DoubleTree by Hilton is offering visitors to Dundee and Perthshire a glimpse of the majesty of Victorian Scotland with the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Dundee. In partnership with RedefineBDL, the former Landmark Hotel today completed its £1million refurbishment to become the upscale brand’s third Scottish property and its 21st across the UK.The hotel is set within the grounds of a converted private family residence whose original classical period design and intricate Latin inscriptions remain largely untouched. The listed building dates back to 1870, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the elegance of Victorian high society. Guests are free to explore the surrounding six acres of landscaped and maintained gardens complete with an ornate Italian style maze and fountain.
Each of the 92 guestrooms have received a thorough upgrade reflecting DoubleTree by Hilton’s upscale offering. The hotel features a new fully equipped health club complete with indoor swimming pool and offers free internet throughout the property. Fine dining is available on site through the AA rosette winning Maze Restaurant featuring innovative British cuisine. Housed in an eye catching glass house offering resplendent views of the horticultural gardens the venue provides a charming setting for weddings and functions. Guests can also enjoy casual dishes and drinks from The Lounge Bar.
A compelling range of meetings and events facilities are available including the purpose built Landmark Suite Conference Centre, with a capacity of 130. Whilst for functions requiring a more intimate setting The Greystanes Suite holds up to 30 guests in what was originally a private family chapel.
DoubleTree by Hilton has two further Scottish properties, with hotels operating in Dunblane, featuring Nick Nairn’s The Kailyard restaurant, and the thriving city of Aberdeen. The brand will also welcome its first hotel in Edinburgh later this year, once again in partnership with RedefineBDL.
Leading UK shower manufacturer, Roman, has launched a new Gloss finish option for their Roman Stone Solid Surface Shower Trays. The new finish is available now on their popular Infinity Shower Trays, as well as selected footprints from their Orbital Tray Range. The Roman Stone Tray Range was originally launched in a fashionable Matt finish, but following customer requests for a Gloss finish, the new option presents a different design perspective.
The Gloss finish is available on all Infinity Trays, which are designed to give a simulated wetroom look, with their ultra-low 40mm profile. The Infinity Trays can be installed straight down onto joists, so that when tiled up to, they are flush with the floor to achieve total level access. The waste is then disguised with a solid surface matching waste cover, for a seamless finish.
Roman’s Orbital Colossus Roman Stone Trays are also available with the option of the new Gloss finish. This is available on both the 1450mm Colossus Tray, as well as the full bath replacement 1700mm Colossus Shower Tray.
All Roman Stone Shower Trays are manufactured in Roman’s on-site solid surface manufacturing facility, in the North East of England, which has allowed Roman to quickly respond to customer requests and introduce the new finish options with ease.
The Trays are available as standard in a White finish, but different colour options and finishes are available for larger scale projects, to suit specific briefs, Pantones and specifications. The Infinity Tray range is available 5 different rectangular size options, as well as a 900 x 900mm quadrant shape.
David Osborne, Managing Director at Roman commented: “Our Roman Stone Trays have become a popular specification when creating an inclusive designer style showering space. In particular our Infinity Trays are continuing to really increase in popularity as customers, both end users and in the contract market, strive to create a wetroom inspired finish, but with a quick and easy installation. One of the frequent requests from customers was for a Gloss finish on these Trays, so we were happy to respond and add this in as standard option within our brochure.”
RHA make beautiful high quality restaurant furniture to any design specification.
A project for the Conrad Algarve hotel features custom made waiter stations, restaurant tables, banquette seating and shelving units, all skilfully crafted by RHA Furniture at their UK factory.
The impressive looking oval hostess station greets guests at the entrance of the hotel’s Louro restaurant. Designed by Kate Long of ReThink Interiors, the unit is made to a very high quality finish with walnut veneers and a laser cut pattern over leather across its curved front. Custom made waiter stations were produced for the hotel’s main restaurant and private dining rooms, also finished in walnut veneers with marble tops and a bespoke pattern across the doors.
The restaurant dining tables have laser cut stainless steel inlays set into the beautiful wooden tops.
Banquette seating across the restaurant was made to the same high standards, upholstered in Andrew Muirhead leather with deep buttoned inside backs and armrests.
Contact RHA Furniture for more information or to discuss custom made furniture for a project you are currently working on.
Global destination design firm WATG is pleased to announce that Mike Seyle, President and CEO, has accepted the Board of Directors’ request to extend his leadership term for another five years. WATG Chairman and Senior Vice President Dave Moore stated “Over the past five years, Mike has led us through a challenging period of change and we are now seeing the positive upside of this process in terms of company growth to double-digit profitability. We need him to continue what he started as we move into new territories and new client services”.As part of WATG’s expansion plans in the Middle East and Africa, Seyle will relocate with his family to London to be closer to these dynamic and growing markets. The London office was opened in 1991 and is one of WATG’s fastest growing operations. “We have ambitious growth plans for Africa and the Middle East, alongside our ongoing success stories in Asia, Turkey and Russia. Having the CEO sitting in London, close to these markets is simply common sense!” stated Muriel Muirden, Vice President of Strategy. Seyle added “We have important decisions to make to sustain our current growth trend. This relocation, will allow me to travel frequently to our emerging markets and to build important relationships in these regions”.
Geberit’s Sovent fitting, a space saving drainage and ventilation solution for high-rise buildings, has been installed for the first time in the UK at Birmingham’s 140 bedroom Premier Inn. Negating the need for a two stack drainage system, Sovent takes up less space in the service riser, while servicing bathrooms efficiently, quietly and without the risk of unpleasant smells.Installed by Sharpe Mechanical Services, Philip McMaster, from Sharpe, explains the benefits of Sovent: “The Sovent system reduces the requirements for a soil vent pipe throughout the full height of the building, taking up space in the congested service riser, solving a particular problem in tall buildings.”
About Sovent
The flow-optimised Sovent fitting enhances the pipe capacity several times over and dispenses with the need to install a parallel ventilation pipe in most instances.
Rapidly changing pressure situations in conventional discharge stacks above a certain length can lead to unwanted side effects. They could, for example, cause the floor pipes connected to the stack to be sucked dry by high negative pressure or be blown dry by overpressure. This is why the drainage systems of many high-rise buildings include very generously dimensioned discharge stacks and a parallel ventilation pipe that is connected with this stack at regular intervals.
Sovent prevents hydraulic closures in the discharge stack caused by floor connections, thus enhancing its flow capacity. At the same time, Sovent ensures a supply of air between branch discharge pipe and discharge stack, making it possible to dispense with parallel ventilation pipes. In addition, a partition prevents foam or splash water from getting into the branch discharge pipe.
Total hotel plumbing solutions
Installed along side Geberit Sovent is Geberit’s Silent-db20; a waste water pipe with built in sound insulation; ensuring peace and quiet for the hotel’s guests and Geberit Mapress, a press-fit pipe system for general plumbing. Geberit’s long lasting and environmentally sound HDPE delivers above-ground drainage.
The Premier Inn provides an example of where a number of Geberit’s solutions, specifically suited to jobs of this nature, have come together. Philip McMaster concluded: “All of Geberit’s products are of excellent quality, with a range of products to suit different plumbing and ventilation challenges.”
The LaGare Hotel Venezia hotel, MGallery Collection’s second address in Venice, boasts an exceptional location since it is the first hotel on the Island of Murano, which has been a renowned glassmaking centre for centuries.
The views from the windows of the establishment’s 118 rooms attest to its exceptional location: magnificent stretches of water can be glimpsed beyond the Grand Canal, while many of the island’s famous gardens and flowers add to the gentle charm of the setting. Art and design The hotel is located in an old glass factory dating back to the 14th century. After undergoing complete refurbishment, the building now features a subtle blend of art and design. Elegant furnishings are enhanced by Venini glass lighting fixtures, while the common areas feature a permanent exhibition of museum works and objects designed by Murano’s famous glass artist. Everything in the hotel reflects the splendour of this island, which is a rare jewel in Italy’s splendid heritage. The former glass-works’ façade has been preserved and the hotel walls subtly evoke the city’s architecture. The library features a selection of books for those who seek to learn more about the island’s prestigious craft. Of course, it goes without saying that the hotel’s Memorable Moment consists of a private guided tour of one of the neighbouring glass factories.
A heavyweight crew from Marriott last night formally launched the St. Ermin’s as the latest addition to the Autograph collection marketed by the company. Flanked by Tina Edmundson, the Global brand Officer for the non-brand that is Autograph, and John Licence responsible for Autograph Europe, Steve Eckley, the Senior VP of Amerimar who redeveloped the St Ermin’s reported a strong rise in room sales since the switch from Accor. Now some 25% of bookings now coming from Marriott Rewards clients.
My involvement with hotel design goes back nearly 40 years. In those days of the mid to late 20th Century a guest was fortunate if his expectation of an en-suite bathroom would be met by his hotel. Indeed such provision was known once upon a time as an ‘American Room’. When I founded my practice in 1982 for the next ten years our bread and butter work was converting hotels to have en-suite facilities. It is easy to lose sight of how guest expectations have risen, and the launch of Autograph by Marriott in late 2009 was a clear indicator that rising expectation of the nature of the hotel experience continues to dominate the thinking of regular travellers. Creating Autograph, said Marriott, gave “them the ability to capture a broad audience that would not have typically considered a branded concept – appealing to guests who want to stay in independent hotels”. No longer satisfied with what is now a minimum expectation at 2 star level of an en-suite bath or shower room, the seasoned guest is increasingly looking for an hotel experience that compliments travel experience. This rising expectation, first identified in the wealthy luxury end of the market by Anouska Hempel with Blakes in 1981 and followed by Schrager with Morgans in 1984, is causing many groups to look hard at how they can replicate the appeal of the ‘boutique’ hotels. IHG are flying their Indigo brand; Starwood, after failing to capitalise on the start given by Barry Sternlicht with the original ‘W’ still struggle to grow in this end of the market. Autograph represents a simple way for Marriott to leverage their brand strength and cement the loyalty of their Rewards clients whilst serving this demographic.
In essence the Autograph collection allows a good boutique to remain a good boutique whilst providing a brown paper wrapper that enables the use of Marriott’s great marketing muscle without the labels popping out at the guest everywhere in the hotel, or even, possibly, in the booking process. As definitions of luxury shift to the nature of the experience and the cohort with the money to enjoy the experience becomes older, then the rôle of the hotel in the experience changes. No longer is it sufficient for the hotel to provide a great place to sleep, it now has to perform the supporting rôle in the theatre of travel.
Each hotel in the Autograph collection is intended to be independent and unique, to have essentially a boutique type identity and not be clearly branded. To independent owners like Amerimar, owners of the St. Ermin’s, this is an attraction. Previously flirting with Accor, Steve Eckley of Amerimar confirmed the decision to move to Autograph had been driven at least in part by their desire to market into the strongly recovering US market rather than struggling to sell into a Europe still in the deep throes of the depression the Euro is reinforcing.
The evening was rounded off by a tasting from the suppliers of the hotel, including a display of the honey produced by the hotels own bees in their own rooftop hives. The hotel offers bee keeping classes from September…
Ian Schrager returns to London for the first time in 15 years since he introduced Sanderson and St. Martins Lane. His new project, The London EDITION, is the latest from EDITION Hotels, the brand he conceived in a partnership with Marriott International. EDITION Hotels combines the personal, intimate, individualised and unique hotel experience that Schrager is known for, with the global reach, operational expertise and scale of Marriott. This delicate balancing act encompasses not only great design and true innovation, but also personal, friendly, modern service as well as outstanding, one-of-a-kind food, beverage and entertainment offerings ‘all under one roof’. The heightened experience, authenticity and originality that Ian Schrager brings to this new brand coupled with the global reach of Marriott results in a truly distinct product that sets itself apart from anything else currently in the marketplace. As with all EDITION hotels, each one is a cultural epicentre and a microcosm of the best each city has to offer. Each is a portal into the essence of the city. The London EDITION preserves the finest aspects of the historic, landmark building—formerly the Berners Hotel—but reinvents the spaces within to create a dynamic fusion of old and new, past and present. This results in a look and feel that cannot be pigeonholed into a specific time period or look and is incapable of definition or categorisation.
The hotel is inspired by the grand traditions of Great Britain: the traditional, aristocratic English country manor and the quintessential London private gentleman’s club with a modern, edgy, urban feel. When these diametrically opposed aesthetics come together, they create an alchemy, a spark, that takes the hotel and the experience to an entirely new level. Although, these are two aesthetics that do not usually co-exist, the presence of one will serve to showcase the other. Behind the refined Georgian exterior and majestic public spaces, are a dance club, two bars, a 24-hour fitness facility and 173 secluded, intimate and luxurious wood panelled rooms and suites akin to cabins on a private yacht.
When Michelin starred chef Shaun Rankin, Chef Proprietor at newly opened restaurant Ormer in Jersey, commissioned renowned restaurant designer Martin Brudnizki, a vital element of his brief was that standards should never be compromised. It was with this in mind that Martin Brudnizki chose Dernier & Hamlyn to produce the high quality bespoke lighting that they manufactured in their London factory. The result is three fantastic chandeliers for Ormer that feature metalwork finished in antique brass, dressed with hand crafted triedri glass that spreads light from the chandeliers in a unique and beautiful way.Shaun Rankin comments: “I am so proud of Ormer; the restaurant is all I dreamed it would be from the mohair banquets, to the handcrafted furnishings and lighting, to the state of the art kitchen.”
Martin Brudnizki Design Studio adds: “Whenever we want the best quality bespoke lighting for our clients Dernier & Hamlyn is the natural choice. Their reputation is second to none and it is why we call on them again and again for some of our most prestigious projects.”
Great Hotels of the World is pleased to announce that its new member, International Hotel Casino & Tower Suites, recently reopened on 21 June 2013. The hotel has completed extensive renovations following a two-year development at a cost of €20 million.Situated in the heart of the Golden Sands Resort in Varna, Bulgaria, just 90 metres from the beach, the hotel has restructured its architectural design to give the property a more modern look with the help of renowned architect Pavel Ivanov. Ivanov has been involved in projects worldwide, including the Bayan Palace in Kuwait. The five-star luxury hotel has now increased its capacity by 150% to a total of 325 standard and superior rooms, as well as luxury suites and a presidential apartment.
International Hotel Casino & Tower Suites will also now offer an I-SPA Centre, complete with an indoor pool, steam bath, Turkish bath, infrared sauna, Finnish sauna, hydro-massage room, fitness centre, beauty salon with a hairdresser and various spa treatments for its guests. In addition, the hotel has created a unique ‘Skyfall Zone’ which includes an infinity-edge rooftop swimming pool and terrace as well as the hotel’s new High Limit Restaurant and 21 Bar. Guests will also now enjoy the hotel’s Steak House á la carte restaurant, ‘Le Café’ lobby bar and International buffet restaurant, offering breakfast and dinner, with a special kids’ buffet section. A kids’ club and care service will also be available.
Outstanding meeting and conference facilities have been implemented, including a flexible and dynamic exhibition space in the conference lobby, a multifunctional ballroom with capacity for up to 600 in theatre style and seven additional meeting rooms which will be completed in the autumn. An amphitheatre with 450 seats and an impressive stage will also be available for events from April 2014.
The hotel’s casino has also undergone major refurbishment and expansion, making it the biggest live-game casino in Bulgaria, with a brand new design and 24-hour operation. The new International Poker Club will host regular daily tournaments, cash game tables and major poker events, such as the Eureka Poker Tour and Unibet Open. A shopping centre and a special ‘I Club’ package, for its most exclusive hotel services and benefits (including designated areas at the restaurant and pool area) complete the hotel’s facilities and services.
General Manager of International Hotel Casino & Tower Suites, Vladimir Filipov comments: “We have been planning and performing the major reconstruction of International Hotel Casino & Tower Suites for the past few years, to be able to call it the ultimate five-star casino hotel with a beach resort location in Europe. Now it is completed and, not only will it bring our already well-established product to a whole new level, but it will also help establish Golden Sands Resort as a high-quality, all-season destination.”
There are dangers in going down the boutique route I am reminded. Let’s be clear – a boutique essentially differentiates itself with design, frequently bespoke. David Balmer of Crosswater Holdings has many years of experience of contract supply of bathroom fittings. He raises an issue related to the specification of bespoke in relation to bathroom fittings which is worth considering in relation to other areas of the hotel. Crosswater can do most things to a special finish but special finishes carry with them some additional responsibilities for the designer. The need for support stock for lifetime repair and replacement needs to be discussed with the Client.It is commonplace when creating bespoke carpets for an hotel, for example, to have extra carpet woven and labelled as ‘attic stock’ so that when a specialist bespoke pattern is woven spare for repair and replacement can be stored – literally in the attic in some cases. It is cheaper to add to an existing production run than tool up to weave a small amount over again.
David Balmer has noticed an increase in designers wanting specialist finishes for bathroom fittings, variations on the classical chrome and white combination that has gone so well with various stone finishes over the years. With the increase in the use of colour in bathrooms, the inclusion of digitally printed areas such as those in the bathrooms at Accor’s ‘M’ Gallery in Bath, there has been an increased demand for a variety of finishes such as brushed nickel, brushed stainless steel, black and gold, gunmetal, bronze etc.. Whilst laser etching an hotel logo on taps etc. can be achieved easily, changing overall finish has risks for both operator and designer.
Poised on the doorstep of one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological heritage sites, Myanmar’s newest boutique resort Bagan Lodge has targeted Aug. 1 for its soft debut in the ancient Buddhist capital.With stylized tenting and furnishings that evoke the Golden Age of Travel, Bagan Lodge’s 85 rooms and suites skirt the boundary of the shrine-studded plains of the Bagan Archaeological Zone. More than two thousand historic temples and ruins rise from the landscape east of the resort, many dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries at the height of the Kingdom of Bagan.
Conceptualized by noted French designer Brigitte Dumont de Chassart, the interiors and grounds of Bagan Lodge are a melding of traditional Burmese design, colonial-era trappings and contemporary decor. Three classes of accommodation range in size from 50-square-metre deluxe rooms to the 196-square-metre Queen Victoria Suite, which includes four bedrooms, a living room and private garden.
As part of its soft opening, Bagan Lodge will also be cutting the ribbon on its open-air restaurant, Tiffin Box, as well as a spa with eight private treatment rooms, and a 20 x 9-metre swimming pool.
A full-service travel desk will cater to modern-day explorers staying at the resort. Private temple dinners, pagoda tours and fishing excursions on the Irrawaddy are among the activities on offer.
“Of all of the country’s many cultural attractions, Bagan stands out as the ultimate Myanmar experience,” said Shane McKirdy, the resort’s general manager. “This was and is a place so fantastic, it exudes an almost mythical appeal.”
Of more than 10,000 tiered brick temples originally constructed, about 2,200 remain standing within the 46-square-kilometre Bagan Archaeological Zone – the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist monuments anywhere in the world.
Situated 300 kilometres southwest of Mandalay, Bagan Lodge is operated by Apple Tree Asia, a hospitality group that owns and manages a collection of boutique properties in some of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing destinations. Earlier this year Apple Tree appointed Australian-native Shane McKirdy as the Lodge’s first general manager.
A grand opening of the four-star resort is scheduled for later in the year.
One of the world’s coolest hotel pools* just got cooler as guests “Slide into Summer” with the highly anticipated completion of the multifaceted overhaul to the iconic Falls Pool Oasis at Orlando World Center Marriott. Sparing no expense to both thrill and chill, guests plunge into an entirely new experience with enticing enrichments inclusive of a new Icon Slide Tower featuring two, 200-foot winding waterslides and one, 90-foot speed waterslide — among the tallest and fastest resort slides in Florida — in addition to a Splash Zone offering kids a zero entry pool and playground, as well as a Kid’s Activity Zone and Poolside Bar and Grill.Splash ZoneOrlando World Center Marriott will officially celebrate the multi-million dollar renovation completion July 18-21, inviting summer travelers to come make a splash among sun-seekers. With a wide array of on property events and activities, including everything from live poolside music and entertainment, to a luau, golf clinics and yoga on the lawn, as well as culinary events like “Taste of Our World,” cooking classes and an exclusive Wine dinner – there is something to suit every lifestyle and interest.
