Hotel Designs

Travelodge has announced that it is seeking to double its presence in Hertfordshire by boosting its portfolio with a further ten new hotels across the county.This investment will create 150 new jobs within the region and boost the local economy annually by £11million.

Travelodge is looking for new sites in the following locations:

• Berkhamsted
• Harpenden
• Hertford
• Hoddesdon
• London Colney
• Potters Bar
• Radlett
• Rickmansworth
• St Albans
• Welwyn Garden City

Tony O’Brien, Travelodge, UK Development Director said: “Hertfordshire is one of our top performing counties within the UK, with demand growing at great pace for good quality branded budget hotel rooms from business and leisure travellers.

“In response to this growing need, we have extended our target list for the region and we are going to start looking for new sites in ten locations across the county. We are excited about the growth opportunities in Hertfordshire and hope to be able to announce more details soon about specific sites.”

The locations include those with close proximity to the M25 & London such as Potters Bar and London Colney. But they also include towns and cities that have a lack of affordable hotel rooms, such as St Albans and Welwyn Garden City.

Travelodge currently has nine hotels in the Hertfordshire area and employs over 100 staff members. The hotels are located in the following locations: Baldock Hinxworth, Borehamwood, Borehamwood Studio Way, Cheshunt, Hatfield Central, Hemel Hempstead (2) and Watford Central.

The team at Watford Central are celebrating being one of the first of 500 hotels from the Travelodge estate to benefit from a major refurbishment, which includes a new room design and a luxury bed called the Travelodge Dreamer – which is deemed in the industry as the Rolls Royce of beds.

The 93-room hotel which was opened in 2006 on Market Street has been refurbished in just one week without any disturbance to the day-to-day operation of the hotel. The extensive work was carried out by the local ‘MIB’ (Men in Black) team, Travelodge’s in-house maintenance team.

The work at Watford Central Travelodge is part of a company wide brand investment of £223 million* this year, to help further grow the business, strengthen the brand offering and make Travelodge the best value hotel chain in the UK.

Tony O’Brien continued: “This capital expenditure will help us grow our business, strengthen our product offering and make Travelodge the best value hotel chain in the UK.”

W New York – Union Square has recently unveiled the completion of a multi-layered renovation project that merges traditional and contemporary styles to offer a fashionable escape in the heart of Manhattan’s liveliest neighborhoods. The transformation is part of the W brand’s ongoing, $100 million commitment to the renovation of more than 11 of its properties across North America, and includes a full re-design of the hotel’s 270 guestrooms and top suites, W Living Room, Todd English’s iconic Olives New York, and destination bar Lilium by Gerber Group (previously Underbar). Inspired by the neighborhood’s junction of uptown and downtown New York City, the renovation also preserves original design details of the landmark 1911 Beaux Arts building, including its turn-of-the century Great Room with 23-foot high gilded ceilings and grand windows which was restored late last year. Mix & Mingle…The W Living Room
The new design of the W Union Square Living Room, by New York based design firm Krause + Sawyer, creates an atmosphere that is ideal for conducting business by day and enjoying Union Square’s thriving social scene by night. The W Living Room’s expanded seating area uses contrasting patterns and textures including: custom window seating in metallic leather, green tiger leather-backed houndstooth chairs, a u-shaped chesterfield sofa in embossed black paisley leather, and a tufted sofa in electric blue crocodile. A dramatic, beaded chain ceiling installation brings a feeling of downtown grit, while a black steel communal table, equipped with inlay plugs for chargers, encourages guests to mix and mingle while staying connected. Traditional lanterns and urns have been artfully tagged by local Bronx graffiti collective, TatsCru, a select few of which are available for purchase for a limited time through the hotel’s Whatever/Whenever® service.

Uptown Meets Downtown Upstairs…The Guest Rooms + Suites
In collaboration with renowned design firms d-ash design and Wilson Associates, each of the hotel’s 270 remodeled guest rooms and suites are anchored by a sculptural headboard representing an abstract view of Union Square and embody a purposeful collision of unlikely materials and playfulness of scale throughout. A nod to the fashions of the neighborhood, silver window coverings are brightly stitched together with silk fabric mimicking a man’s tie, while wall coverings in a soft, sophisticated “Park Avenue” white are contrasted with a bohemian metallic blue. Designed to be transformed from a stylish hotel suite into a fashionable event venue, the Extreme WOW® Suite (the W brand’s take on the Presidential Suite) is equipped with state-of-the-art audio and video capabilities including wall units that can easily interchange from dining room table to space for a DJ booth.

Indulge… Lilium and Olives New York
The hotel’s milestone renovation also includes the re-design of its destination bar Lilium, as well as a complete renovation of Todd English’s iconic Olives New York restaurant. Lilium, the hotel’s subterranean nightspot, sits seductively beneath the hotel’s façade. Re-designed by Gulla Jonsdottir of G+Design and inspired by the intricate look of a cave of wild lilies, key features of the 1,600 sq. ft. interior include a twisted metal ceiling that cascades down the walls and complements the sculptural black steel lilies, created by acclaimed metal artist Scot Brown. Contoured wood and gold-tone accents enrich the raw elements to evoke a dark, feminine energy and brooding intimacy. The new design of Olives New York, by Jeffrey Beers International, uses sophisticated combinations of textures and materials–including dark woods and blackened steel that embraces a warm, rich aesthetic. The expanded bar, now located in the center of the space, creates a vibrant hub in the heart of the restaurant while new seating choices from u-shaped banquettes, an elevated chef’s table, to a nine-seat raw bar along the signature open kitchen, offer guests a multilayered dining experience.

Centara Hotels & Resorts will be opening a new five-star Grand branded hotel in Pattaya in the third quarter of this year, and promises to unveil a design that in creativity and innovation is unlike anything else in the ocean resort.Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya will be the third Centara Grand in Pattaya, with a fourth under construction, and all are startlingly different from each other.

Set amongst the high-end residential addresses of Pattaya’s Phratamnak Hill, with the beach only a few steps away, the hotel is designed to complement this exclusive neighbourhood.

Marble and granite clad the public areas, the lobby furniture is all Fendi, and fabrics and furnishings used in the guestrooms are of the highest quality.

Centara, along with the Tulip Group who own the hotel, and designers Model 1to1 Co and Gooodlux Design Consultants have created a ground floor that is dominated by an underwater world, with a giant aquarium in which live diverse forms of exotic and colourful marine life, and flowing naturally from this ocean kingdom is a shimmering world of translucent light.

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), today celebrates the grand opening of The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice. The renowned hotel recently re-opened its legendary doors following a meticulous 35 million Euros restoration, bringing the historic building back to its original grandeur. The 15-month restoration of The Gritti Palace is part of a larger strategy to invest over 150 million Euros in the restoration of Starwood’s most celebrated Luxury Collection hotels in Europe, including Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville and Hotel Maria Cristina, San Sebastian which re-opened last year, as well as Prince de Galles in Paris which will re-open later this month. “There is a mystique about The Gritti Palace that has enchanted its guests for generations, so it was essential that we involved local artisans, architects, craftsmen and cultural institutions to preserve its authentic elegance and distinct personality, while bringing the landmark hotel into the 21st century,” said Paul James, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection, St. Regis and W Hotels Worldwide. “The renaissance of this Venetian icon marks a momentous occasion for The Luxury Collection as the birthplace of the brand, now 85 hotels around the world, which has come full circle to restore its roots on the Grand Canal.”

“As part of Starwood’s strategy to further strengthen The Luxury Collection brand portfolio, we have made major investments to restore some of our most iconic hotels,” comments Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The restoration of the majestic Gritti Palace reinforces our commitment to providing global explorers the chance to discover this incredible destination with the exceptional service and style they have come to expect from The Luxury Collection.”

Facing the majestic Santa Maria della Salute and steps from Piazza San Marco and La Fenice Theatre, The Gritti Palace was transformed into its current Gothic shape by the Pisani family in 1475 and became the private residence of the Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti, in 1525. In the centuries that followed, it was home to other noble families and illustrious visitors before being converted into a luxury hotel in 1895. In 1947, The Gritti Palace was bought by CIGA (Compagnia Italiana Grandi Alberghi), to which The Luxury Collection brand traces its roots.

Continued on page two…

Louvre Hotels Group is opening its first two hotels in Algeria, in the city of Annaba. This announcement is part of the Group’s strategy to double its number of hotels in Africa by 2017, by proposing hotels that operate under its brand name in all of the region’s main cities.Present in Africa since 1991 (with Golden Tulip Accra in Ghana), Louvre Hotels Group is pursuing its development along two vectors: accelerating its development in countries where it is already present, and opening hotels in new countries.

Louvre Hotels Group opens its first two hotels in Algeria

Louvre Hotels Group has just inaugurated its first two hotels in Algeria, in the city of Annaba: the Golden Tulip Hotel Sabri and Tulip Inn Hotel Rym El Djamil. The Golden Tulip Sabri is a 4-star hotel with 224 apartment rooms, located in the tourist district of Annaba with a view on the Mediterranean sea.

The Tulip Inn Rym El Djamil is a 3-star hotel with 76 rooms and suites, overlooking the Annaba bay.
By the end of 2013, the Group also plans to open two new hotels, (one in Oran and one in Skidda) as well as a hotel in Algers in 2014.

The Group accelerates its development in countries where it is already present

To date, Louvre Hotels Group is active in six African countries: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Tanzania, Ghana and Nigeria.

Since the acquisition of Golden Tulip in 2009, Louvre Hotels Group has become a major player in the hotel industry in Africa, with 33 hotels.

Last February, Louvre Hotels Group announced the signing of a partnership agreement with the Moroccan group Ynna Holding. The renewable 8-year contract covers the management, operation and marketing of the Ryad Mogador Hotels chain, Ynna Holding’s tourism and hotel services division. Thanks to this partnership, the Ryad Mogador chain’s twelve hotels (3,000 rooms) will become “Mogador Hotels by” Tulip Inn, Golden Tulip, or Royal Tulip, depending on each individual establishment.

All of the hotels developed by the Group in Africa were opened under management contracts with local investors, which have proved to be a key advantage for the success of these projects.

As part of these agreements, Louvre Hotels Group provides its partners with its expertise, local staff training, its management experience and its distribution force. It thus contributes to the enrichment of the local economy in the countries where it operates.

Opening hotels in new countries

Over the next five years, Louvre Hotels Group wants to expand through new projects currently in the development phase, which will enable it to double its presence in Africa.

The Group is keen to be present in new countries on the African continent, and plans to open hotels in French-speaking Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Cameroon, Gabon, and Guinea-Conarky), as well as in eastern and sub-Saharan Africa (Kenya, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia).

Projects in new countries have been secured and work is currently underway –as in Senegal, where Louvre Hotels Group is supervising the renovation and expansion of the historic “Croix du Sud” hotel, with approximately 90 rooms, which will open in late 2013.

By the end of 2013, a dozen new hotels will be inaugurated in the region.

Pierre-Frédéric Roulot, Chairman and CEO of Louvre Hotels Group, comments: “We are delighted to announce such promising prospects for the different regions of Africa. This success is a perfect illustration of our strategy’s suitability for the needs of a fast-growing market, where we have developed a strong brand image around Golden Tulip. We would now like to come to the forefront as a comprehensive hotel operator by diversifying our offer.”

Great Hotels of the World is pleased to announce the opening of a brand new hotel in London. Hotel Xenia opened on the 9th May following a two-year development and a cost of approximately £9 million. Hotel Xenia is the latest addition to Great Hotels of the World’s Premium Collection. The hotel is located on Cromwell Road in South Kensington, just minutes by foot from the city’s most famous museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. The beautiful Victorian building has been lovingly restored, and boasts 99 contemporary guestrooms, including one suite – the first in London to have a Turkish bath. Unique personal touches are prevalent throughout the property, including the addition of a tablet computer in each of the bedrooms.

The hotel is showcasing an exciting new dining concept. Its restaurant, Evoluzione, has been inspired by renowned nutritionist Chiara Manzi, and serves delicious Italian food with a healthy twist. A destination in its own right, Evoluzione will provide healthy, low-calorie Italian cuisine in stylish surroundings, located in the property’s bright and elegant conservatory, with daily demonstrations at a dedicated show cooking station. Hotel Xenia promises, among other delights, a delicious three-course meal for under 800 calories – so you can enjoy guilt-free gourmet dining. Headed up by renowned Italian chef Pasquale D’Ambrosio, the restaurant also has an al fresco dining area.

Hotel Xenia can also cater for events in its private dining room, accommodating up to 14 guests. A multipurpose function room is also available, with capacity for up to 80 guests, ideal for board meetings, cocktail parties and screenings. Two stylish bars, one with a separate entrance and outdoor space, will serve an exciting menu of cocktails. A pretty herb garden where guests can enjoy the finest cigars from the bar’s well-stocked humidor complete the onsite facilities.

Mario Ovsenjak, General Manager at Hotel Xenia comments: “We are very excited about this new property. It is an exclusive offering which we hope will be a contemporary yet comfortable home from home for our discerning guests. Innovation is throughout – from our unique dining concept to tablet computers in each room – which I believe will bring something special to London.”

The hotel is currently running an opening offer, giving guests 35% off. To book, please visit Hotel Xenia Special Offer.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced that it will debut the W brand in Israel in 2015 with the opening of W Tel Aviv – Jaffa and The Residences at W Tel Aviv – Jaffa. Owned by Manhattan-based RFR Holding, the hotel will be set inside a historic 19th century heritage building in the revitalised ancient port neighbourhood of Jaffa. W Tel Aviv – Jaffa is being designed by acclaimed British architect John Pawson along with Ramy Gill Architects and Urban Designers, who has also designed the new Jaffa port. “We are delighted to expand our relationship with RFR Holding, who also owns W South Beach Hotels & Residences, as we open the first W Hotel in Israel,” commented Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “Tel Aviv is one of the most stylish and cosmopolitan cities on the Mediterranean and we are excited to expand our footprint into Israel.”

“We are proud and excited to be working with Starwood on this expansion in Tel Aviv with this prestigious project,” added Aby Rosen, Co-Founder and Principal of RFR Holding. “We believe that the W brand, with its exceptional reputation, will further cement Jaffa’s reputation as a unique world-class destination.”

W Tel Aviv – Jaffa will provide a cutting-edge lifestyle experience, featuring 125 stylish guest rooms and suites, including one Extreme WOW Suite (W’s interpretation of the Presidential Suite), as well as panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast.

The hotel will offer a signature restaurant, a destination bar and W Living Room (W’s take on the traditional hotel lobby). Other luxury leisure facilities include an Away Spa, SWEAT® state-of-the-art fitness, and a glamorous outdoor WET pool deck. Guests can also expect the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service philosophy, providing guests whatever they want, whenever they want it. The hotel will also offer a full-service, 24-hour WIRED business centre.

This project will also feature 38 W-branded Residences at W Tel Aviv – Jaffa, which will come with a private entrance. Featuring luxurious apartments ranging from 70 to 400 square metres, the six-storey Residences at W Tel Aviv – Jaffa will be built alongside the heritage building in which the hotel is housed. Residents will enjoy access to the facilities at W Tel Aviv – Jaffa, including signature W offerings and services.

