Piaule Catskill

Location: Upstate New York, USA


HARMONY IN WOOD

Nestled amid the picturesque Catskill Mountains, Piaule Catskill Hotel and destination unveils a transformative collaboration with Fritz Hansen. Embracing a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, Fritz Hansen’s outdoor collection seamlessly integrates with Piaule's modernist retreat landscape, offering enchanting spaces for contemplation and relaxation.

Established in 2021 by Nolan McHugh and Trevor Briggs, Piaule harmonises the tranquil charm of upstate New York's natural surroundings with a luxurious boutique hotel and spa experience. Crafted in collaboration with Garrison Architects, the property's development prioritises preserving the land's innate beauty, impacting only five acres of its 50-acre terrain for the hotel's main house and guest cabins.

Marking Fritz Hansen's inaugural outdoor collection, the installation at Piaule is a testament to their shared values. The contemporary wooden collection, crafted with care with FSC® certified wood, gracefully ages with the elements, developing a timeless silver-grey patina that mirrors nature's evolution.

“We specifically selected these outdoor pieces because they use sustainably sourced, untreated wood, which is exactly what we were looking for, along with timeless designs that are both beautiful and enjoyable.” – Piaule founders, Nolan McHugh and Trevor Briggs.


In collaboration with Fritz Hansen, Piaule strategically placed artful installations throughout the property, seamlessly blending form and function. These carefully curated vignettes invite guests to discover moments of reflection and relaxation in unexpected corners of Piaule's breathtaking landscape.

“The outdoor space is designed to be a comfortable place to experience nature's rhythms”, explains founders Nolan and Trevor. “There are no speakers outside, no bars, no other unnecessary distractions because the intention is to appreciate the surrounding landscape and the grounding power of the mountains.”

The Trails

Taking a mindful journey along Piaule's extensive trail network, one encounters the award-winning Plank Series by Parisian designer Aurélien Barbry. Piaule’s founders explained that it was important that in the outdoor experience, “[t]here should be comfortable places to sit, relaxing moments of stillness and opportunities for reflection.” The Plank Chair and Bench, echoing the simplicity and functional beauty of natural wood, offer guests serene spots for forest bathing or leisurely observation.

The Patio

With sweeping views of the majestic Catskill Mountains, Piaule's patio becomes a versatile guest area. Fritz Hansen's modern Adirondack chair, the Between Lines Deck Chair, and its accompanying stool provide spaces for guests to savour tranquil moments outdoors. The Selandia Table and Armchair, complemented by Atlantis Umbrellas, offer both dining and relaxation options.

The Spa

Concealed within the hillside, Piaule's spa embraces tranquillity and nature. The Riviera Sunbed, designed by Danish designer Povl B. Eskildsen, enhances the outdoor pool area, allowing guests to control their comfort and fully immerse themselves in relaxation.

Commenting on the collaboration, Piaule’s founders say, “the heritage of Fritz Hansen is something that cannot be replicated and the long-lasting approach to building the brand is something for which we have the utmost respect. To dream that Piaule could exist 150 years from now is an inspiration that we take very seriously.”

Fritz Hansen’s outdoor collection now graces Piaule Catskill, accentuating its commitment to enduring design and respect for the natural environment. This collaborative project echoes Piaule's essence, where architecture and nature seamlessly merge, creating a haven where the Catskill Mountains' beauty continues to inspire.