Nobis Hotel Palma Press Kit

Steeped in 1,000 years of history and bringing together the best of both Scandinavian design and hospitality, the hotel presents a distinctly boutique persona, supplemented by a series of exciting social spaces designed to entice travelers and locals alike. Numerous spaces to meet, eat, drink and relax, mark the hotel as not just a place to stay, but a place to be; a theme that permeates every corner of this new Mallorcan icon. Raw and rough, refined and smooth, each space in this renovated medieval Islamic palace wears the result of an ambitious vision in which the Nobis Hospitality Group’s five-star portfolio, Nobis Hotels, is outlined in sophistication, luxury and high-end design.

Together, it all adds up to a beautiful property that is emblematic of the island’s reputation as a sophisticated hideaway. This multifaceted retreat, sister hotel to Palma’s Concépcio by Nobis, presents an authentic and undeniably Mallorcan experience. A stylish celebration of past and present, in which the needs of contemporary travelers are interwoven with design and community, this is an epic launchpad to explode the wonders of this magical island.

About

Adress

Carrer de les Caputxines 9

Palma de Mallorca 07003, Spain
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Manager

Jonathan Liu
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Owner

Alessandro Catenacci
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Rooms

26
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Suites

11
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Amenities

Gym, sauna, wellness area, indoor pool
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Restaurant

NOI
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Bar

Mirall Bar
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Architecture & Design

Jordi Herrero Arquitectos, Eduardo Garcia Acuna Arquitectos, Wingårdhs

Neighborhoods

As the city of Palma continues its evolution into an ultra-luxe bolthole, its various nooks and crannies are taking on their own distinct personalities. Nobis Hotel Palma is located on Carrer de les Caputxines in a quiet yet accessible spot in the city’s charming Old Town. While the bustle of the main drags, La Rambla and Passeig des Born, lie just a five-minute walk away, the property is permeated by loud silences, thanks to its spot on a narrow winding alley, removed from the traffic and the din of the city. This corner of the Old Town places guests a short stroll from many of Palma’s finest restaurants and must-sees, including the city’s famous Cathedral and while nearby, Passeig del Born offers great shopping and boutiques. Heading north, sister property Concépcio by Nobis sits a mere five-minute walk away. ​
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​In addition to the immediate proximity to restaurants, attractions and landmarks that this prime location affords, the popular Santa Catalina district is a 10-minute walk away while Palma’s beachfront takes approximately 15 minutes to reach. Palma de Mallorca airport (PMI) is a 15-minute taxi ride away.

To further enhance guest convenience, the hotel also offers an electric, eco-friendly buggy service, providing effortless pick-up and drop-off to selected locations in the surrounding area. Ideal for exploring Palma comfortably and efficiently, it allows guests to reach nearby points of interest with ease.

Design and Architectures

Architecture

Originally conceived as a Muslim palace in the Islamic medieval stage of the Balearic Islands, the 12th century building that hosts Nobis Hotel Palma is one of the city’s oldest structures. With a rich history of least seven stages of construction, and which stretches back over nearly thousand years, the layered building offered a magnificent backdrop on which to project a sophisticated interior concept by Swedish architecture firm Wingårdhs and local studios Jordi Herrero Arquitectos and Eduardo Garcia Acuna Arquitectos

Dating to 1229, when the building functioned as an Islamic Palace, the structure has undergone a series of personas before it finally settled on its current incarnation. At the end of the 13th century, King Alfonso III of Aragón ordered it to be burnt down, with it lying in ruins for around 100 years before becoming a private home for noble Majorcan families. Re-built in a Gothic style in the mid-15th century, it was later reformed as a baroque style palace in the 17th century, with a new blueprint defined by two symmetrical interior patios preserved from the original structure and searing ceilings and beams. Most recently, a years long renovation process brought this stunning behemoth into the modern age, infusing the expansive properties with all the modern amenities necessary for it to host overnight guests. Historical stones, wood-beam ceilings and a pervading use of earth tones of beige, white, grey and brown offer a wide lens yet clean view to the past. Grand architraves, soaring pillars and unfinished raw Spanish limestone walls are a stark reminder of the building’s origins and harmonize with the vivid and eclectic styles applied as part of the rebirth of the building as a hotel. Owing to the history of the structure and its protected status in Mallorca, great care was taken to preserve original details.

