Effortless elegance, ultimate luxury
NOW, HERE’S a place in the bustling city of Bengaluru which not only showcases the work of diverse and cutting-edge artists but stands as a patron for them too, offering a distinctive platform for their creations. And this is no art gallery or a museum. Nestled within the vibrant pulse of the Garden City at Embassy One, Four Seasons Bengaluru is the destination that offers artists a unique space for their creative endeavours. The stunning interior design of public spaces and restaurants transforms this hotel into an oasis of unparalleled comfort and luxury amidst the bustling metropolitan landscape.
It was back in the first year of the decade of 1960s that the first Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts welcomed guests at its maiden hotel. Since then, the brand’s history has been characterised by a continual narrative of innovation, remarkable growth and an unwavering dedication to maintaining the highest standards of excellence. Coming back to Four Seasons Bengaluru. Offering a perfect blend of efficiency with leisure, the 30-storey contemporary glass façade of the hotel stands gracefully against the city’s skyline.
At half-an-hour drive from the Kempegowda International Airport, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru is where the city converges to connect and find inspiration – the property’s design direction is characterised by a seamless dialogue between architecture and nature. Consequently, the property harmoniously blends diverse design elements, including shape, colour and contrast. Spread across five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the property is a part of the Embassy One development and includes 230 rooms – 191 guestrooms and 39 suites. Then, there are 105 Four Seasons Residences.
Embassy One’s majestic architectural design is crafted to unveil surprises in three distinct layers. The intricate arrangement of Four Seasons’ ground lobby unfolds in a threefold revelation. Upon entering, you are greeted by a generously spacious area adorned with metal fretwork and refined ceramics. Further exploration leads to The Lobby Lounge & Terrace and The Collection. The experience, however, doesn’t end here – it unveils captivating views of the pool and lush green gardens, concealed within the property.
One cannot help but notice a collection of contemporary art that plays a pivotal role in enhancing the hotel’s public spaces that have been curated by artist Riyas Komu. The hotel’s lobby is enveloped by large-scale art murals by Moss & Lam while a massive sepia-toned 18-ft map by Saju Kunhan is intricately repurposed onto polished teak wood strips behind the reception desk. Corridors, transformed into gallery spaces, feature ethereal depictions of the natural world on canvas and tarpaulin by GR Iranna.
Advantage technology
Designed by internationally acclaimed designer Yabu Pushelberg, all rooms at the hotel feature intuitive technology that puts every convenience at a guest’s fingertips like FS chat, chrome cast, touch buttons for curtains and showers, iPads, mirror TVs in bathrooms, energy saving Lutron technology. Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru’s suave General Manager Rebuen Kataria who accompanies me while I take a tour of the property informs that in a commitment to sustainability, each room at the hotel is furnished with energy efficient lighting and amenities that have been kept free from plastic. “Yet the most enchanting aspect of every room lies in the French windows, inviting ample natural light and providing delightful views of the pool and the verdant landscapes of the city. As the day winds down, guests can unwind in the customisable comfort and privacy of the Four Seasons Bed,” he says. Each hotel room and private residence showcases remarkable artwork, ranging from Neha Puri Dhir’s fabric patterns recreated on canvas to Riddhi Shah’s etchings on handmade paper.
Pushelberg, adds Rebuen, anchored the hotel’s design philosophy in two distinct themes: the classical and the contemporary. “Our hotel seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with traditional Indian craftsmanship, as evidenced by stone-filled spaces and a neutral colour palette. This design mirrors the geometric and ornamented patterns found in the gardens of Bengaluru.”
Food for thought
With Executive Chef Dhiram Haque at the helm in the kitchen, the gastronomic journey at the hotel is a delight, be it Asian fusion, Italian delicacies, light bites or expertly crafted cocktails. These exceptional spaces promise to satisfy every palate. If you love Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine, make sure to visit Far and East, the contemporary Asian brasserie on the hotel’s 21st floor which beckons guests with its fresh and imaginative dishes crafted by Chef Atsushi Yonaha. With an electric brushstroke of vivid colours, Chef Yonaha brings in his Okinawan sensibilities and traditional Kaiseki multi-course training onto the plate. My culinary preferences revolve around Pan-Asian cuisine, and I relished every dish I tasted at the Chef’s recommendation.