Towering above more than 200 prime, Central Florida acres, the Four-Diamond Orlando World Center offers everything a guest could possibly want. Having recently undergone an extensive multi-million dollar transformation, the resort now features everything on-premise from the iconic Falls Pool to a championship golf course, Bill Madonna Golf Academy at Hawk’s Landing Golf Club, a full service spa and fitness center, as well as 10 taste-tempting restaurants and lounges, including a food court for guests on-the-go. In this magnificent locale with year ‘round average temperatures sitting at 78º, the 2000-room resort is located only 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World® and just minutes from SeaWorld® Orlando, Discovery Cove®, Aquatica™ and Universal Studios® Orlando.
RPW Design has completed the re-design of the A Bar, a chic new cocktail bar in the InterContinental Amstel, Amsterdam.
It may seem as though Amsterdam is constantly adding to its collection of luxury and designer hotels, yet the InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam remains the city’s Grande Dame, enjoying high status and a degree of respect among her peers.Now the grand old lady can boast a new destination bar to attract a younger crowd without alienating the very loyal following that only the best of the best hotels enjoy.
The A Bar opened last month and has set the standard for an on-going programme of works intended to bring the InterContinental Amstel bang up-to-date, so that it can reclaim its position as one of the foremost destinations in Amsterdam.
As well as walking the tightrope between appealing to a younger audience whilst retaining its traditional customer base, Jan Wilson of RPW Design acknowledges that one of her biggest challenges was the A Bar’s limited back-of-house space, and its connections to the rest of the building.
“The bar opens onto a hotel corridor and is located to the rear of the hotel, next to the terrace” she explains. “It also has an extremely high ceiling for a relatively narrow room.”
Part of her strategy to overcome these challenges was the introduction of a striking light installation, comprising eight individual light fittings created from hand-blown glass. After tendering, these were manufactured to Jan’s specification by a supplier based in Austria. The fittings turned out to be one of the most challenging areas of the design. As Jan explains:
“The Dutch are particularly prescriptive about the use of low energy lighting. The result was a lot of prototypes to make sure that the fittings not only looked good as a sculptural element, but also worked to provide some light to conform to the statutory requirements.”
The smoky blue of the light fittings is reflected in the colour of the leather used for the bespoke chairs, adding to the ‘contemporary lux’ feel of the A Bar. Quality craftsmanship and materials are used throughout, from the bronze chain mail curtains and solid timber broad plank floors, to the polished gold finish back bar and feature shelving units.
RPW always makes considerable efforts to commission and procure artwork that gives each of its design projects a special signature, unique to its location. The A Bar in the InterContinental Amstel features a key image over the back bar by the world renown photographer Hendrik Kerstens as well as other artworks that reflect the local contemporary art scene.
Beyond its emphasis on comfort and luxury, the interiors of the A Bar bear little resemblance to its hotel ‘host’. “This was meant to be a new direction for the Amstel. Therefore we retained the values of the existing interiors but took the design in a completely new direction”, says Jan.
Yesterday (12th July), Patrick and I attended the Coronation Festival in the grounds of Buckingham Palace as guests of Brintons. The event was rather like a large trade show featuring a number of companies that have supplied products or services on a regular basis to the Royal households of The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh or The Prince of Wales. Companies interested in becoming a Royal Warrant Holder can apply to do so if they have been supplying the Royal Household for no less than five years. There are around 800 companies that currently hold this prestigious title including Bentley, Jaguar and GlaxoSmithKline.
It was also nice to see some familiar faces at the event with stands from Brintons, Sanderson (their Directory page is coming soon) and Hypnos. Although we didn’t manage to spent a lot of time on their stands, they looked incredibly busy and I hope it has been a successful event for them.
The majority of our time was spent on the Brintons stand where Patrick has been captured on camera for an interview with the MD. Patrick will be writing his own article on this as I was out of earshot to hear what was said.
Overall, a lovely day with glorious weather and a once in a lifetime experience!
Maisons & Hotels Sibuet, one of France’s most innovative hotel groups, opens Domaine de la Baume on Friday 5th July 2013, in Tourtour, Provence – a 12th Century hilltop village, recognised as one of the most beautiful in France. The Domaine will be the ninth opening for Maisons & Hotels Sibuet, and follows the successful launch of the ‘ski palace’ Altapura in Val Thorens in December 2011.Set in 99 acres, the Domaine is the former residence of French Expressionist painter,Bernard Buffet. Providing a tremendous source of inspiration for his later works, the Domaine includes 10 individually designed rooms and suites, each named after his most famous artworks, from Tournesol et Melon created in 1955, to L’Abeille in 1967. The signature Annabel Suite has been created in honour of Buffet’s wife and includes a private terrace, with views over Provence.
Beautiful French grounds surround the property, and include picturesque rivers and waterfalls, an orangery, vegetable garden with beehives, and an olive grove where Provencal-infused house oil is produced. The terrace restaurant and bar will serve the finest seasonal French cuisine; while the vaulted wine cellar will stock a wide variety of French wines, including those produced at Sibuet’s vineyard, Domaine de Marie in nearby Menerbes. A private chapel is also available for exclusive weddings, and a heliport is located within the grounds.
Design throughout the Domaine is bright yet warm, with a colourful reinterpretation of 18th century style. The ochre façade blends with sky blue shutters, while inside, warm colours range from emerald green and deep blue, to pale orange and dusky pink. Cabriolet and Bergère armchairs are interspersed with delicate antique furniture, all personally selected by the Sibuet family.
Tourtour – the picturesque village in which Bernard Buffet spent the last 20 years of his life – is set between the Verdon Gorges and the French Riviera, and is just over an hour from both Marseille and Nice, or 40 minutes from Avignon. The vibrant and charming village sits at 635 metres, with dramatic views over the surrounding Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. The medieval castle, old watermill and eight fountains remain the focal points of the village, which has managed to preserve its traditional, rural lifestyle. The village also includes two bronze sculptures by Bernard Buffet, donated by his wife after his death in 1999.
As a starting point for my Review of the Hotel Indigo in Liverpool I took the brand statements made by InterContinental when they launched this, their ‘boutique’ brand. Now their brand statement says ” an exciting option for hotel development, with its fresh vision and flexible design that fit many project types. No two Hotel Indigo properties are exactly alike. What remains consistent among properties is the design principle and innovative program that provides a basis for all design idea”
Each hotel is designed as a boutique. The process of briefing the designers to produce interiors with flair and colour is obviously tight, and thematic is the use of digital artwork to link the properties to their locales along with strong use of near primary colour.
Although this hotel is sold as London Kensington it is about 150 yards from Earls Court Tube station in Barkstone Gardens. This is an area known as ‘Kangaroo Valley’ because of the large number of Australian ex-pats populating the area. Kensington has more snob value than Earls Court though, and Intercontinental have bought one of those odd ‘Lord of the Manor’ titles that can be purchased and made the manager ‘Lord’ Vincent Garrington Hope and the Director of sales ‘Lady’ Laura Swan (no doubt impresses the ex-colonials). This pretension is reinforced by clichéd touches such as making the lampshades over the bar out of bowler hats.
Named after Apollon, the ancient God of light and the sun, The Royal Apollonia in Limassol, Cyprus has opened its doors after a complete and truly majestic renovation that led to the rebirth of Limassol’s very first 5-star hotel.Located in the heart of Limassol’s buzzing tourist area and with its very own secluded sandy beach, The Royal Apollonia is Limassol’s most centrally located five-star hotel offering an oasis of relaxation and a truly divine hospitality for unforgettable holidays. It now features totally revamped, bright and welcoming public areas with chic fixtures, earthy colours and unobstructed views to the Mediterranean’s endless blue.
All its 204 rooms have been rebuilt and redesigned to offer luxury, comfort and all the amenities expected from Limassol’s most recently renovated five-star property. Specially designed deluxe rooms now feature an extended balcony with a Jacuzzi for the ultimate experience in relaxation al fresco and with breathtaking views. Its junior suites and suites provide for a spacious and luxurious hospitality with an elegant touch. “Cos’ Altro” which translates to something else and unique, is the name of the brand new Italian restaurant which along with the refurbished Akakiko Japanese and Asian restaurant, the totally refreshed main restaurant and the much loved “Thalassaki” al fresco buffet, raise the number of restaurants at The Royal Apollonia to four. The pool’s design resembles the infinity sign, quite fitting really for its 523 square meters and now features a bar for cooling drinks while in the water. A totally new children’s pool with small water slides and fun in the water elevates The Royal Apollonia to an ideal five-star hotel for families as well. The addition of a high level Spa Centre, an impeccable service and a sumptuous cuisine complete the unique experience that The Royal Apollonia provides, thus justifying its ancient and divine name and the renowned Cypriot “Filoxenia” which translates to befriending ones’ guests!
Chelsom continues to build on a successful 2012 by increasing sales almost 20% YOY and starting the second half with a near record high order bookDespite a continuing worldwide recession, Chelsom have exceeded expectations in the first half of the year, seeing sales grow by almost 20% as against 2012 figures. Chelsom attribute this success not only to the design, value and quality for which they are renowned, but also to their fundamental understanding of the global contract lighting market in terms of function, technology, local regulations and logistics. Chelsom Hong Kong Ltd has helped maintain their competitive edge by enabling international customers to opt for direct shipment from China to the final project destination, thereby reducing lead times and freight costs. Export sales now generate around 30% of company sales, with figures for the first half of 2013 already surpassing total export sales for 2012.
As part of an export expansion programme, Chelsom have bolstered their international sales team and enjoyed success participating in overseas exhibitions including Cruise Shipping Miami and Hospitality Design Expo, Las Vegas.
Custom designed product has also seen massive growth for Chelsom this year. The design wishes of worldwide clients, from spectacular one-off chandeliers to high volume budget guestroom lighting, now account for 30% of the company’s sales and Chelsom take pride in being able to turn such designs into successful reality.
Managing Director, Robert Chelsom, says: “All the hard work put in by the whole Chelsom team has produced a remarkable start to the year. I am more pleased however that we move into the second half with a near record order book and we look forward to completing a number of high profile projects including The Mondrian London Hotel at the iconic Sea Containers House building, Chancery Court in London, Marriott Riyadh, Flame Towers Baku, the restoration of all period lighting at Manchester Town Hall and many more. In the meantime we are working hard on finalising designs for the 2014/2015 collection which will once again reinforce Chelsom’s position at the forefront of hospitality and cruise decorative lighting”.
The chic yet convivial atmosphere on board three of the world’s most prestigious cruising yachts has been enhanced by sumptuous upholstered furniture manufactured by Yorkshire-based Design at Knightsbridge. Windstar Cruises’ Wind Spirit, Wind Star and flagship vessel Wind Surf have now set sail for destinations around the world following a complete interior re-fit which has embraced all public areas, restaurants and bars in addition to cabins and staterooms. Products from the Design at Knightsbridge seating portfolio were specified for the lounge areas of all three ships by Alan McVitty, Creative Director of Chelsea Harbour’s McVitty Interior Consultants, working in partnership with Southampton-based marine interior specialists Trimline Interiors. Now presenting a blend of elegance and sophistication, the renovated lounges feature fresh palettes and enticing textures, with the gleam of new polished flooring echoed in the lustrous exposed woodwork of the chairs and sofas.
Accomplished in two phases over 12 months, the re-fit effected a total transformation of the vessel interiors. ‘We’re all very proud of what has been achieved,’ says Mike Oliver, Director of Trimline Interiors.
Design at Knightsbridge were asked to supply nearly 200 chairs to the fleet, with the order including examples of Monaco – a fresh interpretation of the classic upholstered armchair – and shapely Panama upright armchairs. These timeless, traditionally-styled models mingle perfectly with the more contemporary profiles of the Millie and Maddie easy club chairs and Mondrian armchairs, all from exclusive collections created for the company by design consultant James A Wright.
The Design at Knightsbridge seating installed on board Wind Surf, Wind Spirit and Wind Star was manufactured at the Knightsbridge Furniture factory in Bradford using timber from renewable sources. The company also displays its commitment to sustainability through FSC, PEFC and FISP certification, ISO 14001:2004 accreditation for its environmental management system and BS EN ISO 9001:2008 quality management accreditation.
A dedicated sales division and supporting website are the global gateway to all Design at Knightsbridge collections of seating, tables and occasional furniture for the hospitality and corporate sectors. To view the full portfolio, visit www.design-at-knightsbridge.co.uk
Marriott International, Inc. has recently announced that the 298-room Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel has joined its portfolio of more than 3,800 properties worldwide as of 1st July 2013 under a franchise agreement with WB AMBASSADOR SAS. Located in the heart of the city, the historic property will become the most recent addition to Marriott International’s signature global brand, Marriott Hotels, and represents the company’s 12th property in Paris.Located on the right bank of the River Seine in the 9th Arrondissement and Opera Quarter, the Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the city’s major attractions including the Opera House, Montmartre, Sacre Coeur, Le Louvre, Place Vendome, Jardins des Tuileries and Galleries Lafayette with world class shopping and boutiques. Also in close proximity to the business district, Paris Stock Exchange and numerous shops and restaurants, the hotel is the perfect base for business and leisure travellers.
Originally built in 1927, the hotel was the vision of the influential architect Baron Haussmann who was commissioned to reshape Paris’ streets and architecture. The property has an illustrious past as host to royalty, politicians and visiting heads of state along with important historical figures such as Charles Lindbergh and Gustave Eiffel. The hotel famously hosted Charles Lindbergh’s celebrations as he historically completed the first solo flight across the Atlantic and named the hotel bar in his honour.
Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel 2The Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel’s 298 guestrooms are stylish and thoughtfully designed with clean lines and a soothing colour palette. Guests will be able to enjoy the chic Bar Lindbergh and gourmet restaurant, 16 Haussmann, serving exquisite French cuisine. Leisure facilities include a fitness centre and executive lounge with city views. The hotel’s 9 meeting rooms and 630 square metres of meeting space will accommodate all manner of meetings and events. In 2014, the lobby will be remodeled to seamlessly accommodate work and play, reflecting the changing behaviour of the next generation traveller.
Oriental Weavers has named Nicki Rayburn as its new director of marketing. Rayburn will be responsible for creating a new marketing direction and developing global initiatives to elevate the company’s area rug and hospitality brands. Rayburn brings over 13 years of marketing experience to OW, most recently with Mohawk, where she served as director of public relations for the Mohawk, Karastan and Durkan brands. While at Mohawk, Rayburn was responsible for strategic direction and implementation of public relations, trade advertising, point-of-sale efforts and other marketing functions. Prior to her time at Mohawk, she served as brand manager of PetSafe in Knoxville, Tennessee and began her career in an Atlanta-based advertising agency.
“We are truly excited to have Nicki on board as part of our team and look forward to our customers and clients benefitting from her talents and fresh approach to our company’s marketing efforts,” said Mike Riley, President of Oriental Weavers.
Rayburn will be based out of the Dalton, Georgia corporate headquarters.
With dates just announced for the next round of free training sessions focusing on its range of piping systems for supply and drainage, Geberit is urging installers to book now in order to avoid disappointment. The piping solutions training module covers everything installers need to know about Geberit’s market-leading press-fitting systems, Geberit Mapress and Geberit Mepla installation. Attendees will get hands-on experience of working with this pipework and gain first-hand knowledge of just how easy these supply systems are to install.
Following an introduction to the product, installers will be taken through the process of fitting a Geberit press-fitting system, from cutting and deburring to bending and pressing, giving them the confidence and know-how they need to hit the ground running with the products when working on site.
The training session will also see installers receiving hands on training with Geberit HDPE drainage pipework, as they get to know the welding techniques, including Butt welding and Electro welding.
Held at the company’s purpose-built training academy in Warwick, the piping training dates now confirmed for autumn 2013 are:
Monday 23 September Wednesday 25 September Wednesday 27 November
All training is completely free of charge, with lunch and refreshments provided. To book your place email training.gb@geberit.com or call 01926 516835.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has said the company will open 20 new hotels in China in 2013. Having doubled its footprint here in the last three years, Starwood has 120 hotels open and more than 100 in the pipeline, making China the company’s second largest hotel market behind only the United States, and its fastest growing. Starwood President and CEO Frits van Paasschen who is in China this week participating in the Fortune Global Forum in Chengdu said the company will open one new hotel every 20 days here and that 70 percent of its pipeline of new hotels under construction and in development are in second and third tier cities. “We continue to view China as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our business,” said van Paasschen. “Whether it’s growing our hotel footprint as part of the country’s massive infrastructure development, or aggressively building our loyalty program in the world’s fastest growing domestic and outbound travel market, we are focused on taking every advantage of our important first-mover position in China.”
Early Foothold in China Continues to Pay Off; Starwood Poised to Double Luxury Portfolio Starwood’s presence in China dates back to 1985 when the Sheraton Great Wall Beijing debuted as the first international hotel in the People’s Republic of China. Today Starwood is the largest high-end hotel operator in China with more hotels here than competitors Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt combined. In 2012 Starwood opened 25 hotels and signed 36 new hotel deals – a record number of openings and deals.
With over 170 cities with population over 1 million, the runway to grow in China continues to be long. Adding to Starwood’s long established presence in China’s major cities, the company is focused on expansion in second and third tier cities. Starwood’s upper upscale Sheraton, Westin and Le Meridien brands continue to be sought after for new central business districts and government administrative centers in second tier cities. Starwood’s Four Points by Sheraton and Aloft brands fit well in newly developed high-tech, industry and university parks as well as near high speed railway stations and cities in early stages of urbanization, in addition to ongoing expansion in established markets.
Demand for luxury hotels throughout China continues to grow and over the next few years Starwood will double its luxury footprint here. W Hotels, which just opened the W Guangzhou earlier this year, will open new flagships in Beijing and Shanghai as well as hotels in, Suzhou, Changsha and Chengdu. St. Regis, Starwood’s ultra-luxury brand, will build on its well established presence in China in markets including Beijing, Shenzhen and Sanya with new hotels in Changsha, Chengdu, Lijiang, Qingshui Bay, Zhuhai and Nanjing while Starwood’s Luxury Collection will expand in Dalian, Hangzhou, Nanning, Xiamen, Nanjing and Suzhou.
China is Starwood’s Second Largest and Fastest Growing Traveler Market According to the UN World Travel Organization (UNWTO), China is now the world’s number one tourism source market in terms of spending, surpassing Germany and the United States. In 2012, China’s expenditure on travel abroad reached US$102 billion. China is now Starwood’s second largest source of travelers behind only North America and in 2012 outbound Chinese travel to its hotels grew by 20%. Already the largest feeder market to Starwood hotels in Asia, China is by far the company’s fastest growing travel market. According to van Paasschen, accelerated Chinese outbound travel is impacting business around the globe, and last year 95% of Starwood’s hotels across nearly 100 countries welcomed guests from Greater China.
Just as important as opening new hotels, Starwood is focused on cultivating loyalty among China’s new mega travelers. Since 2010, the company has doubled its base of active travelers in Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), the company’s loyalty program. Growth in SPG’s base of travelers continues to grow at a rapid pace, and today, SPG enrolls a new member every 20 seconds in China, and elite gold and platinum members who stay 25+ nights a year are up 53% over last year. Globally, 50% of Starwood’s guests are SPG members, and in China, 55% of rooms are filled through SPG.
Starwood Opening New Resorts in China to Cater to Affluent Local Market Chinese domestic travel also continues to rise. Starwood’s hotels in China are no longer just outposts for Western travelers, and today 50% of guests at hotels here are Chinese. More and more, Starwood and its owner partners are developing hotels in China with the domestic traveler in mind, including new resort product to meet the demands of an increasingly affluent local market with the means and desire to travel. Starwood will soon have more resorts in Hainan Islands (often referred to as China’s Hawaii,) than it does in Hawaii. Likewise the company has opened new ski resorts in China such as the Westin and Sheraton resorts in Changbaishan and also urban retreats including the Sheraton Huzhou and the nearly 4,000-room Sheraton Macao, Starwood’s largest hotel anywhere in the world.
