D/DOCK is proud to share the concept behind the transformation of a landmark property in Nicosia, Cyprus. Set to reopen as The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection, this historic 1960s building will soon become part of the prestigious Marriott International Autograph Collection. The hotel will not only pay tribute to its rich history but also reimagine the way a hospitality space can connect with its local context and the global community.
The design process, led by D/DOCK in close collaboration with MHV Group, has been an intricate balance of restoring the building’s significant heritage while adapting it to a modern, sustainable vision. The result is an experience that brings together past and present, global and local, within an environment that encourages interaction and collaboration.
A historic legacy reimagined
The Landmark Nicosia has long been a key player in Cyprus’s political and diplomatic history. As the site of significant international agreements and a gathering place for high-profile meetings, the building carries a deep cultural relevance. D/DOCK’s design concept centres on the idea of “The Do’s of the Diplomat,” capturing the elegance and complexity of the building’s legacy while creating a space that reflects the dynamic spirit of modern Cyprus.
Coen van Dijck, CEO of D/DOCK, explains, “Our goal was to design a space that not only honours the historical significance of the building but also provides a unique, immersive guest experience. We envisioned The Landmark Nicosia as more than a hotel – it’s a vibrant community hub that connects people and encourages global conversations.”
Design for connection
The design team approached the project with a commitment to respecting the building’s original structure while integrating modern functionality and design. The public areas have been conceived as fluid, multifunctional spaces that connect seamlessly, offering a range of experiences from a welcoming lobby to intimate “snug rooms,” each with its own story to tell.
The centrepiece of the hotel’s design is the Great Room, a concept inspired by ancient castle times. This expansive, open area is divided into multiple zones, each designed for different activities such as socialising, dining, and relaxation. Guests will encounter the “Magic Box” check-in area, the Majilis Room for group check-ins, and a library and business centre that transforms into a social space in the evening.
A unique guest experience
In keeping with the Marriott Autograph Collection’s ethos of offering unique, local experiences, D/DOCK has crafted a signature guest journey at The Landmark Nicosia, which begins with a ritualistic check-in process, where guests are presented with a symbolic briefcase containing not only their room key but also a deck of cards with hidden messages that invite exploration of the hotel’s spaces. This playful scavenger hunt encourages guests to engage with the building and its history on a deeper level.
Local relevance
Sustainability has been a key consideration in the design, with a focus on sourcing materials locally and minimising the environmental impact of the construction process. The design also incorporates elements that reflect the cultural heritage of Cyprus, blending contemporary design with traditional materials like natural stone, creating a sense of connection to the island’s past while looking toward its future.
A new era for The Landmark Nicosia
Set to open in under six months, The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection promises to be a destination that honours its history while setting the stage for a new chapter of international collaboration and cultural exchange. As the first Cypriot property to join the Autograph Collection, it will become an iconic destination for travellers and locals alike.
The Landmark Nicosia represents more than just a hotel; it’s an incubator for ideas and a symbol of the future of Cyprus – a blend of tradition, innovation, and global relevance.
