“Praise to the Essential”: a project that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and material authenticity in hotel design
At a time when travellers value emotional well-being and a connection with the essential, Palmira and GCA Architects propose a new vision for hotel design. Their collaboration, presented at Interihotel 2025, takes shape in the project “Praise to the Essential,” where calm, rest, and authenticity become the pillars of the hotel room.
According to the Futurea Trend Report, guests increasingly seek environments capable of evoking tranquillity, emotion, and a sensory experience that goes beyond mere functionality, focusing instead on well-being and quality of experience.
Essential design and authentic materials
The room designed by Palmira and GCA Architects celebrates the beauty that stems from function and the authenticity of materials. The space—defined by wood surfaces and simple everyday gestures such as rest, listening, taste, and bathing—encourages guests to rediscover the value of small, unembellished moments.
Warm, natural light shapes the atmosphere, guiding visitors through intimate sequences. Noble materials such as oak wood, metal, and natural textiles give a sense of welcoming refinement without showiness.
Collaborations with local artists and artisans
The project is enriched by contributions from local brands and artisans, creating a complete sensory narrative. Maderas de Autor via Distiplas (flooring), Bang & Olufsen via Zentrum (audio), Vergés Design (furniture), Santa & Cole (decorative lighting), as well as Teixidors (textiles), Shon Mott (apparel), Alicia Gimeno via Obra Art (art), Anas Rifi-Zinati (ceramics), and Byredo (aromas and fragrances).
This network of collaborations enhances the emotional dimension of the project, turning every element of the room into a sensory and cultural experience.
Palmira: quality and versatility in contract furniture
With over 50 years of experience, Palmira is a benchmark in the contract furniture sector. The company offers comprehensive project solutions, from exclusive design to the customization of existing models. Blending aesthetics, comfort, and durability, Palmira confirms its ability to deliver turnkey projects with technical precision and a strong sensitivity to materials.
GCA Architects: an international and interdisciplinary approach
GCA Architects brings together designers, architects, and engineers in an international team capable of creating innovative spaces that are attentive to context. Their interdisciplinary approach integrates values such as quality, craftsmanship, creativity, and environmental respect, following every phase of the project—from concept to completion—with particular attention to emotion and user experience.
Interihotel 2025: a key meeting point for hotel design
Interihotel, held from October 21 to 23, 2025, at Fira de Barcelona – Gran Via, brought together architects, designers, hoteliers, and international brands. Three days of conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and interactive activities offered participants insight into innovative solutions and essential tools for hotel and restaurant design.
Palmira and GCA Architects’ participation served as a manifesto of sincerity and minimalism, demonstrating how hotel design can harmoniously combine functionality, beauty, and well-being.
