We are celebrating 20 years of irreverence and provocation!
For more than two decades we have been challenging the norms, doing the unexpected.
Irreverent hotels, daring cultural experiences, a rebellious attitude and, above all, non-conformist people who have found in chic&basic the place where they can create their own rules and unleash the madness within them.
Without them, we would not be who we are today. That is why we want to pay tribute to them, by capturing their essence in unique portraits.
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Ivonne Cárdenas
Skill
Madamme style
Cargo
Stylist
Breakout year
2009
Contribution
Statement of visual playfulness in each image
Ivonne gives a unique touch of style to the shootings of chic&basic since 2009. Its conceptual looks reflect the brand’s playful essence, turning each image into a transgressive fashion statement. She sets the tone for cooltura in every visual detail.
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Sergio Orfila and Elena Catalán
Skill
Support with a smile
Cargo
Reception managers chic&basic
Breakout year
2015 + 2017
Contribution
Guarantee of perfect functioning
Since 2015 and 2017 respectively, Sergio and Elena, reception managers at chic&basic VELVET and Born, are the guardians of the flawless operation of the reception. With their empathetic approach and ability to anticipate needs, they make every guest feel cared for and everything flow effortlessly. They are worthy representatives of all our reception managers!
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Carlos Pérez Sala
Skill
Opportunities hunter
Cargo
Investor
Breakout year
2012
Contribution
Enhancing profitability
Since 2012, Carlos has been the financial wizard at chic&basic, bringing that unique touch that turns assets into real profitable gems. With a keen eye for opportunities, his ability to increase profitability has been crucial to the expansion and success of chic&basic.
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Helena Bosch and Cristina Rodenas
Skill
Playful publicity
Cargo
Founders Spotlight Comunicación
Breakout year
2022
Contribution
Conveying the essence of chic&basic to the outside world
Since 2022, Helena and Cristina, are in charge of amplifying the presence of chic&basic in each of their communication channels. Their fresh and fun approach helps connect the brand with its audience, ensuring that the rebellious spirit is always present in their messages.
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Rafael Fontana
Skill
Wizard of words
Cargo
Executive Chairman of Cuatrecasas
Breakout year
2012
Contribution
Defining a strategic structure for expansion
Trusted lawyer who helped at different stages of the company and at decisive moments. A wizard of words and company structuring, he designed the legal basis that has allowed chic&basic to expand with safety and confidence. He is the uncle of Hugo and personal consigliere.
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Olympia Martin
Skill
First and best employee
Cargo
Former apartment manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2005
Contribution
Pragmatism and maximum dedication to guests
As chic&basic‘s first employee, from 2005 Olympia was the cornerstone of the organisation. With a pragmatic vision and a relentless appproach to organisation, she remains a benchmark and a role model within the chic&basic family.
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Elvira Herrería
Skill
Artist brain doctor
Cargo
Psychiatrist
Breakout year
2020
Contribution
Ambassador of chic&basic
Elvira is much more than a psychiatrist; she is a creative force who transforms everything she touches into art, from rock to medicine. Actress, model and doctor, she moves between disciplines with a unique and challenging style. She will bring out every spark of creativity in your brain
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Marco Garí
Skill
Food guru
Cargo
CEO and Founder of Grupo Isabella's
Breakout year
2020
Contribution
Creating unique gourmet experiences at chic&basic
Since 2020, Marco has been the gastronomic partner behind the taste of chic&basic. As CEO and founder of Grupo Isabella’s, he has integrated a passion for fine cuisine into every experience. With a refined touch and a gourmet vision, he has taken the concept of eating out at our Gravity hotels with VALENTINA'S and Habana Hoose with the CARMINA to another level, turning every meal into a Michelin experience.
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Borja Moreno
Skill
King of operations with care
Cargo
Hotel Manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2008
Contribution
Steering, motorised and without brakes, full of charisma
Since 2008, Borja has been in charge of the management of the chic&basic hotels in Madrid, Atocha y dot, becoming the motor-biker who makes everything run smoothly. With his proactive approach and ability to empathise with his team, Borja not only motivates, but inspires everyone to give their best, ensuring that the operation is always personal and unbeatable.
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Luis Vidal
Skill
Master of concept and visual provocation
Cargo
Artist / Creative Director chic&basic
Breakout year
2009
Contribution
Creative, irreverent and transgressive mastery.
Since 2009, Luís flooded hotels with the famous Changing Room. A decade later, his close friend Hugo Bertrand, offered him the position of creative director at chic&basic. His irreverent approach and ability to create concepts brings a provocative vision that transforms each project into art. He is the master of creative misbehaviour, always ready to break the rules with style.
