On the northern coast of Crete, in the picturesque village of Bali, Rethymno, lies the MItsis Bali Paradise hotel complex. The project focuses on the redesign and aesthetic enhancement of the hotel, aiming to cultivate new guest experiences while improving functionality. Perched on a steeply sloping landscape, the hotel enjoys proximity to the region’s beaches and offers unobstructed views of Bali Bay, which remains sheltered from the northern winds.
Bali Paradise holds the distinction of being the first large-scale hotel in the greater Bali area, over 50 years of continuous and successful operation. A defining feature and distinct advantage of the hotel is its exceptional gardens, its signature green element. Trees of various sizes and species, shrubs that frame extensive areas, and plants that bloom for most of the year coexist harmoniously, creating a lush, ever-evolving landscape that enriches both the hotel’s facades and its surroundings, offering a unique sensory experience.
The total area of the complex spans 20,000 square meters, with a built-up space of approximately 5,000 square meters. The project was developed in two distinct phases.
The first phase centered on creating a cohesive master plan that improves accessibility, functionality, and aesthetic unity while respecting the natural environment. The design takes full advantage of the site’s morphology and its relationship with the sea, enhancing the visual connection between key spaces and the landscape. A top priority was preserving and reinforcing the surrounding greenery, contributing to a sense of familiarity and comfort through the gardens.
The second phase focused on targeted interventions that elevate both functionality and the aesthetic quality of individual areas.
The interior design embraces a minimalist, fluid, and neutral approach. By incorporating curved surfaces and avoiding unnecessary embellishments, the project allows the unique natural landscape of Crete, along with the hotel’s one-of-a-kind outdoor environment, to flow seamlessly into the interiors, creating an effortless coexistence between built and natural elements.
The hotel’s new entrance was designed to make an outstanding first impression, featuring the addition of an elevator to facilitate access for guests with mobility challenges and to ease luggage transport. The common areas have been transformed into a unified, welcoming, and sophisticated environment, with large openings that enhance the connection between indoor spaces and the natural surroundings.
The redesign extended to the existing pools, which were reimagined with new contours that follow the site’s topography, prioritizing uninterrupted views of the sea. The selection of new materials, including ceramic tiles, marble, and wooden details, harmonizes with the natural setting while maintaining a palette of earthy tones. The thoughtful addition of shading structures and contemporary outdoor furniture further enhances the overall experience of comfort and relaxation.
A key highlight of the renovation was the creation of a new restaurant, designed to offer an elevated gastronomic experience.
