Case Studies
Concept
Aqua Vista Hotels took on the restoration and branding of this very demanding project in 2017 with the aim of preserving the mansion’s glorious past while creating a 120 m² contemporary haven of luxury and distinction for couples. The modernisation of the historic 18th century building with undertaken with a great deal of care, bringing it up to the highest standards of guest expectations while exploiting the original features of its unique character to the full. The design team of Alina Tsolakakis ensured that the colour scheme and fine decorative details all reflected the mansion’s past, while heated indoor and outdoor pools, an exclusive wine cellar and concierge services add up to a very special boutique experience in Santorini.
Art Hotel, Santorini
Concept
The idea was usher in a new era of hospitality in 2015 by creating a destination attractive to art lovers and Art Hotel Santorini was designed with this specific target group in mind. It was to function not only as a hotel but also as a point of reference for cultural and artistic events on the island and successfully doubled its revenue in the 2nd year of running. The space was designed by Alina Tsolakakis and involved transforming a country residence in Pyrgos Santorini into an extreme design hotel with industrial undertones and a red colour scheme, something atypical by Cycladic standards, as well as the placing of pieces of art throughout. Guests immediately took to the unit’s Aqua Art Gallery, which has already hosted a series of works by Greek artists and cultural events in cooperation with Rest@rt platform.
Aqua Vatos Santorini
Concept
Located near the popular Kamari Beach, the aim was to renovate and rebrand a characterless hotel complex in 2010 into Acqua Vatos Santorini, a fresh new collection of rooms which reflected the young, vibrant energy of the island. The project involved making the most of the exterior Cycladic architectural features while creating funky interiors that would be very family friendly, as well as appealing to couples. A very pioneering photo shoot was carried out by Alina Tsolakakis to capture the positive vibes of the property and its unique layout and design, with playful, child-inspired images. The renovation & rebranding resulting in the doubling in revenue within 2 years, with the bright colour scheme, quirky decor details and inspirational wall messages offering a really unique stay.
Olive Green
Concept
The Olive Green is the result of the desire to restore a city hotel unit in Crete and to imbue it with a totally eco-friendly character in 2016. Focusing on sustainability, every aspect of the Olive Green was based on the philosophy of respect for the Cretan tradition of hospitality whilst offering guests all the conveniences of a smart hotel. Even the words which make up its name are a clear reflection of its commitment to being environmentally compliant. A new identity was created by Alina Tsolakakis that focused on combining traditional Cretan elements in its design & interiors with contemporary features and high-end amenities. Care was taken during the project to ensure that the unique concept of the hotel was carried through to all of the guest experiences, including its 626 All Day Lounge & City Garden restaurant.
Angels & Stars
Concept
With Santorini widely considered to be the perfect wedding and honeymoon destination, in 2014 Aqua Vista Hotels focused on creating a romantic getaway for the couples target group. The previously known Pegasus was renovated and rebranded, giving birth to Angels and Stars Hotel, a luxury experience in a traditional Cycladic residence. Alina Tsolakakis curated a very radical black and white photo & video shoot, designed to appeal to couples looking for a contemporary alternative to the usual hotels. The great success of the hotel’s new image and identity was seen in terms of increased bookings, with the revenue tripling during the first year of its rebranding.
Alta Vista Suites
Concept
The idea was to take a family home and convert it into a boutique hotel made up of three honeymoon suites in 2013. With its spectacular views and unique architectural features, the plan was to renovate Alta Vista Suites in keeping with the the character of the Cyclades and to create interiors that would be suitable for newlyweds. Alina Tsolokakis incorporated the colours of Santorini; burnt orange, sea blue and sunset red, while whitewashed exteriors complemented the impressive infinity pool, creating the illusion of being suspended in the air. The suites and pool both received the attention of the Greek and international press, with Alta Vista Suites being featured in the prestigious Condé Nast travel magazine for its impressive features and spectacular pool, putting it amongst the ranks of one of the best boutique hotels in the world.
Above Blue Suites
Concept
A collection of typical Santorinian ‘cave’ houses overlooking the caldera in Imerovigli were converted into ten romantic concept suites, each with its own distinct name and character, opening in 2009. Designed to make the most of the stunning cliffside setting and the sunset hues of the island, all the suites were to have a private Jacuzzi, something that was unique at the time. Alina Tsolakakis added baroque furnishings, sumptuous mosaic and marble touches while the Jacuzzis and outdoor swimming pools with stunning vistas opened up the cliffside private Jacuzzi market. The new trend, which is now in evidence everywhere on Santorini, ushered in a completely novel type of guest experience and also attracted the Korean market to the area. Due to the success of the renovation and rebranding of the suites, revenue was impressively doubled in the first 2 years of opening.