Is this the coolest boutique hotel to open in Portugal this year?
Forget Lisbon for the moment, and instead join us in Cascais – the ‘the Portuguese Riviera’, which is home to a new 19-key Artsy Cascais that could just be Portugal’s coolest boutique hotel to arrive in 2023…
Artsy by name, Artsy by nature, Artsy Cascais in Cascais – the ‘the Portuguese Riviera’ could possibly be the coolest boutique hotel that has emerged on the Portuguese hospitality scene this year.
It has grown out of a 19th-century mansion, in which guests checking in breathe the history not only of the property but also of the village. It sits alongside a newer, more contemporary building that has a striking facade designed by local urban artist Vhils, whom who some critics have called the Portuguese Banksy. This external Vhils piece is one of the most impactful and differentiating aspects of this hotel.
Image credit: Matilde Espirito
Central to the hotel, which is a meeting place between craft and history, is the art narrative that plays out in the 19 rooms and suites – from the lighting to the walls. From photography to contemporary works, the art has been curated to add a new layer to the design. What’s more, guests who stay in the modern wing with six Artist Rooms (two of which with a small terrace) have the unique experience of sleeping inside a sculpture and waking up surrounded by the light that passes through the exterior’s artwork. The historic wing has 13 rooms with high ceilings and large windows that allow for ample sunlight and magnificent views of the streets and gardens of Cascais.
Image credit: Conçalo Miller
Architect Pedro Gomes Fernandes oversaw the re-imagination of the original building that combines the modern with the historic, maintaining the original Rococo features that date from 1899. The link is apparent in the purity of forms and in the use of materials that respect the delicacy and elegance of the old construction, integrating it with what is new. A glass structure now unites the two buildings, representing the ‘direct’ passage between the 19th century and the 21st.
Image credit: Matilde Espirito
Trained architect Marta Carreira oversaw the transformation of the property. Although she is an architect by trade, she found a passion for interiors having worked with Atelier Graça Viterbo. While Artsy is Carreira’s first luxury hotel project, she brought character to the project.
Her guiding idea was to immerse the hotel in its surroundings, bringing elements of the sand and the sea into the rooms. Her work also takes us back to the beaches of Cascais and to the bohemian vibe of a village that’s often called the Portuguese Riviera.
Image credit: Conçalo Miller
However, she didn’t neglect the historical memory. She collaborated with Fipsi Seilern, a London-based artist who explores urban art and who designed a copy of a self-portrait by Rembrandt that superimposes this same piece of graffiti.
Like art, lighting plays a major role in this hotel. Carreira worked with designers Gwendolyn and Guillane Kerschbaumer from Atelier Areti on the light fixtures for the restaurant and hotel passageways. In the rooms and suites, meanwhile, there are lamps from GUBI, a Danish brand linked to Bauhaus, and MENU, another, more contemporary Danish brand.
Image credit: Conçalo Miller
Timeless pieces such as the suspension lamp by Gino Sarfatti in the library bar reinforce the idea of the balance between novelty and permanence. All the furniture in the hotel was designed by Carreira, except for a set of striped sofas by Ferm Living in the library bar.
The character of the interior design scheme spills out onto the rooftop, which is the perfect location to leave you; poolside while enjoying a sundowner overlooking a beautiful and perhaps different perspective of this part of Portugal.
> Since you’re here, why not listen to our latest podcast episode, which explores ‘unconventional narrartives in design’?
LedsC4 designed the lighting for Juno House – the first women’s member’s club founded in Barcelona with a holistic outlook to personal well-being and professional development of women…
Guided by its NYC roots, Juno House, with its lighting designed by LedsC4, is a hub for creativity, productivity and international synergies. Founded by a team of women from the United States and Spain, the project is located in the heart of Barcelona in one of the city’s most emblematic buildings. The house, located on Diagonal & Aribau, has been designed to offer business, wellness and motherhood services for the modern woman looking to grow her career and streamline her day in a chic and elegant setting. Designed as a catalyst for collaboration and a refuge for work/life balance, Juno House aims to make life easier and more inspiring. From motherhood to career reinvention, the concept aims to provide a safe space for members to grow.
Image credit: Marta Vidal
Image credit: Marta Vidal
To provide the project with the right lighting, LedsC4 opted for luminaires in its Decorative collection. These included table and floor lamp models from the Tubs collection, with a unique design and mellow but powerful light projection, Tubs is perfect for large spaces. Voiles, the artisanal collection by Céline Wright, illuminates the space with its pendant model and its asymmetrical shape made with Japanese Washi paper. The final statement comes from Bloom, with its charming design and the simplicity of its forms, it completes the lighting project, standing out in the space given the gentle nature of its profile.
LEDSC4 is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, reveals its restoration
The historic Phoenix resort, Arizona Biltmore has opened the doors on its property-wide refresh taken on by an impressive team of respected designers and consultants – all honouring the property’s legacy while including contemporary touches for a new era…
Built almost a century ago, Arizona Biltmore is known as one of the grandest resorts of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Inspired by the innovative geometric designs of his mentor and Arizona Biltmore’s consulting architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Albert Chase McArthur built the resort to reflect its desert surroundings. In recent years, the iconic property has been restored to its former glory by a team of respected designers and consultants from Virserius Studio, PHX Architecture, Serving the Nation, Inc., Burton Studio and Wimberly Interiors.
Image credit: Michael Baxter
“We sought to revitalise the property, while preserving its iconic legacy,” explained Therese Virserius of Virserius Studio. “Our aim was to honour the remarkable work of Wright and McArthur, while simultaneously modernising and enhancing the luxurious guest experience for a new era.”
“Rather than merely replicating the original structure, we sought to pay homage to these renowned architects by reimagining their vision using modern methods and materials while remaining faithful to their timeless design principles,” added Erik Peterson, founder of PHX Architecture.
In keeping with the property’s architectural style, the structural aesthetic remains true to Wright’s flowing ‘textile block’ design, evident in the horizontal lines, handmade craftsmanship and open-plan layout strewn with custom facades and materials like fine porcelain, ornate stained glass and mosaics. The restoration itself included McArthur and Wright’s original ‘Biltmore Blocks’, created from desert sand onsite and designed with interlocking lines to form a pattern across the building’s facade. The 34 different arrays of blocks are arranged to create a sense of movement and rhythm resembling notes on a musical scale.
Image credit: Madison LaBerge
The team replaced 6,000 of the blocks requiring repair by using the same techniques and materials as the original blocks, accompanied by hand-embroidered furniture built in the spirit of the traditional design and a replating of the eponymous gold-leaf ceiling in the Gold Room. Modern upgrades were mindfully navigated to maintain historical integrity, including the seamless implementation of technology throughout the main building and updates to rooftop air conditioning units. In keeping with Arizona Biltmore’s stunning surroundings, Burton Studio integrated desert-inspired landscaping throughout the property, complementing Frank Lloyd Wright’s beloved Sprite statues as well as the new ‘Treasures of Heaven’ art installation.
The revamped spaces include two pools for adult and family visitors, standalone cottages that combine the resort’s chic aesthetic with plush amenities, dining venues clad in natural textures and the all-new Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden – a holistic wellness experience rooted in the cosmos and Earth’s four elements.
The resort’s cottages have been magnificently refreshed with the intention of creating a home-like ambiance. Each cottage houses an inviting living room, awash in earthy colours and framed by woods and stucco walls, along with bespoke furniture pieces and lighting by Virserius Studio and Imaggo Production. Additional repairs included the iconic stained glass and rooftop patios. From each guestroom, a lush corridor leads to the outdoor terrace with a firepit and dazzling mountain views. Live plants are maintained by a self-planting trough that cools down the space. The tailored elements seamlessly combine with Wright’s signature concrete patterns contrasted by woods and glass, providing both transparency and privacy.
Image credit: Michael Kleinberg
At the heart of the resort, the Spire Bar and Event Lawn offers magnificent views of Piestewa Peak and an alfresco space canopied by a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired structure, all supported by its eponymous spire at the centre. A colourful Spanish mosaic wraps around the bar, topped with a ramada decorated in a geometric flower in backlit glass. Each evening, the setting sun upon the spire creates an elegant light show, and adjacent trees’ glow changes from red to purple. Curved banquettes distinguished by custom tiles and fire pits are complemented by the ‘Luxe Twist’, a bespoke art installation clad in multi-coloured lights, created by New York-based artist Rob de Oude.
Image credit: Arizona Biltmore Waldorf Astoria
Reflecting the resort’s storied past while incorporating contemporary touches, the Wright Bar’s design utilises space and light for a stunning atmosphere, with stunning contrasts of richly coloured furniture against the Biltmore Blocks. Luxurious peacock feather tiles adorn the bar in shades of teal and midnight blue and modular sofas are strategically positioned to encourage socialisation and provide flexible seating arrangements. The bar’s Art Deco geometric patterns use opulent tones to create additional depth and layering, with details such as hand-picked stones and custom leather-wrapped handrails. The ceiling pattern is a subtle nod to Wright’s famous geometric designs, incorporating a monochromatic palette to complement the overall design of the space.
Thomas Hart Shelby Photography
The recently opened Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden houses 12 treatment rooms and a range of therapies inspired by the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The spa’s 2,600 square metres of space pays tribute to both the earth and the moon and offers a unique array of experiences including the mud and crystal bar and onsite astrology readings. Amenities such as indoor/outdoor treatment rooms, lounge, steam showers, bathtubs, curated library and plush seating display a desert-chic aesthetic The Sol Garden offers stunning mountain views and ocotillo coves and includes a cold plunge pool, hot tub, invigorating rain shower and a wellness bar that serves immune-boosting cocktails and zero-proof refreshments for a transformative experience.
Set behind the Spire Bar and reserved for adults, the stylish Saguaro Pool is guarded by its namesake, a majestic 140-year-old cactus named ‘Lloyd’ that lies just beyond the pool gates. Chic, air-conditioned cabanas, each with a geometric design back wall flanked by lush living walls, line a side of the pool. Dotting the pool deck outfitted with Spanish titles, are large, vibrant mosaic ‘pebbles’ by Italian manufacturer Bisazza.
The reimagined Paradise Pool for families now features a triple water slide aptly named ‘The Twist’, along with a delightful splash pad. Before taking the exhilarating ride down its Wright-like curves, circles and spirals, stunning desert views are visible from the peak of the slide. Luxurious, air-conditioned private cabanas can be found just steps away from the Paradise Pool, with a swim-up bar and poolside dining available for refreshments.
Main image credit: Arizona Biltmore Waldorf Astoria
Hyatt Hotels has announced the first phase of opening for Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, which will offer guests a premium experience in Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The property will be the first Hyatt hotel in Montenegro…
Set against the backdrop of majestic cliffs and the Adriatic Sea, Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort is ideally located on the outskirts of Kotor, one of the country’s most charming cities celebrated for its preserved old town. Seamlessly blending urban convenience with breathtaking vistas along the Montenegrin coastline, guests will be surrounded by a picturesque fjord-like landscape of unparalleled beauty. With this new addition to the Hyatt Regency portfolio, the brand’s intentional growth further showcases Hyatt’s commitment to offering travel experiences in places that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members.
“The Balkan region serves as a driving force for the rapid growth of the hospitality industry and our Hyatt Regency brand is strategically positioned to enter emerging markets,” said Takuya Aoyama, Vice President Development for Hyatt. “We are honoured to work with Krolbay d.o.o. Podgorica to bring our resort experience to one of Europe’s most rapidly developing destinations.”
Image credit: Hyatt Hotels
After finishing touches are completed, Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort will be comprised of 205 guestrooms, offering an upscale experience inspired by the sophisticated allure of its coastal surroundings. Embracing natural hues and incorporating tastefully subdued blue design accents, the resort creates an inviting contemporary atmosphere for its guests. The property will also feature two outdoor pools, an indoor pool and private waterfront access.
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
For enhanced wellbeing, guests of the resort will have access to a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a dedicated space for yoga and pilates and expansive spa facilities. These amenities provide the perfect environment for relaxation, allowing guests to find serenity while enjoying panoramic views of the bay and mountain scenery.
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort is also expected to feature six dining venues, which will include: The a la carte Restaurant Lighthouse, inspired by the Mediterranean coastal yachting lifestyle of the bay featuring fresh ingredients from the area, combined with new world wine and beverage options. The Blue Restaurant will focus on a medley of local and international dishes, with a Montenegrin food corner promoting the region’s rich local gastronomic heritage. The Hedonist Rooftop Restaurant will offer modern interpretations of traditional Balkan cuisine taking guests on an epicurean journey through the peninsula. The property’s three bars will cater to guests day to night, providing the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful morning coffee or relaxed evening cocktails.
Embracing a contemporary eco-design approach, Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort places significant emphasis on the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. True to the spirit of the brand, the hotel is poised to be a go-to gathering space for every occasion – from inspiring business meetings to relaxing family vacations. With memorable event spaces, the property sets the stage for impactful meetings and celebrations, accommodating approximately 10 to 160 guests.
Villeroy & Boch launches its own range of taps and fittings
Ceramic, furniture, taps – a coordinating bathroom design brings all components together in perfect harmony. With this in mind, Villeroy & Boch has launched its own comprehensive range of taps and fittings…
Villeroy & Boch have tailored eleven different collections, from entry level to premium, to coordinate seamlessly with its bathroom range and to impress with easy installation, precision workmanship and functionality.
Perfectly coordinating ceramic and taps impress in terms of both aesthetics and functionality and Villeroy & Boch has designed its new range of taps with painstaking attention to detail. There is one noticeable difference, the taps incorporate key design features of the bathroom collections. For example, the linear but gently rounded ‘soft square’ shapes of Subway 3.0 and the modern lines and colours of Loop & Friends. This provides additional planning security as well as ensuring quick, easy and reliable installation of bathrooms.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
The collection consists of a total of 11 designs, starting with O.novo Start, for professional solutions in the entry-level segment, through to the luxurious Mettlach tap, a unique tribute to 275 years of Villeroy & Boch brand history. As well as taps tailored to specific collections – including Antao, Subway 3.0, Architectura, O.novo and Loop & Friends – universal models such Liberty and Dawn can be combined ideally with different collections. A selection of finishes from classic chrome to matt black and brushed gold or nickel open up extensive scope for bathroom designs tailored to every taste and budget.
With the Villeroy & Boch brand standing for first-classic materials and precise workmanship, the company insists on top quality for its taps too: from the selection of high-quality components to workmanship and dimensional accuracy. Designed and tested in Germany, they combine functionality with durability and efficient use of water. This is achieved thanks to clever functions such as AquaSmart, which limits water consumption to an environmentally friendly five litres per minute. In comparison with a traditional tap, this can result in water savings of up to 60 per cent – with no compromise in performance or comfort. EasyClean, on the other hand, protects surfaces from stubborn deposits – eliminating the need for aggressive cleaning products and protecting the environment. All taps meet European standards and have been tested for the most demanding requirements.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Universally combinable shower taps and fittings as well as accessories such as soap dispensers and towel holders add the finishing touches to the range. The new Villeroy & Boch taps offer a perfect fusion of aesthetics and functionality, and are an ideal choice for anyone wishing to design a stylish and high-quality bathroom.
Villeroy & Boch is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Architect Rachel Hoolahan on ‘next-gen’ design thinking
‘Next-gen thinking – designing for the future’ was a talk offered as part of Havwoods’ Clerkenwell Design Week programme, brought to you by Hamish Kilburn, Editor of Hotel Designs, and architect Rachel Hoolahan, Associate and Sustainability Coordinator at Orms…
Rachel Hoolahan is no stranger to Hotel Designs. Having been on our radar for a few years – she has appeared on DESIGN POD and a number of roundtables for good measure – the architect and now Associate at Orms is the studio’s official Sustainability Coordinator. But more than that, Hoolahan is an ambassador for the entire industry, collectively, to work together to become more conscious of the environmental and social impacts of our actions – while championing intuitive and thoughtful architecture.
Image credit: The Standard London. Architecture by Orms
For this reason, when asked to moderate a session on ‘next-gen design thinking’ by the team at Havwoods during Clerkenwell Design Week, Hamish Kilburn, Editor of Hotel Designs seamlessly asked Hoolahan to join him for an honest, open and safe conversation about what will drive positive change on tomorrow’s design and hospitality landscape.
Hamish Kilburn: Tell us about your journey in architecture – where did it all start?
Rachel Hoolahan: I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, so I committed to some work experience at an architecture firm when I was 16 and fell in love with it! From there, I went on to study architecture in Dublin and went on to work at Weston Williamson in London on the Paddington Crossrail station in my work year, before returning to Ireland for my first full-time role.
