deco setting offers a wide selection of champagnes, bar snacks, coffee, tea and delicious afternoon patisserie creations.