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 character, complemented by a series of exciting social spaces designed to entice travellers and locals alike. With numerous spaces to meet, eat, drink and relax, the hotel is not merely a place to stay, but a place to be; a theme that permeates every corner of this new Mallorcan icon. Raw and rugged, yet refined and polished, each space in this renovated medieval Islamic palace embodies the result of an ambitious vision in which the Nobis Hospitality Group’s five-star portfolio, Nobis Hotels, is characterised by sophistication, luxury and high-end design.

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

About

Address

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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Facilities

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

Neighbourhoods

As the city of Palma continues its evolution into an ultra-luxury hideaway, its various nooks and crannies are taking on their own distinct personalities. Nobis Hotel Palma is situated on Carrer de les Caputxines in a quiet yet accessible spot in the city’s charming Old Town. Whilst the hustle and bustle of the main thoroughfares, La Rambla and Passeig des Born, lie just a five-minute walk away, the property is permeated by a sense of tranquillity, thanks to its location on a narrow, winding alleyway, removed from the traffic and the clamour of the city. This corner of the Old Town places guests just a short stroll from many of Palma’s finest restaurants and must-see attractions, including the city’s famous cathedral, whilst nearby Passeig del Born offers excellent shopping and boutiques. Heading north, the sister property, Concépcio by Nobis, is a mere five-minute walk away. ​
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​In addition to the immediate proximity to restaurants, attractions and landmarks afforded by this prime location, the popular Santa Catalina district is a 10-minute walk away, whilst Palma’s seafront 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 Architecture

Architecture

Originally conceived as a Muslim palace during the Islamic medieval period of the Balearic Islands, the 12th-century building that houses Nobis Hotel Palma is one of the city’s oldest structures. With a rich history spanning at least seven phases of construction, stretching back nearly a thousand years, the multi-layered building provided a magnificent backdrop against which to realise a sophisticated interior concept by the Swedish architectural firm Wingårdhs and local studios Jordi Herrero Arquitectos and Eduardo Garcia Acuna Arquitectos

Dating back to 1229, when the building served as an Islamic palace, the structure has taken on a series of different forms before finally settling on its current incarnation. At the end of the 13th century, King Alfonso III of Aragon ordered it to be burnt down; it lay in ruins for around 100 years before becoming a private residence for noble Mallorcan families. Rebuilt in the Gothic style in the mid-15th century, it was later converted into a Baroque palace in the 17th century, with a new layout characterised by two symmetrical interior courtyards preserved from the original structure, as well as ornate ceilings and beams. Most recently, a renovation process lasting several years brought this stunning colossus into the modern age, infusing the expansive premises with all the modern amenities necessary to accommodate overnight guests. Historic stones, timber-beamed ceilings and a pervasive use of earthy tones – beige, white, grey and brown – offer a broad yet uncluttered glimpse into the past. Grand architraves, soaring pillars and unfinished, raw Spanish limestone walls serve as a stark reminder of the building’s origins and harmonise with the vivid and eclectic styles incorporated as part of the building’s rebirth as a hotel. Owing to the structure’s history and its protected status in Mallorca, great care was taken to preserve original details.

As such, the layout of the 37 guest rooms varies from room to room, with some featuring the hallmarks of the ancient architecture: low, beamed ceilings, irregular shapes and a scattered arrangement of windows.

Throughout the property, the flooring transitions seamlessly from solid oak in the guest rooms to Spanish marble in the open-plan bathrooms, whilst original patterned ceramic tiles line the public areas, restored to the highest standard and maintaining the building’s original character. An intimate yet well-equipped underground spa also pays visible homage to the past through a former tunnel that once served as an escape route during the Middle Ages, now incorporated into the building’s new purpose. Elsewhere, amidst the whispers of centuries past, guests are greeted by a sight that is 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 revitalised 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 endeavour 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 honours the building’s storied past whilst 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 adorn the guest rooms and public spaces, each piece a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design.

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

As guests move through 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 realised a transformative journey that sculpts a space where the raw power of the original building and a sharp, new architectural element are harmonised. 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, ranging from two imposing, custom-made, mirrored floor-to-ceiling bars in the NOI restaurant to the beautifully minimalist black metal bedside tables found in every guest room. Through a shared vision of 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.

As guests move through each distinctively designed space, they 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 natural beauty that is always within easy reach in this city and on this island. From the soft, restrained colour 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 layer 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 the NOI restaurant, paying homage to local flavours and global inspirations. Ascending to the terrace, the Mediterranean sun bathes the surroundings in golden light, whilst 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 it’s time to cool off, guests can take a dip in the ground-floor plunge pool, a refreshing oasis in the heart of this bustling town.

Lobby

Set within the oldest part 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 atmosphere that invites relaxation and contemplation. Enhanced by a large circular water feature, often filled to the brim with flowers, and an open-air layout, the first courtyard invites visitors to gaze skywards, 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 extensive collection, treating themselves to a refreshment from the neighbouring NOI restaurant or taking a dip in the small but inviting plunge 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 refreshing outdoor shower, the terrace provides the perfect setting in which to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Stylish furniture, including Carl Hansen ‘AH’ loungers and Skargaarden ‘Saltholm’ sofas, ensures guests can relax in style whilst enjoying the stunning views beyond.