New Hotels Driving Demand for Talent — Starwood To Fill 10,000 New Positions a Year in China Over the next five years Starwood will more than double its number of associates in China with 10,000 new hires each year. Starwood’s long presence in China and proven career track coupled with sophisticated recruiting efforts are helping the company attract top talent. Because of its long tenure and well established teams in China, Starwood boasts a deep bench here, and Starwood’s two most senior leaders in Asia Pacific, Stephen Ho, President of Asia Pacific and Qian Jin, President of China, both joined the company in the 1980s and rose through the ranks to their current positions. Within Starwood’s hotels in China, one third of its General Managers and 79% of its hotel senior Executive Committee leaders are Chinese.
Derry Guildhall has recently reopened following a multi-million pound refurbishment project, which included bespoke lighting specialist Dernier & Hamlyn removing the chandeliers from the Great Hall to its factory for extensive restoration work. This complex project required Dernier & Hamlyn to: • Produce new patterns and moulds to enable missing components to be manufactured • Produce custom made new glass shades • Refinish metalwork by hand in bronze • Add additional lights to some of the main chandeliers • Fit energy efficient lamps
Bronagh Lynch at architects Consarc Design Group who was project director for the Derry Guildhall refurbishment comments: “We have worked with Dernier & Hamlyn before at projects including Belfast City Hall and Ulster Hall. We knew that they would be capable of the high quality, painstaking work that was required at the Guildhall and, as ever, they delivered exactly what we needed.”
Norman McKnight, NMK Engineering, Dernier & Hamlyn’s agent in Ireland said: “We had to ensure that restoring the beauty of the lighting in the Great Hall was combined with updating the lamps to reduce energy consumption. In partnership with Dernier & Hamlyn we were able to meet both objectives to the immense satisfaction of the project director and the client Derry City Council.”
The lighting project was part of the wider £9.5million restoration of Derry’s Guildhall, in which contractors carried out essential maintenance and restoration both to the external and internal structure of the building. The work was funded by Derry City Council, and partners Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), Department for Social Development (DSD) and Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA).
The Harry, Fortuny and Vanity (shown in the image to the right) are elegant occasional tables by Gino Carollo, available in two sizes and made of painted steel.Other tables are available from The Contract Chair Company, some of which are included on this page.
We also supply a wide choice of furniture for all areas of a hotel, particularly lounges, dining rooms, bars, bedrooms and reception areas.
Yuu-tluth-aht First Nation proudly announces the WyaPoint Resort, currently offering luxurious lodge accommodation, rustic eco yurts and a family-friendly campground in the lush coastal rainforest of Vancouver Island’s west coast. The resort is the culmination of a long-time dream of the community, providing employment and a way to share their pride in their culture with the world.Wya Point Resort is an impressive and beautiful addition to Ucluelet, the ancestral home of the Yuu-tluth-aht people and a world-class destination on the edge of an island rich with ancient history and vibrant energy. The internationally renowned region attracts visitors year-round with its storm watching, surfing, kayaking, hiking and fishing, as well as the captivating wildlife (whales, eagles, bears and rainforest creatures) that call the area home. Just steps from Ucluelet’s resorts and B&Bs are spectacular beaches and clifftop trails, which meander through the rainforest and feature panoramic views of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands.
With its broad range of accommodation and amenities—including the Wya Welcome Centre, Surf Shop, Wya Point Campground, Yurts and the Lodges at Wya Point—Wya Point Resort draws every type of traveler. Nestled in the coastal forest, a few kilometres outside Ucluelet and within minutes of world-famous Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Wya Point Campground is an ideal retreat for families and individuals who want a relaxing break by the sea. With direct access to the private beaches within the Ucluth Eco Resort, the Wya Point Yurts have full amenities including summer kitchens, barbecues, fireplaces, wrap-around cedar decks, oceanfront beach access and cedar lounge chairs. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, the Lodges at Wya Point offer deluxe accommodation in self contained, architect-designed lodges complete with fireplaces, modern kitchens, spectacular ocean views and walk-on beach access at Ucluth Beach.
With secluded sandy coves, clear water and hidden rock pools, the beaches at Wya Point provide endless recreational fun. Ideal for a romantic retreat or family getaway, Wya Point Resort offers a peaceful sanctuary for all travelers. Developed by the Yuu-tluth-aht First Nation, Wya Point Resort is located on an old village site, tucked into the trees on an exclusive beach. Future plans for the resort include a 70-room boutique hotel, a restaurant, spa and 800-seat convention centre within the 600 acre property.
“Being the first to sign the Maa-nulth Treaty has helped the Ucluth First Nations invest in new business enterprises and partnerships which will not only ensure independence, economic stability and growth for generations to come, but will also help us reach out and share our cultural heritage to the many visitors arriving here from around the world,” says Tyson Touchie, Ucluelet First Nation’s Manager of Economic Development. “We are thrilled to showcase what has been our summer home for thousands of years as the new Wya Point Resort, and to celebrate our new emerging history.”
The Yuu-tluth-aht cultural connection to the land means that sustainability is the guiding principle for all aspects of the Wya Point development. Architect Scott Kemp has designed all the buildings to LEED Platinum standards, incorporating local materials and resources, including locally harvested FSC certified wood. Rainwater collection and domestic water are provided from the nearby lake and the resort will use the marsh’s natural cleansing properties to treat grey water.
Along with quiet, simple luxurious beach front accommodation, Wya Point Resort offers the following services available by request: in-room massage, catered meals, gift baskets, romance and elopement packages, extensive natural trail network into the National Park, stand up paddle board rentals and lessons, individual and or group surf lessons and rentals.
Besselink & Jones are pleased to introduce these two hand painted lamp designs suitable for the contract market.T3-033 small square tea caddy, hand painted Jumbo Crusoe. Wired with gold flex silk Lampshade: Empire shape in gathered honan silk.
Oranges and Lemons, hand painted card lampshades in a wide range of sizes, colours and designs. Lampshade: Empire shape.
For further details on any of Besselink & Jones’ products, please contact them directly on 0207 351 4669 or via their website www.besselink.com
Integrated property services and project delivery specialist Styles&Wood has completed a £2.6 million (AED 14.8 million) refurbishment contract at Dubai’s newest hotel development, on behalf of JA Resorts and Hotels. The 35,000 sq. ft. project included a comprehensive programme of works to convert a former residential tower into the four-star Ocean View Hotel. The scheme was delivered by the Altrincham-headquartered company’s JV with Dutco Transport Company, DutcoStyles&Wood (DS&W).
The scope of the contract included demolition, strip-out and alteration work, mechanical, electrical and power service installation and a comprehensive refurbishment across six floors, featuring a an external terrace, gyms, conference suites and bars, shops and management offices.
The 338-room Ocean View Hotel is the latest addition to the city’s Jumeirah Beach Residence, a 1.7km beach-front development featuring 40 high-rise towers. The scheme is the only four-star beachfront hotel in Dubai, and overlooks the Arabian Gulf and The Palm Jumeirah.
Warren Gemlik, General Manager, from DutcoStyles&Wood, said: “This was a prestigious project delivered to the very high specification demanded by one the world’s most exclusive tourist destinations.
“In order to meet the client’s tight schedule and ensure smooth delivery, we devised a robust schedule of works which included the coordination of more than 150 operatives working 24 hours a day.”
GuocoLeisure Limited, a Singapore-listed company with a secondary listing on the New Zealand Exchange, has recently announced the launch of a major global hotel company, glh.The launch of glh. is driven by CEO Mike DeNoma, who since joining the business 12 months ago, has developed with his management team a new strategic direction for the company using his considerable experience of transforming international businesses in several industries. The launch of glh. signals serious intent and long term ambition to lead the transformation of the company.
glh. has carried out extensive market research into what affects decision-making for owners & guests which underpins our new approach. The new business model will provide an alternative to the current hotel industry business model by giving autonomy to our individual hotels:
• A new deal for property owners and developers: glh. is offering more flexible terms and conditions to property owners and developers which challenge the status quo and redress the risk/reward balance within the industry.
• An entrepreneurial approach to general management: While the industry rushes to take even more decision making out of the hotels, glh. is moving to put even more back in – giving autonomy to our individual hotels and unlocking the great potential of our General Management team.
• Increasing need to respond to the data driven incursions of the online players: glh. will set out to transform the current model by using big data to differentiate the guest experience.
• Launch of three new hotel brands over the next 12 months: In addition to developing a new operating model glh. will be announcing the launch of three new hotel brands over the coming 12 months, the first of which will be a luxury brand in July 2013.
The glh. global owner-operator strategy focuses on the 100 major global cities with the ten year ambition to deliver the best guest centred experience in the industry. The company is underpinning this with the use of advanced customer facing technology, infrastructure and decision science.
Commenting on today’s launch Mike DeNoma, said:
“We’re delighted to launch glh. a new hotel company that signifies our intent and ambition to unlock human potential and give property owners and developers a new deal. We want to be the first port of call for developers, owners and investors who want a new deal from a hotel management company.”
Mike added: “If you want to change the world, be profit accountable in an autonomous and decisive general management role, give us a call.”
Note: glh. refers to GLH Hotels Management (UK) Limited, the new name of Guoman Hotel Management (UK) Limited, a subsidiary of GuocoLeisure Limited.
Mercure’s Manchester Piccadilly and Kidderminster hotels, both managed by Jupiter Hotels, have been awarded four stars by the AA’s recognised rating scheme for hotels.Shane Harris, CEO at Jupiter Hotels said: “We are incredibly proud that the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly and the Mercure Kidderminster Hotel have been awarded four star ratings – each accomplishment is testament to the commitment shown by the teams at both hotels.”
The Mercure Manchester Piccadilly hotel, a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly railway station, benefits from views overlooking Manchester’s vivacious city centre.Overlooking Piccadilly Gardens, this 280-bedroom hotel is located in the heart of Manchester city centre.
The property’s International Suite, currently undergoing a redesign, will reopen in September accommodating 800 conference delegates or 400 exhibition guests, making it one of the largest hotel conference spaces in the North West.
David Daly, General Manager of Mercure Manchester Piccadilly commented: “Achieving Four Star AA rating reflects the excellent standard of service provided by our team as well as the superb facilities available at our hotel.”
Also awarded four-star status by the AA, the Mercure Kidderminster Hotel combines 19th-century heritage and picturesque country surrounds. The hotel is set in 20 acres of Worcestershire countryside and is close to West Midland Safari Park. Part of the hotel, the ‘original house’ features refurbished Victorian rooms – guests also have the option of modern-style classic rooms. All 44 bedrooms benefit from complimentary standard Wi-Fi and satellite television.
JohnMacaskill, Hotel Manager of Mercure Kidderminster Hotel commented: “We’re incredibly proud to have achieved a four star rating from the AA. The award exemplifies our commitment to providing guests with an exceptional hotel experience in the glorious Worcestershire countryside.”
The AA is one of the UK’s most recognised and trusted brands, recommending and acknowledging hotels for over a century. In 2008, the AA celebrated 100 years in the hospitality industry.
Last time I rode a luxury train it was the Orient Express UK end, steam pulled from London to Kidderminster, and not the blue of Mallard or Sir Nigel Gresley either. Intended to be a celebration for designers of some good years when planned, the Lawson-induced crash turned it into a wake — grown men crying as they realised the Tory party had bankrupted them in the search for parity with the new Euro, much as many grown men cried in 2010 as they realised bankers had shafted them in this latest crash.
The decision to take the African equivalent of the Orient Express, was one haunted by my 1992 ghosts, but the Blue Train provided an effective exorcist. The train runs a regular luxurious service between Pretoria and Cape Town, timetabled as 27 hours. It harks back to a more graceful era of travel, and is all the better for that.
Relaxed journeys are for those who enjoy travelling as much as arriving, essential here as much of the line is single track. Delays are almost inevitable as we waited for mile long freight trains full of South African minerals to trundle past on the sections of loop track where this was possible. The train describes itself as a window into the soul of Africa, and it does a pretty good job of giving a privileged window into South Africa as it travels the 1000 miles through informal settlements, townships, small towns and farming communities, through a wide variety of land and townscapes.
We started in Tshwane, the administrative capital of South Africa that used to be better known as the capital of Afrikanerdom under the name Pretoria. Surprisingly the Voortrekker monument to the brutal Dutch pioneers still stands high on its dominating hill above the city. Almost a suburb of Johannesburg now, Tshwane is a busy city dominated by the civil servants that run government and the Blue Train starts its journey in the main station, still labelled Pretoria, amongst the busy commuter trains, including the new high speed ‘Gautrain’, standard Metro trains and dedicated Metro Business expresses.
Standing on its own dedicated platform the Blue Train waits the passengers who check in to their own comfortable lounge, where the crew serve welcome drinks and are introduced to their charges. When all guests are assembled they are called off by suite number, baggage loaded in the baggage car and mealtime preferences registered.
The superb dining car can seat half the train at a time, and early brunch can be chosen along with the early dinner, but the guests first have time to settle into the marvellous cabins before they start to eat. Entrance onto the train itself is a piece of theatre and the wood panelled and brass railed corridors barely prepare the guest for the richness of the design of the classical interiors, full of gleaming brass and glowing timber marquetry.
I have stayed in some pod hotels, and some so called 5-star hotels with tiny bedrooms that cannot compare with the luxury achieved in these railway carriages. My cabin had a comfortable lounge with a huge picture window and its own gold tapped en-suite marble bathroom. The choices of cabin include a special provision for the less able and larger luxury cabins with more floor space. Twin or doubles, bath or shower complete the choice. Unlike most hotels the choice is offered on booking, too. Would that hotels that offer shower only bathrooms gave the guest the choice of shower or bath on booking — giving them the choice of going elsewhere if shower only is not acceptable. Research has shown that shower only is unacceptable to over 30% of all guests and less acceptable still to the wealthy older cohort. That they have the choice on a train is a delight.
Unlike many hotels the train is able to offer a smoking lounge, up front, behind the engines, but this is the only area of the train where smoking is permitted — and the Chinese tourists took advantage of it, booking the closest cabins. The restaurant car was in the centre of the train, and immediately behind it was another, non-smoking saloon bar. After more cabins the last carriage was an observation car offering 360o views of the landscape traversed.
The advantage of train over plane or auto is of course the size of the windows. In the cabin each passenger could enjoy the view in comfort, many passengers locking open the carriage doors too, so that they could see clearly out of both side of the train. Riding gently in air-conditioned comfort in complete privacy enabled conversation about the passing views, face to face or side by side, interrupted only by the occasional service from the cabin butler or the call to eat and drink in the comfortable restaurant or bar car. Yet it was possible to go out and walk the train, to stretch and converse with other passengers, to be social in a way not possible in a plane or auto.
The gentle ride at a stately 55kph carried the rhythmic clunk over rail joints. Missing in rail traffic in Europe where tracks are welded rather than jointed, the rhythm was the only sound track as travel rolled the landscapes past gently. Many passengers had cameras permanently ready, and the television in each cabin, which could be used to watch videos or TV could also be tuned to an engine mounted camera to watch the track ahead. Although the cabins were small at the evening meal the time was used to turn down and transform the cabin into a double bedroom – this functional change in effect doubling the cabin into a suite. The reverse process was achieved whilst breakfasting the following morning.
Sleeping on the train was far more comfortable than on a ship. It lacked that thumping juddering crash experienced when a ship hits a large wave, nor was it possible to hear the engines. The only sound was the rhythmic, gently soporific noise of iron on iron, the steady clunk setting a rhythm that lulled to a sleep only broken when silence came if the train stopped in one of the rail loops to allow for passing freight. Insulation was very good, so no sound from outside the cabin apart from the wheels on the rails, and the tv could be used to watch movies or, if one preferred, the view from the front of the train.
The restaurant car , beautifully appointed with marquetry and murals, brass and the gleam of polish, glistened with white linen and fine china. Service matched a good five star and the fare included all the food and drink one could hold. Yet still there were the views. Occasionally the disparity between the wealth in the train and the poverty still there in some townships would become evident as a signal caused an stop where passengers looking out became like zoo exhibits as people waiting on an adjacent platform looked in, but generally a smile and wave was the response from outside to a lifted glass within.
The train showcases views of the mountains, the Klein Karoo and the veldt, and stops to provide a view of one of the world’s largest holes, the diamond mine at Kimberly. No samples alas but for those with the money and needing the gleam , there is an exclusive shop on the train where diamonds and jewellery can be bought through personal appointment.
South Africa is changing, slowly, noticeable and with increasing momentum as education (sorely neglected by the arrogant and frequently corrupt ANC leaders) and economic growth improve the lot of the majority. I think South Africa is reasonably safe for tourism – take advice before you go. There are areas I avoid, and I get good local advice, but it is a good buy for Europeans and needs your tourist money to help the rainbow nation truly flower.
The beauty of the country is showcased through the windows of this train, as are the local standards of service through the charm and courtesy of the staff. Design harks back to an age when grace and pleasure in travel were key ingredients of the experience, when comfort was more important than style alone, and when customer experience ruled over the bean counters. Using the Blue Train really does show how it can be better to travel than to arrive.
Voted one of the 2013 top ten holiday destinations in the world by the Rough Guide, Margate is on its way to regaining the glory of its heyday, but this time, with its feet firmly planted in the 21st century.
Its revival has brought a thriving, vibrant arts scene to the town, led by the opening of the stunning world-class Turner Contemporary gallery. Add to this the wide, sandy bay, a cobbled Old Town with quirky shops, galleries and great places to eat, open-air live music bringing big name Jazz musicians to the area, the promise of Dreamland, and there’s never been a better time to visit the great British seaside.Now the attractions of the original seaside town have been boosted by the opening of the boutique Sands Hotel on Margate’s sea front. The Victorian building, which was most recently a sweet shop, was snapped up by Nick Conington in an auction in 2011. Inspired by Margate’s renaissance, Nick has invested in the town’s bright future:
“I fell in love with Margate the instant I came to view the building pre-auction in September 2011. I was stunned by the glorious views across the Sands, the vibrancy of the nearby Old Town, and the magnificent new Turner gallery just along the bay. I’d originally planned to convert the building into luxury flats but discovered that it had been a hotel in Victorian times and was excited by the possibility of recreating a hotel and trying to capture some of the building’s original splendour. I brought Conrad Bigham, my co-director, into the picture to conduct feasibility study and we moved forward from there.
“I was encouraged by the enthusiastic response of everyone in the town, and it’s been supremely satisfying to contribute in some small way to the town’s undoubted renaissance.”
The hotel also features a restaurant – Bay @ Sands, serving imaginative modern British cuisine in a sublime setting. Nick, with business partner Conrad Bigham and head chef, Ryan Tasker, have devised a menu that shows off the region and reflects the restaurant’s seaside location, with dishes inspired by the fresh, seasonal produce of the Garden of England.
Set on the first floor, the restaurant is beautifully designed, with an airy, bright, warm atmosphere, high ceilings and a stunning fireplace. Full-length glass doors lead to an outdoor terrace, commanding breathtaking views of the sea and Margate’s golden bay.
Nick and his wife Karen worked with Margate-born designer Dawn Pirie, who interpreted their vision for the look and feel of the hotel and restaurant, incorporating her own ideas to balance the building’s original Victorian features, such as columns and cornices, with a contemporary interior.
The new Scotscape Living Art range was launched to great acclaim at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. A radical new concept in both interior and exterior design and decoration, Living Art is perfect for any space, bringing the beauty and elegance of vertical greening indoors and out. The new system was developed in Spain by the University of Seville and has been brought to the UK by the country’s leading landscape and living wall experts, Scotscape. Scotscape Living Art can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of each individual application – with a range of frame sizes, frame colours and a vast selection of plant options to choose from. Alternatively, a number of stunning standard designs have been developed which are available ‘off the shelf’.
Living Art represents a really elegant solution for a host of applications, providing the perfect solution for cost-effective interior and exterior greening and delivering an outstanding combination of beautiful aesthetics and low maintenance. Clean and vibrant, the system operates independently making it easy to install and maintain, providing a fresh alternative to traditional pot/plant combinations. It is the ideal solution for anyone looking for an unusual but practical and low-maintenance green design piece.
