Coco Chanel, famed for her impact on couture, also held a deep appreciation for the Scottish Highlands. The rugged beauty of the Highlands influenced some of her creations, reflecting the unique fabrics and landscapes of the region.
In tribute to this connection, the Fife Arms hotel in Braemar has created a guestroom inspired by Chanel. This luxurious five-star accommodation incorporates elements that invite exploration, allowing guests to uncover clues referencing Chanel’s life and work.
Chanel’s bond with Scotland dates back to the 1920s, sparked by her relationship with Hugh Grosvenor, the 2nd Duke of Westminster. Over the next decade, her love for the Highlands flourished, even leading her to become an enthusiastic fly-fisher.
This new guestroom, starting at $1,355, draws on Chanel’s experiences in Scotland. The hotel collaborated with Russell Sage Studio for the transformation of a former Family Room into this distinctive space. Notably, Chanel disliked traditional doors; she preferred decorative screens to create a sense of exploration. The Fife Arms embraced this aspect by concealing the room behind a trompe-l’œil door, embellished with motifs from her Parisian apartment. Guests can follow a Camelia symbol to find their way to the room.
Once inside, visitors are welcomed by rich hues of yellow and blue, complemented by bespoke tweeds from Linton Mill in green and burgundy. Chanel discovered this textile manufacturer in 1928, and her fashion house continues to source fabrics from there. The room’s headboard and furniture feature Scottish Chinoiserie designs, while the pink floral wallpaper replicates the decor of Rosehall House, the estate where Chanel resided with the Duke.
Chanel’s Parisian apartment at 31 Rue Cambon influenced other elements in the room, including a wheatsheaf chandelier and an Art Deco mirror on the dressing table. Additional amenities include a spacious walk-in wardrobe, a freestanding copper bathtub tucked into an arched nook, and a dedicated bar area. With such meticulous design, it seems likely that Chanel would have approved of this uniquely crafted accommodation.
For those interested in experiencing this distinctive room, reservations can be made through the Fife Arms’ website.
