URSO - Madrid's First Five Star Boutique Hotel Opens in August

The hotel retains its neo-classical elegance, whilst bringing a fresh and stylish perspective in its interiors, as befits a modern capital. Sister hotel to Cap Rocat and Torralbenc in the Balearics, URSO shares Pablo's Carrington's idea of simple luxury.

Pablo Carrington, General Manager, says: ‘I have wanted to open a hotel in Madrid for quite some time and I'm certain that we have found the right one. The building is utterly unique as it occupies a whole block and therefore all rooms are exterior facing. Its location is second to none...'

Set between the bourgeois neighbourhood of Chamberi, the trendy Chueca district and the new up-and-coming Tribunal area, URSO's gloriously imperial architecture blends beautifully into its chic surroundings of small traditional boutiques, grand embassy buildings and the golden triangle of art galleries. Serrano, the main shopping district, is a short 10 minute walk from the hotel, the Prado and Thyssen museums are just 15 minutes away whilst the Barcelo food market, opening in June this year, is right on the hotel's doorstep.

Pablo continues: ‘Madrid is clearly on the rebound and we plan on being a central part of the city's rebirth.'

URSO is where the old and new Madrid meet… An imperial and neo-classical look from the outside, wonderfully blended with sleek, light and well-balanced interiors of marble and honey-toned wood. The hotel's elegant and sophisticated feel has been created by Antonio Obrador, the designer, architect and mastermind behind Cap Rocat. Rugs are scattered over marble floors, oak panelling and fine fabrics cover the walls and spacious, uncluttered rooms all give URSO the feeling of a patrician private house.

Antonio Obrador says: ‘The philosophy is to work with local artisans and craftsmen as much as possible to enhance the identity of the building and as a form of respect for local traditions. It is about incorporating products that better reflect the setting of the hotel, without sacrificing on quality or on the need to create a product with its own personality.

Local craftsmen are restoring forged iron in the traditional manner while artisan carpenters are restoring the early 20th century elevator. Decorations on the ground floor of the hotel will include wallpaper which has been re-created based on wallpaper found in the palace opposite the hotel and the marble featured throughout is traditionally used in Madrid.

URSO's strong identity and sense of place goes far beyond the design. Uniforms are being created by a leading Spanish designer, with a mix of modern chic, reminiscent of the early 20th century style of the hotel. Bed linens are sourced from an upscale Spanish brand.

Room service will include delicacies from neighbouring shops. URSO's bakery will be supplied by one of the oldest bakers in town, cold cuts and Iberico ham will be served straight from the market opposite the hotel and a local pastry shop dating from 1914 will supply cakes and other delicacies.

URSO also brings the first branded luxury hotel spa to Madrid, with treatments by the prestigious Spanish skincare specialist, Natura Bissé, awarded Best Luxury Spa Brand in 2012 and 2013.

Visit website: www.hotelurso.com