With more than 4,000 years of history, Jaffa is south of the main city centre of Tel Aviv and is undergoing a meticulous revitalisation project, including multi-million dollar investments in infrastructure and an extended sea promenade. W Tel Aviv – Jaffa and The Residences at W Tel Aviv – Jaffa will serve as the centrepiece of the redevelopment of the ancient port city. Spanning over 20,000 square metres, this landmark project is located within close proximity to the newly renovated Jaffa port, the pristine beach, as well as fashionable boutiques, charming sidewalk cafes and stylish nightlife destinations.

Pedrali presents new editions to its Scandinavian style Malmö collection.A lounge version of its award winning armchair offers an ideal solution for hotel bedrooms, reception and lobby areas.

With curved wooden armrests, veneered plywood shell and elegant tapered legs, the chair is comfortable and extremely beautiful.

Other new additions include a range of attractive looking side tables and barstools, all made in a solid ash frame with tapered legs.

In addition to an ash veneered plywood shell, the seats can be upholstered in fabric or genuine leather. Coffee table tops can be ash veneered, solid laminate or lacquered mdf.

The tapered legs are specified as either bleached or stained black ash wood.

For more information and to request a quote just visit the new products section of RHA Furniture’s online product directory.

Marriott International has announced plans to open the first Courtyard by Marriott brand hotel in Bogota, Colombia’s largest financial, political, and cultural centre, also known as one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in South America. The deal was signed with close affiliates of Inrama S.A., a prominent construction company in Colombia with over 37 years of experience and a portfolio that includes the largest shopping centre in Bogota and some of the most sought after office space and residential units. The hotel, opening in April 2014, will be the 146-room Courtyard hotel on the prestigious Avenida El Dorado, making it the closest hotel to the recently inaugurated new terminal at El Dorado International Airport, and will also be part of a mixed-use complex which will include prime office and retail space.

“The Courtyard by Marriott brand was a perfect fit for this hotel and, combined with Marriott’s backbone and sales engine, we are confident that the hotel will be highly successful and play a large role in the continued emergence of Colombia,” said Jorge Rincón, General Manager of Optimus S.A..

“The new Courtyard by Marriott in Bogota will be a significant milestone in our rapid expansion across Latin America,” said Craig S. Smith, President of the Caribbean & Latin America at Marriott International. “The hotel will feature a modern, functional design while embracing Colombia’s vibrant culture and the amenities travellers trust from our globally renowned Marriott International brands.”

“With the success of the brand across Latin America, the Courtyard by Marriott brand has become a favourite amongst regional travellers”, says Laurent de Kousemaeker, Chief Development Officer for Marriott International, Inc. in the Caribbean & Latin America. “The El Dorado airport recently underwent a multimillion dollar renovation and is considered among the key hubs in Latin America, making the hotel at Avenida El Dorado an excellent option for the modern regional business traveller.”

The hotel will feature the brand’s refreshing business lobby, lobby bar, a casual dining restaurant, flexible meeting space and recreational facilities including a swimming pool and sauna. Additionally, it will include the brand’s new modern guestroom design.

From wherever you view it, Thoresby Hall is an architectural delight; a sumptuous riot of bays and balconies, gables and galleries and as sublime a slice of Grade I-listed Revival exuberance as you’ll find in the whole of Britain, let alone at the edge of the glorious and ancient Sherwood Forest.The Contract Chair Company were delighted to be appointed the main furniture supplier for the major refurbishment of the three restaurants within the main house.

Working closely with the designers to get the right product within the budget and not compromising the overall look and feel of the restaurant.

A mixture of fabrics were used to give a soft light feel to the area and to complement the bespoke carpet. The chairs were a mixture of the Kim chairs and Round back chairs from the extensive range of dining chairs from the Contract Chair Company, all in solid beech finished to a light stain with extra padding on the seat for extra comfort. The tables were all manufactured in a beech veneer with a chamfered edge detail on a simple black pedestal base with bespoke waiter stations finished to match.

Please contact Sales@thecontractchair.co.uk or call to discuss your requirements.

Following a £100,000 investment, The Park Royal Warrington, one of QHotels’ award-winning collection of 21 four star hotels, has unveiled its newly refurbished Conference Café and refreshed spa and leisure facilities.Located in The Garden Suite, The Park Royal’s new Conference Café, designed to provide a breakout space for delegates, has been completely refurbished, giving it a fresh look and modern feel with new tables and chairs, as well as top quality new equipment such as a bean-to-cup coffee machine.

In addition, the hotel has also spruced up its spa and leisure facilities, redecorating throughout and replacing soft furnishings, such as cushions and curtains, to ensure guests have a comfortable and relaxing experience. The Park Royal’s tranquil spa includes seven beauty treatment rooms, two duo treatment rooms – all with a range of Elemis products and treatments – and a relaxation room. Guests can also make use of an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, as well as a superb gym with a range of cardio and resistance machinery.

Finally, The Park Royal has invested in mobile phone signal boosters to ensure guests and delegates are better able to keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues while at the hotel.

Speaking about the benefits to hotel guests and delegates, Paul Gallon, General Manager at The Park Royal, said “This investment is simply our response to feedback and part of our commitment to total guest satisfaction. We’ve already had some great comments from guests and employees alike, which makes a significant investment like this so worthwhile.”

The Park Royal is perfectly situated with excellent links to the cities of Chester, Liverpool and Manchester, but on the doorstep is the scenic Cheshire countryside teeming with beautiful villages and buzzing suburbs. With over 146 luxurious bedrooms and 15 conference and meeting rooms for up to 400 delegates, it’s the perfect venue for business or pleasure.

March’s Highlights
• School holidays and events boost hotel performance in Abu Dhabi and Dubai;
• Cairo hotels suffer as protesters return, however performance surge in Sharm El Sheikh.

On May 7, 2013, Langham Place, Fifth Avenue officially joined the New York City luxury hotel landscape when Langham Hospitality, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Great Eagle Group together with its fellow subsidiary, took over the management of The Setai Fifth Avenue, located at 400 Fifth Avenue.This transition introduces the Langham Place brand, a five-star luxury hotel experience that blends modern British allure with the elegant service with which Langham has become synonymous, as one of the world’s most important leisure and business travel destinations. The Langham Place brand is a natural extension of the heritage and tradition that began with the opening of The Langham, London hotel in 1865; the landmark hotel set the standard in global hospitality in the 19th century and was the foundation for luxury, innovation and grandeur thereafter.

“We are excited that the launch of the Langham Place brand in North America is in New York City, the crossroads of the world’s business, culture and fashion industries,” says Brett Butcher, chief executive officer of Langham Hospitality Group. “Langham Place, Fifth Avenue is a milestone in our global expansion in the world’s most important destinations and it will be a welcome addition to the group’s North American portfolio, which includes The Langham hotels in Pasadena (Los Angeles) and Boston, as well as Chicago and Toronto, which are both joining the Group in July 2013.”

Also opened on May 7 at the new Langham Place, Fifth Avenue, Measure is a stylish and comfortable lounge featuring a menu of American and British comfort food re-imagined with a modern twist by Chef Jeffrey Seizer, formerly of Maialino and Union Square Café; a seasonal drink menu deeply rooted in classic cocktail culture; an extensive selection of both Old and New World wines and a craft beer menu. Food and drinks will be served throughout the day at Measure, starting with a Continental breakfast in the morning and continuing through the evening, when it will be accompanied by live jazz performances starting every evening at 8 p.m.

On the horizon for Langham Place, Fifth Avenue are additional aesthetic changes that will re-invigorate the overall hotel experience, including updated furnishings and a new selection of art in the public spaces. In keeping with the Modern British luxury that Langham Place represents, select partnerships with UK-based artists, fashion designers and film partners will also be announced in 2013. In 2014, Langham Place, Fifth Avenue will also introduce Chuan Spa, the internationally celebrated spa concept created by Langham Hospitality Group that focuses on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques for the ultimate in relaxation and holistic wellness, which will be developed within the hotel’s existing spa footprint.

Langham Place, Fifth Avenue will boast 214 guestrooms and suites that are among the largest in the city; a selection of well-planned spaces for executive meetings and social events, and attentive, around-the-clock services. The pièce de résistance is the unrivaled gourmet experience found at Langham Place, Fifth Avenue’s signature, Michelin-starred restaurant Ai Fiori by the Altamarea Group. An elegant fine dining restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Ai Fiori – which means “among the flowers” in Italian – features a menu that celebrates the French and Italian Riviera, courtesy of the world-renowned Altamarea Group and Chef Michael White.

The cloud-capped and iconic Shard today raised the curtain on a spectacular trio of restaurants that will await visitors to London’s international landmark building, set at the heart of the fast-regenerating London Bridge Quarter.No less than eight different bar and restaurant formats are coming on stream across three entirely new restaurant concepts for the UK, creating 550 new covers in what will become at a stroke the greatest concentration of fine dining anywhere in the Capital.

The opening of the first of three restaurants, announced today, cements The Shard as the centre piece of London newest mixed-use destination, London Bridge Quarter, which has benefited from £2bn of investment.

The first restaurant to open will be “Oblix”, the first new concept restaurant from acclaimed chef Rainer Becker, since the award-winning Zuma and Roka. Becker and business partner Arjun Waney have developed Oblix as an 100 cover New York style contemporary rotisserie and grill. It will feature London’s first interactive ‘sommelier station’ and also offer a 100 cover lounge and bar serving all day deli-style food and which transforms into live music bar by night.

For the interiors, Rainer Becker has teamed up with architect Claudio Silvestrin, the talent behind the Armani Store in Sloane Street and the Princi café in Soho. The north end of the restaurant is designed to look like ‘library’ walls – displaying a vast array of wines rather than books. The uniforms of the Front of House team have been designed in collaboration with British fashion house Ted Baker. Oblix is on level 32 at The Shard.

Oblix opening, will be closely followed in June by a new brand to Europe “Hutong” by David Yeo, founder of Hong Kong’s Aqua Restaurant Group. Hutong is an acclaimed brand in Aqua Group’s home land of Hong Kong, and this will be the first European branch of the famous restaurant. Hutong will be a 130-cover restaurant serving the relatively unknown but fascinating and diverse cuisine of Northern China. The Group’s head chef for Chinese cuisine, Yuan Shihai, has developed an innovative menu inspired by the culinary styles of Peking, Shadong and Sichuan provinces. Hutong is on level 33 at The Shard.

Meanwhile, 220 covers at another new concept restaurant “aqua shard” will bring inventive contemporary cuisine to The Shard, using ingredients sourced from around the British Isles, including nearby renowned Borough Market. David Yeo and executive chef Anthony Garlando, a protege of master chef Pierre Gagnaire, have worked together to create a menu, which combines classic British ingredients from selected local producers with Anthony Garlando’s innovative cooking techniques. aqua shard is on level 31.

The UK’s first Shangri La Hotel, opening late summer, will offer further culinary delights, with a destination restaurant and a lounge on level 35, a signature bar on level 52, and an artisan deli and cake shop on level 1.

Commenting on the 2013 restaurant openings, Irvine Sellar, on behalf of LBQ Ltd said:

“The breadth and quality of the restaurants at The Shard will be matched by their exquisite design and dramatic setting.
“Together, they will create the greatest concentration of fine dining anywhere in the Capital and make The Shard and London Bridge Quarter the aspirational destination for food and wine lovers the world over.

‘World renowned chefs innovative menus, expert sommeliers and mixologists will combine in a range of environments that will be accessible to guests from breakfast through to late night drinks.”

He added:

“2013 will see The Shard really come to life. Over 300,000 people have already visited The View from The Shard since it opened in February, now the restaurants are coming on stream, the Shangri- La opens late summer, construction on our sister building The Place will complete this summer, and office tenants at The Shard will begin moving in later this year.

“Londoners and international visitors will want to experience our vision for a new aspirational district for London, open to all, coming to life, in a way that will put the focus firmly on the fast-regenerating south bank.”

Sleeperz Hotels, the innovative UK budget hotel operator, has launched Cityroomz – a rooms-based sister brand offering convenience and comfort at great value prices – with an opening in Edinburgh today.Sleeperz Hotels specialises in building design-led premium budget hotels in city centres close to mainline rail stations. It currently operates successful hotels in Cardiff and Newcastle. It launches sister brand Cityroomz in the Scottish Capital as the latest phase in aggressive expansion plans.

David Myers, chief executive of Sleeperz Hotels, said: “The launch of a new rooms-based sister brand is a bold and exciting move for a young business. The fact that it is one of the best locations in Edinburgh, at the end of Princes Street, is a tremendous opportunity”.

“Edinburgh is one of the world’s truly great cities. It’s Scotland’s cultural capital, sustaining a thriving and resilient tourism industry, and is the beating heart of business and politics north of the border.”

Sleeperz is closing in on further sites for Sleeperz hotels in central Glasgow and London, with a 121 room agreement to lease secured for a hotel in Glasgow city centre and a London property at planning stage.

The Cityroomz hotel opens on the site of a former Travelodge in Edinburgh’s Shandwick Place, equal distance between Waverley and Haymarket rail stations.

The Sleeperz team has refurbished the property, renovating and reinventing the hotel to reflect Sleeperz Hotels’ passion for modern contemporary design, style and comfort.

Creating and saving jobs
The Cityroomz hotel has created 10 new jobs in the Edinburgh economy and save six existing roles among former Travelodge employees.

Steve Allen, operations director, Sleeperz Hotels, said: “Our philosophy at Sleeperz Hotels is to exceed guest expectations, not only in terms of customer service and welcome but most importantly in terms of the quality of rooms, furnishings and conveniences people expect when they stay at a budget hotel. Cityroomz will be no different.”

Features of Cityroomz Edinburgh
• Freeview flat screen TV’s
• Free and fast Wi-Fi access
• Tea/coffee making facilities in the room
• Comfortable beds with high quality duvets
• Custom made bespoke mattress, microfibre filled pillows
• Bright, cheerful décor
• Laptop safe
• Modern bath/shower rooms
• Blackout curtains/blinds
• Storage/hanging space

The expansion of Sleeperz Hotels has been driven by investment in the business by backers including Andre Hoffmann, Connection Capital and Costain.

Sleeperz were ably supported in the Shandwick place transaction by Anderson Strathern LLP.

Marriott International, Inc. has continued the expansion of its joint venture with AC Hotels with the opening of two new properties – the AC Hotel Nice on the French Riviera and the AC Hotel Sant Cugat in Catalonia, Barcelona. The two new hotels will be welcome additions to the AC Hotels by Marriott brand, which launched in 2011 and now offers over 80 hotels across Europe.After an extensive renovation, the AC Hotel Nice opened on 1 April 2013. The 143-room downtown hotel overlooks the Mediterranean Sea just steps from Promenade des Anglais. Stand out hotel features include a panoramic terrace with heated swimming pool and a relaxing hotel Zen garden.

In addition to 22 suites, the hotel has three conference and banqueting rooms, accommodating up to 100 guests. The Acropolis Congress Centre is only a short distance away making it ideally appointed accommodation for business as well as leisure travellers.

The AC Hotel Nice is the second AC Hotel by Marriott hotel to open in France joining the AC Hotel Ambassadeur Antibes-Juan Les Pins, which opened last summer. Another French property, AC Hotel Paris Porte Maillot, was announced in September 2012 and is set to open in early 2014.

The newly opened AC Hotel Sant Cugat is conveniently located in the business area of Sant Joan. The hotel has 152-rooms and several function rooms for meetings and events. The hotel’s AC Lounge is an attractive, multi-purpose space open 24 hours where guests can relax with free wi-fi.

