Concepció by Nobis Press Kit

Set in a part of town where Palma’s Old Town meets its flourishing Santa Catalina district, Concepció by Nobis is a charming embodiment of the Spanish city’s past, present and future. A warm social hub defined by a series of multifaceted areas in which to meet, dine, work and rest, the 31-room property presents a design-forward oasis for both travellers and locals. Here, visitors have the freedom to roam across open and connected public areas which feature no real boundaries and are defined by elevated design and original features.

Concepció by Nobis is the first hotel from the Nobis Hospitality Group that is situated outside Scandinavia and it possesses a distinct personality that is based on its own history and location. Located on a site that dates to the mid-16th century and formerly a soap factory, the historical property now combines the grand vision of award-winning Stockholm-based firm Wingårdhs with a deep sense of cultural heritage. This is a hotel where layers of history are infused with a decidedly contemporary flavour; a signature approach executed by co-architect leads Gert Wingårdh and Helena Toresson, whose juxtaposition of modern amenities alongside markers of the past is as seamless as it is alluring.

It all adds up to a property that ties Mallorca’s DNA together with an unmistakably Scandi outlook and ethos. A spirited launchpad from which to explore this ever-evolving city, Concepció by Nobis presents visitors with a slice of history and reflects both the architectural diversity of Mallorca’s forward-thinking capital and the city’s rich cultural identity.

About

Adress

Carrer de la Concepció 34

07012 Palma, Illes Ballears, Spain
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Manager

Eardly Jordaan
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Owner

Alessandro Catenacci
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Rooms

31
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Suites

5
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Amenities

Gym, sauna, pool
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Restaurant

Xalest
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Bar

Bar Xalest
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Architecture & Design

Wingårdhs, Jordi Herrero Arquitectos, Eduardo Garcia Acuna Arquitectos

Neighbourhood

The point at which Palma’s Old Town meets its Santa Catalina quarter is a lively intersection where the exchange between the city’s old and new is a tangible reality. Here, in a central part of the city once occupied by factories and olive oil markets, now lies a host of bars and restaurants, and a starting point from which to explore the city’s many charms. With a host of landmarks, such as Plaça d’Espanya, Mercat de Santa Catalina and Passeig del Born, just a stone’s throw away, and the sea within equal proximity, the locale places guests in equal closeness to all of Palma’s attractions: the old and new, beach and city.

More immediately, the neighbourhood brings together an equal blend of residential, business and leisure for plenty of activity within easy reach.

Historical buildings on both narrow lanes and bustling avenues like Jaime III now house small boutiques, bakeries and galleries, all easily accessible from the hotel, while further destinations may be reached via one of the many close-by transport links, including trains from the nearby mainline Estacio Intermodal.

Within walking distance of Concepció by Nobis are a range of cultural hotspots — both Paseo Maritimo and the famous cathedral are minutes away while further south is Palma’s Parc de Sa Feixina, a popular green space offering respite from the bustle of the city. A little farther afield is Illetas Beach — a seaside enclave of peace and sublime beauty that is reached in just 20 minutes by car and invites bathers to wander its turquoise blue waters and seafront promenade. For a closer coastal experience, the popular Playa del Plama is a mere 25-minute walk from the hotel.

History

Reflective of the ongoing revival of the districts it straddles, Concepció by Nobis anchors the renaissance of two of the city’s most historic quarters. The hotel is located on a site that dates back to the mid-16th century, and blends Mallorcan heritage with contemporary sophistication for a sensitively renovated property that reflects the area’s compelling duality of old and new Palma. Following a development process of nearly five years, the Nobis Hospitality Group — hand-in-hand with architects at Stockholm-based studio Wingårdhs, and Spanish firms Jordi Herrero Arquitectos and Eduardo Garcia Acuna Arquitectos — meticulously brought the building back to life with a reinvention that sees it take on an entirely new persona — a hotel.

Concepció by Nobis takes its name from the street on which it is located — Carrer de la Concepció — an illustrious thoroughfare that at various points in history has been a marketplace for olive oil, and has hosted factories and, more recently, bars and restaurants.
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​The three-floor structure that now stands as Concepció by Nobis is drawn from a centuries’ old merger of a series of buildings that together once housed a reception, an urban chapel, residences, a warehouse and a commercial soap factory for Palma’s General Hospital. By the 18th century, this combination of buildings had ceased operation for hospital use and later became a private home for the noble Manera de L’Ullestrar family, and then the Feliu Jaume family, for several years. In its current incarnation, the expansive edifice continues to cut a distinct figure on the architectural landscape of the neighbourhood thanks to its unique medley of parts and standout details that nod to a rich history.

