Bulgari Hotel London has unveiled its refreshed rendition of The Bulgari Lounge, boasting a colourful new look and exciting chef residency. The hotel called upon renowned architectural and interior design firm, Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel (ACPV) – the studio that designed the original hotel interiors – to create a fresh look true to Bulgari’s heritage as the master of coloured gems. The reimagined and newly defined space features a new ‘Dolci’ experience, as the hotel welcomes a one-year residency from eminent Italian pastry chef and chocolatier Gianluca Fusto and also launches Il Cioccolato.
The Bulgari Lounge – Design
The Bulgari Lounge offers elegant all-day dining in the comfortable glamour and considered taste of a beautifully appointed modern Italian living room. Inherently Bulgari in style, the new look reveals gem-coloured rugs made of wild silk in emerald, blue diamond and citrine. This fresh injection of colour is offset by cognac-hued leather sofas, armchairs in neutral tones, Calacatta marble coffee tables and a central table in black oak. Particular focus is given to the Bulgari eight-point star which is embroidered in gold on bespoke green silk wall hangings.
A custom made raised polished chrome and silver mesh partition transforms the space into its own distinct destination, with smaller seating areas and half-height curtains in a soft bouclé sheer creating a cosy intimacy – the perfect spot to enjoy food and drinks at any time of day. With an Italian eye to every detail, ‘Dolci’ – covering everything sweet on the menu – will be served on delicate porcelain plates and dishes with a floral design by Italian manufacture Ginori 1735.
A further aspect of the refresh is the addition of artworks from the Bulgari Archives; vintage adverts from the Dolce Vita era featuring images of celebrated actors and models Virna Lisi, Benedetta Barzini and Marisa Berenson adorned with iconic Bulgari pieces.
Patricia Viel, CEO and co-founder of Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel commented: “The Bulgari Lounge is much loved locally as a relaxed and elegant space for gathering in style, depicting the considered taste of modern Italian comfort. We are excited to reveal a colourful new design to take Bulgari Hotel London into its next decade at the heart of Knightsbridge.”
Furniture and furnishings from the previous design have been donated to Hestia, a charity that helps adults and children across London and the surrounding regions in times of crisis.
The Bulgari Lounge – Gianluca Fusto Residency and Launch of Il Cioccolato
As a highlight of the new menu, The Bulgari Lounge introduces ‘Dolci’ by eminent Italian pastry chef and chocolatier Gianluca Fusto. Described by Sky Arte as the ‘Italian architect of modern pastry’, Fusto is renowned for his exceptional contemporary artisanal pastries. Fusto is also an acclaimed TV personality and co-founder of pastry and chocolate brand FUSTO Milano. With his famed catchphrase “simple is not easy”, Fusto is best known for his refined, hyper-technical approach, with an instantly recognisable minimalist style. Using only the most precious ingredients, his minimalistic design reveals complex textures with bold and unexpected flavour combinations.
Beginning a year-long residency at the hotel, Gianluca Fusto’s desserts, ‘Torte’ (cakes) and ‘Mono Porzioni’ for one will be introduced to The Bulgari Lounge menu in addition to the arrival of Il Cioccolato; Bulgari’s signature handcrafted “chocolate gems”. Guests can look forward to Fusto’s unique and masterful Dolci created specifically for London, each focused on three key ingredients. Menu highlights include Torte, such as the ‘Black Caprese’, made with olive oil, black olives, chocolate and almond, and a selection of Mono Porzioni such as the ‘Sicilian’ made with fennel, citrus and almond and the ‘Maya’, made with caramelised sesame seed, Belize chocolate, and two kinds of caramel.
Il Cioccolato creations at Bulgari Hotels & Resorts use the finest ingredients and are developed with the same exquisite vision as Bulgari gem designs. The beautifully crafted chocolates capture subtle flavour notes in masterful and unexpected combinations, such as Porcini and Black Pepper. Limited edition boxes and seasonally inspired creations make exceptional gifts for all kinds of occasions, or guests may choose to enjoy a hand-picked assortment alongside a new drinks pairing.
Savoury dishes on The Bulgari Lounge menu comprise Italian favourites such as ‘Burratina Pugliese’, ‘Italian charcuterie’, and ‘Roman Pizza’ as well as hotel lounge classics such as the ‘Club Sandwich’ and ‘Superfood Salad’. The Bulgari Lounge is open from 8am to midnight Monday to Saturday and until 11pm on Sunday, serving morning coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner, and evening cocktails. Torte, Mono Porzioni, Dragees and Il Cioccolato are offered for take away from the Pastry Counter.
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For more information email TheBulgariLounge@bulgarihotels.co.uk or visit the website.
Images © Tommy Picone (interiors) and Edmund Dabney (food)