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Paola de Grenet
Skill
Essence catcher
Cargo
Photographer
Breakout year
2022
Contribution
The magic of making things be people
Since 2022, Paola has been the official photographer of chic&basic. With her lens, she captures not only images, but the essence of each space. Her ability to convey the visual history of chic&basic makes guests feel part of a story from the moment they set foot in our hotels. It’s her eyes that have captured all this madness. Photos of the madness come out of her camera.
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Hugo Bertrand
Skill
Creator and the Godfather of chic&basic
Cargo
CEO and Founder
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
Hotel irreverence and open subversiveness
Since 2004, Hugo not only founded chic&basic, but also set the rules (and then broke them, of course). An innate strategist, close leader and innate rebel, he has been the mastermind behind every bold decision that has made chic&basic the safe haven for the divergent. His secret formula: work with pleasure and have fun every step of the way.
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Pablo Erroz
Skill
Playful designer par excellence
Cargo
Fashion designer
Breakout year
2022
Contribution
Categorical expression of playful style in every image, piece and design
Pablo, one of the most important and stylish Spanish fashion designers, joined chic&basic as a collaborator in 2022. His irreverent and creative vision has been the perfect complement to the brand, bringing a playful and innovative touch that transforms each piece into a style manifesto.
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Albert Martínez
Skill
Master of the Matrix
Cargo
Founder and Managing Partner de Sekuenz
Breakout year
2015
Contribution
Magic in the visibility and growth of chic&basic in the digital world
Since 2015, Albert and his team have been responsible for the digital visibility of chic&basic. His in-depth knowledge of the online universe and his ability to ensure a constant and relevant brand presence are crucial to the success of chic&basic in the digital world. He doesn't know it, but we call him the wizard of Marketing Online.
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Pedro Fontana
Skill
Financial dream maker
Cargo
Vice-chairman of Banco Sabadell and former Managing Director of BBVA
Breakout year
2012
Contribution
The financial base and impetus that made our dreams possible
He has been our trusted banker since 2012. He helped the company through its various stages in financial areas, both in its rise from the ashes and in its expansion. He is the uncle of Hugo and personal consigliere.
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Silvia Buye
Skill
Keeper of numbers
Cargo
Administrative Director chic&basic
Breakout year
2019
Contribution
Creation of the Fort Nox of chic&basic
Since 2019, Silvia has been the organising force behind the administrative universe (and parties) of chic&basic. With a multitasking and problem-solving capacity, she has managed to give structure to every administrative aspect, ensuring that nothing is left to chance. Her ability to manage numbers has been key to the growth of the brand.
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Paula Bodelón and Raquel Gabernet
Skill
The warm welcome
Cargo
Receptionists chic&basic
Breakout year
2022
Contribution
Customer service by vocation with the utmost dedication
Since 2022, Paula and Raquel are the visible faces of chic&basic at the receptions in Born and Habana Hoose. Their dedication and customer service mark the beginning of the chic&basic experience for guests, always offering solutions and suggestions to make each stay unforgettable. They are a worthy representation of the spirit of all our receptionists!
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Gerard Santmartí
Skill
Builder of cooltura
Cargo
Co-founder and partner lagranja design / Interior Designer
Breakout year
2009
Contribution
Defining spaces that go far beyond interior design
Gerard is behind the interior design of chic&basic Ramblas, connecting the brand's rebellious spirit with the culture of the 1960s. With a strategic vision and a focus on creating experiences, he has designed spaces that reflect the cooltura that defines chic&basic.
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Jacobo Lladó
Skill
Connector of the dots
Cargo
Architect
Breakout year
2020
Contribution
Punctual, pointillist and meticulous architect of the dot project in Madrid
Since 2020, Jacobo, Hugo‘s cousin, has been the mind behind the dot project in Madrid. With his ability to connect the dots and his innovative approach, he has transformed architecture into a tool for expressing the disruptive identity of chic&basic in each of its spaces.
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Silvia Morales
Skill
Exceptional juggler with ground control
Cargo
Head of Marketing and Sales chic&basic
Breakout year
2014
Contribution
The superpower of "Yes, we can!!"
Silvia has been the multitasking queen of chic&basic since 2014. From sales control and marketing to event planning, her ability to coordinate all fronts with unstoppable energy makes her the operational core of the brand. She always finds a way to achieve the seemingly impossible, and she doesn't stop until she has done it.