I’ve always been curious about space. You know, the ‘wow’ moment, but also where great design makes you feel truly comfortable and part of the design. It’s that sense and feeling that you get, without being able to pinpoint exactly what it is.
Image caption: Hamish Kilburn, Editor of Hotel Designs and Rachel Hoolahan, Associate at Orms, came together during CDW 2023 to discuss next-gen design. | Image credit: Havwoods
HK: How did your sustainability role come into play when at Orms?
RH: We love a challenge at Orms, so rather than thinking about sustainability as an add on, we think about it from within – it’s our ethos. I’ve always been curious and conscious of sustainability within the industry, so I carved out this position by learning and educating myself. I’d allocate time in my week to read and research interesting people and brands, listen to podcasts and read articles. As you learn and become more knowledgeable in this sector, you are then in that position to ask the right questions with both clients and suppliers.
HK: How important is the circular economy in future design?
RH: As an architect, we have so much power and influencer from the start, so we can think consciously about everything we’re doing at every stage. The circular economy is a necessity, not a choice. There are so many materials already in existence, so we need to start thinking about how they can be re-used and re-purposed – but as part of this process, we need to do our due diligence to find out where it came from and how it has been made.
Material passports are a great way to do this. They offer an opportunity to gather and organise data about materials contained within a building. An initiative like this has already received great funding from all over the world – it shows that you don’t have to compromise on design, but instead, you can add to it with materials already in circulation.
Image caption: Throughout CDW 2023, the Havwoods showroom was open and thriving to the design community. | Image credit: Havwoods
HK: How do you work with your hospitality clients so that they understand the importance of circular economy in future design?
RH: Hospitality is one of the most exciting industries to work in as people are more open-minded and experimental. When working on a new project, we give both a budget and a carbon budget. For example, if a client loves a certain material, we help them understand the decision they’re making and what impact that material has on the environment. Whilst we want to ensure the brief is met and matches their specifications, we can then advise from there and offer alternatives if we need to.
HK: What is the answer to being sustainable?
RH: Persistence and education. The design needs to be prevalent and impactful beyond the finished result. We guide both clients and suppliers about how they can be sustainable and meaningful in the long term.
HK: What can we learn from the next generation of designers and architects?
Rachel: This generation are the first that know nothing other than sustainability. Being environmentally conscious is woven through the narrative from the beginning. It’s really refreshing working this way as this generation are empathetic and really care. We always try and include junior designers from the start and support them as much as we can. It’s vital to prep your team and give them that time, and that nudge – however most of the younger team I work with are very confident anyway!
Havwoods is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Bulgari Hotel Roma, the Roman brand’s tribute to its hometown, has officially opened its doors onto the Piazza Augusto Imperatore in a landmark event on the Rome hotel scene…
Last night Bulgari unveiled its ninth and newest property, Bulgari Hotel Roma, to a select audience with an array of spectacles from live music and dance, to exceptional cuisine and a majestic drone show. The hotel is the second hotel in Italy and ninth of the jewels in the worldwide Bulgari Hotels & Resorts collection, which currently includes properties in Milan, London, Paris, Dubai, Beijing, Shanghai, Bali and Tokyo, with openings scheduled in the Maldives and Miami (2025) and Los Angeles (2026).
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
The celebrations began with Bulgari Group CEO Jean-Christophe Babin hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony in front of an original 1 B.C. statue in Pentelic marble of a seated Augustus covered with a cloak and portrayed with the traditional attributes of Jupiter welcoming the guests at the Hotel entrance – a Roman sculpture from Villa Mattei al Clelio part of the quinquennial exhibition in the Vestibolo space of five Torlonia Collections’s works recently subjected to study and restoration conducted by the Torlonia Foundation with the contribution of Bulgari.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
“The Bulgari hotel in Rome is not just a new gem of the Eternal City, but a true contemporary and innovative Roman monument,” said Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari Group CEO. “It combines the pinnacle of hospitality and gastronomy setting a new world standard, but also a genuine cultural centre with a public library on Roman arts and architecture and unique statues from the world famous Torlonia collection such as the Emperor Augustus welcoming our guests in the entrance vestibule. The hotel offers a unique full immersion in a new luxury combining hospitality, arts and craftsmanship, pioneering a new generation of Haute Hospitalité Monuments. We are honoured to contribute to the splendour of Rome, home of Bulgari and always an inexhaustible source of inspiration for all its creations. Looking forward and epitomising the inclusive, aspirational and contemporary city of the 21st century.”
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
Located at number 10 in the very central Piazza Augusto Imperatore, in the Campo Marzio area, a stone’s throw from Via del Corso, the Piazza di Spagna and also the historic Bulgari store on Via Condotti, the hotel is a unique entity in the Maison’s history, because of Bulgari’s unbreakable bond with the city where it was founded nearly 140 years ago and also the opportunity it provides to express the spirit of the city, describing it with a contemporary twist. The Bulgari Hotel Roma is a celebration of the most refined qualities of Rome, reaching beyond clichés and is a showcase for the best Italian design and craftsmanship, a great heritage that is celebrated through a myriad of details.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
The hotel is unquestionably the jewel in the Bulgari crown and offers the relaxed elegance of 114 luxurious guestrooms and suites. Like the hotel’s public spaces, they are designed by the Milan-based architectural studio ACPV Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, who are responsible for the signature look of all nine Bulgari Hotels and Resorts worldwide, while the Studio Polis of Rome and architect Gennaro Farina, curated the design and supervision of the restoration works of the building, the decorative apparatus and was also involved in the urban planning.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
The link between the Bulgari Hotel Roma and the vision and historical time of the emperor Augustus is guaranteed by the presence of the statue of seated Augustus. Positioned in the center of the entrance vestibule, this statue is the first in a series of five, whose restoration has been sponsored by Bulgari and which will alternate in the exhibition.
“In the Bulgari Hotel Roma we aimed to recreate the quest for beauty and sophistication,” said Patricia Viel, architect and CEO at ACPV Architects “and also the variety of tastes, origins and histories perfected in polychromatic craftsmanship and techniques, which were typical of the Augustan era.”
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
The hotel has 114 guestrooms, many of them suites. They are decorated in four different colour palettes – white, yellow, red and green – and every one of them enjoys a splendid view over Piazza Augusto Imperatore or Via della Frezza, a small street full of Roman charm. Located on the third floor, the Bulgari Suite covers 300 square metres and has a spectacular view of the Mausoleum of Augustus.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
In addition, the property offers five different types of catering, all curated by the renowned chef Niko Romito. The recipient of three Michelin stars for Reale, his restaurant in Abruzzo, Romito has been in charge of all culinary experiences for Bulgari Hotels & Resorts since 2017. With its magnificent view onto Piazza Augusto Imperatore thanks to its location on the fifth floor, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito presents a menu of contemporary Italian cuisine, created exclusively for Bulgari Hotels & Resorts by the chef, in a warm and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant opens onto a large outside terrace, with a view of the historic Mausoleum of the Emperor Augustus and of the Ara Pacis. A private dining room can seat up to eight people.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
On the same floor, the Bulgari Bar is the perfect place to socialise while sipping iconic cocktails. It features a large black marble bar decorated with cones in Murano glass that reflect the light, while outside there is a large lounge terrace with its own bar area. In La Terrazza the Bulgari Hotel Roma has something that is unique: with its extraordinary rooftop position, with cabanas and lounge areas, it boasts breathtaking views of the city skyline. The landscaping of La Terrazza, which was designed by P’Arcnouveau, is that of a typical Roman terrace, with over 200 pots holding a very wide range of plants and native flowers; it is reminiscent of the ancient Roman residences such as the Villa of Livia and Hadrian’s Villa.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
Looking onto Via della Frezza, the first Bulgari Dolci boutique in Italy delivers a luxury experience composed of delicious sweets, such as Bulgari’s celebrated ‘chocolate gems’ and a selection of traditional Italian pastries from the La Pasticceria – Niko Romito menu. Alongside the entrance foyer, with a view onto Piazza Augusto Imperatore, the Lobby Lounge is reserved for hotel guests throughout the day. It provides a refined and exclusive atmosphere, with a menu that ranges from afternoon tea to aperitif. The Bulgari Hotel Roma also houses a Library holding a collection of fine books on Roman art, design, history and architecture. This will be open not just to hotel guests but also, upon appointment, to the general public.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
The hotel lounge, located to the left of the entrance foyer, is reserved for hotel guests and has a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. With a fireplace, its own bar and a private outdoor area beneath the portico, it is the perfect place for a work meeting, afternoon tea or a glass of champagne, accompanied by sweet and savoury snacks.The floor design pays tribute to the 1930s parquet of the Bulgari store in Via Condotti, and the wall is lined with large bookshelves and photos of the Dolce Vita Rome of the 50s and 60s. This room especially showcases the brilliance of Gio Ponti with a display of his beautiful trumpet vases produced by Richard Ginori between 1923 and 1933 when he took over as artistic director. Completing the décor is furniture by Maxalto, lamps by Fontana Arte and carpets by Altai.
Image credit: Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
Truly a temple to wellbeing, where body, mind and spirit can find a new balance, the Bulgari Spa recreates the atmosphere and experience of the ancient Roman baths. The heart of this 1500 square metre oasis of peace is the large natatio, a 20-metre pool decorated with glistening mosaics by Bisazza, reminiscent of the motifs seen in the celebrated Baths of Caracalla, which are also a source of inspiration for Bulgari’s Divas Dream collection. Eight columns clad in ribbed arabesque marble rise up in the centre of the pool, which is fed by two bronze spouts that echo Morpurgo’s fountain and that were forged with the same lost wax technique that was used for statues in ancient Greece. The two mosaic niches contain two rare 19th century terracotta statues which represent the allegory of beauty and of silence.
Inspired by majestic riverside homes, Zoffany resumes its textile tour of London with Arcadian Thames, where nature breathes and romantic gardens thrive…
For more than 300 years, the Arcadian Thames has provided a balm for the soul, enabling Londoners to experience a glorious waterside idyll, flanked by ancient woodland and flower strewn meadows, as the river meanders from Hampton to Kew. Landscaped gardens fringe commanding palaces and grand historic houses, dipping their bankside toes into the cool, swell beneath. Meaning ‘rural paradise’, arcadia is a place of virtue and pleasure, narrating centuries, encouraged by the Age of Enlightenment and it’s less restrictive way of thinking. A successor to the formality of Tudor and Stuart times, its eddying waters are where writers, poets and artists gathered.
Comprising five prints, five weaves, two embroideries and six wallcoverings, this latest collection pays homage to the revolutionary vision of 18th century nobility, with a curation of enduring masterpieces that celebrate their unwavering commitment to preserving the English landscape.
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
“It’s always a joy to shine the light on a little known story, especially when it stems from London, Zoffany’s hometown,” said Peter Gomez, Lead Designer, Zoffany. “The stretch of river that forms the Arcadian Thames holds so much historical significance and of course, a unique, natural beauty – it’s rare these two components are appreciated collectively. Our interpretation of the Arcadian Thames revisits London in an unexpected way, capturing a snapshot of life, and the prominent influences of its residents.”
Providing the cornerstone to all its designs, archive documents, sympathetically reinterpreted for today, bring together a combination of form, pattern and colour to create a harmonious aesthetic that is intuitively Zoffany. Arcadian Thames continues Zoffany’s support of emerging talent, introducing artisan embroider, Livia Papiernik, from the Royal School of Needlework and subsequently the Royal College of Art. Titled Hampton Embroidery, Livia’s exquisite, decorative piece is hand finished with traditional French knots and a combination of advanced stitching techniques. An exquisite blend of pattern and storytelling, paying homage to Jacobean embroidery and the heraldic beast statues which decorate Hampton Court Palace. This considered piece is embellished with hand finished detail and decorative stitching.
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
The Grand Tour introduced this style of Italianate baroque gardens to the aesthetic of English stately homes. Taken from a 19th century block printed wallpaper, this interpretation is printed on a paper backed fine textile ground giving the illusion of fabric on the wall. Drawing from a world class pool of talent, Zoffany has commissioned acclaimed mural artist Melissa White to capture the very essence of the Arcadian Thames in an atmospheric three metre panel. Hand drawn using traditional chalk paints, the design frames a vista of riverside life, incorporating elements from London’s Scion House, Garrick Villa, Strawberry Hill House and Hampton Court. Her magnificent painting with its far reaching views, follows in the footsteps of arcadian discovery, preserving a poetic scene curated by an authentic hand.
Sanderson Design Group is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
The opening of the Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars marks a key milestone in Hyatt’s strategic growth in the capital as the ninth Hyatt hotel in the city…
In the last five years, Hyatt has increased its brand presence in the UK from five to 13 properties, with six of those based in London. The 204-key Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars is the 14th property in the country, demonstrating the United Kingdom as a priority growth market within its diverse and evolving brand portfolio.
Housed in a grade II listed building on the former grounds of King Henry VIII’s Bridewell Palace, Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars claims a prime spot in London’s business and leisure district. In line with the Hyatt Regency brand ethos, the hotel has been intuitively designed for productivity and peace of mind, with an environment for guests to work, connect or relax. Well-appointed guestrooms and suites boast contemporary finishes, quality amenities and dedicated workspaces. Three dynamic and diverse food and beverage concepts are poised to become new local culinary destinations. Meanwhile a trio of versatile group spaces offer to host a wide range of meeting and events in this desirable central London location. Guests also benefit from access to a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness centre.
“We are delighted to welcome guests to Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars situated alongside our neighbouring landmarks, businesses and cultural attractions,” said Laurent Schauder, General Manager of Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars. “With our welcoming service, inventive food and beverage offerings and ideal location, Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars is soon to become the hotel of choice for anyone looking for a memorable experience in the heart of the city.”
Image credit: Hyatt Hotels
Designed by THDP Ltd, the hotel’s interiors are influenced by its local history. The building’s past life as one of King Henry VIII’s royal palaces is referenced in the materials used throughout the hotel, with marble ceramics and gold finishes evoking its former regality. With Fleet Street, the historic hub of printing and publishing, just around the corner, Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars pays homage to the craftsmanship of the trade through the bespoke artwork inspired by the art of newspapers that adorns its walls.
The 204 guestrooms and suites provide impressive views of the listed buildings that once held iconic printing presses, while others offer the chance to marvel at the famous skyline of the city of London. With 10 room categories and up to 70 square metres of space, guests can enjoy the hotel’s modern guestrooms, complemented by ergonomic work areas, rainfall showers and comfortable aesthetics.
Image credit: Hyatt Hotels
Three innovative food and beverage concepts are set to mark Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars as the new destination for inspired cuisine and mixology. The Chinese Cricket Club fuses traditional techniques and the finest ingredients to offer a contemporary take on Chinese classics. The restaurant is named in honor of the captain of the Shanghai XI cricket team, Feng, who travelled to England in 1857 with his bride, Xiu. When arriving to Blackfriars’ docks, the couple made their way to Limehouse, where Xiu opened the first traditional Chinese restaurant in London. Their legacy lives on in the inviting backdrop of The Chinese Cricket Club and its rich and diverse menu of homemade dim sum and signature specialties.
New York and London meet at NYnLON, a neighbourhood-style bistro that celebrates the charm, heritage and influence of the two great cities. The all-day menu brings together local and sustainable dining, with elevated comfort food favorites, accompanied by an extensive drinks list showcasing authentic American whiskies and exceptional natural wines.
Get lost at The Leaf and Cane, a 1920s inspired hideaway offering a vibrant atmosphere and delightful street food paired with crafted cocktails and premium rums. Bringing the lively flavors of Latin America to central London, The Leaf and Cane immerses guests in a colourful jungle, inviting them to uncover its hidden garden, secret stone vaults and innovative mixology.
For seamless events in the city of London, Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars offers up to 430 square metres of multifunctional event space. Two medium-sized spaces have been designed to optimise productivity and are well suited for meetings, or small group gatherings. The main function room can seat approximately 150 people and is an ideal choice for conferences or large events, benefitting from technology-enabled features, enviable transport connections and a sophisticated city location.
Leaflike – flying the biophilic flag in hotel design
By incorporating natural elements into the design, a hotel can both reduce its environmental impact and improve the wellbeing of its guests. Leaflike, a company with biophilic design at its core, identifies ways to help hotels achieve sustainability while improving their spaces aesthetically and functionally…
Biophilic design is all about incorporating elements of nature into the built environment – from plants and natural materials, through to views of the outdoors. The documented benefits of this design approach include improved air quality, reduced stress and increased productivity. Additionally, research indicates that hotel guests are willing to pay 23 per cent more for rooms with a view of biophilic elements, while having attractive planting displays in hotel lobbies, increases dwell time by up to 36 per cent.