The affluent suburb of Sant Cugat del Valles is abundant with beauty and heritage and has convenient connections to central Barcelona. Local attractions include the Benedictine monastery of Sant Cugat and the medieval castle Castell de Canals.

“We are delighted to be developing the presence of AC Hotels by Marriott in France and across Europe with these two exciting new openings in such current locations,” said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe. “Nice and Sant Cugat del Valles are popular destinations for both business and leisure travellers and fit perfectly with the brand’s associated modern comfort and urban style.”

The new hotels join over 80 existing AC Hotels by Marriott throughout France, Spain, Italy and Portugal. Marriott Rewards, one of the world’s largest hospitality loyalty programmes with over 37 million members.

March’s Highlights
• Bleak picture as most cities experience first quarter profit decline
• St Petersburg on a steady upward trend

GHM expanded its hospitality interests on the Arabian Peninsula March 11 when the luxury hotel group signed a contract to manage the Al Bait Sharjah hotel, scheduled to open in early 2015 in the U.A.E.GHM currently manages The Chedi Muscat in Oman and is planning to open The Chedi Khorfakkan in 2015.

In Sharjah, the hotel project will unveil 54 hotel rooms across four categories of accommodation, as well as a spa and dining facilities that include a traditional Arabic tea and coffee house. Wall-mounted lanterns, arched porticos, rooftop terraces, and a warren of pedestrian arteries coursing through the compound will inform the hotel’s Arabic ambiance. Many of the rooms at the Al Bait will open onto intimate, interior courtyards.

Five of the buildings within the nascent hotel compound are decades-old heritage buildings, once owned by prominent residents and today retained with due respect for their original layout and function. Seasoned walls of coral support one of the aged homes. Another will continue to function as a library and museum.

The Souq Al Arsa, a traditional open-air marketplace, will wind through the core of the hotel property, forming a pedestrian thoroughfare that promises a lively, interactive guest experience.

“We’re blurring the lines between the destination and the accommodation in a manner that enhances a guest’s stay,” said GHM President Hans R. Jenni. “The Al Bait’s integration with its environs conveys the destination’s charm and character, ensuring a very immediate and enriching experience of life in the exquisite heart of Sharjah.”

Indeed, the 10,000 square-metre (2.5 acres) hotel development is a major pillar of an overarching heritage initiative, the Heart of Sharjah, launched by the emirate’s leadership. When completed in 2025, the project will have safeguarded a number of historic landmarks and preserved the essence of Sharjah as it was decades ago.

GHM signed its management deal with the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). GHM and Shurooq previously signed a similar deal on The Chedi Khorfakkan.

“Shurooq’s message is not a commercial one, but a cultural one that will enhance the position and the value of the emirate,” said Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Shurooq.

The project’s architect is GAJ, a U.K.-based firm that’s developed a number of projects in the U.A.E.

On the 9th May, The Grosvenor held a special preview of the nursery suite which will be open to the public from June. The suite is very luxurious. It’s the largest suite at The Grosvenor and has the option of interconnecting rooms for families with a large entourage or older children. It consists of a large guestroom with crib and chaise lounge, ensuite bathroom, an incredible baby changing area and large family room with children’s play area.

I was trying to put my finger on what it reminded me of and all I could think about was the nursery in Peter Pan; that Victorian, quintessentially English style of décor. It is beautiful. There’s even a Silver Cross pram available for guests to use – the iconic Balmoral carriage –oozing that English charm which is so appealing to visitors from around the World.

Whilst there are a few gadgets such as a video monitor, bottle warmer and steriliser, it is a relatively simple environment. Hand painted furniture, neutral colours and natural light flooding into the room transports you out of the city and into a fairytale.

The nursery is an elegant addition to the offering at The Grosvenor and one which will be enjoyed by the luckiest babies from around the World.

Meliá Hotels & Resorts has opened its first resort in the Andalusian province of Huelva (Atlantic coast), in Spain. The Meliá Atlantico – Isla Canela is a large holiday resort located on the beachfront in Isla Canela, one of the most privileged tourist destinations and residential areas in Andalusia, a new destination for Meliá Hotels International which will also strengthen its brand portfolio in Spain.Built in 2000 and renovated in 2013, the hotel is built in traditional Andalusian architectural style combined with elegant and welcoming interiors, all set in 10,000 m2 of gardens that make it an extraordinary resort to enjoy the unique experience of Meliá Hotels & Resorts.

The hotel provides 358 spacious rooms with a private balcony or terrace, most with views of the sea or the mouth of River Carreras. They include superior rooms with a lounge, family rooms for people travelling with children, and five elegant and bright suites.

The Meliá Atlantico – Isla Canela offers extensive facilities and entertainment options to complete the first class experience provided by the brand. The hotel has two outdoor swimming pools (one measuring 615m2) and one indoor pool, a sun terrace, spa and wellness centre, tennis and paddle tennis courts, gym and children’s playground. The hotel also offers a daytime entertainment program for all ages, plus evening entertainment.

The hotel also provides a buffet restaurant with show cooking and twice weekly themed dinners based on regional cuisine from around the world. The hotel also has three bars, including a snack bar for light meals and healthy eating.

March’s Highlights
• Tough first quarter as London hotel market registers profit decline;
• Revenue Growth wiped out by rising costs in the Provinces as hotels feel the chill.

It’s happening! Nikki Beach Worldwide, the global luxury lifestyle & hospitality brand, is thrilled to announce the summer 2013 Grand Opening of its newest location: Nikki Beach Ibiza. Located on the East coast of the island in the Santa Eulalia area and on a magnificent beachfront property overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Nikki Beach Ibiza will consist of the brand’s signature beach club, restaurant and lifestyle boutique. The brand’s other Spain locations include Nikki Beach Marbella, which is celebrating its 10th season this summer and Nikki Beach Mallorca, which made its debut during the 2012 season.Modelled after the same stylish and contemporary look and feel as Nikki Beach locations around the world, Nikki Beach Ibiza will be adorned in plush, all-white sun beds, chic drapery and the brand’s trademark signature teepees. Guests will be able to spend their days and nights indulging in refreshing cocktails and endless champagne while enjoying the music played by both the resident and guest DJ’s. The extensive menu will be comprised of delectable dishes featuring signature tastes and spices representative of all the countries Nikki Beach is located including delicious salads, creative sushi rolls, original seafood entrees and slow-roasted free-range rotisserie chicken.

“Ever since we opened our very first Nikki Beach in 1998, one of the most frequently asked questions has been: “When are you going to open a Nikki Beach in Ibiza?” said Jack Penrod, Founder & Owner of Nikki Beach Worldwide. “Today, I finally have an answer to everyone’s question: “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome our loyal customers (from all around the world) as well as locals & visitors of the beautiful Spanish island to Nikki Beach Ibiza in Summer 2013!”

The Nikki Beach brand is known for introducing the world to the ultimate beach club concept that combines the elements of entertainment, dining, music, fashion, film and art into one – a combination that is experienced through the innovative events that take place at each location. The events at Nikki Beach Ibiza will include top-class entertainment and signature Nikki Beach themed parties including the popular Grand Opening White Party to mark Nikki Beach Ibiza’s debut, The Champagne World Tour, the Miami Vibes party, Brazilian Party and Welcome to St. Tropez party, among many others. The attentive and friendly service, lavish themed-events and exceptional dining, music, entertainment and all-around ambiance, make Nikki Beach Ibiza the most luxurious haven of choice for the world’s jet-set, VIP and celebrity clientele.

A Birmingham silverware manufacturer identified for its outstanding business potential has graduated from the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme.Heritage Silverware, founded in Small Heath more than 35 years ago, was one of only 25 Midlands companies chosen from a shortlist of more than 40 applications to take part in the four month business growth programme delivered by Aston Business School (in Birmingham).

Renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship combining traditional skills with modern technology, the family run business was originally set up by entrepreneur Martin McDonagh who continues to run the firm with his son Anthony.

Anthony said “We have been in business for 35 years so it is a real privilege to have been selected to take part in this initiative. The support the programme offers will be a huge boost to the future success of the company and its employees.”

Professor Mark Hart, Programme Director said: “We were very impressed with Heritage Silverware’s ambitious business growth plans and we are delighted to have worked with such a dynamic and entrepreneurial small family business here in the Midlands.”

10,000 Small Businesses UK is an initiative to unlock the growth and job creation potential of small businesses and is funded by Goldman Sachs and the Goldman Sachs Foundation.

Earlier this year Heritage Silverware was commissioned to produce more than 100 bespoke items for a prestigious Bocuse d’Or culinary competition in Lyon, France and counts London’s exclusive Ritz and Dorchester Hotels as well as the Orient Express amongst its clients for products ranging from cutlery to carving trolleys and cake stands.

Travelodge has today strengthened its presence in Spain by opening its biggest hotel in the country’s second largest city, Barcelona. The new purpose built 250-room hotel which is situated in the heart of the most innovative district in Barcelona “22@” – also known as the city’s ‘Silicon Valley’ represents an investment of €30 million.

Barcelona Poblenou Travelodge is the Company’s fifth hotel in Spain and is also the first of two new Spanish hotel openings for the budget hotelier this year.

The second hotel will be located in the famous Julian Camarilo commercial district in Madrid and is scheduled to open this summer.

These two new properties double Travelodge’s room stock in Spain to 700 and boost the number of hotels to six which comprises of three properties in Madrid, two in Barcelona and one in Valencia.

Paul Harvey, Travelodge Managing Director, commented: “We now have a strong presence in Spain’s top three largest cities and we are delighted today to open our largest Spanish hotel in the heart of Barcelona’s up and coming business district 22@.

“The demand for branded budget accommodation is rapidly growing across Spain. Like the UK market the recession has forced many Spanish businesses and financial institutions to make cutbacks. As a result, we have seen a significant rise in corporate business come through our doors. In addition over the last 12 months, 65% of Spaniards have taken a Staycation break. Just like Britons, price is a key deciding factor for the Spanish domestic market, when booking a hotel room. Therefore by offering rooms from 20 Euros we have been able to capitalise upon this growing market and achieve high occupancy across our Spanish hotels.

“The opportunity to grow in Spain is still huge as the branded budget hotel sector represents just two per cent of total hotel stock. This is substantially lower than other European countries such as France which is 24% and the UK which currently stands under 20%. Going forward we want to focus on growing our existing portfolio and are looking for suitable sites across Spain’s top ten largest cities such as Granada and Seville.”

With over seven million visitors annually visiting Barcelona, the new Travelodge hotel has got off to a flying start with a high level of bookings. Room rates start from 20 Euros. Each room has en-suite facilities, a luxury king Size bed, air conditioning / heating, a flat screen TV and Internet connection. The hotel also has a Bar Café which offers a 24-hour food and drink service and has two meeting rooms and underground car-parking.

HVS Moscow is pleased to announce its role as the hospitality advisor to the Regional Hotel Chain in their plans to develop Holiday Inn Express hotels across Russia. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has signed a franchise multiple development agreement (MDA) with Regional Hotel Chain, a portfolio company of VIY Management (VIYM) to develop 15 new hotels in Russia by 2019. The locations for the first two of these hotels are Chelyabinsk and Voronezh. Holiday Inn Express Voronezh – Kirova is due to open in the second half of 2014, and Holiday Inn Express Chelyabinsk is scheduled to open in summer 2015. HVS Moscow worked on the feasibility studies for these projects, prior to RHC & IHG announcing their development deal. HVS Moscow has also completed feasibility studies on additional markets, which will be announced shortly.

“HVS played an important role in our plans to develop Holiday Inn Express hotels across Russia,” explains Vladislav Smirnov, CEO, Regional Hotel Chain. “Their knowledge of hotel dynamics in the Russian market as well as global perspective helped us to better understand the potential of this venture. We look forward to future projects with HVS.”

The luxury “Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof“, one of the leading hotels in Frankfurt, has been undergoing an intensive refurbishment of 28 million Euros. 71 rooms and 4 suites have been completely refurbished while another 170 rooms were part of a soft refurbishment. The highlight of the hotel is now the new Spa and Wellness area with more than 1.000m².The interior designer Cornelia Markus-Diedenhofen created a design of timeless elegance based on cream/white and blue colours, with a playful use of different surfaces. This design concept has also been used for the luminaries from Baulmann Leuchten: matt leather on the reading lights, shades made of cream-coloured chintz, sparkling crystals for the ceiling lamps and massive glass-cubes on the table lamps.

The Design Guild Mark, now in its sixth year, has become recognised as a major mark for excellence in British Design. The Design Guild Mark, rewards excellence in the design of furniture in volume production. By the award of this Guild Mark for designs which meet The Furniture Makers Company’s criteria, the designers will receive due recognition and the industry will be made more aware of the importance of investment in design. The Design Guild Mark rewards the work of the finest furniture designers working in volume production and the best of British furniture designers working abroad.The judging panel (listed below) had the difficult task of assessing which entries had achieved the now established standard of excellence required from the diverse range of items set out for their inspection.

The judges were:

Malaika Byng – Wallpaper
Jonathan Hindle – KI
Enrico Caruso – Gensler
Kate Mason – Cushman & Wakefield
Barbara Chandler – The Evening Standard
Olga Polizzi – Rocco Forte Design
Lee Cheong – University of Portsmouth
Pernille Stafford – TP Bennett
Sebastian Conran – Sebastian Conran Associates
Jason Wilary-Attew – John Lewis
Nick Hill – Marks & Spencer

All judges with an interest in an entry stood aside when that entry was being discussed.

Graham Jones, the present chairman, commented:
“This year’s judging day was its usual mix of celebration and contention. Every year we find something simple and something delightful that unites the judges in their commendation and helps to explain why the Design Guild Mark is so important.”

Jonathan Hindle, Founding Chairman of the Design Guild Mark added:
“I am delighted this prestigious award is going from strength to strength. I am told by many of the leading design studios that they now consider the Design Guild Mark to be the highest accolade for the design of furniture in volume production. This year’s judging was as vigorous as ever with much debate amongst us on each product. The short presentations from each designer in person or via Skype was also very informative. Just over half the entrants were judged as achieving a standard worthy of a Guild Mark.
I am especially pleased to see many of the designers and manufacturers using the Design Guild Mark Coat of Arms and logo in the promotion of those products.”

Barbara Chandler, Photographer, design writer for the London Evening Standard, Design Columnist for Homes & Garden and judge commented:
“This year was a marathon session, with 11 very stalwart judges looking at 41 entries non-stop. It is thrilling for British design that so many designers and companies aspire to hold the Design Guild Mark. Designers gave up their time to offer fascinating expositions of their work. And the gems that won our label made the whole process so worth while.”

