Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., and its destination sensation brand, Aloft Hotels, has recently announces the signings of Aloft Munich and Aloft Stuttgart. Aloft Hotels was created to shake up the traditional mid-market hotel sector. This innovative hotel brand is redefining the category by delivering urban-influenced, modern and vibrant design and a social guest experience all at an affordable price point. Owned and developed by the Schörghuber Corporate Group, Aloft Munich and Aloft Stuttgart will mark the entrance of Starwood’s Aloft Hotels brand in Germany when they open in 2015.Pioneering initiatives in music and design have positioned Aloft as a must-have brand for the next generation of travellers. Aloft has reported consistently high guest satisfaction scores since its launch, reflecting the success of the brand’s unique positioning. A vision of W Hotels, Aloft’s social guest experience – with the buzzing re:mixSM lounge and w xyzSM bar – has earned select hotels within the portfolio designations in TripAdvisor’s 2012 Top 25 trendiest hotels around the world.
Located near Munich’s buzzing city centre, Aloft Munich will be within walking distance of retail stores, cafés and restaurants. The hotel will be directly next to Munich Central Station, offering easy access to key locations throughout the city, including Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss International Airport. Aloft Munich will feature 184 guest rooms.
The new-build Aloft Stuttgart will be part of the MILANEO mixed-use development project in Stuttgart’s European Quarter. MILANEO is a pioneering, multi-use development project which will offer shopping, restaurants and entertainment venues as well as office space and residential units. Aloft Stuttgart will comprise 165 guest rooms.
Featuring loft-like guest rooms, a buzzing bar scene in the open lobby, a grab-and go café and industrial design elements throughout, Aloft provides modern comforts and a fun social guest experience. All Aloft guest rooms are urban-influenced with over-sized windows and ultra-comfortable plush platform beds as well as walk-in showers and Bliss® amenities.
Both hotels will feature a re:mixSM lounge and w xyzSM bar. These atmospheric public spaces provide guests with a place to mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends. The re:chargeSM fitness centre offers an opportunity to re-energise and the unique re:fuelSM by Aloft introduces a convenient deli option for guests on the go, with an array of food and drinks available 24 hours a day.
The Spanish hotel company Meliá Hotels International and the Greenland Group, one of the largest real estate group in China, have reached a strategic agreement to join forces to pursue their growth internationally, inside and outside China, respectively.For Greenland Group, an immediate impact of the agreement will be the launch of its urban hotel brand in Europe, through the adaptation and re-branding of a Meliá operated hotel in the city of Frankfurt (Germany), which was chosen by the signers because of its dynamism in the business travel segment.
In the short and medium term, Greenland Group will continue to grow its urban brand in Europe and China, and will cooperate with Meliá Hotels International in further development of hotels over the coming years.
In 2010, Meliá inaugurated its first hotel in Shanghai – the Gran Meliá Shanghai- and is currently finalising work on the construction of the spectacular Gran Meliá Xian and Meliá Chongqing. In the short term, this agreement will allow the company to open two new Meliá hotels in Jinan, scheduled for 2013, and Tianjin, two fast-growing cities located along the corridor between Shanghai and Beijing. In the medium term, the alliance foresees the evaluation of numerous hotel development projects for the most successful Meliá brands, such as Innside and Meliá in the city hotel business, and even Paradisus in the emerging resort hotel business in China.
The Greenland Group and Meliá hotels international partnership also entails cooperation in the areas of training, global hotel distribution systems and procurement, as such complementing each other in the development and implementation of best practice management systems and responding to a mutual need to grow the international customer base and to improve the awareness of the hotel brands operated by both groups in the complex Chinese and European markets.
Greenland’s expertise in Chinese culinary and Chinese culture would benefit Meliá to excel in providing services to the Chinese guests, currently the largest outbound market into Europe, as well as offering authentic Chinese dining experience to the local market.
Mr. Gabriel Escarrer, Vice Chairman and CEO of Meliá hotels International expressed “In the new world tourism paradigm, China will soon become the largest market on the planet for both in and outbound travel. The presence of the Meliá brands are therefore key to our success in the Asia Pacific region and for our business and resort hotels in the rest of the world. Given the unprecedented dimensions of this change in a business which is already complex and specialized, global hotel chains and the country’s powerful business groups must seek partnerships if we are not to miss the boat and hence continue to grow within a win-win scenario.’
The Greenland Group is one of the first Chinese hotel groups to open a hotel with its own brand in Europe and projects to become a reference for European and Chinese business and leisure travellers in both continents.
Fabricsandpapers.com has added Casamanace as supplier and now stocks wallpapers and fabrics from the French design house.
Casamance launched its first furnishing fabrics collection in 2000 bringing some real vision to the design interiors market. Its contemporary designs, exquisite colours and variety of materials create an easy-recognisable style. The collection includes furnishing fabrics, wallpapers and wall-covering for both domestic and contract interiors.The warmth of wool combined with beautiful textures give Casamance’s Aymara collection an aura of comfort. Soft velvets, buttoned ribbons and graphic embroideries in bright colours, bring to life the neutral, contemporary colour palette of the fabrics.
Emma Vans Agnew, design director, Fabricsandpapers.com, said: “When I first saw the Casamance range I was immediately impressed by the fantastic range of colours on offer. Everything from subtle shades of dove grey and baby beige to startling electric purples and burnt orange. Couple this with some inspirational French style globe-trotting designs and you have a wonderful mix to select from.”
Opening in March 2013, Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. marks the next North American location for the upper upscale Radisson Blu brand. The hotel features 500 fashion-inspired guestrooms, 26,300 square feet of meeting and event space, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with an indoor pool, as well as FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, which features regional Minnesota cuisine inspired by the flavours of real burning wood. As a destination itself, Radisson Blu Mall of America serves as an experience within a hotel; the hotel offers the only accommodations directly connected to Mall of America®, the country’s largest indoor entertainment centre and shopping mall that attracts over 40 million visitors from around the world every year.Construction of the USD 137.5 million Radisson Blu Mall of America began in May 2011 by Mortenson, a U.S.-based privately-held construction services company. Carlson and Mortenson are equity partners in the hotel, which will pursue LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council once it opens its doors this spring.
The hotel’s many features include:
Guestrooms & Suites Perfect for business and pleasure alike, the Radisson Blu Mall of America offers three styles of guestrooms to suit every palate. Twenty-nine “Mansion House” suites with a warm ‘clubby’ aura feature spacious bedrooms and bathrooms, complete with contemporary amenities. Fifty-four “Naturally Cool” business class rooms feature natural wood flooring and metal accents with sweeping views of the neighbourhood and include complimentary morning breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres, among other Business Class By Radisson® amenities designed exclusively for business class guests. In addition, 417 “Urban” standard rooms, offer a unique, colour-splashed, edgy and modern atmosphere at the most affordable pricing. Every guestroom features a mini-fridge, a coffeemaker, a laptop-sized safe for valuables, and complimentary wireless Internet access.
Signbox, the UK’s leading manufacturer of architectural signage solutions, has further enhanced its unrivalled product offer by teaming up with the best of European sign and display brands. A long time Distributor of Marcal of France, Signbox have now concluded UK distribution agreements to sell the KD range from Italy and the Durable range from Germany.All three of these class-leading brands are available to purchase from Signbox’s new online store which now takes on a distinctly European dimension:
• Marcal of France are true pioneers in visual communications and have led the way with many of Europe’s most innovative sign developments • KD of Italy manufacture a superb array of display and signage products for commercial environments with the style and flair that you would expect from an Italian company • Durable of Germany are one of Europe’s biggest suppliers of sign, display and information systems for the workplace with the engineering integrity and premium quality you would expect from a German company
Commenting on these key extensions to the Signbox portfolio, Mark Bartlett, Managing Director of Signbox Ltd, said, “With the addition of these key European brands we are rapidly building the Signbox online store into a truly one-stop-shop where customers can source ‘off-the-shelf’ signage with a quick turnaround, typically within a few days from placement of order.
“Apart from the sheer diversity of products featured, including display, health & safety, desk and door, fire escape, paper insert and wayfinding, the key thing that we believe sets our e-shop apart is that all products are superior quality and designed to be aesthetically pleasing, intended to complement the quality of a customer’s own working environment”.
One billion tourists have travelled the world in 2012, marking a new record for international tourism – a sector that accounts for one in every 12 jobs and 30% of the world’sservices exports. On the symbolic arrival date of the one-billionth tourist (13December 2012), UNWTO revealed the actionstourists can take to ensure their trips benefit the people and places they visit, as voted by the public. International tourism has continued to grow in 2012, despite global economic uncertainty, to reach over one billion international tourist arrivals. The figure cementstourism’s position as one of the world’s largest economic sectors, accounting for 9% of global GDP (direct, indirect and induced impact), one in every 12 jobs and up to 8% of the total exportsof the world’s Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
Recalling the positive impact even the smallest action can have if multiplied by one billion, UNWTO launched the One Billion Tourists: One Billion Opportunities campaign to celebrate this milestone, showing tourists that respecting local culture, preserving heritage or buying local goods when travelling can make abig difference. The public was asked to vote for the Travel Tipthat would have the greatest benefit for the people and places they visitand to pledge to follow that tip when traveling.
The winning tip, revealed on the arrival date of the one-billionth tourist, was Buy Local, encouraging tourists to buy food and souvenirs locally, or hire local guides, to ensure their spending translates into jobs and income for host communities. A close second, Respect Local Culture calls on tourists to learn more about their destination’s traditions, or some words in the local language, before leaving home.
“Today, we welcome the symbolic arrival of the one-billionth tourist” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. “Your actions count. That is our message to the one billion tourists. Through the right actions and choices, each tourist represents an opportunity for a fairer, more inclusive and more sustainable future.”
As it is impossible to know exactly where the one-billionth tourist arrived, many countries are celebrating the occasion by welcoming tourists arriving on 13 December.UNWTO is celebrating in Madrid, Spain, home to its headquarters, by welcoming the symbolic one-billionth tourist in the Museo del Prado, Madrid’s most-visited tourism attraction, together with the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism of Spain.
Dernier & Hamlyn recently demonstrated a wide range of its craftsmen’s skills with the production of a bespoke lighting collection, manufactured to Fox Linton designs for The Wellesley, the new townhouse hotel in Knightsbridge, London. The building has been beautifully restored with a combination of its 1920s history and contemporary style. With 36 rooms and suites, it also boasts a Cigar Lounge and Terrace, The Crystal Bar, The Oval Restaurant and a Jazz Room that complements the building’s musical heritage. The fittings produced by Dernier & Hamlyn can be seen throughout the hotel’s public areas. They include a large circular chandelier dressed with stunning blue glass along with wall lights fitted with LED’s made to replicate cigars for the Humidor Lounge, a 2m square chandelier for the Crystal Bar that is fitted with tiers of hundreds of faceted crystal beads, six crystal chandeliers for the Colonnade Lobby, a 1500mm diameter chandelier in the Oval Restaurant fitted with rods and solid glass balls and a large circular chandelier dressed with clear glass for the Jazz Lounge.
Dernier & Hamlyn also manufactured almost 150 table lamps and floor standards that are in the bedrooms and public and for the portico, ceiling and wall lights in an octagonal art deco style with antique bronze finish metal frames and opaque white glass shades. Externally large external bronze lanterns that feature on the front wall and a magnificent lantern fixed to a solid iron hand cast frame almost 2.5m wide weighing in at some 200kg that graces the front of the hotel were also produced.
Dernier & Hamlyn’s sister companies Louis Montrose and Tindle Lighting were also involved in this project. Louis Montrose was responsible for production of a bespoke screen decorated with crystal that can be seen in The Wellesley’s Jazz room whilst Tindle supplied picture lights that have installed throughout the corridors of the building.
Dennis Irvine, director at Fox Linton Associates comments: “We have worked with Dernier & Hamlyn on numerous hotel projects and call on them whenever we want unique fittings that respond appropriately to our design briefs. Their vast knowledge, their meticulous way of working combined with their helpful, consultative approach is invaluable to us and our clients.”
Dernier & Hamlyn’s joint managing director Jeremy Quantrill adds: “This was a complicated but highly engaging project that tested our skills and required the various companies within the Dernier & Hamlyn group to contribute their own specialist skills, ultimately resulting in a beautiful, unique lighting collection that showcases our expertise.”
Outrigger Hotels and Resorts Asia-Pacific is now taking reservations for its new absolute beach front property in Thailand, the Outrigger Phuket Beach Resort.It will be the only property in the Laguna Phuket destination resort to have a dedicated club lounge for guests looking for additional personal service and privacy. Club services will include check-in at a private reception desk, privileges at the club dining room and lounge, access to special guest rooms and amenities, and on-demand help from a club concierge.
Located on the northwest coast of Phuket, right alongside the white sands of Bang Tao beach, the Outrigger Phuket Beach Resort is currently undergoing a major renovation of all of its rooms and public areas.
When it reopens on 15 March 2013, the family-friendly resort will offer guests a luxurious experience with accommodations ranging from spacious deluxe hotel rooms to a luxurious two-bedroom villa.
All rates are subject to 18.7%service charge and VAT and are applicable for stays from 15 March 2013 to 31 October 2013. Bookings are open now.
Guests booking a minimum of two nights will receive a free dinner for two.
The 255-key Outrigger Phuket Beach Resort will have many leisure amenities for guests to enjoy, including extensive water features and slides, a resort pool, a fully equipped gym, tennis, badminton and squash courts, a kids’ club, meeting and conference rooms.
Guests will also have signing privileges at over 30 food, beverage and spa outlets in the surrounding Laguna Phuket destination resort and Laguna Phuket golf club.
The Outrigger Phuket Beach Resort is a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, Patong Beach, and Phuket town.
The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., recently announced that the company and its owners are investing $200 million to renovate and restore some of its most celebrated hotels in Europe. The brand is already off to a strong start with the reopening of two iconic hotels in Spain this year: Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville and Hotel Maria Cristina in San Sebastian. This will be followed by the debut of the restored Gritti Palace in Venice and Prince de Galles in Paris in 2013. “The Luxury Collection has an intimate understanding of today’s luxury travellers who, more and more, aim to stay with a brand that offers a consistent level of impeccable service, while celebrating each hotel’s heritage and unique character,” said Paul James, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis and W Hotels Worldwide. “We are delighted to reintroduce these historic icons, carefully restored by some of the world’s most renowned architects, interior designers and craftsmen who have preserved the authentic elegance and distinct personality so beloved by its guests, while bringing the landmark hotels into the 21st century.”
The Luxury Collection is an ensemble of more than 80 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts around the world, spanning 30 countries, offering the brand’s signature concierge service, luxury amenities and indigenous cultural experiences. There are currently 40 Luxury Collection hotels in Europe, Africa and Middle East and the four restored hotels in Spain, France and Italy will reinforce the brand’s distinguished portfolio as portals for guests to discover new, exciting destinations throughout the region.
“As part of Starwood’s strategy to strengthen our Luxury Collection brand portfolio and as the world’s leader in luxury hospitality, we are making major investments to renovate and restore some of our most distinguished hotels,” comments Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The refurbishment of these legendary hotels allows us to continuously exceed guest experiences by offering unparalleled service and authentic experiences that reflect the local spirit of the destination.”
Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville (reopened March 2012)
Located on the historic Calle San Fernando in the heart of Seville, Hotel Alfonso XIII is considered to be one of the grandest hotels in Europe and was commissioned by King Alfonso XIII for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition. The restoration spanned 10 months and was led by renowned Sevillian architect Demopolis, with interiors designed by The Gallery at HBA London. Recently recognised for “Best Historic Renovation” at the annual Gold Key Design Award, Hotel Alfonso XIII is a magnificent showcase of Moorish architecture and regional Andalusian design infused with Arabic accents. The hotel features 151 luxuriously-appointed guest rooms and suites and distinct culinary experiences, including Spanish cuisine at Bodega Alfonso and Andalusian specialties at San Fernando, the poolside Taifas restaurant and bar, and the Art Deco-inspired American Bar.
Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian (reopened July 2012)
The renovation of Hotel Maria Cristina was completed in time for its 100th anniversary in July, celebrating a century of elegance renewed. Situated in the storied city centre of San Sebastian, Spain’s culinary capital, this Belle Epoque gem was originally designed by famed French architect Charles Mewès and was christened in 1912 by its namesake, Queen Maria Cristina. Carried out over nine months, the refurbishment was led by Idom Engineering & Architecture, with interiors restored by The Gallery at HBA London. The hotel’s 107 lavish guest rooms and 29 suites are dressed in sophisticated pastel tones and decorated with elegant gold furnishings, evoking the élan and striking presence of all the leading ladies who have graced the environs of the hotel. Following the restoration, the hotel introduced haute Chinese cuisine at Tse Yang, complemented by Basque and international selections at Easo Restaurant and excellent cocktails at DRY bar.
The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice (reopening 31 January 2013)
Located along the city’s enchanting Grand Canal, the historic Gritti Palace is slated to open on 31 January next year, in time for the city’s celebrated annual carnival and the Venice International Biennale of Contemporary Art, following a significant 15-month restoration. Working closely with the renowned Venetian fabric house Rubelli and leading interior design firm Donghia, the restoration will return the hotel to its former glory using rare archival fabrics and stunning chandeliers and glassware from Murano. The hotel’s design is inspired by the Gritti Palace’s origins – dating back to 1475 as a private home for the noble Pisani family followed by the distinguished Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti – to provide a home away from home for global travellers. In addition to the hotel’s famous terrace, The Gritti Palace will feature 61 guest rooms and 21 sumptuous suites as well as Club del Doge restaurant and the restored Bar Longhi. Soon to be unveiled are the reintroduction of the iconic culinary school, The Gritti Epicurean School, the new Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo SPA and the Explorer’s Library at The Gritti Palace.
Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris (reopening Q2 2013)
Built in 1928 along Avenue George V, Prince de Galles is one of the finest addresses in the City of Lights. The celebrated Art Deco treasure is set to offer the epitome of elegance and understated luxury when it reopens in the second quarter of 2013 following an extensive two-year renovation. With the acclaimed Pierre-Yves Rochon leading the design direction, the iconic hotel will feature 159 exquisite guest rooms and 44 suites in authentic Art Deco style, reviving its original grandeur and splendour. The hotel’s famous mosaic courtyard will be fully restored and together with a new signature restaurant led by acclaimed Chef Stéphanie Le Quellec, set the stage for an intimate Parisian social scene.
Starwood Strengthens Luxury Position
In the last five years, Starwood has doubled its global luxury room count to meet growing global demand. With more than 150 luxury hotels operating under the St. Regis, Luxury Collection and W brands, Starwood has the largest footprint of luxury hotels in the industry.
In addition to its commitment to restore some of the Europe’s most emblematic hotels, The Luxury Collection is enhancing its extraordinary portfolio with historic and contemporary icons around the world. The brand continues its remarkable global growth and is on track to surpass 90 hotels by 2014, including nine new hotels and resorts that are slated to open in Asia Pacific in the next two years.
KNX innovator Albrecht Jung has made the control of an intelligent office simpler and more stylish than ever with the launch of the new Jung KNX Smart Control available from The Wandsworth Group.Designed to offer the sleek appearance and intuitive operation of a smart phone, the compact, wall-mounted unit enables the end user to control multiple room functions, including lights, blinds, shutters and temperature controls. The simple-to-use touch screen and sensory buttons reduce the complexity of room functions and present controls in a format that is already familiar and accessible.
Enabling the end user to change pages, scroll and control like a smart phone, the KNX Smart Control lets users select individual rooms and functions with convenient sliders for dimming, adjusting blinds and setting the ideal temperature. The unit can even be customised, using the ‘homepage’ and ‘favourites’ page options to provide fast, direct access to their most frequently used functions and locations.
The advanced functionality of the new KNX Smart Control is matched by its chic aesthetics. Its flat screen design has been developed to co-ordinate with the Jung LS range of wiring accessory frames. As a result, the KNX Smart Control not only looks discreet and elegant on the wall but it can also be co-ordinated effortlessly with an existing electrical installation.
The Wandsworth Group is the exclusive UK distributor of the Jung range of KNX intelligent control systems and wiring accessories. Explains The Wandsworth Group’s KNX technical specialist, Gordon Fry: “Sometimes people can be put off specifying a KNX system because the technology is very advanced and they mistakenly think that means you need to be technically-minded to use it. This is simply not the case: KNX systems offer ease of operation and complete flexibility for the end user and now, with the launch of the new KNX Smart Control, we can confidently tell customers that if they can use a smart phone, they can operate a KNX intelligent home installation.”
Recently opened in October, Hotel Mancino 12 is the brand new jewel by Roberto Naldi Collection. It is located in the very centre of Rome a few steps from Piazza Venezia, walking distance from the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum but also from the shopping district of the Spanish Steps and the most famous Italian boutiques of the city.Hotel Mancino 12 is a five storey palace with arcades built with the typical in peperino volcanic stone. At the ground floor guests are welcomed in an elegant ambience which recreates a sense of comfort and familiarity with a cosy living room, the breakfast room and the “Mancino Office” with internet connection which can also be set up for small board meetings.
Only three guestrooms per floor, Hotel Mancino 12, bestows, on the top floor, a very exclusive suite with a private terrace and a view on the characteristic rooftops of Rome. Various shades of grey are the leitmotif of rooms and suite where one can feel a sense of equilibrium, serenity and elegance. All of them are perfectly equipped with plasma screen TV, mini-bar, air conditioning, free WI-FI internet connection.
Before stepping out in the morning, take the chance to order a perfect in-room breakfast or, if relaxing, swimming, exercising and wellness better suit your fancy, 2,000 square metres at the Prince SPA, are at disposal: Mancino 12 hotel guests are entitled to get a free admission to the biggest SPA of Rome’s city centre at the five star Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & SPA which is part of the Roberto Naldi Collection, just apply to the reception and a private transfer will be arranged on purpose for you.
Not to miss: a perfect dining at the exclusive award-winning Mirabelle Restaurant. Located in the heart of Rome, close to the Spanish Steps it boasts one of the best city views of Rome at the 7th floor of the deluxe Hotel Splendide Royal. During winter or summer, at lunch or dinner the view over Villa Borghese Park and St. Peter’s dome in a distance really heightens the finest food and wine experience, not to mention the inspiring astounding sunset colours! Mirabelle Restaurant is rated as one of the best in town. It possible to order à-la carte or make a choice among delightful tasting menus, Italian and international delicacies with ingredients of staggering quality are offered with an impeccable service.
Scott Brownrigg’s and Willmott Dixon Interiors room Shaded White has won Sleep Hotel 2012 Best Room Design at this year’s Sleep Event.