Image credit: Leaflike
Biophilic design for hotels can assist in improving air quality, with plants helping to filter the air and remove pollutants which, in turn, improves the guest experience. Plants also help to regulate the temperature in a hotel, which can lead to reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. Studies have shown that people who are exposed to natural elements are more productive, with nature and natural references helping to reduce stress and improve focus.
Image credit: Leaflike
With sustainability as a core value, Leaflike works with hotels to create sustainable planting solutions – something that has recently been recognised by receiving a gold Ecovadis award for their commitment to sustainability. Ecovadis is a global sustainability rating system that assesses the environmental, social and ethical performance of companies. Leaflike was awarded a Gold Ecovadis rating for their strong performance in all three areas.
Hotels that are committed to sustainability recognise that their supply chain and partners have a significant impact on driving sustainability. Partnering with businesses that already reach or surpass sustainability standards is a good place to start. Some of the ways that Leaflike is committed to sustainability include: Using sustainable materials in the planting solutions, such as recycled plastic and reclaimed wood. Conserving water by using drip irrigation and recycled water. Reducing its carbon footprint by using energy-efficient lighting and by offsetting its carbon emissions. Providing sustainable options including recycled planters, hydroculture planting, flower rejuvenation programmes, living biophilia, the Everleaf preserved range and natural moss walls. Providing maintenance that ensure longevity and health of plants, reducing the need for replacement and promoting sustainability.
Image credit: Leaflike
Focussing on assisting hotels to incorporate biophilic design into their spaces, Leaflike have created a biophilic checklist for hotels wanting to choose sustainable options: Use sustainable materials – when choosing plants and other materials for a biophilic design, opt for those that are sustainably sourced and produced. Consider the water needs of the plants – not all plants have the same water needs, so it’s important to choose plants that will thrive in the environment being created. Choosing plants that are drought-tolerant or that require less water, will help to conserve water resources. Incorporate designs with preserved products– these real plants that have been preserved do not require any water and last a very long time. Use natural light – natural light is a great way to bring the outdoors in, and it can also help to reduce energy consumption. And finally, incorporate water features. Water features can help to improve air quality and reduce stress levels and can also help to cool the air in your space, which can reduce your energy consumption.
Creating a space for your guests using biophilic design is both beautiful and sustainable. Leaflike provide the full service including consultation, design, installation and maintenance. The expert team is committed to helping the hospitality industry move towards a more sustainable future.
Leaflike is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
In conversation with: James Bermingham, CEO of Virgin Hotels
Rob McGibbon sits down with James Bermingham, CEO of Virgin Hotels, to discuss competition, growth strategy, fashion’s role in hotel design and the faint possibility of a Dublin arrival…
Virgin Hotels is starting to hit its stride, with eight hotels now open and many more in the pipeline. Leading this expansion is its dynamic, Dublin-born CEO James Bermingham.
Appointed in March 2021, Bermingham was tasked by Sir Richard Branson with firmly establishing the Virgin brand upon the global hotel landscape, as well its culture and, most significantly, its customer experience. Well, so far, he’s not doing too badly in what is a congested arena.
Hotels are now thriving in New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Nashville, Dallas and Edinburgh, with Glasgow due to open this year. Miami and Denver follow in 2025.
Image caption: Virgin Hotels New York City. | Image credit: Michael Mundy
One of its most recent openings – and the group’s first hotel outside of the US – was in Edinburgh. The ambitious project required the company to convert the historic India Buildings on Victoria Street into a colourful and stylish boutique hotel. It has 222 rooms – or ‘chambers’ as they are known – including ‘Sir Richard’s Flat’ and ‘Eve Branson Suite’.
Image caption: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, designed around its architecture, shelters a unique and unexpected dining experience. | Image credit: Virgin Hotels
As you would expect, there are many Virgin-style twists to the tried and tested hotel themes. This is very much in keeping with Virgin’s groove to shake things up when it enters a market. Just look what it has done to air travel and cruising.
Bermingham began his hospitality career more than 35 years ago in Dublin, followed by 10 years in London, including executive roles with Sheraton. In America, he held General Manager roles at the St. Regis in Houston and the Montage Laguna Beach in California.
Image caption: James Bermingham was appointed CEO of Virgin Hotels in March 2021. | Image credit: Virgin Hotels
Since 2008, he was EVP operations for Montage International, where he oversaw all aspects of operations for the Montage and Pendry Hotel brand’s seven hotels and resorts.
Soon after the exuberant and headline-grabbing Edinburgh opening, interviewer Rob McGibbon checked in with Bermingham to peak inside the Virgin Hotels brand and find out what makes it tick and what plans are in store…
Rob McGibbon: Talk us through what makes a Virgin Hotel, and how it sets itself apart from the competition…
James Bermingham: Virgin Hotels are contemporary by design, yet grounded in the local community. The aim is to be welcoming to all, with a thoughtful approach that is comfortable and playful, even daring at times, but never stuffy or over the top. We try to strike a perfect balance of form and function, but never style over substance.
Image caption: Suite life inside Virgin Hotels New York City. | Image credit: Michael Mundy
RM: Why Edinburgh, and why now?
JB: Edinburgh is a vibrant city and the opportunity to partner with the Flemyn Group to reimagine the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town was too good of an opportunity to pass up. The hotel’s design incorporates key elements of Edinburgh’s history and culture, such as traditional artwork and architectural details, keeping the heritage of the India Buildings alive. This is the perfect opportunity to introduce the brand to the UK and to Europe and we hope that people can see that Virgin Hotels really want to be hyperlocal. We want every hotel that we do to reflect the history, the culture, and the people of the destination.
RM: What were the major challenges bringing the Virgin Hotels brands outside of the US – entering the hospitality market in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
JB: Virgin is such a global brand, which makes any introduction to a new market easier. The UK was an obvious choice for the first location outside of the US, given Virgin’s roots in the UK and history. I have long admired Virgin Hotels’ ability to seamlessly blend smart and innovative design with elevated service and – maybe most importantly – fun. Watching the brand grow into itself as a reliable haven for both leisure and business travellers, without sacrificing its inherent ‘cool factor’, has been exciting.
Image caption: Playful and plush. The ‘chambers’ inside Virgin Hotels Edinburgh are bursting with personality. | Image credit: Virgin Hotels
RM:The Virgin Atlantic uniform is iconic. There are lots of conversations at Hotel Designs around fashion’s role in hotel design. What role does fashion have in the Virgin Hotels brand?
JB: We support all creative entrepreneurs and take special care on the design of our uniforms to reflect the local culture and hotel spaces. One unique thing we do is work with the interior designers to concept uniforms so it’s a cohesive experience.
RM:Can you tell us a bit about your career background and what in your past jobs has prepared you best for the challenges of running Virgin Hotels?
JB: I fell in love with hospitality when I got my start working for my brother in his kitchen as a dishwasher. My career progressed from there in a number of roles in sales and marketing in London with ITT Sheraton and The Luxury Collection, eventually coming to the US and working with various luxury brands, including St. Regis and Montage International. Virgin is such a disruptive brand and delivers hospitality so uniquely in a differentiated way, that after an extensive career in the hotel business, I feel like I’m starting all over again.
Image caption: Designed to be unapologetically different, the Oculus Lounge inside Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. Image credit: Virgin Hotels
RM: What has it been like working with Richard Branson? What has he taught you and what does he bring to the hotels brand?
JB: Richard has taught me how to have fun and truly make the business fun for everyone. Fun is at the core of what we do and something that resonates with our guests – we love what we do. Richard has also taught me how important it is to take care of our people and our planet, and how that in turn is good for business. Virgin has a unique way of seeing things that challenges the creative process every step of the way, and that makes work exciting and fulfilling.
RM: What does Virgin Hotels look for in their interior designers and architects? What is the core brief they get?
JB: We look for a design firm that’s in the market so we get an inside-perspective on what resonates with locals as well as in-bound guests. We often use first-time hotel designers for a fresh take on the hotel experience.
RM: If you could choose one iconic hotel location and property anywhere in the world that you could acquire and transform into a Virgin Hotel, which would it be?
JB: I would personally love to open a Virgin Hotel in Dublin. It’s my hometown and the Virgin brand would really resonate with the Irish culture, where the ‘craic is 90’. I would target a hotel that has played a significant part in Irish history.
Image caption: Designed to be unapologetically different – think statement-red bath tubs and taps – Richard’s Flat inside Virgin Hotels Edinburgh in one of the property’s premium suites / chambers. | Image credit: Virgin Hotels
RM: Which hotel do you always look forward to staying in yourself – other than a Virgin Hotels?
JB: When I’m in Japan I love staying in a traditional Japanese Ryokan – it’s inspiring to see how they deliver traditional Japanese service and cuisine, and they are often built around hot springs.
RM: The worst hotel experience in your younger years?
JB: Thinking back, really any hotel that was overtly stuffy and boring, or hotels that felt very exclusive instead of inclusive.
RM: What, from a design perspective, makes this hotel special in the portfolio?
JB: Being a Grade 1 listed building and the historic nature of the building, coupled with its location in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make it unique and like no other hotel in our portfolio.
Image caption: The awkward and restricted architecture of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has become its greatest strength. | Image credit: Virgin Hotels
RM: One of the pitfalls brands fall into when ‘scaling up’ is for their hotels in the portfolio start to look uniformed. How do you inject individual personality into the hotels while also keeping the brand identity strong?
JB: We work with local design firms and much of the inspiration comes from the destination, so the hotels always have a local point-of-view… not only informing design, but also informing our culinary direction, partnering with local chefs, etc… all with the ‘red thread’ of Virgin woven through.
RM: Where’s next for Virgin Hotels?
JB: Miami and Denver are next in our pipeline, with additional locations that we are excited to formally announce soon. This feels very much like just the beginning for Virgin Hotels…
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit to debut this summer
With a design inspired by famous Bangkok landmarks,Thailand will soon open the doors of its first INNSiDE hotel, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit – a design marvel that ‘challenges convention’ and crowned with with a sky-high transparent infinity pool…
Situated in the heart of the action in Bangkok’s lively On Nut neighborhood, the 208-key INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s stunning design draws inspiration from some of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks such as the Chao Phraya River and temples Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew. continuing the theme, the tapas bar’s angled lines and cabling reference Rama VIII Bridge. Graphic glass walls hung in the 31st floor all-day dining restaurant depict state park Sanam Luang, while the rooftop pool area features a contemporary interpretation of Brahman structure The Giant Swing.
Image credit: Meliá International
Guests will soak up Bangkok’s mesmerising skyline from the soaring windows of an expansive 32nd floor co-working space. Bespoke social and corporate events make the most of the hotel’s creative, playful meeting rooms and multifunctional areas, such as the aptly named Big Ideas Space, that underscore the INNSiDE brand.
“In a first for Bangkok, we’re giving our guests the freedom and flexibility to move seamlessly from work, to leisure, to wellbeing,” said Ignacio Martin, Meliá Hotels International Managing Director for Asia Pacific. “Our new lifestyle hotel enriches the everyday experience with multi-purpose spaces, stand-out service, and inspiring local influences.”
Image credit: Meliá International
The lifestyle hotel’s pièce de résistance is the spectacular two-story infinity pool that, together with the rooftop pool bar, crowns the hotel’s uppermost floor, the 34th floor. At the Spanish tapas bar on the 33rd floor, each and every seat is an opportunity for a culinary pilgrimage across Spain. With classic tapas, Spanish wines, beer on tap, cocktails and signature sangrias in hand, tapas bar guests peer into the bottom of the swimming pool; a visual wonder unrivaled in Bangkok.
Beyond its Spanish roots, the hotel’s dining landscape highlights local cuisine. All-day dining “Kites Thai Eatery” celebrates local food throughout the Kingdom, with quality ingredients sourced from local farms. The Open Living Lounge, a café and lobby bar integrated into the 32nd floor’s coworking space, serves grab-and-go barista coffee and morning pastries, Spanish afternoon tea, and Thai and Western comfort food.
Image credit: Meliá International
“Together with my imaginative team, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit would have to be, hands down, the most dynamic hotel project I’ve worked with hitherto; the buzz is palpable,” added Aarron Nelson, General Manager, Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvi. “Our new hotel challenges convention by offering the unexpected, with its endless opportunities to seek stimulus, inspiration and adventure with every step – and occasionally time to relax too.”
A short ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport and close to Bangkok’s largest convention centre, BITEC, the hotel is also home to a 24-hour gym and a concierge service. A ban on single-use plastic and recycled glass bottles for drinking water are among the hotel’s raft of sustainability efforts.
Wellness at Waldorf in Doha – the pearl in the ESPA crown
Checking in to the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha, writer Pauline Brettell discovers all the levels of wellness along with the considered elements of design on offer in the ESPA flagship spa, spread over three levels of this curvaceous hotel on the edge of the Arabian gulf…
Transforming Doha from a stopover into a destination has been a key part of its development, as travellers are invited to venture beyond the airport to discover the city along with all the levels of luxury and hospitality housed within its striking skyline. Moving out from the air-conditioned airport into the warmth of the Doha desert breeze, already felt like a step in a restorative direction – and that was before even setting foot within the cocooning luxury of the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha and embracing all the ESPA elements of wellness on offer.
Image credit: Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha
Driving across town, the hotel rises up along the coast of the newly developed Lusail area, with its striking architectural structure inspired by the concept of flight. The design, by WATG, is all about curved forms and sinuous lines, which define the exterior shell and travel all the way though the property, giving the space a very literal sense of flow. There is not a sharp corner in sight and the entire hotel feels a little like it is preparing to set sail.
Stepping out from a guestroom finished in colours reflecting the sky above and the ocean beyond is a seamless transition, and the sweeping balcony that wraps around the hotel makes a strong linear statement on every level. I can now also say from experience, that it is the perfect place to relax with a cold glass of wine while watching the sun set over the gulf – because luxury hospitality is about real experiences and moments that live long in the memory.
After surveying the sunset and admiring the designer lines of the facade, it was time to step back inside and embark on a slightly more introspective journey of wellness with the ESPA team.
Image credit: Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha
From the pared back palette of the guestrooms, to its iconic Peacock Alley and through to the spa, there are two striking elements about this property – one is the attention to detail within the design narrative, from the construction of the façade – and its subtly striated surface material – through to the characteristics of the books on the shelf next to your bed, while the second, is lighting, which again plays a role in furthering that storyline. Every element is underscored by the plot that is particular to the Waldorf Astoria Lusail.
While embracing the international ethos of the brand, this Waldorf still tells a story of location through materials, colours and other visual references. Focussing on the history of Doha’s pearl industry, the opalescent surfaces and orb like lighting all contribute to the Doha story that has been seamlessly merged with elements of New York Art Deco that is quintessentially Waldorf.
The interiors are a collaboration between some of the most established designers in the hospitality arena, and include WATG, David Collins Studio, Pierre Yves Rochon and Nulty Lighting. All have translated elements of this Doha narrative while retaining the essential elements of international luxury that is associated with both the Waldorf and ESPA brands.
Image credit: ESPA
The synchronicity between ESPA and Waldorf Astoria feels like the peaches and cream – or should that read as the chia and coconut – of collaborations and is one that has elevated the spa experience, on both the design and a wellness front, moving the concept of luxury into a far more holistic realm, that is both restorative and aspirational. This spa is certainly not a destination in the basement, nor is it located at the far end of the hotel, it is instead a key part of what the hotel offers and has been integrated into the design over three levels, with an unprecedented amount of space and attention being given to wellbeing detail. It encompasses feeling and lifestyle as much as it does the treatments it serves.
Before even entering the spa, the design draws you into the space visually with the entrance marked by a series of gently illuminated arches, creating one of those enticing design moments, almost channelling guests into a new state of mind.
Having stepped though the portal into the wellness realm, the space – designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon (PYR) – opens up into a light and bright interior that is again punctuated by atmospherically lit corridors, which direct you to quieter areas and treatment rooms. Importantly, all the senses are engaged at every turn, as light and shade, shape, texture and scent all contribute to the whole experience. Before you even embark on a treatment, you are part of a sensory design journey.
Image credit: ESPA
The spa design is again part of the Doha narrative. Here, the PYR studio has taken inspiration from the Arabic fable where ‘pearls are created from dew drops during the nights of a full moon’. This sets the tone for the design and is quietly referenced throughout, with the representation and the illusion of the pearls consistently threaded through the space.
The journey then continues to unfold as you move from the reception into the lounge, where the statement lighting acts as a further, gentle nod to the design inspiration. The surfaces used throughout, are pages from the same book, as the pearly tones and textures alternatively shimmer and reflect through the space.
Consistently, lighting is fundamental in expanding the narrative and transitioning and defining areas according to function. The treatment rooms feature soft, low lighting. The treatment pools maximise reflective lighting off shimmering mosaic surfaces, while the gym, sheltering a more energised atmosphere, is full of natural light drawing from its indoor/outdoor location.