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Toni and Harry Serra
Skill
Dream makers
Cargo
Investors
Breakout year
2018
Contribution
Visionary youth spotting opportunities
Since 2018, Toni and Harry are the dream-makers behind chic&basic, driving projects such as VELVET, Habana, dot, Gravity and many more. Always exploring new horizons, their vision is key to the expansion of the brand, turning opportunities into profitability. They are the pioneers who dream big and execute with precision.
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David Avilés
Skill
Legal bodyguard
Cargo
Lawyer
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
He knows exactly how far we can bend the rules (without getting into too much trouble ;))
Since 2004, David has been much more than a lawyer; he is chic&basic’s friend and legal protector. Ever vigilant, he ensures that our follies comply with the rules, without losing their rebellious essence. With his ability to interpret the rules, David has been the pillar that keeps our universe legally safe, but always at the forefront.
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Irene Van der Steen
Skill
One woman band
Cargo
Brand Consultant & Copywriter
Breakout year
2016
Contribution
Creating the rebellious voice of chic&basic
Since 2016, Irene has been responsible for bringing to life the unique and transgressive voice of chic&basic. With her storytelling skills and passion for the distinctive, she makes every word and concept reflect the disruptive essence of the brand. Irene transforms ideas into stories, bringing the irreverence of chic&basic to life in every campaign.
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Alex Agulló
Skill
Master of ceremonies
Cargo
Founder and CEO of Las Marquesas
Breakout year
2022
Contribution
Making the impossible possible
No one transforms an event into pure magic like him and his team. His secret agenda, desired by everyone, is the key to his success. Transgressive, elegant and fun; like everything he communicates.
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Gabriele Schiavon
Skill
Builder of cooltura
Cargo
Co-founder and partner lagranja design / Creative Director
Breakout year
2009
Contribution
Defining spaces that go far beyond interior design
Gabriele has been an inseparable part of the design and construction of chic&basic Ramblas since 2009. His focus on creative experiences has allowed the brand to connect its transgressive spirit with a visual aesthetic that evokes an era of freedom and creativity.
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Xavier Claramunt
Skill
Transgreding walls
Cargo
Architect
Breakout year
2005
Contribution
Transgressive architect of the first hotel: chic&basic Born
Xavier, the architect behind the chain's first hotel in 2005, designed a space where freedom and creativity are evident in every corner. His transgressive approach, bold vision and "els calers no son un problema" have been instrumental in establishing the brand's rebellious DNA, defying convention at every turn.
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Santy Monteys and Andrea Pérez-Albert
Skill
Brand strategists and guardians
Cargo
Founders of The Mood Project
Breakout year
2015
Contribution
Taking hold of the madness of the provocative DNA chic
Since 2015, Santy and Andrea, along with their team, have been the dynamic duo that awakened and structured the genuine DNA of chic&basic. With a mix of strategy and provocation, they succeeded in making the brand not only seen, but felt in every detail. They are the brains that defined our rebellious identity, always defying convention with a creative spark.
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Julia Feustel
Skill
The backbone
Cargo
Director e-commerce chic&basic
Breakout year
2006
Contribution
The invisible force that magically does it all
Since 2006, Julia has been the powerful but silent engine that keeps chic&basic at full throttle. Organised and capable of multitasking, she brings vision and direction to every project, ensuring that everything runs like clockwork. She is the person everyone turns to when they need quick answers and effective solutions. She is the closest person to Hugo, he always tells us: "Ask Julia!!!"
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Bibiana Ballbè
Skill
chic-communicator
Cargo
Founder and CEO of TheCreative
Breakout year
2016
Contribution
Dynamisation and boosting of the great chic experiences
Bibiana has elevated the content of chic&basic since 2016 as a contributor. Her focus on direct communication and her ability to create content has cemented the brand's relationship with its audience.
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Curro Velasco
Skill
Building tracker with chic character
Cargo
Real Estate and Expansion chic&basic
Breakout year
2020
Contribution
"Give me the phone! I'll convince him. That's where the next hotel will be"
Since 2004, Curro has been a close advisor to Hugo and a tireless tracker of properties with potential. His knowledge of the market and gastronomy are key to the growth of the chain, being an invaluable support in the expansion of chic&basic.
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Ricky Esdel
Skill
Absolute guest focus
Cargo
Hotel Manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2017
Contribution
Charming management based on making the customer feel at home, even if they are miles away
Since 2017, Ricky has gone from being a receptionist at Born to leading projects such as Isabella's House. With a 100% customer-oriented approach, his ability to make every guest feel at home is legendary. His friendliness and diligence make him the perfect model of what chic&basic represents.