As such, the configuration of the 37 guestrooms differs from room to room, with some accommodations bearing the hallmarks of the ancient architecture with low, beamed ceilings, irregular shapes and a sporadic application of windows.

Throughout the property flooring seamlessly transitions to from solid oak in guestrooms to Spanish marble in open bathrooms, while original patterned ceramic tiles line public areas, restored to the best quality and maintaining the building’s original persona. An intimate but well-equipped subterranean spa also makes visible nods to the past by way of a former tunnel that once functioned as an escape route during the medieval ages, now incorporated into the structure’s new life. Elsewhere, amidst the whispers of centuries past, guests are greeted by a sight both awe-inspiring and humbling – the preserved wooden alfarje, a panelled ceiling in the reception area, adorned with intricate Arabic calligraphy in Nashk script. Dating back to the 13th century, this architectural marvel survived a devastating fire and seven subsequent reconstructions, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of the buildings’ inhabitants across generations. Gazing upon this revitalized relic, guests are connected with the rich tapestry of stories woven into the very fabric of Nobis Hotel Palma’s heritage.

Design

Nobis Hotel Palma invites visitors to step into a realm where history whispers tales of bygone eras, interwoven with contemporary elegance. Crafted through a collaborative endeavor led by the Spanish firms Jordi Herrero Arquitectos and Eduardo Garcia Acuna Arquitectos in partnership with the esteemed architects at Wingårdhs, under the guidance of visionaries Gert Wingårdh and Helena Toresson, this architectural marvel breathes new life into a historical gem. Within its walls, guests are enveloped in a design narrative that honors the building’s storied past while embracing the luxuries of the present.

The design ethos is a testament to the meticulous fusion of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Original architectural elements, such as weathered Spanish limestone floors, graceful arches, and rugged brick walls, stand as proud reminders of the building’s heritage, carefully restored to their former glory. Yet, amidst these historical treasures, contemporary luxuries beckon – a curated selection of premium brands such as Carl Hansen, Menu, Noom, Miniforms, Ogeborg, Örsjö, Andreu World, and Flos grace guestrooms and public spaces, each piece a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design.

In a harmonious union of Scandinavian creativity and contemporary elegance, Nobis Hotel Palma has also embarked on a creative journey with Dusty Deco, a revered Swedish design studio, which has a showroom next door to the hotel. Together, they delved into the domain of bespoke furniture, crafting pieces that seamlessly pair functionality with artistry. From inviting wood chairs, their seats adorned with plush bouclé or shagpile upholstery, to the low, sculptural darkwood coffee tables and elegant hexagon consoles found in the hotel’s bar, each creation demonstrates an unwavering commitment to balancing the rough with the raw, the refined and smooth.

As guests traverse the hotel’s spaces they are enveloped in an atmosphere of eclectic, vintage inspired furnishings, where every piece speaks of the enduring bond between heritage and innovation.

In another prominent creative collaboration, Nobis Palma joined forces with Helena Toresson of Wingårdhs, the visionary mind behind Concepció by Nobis. This successful partnership has realized a transformative journey that sculpts a space where the raw power of the original building and a sharp, new architectural element are harmonized. Within this dynamic framework, the interior emerges as a sanctuary of softness, warmth, and contemporary allure, inviting guests to bask in its embrace. A compelling portfolio of bespoke designs by Wingårdhs fills the property, spanning everything from two imposing custom mirrored floor-to-ceiling bars in NOI restaurant, to the beautifully minimal black metal bedside tables found in each guestroom. Through a shared vision for modern luxury, Nobis Hotel Palma and Wingårdhs have created a timeless haven where the past intertwines with the present, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of hospitality.