With a brief to design a 23 sq m, five star, city centre hotel room which pushes the boundaries of imagination, innovation and creative flair, the stunning and luxuriously designed Shaded White room beat off strong competition from Bisset Adams and 8build, Shaun Clarkson ID, Yasmine Mahmoudieh, Nous Design and Overbury. The hotel room was designed with the help of several suppliers including the largest and the world’s leading single-brand manufacturer and supplier of sanitary fittings. The bathroom design was made up of GROHE F-Digital in combination with the Rainshower Jumbo headshower and sideshowers in a black finish.
GROHE F-Digital contains a digital controller which can be placed flexibly onto any bathroom surface. It is easy to use as the first button starts the water flow, the second reduces the temperature and the third increases it. A light touch with a fingertip is sufficient enough for the controller to launch its precise water temperature and the user’s preferred saved water settings. For added safety and comfort, an illuminated ring provides visual feedback as the water temperature is chosen ranging from colours in blue to red. The flow volume is easily controlled by an exterior ring containing ProGrip™ which allows safe operation even with wet or soapy hands.
Judges, Javier Hortal, Project Leader EMEA at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Khirstie Gunn-Myles, Head of Design and Engineering at IHG and Conrad Smith, Managing Director at ReardonSmith Architects commented that the “intelligent layout”, “use of space” and the “timeless design” of Shaded White, together with its “functionality and customer focus” helped to secure its win.
Mandip Shanker, Communications Manager at GROHE said: “We are delighted to have contributed to the the Winner of the Sleep Hotel 2012. We felt that our brassware and shower complemented the overall design set out by Willmott Dixon Interiors. Hotel designs heavily influence trends within homes and we are looking forward to the ways in which these trends will be adopted.“
The aim of Shaded White was to create a timeless room where the design would transcend trends and offer effortless elegance for years to come. The team therefore focused on a minimalist design approach with a restrained colour palette.
A mountainous city view provides the focal point and inspiration for the room’s arrangement, with a luxurious raised bed orientated to ensure guests experience the view uninterrupted. The location of the desk and the window seat provide further opportunity for guests to relax and appreciate the scenery.
Fitting a luxury room into 23 sq m was a challenging task, so the focus was on intelligent forms of storage, which would de-clutter the room. This has been achieved through the elevation of both the bed and the window seat to provide storage underneath.
The mountain inspiration continues through to the bathroom and shower, which has clean, simple lines, surround-sound system and natural daylight that streams through the raised glass panels. The bathroom and wardrobe have been cleverly planned and designed to offer guests not only the necessities, but create the quality and feel of a five star bathroom within very limited space.
Shaded White offers state–of-the-art technology in an unusual and inclusive manner. Inbuilt and freestanding iPads allow the technology-savvy guest to communicate with reception, control lighting levels, blinds and the entertainment system from any part of the room. In addition a simple, user-friendly control pad offers the same service in a more conventional and traditional manner. This system is beneficial for the operations and management team by supporting sustainability and limiting electricity use to times when the room is occupied.
The visit of the president of Indonesia to The Stones Hotel Legian, Bali, marks the official opening of this landmark property on the 12th December. The opening of the hotel also marks the official launch of Autograph Collection into Asia. Located on the southern tip of Legian Beach on the resort island of Bali, The Stones opens as a brand new hotel, blending beach simplicity with urban chic. Where iconic architectural design meets eclectic sophistication, The Stones offers 308 stylishly appointed guest rooms and 22 suites, including a palatial Presidential Suite. Spread across three floors with a total size of 1,950 square meters, the Presidential Suite features the latest in-room entertainment systems, four guest rooms, luxurious rain forest shower, stylish artwork, and many other extraordinary touches.
The focal point of the property is the 3,000 square meter pool surrounded by private cabanas. The hotel features a wide selection of culinary offerings at three innovative restaurants: Stones Kitchen – a contemporary-designed restaurant serving European café food and beverages; Long Rice Table featuring authentic Indonesian dishes served in a casual and vibrant atmosphere with modern, Indonesian-inspired design; and Big Fish Bar & Grill, a casual poolside grill serving cocktails and snacks which transitions into an alfresco restaurant specializing in local seafood in the evening.
Guest can explore the indigenous elegance of the hotel’s dazzling vertical gardens as well as find tranquillity and relaxation in the hotel’s Celestine Spa, offering five treatment rooms and three massage lounges. Finding inspiration in traditional Balinese massage and body treatments, the spa features natural spa products by Ritual Alami. Located adjacent to one of the island’s most popular beaches, The Stones is situated 20 minutes from NgurahRai International Airport and within walking distance to shopping, restaurants and leisure activities located in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak.
RPW Design has completed interior design, decorative lighting, furniture and finishes of all public areas and guest rooms of the newly opened InterContinental London Westminster. In just eleven months from appointment to opening, the interior designers have transformed Queen Anne’s Chambers, a former government building which is now home to 256 beautifully designed rooms including 44 luxury suites and an imposing penthouse. Welcoming and very English public areas at ground floor level have been designed to capture the traditions of the hotel’s illustrious neighbours in Westminster. Jan Wilson, owner and managing director of RPW, explains how local references were incorporated within the InterContinental Hotel Group’s brand guidelines, focussing on the very specific requirements of a property located in the heart of the government district and serving that market. The reception marble and mosaic floor has detail references to the floor at Westminster Abbey, and motifs from St James’s Park are also used to reference the design. The theme of the hotel’s signature artwork relates to various aspects of British political life in subtle and satirical ways.
The dominant feature of the principal guest lounge is a sculpture inspired by Jan Wilson and created by the studio “Evil Robot Designs”, who use re-cycled model toys to create very individual art. The concept here is a re-creation of the House of Commons, leaving visitors and guests to decide for themselves who is represented by the various characters that are present in this surreal version of the parliamentary chamber.
The hotel’s public rooms are set to become the new destination for members of the ‘Westminster Village’. In the Blue Boar Bar and Restaurant, which has its street entrance in adjacent Tothill Street, the designers created a series of public areas that feel intimate and private including secluded corners for private conversations, and a private drinking room. The Restaurant with its dark wood panelling and warm tones continues that tradition, and both areas operate as standalone elements in the development.
Swiss bathroom specialist Laufen has re-launched its Case furniture collection to offer high quality drawer fittings, new wood-effect finishes and an extensive range of mirrors.Laufen has created a versatile, practical solution for all situations with its Case furniture and mirror collection. Featuring minimalist lines which are so fitting in the modern bathroom, Case has a timeless look that can be combined with any interior design style, making it a truly versatile option.
The foundation of the Case collection is its vanity units, available in a range of widths from 450mm to 1800mm ensuring there is a storage solution available to suit any space. The vanity units are incredibly simple to securely mount on the wall and are available with either one or two drawers and with doors from a width of 1200mm.
The drawers on the Case vanity unit are fully extendable and feature sturdy metal sides and an integrated soft-close mechanism. A shallow siphon means that no space is wasted on a siphon cut-out in the drawer, so storage can be maximised. The top drawers of the vanity unit have a recessed handle, with the bottom drawers featuring a sleek aluminium handle. An optional hand towel holder can be attached to the side of the unit to add a practical finishing touch.
The collection also includes a medium cabinet and a tall cabinet with two or four glass shelves. Case is available in white, limed or anthracite oak graining, while the matt, easy-to-clean surface is scratch, water and UV light resistant making the furniture range extremely durable. The limed and anthracite oak furniture has a distinct 3D texture, so it closely resembles real wood, whilst 38 other colours with a matt varnished finish are available to ensure the furniture will fit seamlessly into any setting.
Laufen’s Case furniture is complemented by an extensive range of mirrors, available in 10 different sizes and with a choice of two light fitments, enabling designers to achieve the optimum lighting solution for the bathroom.
Minimalist and timeless just like the furniture, Case mirrors are the perfect match for any of Laufen’s bathroom collections. By reflecting off the wall at the back of the mirror, a relaxed atmosphere is created, while the matt light fitments at the front of the mirror provide ample illumination for apply make-up or shaving. The mirrors can be fitted with an optional touch-free sensor control, cleverly concealed while offering the very latest in energy-saving technology.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., is pleased to debut the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve property in the Americas with Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico. Situated on 1,400 acres of the former Laurance Rockefeller estate, the long awaited second Reserve, part of an exclusive collection of bespoke properties, will usher in a new level of luxury travel experiences for guests in the Western Hemisphere. A cherished destination, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is an intimate retreat offering a true sense of barefoot elegance, blending Laurance Rockefeller’s novel environmental design philosophies and modern yet minimal décor. Created as an open-air enclave infused with references to the surrounding natural landscape and diverse culture, Dorado Beach is a true luxury sanctuary designed to allure the world’s most discerning travellers through a bevy of one-of-a-kind lifestyle experiences, including:
Accommodations With 100 spacious guestrooms and 14 one-bedroom suites that sit directly onto the beach, guests can select from an exquisite collection of accommodations that allow the backdrop to take precedence through a complete indoor and outdoor experience. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors entirely disappear onto seamless ocean views, while outdoor shower gardens, indoor showers with deep soaking tubs, individual infinity-edge pools, rooftop pools and cabanas create an incomparable luxury experience.
Su Casa Originally erected in the 1920s for the plantation land’s first owner, Clara Livingston, Su Casa’s storied grandeur now serves as a four-bedroom VIP villa overlooking the ocean. Paired with towering palm trees, expansive gardens, a private infinity edge pool and a spacious cigar veranda, the hacienda has been fully restored and modernized following a multimillion dollar restoration while preserving its legendary heritage and serene beauty.
Spa Botánico Tucked away amid lush flora is Spa Botánico, a five-acre botanical sanctuary of pampering offering a holistic yet modern approach to beauty and wellness incorporating Manos Santos practices, ancient local healers often referred to as ‘Holy Hands’. Reflective of Dorado Beach’s lush surroundings, Spa Botánico blends a soothing natural environment inspired by these ancient Puerto Rican healing traditions, modern therapies and the finest quality of local botanicals to indulge the body, mind and spirit. Distinctive treatment facilities, warm and cool pools, waterfall showers, glass-walled treatment pavilions and open air Treehouse platforms create a relaxing state of well being among nature.
Mi Casa by José Andrés For a world-class culinary experience, internationally acclaimed Chef José Andrés introduces his first restaurant outside the United States with Mi Casa. Inspired by Puerto Rico’s diverse culinary landscape, guests are treated to an artfully crafted menu of locally-caught seafood and avant-garde dishes. Chef Andrés will fuse his knowledge of sophisticated cooking and regional flavours to offer guests a truly exceptional culinary experience and a unique blend of Spanish and Puerto Rican flavours. The restaurant’s beverage selection mirrors its distinct cuisine showcasing an array of traditional and handcrafted cocktails, a portfolio of artisanal offerings and a robust international wine list complementing complex yet delicate flavours.
Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Designed for adults, families, and children, participants of Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment can discover Puerto Rico’s natural wonders both on land and sea, including coral reefs, a diversity of birds, wetlands, and traditional Taino culture through exciting and memorable adventures and activities, such as snorkelling, kayaking, hiking and exploring an archaeological site directly on property. Integrating the program’s environmentally-conscious philosophy into the building’s infrastructure, the Ambassador House is designed to adhere to the highest standards of the U.S. Green Building Council, with a variety of sustainable efforts including regionally-sourced materials, renewable energy, organic and sustainable finishes and furniture, and monitoring systems to reduce the buildings overall energy usage.
The guest journey begins at the arrival pavilion, incorporating stylistic influences of contemporary soft structures and lush, indigenous landscape. Framed by striking ocean views, guests ascend the luxury hotel’s entryway to the arrival pavilion consisting of multiple small buildings separated to preserve the land’s original trees. Connected walkways raised above sunken gardens create a tropical forest floor punctuated by restful hanging beds, so every view is of both the land and sea and a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environment.
To complement an unparalleled luxury experience, guests are invited to revel in a magical social event at the iconic Surf Room, a newly designed reconstruction from the original Rockefeller era. Beautifully appointed floor-to-ceiling glass windows enhance sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea which open out to an outside terrace set directly upon sand, creating an enchanting background perfect for any special occasion.
In addition to Mi Casa, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers three dining venues, including Positivo Sand Bar, situated parallel to the ocean offering magnificent vantage points with al fresco cuisine and refreshing cocktails; Encanto Beach Club Bar & Grill, an open-air bistro with freshly grilled cuisine for lunch and Asian-style selections for dinner; and La Cocina Gourmet, an outpost providing Puerto Rican coffees, homemade gelatos and local delights.
On a cold November day in Liverpool, beautiful American socialite and actress Olivia Palermo cut the ribbon to open a ground-breaking new pampering destination Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols. Based within the heart of shopping destination Liverpool ONE, Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols is 22,000 square feet over three floors entirely devoted to preening, luxury make-up and beauty treatments including teeth whitening, tanning and waxing.The incredible cutting-edge interior of the new concept store, including the exclusive first floor WOW Champagne Bar, was designed by leading London-based interior and graphic design agency FOUR IV. Bar stools and side chairs for the first floor WOW Champagne Bar were supplied by contract furniture specialist Andy Thornton.
Startlingly, brilliantly, dazzlingly white, our side chairs are dotted throughout the champagne bar, where customers can relax after their pampering treatments and enjoy a bite to eat, with cocktails and endless glasses of champagne. With a practical vinyl finish, the chairs feature contrasting electric blue piping and dark stained timber sleek legs, to complement the ultra-glamorous interior.
Matching Andy Thornton bar stools are also in bright white, with angular bases in sleek stainless steel and neat footrests for extra comfort. Positioned around the bar, the bar stools are perfectly situated for customers enjoying post-treatment light bites and drinks. We also supplied gold consultation stools to the Nails Inc Champagne Bar, pedicure and lash stools in electric blue and silver, reception stools in cream to the spa arrivals area and a treatment room pouffe in cream with gold rope detail.
The finished result is stunning; a luxurious and timeless mix of shades of gold, white and cream, with flashes of a rich, electric blue provided by cushions and detail on the chairs, making the WOW Champagne Bar a beautiful place to be, and be beautiful.
Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols in Liverpool touts itself as an all-day experience, the ultimate in high-end indulgence taking pampering to a whole new level.
IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has announced the opening of the Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County, following a conversion from an independent brand, The Hotel Hanford. A 224-room property in the heart of Orange County, the Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa is located adjacent to famed shopping destination South Coast Plaza, and in close proximity to John Wayne Airport, Disneyland®, iconic beaches, golf courses, museums and sports arenas. The Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County features contemporary design touches by CRDS, Inc., that reflect a stylish and relaxed Southern California vibe. For meetings and events, the hotel has 9,000 square feet of meeting space and nearly 20 different venue options, including both indoor and outdoor spaces, and can cater to almost any event style or size. The hotel offers a signature comprehensive meetings program that ensures a seamless planning process and an exceptional meeting experience consisting of three key components: a Two-Hour Response Guarantee, a Crowne Meetings Director and a Daily Meetings Debrief.
The Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County boasts 224 guestrooms, including six suites. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including complimentary high-speed Internet access, in-room dining, rainwater showers and ample parking.
Additionally, the hotel has hired a new Executive Chef, Ruben Gonzalez, and will be undergoing a restaurant concept and menu change in the upcoming months.
The Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County is independently owned by Westport Capital Partners and Urban Common LLC and operated by Brighton Management under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.
Hill Cross furniture are proud to have supplied for Horsted Place Country House Hotel, East Sussex, where we provided loose furniture to this wonderfully elegant venue. Built in 1850 and designed by one of the most influential architects of the era, Augustus Pugin, Horsted Place oozes classical elegance. This luxurious venue which is nestled within stunning grounds and surrounding scenery, once played regular hosts to Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness Prince Phillip.
Hill Cross Furniture supplied the grand and elegant Albert Arm Chair. This stunning arm chair features a curvaceous frame which can be stained in your choice of finish and upholstered in a wide range of fabrics. The Albert Arm Chair can truly be made your own with several features which can be added, or taken away to match your specifications and taste.
The Albert Arm Chair has ornate carved detailing and is raised on cabriole supports to complete this elegant style. The chairs supplied to Horsted Place were fitted with hidden plastic gliders attached to the bottom of the legs to eliminate potential damage to the carpets within the venue. The Albert Arm Chairs were upholstered in an Agua, Classic Tuscany fabric and finished with a Light Oak wood stain, beautifully contrasting the tasteful green interior.
Horsted Place Country House Hotel is a stunning venue which prides itself on fine dining whilst still maintaining a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., has recently announced the opening of the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort on Kuta Beach, one of world’s renowned surfer’s paradise in Bali. The hotel is located directly at the heart of Kuta beach with pristine Indian Ocean scenery. Owned by PT. Indonesian Paradise Island, the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is part of a luxurious shopping destination, presenting over 200 retail outlets in an open-air style and designed architecture inspired by the design of Bali’s rice paddy field. Centrally located at the heart of Pantai Kuta and just 5 kilometres away from Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), the resort’s elevated position on the island provides amazing ocean and beach views.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers an exclusive retreat, amidst spacious open-air terrace, outdoor rooftop pool and unrivalled panoramic views of the ocean. The resort introduces 203 guest rooms and suites ranging from 46 to 265 square meters, each fitted with the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed and features a spacious private balcony with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean or the resort’s signature social courtyard. Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort also features a signature two-story Oceanic view Presidential Suite with contemporary approach of Balinese interior and private sundeck lounge.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort houses three dining venues where travellers can enjoy Sheraton’s signature restaurants – the all-day dining Feast® with its vibrant open-kitchen, located alongside beachwalk patio overlooking the Kuta Beach, or indulge at Bene – a light-hearted Italian trattoria with oceanic setting, where guests can also relish mesmerizing views of the beautiful Bali Strait on the rooftop deck level. The Lounge offers a locally inspired cocktail menu, with open-air setting and Indian Ocean scenery.
To keep travellers fit and energized, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort introduces Sheraton Fitness by Core PerformanceTM with lifestyle designed training programs and encompassing a fully equipped fitness centre, Shine Spa for Sheraton that will pamper and rejuvenate guests with signature treatments blending from the East to the West with local Balinese touches and Color Your PlateTM a simple three colours approach to a healthy food program.
With a total of over 1,600 square meters all located on one level, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers 9 flexible event spaces – including a 700 square meters ballroom that is divisible and supported with an underground secure parking facility capable of hosting over 2,000 vehicles. In addition the meeting spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including broadband or wireless high-speed Internet Access. Travellers can stay connected with the exclusive Link@Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft® that provides a connectivity hub, with complimentary Wi-Fi and Personal Computer stations.
St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., has recently announced the highly anticipated debut of The St. Regis Mauritius Resort, marking the brand’s first hotel in Africa and the 30th St. Regis hotel in the world. Designed by Stauch Vorster Architects with interiors by Trevor Julius of design firm dsgn, The St. Regis Mauritius Resort is modelled on a Victorian sugar-baron’s manor house set in a historical estate. With vast terraces, sumptuous rooms and colonnades, the resort provides guests with an idyllic island sanctuary reminiscent of the destination’s unique colonial past.
The resort features 172 elegant guestrooms and suites, ranging from 700 to 2300 square feet, all with expansive terraces and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The lavish beachfront St. Regis Villa features a private entrance, four luxurious bedrooms with private pools and gardens, stylish entertainment and dining areas, an infinity pool, a bar and private spa treatment room.
Exquisite Culinary Experiences
The resort’s signature restaurant, Simply India, promises an unforgettable fine dining experience created by Michelin-starred celebrity chef Atul Kochhar and offers a modern interpretation of authentic Indian cuisine. Led by Executive Chef Olivier Belliard, The St. Regis Mauritius Resort offers six other distinct gastronomic experiences ranging from Le Manoir Dining Room with a menu inspired by a blend of French and traditional Mauritian cuisine, to the modern Asian menu at Floating Market, and a relaxing beachside spot for casual oceanfront dining at The Boathouse Bar & Grill. Inspired by the legendary St. Regis New York hotel which opened in 1904, The 1904 Bar offers elegant rum cocktails and vintage whiskeys alongside the St. Regis ritual of champagne sabering.
Luxury Leisure and the First Iridium Spa in Africa
The St. Regis Mauritius Resort is home to the region’s first Iridium Spa, offering 22,730 square feet of blissful surroundings including a full-service salon, relaxation lounge, jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, as well as a dedicated men’s grooming salon and a 24-hour fitness club. Featuring 12 treatment rooms with ocean views, the Iridium Spa works with renowned beauty and skincare brands Valmont and Bella Luccè to indulge guests with bespoke spa treatments.
The Kite Flyers Club offers complimentary childcare services for children from four to 12 years old, including recreational highlights such as beach bonfires and kite-making, as well as facilities like indoor and outdoor play areas, the children’s kitchen corner and a swimming pool. Optional activities include guided excursions to the zoo and sugarcane museum, cooking classes and horseback riding.
Situated in the heart of the resort, the manor house comprises seven luxurious suites with in-room spa facilities, a private 24-seat cinema, a Drawing Room for indoor entertainment and games, a swimming pool, as well as a library and conservatory. Other leisure facilities at the resort include a beachside swimming pool, a tennis court and a resort boutique. For private celebrations, the Astor Room can be booked for events hosting up to 100 people.
JOI-Design has recently completed a redesign of the guestrooms of the Sheraton Pelikan in Hanover, Germany, with a style that underlines the unique heritage of its location in the former production factory of Pelikan, a brand known to this day for its ink and artists’ paint.
The elegant red brick building built in 1906 was revolutionary in its time because of the reinforced concrete building structure which provided large bright spaces and ideal working conditions for employees. White pelican motifs running below the gable and plastered window surrounds provide a striking contrast to the simple red stone façade. The building was converted into a hotel by Sheraton in 1993 and has 147 guestrooms; those which are located in the former production areas have up to 4.25m high ceilings with large windows. In referencing the heritage of this fine German brand, the designers achieved a harmonious balance that blends industrial authenticity with contemporary style and comfort. The concept for the guestrooms draws upon the art of writing through individual elements that refer to the building’s previous life. The carpet design is suggestive of stylised ink splashes floating on a background of hand-sketched lines and the curtains have a subtle pattern of cascading ink spots. Above the desk, three glass pendant lights from a are reminiscent of the shape of a glass ink bottle, while the bedroom side tables have softly serrated edges inspired by the bottle’s lid.
Each room has its own unique piece of art, an illuminated glass panel set into the headboard and back painted with a handwritten quote. Famous quips have been penned in the script of team members from both the hotel and the designers, providing a delightful commentary on the individuality of the handwritten script in an age of impersonal emails and text messages.
