First Look: The Woodward in Geneva, A Luxury Hotel Made For Design Lovers

Words by Kissa Castañeda

September 01, 2021

Peek inside The Woodward, the first suite-only hotel in Geneva, Switzerland

While daycations and workcations have become part of our lexicon, those itching for a true change of scenery might consider heading to Europe as the travel opportunities begin to open, such as Singapore’s vaccinated travel lane to Germany.

Switzerland has been a choice destination for those tentatively dipping their toes into the world of travel, and there's a new luxury hotel to check into—The Woodward in Geneva.

Located right on the banks of Lake Geneva, the hotel is housed in a listed building dating back to 1901. Oetker Collection appointed architect Pierre-Yves Rochon for the project, who completely restored the building's Belle Époque-style façade and modernised the interiors. Rochon is a well-regarded name in luxury design, being the brains behind the Savoy Hotel in London and Domaine Les Crayères in Reims.

Above The beige palette perpetuate a soothing feel (Image courtesy of Oetker Collection)

Each of the 26 suites across five floors features myriad layouts and decadent design details such as handmade wallpaper, Lalique door handles, and Christian Liaigre tables and armchairs. A beige palette permeates the interior spaces, accented with touches of blue that reference the azure waters of Lake Geneva. Most of the suites have a view of the lake and Mont Blanc, making for a rejuvenating sight after a day of exploring or screen time (if you are working remotely from this elegant hotel).

Above The 19th-century building's facade was completely restored (Image courtesy of Oetker Collection) glistening facade of

Above Subtle blue accents reference the nearby Lake Geneva (Image courtesy of Oetker Collection)

Above Most of the 26 suites have views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc (Image courtesy of Oetker Collection)

Above Le Jardinier features a summer-inspired interior (Image courtesy of Oetker Collection)

The hotel has two restaurants, Le Jardinier and L’Atelier Robuchon, that are sure to entice not only well-heeled guests but locals.

Bathed in natural light and overlooking the Geneva harbour, Le Jardinier won’t look out of place in a tropical country. The space features verdant hues, floral and botanical patterns, as well as furniture made of rattan—themes that tie into the outlet’s plant-centric cuisine.

Executive Chef Olivier Jean oversees L’Atelier Robuchon, which is decorated in the style of a private club. The restaurant is anchored around a 36-seat chef’s counter, a bespoke creation by Rochon's studio.

Guests and locals can enjoy a post-meal stroll along the paths around Switzerland’s biggest lake, or perhaps schedule another day to relax at Club Woodward. The wellness club will have a Guerlain Spa spanning 1,200 square-metres and a 21-metre indoor swimming pool, the longest in the city.

The Woodward opens today, 01 September 2021