Scotscape’s experienced team is able to look after every element of Living Art installation – from design and planting advice right through to installation and ongoing maintenance. For more information visit www.scotscapelivingwalls.net.
An hotel lobby is prime real estate and a multi-functional space. At various times it can be full of guests arriving or departing with their luggage (a coach party of Italian opera fans has to be seen to believe how much disruption can be caused). It can be busy with ‘meetettes’ as the space and its free wifi are used by itinerant business travellers and their colleagues. Later in the evening perhaps elegant tuxedo clad men and their fashion icon wives will wait there for a cab to take them to an event. It can be an arena in which children pushed out of rooms by exasperated parents can create chaos. It can be a waiting zone, a parking zone or become the playing field.Marriott tried to make it an inhabited zone 24/7 at the Courtyard but failed to carry the vision through – corporate inertia perhaps or just the caution that management of large companies show, always looking up over their shoulder. Smaller, Citizen M trumpet their Canteen with staff as ‘ambassadors’ and other more nimble companies than Marriott play their version of the lobby games. Accor’s French competitor Louvre group implemented it in the new model Campanile, and now Accor are trumpeting their new model Mercure, which the groups says “breaks the traditional codes of midscale hotels”. I wonder if Accor have read Mein Erster Blog Auf Deutsch and pondered whether the model they are adopting is right for the conservative segment Mercure has traditionally occupied?
Mercure say their new model vision answers new guest expectations in this sector. The GM of the Mercure London Bridge more sensibly says it puts the hosting of the guest back at the centre of hospitality. It certainly in design terms helps make a smallish space look larger, and by zoning through furniture and design creates more flexibility for management and guest alike.
Mercure is opening an hotel a week at the moment and has a target of 1,000 hotels in 5 years, currently operating 732 in 50 countries. The company added over 15,000 new room in 2011/12, and accounted for 21% of new rooms opened by Accor in 2012, 75% through franchise and management agreements.
Miami Beach and Saint-Tropez actually have much in common as sexy, beachside destinations. Now they share even more: Sister properties, Hôtel de Paris, Saint-Tropez and National Hotel Miami Beach, announce the rebirth of newly renovated luxury hotels. These iconic properties were built in the 1930’s at a time when each destination was being recognized as a place for the perfect escape. The Hôtel de Paris on the Cote d’Azur in France reveals a new audacious and contemporary interior design while the National Hotel in Florida pays homage to its pure Art Deco roots. St. Tropez and South Beach are recognized by connoisseurs for many of the same things: yachts, beach, beautiful people and wildlife (in nature and otherwise – simply use your imagination). These celebrated hotels deliver an unbeatable combination of relaxation, authenticity, luxury and tradition sitting in prime locations within their destinations. The Hôtel de Paris St. Tropez was closed for 21 years and now reveals an entirely new hotel of 90 rooms comprised of 52 rooms and 38 suites all decorated in a colorful ambience. Upon check-in, you’ll notice light filtering through to the lobby only to look up at the dramatic glass bottom pool suspended 15 meters overhead where you’ll spy bathers doing their daily laps. The soon to be revealed Clarins Spa will offer a variety of beauty rituals to promote pure relaxation. Set within the heart of the village, windows and balconies will peek out over picturesque lanes and terracotta rooftops.
The National Hotel Miami Beach offers 153 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites. The hotel lobby honors the Art Deco era with original lighting fixtures and furnishings. Although it features its own beach club, the hotel boasts the longest pool in South Beach stretching 205 feet offering guests an alternative to the sand and surf. A variety of pampering spa treatments provided in a poolside cabana are a newly added amenity. Set in the heart of South Beach, guests are in close proximity to shopping, culture, and the city’s inimitable nightlife.
Skelwith Leisure, owners of the Raithwaite Estate near Whitby, has announced the opening of The Keep at Raithwaite, the latest addition to the Estate’s accommodation options.Set within 100 acres of beautiful countryside on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park, the 28 bedroom Keep offers guests the same luxury and splendour as the main Hall in some of the country’s most awe inspiring surroundings.
The Keep includes the Hunters Bar and Restaurant, meeting rooms, outside patio areas and panoramic views of the woodland on the Estate.
Commenting Paul Ellis, Managing Director of Skelwith Leisure, said:
“Everyone is delighted that The Keep is now open, not only is it a fantastic addition to the Estate, but further signals our commitment to the local area.
“We have invested heavily in the estate to date and will continue to do so. We’ve started work on our new eco-lodges and, along with The Keep, these complement the original Hall and spa.
“The Estate now encompasses a wide range of accommodation options, attracting visitors from across the country and beyond, providing a significant boost to the local economy. The Estate is a significant employer within Whitby and The Keep will allow us to provide further employment and training opportunities.”
As well as being an excellent accommodation option The Keep is also a great location for any business or corporate event, boasting its own conferencing facilities, state of the art IT system and access to fantastic outside spaces, ideal for team building.
Work on the remaining cottages will begin later this year, along with a new access road to access part of the site.
Panaz Limited, based in Fence, near Burnley, is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of high quality, flame retardant fabrics for the Hospitality, Healthcare and Corporate sectors and is delighted to have reached the finals in 3 categories of the prestigious “Be Inspired Business Awards” (BIBAs) as Best International Company; Best Medium Sized Business and Best Manufacturer. Their extensive portfolio of Hospitality fabrics grace some of the most iconic interiors around the world. Their market leading Healthcare division specialises in anti-microbial treatments, resilient and high performance finishes and intelligent textiles to promote a sense of well-being and aid recovery in exacting Healthcare environments. The Corporate division offers stylish, durable and comfortable fabrics for workspace seating from desk chairs to break out areas and receptions – playing their part in promoting the corporate brand.
Panaz fabrics are not only well known in hotels but in cruise liners globally.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.® and Promotora TIIM has announced that Starwood’s Aloft® brand made its debut in Cancun, Mexico. Aloft Cancun is ideally located in the Hotel Zone, adjacent to Cancun Center, the city’s convention and exhibition center, and walking distance from dining, shopping and nightlife. Aloft Cancun features the atmospheric public spaces that have made Aloft a worldwide hit. Guests will be able to mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends at the re:mixSM communal lobby area or at the w xyzSM bar. The hotel will also have a rooftop pool and re:fuel café as well as a re:chargeSM gym. It will have approximately 6,500 square feet of banquet and meeting space.
“Since its launch, Aloft has emerged as a popular choice among savvy business travelers. We are thrilled to launch the Aloft brand in Cancun, a renowned tourist destination as well as a prime business travel destination that is seeing increased demand in the meetings and conventions segment,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, Co-President the Americas. “This opening is also an important step for Starwood as it marks our 25th hotel in Mexico and the entrance of our eighth brand in the country. Furthermore, it allows us to continue to build on the momentum of the Aloft brand in Latin America.”
Currently, there are eight Aloft branded hotels in operation or in development in the region, including the Aloft Panama, which will open in June. Aloft Merida and Aloft Guadalajara are slated to open in 2014, and Aloft Asuncion and Aloft Montevideo will open their doors in 2015.
“We’re delighted that Cancun will be the launching platform for the Aloft brand in Mexico, and we are excited to partner with Starwood in this project,” said Mauricio Hamui Hilwani, owner and Director of Promotora TIIM. “Cancun continues to establish itself as an important convention and tourism hub, as demand increases from leisure and business travelers. As a result, it is the ideal location for Aloft – a brand that caters to both segments.” Aloft Cancun is located along the main avenue of Cancun, Boulevard Kukulcan, only 25 minutes away from the International Airport, 15 minutes from downtown and walking distance to several key entertainment places, including the city’s famous white-sand beaches.
Manchester has long been known as a hot spot for urban design and Dawnvale are proud to announce the launch of their latest collection to continue this trend.Dawnvale’s new ‘Urban Hospitality Collection’ includes a wide range of eclectic, distressed and reclaimed products which would enhance any interior design scheme. They have handpicked a range of materials with a strong emphasis on character and individuality, including:
Urban wall coverings Aged brick tiles Natural flexible stone veneers Reclaimed Victorian pine flooring Aged oak flooring Rustic flexible floor planks Distressed ceramic floor tiles Internal and external metal doors Metal sprayed finishes Industrial light fixtures Tin ceiling tiles with aged finishes Reclaimed and eclectic style furniture Urban fabrics and leathers Bespoke production and bric-a-brac
This has been supported with a dedicated setting in their Manchester showroom showcasing many of these products and finishes in a venue lead setting.
Dawnvale’s new brochure can be downloaded from the literature section of their main website: www.dawnvale.com
Alternatively, please contact their sales office for further information.
Located in Narvik, one of the northermost parts of Norway, RICA Hotels opened their lastet new build hotel end of 2012.The architectural form that towers over 18 floors gives this hotel a wonderful view of the city, the fjord “Ofotfjorden”, the Mountain “Dronningen” and the other surrounding mountains. Rica Hotel Narvik has a stylish interior that takes up the exciting exterior of the 148 luxurious and spacious guest rooms, all-day restaurant and a sky bar with panoramic terrace on the top floor.
The hotel arranges for business travelers with eight functional meeting rooms, where the largest room has a capacity for up to 175 people.
According to the designs given by the Interiors Architects AS Scenario Interiørarkitekter MNIL from Oslo, all guest rooms and public areas have been equipped with special made luminaires from Baulmann Leuchten.
All pictures are copyright by “Gatis Rozenfelds, SIA `F64 Photo Agency´, Riga”.
Mentored by Sydney Toldano, CEO of Christian Dior, Simoëns is the new darling of French fashion editors – LVMH have just taken a stake in his brand, and he has already been compared to a young Yves Saint Laurent. Simoëns was briefed by Les Sources des Caudalie to use the suite, set in a summerhouse on stilts over a lake, as a creative workshop. The result is characterised by contrast: black against white, matt against gloss, plain against print – all united by greens and blues throughout. Furnishings include a Pietro Arosio lounger, Charles Eames armchair and UV wall lighting in a chicken’s foot pattern – a nod to Simoëns’ latest catwalk collection. Panelled mirrors, lampshades and cupboard doors reference the trademark symbol of the bar-code, giving a clean graphic modernity to the suite. Elegance, attention to detail and deep comfort combine with quality in a suite that is at once fun and relaxed, in keeping with the atmosphere of Les Sources de Caudalie.
Les Sources de Caudalie is set in the heart of the family owned Château Smith Haut Lafitte Grand Crus vineyard near Bordeaux, home to a Michelin starred restaurant and the original Caudalie Vinothérapie spa. The hotel is inspired by the concept of the ‘French Paradox’, whereby the diet and lifestyle of Southwest France is seen as conducive to good health, with statistics proving the positive effects of wine consumption.
As part of the £3 million renovation of Imperial College, Dernier & Hamlyn refurbished the art deco lighting in the world renowned College’s St Mary’s library, which is believed to have been installed when the College was opened in the early 20th Century.The new library has been renamed the Fleming Library after Sir Alexander Fleming. Dernier & Hamlyn’s work included thorough, expert cleaning of the Library’s historic lighting and replacement of various parts that had gone missing over the years. Dernier & Hamlyn also updated the light fittings by rewiring them to meet current regulations and incorporating QL induction lamps which combine appropriate light levels with longevity to help the College meet its sustainability objectives.
Dernier & Hamlyn joint managing director Jeremy Quantrill comments:
“There are few companies in the UK that have the expertise to be able to take on a sensitive project of this type and I am very proud that Dernier & Hamlyn was selected for such prestigious work.”
Owned and operated by The Cairn Hotel Group under license from InterContinental Hotels Group, Hotel Indigo London Kensington – Earl’s Court is a four star boutique hotel, situated in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. The hotel first opened its doors to the public on 12th December 2012 and has quickly established a reputation as one of London’s top hotels for both tourists and business travellers.England cricket legend and former Strictly Come Dancing Champion, Darren Gough led the celebrations for the launch party of Hotel Indigo London Kensington – Earl’s Court on Thursday 26th June, at a glittering Victorian-themed extravaganza.
Since its launch six months ago the hotel has already won a Tripadvisor Award for Outstanding Customer Service and is experiencing exceptional trading levels, some 25% ahead of expectations. Originally built in 1886, the building recently underwent a £7 million refurbishment scheme to transform the building into a Hotel Indigo site. The hotel now boasts 100 bedrooms including 22 executive rooms and 11 junior suites, each individually styled.
While the overall theme is sharp modern chic, the hotel retains unique design touches, which reflect its surroundings and history of the building. This is most clearly seen in the bar, known as The Mansion Bar & Parlour which has been themed as an 1890’s private members club.
The bar, which is rapidly becoming one of West London’s must visit cocktail venues, specialises in carbonated and molecular cocktails while also providing a mouth watering menu of dishes all made from regionally sourced seasonal ingredients. While the food complimented cocktails take centre stage in the evenings when it comes to Sunday it’s all about lazy brunches with delicious pancakes and waffles while listening to live jazz from some of the capital’s top musicians.
Emphasising the theme of decadence and reflecting the importance of customer service, the hotels employment package gives all staff an official title, meaning visitors are looked after by ‘real life’ Lords and Ladies. Commenting on the newly transformed hotel, Hotel Indigo London Kensington – Earl’s Court General Manager, ‘Lord’ Vincent Garrington, said, “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved with the hotel. From the lavish décor that greets visitors when they enter the reception, to the warm and friendly service, to the stunning cocktails and food on offer in the bar, we feel we’ve created a unique offering that provides our customers with a slice of history, but in modern luxury and comfort.
Hotel Indigo London Kensington – Earl’s Court is the 10th Hotel Indigo to open in Europe and the 50th site to open around the world.
PREMIER INN today announces the launch of a new hotel concept that boasts the UK’s most space-efficient and digitally savvy rooms. ‘hub by Premier Inn’ will have ingenious storage solutions in every nook and cranny and state of the art digital technology – for “guests who value location, price and design over space”.
Each ‘hub by Premier Inn’ room is kitted out with an en suite bathroom with power shower, wardrobe, desk, Hypnos pocket-sprung bed, free Wi-Fi and a 40” inch smart screen TV – all neatly fitted into just 11.4 metres squared.
It will also be the UK’s first hotel where the rooms can be remote controlled using a smart phone app. Guests will be able to check in online and control the room’s lighting, temperature and even what will be on the TV or radio when they arrive.
Each hotel will have its own deli-style restaurant serving local produce and guests will be able to pre-order breakfast using the ‘hub’ app.
Patrick Dempsey, Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants Managing Director, said: “hub is all about giving customers more choice. It will provide great quality, contemporary room design in the heart of a major city at an outstanding price. With space at a premium, each aspect of the design has been aimed at optimising every single centimeter of space from the desk that folds up and disappears into the bed to a convenient under the bed space for luggage.”
The new brand will target major UK city centres and the first hub will open in London’s West End next summer. Rooms will be, on average, up to 30% cheaper than a comparable Premier Inn in Central London, at under £100 a night mid-week, whilst starting and off peak prices will be less.
’hub by Premier Inn’ has been trialled since last June at the Premier Inn Kings Cross after five prototype rooms were created with 1,825 guests staying in them to date.
Mr. Dempsey added: “Premier Inn has played a leading role in shaping the budget hotel market and we believe ‘hub’ will do the same for a new generation of compact city centre hotels. It will appeal to customers who value price, location and design over space.”
Whitbread has plans for five ‘hub by Premier Inn’ hotels (c.1,000 rooms) to open in the next three years and is targeting to have around 40 ‘hub by Premier Inn’ hotels (c. 6,000 rooms) opened or in the pipeline by 2018.
Andy Harrison, CEO, Whitbread PLC said, “Premier Inn is the UK’s fastest growing hotel chain and this year we will open 40 Premier Inn hotels, creating over 1,000 jobs. ‘hub by Premier Inn’ gives us another exciting new growth platform and we are confident it will deliver good returns for our shareholders and prove a hit with customers.”
Following an exit from Four Seasons management at the end of 2012 Terre Blanche has re-launched with new, unique services and facilities for its guests. The 750-acre luxury resort on an outstanding estate in the south of France is the gateway to Provence and the Riviera. As the only property of its kind in the region, it is embracing its independence and unparalleled five-star offering with refined hospitality rooted in authenticity and nature.Terre Blanche’s unrivalled location enables guests to experience the charm and character of Provence as well as the chic of the Côte d’Azur. 45 Minutes from Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport, it is the ideal destination from which to explore the south of France.
The all-suite and villa resort, which has become a member of ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’, has 115 spacious suites and villas ranging in size from 646 square feet to 3,229 square feet (with private pool and jacuzzi). Guests will experience personalised service in luxurious comfort, with stunning natural surroundings and views of mountains and medieval villages. New in-room amenities have been created exclusively by “Fragonard”. The products takes guests on a personal voyage of discovery and concentrate the mind on the scents of the region; mandarin and mint combined with orange blossom and cardamom, woodland green tea, cedar and musk.
Terre Blanche prides itself on its gastronomic variety, with four restaurants overseen by Executive Chef Franck Ferigutti. The resort’s fine-dining restaurant, Le Faventia, offers contemporary French gastronomy, followed by Le Gaudina which has been enlarged and refreshed and offers a new menu of Provençal cuisine. Thirdly, Les Caroubiers at The Clubhouse has an array of Italian specialties, and lastly The Tousco Restaurant offers alfresco dining beside the infinity pool.
Commanding panoramic views over the surrounding landscape the large infinity pool at Terre Blanche is a spectacle in itself. After considerable investment the area now boasts 31 beautifully appointed private Poolside Cabanas with sun loungers. A new buffet style dining concept has been introduced with a menu including fresh fish and local produce. As well as a Jacuzzi and a cocktail bar there is an additional Pool Cabana where guests can indulge in a poolside massage.
In January, following a three-and-a-half year period of construction, the “Zoofenster” skyscraper, which has been the subject of much discussion, finally opened its doors in Berlin: the international luxury hotel chain Waldorf Astoria moved into the 118 m high tower, prominently located between the Zoo Station and the Memorial Church. The European flagship of New York’s legendary hotel takes up most of the 31 floors, which are also home to office areas and shops. The Abu Dhabi investors pooled around 200 million Euros for the new building. The architect was Christoph Mäckler, who is already famous for his “Lindencorso” (Unter den Linden) in Berlin, and the spectacular new “Opernturm” in Frankfurt. The style of his latest building in Berlin reflects a classically modern and timeless appearance with a light-coloured limestone façade. Inside, the luxury hotel’s 182 deluxe and superior rooms, as well as the 50 suites, reflect elegance and sophisticated interior décor. The Axor Citterio collection and the two-coloured marble in the bathrooms exhibit a sense of art deco. The collection is the result of a collaboration between Axor, the designer brand of Hansgrohe SE, and the Milanese architect and designer Antonio Citterio.
Discreet luxury and lasting quality The bathroom collection, which made its début ten years ago, represents the ultimate in design and manufacturing quality. The precision-manufactured mixer reflects both quality and consistency. It’s not at all surprising that the tradition-steeped Waldorf Astoria, whose very name is associated with timeless luxury, has opted for mixers from the Black Forest. Indeed, in the hotel’s marble bathrooms, Axor Citterio carries on the hotel’s main theme of combining classic elegance with traditional references and modern comfort: interior décor and bathroom merge together seamlessly, while the bathroom collection imparts a sense of tranquillity and a hint of luxury in its use of water. Citterio’s finesse in combining completely smooth surfaces with curves, captures the precision and high-quality standards that are evident throughout the hotel. The manufacturing precision of the collection is consistent with the distinct dedication to high-quality detail that can be found at the Waldorf Astoria Berlin. For instance, in the Waldorf Astoria’s 1,000 square metre Guerlain Spa, lies a centrepiece pool clad in shimmering turquoise Bisazza mosaics, which is shaped like a cloud. Or in the hotel’s ballroom, which features wall lighting in the shape of a violin bow, and whose ceiling is adorned with an intricate starry sky. The fine wood and valuable materials used in the rooms also give the impression of being a guest at a classic grand hotel.
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Travelodge recently opened its 60th hotel in the Capital with the launch of the Travelodge Vauxhall, London on the 20th June 2013.To celebrate the opening, and Travelodge’s recent refresh of its bedroom design, a worl record attempt was set for the fastest bed making by an individual. Travelodge Hotel Manager, Andrea Warner, set this record making a king size bed in 74 seconds (after a few attempts) and was a nice change (pardon the pun) to celebrate a hotel opening.