Overall the design language brings an individual touch to the rooms, imparting guests with the feeling of being in their own loft apartment. High vaulted ceilings add to the loft-like character of the rooms and large windows allow natural sunlight to flood the space, creating an airy feel. The colour palette of natural tones is themed around the traditional writing set of parchment paper and inks. Contrasting accents, such as the saffron yellow leather desk chair with stitching detail, add a vibrant splash to the deep espresso base colours of the guestroom furniture.
In keeping with the building’s architecture, the interior detailing is unfussy and minimal. Careful space planning was required to create a luxury hotel room within a relatively small space, down to the angle of the bed and exact positioning of the TV.
Hand-drawn lines also feature in the guestroom corridor carpet design, running out asymmetrically from one side of the corridor as in a left or right justified paragraph. The pattern of lines is punctuated with large stylized elliptical “ink blobs” demarking the guestroom entrances.
• Dubai hotels hit a high again this Eid while Kuwait see hotel revenues and profits surge; • Egypt hotels achieve peak performance while Jeddah makes the best of the Eid and Hajj seasons.
The Rezidor Hotel Group, member of the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, confirms the Azure Property Group as the new owners of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow. The purchase by the Azure Property group further cements the 5-star hotel’s position as one of the city’s leading and most established hotels.“We are delighted to be extending a long-standing working relationship between Rezidor and Azure and I’m confident that under this new ownership, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow will go from strength to strength” says Philip Mahoney, Area Vice President Radisson Blu and Hotel Missoni, UK & Ireland
The recipient of numerous architectural awards, the stunning Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow sits close to world-class shopping and the city’s financial and business district. Under the new ownership, Azure will build on the investment that went into a full room refurbishment undertaken at the hotel in 2011, including the transformation of all 250 guest rooms, complete with new decor, furniture and furnishings.
“We are very pleased and excited to be the new owners of the landmark Radisson Blu Hotel in Glasgow, our second hotel in the last 12 months under the flagship of Radisson Blu in the UK, following the opening of the Radisson Blu Hotel, East Midlands Airport in October 2011. We continue to look at further expanding our relationship with Rezidor in the UK” says John Nielsen, Director of Hotel Operations of the Azure Group.
The stylish hotel offers luxury guest rooms and suites with upscale amenities, and Free high-speed Internet access. The hotel also features fine dining at Collage Restaurant, two relaxing bars and a ground-floor conference area that includes the Megalithic event venue able to seat 800 guests. Services at the hotel include 24 hour room service and access to the LA Fitness swimming pool and fully equipped gym.
Located just across the road from Glasgow’s Central Station, with direct links from the M8 motorway and 12km from Glasgow International Airport, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow is ideally located for any business or leisure traveller.
In a UK first, Travelodge has launched a hotel room which will allow customers to sleep under the stars in the comfort of their bed.
A secret technique has been used to create the stunning ‘Night Sky’ at a dozen Travelodge hotels across the country. Each bespoke cosmic panorama has been created by artist Carl Marshall.
Carl and a colleague have artistically transformed a standard white ceiling into a cosmic sky by hand painting individual shooting stars, milky ways and constellations of twinkling stars. On average it took them three hours to complete one ceiling.
During the day, the ceilings look plain white but in darkness the stars appear to twinkle and the dust clouds seem to move mysteriously. Whilst the three dimensional effect of the ceiling also appears to fall towards the bed by around three feet, creating a sense of immersion.
Carl Marshall created the ceiling by working in the dark wearing a UV headlight. He covered the ceiling with a base layer of special light-activated paint then used glow-in-the-dark paint that glows blue, green and aqua to add dust clouds, stars and their tails. The paintworks soaks up light during the daylight hours and glows in darkness.
Carl Marshall from Euxton, Lancashire said: “The exact technique I use is a closely guarded trade secret because it is so effective. It is a painstaking process as you have to position the colours perfectly to achieve a three-dimensional effect but the results are definitely worth it.
“The stars twinkle and the dust clouds appear to move as you lie in bed looking at it.
“Everybody is blown away by it when they see it and my children think it is amazing.”
Travelodge has created the UK’s first night sky panorama hotel rooms in response to findings from its latest sleep study. The hotel chain surveyed 2,000 adults in order to investigate the nation’s most desirable sleeping locations.
Key findings from the study revealed the most desired kipping location for Britons is under a blanket of twinkling stars. Forty two per cent of adults choose a starry night sky backdrop as their most desired sleeping location in contrast to a tropical beach, rainforest and jungle.
Sleeping by the sea was the second most popular desired kipping spot for Britons followed by a sandy beach in third place. .
Delving a little deeper into the nation’s fascination with stars the study also found that that over a half of Britons (52%) think there is something very magical about a starry night.
A third of Britons reported they regularly enjoy looking up to a night sky at bedtime and find counting stars very tranquil and a good sleep aid.
Whilst four out of ten adults reported gazing up at a starry sky puts them in a romantic mood.
Shakila Ahmed, Travelodge spokesperson said: “As part of our commitment in helping to ensure our customers attain a good night’s sleep, we are constantly looking at innovative sleep aids. Therefore in response to our latest sleep study, which highlighted Britons most desirable place to nod off is under a blanket of stars, we took the challenge and created the ultimate outdoor sleeping experience indoors. Now our customers can gaze into a cosmic night sky of shooting stars, milky ways and constellations of twinkling stars from the comfort of their warm cosy bed.”
Neil Shah, Founder of The Stress Management Society said: “The Travelodge night sky room is a great concept to help you de-stress after a long day. Focusing on something, such as a sky full of stars, which the brain is unable to consciously analyse or tune into, encourages our minds to switch off and drift into a stress free deep sleep.”
Chris Idzikowski, Director of Edinburgh Sleep Centre, said: “This new innovation can help towards attaining a good night’s sleep. The way it works supports our natural sleep / wake cycle. In darkness our brain’s (pineal gland) releases melatonin, the hormone of darkness which supports sleep. Whilst dawn light is very important for keeping the biological clock ticking to the right time.
“The Travelodge night sky room replicates the natural environment which our ancestors would have experienced in the savannah grasslands during the evolution of human sleep patterns.”
Further findings from the sleep study revealed that 28% of British adults would love to sleep under the stars every night because it would help them to nod off easily.
One in ten Britons would love to transform their bedroom ceiling to a starry night sky so that they can achieve a good night’s sleep.
The new generation of Grohe’s most successful thermostat boasts improved technologies for greater safety, efficiency and showering comfort, a new ergonomic design as well as functional storage. Grohtherm 2000 New is a modern and practical solution for the shower and bath tub. Its elegant look can blend into any bathroom decor. Combining all advantages of a thermostat, Grohtherm 2000 New is well thought-out and intuitive to deliver the perfect water experience. A relaxing and sustainable shower
The main advantages of a thermostat should be increased safety and additional comfort. The Grohtherm 2000 New features GROHE CoolTouch® to rule out the risk of scalding on hot chrome surfaces due to its solid metal housing. Another feature is the new GROHE Aquadimmer Eco which automatically helps save water when switching from the bath filler to the hand shower. GROHE TurboStat® is at the heart of the new thermostat as it ensures that the desired water temperature is reached 2 times faster (within 0.3 seconds) than ever before and kept constant throughout the shower.
Thermostat design reinvented
For the most practical and stylish design ever, the product combines clear, aesthetic looks with improved ergonomics. Innovative Aqua Paddles ensure a reliable and anti-slip operation for maximum comfort. Thanks to their special shape, the user can easily see and feel at which point the water temperature exceeds the 38 °C safety limit, even with soapy hands.
Complete design
The XL waterfall for the bath tub is an inspiring eye-catcher. The extra large spout emerges seamlessly from the bath tub mixer and delivers a large, wide water flow. A powerful design inspired by the idea of living in harmony with nature.
The thermostat can also be fitted with the GROHE EasyReach™ shower tray which can be placed onto the wall rosettes to close the gap between the thermostat and the wall. The even surface conceals the connections, transforming the thermostat’s design into one complete surface. This aesthetic and convenient tray offers additional space to store shower gel, shampoo and other bathroom utensils in an easily accessible location.
The right choice for every taste
Grohtherm 2000 New is available in numerous variants for exposed and concealed installation.
Combining fresh and confident design with high-quality engineering, Grohtherm 2000 New is the best thermostat ever made by GROHE.
W has unveiled a full scale property renovation that melds the enigmatic charms and sultry soul of New Orleans into one vibrant destination. Located in the heart of the Big Easy’s most renowned neighbourhood, W New Orleans – French Quarter has transformed all 97 guestrooms, its Living Room (the W brand’s take on the traditional hotel lobby), Studio meeting spaces, all corridors and the outdoor Courtyard. W New Orleans – French Quarter has also expanded its offerings, adding SWEAT, state-of-the-art fitness centre, as well as SoBou, a contemporary Creole cuisine restaurant, recently named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America.W New Orleans – French Quarter Unveils New Rhythm
New York City based interior design and architecture firm Nemaworkshop redesigned the guest rooms of W to reflect the artistic energy and the intrigue of jazz and tarot in the Crescent City. Each room boasts a palate of clean lines and modern blacks and whites mixed with vibrant gold tones and rich primary colours relevant to the room design motif. Inspired by the liveliness of Big Easy music, the jazz design features vibrant golden yellow walls and an oversized floor-to-ceiling brass image modelled after the bell of a horn. The property’s tarot designed rooms channel the mystic spirit of the city with décor inspired by New Orleans’ voodoo queen Marie Laveau. The walls feature a deep blue colour as well as an oversized mural representing a woman reading tarot cards.
“The new design definitely has a little fun with the city’s spiritual side,” states Anurag Nema, principal at nemaworkshop. “You may see Marie’s eyes following you on the guest room number placard, or you may recognize her headdress on a directional sign. If you look up while you’re standing in the lift landing, you’ll notice tiny, pin-like lights, playing off voodoo pins.”
In addition to the décor, in-room technology has also been enhanced with new 40″ Plasma TVs and the addition of a “jackpack,” offering the ability to stream movies, photos, presentations, etc. from portable devices directly onto the TVs. The brand new, state-of-the-art SWEAT fitness facility offers cardiovascular fitness and personal training programs using free and machine weights from Technogym.
The Four Seasons Hotel, Baku, Azerbaijan is the latest European hotel to open as part of the Four Seasons group and boasts an interior design to the highest quality by London based company, Richmond.Boasting the most spacious guest rooms in Baku, the hotel is positioned prominently on the Caspian waterfront promenade and its striking nine storey classical architecture makes it an unrivalled destination in this dramatically changing city.
The Four Seasons Hotel, Baku takes it inspiration from the Grand Classical Hotels on the French Riviera and this inspiration continues into the interior design of the building. Richmond have created a setting that merges the French Beaux-Arts style with contemporary twists resulting in a environment finished to the highest quality.
The grand public areas are perfectly proportioned, being spacious without becoming intimidating. Richmond’s choice of a neutral colour palette combined with accents of fresh greens, charcoal and ebony makes for a calming and sophisticated ambience. Undulating curves on the furnishings combined with spectacular sculptural bespoke lighting add a touch of drama to the rooms, perfectly suited to this vibrant city.
The Four Seasons Hotel, Baku is host to four dining areas with the décor reflecting the differing environments of each. Zafferano is the hotel’s signature all-day restaurant, named after the Italian word for “saffron,” the spice that grows abundantly in Azerbaijan. Here Richmond continue the drama of the high vaulted ceiling through lavish Italian mosaic flooring decorated with flowers which is echoed by the hand painted panels on the windows. Ornate Murano glass chandeliers hang from gold domed alcoves. The rooftop speciality restaurant, Kaspia is markedly different being themed on ‘fire and ice’ and contemporary in style with a more moody clubby ambiance. Bentley’s Whiskey Bar is very much designed in a refined Gentleman’s Club style. Richmond have selected sumptuous dark furnishings, geometric patterns, a dramatic mirrored bar and stunning bespoke lighting to create a relaxing, intimate feel to the room.
The large spa with a striking indoor pool within a glass-roofed atrium is designed in a more contemporary classic style with relaxing neutral colours and clean simple lines. The facilities including male and female Hammams, speciality treatment rooms and large beauty areas and throughout, as in the rest of the hotel, the choice of lighting design is key to the overall design.
The spacious guestrooms follow the classical French theme but are kept current through the additional of contemporary furniture and fabrics. Again Richmond uses a light colour scheme using subtle textures and patterns to add a sense of refined luxury. Of the 171 guest rooms, including 29 luxury suites and two presidential suites, almost all open to a balcony with views of the Caspian Sea or the Old City and are filled with natural light.
The Four Seasons Hotel, Baku perfectly illustrates the commitment Richmond gives to the sourcing and detailing of interior design projects such as this. By seamlessly blending the classical with the contemporary, Richmond has created a hotel interior that instantly welcomes and relaxes its visitors while crafting the sensation that they are within the highest quality environment.
The Wandsworth Group has appointed Charlie Salter as the company’s new non-executive chairman with a remit to ensure that the company capitalises on its market-leading technology and long heritage to spearhead growth.The longest established wiring accessories manufacturer in the UK and a specialist at the cutting edge of nursecall and healthcare technology, The Wandsworth Group will continue as a family-run business, with the Salter family maintaining majority share ownership. The company’s previous non-executive chairman, Richard Salter, has stepped down and his son Charlie is a fourth generation link to the 108-year-old company’s founder. He takes on the role of non-executive chairman as his first hands-on involvement with The Wandsworth Group, following a successful business career that has seen him launch, set up and internationalise a series of B2B businesses.
Comments Charlie Salter: “The Wandsworth Group is a well-established and respected business with a technically advanced product range, a talented management team and an admirable reputation in the marketplace, both at home and abroad.
“I have a very strong personal connection with the business already but I also have the advantage of a fresh pair of eyes and a strong commercial background so I am well-placed to help the company play to its strengths and identify new opportunities, ensuring that we build on Wandsworth’s past and have a clear path mapped out for the future.
“I am also clearly focused on the need to feed growth with investment and will be putting in place an investment programme that will help us maximise our potential going forward.”
The Alpina Gstaad has recently opened its doors to guests for the first time. A 300 million Swiss Francs luxury development, this new addition to the picturesque region of Saanenland in the Bernese Alps has been four years in the making, and is the first newly built luxury hotel in Gstaad in 100 years. Set in a prestigious hilltop location in Oberbort, just five minutes from the centre of the exclusive village of Gstaad, the hotel includes a Six Senses Spa and the first Western European outpost of celebrated Japanese restaurant MEGU. The Alpina Gstaad features 56 spacious rooms and suites, impeccably decorated with a combination of modern design and traditional Swiss elements, designed by the London office of “Hirsch Bedner Associates”. The exterior takes its inspiration from typical Swiss architecture, with its four towers, dormers and wooden balconies.
In addition to the Six Senses Spa and MEGU restaurant, the hotel also features a wine tasting room, cigar room, private cinema and two further restaurants offering traditional Swiss or modern European menus. The Six Senses Spa boasts both indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness centre, various treatment rooms for both individuals and couples, and a range of holistic treatments and rejuvenation programmes.
Leading UK shower manufacturer, Roman Limited, have once again been called upon by home rescue show, Cowboy Builders, to help out two families in need, and renovate their bathrooms. Roman was first called upon to help a family based in Milton Keynes, who had nowhere to wash themselves. The family had hired and paid a builder to renovate their home and create a downstairs bathroom with disabled access, which would be accessible for the mum – who suffers with a degenerative form of spinal arthritis. Part way through the project the builder walked off with the family’s money and left the home in an unfinished mess.
Roman offers a range of products which allow for easy access, but that aren’t traditional ‘disabled’ products in their design. They are styled for the modern home, but with every user in mind. The company were quick to step in and provided the Cowboy Builders team with their Sculptures Wetroom Corner Panel, their Roman Shield Complete Wetroom Tanking Kit, one of their Thermostatic Multimode Shower Heads and some accessories including a Shower Basket and a Shower Blade.
The products were supplied into Roman retailer, PHS, who is based in Milton Keynes. The Cowboy Builders crew, along with presenter Melinda Messenger paid a visit to the retailer to collect the products and PHS kindly supplied some other bathroom items to complete the project.
Roman also helped out another Cowboy Builders family in Croydon, supplying them with their Orbital Bi-fold Door. This show is due to be aired in January 2013. Roman have worked on a number of bathroom projects with Cowboy Builders, and the designers are very much familiar with the quality of the manufacturers’ products, which keeps them coming back time and again.
Roman are regularly called upon by different home make-over shows and so far this year they have supplied; BBC’s, DIY SOS; Channel 5’s, Half Built House and Channel 4’s, You Deserve this House, as well as Cowboy Builders.
David Osborne, Managing Director at Roman, commented: “We are always very keen to support shows such as Cowboy Builders. They do a fantastic job in restoring peoples’ homes after being left in often unliveable conditions after cowboy builders have destroyed them. We have now become a regular supplier for the show, having worked with them now over many years. Because we manufacture all our products in the UK, we are able to work within their tight deadlines and deliver products within a matter of days. No matter what their brief, our diverse product range means we have a showering solution that will work in the space.”
Paragon Hotels, owners of 10 hotels throughout the UK, eight of which are operated under the Classic Lodges brand, is taking back the direct management of the iconic Edinburgh hotel, The Roxburghe. It will rebrand as Crowne Plaza Edinburgh – The Roxburghe following a new franchise agreement with IHG.Set in the heart of the city in Charlotte Square, the hotel has undergone significant investment since 2008, with £7 million being invested in updating all 199 bedrooms, the reception and lounge. The hotel, currently managed by Macdonalds, has been owned by Paragon for 15 years.
The franchise agreement will see further investment in the bar and restaurant’s food and beverage offering, and the refurbishment of both the meeting areas and club bedrooms. A new lounge will be created, and the website completely revamped and rebranded.
Marcello Ventisei, General Manager at the Roxburghe, believes the Crowne Plaza brand will give the hotel a new standing in the market: “The Roxburghe is perfectly placed in the centre of the city for visiting businessman and international leisure guests,” he says. “With the added stature of now being a four-star Crowne Plaza property, I believe this will elevate the hotel further.”
Richard Grime, Managing Director of Paragon Hotels, agrees and is pleased to see the historic hotel continue its evolution: “As part of the hotel’s future development we are particularly pleased to have agreed with IHG that the Roxburghe will become a Crowne Plaza which allows it greater access to an international client base travelling to the capital of Scotland.”
IHG’s Chief Development Officer for Europe, Robert Shepherd, said: “We are pleased to bring the Crowne Plaza brand to the heart ofEdinburgh. Crowne Plaza is one of the fastest growing upscale brands in the world and has the most hotels in the development pipeline of any upscale brand globally – we are opening 120 hotels over the next few years. Business and leisure travellers alike know that they can expect simplified elegance, comfort and a 24-hour business service from a Crowne Plaza hotel. Significant investment is being made to ensure that Crowne Plaza Edinburgh can help guests be at their best.”
De Vere Venues, the UK’s number one for meetings, training and conference space has celebrated the official launch of the £20million Orchard Hotel, adjacent to the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham. This 202 bedroom hotel underpins De Vere Venues’ growth strategy, while the combined options of the EMCC and Orchard Hotel will now provide a totally integrated solution for both UK and international meetings and events including training, team building activities, product launches and conferences. The Orchard Hotel opened its doors on 16th November 2012 and is a state-of-the-art eco-hotel designed by RHWL Architects and Interior Designers, Graven Images. Stylish and contemporary, the Orchard Hotel is sited within the University of Nottingham’s 300 acres of stunning landscaped parkland and is ideal for business and leisure travel alike.
Tony Dangerfield, CEO of De Vere Venues comments, “The Orchard Hotel is fantastic new addition to our portfolio representing a significant investment by the University in the city of Nottingham. At De Vere Venues we are committed to extensively increasing our already impressive venue portfolio, and this new beautiful hotel will make the East Midlands Conference Centre a complete, one stop venue to fulfil and exceed all our guests’ expectations.”
Built to the highest environmental standards, the Orchard Hotel features state-of-the-art technology to reduce carbon emissions. The project’s commitment to the surrounding environment is further reflected in its high level of sustainability. The hotel will aim to achieve an ‘Excellent’ rating under the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), which recognises low-impact buildings that incorporate the best environmental practice. The hotel will incorporate sustainable features including a green roof system, photovoltaic panels, smart building management systems and energy efficient lighting, glazing and ventilation systems.
Pro-Vice Chancellor for Environment and Infrastructure, Professor Karen Cox, comments, “The University is proud to open The Orchard as a unique and environmentally-driven addition to our conferencing facilities. It is a beautifully designed complex, funded entirely by the University, and will be available for use by conference delegates, university visitors, local businesses and the general public.”
Features and benefits
• The Orchard Hotel offers 202 bedrooms, including 55 are executive suites and 5 accessible bedrooms • The Orchard Hotel features Bramley’s, a 160 seat brasserie-style restaurant as well as a bar area • Four meeting and training rooms offer space for up to 20 delegates • The venue features accessible roof-top gardens, a glass atrium reception and lobby which is flooded with natural daylight, floor-to-ceiling windows, bespoke furniture and unique decor throughout • An executive lounge, leading to an exclusive roof-top garden is reserved for those staying in executive accommodation • Mezzanine level provides a stunning area for private hire in the evening for up to 100 • On site gym facilities • The East Midlands Conference Centre offers flexible meeting space accommodating between 10 and 850 delegates, with 21 flexible meeting rooms, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, free WiFi throughout
Interiors are by Graven Images, Architects were RHWL.
The Rezidor Hotel Group has opened the 127-room Park Inn by Radisson Lille Grand Stade in France. The chic and colourful mid-market property is located in the city of Villeneuve D’Ascq (nicknamed “green technopole” thanks to the implantation of many researchers) and adjacent to one of Europe’s most high tech football venues, the Grand Stade Lille Métropole that will host the LOSC Lille Metropole football club, major events & conferences, and the 2016 UEFA European Football Championship. The Park Inn by Radisson hotel offers guests unrivalled access to football & rugby matches, concerts and events in the Grand Stade. Nearby companies include Auchan, Bayer, Decathlon, France Telecom, Leroy Merlin, and Petrovox – so the area also hosts major business meetings & conferences. As part of the Grand Stade Lille Métropole complex, the hotel scores with excellent transportation links and great connectivity. Train stations serving Thalys and eurostar are easily accessible, and the airport is less than 10 kilometres away.
