SimplyAbuDhabi XLV

History & Architecture The hotel is composed of four honey-stoned townhouses and several ancient vaults, with a wonderful façade and an incredible view across the water to the three cities. The building was formerly a bank and the founder and owner, British entrepreneur Mark Weingard, has breathed new life into this beautiful property, creating an elegant hotel that marries heritage with modernity. Custom-made furniture, striking artwork, and a careful preservation of original features contribute to create an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and welcoming. Weingard says, “What we create is high-end beautiful experiences in the world of hospitality, and you need to have a luxurious environment for that, but at same time, what we’re creating is more about giving people a wonderful service, to help fulfil their days and ensure that their every need is catered to.” Weingard brought his vision to life with innovative design concepts that were executed on the historical buildings by four world-class design studios: A-Cero from Spain, Autoban from Turkey, as well as DAAA Haus and Greta Designs from Malta. The result of these inspired collaborations is really a masterpiece and deserving of its status as the only Forbes Five-Star hotel in Malta, and home to the only two-Michelin- starred restaurant on the island. Arrival Experience When I arrived at the hotel the warm welcome set the tone for the two days of my stay. I was flattered to be greeted by their Head Butler, who is entrusted to make each and every guest’s experience as comfortable, enjoyable and memorable as possible. The reception team were gracious, helpful, chatty and eager to share the delights of the hotel and of the neighbourhood. Right away the appreciation of art is obvious, with artworks and sculptures vying for my attention. The reception room itself features a wooden structure encasing the entire room, it seemed like a recreation of a whale skeleton and instantly piqued my curiosity. I enjoyed a refreshing welcome drink while the check-in formalities were swiftly taken care of, and was then taken to my room, already feeling enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance and understated luxury. Simply Abu Dhabi | 167