Image credit: ESPA
The design and concept behind the ESPA spa is indicative of the direction of luxury hospitality and wellness. It is the full story of restorative wellness and how design can compliment that process that is indeed the luxury here – it is about lifestyle and it is about giving guests the tools to continue this journey beyond the hotel and spa walls.
It is also about how this voyage of hospitality is integrated into the fabric of the hotel. Yes, there are private treatment rooms, but there is also an emphasis on communal spaces. There are wellness areas that involve social connection, like the hammam, the curated F&B offering, or as in our case, the opportunity to take the yoga class outside onto the pier – although even in the gentle early morning Doha sunshine, the session felt a little more Bikram than Hatha, so make sure you pack your SPF factor 50!
Atlas Concorde & HBA launch 5 exclusively signed designs
A collaboration inspired by common values, Atlas Concorde and HBA have launched five decors that all have a cosmopolitan feel…
Atlas Concorde and design studio HBA have unveiled the labour of their recent collaboration in the development of the Marvel Travertine collection, a project of excellent ceramic surfaces accompanied by an exclusive proposal of textures and geometric patterns designed by HBA.
Image credit: Atlas Concorde
The partnership has been established on shared values and commonality of the corporate cultures of Atlas Concorde and HBA: more than 50 years of experience, international vocation, focus on innovation, trends, and environmental issues. Atlas Concorde is one of the leading international players in the production of porcelain surfaces. HBA is one of the world’s leading hospitality design firm with extensive experience and knowledge of the hospitality sector and a widespread international presence. It currently designs spectacular independent and contemporary hotels, resorts, spas, casinos, restaurants, cruise ships and boutique-hotels, as well as world-renowned high-class residences.
“We and Atlas Concorde share the same passion for design and excellence,” said Ian Carr, CEO, HBA. “As designers of the cities of the future, we have a responsibility to conceive and create spaces that fully respect the environment and people. The surfaces of Atlas Concorde allow us to fully fulfil this mission.”
Image credit: Atlas Concorde
Marvel Travertine represents a collection of extreme realism, inspired by one of the most iconic stones of architecture: Travertine. The collection interprets the grandeur of the inspiration stone in a contemporary key, echoing its look but transforming it into a surface of excellence thanks not only to the shared passion of Atlas Concorde and HBA for architecture and design, but also by a strong bond based on shared values and visions. In addition to having shared research on the potential of the travertine look with Atlas Concorde, HBA exclusively signed a proposal for decors suitable for any type of residential, commercial, and hospitality project.
“After listening to HBA’s vision of architecture and hospitality design as well as the projects that inspire them, I immediately sensed that our organisations shared similar values,” added Maurizio Mazzotti – CEO of Atlas Concorde. “Their talent, connection to their own history, and vision for the future of design architecture make them an important partner who can strengthen our position in the world of prestigious international design.”
Image credit: Atlas Concorde
The collection is a unique range of geometrical patterns created by HBA and characterised by engravings, minimalist patterns, origami effects and inclusions of precious materials that can be used in a variety of project types: residential, commercial, and hospitality.
The partnership with HBA produced this unique range of five decors with a cosmopolitan feel for the collection, combining the experience and creativity of its international and multicultural team.
Tassellation: mosaic composed of triangles and squares that fit together dynamically. The effect of movement is accentuated by the alternation of the two graphics (Vein Cut and Cross Cut).
Origami: mosaic inspired by Japanese art of the same name, creating the three-dimensional illusion of diamonds emerging from the surface.
Basketweave features a woven look created by the different directions of the veins of the Vein Cut finish. Some details of the Cross Cut version ensure that the decor can be combined with both graphic versions.
Chiseled Urban Grid: a decor characterised by a balanced succession of marks and engravings across the entire surface. It features a pattern of minimal lines typical of urban architecture, inspired by ancient stone engraving techniques.
Diamond is a decor with striking ray geometries on the surface speckled with refined inclusions of precious metals.
Atlas Concorde is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
A small format matt tile also available in a striking 3D option, Pembury from Parkside brings a unique look to commercial interiors…
Pembury is a new soft touch matt tile from Parkside, with 23 per cent recycled content, that provides a solution for interiors needing the durability and low maintenance of porcelain tiles. Designed in 12 warm and cool neutral shades with variation for an organic look, the tile adds a smart finish to wall and floors. Pembury’s 3D lozenge relief design adds interest to feature areas on walls and can be complemented by coordinating square (10cm x 10cm) or rectangular (5cm x 15cm) formats.
“Pembury’s Bauhaus feel and luxurious colour palette is something unique and certainly creates a strong language,” said James Journet Sales Design Director, Parkside. “Joining our collection of design choices, it gives fresh scope for designers to add a high-quality aesthetic to their interior with the durability, practicality and hygiene of porcelain tiles. The tile’s 23 per cent recycled content also means it joins our wide offering of sustainable tile choices.”
The lozenge design of Pembury’s 3D tile gives a high quality contemporary twist on Bauhaus, echoed in modern neutral colours such as the terracotta red of Mattone, fern green of Salvia and the crisp off-white of bone. These classic tones have been refreshed and updated for a luxurious palette. Pembury is a tile that’s modern, yet with a distinct and familiar reference.
Pembury’s matt finish enhances its understated luxury feel, for a floor and wall tile that offers the longevity of porcelain, but which has a soft natural quality that brings an unexpected look to tiled areas.
Parkside is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
The Naturalmat sustainability strategy – committed to being a force for good
To demonstrate transparency and accountability, Naturalmat recently published its second Impact Report, in which it shares exciting new projects, partnerships and initiatives. We take a look at a few of the highlights as the company works towards the 2025 goals in its Sustainability Strategy…
Since 1999, Naturalmat has pioneered the use of organic and natural materials to create wonderfully comfortable beds and mattresses at its workshop on the banks of the River Exe in Devon. Committed to being a force for good from the very beginning, sustainability continues to be firmly at the heart of the brand.
Over the last year Naturalmat has become the first B Corp certified bed company in the UK. The recognition that the company meets B Corp’s rigorous criteria confirms that its sustainable approach, right from the start, has been the correct one. The widely recognised status was awarded following a two year process of evaluating various parts of the business, such as staff welfare, packaging, energy supply and wider relations with suppliers and the community.
“It feels truly rewarding to be recognised as the ethical business we’ve always strived to be and join this powerful global community of organisations working together for a better tomorrow,” said Mark Tremlett, Founder, Naturalmat.
Image credit: Naturalmat
In addition, the brand has formed three impactful partnerships to tackle sleep poverty as it remains on a mission to make a better night’s sleep accessible to all. By working with organisations and charities such as Cotton Lives On, The Lullaby Trust and FRC, it has been able to provide those most in need, with a safe and healthy mattress to sleep on.
Image credit: Naturalmat
Image credit: Naturalmat
As part of the company’s commitment to sustainable sourcing, it has invested in regenerative systems, which restore biodiversity and improve soil quality for increased carbon absorption. This has so far involved funding regenerative projects on three farms across 1,936 acres of Devon farmland.
From reusing fabric offcuts to creative ways of repurposing nursery mattresses, Naturalmat are forever seeking ways to reduce waste. Last year, the company reused 1,276kg of offcut wool from its workshop, forming an endlessly recyclable loop.
Naturalmat is also determined to become more energy efficient as it continues to grow. In 2022, its emissions per £mn of turnover decreased by 9.3 per cent and more than 50 per cent of the energy it used was generated by the solar panels on the roof of the workshop.
To find out more, you can read the 2023 Impact Report here or pick up a copy from one of Naturalmat’s showrooms located in London, Devon and the Cotswolds.
Naturalmat is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
‘Specifying sustainable fittings should be standard,’ says GROHE
Jacob Allan Leader, Hospitality UK, LIXIL EMENA and GROHE, provides us with an insight from the bathroom brand, highlighting the importance of specifying sustainable fittings…
According to recent research commissioned by the Consumer Council for Water, it was found that 94 per cent of people underestimate the amount of water they use per day. Over a fifth of participants in the study believed their household used less than 20 litres per day, when the average usage per person is actually 152 litres of water per day.
Image credit: GROHE
When we use water, we tend to forget about the existential value it has and that it is not an infinite source that we can take for granted. Turning off the shower when soaping or reducing the water flow when brushing your teeth is tried and tested advice for water efficiency. However, this alone will not significantly reduce water consumption.
The bathroom is no stranger to technological innovations and in recent years, such tech advancements have evolved, granting us greater opportunities. With solutions now in place to improve personalisation, accessibility, and sustainability all while improving overall user experience, there’s little room not to utilise these options as standard.
Image credit: GROHE
Fittings with flow limiters reduce water consumption from 10 litres per minute to just 5 litres per minute, with an integrated aerator providing the same voluminous feel. For improved energy efficiency, taps have been developed that only run cold water when the lever is pushed beyond the middle position, forcing users to have to actively choose to use warm water. Small and discreet changes like these not only raise awareness of more sustainable consumption but also help to reduce a building’s carbon footprint.
A key part of the global water scarcity solution is green specification. Here, architects, developers and installers can help by opting for products designed with sustainability in mind as a first instance. Some may be discouraged from investing in resource-saving fittings due to the common misconception that the level of performance and experience, will be compromised. However, with modern technology and innovations, this is no longer the case as product development allows us to create sustainable products without compromising on elements of design and performance.
Image credit: GROHE
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) provide the product-specific environmental performance data that can be used when conducting the whole building LCA. In several markets – France and the Nordics in particular – EPDs are already considered business-critical.
EPD data is independently verified against a set of international and European standards for the construction industry. There are standardised rating frameworks for different product categories. This means that specifiers and procurement professionals can directly compare the lifelong environmental impact of products within the same group, enabling them to make more informed product choices.
We need to change how we use water – and we need to start today. Our resources are being stretched to new limits, and alongside the impacts of the climate crisis, this is making water scarcity a daily challenge for more and more communities across the globe.
GROHE is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Six Senses, known globally for cutting through the noise of greenwashing to offer meaningful socially and environmentally conscious hospitality, is the latest hotel brand to announce its arrival in Saudi Arabia. Just how ethical is this hotel development move? Editor Hamish Kilburn writes…
Saudi Arabia continues to be the burning topic of conversation among the hotel design community. With brands such as Marriott, Four Seasons, Hyatt, YOTEL and now Six Senses announcing they are moving in to the region, the kingdom has unsurprisingly become the fastest-growing tourism destination in the G20.
Despite the region being put under the harsh spotlight regarding how any hotel development plan on this scale can be sustainable, it continues to attract global designers, architects and operators who are helping to design, build and shape the new hospitality hotspot.
Amaala, which spans more than 1,600 square miles of unspoiled natural reserve, will be the setting for Six Senses’ first hotel in Saudi Arabia. The region is blessed with dramatic coastal scenery, majestic mountainous backdrops, pristine white-sand beaches, and untouched coastal reefs.
Image credit: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas
Six Senses Amaala will serve as a canvas on which to paint an experience of a lifetime, and was named one of Saudi’s hottest hotels in 2024. Integrated into the unique landforms, the beachfront residences, a hillside village, and villas that line the private mangrove bay offer varied accommodation options to suit all guest preferences. They blend the natural raw beauty of the site with the understated purity and elegance of the brand’s sustainable design standards.
The 64 rooms, six suites, 30 villas, and 25 branded residences, designed by architects U+A and interiors by Studio Carter, are inspired by the region’s traditional coastal villages, which seamlessly integrate with the naturally occurring topography and use locally sourced materials. They will be located on one of the most dramatic landforms along Amaala’s Triple Bay area, offering panoramic views across the Hijaz Cove to the Red Sea. The meandering streets and paths that crisscross the site lead to enchanting plazas with glimpses of the Pura Cove and its iridescent blue lagoons.
The central feature of the site is the dramatic Mesa, featuring spectacular overhangs and caves. Eons of wind and water erosion have scored the limestone to reveal fossilised corals and mollusks that stand testimony to the ancient history of this land. To the north, the village opens onto the long sweeping beaches of Hijaz Cove, home to a beach restaurant, family pool, and branded residences. To the south, the village leads around the point to natural rock pools, pocket beaches, and a mangrove boardwalk to access the spa, which will set up home in a private cove.
Meanwhile, spa facilities will include a cryotherapy chamber, longevity clinic, and male and female thermal areas featuring Finnish and infrared saunas, herbal steam rooms, salt rooms, vitality pools, and ice baths. The Watsu pool, sound dome, yoga platform, and multi-sensory relaxation areas will all be used for taking time to restore and reconnect.
Layered onto the resort’s facilities will be a host of activities based on Amaala’s three pillars of ‘wellness and sports’, ‘arts and culture’, and ‘sea, sun, and lifestyle’. Guests will be immersed in the aromas and flavors of the region as they pass the coffee roastery, bakery, water bar, and shisha tea house. There will also be clubs for kids and teens, prayer rooms, and communal lounges. Incorporating the Eat With Six Senses philosophy of natural ingredients, local and sustainable, and less is more, all-day dining menus will feature Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences.
“We are connected by a shared commitment to the practice, appreciation, and advancement of arts and culture, wellness, and environmental preservation,” said Neil Jacobs, CEO, Six Senses. “Six Senses Amaala is part of a holistic hub for the arts, a leading diving destination, an extension of the Mediterranean yachting corridors, and an integrated wellness community, all of which we hope inspires guests to embark on transformative personal journeys.”
In addition to the hotel, Six Senses Amaala will feature 25 branded residences, from three to six bedrooms. They have been carefully positioned to balance seclusion with moments of togetherness while opening to uninterrupted coastal vistas. The central courtyards function as a way to connect separate living pavilions while reflecting the vernacular architecture and lifestyles of the Arabian Peninsula.
Sustainability is at the core of every facet of the resort’s building and operating practices. This includes a dedicated desalination plant that has zero impact on the pristine coral reefs and a ban on single-use plastics. All wastewater and organic waste will be used for agriculture and the organic farm. Energy requirements will be met using renewable sources in line with the development’s zero carbon footprint. With the ambition to become a top diving and yachting destination, emphasis has been placed on conserving the marine and coastal ecosystem.
John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, the developer behind Amaala, added: “I am delighted to announce this partnership based on shared values with such an iconic brand. The resort is situated within one of the most dramatic landscapes along Triple Bay, with a stunning backdrop of the bay itself and panoramic views of the pristine Red Sea coast. This announcement also comes at an exciting time as we are close to welcoming the first guests to Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, which will open in the coming months. Our growing relationship with the Six Senses brand across our expanding portfolio reflects our belief in the quality of operations they bring to every property, and our shared commitment to protecting and enhancing the environment.”
Six Senses Amaala is set to open as part of the first phase of the Triple Bay development.
Main image credit: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas
First images revealed of new guestrooms & suites inside The Dorchester
The design narrative evolves. The Dorchester has revealed the first images of its new guestrooms and suites, designed by Pierre Yves-Rochon, following an epic renovation project…
Ever since The Dorchester teased us with the re-opening of The Promenade – the beating heart of the Mayfair hotel – the industry has been awaiting exactly what the new guestrooms and suites inside the iconic London hotel will look like.
Wait no longer. Led by ReardonSmith Architects, the highly-anticipated rooms and suites, designed by Pierre Yves-Rochon, take inspiration from neighbouring Hyde Park, flooding the rooms with nature, while blending 1930s glamour of the hotel with a contemporary edge.
Image credit: Mark Read Photography
The colourways are also based on the English garden, featuring pale leaf green and rose fog pink, to heather blue and lemon yellow. In total, there are 241 elegant rooms and suites, a decrease from the previous 250 to allow for more spacious accommodation.
Image credit: Mark Read Photography
Designed to convey the sense of a luxurious private residence, The Dorchester’s elegant rooms and suites represents a decrease from the original 250 keys, which was to account for more spacious accommodation. Guests can now choose from 19 elegant room types ranging from Superior, Deluxe and Executive Park View Rooms to Executive Junior Suites, signature Dorchester Suites, Hyde Park Suites and more. These are in addition to the Oliver Messel Terrace Suite, which is protected by the hotel and retains its 1953 stylish origins.
Image credit: Mark Read Photography
Rochon was also tasked to redesign the main areas of the hotel, including the famous Promenade and to introduce new areas such as the glittering Artists’ Bar. There was a strong desire to create continuity in both public and private spaces with colour schemes to ensure guests would have a sense of ‘renouveau’ when they travel throughout the property. The new design perfectly executes this and is complemented by a thoughtfully curated art collection that brings each space to life.
