Set in Canela, a popular tourist destination for a winter vacation in Brazil in the middle of distinguished canyons and mountain landscape, the Kempinski Laje de Pedra five-star hotel - the first of the group in South America - will inaugurate a brand-new interior design project by architect and interior designer Patricia Anastassiadis following the renovation of the old building, projected in 1973 by architect Edgar Albuquerque Graeff.
Taking inspiration from this idyllic scenery of the Brazilian Pampas and addressing the routes of the ‘tropeiros’ (eighteenth-century Brazilian tradesmen who used to cross the country in horses carrying goods from city to city), Patricia Anastassiadis aimed to design a path from the lobby pointing at canyons - noticed by the drawing of a subtle string on the floor that cuts all the area.
“My goal was to dialogue with the history of the region and address this popular figure of the tradesmen. They were the ones crossing these mountains and dealing with the stone, the wood, and the fire. We chose these elements that embody the culture of the South of Brazil to explore in our interior design project”, explains Patricia.
All of the décor references the geological formation on the view and the natural materials of the region, resulting in cozy, warm, and comfortable spaces. The cinnamon tree - from which the city of Canela borrows its name - is an essential part of the inspiration as it historically offers shelter to travelers.
Wool, leather, and natural rocks are all also part of the timeless atmosphere of the new
interiors. Pieces by local artists and designers, including many items produced artisanally in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, are also highlighted throughout the spaces.
These rightful choices reflect Patricia’s compromise with the region and her tribute to local ancestry. “It was important for us to dig into the traditions of this area because we want the local people to feel proud and connect with the project that is so important to this city”, Patricia concludes.