Kimpton BEM Budapest, a most authentic luxury lifestyle hotel ! (REVIEW)

Designed by award winning architect Marcel Wanders, Kimpton BEM Budapest is located within a superbly renovated and restored XIX century palace in the Buda side of the city, right on the banks of the Danube. A beautifully manicured small park fronts the hotel making it most serene – one of the many unique features of the hotel. With this new Budapest property, IHG cements its strategic vision for the luxury positioning of the Kimpton brand. The same strategy seems to be paying off with Regent Hotels and Six Senses, IHG consolidating its already strong positioning in luxury.

The UNESCO World Heritage-designated Castle District in Buda is within walking distance. Guests will enjoy unrivalled proximity to Budapest’s most sought-after attractions, including the Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Chain Bridge and more, alongside a lively culinary scene. Renowned for their therapeutic benefits dating back to the 16^th century, Budapest’s legendary Turkish baths sit nearby and serve as a tribute to the city’s art of leisure and commitment to wellness.

Kimpton BEM Budapest integrates into this hospitable neighbourhood, embracing its charm to create a destination reminiscent of a bygone era. The district of Vizivaros (‘Water District’) has a deeply residential feel with charming shops, cafes, bakeries, ice cream parlours, pastry shops, galleries and groceries – lending an authentic experience of the city with regular inhabitants of the city, yet only 10 minutes drive from the more touristic and bustling downtown. Life around the hotel has a more calm rhythm and much more laid back.

Marcel Wanders’ projects delve into history, DNA, environment, and local customs. For Kimpton BEM Budapest, he drew inspiration from the Hungarian mythical fairy-tale ‘’The golden Stag and the Turul Bird’’. His approach has been fun, quirky and at times ‘not taking oneself seriously’ which is a defining attribute of luxury. At every corner of the hotel he has sensibly taken a twist, overall defining a unique story telling which has become rare in nowadays luxury hospitality. His unconventional and imaginative design philosophy, often larger than life, will certainly make you smile.

The hotel’s design borrows from Budapest’s rich folklore and vibrant energy, melding whimsical accents with historical elements. Reception desks are shaped as upside-down eggs reflecting Wanders’ fondness of the shape, complemented by decorative books, collectibles and treasures from around the globe intended to exude a welcoming atmosphere. His research of Budapest is reflected in every inch of the property. He has designed the interiors in every detail, with custom furnishings, lighting and decor elements. The emphasis on comfort and functionality is evident, both in the public spaces and the accommodations.

AGOS, the main dining venue of the hotel specialises in Mediterranean cuisine but also features some Signature Hungarian dishes. Much like the other public spaces of the hotel, AGOS is defined by a WOW factor, with very high ceilings, a bright colour scheme, an open show kitchen, some communal tables both indoors and on the outdoor terrace, as well as a more distinctly designed area which can be turned into an elegant private dining space separate by means of drawing a curtain. There is even a working fireplace detail in this dining space.

HUSO is a gorgeous bar inspired by the legendary Beluga sturgeon, „Huso huso.”, some sort of a ‘monster’ fish which, according to folk, once lived in the Danube. Be prepared to be transported into an enchanting underwater realm where mystery and elegance intertwine. The aquatic-themed interior, complete with a massive sturgeon-shaped bar, offers an unexpected ambiance that celebrates the striking beauty and profound secrets of the river. Bar Huso offers exquisite fine crafted drinks but also some light food. Similarly to AGOS, Bar Huso can be accessed directly from outside, already attracting locals from the neighbourhood.

The expansive grand lobby, with its very high ceilings is actually conceived as a living room – warm, welcoming and cozy, while being deeply elegant and luxurious. Attention to details is overwhelming, with bespoke furnishings of the finest quality. The finishes are superb, one such example being the intricate oak parquet in several nuances which integrate areas with carpets with shades of green. There are beautiful alcove spaces and corners that also instil a sense of privacy even if being in the large lobby. Reception desks are shaped as upside-down eggs reflecting Wanders’ fondness of the shape, complemented by decorative books.

All the accommodations tell a story, with a variety of shapes and layouts as well as views – all abundant in natural light. Rooms and suites facing the front facade overlooking the Danube are blue themed (water-inspired) while rooms facing the courtyard are garden (green) themed. All the furnishings are bespoke, individually designed by Marcel Wanders, one of the most impressive being the custom printed fabrics (aquatic or nature) based on the designer’s intricate ‘visual stories’. Beds are heavenly comfortable with high-thread cotton linen. You will love the Moooi custom-made chairs and sofas.

Bathrooms are unique, most of them fully integrated into the space of the bedroom, with a freestanding bathtub but all with high water pressure showers. I was impressed by the tiling, which, like many materials around the hotel are locally sourced. Wanders has done his best to use design elements and materials from Hungarian companies – tiles and ceramics being some of the finest in the world with centuries of tradition and history. Underfloor heating is subtly integrated only in the sink and shower area of the open bathroom. The luxurious bathroom amenities by Balmain are superb!

Having stayed at Kimpton BEM Budapest only 3 weeks from opening, I was truly impressed with the very high service standard throughout the entire hotel. With a team orchestrated by seasoned luxury hotelier Attila AE Domby, service is genuine, warm, friendly and intuitive, yet very effortless. There is an eagerness to serve and a sense of familiarity. One could feel how proud the staff are to be working for the Kimpton BEM Budapest, aware of being part of the success of the property. The hotel is yet another good example why IHG should operate all Kimpton properties, allowing for full control over the brand.

The versatility of the property is quite impressive, too, with an offering relevant for both leisure and corporate traveller, equally suited for families, couples but also solo travellers. Do not miss the rooftop with expansive views of the city and the superb garden of the courtyard, wonderfully designed. Please do explore the neighbourhood – watch this space for an upcoming Insider Guide with many off-the-beaten-track-tips provided by hotel’s Concierges.

Oliver Petcu in Budapest

 

 

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