AKA has announced the opening of Hotel AKA Alexandria, designed by Piero Lissoni in what marks his US hotel debut. The 180-room property has been created to embody a seamless blend of modern minimalism and mid-century elements, amongst the brick-lined setting of Alexandria’s Old Town.
Upon entering the hotel through the lobby, guests will find a space of sleek lines, dark tones and rich materials – choices which evoke Japanese minimalism as well as Scandinavian design – while art by Mineheart Limited and Sabine Pigalle flanks the walls. The lobby’s focal point is a signature Lissoni floating staircase which ascends to the hotel’s terrace level and opens up into the Zen Garden, a green outdoor space with firepits and bar seating.
In guestrooms and suites, a residential-style comfort has been crafted through amenities and furnishings designed by Lissoni New York and Italian brands Living Divani and Porro, while a natural colour palette pairs with warm lighting and natural light from large windows to create a calming interior space. In the bathrooms, French Crema Luna stone is found throughout, accompanied by walk-in showers with rain shower heads and Fantini hardware, along with large stone vanities. For a level up from guestrooms, the Suite Collection offers spaces ranging from 525 to 735ft². Every suite is equipped with a living and sleeping area, featuring custom Piero Lissoni-designed wet bars and residential design-inspired living rooms.
“Lissoni envisioned a new chapter for the old city of Alexandria, a destination for business travellers and leisure visitors to feel at ease in an art-oriented environment,” says Stefano Giussani, CEO of Lissoni. “The sculptural motifs are distributed in the common areas like the staircase, the art gallery, bar lounge and the library. We added a serene garden terrace where guests can enjoy the changing of the seasons and relax in peace and tranquillity.”
Outside of private spaces, the hotel comprises two dining options – a lounge and French-inspired cafe, with menus curated by Bill Chait and Raphael Francois – as well as a conference centre, 1,500ft² ballroom and 700ft² pre-function welcome area. Additional amenities also include a fitness centre and an on-site cinema.
Larry Korman, CEO of AKA, adds: “The opening of Hotel AKA Alexandria brings a distinctive new experience to Alexandria, unlike any hotel the city has offered before. Together with our partners, we’ve created a modern hotel with sophisticated design, bespoke amenities and services, while paying tribute to the rich history of Old Town to bring a new wave of travellers to the city.”