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Dolly Fontana
Skill
Mamacita
Cargo
Public relations par excellence
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
Nurturing the creative vein
Since 2004, Dolly has been the mother figure behind the CEO of chic&basic, nurturing the creative streak that runs through every corner of the brand. As the godmother who watches over every dream, her influence has been key in keeping alive the spark of creativity that defines the irreverent spirit of chic&basic.
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Toni Mascaró
Skill
Online World Builder
Cargo
Founder and Managing Director of eMascaró
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
Developing the web universe of chic&basic
Since 2004, Toni, together with his team, led by Jordi Fumado, has been the digital architect behind the first and current chic&basic websites. His innovative approach and ability to create virtual worlds aligned with the irreverence of the brand are key to connecting the digital experience with the physical essence of the hotels.
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Sandra Garí
Skill
The First Lady
Cargo
Executive assistant at chic&basic
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
Muse of the cooltura
Since 2004, Sandra, married to Hugo, has been the unwavering support and inspirational muse of chic&basic. Always behind Hugo’s crazy ideas, she is the spark that ignites the creativity and style that defines the brand. Her role is not only to be the creator's partner, but also the subtle, constant force that drives the cooltura and playful spirt of chic&basic.
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Mari Carmen García
Skill
Inspirational with playful positivity
Cargo
Hotel Manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2015
Contribution
Management with contagious enthusiasm
Since 2015, Mª Carmen has been managing several of our hotels in Barcelona: Born, Zoo, Habana Hoose and VELVET. Her natural leadership, always optimistic and motivating, is key to the growth of the brand. With her positive energy, she is able to inspire teams and move each project forward, step by step, towards success.
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Stephan Hansmann
Skill
The man of details
Cargo
Former hotel manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2006
Contribution
Magnetic management full of good vibes
Since 2006, Stephan has been the manager of chic&basic Tallers, Born and Zoo. His magnetic leadership has created a culture of attention to detail and flawless service. With his good humour and ability to inspire, Stephan has built close relationships with both guests and his team.
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Alex Arenas
Skill
Creator of playful concepts
Cargo
CEO and Founder of Séptimo
Breakout year
2017
Contribution
Defining the personality of chic&basic VELVET and Gravity
Alex has been the creator of content and branding behind VELVET and Gravity. With the attention to the smallest detail that he applies to each of his creations, he has been able to discover and shape the personality of these two hotels, aligning every detail with the brand's DNA.
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David Espluga
Skill
Designer of the imperishable
Cargo
Founder and Creative Director of espluga+associates
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
Creation of the brand's visual icons
David was the first graphic designer of chic&basic back in 2004. He cemented the visual pillars that still define the brand today. Together with his partner Max, rebels with a cause, they created not only the graphic identity, but established a visual style that endures, always bringing a disruptive aesthetic that challenges the establishment.
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Andrea and Marta Rosal
Skill
chic&basic’s Angels
Cargo
Partners
Breakout year
2012
Contribution
Soul coaches chic&basic
Andrea and Marta, Hugo's cousins, are the souls who keep alive the spirit of chic&basic. More than partners, they are the motivators behind every crazy idea and every challenge overcome. Their energy has been key in the evolution of the brand, maintaining the essence that makes everything at chic&basic different and authentic.
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Bernardo Campo
Skill
One man show
Cargo
Former hotel manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2014
Contribution
Leadership with tireless and inspiring determination
Since 2014, Bernardo was the one-man band behind the chic&basic Amsterdam and other hotels under management. His "nothing is impossible" attitude and his ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently make him the day-to-day saviour in the chain.
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Francesc Muncunill
Skill
Guest relations conductor
Cargo
Former hotel manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2005
Contribution
Management with a very fine guest experience and a very fine sense of humour
Since 2005, Francesc was the first manager of chic&basic and has played a crucial role in the opening of Born and the Ramblas. With his attention to detail and ability to build lasting relationships, he has mastered the art of the perfect guest experience.
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Fran Calderon
Skill
The MacGyver everyone would like to have
Cargo
Head of maintenance chic&basic
Breakout year
2008
Contribution
Acuity, commitment and the ability to solve the unsolvable
Since 2008, Fran has been the man behind everything that works at chic&basic. With his ability to solve any problem, his ingenuity and sense of responsibility, he is essential to ensure that every hotel in the chain is always in perfect condition. Without him, nothing would be the same.