Designers whose entries were awarded Design Guild Marks this year were:
• Ian Archer – ‘Raffa Chairs’ for Couch Design (DGM 75)
• Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby – ‘The Sofa Collection’ for
Knoll International (DGM 76)
• Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby – ‘Tip Ton’ for Vitra (DGM 77)
• Samuel Chan – ‘Finnieston Bookcase’ for Channels (DGM 78)
• Samuel Chan – ‘Finnieston Console Table’ for Channels (DGM 79)
• Martin Dodge – ‘Radial Table Mechanism’ for Martin Dodge Furniture (DGM 80)
• Ali Edwards – ‘Navajo’ for John Lewis (DGM 81)
• Mark Gabbertas – ‘Diabolo’ for Chorus Furniture (DGM 82)
• Mark Gabbertas – ‘Metro’ for Lyndon Design (DGM 83)
• Mark Gabbertas – ‘Mir’ for Chorus Furniture (DGM 84)
• Mark Gabbertas – ‘MirA’ for Chorus Furniture (DGM 85)
• Dave Green – ‘Rockingham Rocker’ made by Sitting Firm Chairmakers (DGM 86)
• Terry Hunt – ‘UniteSE SpaceStation’ for KI (DGM 87)
• James Irvine – ‘Juno’ for Arper (DGM 88)
• Je-Uk Kim – ‘Credenza O’ for JiB design studio (DGM 89)
• Roger Webb Associates – ‘WHY Chairs’ for Connection (DGM 90)
• Steuart Padwick – ‘The Horseshoe Chair’ manufactured by Sitting Firm Distributed by Steuart Padwick (DGM 91)
• Simon Pengelly – ‘Jonty’ for Chorus Furniture Ltd (DGM 92)
• Russell Pinch – ‘Holland Park’ Chairs manufactured by Ercol (DGM 93)
• Wales & Wales – ‘Marylebone Chairs’ for Benchmark (DGM 94)
• Wills Watson & Associates – ‘Corsair Range’ for WJ White (DGM 95)

Sebastian Conran, Director of Sebastian Conran Associates
“The Design Guild Mark is one of the few competitions that I know where the designers of the pieces have the opportunity to explain their designs in person to the judges. Apart from making the judging process all the more interesting it gives the judges a valuable insight into all aspects of the entries, and ensures that the judging process is particularly thorough and fair.”

Lee Cheong, Lecturer in the School of Architecture, University of Portsmouth commented:
“A great diversity of entrants shows the recognition the Design Guild Mark has now achieved. Designs showing a good use of materials, obtained from sustainable sources and from a wide set of market applications were all represented. The Design Guild Mark is recognised and seen as promoting excellence.”

Jason Wilary-Attew, Head of Furniture buying for John Lewis added:
“I really enjoyed the judging this year, and thought, as ever, there were some really interesting and innovative products submitted. The standard continues to be high, and after some lively debate I believe we have a great selection of product this year. It was good to see a mix across domestic and commercial product too.”

Kate Mason, Associate Head of Interior Design, Project Management & Consultancy for Cushman & Wakefield commented:
“The Design Guild Mark is a prestigious platform for designers of all reaches to showcase their talents and earn recognition in their field. The standard this year was supremely high and the products quite mixed. Overall it was an exciting look into the rising trends and future direction in which our designers are heading.”

Nick Hill, Head of Innovation and Quality at Marks and Spencer:
“The Design Guild Mark allows designers to get acknowledgement and recognition from a broad cross section of the UK furniture industry. A great opportunity to showcase the best of furniture designs created in Britain.”

Enrico Caruso, Principal at Gensler:
“It was a privilege to have been asked for the second time to join the judging panel for this year’s Design Guild Mark Awards for the Furniture Makers’ Company. The program provides a wide playing field in which independent designer-makers and established commercial manufacturers alike may put their best products forward for equal consideration in the competition. This year was no exception. The one common element in each product reviewed was quality with a focus on great design.”

Pernille Stafford, Director at TP Bennett:
“This year’s Design Guild Mark was truly exceptional, with a number of both progressive and inventive pieces. The standard was again very high, a selection of pieces representing cutting edge technology and design. Aesthetically a broad church of submissions which makes the Design Guild Mark such a privilege to be involved in.”

Olga Polizzi, Deputy Chairman & Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels:
“We deliberate very carefully before deciding to give the Design Guild Mark to an item of furniture; it is not an easy accolade to win.”

Malaika Byng, Editor of Wallpaper.com:
“The latest troop of Design Guild Mark winners paint a very positive portrait of British design – one in which skilled craftsmanship, innovative thinking and problem solving are pushed to the fore.”

The Furniture Makers Company is very grateful to John Lewis, for sponsoring the development of the Design Guild Mark and to Marks & Spencer for its support of the Design Guild Mark by making both its facilities and its staff available for the judging process.

The Design Guild Mark are having an exclusive feature stand showing awarded products at 100% Design, 18th – 21st September at Earls Court. For further information visit: www.100percentdesign.co.uk

The White Hart, a Grade II listed coaching inn near Chippenham has recently re-opened following a major makeover, transforming it into a haven for locals and visitors to enjoy total peace and relaxation. Perfectly positioned overlooking a picturesque babbling trout stream, the traditional 16th century stone-clad pub now offers stylish and luxuriously appointed rooms alongside a welcoming pub with bags of quintessential English character.The Location
Nestled in a beautiful valley on an old coach way, once weary wayfarers called in at this historical bolt-hole to refuel and recuperate. A stone’s throw from the beautiful Cotswolds and just 10 miles from Bath, it is now the perfect weekend retreat, whether you’re into country pursuits, stately homes or designer boutiques.

The Bedrooms
Exquisitely designed, the White Hart’s 11 bedrooms offer understated individuality and charm, where the attention to detail really shines through. Traditional check-patterned fabrics, chunky wooden furniture and a soft colour palette all work together to create a simple, rustic and chic refuge.

Providing all the creature comforts expected from a boutique hotel, the rooms boast luxury bed linen, blissfully comfortable mattresses, flat screen TVs, spacious bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and a homemade welcome hamper packed with coffee, tea, bottled water and sweet treats.

The Pub
Wonky oak beams, original exposed stone, a roaring log fire and cosy tables in every nook and cranny tempt guests to linger in the inviting pub, which has retained much of its old-world charm. A stylish mismatch of furniture, some vintage and some bespoke add to The White Hart’s character.

A large courtyard, which wraps around the entire inn, provides a tranquil spot for alfresco drinking and dining. Sip on a glass of chilled wine or the pub’s very own ‘White Hart Best’ ale whilst enjoying glorious views of the gentle rolling countryside and cascading stream.

Surrounded by green and pleasant land and packed with historical character, The White Hart is a stylish retreat for modern-day weary travellers.

Book now at www.whitehart-ford.com call 01249 782213 and quote OPENING25 to enjoy a special introductory offer of £25 off any room, valid until the end of May 2013.

UK hotels, pubs, restaurants and cafes urged to “do their bit for nature”

Anyone who enjoys the great outdoors has grown used to nature around them. Joyous birdsong, rustling hedgerows and butterflies in parks and gardens are all very much part of the enjoyment of sitting outside in the UK’s many great pubs, restaurants, hotels and cafes. However, growing evidence suggests that nature is in trouble – and as Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity, the RSPB is working hard to help halt the decline in numerous species of garden wildlife, most notably hedgehogs, bees, butterflies and birds.

The RSPB is urging UK hotels, pubs, restaurants and cafes to help offer natural garden habitat to UK wildlife – however small and seemingly insignificant. A potted patio tub, a hanging basket, a small garden, a balcony planter – every contribution plays a vital part in giving nature a home. Bug boxes, hedgehog homes and nest boxes – shop bought or homemade – all play a crucial role in ensuring our countryside thrives and will encourage a greater number of flapping, fluttering, buzzing and snuffling creatures and birds to take up residence.

Together we can make a HUGE difference whether it is digging a pond, planting wild flowers, creating a bug hotel or adding a window box or tub.

One company doing just that is Scotscape Ltd; discover how they can help with your project by visiting their page in the Directory.

Following the completion of a comprehensive refurbishment project, DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre announced its opening. The public areas and each of the hotel’s 201 guestrooms have been transformed, bringing them up to DoubleTree by Hilton’s upscale standards with a new design concept that pays tribute to the city’s proud industrial and seafaring heritage.Relics from Bristol’s heyday as a maritime trading centre adorn the hotel, whilst the legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the engineer behind the Great Western Railway, is also keenly felt. Nowhere are guests more steeped in the city’s rich history than in the hotel’s centrepiece, the Kiln Restaurant; a listed 17th century kiln which originally forged glassware, is now home to culinary craftsmanship of similar pedigree, offering a unique atmosphere in which to enjoy a range of contemporary dishes.

Simon Vincent, president, EMEA, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Hilton Worldwide has a strong presence in Bristol, operating hotels under three different brands. With the city having recently been shortlisted to be European Green Capital 2015, it is an exciting time to be further expanding our portfolio here.”

DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre is owned by Focus Hotels Management Ltd, and operated under a franchise license agreement with a subsidiary of Hilton Worldwide. The hotel enjoys an enviable location 400m from Bristol Temple Meads rail station. It is situated on Redcliffe Way, a main road which leads directly to the historic docks, now a popular tourist attraction, housing Brunel’s majestic steamship ss Great Britain.

Conferences and events are well served with nine meeting rooms on site, with capacity for up to 300 delegates. All guests can enjoy access to the hotel’s connectivity zone enabling them to keep up to date on the move whilst the fitness centre remains open round the clock. The Temple Bar and Lounge provides a more relaxing option for those seeking to unwind after a long day, with a range of drinks and snacks available including traditional dishes from the West Country.

John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, said, “DoubleTree by Hilton is a brand that cherishes individuality and a real sense of place within our hotels. We’re delighted with the work that has been done to restore these qualities to our new Bristol property, which is the first of seven new UK hotels being added to our rapidly expanding portfolio this year.”

Guests at DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre will also be treated to signature brand features including the welcome of a warm chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest at check-in; the invigorating array of CITRON body care products by Crabtree & Evelyn in the rooms; and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.

“Peter Cashman, CEO of Focus Hotels Management Ltd, said, “I am delighted to announce the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre. Our team is excited to have a second hotel under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand, following the unveiling of our DoubleTree by Hilton London – Heathrow Airport last July.”

On Tuesday 30th April 2013, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts celebrated the grand opening of JW Marriott Essex House New York. In partnership with Christie’s, JW Marriott unveiled four specially commissioned works by emerging artists including Mat Larkin, Jack Shannon, Julian Wellisz, and Lindsay Keys, each inspired by the unmistakable Essex House sign illuminating the New York City skyline since the 1930’s. The exhibition of these original works will be on display in the lobby through October. The installation will be the first in a series of art exhibitions at JW Marriott Essex House celebrating the work of emerging artists. As part of its global partnership with Christie’s, JW Marriott properties worldwide host public exhibitions and previews of major Christie’s auctions featuring original, rare, archived or indigenous art.

A theatrical floral arrangement depicting the iconic Essex House sign as imagined by Jane Packer, one of the world’s foremost artistic floral company’s with outposts in New York, London and Tokyo, anchored the heart of the bustling lobby. JW Marriott Essex House and Jane Packer will now offer a ‘Botanical Beauty School’ experience, an extraordinary getaway combining luxurious overnight accommodations, a customized course at Jane Packer Flower School, and Art of Aroma cocktails featuring seasonal, edible blooms.

With a coveted address on Central Park South and an inimitable Art Deco sign atop the 40-story hotel, the 509-room JW Marriott Essex House first opened in 1931 and has hosted a wide range of dignitaries and celebrities alike over the years. Today, the hotel features world-class amenities including a full-service spa and fitness center, a fine-dining restaurant and well-appointed meeting and event spaces. The 509 guestrooms offer stylish furnishings that celebrate the property’s rich history while offering guests all the comforts of a high-end hotel.

Offering commanding views of Central Park, the Essex House recently underwent a comprehensive $90 million renovation in 2007 and is among the most luxurious and recognized hotels in Manhattan.

Grace Hotels, the award-winning boutique hotel group, is proud to announce its entry into the North African region with the acquisition of the acclaimed Les Terres M’Barka, a luxury boutique hotel located near the village of Tamesloht, just 22 kilometres south west of Marrakech. The hotel will become known as Grace Marrakech.Breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains surround this tranquil hideaway which rests on 15 hectares of Moroccan countryside and features its own farmstead with olive trees, vegetable gardens and horse stables. Comprising 18 suites and lofts (some with two or three bedrooms), a restaurant, bar, library, outdoor heated pool, traditional farm kitchen and fully serviced spa with traditional hammam and whirlpool, it provides the perfect escape for both couples and families or those seeking an exclusive corporate retreat. Les Terres M’Barka will close in June and after full refurbishment, it will re-launch as Grace Marrakech in Q4 2013.

Philippe M. E. Requin, CEO of Grace Hotels, commented: “We are very excited to announce the latest addition to the Grace portfolio. The blend of traditional design with contemporary touches which dominates Les Terres M’Barka perfectly complements our existing portfolio of boutique hotels. We look forward to bringing the Grace philosophy of elegance and simplicity to this beautiful property in one of the most sought after destinations in North Africa.”

The creation of Grace Marrakech coincides with the group’s further expansion into the Americas. Grace Cafayate, situated on a residential and sporting estate with vineyards in northwest Argentina and Grace Panama, a contemporary boutique hotel within the dramatic ‘Twist Tower’ in Panama City, are due to open later this year. They will join the existing award-winning properties Grace Santorini and Grace Mykonos in Greece, Grace Beijing and Vanderbilt Grace in Newport, Rhode Island.

MGallery, Accor’s collection of high-end hotels, now counts three exceptional establishments in Milan: Grand Visconti Palace Hotel, Uptown Palace Hotel and the Grand Hotel Villa Torretta. Located in the very heart of Europe’s design and fashion capital, these two new properties, reflect the brand’s dynamic expansion via franchises and in Italy, MGallery’s second largest network.

Two other hotels recently joined the brand’s Italian network: Villa Olmi Hotel in Florence and La Griffe Hotel in Rome. LaGare Hotel Venezia will open next May under MGallery brand, bringing the network to a total of 12 prestigious hotels in Italy.Grand Visconti Palace Hotel: a haven of tranquillity that evokes Milan’s past but also its present

Classical and refined, the Grand Visconti Palace represents the perfect match between the traditional charm of a historic building and the comfort of modern facilities.

In the 1920s, the hotel’s 2,500 sq.m. courtyard housed a flour mill, the Mulino Verga. Now transformed into a magnificent Italian-style garden, it is the centrepiece of the hotel, visible from most of the 172 rooms and suites, the pool, the restaurant and the meeting rooms.

The Tower Suite perfectly encapsulates the spirit of a new type of luxury, rich in emotions and discoveries, brought to life by MGallery and the Grand Visconti Palace: 120 square meters on three levels connected by a staircase and a private elevator, with extraordinary views over the city’s rooftops.

The restaurant “al V piano” on the fifth floor offers an “eno-gastronomic” journey through the traditional tastes and flavours of Italy and the best in international cuisine.

To refresh body and mind after a busy day, guests can enjoy the Grand Visconti Palace well-being centre with its sauna, Turkish baths, Jacuzzi, fitness centre and 120 sqm indoor swimming pool overlooking the park.

The hotel also boasts a meetings and events area that can cater for up to 300 people, with 14 meeting rooms ranging from 55 to 249 sqm

Uptown Palace Hotel: an “urban-chic” skyscraper with a 360° view of Milan

The Uptown Palace embodies the essence of Italian elegance. Strategically located just a few minutes from the city’s world- famous fashion district, this “urban-chic” hotel has adopted a palette of warm beige and brown colours that infuse charm and elegance.

The 158 rooms and suites with their clean-lined, sophisticated design offer the highest standards of comfort. The stylish furniture and materials are all made in Italy.

