Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA Ostuni

The Palazzo Rosso has a fascinating history. Once the home of Ostuni’s first mayor, Don Paolo Tanzarella, its walls tell the somewhat turbulent story of the White City. Just steps away from the present-day Remembrance park, the venerable stone building has always been at the centre of the city’s social and cultural life.

It was there that the trainieri, (cart drivers in Pugliese dialect), were waiting for their daily assignments. It is also here that conspiracies were hatched that would rock the region and the whole country.

In the first part of the 19th century, the country we today call Italy did not yet exist; it was still a geographical area comprised of eight separate states. However, a revolution was brewing: Since his youth, Don Tanzarella had been a member of the insurrectionary movement “Giovine Italia.”

In great secrecy, he invited the region’s most prominent patriotic figures to meet in the plush lounges and the 14 bedrooms of the 2-storey Palazzo Rosso. Their cause to transform Italy into a democratic republic under the principles of Freedom, Independence and Unity.

The conspiratorial gatherings at Don Paulo’s ended up being successful. On June 26, 1860, 10 years after this first meeting and after centuries of foreign occupation, Ostuni was the first city in Puglia to proclaim Italy’s unification and to proudly fly the red, white and green flag. 40 days later, Paolo Tanzarella became the city’s first mayor.

Throughout his tenure, he focused on turning Ostuni into both a more urban and a more libertarian place. Upon his death in 1897, the benefactor of the White City bequeathed his entire estate, the family Palazzo, the furniture, the carriages and the horses to his eldest son.

At the turn of the century, things change and so does the Palazzo. Still owned by the Tanzarella family, the building houses the Biennial exhibition of the Industrial Technical Institute and then in 1971, four classes of the city’s new Scientific High School.

Later, it contained the barracks of the powerful Italian Customs and Financial Police. Since the seventies, the beautiful Palazzo had fallen asleep for over forty years. Only its magnificent vaults, its centuries-old stones and its historical frescoes remained. Until…

THE PROJECT
After falling in love with the historical building that lay empty for over 40 years, interior designer Pascale Lauber worked with conservationists and co-owner of the hotel Ulrike Bauschke to uncover the mysteries of the multi-secular Palazzo Rosso and create an 11-bedroom hotel in the heart of Ostuni.

Bringing Pascale’s vision to life exactly as she envisioned it was the biggest challenge. Every step of the project was carefully overseen, and whilst full of unexpected hurdles, these often resulted in spectacular discoveries.

The impressive cathedral ceilings were reconsolidated, eventually creating the remarkable sense of tranquillity and minimalism that now permeates each of the 11 rooms and suites. Not satisfied solely with these architectural wonders, Pascale individually decorated each room and suite with her trademark creative association of old and new art, objects and furnishings.

Functionality was also a crucial element of the hotel’s refurbishment. Determined to preserve the history of the building, the owners knew they would have to be creative to transform it into a working hotel.

The unique bijou spa was created in the space that was once the palace’s former water chamber. Today the spa includes a hydromassage basin, a spa shower with chromotherapy, a Turkish bath, a Himalayan salt wall, a multi-sensory shower and a natural whirlpool dug into the ground.

Ultimately, an eclectic combination of traditional handcrafted techniques and contemporary flair saw the beautiful building finally transformed into a stunning hotel for guests to enjoy.

THE RESTORATION
The timeline is still a bit blurry, but Maria Buongiorno, the conservator in charge of bringing to light the former glory of the building, is certain that the architecture of the Palazzo is multi-secular.

The most ancient parts seem to date back to the 1700s. There are fireplaces, stone vaults, but also frescoes, like the magnificent “Jesus and the Samaritan” that are clearly from that period.

During the restoration, a wood door with peepholes typical of 17th-century cloisters has also been discovered. This treasure, as well as the many religious frescoes, suggest that Palazzo Rosso once housed a convent.

Later, it apparently fell into the hands of Neapolitans. Several clues point to the new owners being from Naples, starting with the beautiful original majolica tiles which have been brought to new life in our Bar 700.

