Contemporary classic, a kind of magic

A perfect location, breathtaking views and an architectural project of rare intensity are the three key ingredients of one of the most prestigious catering and event facilities on Italy’s Adriatic coast.
The location is the town of Vasto, described by poet Gabriele D’Annunzio as « city of grace, flower of my homeland », in the heart of one of the most unique areas of the Adriatic, renowned for its « trabocchi », original pier-like structures for fishing built from driftwood washed up on the beaches and amongst the rocks. Behind the town, in the distance, stand the mountains of Maiella and Gran Sasso. In front, there extends a large bay with sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, and on the horizon spectacular views of the Gargano promontory and the Tremiti islands. Everywhere is the scent of the sea and vegetation, of orchards and olive groves.
This splendid setting is the backdrop to the Plaza Happening Center, a sophisticated catering and event complex reminiscent of two-floor Roman villas. Surrounded by terraced gardens, it is set on a gently sloping hillside that serves as a kind of natural balcony overlooking the blue sea.
The work of architects Paola Paglione and Marcello Ceccaroli, who took care of every detail of the interiors, the centre is designed to host a variety of events and ceremonies, combining the elegance, appeal and creativity of its spaces with a skilful blend of a contemporary style and classical elements.
From the very first glance, the visitor falls under the spell of this splendid habitat, populated by palms and ancient olive trees that are reflected in pools animated by water features and a spectacular waterfall. The same mood is maintained inside the building, which combines a bold sense of grandeur with meticulous attention to functionality. Ceramic tiles from Atlas Concorde have been chosen for the floor and wall coverings throughout the project. In the interiors, the Glow porcelain tile collection lends a sophisticated lustre to all the floors in the reception and the lobby, the choice of soft beige tones enhancing the elegance of the furnishings, the sophistication of the details and a glamorous lighting design. In the restaurant area, the same collection is used to create a powerful black and white checkerboard pattern, lending character and theatricality to the space. In the bathrooms, a warm atmosphere is created by the use of wall tiles with Damask accents.
As for the outdoor spaces, the colours of nature serve as the backdrop to design solutions that extend across multiple levels, creating a multiplicity of views onto the picture postcard panorama. The Dolmen collection tiles used for the entire floor covering are laid with various installation patterns, from a multicoloured chequerboard to monochromatic spaces and areas.
The furnishings reject the use of colour, opting instead for an elegant shade of white that allows the gaze to wander amongst the blues and greens of the natural scenery.