Throughout the careful restoration of the building, great care was taken to preserve and renew such features, and special characteristics — such as cross vaults, beamed ceilings, interior arches and bay windows — have been seamlessly blended into a contemporary aesthetic. This exciting dynamic is further enhanced by the presence of locally crafted custom-designed tiles, bespoke furniture and vintage items, all of which come together for an intriguing and Scandi-infused narrative of modern-day Palma.

Design & Architecture

Created in the vision of co-lead architects Helena Toresson and Gert Wingårdh of Swedish firm Wingårdhs, the design concept for Concepció by Nobis evolved from the property’s unique layout and characteristics — an inspiring canvas on which to build. Fed by local tradition and craft, the Swedish designers have paid equal homage to both the surrounding area and the historical building, while also infusing interiors with modern furnishings, unexpected bursts of colour and Scandinavian design sensibilities. The outcome is a level of quality and expression that transcends trends and welcomes guests with a warm atmosphere that feels familiar and relaxed.

The multi-layered interiors are representative of the hotel’s overarching theme of sophisticated glamour, where vintage aesthetics are flawlessly partnered with bespoke items, natural materials like wood, leather and wool, and an ambient palette inspired by the Mediterranean Sea and the Tramuntana mountains. Additionally, a plethora of metal adds a decidedly modern edge to interiors and stands out as a new layer to the property. This is most evident in the sculptural brass-clad reception desk, elevator doors dipped in bronze and a restaurant bar that is covered in hammered zinc. Elsewhere, a number of walls are also dressed in metal for a contemporary statement that further enhances the layering of modern accents, historical details and custom-made elements.

Linking all of this together is a bespoke ceramic tile — the brainchild of Wingårdhs, who enlisted local tile specialists Huguet to produce the green and white watercolour-style design. Running uninterrupted across the hotel’s entrance floor — a continuity that emphasises the easy flow between the property’s open spaces — the tile also appears as a smaller version in guestrooms and bathrooms. ​
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​Handmade by Huguet’s skilled craftspeople in a workshop just east of Palma, this simple touch is reminiscent of the building’s original tiling, albeit in a contemporary guise, and represents Concepció’s ease in contrasting the old with the new.

Elsewhere, interiors channel an unmistakable sense of contemporary cool that is a hallmark of all Nobis hotels. The presence of furniture, lighting and fittings from internationally regarded brands is a testament to the hotel’s design credentials and emphasises a purposeful concept to integrate modern ideas onto a traditional backdrop. Furthermore, the hotel is animated by a distinct Scandinavian aesthetic, which emerges in the presence of a number of Nordic-produced furniture pieces throughout the property. In the lounge, rugs by the Swedish family-owned company Ogeborg offer a welcome layer of texture under the room’s old pillars and vaults, while in Xalest Børge Mogensen’s J39 chair takes centre stage in a celebration of traditional Danish craft. Guestrooms feature natural wood stools by Nikari, a family-owned Finnish brand, and outdoor areas pay equal homage to Nordic design with garden furniture by Danish brand Skagerak.

This acknowledgment of Nordic craftsmanship goes deep. Additional items peppered throughout the property include bespoke beds by Swedish brand Gemla, Carl Hansen armchairs and lighting from Örsjö. These sit alongside pieces from brands such as Artek, Flos, HAY and Sika Design, amongst others, for an environment that will impress even the most discerning design aficionados. It’s all tied together by Huguet’s tiles, partition windows and white walls; key characteristics in this building’s new identity and unifying threads throughout the hotel.

Lounge

The beating heart of Concepció by Nobis, the lounge represents the hotel’s proactive encouragement of meeting, dining, relaxing and working across all areas of the property. Conveniently linking the lobby, meeting spaces and Xalest, the lounge is a stylish refuge from Palma’s heat in the summer months, and a warm and inviting den come winter. The result is a sophisticated city treasure that is suited to all moods and one that marries the familiar design elements encountered throughout the building. Brought together by a grand bespoke communal marble table by Wingårdhs and stools by Swedish brand Gemla, along with abundant seating areas, vintage lamps and local pottery, the cosy enclave is equally ideal for spontaneous get-togethers and quiet moments.
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​The space also features a balance of original features, like vaulted ceilings, with more contemporary accents such as glass partitions and bespoke ceramic tiling. The juxtaposition of vintage Noguchi coffee tables with cutter benches, lighting by Flos and custom-made glass pendants is an apt reflection of the hotel’s old-meets-new vibe and compounds its celebration of both local and international craft.

