Palazzo Versace Dubai is nothing short of a palace. Signature heads to the luxurious and iconic property to indulge in the luxury Italian brand’s hospitality
The name Versace evokes images of luxury, glamour and captivating designs. These characteristics run through the Versace universe, be it fashion, homeware or décor. And hotels. The Palazzo Versace brand includes two properties – one in Gold Coast, Australia and the second in Dubai. On a recent visit to Dubai, we spent a day at Palazzo Versace Dubai and basked in the opulence of Versace lifestyle.
The palatial property is the epitome of everything Versace. Even if you enter the hotel expecting the grandeur that is associated with Versace, the ambience of Palazzo Versace stops you in your tracks. Ornate Italian design principles blends seamlessly with Middle Eastern elements that accentuate the distinctive Versace styling. Donatella Versace, the doyenne of fashion and the House of Versace, herself was involved in overlooking the design elements of the hotel.
Palazzo Versace Dubai, which resembles a neo-classical palace, is the located at Culture Village, a new district on the shores of Dubai Creek that will eventually include a mall, marina and Mohammed Bin Rashid library. The exquisite building stands out with its design, architecture and palatial detailing.
The expansive lobby is a testament to the Versace design principles. The iconic Medusa head, inimitable Versace prints and the Greek key run through the hotel’s lobby as well as the other areas. The cushions sport images of falcons, peacocks and horses in homage to the Arabian heritage.
The floor of the grand lobby, set across 1000 sqm, is a hand-crafted master work of approximately 1.5milion pieces of mosaic made by the famous Italian manufacturer of mosaics and marbles, FANTINI Group. The décor is inspired by a heritage pattern from Versace’s design archive. A stunning 3000 kg hand-blown Bohemian glass chandelier accentuates the lobby; inspired by a classic Versace floral pattern, the amber glass gives the impression of the chandelier swaying in a soft breeze.
The hallways feature sketches of Versace outfits, many of the figures being celebrities who the dresses were designed for. The brand’s DNA runs through the hotel, from the hallways to the restaurants to even the swimming pools. The décor of the 215 rooms and suites are inspired by Gianni Versace’s Miami home accentuated with contemporary features.
The room we were assigned, overlooking the creek, is every inch a testament to Versace way of life. The plush interiors feature a luxurious bed complete with silk duvet and cushions, well-set writing as well as relaxing spots, Versace glassware that features the ever-present smiling Medusa in every object, and well-appointed and large bath and tub areas. An interesting touch in the room is the lit dressing table that brings an extra element of glamour.
The suites at the hotel are breathtaking and the epitome of Versace grandeur. Located on the ninth floor, the hotel’s Signature Suites measure up to 300 square metres, and feature an entrance hall, powder room, living room and bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, punctuated by Cremo Delicato, Giallo Siena or Verde Laguna marble on the floors, and walls dressed with intricate wallpapers.
The Imperial Suites are undoubtedly the jewels in the crown. Popular among celebrities and A-Listers, the two Imperial Suites located on the top floor of the Palazzo Versace are set over two storeys, measuring 1,200 square metres each, with a grand marble staircase connecting the two levels. The Imperial Suites feature a dining room, living room, office area, lounge and entertainment rooms, private gym and sauna, as well as a master bedroom with walk-in closets and an outdoor terrace that is home to a private pool and garden area.
There is no dearth of F&B options at Palazzo Versace Dubai; there are a total of eight venues to choose from. Our arrival night’s dinner was at Enigma, a renowned Persian fine dining restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Mansour Memarian. We indulged in a steady stream of Persian delicacies that included sharing starter platters, yoghurts, kebabs, stews, breads and rice. A quick pop into Q’s Bar and Lounge, by the iconic Quincy Jones, is a great way to wrap up the night.
Breakfast was served at Giardino, a restaurant that has become quite popular in Dubai for its Friday brunch. The restaurant stands out with its décor which features a wallcovering inspired by the jungle motif of Versace wallpaper collection (also seen on JLo’s infamous dress at the Grammy’s 2000). A cool Mediterranean vibe emanates through the lively restaurant at breakfast hours and the staff are always at hand to cater to guests’ requests.
The hotel is home to three pools (yes!). Capri, the central pool, overlooks the Deira creek side and also offers a fine view of the property. The Spa, a grand retreat of wellness, has an array of treatments to choose from. It is superbly easy to sink into the cocooned luxury of the spa and let yourself be pampered by the well-trained therapists.
No visit is complete to a Versace property without indulging in some Italian fare and Vanitas is the perfect spot to try out some authentic risottos and pastas. The décor reminiscent of a traditional Italian palace, is typified with hand-made decoration on the walls featuring the so-called ‘Grottesche Italiane’ that was used in the Renaissance age.
Palazzo Versace Dubai is a clear testament to the fact that though the House is renowned for fashion and design, hospitality is not alien to the brand. Service is impeccable and the staff are attentive to guests’ requirements. Palazzo Versace Dubai ticks all the right boxes that a hotel is required to excel while offering a lot more that expected.
