The delightful red-tiled roof of the Hotel PACAI—one of a handful of 16th century details rigorously preserved for the building’s transformation—announces itself as a beacon of color against a cottony Vilnius sky.

PACAI surprised many, including the hotel’s own staff, by winning the 2019 Surface Travel Award, besting other architectural marvels by the likes of Zaha Hadid, Dayna Lee, and Neri & Hu Design.

During the renovation, architect Saulius Mikštas and interior designers Indre Barsauskaite and Greta Valikone emphasized the structure’s historic nature, restoring frescoes and highlighting period details (like the richly textured walls) with lighting.

Interior decoration is in keeping with the look of the original mansion. The basic palette is a native Baltic grey, while green marble bathrooms are equal parts moody and luxuriant. Novel contemporary touches include sleek furniture, sophisticated lighting, and artwork from a local Vilnius artist.

The hotel’s director, Rūta Pulkaunikaitė- Macikė, said, “We are thrilled and humbled by winning this award. Pacai always strives to deliver that one-of-a-kind hotel experience.”

Read more at Hotel PACAI.