DARLING DIMENSIONS

Mondrian

From the moment you catch sight of the hotel an unbelievable experience for the senses and soul will begin. The architecture captures the essence of the iconic falcon sitting atop its nest whilst also creating the image of a soaring structure with traditional arabian features wrapped in a modernistic skin. Immediately you are challenged to admire and analyse the features.

The valet parking was such a welcome treat as I couldn’t wait to enter, experience and absorb everything! The Mondrian is far more than a place to stay, dine or meet. It is a talking point. A statement. The communal spaces are varied and look as though they have taken inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the tale of a girl who finds herself in a fantasy world filled with anthropomorphic creatures. Just as the tale does, the features of the hotel play with logic and are beguiling in a curious way.

Take the Atrium for example, with a tessellated glazed roof flooding the space below with light which highlights the gigantic oversized lamps looming over the seating areas arranged on vivid patterned carpets which provide contrast to the pristine white marble of the floors. A continuous curl of black Perspex which reminded me of an apple being peeled with a knife in a continuous fashion complete with filigree banister. Curiosity and elegance blended perfectly. Delve deeper and you will discover escapism - amplified. Large, white sculpted trees which are evocative of alabaster meeting with clouds and marshmallows to create the most fascinating lounge space.

Dining at Mondrian, Doha ventures beyond brilliant. Smoke and Mirrors entices diners with the rhythm of Cuba whereas CUT by Wolfgang Puck provides a destination for breakfast through to dinner. It came as no surprise that this iconic structure houses a branch of the iconic Magnolia Bakery and for an additional ‘fix’ of Americana the Hudson Tavern serves brews and burgers in abundance. Walima, with its abundance of colourful lanterns and sunken Majilis are perfect for family dining or small groups looking for a more intimate experience. Marcel Wander has created an inimitable setting for discovering local and regional flavours. It boasts the best of Qatari and Middle Eastern Cuisine with the backdrop of the West Bay Sunset. The ornamental shishas and voiles transport diners to something close to 1001 Arabian Nights. More escapism and fantasy - Aladdin would be impressed.

Tabbouleh, Hummus and Dips are an excellent introduction