When the crowds begin to thin out thanks to the end of the winter/spring ski season, many high-end properties take this opportunity to renovate select areas. The Little Nell, Aspen's only ski-in/ski-out, Forbes Five Star, AAA Five Diamond boutique property, commissioned the New York-based luxury design firm Champalimaud Design to refresh 52 guest rooms, 26 premium guest rooms, eight junior suites and all guest floor corridors in an "Authentic Aspen" motif. The design pays homage to Aspen's rich cultural scene as well as its unique history as a quaint, silver mining town. The Little Nell is named after a mining claim and opened its doors in 1989 to affluent guests who appreciate its combination of rustic charm, outdoor recreation and chic amenities.
Champalimaud Design, helmed by head designer Alexandra Champalimaud, tackled the inspiring project at The Little Nell with the goal of infusing the existing spaces with an inviting, fresh and airy palette of blue, tan and grey to compliment the relaxed earthiness of Aspen. Key features include new, plush carpet in the guest rooms and corridors, as well as opulently-appointed details such as blue ottomans, decorative pillows and custom throws. Light, sand-colored armchairs replaced clubbier, chocolate leather ones and headboards were brightened with wall coverings reminiscent of a mid-winter storm or a family of majestic Aspens. Warm-toned, sliding barn doors creatively replaced closet doors, adding a slightly rustic touch.
When speaking of her design inspiration for The Little Nell, Champalimaud Founder and President Alexandra Champalimaud shared, "Aspen has all of the characteristics of a world-class destination—social, beautiful, interesting and relevant—all the while offering a relaxed style and attitude. With this in mind, it was our priority to design sincere, comfortable interior spaces where one can relax and recharge." She continued, "The Little Nell's new design recalls in texture, tone and attitude, Aspen's soul and its distinctiveness as a silver mining town. The particular realness of the place was a grounding quality that we respected and integrated into our work." In keeping with the sustainability efforts of The Little Nell's parent company, the Aspen Skiing Company, all existing wooden furniture was refurbished and 90 percent of existing pieces such as headboards, lounge chairs, sofas, banquettes and stools were either reupholstered or reinvented in new palettes and finishes.