On the back of some of those tiles, Maria found an M stamp, the brand of a famous workshop owned by the three Massa brothers, ceramics masters of early 18th century Naples.

Another clue is the colour of the building: This shade called Pompeii Red was named after the famous lost city because it was commonly found on residences as well as on the famous ruins.

In the 18th century, right after the fabulous re-discovery of Pompeii, this particular red became a fashionable status symbol since the pigment was the most expensive on the market. Cladding an entire façade in Pompeii Red was, therefore, an ostentatious display of wealth and even more so amongst the white buildings of Ostuni.

The removal of several layers of green and brown paint from the inside walls uncovered beautiful neo-classical frescoes of the 18th and 19th centuries. In those days, religious representations were not in fashion anymore.

In their stead, mythological beasts, playful dragons and gryphons cavort along with the friezes on our walls. It is there that we found the cute dragon that became our iconic logo.

At the turn of the 17th century, Puglia developed many public green spaces, and the team at Paragon 700 paid tribute to this by beautifully preserving the Palazzo’s extraordinary private garden, blending classic features with an urban twist.

Once a symbol of wealth and leisure, the garden today lies protected behind high stone walls, enhanced by two rows of stunning Roman-style columns. The beautiful Mediterranean garden is full of surprises with an enchanting orange grove discoverable for those who know where to look. Divided by rustic stone walls, the rare green oasis in the heart of the city is simultaneously private and welcoming.

THE ART OF INNOVATION
As soon as the red carriage door opened it was love at first sight. Pascale Lauber and partner for life knew instantly that they would not be able to resist. “As if,” they said, “it already was our home.” In 2016 an Ostunian friend of the two partners took them on a visit of the Palazzo Rosso.

By then, the two entrepreneurs had been in love with Puglia for several years. Four years earlier, they had even restored a local traditional farmhouse, a Masseria, a haven of peace to recharge in the summer with their friends, a much-needed breath of fresh air when like them, you work on multiple projects.

In Romont, Lausanne and Verbier, Switzerland; in Paris, New York and Cape Town, the two partners have shaken up the rules of real estate and interior design. They have opened and renovated restaurants, boutique hotels and apartments all over the world.

They make a complementary pair, each with their own, very distinct journey. Pascale, from French-speaking Switzerland, has only one word and thousand images in mind: style. For as long as she can remember, it is what guided her life.

It started in childhood with her room, which she decorated and redecorated every six months! Laying rolls of wallpaper, incessantly visiting the architect next door, Pascale has interior design running through her veins.

Instinctively, she eats, dresses and thinks design. Even if it means lying awake at night, with a thousand ideas colliding in her dreams. It was time. The two partners decided to go for it and open the first restaurant, renovate it, serve, “offer a beautiful energy”.

Others follow; innovative, they make a killing. Their business model takes shape: buy-renovate-sell in real estate and in the hospitality industry. Exquisite design in every detail, of course.

On the day they walked through the door of the Palazzo Rosso, the two owners who already run a boutique hotel in Cape Town, had no intention of starting a new project. No, they’re in Puglia to recharge.

They just wanted to visit and admire the architecture of this historical building. But here we go again! The two are immediately drawn by the potential of this centuries-old gem: The height of its ceilings, its vaults, its frescoes, its red-stone. It’s unthinkable not to make it a hotel, this place must be made accessible to the public: “Too beautiful to stay hidden!”

INTERIOR DESIGN
A unique decor, down to the smallest detail, repurposed monumental lighting fixtures, South African custom-made sofas and headboards, gazebos from India turned into bathtubs, closets and night-stands from antique fairs from all over the world.

The creative association of old and new art, objects and furnishings in a head-spinning and very personal mix is Pascale’s trademark (www.idliving-pl.com). Her keen sense of observation was sharpened during a lifetime of travel, countless visits to international art and trade shows, but also at the local antique markets.

Her vision made of worldly elegance is multicultural and original down to the smallest detail. The unique result, coherent, deeply modern and stimulating at the same time is at the root of the exceptional atmosphere that permeates every room at Paragon 700.