The hotel comprises 127 guest rooms with contemporary design featuring bold colours, and with unrivalled views over the 50,000-seat Grand Stade Lille Métropole. The Standard and Business Class rooms offer modern amenities including free high-speed internet access, room service, walk-in shower, air-conditioning, hair dryer, satellite TV, tea and coffee provisions and a writing desk.
The hotel restaurant has a fresh and versatile menu, offering both snacks and full meals. International favourites like wraps, salads and pastas sit alongside regional specialities, while the lounge-bar offers an extensive choice of drinks. A special children’s menu makes life easy for travelling families.
For business groups, the stadium offers conference rooms ranging from 150 to 700 sqm in size, along with a 230-seat auditorium. The Park Inn by Radisson adds two smaller, flexible meeting rooms (25 sqm) with individual climate control and business services.
Luxurious blue carpet from Lano Flooring Solutions now graces the grand staircase at the Royal College of Surgeons of England in London, providing a visually striking look and exceptional quality that befits the building’s historic interior and exterior architecture.Chosen from Lano Flooring Solution’s extensive Walk of Fame collection, which offers the ultimate in design flexibility, the new carpet is a hardwearing and supremely soft11-row axminster.Woven on state-of-the-art Max 63 Van De Wiele looms, the carpet’s 80% wool 20% nylon three ply construction is the best possible quality available that is suitable for commercial, hospitality and leisure use.
Providing fantastic levels of underfoot comfortfor a lavish feel as well as offering superb resilience, the carpet’s construction also allows for brilliant colour clarity to ensure lasting good looks. Chosen in a deep blue colourway with contrasting gold diamonds, the carpet provides an instant feeling of grandeur and offers the necessary robustness required by this busy stairway location.
“This grand staircase is in almost constant use, as it is the main access point for our popular Hunterian Museum, which houses an extensive collection of medical specimens and instruments,” explains John O’Riordan, maintenance manager, The Royal College of Surgeons of England. “The previous carpet had become threadbare in places, and it was therefore imperative that the new carpet offered superiorlevels of resilience as well as a luxury feel. Lano Flooring Solutions was my first choice for this project, as its carpets are renowned for not only being exceptionally hardwearing, but also available in classical designs that suit our listed building status. The traditional but eye-catching design and the quality of the end product mean that we now have an easy to clean and luxurious floorcovering that is able to cope with the heavy footfall from our visitors.”
Fitted by Joe Bergamini of Cottage Flooring Ltd, London, the new carpet is crucially very easy to maintain and can withstand rigorous cleaning without losing the vibrancy of its colour. The Walk of Fame collection by Lano Flooring Solutions offers contractors, designers and specifiers stunning carpet styles combined with outstanding performance qualities in a range of 320 in-stock shades.
For further information on all Lano carpet ranges, freephone 00800 5266 5266 or visit www.lano.com
Hilton Worldwide has announced the opening of a DoubleTree by Hilton in Merida – the largest city and capital of Mexico’s state of Yucatan. Built around an early 20th century mansion, the four-story DoubleTree by Hilton Merida welcomes guests to an experience inspired by the area’s history.Located in the city’s business district, DoubleTree by Hilton Merida is just 10 minutes from the international airport and five minutes from Merida’s most well-known avenue “Paseo de Montejo”. The 100-room hotel is ideal for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel’s surrounding area is home to many businesses and institutions, while the convention centre is just 15 minutes away. Guests can visit Paseo de Montejo, a 19th century boulevard inspired by the Champs Elyseés lined with lush trees and elegant mansions. Ideal for a stroll back in time, the area offers dining, museums and colonial period architecture.
DoubleTree by Hilton Merida is the perfect starting point to experience the city’s culture and history. Constructed within an elegant mansion built over 50 years ago, the hotel’s eclectic design, highlighted by a façade carved in marble and granite, reflects the thriving economy of the Yucatan peninsula’s late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The new DoubleTree by Hilton Merida’s well-appointed guest rooms and suites feature the Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree Sleep Experience, refreshing Crabtree & Evelyn Citron® bath and body products, 42-inch HDTV flat screen television, in-room tea and coffee making service by Wolfgang Puck, spacious work desks with data ports, MP3-compatible clock radios, and wireless high-speed internet access. Visitors will also have access to 3,000 square feet of function space, business centre, fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool.
Dining options feature the signature restaurant La Casona Colón, open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and boasting a blend of local specialties and Caribbean cuisine prepared using French culinary techniques. La Raspa bar provides exclusive cocktails and beverages in a hip and eclectic atmosphere.
Guests will also benefit from the characteristic qualities found at more than 310 DoubleTree by Hilton locations in 23 countries, including the signature welcome with the legendary warm chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest at check-in, an array of upscale amenities and guest services, the rewards of the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty programme, and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.
Stylematters are one of the UK’s leading designers and installers of Fixed Seating. We have extensive experience in manufacturing and installing any kind of bespoke seating, to best meet the aesthetic, comfort and layout demands of your business.
We are confident in providing you with exactly what you require, in any style, in any layout, and in any fabric – all to your specification and budget. Manufactured in our own factory and installed by our experienced Operations team, we can create a Fixed Seating arrangement that is only limited by your imagination. Dare to dream and we’ll turn it into reality…
If you are interested in our fixed seating and have a project in mind give us a call on 0844 880 6620, speak to one of our sales team about your needs and we will provide a competitive quotation by return.
It was all systems go for Accor last week with an opening party for their newly built 4 star Novotel Blackfriars going on next door to the one for the updated Ibis. This 182 room hotel with sleek modern public spaces including an open theatre kitchen and beautiful guest rooms is amongst the most technologically advanced hotels in London.
Guests will find self check in desks in the lobby area where there is a video wall featuring digital art and once again Monscierge provides a virtual interactive system to help you plan your day.
The latest Microsoft Surface table and I Macs are also there for guest use with I-Pads and TV Dining tables in the restaurant . Floor to ceiling windows flood the hotel with natural light and a bold monochrome bar divides the lobby lounge from the 84 seat Element restaurant serving British and European cuisine.
Access to guest rooms is with an electronic touch key system. Of particular interest is the touch screen privacy screen in the bathroom where the transparent glass partition becomes opaque at the touch of a switch. Bedrooms come in two colour ways and feel relaxing and light. Executive rooms have balconies with great views of the city especially at night.
I pod docking stations, Free wifi access and a media hub mean the hotel will appeal to business and leisure guests alike. After a day in town they can relax in the pool, sauna and steam room or de-stress in the state of the art ‘ In Balance’ fitness centre. This is spacious enough not to make guests feel crowded so the work out is more enjoyable.
Seven meeting rooms are available for up to 90 delegates and they include Interactive whiteboard technology. There is a large breakout area to enjoy coffee and snacks.
From a first impression I can only agree with Accor’s Thomas Dubaere ” This is our finest Novotel to date and represents the next generation …in the UK. The quality style and class of this hotel is evident from top to bottom and is a hotel to be seen and enjoyed.”
For a French group however it is somewhat suprising that there are only UK sockets in the bedrooms, no continental or US variations to be seen…
This years Sleep Event in London has been a great success for Baulmann Leuchten and its new agent in the UK, FW Lighting from Bristol. During the 2 days of the show a lot of interesting contacts have been made and the new products exhibit on the show received a great interest. Especially the new series of LED luminaires with flexarms attracted lots of clients onto the exhibition booth. These new LED luminaires are available as tablelamps, floorlamps and wall mounted luminaires. An essential element of the new design is a black fabric tube which increases the stability of the flexarm and prevents damages due to inappropriate handling.
As an option, Baulmann Leuchten does also offer this new range of luminaires with a velvet-finish; the standard colours available in this finish are green, orange and purple.
The new round-shaped base of the tablelamp and floorlamp provides a delicate design with a kind of floating appearance. By means of new high-quality glass lenses the light-distribution of the LED has been improved impressively.
All pictures are copyright by “Baulmann Leuchten”.
GHM moved into new territory this month after signing on to develop the Chedi Tomakomai, a 60-room luxury hotel and expansive wellness complex set within 1,057 hectares of lush forest on the island of Hokkaido in northern Japan.Following the agreement between GHM Holdings and Nordenwald Company Ltd., construction on the project will begin in November 2012 with a projected opening date in 2015.
Designed by iconic Japanese architect Tadao Ando, the Chedi Tomakomai will stand as an environment-friendly design on 47 hectares of land, preserving 96% of the surrounding forest.
“The prospect of working with Tadao Ando on this, our first property in Japan, is as compelling as the natural splendor of the site itself,” said GHM President Hans R. Jenni. “With Tadao Ando, we’re after the utmost in elegance from the utmost in simplicity.”
Known as one of Japan’s major breadbaskets and home to six undisturbed national parks, Hokkaido’s natural assets will be reflected in The Chedi’s open-air hot springs, 30-table gourmet restaurant, and health facilities.
Each 60-70 square-metre room in the hotel will have built-in fireplaces and cliff-facing views. A six-room spa, health club, indoor and outdoor pools, library, lounge and wine cellar are all in the blueprints. GHM will also develop 40 private villas for long-term lease.
“Urban dwellers will be enchanted by the serenity and bountiful natural beauty of this property,” said Clement Koh, GHM’s vice president of sales and marketing. “Our vision is a comfortable and exclusive retreat where the recharging takes place in a truly stunning wilderness.”
Designers for The Chedi Tomakomai plan to map three excursion courses for eco-tours and forest therapy. The property will be only minutes from the new Chitose International Airport, Tomakomai Port, and 16 premier golf courses.
Renowned for his minimalist modern aesthetic, active natural elements and expressive use of space and light, Tadao Ando’s involvement with The Chedi Tomakomai is part of GHM’s commitment to partnerships with front-running designers. The group has most recently called on designers such as Kerry Hill, Jaya Ibrahim, Jean-Michel Gathy and Reda Amalou to conceptualise its resorts.
Ando’s Church of the Light, Water Temple and Benesse House Museum / Naoshima (Contemporary Art Museum) in Japan have established him as one of the country’s most renowned architects. Ando is also at work on a GHM property in Kona, Hawaii.
The Chedi Tomakomai is one of several Chedi properties that GHM plans to launch in the next three years. The Chedi Club Suzhou (China) and The Chedi Andermatt (Switzerland) are expected to open in 2013. The other properties scheduled to open by 2015 include The Chedi Nusa Penida (Bali), The Chedi Tamouda Bay (Morocco), and The Chedi Khorfakkan in Sharjah (UAE).
One of Newcastle’s most prestigious hotels has been added to the hotel panel of corporate travel services specialist, The Co-operative Travel Management (CTM), strengthening its relationship with several Co-operative businesses. Sandman Signature Hotel is enjoying the benefits of trading across The Co-operative’s family of businesses. Having been a client of The Co-operative Bank, it also recently took out a commercial insurance package with The Co-operative Insurance.
The hotel will now be considered for the more than 2,000 rooms which are booked by CTM in Newcastle every year.
The comprehensive insurance package it has taken with The Co-operative covers the hotel premises as well as employers and public liability.
Dave Matkin, Head of Business Development, at The Co-operative said: “Sandman Hotels illustrates how cross trading with The Co-operative brings additional benefits for businesses.
“Through an existing strong relationship with the company which spans insurance and banking, we are now helping to get more visitors to the hotel through our corporate travel management business.
“We are uniquely positioned to offer businesses a wide range of expertise spanning many sectors, and a diverse range of products and services covering legal and financial services to travel management and uniforms.”
Mitch Gaglardi, Director at Sandman Signature Hotels, added: “Dealing with one company for several services is certainly easier but when it’s an organisation with a trusted brand such as The Co-operative, that’s even better.
“The relationship has enabled us to ensure we can fill more rooms more of the time whilst also providing us with competitive banking and insurance packages.”
The 170-room Sandman Signature Hotel sits in the city centre of Newcastle, opposite the iconic Newcastle United Football Club Stadium. It employs around 200 people and includes the famous Shark Club Gastro Bar.
Innovative Asian hotelier Alila Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its first Indian heritage property. Alila Fort Bishangarh will launch in late 2013 following the restoration of the beautiful 230 year-old Rajasthan Fort into a luxury 59-suite boutique resort.Positioned on a granite hill in the Aravalli Mountain range, with spectacular 360-degree views, the site is owned by the ruling Maharaja, Rao Rajendra Singh, and has been in his family since the 14th century. The fort is thought to be the only one of its kind to be converted into a heritage resort and is a unique example of the Jaipur Gharana architecture influenced by both the Mughals and the British.
The ecological restoration project will focus on lovingly preserving the grandeur of the original fort with its two metre thick walls and original battlements and turrets, whilst sensitively developing new residential areas to recreate the courtly flavour of Shahpura’s royalty.
A completely new structure is being created above and outside the old fort to house five different styles of royal suites and lavish public areas. As befitting its royal heritage, Alila Fort Bishangarh has its own landholdings, which include the charming Bishangarh village and its havelis (mansions).
The all-suite resort will feature 59 stately suites with stunning views. Each spacious suite will be elegantly furnished with large bay windows, day beds and expansive bathrooms with footed bathtubs, with each suite comfortably accommodating a family of four.
Leisure facilities within the fort will include an outpost of the acclaimed Spa Alila, two speciality restaurants, an all-day coffee lounge, a bar and cigar room, wine cellar and Library. Down the hill, the public areas will include a pool, pool terrace and juice bar, Fitness Centre and a ‘play soldiers club’ for children.
Alila Fort Bishangarh will also provide a majestic setting for grand weddings and celebratory events including MICE facilities, with a royal banquet hall, banquet dining room, conference and meeting rooms, an open-air terrace and large banquet lawns.
The Alila experience will offer guests the chance to explore the charm and beauty of Jaipur, Bishangarh and rural Rajasthan with a host of tailor-made rural activities and adventure. Located at Bishangarh Village in the Jaipur District, Alila Fort Bishangarh is easily accessible from both Delhi and Jaipur, just 180 km (3 hours) from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and only 55 km (1 hour) from Jaipur Airport. Amber Fort at Jaipur is only 45 minutes away and Bishangarh is a good base to explore Jaipur’s innumerable tourist attractions.
Alila Fort Bishangarh will become the third Alila property in India, joining the contemporary Alila Diwa Goa and Alila Bangalore to further strengthen the group’s Indian portfolio.
The Surface Design Awards recognise examples of progressive design and the use of innovative surfaces in projects both in the UK and internationally. The Awards mirror the goals of the show by shining a spotlight upon the wealth of creativity and innovation in the industry.The Awards, organised by Montgomery Exhibitions, were launched this year to mark the 10th anniversary of Surface Design Show, the only event in the UK focused exclusively on interior and exterior surface solutions.
The show’s director, Christopher Newton, said, “We were delighted with the response we received to the Awards. The first Surface Design Awards are truly international and reflect the creativity and innovation in our industry.” Judge Scott Lawrie, Director, All Design said “The array of submissions was staggering in its depth of interesting surfaces and applications.”
The finalists were chosen by an impressive judging panel comprising; Scott Lawrie, Director at All Design, Heinz Richardson, Director at Jestico + Whiles, Sam Stacey, Head of Innovation at Skanska and David Steeples of Philip Watts Design. The panel was co-chaired by Vanessa Brady, President of the Society of British Interior Design and Felix Mara, Technical Editor of the Architect’s Journal.
The Judges were looking for innovation and design quality and after spending a day deliberating on the wide range of projects entered for the Awards. Co-chair Vanessa Brady, President, SBID said “The inaugural Surface Design Show Awards have set an impressive benchmark and will, I hope, stimulate ever more creativity, boundary-pushing, WOW-generating surface design.”
“Some great examples of creativity in the use of materials, light and surface; we saw strong submissions in many categories in terms of quality, style, and originality” – Sam Stacey, Head of Innovation, Skanska.
The winners will be announced on Thursday 7 February 2013, the last day of Surface Design Show at the Business Design Centre, London.
The shortlisted projects are:
Commercial Category sponsored by Burlington Stone Exterior Surface Finalists: • 50 Great Sutton Street, London by Archer Architects • Siemens Renewable Energy Engineering Centre, Manchester by Pringle Brandon Perkins + Will Interior Surface Finalists: • Clerkenwell Archway, London by Giles Miller Studio • Tusk Bar, Manchester by Sharon Jane Design Studio • Velvet Underground Nightclub, Singapore by Phillips Connor
Housing Category sponsored by Trend GB Exterior Surface Finalists: • Feering Bury Farm Barn, Essex by Hudson Architects • In-fill House, London by Patel Taylor • Northampton Park Extension by Alison Brook Architects • Tortoise Enclosure, Northern Ireland by Paul McAneary Architects Interior Surface Finalists: • Mill House by Matthew Chamberlain and Oliver Wood • Reflective of Nature by Hannah Gage • White House Cinema, East Sussex by Louise Lambert
Public Building Category sponsored by James Latham Exterior Surface Finalists: • Deptford Lounge & Tidemill Academy, London by Pollard Thomas Edwards Architects • Maidstone Museum East Wing by Hugh Broughton Architects • Southend Pier Culture Centre by White Arkitekter & Sprunt Interior Surface Finalists: • Alan Gilbert Learning Commons – Engraved Oak Walls, University of Manchester by Steve McCabe and Sheppard Robson • Korean Film Archive, London by Jai Hyuk Lee and Jee Yeon Ha • National Maritime Museum, London by Softroom • UCD Student Centre, Dublin by Andrew Howley and Aidan Kavanagh
Retail Category sponsored by Porcelanosa Exterior Surface Finalists: • Princes Square, Glasgow by Alistair McAuley • Stratford City, London by Simon Cochrane Interior Surface: • Salvaged Victorian Oak, London by Daniel Heath • Selfridges Designer Gallery Floor, London by Jamie Fobert • Stratford City, London by Simon Cochrane
Temporary Structure Category sponsored by de magazine: • KREOD Pavilion, London by Chun Qing Li • Techno Naturology: The Velcro Chain, Toronto by Elaine Ng Yan Ling • The Giraffe Pavilion by John Harding & Harri Lewis
The winner of the supreme award sponsored by Interface will be selected from the impressive list of finalists and will be announced on the 7th February.
Reserve @Opus One is the latest drinking den to hit Manchester. Located in the historic Colonnade of the iconic FreeTrade Hall, Reserve @Opus One is the new stand-alone Champagne bar at the multi-award winning Radisson Blu Edwardian, Free Trade Hall Manchester hotel. This haute hangout, which is set to become a favourite destination of the Manchester social set, offers an extensive selection of impressive Champagnes. The menu will comprise a selection of small taster plates, which have each been designed to complement the collection of Champagnes available.
Reminiscent of the grand entrance that once welcomed legendary figures, the Reserve @Opus One Colonnade features dramatic vaulted ceilings, exposed brickwork and luxurious furnishings.
Reserve @Opus One is the latest of inspiring initiatives to launch at the hotel. General Manager Stephen Miles, commented, “The Free Trade Hall is a heritage spot in the city; it’s only fitting that we created a space, where guests can experience this history and simply indulge and enjoy our collection of premium and vintage Champagnes.”
Powering ahead in key international markets, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced it has returned to the Dominican Republic with the landmark debut of its Four Points by Sheraton brand in Punta Cana. Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village opens in a prime location, just steps from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). It is the first of two hotels Starwood will open this year in the Dominican Republic with its partner Grupo PUNTACANA, and will be followed by The Westin Puntacana Resort in late 2013.
The newly constructed hotel features 124 stylish and comfortable guest rooms, an outdoor pool and access to five miles of private beach. Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village also provides 1,614 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a 24-hour business centre, a fully equipped fitness facility and full-service dining. Guests can stroll to the shops, restaurants and salons of Galerias PUNTACANA within the Village, and hop on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to visit Six Senses Spa, the PUNTACANA Ecological Reserve and a choice of world-class golf courses located at PUNTACANA Resort & Club.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced that its largest brand, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and its owners invested more than $230 million to refurbish its four iconic Hawaiian properties. The large-scale, multi-year project was completed with the recent unveiling of the Sheraton Kona Resort and meets the increased demand for high-quality accommodations as business and leisure travel to the Hawaiian Islands continues to grow. The revitalization projects include the $188 million renewal of the Sheraton Waikiki, the $6.5 million renovation of the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, a $16 million upgrade to the Sheraton Kauai Resort, and a $20 million refresh of the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay.Leading Hotel in Oahu Celebrates Comprehensive Renovation
The Sheraton has reaffirmed its place as the leader in its class among Hawaii hotels with the completion of its nearly $188 million renovation of 1,636 rooms with a theme of “contemporary Hawaiian sophistication.” The renewal starts at beach level and reaches to the top of the 31-floor structure, offering new guest rooms and suites, redesigned public areas with new landscaping and pools, renewed convention facilities, new and exhilarating restaurants and bars, and new back-of-house equipment to increase service efficiency.
The resort introduced to Waikiki the first infinity-edge pool and the only oceanfront adult-only pool complete with a swim-up bar. Guests can enjoy family fun at the Helumoa Playground, which offers a 70-foot-long waterslide, two large whirlpools, and chaise water sunning benches spread around a 12,500-square-foot area. With the recent grand opening of the million-dollar Leahi Club, Sheraton Waikiki is home to Hawaii’s only Sheraton Club Lounge. It offers guests breathtaking panoramic views of Diamond Head and the Pacific, first-class service, and culinary creations with matchless local flair.
Multi-Million Dollars Renews Maui Resort
In December 2011, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, anchored by the legendary Pu’u Keka’a (Black Rock), introduced a new sense of Hawaiian luxury to the Ka’anapali Resort with the redesign and renovation of its guest rooms. The $6.5 million renewal introduced warm Hawaiian colours, textiles and prints to the legendary location of the 508-room resort. Incorporating traditional Hawaiian artwork, light hues, plush carpeting and drapery, and new tropical furnishings the resort has created a comfortable setting for guests. With wireless Internet now in every guest room, the resort now offers an elevated in-room experience that enables guests to remain connected with what matters most. The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa has also taken several steps toward sustainability with the installation of electric vehicle charging stations in the parking structure.
Sheraton Upgrades Resort Located on Hawaii’s Famous Poipu Beach
Sheraton Kauai Resort, nestled into 20 acres along Kauai’s world-renowned Poipu Beach, completed a $16 million revitalization in April. Upon arriving at the 394-room resort – Poipu’s newest playground – guests are greeted by a refurbished and modern porte-cochere and the beautifully upgraded Ocean Lobby. The lobby opens into a new, open-air Ocean Courtyard that is elegantly landscaped and adorned with tiki torches. It features six intimate seating areas, three of which have fire pits. An added breezeway provides direct access to the resort’s newly expanded and tiered Ocean Pool, lined with eight private, vibrant bungalows sitting just above the pristine shore. The hotel’s Rum Fire restaurant is the island’s newest hotspot and offers 180-degree ocean views from its 240-seat restaurant and lounge. For those seeking the consummate venue for meetings, banquets or special celebrations, the new Luana Kai room overlooks Poipu Beach and is the only oceanfront indoor function space on Kauai.
