A longtime favourite of artists, writers, and stars, Hotel de Russie was famously called “paradise on earth” by Jean Cocteau in 1917—a sentiment that still resonates today. Our design studio recently reimagined several areas of the hotel, including the outdoor space facing the Mediterranean tiered Secret Garden, enhancing its timeless charm with refined, contemporary touches. We also redesigned the iconic Stravinskij Bar, blending classic elegance with modern sophistication to elevate one of Rome’s most beloved aperitivo spots. The bar evokes the timeless elegance of La Dolce Vita with traditional Roman mosaic garden trellis that harmonizes with the hotel’s Gardino Segreto drawing on the city’s history. The sinuous lines of the bar follow the forms of the surrounding architecture, making it all blend seamlessly. Inspired by the work of Alberto Giacometti, one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, the structure of the pergola brings a more modern look to the bar. The blend of contemporary design elements and Roman heritage not only pays homage to the city’s rich culture, but also respects the original architectural vision of Giuseppe Valadier, thus creating a connection between the past and present.