SUSTAINABILITY 
“Signs” that mark our commitment to sustainable hospitality, sustainability is the future, but for us it is already the present. Green hospitality for us is a philosophy, not a simple style; the elements of sustainability integrate with functionality, cost containment, environmental factors, and the health and well-being of our guests.

Our background in the hospitality industry has conditioned the identification of the operational skills necessary to start a sustainable project in a harmonious way, with the location of the Paragon 700 Hotel & SPA: the Red Palace in the White City.

The architectural restoration has highlighted the ancient glory of the building, bringing to light frescoes of extraordinary beauty. A careful planning strategy and the time dedicated to the definition of the objectives and the characteristics of sustainability has allowed us to optimize and obtain the maximum result possible.

PARAGON SUITE
One of a kind, the 55 sqm (592 sq. ft) Paragon suite features 7m high cathedral ceilings. A sunken bathtub and a grand open fireplace in the bedroom are an open invitation to indulge the sumptuous atmosphere. Two doors are leading to a large terrace with garden and pool view, with sun loungers for moments of relaxation.

LOFT SUITE
Revel in the luxury of space. Exquisitely unique rooms with cathedral ceilings, the loft style suites range from 45 sqm (485 sq. ft) to 58 sqm (624 sq. ft). Soak into the bathtub, admire the frescoes and hand painted detail on the walls, get lost in the darkness while dreaming about thousand and one night or bask in the morning sunshine in the outside shower overlooking the garden. Unique detail in every corner.

DELUXE SUITE
Embellished with an exclusive décor and modern sophistication teamed with bespoke interior design, the deluxe suites are an invitation to discover the lifestyle of the palace. Ample, ranging from 35 sqm (375 sq. ft) to 46 sqm (495 sq. ft), with either a balcony or grand open fireplace. Pamper yourself in luxurious bathrooms with walk in shower or bathtub with spa shower.

DINING
A cuisine that never forgets the past, its flavours and traditions, but with a sophisticated eye on the future… an unforgettable experience.

RESTAURANT 700
Open 7/7 for both guests and the public, Restaurant 700 offers a culinary experience with a sophisticated touch and impeccable service. With this promise, the old olive mill becomes a convivial table and together with the state-of-the-art kitchen creates a modern ambience steeped in history.

Our local producers and farmers “sit” at our table, where respect for the seasons and variety of tastes is essential. Appreciating these two elements that Puglia has to offer is the key to Restaurant 700. Beyond the patio, the swimming pool and the largest private garden in Ostuni with its orange grove find their home: here you can have breakfast, or dine on the hottest summer nights.

LOUNGE BAR 700
A beautiful space made especially unique by its 8.5 meter-long stone counter clad in antique argentine tin-plates and the softened colours. At Lounge Bar 700, local wines and spirits, together with signature cocktails created by our Mixologist experts, provide instant leisure. A selection of our 700 small bites complete the setting for an evening of enjoyment by the fireplace. Wine tastings in our cellar can be reserved with our Sommelier.

POOL BAR
In the summer season, enjoy an aperitif served at the Pool Bar, the only swimming pool available in the historical centre of Ostuni. Bask in the sun on the sun loungers and let the perfumes of the Mediterranean surround you.

P BEACH RESTAURANT
Our seaside restaurant partner is located directly by the water at our company’s owned Beach Club, the P Beach, nearby Specchiolla. Just lie back on your sunbed and relax or explore the coast doing some amazing snorkelling around. Savour Apulian cuisine with an eclectic touch inspired by our local fish and vegetable market. Come enjoy an aperitif to enjoy the late afternoon sunshine on Torre Guaceto.

SPA 700
The ancient water cistern of Palazzo Rosso has found a new life as a unique spa nestled 7 meters below ground. It features a hydromassage basin, a steam bath, a spa shower with chromotherapy, a treatment room for two and a relaxing lounge clad in Himalayan salt walls to enhance an inclusive wellness experience.

THE POOL
The only one in town. Tucked away behind our walls, it is 15 meters long and the perfect luxury spot after a day of sightseeing under the warm Apulian sun.

