Located just a few kilometres from the French city of Poitiers, Hotel Plaza has established itself as a regional benchmark for hospitality. With 250 rooms, a wellness area complete with a spa and swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar and 10 fully equipped conference rooms, the hotel combines comfort, functionality and elegance. A recent renovation project led by Michele Sbrogiò and Partners and carried out by Inndesign.0 S.r.l. redefined the interiors with a focus on creating welcoming, sustainable spaces that fully meet the needs of guests.
The refurbishment encompassed all common areas, from the entrance and reception to the relaxation zones, lounge bar and restaurant. The project centred around the reception area, strategically positioned at the intersection of the four main corridors, making it immediately visible from the entrance and functioning as the hotel’s nerve centre. Around this focal point, the design concept strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics, with careful attention given to defining the purpose of each space.
Materials play a key role in shaping the identity of the project, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and quality. “All materials were chosen for their low environmental impact and recyclability,” explains architect Michele Sbrogiò. “The porcelain stoneware used for the floors and walls is fully recyclable and has a low environmental footprint throughout all stages of production. The manufacturers use natural raw materials and sustainable production processes, recycling both water and waste. All the wood used in the project comes from responsibly managed forests and is FSC-certified.”
The Bio Select and Anthology collections from Lea Ceramiche were chosen for the floors in the common areas. Anthology, a collection of ceramic surfaces that skilfully recreate marble and stone, stands out for its intensely tactile and visual realism, lending spaces a powerful and highly distinctive character. It is used in the White shade for the entrance, corridors and bar. Bio Select, an elegant and faithful interpretation of classic timber, was selected in the Oak Cloves shade for the relaxation areas and restaurant, where its warm, natural wood aesthetic creates a cosy and sophisticated atmosphere.
“The common areas were designed not just for functionality but to offer a unique emotional experience,” adds Sbrogiò. “The decorated corridor ceilings create a bright, starry-sky effect, accompanying guests on an evocative journey. One of the most iconic areas is the green space, where hanging plants create a calming, dreamlike environment, reinforcing the connection between design and nature.”
Another key focus of the project was ergonomics and accessibility, ensuring inclusive spaces suitable for all guests. By adopting this approach, the 1,200 square metre common areas were optimised to accommodate a diverse clientele, from tourists to business travellers. With its emphasis on design, sustainability and guest well-being, Hotel Plaza is more than just a place to stay, it has become a benchmark for contemporary hospitality. The renovation has elevated every aspect of the hotel, transforming it into a premier destination for events, conferences and high-quality accommodation in Poitiers.
