Jan 16, 2025
Làlia: A Social Club That Wants to Build Community and Connection
- By
Blaire Dessent
Làlia: A Social Club That Wants to Build Community and Connection
Jan 16, 2025
by
Blaire Dessent
Làlia: A Social Club That Wants to Build Community and Connection
Jan 16, 2025
by
Blaire Dessent
Làlia: A Social Club That Wants to Build Community and Connection
Jan 16, 2025
- By
Blaire Dessent
Làlia: A Social Club That Wants to Build Community and Connection
Jan 16, 2025
- By
Blaire Dessent
sustainability
Làlia: A Social Club That Wants to Build Community and Connection
Jan 16, 2025
- By
Blaire Dessent
Photo: Clemente Vergara
O

ne of the most distinctive aspects of the interior design at Làlia, the social club that opened in late 2023 in Palma, are the subtle transitions of colour tones that define each space. Softly muted jewel tones of gold, green, blue and terracotta build a rhythm across all of the four levels including meeting rooms, the restaurant, bar and co-working spaces, creating a harmony that gives the club a warm sophistication and makes it a place you want to spend time in.  

Làlia was started by Anna Karlen and Pablo Sánchez, who, when they moved to Mallorca in 2016, felt that they were missing a place where they could have meetings, enjoy a coffee, connect with new people or workout. The couple had been members at the Soho House in London, where they were living prior (both are from Sweden), and thought that Mallorca could use a gathering place with a similar vibe. They heard about a Swedish company who were going to open a member’s club in town and so they decided to get involved and help develop and realise the project with them. Renovations were just beginning on the stunning multi-level palacio in Palma, in front of the Plaza Santa Eulalia, when Covid hit. The Swedish company had to cancel their plans on the project but, despite the big risk and uncertain times, Sánchez and Karlen decided to find a partner and go in on it themselves.

W

hen it came time to find an interior designer, they wanted something cosmopolitan yet reflective of Mallorcan heritage and design. Karlen knew that London-based designer Tatjana von Stein had been spending time on the island and so they approached her about doing the project. Her first brief was about the colour palette and how it would guide the story of Làlia. They knew it would be a good fit. The space celebrates local materials and craftsmanship with pieces commissioned by Lasanta & Co., stools by La Pecera, large handcrafted wooden tables by Ducoin Studio, local fabrics by Textil Bujosa and light fixtures by Contain. In addition, unique vintage finds from Dusty Deco and bespoke fitted furniture custom made on the island, and a range of noble materials from Binissalem stone to marble, velvet and leather adds a feeling of glamour. The meticulous architectural renovations were overseen by Gras Reynes, who are known for their respect and understanding of historic architecture while being able to transform it for contemporary needs. Details such as original carved stone columns and wooden beams reflect the building’s past. 

The club offers three levels of membership: The House Membership, which is the full-year membership that includes access to everything; a Social Membership, which offers access to the restaurant, bar and all of the events but not to the co-working spaces or gym, and a Seasonal Membership which has a 3-month minimum commitment at a time. As the club grows, so do the events that are featured - including member breakfasts, member talks on themes as diverse as dream interpretation to branding for entrepreneurs; Spanish classes, music nights, meditation and wellness offerings. On the weekends, the restaurant serves brunch and there is a kid’s club available for under 12-year olds. 

“Our ambition to open a members club, which is about more than a coworking space, is one where you have connections to other members, a place where you belong to."
Photo: Clemente Vergara
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