Casa Escandi
Copenhagen, Denmark
Reframing hospitality
Casa Escandi opened its doors for a case study in the summer of 2024, reframing hospitality with a guest-centric approach to modern travel needs.
For a few months, in the heart of Copenhagen, the interior design studio Escandi explored the potential of key hotel areas: the reception, lobby, workspace, library, bistro and hotel suite. Beyond aesthetic appeal, this initiative focused on the practical needs of contemporary travellers, addressing the evolving demands of work and leisure in today’s hotel landscape.
Photography by Johanna Gunnberg
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As a deliberate case study, Casa Escandi reframes the concept of a guest-centric hotel experience.
A holistic approach to contemporary travel
Following the announcement of Casa Escandi’s holistic approach to hospitality, this in-depth exploration unveils a unique case study by interior design studio Escandi. Casa Escandi, located in the heart of Copenhagen between 3 June and 10 July, reimagines the intersection of business and leisure in hospitality, offering a nuanced reinterpretation that challenges traditional norms. As a deliberate case study, Casa Escandi reframes the concept of a guest-centric hotel experience, inviting a reevaluation of what hospitality can offer by promising both sophistication and practicality in its approach.
In a rapidly changing world, the way we travel and stay is evolving. Casa Escandi addresses these shifts by delivering a holistic experience that meets the diverse needs of the modern traveller. Whether offering quiet, well-equipped spaces for remote work, relaxing environments for unwinding, wellness facilities to rejuvenate the body and mind or dynamic spaces for meaningful interactions, Casa Escandi caters to every aspect of contemporary travel. Embracing a return to analogue values, Casa Escandi prioritises authenticity and reliability through meaningful interactions, personalised experiences and sensory engagements. The choice of materials ensures that the spaces age timelessly and beautifully, rather than quickly looking tattered, as part of an important sustainable practice.
The lobby must seamlessly combine convenience and comfort to ensure a smooth transition into the hotel experience.
The reception and lobby – a gateway to a seamless experience
The reception and lobby area of Casa Escandi blends elegance with functionality, setting the tone for the entire guest experience. Casa Escandi’s take on the check-in process eliminating queues; guests are seated in the lobby and offered refreshments while the check-in process is handled discreetly. Comfortable seating areas cater to relaxation, informal meetings or quiet moments post-travel. Emma Strandberg, co-owner of Escandi, reflects:
“This area is one of the hotel’s most demanding and hard-working. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, designed to instantly put guests at ease, the lobby must seamlessly combine convenience and comfort to ensure a smooth transition into the hotel experience.”
The aesthetic choices in this area reflect a harmonious blend of modern Scandinavian design with a continental outlook. Light tones dominate the colour palette, complemented by plush carpeting, tactile textiles and natural materials such as wood and stone. Soft, ambient lighting creates a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, while selected artworks, vintage pieces and fresh-cut flowers add a touch of homeliness and sophistication.
The objective has been to create an environment where guests can easily transition between work and relaxation …
The workspace and library – merging productivity with relaxation
As part of the Casa Escandi case study, the workspace and library area symbolises the growing need for environments where productivity and relaxation coexist in the hospitality industry. Emma Johansson, co-owner of Escandi, notes:
“Workspaces in hospitality have often been neglected due to their limited revenue potential. However, with remote work becoming a permanent fixture and 98% of employees expressing a preference for remote work at least part-time, a well-designed workspace is essential for facilitating productivity and well-being.”
The objective has been to create an environment where guests can easily transition between work and relaxation, feeling both inspired and comfortable. The workspace and library features ergonomic furniture for long working hours and ample natural light. Design elements, such as wall art and green plants, are included to inspire creativity and maintain an engaging atmosphere.
The bistro provides a relaxed environment that encourages both social interaction and business discussions.
The bistro – a dynamic and informal space
A dynamic and informal bistro nook at Casa Escandi highlights the need for more informal and dynamic spaces in the hospitality industry, and enhances the guest-centric approach in several ways. Firstly, it provides a relaxed environment that encourages both social interaction and business discussions, fostering a sense of community among guests. Secondly, the flexibility of the space allows it to adapt to different functions throughout the day, making it a valuable asset for guests who blend business and leisure activities.
Efficient material selection plays a crucial role in creating such versatile spaces.
The design of the suites incorporates a darker, more sumptuous colour palette, providing a sense of calm and sophistication.
The hotel suite – a sanctuary of comfort and well-being
The suite at Casa Escandi offers a private retreat that balances elegance with practicality, creating a sanctuary of comfort and well-being.
Designed to meet the needs of modern travellers, the suites feature dedicated workspaces, in-room wellness equipment and custom-designed wardrobes that include a bar cabinet. The layout maximises comfort and functionality, with custom-built headboards featuring upholstered inlays for added comfort. The design of the suites incorporates a darker, more sumptuous colour palette, providing a sense of calm and sophistication. High-quality, durable materials ensure a timeless appeal that can withstand frequent use by guests.
Lighting plays a crucial role throughout Casa Escandi, particularly in the suite.
If you would like to learn more about the Casa Escandi project or explore Escandi’s services in the field of hospitality, please contact us at casaescandi@escandi.se. We look forward to hearing from you and discussing how we can meet your needs.
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