Transformation While Remaining Fully Operational: Monoplan Redesigns The Europe Hotel & Resort in Ireland

Situated in the south-west of Ireland, on the shores of Lough Léin and overlooking the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, The Europe Hotel & Resort is set amidst the striking landscape of County Kerry. Monoplan developed an interior design concept for the new lobby, the Signature Suites and the Presidential Suite that translates the natural atmosphere of Kerry into a calm, contemporary spatial experience.

The transformation of the hotel has been taking place in carefully planned phases over several years while the resort has remained fully operational throughout. In close collaboration with the Killarney Hotels Collection, Monoplan continues to support the ongoing development of the property. During earlier project phases, Monoplan was responsible for the redesign of the Panorama Restaurant and the refurbishment of the thatched Boathouse. Most recently, the team completed the redesign of the lobby and guest rooms.

For Philip Wohlfarth, Founder and Partner at Monoplan, the project’s distinctive quality lies in the long-term partnership: “Having the opportunity to accompany a resort over such an extended period is something truly special. The trusting collaboration with the Killarney Hotels Collection allows us to carefully enhance individual areas of the property while preserving its authentic character. At the same time, working within a fully operational hotel always requires a high degree of precision and coordination.”

For the Signature Suites, the existing layouts were reorganised and, in some areas, stripped back to the shell in order to completely renew the building services and reconfigure the room arrangements. In selected areas, smaller rooms were combined to create spacious suites. The existing bathrooms were retained and integrated into the overall design concept.

The interior design combines classic elements with a strong regional connection and a restrained contemporary design language. Warm tones, natural materials and soft textures create a tranquil atmosphere that deliberately places the surrounding landscape centre stage. Large openings, together with carefully positioned lighting and reflective surfaces, strengthen the relationship between the interior and nature. One of the defining design features of the suites is the architectural framing of the windows, which presents the view across Lough Léin as though it were a landscape painting.

The double-height lobby was also restructured to create a clearer spatial organisation. Carefully selected furnishings, decorative lighting and a more open lounge arrangement have created a calm and welcoming arrival experience with a direct connection to the lakeside setting. The bespoke carpets play a particularly important role: designed as one-of-a-kind pieces, they draw inspiration from the Irish landscape viewed from above and function as artworks within the space. The lobby opened to guests in March 2026.

“The landscape was the central point of reference throughout the entire design process. While on site in Killarney, we developed the first sketches and layout concepts with the aim of integrating the lake more strongly into the interiors and creating an atmosphere that conveys tranquillity, comfort and openness,” says Anna Kaltwasser, Associate at Monoplan.

The project was realised in close collaboration with the Killarney Hotels Collection and GDC Interiors Dublin.