Image credit: Mark Read Photography
The newly renovated rooms and suites feature state-of-the-art updates that enhance both comfort and functionality. Among these updates are improvements to the sound proofing, air conditioning, and plumbing systems throughout the hotel. With the addition of new sound-absorbing materials, guests can enjoy a peaceful and tranquil stay without any disturbance from outside noise. The upgraded air conditioning system provides guests with customisable temperature control, ensuring optimal comfort. The modernised plumbing system not only improves functionality but also promotes sustainability, with water-saving technologies and eco-friendly features incorporated into the design.
Image credit: Mark Read Photography
The Dorchester revealed its brand-new ground floor inclusive of the forecourt, garden, lobby, The Promenade, Vesper Bar designed by the legendary Martin Brudnizki, and the creation of the Artists’ Bar in January of this year. The new Cake & Flowers boutique, also designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, followed in March, and The Dorchester Spa most recently in April. The Dorchester’s penthouse suites will be relaunched following renovation, along with a permanent offering on the rooftop in 2024.
Wood Couture explains how sustainable FF&E goes beyond materials and manufacturing…
Sustainability is a re-emerging cornerstone of modern FF&E manufacturing, catering to the demands of a largely eco-conscious clientele. The sophistication and elegance of bespoke FF&E furniture are undoubtedly augmented by meticulous adherence to sustainability practices.
Image credit: Wood Couture
From choosing sustainably sourced materials to adopting sustainable manufacturing practices, embracing sustainable FF&E is pivotal to the hospitality sector’s transition into sustainability. Sustainable practices in FF&E start from the nascent stages, while consciously opting for recycled, upcycled or sustainably sourced materials. In the manufacturing stage, sustainability can be ensured by adopting certain eco-friendly processes such as low-volatile organic compound finish or switching to water-based adhesives.
As a hotelier, consciously making sustainable choices isn’t merely a matter of catering to consumer demands, it encompasses wider health and safety implications. Sustainable FF&E furniture, while being aesthetically pleasing, also ensure safe indoors devoid of toxic chemical emissions. This helps leave a positive impression on the guests’ minds, for the hotel prioritises customer safety, through eco-conscious choices. Further, the reputation of hotels adhering to sustainability practices can be bolstered through certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
Image credit: Wood Couture
Wood Couture understands the investment hoteliers make and aims to create a long-lasting and timeless experience. It puts sustainability first, recognising the importance of minimising furniture replacements. By employing timeless craft principles and durable eco-friendly materials, Wood Couture ensures its bespoke FF&E furniture remains visually appealing for years to come, leading the road to responsible manufacturing. The team collaborate closely with hoteliers to integrate furniture seamlessly into the overall design scheme, providing a cohesive and lasting aesthetic.
The adoption of sustainable practices in FF&E furniture is a pivotal decision for hoteliers looking to make a positive impact on the environment and their guests. By incorporating sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, hotels can create elegant and sophisticated spaces while minimising their carbon footprint.
In an environmentally conscious modern world, transitioning into sustainability is inevitable and adopting sustainable FF&E furniture is a pivotal decision for hoteliers. Bespoke FF&E furniture is renowned for its elegance and sophistication, and by incorporating sustainability practices from the start, you can ensure a successful outcome in the manufacturing stage, ensuring that the environmental impact of the future of FF&E furniture remains minimal.
Wood Couture is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
DESIGN POD: interior designer Neil Andrew on net-zero hotel design
On the latest episode of DESIGN POD, listen to Neil Andrew, Head of Hospitality at Perkins&Will, talk openly and honestly about the studio’s journey and approach towards net-zero hotel design…
Neil Andrew is unlike any other designer I know. His perception of hotel design is, perhaps, inspired by his love of music – he recently described that projects are like a jazz bands. This reason, and many more, he is arguably the perfect person to, without ego, encourage the industry to change their approach towards net-zero hotel design.
For Andrew and Perkins&Will, the interior design studio that announced a few years ago that it would be net-zero in all projects (embodied carbon) by 2030, change is the only option after making bold sustainability claims. But it has to happen collectively with the entire industry on the same side to reach a common goal.
Listen to the full episode of the podcast below:
On episode 33 of DESIGN POD, sponsored by Geberit and produced by Mel Yates, I invited the interior designer to talk to me openly about how the journey towards net-zero was going in the hotel design arena. I wanted to remove the barrier of heavy KPIs and PR talk to just speak to Andrew as I would any other time to hear about the honest challenges and opportunities that have emerged since the studio set out to achieve its ambitious pledge. “To be honest, I have always tried to approach design sustainably,” Andrew told me on the podcast. “If we are talking about trying to use local materials, it’s always been the sensible thing to do.
“One important thing we have tried to do here was to design a hotel room where you wouldn’t look at it and necessarily see that it is full of sustainably sourced materials and objects.”
What speaks louder to the industry over making statements of intent is action. In 2020, Andrew and his team designed a set for the then Sleep & Eat conference. The brief was to look at tomorrow’s sustainability landscape to design a room that answered to future traveller demands.
After receiving a strong, positive reaction from the interior design community who understood deeply the design language of the installation, Andrew caught the interest of Accor and other operators. “We have developed this concept since, to the point where we are tweaking this project to a live brief,” he explained. “If you are ever going to have the opportunity design a prototype room, then May – June, 2020, was probably the best time to do it because we were all talking about how things are going to change so much post-pandemic.”
The room that Andrew and his tribe created was a fully flexible suite that incorporated immersive wellness initiatives and multi-sensory design. In addition to circadian lighting, the suite featured automated aromatherapy as well. “We tried to design on multiple levels,” he added. “The original concept had 3D printed bio plastic walls. The reality is that a lot of what we introduced is not yet ready for market, but some of it has and we have evolved it into a version that will hopefully be built.”
All of this and more is why Perkins&Will was awarded The Eco Award at The Brit List Awards 2022. For all the many obstacles that the industry faces to level up and become net-zero, the hotel design community is not in need of another hero – and what I love about Andrew is that he is, in many ways, the anti-hero – not a lover of the spotlight, and at every opportunity is championing his team.
Naturally, to measure success and milestones along the journey, having an end goal – in this case being net-zero in all projects by 2030 –is helpful. But I would argue that the focus on whether they and other studios success should not be on the data, but instead on the environmental and social difference made through a change of mindset.
The Full 60-minute podcast episode is available to listen to on all major podcast platforms – just search ‘DESIGN POD’ wherever you get your podcasts. The next and final episode of series four, an interview with John Williams, Founder and Creative Director of SpaceInvader, will go live on June 7.
Conscious specification: why The Ned NoMad chose Hypnos
Hotel Designs learns how Hypnos ensure consistent guest comfort is delivered around the world…
Hypnos Contract Beds works with hospitality clients all over the world to ensure guests have the ultimate sleep experience, night after night. The company’s commitment to sustainability is unquestioned as Hypnos was the first UK bed manufacturer to become carbon neutral, an accolade it has achieved over a decade ago.
“As a family-owned business, we believe it is essential we leave a lasting legacy for future generations by providing comfort with integrity to our clients world-wide,” said Carolyn Mitchell, Sales and Marketing Director at Hypnos Contract Beds explains.
Part hotel, part members club, guest experience is what makes The Ned stand out from the crowd, as it expands its footprint from London to the Middle East and North America. “Having initially supplied their London property, Hypnos were delighted to supply the recently opened The Ned Doha in Qatar and The Ned NoMad in New York,” added Mitchell. Our trusted global manufacturing facilities enable us to provide local production, using sustainably sourced materials to ensure we continue to deliver on our promise. Everything is crafted to the same exacting standards the Hypnos brand demands, thus lowering the carbon footprint for us and our international clients”.
Image credit: Hypnos
Named after Sir Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyens, The Ned – a hotel and private members’ club has built a reputation for rejuvenating architectural masterpieces into spaces to gather for food and drinks, curated events and private parties as well as bedroom stays. Whilst each property is slightly different depending on its location, the ethos of The Ned remains the same; to create a space for like-minded professionals to meet, work and have a good time.
In 2022, The Ned expanded to include The Ned NoMad in New York, located in The Johnston Building, which was built in 1903 and named after the original owner, Caroline A. Johnston. The building was originally designed as a store and office and was more recently occupied by The NoMad Hotel in Manhattan. Like many New York City buildings erected during in this era, it has unparalleled architectural details including multiple rotundas and a limestone facade.
The Ned NoMad features 167 bedrooms and suites, a Cecconi’s Italian restaurant, Little Ned 1920’s style bar, and Club spaces across the rooftop and ground floor. Interiors across the restaurants and bars as well as the public spaces are designed and directed by the Soho House Design team in collaboration with Stonehill Taylor, who have stayed true to the beautiful decorative detail of the existing Beaux-Arts architectural style.
The 167 bedrooms range in size from intimate to large-scale suites, all with a nod to 1920s glamour. Every bedroom at The Ned NoMad provides guests a relaxed yet memorable stay and are all furnished with sumptuous Hypnos mattresses for ultimate comfort.
Hypnos is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Granorte has introduced an online room visualiser, making it easy for architects, designers and end-users to see just how Granorte cork floors and Delivering Nature cork wall and floors, make spaces more beautiful…
The Granorte room visualiser tool lets visitors try out the entire collection. Across a range of realistic interiors, they can try out more than 160 flooring and more than 130 different wall looks.
“Our Floor Studio room visualiser tool makes it easy for end-users to make an informed selection from the comfort of their own workspace,” explained Paulo Rocha, Granorte. “It also helps the architects and interior designers, adding another touch point in the visualisation of our cork floors and walls, as it can be used in store on a tablet or screen. It’s a useful tool that we hope everyone will embrace.”
By selecting colour, floor type or collection, users can quickly narrow down their options, trying out different laying directions and patterns in a room view. With the compare feature they can see different choices side-by-side or see how a change of laying direction affects the look of the room. The tool also lets them take snapshots of their favourite choices and find out more on each floor.
Once the final selections are made, room images can be printed or downloaded directly from the tool, as well as saved to a folder. The room visualiser can be experienced at https://granorte.materialo.com.
Granorte is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
In collaboration with Bette, the British design studio Barber Osgerby has developed the exclusive BetteSuno bathroom collection.
The new collection from Bette, BetteSuno, designed by Barber Osgerby, includes washbasins and a bath that combine visual lightness with the strength and durability of glazed titanium steel. With BetteSuno, minimalist bathrooms can be designed in architecturally sophisticated projects, including in private homes, hotels and restaurants.
At the centre of the BetteSuno collection are two circular, one-piece washbasins made of glazed titanium steel: a bowl washbasin and a floor-standing washbasin. As modern interpretations of the wash bowl, they share the same 340mm diameter inner, in which the basin tapers conically towards the waste outlet. Their design is extremely reduced and plays with the basic shapes of circle and cone. Nothing is superfluous, nothing distracts from experiencing the room architecture and the function of the bathroom products.
Image credit: Bette
“The collection has a beautiful, handcrafted character and its sculptural qualities are emphasised by the circular and conical design,” said Edward Barber.
Floor-standing BetteSuno Basin
A highlight in the BetteSuno bathroom collection is the floor-standing, 865 mm high ‘Pedestal’ washbasin with its graceful and sculptural appearance. A round washbasin bowl cantilevers above a narrow, conically shaped pedestal, which almost looks as if it is floating in front of the wall. The pedestal is also made of glazed titanium steel and cleverly conceals the pipework and fixings and, thanks to its small “footprint”, takes up minimal space. The pedestal has space for a tap, which means a conventional basin tap can be used if required, as an alternative to a floor-standing or wall-mounted tap.
BetteSuno Bowl Washbasin
The BetteSuno bowl washbasin is also ideal for minimalist bathrooms, for example in washrooms in bars or restaurants. With its round shape, it sets its own aesthetic accent without pushing itself into the foreground. One basin can be placed on a vanity unit, or a number can be installed in a row on a washbasin top. Thanks to its precisely crafted underside, it sits on the surface almost seamlessly, whether it be wood, natural stone or another flat surface. Hardly any other bathroom material is capable of being produced with such flat surfaces, straight lines and precise angles as glazed titanium steel.
Jay Osgerby explains: “The form invites engagement, and its exactness is achieved through expert engineering and the use of enamelled steel, which is a far superior material for sanitary ware.”
Bath with symmetry and comfort
The pared-down design approach also characterises the freestanding oval bath that Barber Osgerby has designed for BetteSuno. The completely symmetrical design of the 1800 x 800 mm bath appears clear and harmonious and, with its vertically running exterior and wide, outwardly projecting rim, references classic bath design.
The protruding rim is flat, so that it can be used as a comfortable head and arm rest when bathing, as well as a shelf for toiletries. When standing up or sitting down, it serves as a grab rail, if required. Ergonomically designed back slopes at each end, a generous interior and centrally positioned waste outlet ensure a high level of comfort when bathing alone or together.
With a great deal of attention to detail and understanding of material and function, Barber Osgerby and Bette have succeeded in bringing a minimalist design language into the bathroom with BetteSuno, which fits perfectly into sophisticated bathroom architecture. Complementing BetteSuno, Barber Osgerby has also designed fittings for AXOR in the same design language.
Bette is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Tickets are now on sale for MEET UP North, Hotel Designs’ networking event that takes place inside YOTEL Manchester on July 6. The highlight of the evening will be an immersive panel discussion on ‘blurring the boundaries between spaces’. Editor Hamish Kilburn has all the details…
On July 6, Hotel Designs will be taking over YOTEL Manchester for MEET UP North. The event will welcome the hotel design community – interior designers in Manchester, as well as architects, hoteliers and industry suppliers in the North, to be part of a meaningful networking experience.
To take the event to the next level, Editor Hamish Kilburn will chair an immersive panel discussion entitled ‘Blurring the boundaries between spaces’. “The panel discussion will be split into three sections, and the idea is for us on the panel to physically move around the venue,” he explained. “We have decided to add this rehearsed movement into the discussion so that the conversation about blurring boundaries using design will be captured from different scenes in the venue.”
The panellists are:
Luke Artingstall, Director and Founder, Artin Light
Katie Edgar, Director of Interior Design, YOTEL
Tim Hubbard, Founder and Creative Partner, 93ft
The panel will be moderated by Hamish Kilburn, Editor, Hotel Designs
The panel discussion at will explore how interior designers and brands alike are creating cohesive design narratives that flow between all hotel spaces. Together, Katie Edgar, Director of Interior Design, YOTEL; Tim Hubbard, Founder and Creative Partner, 93ft and Luke Artingstall, Director and Founder, Artin Light – moderated by Kilburn – will discuss how to connect different areas of the hotel seamlessly. The aim of the conversation will be to understand how architectural restrictions and budget limitations – together with the growing demand for adaptive reuse – can become projects’ greatest strength, allowing design to play a major role in defining the hotel and brand’s character.
MEET UP North has limited spaces available. If you are an interior designer, architect, hoteliers or developer and would like to attend, click here to purchase tickets (£20+VAT). For anyone else wishing to attend, including suppliers, click here to purchase tickets (£150+VAT).
Brought to you by Hotel Designs, MEET UP North is sponsored by YOTEL (Exclusive Style Partner), Hamilton Litestat (Headline Partner), Häfele (Event Partner), Crosswater (Event Partner), Burlington (Event Partner), Mel Yates (Official Videographer) and DESIGN POD (Podcast Partner).
Mandarin Oriental just dropped a bomb on the hotel design industry with the announcement that it will open a new hotel in Athens in 2027. Here’s what we know…
Up until now, details on Mandarin Oriental’s second arrival in Greece have been a tightly guarded secret. We can now reveal that the brand will open a new hotel on the Athenian coast in 2027. Mandarin Oriental Athens will become one of the largest sustainably built urban regeneration projects in Europe.
The 123-key hotel will be developed by BELT Riviera S.A., a company established by TEMES S.A. and HELLINIKON S.Μ.S.A. (a 100 per cent subsidiary of Lamda Development).
“We are delighted to be working with TEMES SA and Lamda Development SA on this project,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. ” I am confident, that with this location and our legendary service, Mandarin Oriental, Athens will be the leading luxury hospitality hub for both travellers and Athenian residents.”
As well as modern rooms and suites, the hotel will also offer 17 branded Residences, including waterfront villas and apartments. A range of dining options will be offered in several food and beverage outlets, making it a destination for locals and visitors alike. Indoor and outdoor event space will provide a chic backdrop for meetings and social gatherings.
A comprehensive Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer the Group’s signature wellness therapies and beauty treatments, with a focus on locally inspired programmes.
The hotel will feature fresh high-end contemporary design and unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea. This premium position at the heart of the Athenian riviera will make Mandarin Oriental, Athens a truly unique destination for all guests.