As for the interior design… it’s a Travelodge. I counted two canvases on the wall of the same image (red leaves in varying tones) within the public areas. For anyone visiting this Travelodge, it could have been anywhere and doesn’t inspire you to discover more about Vauxhall which was disappointing. However, it’s very clean, new and inoffensive and will provide a comfortable night’s sleep for any weary traveller.
Sunderland City Council can confirm that the world-famous Hilton Hotels group is bringing forward plans for a hotel development on the city’s Stadium Park. Consultation will be carried out with the public in the coming weeks, followed by the submission of a planning application. The build is scheduled to begin from early 2014 and the hotel will open in summer 2015.
Councillor Paul Watson, Leader of Sunderland City Council, commented: “This is a very exciting development for Sunderland and a statement of confidence in our city and its future, by arguably the most famous hotel chain in the world.”
“Having such a quality hotel on Stadium Park will have a tangible economic impact on our city, and particularly its city centre. Stadium Park, through the Stadium of Light and the Aquatic Centre, welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, through football matches, concerts and other major events and this extra hotel provision will unlock further growth and development in the city through leisure and business tourism.”
In addition to the positive impact on the economy when the hotel opens, the construction will create up to 150 jobs, plus additional work within the supply chain and once completed, the hotel will create 100 full and part-time jobs.
The City Council has recently acquired the land for the development and a newly-formed company, Sunderland FC Developments, which is affiliated to Sunderland AFC, will bring the development forward.
I am blessed with a job that allows me to travel looking at hotels, photographing and writing about their design. Perhaps I should blog too about the experiences I enjoy, but there are only so many minutes in a day, aren’t there? To look at an hotel properly takes two nights. The first you enjoy the impressions, the second you look beyond them and at the functionality of the design as well as how it works with the operation.On my first autumn visit to Bushmans Kloof I fell in love with the mix of the local vernacular with very European concepts of luxury. Condé Nast shared my enthusiasm and the next year they made it their favourite hotel in the world. Since then I have been back in the winter to look at the new spa developments, and really enjoyed the visit. In the depths of the South African winter temperatures in the Cederberg get very low, and there is snow on the mountain tops, so the 19 rooms of Bushmans Kloof as they are in the heart of the Cederberg Wilderness are not exactly high on South Africans mid week break listing.
What a good decision it was to end weeks of work by looking again at BK. We had the choice of rooms and were treated like royalty! As the only people on the bush drives our guide Zenobia (Zettie from here on in) was ours to command. The winter is not a good time to see game because there is so much water available in the bush that they don’t all trek to the waterhole as they do in late summer. However the bush blooms with wild flowers and blossoms and there is plenty of bird life, and Zettie was expert at finding the elusive bucks. We were delighted to be getting the best of both worlds, then. A beautifully designed room, great service in a beautiful location.
Bushmans Kloof was set up to help save the Cape Zebra from extinction That now well on the way to being achieved, supported by funds from the Tollman family (owners of Red Carnation hotels), the reserve is now helping with the research into the sustainability of the Cape Leopard population. The reserves 16,000 hectares are surrounded by active farms, not noted for tolerance of predators, so it is an uphill task. Guests are encouraged to join the game drives at the times best suited to seeing (and photographing) game, which is early morning and early evening. That first evening we were promised something special.
But as page two will show, we had far more than we expected.
Michael Mina’s PUB 1842 at MGM Grand introduces a casual tavern-style eatery that playfully blends unexpected flavors and textures into classic American pub favorites. The restaurant, which opened on June 18, boasts an extensive selection of beers and cocktails for guests to enjoy while they play favorites such as darts and ping pang pong in the energetic bar area. A lively soundtrack complements the restaurant atmosphere, which encourages socializing and spirited fun. The restaurant is open daily for lunch, dinner and late night. Chef Mina said, “I enjoy working in the realm of fine dining, of course, but I wanted to explore a dining option that focuses on great memories in addition to high-quality food and service. I want PUB 1842 to be a place where guests want to linger long after they have finished their meal to enjoy a few beers, play some games and maybe make new friends.”
Named for the year modern Pilsner beer was invented, PUB 1842 offers a vast beer list featuring a wide range of American and international brews by the can, bottle or pulled from one of 24 taps. Guests interested in sampling a variety of the more than 60 ales, pilsners, stouts and lagers will enjoy the ability to order beer flights. The vibrant restaurant offers new takes on classic cocktails with a focus on “Fizzy Lifting Drinks” (individually bottled & carbonated cocktails), Housemade Infusions and Seasonal Punches. The Soda Popinski, a fizzy lifting drink, is the PUB’s twist on the standard Moscow Mule while the Chubacabra, a pineapple and Serrano chili-infused tequila based cocktail, is a signature sip. Guests also can expect a grown-up version of “Jungle Juice.”
Whimsical starters include culinary offerings such as “Crab Louis” Deviled Eggs; Lobster Corn Dogs; and Heritage Pork Green Chili with grilled tortilla and housemade crema. No pub would be complete without a lengthy burger list, and Chef Mina has it covered. The Peanut Butter Crunch Burger with bacon jam, potato chips and pimento cheese and the Vegetarian Falafel Burger, which highlights Mina’s mother’s exclusive falafel recipe, are must-have selections. Wood-fired steaks, farm to table salads, sandwiches and hearty entrees round out the extensive menu.
The inviting space features an expansive, high-energy bar and an open façade overlooking The District at MGM Grand. The pub theme, complete with elevated dining booths, wooden bar stools and a keg room, is maintained throughout. Stone mosaic floors, vintage print wallpapers, plaid upholstery and butcher block tables enhance the authentic space and exude a warm and welcoming environment.
Embassy Suites Hotels welcomes the arrival of the upscale hotel brand’s third property in the state of Maryland, the Embassy Suites Baltimore-Downtown. After undergoing extensive renovation, the newly converted property now includes an array of exciting new and re-concepted amenities for business and leisure travelers alike in the thriving downtown Baltimore area. Embassy Suites Baltimore-Downtown, formerly Tremont Suites Hotel, was developed as a joint venture between Garrison Investment Group and Chartres Lodging Group, and is managed by Kokua Hospitality, LLC. The 37-story hotel features 300 remodeled guestrooms with modernized bathrooms and wet bars, newly designed lobby and guest public areas, an outdoor pool, and a new food and beverage outlet, B’more Bistro and Lounge.
GUEST AMENITIES On top of a more contemporary look and feel at the Embassy Suites Baltimore-Downtown, guests can indulge in the comfort and convenience of the signature amenities available at every Embassy Suites hotel. These include complimentary hot, cooked-to-order breakfast each morning, nightly Complimentary Evening Reception and spacious guestrooms with wet bar, microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee maker. Guestrooms will also be equipped with flat-screen high-definition televisions. The property offers a complimentary fitness center, business center, and seasonal outdoor pool.
For the always-connected traveler, the addition of an e-lounge to the property allows guests to relax, while still staying “wired” as needed. Within the lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi and computer work stations are available for guests’ use. Visitors may also enjoy a bite or cocktail in the cozy communal table setting.
MEETINGS AND EVENTS The hotel property includes Baltimore’s most opulent event center, the Grand Historic Venue, featuring 45,000 square feet of meeting space and pre-function space with 19 banquet rooms across five floors. Situated adjacent to the Embassy Suites Baltimore-Downtown, the venue offers a distinct setting for meetings and conventions, weddings, and social functions. The Grand Historic Venue has been recognized as a top wedding venue in the Mid-Atlantic, receiving five stars from The Knot and Wedding Wire, as well as a Brides Maryland 2011 editor’s choice for Best Reception Site. The luxurious women’s bathroom and lounge—showcasing nine types of marble, large columns and light fixtures, and hand-carved woodwork—has even been recognized as one of America’s Best Bathrooms by Cintas.
Among the 19 classical meeting rooms, all fully wired and updated for meetings, three ballrooms offer particularly memorable backdrops for any event. The Marble Room on the first floor presents a distinguished ballroom space featuring original stained-glass windows; the Roman Strada on the second floor takes inspiration from the grandeur of an Egyptian tomb and is decorated with murals depicting common Masonic themes; and the grand Corinthian Room, also on the second floor, combines extravagant chandeliers and gilded columns.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE With the conversion of Tremont Suites Hotel to the Embassy Suites Baltimore-Downtown, the property also unveils the hotel’s new food and beverage outlet, B’more Bistro and Lounge. Diners can expect flavors of the Chesapeake Bay at the 4,000-square-foot, 200-seat restaurant located on the second floor. Signature menu items include Old Bay Bloody Mary’s, Chesapeake Crab Sliders, and Rockfish Risotto. In August 2013, guests will also be able to enjoy coffee beverages at the new onsite Starbucks.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has recently announced the latest addition to the growing global Holiday Inn Resort® brand portfolio with the opening of the Holiday Inn Resort® Grand Cayman hotel. The property has 117-rooms and a variety of beachfront amenities. “We are thrilled to bring a Holiday Inn Resort hotel to one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean,” said Gerardo Murray, vice president, Marketing Strategic Services for Mexico, Latin America and Caribbean, IHG. “Adding this property to our Holiday Inn Resort brand portfolio is in alignment with our strategy to bring the brand to easily-accessed leisure destinations.”
The Holiday Inn Resort Grand Cayman hotel is located just 15 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport, on the North Sound, and is in a convenient location near many of Grand Cayman’s most tourist attractions including Stingray City and Rum Point. Visitors can also access nearby Camana Bay and George Town via the resort’s shuttle service which provides guests complimentary transportation to anywhere within 5 minutes of the hotel.
Guests staying at the beautiful Holiday Inn Resort Grand Cayman beachfront property can choose between one of the resort’s well-appointed spacious guest rooms, or a suite that features a variety of breathtaking views of the shimmering waters of the North Sound. The suites also offer extra living space and amenities, such as a fully stocked gourmet kitchen, a living room, dining room and an en-suite laundry. The resort is also ideal for meetings or special events which can be hosted at the poolside covered patio, by the airy sandy beach with pavilion or in a traditional meeting room.
Additional amenities available for guests include a fitness center, tennis court, swimming pool, beach volleyball court, golf course, business center, wireless Internet, onsite dive shop, and complementary children’s activities. The resort also offers an array of aquatic activities including onsite jet ski, kayak and snorkeling rentals. Guests can indulge at the Blue Iguana Grill and Lounge featuring classic Caymanian cuisine and refreshing cocktails and beverages.
The Holiday Inn Resort Grand Cayman, owned by The Grand Caymanian Ltd., and managed by Crestline Hotels and Resorts is franchised by an affiliate of IHG.
Seating and tables by Yorkshire-based Design at Knightsbridge have travelled across the Pennines to be installed in Manchester’s Lowry Hotel as part of a complete renovation of the bar and restaurant.At the heart of the revitalised Chapel Wharf area on the border between Manchester and Salford, Rocco Forte Hotels’ Lowry is the first five-star hotel in Greater Manchester and presents an elegant façade, with a dramatic frontage in curved glass enhancing its airy interior. Furnishings for the refurbished bar and restaurant were selected personally by Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Hotels’ Director of Design: the Knightsbridge team also worked alongside the Lowry’s in-house designer Tim Young and General Manager Peter Kienast in the careful selection of products, fabrics and finishes.
The contract included the supply and placement of armchairs, desk and club chairs plus occasional tables from the recently extended Lucia range. Simple, clean lines are complemented by subtle retro-references and the collection is presented with a refreshing mix of timber and wire frames. Completing the smart new look is Kvadrat upholstery in charcoal, offset by flashes of topstitched detailing in supple turquoise leather.
The Lowry’s Lucia seating has been teamed with Harvey tables topped with stylish black smoked glass. Both the Lucia and Harvey collections are exclusive to Design at Knightsbridge, having been created for the company by consultant designer James A Wright.
In addition to supplying new seating and tables for the Lowry, Knightsbridge craftsmen were also commissioned to completely refurbish the existing settees and high stools in the hotel bar and to re-cover the upright dining chairs in the restaurant.
All the restoration work was carried out at the Knightsbridge factory in Bradford, where the Lucia and Harvey ranges are also manufactured using traditional methods. Timber is from renewable sources and the wire under-frames are produced in the UK: the company further demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through FSC, PEFC and FISP certification, ISO 14001:2004 accreditation for its environmental management system and BS EN ISO 9001:2008 quality management accreditation.
A dedicated sales division and supporting website are the global gateway to all Design at Knightsbridge collections of seating, tables and occasional furniture for the hospitality and corporate sectors. To view the full portfolio, visit www.design-at-knightsbridge.co.uk
Hillswood Furniture are delighted to add the Toulouse collection to their ever expanding collection of fine furniture.Designed by Italian designer, Werther Toffoloni, this collection of chairs for dining and lounge shows off exquisite detail in the show wood and finish.
The frame is made in solid beech although alternative timber can always be used such as walnut, oak, ash etc.
All upholstered seats use tension webbing for comfort and, as with all Hillswood’s ranges, a large selection of polish colours/fabrics and leathers can be used.
Signbox have just launched iSign, an ultramodern slim and stylish information display system available in a wide range of sizes including A-series paper sizes from A6 to A1. Constructed from silver anodised aluminium with a mere 9mm profile depth, the seamless looking wall mounted frames have a flush-face finish to eliminate dust and dirt collection along the frame edges. With an anti-reflective acrylic cover the new iSign range is ideal for offices, hospitals, pubs & restaurants, museums, schools & colleges, exhibitions & events and retail outlets.Apart from the elegant and sleek contemporary styling, what sets iSign apart from traditional notice and sign display products is the user-friendly yet ingenious patented spring mechanism that’s cleverly concealed on the reverse of each unit. Allowing for easy and simple changing of displayed information, it nonetheless features a discreet locking device to ensure the system is tamper-proof.
The wall mounted iSign range is complemented by projecting signs, hanging signs and a desk stand to create flexible, coordinated wayfinding and interior branding systems.
The all-new iSign range is available now from Signbox’s online store: the first choice for superior quality, aesthetically pleasing ‘off-the-shelf’ signage. For more information visit: www.signboxshop.co.uk.
Whether guests feel welcome and comfortable in hotels depends largely upon the interior decoration. Hotel guests take in their surroundings from the moment they walk into the lobby. Everything must feel right, from the reception to the hotel room, from the breakfast room to the restaurant, from the conference and seminar rooms to the offices and day rooms.Seating is a key aspect of interior decoration, designed to add just the right touch to the hotel’s character and atmosphere. Should the interior exude a romantic, bucolic feeling or the charm of traditional elegance? Or should it feature a modern-style, urban décor or have a futuristic, design-oriented character – Kusch+Co, an internationally operating manufacturer of contract seating, can cater for all tastes with its extensive portfolio, comprising 27 seating and 18 table series, made of the heavy-duty materials plastic, wood, or metal. Their high quality seating is designed to meet the exacting demands of everyday use in hotel environments, and conceived to be extremely hard-wearing, ensuring a long-lasting life cycle.
On request, Kusch+Co happily provides a professional interior planning service, covering the entire spectrum from seating configurations to a comprehensive interior design concept, including colour and material schemes. The customer can rely on the expert know-how of Kusch+Co, founded on the long-time experience of having furnished numerous projects worldwide. Throughout Great-Britain, more and more hotels call in Kusch+Co as a competent partner to furnish their environments.
The reference list of noteworthy hotels furnished with Kusch+Co seating feature many other highlights. Also worth mentioning are the Business Hotel Copthorne Manor near the Gatwick Airport, or the impressive Hotel Bovey Castle with one of England’s best 18-hole golf courses, located near Dartmoor National Park.
Effective July 1, 2013, LAUFEN, the Swiss-based manufacturer of contemporary bathroom, furniture and accessories for residential and contract/hospitality markets has announced that Mr. Ilker Hussein, Global Projects Manager for LAUFEN, will undertake a three month secondment to New York where he will further establish the LAUFEN brand within this significantly important design focused community. He will continue his highly successful role of Global Projects Manager both during and after this secondment with the support of his team in Switzerland. LAUFEN’s strategy entails having representation available in specific locations or ‘hubs’- where important contract and hospitality projects are on-going and developed. The role of their Global Projects Managers is to more fully support the A+D community and to be more accessible. New York is an important market for any brand’s global strategy, and LAUFEN remains positioned to better serve the contract and hospitality community.
Mr. Hussein has been with LAUFEN since 2011, and in his role as Global Projects Manager he promotes and builds the LAUFEN brand within International Projects through developing relationships with Key Hotel Operator Groups, Investors, Developers, Architects and Interior Designers. He brings over 20 years of industry experience to bear to his position with LAUFEN, with 14 years at Grohe in varying roles, including Key Account Manager Hotels Europe and Head of Project Sales. Raised in London, Hussein obtained a degree in Business Studies from North East London Polytechnic.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced plans to debut Le Méridien in New Orleans amidst rising demand for the Paris-born brand in markets across North America. Le Méridien New Orleans, ideally situated within walking distance from the city’s world-famous French Quarter, is set to open in Fall 2014. The hotel, which currently operates under Starwood’s W brand, was recently sold by the company to Chesapeake Lodging Trust for $65 million this past April. Chesapeake will begin the comprehensive $29 million renovation and conversion in April 2014 and complete the project by the end of the fourth quarter. “We are proud to debut the Le Méridien brand in the culturally rich city of New Orleans,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Le Méridien and Westin Hotels. “With a bullish pipeline and re-developed brand strategy, Le Méridien continues on a remarkable growth trajectory, connecting with guests through the arts, culture, and cuisine in key cities around the world.”
Le Méridien New Orleans will offer 410 fully renovated guestrooms and bathrooms as well as upgraded fitness center, rooftop pool and more than 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting facilities, ideal for weddings and business functions. The hotel’s restaurant and lounge, along with all other public areas, will also be transformed to implement Le Méridien brand elements and signature offerings.
“With strong brand appeal among cosmopolitan travelers worldwide, Le Méridien continues its aggressive deal signing momentum with Le Méridien New Orleans,” said Allison Reid, Senior Vice President of North America Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “We have a great partner in Chesapeake Lodging, and look forward to working together to bring Le Méridien to the Crescent City.”
Le Méridien New Orleans will also feature the Le Méridien HubTM experience, which re-interprets the traditional lobby into a social gathering place for creative people to converse, debate, and exchange. Le Méridien Hub offers both guests and locals a creative atmosphere where contemporary, curated artwork sets the environment. Le Méridien Hub further builds on the brand’s award-winning curated arrival experience and coffee culture. Le Méridien arrival consists of four elements: large-scale artwork in high impact areas to reset the mind and stimulate dialogue and curiosity; the sensory experience, illustrated through Le Méridien signature scent, sound and use of light, creating a unique and distinctive atmosphere; UNLOCK ARTTM programme, featuring LM100TM artist designed key card collections that not only offer access to the guestroom but also to Le Méridien affiliated contemporary cultural centers in the city; and a 24-hour curated soundtrack.
Located at 333 Poydras Street, Le Méridien New Orleans will be conveniently located near the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and just a few blocks from the boutiques, art galleries and jazz clubs in the French Quarter as well as the Riverwalk Marketplace, Harrah’s Casino and the Warehouse District. The hotel is Chesapeake Lodging Trust’s fifth Starwood property, joining W New Orleans – French Quarter, W Chicago – City Center, W Chicago – Lakeshore and Le Méridien San Francisco.
Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel, one of Oxford’s most popular hotels, has added 22 new brilliantly designed bedrooms along with a multi-functional Conservatory following a comprehensive six month, £2 million refurbishment and expansion programme. The 22 new double bedrooms have increased the hotel’s capacity to 84 rooms and have been designed by award winning interior design practice DeSallesFlint with inspiration from the hotel’s close proximity to the River Thames and Oxford’s boating heritage. The concept and design incorporates traditional ‘College’ colours alongside very British influences such as sumptuous floral fabrics and traditional tweeds but with contemporary quirks and twists. There are two room designs –the blue-toned ‘River Rooms’ with river and boating related artistry and the green-toned ‘Garden Rooms’ with flower and garden related pictures adorning the walls. All feature air conditioning, iPod docking stations, complimentary drinks trays, 37” LCD digital televisions and complimentary Wi-Fi, while in the bathrooms guests can enjoy relaxing drench showers and toiletries from Clarins.