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Eva Martínez
Skill
Dreamworld maker chic&basic
Cargo
Interior designer
Breakout year
2005
Contribution
Breakthrough interior design
Eva has been designing chic&basic interiors since 2009, bringing a unique, dreamy touch to every space. Her ability to understand and convey the brand’s DNA in each project is key to creating ambiances that reflect the irreverent and playful essence of chic&basic.
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Javier Pérez Sala
Skill
Opportunities hunter
Cargo
Investor
Breakout year
2012
Contribution
Enhancing profitability
Since 2012, Javier has been the financial wizard at chic&basic, bringing that unique touch that turns assets into real profitable gems. With a keen eye for opportunities, his ability to increase profitability has been crucial to the expansion and success of chic&basic.
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Isabella Heseltine
Skill
Promoter of La Dolce Vita
Cargo
Founder Grupo Isabella's
Breakout year
2020
Contribution
Creating unique gourmet experiences at chic&basic
Since 2020, Isabella has brought the taste of La Dolce Vita to chic&basic. As the founder and soul of Grupo Isabella’s, her passion for gastronomy has created a partnership that delights the senses. Isabella has integrated Italian cuisine with the irreverence of chic&basic, making the gastronomic experiences VALENTINA'S in Oporto and CARMINA in Barcelona a celebration of life’s pleasures.
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Jorge Campreciós
Skill
Engineer Michelangelo
Cargo
Architect
Breakout year
2009
Contribution
Bringing deep wisdom to every architectural project
Since 2005, Jorge has contributed his architectural and technical knowledge to turn the boldest ideas of chic&basic into tangible realities. With his innovative vision and ability to blend art and technique, he has been the Michelangelo behind many of the brand’s most iconic spaces.
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Jorge Oliveira
Skill
The f***ing best in Portugal
Cargo
Hotel Manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2020
Contribution
Brainwashed management towards contagious positivism
Since 2020, Jorge has been the restless mind behind Gravity. With his proactive attitude and snake-charmer determination, he makes anything possible: Jorge has transformed Gravity into a benchmark. Always ready to contribute, he is the ideal persuader who turns ideas into tangible realities.
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Eugènia Arribas and Jacinto Sosa
Skill
F&B Rockstars
Cargo
Waiters chic&basic
Breakout year
2015
Contribution
Vocation for service beyond perfection
Since 2015 and 2022 respectively, Eugenia has been taking care of breakfast in VELVET, and Jacinto of the bar in Born. With a passion for service that permeates their every gesture, they make guests feel at home, bringing that warm and welcoming spirit that defines the chic&basic experience. This is what all our F&B teams are like!
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Laura López
Skill
Incredible team builder
Cargo
Hotel Manager chic&basic
Breakout year
2019
Contribution
Steering a clear course and rowing as one
Since 2019, Laura has been the director of The Moods Oasis and The Moods Catedral, bringing her personal touch to make the hotels run smoothly. With her comprehensive vision and ability to lead teams, she has managed to leverage processes and improve the well-being of all. Her approach always looks for solutions, making sure things are done flawlessly.
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Esther Sánchez and Vanessa Mayorga
Skill
Shine makers
Cargo
Room attendants chic&basic
Breakout year
2015
Contribution
Turning the ordinary into extraordinary
Since 2015, Esther and Vanessa have made sure that every corner of chic&basic VELVET is spotless. Their meticulous work in housekeeping is the foundation of the hotel’s flawless operations, and they do it with a dedication and heart that show in every detail. They are worthy representatives of all our housekeeping teams!
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Pep Cot
Skill
Number whisperer
Cargo
chic&basic Chief Financial Officer
Breakout year
2008
Contribution
Accuracy in financial management
Pep Cot was the pillar of precision at chic&basic, managing finances with a mastery worthy of a mathematical genius. Although he is no longer with us, his essence still permeates the brand's every financial decision. Pep was not only a human calculator, but also the number pi of chic&basic: a constant reference.
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Manuel Bertrand
Skill
Papacito
Cargo
chic&basic partner
Breakout year
2004
Contribution
The essence of the chic&basic spirit
Manuel Bertrand, source of inspiration and motivator, was the pillar on which Hugo Bertrand built his vision. His spirit remains the guardian angel that inspires every corner of chic&basic, representing the essence that makes the brand so much more than a place to stay: it is a place to live.
"We always knew that working and dealing with 'crazy' creatives would differentiate our brand."
Hugo Bertrand
Founder of chic&basic
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