The Big Island’s Landmark Hotel Completes Extensive Floor-to-Ceiling Renovation
The newly renamed Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa (formerly Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa) completed a $20 million resort renewal in September 2012. The Kona Coast’s most iconic resort is well on its way to re-establishing itself as the crown jewel of the community. Considerable resources have been invested not only in physical revitalization but also into efforts to better connect guests with Keauhou’s rich history by offering more meaningful, culturally authentic experiences.
Significant enhancements to guestrooms, public areas and meeting spaces include culturally inspired designs by Hawaii designer Sig Zane. A new lobby arrival experience and Flying Fish activity outfitters complement and add to the fun, excitement and ultimate experience that many already enjoy. New oceanfront dining concepts include Rays on the Bay, touted as the only restaurant in the world with manta ray viewing. With panoramic oceanfront sunset dinners, Rays on the Bay highlights dishes embodying the best farm-and-ocean-to-table tradition.
Swiss bathroom manufacturer Laufen enjoyed its second visit to Sleep London in November, where its solutions for hotel bathrooms and washrooms attracted much attention from the show’s global audience.Taking centre stage for Laufen was its new Palomba freestanding bathtub, which made its first appearance on British soil. The tub is a company first for Laufen, being the only solid surface bath in its collection. Visitors to Laufen’s stand at Sleep London were encouraged to step in the tub, lay back and experience its comfort for themselves, while the team were on hand to explain the numerous benefits of solid surface for hotel bathrooms.
Solid surface is an insulated material that is warm to the touch and ensures the bath water retains its heat for longer. On another practical note, the Palomba bath is far less slippery than acrylic, ceramic or steel baths and has a much lower sound transmission, meaning guests in neighbouring rooms won’t be disturbed by the sound of the bath filling with water.
The tub’s ergonomically sloped high back is broader than many slipper style baths to allow extra shoulder room, whilst its natural lines are moulded to the contours of the body to ensure complete relaxation when guests are away from home.
Much attention was also given to Laufen’s new Palomba washbasin collection, now available in a wide range of sizes to suit any application. The new Palomba bowls make a style statement on the washtop in the contemporary bathroom, providing an easy to wipe clean flat surface for convenient storage of toothbrushes and toiletries. The range also includes a number of smaller bowls for when space is at a premium. The original Palomba washbasin was also at Sleep, making its presence felt on the Hansgrohe stand and also as a focal point in the Nous Design Room.
Throughout the event, Laufen’s Global Projects Team assisted visitors to the stand, answering queries, introducing them to the new products and promoting the brand to a worldwide audience.
lker Hussein, Manager Global Projects at Laufen, comments: “Sleep London was a fantastic event, with the quality of visitors very high throughout. Our latest products certainly made an impression and it was brilliant to be able to show the potential of our range to influential hotel designers and architects from across the globe. We made significant contacts from all over the world, which will undoubtedly be incredibly beneficial for growing the Laufen brand globally.”
Rezidor has opened their latest flagship in Russia – the 508-room Radisson Blu Resort & Congress Centre, Sochi. Enjoying a prime waterfront location in Sochi, the stunning property is all set to become a major landmark.The First Class hotel is conveniently located in the Adler district, directly bordering on Sochi’s 2014 Winter Games facilities and the Black Sea coast, adjacent to the promenade. Guests enjoy easy access to a variety of nearby transport options including the airport, train station and bus station. Besides 508 comfortable rooms with Radisson Blu signature services like free high speed internet access and Anne Sémonin bath products, the hotel features great dining and drinking experiences. Choices include the Grenadine Restaurant, which offers the Super Breakfast Buffet, plus a variety of international and local dishes served throughout the day – enhanced by breathtaking views of the Black Sea. The Mikado Sushi Bar serves fresh sushi and sashimi in a designer setting with lounge music creating an on-trend ambience. The Anatolian Kebab and Grill offers Mediterranean and Middle East delights, while the destination Lobby Bar & Lounge is an ideal spot to meet friends or colleagues for a beer or cocktail.
Special features of the resort include an on-site fitness centre, tennis court, billiards room and children’s recreational facilities. Guests can keep up their training while travelling at Pace – a premier health and wellness centre that comprises state-of-the-art equipment, an indoor pool and two outdoor pools. The spa centre offers beauty treatments, massages, manicures and a hairdressing studio. Finnish and Russian saunas, a hammam with relaxation area and a Jacuzzi are also available.
The resort’s Congress Centre certainly wins gold for meeting facilities, setting a whole new standard for the region. The 11 function- and meeting rooms including a Premier Hall of 1500 sqm are totally versatile and equipped with modern multimedia equipment and free high-speed internet access.
The historic building, situated on Vladimirskaya Street, one of Kiev’s main thoroughfares, has lain vacant for a number of years and the refurbishment, along with the new design scheme will create a new destination within central Kiev. When complete the hotel will comprise 173 guestrooms, restaurant, destination bar, function room and meeting rooms and will operate under the Marriott brand, RenaissanceRichard Morton of interior designers Alexander James International, says: “This is a very exciting project with many interesting opportunities; we’ve been able to create a bespoke scheme that delivers an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional styling which complements the existing fabric of this fabulous building. It really is a great privilege to bring such a beautiful, historic building back to life.”
The proposed design scheme delivers a sense of history; the lobby and lounge will feature stone floors and dark timber panelling to provide a dramatic backdrop, while bronze detailing will give a contemporary edge. The lobby reflects the tree-lined Vladimirskaya Street, with styled references including feature walls behind reception pods and a striking feature light which reflects leafy shadows onto the floor.
Guest bedrooms will benefit from high ceilings with plasterwork detailing will echo the era of the building. Loose furniture pieces and material selections reflect the Renaissance brand, whilst relating to the colours and textures of the historic city. The simplistic design will be populated with artwork, including a television panel with an illuminated niche incorporating locally inspired artwork.
Dawnvale Hospitality Interiors have successfully supplied and installed the complete furniture and soft furnishings package for The New Inn in Cerne Abbas, Dorset.This beautiful iconic 16th Century building located in one of the prettiest villages in England has been transformed during the £1.3M refurbishment. The accommodation now includes ten standard bedrooms and three individually designed suites. The restaurant has also been completely transformed to create a relaxed environment serving the highest quality menu.
Dawnvale supplied solid oak bedroom furniture including beds, wardrobes, bedside cabinets, dressing tables and chest of drawers for all the standard bedrooms with bespoke manufactured oak headboards, leather sofa beds, armchairs and brass beds to ensure each room was slightly different. All three suites included individual king size beds and matching bedroom furniture. All the bedrooms included a black out blind, beautiful lined curtains with decorative fabrics on oak or brass poles, elegant scatter cushions and a range of crushed velvet bed throws.
In the restaurant and bar Dawnvale supplied a range of bespoke tables and chairs to suit the theme of the venue and refurbished some of the existing furniture to ensure the original character remained. The use of quality leathers and decorative fabrics combined well as did the new dress curtains installed throughout the public area.
British bed manufacturer, Hypnos has been designing and making bespoke beds for more than 100 years, combining traditional skills with modern production techniques. As part of the company’s evolving hotel collections, Hypnos has launched a new pocket spring mattress, Lansdowne Royale (right) which took centre stage at The Sleep Event 2012. This new innovative design targets specifically luxury boutique hotels, serviced apartments and high-end guest houses, who want to offer guests the very best comfort and a memorable night’s sleep. Hypnos’ specialist Contract Division prides itself on its complete project management solution, with a full design, installation, old bed disposal and recycling service.Offering head-to-toe zonal support, Hypnos’ Lansdowne Royale mattress features a three zoned ReActive™ pocket spring system. Each spring has ten active turns, independently sensing body shape and weight distribution to provide total spinal and body support. Moreover, to help regulate body temperature, Lansdowne Royale is upholstered with naturally soft and breathable layers of British wool, cashmere, hand teased hair, Talalay latex* and eOlus™, a sustainable fibre made from recycled plastic. In addition, the mattress is lined with a luxury silver-infused Belgian damask, offering a fresh and hygienic sleeping surface, making it the perfect choice for hospitality providers.
The Lansdowne Royale mattress was combined with a super storage divan base, with a boutique-style winged back, deep-buttoned Vienna headboard – all covered in Zoffany’s Town and County fabrics. With a five-year guarantee, the Lansdowne Royale mattresses and divans are fully compliant with BS 7177 medium hazard CRIB 5 fire retardancy standards for hotel usage.
Two new sofa beds which are set to be launched in 2013 were also on display – the Winchester and Lichfield – both with pocket spring mattress, covered with Hypnos’ revolutionary ‘Vital Protection’ anti-bed bug fabric. The fabric impregnation treatment is designed to provide long lasting protection against bed bugs for hotel guests. What’s more, it has been independently scientifically proven to effectively repel and instantly kill bed bugs, as well as dust mites and other bacteria.
The treatment can be added to any of Hypnos’ new mattresses ensuring protection before they arrive at the hotel. However, for those hotel owners not wishing to buys new beds, Vital Protection™ can also be used on existing beds, by applying a zipped mattress renovator which encases the whole of the mattress. Vital Protection™ cannot be washed off and is completely invisible and odourless, having no negative impact on the fabric’s fire retardancy properties.
As the first carbon neutral bed maker, using only natural, sustainable and FSC materials, Hypnos also offers a bed disposal and recycling service for old beds – guaranteeing 100% landfill avoidance. The company’s reputation for service excellence and the best of British quality is further reinforced by a Royal Warrant from HM Queen Elizabeth II.
Grant Hearn, Travelodge Chief Executive commented on yesterday’s announcement to improve the visa system for Chinese visitors.This is great news. We have been working very hard alongside the BHA for a change to the visa process, especially for the Chinese market. We have a real opportunity within our grasp which can play a significant part in helping our economy to recover, but we need to act now otherwise Britain will lose out.
Since 2007 the number of outbound visitors from China has nearly doubled from 34.5million to 60million, but of these new tourists only 30,500 a year came to Britain. Meanwhile, France received eight times more Chinese visitors than the UK and Germany six times our amount. Every wealthy Chinese tourist lost to our European neighbours is a missed opportunity to create jobs and boost the UK economy.
We need the Government to act with a sense of urgency. Any lack of immediate action will cost jobs, growth and investment. This initiative means new employment opportunities in the UK, which is too good a thing to be missed.”
Like many Brits, my images of America are part Hollywood, part romance,part television all tempered with the reality of numerous visits over the years. The big cars with their fins and chrome may be in the past, but Skamania showed me how much of my imaginings are still to be discovered, including that mournful train wail that features in so many ‘westerns’.
Standing in the Cascade Mountains (and while it is officially a Washington State lodge, you need to go into Oregon to get here) it may not be surrounded by the giant redwoods, but on the slopes of Mount Hood the hotel is in the midst of the National Scenic area of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounded by acres of beautiful pine forest.
The Columbia River Gorge is the main route through the Cascades here, and along it runs the railway as well as the freeway, Interstate 84. The drive to the hotel from Portland is all along the Oregon side of the Columbia River, crossing the ‘Bridge of the Gods’ to Stevenson. Romantic and fully in tune with my images of America, to give me what one of my childhood heroes, Mr Pastry, would have said were the ‘deep joys’.
A sister lodge to the lodge that is the Alderbrook Resort and Spa in the Olympic National Park, Skamania is being refurbished by Dawson Designs’ Seattle office, the same designers that worked on Alderbrook, now winning awards as one of the best hotels in the Pacific North West of the USA. I was privileged to be one of the first design writers to see the early results of the makeover given to the main public areas, and it was a chance to experience the hotel and the Cascades.
The cultural differences between the US and Europe are deep, and yet one is rooted in t’other. This similarity with dissonance is reflected in US interiors. Although the internationalism of design is growing along with increasing blandness, there are fortunately still enough differences of colour and texture to make trips like this worthwhile. The nature of interiors is such that unlike many other forms of design, they can truly reflect location , indeed in most interiors I would argue should reflect location. This was true at Alderbrook and certainly it looks as if it will be true here at Skamania too.
It can be a difficult balance to strike a local note without falling over a line into kitsch, but this is a line that Dawson tread very carefully and successfully. I suppose that I see Skamania, Alderbrook and Mohonk Mountain House as a kind of Yankee equivalent to the English Country House hotel, but without the snobbery. Deeply rooted in American traditions these are very relaxed establishments, child-friendly if not family centred. All have a tradition of providing conference and meeting facilities and award winning spas (in the case of Alderbrook and the Mohonk). Skamania, although only 20 years old, is upgrading its Spa and public areas as a first stage in reworking its offering perhaps with a view to winning awards and becoming a destination Spa as Mohonk and Alderbrook have done. It also has an 18 hole mountain golf course.
Like Alderbrook Resort and Spa , the reception lobby decants the guest into a superb triple height lounge with extensive use of timber in both structure and paneling. Dominated by the stone fireplace, this comfortable area with rocking chairs in front of the log fire has huge picture windows looking out to the lake behind the Bonneville dam. Currently the coffee stand that spoils the peace of the space will be replaced by a coffee shop using an adjoining space and providing an alternative route into the grounds in front, which no good American citizen seems able to enter without clutching a life-saving giant cardboard cup of coffee. The use of one side of the lounge as a corridor to outside breaks the contemplative tranquillity that would otherwise be the delight of this haven from the industrial world.
Whilst Skamania does not have the naturalist on the staff that Mohonk Mountain House does, it maybe goes one better by having a Forest Ranger office in the lobby, marked by an 8 foot high sculpture of a grizzly bear, still occasionally found in the surrounding forests I understand. Adjacent to the concierge desk the helpful Rangers supplement the information and services the concierge provides. On the opposite side of the entrance lobby is the tourist shop providing that source of postcards, local artefacts etc. that is otherwise not easily accessible without resorting to the car.
Huge car parking spaces, one adjacent to the golf course, make access easy as does having a separate conference entrance and reception area. The hotel offers twenty-three meeting rooms and over 22,000 square feet of meeting, exhibition and banquet space. In addition, Skamania Lodge offers over 40,000 square feet of seasonal outdoor venue space tucked within the forests.
Once in the hotel everything you might need is here. All the public areas open up onto the terrace with views across the Columbia river valley, including the fire pit, an idea spoiled for me by many of these installations using gas to fire them rather than burning real logs. Here real wood may be the fuel, and it is in the huge lounge fire, unlike the silly ceramic gas log used at Alderbrook. The two dining rooms offer plenty of menu variety and choice with the main restaurant, styled in a vaguely deco timber-work finish. The deco feel comes from the use of pale timber joinery plus the spacing and styling of the square lanterns throughout.
The main restaurant offering includes a menu based around the use of a wood fired oven. It also offers a choice of seating styles from booth to open table, with a large servery area in the centre. The space is flexible with one end being loose furniture, enabling parties to dine together whilst small groups can gain some privacy using the more private booth style seating area.
The bar and bistro, subject of the recent refurbishment, majors on locational keys, with again a huge stonework fireplace with the head of an unfortunate moose dominating. Antler and horn are used by the designer throughout, and tables offer varying seating locations, numbers, heights etc. making for an interesting space that divides itself into zones neatly and easily.
The bar has witty references to other areas – there is a small grizzly supporting shelves for example, echoing the entrance area sculpture, and the area behind the bar has a painting representing the surrounding woodland. Funky details abound – a hollow log, stools made from sections of tree trunk, a pair of moose antlers (seems as if the moose population in this part of the States is a favourite prey of the hunters) and patterning when used is indicative of native Americans traditions. The overall effect is very comfortable visually and physically, enhanced by fireplaces and typical high quality service. Both the refurbished bar and the new lounge area are proving very popular with guests.
The layout of the building plan separates off the conference area from the main areas, placing the potential for noise from gatherings at the opposite end in what is a very large building from the space occupied by the spa and pool. The pool hall itself is a handsome space, open into the roof timbers, and the skylight providing reflection in the water. Its glass doors open onto outside terraces, one of which is occupied by the outside area of the very cramped spa. The treatment rooms for the spa are conversions of bedrooms I suspect, and as such they lack panic buttons, soundproofing or any of the real luxury trappings expected in a European spa. As such they will need considerable lift if the spa is to operate in a way that will draw spa aficionados in from areas around, as happens at Mohonk, where the 1990’s spa addition has proved very successful.
Whilst effective as treatment rooms, there are only two spaces, alongside the small gym and the pool areas. The outside pool for the spa is a successful and slightly romantic piece of design, using large rocks to create an illusion of a river section for the whirlpool area. However again the outside relaxation area is quite small and the whole spa seems out of scale for such a large hotel.
The conference areas themselves have their own terraces and breakout zones, easily serviced from the hotel kitchens. With their own reception desk and lobby area, they offer clients the opportunity to create an event that can run quite separately from the hotel, with its own entrance etc., allowing conferences a feeling of some exclusivity. They are also placed at the same end of the hotel as the golf course allowing an easy interaction between the two.
The outdoor spaces also include an amphitheatre down the slope from the hotel, whilst the lawns in front lead onto forest walks and the wild beauty of the Columbia Gorge. Bedrooms are large and well laid out generally although the suites are a lot less convincing. The bedrooms take advantage of their width to have large desk areas, and all have spaces that are almost big enough for walk-in wardrobes. The arc of the building gives most views of the river gorge.
The suites often have open fireplaces in them – although unlike Mohonk where the guests are trusted to light their own log fires, here the fires are gas effect. Safer perhaps but certainly less romantic than going to sleep to the flickering light of burning logs. I find it curious that where the suite has a lounge with settees etc. the log fire is nonetheless placed in the bedroom, so the opportunity to have that romantic evening sitting in front of the fire is lost, but maybe that is just an English concept of cosiness.
Skamania, like Alderbrook, reaches into the heart of America – the heart that embraces wilderness and the natural world (not the one that then goes out and slaughters it with automatic weapons). With easy access for skiiing in the winter, walks and wild life in the summer, water sports on the Columbia and a large slice of the history of development and exploration that led to statehood for Oregon in 1859 and Washington State some 30 years later the hotel is well placed to provide a luxury escape for the urban populations from surrounding states.
Did you know that Naturalmat manufactured all the mattresses for the new Magdalen Chapter Hotel in Exeter? They were made by hand only a few miles away from the hotel at our nearby factory in Topsham, Devon.Chapter Hotels focus on providing guests with a luxurious, inviting and restful experience in thoughtfully designed spaces with high quality furnishings; they saw the mattresses as an important part of that offering and turned to us to supply them with locally sourced handmade organic bedding.
We are pioneers in natural fibre technology and have developed innovative new raw materials such as organic wool, (sourced from West Country farms) cashmere, organic coconut fibre, recycled denim and horsetail hair, all from environmentally conscious sources and all biodegradable.
Magdalen Chapter General Manager Fiona Moores said; “Not only is the product from Naturalmat a truly green product made by a local company but more importantly it is anti-dust mite, anti-bedbug and anti-moth, through a natural treatment of essential oil extracts of lemon, eucalyptus and lavender. They are also incredibly comfortable; the sustainable material greatly enhances the ventilation and spring of the mattress.”
In case you didn’t know Naturalmat was founded in 2000 in Topsham in Devon, by Mark Tremlett and Peter Tindall, who as keen sailors both became frustrated with the poor quality of synthetic mattresses found on boats. They looked for an alternative and found natural fibres to be a more superior substitute for boating and quickly developed a business making mattresses. They then developed a natural offering for babies, then adults and in 2011 began exporting internationally to some of the world’s best hotels.
“Sustainability is a buzz word in this market at the moment and those products and businesses that can prove their eco credentials and have a genuinely sustainable business model are in high demand’, said Director of Naturalmat, Peter Tindall. “A fully green and eco mattress made entirely from sustainable raw materials is a necessary item for the hotel industry and we are delighted that The Magdalen Chapter has come to us. Superb comfort that is long lasting and consistently good must be a given in any good quality mattress, but it is the attention to extra detail that set a Naturalmat mattress apart and will give guests at this leading Devon hotel one of their best night’s sleep.”
Centara Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa Mauritius will open on 10 December 2012, five days ahead of its original 15 December scheduled date.Centara Hotels & Resorts, to confirm the opening date of its first venture on the island of Mauritius, held a presentation to the Mauritius travel industry on Friday 16 November.
“We are ready to welcome our first guests on 10 December, slightly ahead of the scheduled date, and in good time for the high season,” says the resort’s General Manager, Mr John Bendtsen.
“The response we have had from the travel industry professionals here has been a very positive one.”
London’s Alexandra Palace was the venue for the final event of the Geberit Challenge 2012 in November, with participants going head to head in a series of gruelling tasks in order to find the fastest fitters in the land. The London event, held in front of a live audience on Friday, 23 November was the last of three regional Geberit Challenge heats, with previous events having taken place in Manchester and Glasgow. With an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai waiting for the overall winners of this year’s Challenge, the atmosphere inside the venue was electric, with the audience all getting behind their favourite teams as they were really put through the paces.
Participants were faced with a number of tasks designed to not only put their plumbing skills to the test but also to demonstrate their competence and speed at their chosen trade. With the clock ticking, contestants worked in teams of two to construct a pipe man using Geberit Mepla, change tyres on an off-road vehicle, overcome tricky installation problems and pit their wits in a question of knowledge round.
As with all the regional heats in the competition points meant prizes, with the team with the highest score from all three of the Geberit Challenge events being declared the best of the best 2012. Team Solidworks Monkey, otherwise known as Neil Thompson and Jason Low from Nature Delivered not only outstripped the competition in the London heat, they also picked up the most points overall and were duly crowned winners of the Geberit Challenge 2012.
Neil Thompson, from the winning team, commented: “The competition was tough, but the crowd really got behind us and the atmosphere was great. We’re used to working under pressure and to resolving issues as a team, and these skills were certainly challenged on the night – the event definitely lived up to its name!
“We can’t wait to head off to Dubai to enjoy a little bit of luxury with our families and we’ll definitely be back next year to defend our title, it’s a great event to be involved with.”
Simon Spridgeon, Geberit’s Product and Technical Manager (piping systems), commented: “The competition has once again demonstrated that its participants are masters of their craft. It also shows what it is possible to achieve with a combination of teamwork and high-quality products. We’d like to congratulate Neil and Jason and also thank all the participants in all three heats of the Challenge for making it the best yet.”