The suites have a vast, bright living area with great views and a Jacuzzi, while the top- floor Presidential Suite boasts an amazing panoramic view of the cathedral and the rooftops of Milan.

“Uptown”, the hotel’s restaurant, will delight the most demanding palates with a selection of traditional Lombardy dishes and international specialities produced by its daring and creative young chef, Carlon Ontano.

Grand Hotel Villa Torretta: a jewel in a casket of greenery

Grand Hotel Villa Torretta is a luxurious 17th century manor house, a historic and prestigious building decorated with frescoes, Venetian stucco and crystal chandeliers. An ideal venue for private and professional events, the hotel is adjacent to Milan’s regional park, the Parco Nord. The 78 rooms and suites feature individually chosen furniture and fabric colours that give each its own special personality.

The hotel restaurant, “Vico della Toretta”, is worth a visit in its own right. Located inside the villa, it is open to all and offers tasty Milanese and Lombardy delicacies served in a sumptuous setting. The hotel also boasts nine meeting rooms bathed in light and a splendid auditorium designed by famous architect Renzo Piano, offering a total capacity of 258 people.

The role of our hoteliers is crucial and a key to our customers’ experience. MGallery hotel teams stage the story of their establishment with talent by sharing anecdotes and secrets about its history, the city, culture and stories.

The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the world’s top ten hospitality company’s, has opened the stylish Park Inn by Radisson Glasgow City Centre.Located in the historic grade 2 listed Pearl Assurance building on the corner of West George Street and Renfield Street, the contemporary new Park Inn by Radisson Glasgow City Centre boasts a strong design element with features including a convenient self-check-in area, restaurant, bar, meeting rooms, on-site gym and an internet kiosk.

The 91 guest bedrooms at the new Park Inn By Radisson Glasgow City Centre are spacious and well-proportioned with high ceilings, neutral décor, large en-suites, free high speed Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs. All rooms in the hotel have also been fitted with sound proofed windows allowing guests to enjoy the buzz of being in the heart of the city centre and still get a great night’s sleep.

The hotel’s restaurant provides an all-day offering with menu items including: fresh sandwiches, hearty soups, pizza, pasta, grills and sharing platters. Meanwhile the bar will stock a wide variety of regional wines, beers, spirits and hot beverages offering the perfect place to relax, socialise or hold a meeting. The on-site fitness suite offers the very latest in state of the art equipment giving the gym users the ideal place to wind down or revitalise.

For meetings, conferences and special events, the Park Inn by Radisson Glasgow City Centre has meeting space which is both versatile and functional. The hotel boasts two meeting rooms catering for up to 30 delegates together with a private breakout area, perfect for serving coffees and lunches between meetings. There is also a fully equipped internet kiosk ensuring business travellers can stay abreast of latest developments and keep in touch with the office.

“This is an exciting time for the city of Glasgow with the highly anticipated arrival of The Hydro this year and the upcoming 2014 Commonwealth Games. We feel this is a good time to add to our Glasgow portfolio with a strong, modern hotel and I’m confident that we can offer something fresh and unique to the mid-market business and leisure traveller.

Designed by Robert Alexander Bryden, who was born in Glasgow on 7 July 1841, the six storey Pearl Assurance building was built in 1900 for General Life Assurance and boasts many original features including polished red ashlar stonework, sash and case windows as well as polished granite stair and balustrade which have been loving restored in collaboration with Historic Scotland.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announces the recent opening of the new Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites New Orleans Airport South, conveniently located adjacent to the Louis Armstrong International Airport and just minutes away from New Orleans businesses, restaurants and attractions.Featuring a complimentary airport shuttle, the new Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is located just off Airline Drive, and a short distance from Interstate Highway 10, providing easy access to the surrounding areas of Kenner, Metairie and downtown New Orleans.

The new Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites New Orleans Airport South recently underwent a complete renovation, and boasts of a fresh new look throughout the 134-room, three-story hotel. Located at 110 James Drive E. Street in St. Rose, business travellers will enjoy proximity to offices of major corporations. The hotel is also less than a 30-minute drive from both Loyola and Tulane universities.

With 3,800 square feet of meeting space, and three separate rooms, the hotel can hold meetings of up to 200 participants. There is also a 24-business centre and free wireless Internet access throughout, and guests can also enjoy a spacious and well-equipped fitness centre and outdoor pool. For leisure travellers, the hotel is just a short drive from the nationally acclaimed Audubon Zoo, the Superdome, the New Orleans Aquarium, and of course, the outstanding music and restaurants of New Orleans’ French Quarter and downtown.

The hotel, owned by New Orleans Hotel Partners, and managed by Expotel Hospitality is franchised by an affiliate of IHG.

Following a succession of recent brand introductions in the Iberian Peninsula, Hilton Worldwide has announced that its DoubleTree by Hilton brand is set to arrive in Portugal. The signing of a management agreement with Turismadeira SA will see Lisbon’s Fontana Park Hotel convert to DoubleTree by Hilton Lisbon – Fontana Park in summer 2013, as Hilton’s first hotel in the Portuguese capital.The agreement sees DoubleTree enter its thirteenth European country, having only recently opened its first Spanish property, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Emporda. In Portugal itself, the Lisbon property will join Conrad Algarve, which opened in autumn 2012, near to the existing Hilton Vilamoura as Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa, while Hilton Bom Sucesso Obidos Resort opens next winter.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president of development, Europe & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “This is a major coup. Not only are we bringing one of Europe’s hottest hotel brands to Portugal for the first time, we are doing so in the capital city, while also demonstrating the strength of our portfolio with this becoming our third brand in the country.”

Fontana Park Hotel first opened in 2008 and its impressive design quickly won plaudits, including ‘Best Interior Design’ at the European Hotel Design Awards. The hotel has 139 rooms, seven meeting rooms, two restaurants and a bar.

John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, said, “DoubleTree by Hilton continues its rise as one of Europe’s most popular conversion brands and we are thrilled to be entering one of Europe’s most fascinating and historic capital cities, with what is a stunning property.”

Located on Rua Engenheiro Vieira da Silva, in the northern district of the city centre, the hotel benefits from excellent public transport links and is only 15 minutes from Lisbon Portela Airport. Its proximity to one of the city’s main roads connects it to the historical tourist and shopping districts of Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto, Avenida da Liberdade and Alfama.

As one of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon offers a variety of cultural, architectural and historical attractions. The Park of Nations, set out along the banks of the Tagus River, is an urban space that brings together contemporary architecture, theme gardens, exhibition centers, and is a venue for various shows and events. It also houses Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest marine mammal parks of its kind in Europe.

The coast to the west of Lisbon offers further leisure destinations, including the resorts of Estoril and Cascais, plus the historic and cultural town of Sintra.

Once converted, the hotel will feature the brand’s signature welcome with a warm chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest at check-in; an array of upscale amenities and guest services, and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.

Joaquim Justino, Chairman of Turismadeira SA, said, “This partnership provides a great opportunity for this excellent property to benefit from the global reach and operational expertise of one of the world`s most powerful hotel brands. Located in an exciting and increasingly vibrant area of Lisbon, the DoubleTree by Hilton Fontana Park is destined for popularity with both corporate and leisure guests alike and we strongly believe that Hilton Worldwide will be able to make our jewel shine even more in future.”

The Autograph Collection, Marriott International’s exclusive portfolio of upscale, independent hotels continues to grow in Europe with the introduction of two new extraordinary travel experiences this spring. Threadneedles, in the heart of London’s financial district, and The Glasshouse in central Edinburgh, Scotland, will represent the Autograph Collection’s first hotels in the United Kingdom. The additions are set to expand the exclusive portfolio of upscale, independent lifestyle hotels to include more than 40 exceptional hotel experiences in the United States, Europe, Caribbean, and South America. The Autograph Collection currently offers a number of passionately independent hotel experiences throughout Europe, including the spectacular Fontecruz Lisboa Hotel in Portugal, Hotel De Bourgtheroulde in the historic city of Rouen and the Hotel L’Hermitage Gantois in Lille. Last month, the Autograph Collection revealed its entree into Germany with the opening later this year of the Hotel am Steinplatz, routinely recognized as one of Berlin’s most iconic gathering places.

The vision behind the Autograph Collection is to offer an evolving group of independent, upscale hotels that each fall under distinct categories of travel experience including Culinary Delight, Artistic Getaway, Historic Exploration or Sporting Adventure. Each independent hotel is thoughtfully chosen for its quality, originality, bold character and capacity to offer guests a range of unique and unexpected experiences suited to their individual sense of style and adventure.

“This is an exciting time for the Autograph Collection in Europe as we add experiences in two of the United Kingdom’s most important destinations,” said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe. “Autograph Collection offers an enviable range of artistic, culinary and cultural adventures for our guests and these two iconic hotels will be valuable additions.”

Innovative global spa concept eforea: spa at Hilton expands into Canada at Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa. As the first location for eforea in the country and the fourth eforea spa in North America, the converted 5,000-square-foot spa features an exclusive treatment menu, innovative design features and carefully selected product partners appealing to today’s global travellers.The eforea location at Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa was designed with positive energy and relaxation in mind and features smooth curving lines to enhance the natural flow of the space. A design centrepiece of the spa is the free-flowing waterfall that adds a natural element and enriches the soothing environment. Thirteen treatment rooms are available where guests can enjoy signature eforea treatments, including hydrotherapy. To encourage male guests to feel as comfortable as possible in the spa setting, renovations include a treatment room dedicated to male spa services with furniture, décor and amenities designed specifically for men.

eforea: spa at Hilton launched in October 2010 to meet the growing need for a spa experience designed specifically for today’s global travellers. Already one of the fastest growing spas in the world, eforea offers a spa solution with consistent standards, customizable elements and ease of implementation. Today, 14 eforea: spa at Hilton locations operate in nine countries: U.S., New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, China, Azerbaijan, Qatar, Romania and Canada.

At the core of the eforea concept are three signature spa journeys that pair a therapeutic approach with transformative journeys of the senses. The Essentials Journey is composed of powerful, technologically advanced treatments. The Escape Journey is a set of holistic experiences that integrate nourishing organic plant ingredients and traditional healing practices. The Men’s Journey is a collection of problem-solving, re-energizing experiences designed specifically for men. eforea: spa at Hilton brings some of the world’s top spa product brands to our guests, including lines from: Kerstin Florian, which offers European facial, body and bath products and treatments; LI’TYA, which draws on the revitalizing and restorative powers of Australia’s native resources; and VitaMan, which provides a comprehensive line of spa and grooming products formulated specifically for men.

Located in the greater Toronto area and near the technology business city centre, Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite hotel in the region. The property serves leisure and business travellers alike with three onsite dining venues, a fitness centre and one of the largest conference centres in the area with 26 meeting rooms totalling 45,000 square feet of function space.

As Marriott International continues its expansion throughout Europe, the company has announced plans to open its first hotel in Ulyanovsk, Russia, the 135-room Courtyard by Marriott Ulyanovsk. The official signing ceremony took place in the presence of the Governor of the Ulyanovsk region, Mr. Sergey Morozov. The hotel, which will be built to the new Courtyard by Marriott brand European prototype, will operate under a management agreement with LLC New City and is expected to open in 2015.“The signing of the Courtyard Ulyanovsk is an exciting development as we continue to grow our footprint in Russia and expand into new areas,” said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe. “We continue to see great opportunity for expansion throughout Eastern Europe, particularly with our Courtyard by Marriott brand, which is specifically designed to address the needs of business travellers.”

Ulyanovsk is famous as the birthplace of Vladimir Lenin and today serves as a hub of industry and commerce with aerospace, automobile and mechanical engineering being the mainstay industries. The city is located approximately 890 kilometres south-east of Moscow on the banks of the Volga River, and very well connected by two airports just a short distance from the hotel.

The Courtyard Ulyanovsk will be located in the commercial centre of the city and just a short drive from its historic heart. Its prime location on the bank of the Sviyaga River offers a green and attractive setting.

Boasting the contemporary interior design and enhanced functionality of the new Courtyard by Marriott prototype designed to appeal to the European traveller, the hotel’s 135 guestrooms will feature clean lines and natural light. Designed to promote productivity, the rooms will be equipped with ample work space, task lighting and multiple, accessible outlets making plugging in easy.

The hotel’s stylish and contemporary lobby will support the business traveller’s needs for dining, meeting and socialising with flexible seating, an interactive GoBoard™ screen featuring the latest news, weather and local information and a 24-hour market. The hotel will also feature an all-day bistro restaurant with menu items adapted to local tastes and demand. Additional hotel facilities include a large 2,130 square feet meeting room divisible by four, a business lounge and a fitness room.

The first Courtyard by Marriott hotel built to the new European prototype is the Courtyard Aberdeen Airport, Scotland, opening this summer.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has recently announced that the 132-room Holiday Inn-Cleveland East/Mentor has completed a $5 million renovation.Alliance Hospitality, Inc., the hotel’s ownership company, is proud to announce the following renovations and transformations to the 4-story property:

• Enhancements to the hotel include a new open lobby concept featuring the E-bar business centre, the Krave Barista, with made-to-order cappuccino, espresso and latte, Market 24, and the all new “Krave- Good Times, Great Food” restaurant and bar
• All guest corridors feature new carpet, new wall vinyl, and up dated lighting package
• Guest rooms offer all new décor and larger bathrooms, new carpet, lighting, furniture and bedding package, every room also contains a microwave and mini-fridge, and single cup coffee maker.
• The hotel has added an expanded fitness centre, featuring state-of-the-art cardio and weight equipment
• “Krave” is the hotel’s new restaurant and bar, and will be open to the public for service on May 1, 2013. This highly anticipated restaurant will feature 2 bars, booths with private televisions, signature drinks and food items, as well as a private dining area for up to 8 guests.
• The hotel meeting space has been completely reconfigured and offers over 11,000 square feet of space and for events ranging from 2- 500. On-site Audio/Visual is also available for events.

Ohm Patel, Managing Director for Alliance Hospitality, Inc. states, “The scope of this renovation demonstrates our confidence in the strength of the Mentor, Ohio market. There is tremendous potential in both the corporate and leisure travel segments and we are pleased to have a strong presence in the community.”

The Holiday Inn –Cleveland East/Mentor is located at 7701 Reynolds Road, Mentor, Ohio 44060 and is within walking distance to a dozen restaurants. The hotel offers such business conveniences as 6 meeting rooms, including the Alliance Board Room, the E-Bar Business Centre, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the entire building, restaurant and room service available for breakfast and dinner, the Krave Barista featuring fresh cappuccino, espresso and latte, and Market 24, Other amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre, indoor pool, and an open lobby concept.

Pentahotels will open five new hotels in the UK and one in Prague this year, in addition to the previously announced pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon, opening summer 2013. The total seven new properties mark 2013 as the highest growth period in the history of this neighbourhood lifestyle hotel brand. The portfolio will expand by more than 50 percent from the current 2,925 to 4,409 hotel rooms worldwide. The group currently operates hotels in Germany (11), England (one), Austria (one) and China (two.)

“We are not only expanding our presence in existing locations but also opening up new markets. These new properties significantly accelerate pentahotels’ strategic growth with the goal of 80 hotels in operation globally by 2020.” says Alastair Thomann, managing director Europe for pentahotels.