THE GARDEN
A haven in the White City’s heart, our private garden (1.700 mq) is the largest in Ostuni. It is a place promising to daydream, read or enjoy the moment. At the far end, the beautiful orange grove offers itself as a perfect excuse to organize romantic dinners in candlelight.

RELAX AREA
Close to the orange grove, this spot is a hidden gem where one can book a private Yoga or Pilates session or a painting class or even a stone carving class. When the weather is nice, you can also get an outdoor massage here.

TEA TIME
Take five in our garden or restaurant and enjoy a British moment at Bar 700: it’s tea time! Every afternoon from 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Homemade pastries, scones and mini sandwiches.

COCKTAIL CLASSES
The perfect way to learn some tricks of the trade from our experienced Mixologists who will demonstrate a few cocktails and reveal what tricks to use to make the perfect drink.

The same preparation will be carried out by the course guests. The cocktails that will be offered, an aperitif and a shake, are easy to replicate at home. At the end of the experience, guests will be able to take home a free jigger (cocktail scoop).

WINE TASTINGS
Apulia produces an extraordinary diversity of wines. Primitivo and Negroamaro are very well-known, but there are more. Susumaniello, for instance. Red, white, and bubbly can be tasted with our in-house sommelier around the large convivial table.

Palazzo’s old olive oil storage room is a perfect place to share these discoveries with guests during our wine tasting events, including cheeses and cured meats from local producers and our very own olive oil.

GUIDED TOURS
We partnered with some of the best places around Ostuni to offer you a completely local experience while you are our guest at Paragon 700.

WINE TOUR AT “TERRE DI SAN VITO” WINERY
Guided tour of the Masseria, vineyards and cellars, tasting of 5 wines, aperitif with Apulian gastronomic specialities.

PRIVATE OLIVE TOUR AT MASSERIA BRANCATI 
Guided tour of the monumental olive grove, the underground oil mill, some historic rooms of the farm and tasting of four extra virgin olive oils and transfer in vintage car.

IN-HOUSE EXHIBITIONS 
Unconventional sculptures, gorgeous paintings or photographs by international and local artists inhabit the rooms of Palazzo Rosso. Among the others, London artists Soozy Lipsey, Adrian Boswell or Giuseppe Ciraci from Puglia as well as artworks from AD’Opera, Michal Cole, Patrizia Pareo and Amalia Knoll. Some of them are up for sale.

PRIVATE EVENTS
Whether it’s for a birthday, a wedding, a small corporate event or simply because… Paragon 700 can be booked entirely for your exclusive use. Celebrate in style, indulge and build memories.

BIKING
Winding roads, seaside, or centuries-old olive groves: the region is made for open road lovers. Valentina, alias “TraVale” will guide you through Itria Valley, Salento or Gargano for one or several motorbike tours.

Surrounded by Apulian countryside and centuries-old olive trees the tour includes a visit to Masseria Brancati, to Selva di Fasano, a beautiful natural area populated by oaks, holms, pines, chestnuts, cypresses, firs and many other species of plants, and reaches Cisternino, a small village that overlooks the Valle d’Itria.

Here, lunch will be served. In the afternoon the road will take the riders to Martina Franca, known for its Baroque architecture and exceptional traditional cuisine; Locorotondo, a town in the province of Bari, which has about 146 districts of timeless charm; Alberobello, famous for its Trulli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, where the riders will stop for dinner at Trattoria da Donato, a historic restaurant appreciated for its traditional cuisine.

The day will end in Savelletri, a seaside town known for its small fishing port and the Archaeological Park of Egnatia, the last stop for the night. Travel 98 km from Ostuni and return to Ostuni.

GOLF
30 minutes away, the San Domenico Golf Club offers a magnificent 72 par, 6.3-kilometre course set against the backdrop of the magnificent rocky Adriatic coast. It is the perfect spot for whom looking to play and relax in a stunning location.

APULIAN TASTE
Discover local products and specialities through a hands-on private cooking class. The chef might shares some of its delicious recipes.

Rooms: 11

Price: from 315 EUR per night

Source: www.paragon700.com