Boasting a premier location in Val di Fassa, just 50 metres from the ski slopes in the heart of the Dolomiti Superski area, and an architectural design focused on sustainability, Hotel Fedora stands as a model of virtuous, forward-looking renovation. The project was recently recognised at the 13th Casalgrande Padana Grand Prix, receiving a mention in the “Office, Commercial, Public and Service Buildings” category. The jury noted that, as part of the overall refurbishment of the pre-existing hotel structure, the decision to use a single grey veined porcelain stoneware slab for the ground floor and outdoor areas unified the spaces in terms of both colour and material, making the slabs the focal point of the intervention.
Architect Paolo Mariani explains the design philosophy behind the project: “The design evokes the surrounding Alpine landscape through the contrasting colours and textures of two materials chosen for their natural feel: stone-effect porcelain from the Pietre Native line and natural spruce. The latter is used for partitions and balustrades formed from simple boards in a rhythmic sequence, much like a coniferous forest with its straight trunks standing out against the mountain. Space is constructed through shadow, while the use of mirrors and large glazed surfaces creates optical illusions that make this a relaxing, almost magical place. The dark, matt tone of the porcelain stoneware absorbs light, acting as a “block” of material out of which the architecture of this small but significant renovation is sculpted with light.”
The client’s brief was to create contemporary, warm and luminous interiors that engage in a dialogue with the natural surroundings. This was achieved through a careful selection of materials – the key element of the project – combining aesthetic quality with design coherence and a focus on sustainability. Mariani adds: “Instead of natural stone – a non-renewable resource with thicknesses that were difficult to manage in this renovation project – we specified Dragon Black porcelain stoneware from Casalgrande Padana’s Amazzonia collection. Laid in four different formats for both floors and walls, the most “textured” version was chosen to meet the functional requirements of the various spaces.” Certified under EPD, EMAS, LEED, ISO 14001 and other protocols, this collection from Casalgrande Padana served as a versatile design tool capable of connecting the various ground-floor spaces and a clear statement of sustainable intent.
