When Fashion Designers Create a Hotel

Published December 7, 2011 | By solotraveler

Missoni is an Italian fashion house that’s famous for its knitwear and colorful patterns. But that’s not all. Over it’s almost sixty year history it has branched out to home furnishings and perfume as well.

And then, in 2009, the company moved into the hotel business with the launch of  Hotel Missoni in Edinburgh. The fashion sensibility can be seen in every detail of the hotel from the decor, to the location on the Royal Mile (only the best), to the toiletries in the bathrooms.

The People

There is no front desk at the Hotel Missoni. Instead, there are two circular stations, similar to a maitre d’, where guests are welcomed individually. This puts less of a barrier between the guest and the staff.

When I arrived, the young woman who checked me in also took me to my room. It was as if she was my host. I tried to say that an escort wasn’t necessary (I have always managed on my own in the past) but, after she showed me my room, I realized it was.

She showed me how the espresso coffeemaker works and how the television and video on demand work – which are free – and let me know that the mini-bar is also absolutely free (though not filled with liquor).  This is what they mean by inclusive pricing.

The prices that they publish include everything including taxes and the VAT. They don’t just focus on making your stay a happy one, they ensure that there are no surprises with the bill so that you leave happy as well.

The training of the staff and attitude towards service is unusual. As I’ve pointed out, the front desk person also acted as bell hop and concierge. She was ready to answer my questions about the city. In fact, every member of the staff is trained as a concierge and ready with information on Edinburgh as well as special events taking place while you are there.

The Decor

The decor is where the Missoni reputation for patterns really shines through. As you can see in the photos below, the fabrics are bright and cheerful when appropriate (the morning service at the restaurant) and more subdued when appropriate, like in the rooms.

As I travel, I am constantly thinking about the readers of Solo Traveler. When I was in Edinburgh I was wishing that you could see and experience all that I see and experience on a trip. The Hotel Missoni is one of those travel experiences that I wish you could all have as well.

My stay at the hotel was complimentary, however they in no way required that I write about them nor suggested what I write. My thanks to Best Loved Hotels who made the arrangements.