Wilson Associates has completed the Elysium Hotel along the Cyprus coast in the ancient city of Paphos. Located beside the historic Tombs of the Kings, the 250-room property embraces its original architecture with a palatial style that recalls the Byzantine era with mosaics, arches, and columns.
“The cultural references of its architecture evoke the rich history of Cyprus and combine elements from Greek, Roman, Medieval, and Venetian times,” says Amy Jakubowski, managing director and design director of Wilson Associates’ Los Angeles studio.
The existing architectural elements of the lobby have been enhanced with local stone, marble, and timber, and is adorned with warm, muted tones offset by notes of blue and fuchsia reminiscent of the sea and blooming flora. Beyond a grand Venetian corridor and framed by arches, the buffet-style restaurant Epicurean welcomes guests with a palette of olive green and luxe Murano glass chandeliers. During warm months, French doors open to the restaurant’s terrace, which is framed by string lights and lush greenery. The all-day dining concept Lemonia Piazza also features indoor-outdoor seating, while Café Occidental provides a chic environment reminiscent of a Parisian patisserie.
Thoughtfully designed deluxe bedrooms feature hard and soft furnishings that complement warm woods and marble accents, while a color palette of crimson, pastel peach, and gold channel the imagery of a Mediterranean sunset. Multifunctional one- and two-bedroom junior suites are outfitted with new millwork and wood ceilings painted in soft gray and dark walnut hues that are accentuated with maroon and apricot tones to instill a sense of calm.