“This new high-standard hotel complex will become another beautiful landmark and serve as an additional international point of reference for this emblematic investment of The Ellinikon,” added Odisseas Athanasiou, CEO of Lamda Development.
Achilles V. Constantakopoulos, Chairman of TEMES, noted: “We are thrilled with the progress of our strategic partnership with Lamda Development, and very proud to welcome together this exceptional brand to the Athenian Riviera.”
Mandarin Oriental, Athens will be the second Mandarin Oriental property to launch in Greece, following the partnership with TEMES SA for the development of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, which opens this summer, showcasing the global luxury brand’s trust in Greece as a continuously growing high-end destination.
As the collection name suggests, Les Forêts by Arte is an ode to the mysterious atmosphere of a dense forest. Natural materials such as bark, raffia and wood, combined with forest patterns, instantly transport you to an imaginary stroll through the woods…
This Arte collection draws its strength from the interaction between contrasting natural materials. The contrasts create an interesting field of tension and allow the designs to combine beautifully within an interior. Les Forêts plays with formats and textures. Large block patterns next to an ultra-fine weave, an extremely detailed design next to a rougher weave pattern: these unexpected combinations come together to form a fascinating whole.
Image credit: Arte
Image credit: Arte
Dioré is a wonderful print on a high-pile textile. It is a contemporary,more abstract interpretation of classic tapestries. Thanks to the high quality of the textile and the colour nuances in the design, this wallcovering can barely be distinguished from a hand- tufted carpet. The design owes its name to the protected Forêt de Dioré on the island of Réunion and is available in four colourways.
Éclat – French for shine – proudly boasts a large block pattern. A thin layer of real cork gives this design a sturdy look, softened by the subtle sheen that shimmers through the cork here and there. It is available in seven colourways.
Image credit: Arte
Image credit: Arte
Tinto is made from the bark of the banana tree. The bark is dyed in natural colours with numerous different shades. The wide strips are woven by hand into a checkerboard pattern and then cut into tiles. Finally, these tiles are arranged in a tight pattern. Tinto is available in three natural-toned colourways.
Infini consists of a combination of paper thread and banana leaf, a natural material that is woven and dyed by hand. The fibres absorb the dye unevenly during this process, an effect specific to this natural product. The result is a textile with many different shades and a lively effect on the wall. The small knots and imperfections in the natural material emphasise its authenticity and the design is available in four colourways.
Image credit: Arte
Thanks to the fine framework in the drawing, it feels as if you are admiring the forest from a log cabin. Ajoura is made of real wood. The beautiful wood veneer gives an impression of an etching in which the shades of colour bring the scene to life, in all three of the colourways.
Image credit: Arte
Image credit: Arte
The Tresse design brings a playful note to the collection with a print of casual braids made of natural fibres. Some are very finely braided, while others are a little thicker. A thin layer of velour ensures a soft finish and accentuates the natural print, which is available in five colourways.
Completing the collection, the Ruban design plays with different thicknesses. Narrow raffia strips are applied by hand to a non-woven backing, which in turn is cut into wider strips. These strips are woven into a whole pattern using an ultra-fine thread, ensuring a successful interplay of narrow and wide elements. this wallcovering is available in four colourways.
Arte is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Opening in September 2023, Raffles Boston is about to make a state-side statement. Before then, though, we have managed to wedge our foot in the door for a sneak peek inside…
Has the arrival of Raffles Boston stolen London’s limelight? As we all know, 2023 was supposed to be the year where the industry turned its head to Britain’s capital for the opening of Raffles London. The long-awaited 120-key luxury hotel, which is poised to unveil its interiors inside London’s famous Old War Office, is having some delays, though, and its official opening date varies depending on who you speak to.
So, while London prepares to make its grand entrance (good things come to those who wait), we’ve noticed another Raffles property that is about to flex its muscles on the hotel scene, and it’s just as grand. Raffles Boston, opening later this summer, will mark the first mixed-use development in North America for the illustrious, world-renowned, 136-year old Raffles Hotels & Resortsbrand. It also writes a new story for Boston’s hospitality and real estate industries alike.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
The 35-story, $400 million+ LEED Gold building will be an urban oasis where global cultures and local influences converge. Offering an unprecedented hotel experience in the heart of the city’s Back Bay, Raffles Boston features 147 guestrooms and 16 distinct gathering spaces. From top to bottom, the hotel will showcase and celebrate what makes the Raffles brand so special: ‘a sense of adventure and style, gracious and intuitive hospitality and thoughtful, locally inspired design’, all while enhancing the cosmopolitan charm of the Back Bay.
Raffles Boston shelters 147 hotel guestrooms, including 21 Signature Suites, eight Premier Suites, and a spectacular presidential Raffles Suite.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
Design firm Stonehill Taylor fashioned all rooms and the majority of hotel amenity spaces. The design studio is said to have taken cues from the city’s Emerald Necklace and Raffles Boston’s historic cultural surroundings, carrying botanical influences throughout the property, emphasising art and sculptural design and choosing materials and patterns that play off of Boston’s iconic history and architecture.
Image credit: Joe Thomas
Copper accents, for example, are prevalent throughout the property in a nod to Paul Revere’s copper plating company. Historical illustrations adorn custom wallcoverings; whimsical lighting is inspired by florals and greenery references the window boxes found throughout the Back Bay.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
In a first for the City of Boston, Raffles Boston features a Sky Lobby on the 17th, 18th and 19th floors. The three-storey space is more than just a place to check-in for a hotel stay; it connects residents and guests with a diversity of amenity spaces.
Acclaimed Chef George Mendes will launch the hotel’s signature restaurant and oversee its food program. A first-generation American born to Portuguese immigrants, Mendes grew up in Connecticut and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. After years of honing his talent in the kitchens of David Bouley, Alain Passard’s Arpege in Paris and Tocqueville, he went on to open Aldea to critical acclaim and a Michelin star, which he maintained for more than a decade.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
Chef Mendes will launch the hotel’s signature restaurant, Amar, located on the Sky Lobby level, an intimate space featuring moody, softly lit walls and dazzling metal finishes.
In a hidden corner, tucked away from the surrounding bustle within the Sky Lobby, a clandestine Speakeasy seduces guests with a cocktail experience harkening back to an earlier era. On the 17th floor, meanwhile, guests and residents will also find a cosy enclave for relaxation in the Raffles signature Writers’ Lounge.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
Ascending the Grand Stair, Raffles Boston’s Sky Lobby offers two full floors of meeting and entertainment spaces. The hotel’s Ballroom is unique among Boston hotel event spaces in that it sits on the building’s 19th floor with views spanning from the Financial District to Cambridge.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
Capping off the world-class array of amenities, guests and residents will also find a sanctuary on the 4th floor, which features an exclusive state-of-the-art gym, Raffles Spa and 20-metre indoor pool with expansive city views.
As North America’s first Raffles hotel and residences, Raffles Boston will reinforce the Back Bay’s global reputation as a first-class international neighbourhood.
Image credit: Raffles Hotels & Resorts
What’s more, the project will provide more than $22 million in public benefits in total, including street and public realm improvements, seven on-site affordable housing units, and a contribution of over $13 million to the City of Boston’s affordable housing fund.
Introducing Grace from Tarkett, sustainable wooden flooring
Tarkett has launched a wooden flooring collection that combines the natural appearance of an oiled floor with the easy maintenance of a lacquered wood floor, and we love it…
The Grace collection from Tarkett consists of one-strip flooring in two different widths, three-strip flooring, and floors with basketweave pattern, with a total offering of 12 floors in six colours with warm, natural and harmonious tones that are perfect for residential interiors, light traffic workplaces and hospitality areas.
In the Grace collection, the super-matt finish, soft brushing, and sheer shades work together to create a floor that stays beautiful over time. The collection is treated with Proteco ExtraMatt, a new lacquer that makes the floors durable and easy to maintain in everyday life. Thanks to the lacquer, Grace also has a matt finish, where neither glare nor glitter occurs in the wood’s texture, regardless of light conditions.
Image credit: Tarkett
Image credit: Tarkett
Tarkett has been working on a new patented lacquering system for more than two years, to ensure the best properties in terms of durability, technical performance and appearance. This has resulted in a flooring solution that is comfortable to walk on, easy to clean, and has effective protection against everyday wear and tear, as well as stains. Additionally, Grace can easily be revived by sanding and refinishing when the flooring eventually ages.
Grace is certified Silver level with the Cradle to Cradle sustainability label and the entire collection is PEFC (PEFC/05-35-125) certified for sustainable forestry.
Grace is also certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel as the flooring has a high proportion of renewable material, good durability, and meets the stringent Nordic Swan Ecolabel requirements concerning chemicals that are harmful to health and the environment. Among other things, Grace has been tested to ensure that the floors meet the requirements for low organic compound emissions, and thereby create a healthy indoor environment.
Tarkett is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Stepping out of the train and into the Clerkenwell sunshine, rose-tinted glasses aside, the trademark pink stripes were unavoidable and led the way – winding through the district punctuated by design statements, creative inflatables and some fairly regular Aperol Spritz stations! Writer Pauline Brettell looks back at some of the highlights of the week…
The statement pink street markings were out, the showroom doors were open and the design and architecture community were released from their studios for Clerkenwell Design Week 2023 (CDW 23). With more exhibitors than ever before, the UK’s most-raved-about design festival was ready to put on a show for this year’s edition that stretched across the entire EC1 London district. From May 23 – 25, more than 160 showrooms came together to deliver more than 600 events and thousands of installations and product launches.
For Hotel Designs, a proud long-standing media partner for the festival, following an engaging press preview, the action started at the Atlas Concorde showroom where Editor Hamish Kilburn hosted an exclusive roundtable with architects and designers, putting the ‘language of biophilia in surface design’ under the spotlight. The conversation, which was born from the surface brand’s recent partnership with HBA to create five new looks to the Marvel Travertine collection, went on to resonate in other events and surface in many talking points throughout the week.
Continuing on from the debates that took place over the 2022 editon of the design festival, biophilic design and issues around sustainability remained high on the agenda, but what was apparent is that designers and studios are all digging a little deeper to come up with answers, and in some cases more questions, to these concerns.
Image credit: Atlas Concorde
After an appropriately strong espresso with the Atlas Concorde team it was time to follow those pink stripes, which in this case led to Old Sessions House – a beautifully curated space that provided the perfect backdrop for the launch of the hotly anticipated unveiling of the new EDITION 28 collection from Chelsom, designed in-house by Robert and Will Chelsom.
Image credit: Chelsom
Continuing to trip the light fantastic, it was time to go underground and explore Light. The lighting exhibition housed in the subterranean House of Detention is always a favourite, as this former Victorian prison provides a wonderfully atmospheric backdrop for the products on display. First past the door, Lladro, known in the past for its more traditional ceramics, showcased its Soft Blown collection, the result of a collaboration with Nichetto Studio. The bold designs in bright colours reference the playful world of balloons and inflatables while being made in the finest handmade porcelain in the Lladro tradition. In the spirit of the week, visitors could have a bit of creative fun with the elements making up the whole and assemble their own take on a Soft Blown table lamp.
Image credit: Lladro
A few more steps deeper into the dungeon was Studio Lloyd, a very much younger studio based in Cape Town South Africa. The studio was founded in 2016 by industrial lighting designer Ashlee Lloyd and each piece emerging from the studio, is delicately made by incorporating the traditional technique of crochet into modern lighting, while focussing on creating bold sculptural statement. Each fixture develops organically and is unique to a project. This youthful studio is committed to striving for diversity within the handcrafted lighting design scope, while creating unique and functional pieces of art.
Image credit: Studio Lloyd
Moving from lighting to the world of all things bathroom, the day ended in the perfectly curated new Bagnodesign showroom by Sanipex, where, Hotel Designs hosted another roundtable conversation with leading interior designers and architects who took on the task and the topic of ‘translating trends in hotel design’. The designers debated various trends emerging in the hospitality industry along with the more fundamental shifts in hotel design. With the serious bit being done, the conversation continued over prosecco opened and canapes, as architect Neil Andrew took to the decks, to provide the soundtrack to this CDW takeover party. Designers, architects, hoteliers and developers were able to peruse the new collection while doing a little informal Clerkenwell-style networking!
Image credit: Bagnodesign
Sustainability questions and credentials wound through the week and the furniture designs and collections were not to be left out of the conversation. On display in the Morgan showroom, the recently launched Aran collection, developed in collaboration with British textile designer and manufacturer Camira, features a lounge chair that champions sustainability as it is designed to achieve maximum comfort through minimal use of material.
Image credit: Morgan
Continuing to fly the sustainable flag, another interesting conversation on sustainability took place in the Fritz Hansen showroom where, alongside launching the new Skagerak by Fritz Hansen outdoor collection, Morten Lund Petersen, Sustainability Manager, took on the task of giving us a deeper insight into questions and concerns around the process of specification. Putting the questions directly to the audience, the conversation took us through the process of how a design brand calculates its environmental impact with the aim of assisting designers and clients to make informed decisions in specifying the most sustainable products where there is clearly no single or simple solution.
Image credit: Fritz Hansen
With an overriding emphasis on surface design, natural colours and organic shapes taking centre stage across the show, the wallcoverings by Arte on display in the Details exhibition space seemed to tick all the boxes. These wallcoverings come into their own when seen up close, being all about texture and tone. The Kharga range transports the viewer into nature via the dunes of a desert and the tactile designs certainly answer in part, the biophilic brief that echoed through the festival.
Image credit: Arte
Clerkenwell Design Week is always an energising event, but CDW 2023 felt like it had a particularly organic edge of positivity – maybe it was the sunshine, maybe it was those aforementioned rose-tinted spectacles that obscured my view, but the shift in the tone of the conversations as the creative design industry is both talking about and taking steps towards a brighter future, felt palpable and was the thread that connected the dots between those pink arrows.
Checking in to the newly renovated Hilton Molino Stucky Venice
Editor Hamish Kilburn checked in to Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, a hotel steeped in history, sheltering a recent renovation that reflects a contemporary direction for the property that frames the best views over and across Venice…
Capturing my first glimpse of Hilton Molino Stucky Venice on water felt apt, after emerging from the Grand Canal and feeling the nose of the boat lift as it accelerated and turned right. As the water taxi skimmed over the waves, the red-bricked building, formerly a flour and pasta factory, glowed in the late-afternoon sun.
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
Before it became a hotel in 2007, operated by Hilton, the shell of the Neo-Gothic building, on the western end of Giudecca island, was left derelict for decades following the owner of the mill Giovanny Stucky’s tragic murder in 1910 leaving the factory in financial instability. The hotel is now a modern hospitality hub, but it also stands in homage to the late entrepreneur. Not only is the hotel befittingly named after the former owner, on the exterior of the building, ‘G.STUCKY’ is carved out under the iconic clock, lit up at night, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
Since it became a member of the Hilton family, the hotel has adapted to answer to modern traveller demands while also retaining its distinct individuality – during my stay, I often had to remind myself that it was a Hilton hotel, given its indy vibes. For Italian design studio CaberlonCaroppi, which was responsible for the recent refresh of 194 rooms, the main challenge was to modernise the spaces in a sensitive way, creating a new image and a new style of design, while maintaining intact the strong identity of the building and what it stands for.
Image credit: Andrea Sarti
Inside, the public areas feel grand yet also welcoming. The check-in area is discrete and the design of the space draws the eye towards the reclined lounge area. The new design scheme effortlessly blends contemporary details with subtle nods to the building’s storied history. ‘If only walls could talk’, I think to myself before catching a glimpse of the ground-floor corridors, which allow guests to read a timeline of the building’s history while making their way to the lifts.
From room to rooftop, the hotel is famous for framing postcard-perfect views over Venice. But the hotel deserves much more credit than purely its location. Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is quite possibly the hardest-working Hilton in the world – it’s certainly one of the most beautiful. In addition to ‘that view’ that the hotel casts, the rooftop has been cleverly designed and divided to harness a pool – the tallest in Venice – and a new buzzy bar called Skyline, which has been recently renovated.
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
To really understand the new direction for the hotel, then guests will need to check in to one of the newly designed guestrooms that reflect a modern take on Venician design. Gone are the traditional, classic Art Deco-style fittings and fixtures. Forget dark-wooden veneers and in welcome light, paired-back design schemes that use innovative lighting solutions and art to create a warm, spacious guest experiences that works with, and not against, the views over Venice.
“The protagonist of the room is a large wooden bed thats stylised contour reiterates the hull of a boat; when lying on it, it is possible to imagine you are drifting down the canals, in admiration of the city’s marvellous facades,” explained Chiara Caberlon, Co-Founder of CaberlonCaroppi. “The industrial building is recounted by specifically studied decorative and graphic details. Old mill blades serve a new decorative function on the wall behind the bed, accompanied by large hand-painted gearwheels adorning the writing desk area.”