By the end of 2013, pentahotels will have 22 hotels worldwide, including the seven new hotels with 1,484 rooms in three countries including:
• England: Five hotels with a total 562 rooms will open in Birmingham, Derby, Inverness, Ipswich and Warrington. From March onwards, the hotels will be in conversion and will be integrated as operating hotels in the pentahotels portfolio by end of 2013.
• Czech Republic: The first hotel in the Czech Republic will open by end of July 2013 in Prague with 227 rooms.
• Hong Kong: A 695-room hotel will open in East Kowloon in summer 2013.

Strong brand growth is anticipated for the Asian region as well; in addition to pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon, pentahotels have been announced for 2014 openings in Guiyang (204 rooms) and Shenyang (384 rooms) in mainland China.

To support the group’s expansion, pentahotels was repositioned in 2012 as a design-forward, neighbourhood lifestyle hotel brand, providing independent travellers with a mix of fun with functionality, comfort with creativity and style with simplicity. The concept is projected to be brought to life in an increasing number of urban centres, conference and exhibition complexes, and transportation hubs.

Hilton Worldwide continues its expansion in Spain with the arrival of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Centre La Mola, a hotel taking its name from one of the highest peaks in the nearby Catalan Pre Coastal mountain range. Having recently opened Spain’s first DoubleTree by Hilton in Emporda and first Hilton Garden Inn in Sevilla, Hilton Worldwide now has eight properties trading across Spain. With a modern design inspired by the natural beauty of its setting, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Centre La Mola (formerly La Mola Hotel & Conference Centre) features 186 guestrooms and suites, an 800 square metre spa, plus 4,500 sqm of meetings and events space which recently underwent a significant renovation. With its close proximity to the prestigious Real Club de Golf El Prat golf course, less than 30 miles from Spain’s second busiest airport, Barcelona El Prat, and only 17 miles from Barcelona, the hotel is ideal for both business and leisure travellers.

Guests looking for relaxation will be able to utilise the hotel’s Sensations Spa and Wellness Centre, which features a 24-hour fitness centre, several treatment rooms, a heated indoor pool, a chromotherapy thermal circuit, a steam room, a sauna and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. For those interested in soaking up the local culture, the hotel’s L’Obac restaurant serves exciting culinary delights using fresh, native produce including vegetables from its own garden. The outdoor terrace bar, Sòfora Gastrobar, is also an ideal option for relaxing and socializing in the Catalan sunshine.

The hotel’s 26 meeting rooms boast a combined capacity of 250 people, including 14 multi-function meeting rooms, two 54-seat auditoriums and a specialist video conference room. With the latest state-of-the-art equipment, the hotel is one of only three Spanish members of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC).

Guests can also book weddings or events in the adjoining 17th century manor house Mas Bonvilar, complete with a small chapel, which provides a charming venue to exchange nuptials and for other private functions.

Guests of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Centre La Mola will enjoy the characteristic features of more than 330 DoubleTree by Hilton locations around the world, including a caring service culture that is demonstrated to every guest at check-in with the brand’s signature chocolate chip cookie welcome, an array of upscale amenities and guest services, and rewards from the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty program.

Centara Hotels & Resorts will be opening its sixth hotel in Pattaya with the signing of a management contract to operate the Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa Pattaya.

The hotel is due to open in the third quarter of 2013.Centara signed the contract with the owning company, Sweet Water Point Company Ltd, on 14 November 2012.

“We have always been very confident indeed in Pattaya as one of Thailand’s prime destinations, and this new property is a strategic signing for us that places our third Pattaya Grand branded hotel in yet another key part of the city,” says ThirayuthChirathivat, chief executive officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

The hotel is located on Wong Amat Beach at Naklua, next to the famous Sanctuary of Truth, and has its own private beachfront.

“We have Grand branded hotels at North Pattaya, South Pattaya and Jomtien, and the new property at Naklua places us in a very strong marketing position,” says Chris Bailey, Senior Vice President for Centara Hotels & Resorts.

“The hotel is also one of the very small number in Pattaya that, like our Grand Mirage, is placed directly on the beach. That is an enormous advantage.”

Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa Pattaya will have a total of 215 rooms. Of these, 80 are Standard category rooms, 10 are Superior category, 20 are Family rooms, 20 are Club category rooms with access to the Club Lounge, 72 are Suites, and 13 are Two-Bedroom Suites.

There will be two restaurants, a Spa Cenvaree, a fitness centre, a Kids’ Club, three swimming pools with a pool bar, a beach club, and meeting and function rooms.

The resort will be family-friendly, with many rooms offering two double beds and with a number of interconnecting rooms. Several room categories offer direct pool access. Over half the rooms offer an ocean view.

The development also includes 300 condominium units, of which 80 have so far been sold, and which are managed by Centara under the request of the individual owners.

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading operator of hotels, with 40 deluxe and first-class properties covering all the major tourist destinations in the Kingdom. A further 18 resorts in the Maldives, Vietnam, Bali Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Mauritius Indian Ocean, brings the present total to 58 properties. Brands and properties within Centara ensure that specific categories such as couples, families, individuals, and meetings and incentives groups will all find a hotel or resort that is appropriate to their needs. Centara operates 27 branches of Spa Cenvaree, one of Thailand’s most luxurious and innovative spa brands, together with its newly launched value brand Cense by Spa Cenvaree, which provides core spa services for busy travellers. The company’s Kids’ Club is available at all the family-friendly resorts to ensure that the youngsters and teens are taken care of. Centara Hotels & Resorts also operates two state-of-the-art convention centres in Bangkok, and two in northeastern Thailand, one being located in UdonThani and the other in KhonKaen. The latest Centara brand is named COSI Hotels, an economy brand designed for travellers who predominantly make their bookings via the internet and who want comfort and convenience at the most friendly prices available, which is under development with the first property due to open in 2015.

The newly-opened Radisson Blu Mall of America (MOA) which is directly connected to over 500 shops and restaurants in one of the world’s biggest shopping malls, features stunning interiors by British designer Graven Images. The design was inspired by its unique retail environment, the character and history of its location in Bloomington, Minnesota and the European design influence, integral to its parent brand’s DNA. Retail therapy
The Radisson Blu MOA greets shoppers with the feature Krion wall, produced by Porcelanosa, which forms the backdrop to the entire first and second floor lobby spaces. Bespoke individual panels have been modelled into a massive multi-faceted sculptural installation which references a cool, pristine shopping bag concealing the restaurants and shops from the lobby so they become little treats waiting to be discovered. Nest hanging loungers from Dedon (contact Leisure Plan in the Directory for more details) are suspended 40ft from the lobby ceiling and hover just above the first floor lobby, inviting exploration.

Flanked by an escalator, a quirky lift and staircase, the unconventional two-level lobby provides a seamless navigation upon arrival, leading guests to not only to Firelake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, but to a state-of-the-art fitness centre, 26,300 square feet of meeting and event space, and 500 guest rooms.

A tiny series of windows puncture the façade at high level on either side of the hotel entrance courtyard, a further nod to its location close to one of the biggest shopping malls in the world. Designer Jim Hamilton was staggered when he learnt that the official number of annual visitors to the Mall of America is estimated at 40 million a year. “It made me think of fireflies”, he explains, “with their use of bioluminescence to attract mates or prey. When it turns from day to night, the second floor lobby lighting artificially illuminates the tiny windows to the street, bringing the fireflies to life.”

Continued on page two…

The portfolio of Four Seasons hotels set in historic buildings in Europe’s most important cities is expanding again with the development of the Canalejas Project in Madrid, Spain. With a planned opening within the next four years, the hotel will be the company’s first in Spain.“As Four Seasons continues its expansion into the world’s most desirable destinations, Madrid has long been on our wish list,” says Scott Woroch, Executive Vice President Worldwide Development for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “With a proven track record of development success, operational excellence, and a strong capital base, the team of Grupo Villar Mir, Grupo OHL and Four Seasons is uniquely placed to create a spectacular property in Madrid. The confluence of strong partners with these grand buildings is without a doubt one of the finest opportunities for both Madrid and Four Seasons to attract international guests and provide them with an authentic experience.”

The new Four Seasons will be housed in the series of heritage buildings comprising the Canalejas complex, adjacent to the Puerta del Sol and an easy walk to Madrid’s major landmarks and city centre. The buildings include frontages on Alcalá Street, Sevilla Street, Canalejas Square and Carrera de San Jerónimo.

Following careful repairs, sensitive restoration and modern renovations, Four Seasons Hotel Madrid will be a social and business centre, a gathering place for Madrilenos and international visitors alike. The multi-use complex will include the 215-room Four Seasons Hotel, luxury residences also managed by Four Seasons, an exclusive shopping centre, and a 500-space parking garage. Following the planning process, construction is projected to begin at the end of 2013.

“The introduction of the world’s most prestigious hotel brand reinforces Madrid’s position as a venue for major international events,” said Juan-Miguel Villar Mir, head of Grupo Villar Mir, which through its subsidiaries Inmobiliaria Espacio and Grupo OHL is investing EUR 500 million in the project. “Further, the development project will contribute significantly to the reactivation of the local labour market, generating 4,800 jobs, including 1,800 during the construction stage and 3,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs.”

Three new two-bedroom Beach Houses have recently opened at Parrot Cay by COMO in The Turks and Caicos Islands. They are the latest addition to the award-winning private island resort, and have been designed by Chris Davis of Coast Architects. Nestled among sand dunes with uninterrupted ocean views, each detached Beach House has a large outdoor deck, private pool and direct access to the powder-white beach. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood each property with natural light, allowing gentle sea breezes to flow through the open-plan living spaces.

Relaxed Hamptons-style interiors in sun-bleached neutral shades include spacious living and dining areas with fully-equipped kitchens, two bedrooms, each featuring kingsize four-poster beds and large ensuite bathrooms with private outdoor showers set within their own gardens. The houses, which are well suited to friends or family travelling together, are furnished throughout with COMO’s signature contemporary style and antique pieces from Indonesia. Each Beach House also comes with the exclusive services of a COMO butler.

The houses are situated just a short walk from the infinity pool, which forms the heart of the main Parrot Cay resort, and a five-minute buggy ride from the award-winning COMO Shambhala Retreat on the other side of the island. Here, a full and varied wellness programme includes yoga, Pilates and Asian-based treatments such as shiatsu and Ayurveda, along with signature COMO Shambhala massage therapies. Experienced, intuitive therapists respond to each guest individually and recommendations are made on a consultative rather than prescriptive basis.

Hilton Worldwide has recently signed a multi-unit management agreement with BG Group of Hotels to manage four hotels, marking the company’s entry into the Northern Territory and the introduction of the DoubleTree by Hilton brand into Australia. The properties, currently operating and subject to conversion works, will join Hilton Cairns as a portfolio of five BG Group of Hotels properties being operated by Hilton Worldwide. The rebranded properties will join Hilton Worldwide’s existing portfolio of 15 hotels in Australasia and include:
• Hilton Darwin – 235 rooms
• DoubleTree by Hilton Darwin – 184 rooms
• DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade Darwin – 197 rooms
• DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs – 235 rooms

Martin Rinck, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Hilton Worldwide has been operating in Australia for more than 35 years and during that time we have focused on growing our portfolio in key business and leisure destinations in the region with important strategic partners. With our strong leadership on the ground, our aim has been to create a network of hotels that meet the needs of business and leisure travellers, and we look forward to deepening our commitment to our clients and our valued owners in this important market with the addition of five more hotels.”

“Hilton Worldwide is proud to have been selected to rebrand and operate these important hotels. We are delighted to be able to introduce the DoubleTree by Hilton brand to the Australian market and to add another Hilton Hotel & Resort in the region’s most significant areas of growth,” said Ashley Spencer, vice president, operations, Australasia, Hilton Worldwide. “We have been looking to enter into the Northern Territory for some time and to be working with BG Group of Hotels is a privilege. We are committed to making these properties the leading full-service hotels in the market.”

Guests at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Darwin and Alice Springs will be greeted with the characteristic qualities currently found at the brand’s more than 325 DoubleTree by Hilton locations in 26 countries around the world, including the warm welcome of the brand’s legendary chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest at check-in; an array of upscale amenities and guest services, and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.

Guests at Hilton Darwin can expect the upper-upscale service and amenities the flagship brand of Hilton Worldwide is renowned for globally. The Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand offers best-in-class products and services to ensure that every guest feels cared for, valued and respected.

Guests at all four properties can experience the rewards of the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty programme.

The BG Group of Hotels, owned and controlled by Mr Ludvik Berger, own a portfolio of properties in Australia and Spain. In addition to the four Australian properties mentioned earlier, BG Hotels also own the Holiday Inn in Cairns and are currently negotiating the purchase of another significant property. In Spain, BG Hotels own and operate three beachside hotels in Mallorca and also own and operate two beachside hotels in Ibiza. These properties range from 150 rooms to 500 rooms and are all popular holiday resorts, centrally situated.

Mr Berger said, “Over a number of years we have developed a successful relationship with Hilton Worldwide as managers of our property in North Queensland, the Hilton Cairns. Due to the success of this property, it made a great deal of sense for Hilton Worldwide to manage four more of our properties in the Northern Territory. We are particularly pleased to introduce the first DoubleTree by Hilton properties to Australia, which we believe will meet the needs of our customers and continue to provide jobs in the region.”

He added, “Mr John Rodger, our Managing Director in Australia, will be responsible for the transitions and the ongoing operations and we are sure that the changes will be seamless and there will be little or no interruption to operations.”

Hilton Darwin, DoubleTree by Hilton Darwin, DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade Darwin and DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs, will operate under Hilton Worldwide management from May 1, 2013.

Hilton Worldwide currently manages and franchises 15 properties in Australasia and has recently announced the signing of the DoubleTree by Hilton Karratha in Western Australia and the Hilton Noumea La Promenade in New Caledonia.

The takeover has begun – from the beginning of April, the 20 former hotels of the Queens Moat Houses Holding GmbH Germany, including 15 Holiday Inn Hotels, four Best Western Hotels and one Queens Hotel, were included in the portfolio of the Leonardo Hotels and put into operation. The hotels were acquired as part of Europe’s biggest hotel deal in recent years by the Israeli hotel chain Fattal Hotels Group. The hotels are located in Berlin, Munich, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, Heidelberg, Wolfsburg, Mannheim, Hanover, Baden-Baden, Aachen, Mönchengladbach and Karlsruhe. The new portfolio includes more than 3,600 rooms, 28 bars, and 29 restaurants, as well as 154 conference rooms with a total area of 9,675 square metres. The hotels perfectly complement the existing portfolio. Daniel Roger, General Manager of Leonardo Hotels Europe, says: »We are delighted to be able to add new locations and additional hotels to our existing destinations. With the acquisition, we are now present in 20 German cities. Thus, we can offer our guests an extended range – in the usual high Leonardo standard«. An extensive investment plan has been defined for the new hotel portfolio and is already being implemented this year.

Background: With this new portfolio, the Fattal Hotels Group grows to 84 hotels, with more than 16,000 rooms. Of this, 53 hotels and 8,449 rooms are located in Europe (Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Hungary, and Germany) and 31 hotels with 7,600 rooms in Israel. With the acquisition of the QMH Germany portfolio, Fattal Hotels manages 44 hotels in 20 cities in Germany.

