Sojourning in style is no longer limited to a privileged few, as budget-conscious boutique hotels continue to rise. Our latest favourite has to be Milan’s Room Mate Giulia, thanks to a striking design from the legendary Patricia Urquiola. The third Italian property from boutique chain Room Mate looks straight out of a Wes Anderson film, with bold colours and proportions evoking a playful attitude throughout.

Uniting rich materials, a bright colour palette and and designer furniture, this hotel is a joyful expression of Urquiola’s talent, paying homage to typical Italian spaces with a vintage touch. Located in a historic building that dates back to the late 19th century, the design is memorable without overwhelming the experience, and there’s no pretension to it – just a sense of fun. 

DESIGN Patricia Urquiola | PHOTOGRAPHY Room Mate Giulia

Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living

Across the numerous common areas, onsite restaurant and 85 rooms divided into four categories, the hotel’s design draws on vintage influences and strong contrasting tones like pink, green and blue to deliver that signature Patricia Urquiola aesthetic. Traditional materials forge the building’s connection to its city. The lobby is made from the same pink marble used in the Duomo of Milan, while terracotta bricks, another familiar material in the local architecture are used in the lobby. Geometric patterns throughout the design reflect the city’s cultural history as a leading design city.

The rooms are simple, comfortable and optimistic, with a light mid-century feel and top-notch furnishings, many designed by Urquiola and custom-made by Cassina (where she is currently the artistic director). Combined with Kartell and Moroso armchairs, Flos and Oluce lamps and patterned Kvadrat curtains, the suite’s design immersion is complete.

Located the in the heart of Milan, the hotel is just a stone’s throw from key city sites like the Piazza del Duomo and the Vittorio Emanuele gallery, and of course you’re spoilt for design destinations (this is Milan after all!) so take a look through W Magazine’s design district guide to refine what we can only assume if your long list of places to visit.

While Milan doesn’t first come to mind when thinking of a wallet-friendly design hotel, we can’t wait to stay at this design gem next time we come to town. True to its ambition to creating a familiar, comfortable space that authentically references its location, Room Mate Giulia is clearly ‘Milanesi’ in style and soul.

Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living

Despite its economic price, Room Mate Giulia doesn’t skimp on the boutique features – so be sure to lap up some spa time, hit the sauna or relax in the communal lounge.

Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living

The hotel’s design celebrates ‘Milanesi’ across the elements, with local artists, photographers and illustrators adorning the walls, most strikingly in the lobby space.

Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living
Room Mate Giulia Hotel | Patricia Urquiola | est living

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