Leading UK Shower Manufacturer, Roman Limited, has been praised by their Waste Management Company, for their successful and continual improvement which has seen the amount of waste recycled by the company, reach a staggering 93%.Roman, who holds ISO14001 accreditation, has been striving to reduce their impact on the environment, in line with the standard. In terms of waste management the company monitors all the waste generated in the business, such as; cardboard, packaging, glass, steel, brass, plastic and aluminium. This amounts to a total of 250 tonne per year.
This year, of that 250 tonnes, Roman recycled 233 tonnes of this waste, sending only 7% to landfill…smashing all targets and expectations.
Chris Trotter, Commercial Manager of International Waste Metals, Roman’s Waste Management provider, commented: “We are very impressed with Roman’s efforts to continually improve and reduce the amount of waste they send to landfill. Their stats are a shining example of what can be achieved when a proactive approach is taken to how a company manages its waste. We are confident that as new recycling technology comes in to the industry, and with the on-going efforts of Roman, they can only further improve the current recycling figures.”
John Wright, Roman’s Operations Director, comments: “We were delighted to see how much our waste management has improved. As a company we are very conscious of our impact on the environment, and are always working hard to improve this where possible. We manufacture all our products in the UK, so there can be a significant amount of waste generated from the operations within the business. Recycling and managing this waste is very important to us. Congratulations to Ian Simpson, who coordinates our environmental activities, ably supported by International Waste Management, and of course to the rest of the ISO team at Roman.”
Taskonaklar Rocky Palace in Cappadocia, member of Great Hotels of the World, has just opened its first Royal Suite. The suite boasts exceptional features, including a private terrace with outdoor jacuzzi, where guests can take in the magnificent landscape over the Pigeon Valley. The Royal Suite is extremely spacious, spanning 80m² with its own living room and fireplace, ideal for cosying up in the winter months. Guests will be able to use the jacuzzi in the snow, providing an experience unique to the property. Special services are also available for those guests residing in the Royal Suite, including private dinners prepared within the suite, extra beds and exclusive bathroom amenities.
Taskonaklar is located right on top of the picturesque Pigeon Valley of Cappadocia with its world famous canyon, hills and unusual rock formations, eroded by the rain and wind over thousands of years. The property is family-run and handcrafted, built in respect with the nature, history and local traditions of Cappadocia. It has used local raw materials to transform the property into an immersive experience since every stone, every arch, every old chimney was preserved as it came to life. That is why not one room is similar to another and each of the 20 bedrooms has its own unique character. Guests can choose to stay in special cave rooms or specially carved stone rooms combining subterranean spaces with its rough-hewn walls and stone archways with terraces and balconies. The property is also eco-friendly, using solar panels and water purification to minimise the impact on the environment.
In addition to hotel projects this year, RHA Furniture has custom made and installed task furniture in motorway and train stations across the UK, France, Germany and the Netherlands. The project is an extension of RHA Furniture’s ongoing work for Regus. RHA have already custom made and installed task furniture in over 35 countries and in over 150 UK and international Regus business centres. This year RHA have been part of Regus’ new initiative to create drop-in business lounge facilities at motorway services and train stations.
The BusinessStationsTM, ThinkPodsTM and mobile consoles are all made in the UK at RHA Furniture’s factory in Leamington Spa. The items display very modern design – curved structures and stylish white lacquered finish. Every item of task furniture is made to a high standard of quality and is set up on site by RHA Furniture’s installation team.
A UK based company, RHA Furniture have been producing furniture for Regus since 2009. As well as producing bespoke task furniture RHA offer a range of high quality conference and meeting room furniture and executive desking.
Visit www.rhafurniture.com to browse and specify furniture for your next project.
Premier Inn has recently celebrated a double milestone with the announcement of their 50,000th room at the opening of their largest ever Premier Inn at Gatwick Airport.The new 630 bedroom hotel, which has created 77 new jobs for people in the local area, was officially opened on the 29th November by Whitbread Managing Director Patrick Dempsey, and Employment Minister, Mark Hoban MP.
Premier Inn London Gatwick Airport, which sees over £60 million investment into the local economy, follows the recent opening of the high profile Premier Inn site on Leicester Square, and is one of nine hotels to be opened in Greater London by the end of 2013 as part of a major expansion drive for the chain.
Patrick Dempsey, Managing Director at Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants said: “Reaching 50,000 rooms across the portfolio is a great achievement that we are very pleased with. Our growth across Greater London is particularly exciting as it means we can offer even more people a great night’s sleep in the best locations and we look forward to opening many more over the next few years.”
Mark Hoban, Minister for Employment, said: “Tackling youth unemployment is a priority for the Government, and that’s why we launched the Youth Contract offering nearly 500,000 opportunities for young people to pick up the skills and experience they need to find work. “It is great to see companies like Premier Inn continuing to expand and being passionate about getting young people and the long-term unemployment back into jobs.”
Jon Walters, General Manager at Premier Inn London Gatwick Airport, said: ‘”We are delighted to be opening our biggest Premier Inn hotel allowing people who are travelling to and from Gatwick Airport to have a great night’s sleep.”
Classic Lodges, the nationwide group of carefully selected high-end properties, has added another associate hotel to its growing portfolio of hotels, bringing the group’s number up to 15.The Georgian Abbey Hotel is just a stroll away from the famous Pump Rooms, Roman Baths and Thermae Spa, and the historic Abbey. The hotel has 60 bedrooms and suites to suit all manner of guests and occasions, each with contemporary décor, as well as a beautifully-designed contemporary lounge and bar.
The new Allium Brasserie is developing a reputation in the city for its dinner menu under acclaimed chef Chris Staines, andalso boasts a carefully selected wine list, with the paved Terrace a great place to enjoy the cuisine al fresco. Open all day serving light lunches and snacks,it is regarded as one of the best places to eat in Bath. The Terrace Cafe is a fantastic place to simply watch the world go by while enjoying a tea or coffee.
The Classic Lodges Associate Hotels programme offers independent hotels of a similar size the opportunity to share the Classic Lodges brand and to benefit from sales and marketing support provided by the Classic Lodges headquarters in Chorley, as Richard Smith, Director of Marketing and Associates at Classic Lodges, explains:
“The Abbey Hotel dovetails perfectly into the Classic Lodges group; with its brilliant location at the centre of this beautiful World Heritage Site City, its architecture and general feel are the ideal accompaniment to our expanding portfolio of hotels.
“The growing reputation of the restaurant is also a major draw for us, as all of our properties have a focus on great food and drink offerings and this is certainly the case with the Allium Brasserie.”
Great Hotels of the World member, Hotel Brunelleschi in Florence has now opened its unique Tower Suite which occupies the top floor of the stunning Medieval Pagliazza Tower. The tower is one of the special ancient features of the property which has been beautifully preserved despite the restoration works. The tower is one the oldest buildings in Florence, built by the Byzantines between 541 and 544AD to defend the city from the Goths. Guests will now have the unique opportunity to sleep within the Byzantine brick walls in this wonderful suite, with its antique oak parquet flooring, 18th century mirrors and gilded iron and crystal chandeliers. From the suite, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Florence with Giotto’s clock tower, the Duomo of Florence and Palazzo Vecchio all within view. Hotel Brunelleschi has used contemporary and innovative design to blend in within this ancient setting to create an exceptional experience for its guests.
The stunning 66sqm two-storey suite is fitted with luxury furnishings by Italian architect and designer Benelli. On the ground floor, guests will find a spacious living room with comfortable sofa, 42” LED TV and a grand bathroom with jacuzzi bathtub and original features. On the first floor, the bedroom boasts an elegant 94” diameter round bed with a set of feather and anti allergy pillows, a 3D 55” LED TV and bathroom with shower. Both bathrooms display original lacquered and decorated glass designed by a specialised glass craftsman.
Upon arrival to their Tower Suite, guests will receive one bottle of Tuscan red wine, fresh fruit basket and a selection of sweets. The guest services include private airport or railway transfers, early check-in (9am) and late check-out (5pm), luggage unpacking and packing services, garment pressing upon arrival and Ambassador Service, where the hotel manager on duty provides a range of services for the duration of the stay. The Tower Suite has been purpose-built to provide the most exclusive experience for guests and is the perfect addition to this beautiful property.
Hotel Brunelleschi is located in the historic centre of Florence in a charming little square, just a few steps from the Duomo, Palazzo della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery. The property boasts outstanding architectural features such as the 6th century semicircular Byzantine tower, where the Tower Suite is located. Recent restoration works have preserved the original appearance and a precious collection of the tower findings are on display in the hotel’s private museum. The property also features an exclusive gourmet restaurant ‘Sant’Elisabetta’, providing an intimate fine dining experience for guests as it is located on the first floor of the hotel Byzantine tower with just seven tables. The hotel also features ‘Osteria della Pagliazza’ restaurant, offering a casual yet stylish dining approach with local Tuscan dishes.
HotelDesigns was delighted to be invited to the Opening of Accor’s flagship hotel for the rebranding of Ibis and the double opening with the Novotel London Blackfriars.
The hotels are well situated just yards from Southwark station and the Jubilee Line is fast and frequent. The Tate Modern and London Eye are close by and just across the river is St Pauls. The Shard is visible from the Novotel Executive room balconies.Commenting on progress in the UK , Thomas Dubaere MD of Accor UK and Ireland says “We are delighted with the progress we have made in our ambitious brand revitalisation project in the UK…we are creating a new standard in the economy sector, designed to not only exceed our clients’ expectations ,but to deliver the best emotional and practical experience in the UK market. …this is evident in the new flagship Ibis Blackfriars”.
Lobbies, reception areas and bars at 50 Ibis Hotels worldwide have been revamped into contemporary living areas ‘brimming with designer class’. In the UK the first of these designs will be visible at the London hotels next year.
If this hotel is anything to go by they will achieve their intention. The public areas were extremely welcoming with the warm red on the chairs and subtle lighting creates an intimate atmosphere in this cosy corner.
The bar is in the centre of the foyer and provides a central meeting area and place to have a coffee should you not want a complete breakfast. Good as well for that drink after a long day on business or exploring London.
Fogg’s restaurant offers food from around the world and will double as the breakfast area with choice of seating for an all you can eat Buffet breakfast and light meals available around the clock.
The new ‘Sweetbed’ was proudly on display in the foyer although this will become a seating area in a relaxed library style space.
Bedrooms are functional and bright and I especially like the seating area by the telephone and shelf to put the kit you are charging with no danger of knocking it off the bedside table in the night. They are sound proof, air-conditioned and free WIFI is available.
I look forward to trying this out when we come do a full review next year.
The InterContinental Westminster opens its doors this month in the heart of London’s political Village, hoping to attract politicians, business people and influencers to restored former government buildings, Queen Anne’s Chambers. In the often febrile world within earshot of Big Ben, appearances count for a great deal. In the run-up to the hotel’s opening, Forbes Group was called in to supply key equipment for the 575 sqm of conference and meeting rooms of the new hotel. Easels with covers, wood lecterns, and sueded drop covers for tables, all bearing the InterContinental logo were required.
Tables will also be presented in stylish and contemporary black Silcra stretch covers, besides the pleated skirting for which Forbes is perhaps best known.
But it won’t be all work and no play in the lower ground floor meeting rooms of Westminster. Reputations beware – a stylish black and white acrylic dance floor was also ordered from Forbes Group.
Forbes’ London representative Damian White described the Westminster hotel as “an extraordinarily elegant project. It was a pleasure to advise the InterContinental on possible combinations to suit their new interiors. I wish them every success.”
Twelve at Hengshan, A Luxury Collection Hotel, opening on 29 November 2012, collaborated with some of the world’s leading architects and designers to create this landmark property at the heart of Shanghai’s most romantic neighbourhood.The whimsical design draws inspiration from the area’s rich history and traditional Chinese hospitality, updated with romantic flourishes and contemporary amenities. The goal was to create an exclusive garden oasis of urban chic in the heart of China’s most cosmopolitan city.
Twelve at Hengshan is the only five-star luxury hotel within Shanghai’s history-filled Hengshan Road neighbourhood of chic avenues lined with plane trees imported from France in the early 1900s.
Iconic Architecture Italian architect Mario Botta created the residential-style retreat designed in modern-Chinoiserie style. Botta’s impressive portfolio of iconic structures includes the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Samsung Museum of Art in Seoul, South Korea.
The hotel’s striking contemporary architecture provides a contrast with the atmospheric neighbourhood lanes, preserved art deco buildings, and charming restaurants, boutiques and galleries in the surrounding area.
Madison Events, a company specialised in events for the hotel industry, was responsible for presenting the results of the fifth edition of Hospec’12. From 6-9 November, hotel executives, architects and interior designers came together at Mazagan Beach Resort in Casablanca, along with equipment manufacturers and vendors, to conduct business directly, without intermediaries. The event was “extremely positive due to the added value it brings to the participants”, commented Juan Prados, Managing Director of Madison Events.Over two intense days, nearly 150 participants from a great diversity of origins – Spain, the United States, Portugal, Italy, Great Britain, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates, Africa, the Middle East, Ireland, Germany, Denmark, Netherlands and Norway – had the opportunity to arrange short, yet highly productive, personal meetings to gain firsthand knowledge of the respective offer and demand of specifiers and suppliers. Once again, the Hospec format was applauded by all at the close of this year’s edition.
The presence of professionals such as architects, designers and interior designers, was one of the focal points that attracted the interest of participants, in addition to the level of hotel companies participating and the quality of their projects. The chance to also gain firsthand knowledge of the latest, most suitable, FF&E products and materials should not be forgotten.
“The majority of manufacturers and suppliers attending benefited from the generous specifier/supplier ratio achieved this year, and were able to arrange more than 15 meetings, and up to 25 in some cases”, explained Juan Prados, who added: “”in the current economic climate, we understand that we offer added value which differentiates us”.
At Hospec’12, in addition to professional meetings as the main event, there was also a conference day with the participation of Bruno Viterbo, Development Director at Champalimaud Design. He spoke of the importance of design when structuring any hotel project and taking different factors into account. Ramón Cortes, Director of Interior Design at G56, spoke of artistic works as fundamental to decorate hotel spaces, and Daniel Frey, Chief Executive at Green Growth, focused on the most sustainable solutions for any project.
The programme was enhanced by different networking activities and leisure time for the attendees to enjoy the facilities at the Mazagan Beach Resort. Similarly, on the last night, the participants at Hospec’12 delighted in a Moroccan-style atmospheric farewell dinner with gastronomy and local performances.
The presence at Hospec’12 of the most important specialised media in the contract sector and hotel industry should be highlighted, as well as the collaboration of InfinityInner, the largest exclusive community of professionals in interior design, architecture, design and Contract.
The planned dates for next year’s edition of Hospec are 1-4 October 2013
HOSPEC OPERATIONS 2013 – 19-22 February 2013 The Hospec organisation is now preparing Hospec Operations to be held on 19, 20, 21 and 22 February 2013 in the emblematic hotel Meliá Villaitana Wellness Resort, in Benidorm (Alicante). The same Hospec working format will be used but, given the operational nature of the event, in addition to hotel procurement directors, the event will be attended by procurement directors from large catering groups, facility services and purchasing groups in the hospitality industry.
It is the first time that Hospec has been split into two independent events, due to interest in distinguishing between the different types of equipment and procurement from the very beginning of any hotel project.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced its Four Points® by Sheraton brand will open its first hotel in Edmundston, New Brunswick. Four Points by Sheraton Edmundston will open in July 2013 in an ideal location at the centre of downtown Edmundston. The former Clarion hotel will undergo an extensive $2.5 million renovation prior to flying the Four Points flag. With 160 hotels open worldwide and the second largest pipeline among all Starwood brands, Four Points offers a “best for business” proposition for travellers seeking great hotels at great rates.Four Points by Sheraton Edmundston will offer 102 fully renovated guest rooms, 671 square feet of meeting space, a heated indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness centre and full-service dining. The hotel is attached to the Edmundston Convention Centre with 14,000 square feet available for meetings and special events and to the Carrefour Assomption facility that includes commercial space, shopping centre and offices. Walking distance to numerous shops and restaurants, Four Points by Sheraton Edmundston is convenient to the University of Moncton – Edmundston campus, Centre Brunswick Mall, Regional Sports Complex and Saint Basile Arena.
DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Worldwide’s fastest growing full-service brand, and the New Tropicana Las Vegas today announced a strategic franchise agreement that marks the return of Hilton Worldwide to the Las Vegas Strip after an almost 14-year absence. Under the terms of the franchise agreement, Tropicana Las Vegas will continue to own and operate all 1,600 guest rooms in the 35-acre resort, which recently completed a US$200 million comprehensive transformation.When the hotel becomes the Tropicana Las Vegas – a DoubleTree by Hilton in January 2013, guests will be able to earn and redeem Hilton HHonors points and airline miles at the award-winning Strip resort, which features four restaurants, a spa, a nightclub and beach club, an entertainment complex, and a state-of-the-art conference centre and exhibition hall.
“We are thrilled to be affiliated with such a first-class organisation that shares our customer-centric values, and we are honored that DoubleTree by Hilton selected us to represent their marquee brand on the Las Vegas Strip,” said Tropicana Las Vegas CEO Alex Yemenidjian.
“After careful consideration, we selected the Tropicana Las Vegas to represent the DoubleTree by Hilton brand on the Las Vegas Strip, not only because of the beautiful transformation of the resort, but also because of its unparalleled commitment to guest service,” said Rob Palleschi, global head of DoubleTree by Hilton. “We are proud that, with the addition of Tropicana Las Vegas to our portfolio, Hilton Worldwide will continue to build upon its rich history in Las Vegas, and Hilton HHonors members will have a new home on the Strip.”
DoubleTree by Hilton is renowned for its award-winning CARE culture and for its unique chocolate chip cookie welcome.
The Rezidor Hotel Group today announced an agreement to exit from seven lease agreements in France by the end of the year.
The hotels comprise a total of nearly 700 rooms and are mainly operated under the Park Inn by Radisson brand. They are located in secondary locations and have proven consistently unprofitable for Rezidor. To exit from the leases, Rezidor agreed to a payment to the owner, Hibernia France, of MEUR 11.5 in 2012. The exits will positively affect Rezidor’s EBITDA by approximately MEUR 2 annually. In addition, Rezidor will hand over responsibility for future capital expenditures.
The seven hotels will remain under their existing brands and will be operated by Rezidor for the next few years under management agreements. Should Hibernia France sell the properties, the management agreements will be terminated thereafter. The decision to exit these hotels was made after determining that the hotels’ financial situations were unlikely to turnaround and their positioning and locations are not commensurate with the future direction of the brands.
Rezidor remains committed to the French market and continues to operate two other Park Inn properties in France (in Paris and Nice), have a third hotel opening in Lille in Q4 2012, and will add other strategic locations in the coming years. The company’s other core brand, Radisson Blu with 16 hotels, is the largest upscale brand in France in terms of number of hotels.
“This very important asset management deal is in line with our Route 2015 goal to lift Rezidor’s EBITDA margin by 6-8 percentage points by 2015. It is of fundamental importance to the group to further optimise our portfolio of leased hotels, secure more profitable income streams in the years ahead, and reduce the leverage of the company”, says Knut Kleiven, Deputy President and CFO at Rezidor.
The affected hotels are: Park Inn by Radisson Arcachon Park Inn by Radisson Macon Park Inn by Radisson Orange Park Inn by Radisson Nancy Park Inn by Radisson Lyon Ouest Radisson Blu Hotel, Aix-Les-Bain Les Loges du Park (unbranded)
The information here is that which Rezidor Hotel Group AB has willingly chosen to make public or that which it is obliged to make public according to the Swedish Securities Market Act and/or the Financial Instruments Trading Act.
Just 70 days before the grand opening of the second angelo hotel in Munich, Vienna International Hotels & Resorts celebrated the occasion on 25 October 2012 with more than 200 guests and offered a look behind the scenes of the future design hotel. When it opens, the 4-star angelo Hotel Munich Westpark will create 60 new jobs. The success story goes on: In addition to the existing angelo Hotel on Leuchtenbergring, work is proceeding at full throttle to complete the second angelo Hotel Munich at Westpark. Some 200 curious guests celebrated the construction of the second angelo in the hotel’s future conference area. The stage was truly unique, with the conference area converted into a party location which could not have been more contrasting: raw concrete walls and floors met coherent lighting concepts, and the construction site was temporarily draped in a designer dress. Jazz music, a flying buffet and delicious delicacies from the grill, along with speeches by Vienna International board member Martin H. Lachout and General Manager Marcel Koburger, made the guests even more curious and excited about the coming grand opening. Showrooms, tours and projections gave the visitors a foretaste of what the hotel will look like 70 days from now.
“We have prepared ourselves for many guests in the future, from city tourists to business travellers, companies and event agencies, and we are looking forward to opening another hotel in Munich,” says Dr. Andreas Karsten, CEO of Vienna International Hotelmanagement AG. “Until then, we will create another 60 jobs in addition to the existing team of dedicated employees.”
“We are especially pleased that the entire real estate development on the property was so positively received by the market,” says Münchner Grund board member Thomas Maier. All 26 flats for owner occupation were sold before the completion of construction and tenants have already been found for most of the office space. “We are also extremely confident that the angelo Hotel Munich Westpark will cover the urgent need for high-quality accommodation and conference space in the south of Munich.”
The doors of London’s Café Royal will reopen as a contemporary, luxury hotel on 5 December 2012, marking the first phase of its long-awaited return to the capital. The revival of this legendary institution will be the culmination of a four-year transformation under the direction of David Chipperfield Architects and will see Café Royal join The Conservatorium as the second hotel of The Set.Featuring 159 rooms and suites (including six historic suites), an array of dining venues, a private members club, high-tech meeting rooms and a Holistic Wellbeing Centre, Café Royal bears every trait of a 21st century luxury hotel. However, the sensitive restoration of the rooms by Donald Insall Associates, seamlessly weaving together original 1865 details with contemporary design, also pays homage to the architectural heritage of the building. It is in this meticulous fusion of the traditional and the modern – an inherent characteristic of The Set Hotels – where Café Royal finds its niche.
The first phase of Café Royal’s opening will include rooms and suites, the Ten Room, the exquisitely restored Grill and Domino Rooms, The Bar and a contemporary café – all under the direction of Executive Chef, Andrew Turner. Quick to follow by March 2013, will be the rest of the building, welcoming the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, and the remaining suites of historical significance.
Working alongside award winning interior design firm, Design LSM, Hill Cross Furniture are proud to have supplied for Tortilla Mexican Grill, London. Tortilla is the largest fast-casual Mexican restaurant group in the UK. Their brand new venue joins eight other locations around London which offer authentic Californian-Mexican burritos and tacos.
