Top 5 stories of the week: London fire, summit success and first looks

Mandarin Oriental lobby
1024 624 Hamish Kilburn
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Here are our top 5 stories of the week…

1. Mandarin Kensington Fire: Hotel issues statement

fire at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel London

Image credit: Twitter @Watersun555

Not surprisingly, our top story of the week was the Mandarin Oriental London’s devastating fire. It happened on Wednesday afternoon, one week after completing “the most extensive restoration in its 115-year history.”

2. Hotel Designs celebrates record-breaking success at this year’s Hotel Summit 2018

Delegates and suppliers at Hotel Summit 2018

This year’s 20th anniversary of Hotel Summit becomes the most successful event to date in Hotel Designs history. You can read all about this year’s summit and what the delegates and suppliers thought via the link above.

3. First look: University Arms, Cambridge

Large suite wtih bookcase diver and bespoke furniture

Ahead of the opening of University Arms, Cambridge, we went behind the scenes to find out how the design concept developed between interior designer Martin Brudnizki and architect John Simpson.

4. Technology: Is Alexa welcome in the hotel industry?

In-room software

Image credit: Alice, info.aliceapp.com

This has been the most shared story of the week. In our technology feature this month, we’re discussing how tech, placed thoughtfully, can help create a relevant and modern in-room experience. With 73 per cent of travellers wanting in-room voice commands, should hotels offer Alexa in guestrooms? One company believes so.

5. designjunction announces new home for 2018

London Southbank

designjunction is set to transport to the cultural hub of London’s South Bank with a showcase of world-class design for the annual London Design Festival in September 2018.

 

Hamish Kilburn / 08.06.2018

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