The Naumi creative team have renovated this 116-room property in Wellington’s Cuba Street precinct. The landmark Edwardian-era building, originally one of the People’s Palace hotels built by the Salvation Army, has a dramatic chromatic look. The reception area features a knockout floral mural by Art Dept, sculptural flower lights by Angus Muir and heavy petal bespoke rugs by artist Karl Maughan. Public areas include the green hued parlour, lipstick-red restaurant, Lola Rouge, serving Indian fare, and a bar that recalls a Baz Luhrmann film set. The drama continues in the rooms, ranging from cozy studios to airy suites, enlivened with eye-catching headboards and Art Dept’s Squiggle artworks on the walls. Maximalists would enjoy the Executive Suite’s riotous clash of blooming wall paper, checked carpet and eclectic furniture. Venture outside to discover an equally vibrant enclave of offbeat cafes, vintage shops and art galleries.