Moving through each distinctly designed space, guests are greeted by a symphony of textures and hues, curated to evoke a sense of warmth and sophistication. Natural and sustainable materials, including wood, stone, wool, and leather, adorn the interiors, not only infusing each room with an air of understated luxury but also reflecting the raw nature that is always within touching distance in this city and island. From the soft, restrained color palette of the hotel rooms to the vibrant and eclectic patterns that fill the public areas, every design choice is a deliberate nod to Nobis’ origins – a Scandinavian hotel group with Italian roots, now making its mark on the Spanish hospitality scene.

Social Spaces

Within the public spaces of Nobis Hotel Palma, a journey through time awaits, where the building’s history unfolds layer by layer. Each peel reveals a new chapter, allowing the original materials and foundations to breathe once more, narrating the story of its many lives.

These spaces encompass more than mere dimensions; they hold moments waiting to be savoured. Culinary delights await in NOI restaurant, paying homage to local flavors and global inspirations. Ascending to the terrace, the Mediterranean sun bathes the surroundings in golden light, while the high-ceilinged Mirrall Bar is alive with the hum of conversation and the promise of new connections amongst locals and visitors alike. And when a cool down calls, guests may plunge into the ground floor dipping pool, a refreshing oasis in the heart of this bustling town.

Lobby

Set within the oldest segment of the building, the lobby of Nobis Palma offers a captivating blend of history and contemporary allure. Here, guests are welcomed into an open-air oasis, where billowing textiles gently sway in the breeze, creating an ethereal ambiance that invites relaxation and contemplation. Enhanced by a large circular water feature, often filled to the brim with flowers, and an open-air composition, the first courtyard beckons visitors to gaze skyward, connecting with the vast expanse above in a moment of serenity and wonder. In the second courtyard, a series of textile features draw inspiration from the sun shading curtains found in the charming alleys of the Old Town during summer, adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the space. As sunlight filters through the canopies above, casting dappled shadows on the ground below, guests are enveloped in a sense of tranquillity, and are invited to linger on chic Carl Hansen chairs and Cane-line sofas.

Whether enjoying a book from the hotel’s expansive collection, indulging in a refreshment from the neighbouring NOI restaurant or immersing in the small but effective dipping pool, this indoor-outdoor space is where the beauty of the past is celebrated in the present.

Sun Terrace

The Sun Terrace at Nobis Hotel Palma offers a serene retreat for guests seeking relaxation amidst the vibrant energy of the city. Equipped with parasols, sun loungers, and a cooling outdoor shower, the terrace provides an ideal setting in which to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Chic furniture, including Carl Hansen ‘AH’ loungers and Skargaarden ‘Saltholm’ sofas, ensures guests can recline in style while enjoying the stunning views beyond.

As day transitions into night, Santa & Cole ‘Cesta’ lamps illuminate the outdoor space, creating a cozy ambiance for evening gatherings. A double canopy bed offers a luxurious spot for all-day lounging, while a sculptural cocooned shower provides a refreshing escape from the sun’s warmth. Whether sipping cocktails from the neighboring Mirall Bar under a parasol or wiling away the hours on a plush lounger, the Sun Terrace provides a tranquil oasis where guests can unwind and rejuvenate in the heart of Palma.

Roof Terrace

Perched atop a quiet corner at Nobis Hotel Palma, the hotel’s roof terrace is a retreat within a retreat, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city below. Here, amidst the quietude, the chaos of the urban landscape feels a world away. Adorned with red and pink-toned sofas and loungers, complemented by brown and white striped parasols, the terrace exudes a contemporary Mediterranean vibe where visitors can unwind in style.

As guests recline on the plush furnishings, they are treated to sweeping views of the cathedral and beyond, a picturesque backdrop for moments of relaxation and contemplation. Small in scale yet rich in ambiance, the space is adorned with Atmosphera ‘Panarea’ side tables, Bover ‘Atticus’ floor lamps, and ‘Tres’ poufs by Nani Marquina, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
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​Unlike its counterpart, the Sun Terrace, this rooftop sanctuary offers a much more intimate setting, where guests can savor the serenity of their surroundings while basking in the beauty of Palma’s skyline.