However, this is not enough. »We want to continue to grow and continuously negotiate projects in major European cities,« explains David Fattal, CEO Fattal Hotels/Leonardo Hotels.
Through these new deals, the opportunity to further develop the exclusive brand »Leonardo Royal« has been created – the former Holiday Inn Düsseldorf City Centre-Königsallee, as well as the former Best Western Queens Hotel Baden-Baden, will be re-branded to Leonardo Royal Hotels. The leading interior designer Andreas Neudahm is responsible for the interior design of many Leonardo projects. He will be in charge of the reconstruction work of all hotels within the scope of the acquisition. It is therefore his special concern to create an individual and premium design style for both future Leonardo Royal Hotels.

The following 20 hotels of Queens Moat Houses Holding GmbH Germany were included in the Leonardo Hotels portfolio:

Berlin
Best Western Queens Hotel Berlin City West will be a Leonardo Hotel Berlin City West

Düsseldorf
Holiday Inn Düsseldorf City Centre-Königsallee will be a Leonardo Royal Hotel Düsseldorf Königsallee
Holiday Inn Düsseldorf will be a Leonardo Hotel Düsseldorf City Center

Köln
Holiday Inn Köln – Am Stadtwald will be a Leonardo Hotel Köln – Am Stadtwald
Holiday Inn Köln-Bonn Airport will be a Leonardo Hotel Köln Airport

Hamburg
Best Western Queens Hotel Hamburg will be a Leonardo Hotel Hamburg City Nord

Heidelberg
Holiday Inn Heidelberg will be a Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg

Hannover
Queens Hotel Hannover will be a Leonardo Hotel Hannover
Holiday Inn Hannover Airport will be a Leonardo Hotel Hannover Airport

Baden-Baden
Best Western Queens Hotel Baden-Baden will be a Leonardo Royal Hotel Baden-Baden

Aachen
Holiday Inn Aachen will be a Leonardo Hotel Aachen

Karlsruhe
Best Western Queens Hotel Karlsruhe will be a Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe

Mannheim
Holiday Inn Mannheim City Centre will be a Leonardo Hotel Mannheim

The following hotels will still be running under the brand »Holiday Inn« with the affinity to the Leonardo Hotels:

Holiday Inn Munich
Holiday Inn Düsseldorf Airport-Ratingen
Holiday Inn Frankfurt Airport North
Holiday Inn Frankfurt City-South Conference Centre
Holiday Inn Heidelberg-Walldorf
Holiday Inn Mönchengladbach
Holiday Inn Wolfsburg City Centre

Leading boutique Asian hotelier Alila Hotels & Resorts will more than double its portfolio of boutique hotels and resorts by 2015, with ambitious plans to add up to 10 new properties in the next two years.The development plan will include the hotelier’s first opening in West Asia with the launch of Alila Jabal Akhdar in the mountain regions of Oman at the turn of the year.

Other forthcoming projects include Alila Fort Bishangarh, a warrior fort in Rajasthan currently undergoing restoration and set to open in late 2013; Alila Seminyak, a beach-front resort in Bali due to launch in 2014 and Alila Villas Bintan slated for completion in 2015.

Further developments are underway in Jakarta with the planned 2014 opening of Alila Jakarta SCBD; in China with Alila Anji, Alila Xiangshuiwan, Alila Yingde and Alila Lishui due to launch over the next two years and in Malaysia where properties in Sabah and Kuala Lumpur are set for 2015 openings.

Alila Hotels & Resorts currently manages eight properties under the Alila Villas and Alila brands in Bali and Jakarta, Indonesia and Bangalore and Goa, India. The Indonesia offering was boosted this year with the launch of its first luxury handcrafted phinisi sailing boat, Alila Purnama, offering tailor-made voyages around the undiscovered waters of Raja Ampat and the Komodo and Banda islands.

Alila Hotels & Resorts is also further developing its Alila Living range of natural, organic spa products created and made on Bali. The range of massage oils, body and face products both complement the growing spa treatment offering at each hotel and resort and provide an Alila experience at home. Alila Living will launch its online store by mid-2013.

Overseen by President Mark A. Edleson and CEO Frederic Simon, Alila Hotels & Resorts strives to put conservation and community at the forefront of its development plans, adhering to a vision of integrating commerce, conservation and community. The group participates in the EarthCheck certification scheme, with Alila Villas Uluwatu the first on Bali to be built to their strict environmental standards.

Commenting on the expansion Mark A. Edleson said “It is an exciting moment in Alila’s history. We have a strong pipeline of projects which will open in fast expanding areas of Asia and we look forward to bringing the strong Alila vision to even more communities and guests.”

Travelodge has responded to recession-proof growth at the UK’s biggest airport, Heathrow by opening its third hotel within the area since the recession started in 2007. In support of passenger numbers growing at the world’s busiest airport, Travelodge has opened its fifth hotel within the Heathrow area. London Hounslow Travelodge is a 128 room new build property with six floors. It represents a £9.4million investment and has created 25 new jobs within the local community.

The hotel is located on Lampton Road, which is less than five miles from Heathrow Airport and offers rooms from just £27.

Since 2007, Travelodge has more than quadrupled the number of rooms near Heathrow airport and today boasts nearly 1000 rooms within a five miles radius of the airport. This represents a total investment of £70m and a job creation of 200. These five hotels also boost the local economy by £15m, as our research shows the average Travelodge customer will spend on average £36 a day in local shops, restaurants and bars during their stay.

The Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Pritam Grewal officially opened the hotel at a special opening ceremony where he met the team and took a tour of the hotel.

The new hotel is being managed by local girl, Kelly Prychidko who is also celebrating her 15th year anniversary with Travelodge this week. Kelly grew up on Lampton Road and started her career with the UK’s leading budget hotel chain in 1998 as a guest room cleaner at Heston Eastbound Travelodge, which was one of the Company’s first hotels in London.

Kelly Prychidko, London Hounslow Travelodge Hotel Manager said: “I am very excited to be managing a hotel on the very road that I grew up on. This is a great location for business and leisure travellers. The demand for branded, good quality budget accommodation at Heathrow is growing at a great pace. The majority of our customers are passengers flying in and out of Heathrow Airport.”

“Our hotel has got off to a flying start, we are enjoying high occupancy and we are already sold out for the forthcoming bank holiday and business on the books for summer is looking very good.”

Travelodge recently announced its growth strategy for London and announced it is looking for a further 145 hotels across London. These openings will create 4,000 new jobs across the capital and boost the local economy annually by £290million.

Hilton Worldwide has recently announced the official opening of the first DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in South Africa – the 183-room DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town – Upper Eastside. Owned and operated by Upper Eastside Hotel (Pty) Ltd under a franchise license agreement, the newly renovated, upscale full-service property is located in Cape Town’s upcoming district of Woodstock, a dynamic area which is home to an abundance of fashionable art galleries, boutiques, music bars and trendy restaurants. The hotel becomes the fifth Hilton Worldwide property in South Africa and the third DoubleTree by Hilton in Africa.Accommodation ranges from executive rooms and suites to luxury, two-storey duplex loft rooms located on the penthouse floor with panoramic views of the city’s best known landmarks. With both business and leisure guests in mind, DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town – Upper Eastside offers a wide range of amenities, including nine meeting rooms, a 350 -capacity function room and 24-hour fitness and business centres. Discerning guests can also enjoy Liberty’s Restaurant with its seasonal á la carte fusion-style menu created by executive chef Simon Kemp. Kemp is renowned for his professional creativity and attention to detail. Guests and locals who wish to unwind can visit the eStreet Bar and Lounge, which is open for cocktails and drinks every evening until 1am, with live entertainment on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Mike Flax, chairman of Upper Eastside Hotel (Pty) Ltd, owners and operators of the converted hotel said: “The city’s status as an attractive tourism and events hub is becoming globally recognised and the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town – Upper Eastside will help meet the growing demand for first class, branded accommodation.”

Positioned at the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations for travellers to the Continent. Known as the ‘Mother City’, Cape Town is a celebrated wine-making region and boasts world famous landmarks such as Table Mountain and Cape Point. The city is also a primary MICE destination playing host to numerous festivals and events including high profile conventions such as the World Economic Forum in May 2013 and the Design Capital Exhibition in 2014. Leisure travellers will note the prestigious 2012 World Travel honour awarded to the city as Africa’s Leading Beach Destination.

Accor announces the development of three newly built hotels in Myanmar – an MGallery hotel in Naypyidaw, Novotel Yangon Max, and Novotel Mandalay Mingalar – representing the group’s 18th market in the region.“We are excited to announce the signing of three new hotels in Myanmar – the first of which will open this year – marking Accor’s return to Myanmar,” says Michael Issenberg, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer for Accor Asia-Pacific. “Southeast Asia has long been a focus market for Accor, and as the country’s tourism industry develops, we see significant growth potential for international hotel operators with long-term experience in the region. These three developments represent yet another step towards our goal of operating 700 hotels in Asia-Pacific by 2015.”

“With Myanmar expecting a strong increase in international arrivals this year, we look forward to being a part of the development of the country’s tourism infrastructure,” says Robert Murray, Chief Operating Officer, Accor South East and North East Asia. “We expect business and leisure travellers alike will feel welcome at our iconic MGallery and Novotel branded hotels. True to our motto ‘Open New Frontiers in Hospitality’, our intention is to lead the way and accelerate the company’s expansion into this dynamic market.”

The upscale MGallery hotel in the heart of Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital city, will be the city’s first international brand hotel. The property will welcome guests with 168 rooms, 1 meeting hall, 4 meeting rooms, a cigar bar and two dining outlets, including an Italian restaurant. The newly-built property, expected to open this year, will be located a mere 15 minutes’ drive from the City Hall, Water Park and Gem Museum, and 20 minutes from Naypyidaw International Airport.

In Yangon, the country’s former capital and an important economic centre for trade and tourism, Novotel Yangon Max will be completed by the end of 2013. This newly built 366-room hotel will provide international-standard quality and services that promise true relaxation and comfort, with 3 restaurants – including a rooftop French restaurant – a bar, a 1,000 square meter banquet room, 8 meeting rooms, a swimming pool and wellness centre. The hotel is within walking distance of Shwedagon Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Market, Inya Lake, Junction Square Shopping Centre, and a 20-minute drive from Yangon International Airport.

Novotel Mandalay Mingalar, a newly-built hotel scheduled to open in in 2015, will have 280 rooms, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, a ballroom, 4 meeting rooms, a swimming pool, and wellness centre. Situated in a prime location, the hotel is near the Maha Muni Pagoda, Mandalay Palace, Shwenandaw Monastery, Mandalay Hill, and a 40-minute drive from Mandalay International Airport. Mandalay is located 716 km north of Yangon on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River and is the second-largest city in Myanmar.

Marriott International has announced plans to open a luxury resort on the private island of Sacca Sessola, located in the Venetian lagoon. The 266-room JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa will operate under a management agreement with an affiliate of Aareal Bank AG and is expected to open in 2014. Just a short boat ride from the beautiful city of Venice and in an unparalleled setting, the resort will be the JW Marriott brand’s first hotel in Italy and a world-class addition to its global portfolio of 59 luxury properties.JW Marriott is currently represented in Europe by five elegant hotels in London, Bucharest, Cannes and Ankara with the fifth joining just last year in Baku, Azerbaijan. Each hotel seeks to offer today’s discerning traveller an authentic, crafted luxury experience reflective of its locale.

“Introducing JW Marriott to Venice is an exciting time for the brand as the destination continues to be one of the most desirable in the world, famous for its stunning architecture, art, and culture,” said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe. “We are delighted to offer our guests the distinctly unique setting of Sacca Sessola coupled with the elegance and intuitive service synonymous with the JW Marriott brand.”

“Northern Italy’s Venetian Lagoon is one of the world’s most picturesque destinations, and we are thrilled to bring the JW Marriott brand to such an iconic and thriving location,” added Mitzi Gaskins, vice president & global brand manager for JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. “We look forward to bringing our guests’ passion points of Culinary, Culture and Well-Being to life at this beautifully appointed property through authentic, unique and enriching travel experiences.”

Nestled amongst Sacca Sessola’s expansive private gardens and olive groves, the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa will feature 266 guest rooms and suites designed by renowned Matteo Thun & Partners of Milan, offering exceptional comfort and refined style. The tranquil and private setting will invite guests to relax and rejuvenate, and, in harmony with the brand’s emphasis on well-being, the resort will offer a health club, spa, and indoor, outdoor and rooftop swimming pools.

The resort will also offer exceptional dining experiences in an array of restaurants and bars as well as unique event and wedding space in the form of a beautifully restored church. In addition to attracting leisure guests, the hotel is expected to be popular with the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) market with over 13,000 square feet of meeting space across a variety of meeting rooms.

Following the successful completion of its financial restructuring and CVA in October 2012, Travelodge, the UK’s leading budget hotel company, has been working with the landlords of 49 hotels to identify new operators. Further to this process, Travelodge yesterday announced that it has signed a new franchise contract for seven hotels with Moto, the UK’s largest provider of motorway service areas. In addition, Travelodge has also signed franchise contracts with individual operators for 13 other hotels.

Under the terms of the franchise agreements, the hotels will be transferred to new owners but will continue to be operated and managed by Travelodge. The new owners will be responsible for fully refurbishing these properties in line with Travelodge’s new room design and refurbishment programme which was launched earlier this year.

Travelodge also announces that it has transferred 18 hotels and the majority of staff to new operators; which includes: Best Western, Ibis and Metro Inns.

Existing bookings at these hotels have either been transferred to adjacent Travelodge hotels or will be honoured by the new operators.

Four of the properties under new ownership will be re-opened as new businesses (Two properties are being converted into student accommodation and the other two properties are being converted into an events & meeting rooms venue and staff accommodation for JCB).

Travelodge will continue to work closely with the landlords of the remaining 11 hotels to find suitable new operators and in the meantime these hotels will continue to operate under the Travelodge brand as normal.

Commenting on these announcements, Travelodge CEO Grant Hearn, said: “It is great news that we have been able to find new operators and introduce franchise contracts for the majority of these hotels. We were always confident that we would secure a future for these properties and the deals that have taken place just demonstrate the huge strength of the Travelodge brand and the success of our operations model.”

“Going forward, we are very excited to continue to grow our business, strengthen our product offering and make Travelodge the best value hotel chain in the UK.

“Our £57million refurbishment programme is well underway and by the end of this year we will have refurbished more than 50% of our hotel rooms. By autumn 2014, almost 90% of Travelodge’s estate will incorporate the new room design. This equates to an average of more than 50 Travelodge rooms being refurbished every single day for the next 18 months.

Initial feedback from our customers in regards to the new room design has been fantastic. There is no doubt the hero of our new room is certainly the Travelodge Dreamer bed”.

The iconic five-diamond, five-star Ritz-Carlton, Naples is announcing an unprecedented summer 2013 refurbishment, the first of its kind in the resort’s 27-year history. This project will be one of the largest resort renovations within The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company’s portfolio. Refurbishments will include a complete overhaul of all 450-guest rooms, suites and corridors, three dinning outlets, Artisans the “princess ballroom,” as well as various structural, mechanical and engineering upgrades throughout the property. During the expansive two-month project, set to commence on July 24, 2013, the resort will not be accepting any guests, a first in its history. While the resort is being re-mastered its sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, located just 10 minutes down the road, will be open and fully operational. Guests staying at the Golf Resort will have beach access via the complimentary resort shuttle to Vanderbilt Beach, with full Ritz-Carlton beach services and amenities as well as beach front dining at Gumbo Limbo restaurant.

