Portfolio – “Rotunda Artwork” – Sheraton Grand Hotel Warsaw, Poland

2019 saw the refurbished Sheraton Grand Hotel in Warsaw, Poland, realized by the London based interior design company Goddard Littlefair.

The distinguished 5 star hotel, owned by Marriott International,  is ideally located in the heart of the city and one of the best hotels in Warsaw, catering to both leisure and business travellers and providing easy access to vibrant bars, charming cafés, high-end shopping, and iconic landmarks.

Warsaw is a city of contrasts, fast developing and known for its passion for innovation.  The city’s long and turbulent history is reflected by its widely varied architecture, from medieval churches and palaces to modern architecture. Once called Paris of the North, Warsaw’s old Town is protected by UNESCO World Heritage status. However, Warsaw is one of Europe's most dynamic metropolitan cities. In 2017, the city came 4th in the "Business-friendly" category and 8th in "Human capital and life style", one of the most liveable cities in Central and Eastern Europe.

Keywords and inspiration for the design philosophy of the Sheraton Warsaw therefore were

Heritage, Reinvention, Change and Movement.

I was approached by Goddard and Littlefair to create a site-specific wall installation to be sited in the main lobby of the hotel that would combine rich heritage with contemporary design and offer a blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication.

With this brief in mind I created a 3 x 4 m wall based ceramic artwork consisting of 170 sculptural ceramic wall modules in matt and hand-painted glazes and gold enamel, inspired by the interior colour scheme and the themes of relaxation and subtle luxury.

Installed on the dark-panelled curved wall directly opposite the entrance, the site-specific design draws inspiration from rays of light filtering through stained glass windows.

Reflected in the mirrored ceiling, the composition evokes an atmosphere of contemplation and preciousness. Spread dynamically across the curved wall the artwork enlivens the dark dark-panelled background with movement and light reflection and serves as a luxurious centerpiece that enhances the vibrancy of the space.