The Cayo’s innovative interiors are the brainchild of Gian Paolo Venier

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is Crete’s newest, most elegant, design hotel in the cosmopolitan Elounda bay. The resort’s innovative interiors are the brainchild of Gian Paolo Venier, the highly respected Milanese interior designer. We recently caught up with him, asking him to introduce us to its design narrative.

Gian Paolo Venier is no stranger to Greece. Over the years, he became increasingly familiar with the Greek way of life, falling in love with its people, lifestyle, landscape, colors, and Meltemi (the Greek wind)!

In Cayo’s case, with a brief at hand and a spectacular location, G.P.Venier saw the project as a blank canvas that couldn’t wait to get its unique personality. G.P. Venier enjoys finding parallels between the land and its culture and tries to reflect them through his design. In Cayo’s case, the design centered on the property’s beautiful surroundings.

A ‘whispered’ design approach and a unique color palette achieved a soft transition from nature to architecture.

For the guestrooms, the colour palette chosen supports the Cretan sun to prevent any harsh contrasts. The end result features lots of pastel colors that blend together while showcasing the unique view of the islet of Spinalonga.

Nearly all elements of the property, from the furniture to light fittings, were custom-made during this project. GPV takes pride in the three-floor chandelier in the main staircase. Made of bamboo cages and hundreds of hammered aluminum butterflies it embodies freedom. It serves as a subtle reminder to the guest to “feel free!”. Beautiful handcrafted pottery sourced from local potters is found in the lobby tells a story through design.

Discussing his sources of inspiration, GPV says that he works with passion, never stoping to analyze, observe and catalog everything he sees. He considers traveling as one of his greatest tools in seeking inspiration and the part of his job that brings him the most joy. “Discover, meet, investigate, and then return, translate, and redesign.

It’s an infinite exercise that he find incredibly beneficial”.

Cayo Exclusive Resort and Spa, a style seeker’s dream, will open its doors on May 21.