As day turns to night, Santa & Cole ‘Cesta’ lamps illuminate the outdoor space, creating a cosy atmosphere for evening gatherings. A double canopy bed offers a luxurious spot for lounging all day long, whilst a sculptural, cocoon-like shower provides a refreshing escape from the sun’s warmth. Whether sipping cocktails from the neighbouring Mirall Bar under a parasol or whiling 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 tranquillity, 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 ambience, the space is adorned with Atmosphera ‘Panarea’ side tables, Bover ‘Atticus’ floor lamps, and ‘Tres’ poufs by Nani Marquina, creating a cosy 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 savour the serenity of their surroundings whilst basking in the beauty of Palma’s skyline.

Restaurants and bars

The culinary offering at Nobis Palma is spearheaded by the signature restaurant, NOI, where European influences blend harmoniously with the flavours of the local food scene. Here, sharing plates take centre stage, offering a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation that promises to tantalise the senses. Meanwhile, the Mirall Bar captivates with its awe-inspiring ambience, boasting soaring nine-metre-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 journey that intertwines European excellence with the essence of local gastronomy. Here, guests embark on a shared experience, indulging in dishes crafted from locally sourced produce in keeping with a ‘KM Zero’ ethos. Beneath a captivating backlit textile ceiling installation and against a sophisticated black-steel mirrored bar, guests are invited to explore an array of tantalising offerings. Culinary artistry comes to life in dishes such as the homemade brioche stuffed with beef tartare, garnished with truffle purée 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 flavours, the low-temperature roasted Iberian pork shoulder awaits, accompanied by roasted tomato, creamy avocado and crispy corn tortilla chips. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted by 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 exudes an air 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 dish tells a story, and every bite is a revelation.

Mirall Bar

As guests and locals alike ascend to the first floor of Nobis Hotel Palma, they are invited to discover the epitome of sophistication at the hotel’s lounge bar. At the Mirall Bar, impressive ceiling heights, original floor tiles and soft drapery envelop guests in an ambience of contemporary luxury, inviting them to unwind and indulge in the art of mixology.

Situated in a room steeped in the building’s history, the Mirall Bar was always destined to take centre stage, its name derived from the Catalan word for ‘mirror’. Expertly crafted cocktails, made using local produce and seasonal ingredients, are mixed behind a Wingårdhs-designed bar constructed from multiple strips of mirrors, whilst a counter made from compressed glass serves as the perfect setting for their presentation.

The grandeur of the Mirall Bar is further accentuated by its rich history, dating back to the 17th–18th centuries when the building stood as a symbol of power and prestige. The towering nine-metre ceiling height served as a marker of the status of the family in residence, evoking awe and admiration amongst 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. At the other end of the spectrum, this magnificent setting is infused with a touch of modernity through artworks by Philip Smith, whilst a grand spherical lamp designed by Wingårdhs and crafted by Konsthantverk casts a warm glow over the space, its interplay of textiles and fibreglass adding to its overall allure.

Rooms and Suites

Nobis Hotel Palma offers a total of 37 guest rooms, 11 of which 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 – ranging 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 ambience, embodying Nobis’ signature interpretation of contemporary luxury and signalling a genuine appreciation for high-quality, timeless design. Pieces from internationally renowned Scandinavian and Italian brands, including bespoke bed frames by Carl Hansen, lighting fixtures by Flos and Örsjö, and Meridiani sofas, are combined with bespoke furniture by Wingårdhs and Dusty Deco, as well as locally produced pieces.

Further inside, guests are greeted by bathrooms clad in authentic Spanish limestone, exuding elegance and sophistication. To enhance the guest experience, exclusive toiletries from Byredo are provided in all guest rooms, whilst suites feature luxurious amenities from the local fragrance atelier Viti Vinci. In the open-plan guest rooms, reflective glazing covers the bathroom enclosures, integrating with unique architectural features such as the original wooden beam ceilings, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

The design concept, developed in collaboration with the award-winning Swedish firm Wingårdhs, pays homage to the building’s historical roots whilst 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 guest rooms, painstakingly restored, adds to the distinct character of each room, whilst handcrafted plastered walls and oak flooring introduce warmth and texture. From original ceramic tiles to wooden ceilings, every detail has been carefully considered to maintain the building’s historical integrity.

Rounding it all off is a range of amenities that reflect this property’s status as a luxury hotel. DUX beds are dressed in high-quality Egyptian linen, whilst guests can also choose to unwind with a state-of-the-art in-room audio system by Bang & Olufsen. In the 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 complement the in-room dining options, each room features a minibar stocked with 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-metre retreat featuring soaring ceilings, original 15th-century Gothic arches, a striking 51-square-metre 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 centre 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 wellbeing and revitalising the senses. Whether seeking moments of quiet contemplation or invigorating workouts, guests can immerse themselves in a haven that offers respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday 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 cool, unfinished stone walls. Situated below ground level, this modern fitness space boasts all the equipment 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. Open exclusively 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 step into a deeply tranquil 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 offers a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the hotel and the city, 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 tranquillity and historical intrigue, where the echoes of centuries past blend 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 evident in everything Catenacci does. Above all, he hopes to offer guests places where they can feel as comfortable and humbly self-assured 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 the great Scandinavian chef Tore Wretman – including Café Opera, Operakällaren, the Riche and Stallmästaregården. This shrewd acquisition became the springboard for what now comprises seven top-tier hotels, in addition to the restaurants and nightspots. Catenacci’s ease makes his success seem as though 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 steadily over the more than two decades that have passed since that shrewd deal was struck. In many ways, the conglomerate’s philosophy combines the best of Catenacci’s Italian heritage – a passionate approach to fine food and a keen eye for quality – with the epitome of Scandinavian understatement. ​
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Other hotels within the 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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