Terrace and pool

A tucked away oasis that combines a sunny terrace with an outdoor pool and gardens, Concepció by Nobis’ patio area is one of Palma’s best kept secrets. Open exclusively to hotel guests and their visitors, the terrace combines patio seating and sun loungers with a six-metre swimming pool and lush gardens, all of which come together for a distinctly Mediterranean feel.

Fully embodying the hotel’s reverence for natural materials, greenery and ceramics, the three-level space is replete with bespoke tiles and local pottery filled with palms and native plants. A shaded pergola and wooden decks lined with parasols and lounge sofas offer an inviting haven in which to seek respite from the heat with a refreshment, and to fully indulge in the breezy mood of this secluded corner.

Restaurant and bar

Xalest

Open for both lunch and dinner, and serving breakfast to guests, Xalest is the in-house restaurant at Concepció by Nobis. Presenting a menu that combines Chef Xema Álvarez’s modern touch with Mallorcan food culture, Xalest offers dishes that include tapas and pintxos, alongside appetisers and entrées that are designed for sharing and fully embrace the Spanish way of dining.

Served by knowledgeable staff dressed in cool uniforms in shades of olive that mirror the colour palette of the space, guests are invited to start their meal with tapas and an expertly crafted drink at Xalest’s all-day bar, before perhaps ending the night in the attached lounge. The menu offers a considered selection of fish, meat, and vegan dishes, thoughtfully refreshed every four months to reflect the best of seasonal, locally sourced produce.

It’s all served up in a room that displays the familiar design elements encountered throughout the hotel. Here, Børge Mogensen’s J39 chair is married with local pottery, vibrant art and sofa seating, all under the property’s ubiquitous soaring arches and circular bay windows. Huguet’s bespoke green and white tiles are also present, and together it all culminates into a contemporary setting with a chilled and easy mood in which to eat, drink and socialise. Accessible via both the hotel and its own street level entrance, Xalest is a destination in its own right for both guests and locals, and its views of Carrer de la Concepció, in full view through the room’s vast floor-to-ceilings windows, are a sweet finishing touch to the lively space.

Bar Xalest

From early aperitifs to sundowners and nightcaps, the bar at Concepció by Nobis is an atmospheric spot in which to enjoy a range of drinks throughout the day. Here, old school bar concepts are reimagined in new ways and are presented alongside little-known regional wines and bespoke cocktails crafted with local ingredients. It all comes together in a chic and urban setting where an intimate and laid-back ambiance is complemented by Wingårdhs’ custom-designed stools and benches alongside a hammered zinc-clad bar that is framed by a grand shelving unit.

The resulting layout is a fitting host to the hotel’s all-encompassing ambiance of ease and breeziness, and one where Concepció’s by Nobis fundamental hallmark of thoughtful design is present in every corner. Open to all, the bar invites visitors to settle in with a glass of wine beneath vaulted ceilings, while soaking up the atmosphere of the neighbouring Xalest restaurant against a soundtrack of smooth beats.

Rooms and Suites

With just 31 rooms and suites in total, Concepció by Nobis has fully infused its mood of retreat and intimacy into its accommodation layout. Spread out across the hotel’s upper three floors, the rooms offer a soothing sanctuary from the buzz of Palma and blend locally crafted details with contemporary aesthetics across seven categories that range from the Small Double to the Terrazza Room. Custom-made accents, and furniture and textiles that reflect the spirit of both Mallorca and Nobis’ Scandinavian heritage fill each room and are married with modern amenities in spaces designed by Wingårdhs. These include custom-made made rugs, leather armchairs by Carl Hansen and coffee tables by Zanat, while both bedrooms and bathrooms feature a scaled down version of the bespoke ceramic tiling by local company Huguet that is found throughout the property.

Across all seven categories bright white walls are lined up against black beams and doors, and a mix of both dark and neutral textiles feature alongside locally crafted carpentry. Taupe floor-to-ceiling drapes filter an abundance of natural light, while integrated cupboard units and desks carved from black birch wood provide ample storage and simultaneously offer a contemporary contrast to otherwise bright and light interiors.

Other standout details include latticed canvas headboards designed by Wingårdhs, floor lamps from Le Klint and dark green sofas by Hay, while the showstopper in the generously sized Terrazza Room is undoubtedly the room’s own private patio. Uncomplicated bathrooms are equally sleek and feature spacious walk-in showers (in addition to a bath in the Junior Suite) alongside amenities by cult Swedish fragrance brand Byredo in nod to both the hotel’s Scandinavian roots and its prevailing theme of contemporary cool.