The new rooms are linked to the existing buildings and all have views over the hotel’s beautiful gardens. Ten of the rooms enjoy uninterrupted views over the hotel’s 30 acre grounds leading down to the River Thames, those on the ground floor having direct patio access on to the lawns and two first floor corner rooms featuring Juliette balconies. The remaining 12 rooms have uninterrupted tranquil views of Heyford Meadows and the hotel’s Walled Garden.
At the same time, the hotel has converted an existing courtyard area adjacent to its popular River Room Restaurant into a multi-functional Conservatory. Designed by architects John Hallam Associates with interiors by MatthewsMee, the Conservatory is bright and airy featuring muted decorative tones to create a relaxed environment. Accommodating up to 90 people, it is perfect for both hotel guests and local residents to enjoy Sunday lunch and afternoon tea as well as a full restaurant and bar/lounge menu. A comfortable sofa area provides the ideal place for a relaxed intimate coffee or informal business meeting – free Wi-Fi is available.
The Conservatory also complements the hotel’s public areas for private events both day and evening. When combined with the Little Barn, River Room Restaurant, Oxford Suite and Eights Bar it can support larger events and occasions of up to 350 people for private events. New car parking spaces have been added to support the new facilities.
Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel is a four star property housed partly within historic medieval buildings just three miles from the centre of historic Oxford. Set in 30 acres of parkland leading down to the River Thames, the hotel combines medieval charm and contemporary elegance. Its luxury facilities include The River Room Restaurant, Crusaders Medieval Bar and Lounge, Jerome’s Leisure Club with Roman-style swimming pool, gym, outdoor riverside tennis court, College Barge and nine conference and events rooms.
Hospitality designers Richmond has created its first spa at sea, the Lotus Spa, for Princess Cruises’ latest liner, Royal Princess.Princess Cruises commissioned the Clerkenwell-based practice following a visit to the Richmond-designed Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire. Impressed by the design of the Spa facilities, the international cruise company was keen to capture the refined contemporary feel synonymous with Richmond projects.
Consequently, Richmond has created an oasis of calm using a range of high quality finishes where guests can indulge, relax and rejuvenate in tranquil and elegant surroundings.
On Royal Princess, the Lotus Spa has been given a central, convenient location just off the main atrium. This relocation from the upper deck places the spa at the heart of the ship and adds a sense of tranquillity away from the Richmond-designed fitness centre, which remains at the upper aft area of the vessel.
On entrance to the Spa, visitors are welcomed by a sensuous décor representative of the Earth’s natural elements: dark hardwoods, solid stone and metallic finishes. A signature of Richmond’s land-based projects, carefully orientated lighting complements the simple finishes.
Royal Princess has expanded the Lotus Spa with more treatment rooms than any of its sister-ships and an enhanced thermal suite called the Enclave, complete with a hydrotherapy pool and accompanying rain shower. Within the Enclave, passengers can experience heated stone lounges or waterbeds and sensory showers with mood lighting and therapeutic aromas. Three rooms offer a variety of heat-based experiences: The Hammam is a Turkish-style bath, featuring a marble slab for mud or salt treatments; The Caldarium, a ceramic chamber infused with herbal aromas; and The Laconium, a dry sauna. Two new Treatment Villas are aimed at couples looking for side-by-side treatment with ocean views.
Richmond’s first venture into ocean liner design, the Lotus Spa sets the precedent for future luxury facilities.
“It was a pleasure to collaborate with the Princess Cruises Spa team to develop and create their latest Lotus Spa concept, providing passengers with a unique, sensuous and relaxing experience at sea. We are delighted that our involvement in this small project has resulted in a major cruise ship commission with Princess Cruises sister company P&O Cruises.” Terry McGillicuddy, Director, Richmond International
Furnital Ltd are proud to introduce a range of high quality stylish show wood ‘Office desk chairs’ designed to complement any executive office, boardroom or hotel suite!Made in Italy from kiln cured beech wood. Many of the models are available swivel, with gas adjustable height and wheels. Available raw un-finished for customers own finishing or polished and upholstered in COM*
If you’d like to receive more information and view the rest of our Office chairs, please visit www.furnital.com/Office_Desk_Chairs and we’ll forward details by email or post!
Accor, the largest international operator of hotels in Asia-Pacific and Indonesia, announces the opening of Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua, the newest member of the MGallery Collection in Bali, Indonesia. This resort is a newly-built, all-villa property boasting one of the best locations in Bali – in the heart of the Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC) complex in Nusa Dua, on the southern coast of the island. This exclusive villa resort combines lavish facilities and amenities, with traditional Balinese elements set among lush, landscaped gardens. “We are delighted to add Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua to the MGallery Collection of memorable hotels,” says Gerard Guillouet, Senior Vice President of Accor Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. “Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua is the perfect resort for upscale customers who enjoy a hotel with a unique story and distinguish concept. This resort combines its exceptional location with the excellence of its services and individual attention, making every stay a memorable experience.”
MGallery is a collection of unique upscale hotels selected through their individual personality and characteristics. MGallery hotels are categorized according to three themes – Signature, Heritage and Serenity. Due to its superb ambience blending perfectly with the outstanding architectural designs, Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua is categorised under MGallery’s “Serenity” category. This resort will be the third hotel in the MGallery Collection in Indonesia and the second in Bali.
Pascal Bellon, Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua’s General Manager says, “The opening of this memorable sanctuary of villas in heavenly Bali offers upscale guests unprecedented level of privacy, five-star hospitality and a sense of ‘Serenity’. Combining contemporary comforts with respect to the environment, the resort is inspired by the daily life of a traditional Balinese village.” Staying true to the values of tranquillity, serenity and memorable hospitality, Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua is an oasis of exotic beauty with lush gardens and private pools while providing easy access to Bali’s main convention centre and just a stone’s throw away from the sublime white sand beaches of Nusa Dua.
Amarterra, which comes from the words “Amarta” which means water and “Terra” meaning earth, reflects how these two elements combine to allow sophisticated guests – from honeymooners to business and leisure travellers – to rest and relax amongst Bali’s renowned natural surroundings. The traditional architecture and designs are influenced by the 13th century Majapahit Kingdom when Javanese culture had a strong influence in Bali. Guests will experience this enchanted concept from the moment they arrive at the splendid Chandra Suriya Gate, a symbol of harmonious life, before entering through to the inspirational villas.
With just 39 villas – from one, two and three bedroom villas – each is designed to become a tranquil haven for full relaxation. Artfully crafted with richly-textured materials, the villas’ décor is accentuated by intricate furnishings and colourful finishes. The villas are equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment systems, open lounges, a dining area, and private swimming pool and gazebo, plus luxurious bathroom for guests to enjoy a delightful soak.
Styled as a tropical garden retreat, the resort’s Terra Terrace restaurant and bar offer guests all-day dining with fusion cuisine blending authentic Indonesian gastronomy with modern influences. The Amarterra Spa provides a spa experience using Dharma Bali therapy that will rejuvenate and refresh both the body and mind. The treatment menu is inspired from Bali’s heritage and traditions using natural products, mostly made from different parts of a coconut tree. Amarterra Spa’s signature treatments include Virgin Coconut Oil Body Scrub, Sirodhara and Balinese “Urut” Massage.
The resort also provides a variety of facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, a beach club, a gymnasium, boutique shop and gallery, and a meeting room.
Perfect for creating showroom window displays that get heads turning is the new Camborne freestanding bath tub from Bagno Design, in a beautiful antique copper finish.With the latest trend in bathroom design seeing the inclusion of materials that break away from the norm, the Camborne copper bath will be a focal point of any display and is perfect for customers looking to bring timeless elegance and a touch of sheer luxury to their bathroom.
Measuring 1800mm x 850mm x 850mm, the bath has a generous depth and sloping high ends to guarantee a high level of comfort for the bather. With no tap holes or overflow and a push type waste in the same antique copper finish, a truly seamless look is effortlessly achieved.
The bath can be teamed with traditionally styled wall-mounted taps or a floor mounted bath/shower mixer if it is to be sited in the centre of the room, with Bagno Design’s Princess Nouveau brassware collection being the ideal accompaniment and enabling retailers to offer customers the complete luxury bathing package.
Manufactured from a non-corrosive metal, the Camborne copper bath will last the test of time, whilst its copper construction also means it retains heat meaning it ticks all the boxes for sustainable living too.
Bagno Design can be contacted on Tel: 020 7553 6999 or visit the website at www.bagnodesign.co.uk.
Brintons and LINLEY have collaborated to transform Burlington Arcade’s iconic carpet runway. For the first time in history, a highly anticipated design featuring 92 iconic buildings from around the world, has replaced the traditional 180-metre carpet which runs the full length of the arcade.The new carpet was unveiled on Monday 17th June by The Rt Hon Hugo Swire MP, Minister of State at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, with Burlington Arcade’s famous Beadles – the liveried guards wearing frock coats and braided top hats who have policed the Arcade since 1819.
This is the fruit of a collaboration between internationally renowned bespoke furniture and interior design company LINLEY and Brintons Carpets, who have united their talents to welcome international visitors to London’s most iconic shopping arcade.
Following a year when the eyes of the world were on London, thanks to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic Games, shops in Burlington Arcade celebrated a 42% increase in purchases from international visitors, helping to cement its position as a worldwide shopping destination.
Keeping the international spotlight firmly on London’s famous shopping experience, Burlington Arcade commissioned Brintons and LINLEY, to create a brand new, bespoke carpet that runs the full length of the longest and most beautiful covered shopping arcade in Britain. The focus of the design is to welcome international visitors to the luxury landmark, landmark, whilst acting as a showcase for British creativity, wit and design.
The contemporary design features iconic structures from every continent around the world; from bridges to cultural venues and centres of industry and business. Whilst contemporary, the design is still very much connected to traditional LINLEY marquetry and furniture and exemplifies architecture and heritage.
The design includes the Eiffel Tower in Paris, St Pauls Cathedral in London, Italy’s Duomo di Milano, Reichstag in Berlin, Seattle’s Space Needle, New York’s Empire State Building, Chrysler Building and Guggenheim Museum, the Christ Redeemer in Rio, the Sydney Opera House, Moscow’s Dormition Cathedral, The Aspire Tower in Doha, India’s Taj Mahal, China’s Pearl TV Tower and Forbidden City and The Sail in Singapore.
The carpet also features a few design surprises, and visitors who look carefully might see Mary Poppins flying over the London skyline, Quasimodo make an appearance in Paris and King Kong on New York’s Empire State Building.
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: “As well as its reputation for heritage and culture, London offers unbeatable shopping, which draws people from across the globe and brings in millions to our economy. Burlington Arcade is one of the capital’s great treasures of shopping and this marvellous rug showcases great British design and manufacture. It’s a magic carpet ride across iconic buildings from around the world that will add to the arcade’s allure for Londoners and tourists alike”.
Louvre Hotels Group is reinforcing its top-player position in Poland with the opening of three new-built hotels in June and July, in top Polish cities Bydgoszcz, Gdansk and Krakow.The opening of a Campanile hotel in Bydgoszcz, the 7th largest city of the country, is a milestone for the company: the 117-rooms hotel will be the 10th hotel of the brand in Poland. As a 3-stars hotel, it boasts an excellent location on the city’s main artery, Jagiellonska Avenue and modern infrastructures and services such as a restaurant, a lounge bar and two fully equipped meeting rooms.
The Group will also open two Golden Tulip hotels in Gdansk and Krakow, less than two years after its launch in Poland:
The Golden Tulip Gdansk Residence will be situated in a great location close to the sea. The infrastructures and services will include a restaurant, a bar, conference rooms, a swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, a sauna and a wellness area. The property is developed by Qualia, one of Louvre Hotels Group’s key partners in Poland.
The Golden Tulip hotel in Krakow also enjoys a central location, in the Old Town, a few meters from the famous Market Square (a UNESCO World Heritage listed site). It will offer 86 rooms, a restaurant and a bar as well as a meeting room dedicated to business customers.
These three new openings represent a growth of 30 % in Louvre Hotels Group’s portfolio in Poland. At the end of July, the Group will manage 16 hotels in Poland, representing 1,900 rooms.
These hotels will reinforce Louvre Hotels Group’s budget segment presence in the country and underline its ambition to become a top-tier Group in the midscale and upscale segments. By adding two new cities to its portfolio (Gdansk and Bydgoszcz), Louvre Hotels Group will be the first and unique international operator present in all top-10 Polish cities.
Matthieu Evrard, Chief Development Officer of Louvre Hotels Group said: “With these new openings, Louvre Hotels Group confirms its position as one of the most active and dynamic hotel chains in Poland. The Group is also developing in neighbouring countries and will open its first hotels in Donetsk, Ukraine, and in Vilnius, Lithuania, in the 4th quarter of 2013.”
Iain McKinlay, UK Managing Director of Hansgrohe, will leave at the end of June 2013. Being with the company for 24 years, Iain has been at the forefront of the development of the modern UK bathroom industry that we know today.Through his involvement in exhibitions, awards events and his extensive network of customers, Iain has become widely known and, from his position at the helm of Hansgrohe UK, has introduced mixer taps, thermostatic controls and eco-friendly products to the market. He has also presided over the evolution of the washing and bathing culture in the UK through to it becoming a nation of showerers.
Having started the company in 1990, Iain has overseen Hansgrohe UK’s growth from its first year of trading with sales of £800,000 and employing five people to today’s level of sales exceeding £30m with 64 staff from expanded facilities in Esher and Woking.
Iain, who turns 60 this October, comments, ‘After thirty-five years in the kitchen and bathroom industry, I have decided to leave Hansgrohe. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who helped us grow the business in the way it has happened. Firstly, I would like to thank the staff at Hansgrohe, some of whom have been here for nearly as long as me, for their loyalty, work ethic and expertise. Their willingness to go the extra mile has been exemplary.
Secondly, I wish to say a huge thank you to our fantastic client base, many of whom have been selling the product since day one. Taking a product that does not work on traditional U.K. water systems to become the number one brand in showers and taps proves the quality of British and Irish retailers. May I wish you and your staff every success, both personally and in business.’
Iain hands over control of the business to his existing senior management team, with Martin Mongan as the new Managing Director and spokesman, and Helen Kronheim as Director – Finance and Operations.
Martin comments, ‘I have been fortunate enough to have known Iain for over twenty years, both as a customer of Hansgrohe and for the last 18 months as a colleague. He has been a larger than life personality in an industry full of characters, and everyone has a story to share about working with Iain that will bring a smile to those listening. He will be greatly missed by all in the industry and particularly by all Hansgrohe employees and customers. I am delighted to have the opportunity to carry on Iain’s work and to build on the continued success of the business in the UK and the excellent customer relationships he has developed over the years. ‘
Helen comments, ‘I have been working closely with Iain for the last five years, and feel fortunate to have been able to gain some of his vast industry knowledge. Iain has worked hard to create a company with a unique market position based on the highest level of customer service. This is reflected in our loyal customer base. His style and genuine interest in the wellbeing of his teams have created an internal culture in which our staff takes pride in our products and our customers. I look forward to working with the team to build on this strong foundation and working closely with our customers to ensure our continued success.’
Mr Richard Grohe, Deputy CEO of Hansgrohe SE, says ‘Iain has had a great impact on the sanitary market and as a Hansgrohe ambassador has brought modern industrial design into English bathrooms. I have always appreciated his extraordinary eye for a really good product design. From the market introduction in 1990 until today he has developed the brand Hansgrohe to what it is today; the market leader in the premium brand’.
Upholstered in any fabric of your choice and with oversized zips instead of seams, the collection from RHA Furniture provides a very original design addition to any lounge or soft seating area. The comfortable designer sofa comes in 3 size options and offers another 10 modular units for custom seating configurations.
The optional recline mechanism is completely hidden from sight, operated by wireless remote control and can be stopped at any position between the upright and reclined position.
Made from beautifully carved maple wood, the Pion collection was inspired by chess pieces and plays with the contrast between the shine of lacquers and the matt wax finish of the natural wood.
The cone shaped bases look like ceramic sculptures, but are actually high gloss lacquered wood in a choice of mustard, olive, peach and sky-blue.
For more information and to request a quote just visit the new products section of RHA Furniture’s online product directory.
Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has signed a new management contract with Shaanxi Puyu Industrial Co., Ltd for a 350 room hotel in Xi’an. Scheduled for completion in 2016, Swissôtel Xi’an will be nestled in the core business area in the Xi’an National Civil Aerospace Industrial Base within proximity to two Metro lines. Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, boasts of a rich and colorful past. With a history of over 3,000 years, it is regarded as one of the four greatest cities of ancient civilizations, along with Athens, Cairo and Rome. As a result of the large number of historical sites, including the most famous Terracotta Army, tourism is a key component of the city’s economy and an efficient transport system is in place. The Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is the largest airport in Northwest China and a six-line Metro system is under construction.
Swissôtel Xi’an will be located in the heart of phase one of China’s second national civil aerospace industrial base. The base is under construction and will be completed by 2016, expecting to attract over 300,000 residences and over 30 medium to large scale enterprises. 5 km away, the Qujiang New District is an important cultural and residential hub, also housing the Xi’an Qujiang International Conference & Exhibition Centre. Swissôtel Xi’an will offer , four restaurants, function and banqueting space and recreational facilities including a Pürovel Spa. to 50m350 guest rooms and suites, varying in size of approximately 40m
Xi’an has the potential to develop into a top business and leisure hub. “We are pleased with this successful start to our partnership with Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts which has an excellent track record internationally. Working together with our experienced expertise will place us in a position to successfully capture the development opportunities in the new era,” said Mr. Song Zhong Ming, deputy GM of Shaanxi Puyu Industrial Co., Ltd.
“This is a welcome addition to our current portfolio in China, and will complement our upcoming projects in Chengdu, Changsha and Sanya. Xi’an is a strategic step in our plans and put us on track with our goals to expand in emerging markets. This partnership with Shaanxi Puyu Industrial Co., Ltd is timely and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship,” said Meinhard Huck, President of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts.
Recently, at the NYU International Hospitality Investment Conference in New York, Marriott International, Inc. announced it will import its popular design-focused AC Hotels by Marriott brand into the US and the rest of the Americas. The brand inspired by the runways and fashion houses of Milan, features simple, clean and crisp lines, marrying sophisticated European style with approachable design for a distinctly urban feel. Each hotel reflects the uniqueness and character of its location. AC Hotels by Marriott was launched in 2011 as a joint venture between Marriott International and Spanish group AC Hotels, which was founded in 1998 by Antonio Catalán. Today, AC Hotels by Marriott has a portfolio of 79 hotels in Spain, Italy, Portugal and France, encompassing nearly 9,000 rooms.
“By importing AC Hotels by Marriott into the US, we believe we can increase Marriott’s overall market share among younger business travelers who make three or more business trips a year, representing a total market size of $31 – $35 billion,” said Brian King, global brand officer, Marriott Endorsed Brands. “We have identified an industry void among consumers who are connected, communal and curious with an urban spirit and desire a design-focused hotel brand that is widely distributed.”
AC Hotels by Marriott has extremely high brand recognition in Spain and is among the 50 best valued brands within that market. There are currently five AC Hotels by Marriott in the company’s global development pipeline, and there is strong interest among owners in developing the brand in the North and South America.
“Marriott has a strong track record for developing and growing brands,” said Tony Capuano, executive vice president and chief development officer, Marriott Global Development. “Our experienced owners and franchisees are highly enthusiastic about the growth potential of this unique, design-focused brand for new construction, conversions and adaptive re-use opportunities.”
