the story behind: cap d’antibes beach hotel
have you ever encountered the concept of understated luxury? well, let me introduce you to a newly revamped hotel on the french riviera that perfectly embodies this trend
the french riviera has long been the favored playground of the affluent and renowned, showcasing its undeniable elegance through its architectural beauty and breathtaking natural landscapes. perched majestically atop cap d’antibes, a rugged headland nestled between cannes and nice, famously featured in cinematic classics like hitchcock's "to catch a thief" and jacques deray's "la piscine," you'll discover a hotel that effortlessly personifies this sophistication: the cap d’antibes beach hotel. this gem has recently undergone a transformation under the skilled hands of belgian architect bernard dubois, a frequent collaborator with brussels' manera gallery and known for his minimalist yet striking approach to interior design. according to dubois, "the beach hotel pays homage to both modernist architecture and the charm of mediterranean coastal residences." its design elements, from materials to lines, are thoughtfully crafted to interact with light and shadow. creamy stucco, adorning the building's façade and extending to the interior walls and reception area, is applied with precision and artful curves. even the choice of typography for room numbers and signage exudes an elegant utilitarian flair.
inside the hotel's 35 rooms, a fusion of bauhaus and arts & crafts styles prevails. custom-crafted dark wood desk chairs and coffee tables, stained-glass windows, and chrome lighting fixtures, mirror frames, and bathroom fittings create an atmosphere of refined artistry. dark wood ceilings are harmonized by "casson" granite floors that evoke the ambiance of mediterranean villas, extending from the exterior corridors to the cozy private gardens that accompany select rooms. some rooms boast captivating sea views, while the suites feature spacious terraces for al fresco relaxation. the pièce de résistance is the top-tier le cap suite, seemingly suspended above the water.
the on-site restaurant, les pêcheurs, dating back to the 1940s, showcases the freshest seafood, sourced each morning from the adjacent dock. with a view of the water, the dining area is furnished with breuer-inspired tubular metal chairs (they're making a comeback!), complementing the chrome-based tables and custom tableware. caramel leather seats harmonize effortlessly with wooden tabletops, red travertine flooring, and wall paneling. to complete the experience, there's also a beach bar, baba, serving laid-back lunches and, one can only assume, daiquiris at 11 am.
strolling along the private beach, you'll find pastel pink loungers and parasols, arranged in a manner that could easily be mistaken for an accidentally wes anderson scene along the water's edge. these charming details echo the veined marble that is generously used in the guest room bathrooms. wander through the meandering pathways of the exotic garden designed by arnaud casaus, and you'll discover tranquil massage huts nestled in the shade and an infinity pool inviting you to cool off during the afternoon sun. in a destination where being seen is the name of the game, this hotel stands out as the ultimate retreat for those seeking discreet indulgence.
information source: dan howarth for sight unseen
imgaes by: Cap D’Antibes Beach Hotel