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
To inject the hotel with a modern personality that felt distinctly local, the design studio established local collaborations. “The character of the rooms has been strongly defined by artisanal elements: hand-painted decorations by Picta Lab, which further enhance the history of the building,” added Ermanno Caroppi, Co-Founder of CaberlonCaroppi.
The corridors, meanwhile, have been coated with pastel shades and elegant light fittings and geometric carpets to create a harmony between design and the cast iron pillars characterised by the architectural structure.
Image credit: Andrea Sarti
Often following renovations of this scale, guests are left wondering how the new sensitively answers to the past. Within Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, some existing elements remain, such as the Murano chandeliers (when in Venice), the foundations of the bathrooms and, of course, the original ceilings – some of which, I am told, are vaulted – think upside down pyramid trunks – because it is where they used to store the flour and pasta when the building operated as a factory. It feels like these details haven’t been begrudgingly preserved to adhere to regulations. Instead, the design scheme feels layered so that there is a cohesion between the past and the present.
There is no greater example of this than in the Presidential Suite. Spread across two floors and boasting as the largest and tallest suite in Venice, the suite designed by Biagio Forino Studio is much about creating a home-from-home as it is about showcasing a statement on the European hospitality scene.
Image credit: Andrea Sarti
“The greatest challenge was to transform the rooms inside the Presidential Suite from heavy and gloomy into light and bright environments respecting the genius loci and obviously also with an eye to the need not to exceed the budget limits,” Biagio Forino told Hotel Designs. “So, planning the revamp, I eliminated the heavy super-tents that hid the mullioned windows, replacing them with veil curtains that decorate the room without taking away the view.”
Image credit: Andrea Sarti
Forino replaced the dark parquet with a grey stained oak parquet laid with the Versailles design, and adopted all the shades of grey as a leitmotiv for both the walls and the furnishings, which were previously in a heavy walnut colour. The designed added: “When I saw the Presidential Suite for the first time, I was struck by the breathtaking beauty of the view that can be enjoyed from the windows of the tower, so the first goal I set myself was to enhance this precious element.”
Image credit: Hilton Hotels
It’s no easy feat, consciously transforming a building of this scale and stature into a hotel without it ending up looking and feeling like a museum. By almost tearing up the rule book – working with a number of interior design studios to inject spaces with soft interior notes – Hilton Molino Stucky Venice has written a new chapter in contemporary hotel design, proving that preservation pays when it comes to creating one-off hospitality experiences that, simply put, can’t be matched.
Here’s our exclusive editor’s pick of the hottest hotels opening – or re-emerging from renovation – in June 2023. In this round-up, we have selected VIP arrivals from New York, Greece, Italy, Portugal and more…
In the wake of a busy show season following Salone del Mobile and Clerkenwell Design Week, June in the hotel design calendar is a month of renewal. For the European hospitality scene, it marks the start of a busy season – where new jewels can shine. For others in the world it is a chance to go back to the drawing boards to establish how to evolve meaningfully.
It is unwritten, but June has always felt like the opportunity for hotels to put their money where their mouth is – to open, or re-open, and show the world and their guests what they’re made of. We hope our selected VIP arrivals don’t disappoint in showing you what the hospitality industry has up its sleeves this month. So, here are what we believe are the hottest hotel openings that are anticipated in June 2023…
Pnoé Breathing Life, Crete
Image credit: Pnoé
Hotel Designs is packing its bags ahead of the opening of Pnoé Breathing Life, Crete – we will be publishing the design exclusive review later this month.
Set on the northern coast of the island, the 60-suite hotel exists both in total privacy and as part of a wider community. All areas of the hotel – from lobby to spa –have been designed to reflect the island’s natural beauty, using subdued colour palettes and materials, such as wood and stone throughout to keep the design grounded. What’s more, each communal area has its own identity – from the warm earthy tones in the fine dining Thymises restaurant, to the lush greenery that adorns the Uranos Rooftop Bar.
The Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York
Image credit: The Fifth Avenue Hotel
There may be some delay with the opening, but last time we checked The Fifth Avenue Hotel was expected to open its ruby-red doors in ‘spring 2023’. By our calculations, therefore, it’s time to get excited about this restored Gilded Age landmark that is slap-bang in the middle of Manhattan, New York. The hotel, which says on its website that it shares ‘the best of New York with the world’, will shelter 153 rooms that are intimate in mood and grand in gesture, designed with a personal touch using crafted creativity.
The Rome EDITION
Image credit: EDITION Hotels
Many milestones have been reached with the upcoming opening of The Rome EDITION, perhaps the most significant among them, though, is that it will become The EDITION’s first Italian property. The 93-key hotel will shelter two penthouses, a rooftop terrace and a rooftop swimming pool.
At the corner of modern luxury and history, the hotel, located in the heart of the city, is housed within a historical striking building designed by Cesare Pascoletti in collaboration with architect Marcello Piacentini, one of Italy’s most famed architects of Rationalism in the early 20.
Martinhal Residences, Lisbon
Image credit: Martinal Residences
Recently opened, Marinhal Residences in Lisbon, nestled in the riverside Park of Nations neighbourhood, has emerged as a new hospitality experience for luxury travellers, with a design scheme that reflects that statement.
Inside, the elegant interiors at Martinhal Residences have been designed to the highest standard by Architect Eduardo Capinha Lopes, Romano Design & Epoca. The accommodation options, ranging from sophisticated studios to spacious three-bedroom apartments, offer chic living areas, some with tree-adorned balconies creating a dramatic counterpoint with modernity and biophilic design.
Throughout the property’s communal areas and restaurant and within the individual apartments, Martinhal showcases some of the best of Portugal’s creative arts scene including pieces by Kruella D’Enfer, Graça Paz, Pedro Batista, Vasco Águas and Tamara Alves as well special installations by Portuguese street art legend, Bordalo II.
Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Greece
Image credit: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa
Designed to invite the outside in, Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa has arrived, refreshed and ready, just in time for the summer season. The rooms and suites effortlessly combine an array of volumes, materials, and textures, providing a sanctuary to switch off from the outside world, whilst the exterior pays homage to the island’s charming villages through its Cycladic design, clean lines and whitewashed walls.
Cap Karoso, Indonesia
Image credit: Cap Karoso
Sitting on the shores of a coral reed and surrounding by turquoise lagoons, Cap Karoso is a new luxury eco-hotel, which is the first property from new hoteliers Fabrice and Eve Ivara. The hotel project is steeped with consciousness. If rumours are to be believed, before project broke ground, the team sought the permission from 600 locals regarding ancestral approval, which was granted.
The design team consisted of Gary Fell (architecture) and Bitte Design Studio (design). The interior was created using locally sourced materials to inject sense of place in the suites and villas. What’s more, 50 per cent of the the hotel’s energy will come from solar panels, and around 80 per cent of its staff will be from the local area.
Closing the loop: the value of sustainable commercial tiles
With the conversation getting louder around sustainability and ethical design, CTD Tiles believes designers should explore the value of consciously sourced and made commercial tiles in hotel design…
The mounting pressure to meet sustainability targets and regulations across construction – as well as a general shift in public attitudes towards the need to protect the planet – means that the hotel sector must also consider the environmental impact of any design schemes.
Whether the project is a refurbishment or new hotel, it’s more important than ever to choose sustainability at every level of the design process. This includes interior and exterior tiles, which can play a valuable role in maximising a scheme’s green credentials when factors like materials and manufacturers are carefully considered.
It’s a complex issue, which can make it difficult to know where to start. In this article, Paul Sewell, specification manager at leading commercial tile supplier CTD Architectural Tiles discusses the role of tiles in supply chain circularity, and how specifiers for the hotel sector can ensure they’re making the right choice for sustainability.
Image caption: A growing number of manufacturers across the industry are offering products with full ‘cradle to cradle’ recyclability. | Image credit: CTD Tiles
Supply chain circularity
A circular supply chain is an extension of the circular economy, which is guided by three core principles of sustainability: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Lessening the construction industry’s reliance on new and natural materials while also minimising waste, these principles can be applied at every level of the supply chain and throughout the lifecycle of a building.
However, as is often the case, applying these principles to any scheme is easier said than done and there are several economic and logistical factors to consider on a project-to-project basis. In particular, recyclability is a complex matter. Some products can be made from recycled materials but can’t then be recycled at the end of their lifecycle, and others can be recycled in theory but require an extremely energy-intensive process to do so.
With this in mind, a growing number of manufacturers across the industry are offering products with full ‘cradle to cradle’ recyclability – closing the loop of the circular supply chain.
Tile manufacturers are increasingly striving to achieve this level of product recycling. This is great news for the hotel sector, which often sees tiles act as a key element of its designs. But how can specifiers and designers be sure a tile range meets ‘cradle to cradle’ recyclability?
Image caption: The hotel sector must consider the environmental impact of design schemes. | Image credit: CTD Tiles
What to look for
There are a number of accreditations to look for when choosing sustainable tiles. This includes products with Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) documentation, which provides a detailed breakdown of a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle – from mining to disposal. This level of detail at all stages provides specifiers with total transparency and the reassurance needed for a product’s place in a scheme aiming towards circularity.
It’s also valuable to gain knowledge of a manufacturer’s processes, which is a great way to ascertain its credibility in terms of sustainability. CTD Architectural Tiles is proud to be the UK’s leading supplier of Mosa, a Dutch tile manufacturer dedicated to embracing the ‘cradle to cradle’ philosophy. Following years of investment into researching best practice and solutions, Mosa is the first ceramic tile manufacturer in the world to achieve full Cradle to Cradle Certification Gold accreditation, which applies to almost its entire collection.
What’s more, the actual material of a tile can have an important impact on its level of sustainability. For example, porcelain offers a number of eco-friendly benefits as a raw, natural material. It creates minimal waste during the manufacturing process, and any waste produced can be recycled.
Of course, specialist commercial tile suppliers like CTD Architectural Tiles are well-placed to offer guidance on the products and manufacturers that meet the sustainability requirements of individual projects – as well as other must-haves such as practical benefits and styles.
Image caption: Porcelain offers a number of eco-friendly benefits as a raw, natural material. | Image credit: CTD Tiles
Without compromise
Fortunately, as an increasing number of tile manufacturers receive environmental accreditations, more choice becomes available. This means that new hotels or refurbishment schemes can ‘go green’ without compromising on safety and hygiene, or aesthetics – vital considerations for any project.
Mosa offers a variety of tiles suitable for a series of applications and design styles through CTDArchitectural Tiles, from the classically simplistic Global porcelain floor tile range to its three-part collection of Murals ceramic wall tiles, which offer a unique solution for hotel projects – all while prioritising the planet.
CTD Architectural Tiles is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Tech-powered short-term rental operator Bob W’s growth trajectory continues with openings in two of Amsterdam’s most fashionable districts…
Bob W Oosterpark and Bob W Noord, comprising over 150 apartments, lofts and rooms between them, will showcase the operator’s pioneering approach to 21st-century hospitality, combining the quality of a hotel with the authenticity of short-term rental accommodation. Guests will enjoy a five-star, contactless service in locally-designed apartments within these handpicked neighbourhoods. Bob W’s entry into Holland means it now has a footprint in nine European countries — including the UK, Germany, Spain, Norway, Greece, Italy, Finland and Estonia.
“We can’t wait to open our doors to Amsterdam and introduce a whole new category of hospitality to the city,” commented Niko Karstikko, Co-founder and CEO of Bob W. “These apartments have been designed to satisfy the modern traveller’s desire to live like a local, be it for business or pleasure. We choose cities that make financial sense, match our brand and appeal to the next generation of both business travellers and consumers. Amsterdam ticks all the boxes.”
Image credit: Bob W
Bob W Oosterpark opens its doors on Middenweg in Amsterdam. The rooms are housed in a former courthouse, a building steeped in history — it was the place where Napoleon Bonaparte was given the keys to the city of Amsterdam. The restoration process and necessary adaptations to the building have been carried out sensitively, retaining much of the original charm of the property.
Bob W Noord is situated on Papaverweg in Amsterdam-Noord. This newly built European flagship location consists of uniquely designed apartments and lofts alongside a rooftop pool, wellness centre and restaurant. This building is part of The Republica development, an exceptionally sustainable ‘city-state’ that generates its own energy, collects waste to produce biofuel and supports biodiversity with green roofs. As the world’s first international climate-neutral hospitality provider, which double offsets all its emissions, sustainability is also a central value at Bob W.
Image credit: Bob W
Providing accommodation to stay in style for days, weeks or months, the launch of these modern apartment buildings aims to capitalise on this growth within the Dutch travel and tourism sector and the brand continues to expand rapidly across Europe. Its reinvention of hospitality and application of distinct tech and brand standards, as well as enviable sustainability credentials, is already translating into brand loyalty and repeat bookings.
Having built a reputation on redefining the hospitality experience, sustainably operated, design-led apartments offer the consistent quality of a hotel alongside the utility and authentic flair of a short-term rental. Its own tech platform, along with a suite of apps, provides a seamless digital front desk experience that is backed by robust digital customer service and other fail safes, so guests always feel looked after. Interior schemes are carefully curated in partnership with local designers and the most interesting neighbourhoods are handpicked to allow guests to live like a local. The authenticity and quality of guest experience is key.
Image credit: Bob W
Bob W has grown rapidly since being founded just before the pandemic by Sebastian Emberger, who is from Germany, and Niko Karstikko, from Finland. Aside from organic growth, in May last year it acquired Estonishing Stay which, at the time, was the largest short-stay apartment operator in Estonia. The following October it acquired Finnish competitor KOTI Hotel, simultaneously securing €21 million in series A funding, led by Elevator Ventures, Verve Ventures, IDC Ventures and Flashpoint. This took the total raised by the company to €31 million. April 2023 saw the operator make its entry into the German market with the acquisition of Charly Hospitality.
Image credit: Bob W
Each location’s furniture, art and design are tailored to the destination to bring the flavours of the neighbourhood to the guest. With a focus on sustainable, local design, Bob W has partnered with world-class creatives, artists and local talent for its Amsterdam properties. Interior design has been delivered by an exciting soon-to-launch Amsterdam-based studio, Bob W’s local design team and the internationally award-winning design agency Holloway Li.
“Together, we aim to create truly authentic spaces that combine Bob W’s quality hotel-level standards with a nomadic home experience that feels intimately connected to the destination,” said Na Li, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Holloway Li.
Properties feature local artists, including custom Oosterpark-inspired art by designer Aafke Bouman, and locally sourced secondhand furniture. In addition, Bob W Noord will boast limited edition rooftop lofts featuring AI art, one-off Dutch design pieces, upcycled furniture and other unique features.
‘It’s a recycled material world,’ says Clarke & Clarke
Clarke & Clarke continues to add to its portfolio of eco fabrics and sheers, fusing style with sustainability through recycled materials…
Clarke & Clarke, part of Sanderson Design Group, is known for its trend-led, stylish contract fabrics and wallpapers, transforming hospitality spaces with textural and light enhancing qualities that run seamlessly from lobby to lounge and beyond. Blending tactile woven fabrics and floaty, relaxed sheers into layered schemes, hotel interiors evolve with Clarke & Clarke fabrics, for visual and textural moments of luxury.
Now, it is ever important that the brand’s material credentials meet the standard of design. From small beginnings, the range of fabrics that embrace eco specifications is growing and Clarke & Clarke is embracing a planet positive outlook with new collections boasting recycled fibres without compromising on texture, quality and style.
Image credit: Clarke & Clarke
Levanto sheers is a collection of the most beautiful, floaty wide width sheers. Inherently fire retardant, the fabrics are made from 100 per cent recycled fabrics, although hotel patrons will be delighted by the high-quality finish. Always focused on style, Levanto has three key designs, Diano, Rapello and Remo, that convey the lightest touch in fabrics, perfectly suited to spaces where light is invited in, and organic forms and patterns take precedence.
Diano is an elegant, woven sheer with an organic appearance and delicate watermark wash. Printed with an oversized ombre effect, it is beautifully fluid, particularly in drape form, achieved in a soft painterly effect, playing with natural and man-made lighting with aplomb. Diano comes in colourways including Azure, Blush, Charcoal, Linen, Midnight and Pebble and is made entirely from recycled FR polyester.
Image credit: Clarke & Clarke
Rapello is a more classic textured stripe to Diano’s beachy water aesthetic. Printed vertical hues of subtle colour fuse with a woven striped effect to create interesting overlaying techniques which add depth and texture to the collection. Another 100 per cent recycled FR polyester creation, Rapello comes in matching colourways to Diano but with dramatically different effects. Azure, Blush, Charcoal, Linen, Midnight and Pebble transform against the woven stripe effect, perfect for pairing and layering in schemes.
