New structure at SPACE and Hotel Designs

Following the news of Hotel Designs’ acquisition of SPACE and associated brands last year, 2026 brings with it an exciting transition for the team with changes to the structure of the editorial team.

We wave a fond farewell to Emma Kennedy on 30^th March as she embarks on ventures new and hands Editorship to Jess Miles, who takes on her new position from 1^st March.

Speaking about leaving the team, Emma Kennedy said: “Making the decision to leave something you love is never easy, and saying goodbye is even harder. Handing over the editorship of SPACE to Jess, who shares the same passion and commitment to delivering the very best, has made it so much easier. Exciting times lie ahead, and I’m looking forward to enjoying the magazine from the other side – as a reader rather than the editor.”

As she prepares to take the reins and lead the magazine forward, Jess Miles said: “After four years at SPACE as Deputy Editor, it feels like a real pinch-me moment to step into the role of Editor. The magazine and the design and hospitality community it serves have become a huge passion of mine, so I’m incredibly proud to lead SPACE into its next chapter – continuing to build on the conversations and connections it fosters across the industry.” She added: “While what comes next is undoubtably exciting, it goes without saying Emma’s departure is of course bittersweet. I’m so grateful for her generous support and mentorship over the years, and for everything she has brought to the title during her time as Editor.”

During the next few weeks, there will be a period of transition where Emma will hand over to Jess. Emma’s last issue of SPACE will be the March/April issue out on 20^th March.

As the brands devise a new editorial strategy, we also see Pauline Brettell step up from her role of Writer to Digital Editor from 1^st March.

Commenting on her new role, Pauline Brettell said: “It is an exciting time here at Hotel Designs and I am thrilled to step into the role of Digital Editor, where, in collaboration with SPACE we can continue to bring news and conversations that both reflect and shape the world of hotel design. This new energy and focus will drive through exciting new content and collaborations, and I am looking forward to seeing this reflected in what we deliver to our readers.”

Hotel Designs’ Editor Sophie Harper said: “Pauline is the backbone of Hotel Designs’ online presence, and this new title honours her hard work and devotion to keeping our audience informed and connected.”

Deputy Editor Meg Taylor will be leaving the editorial team on 19^th March to return to a career in events.

Sophie Harper commented on Meg’s leaving that: “It has been such a fun journey over the last couple of years with Meg by my side. She will be sorely missed, but we wish her all the success she deserves in her career moving forward.”

Katy Phillips said: “Pauline Brettell’s promotion to Digital Editor strengthens the brand’s ability to innovate, expand its digital presence, and deepen its connection with our global audience. Alongside her, Meg Taylor has played a vital role as Deputy Editor, and as she moves on to her next chapter, we’re deeply grateful for the creativity and commitment she has brought to the title.”

From June 2026, Hotel Designs and SPACE will have a new recruit joining the team full-time in Sienna Shipton, who will be supporting both brands as Assistant Editor – and in the meantime will be looking after social media for both.

Commenting on Sienna joining the team, Katy Phillips said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Sienna Shipton, who joins us initially across social media before stepping into the role of Assistant Editor in early summer. Her energy and creativity will add real momentum to both brands.”

Sophie Harper added: “Sienna is a rising star in the making, and I know she’s going to make an impression on our industry. I’m excited to see her career build with Hotel Designs and SPACE and am looking forward to seeing what the next generation has in store for us!”

Left to right: Jess Miles, Pauline Brettell, Sienna Shipton

The changes within the team reflect the direction both brands are moving in, with a focus on the brands remaining separate products, but with a more combined team leading both.

Katy Phillips, Publisher, Hotel Designs and SPACE said of the new structure: “This marks an exciting new chapter for our publishing portfolio. Hotel Designs continues to grow its influence as a leading voice in architecture, design, and hospitality, and at the same time, SPACE is entering a bold new phase, and Jess Miles’ promotion to Editor reflects her vision for the title and her commitment to elevating its storytelling, design intelligence, and industry relevance. We also want to acknowledge Emma Kennedy, whose leadership as Editor of SPACE has shaped the title’s identity and ambition. We wish her every success as she embarks on her next venture.”

“These editorial changes come at a pivotal moment as our bespoke events continue to grow in scale, ambition, and industry impact. Strengthening our editorial team ensures that Hotel Designs and SPACE not only lead the conversation across print and digital, but also bring even greater depth, insight, and authority to the experiences we curate for our communities.”

“Together, this evolving team positions our brands for an exciting future, one defined by stronger digital strategy, renewed editorial ambition, and the continued expansion of our market‑leading events.”

Sarah Beall, Managing Director, Forum Events & Media Group Ltd, said: “We are delighted to announce the strengthened editorial team at Hotel Designs and SPACE bringing together a powerful blend of experience, creativity, and forward‑thinking leadership.”

“Jess brings exceptional commercial awareness and an entrepreneurial flair that continues to elevate the brand. Her depth of knowledge and strategic insight make her an invaluable pillar of the team.”

“Pauline remains the backbone of Hotel Designs’ digital output. Her consistency, attention to detail, and deep understanding of our audience ensure the brand’s online presence remains strong, engaging, and meticulously crafted.”

“Sienna joins with remarkable drive and a genuine passion for learning the industry. Her enthusiasm and fresh perspective are already contributing to the energy and ambition behind our next phase of growth.”

“This dynamic team represents the future of Hotel Designs and SPACE, and we are truly excited to see the vision, expertise, and innovation they will bring to the brand.”