Equally famous at the restaurant is the Cantonese cuisine dished out by Malaysian Chef Sean Wong. Then, right next to Far and East is Copitas, a destination bar ranked #2 by 30 Best Bars in India and #44 by 50 Best Bars in Asia, that mesmerises guests with its atmospheric interiors and offers expertly crafted cocktails, either shaken or stirred, tailored to your preference by ace mixologist Sarath Nair. However, the fascination of the space is elevated by bronze decorative accents, plush velvet upholstery and playful art elements. The bar area is further enhanced by a striking geometric gold chandelier. Yet the true standout in Copitas’ dynamic design scheme is the outdoor patio, offering commanding panoramic views of the tree-laden cityscape.
And how can one miss CUR8. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant harmoniously merges spacious interiors with meticulously landscaped garden exteriors. It is here that I indulged in gourmet pizzas from the dual pizza ovens. These were complemented by Italian specialties and regional Indian dishes. For a more casual experience, one can explore the Lobby Lounge, a charming retreat offering light bites, afternoon tea and irresistible homemade desserts crafted by Pastry Chef Partha Bose. Without a doubt, Four Seasons stands as a genuine culinary paradise for those with a discerning palate.
Journey to wellness
To provide a perfect retreat from the bustling urban life, Infuse Spa has been meticulously designed to craft a serene space. “It is here that guests can embark on a wellness journey and relax as well as recover with Indian-influenced signature treatments, massages, rituals, facials, zone therapies and salon services. With Four Seasons’ promise of luxury with a genuine heart, you can enjoy this modern yet reassuring retreat, bringing out vitality in you,” shares Reuben.
The spa stands out as an exceptional destination, distinguished by its meticulous attention to detail, sophisticated design and cutting-edge amenities. It captivates the senses with its pleasing layout, gentle white colour palette and the expertise of its highly skilled staff. Hotel guests have access to a fully equipped gym and on-demand personal trainers. The hotel’s meditative butterfly garden or a stroll through the ribbon lawn is an invitation into the practice of mindfulness, informs Reuben. “You can take a relaxing dip in the outdoor pool where a soothing waterfall invites you to relax,” he adds.
During the course of our conversation, Reuben shares that the guests can engage in educational tours at local, natural, cultural, historical or heritage sites to learn more about the local community. “This includes exploring the Snake Temple, the colourful market in Malleswaram, Bangalore Palace, Kali Temple and Washerman’s Villag. Over 25 local artists featured throughout our hotel, producing a narrative of unfolding stories curated by renowned artist Riyas Komu,” he informs.
“Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy One is a testament to the city’s innovative and cosmopolitan spirit, serving as a dynamic hub to foster meaningful connections and delivering memorable experiences. We create properties of enduring value using superior design and finishes, and support them with a deeply instilled ethic of personal service. Doing so allows Four Seasons to satisfy the needs and tastes of the discerning customers and to maintain our position as the world’s premier luxury hospitality company,” he states.
Memorable moments
Reuben informs that when it comes to holding events, exhibitions, especially weddings, Four Seasons Bengaluru is the numero uno choice. “We take the stress out of planning a wedding. A dedicated Four Seasons wedding specialist is with you at every step, from coordinating the schedule of events to crafting the perfect menus and floral arrangements. Moreover, our venues are ideal for all the occasions surrounding your special day. One can host memorable celebrations in the Grand Ballroom, out on the Terrace, or in one of our salons. The Butterfly Ribbon garden offers an enchanting backdrop for wedding photography,” shares Rebuen, adding, “We offer an array of stylish and flexible venues, including six function rooms, a kitchen-equipped terrace and an outdoor patio. Whether it’s a business meeting, corporate gala or social celebration, the signature Four Seasons touch promises to elevate each gathering.”
Four Seasons Bengaluru emerges as more than just a luxury haven – it stands as a dynamic hub, weaving together innovation, cosmopolitan charm and a commitment to the arts. Undoubtedly, it stands as the epitome of modernity and establishes a unique position for itself, thanks to a General Manager who is not only passionate but dedicated to ensuring the success of this Four Seasons property. The hotel’s fusion of classical and contemporary design elements creates an oasis of comfort and luxury within the bustling cityscape.
