Split aesthetic: Minimalist hostel opens in Croatia

Owners Mila and Toni Radan built the 15-bed Emanuel Hostel inside a formerly abandoned apartment near the city centre. ‘From the beginning, it was our desire to create a comfortable, functional and modern space that has the spirit of a Split street,’ they said of their inspiration.

The interiors and branding were by local designer Lana Vitas Gruić of Atom Design Studio. The look is one of clean lines and minimalist fixtures, including booth-like sleeping units, metal chairs and uniform lockers. Some rooms are painted in block colours, while others remain all white, with several walls covered by blown-up photographs of Split street scenes. 

As the travel industry blossoms, well-heeled tourists are increasingly prioritising accommodation with an eye for design, even in budget hostels and low-cost hotels. For more on how other hostels have adapted innovative interiors, see our Designer Bunks microtrend.