Two Croatian hotels recognised among world’s best for design

Villa Nai 3.3 (Photo: Villa Nai 3.3)

Two luxury Croatian hotels have been recognised among the world’s best thanks to their impressive designs.

Villa Nai 3.3, located on the island of Dugi Otok, and Grand Park Hotel in Rovinj have featured in The Leading Hotels of the World’s new design-focused monograph, Kult Plave Kamenice reported.

The hotels feature alongside just 74 other hotels globally that push the boundaries of aesthetics and design.

The Leading Hotels of the World was founded in 1928 and now includes iconic properties from around the world. Membership is granted based on strict criteria, including detailed inspections of every aspect of a hotel’s operation and design.

The Leading Hotels of the World represent over 400 luxury hotels worldwide, including seven Croatian hotels.

Other Croatian members include the Ikador in Opatija, and Villa Dubrovnik in Dubrovnik.

In its new monograph, The Leading Hotels of the World explores how hotels can balance comfort, intimacy, and excitement.

It features interviews with industry leaders like chef Daniel Humm, architect Michel Rojkind, and fashion designer Carla Fernández. Spencer Bailey, the book’s editor, reflects on the surprising depth and variety of ideas showcased through the design of these hotels.

Villa Nai 3.3 is highlighted on two pages with stunning photographs. Designed by architect Nikola Bašić, the hotel blends seamlessly into its environment, with rooms built directly into the hillside, offering spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea.

The hotel’s name reflects its history: “nai” is an ancient Dalmatian word for snow, and “3.3” represents the average number of snowy days the island once had.

The property is surrounded by a 500-year-old olive grove, where the owners produce award-winning organic olive oil. Guests are invited to join the olive harvest each October.

The hotel’s design draws inspiration from a cave and a moored ship, symbolising the architect’s belief that man feels most connected to nature while sailing.

(Photo: Villa Nai 3.3)

The interiors are designed to keep the focus on nature, with furnishings by Italian company Giorgetti and glass shower walls that allow guests to enjoy the view of the night sky. Villa Nai 3.3 also has two restaurants, with Grota offering a menu focused on open-fire cooking, using locally sourced ingredients from the island.

(Photo: Villa Nai 3.3)

Another hotel featured in the monograph is Rovinj’s Grand Park, designed by the 3LHD architectural studio. This luxury hotel blends harmoniously with Rovinj’s natural surroundings.

(Photo: Grand Hotel Rovinj)

The interior design by Piero Lissoni is inspired by the nearby coastline and islands, with a colour palette of indigo blue, white, and earthy tones.

Grand Park Hotel Rovinj (Photo: Maistra)

Grand Park also showcases a collaboration between international and local talent, with works by Croatian artists integrated into the hotel’s design, enhancing the guest experience and connecting the hotel with its environment.

(Photo: Grand Park Hotel, Rovinj)