Mercure Grand Hotel in Warsaw

Located at Krucza Street 28 in Warsaw, Hotel Mercure Grand is a four-star establishment with a rich history. The building was constructed between 1954 and 1957 based on a design by architects Stanisław Bieńkuński and Stanisław Rychłowski. Initially known as the Grand Hotel Orbis, the hotel was intended to accommodate guests visiting nearby government ministries and opened its doors on July 24, 1958. It was characterized by a Socialist Realist architectural style, and its interiors featured chairs and furniture stylized after the works of abstract artist Joan Miró. The hotel originally offered 416 three-star standard rooms and housed the Olimp restaurant on the eleventh floor. An interesting historical note is that in 1988, the hotel employed a shoeshiner, marking the revival of this profession in Warsaw after a long hiatus. Until 2004, the building also served as the headquarters of the Polish Olympic Committee. Following its acquisition by the Accor hotel chain, a comprehensive modernization was carried out between 2007 and 2009, significantly altering its character. The number of rooms was reduced to 299 to provide more space and comfort for guests. New additions included six conference rooms, the Grand’s Brasserie restaurant, a new lobby, a bar, and an underground parking facility. The hotel also offers guests access to a fitness area and a sauna. After the renovation, the hotel reopened under the Mercure brand as a four-star property. In the past, the building also served diplomatic functions, hosting the Embassy of Japan starting in 1958, the Legation of Ecuador from 1961, and the Australian Embassy from 1974. Hotel Mercure Grand seamlessly blends modernity with historical significance, making it an integral part of Warsaw’s architectural and cultural landscape.