DESIGNERS TRIP TO SWITZERLAND

Hosted by Design PR Hanane El Moutii this Spring, Switzerland Tourism hosted a group of America’s top design tastemakers and for four nights, in two of Switzerland’s most iconic locations. The trip, branded ‘Dolce Far Far Niente’ aimed to showcase Switzerland from a new design-centric perspective. Centered around Switzerland’s rich history of art and design, guests experienced exclusive highlights of what the country offers visitors seeking culinary delicacies, innovative architecture, design and art. Hanane El Moutii, Eclat’s Creative Director and Founder led guests attending this one-of-a-kind adventure, including world renowned interior designer, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, television star and interior designer, Adair Curtis of JSN Studio, California’s up and coming designer, Tamara Honey of House of Honey, freelance journalist for Departures, Elizabeth Fazzare, acclaimed photographer, Pia Riverola and esteemed Parisian architect and designer, Marc Ange of Studio Ange. 

Beginning in Lugano, Switzerland guests arrived at the Mediterranean-inspired Villa Principe Leopoldo, where they would stay the first two nights of the trip. With panoramic views of Lake Lugano, the Villa Principe boasts exquisite cuisine in a fairy tale setting. A private tour of the recently opened Bally Foundation headquarters at Villa Heleneum, with Director and Curator Vittoria Matarrese was the first experience guests attended that evening. Un Lac Inconnu, showcases the works of more than twenty international artists and proposes a poetic and philosophical walk within the Villa and along the glistening shores of Lake Lugano. 

The second day of Dolce Far Far Niente commenced with a private tour of the women-owned vineyard, Tenuta Castello di Morcote. Rich in history, the expansive 15th century estate sits atop the hills of Lake Lugano. Following a tour and exclusive wine tasting, guests enjoyed lunch under the wisteria flowers and a private boat tour across the lake as they returned to Villa Principe Leopoldo. 

Dolce Far Far Niente’s next destination was Zürich, Switzerland where guests would stay two nights at the iconic Dolder Grand Hotel. A 19th century castle is one of today’s leading five star hotels, renowned for accommodating some of the world’s most notable individuals. An afternoon spent at the spa was followed by a Michelin star dinner curated by head chef Heiko Nieder in the private Dolder Grand Library. Guests enjoyed a five course meal tasting some of Zürich’s most sought after drinks and recipes. 

The first full day in Zürich began with a private tour of the Pavilion Le Corbusier in Zürich, Switzerland. The “Gesamtkunstwerk” by Le Corbusier, completed in 1967, is an architectural masterpiece. The last building constructed by the great Swiss-French architect, designer, and artist is his only building to be entirely made from glass and steel. Guests enjoyed a drink amongst Picassos at the historic Kronenhalle Bar and a first-class lunch in the Kronenhalle restaurant. Traditional design meets comfort and charm in this beautifully designed space with a menu brimming with traditional, yet world renown culinary delicacies. The afternoon was spent touring Switzerland’s largest art collection at The Kunsthaus. 

The architecture, design and art our guests encountered throughout the trip left the collective group deeply inspired. Each location, accommodation and experience offered insight into the rich history, yet innovative approach to modern design that beautifully merges Switzerland’s past and future. The designers, photographers, and writers return to the United States with a deeper appreciation, respect and inspiration for Switzerland's highest rated offerings.