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Article: A Personal Journey Through Gio Ponti's Neapolitan Masterpiece

A Personal Journey Through Gio Ponti's Neapolitan Masterpiece

A Personal Journey Through Gio Ponti's Neapolitan Masterpiece

 

 

 

Welcome to our ONLINE STORE  and blog. 

As a barware, lighting and home accessories design company, at Thomas Fuchs Creative we specialize in handmade goods. Every week we give you a behind the scenes look at the people, places and things that inspire us.

Summer is here and once again on our sojourn to our home away from home we try to find the most authentic stays.

Thomas & Michou in Napoli

One hundred and thirty years after his birth, Gio Ponti’s influence remains timeless. Reflecting on his iconic work at the Hotel Royal, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of awe and inspiration.

Gio Ponti Royal Continental Hotel Font Design 

Discovering Gio Ponti

It was a sunny June day, and I found myself planning our annual Italian Summer Holiday.  After 2 weeks in Turkey staying at uber- luxurious hotels Thomas and I wanted to experience the Gio Ponti's Hotel in Naples. We came back to center and picked a hotel with true architectural details and found The Royal Continental Hotel in Naples, Italy which we found on Booking.com. 

Known for his eclectic and indefinable style, Ponti wasn't just an architect and designer—he was a storyteller, a charmer, and a true master. His reflections in "Amate l'Architettura," first published in 1957, continue to guide young architects today. I remember the first time I read those pages; it felt like unlocking a secret door to a world where every structure tells a story.

Royal Continental 

The Hotel Royal: A Tale of Resilience and Innovation

One story that has always fascinated me is the transformation of the Royal des Etrangers hotel in Naples. Originally a luxurious 19th-century building, it was reduced to ruins by a fire during World War II. In 1949, engineer Roberto Fernandes took over the remnants with a vision to rebuild a high-class structure. This is where Ponti's genius came into play.

Visiting the hotel today, I can't help but imagine the collaboration between Ponti and Fernandes. Their meeting was serendipitous, marked by a mutual appreciation for innovation and excellence. Ponti’s design for the hotel's interiors, especially the decision to move the swimming pool to the terrace, was nothing short of revolutionary. Standing on that terrace, gazing at the stunning Gulf of Naples, I felt a connection to that moment in 1954 when the pool graced the cover of "Domus."

The Rooftop Pool Today

Immersing in the "Piano Ponti"

The most enchanting part of my journey was exploring the "Piano Ponti" at the now Royal Continental hotel. Thanks to architect Fabrizio Mautone and the hotel's owner Teresa Naldi, Ponti's original designs have been meticulously preserved. Walking through these rooms, I felt like I had stepped into a time machine, surrounded by the seductive design of the 1950s.

Each room on this floor tells a story of elegance and functionality. The furniture, originally crafted by "Dassi Mobili Moderni di Lissone" and Cassina, has been carefully restored. I was particularly captivated by the famous 3-drawer chests, circular mirrors, and the light blue and blue hues Ponti loved, echoing the Mediterranean spirit.

The Museum Floor

A Living Museum

The “Piano Ponti” isn’t just a floor; it’s a living museum. The slogan "Do you want to sleep in a Museum?" perfectly captures the essence of this unique experience. Staying in one of the 24 rooms is like diving into the past, each piece of furniture and décor a testament to Ponti’s timeless style. I was fortunate to stay in the junior suite, where the abundance of original furnishings made the experience even more immersive.

Our Original Gio Ponti Bathroom

A Cultural and Design Pilgrimage

This journey has attracted many, from architecture enthusiasts to fashion photographers. The allure of Ponti’s design transcends time, and his work continues to inspire. Even those not deeply familiar with architecture can't help but appreciate the beauty and thoughtfulness of his designs.

Leaving the hotel, I felt enriched and inspired, my mind buzzing with ideas and a deeper appreciation for the artistry of Gio Ponti. This experience was more than a visit; it was a pilgrimage, a journey through time that celebrated the enduring legacy of one of Italy’s greatest architects.

Have a fantastic Weekend,

Michou

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