Poznań‘s rich craft heritage and cultural identity have found a contemporary echo in Holloway Li‘s recent renovation of the PURO Hotel. Commissioned by the leading Polish lifestyle hotel brand, known for its design-focused ethos and commitment to natural materials, the project breathes new life into the existing structure while honoring local traditions. Situated in the city’s historic Old Town, the PURO Hotel, originally opened in 2014, has been reimagined to offer a warm, intimate atmosphere for business travelers, tourists, and locals alike.
Holloway Li’s design philosophy centered on introducing a natural material palette and focusing on key elements to create a significant impact on the guest experience. This approach aligns with PURO’s sustainable vision, retaining existing features where possible. The collaboration also reflects PURO’s ambition to integrate local design and art, showcasing Polish craftsmanship and featuring a curated collection of artworks by local artists, many with ties to Poznań University.
The reception area presents a striking introduction. A gently curved reception desk, elevated by three sculpted limestone plinths, welcomes guests. A hand-tufted rug, inspired by the nearby public square, adds a vibrant touch with its diverse patterns and colors. Above, a Lambert & Fils pendant light, featuring a delicate glass tube on stone and aluminum pedestals, complements the linear desk. Burnt red glazed tiles create a bold contrast against the natural wall coverings and light linen backdrop.
Poznań’s industrial past is subtly woven into the design. A partition wall framing the lounge features a circular brass cutout, reminiscent of the design language of early 20th-century high-speed trains produced in local factories. The lounge itself offers a relaxed ambiance with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the terrace greenery. Comfortable furniture, including Fogia sofas, Holloway Li’s T4 lounge, and Eileen Gray’s iconic side table, provides varied seating options. Limestone plinths, echoed in solid oak planters, create intimate spaces within the open-plan area.
A private meeting room, at the heart of the hotel, showcases bespoke handmade glass windows inspired by Poznań’s Art Nouveau townhouses and traditional crown glass. Created in collaboration with local manufacturer Riwal Ceramika i Szklo, the glass features unique textures and forms. Inside, Mobel armchairs upholstered in pale bouclé fabric surround the meeting table, while light blue timber framing and marbled cork panels connect the room to the surrounding space.
The Nifty restaurant, serving contemporary Polish cuisine, features ruby leather dining chairs from Eikund and long banquettes inspired by 1920s and 1930s luxury rail carriage interiors manufactured in Poznań. An artwork by Piotr Łakomy, a mixed-media piece incorporating an aluminum nest and an ostrich egg, adds a unique textural element. Pendant lights illuminate the glazed blue ceramic tabletops.
The corridor leading to the guest rooms adopts a darker palette with deep earthy red tones and soft lighting. Each room number was individually molded and glazed by a local ceramic studio. The lift lobby, clad in staggered pale natural limestone, creates a transition from dark to light.
The guest rooms themselves evoke a warm, homely feel with a natural color palette and layered textiles. A green datum with rounded timber beading, a linear headboard, and a solid oak bedside table define the space. A vibrant shower film, inspired by 1970s Polish glassware, adds a splash of color. The suites feature limestone side tables, carved from solid blocks, complementing the curved fabric headboards, bathing facilities, and photography by contemporary Polish artists.
Holloway Li’s renovation of the PURO Hotel Poznań is a testament to the power of design to celebrate local heritage and create a contemporary, welcoming space. By blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics and sustainable practices, the project provides a unique and memorable guest experience.