When we think of the greatest minds to come from Slovenia, the name Peter Florjančič is undoubtedly at the top – and for good reason. A man of the future, an elegant dreamer with extraordinary creative power, he had the rare ability to spot opportunity in everyday things.
Born in 1919 in Bled, he showed early talent – first as a skier and musician – but soon his life took a turn toward invention, a path he followed into his late years. Over his lifetime, he patented over 400 inventions, including the first plastic perfume atomizer, the plastic zipper, the slide frame, a playing card in chewing gum, and even the concept for a foldable ski!
His inventive spirit thrived on adventure – he spent most of his life in the world’s capitals of innovation, glamour, and art, from Monte Carlo to Paris. Surrounded by the famous, he worked with leading global companies and amazed the world with his ability to combine beauty, practicality, and technological sophistication.
Yet despite his cosmopolitan lifestyle, he always returned – to Bled, the place where his dreams began. That’s why it is a special honour for Hotel Kompas to have been part of Peter Florjančič’s story.
In his later years, Peter set up an office in Hotel Kompas, where he created, welcomed guests, journalists and fellow innovators who came to learn from the master himself. For him, our hotel was not just an inspiration – it was his creative home. Here, ideas were born, plans were drawn, prototypes shaped, and stories shared about how imagination and courage can change the world.
Interestingly, his grandfather was a hotelier – owner of the famous Bled hotels Union and Triglav. The spirit of hospitality and innovation has clearly been passed down through generations in Bled.
In his memory, we have named one of our seminar rooms at Hotel Kompas the Peter Florjančič Room – a space of inspiration for new generations of creators, hosts, and thinkers. Throughout the hotel, you’ll also find his portraits, patents, and personal items, reminding visitors of his life philosophy – “Don’t give up. Invent!”
Peter taught us that innovation isn’t just about technology. It’s about having the courage to think differently, to dream big, and to see opportunity where others see none.
That’s why we don’t just preserve his name – we carry forward his energy, vision, and unstoppable curiosity.
We invite you to explore his story within our hotel and experience Bled through the eyes of a man who believed the world could be changed – with imagination, elegance, and a great idea.