Restaurants and bars

The culinary realm of Nobis Palma is led by the signature restaurant, NOI, where European influences meld harmoniously with the flavors of the local food scene. Here, sharing plates take center stage, offering a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation that promises to tantalize the senses. Meanwhile, the Mirall Bar captivates with its awe-inspiring ambiance, boasting soaring nine-meter- high ceilings that provide a stunning backdrop for sampling expertly crafted cocktails from an award-winning mixologist. ​
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​Restaurant NOI

At the heart of Nobis Palma lies NOI, the hotel’s esteemed restaurant, offering a culinary voyage that intertwines European excellence with the essence of local gastronomy. Here, patrons embark on a shared experience, indulging in dishes crafted from locally sourced produce in adherence to a KM Zero ethos. Underneath a captivating back-lit textile ceiling installation and against a sophisticated black-steel mirrored bar, guests are invited to explore an array of tantalizing offerings. Culinary artistry comes to life in dishes such as the homemade brioche stuffed with beef tartare, adorned with truffle puree and a zesty kimchi mayonnaise, or the succulent fried red prawns “al Pil Pil,” bathed in chilli and garlic infused virgin olive oil. For those craving hearty flavors, the low temperature roasted Iberian pork shoulder awaits, accompanied by roasted tomato, creamy avocado, and crispy corn tortilla chips. Sweet tooths are satisfied with the Spanish torrija, served with a decadent scoop of vanilla ice cream, the perfect finale to an unforgettable dining experience.

With approximately 65 seats, NOI radiates a mood of refined elegance, accentuated by painstakingly restored crossed vaults and pillars, preserving the building’s historic charm. Whether starting the evening with a refreshing cocktail in the adjacent outdoor courtyard or ending the evening here with a sweet treat, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of elevated luxury, where every offering tells a story, and every bite is a revelation.

Mirall Bar

Ascending to the first floor of Nobis Hotel Palma, guests and locals alike are welcomed to discover the epitome of sophistication at the hotel’s lounge bar. At the Mirall Bar, an impressive ceiling height, original floor tiles, and a drapery of soft textiles envelop guests in an ambiance of contemporary luxury, beckoning them to unwind and indulge in the art of mixology.

Located within a room steeped in the building’s origins, the Mirall Bar was always guaranteed to take center stage, with its name derived from the Catalan word for “mirror.” Expertly crafted cocktails, created from local produce and seasonal ingredients, are mixed behind a Wingårdhs-designed bar that has been constructed from multiple strips of mirrors, while a counter made from compressed glass serves as the perfect stage for their presentation.

The grandeur of the Mirall Bar is further accentuated by its rich history, dating back to the 17th-18th century when the building stood as a symbol of power and prestige. The towering nine-meter ceiling height served as a marker of the status of the family in residence, evoking awe and admiration among guests who entered the room. Portraits of family members, historical maps, and landscape paintings would have created a “Room of Marvels” – now a red painting on the original wall remains, dating back to the 15th century and standing as a testament to the building’s layered past. On the other end of the spectrum, this magnificent setting is infused with a touch of modernity via artworks by Philip Smith, while a grand spherical lamp designed by Wingårdhs and crafted by Konsthantverk, casts a warm glow over the space, its interplay of textiles and fiberglass adding to its overall allure.

Rooms and Suites

Nobis Hotel Palma offers a total of 37 guest rooms, among which 11 are luxurious suites, each designed to provide a first-class experience of contemporary five-star luxury.

Inside each room, a welcoming palette of neutral shades, from white and beige to warm greys and browns, creates an atmosphere of understated luxury. Timeless, natural materials such as wool, leather, and wood enhance this mood, embodying Nobis’ signature interpretation of contemporary luxury and signalling an authentic appreciation for high quality, timeless design. Pieces from internationally renowned Scandinavian and Italian brands, including custom-made bed frames by Carl Hansen, lighting fixtures by Flos and Örsjö, and Meridiani sofas are blended with bespoke furniture by Wingårdhs and Dusty Deco, as well as locally produced pieces.