The CO2 range was used throughout the spacious ground floor which features industrial style exposed brick work. The solid beech CO2 Bar Stool and Side Chair were finished in a black lacquer, these were contrasted with a selection of the CO2 Side Chairs finished in a striking Teal colour.
Square, character oak table tops were used throughout the ground and first floor of the venue. A small selection of which were fixed to a ground floor wall, with a scaffold style leg and a secure wall bracket. The loose square table tops were coupled with the Lexis Square D1 Table Base in a black finish, wonderfully contrasting the light oak.
Alongside the tables to the first floor, the Nature Side Chair was supplied. These contemporary side chairs featured a wood finish with sprayed legs in a variety of vibrant red and orange, with a selection featuring a fitted skid base.
Continuing the industrial theme, four bespoke tables were designed for the first floor. The table bases featured a tapered A-frame with scaffold style legs and irregular stretchers. The bases were distressed to create an industrial look and were completed with thick table tops in a white finish. The Exmoor picnic table was also supplied for the first floor, the table featured a bright yellow frame with a porcelain laminate seat and top.
Hill Cross also supplied a range of outdoor furniture for the venue. White Werzalit Round Table Tops were coupled with the Clara 4 Leg D1 table Base, finished in aluminium. The ultra modern 3D Colour Side Chair accompanied the tables, featuring a white inner shell. The outer shell, legs and edging were then finished in either red or a funky lime green colour.
Brintons Carpets is donating a rug for auction at this evening’s BT British Olympic Ball with all proceeds being donated to Team GB.Woven by Brintons on their revolutionary high definition loom in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, the rug captures the excitement and celebration of the 2012 opening ceremony. 32 different colours have been woven simultaneously to create a one-off piece of art that presents a moment in history.
About Brintons Brintons is one of the largest users of British wool, and dye and process all their yarn in Telford, Shropshire. The yarn blend used was pioneered by Brintons in the 1950s to provide ultimate comfort and durability.
As well as making carpet for homes, Brintons carpets commercial businesses around the world. From palaces to public buildings, hotels, restaurants and airports, Brintons carpets have helped make the worlds’ most beautiful interiors.
Jestico + Whiles’ latest luxury hotel scheme has opened its doors. The practice was responsible for the architecture and interior design of the 24-key Adria Hotel in London, working alongside Urban Velvet on behalf of a private client.Situated in Queen’s Gate in the heart of South Kensington, the Adria is housed in a Grade II listed Victorian townhouse. Originally built in 1870s as two individual houses, the building – which was merged into a single building in the 1940s but which had fallen into disrepair – has been completely restored and brought back to its original beauty. The fabric of the building has been carefully considered with remnants of the original retained and others recreated.
The interior design is inspired by the elegance of the mid-1950s, when fine tailoring and service were the epitome of luxury. The designers researched the quality of fabrics, materials and furniture of this period extensively to inform the choice of fixtures and fittings at the hotel. The 24 bedrooms and suites, as well as the public areas, feature a number of handmade, bespoke elements made either to the designers’ design, such as the screen printed wallpaper and fabrics, or in close collaboration with them, as with a number of custom made chandeliers and light fittings.
DoubleTree by Hilton has announced the opening of its first hotel in Croatia, located in a prime position in the business district of the historic capital city, Zagreb. The upscale and contemporary hotel welcomes guests with a full-service guest offering and legendary warm chocolate chip cookie on arrival, as well as featuring new destination restaurant OXBO Urban Bar & Grill led by renowned Croatian chef, Tomislav Niksic.
Guests will be greeted with a welcoming and modern lobby, and benefit from characteristic qualities found at every DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, including a delicious warm chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest at check-in, an array of upscale amenities and guest services, the rewards of the Hilton HHonorsâ guest loyalty programme, and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.
OXBO Urban Bar and Grill opens at DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb under the culinary leadership of renowned Croatian chef, Tomislav Niksic. The destination restaurant offers a contemporary menu with popular international dishes and strong emphasis on local Croatian cuisine. Interiors feature high and low seating, countertop dining and an open theatre kitchen with fire grill which uses the freshest, natural ingredients and features a showcase market table displaying seasonal produce and herbs.
Featuring 152 guest rooms and suites all with floor to ceiling glass windows, DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb has a variety of accommodation that meet the needs of every kind of traveller. Bedrooms offer guests a comfortable and modern retreat complete with a sitting area; complimentary high-speed internet access; flat-screen, satellite TV; ironing board; mini-bar; refreshing Crabtree & Evelyn Citron® bath and body products; and in-room tea and coffee making service.
For meetings, conferences and events, DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb offers more than 4,140 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring the Mimosa Ballroom, which seats up to 250 delegates theatre style, a boardroom and a further three meeting rooms with capacity for up to 300 guests. Business travellers and conference guests benefit from a complimentary, 24-7 business centre, concierge services, state-of-the-art technology and a location in the heart of the business district.
International hotel design was celebrated in London on the 22nd November, when nine of Europe’s notable hotels claimed top honours at the prestigious European Hotel Design Awards.This international celebration acknowledges the passion and vision of the architects, designers and developers of Europe’s most recently completed and outstanding hotel projects.
BBC World News’ presenter, Mishal Husain hosted the ceremony which took place at the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge London. Winning hotels included The Corinthia Hotel, The Mirror Hotel and Hotel Valentinerhof, with Superbude St Pauli in Hamburg stealing the show with three acclaimed awards.
The high-level judging panel included Chair of the judges Simon Ford of InterContinental Hotels Group, Jeremy Blake of Purcell Miller Tritton, Christoph Hoffman of 25Hours Hotel Group and Celia Geyer of Hilton Worldwide.
Categories included Newbuild; Bedrooms & Bathrooms; Café, Bar, Nightclub & Lounge; Conversion of an Existing Building to Hotel Use and Spa, Health & Leisure Facilities. The shortlisted entries hailed from all over Europe including Italy, Spain, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey and Croatia.
THE WINNERS…
Conversion And/Or Extension Of An Existing Hotel Building: Sponsored by Ardmore Construction Winner: Hotel Valentinerhof, St Valentin, Italy – entered by noa Valentinerhof is a substantial extension to an existing traditional hotel in the South Tyrol alpine region of Italy. This building combines a respect for place and local materials with a true desire to bring a sense of joy and celebration of the rural setting whilst delivering everything that is expected of a contemporary hotel experience. The space planning, use of glass and authentic materials that echo the surrounding farm buildings make this a special place to stay and relax. The simple but beautifully executed design particularly impressed the judges.
Conversion Of An Existing Non-Hotel Building To Hotel Use: Sponsored by McAleer & Rushe Winner: The Mirror Hotel, Barcelona, Spain – entered by GCA Architects Whilst the overall look and feel of this conversion of an old office block in Barcelona is very accomplished it was the spatial planning of such a narrow space that stood out for the judges. The clever room plans that gave all the front rooms a street view, the dramatic use of the central lift shaft to provide an intriguing vertical link through the whole building, the thoughtful approach to lighting, decoration and artwork and the witty and literal references to mirrors and reflections made this a clear winner in this category.
Newbuild Winner: Hotel Lone, Rovinj, Croatia – entered by Maistra Hotel Lone is a stunning piece of architecture on the Istrian coastline in Croatia that not only makes the most of its location but enhances it also. The judges felt this was a bold statement that worked well with the landscape, created many interesting and thoughtful spaces and played with the numerous interactions of plane, light and volume notably in the public areas. For a relatively young team of designers and architects inexperienced in hospitality design this was a stand-out winner for the judging panel.
Lobby & Public Areas: Sponsored by Mivan Winner: Superbude St Pauli, Hamburg, Germany – entered by Dreimeta Superbude 2 develops its hostel theme in the public areas with the provocative use of commonplace materials to provide a multi-functional space that caters for eating, meeting, socialising and celebrating. The design is well thought through and has strong appeal to its target market who are the future generation of travellers. More seasoned hotel guests can also find something different and more relaxed, in a place that challenges the preconceptions of what a hotel space can be.
Cafe, Bar Or All Day Dining: Winner: Beau-Rivage Palace, BaR, Lausanne, Switzerland – entered by Wilsdon Design Associates An elegant and sensitive design that instantly blends in to its grand setting of the original hotel lobby. This significant remodelling of a well known and loved hotel has not only shown respect for the institution that is the Beau Rivage but has enhanced its reputation with exceptional attention to detail reflecting the atmosphere and history of the building and location. The integration of antique tapestries with modern design and furnishings combine effectively to create a memorable space.
Restaurant: Winner: Sur Mesure Par Thierry Marx , Mandarin Oriental, Paris, France – entered by Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group A truly beautiful space that challenges the food itself for the attention of the guest. The décor evokes the haute couture district of Paris with the same level detail and use of fabrics applied in the very best fashion houses. The whole experience has been thought through – the overall space, the finishes, the place settings and furnishings. The restaurant exudes a sense of calm exclusivity whilst being innovative and elegant.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms: Sponsored by Twyford Bathrooms Winner: Superbude St Pauli, Hamburg, Germany – entered by Dreimeta Superbude 2 bedrooms impressed the judges with its innovative attention to detail both in the concept and in the execution. The rooms have a real sense of fun and excitement whilst retaining all the basic features expected of a hotel experience. Embracing a hostel style the rooms challenge our preconceptions of what a guestroom should be and bring a smile to the face with an eclectic mix or reused materials and objects.
Suite: Sponsored by Laufen Winner: The Whitehall Penthouse Suite, Corinthia Hotel, London, England – entered by GA Design International Amongst a number of shortlisted suites from this hotel completed last year, the Whitehall suite emerged the winner in a closely fought category. The judges felt this one exemplified the best use of quality finishes with a design that reflected an old English charm with a contemporary interpretation. It has the feel of an exclusive private space in Central London with a dynamic double height space, delicate balcony detail and breathtaking terrace.
Spa, Health & Leisure Facilities: Winner: The Spa, Mandarin Oriental, Paris, France – entered by SM Design and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group An understated design of exceptional quality. This spa uses very simple materials and combines them with a number of unique features such as the poolside butterfly animation to great effect. The treatment rooms are spacious and have all the latest technology and equipment. The guest journey from arrival through to treatment and relaxation afterwards has been fully considered and planned for.
Sustainable Design Award: Winner: Starhotels E.c.h.o, Milan, Italy – entered by Andrea Auletta Interior Design Whilst all this year’s entries were technically competent, the Starhotel E.C.ho had the judges vote for being the most holistic solution, not only delivering a sustainable performance but also making this a sustainable guest experience. The energy saving figures were impressive, as were the ways the guest experience was influenced by a desire to reuse materials, source locally and bring nature into the public areas. Sustainability is clearly a part of the whole guest experience and not just kept to the back of house.
The European Hotel Design Of The Year Award: Best Of The Best: Sponsored by Grohe Winner: Superbude St Pauli, Hamburg, Germany The Superbude 2 hotel has built on the previous success of hotels like CitizenM and developed its own personality and design language. Delivered as a complete package, Superbude 2 exudes clever use of materials – old and new, and spaces that appeal to the next generation of travellers, all delivered on a relatively tight budget. The standard of design, use and re-use of everyday materials and creativity that is to be found throughout the hotel made this the winner for 2012. During the animated discussion when voting for this award the general feeling was that this hotel will prove to be influential for hotel design in this category in the future
The Outstanding Contribution Award: Sponsored by Arup Winner: Claus Sendlinger, Founder & CEO, design Hotels In the two decades since he founded his company, Sendlinger has championed the cause for original and contemporary design in hotels and worked tirelessly for the industry as an incubator for new ideas. Following a degree in public relations, Sendlinger embarked on a career in event planning and PR for hotels and clubs. This opened doors to the lifestyle market and at the age of 23 he founded Co0ordinates GmbH, an incentives and events agency. In 1991 Sendlinger laid the foundation for Design Hotels with Travel Trends, a label providing high-end lifestyle vacations. In 1993, he co-founded Design Hotels Inc. in Sausilito, California, which began as a marketing agency for hotels and later incorporated a reservations system. The company continued to expand, tapping into new markets across the globe as lifestyle tourism picked up momentum. The creative network and services generated through Design Hotels then formed the basis for the foundation of Lebensart Global Networks AG, which was renamed Design Hotels Ag in 20004. Sendlinger recently relocated to Mexico to work on his latest project, Papaya Playa, a pop-up resort located on Tulum’s Caribbean resort.
Villeroy & Boch have opened a number of pop up stores across the country to help drive sales during the festive period. Offering a stylish shopping experience, the pop ups will offer range of gifts for the home, friends and family. From whisky glassware for Grandad to cookware for mum, the stores will be packed full of festive inspiration. This is part of a major expansion for the brand who has well as opening the pop up stores, are also refitting and expanding their existing stores including their flagship outlet stores at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth and Merton Rd, London.
The new pop up locations include Livingstone Park, Scotland, Hatfield’s Galleria, Clarks Village Outlet in Somerset, The Outlet Village in Banbridge, Northern Ireland, Lincolnshire’s Springfield Spalding and Gretna Green’s Gateway.
Architectural practice Webb Gray is returning to its Black Country roots after securing a hotel project in the area where it all started for the company nearly a century ago.
The practice, which was established in Dudley in 1919 but relocated to Birmingham in 2005, has been appointed by developers Stoford to design a 63-bedroom Premier Inn hotel on the Castle Gate Business Park, Dudley. The £3.5 million project is set to 25 create new jobs, support local businesses and boost tourism.Planning permission was granted by Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council earlier this year for the three-storey hotel, along with a café and 60 parking spaces on the land, which is owned by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). The 28-week project is due to be completed in May 2013.
John Bates, head of acquisitions for Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants in the UK and Ireland, said: “Premier Inn is expanding aggressively across the UK as we keep up with strong demand for our high-quality, affordable product and search out new exciting locations for our customers.
“Castlegate Business Park is an ideal location for a new Premier Inn hotel, with great road access and many restaurants and entertainment facilities nearby for our customers.”
Premier Inn is the UK and Ireland’s biggest and fastest growing hotel company. Owned by global hotel, coffee shop and restaurant company Whitbread PLC, Premier Inn has more than 49,000 Premier Inn bedrooms across 630 hotels nationwide and offers quality accommodation at affordable hotel prices.
After an intensive export expansion drive, Chelsom has achieved global sales coverage by vastly increasing its agent network in the USA, Middle East and Europe. The company also has a manned office in Hong Kong to accommodate clients requiring direct shipments from the Far East.The USA network now numbers 25 agents covering every state. Each agent is well established in the American design and hospitality marketplace and all have been fully trained in the Chelsom lighting collection. Chelsom has also appointed a head of marine sales in the USA sales to build on the success in the cruise marketplace.
Vanessa Soley Peters, who has almost 20 years experience with Chelsom, is now permanently based in Dubai to develop the Middle East market, supported by distributors across the region.
In Europe, project sales are increasing steadily after securing exclusive agents to cover Sweden, Denmark, Bulgaria, Finland and Spain. Plans are in place to widen the European sales network over the coming months.
Said Director Will Chelsom, “Looking ahead into 2013, I’m confident that all the foundations and hard work we have put in place during 2012 will continue to bear fruit. We now have excellent Chelsom coverage across the globe to offer our client base the best possible services.
“We have UL approval on all items in the collection which opens up new markets for us, and we are already getting specified on many American and Middle Eastern lighting schemes. It’s a very exciting time for Chelsom.”
Offering a fast, simple way of converting floorstanding sanitaryware to the high end look of wall-hung, Geberit’s Monolith module is now available in a new Umbra colourway. Perfect for adding a touch of warmth to any bathroom, the neutral, smokey brown hue of umbra ensures that the sanitary module will blend seamlessly into its environment.Ideal for creating a minimal finish in any sized bathroom, the Monolith sanitary module is available for washbasins, WCs and bidets and means that converting from freestanding to wall-hung sanitaryware can be carried out easily as a retro-fit project, rather than having to completely redesign the entire bathroom. Cleverly concealing all the fixtures and fittings behind the elegant, slimline umbra glass surface, the Monolith creates a streamlined, clutter-free look in any space.
The Monolith sanitary module for WCs has an integrated cistern that can be connected to existing plumbing work, with no chiselling or re-tiling needed, while the module for washbasins can be fitted with an optional double towel rail for convenient space-saving solutions.
Louvre Hotels Group, Europe’s second largest hotel group, has announced the signature of a partnership with the Ecole Internationale Supérieure de Savignac as part of its Corporate University, “U” (pronounced You), launched in September 2012. Ranked N°1 in Hospitality Management MBAs in France, 3rd in Europe after the famous Swiss colleges at Lausanne and Glion (Source: Capital, February 2011) and in the top 10 of the highly respected SMBG ranking, Savignac is one of the leading centres for initial training for the hotel, restaurant, tourism and event management industries, with a total of 356 students in 2012.
Under this unique partnership with Savignac, the Corporate University of Louvre Hotels Group, “U”, will offer the certified training course “Louvre Hotels Group Business & Service Management Certificate” to a dozen selected hotel managers from November 2012.
This extended course reflects Louvre Hotels Group’s ambition to turn to training so as to support its rapid development in France and around the world, whilst providing specific responses for each area of the profession. The “Louvre Hotels Group Business & Service Management Certificate” seeks to improve access to strategic positions for hotel managers in larger establishments, head office functions, group-wide projects and international postings. This certified training is also a means of encouraging internal promotion and developing the talent on which the Group will rely in the future.
The “Louvre Hotels Group Business & Service Management Certificate” will cover a number of targeted themes to help prepare high-potential hotel managers for greater responsibility, including financial management, commercial management, yield management, management of cultural diversity and performance through innovation, which is a key and inherent notion in the values of the Louvre Hotels Group and its Corporate University “U”.
The training will take the form of six seminars run by top speakers, many of them drawn from the Ecole de Savignac. It will last for 304 hours, or 38 days over the course of a year.
Pierre-Frédéric Roulot, Chairman of Louvre Hotels Group, said at a press conference: “We are delighted in this partnership with the prestigious Ecole de Savignac, which will provide our hotel managers with high-quality training so that they can take on greater responsibility and, in their turn, ensure the future development of the Group and all its staff.”
Gérard Landat, Head of the Council of Ecole de Savignac, added: “This agreement with Louvre Hotels Group is particularly important for the Ecole de Savignac, marking our first move into continuous professional development.”
IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has recently announced the signing of the first EVEN™ Hotels property which will be located in New York City, with ownership group CWC, Inc. The IHG managed hotel will be located at 219 E 44th Street in the heart of midtown Manhattan, and will be a flagship property for the brand. The hotel will be a new build scheduled to open in late 2014. The hotel will feature 23 guestroom floors and 230 guestrooms, dedicated meeting areas, and indoor and outdoor exercise and eating spaces for an impressive 87,000 square feet in total space. “This is another important first for IHG. By developing our portfolio of preferred brands in line with emerging consumer preferences, we are meeting the needs of a new type of guest who’s looking for hotels with an intrinsic focus on wellness in terms of food, work, exercise and rest,” said Richard Solomons, chief executive officer, IHG. “New York City is an ideal location, being one of the most health-minded cities in the U.S. – so it will provide the EVEN Hotels brand with the right exposure to its target guest, the healthier-minded traveler.”
With over 50.9 million visitors in 2011 alone, New York City is one of the strongest markets for the EVEN Hotels’ target guest, and perfectly complements the 4 priority areas of the EVEN Hotels experience – eat, work, exercise and rest. New York City was ranked one of the top 50 healthiest cities in the U.S. in 2012, and it’s no surprise with more than 1,700 parks, playgrounds, and recreation facilities across the five boroughs providing multiple opportunities for exercise. New York City has also led the charge on changes aimed at a healthier city experience including: banning the sale of sugary drinks over 16 oz., posting all calorie counts on menus and menu boards and banning the use of artificial trans-fats in foods.
“New York City is a key part of EVEN Hotels’ distribution strategy and provides strong market exposure to healthier minded people both living and traveling to New York City, looking for a holistic wellness hotel experience,” said Kirk Kinsell, president, the Americas, IHG. “We are excited about the start of this new owner relationship with CWC Inc. as it brings together IHG’s branding and management expertise with CWC Inc.’s strong presence in the New York City real estate market.”
EVEN Hotels meets the large and growing customer demand for a healthier travel experience and is another industry first for IHG. EVEN Hotels uniquely provides solutions for all aspects of travelers’ wellness needs in the areas of food, work, exercise and rest – no other brand can do this under one roof. Joining IHG’s existing seven hotel brands, EVEN Hotels will be a key pillar in IHG’s portfolio of preferred brands and in the long term, a key driver in market share growth in the U.S.
IHG expects to sign 100 EVEN Hotels in the U.S. in the next 5 years under managed and franchised agreements in key markets including New York, Washington D.C. and San Francisco. IHG plans to announce additional locations over the next few months and to open the first EVEN hotel later on in 2013.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of the newest Luxury Collection Resort, Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui, in January 2013. Exquisitely nestled in a stunning cove overlooking the Gulf of Siam near Chaweng Beach, Vana Belle, Koh Samui is a private haven of luxury offering an enchanting getaway and memorable experiences. Escape into luxury Accommodations The first Luxury Collection property on Koh Samui, Vana Belle offers 80 magnificent accommodations, with a selection of stunning guest suites and villas, with sizes ranging from 86 square meters to 211 square meters. With architecture and detailing reflecting the indigenous rich local culture, all of the stylish guest suites and villas feature views of the tropical gardens or the cerulean waters.
Exceptional Locale Located 80 kilometers off of Thailand’s southern coast, Koh Samui is an unspoiled corner of the globe, known for its borderless ivory beaches and sparkling turquoise waters. Perched on a quiet, serene bay at the southern end of Chaweng Beach, and not far from Samui International Airport, Vana Belle, Koh Samui offers convenient access to the island’s remarkable recreation and cultural treasures.
Epicurean Excellence Thai cuisine and other flavors of the region are showcased at the resort’s 2 restaurants and lobby lounge. The resort’s signature restaurant, Kiree, is a contemporary indoor/outdoor venue with ocean views that serves breakfast and dinner daily. Enjoy an international breakfast buffet with live cooking stations or experience a new savory journey with epicurean influences of Southern Thai dishes exclusively created by the Executive Chef, Dario Congera.
Panali is Vana Belle’s poolside restaurant, serving Italian and international favorites for lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy daily fresh picked seafood for barbeque, pizzas, paninis and many more.
