PURO Poznań Stare Miasto has remained one of the most recognisable hotels in the capital of Greater Poland for over a decade. Its location on Stawna Street – literally a few minutes’ walk from the Town Hall and the iconic Koziołki statues – makes it an attractive starting point for exploring the city. It is in this part of Poznań, amongst the Renaissance townhouses, museums and the cathedral, that the local identity comes to the fore most fully – an identity which became one of the inspirations for the hotel’s designers. Today, the hotel welcomes guests in its refurbished interiors. What does it look like? Let’s find out!
Modern architecture in the Old Town
The PURO Hotel in Poznań opened in 2014. The intimate building with its soaring roof has taken its place on a plot that had previously been undeveloped. The neighbourhood consists exclusively of historic buildings, so designing a project that would blend into the historic fabric of the area was a challenge. They succeeded. The architects from ASW Architekci proposed a structure crowned with gable roofs, echoing the shape of the nearby townhouses. The building has blended naturally into the character of the Old Town and has become an attractive, contemporary addition to it. The interior also looks very impressive.
The first impression upon entering is one of lightness. A clear layout guides guests straight to the reception, the spacious lobby, the outdoor patio and the restaurant. The rounded reception area, finished in red tiles and set upon limestone blocks, provides a striking focal point for the space. It is accompanied by a hand-woven rug inspired by the geometry of the Old Market Square and T4 chairs designed by the Holloway Li studio, which oversaw the hotel’s refurbishment in 2024. The interiors are a loose interpretation of Poznań’s tenement houses – pastel façades, ornate windows and decorative details – though without any literal references. The designers from the London-based studio Blacksheep, who designed the interiors, focused on modernity, functionality and subtle references to the local heritage. One interesting feature, for example, is the old city wall, which has become part of the building and has been showcased in one of the conference rooms.
Filled with art
Modern design and art play a significant role in the hotel’s spaces. PURO collaborates with artists linked to Poznań’s academic community, meaning the interiors are filled with works by Małgorzata Szymankiewicz, Krzysztof Mętel and Paweł Matyszewski. Piotr Łakomy’s sculptures highlight local influences, whilst the presence of art in the communal areas and guest rooms creates a cohesive narrative in which design and culture intertwine naturally.
When in the communal areas, you might feel as though you’re in a boutique. This effect is enhanced by the attractive design of the furniture, decorative elements and the books and albums available to guests. The lobby is also a good spot for a spot of remote working. You can easily charge your phone or laptop at the comfortable tables.
Comfort every day
The hotel offers 130 rooms, including three larger suites. Classic rooms provide a comfortable rest after a busy day in the city; Classic Plus rooms are slightly larger and allow for a later check-out; whilst Junior Suites offer an additional lounge area. The Executive Suite stands out with its panoramic windows, two bathrooms and a carefully curated art collection. It’s the perfect choice for guests looking for more space. A good night’s sleep is guaranteed in every room thanks to Hilding mattresses, whilst the individual control system for lighting, music and temperature allows you to tailor the atmosphere to your own preferences.
PURO Poznań Stare Miasto is also a venue for meetings. Three conference rooms (Paper, Glass and Terracotta, which can be divided into two: Terra and Cotta) vary in character and size, making them suitable for both intimate sessions and larger business events. Paper and Glass are designed for groups of up to 12 people, whilst Terracotta, which is flooded with natural light, can accommodate up to 80.
The culinary heart
However, the heart of the hotel is Nifty – a restaurant, café and bar that has for years attracted not only hotel guests but also a large group of regulars. The venue has become one of the most important meeting places in this part of the city. The restaurant’s cuisine is based on Polish flavours interpreted in a modern, international style, as well as on seasonal produce sourced from regional suppliers. In summer, Nifty moves out onto a leafy patio tucked away amongst historic townhouses. This intimate space has long been a favourite spot for locals – an urban oasis right in the heart of the Old Town.
PURO in Poznań is also developing the PURO Experience programme, through which guests can take part in guided walks, tastings and cultural events. This is part of the brand’s strategy, which has, from the outset, focused on creating spaces open to the local community. As a result, the hotel functions as an integral part of the urban fabric – a space where travellers, residents, artists and designers come together.
PURO Poznań Stare Miasto remains a prime example of a hotel that combines contemporary design with the local context. Subtle in tone yet distinctive in character, it offers a comfortable stay in the city’s most important district. Its strengths lie in both its location and its consistently developed philosophy of hospitality – something best experienced first-hand.
Find out more about the hotel here: Poznań City Centre Hotel | PURO Hotels
photos: Maciej Stacherski whiteMAD
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