“The decision to cease operations for the first time in the resort’s 27-year history is a true testament to our ongoing commitment to product and service excellence,” said Edward V. Staros, Vice President, Managing Director of The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples and one of the original founders of The Ritz-Carlton brand. “Our goal was to avoid any guest inconvenience during this time frame. When we reopen our doors on October 1, we look forward to delivering on this commitment by continuing to provide a world renowned level of luxury coupled with all the modern amenities expected by today’s global traveller.”

Interior designers, Wimberly Interiors are responsible for the new guest rooms, which will resemble a luxurious, residential beach home. The effect will bring the beauty of Naples indoors, with warm blues, greens and greys inspired by the Gulf of Mexico and its surrounding landscape. The Ritz-Carlton sophistication will play into the design with clean lines and upscale fabrics that will appeal to both traditional and modern tastes.

On the culinary front, three of the resort’s restaurants will be fully re-mastered by New York-based design agency Blue Plate. The Sushi Bar, to be re-branded The Bar, will get an extended balcony, providing additional outdoor seating with Gulf of Mexico and sunset views. The Bar interior will be divided to allow for cosier areas while also creating an open space ideal for small events and entertainment. The lounge menu will be revamped to include sushi, small bites and creative cocktails.

The Terrace will reopen as Terrazza, an Italian eatery serving three meals a day. A new glass atrium with fully retractable doors will provide a seaside café feel with indoor and outdoor seating. The popular breakfast buffet will remain, but Terrazza’s new menu and design will make it a hot spot where guests and local residents alike will enjoy a casual lunch or Italian dinner.

The Grill steakhouse and speciality restaurant will continue as a classic establishment with new contemporary accents to the furnishings and décor. Refreshing the fabrics and updating. The Grill’s mahogany touches on the walls and floors will remain. The restaurant’s selections of dry-aged beef, fresh seafood and collection of international wines will remain untouched.

The Ritz-Carlton Naples is a favourite wedding destination and as such the resort’s Artisans “princess ballroom” will be brightened with soft silvers, whites and light greys to resemble an elegant jewel box. Taking a cue from diamond wedding bands, new chandeliers will be added to the space and a restructuring to areas of the floor plan will help to expand the room while enhancing access to the resort’s numerous outdoor event venues.

This re-mastering coupled with the investments over the past ten years including a new lobby and lobby concept “Bites” as well as enhancements to other public spaces including 20,000 square feet of meeting space, demonstrates The Ritz-Carlton’s continued commitment to its guests and staff while ensuring that the resort’s reputation for world-class product and service excellence is enhanced.

This iconic re-mastering will solidify the resort’s position as the social centre of Naples, the destination that the resort helped to enhance when the hotel opened to much fanfare 27-years ago. The transformation will be unveiled on October 1, 2013, when the resort will welcome its first guests following the re-opening.

Centara Hotels & Resorts is expanding its presence in Southern Thailand with the acquisition of the management contract for KhaoLak Seaview Resort & Spa, which will be renamed Centara Seaview Resort KhaoLak this summer.The management contract was signed on 4 April 2013 with owner Seaview Resort at Khaolak Co., Ltd.

A programme of upgrades and renovations under an extensive budget is now underway to ensure that the resort is in compliance with the four-star Centara Hotels & Resorts core brand.

“We are very proud to be announcing the addition of this magnificent property to our portfolio,” says Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

“The resort is located at Nang Thong Beach, which is fast becoming the prime resort centre of KhaoLak, and it has an extensive area of beachfront.

“This is our first property in KhaoLak, a destination that we see as very strategic for our future growth in Southern Thailand. We currently have seven properties in Phuket and two in Krabi, and further expansion will be announced in the near future for both the Andaman coast and the Gulf of Thailand.”

The resort originally opened on 1 November 2008 and has a total of 218 rooms, of which the majority are deluxe category with one king-size bed, or two queen-size beds for families wishing to stay in one room. Connecting rooms are also available. The other categories of accommodation are all villas, most of them being pool villas.

Dining facilities include an all-day restaurant serving Thai and international foods, selection of speciality outlets and the resort will include a Spa Cenvaree.

The resort is also designed for meetings and events, with the largest function room able to hold 400 guests for cocktails or in theatre style, and a conference room that can hold up to 200 people, and which is divisible into three.

Chris Bailey, Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing at Centara Hotels & Resorts, says that the location, size and room types make the resort a perfect addition to the group’s core four-star brand portfolio.

“The resort is about 1 hour drive from Phuket International Airport, and less than 2 hours drive from Krabi International Airport,” he says. “The facilities are very family friendly, and are also ideal for couples and groups.

InterContinental has opened in the heart of Westminster on the site of the historic Queen Anne’s Chambers. Design of the public and guest spaces was undertaken by Interior Designers RPW Design, London, working with lead architects Dexter Moren Associates.Located alongside New Scotland Yard, and The Ministry of Justice, the Chambers were built in the 1800’s and have been used for various purposes since, including as a hospital. The brief from RPW Design was to create a luxury hotel space, of contemporary and distinctive design, within the unique 19th Century structure, whilst referencing nearby New Scotland Yard, and St James’ Park.

Alarwool manufactured over 6000sqm of custom woven face to face carpet for the guest rooms and over 4500sqm of custom axminster for the public areas.

Centara Hotels & Resorts will open its third resort in the Maldives during the latter half of 2014, following the signing of a management contract with Maldivian company RPI Private Ltd.Centara Hudhufushi Resort & Spa is currently under design and planning, and will be to international four-star standards.

The resort, which will have approximately 110 rooms, will be located on the east side of Lhaviyani Atoll, 25 minutes by seaplane from Male International Airport.

The contract signing took place on 14 September 2012, and the resort is being developed under an investment cost of USD36 million.

“We are very much looking forward to the opening of Centara Hudhufushi Resort & Spa, which will be our third resort in the Maldives,” says Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Marseille is set to welcome a new exquisite luxury hotel opening within the heart of the city on April 25th: the InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu.Perched atop Le Panier, the oldest part of France’s second largest city, InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu is a majestic XVIIIth century building, a former Hotel Dieu.

The building, designed by a nephew of Mansart, contains impressive staircases, vaulted passage ways and large terraces, overlooks the city and offers spectacular views of the Vieux Port and the iconic Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica.

A magnificent location for a unique building that is a listed monument!

The InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu is the most significant and impressive of Marseille’s 5* hotels, offering 194 rooms, including 22 suites. 72 rooms showcase sensational, panoramic views of the Vieux Port and a number of suites have imposing private terraces overlooking the stunning city centre.

From the hotel windows one has the impression of being within the beating heart of this bustling, ancient city which, due to its booming tourism and cruise industry, has been nominated European Capital of Culture in 2013.

Entrusted to the capable hands and creativity of Jean-Philippe Nuel, a renowned expert in luxury hotel design, the architecture of the InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu remains faithful to the spirit and the history of this venerable institution. Its minimality echoes the ancient monuments of the city, while also drawing its inspiration from the Mediterranean Ocean, the cradle of civilization.

Press statement from Accor: “Paris, June 28, 2012 – Mercure is accelerating its expansion and revamping its hotels with a global refurbishment program. The brand also plans redynamize its image by continuing to build a strong, attractive and coherent brand for its customers, teams and partners.

2011 was a record growth year for the brand which opened 80 hotels worldwide, including 63 under franchise contracts. This dynamism makes Mercure a key player in the midscale segment, which is the world hotel industry’s core market and one that appeals strongly to both investors and franchisees.”
In January 2013 I received an invitation to attend the opening party of the Mercure Milton Keynes. A rebranding. I wasn’t able to attend the opening but did accept an invitation to go and take a look at the property at the end of February. I must admit I didn’t do my homework so I didn’t realise that Milton Keynes was home to Bletchley Park and not just the home of over 500 roundabouts. If I had, then I might have tried to wangle a couple of nights so I could go visit the birthplace of the first computers, which were developed and installed there as part of the key wartime effort to break enemy codes in the second world war.

However just spent one night at the hotel and I was impressed. The first time I have been impressed by a Mercure. Previous visits (see the Review of the Mercure Troyes) have shown me hotels without restaurants (even including the boutique M Gallery version the Francis in Bath), so I was impressed that the new owner is determined to develop a business based not just on bedrooms but on his food and beverage offering. Primarily I was impressed however by another professional interior design job done by a designer who obviously knows hotels. Shocking, in a nice way, after my visit to Ampersand to find a second exemplar of professionalism so quickly, delighted with interiors that worked, were harmonious and deserve to bring clientele and repeat business to an hotel that an Accor executive apparently described as “the best Mercure in the UK” to the owner.

Accor unveiled its strong ambition for the Luxury/Upscale market during the recent ITB Berlin trade fair. With a current network of 300 hotels (65,000 rooms worldwide) on this segment, Accor intends to expand to 400 hotels by 2015.The Group has adopted a different approach to luxury, based on its French origins, that places boldness at the heart of hospitality. On a highly segmented market, each of Accor’s four complementary brands is carefully positioned to meet the whole range of clients’ and owners’ needs.

“One can now count on a strong European voice in the luxury and upscale market. Our brands combine the best of international standards and an audacious interpretation of the universal essence of luxury due to our French origins” explains Yann Caillère, Accor President and Chief Operating Officer. “Our ambition for our brands and their network are immense and we are perfectly tailored to expand rapidly on this market.”

With strong leadership positions in Latin America, Middle East Africa and Asia Pacific, Accor is very well positioned to capture the new and rapidly growing demand from emerging market clients, in quest of a different experience of luxury and high-end hospitality.

Currently, 42% of the Group’s luxury/upscale hotels are located in Asia Pacific and 35% are in key European cities. Development will be conducted in asset light with a prominence of management contracts, the Group’s preferred model on the luxury/upscale segment. Focus will be on emerging markets, including Latin America, Middle East and Asia Pacific which counts, on its own, over 60% of the current pipeline (key countries include China, Vietnam and Indonesia). The segment’s gross revenue has raised by 15% in 2012.

Decorative electrical wiring accessories specialist, and audio and lighting control systems manufacturer Hamilton Litestat has launched a new catalogue for architects, designers and specifiers, which is the first of its kind for the company. A4 sized and perfect bound, the catalogue features information on all Hamilton products in one place for the first time, replacing Hamilton’s previous literature, which comprised separate inserts. Each colour-coded chapter contains information on a particular Hamilton range, including wiring accessories collections as well as audio and lighting controls. Details include product images and diagrams, product codes, technical specifications and case studies highlighting where the products have been used. “We’re delighted to be able to offer our customers ‘The Hamilton Collection’ catalogue for the first time,” commented managing director Ian Hamilton. “It’s been designed as a one-stop-shop for all our products, to make specification even easier. It showcases the broad range of products we provide as well as our bespoke design service, Savile Row. We hope it will become a well-thumbed addition to many architects’ and designers’ bookshelves.”

To request a copy of the new catalogue, email info@hamilton-litestat.com or call 01747 860088. A ‘pocket sized’ A5 sized version is also available on request.

Contact Hamilton Litestat via their website for more details.

Worldhotels is pleased to announce the latest addition to its portfolio, the Grand Harbour in Southampton, part of the Westmont Hospitality Group. The hotel overlooks the Southampton waterfront and Cruise Harbour and is known for its towering glass atrium, which gives the hotel’s facade its signature look.The Grand Harbour’s 173 rooms offer inland as well as sea views and provide all amenities necessary for a comfortable stay. Additionally, guests can enjoy two restaurants both offering contemporary cuisine or the candle-lit spa. The meeting facilities can accommodate up to 500 people. The different meeting rooms can be set up in 12 different configurations and can be accessed via a separate entrance.

A nautical theme can be found throughout the hotel – for example, all of the meeting rooms are named after ships that sailed to America in 1620.

“The Grand Harbour is an excellent hotel in a key corporate location for us”, states Worldhotels’ Managing Director Robert Hornman. “We are very excited about this addition to our portfolio.”

Rob van der Beek, Senior Director of Hotel Development, adds, “The hotel offers everything business travellers and meeting planners are looking for – yet it still maintains that quirky uniqueness we look for in our hotels.”

The hotel’s General Manager, Steve Grant, is looking forward to partnering with Worldhotels: “What we need is a global player with a strong Sales force worldwide, but one that lets us stay who we are. We’ve found Worlhotels to be a perfect partner.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced a significant commitment to its Le Méridien hotels in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region through a comprehensive renovation strategy. Le Méridien and its ownership groups will invest more than $200 million in the renovations of 13 hotels and resorts in the MEA region over the next 3 years. The French-born brand has had a major presence in emerging Middle Eastern and African markets for more than 30 years, and as this region continues to evolve as an international business and leisure travel destination, Le Méridien has developed a focused approach to ensuring its global portfolio continues to meet high brand standards.”Since acquiring Le Méridien in 2005, Starwood and its hotel ownership groups have made a tremendous effort to enhance and create a consistent portfolio around the world,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Le Méridien and Westin. “Le Méridien now boasts the best performance measures in the brand’s history, and our focused efforts on the Middle East and Africa hotels will only help ensure Le Méridien maintains its best portfolio ever.”

Le Méridien recently announced 10 new hotel openings over the next year, an unprecedented number for the brand, and as the European-rooted brand continues to grow globally, the consistency of its portfolio remains a key priority. The 13 Le Méridien hotels and resorts completing or currently undergoing renovations include:

Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort (Fujairah, United Arab Emirates)
Le Méridien Al Khobar (Saudi Arabia)
Le Méridien Dubai
Le Méridien Heliopolis (Cairo, Egypt)
Le Méridien Ile Maurice (Pointe Aux Piments, Mauritius)
Le Méridien Jeddah (Saudi Arabia)
Le Méridien Makkah (Saudi Arabia)
Le Méridien Mandji (Port Gentil, Gabon)
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi (Dubai)
Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa (Cairo, Egypt)
Le Méridien Re-Ndama (Libreville, Gabon)
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi
Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa (Dubai)

Additionally, Le Méridien will this year add a new hotel in Egypt, where the brand currently operates four properties. Le Méridien Cairo Airport will open in September 2013. Located at Terminal 3, it will be the only hotel with direct access to Cairo International Airport terminals. Le Méridien Cairo Airport will feature 350 guestrooms, a 24-hour restaurant, specialty restaurant, coffee bar, lobby bar, lounge, fitness center, and swimming pool. The hotel will have approximately 750 square meters of meeting space, including a business center, ballroom, and six meeting rooms, for a variety of business functions.

Many of these renovated hotels along with Le Méridien Cairo Airport will integrate the Le Méridien HubTM experience into existing public spaces, re-interpreting the traditional lobby into a social gathering place for curious and creative minded travelers to converse, debate, and exchange. Le Méridien Hub offers both guests and locals an inspiring atmosphere where contemporary, curated artwork sets the environment and a sophisticated café experience sets the scene. Le Méridien Hub further builds on the brand’s award-winning arrival experience consisting of four elements: large-scale artwork in high impact areas to reset the mind and stimulate dialogue and curiosity; the sensory experience, illustrated through Le Méridien signature scent, sound and use of light, creating a unique and distinctive atmosphere; UNLOCK ARTTM programme, featuring LM100 TM artist designed key card collections that not only offer access to the guestroom but also to Le Méridien affiliated contemporary cultural centers in the city; and a 24-hour soundtrack.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.