The intimate Lobby Lounge is an open air bar overlooking a grove of palm trees, endless open sky parallel to the Gulf of Thailand. It’s the perfect setting to take in the views while sipping hand-made drinks and selections from an extensive whisky menu along with delectable nibbles from the kitchen.
Spa Indulgence Get away from the boiling sun and enter a realm of refined sanctuary of peaceful and subtle luxury. Vana Spa is designed to rejuvenate body and spirit with a menu of locally-inspired experiences and signature treatments selections.
Naturalmat, based in Devon are delighted to have won the contract to manufacturer all 303 organic mattresses for the first three Z Hotels. The first two hotels have already opened Soho and Victoria whilst a third hotel location in Liverpool is in the pipeline.The clever team behind Z Hotels Bev King, Rich Meeham and John Raymond came up with an inventive plan to turn unused office spaces into new small hotels containing about 100 rooms each. The rooms are very reasonably, starting at £85 per night, something very surprising considering the fantastic hotel locations.
The average Z Hotel room consists of a compact space but everything in it is made to a very high standard with top quality fixtures and furnishings. Hotel bookings and check in can be done online.
Z Hotels are very focused on making their projects as sustainable as possible using the most up to date technology to ensure that energy and water consumption is kept to a minimum. With a strong green emphasis, it was inevitable that Z Hotels would turn to organic mattress specialists Naturalmat to help them with their first three projects. The Devon based manufacturer are the official mattress supplier for all three hotels. In total this consists of 93 beds for Z Hotel Soho, 110 for Z Hotel Victoria and about 100 beds for their Liverpool hotel. Z Hotels have also looked to Naturalmat to provide them with organic bedding including Naturalmat’s fantastically designed mattress protectors.
It seems that the demand for a fully green and eco mattress made entirely from sustainable raw materials would be a necessary item for the hotel industry. Superb comfort that is long lasting and consistently good, must be a given in any good quality mattress, but it is the attention to extra details that set a Naturalmat mattress apart.
Naturalmat are pioneers in natural fibre technology and have developed innovative new raw materials such as organic lambswool that is certified by the Soil Association, which is anti-dust mite, anti mosquito and anti-moth through a natural treatment using extracts of lemon, eucalyptus and lavender; and all mattress covers are guaranteed anti bed bug though a treatment of natural geraniol. Another exciting ingredient is organic coir fibre, a derivative of the coconut husk. This sustainable material greatly enhances the ventilation and spring of the mattress and is another example of intelligent use of renewable natural resources. Other sumptuous materials found in a Naturalmat mattress are mohair, cashmere, horsetail hair and natural cottons from environmentally conscious sources and all biodegradable that combine to create a truly green products made by a great British company.
‘Sustainability is a buzz word in this market, at the moment and those products and businesses that can prove their eco credentials and have a genuinely sustainable business model are in high demand’, says Director of Naturalmat, Peter Tindall.
Stay tuned for the next part of the story when Z Hotel Liverpool opens in the near future.
Leading UK Shower Manufacturer, Roman Limited, has taken home the Gold Award for Marketing at this year’s annual Designer Kitchen and Bathroom Awards, for their new Project Specification Guide. The Project Specification Guide is a brand new idea within the showering market, where a specifier, architect or developer can pick and choose every part of their showering design to create a totally bespoke shower enclosure. The Project Specification Guide was launched by Roman earlier this year, in both a printed brochure format and as a dedicated website which can be found here.
The Project Specification guide gives the designer the opportunity to pick their own feature components, such as the glass, hinges or handle, along with the bracing style, so they can create an enclosure to work aesthetically within their bathroom design. They can also then tailor the footprint, door action, sealing system, profiles and dimensions to practically work in the space.
Roman designed the Guide in response to increasing demand from customers, both inside the UK, as well as their Export Partners around the World, who are more and more frequently looking for something which is totally bespoke for their project. It is specifically aimed at Housebuilders and Hotel, or Condominium Developers, who are working on larger scale projects.
The Marketing Award was a new category to this year’s Designer awards, and it was added in to recognise strong marketing ideas in the kitchen and bathroom industry.
The award comes within a week of the manufacturer being shortlisted for the House Beautiful Best Bathroom Product Award, for their Infinity Shower Trays, which offer stylish level access showering. They were also Highly Commended earlier in the same month by the Northern Design Awards, for their Roman Shield Complete Wetroom Tanking System, which makes installing a wetroom easy – notably this product has already won multiple Awards.
Commercial Director, Julian Pearson and Marketing Manager, Shelley McCormack, attended the glittering awards ceremony, which was held at the Tower of London. The event was hosted by designer, author and television presenter Oliver Heath, who is well known for his urban eco-conscious designs.
David Osborne, Roman’s Managing Director, commented: “We were delighted to receive the Gold Award for our Project Specification Guide at the Designer Kitchen and Bathroom Awards. We have in the past received awards for our Product design, but this year with the new category being introduced, we felt our Project Guide was a clear fit. There is nothing else like this out there in terms of the showering market, but our experience with specifiers has shown there is a real need for this type of service. Often an ‘off-the-shelf’ solution will simply not work in their space. We launched the Guide several months ago and so far it has been very well received. We are already quoting for projects both inside and outside of the UK from the Guide.”
Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) announces the signing of a Sales and Purchase Agreement between Great Eagle Group, parent company of LHG and 400 Fifth Realty LLC which is owned by Bi&Di Real Estate SpA – incorporated in Varese, Italy – to acquire The Setai Fifth Avenue hotel located at 400 Fifth Avenue in midtown Manhattan, New York. The hotel is scheduled to join the Langham portfolio in January 2013. To be rebranded as Langham Place, the hotel will epitomise luxury living in the 21st century in Manhattan, New York with its contemporary accommodation, stylish design and stimulating art. The hotel’s modern and elegant design is a perfect fit with the Langham Place brand and provides a great opportunity for the Group to introduce our sense of stimulating hospitality to New York.
This strategic purchase signals the Group’s plans for long-term expansion in key gateway cities in the United States. Currently, The Langham hotels are located in Boston, Pasadena Los Angeles, and Chicago (opening Third Quarter of 2013).
Twelve at Hengshan – A Luxury Collection Hotel, Shanghai – opening November 29 2012
Located in one of Shanghai’s most historic districts – China’s former French Concession, Twelve at Hengshan, a Luxury Collection Hotel opens 29 November 2012.With architecture by Mario Botta – famed for the iconic San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and interiors by cult hospitality design duo Yabu Pushelberg, this residential style 171-room retreat will be home to a ‘Secret Garden’ courtyard – a traditional Chinese garden oasis within the heart of the hotel.
Along with two signature restaurants, a luxury day spa and an indoor heated pool, Twlelve at Hengshan will offer a luxurious retreat from the hustle and bustle from the city dubbed as the Pearl of the Orient.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers an exclusive retreat, amidst spacious open-air terrace, outdoor rooftop pool and unrivalled panoramic views of the ocean. The resort will introduce 203 guest rooms and suites featuring a spacious private balcony of the ocean scenery, including a two-story oceanic view Presidential Suite with contemporary approach of Balinese interior, as well as the latest in-room technology and Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed.Travelers can enjoy Sheraton’s signature restaurant – Feast with its vibrant open-kitchen, located alongside Beachwalk, or indulge with Bene a light-hearted Italian trattoria with stunning ocean view. The Lounge offers inspired collection of eclectic offerings with the simplicity of tapas, or finely concocted drinks.
To keep travelers fit and energized, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort introduces Sheraton Fitness by Core Performance with lifestyle designed training programs, Shine Spa for Sheraton that will rejuvenate guests with signature treatments blending from the East to the West with local Balinese touches and Color Your Plate a simple three colors approach to a healthy food program.
With a total of over 1,300 square meters, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers 9 flexible event spaces, including one ballroom that is divisible. All event facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, broadband or wireless high-speed Internet Access and assisted by a team of professionals. Travelers can stay connected with the exclusive Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft that provides a connectivity hub, with complimentary WIFI and Personal Computer stations.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is connected to Bali’s latest shopping destination – Beachwalk, a hub of retail, dining and entertainment that sits right in front of the Kuta’s beach, or better known as surfer’s paradise. Centrally located at the heart of Pantai Kuta and just 5 kilometers away from Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), the resort’s elevated position from level 2 and above presents the best ocean and beach view.
Volga Linen, providers of pure linen to the hospitality industry, introduces their new range of sauna robes.These are open weave optical white pure linen unisex dressing gowns with hem stitch details on cuffs, loop on the back collar, two pockets and belt.
Volga Linen are offering a complimentary embroidered monogram (one initial only) with any paisley tablecloth, hem stitch napkin, small pillowcase, sauna towel, sauna robe and hand towel purchase. Ideal as a Christmas presents too.
This contemporary style sofa and matching armchair from Dawnvale would enhance any stylish interior scheme. This model is available as an armchair, 2-seater sofa, 3-seater sofa and matching ottoman in your choice of upholstery, including CHRM foam and timber feet in your required finish. All manufactured to the highest standards.For enquiries please contact the furniture division of Dawnvale Leisure Interiors on 0161 684 7879 or email sales@dawnvale.com
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and its destination sensation brand, Aloft Hotels, has recently announced the signing of Aloft St. Petersburg. The opening of Aloft St. Petersburg in 2015 will mark the debut of Starwood’s Aloft Hotels brand in Russia. Owned by Remstroyintour LLC and Ludmila Kudryavtseva, Aloft St. Petersburg will be located in an emerging business district within close proximity to galleries, restaurants and green spaces, and will offer an entirely new approach to hospitality in the city of St. Petersburg. This deal was announced earlier today at a press conference in Moscow with Starwood President & CEO Frits van Paasschen and Roeland Vos, President of the company’s Europe, Africa and Middle East (EAME) Division.
Situated in the northern part of the city overlooking the Neva River, Aloft St. Petersburg will offer atmospheric public spaces where guests can mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends at the re:mixSM lounge and w xyzSM bar.
All 200 loft-like guest rooms will feature the brand’s signature high ceilings, oversized windows and an ultra-comfortable platform bed as well as large walk-in showers with complimentary Bliss Spa® products. Guests will be able to re-energise in the re:chargeSM fitness centre and grab a bite to eat at re:fuel by AloftSM, a one-stop, 24-hour grab-and-go food and beverage area, offering sweet, savoury and healthy food, snacks and drinks. For work meetings, training courses and presentations, the hotel’s two board rooms will be equipped with the latest generation of audio-visual hardware.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the opening of The Westin Snowmass Resort following an extensive, multi-million dollar renovation to reposition the prestigious, slope-side property as a Westin. Formerly known as the Silvertree Hotel & Conference Center, the resort fully refurbished all guest rooms and public areas in order to implement the full suite of Westin signature amenities, designed to rejuvenate and inspire wellbeing. Owned by a joint venture between Starwood Capital Group and Wasserman Real Estate, The Westin Snowmass Resort is ideally situated in the heart of Snowmass Village, adjacent to the slopes of Snowmass – one of Colorado’s most sought-after ski mountains.The Westin Snowmass Resort features 254 rooms including 18 suites, all with spectacular slope-side views. The resort’s brand-new restaurant – The Snowmass Kitchen – offers all-day dining with convenient ski-in/ski-out access. Guests will enjoy the world-class spa facility and brand-new WestinWORKOUT® fitness centre overlooking Snowmass Village, as well as the two new hot tubs at the resort’s pool. The newly landscaped outdoor space is ideal for outdoor events. The 20,000 square-foot conference centre was fully renovated and re-opened on June 1, 2012.
Overlooking the slopes of Snowmass, The Westin Snowmass Resort is walking distance to the shops and restaurants of Snowmass Village and is convenient to three other ski areas – Aspen, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. The Snowmass/Aspen area is also a leading destination for summer vacationers, offering a host of activities such as white-water rafting, championship golf courses, horseback riding, hot air balloon rides and hiking.
The sensory-rich environment at Westin offers a respite from the rigors of travel and sets a welcoming tone. Upon entering the lobby, guests begin to breathe more easily as they are greeted with soothing elements like relaxed lighting, natural botanicals and stimulating music. All guestrooms feature the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed with lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly® Bath creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brand’s Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space offer travellers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.
Marriott International has announced plans to open a new 200-room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Santiago in the fourth quarter of 2014, under an agreement with Falabella Group, the largest retailer in South America, with operations in Chile, Argentina, Peru and Colombia. Situated immediately adjacent to the existing 280-room Santiago Marriott in the Las Condes business district filled with restaurants, bars and shops, the Courtyard will offers easy access to all of Santiago and some of the best views of the Andes Mountains.
In addition to 200 guest rooms and suites, the hotel will feature the brand’s refreshing business lobby, a casual dining restaurant, 3,000 square feet of meeting space and recreational facilities include a swimming pool and a fitness centre.
Marriott International is currently represented in Chile by the 280-room Santiago Marriott Hotel and the 205-room The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago. Marriott will open the 181-room Renaissance Santiago Hotel in 2013.
The new Spa development, Y Spa, at Wyboston Lakes, opened its beautiful new doors on 3rd November 2012. Wyboston Lakes is the UK’s largest privately owned single site specialist conference, management training, hotel and leisure destination; located on a private 350 acre rural estate located between Cambridge and Milton Keynes.The project investment totalled just over £3 million; the Spa covers 8,000sq ft of internal space and a Spa Garden on the Wyboston Lakes Hotel site and took just over 7 months to build and complete.
Y Spa’s total philosophy is about health, wellness and rejuvenation with many of those things relying on pleasure. So, for example, the Y Spa Café serves sparkling wines, draught lager, cupcakes and brownies as well as seriously tasty low fat options, something to ignite the taste buds and allow you and your friends to feel totally indulged!
As part of Wyboston Lakes’ drive to expand their leisure facilities, Syntax, leading international design architects were brought in to create a dramatic new spa. Syntax has created world class spas around the globe such as Chiva-Som, Champneys, One Spa, Elemis and Molton Brown.
Syntax Project Designer, Russell King, gives us an insight into the design, “What is different about Y Spa, which guests will hopefully appreciate, is the acute attention to detail throughout the space. Small but thoughtful touches like personalised slipper units, luxurious comb-out units, and costume kit bags help to make guests feel special. The quality of the thermal area is unrivalled anywhere in the UK and is a real tribute to Wyboston Lakes’ ambition with this project which we were privileged to help them create”.
Stylematters, who are renowned for designing and manufacturing high quality contract furniture for many of the leading names in the UK hospitality and leisure sectors, have just completed a major project involving over £70,000 worth of bespoke items for the striking Hampton Manor Hotel.Hampton Manor is a 19th century manor house combining traditional charm and contemporary chic. This beautiful old manor house has been fully restored by James and Fjona Hill over the past 4 years – it is now firmly established as one of the leading boutique hotels in the Midlands. The hotel features a magnificent Michelin starred restaurant under the control of head chef Martyn Pearn with views of the stunning gardens
Stylematters have worked closely with the family to supply a range of tables, chairs, soft seating and bar stools that all accentuate the stunning stonework and high glass ceiling in the main dining area. Rich in history and yet sophisticatedly modern, the vibrant space paves the way for the food. The restaurant provides light and airy day time dining and a romantic candlelit ambiance by night.
Working closely with Creative Director Fjona Hill we selected the fabric and wall coverings from our extensive library to create a truly unique feel to the space. It was a pleasure to work with Fjona who has a real creative approach and passion for the hotel. The restaurant is now a beautiful and functional place to relax and sample the delights of Martyn Pearns locally sourced produce.
The surge in popularity for period dramas, such as Downton Abbey and The Paradise, has provided damask wallpaper and fabrics with a growing popularity. Although the ornate and decorative pattern lends itself to the opulence of a bygone era, we are seeing a resurgence of these designs.While some designers are creating contemporary fabrics and designs that will be out of fashion within the year it is heart-warming to see that many are looking at our heritage and reworking the classics. It seems in times of austerity what you know is always a better bet than taking a risk.
Byron wallpaper by Cole & Son is a perfect example, a damask design in soft metallic colours overlaid with an amazing peacock design. Similarly Tivoli Damask, which combines rich reds and burgundy overlaid with an almost hand drawn damask design in gold.
For those who want a totally different look, fabricsandpapers.com have Preston Damask, a hand printed wide width wallpaper that can be printed in a colour of your choice, from vibrant orange to the softest aqua. Osborne and Little’s stylised damask Fernery is a beautiful example of a contemporary take on this traditional style.
We have noticed a huge surge in the popularity of our gaufraged velvets, sumptuous silks, and damask curtain fabrics. In the old days these would have been used for furniture, curtains and walling – where wallpaper was not available, the walls of the grand houses would be upholstered with fabric – and now are used in our homes to add glamour and sophistication to formalise a more relaxed environment, or just to complement a beautiful inherited antique.
Most of the designs used in traditional damasks today are copies of those woven centuries ago in Italy, Spain and France. Though damask weaving was not an English art, the English decorators of the 18th century used large quantities of Italian damasks, both for furniture coverings and upholstered onto the walls. Damask wallpapers mimic the look (and sometimes the texture) of damask fabrics in which the pattern is intensified by the weave running opposite that of the background.
By exploring www.fabricsandpapers.com, the leading online retailer for curtain fabrics, upholstery fabrics and designer wallpaper, customers can create their own schemes and request wallpaper samples from over 6,000 carefully selected wallpapers and fabrics. A dedicated design team is on hand at the end of a telephone line (01273 495500) to discuss customers’ individual requirements and offer help and advice.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the opening of Fairmont Makati on December 3, marking the brand’s entry into the Philippines. Ideally situated in one of the 17 cities comprising Metro Manila – one of the major financial, commercial and economic hubs in Asia – Fairmont Makati joins a growing portfolio of Fairmont hotels in the Asia Pacific region, including the recently opened Fairmont Jaipur in India and Shanghai’s Fairmont Peace Hotel.Fairmont Makati offers 280 spacious deluxe rooms and suites, including Fairmont Gold, the hotel’s exclusive hotel within a hotel. Conceived by leading architects Arquitectonica and interior designers Bent Severin International, the modern architecture features sophisticated style alongside the rich, cultural characteristics of Filipino design. Making use of abundant local materials such as coco-twig white resin, crushed mahogany seeds (embedded in the walls) and abaca laminated glass, a warm, neutral palette boasts colourful accents and detail finishes like pearl in-lay handles on mahogany wood. A focal point of each guestroom is the floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the bustling city.
The tower housing Fairmont Makati also is home to Raffles Makati, a 32-room, all-suite hotel, and Raffles Residences, featuring 237 one- to four-bedroom residences for both short and long- term stays. Raffles is a sister brand under the parent company Fairmont Raffles Hotels International.
Four British hotels are set to open their doors as part of the Mercure portfolio within the next four months, further expanding the growing Mercure hotel collection and increasing the brand’s footprint to 75 hotels in the UK.Located in London, Scotland, Milton Keynes and Darlington, the latest franchise agreements will add 394 rooms to the Mercure network and will create over 120 jobs across the regions.
Commenting on the expansion, Jonathan Sheard, Managing Director of Operations, MGallery and Mercure Hotels UK and Ireland said: “We are delighted to welcome our new partner hotels to the Mercure network in the UK. Each hotel has its own unique story and represents an exciting new destination for business and leisure travellers alike.
“We’re committed to significantly growing our Mercure hotel portfolio by 2015 and this will largely be driven through our growing franchise development in the UK. We are delighted to welcome these four new hotel partners, all of which are a natural fit for the Mercure brand.
“By joining with our business, our franchise partners will be able to boost their hotels’ existing exposure through the use of our brand name and benefit from our existing expertise, powerful global distribution networks and committed sales force.”
First to open is the Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, which launched last week, followed closely by the Mercure London Greenwich Hotel and the Mercure Eddleston Barony Castle Hotel and Spa in Scotland later this month (October). The Mercure Milton Keynes Abbey Hill will launch in January 2013.
Originally built as a coaching inn in the early 1600s and rebuilt in 1893, the King’s Head Hotel underwent a major £8 million refurbishment programme after a blaze caused severe damage to the hotel in 2008. Now complete, the refurbished hotel located in the heart of the historic market town features 83 bedrooms, conference and banqueting suites, à la carte restaurant – Carriages No. One – and cocktail bar, Carriages. The re-opening of the renowned hotel will create approximately 50 jobs in the region.
Following a major conversion of the 1930’s Maurice Drummond House in Greenwich, the Mercure London Greenwich hotel will offer 145 bedrooms over 10 storeys. The hotel conversion project has witnessed an additional two storeys added at roof level and complete internal refurbishment, along with minor landscaping. The original building won RIBA’s London Architectural Medal in 1946 and the independently owned hotel offers exceptional views of London. The opening of the hotel will create up to 70 jobs in the local area.
With a rich history, the 4* Barony Castle Hotel and Spa in Eddleston, 17 miles south of Edinburgh, is set to become the first castle within the Mercure portfolio. Featuring 78 bedrooms, the hotel has undergone a £400,000 refurbishment programme, transforming it from a three start to a four star Mercure hotel, since signing the Accor franchise agreement. The hotel was recently awarded The Great Polish Map of Scotland listed status by Historic Scotland. The Map represents an important part of Barony Castle’s history, which saw Barony Castle and grounds used by Polish military forces based in Scotland during the Second World War.
In addition, the Abbey Hill Hotel in Milton Keynes, which is one of the first purpose built hotels in Milton Keynes, is undergoing a full transformation prior to its re-launch in January 2013. Once complete, the city-centre hotel will boast 88 bedrooms, state-of-the-art meeting rooms and newly designed and furnished public spaces.
Dach & Sons is a cool new speakeasy style bar and 70-cover restaurant in Hampstead, the third venue to be opened by Fluid Movement, the team behind Purl and Worship Street Whistling Shop. This is their first venue to offer food, a selection of premium gourmet burgers, hot dogs and sliders, to complement their extensive selection of avant-garde cocktails, craft beers and whiskies. The design is New York-style with a clever combination of distressed timbers, white coursed-brick butcher’s shop tiles, bare bulb light fittings and a whole slug of vintage industrial furniture throughout the bar and restaurant areas, sourced from contract furniture supplier Andy Thornton.
The main dining area features heavy duty factory refectory tables, which feature steel bases legs and tops in a distressed painted finish, which each feature six bolt-on swing seats. Andy Thornton also supplied industrial-style pub tables, console tables, unique factory bar stools with worn tan leather seats and French cafe chairs in green.
Upstairs is a mini version of their hugely successful classic cocktail bar Purl in Marylebone. Here Andy Thornton supplied industrial-style bar stools, featuring steel frames in a satin pewter finish with polished timber seats. These perfectly complement the mock Tudor panelled bar front and embossed gold painted ceiling.
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