Nestled amid the olive groves and terraced cliffs of Deià, La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, has long been a sanctuary for artists, poets, and discerning travelers. This April, the property elevates its legacy with the unveiling of Villa Robert Graves, a historic six-person villa reimagined by Studio Ashby—a harmonious blend of Mallorcan craftsmanship, literary heritage, and contemporary design.
A Poet’s Retreat Reborn
Named after British poet Robert Graves, who called Deià home for 50 years, the villa is a five-minute stroll from the main hotel. Studio Ashby’s founder, Sophie Ashby, has infused the space with what she calls “slow luxury”—a philosophy that honors locality, artistry, and the unhurried rhythms of Mediterranean life.
“The villa is a love letter to Mallorca,” says Ashby. “We preserved its soul while layering in textures that reflect the island’s light, landscape, and creative spirit.”
Design: Where Art Meets Nature
Ashby’s redesign is a masterclass in eclectic elegance:
- Art as Narrative: Curated with La Residencia’s longtime art consultant Cecile Sheridan, the villa showcases works by Mallorcan artists and ceramics, alongside antiques from Graves’ era. A standout piece is a mural by local artist Jorge Estevez Valencia, inspired by Graves’ poem “The Climate of Thought.”
- Material Poetry: Green-stained timber, oak beams, and terracotta floors mirror the Tramuntana Mountains, while forged iron pendants and blown-glass lamps nod to traditional craftsmanship.
- Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Expansive terraces, a private pool, and an outdoor kitchen invite alfresco living, with daybeds positioned for sunset views over the UNESCO-listed mountains.
For Families and Friends
The villa’s three bedrooms (convertible to twins) and a nursery-ready dressing room cater to multigenerational stays. The ground floor’s eight-seater dining area and bar anchor communal moments, while the lower level’s secluded terrace offers privacy.
“We designed it for lazy lunches and late-night conversations,” Ashby notes, recalling her own family stay at La Residencia with her infant daughter.