AC Hotels by Marriott, which will sit in the upper moderate lodging tier, will add to the company’s emerging supply of lifestyle brands that includes the recently announced moderately priced MOXY HOTELS in Europe. AC Hotels by Marriott feature lobbies containing a curated collection of inviting furnishings, modern patterns and textures that feel museum-like with a layered tone-on-tone color palette of warm greys and soft charcoal accents that carries through to the guest rooms. Within the lobby, guests can enjoy the AC Lounge, serving small plates, cocktails, and a wide selection of wines and craft beers. Guests can retreat to work or relax in the library with its wide tables that serves as the business center as well. The library also offers locally relevant reading and artifacts. WiFi throughout every AC Hotels by Marriott property will be free. Guests and non-guests will be able to book spaces to work in the lobbies using Marriott’s Workspace on Demand powered by Liquidspace. AC Hotels by Marriott will offer guests a full breakfast buffet.
Anglo Holt Construction has won a £5.5 million contract to build its first ibis budget hotel.The West Bromwich-based company was awarded the contract by Prime Property Edinburgh Ltd to build a 161-bedroom hotel at Edinburgh Business Park.
ibis budget, part of the Accor group, is a European leader in budget hotels with more than 500 hotels in 18 countries.
Minutes away from Edinburgh Airport, the business park has its own train station and is served by many buses. The hotel will be well appointed for the 9million people per year that use the airport. The greenfield site has undergone archaeological monitoring and will have a pre-cast concrete frame.
The 38-week project is due to start in August 2013 and be completed in May 2014.
Five decades after Swedish engineer Gunnar Larsson first unveiled the advantages of pressfitting connection technology, Geberit Mapress, the market-leading pressfitting system, celebrates its golden anniversary. As it marks the 50th anniversary since its conception, Geberit Mapress is today the preferred pipework conncetion system for installers working on projects large and small, and both new build and retro-fit. With a pressing procedure that has changed very little over time, Geberit Mapress was and still very much is an innovative and revolutionary connection method for metal pipework, but it is only now that the many benefits of pressfitting technology are fully being realised.
In 1963, the original product range comprised various pressfittings for copper, steel and stainless steel pipes with diameters from 6 to 28 mm as well as a hydraulic pressing tool and diverse pressing jaws. The very first generation of pressfittings already had a pleated end containing a seal ring. The fittings were pushed over a deburred metal pipe by hand and could then be pressed using the pressing tool. The pressing sequence deformed the fitting and pipe slightly, which created a lengthways non-positive connection. At the same time, the pleated end with the seal ring was crimped snugly on the pipe, thereby ensuring a permanently sealed joint. To this day, the procedure is essentially the same.
But it wasn’t until the German corporation Mannesmann AG acquired the rights to manufacture and sell pressfittings and after a long series of tests confirmed that stainless steel pipes and pressfittings were suitable for drinking water supply lines that Mapress pressing technology began to get the credit it was due.
With continual product development and expansion Mapress carbon and stainless steel piping systems were increasingly used for more than simple domestic installations and the system quickly won the trust of engineers working in plant engineering and shipbuilding too.
The dawn of the new millennium brought with it the introduction of the contour seal, with a pressure test easily determining whether any joints had been left unpressed during installation. This, coupled with the introduction of copper Mapress systems, saw what began as a simple innovation from the mind of Larsson nearly 40 years before, finally begin to take off, even in traditional copper markets such as the UK.
As a company that has introduced revolutionary pre-wall technology to the sanitary world, Geberit was keen to offer installers a piping system designed for tight space restrictions behind the wall. Geberit Mepla was launched in 1990, offering multilayer pipes with an aluminium core that could be bent by hand and featuring pressfitting technology to make them very simple to work with.
The successful introduction of Mepla, led Geberit to acquire the Mapress business in 2004, in order to offer a seamless piping product range in all dimensions, suitable for all applications. Using compatible adapters, the two piping systems can even be easily connected to one another.
Five years later, the innovative pressing indicator was added to the system, further simplifying the installer’s work by visibly ensuring that the whole system has been pressed and is leak-free. Fifty years after the pressfitting concept came into being, it is now fast becoming the preferred option for plumbers and heating engineers up and down the land.
To find out more about the many benefits of switching to Geberit Mapress visit www.geberit.co.uk
OW Hospitality is excited to announce the addition of Scott Evans to its US-based OW Style Studio as senior creative and technical stylist. Evans, an accomplished hospitality designer, is the latest addition to the growing team of multi-talented OW Hospitality designers, bringing with him new and technologically advanced design capabilities. Evans will also serve as a key liaison in custom hospitality projects and will be responsible for the company’s technology development.Evans most recently served as senior designer at Durkan Hospitality. Prior to his position there, he worked at Tai Ping Carpets as a senior designer. Amy Jaekel, OW Style Studio team leader said, “Scott brings 15 years of varied experience in the carpet and rug industry to OW Hospitality and we are extremely pleased to have such a great addition to our OWH family.”
Evans will be based out of the Dalton, Georgia corporate office.
A leading North East leisure firm is expanding its Scottish operations with the acquisition of a new hotel.
Newcastle-based Cairn Hotel Group, which owns 22 hotels across the UK, has purchased the freehold of the Queensferry Hotel, Fife, which was previously in administration. The firm, which already operates hotels in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, now plans to invest around £3m in refurbishing and re-branding the 77-bedroom property over the next 12 months.
Previous re-branding projects carried out by the Cairn Hotel Group have more than doubled the workforce at Hotel Indigo Kensington Earls Court, London, the Holiday Inn Newcastle Jesmond hotel, Newcastle, the Doubletree by Hilton Newcastle Airport hotel and the Holiday Inn Darlington A1 Scotch Corner hotel, County Durham.
The firm’s directors now hope that similar successes will be achieved at the three-star Queensferry hotel, as well as safeguarding 40 existing jobs.
The hotel was previously run by Delight Hotels, who were ousted by the former owners Mountain Capital earlier this year. The Cairn Hotel Group has now purchased the property outright and will operate it directly.
Aran Handa, Director at the Cairn Hotel Group, said: “The Cairn Hotel Group has a proven track record of rescuing and restoring struggling properties like the Queensferry hotel.
“We are now looking forward to not only returning the property to its former glory but introducing the high levels of customer service and staff satisfaction which operate in all our hotels across the UK.”
UK shower manufacturer, Roman, are fully committed to the new legal requirements sweeping through Europe relating to their products. Roman conforms to the new CE marking standard, which will be compulsory for all construction products as of the 1st July 2013. CE marking validates pan-European standards and regulations that are in place and ensures compliance. Previously CE marking has been prominent on electrical items, but going forward it will apply to all products used in construction – including bathroom items such as the shower enclosure and shower tray. Importantly for developers, even showering surrounds supplied by glass contractors must also conform to the CE mark.
Roman design and manufacture their range of products in the UK, so began testing their products to ensure that they conform to every detail of the CE mark, at the end of 2012. Their range has carried the marking since February 2013, in preparation for the change in legislation.
The CE marking indicates that a product complies with EU regulation, but it is a self-certification scheme and it is the manufacturer’s responsibility to ensure their products conform to the relevant regulations.
For shower enclosures the key standards to look out for is that the shower enclosure conforms to BS EN14428:2008+A1 – which tests for functional requirements. This then ensures the shower enclosures meets the EU Construction Products Regulation, and can legitimately carry the CE mark. Roman’s range has been tested to ensure it conforms and surpasses these standards.
Roman now includes the CE marking within their literature, their individual product instruction manuals and on their website. In line with the standard, Roman also displays their CE documents for each product on their website, so customers can have quick and easy access to this information.
David Osborne, Managing Director at Roman, commented: “This is the most critical change to legislation, for a long time, for retailers, housebuilders, merchants and specifiers to be aware of. We have a responsibility as a manufacturer to ensure our products conform to the standard, but the final reseller of the products (retailers, housebuilders and merchants) also have a responsibility to ensure the products they stock, or are specifying, also conform to the Standard. Checking whether a product carries the CE marking is fairly straightforward. Large fines and imprisonment can be the ultimate result for knowingly selling non-conforming products, so we would strongly urge all retailers and merchants to ask the right questions around CE marking to all their suppliers.”
The Curious Pig in the Parlour, neatly tucked away in Copthorne, West Sussex has opened its doors, unveiling nine boutique-style bedrooms alongside a fully refurbished pub and dining area. The pub provides an ideal hideaway for locals and visitors to enjoy relaxed home-from-home surroundings, with eating, drinking and sleeping all nestled under one roof. LOCATION Set in the quaint village of Copthorne, just seven miles from Gatwick Airport, The Curious Pig in the Parlour is the perfect place for a stop-over, adding a touch of luxury to a pre-flight hotel stay, and it’s a great base from which to explore the rolling countryside and historical attractions found in West Sussex.
THE BEDROOMS The Curious Pig in the Parlour’s nine beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms offer understated style and sophistication. Each has retained its own sense of charm and character, with textured fabrics, heavy timber furniture and brightly coloured prints adding to the pub’s already lively personality and homely surroundings.
Delivering all the amenities expected of a boutique hotel, all the bedrooms boast luxury cotton bed linen, flat screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, spacious bathrooms with walk-in showers, fluffy bathrobes, luxury toiletries and a homemade welcome hamper packed with coffee, tea, bottled water and chef’s treats.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has recently announced the signing of a new Holiday Inn hotel in Quito, Ecuador. This property brings three IHG®-branded hotels to Ecuador including the current Holiday Inn Express® Quito hotel, and the upcoming Holiday Inn® Guayaquil Airport hotel slated to open next month. “Ecuador has strong potential for hotel growth and is the perfect market for Holiday Inn hotels,” said Joel Eisemann, chief development officer, the Americas, IHG. “As well as being the country’s capital, Quito is also an important business and tourism center for the country and we look forward to bringing accommodations to fit the region’s needs.”
The hotel will be located approximately 22 miles from Quito’s city center and one mile from the new Mariscal Sucre International Airport, built to expand the capacity of the city’s former airport and estimated to serve five million travelers annually with room for future expansion. Surrounded by the Andes Mountains, Quito is the second most populous city in Ecuador and a UNESCO World Heritage site, having one of the best-preserved historic city centers in the Americas.
The new hotel will be designed in line with the Holiday Inn brand family’s $1 billion global brand relaunch, the largest project of its kind in hospitality history. The relaunch continues to drive increased quality and consistency across the global portfolio. The hotel will feature a contemporary image with emphasis on arrival and welcome services, guestroom and guest bath comfort and a redesigned logo and signage.
“We are so pleased with the signing of the new Holiday Inn Quito Airport,” said Gerardo Murray, vice president, Marketing Strategic Services for Mexico, Latin America and Caribbean at IHG. “The location is exciting and a very strategic fit for this brand as this hotel will be located near one of the busiest international airports in South America and of tremendous value to both business and leisure travelers visiting the region.”
Scheduled to debut in 2016, the four-story Holiday Inn Quito Airport will boast a modern facade and design featuring 130 guestrooms. The location is intended to cater to both corporate and leisure travelers, looking for accommodations close to the airport. The hotel will be equipped with maximum sound insulation, built to minimize airport noise to ensure a pleasurable and convenient stay for guests, and will also feature an array of on-site amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, restaurant, fitness center and 6,000 sq.-ft. of meeting space. Room Service Right … On Time™, at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time.
Holiday Inn hotels feature a residential atmosphere that is warm, trend forward and comfortable. Guest beds are made using crisp, white bedding with pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm.” The residential design will include business-focused necessities such as an ergonomic workstation and data ports with the bathrooms including a multifunctional showerhead, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod, and amenities. Additionally, each room will have standard Holiday Inn guestroom accommodations – comfortable double, queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, hairdryer, micro fridge, coffee maker, iron and ironing board.
The hotel is owned by BPO Asesores Empresariales S.A., which also owns the Holiday Inn Guayaquil Airport opening later this year and is franchised by an affiliate of IHG.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and PT Tiara Raya Bali International has recently announced the debut of Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran, the latest newly built Le Méridien resort to open during a year of substantial growth for the Paris-born brand. Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran, combines chic, modern design with a passion for the arts, culture and creative cuisine to offer travellers an enriching escape on Bali, Indonesia’s famed Island of the Gods. “Le Méridien is experiencing a year of significant growth,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Le Méridien and Westin. “With a refined Le Méridien brand positioning focused on unlocking the destination and our best portfolio and performance levels ever, we are proud to return to Bali in such an ideal setting as the culturally-rich Jimbaran area.”
“We are excited about our partnership with Starwood Hotels & Resorts to officially launch Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran,” said Richard Wiriahardja, Owner of PT Tiara Raya Bali International. “We took Le Méridien brand’s vision of creativity to heart: arts in different mediums, designer furniture with stories to be told, and details in everyday objects that induce curiosity. We are pleased to welcome guests to explore our resort and the Jimbaran area.”
Complementing its idyllic location, Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran juxtaposes rich elements of traditional Jimbaran heritage with sleek contemporary elements, inspiring art, and a relaxed, understated style. The resort features the newly developed Le Méridien Hub experience, which re-interprets the traditional lobby into a social gathering place for creative people to converse, debate and exchange views.
Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran offers four distinct dining venues in a three-story complex, including the signature restaurant Bamboo Chic, featuring Pan-Asian flavours fused with an authentic Balinese palate and made with organic ingredients sourced from the local Bedugul Mountain area; Smoqee Lounge & Sky Bar with hand-crafted cocktails, unparalleled sunset views, and soothing tunes from resident DJs; Latitude 8, offering coffee by day and wines and tapas by night in the hotel’s Hub; and WALA, an casual spot for handcrafted gelato and perfect cups of coffee.
Surrounded by serene and refreshing water features, the hotel’s 118 guest rooms and suites feature modern batik motifs and striking liquid art imagery by German artist Markus Reugels. Ground floor guest rooms open directly onto a uniquely designed 1,300 square meter organic form saltwater lagoon pool.
A modern conference center provides 600 square meters of multi-purpose space, state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, a business center, and creative event staff.
Other amenities include Serenity, a rejuvenation spa with six ‘Experience’ treatment rooms and a lounge; a well-equipped fitness center with a variety of health programs; and J Kids Club that keeps young guests engaged with an array of activities, discovery programs, and a dedicated outdoor children’s pool.
The in-house design team at Stylematters has recently refurbished our showroom. Come and explore the latest trends and bring your ideas to life in our state of the art design hub; Thursday 11th July from 12-8pm.Champagne and sumptuous grill canapés from our charcoal BBQ located in our new outdoor terrace display.
A whole new world of design and product source featuring commercial and residential services.
Win a day at Chester Racecourse! Please register to attend our opening and be entered into our draw for two free VIP tickets to the Stylematters Summer Festival on the 17th August 2013.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced that it will increase its operating hotel footprint in Latin America by 50 percent during the next five years, opening an average of seven new hotels per year in the region. Emphasizing Latin American’s growth potential as one of the world’s fastest growing hotel and travel markets, Starwood’s CEO Frits van Paasschen and members of the company’s senior executive team visited Latin America last week, traveling to key growth markets, including Brazil and Colombia. “Macro-economic trends continue to reshape the Latin American travel and business landscape, creating strong growth in lodging demand and many opportunities for Starwood to expand in the region,” said Frits van Paasschen, President and CEO, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “At the same time, Latin America’s middle class grew by 50 percent in the last decade and this increase in wealth means that there are more and more people with the means to travel and an increasing appetite for global, luxury brands like ours.”
As the first international hotel company in Latin America dating back to the opening of the Sheraton Maria Isabel in Mexico City in 1963, Starwood today is the largest high end hotel operator in the region with 72 hotels in 13 countries and a total of 15,600 rooms. Since 2007, the company has grown by 36% in Latin America.
In the last two years the company opened 13 hotels, including its debut in Costa Rica with Westin Playa Conchal, Starwood’s first all-inclusive hotel in the world, the recent opening of Sheraton da Bahia Hotel in Salvador, Brazil, and the opening of new flagships including W Santiago, The Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center, St. Regis Mexico City and Sheraton Bijao in Panama- the first Sheraton branded all-inclusive hotel in the world. Additional recent openings include The Westin Playa Bonita Resort & Spa Panama, The Westin Panama, The Westin Guadalajara and The Westin Santa Fe in Mexico; Aloft Bogota Airport and Aloft San Jose Hotel; Villarrica Park Lake Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel; Le Méridien Mexico City; and Four Points by Sheraton Mexico City, Colonia Roma.
Starwood has a pipeline of 19 hotels with a total of 3,200 new rooms in development. In the remainder of 2013, Starwood expects to open six more hotels with a total of 1,100 rooms, covering four brands across four countries.
“Latin America is emblematic of the growth we are seeing in regions around the world and key to our development plans,” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development & Acquisition, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “There is strong affinity for all of our brands in the region across the luxury, upper upscale and mid-market segments, and we’re looking to build on this interest with new world-class hotels in the right places, with the right partners.”
“We are optimistic about the future of our company in Latin America because we have various competitive advantages, including a long-established presence for more than 40 years, local know-how and strong relationships driven by our in-market teams,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, co-president of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Americas. “Combined with our world-renowned lifestyle brands, we are well-positioned to grow and maintain our lead in the market.”
Brazil With more than 80% of the world’s economic growth coming from fast-growing markets over the next few years, Brazil is a key focus for the company. Underscoring the importance of the country, van Paasschen and members of Starwood’s senior executive team met with hotel owners, customers and investors in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Recife, and Salvador to evaluate new projects. They also visited the iconic Sheraton Rio Hotel & Resort in Rio de Janeiro, one of Starwood’s most valuable owned-assets in the region. In 2012, the hotel began a multi-million dollar renovation project that is part of Sheraton Hotels & Resorts’ ongoing commitment to enhance its global portfolio and reflects Starwood’s unwavering commitment to Brazil. Renovations are expected to be complete by the second quarter of next year.
“There is significant opportunity for hotel development in Brazil due to its sheer size, natural beauty, and relative under penetration, particularly at the high end. We want to bring our skills and expertise at operating high-quality branded hotels to this dynamic market, and believe rising rates and occupancies, and clear pent up demand for travel, make this a promising time to pursue growth opportunities,” added van Paasschen.
Starwood currently has eight hotels in some of the most important cities in the country, including Sheraton Rio Hotel & Resort and Sheraton Barra Hotel & Suites in Rio de Janeiro; Sheraton Vitoria Hotel; Sheraton São Paulo WTC, Sheraton Porto Alegre Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Curitiba, Four Points by Sheraton Macaé and the Sheraton da Bahia Hotel in Salvador, which is celebrating its recent inauguration today. Sheraton Reserva do Paiva Hotel & Convention Center near Recife is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2014.
Colombia Starwood executives also spent time in Colombia meeting with owners and partners and visiting the site of the future W Bogota, which will mark the brand’s entry into the country. In the past years, Colombia has made important steps in enhancing its economy and hotel infrastructure, becoming an attractive destination for foreign investment and international hotel brands. Starwood has been present in Colombia for almost 20 years, and today, the company has several exciting projects in the pipeline, including Four Points by Sheraton Bogota, Sheraton Cartagena Hotel, and W Bogota- all slated to open in 2014.
“We believe that Colombia is a country ripe with opportunities for growth and we plan to expand our brands in the major cities and secondary markets in the years to come with development partners who have a proven track record of success and are looking for a new and exciting growth vehicle,” van Paasschen concluded.
Hansgrohe SE, one of the leading global bathroom and sanitation specialists, headquartered in Germany’s Black Forest (www.hansgrohe.com), unveiled a major 8,000 square metre extension to its mixer production facility in Songjiang, outside of Shanghai, China. The extension – representing an investment of over 13 million Euro (approximately 100 million Yuan) over several years – includes three new structures; two of which are for manufacturing use, while one is for staff purposes.The factory houses ultra-modern mixer production facilities, and will boost Hansgrohe’s ability to serve both a domestic Chinese audience, as well as the wider Asian market. Since entering the Chinese market in 1999, Hansgrohe has grown rapidly and delivered record sales in 2012, which saw China become Hansgrohe’s biggest market, second only to its home market Germany.
This organic sales growth – more than 20 per cent over the previous year – has helped Hansgrohe SE to strengthen its position as the number one German mixer manufacturer in China. In addition to this market-beating growth, Hansgrohe’s continued distribution expansion into the Chinese back-country, as well as the intensification of market development initiatives, have also led to turnover increases.