Further inside, guests are greeted by bathrooms dressed in authentic Spanish limestone, exuding elegance and sophistication. To elevate the guest experience, exclusive toiletries from Byredo are offered in all guest rooms, while suites feature luxurious amenities by the local scent tailoring atelier Viti Vinci. In open plan guestrooms, reflective glazing covers the bathroom boxes, integrating with unique architectural features like original wooden beam ceilings, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

The design concept, crafted in collaboration with the award-winning Swedish firm Wingårdhs, pays homage to the historical roots of the building while creatively — and successfully — overcoming the challenges posed by transforming a listed building into a hotel. As such, all the rooms boast a unique shape and size, offering guests a one-of-a-kind experience influenced by the building’s architectural heritage.

The preservation of original interior walls in some guestrooms, painstakingly restored, adds to this distinct character in each room, while handcrafted plastered walls and oak wood flooring introduce warmth and texture. From original ceramic tiles to wooden ceilings, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to maintain the building’s historical integrity.

Rounding it all out is a series of comforts that speak to this property’s status as a luxury hotel. DUX beds are dressed in high quality Egyptian linens, while guests can also choose to unwind courtesy of a state-of-the-art in-room audio system by Bang & Olufsen. In suites, exclusive Viti Vinci toiletries are complemented by a curated selection of in-room fragrances for guests to enjoy throughout their stay, offering an elevated olfactory experience. To supplement in-room dining options, each room features a mini bar containing both international and local treats from brands such as Sal de Ibiza and Blissful Bastards, as well as Lavazza coffee machines.

Among the 11 suites, the Nobis Suite stands out as the hotel’s most exceptional accommodation — a grand, 100-square-meter retreat featuring soaring ceilings, original 15th-century Gothic arches, a striking 51-square-meter living room for private dining or intimate gatherings, and a tranquil terrace complete with its own lemon tree. Available with an optional private wing and separate entrance, it offers the ultimate expression of Nobis Hotel Palma’s refined elegance and sense of place.

Wellness

At Nobis Hotel Palma guests can embark on a journey where wellness takes center stage in a series of serene subterranean sanctuaries. Descending into a realm of tranquillity, visitors are invited to discover an array of amenities designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul. From soothing saunas to an inviting indoor pool, and a state-of-the-art gym, every corner of the hotel’s wellness spaces is dedicated to promoting holistic well-being and revitalizing the senses. Whether seeking moments of quiet contemplation or invigorating workouts, guests can immerse themselves in a haven that offers respite from the commotion of life.

Gym

Small but mighty and set within the ancient confines of the hotel’s underground rooms lies the gym at Nobis Hotel Palma, offering a unique fitness experience amidst cooling, unfinished stone walls. Situated below ground level, this modern fitness space boasts all the apparatus typical of a city gym, including free weights, elliptical machines, and stationary bikes, catering to guests’ diverse fitness needs. Additionally, yoga mats and accessories are available, providing opportunities for holistic wellness. Exclusively open to guests of Nobis Hotel Palma, the gym invites guests to embark on journeys of strength, vitality, and well-being in an environment that seamlessly blends ancient charm with modern convenience.

Sauna and pool

At Nobis Hotel Palma, guests can enter a deeply calm lower-level space that combines a small indoor pool with two saunas—a dry sauna and a full-spectrum infrared sauna, renowned for its immune-boosting and pain-relieving benefits. This cooling, calming sanctuary is a refuge from the hotel and city buzz, providing a serene environment for relaxation. Set within a former medieval Muslim palace, the spa features a visible tunnel once used as an escape route, now partly hidden by an elevated garden constructed in the 18th century. As guests explore this subterranean oasis, they are transported to a world of quiet and historical intrigue, where the echoes of centuries past merge with the soothing sounds of water.

Treatments

Nobis Hotel Palma offers a refined selection of wellness treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. During the low season, guests can enjoy bespoke treatments such as soothing massages, offered in a calm and peaceful setting. These tailored experiences ensure a relaxing and restorative stay, providing guests with an opportunity to unwind and recharge.

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

Blique by Nobis - Stockholm

Miss Clara by Nobis - Stockholm

Concepció by Nobis - Palma

Hotel Skeppsholmen - Stockholm

Hotel J - Stockholm

Hagastrand - Stockholm

Stallmästaregården - Stockholm

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