Every room is tied together with a series of modern conveniences that can be adjusted to suit the desires of each guest. Speakers that are embedded in the ceiling may be connected to personal devices for fully tailored mood settings, and warm, dimmable lighting enables visitors to set the tone at any time of day. Modern state-of-the-art smart TVs support streaming powered by the hotel’s complimentary wi-fi system and in-room Lavazza coffee machines enable guests to prepare and enjoy refreshments without needing to step outside.

Wellness and Gym

Situated on the hotel’s ground level, the gym at Concepció by Nobis is equipped with a selection of apparatus typical of any modern city fitness space. Free weights, an elliptical machine and a stationary bike are all available for use, as well as yoga mats.

An adjacent sauna and accompanying relaxation area open exclusively to guests of Concepció by Nobis underline the hotel’s Scandinavian presence and complete its wellness and fitness offerings.

Meetings & Events

Home to a series of spaces that are designed to accommodate meetings, dining, working and resting, Concepció by Nobis is well equipped to host all manner of gatherings. In the expansive lounge, anchored by a large communal table, a multitude of nooks are ideal for both spontaneous gatherings and moments of peace. Elsewhere, private events can be held in the hotel’s meeting room and chambré séparée, two stylish spaces that have been dressed by Wingårdhs in vintage furniture and standout chandeliers. Perfect for hosting business events, celebrations and workshops, the two rooms can be configured to suit a range of needs.

The hotel’s chambré séparée may be additionally utilised to host formal and informal private dining experiences with bespoke menus from Xalest. Framed by the original architectural features of this historical building and elegant design by Wingårdhs, visitors can indulge in a customised dining experience hosted in a memorable setting surrounded by arches, pillars and vaults.

Meeting Room

With the capacity to host up to 22 people, the meeting room at Concepció by Nobis is suited to both formal events and relaxed celebrations. Particularly appropriate for brainstorms, small seminars or board meetings, this space can be equipped with a screen for presentations and pitches, and is provided with high speed wi-fi, mobile flipcharts and printing access.

This modern and stylish boardroom set up also features vintage furniture, armchair seating and vibrant artwork, and is located adjacent to the hotel’s lounge area for easy spillouts and breakaways.

Size: 47 square meters
​Capacity: 22 ​
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Chambré Séparée

Intimate and private, the chambré séparée at Concepció by Nobis is located in what was formerly the building’s chapel. As such, the space is framed by original features that include arches and pillars, alongside vintage furniture and rugs, vibrant artwork and a stunning chandelier. Provided with high speed wi-fi, mobile flipcharts and printing access, the room may also be configured to accommodate small meetings and low-key events.

Size: 20 square meters
​Capacity: 8-10

Observation Tower

For a bird’s eye view of the immediate locale, a small top floor tower serves as an impromptu observation deck for vistas over the neighbourhood’s rooftops and beyond. With space for just two people at a time, this hidden jewel is a reminder of the unrivalled spot the hotel holds in a historic corner of the city.

About Nobis Hospitality Group

Alessandro Catenacci is the driving force behind many of Stockholm’s top restaurants, nightclubs and hotels. His Italian name may reveal his Roman origins, but a distinctly Scandinavian sense of luxury is obvious in everything Catenacci does. Most of all he hopes to offer guests places where they can feel as comfortable and humbly selfassured as he is. “I sometimes look at myself in the mirror and think, ‘Am I really good at anything, or was it just luck’?”

Back in 1987, Catenacci bought the Stockholm-based restaurant empire belonging to Scandinavian culinary great Tore Wretman - including Café Opera, Operakällaren, the Riche, and Stallmästaregården. This savvy purchase became the launching point for what now includes seven top-tier hotels in addition to the restaurants and nightspots. Catenacci’s ease makes his success look as if luck were indeed a factor, but it is actually the result of a long-term vision, hard work, and an intuitive business sense.

His company, the Nobis Group, has grown consistently over the more than two decades that have passed since that smart deal was made. The conglomerate’s philosophy, in many ways, combines the best of Catenacci’s Italian heritage - a heady approach to fine food and a keen eye for quality - and the utmost in Scandinavian understatement. ​
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Other hotels within Nobis Hospitality Group:

Nobis Hotel Stockholm - Stockholm

Nobis Hotel Copenhagen - Copenhagen

Nobis Hotel Palma - Palma

Blique by Nobis - Stockholm

Miss Clara by Nobis - Stockholm

Hotel Skeppsholmen - Stockholm

Hotel J - Stockholm

Hagastrand - Stockholm

Stallmästaregården - Stockholm

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