The expanded site will allow Hansgrohe to deliver even more competitively priced quality Hansgrohe flagship products into the Chinese market, offering them “water pleasure” and award winning design. In addition, an improved supply chain network will strengthen Hansgrohe’s customer-oriented sales and service priorities.
The Hansgrohe plant in Shanghai is a subsidiary set up by the Hansgrohe Group, in accordance with unified production standards set in Germany, which are built on more than 111 years of innovation and setting of quality standards in the global bathroom sector. For example, the most recent new products launched in the Chinese market this year – such as the Axor Starck Organic and Hansgrohe Select ranges – have benefited from a number of Hansgrohe’s patented technologies, including EcoSmart.
Mr. Siegfried Gänßlen, CEO of Hansgrohe SE, said: “We are delighted to be able to unveil our new and expanded plant at Songjiang, which will allow us to better serve our very important Chinese market by tailoring our products according to local preferences. It will also improve our logistics and supply chains and drive further organic growth in one of the largest future markets.”
Mr. Quansheng Ren, President of Hansgrohe China, added: “2013 will be a big year for Hansgrohe in China. Not only are we greatly improving our state-of-the-art mixer factory in Songjiang, but we aim to add more than 100 new points of sale to ensure that our growth story continues.”
Hansgrohe has over 400 franchised stores in China, including flagship stores in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen and Hangzhou, and the improvements to the site will grow the factory’s output from 1.3 million pieces per year, to a future capacity of approximately 2.4 million per year.
Heritage Collection has added a touch of class and luxury to afternoon teas at the prestigious Close House Hotel and Golf in Newcastle.The Birmingham-based family business renowned for designing and manufacturing exquisite china and silverware, worked with the hotel’s interior designer Trevor Erskine-Meade to create a bespoke range of tableware complementing the elegant surroundings of the venue and highlighting the equestrian interests of its proprietor and racehorse owner Graham Wylie.
Silver cake stands, knives, forks, teapots, milk jugs, sugar bowls – even tea strainers – feature a stylised horse head motif, whilst gold and neutral striped glazes on the china reflect the interior decor of the hotel.
Martin McDonagh, Managing Director of Heritage Collection based in Small Heath said: “We were commissioned to design and manufacture a unique range of high quality tableware to serve traditional afternoon teas in the elegant lounge. The brief was based on classic traditions with a modern twist so we are delighted that the results have been so well received.”
Peter Llewellyn, Managing Director of Close House Hotel and Golf said: “The outstanding quality and unique design perfectly met our requirements. The equestrian theme makes for an interesting talking point.”
In 2011 championship golfer Lee Westwood became the official attached tour professional at Close House Hotel located in the picturesque Northumbria countryside.
The Close House Hotel now has the world’s first Lee Westwood Colt and Lee Westwood Filly Golf Courses.
Several items of the Baulmann BIG LIGHTS range have now been upgraded with the latest LED technology. In combination with the fabric shades of this product family the warm-white LED provides a glare-free and energy efficient illumination for public areas.
As usual all items of the range can also be produced in different individual sizes and with various fabrics for the shades.
Hilton Hotels & Resorts has recently announced the opening of its latest resort property with the reflagging of Ravella at Lake Las Vegas as Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa. Located within the 3,600-acre Lake Las Vegas master-planned resort community, Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa is a Mediterranean-inspired resort just 20 miles from the Las Vegas strip.”The opening of this hotel provides an ideal retreat for guests who are looking for both the excitement and proximity to the Las Vegas strip and a tranquil place they can escape to and relax,” said Rob Palleschi, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
An oasis in the desert, Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa features upscale accommodations including 349 guest rooms and suites with views that capture the lake, mountains, Florentine Garden and pool. Guests can take advantage of the full range of leisure amenities including a 30,000 square foot full-service spa with 24 treatment rooms, a full-service salon, sauna, steam room and fitness centre. The resort experience continues outdoors with a resort-sized pool featuring fully stocked cabanas, poolside dining at Lagoon Bar & Grill and access to a Jack Nicklaus golf course. For dining, the Medici Café and Terrace offers casual elegance in a garden-side setting and the Firenze Bar & Lounge is located in the lobby for tapas and cocktails.
With its Mediterranean flare and lakeside location, Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa provides an array of indoor and outdoor event spaces for weddings, private events, executive meetings and corporate retreats. The resort features 92,459 square feet of combined meeting and function space including an 11,813-square-foot ballroom, state-of-the-art audio visual technology, lofted ceilings, soundproof air walls and high-speed internet access. The on-property wedding chapel, “Capella Di Amore” is Las Vegas’ only over-water wedding chapel.
British luxury bed manufacturer, Hypnos (www.hypnosbeds.com), also a proud Royal Warrant holder, has been designing and making bespoke beds and mattresses by hand for more than 100 years. In response to a growing demand from the hospitality sector, Hypnos has introduced a number of new additions to its existing portfolio of handmade sofa beds.The additions offer hoteliers an exciting choice of attractive and functional designer sofa beds, each with unique styling and detailing, and all provide the maximum comfort, durability and quality expected of a hand crafted piece of upholstered furniture.
Hypnos’ sofa bed collection offers hoteliers and hospitality providers a quality, yet practical sleeping solution, enabling them to easily and quickly turn a double bedroom into a family bedroom, and thus maximise their occupancy levels and increase their revenues.
Customers can choose from an array of upholstery fabrics, including contrasting fabric for piping or buttons, a range of stained wooden feet and even matching or contrasting piped cushions, enabling hoteliers to design a bespoke sofa bed that perfectly complements their décor.
Terry Barber, sales director for the contract division at Hypnos, comments: “Our sofa beds are extremely space efficient as they offer additional seating and can easily and quickly be converted to reveal a robust and supremely comfortable hidden bed, which boasts a two-fold bed action with a handmade Hypnos pocket spring mattress.
“All of our upholstery fabrics have been carefully selected and thoroughly tested to comply with long term abrasion and usage tests. For complete peace of mind, all of our fabrics and the sofa bed frames have been tested to meet fire retardancy standards. Additionally the hardwood frames also come with a 10-year guarantee.
“As a bed manufacturer, we believe that the comfort level and quality of sleep should not be compromised just because someone is sleeping on a sofa bed. Design and innovation are key to us, and our sofa bed range retains the highest level of craftsmanship to ensure that every member of the family can still enjoy a memorable and energising rest, while sleeping away from home.”
Louvre Hotels Group, a major hotel industry player in France and abroad, is announcing the opening of the Golden Tulip Hotel in Aix-les-Bains, the brand’s 10th hotel in France and 230th worldwide. Previously operated under the Radisson Blu brand, the hotel was purchased by Mr Alfonsi, a new investor in the Group, and will now be franchised under the Golden Tulip brand.
The hotel is certified Green Key (the world’s leading certification in accommodation) and will be undergoing a vast renovation of all guest rooms and public areas over the coming year, all the while remaining open for business.
Located on Avenue Charles de Gaulle in the city centre, close to the TGV station and to the casino, the hotel has 102 rooms (each room featuring high-speed WiFi).
In order to provide its guests with authentic relaxation, the Golden Tulip Hotel in Aix-les-Bains features a 600-m² relaxation centre complete with solarium and a Spa offering an indoor pool, a sauna, a steam bath, a Jacuzzi and a fitness centre.
The hotel’s “Brasserie du Park” restaurant serves traditional regional cuisine. The hotel also has a 500-m² area for private functions, lit by natural light.
“Being established in over 40 countries with 230 hotels, the Golden Tulip brand enjoys an international profile, an upscale positioning and a solid reputation. In addition to that, Louvre Hotels Group provides us with a highly efficient distribution system and a powerful marketing and sales force,” says Mr Alfonsi.
“With this new hotel joining the Golden Tulip brand, Louvre Hotels Group is proving once again that there is room in France for a non-standardised 4-star brand. Golden Tulip offers its guests the best in international standards while retaining local characteristics at every one of its hotels,” explains Golden Tulip France Director Emmanuel Ollier.
The opening of the Golden Tulip Hotel in Aix-les-Bains will further strengthen the national development strategy announced by the Golden Tulip brand several months ago: the Group’s ambition is to be operating 50 hotels in France by 2015.
Construction of the first Travelodge hotel in the London Borough of Hackney – part of a £20 million mixed-use development – is now underway, Anglo Holt Construction has announced.The West Bromwich-based company was awarded the contract by developer LPC Living Ltd, owned by the Pervaiz Naviede Family Trust, to build new basement and ground floor retail units 80-bedroom Travelodge hotel and 50-apartment building above.
The former brownfield site, near Hackney Central Railway Station, has undergone archaeological monitoring. The building will have a reinforced concrete basement, structural steel on the ground and lower floors, a lightweight frame on the upper floors, and a green roof. It will also include a large vehicle turntable. The project is due to be completed in March 2014.
Andy Elwell, managing director at Anglo Holt Construction, said: “This mixed-use development, comprising retail, residential and leisure, will be a real boost for Hackney. We are proud to continue our successful 13-year partnership with Travelodge by building its first hotel in the area.”
Simon Ashdown, director at LPC Living, said: “We’re delighted that construction has now commenced on this strategically important site. We believe the mix of retail, leisure and residential accommodation will be welcomed by residents and visitors to Hackney.”
Based in West Bromwich in the West Midlands, Anglo Holt has an annual turnover in excess of £50 million and employs around 100 people. Its objective is to guarantee to deliver quality, reliability and added value throughout the total process of design, construction, project management and cost management.
On Wednesday 12th June, a new DoubleTree by Hilton joined the London scene with the opening of the London Ealing property. The hotel was officially opened by Councillor Kamaljit Dhindsa.£10m has been spent on this property to bring it in line with the brand’s identity and it looks like it means business. With the redesign and refurbishment, the group decided to move the main entrance towards the rear of the property and in doing so, have created exclusivity for its guests; it’s no longer a hotel, it’s a secret club.
From the entrance you can see reception ahead and the bar to your left. The W5 Grill & Bar’s design features earthy tones with dark wood furniture and features and there is a terrace for al fresco dining should London ever see sunshine again.
Opposite reception is the business area with three or four workdesks and computers for guests use. Beyond this is the lift lobby and bathrooms, a large breakout area which services the Ballroom and two smaller business rooms, and a small bar.
The Contract Chair Company are always striving to find new pieces to complement their existing ranges of Hotel and Leisure furniture offerings.We are pleased to announce the launch of Adele, Kelly and Malaga lounge chairs.
Designed to complement a variety of projects, they are available in standard wood stains and customers own material.
Please contact sales@thecontractchair.co.uk to receive further information or call 020 8735 6002 to discuss your enquiry.
Work has begun to radically transform the Radisson Blu Hotel, Manchester Airport as part of a £10m investment programme – by far the largest current hotel investment programme in the North of England. The iconic hotel, which originally opened in 1998, will be fully refurbished over three phases, with the first phase and the largest, already well underway. The large-scale project will touch all core elements of the property over the next two years.
“This is an exciting time for the hotel and we are delighted to be able to put such a considerable amount of investment into this flagship property – the level of detail in the design and the thought processes behind the food and drink concept will create a real destination for our guests and the airport community.” says Richard Moore, Carlson Rezidor, Area Vice President UK & Ireland.
This year, as part of the phase one works; the hotel’s reception and lobby area, restaurant and bar, 120 Business Class bedrooms and suites, and the airport’s largest functions and events area – including all 27 meeting rooms – will be completed. Additionally, the existing Observatory Suite will be transformed into a Business Class lounge, complete with private reception and dedicated check-in facility for Business Class guests.
There is a strong design element throughout the project – the brainchild of Graven Images. One of the key design features is to capture within the public areas a series of linear spaces, linked physically or visually, to create a natural interaction between the interiors of the hotel and the passing volume of people using the airport walkway.
The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant will double in size with three unique zones, creating the ideal space for social, private or individual dining, and boasting panoramic airport views. Meanwhile, the bar will become a destination in itself with the ambience changing throughout the day through an eclectic mix of seating, lighting and music, including live DJ’s in the evening.
The 360 guest bedrooms have been designed to create an uncluttered and calming mood, and will include the latest interactive technology. The room palette features a rich dark-stained ash timber, greys and silver grey wall coverings and fabrics, with a feature highlight colour of rich violet added to elements such as cushions and bed throws.
Phase two of the programme covers an additional 120 guest bedrooms and will be completed in early 2014, with the remaining 120 bedrooms being covered in phase three in 2015 – when the project will be completed.
As well as offering the largest airport conference facilities, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Manchester Airport is also the only hotel with a direct link to the airport, as well as rail and coach stations.
Editor’s Note: Crosswater Limited are currently working on the bathrooms for the property.
Showing at Clerkenwell Design Week for the first time, Knightsbridge Furniture presented the innovative line-up of seating and tables for the corporate and hospitality sector which the company has developed under its Design at Knightsbridge brand. Applications range from reception and lounge areas to meeting rooms, contemporary work spaces and breakout zones. Highlights of the display included the new Sorrento sofas, armchairs and swivel chairs, where a simple elegance is epitomised by the distinctive arc sweeping from arms to back. The Sorrento collection has been created exclusively for Knightsbridge by design consultant James A Wright:
Thanks to its in-house product development team, Design at Knightsbridge maintains a design-led ethos, balancing traditional craftsmanship with advanced technology and materials to produce some of the finest British-made furniture available across the international corporate sector. Much of the current portfolio is the result of research and consultation with clients – including both specifiers and end-users – enabling new collections to meet the precise needs of individual market sectors in terms of quality, comfort, style and functionality.
Design at Knightsbridge seating and tables are manufactured at the company’s headquarters in Bradford using timber from renewable sources. Knightsbridge Furniture also demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through FSC, PEFC and FISP certification, ISO 14001:2004 accreditation for its environmental management system and BS EN ISO 9001:2008 quality management accreditation.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., the leader in luxury hospitality, has announced the brand’s latest property in its growing North Africa portfolio. The Ritz-Carlton Marrakech is owned by Jnan Amar Company, a subsidiary of Al Amal Investment Company (SIAMA) part of Azmi Abdelhadi Group of Saudi Arabia.The resort will be developed around the Jenan Amar Polo Fields, which is part of an upscale community on the Takerkoust Road, 20 kilometres from the city centre of Marrakech and 12 kilometres from the Lalla Takerkoust lake and nature reserve. The stunning fortress style resort will feature 60 hotel suites and 20 hotel villas of two, three and five bedrooms, bars and restaurants, a luxury spa and related leisure facilities. Jnan Amar Polo Resort development is envisaged as a powerful growth driver for tourism in the Marrakech region of Morocco, and the varied luxury components of the project coupled with its world-class polo fields will create a new lifestyle dynamic to the region.
Godwin Austen Johnson is the lead architect and interior designer, with the project already at the detailed design stage. The master development of the community has been completed including the roads, and the main polo field. Construction of the property is due to commence in the fourth quarter of 2013, with completion of the hotel projected for the third quarter of 2016.
“We are honored to have been selected by Jenan Amar, SARL to manage this unique property,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “We believe that the unique location of the resort, with stunning views on the High Atlas Mountains, within such an upscale community of Marrakech, coupled with the diverse culture and rich heritage of the wonderful city itself, will offer our discerning guests an incredibly attractive and aspirational destination to explore.”
Miramar Abdelhadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Jenan Amar SARL, said“We are delighted to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to manage the resort. The long and storied legacy of The Ritz-Carlton is a natural fit with Morocco’s own historical heritage, and the prestige of the brand is akin to the exclusivity of the community in which the resort will be located.”
Asked about additional growth in the North African region for The Ritz-Carlton, Humler added, “The Ritz-Carlton, Marrakech will be our fourth property in North Africa, each one offering a different proposition, indigenous to the style and location of the hotel or resort. Expansion in this region is unquestionably an essential part of our future growth strategy.”
Further properties currently under construction in North Africa are The Ritz-Carlton, Rabat, a 120-room hotel situated within the prestigious Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, The Ritz-Carlton, Tunis, a resort featuring 129-suites, situated close to the world heritage site of Carthage and Tamouda Bay, and Morocco a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Morocco a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Tamuda Bay, an exclusive upscale resort nestled along the unspoiled waters of the Mediterranean, approximately 60 kilometers east of the city of Tangiers, featuring a 98-luxury room hotel with 35 pool villa suites, a beach club and an 18-hole Nicklaus design golf course.
Mark Walker, UK Sales Director for Bagno Design, discusses the merits of mixing materials in the hotel bathroom.
The hotel bathroom is an opportunity for designers to really shine, creating environments that are not only comfortable for guests but that also make a real style statement and give off a great first impression. An ideal way of doing just that is to mix and match materials in a way that is perhaps not as easy to achieve in the domestic environment, therefore creating that all-important wow factor that will ensure guests are impressed. Until now designers have tended to err on the side of caution in this regard, opting for ceramic sanitaryware pretty much as standard, despite the fact that what we’re trying to achieve more and more is an individual design that doesn’t conform to any stereotypes of how a bathroom should look.
There are a myriad of materials being used by manufacturers to ensure their products stand out from the crowd, all with their own unique benefits for the bathroom, so there is no reason for designers to be cautious. There is no interior design rule that says you need to opt for a single material in order to create uniformity. In fact, uniformity is probably not what you’re looking to create at all, and combining various elements of wood, stone, glass and ceramics can give the bathroom a timeless quality.
Mixing different materials is the ideal way of creating a unique look in the hotel bathroom, and will set it apart from the competition.
Materials such as marble and stone offer superb ways of introducing a natural look into the bathroom, which is a key trend currently. A basin or bath manufactured from stone will be an instant statement piece and actually combine beautifully with materials such as ceramic and acrylic. Metals too, shouldn’t be overlooked, with a copper basin or bath being a focal point of any bathroom and truly breaking from the norm.
Brassware is often where opportunities are missed in this regard, with designers most often opting for chrome, and that’s understandable as this finish works well with any style of bathroom. But other finishes are available and we shouldn’t be afraid to choose them, particularly as they work well with the natural materials mentioned. Nothing beats brushed nickel for creating a sense of opulence, and while it may not be for everyone gold taps give the bathroom a regal air.
There a wealth of products out there made from a whole variety of materials and this offers an ideal way to create that individual finish that will impress hotel guests.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has confirmed The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto will officially open its doors on February 7, 2014, and unveiled the first images of the luxury urban resort that pays homage to the region’s cultural heritage. It also officially announced the appointment of Mr. Yuji Tanaka as the General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto enjoys an excellent strategic location as an urban resort on the Kamogawa River, Nijho Ohashi, close to Kyoto’s popular downtown areas including Gion and Kawaramachi-dori, the city’s retail and entertainment district. The hotel’s guestrooms will offer views of the river and the Higashiyama Mountains.
While in keeping with the traditions and cultural sensitivity of Kyoto, The Ritz-Carlton will be a subtle and inspired juxtaposition of modernity and respect for Japanese tradition, incorporating the work of internationally famous Japanese design houses such as Spin Studio. The architects and designers have gone to great lengths to preserve the traditional Meiji house and courtyard into the architectural structure of the building.
Featuring 136 guest rooms with an average size of 50 square meters for standard rooms, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto will have some of the largest in the city. It will also feature four dining options, banquet and meeting rooms, as well as a spa and other recreational facilities.
The innovative Select collection from Hansgrohe includes Raindance Select hand showers, overhead showers and showerpipes with ShowerSelect and ShowerTablet thermostatic bath/shower controls – all with simple push button ‘select’ operation. As a highly functional solution for exposed installations, the Hansgrohe experts have developed the ShowerTablet Select 300, an attractive and generously dimensioned shelf for storage, in a unit that also does the work of a thermostat.
A new shut-off valve allows turning the flow of water on and off by simply pushing a button and no longer by rotating, making it easy to use for all ages.
The Select buttons with their elegant matt finish are positioned on the left and feature clear symbols either with a shower icon only or shower and bathtub for the model with integrated bath spout.
Scotscape’s living walls offer the perfect solution to concealing unattractive plant buildings on your grounds – whilst helping sustainability and biodiversity!This recent installation at the Northwick Hospital in Watford is a perfect example of how we can help with any kind of project.
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