Remo makes up the trifecta of designs in the Levanto collection. For hospitality interiors where a soft linen slub is a must, Remo is incredibly versatile as a plain sheer. Light and airy with an ease of application, it has been made from 85 per cent Recycled FR polyester and 15 per cent Recycled polyester and comes in an array of tones that can be paired up and layered, or sit beautifully on their own, delicately obscuring light and softening the vibe in the room.
Image credit: Clarke & Clarke
For a tactile experience that packs an eco-punch, Cetara is a semi plain with sustainability at the fore, made from 60 per cent recycled polyester. Not losing any of its versatility, Cetara is produced using an interesting blend of multicoloured yarns, revealing a fabric that is soft, beautifully textural, and dual purpose. The 21 colourways on offer fit the bill for an array of hotel settings, with the multicolour yarns making this fabric super adaptable as well as stylish.
As part of Sanderson Design Group’s Live Beautiful strategy, Clarke & Clarke is striving to achieve a balance of beautiful and sustainably conscious collections. Levanto Sheers and Cetara, have been designed using innovative materials to achieve high-spec, luxurious fabrics, synonymous with the brand and the group’s values.
In Planet Mark we trust
Clarke & Clarke’s foray into fabrics with a conscience continues to be a steady progression, backed by Sanderson Design Group’s own commitments to become net zero by 2030 and its Planet Mark certification, which the group recently achieved for the fourth consecutive year. Planet Mark recognises continuous improvement, encourages action within brands and builds on an empowered community of companies and individuals who strive to make a positive difference to the planet.
Sanderson Design Group is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
art’otel expands European presence with ambitious roll-out
Contemporary lifestyle hotel brand art’otel has announced its European expansion with the launch of three new sites in Zagreb, London Hoxton and Rome, opening in autumn 2023 and early 2024 respectively. Here’s what we know…
Launching in autumn 2023 in the Croatian capital, art’otel Zagreb fuses art, design and hospitality. Located in the heart of the city centre, within the Jewish Liturgical Municipality building built by acclaimed architects Freudenreich & Deutsch in 1928, it is one of the best examples of Zagreb’s Art Déco architecture. The hotel shelters 110 guestrooms, a rooftop bar, main restaurant and bar, four meeting spaces, a spa and indoor pool.
Looking ahead to spring 2024, the historic city of Rome marks art’otel’s inaugural location in Italy. Moments away from the iconic Spanish steps, the property is an extensive redevelopment of a former hotel which closed in 2022. Featuring 99 guestrooms, the hotel will also include a destination restaurant and bar with outdoor terrace and an art gallery.
Image credit: Paul Winch-Furness / art’otel Amsterdam
Following the hugely successful launch of art’otel London Battersea Power Station, the brand will open its second London location in Hoxton. Designed by Squire & Partners, art’otel London Hoxton is based on a pure cylindrical form structure and will occupy a prominent corner within the South Shoreditch Conservation Area. The 27-floor property, scheduled to open in early 2024, will boast exceptional views across the capital, 357 guestrooms including 60 suites, destination restaurant and bar, art gallery, events space, auditorium and extensive leisure facilities including an indoor swimming pool. British street artist D*Face was recently named as the Signature Artist for this hotel.
“Expanding our presence for art’otel in these key European capitals has been an exciting and ambitious project,” said Boris Ivesha, President & Chief Executive Officer, PPHE Hotel Group (owner of the art’otel brand). “We’re focused on bringing our guests memorable experiences with one-of-a-kind hotels in the world’s best and most vibrant cities.”
These three new art’otels will join existing properties in Amsterdam, Berlin, Cologne and London Battersea Power Station. In addition, the hotels in Berlin and Cologne are set to benefit from an investment programme this year.
hansgrohe expands Logis tap range in matt black finish
Rising to the trends, hansgrohe now offers the Logis range of taps in sleek matt black finish…
Logis in matt black from hansgrohe has been designed for the style-conscious consumer, aiming to create a timeless bathroom aesthetic with striking accents. What’s more, Logis combines function, quality, and design, making it the perfect all-round tap for the bathroom.
For customers who are conscious about their water and energy usage, Logis also features CoolStart technology to support an efficient use of resources. CoolStart ensures the tap supplies only cold water when the handle is in the middle position, with hot water flow being activated as the tap handle is turned to the left. This technology ensures energy is not unnecessarily wasted on heating hot water when it isn’t required, saving energy and therefore money on heating bills.
Image credit: hansgrohe
In terms of functionality, years of experience in the sanitary sector has meant hansgrohe has developed coating technology to give an extremely durable finish. The high-quality surface coating of hansgrohe’s matt black finish is not only durable but able to withstand cleaning agents such as disinfectants, that often have aggressive ingredients.
“Our high-quality coating system not only gives hansgrohe taps a uniquely rich surface appearance, but also resistance to wear, and mechanical resilience,” explained Owen Baker, from hansgrohe Product Management. “Logis in matt black thus achieves the perfect balance of eye-catching aesthetic, durable quality and technologically developed functional enhancements.”
As well as hansgrohe Logis impressing with proven product quality and functionality, the expanded product portfolio of taps can easily be combined in different design variations, to suit a variety of bathroom sizes and styles. For those looking for a sleek aesthetic in a modern bathroom, Logis Fine is a new version of the tap available with a slimmer silhouette.
The extension of hansgrohe Logis in matt black has also been applied to various products outside of taps, to allow customers to create a holistic bathroom aesthetic.
To ensure products can be easily combined, hansgrohe offers a range of thermostats in a matt black finish for the shower area or bathtub, which can be easily matched to the Logis range to create a seamless style in the bathroom.
Hansgrohe is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Morgan, British design-led furniture manufacturer, recently launched its Aran collection at Clerkenwell Design Week. Developed in collaboration with textiles manufacturer Camira, the new collection comprises a lounge chair, featuring an expertly knitted sleeve designed to achieve maximum comfort through minimal material, creating form without mass…
Inspired by the rich knitting history of the Aran Islands, the lounge chair comprises only the most essential elements: an expertly knitted sleeve held in tension over a supporting timber frame. The result is a flexible ergonomic surface that comfortably cradles the user without any standard upholstery.
The chair celebrates the unique qualities of the knit material, using different knitted structures to form areas of varying tension and opacity, creating contrast and texture. Varying knit densities highlight the chair’s lightness and expose the frame beneath the 3D cover. Morgan has worked closely with Camira to innovate the traditional knit, infusing it with a level of softness and warmth rarely seen with this fabric, resulting in Aran’s unique blend of texture, comfort, and style.
Image credit: Philip Vile
Image credit: Philip Vile
“Aran demonstrates our commitment to sustainable design while pushing the boundaries of comfort and form,” discussed Erin Johnson, Design Director, Morgan, while speaking about the new collection. “The Aran lounge chair is a testament to the beauty and versatility of knit material, and we are confident it will make a striking addition to any space.”
“Collaborating with Morgan has a allowed us to create something truly unique,” added Darren Hill, Head of Camira Knit Development and Operations. “We’re proud to work with a UK-based company that shares our passion for sustainability and British design and manufacturing.”
Sustainability was at the forefront of the collection’s design process. Made from renewable and recyclable materials, the separate elements of the chair are designed for easy disassembly for repair or recycling. Along with using 100 per cent post-consumer recycled polyester made from recycled PET plastic bottles, the textile componentry of the chair is knit to fit, resulting in zero waste in manufacture and furniture assembly.
Morgan is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
The former CMO of Versace, Stephen Croncota and designer Ricardo Baptista Fernandes have transformed a tired villa in Piedmont, Italy, into a charming, boutique guesthouse…
Sheltering just 10 keys, Villa Giara is more of a home than it is a hotel guesthouse, which is the exact vibe the couple Stephen Croncota and Ricardo Baptista Fernandes wanted to create when renovating the villa into an endearing guesthouse, full of character.
Image credit: Claire Menary Photography
Villa Giara is situated in Piedmont’s ‘Golden Triangle’, the area between wine town Asti, truffle town Alba and thermal bath town Acqui Terme. Perched atop a mountain near the quaint town of Calosso, the bed-and-breakfast property is surrounded by vineyard-lined rolling hills and comprises two former farmhouses, manicured gardens with yoga deck and a large pool with panoramic views of the valley below.
10 bedrooms, each with their own unique charm and personality, are filled with artwork, textiles and antiques hand-picked by Stephen and Ricardo on their travels. Italian artisanship is celebrated throughout, with luxurious Italian mattresses and bath products adding a slice of authenticity. All rooms offer sweeping vineyard and mountain views, or look out on to the historic hilltop town of Calosso, via French doors, balcony or terrace.
Image credit: Claire Menary Photography
Breakfast is served daily in Villa Giara’s Limonaia room, while daily aperitivos and antipasti are available on the terrace, the perfect spot in which to soak up the sunset before heading out to a local trattoria. Private on-site dining experiences can be arranged on request.
The opening of the villa comes before more restoration works on a separate outbuilding at the base of the property’s hill are almost complete and will provide further accommodation for up to four adults.
Image credit: Claire Menary Photography
Croncota and Fernandes, who hail from the US and Portugal respectively, began renovating properties alongside their ‘day jobs’ more than 17 years ago and made this passion their full-time occupation in 2017. After living and working in several countries including the USA, Germany and Argentina, the couple finally settled in Italy, where they discovered an abundance of beautiful but neglected properties across Puglia and Piedmont crying out to be restored to their former glory.
Image credit: Claire Menary Photography
Typically, the couple either live in, rent or sell the properties after renovation, however in Villa Giara they uncovered a gem too special not to be shared with the world.
Renaissance Hotels has debuted in Portugal with the opening of Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel, located in charming Lapa, one of the most historic, vibrant neighbourhoods in Porto…
Perched on the Lapa’s hills, the hotel offers a sleek, sophisticated urban hideaway moments away from the iconic Lapa Church and other city landmarks, such as Casa da Música and Clérigos Tower, along with panoramic views of the city skyline. Drawing inspiration from the city, local architecture firm Visioarq Arquitectos and interior designers of Broadway Malyan were commissioned to create Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel as an ‘Art House in The Park’. Anchored by the brand’s theatrical design concept, the hotel is dressed harmoniously in pastel pinks and champagne golds with an unexpected touch of petrol blue, which pays homage to the iconic Douro River running through Porto and Gaia. The hotel’s interiors feature vintage Portuguese tiles, which have been used in local buildings and pavements for centuries. Adorning the walls are original art pieces from Portuguese international artists including a tile mosaic installation by Pedrita Studio, a painting by Isabel Mello, and a unique piece made of corrugated iron and neon lights by Berlin-based artist Clemens Behr.
Image credit: Marriott Hotels/Renaissance Hotels
“Porto is an alluring destination with a thriving wine and culinary scene, intriguing sightseeing, with history and culture around every corner – making for an exciting debut for Renaissance Hotels,” said Jennifer Connell, Global Brand Leader, Renaissance Hotels, and Vice President, Distinctive Premium Brands, Marriott International. “Through the brand’s signature theatrical design, evenings programming, and savvy Navigators, Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel will entice guests and locals alike with unexpected discoveries that surprise and delight.”
Image credit: Marriott Hotels/Renaissance Hotels
The champagne colour scheme extends to the hotel’s 163 stylish guestrooms and suites, which feature neutral furnishings in walnut wood, chic design pieces as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that allow plenty of natural light to pour through the space. All guestrooms feature modern flat-screen TVs, high-quality sound systems, work desks and USB outlets. The four suites, mostly set on high floors, offer a spacious living area and private balcony where guests can unwind with stunning views looking out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Image credit: Marriott Hotels/Renaissance Hotels
The hotel has one restaurant and two bars, all of which showcase a gastronomic experience of Portuguese cuisine with a Mediterranean flair. On the ground floor, guests will enjoy all-day dining and the brand’s signature Ritual with local flavours, which takes place to usher the transition of daytime to nightfall. Four nights a week the bar will prepare a locally infused ‘punch bowl’ with gins from Porto, fresh seasonal fruit and picked herbs. Following the Ritual, the space transforms into an elevated venue where guests and locals alike can mix and mingle over cocktails and live music. For panoramic views, the Sky Bar on the fifth floor offers a serene setting for locally inspired cocktails alongside Portuguese-style light bites.
Image credit: Marriott Hotels/Renaissance Hotels
“With culture aplenty, a thriving wine and foodie scene and stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Porto is an enticing destination for global travellers,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium & Select Brands, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, “We are thrilled to debut Renaissance Hotels to this dynamic city. With the brand’s savvy Navigators and signature Evenings programming, Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel will be the perfect gateway to Porto’s cobblestone streets and grand architectural monuments.”
The hotel’s top floor is home to a 17-metre outdoor heated infinity pool and a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre with top-notch Technogym equipment. In addition there is 544 square metres of flexible event space equipped with the latest technology, including an advanced translator system accommodating events with multi-language speakers. There are a total of six meeting rooms of which the largest can comfortably host close to 600 guests for conferences and corporate events.
Image credit: Marriott Hotels/Renaissance Hotels
The Renaissance Navigator, the brand’s neighbourhood expert, helps guests discover the local culture and destination. For history lovers, the hotel’s neighbouring Lapa Church is a must-visit as it stands today as a reference point of the city’s religion, art and culture with a history of over 260 years. After visiting the church, guests can set off on the Liberal Porto route to immerse themselves in the city’s history of The Siege of Porto in 1832. Guests looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood will be recommended to boutique cafes such as Café Guarany or Café Piolho; wineries like Gota a Gota Winery or Universo Carmim; antique shops like Porto de Magia and local favourites including multi-brand store The Feeting Room, Casa Januário and Queijaria Amaral, which are all in the Navigator’s very own black book.
Main image credit: Marriott Hotels/Renaissance Hotels
Slated to open in 2025, YOTEL Bangkok will be located within Cloud 11, Asia’s largest content creator hub with a project value of over 1.2 billion USD. The is the third signing announcement for YOTEL in 2023 as part of YOTEL’s growth strategy to reach 50 hotels by 2025 – here’s what we know…
The new-build hotel, opening in 2025, will be part of the cutting-edge Cloud 11, a 250,000 square metre, ground-up, mixed-use development set to be a playground for Southeast Asia’s artists, makers and tech entrepreneurs. A pioneering sustainable project, Cloud 11 features Thailand’s largest rooftop park acting as an urban lung in the city.
Designed by internationally acclaimed Snøhetta, in collaboration with A49 Architects, for Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited (MQDC) – a leading Thai real estate developer – Cloud 11 is poised to bridge the Asian creative industry with the cutting-edge world of entertainment technology. Opening a wealth of possibilities, the project will become a hub for creators in four key sectors: gaming, music and podcast, film and animation and digital.
Image credit: YOTEL
“At YOTEL we constantly strive to immerse ourselves within the world’s smartest destinations,” said Hubert Viriot, CEO of YOTEL. “Cloud 11 is going to be a hub for tech innovation and digital learning, making it the perfect location for our first hotel in Thailand and for our Generation Go guests. We’re thrilled to be the chosen brand for the development as our values are perfectly aligned with MQDC’s vision and mission for Cloud 11. Additionally, we’re expecting to see major demand for hotel rooms, as the area becomes an interconnected community for government, private agencies, universities, start-ups and the world’s leading technology companies.”
“We believe that the power of creativity arises from an enabling environment,” added Mr. Onza Janyaprasert, Project Director of Cloud 11. “Therefore, Cloud 11 is committed to empowering creators by creating a comprehensive ecosystem that connects local creators to global stakeholders. The opening of YOTEL Bangkok at Cloud 11 will be another significant piece that complements our ecosystem. With its modern and sustainable smart design and creative use of technology, YOTEL Bangkok will be a hospitality venue that truly caters to the multifaceted lifestyle of creators. It will not only provide innovative and convenient service amenities, enabling guests to have freedom and flexibility, but it will also foster connectivity among people and promote efficient work. The unique experience offered by YOTEL Bangkok will undoubtedly fuel boundless creativity.”
Image credit: YOTEL
From check-in to check-out at YOTEL Bangkok, guests will be immersed in the heart of innovation and technology. Featuring 250 guestrooms, the hotel will showcase YOTEL’s latest features including the brand’s signature robotic concierge, motorised SmartBeds, and fully integrated technologies for which YOTEL is known. Guests will have access to the brand’s multi-functional dining and co-working space, a 24-hour fitness centre, a Grab-and-Go snack station, and two meeting hubs that can be used to network and relax. Guests, visitors of Cloud 11 and locals will also have access to the sky bar on the 22nd floor overlooking Bang Krachao, dubbed the green lung of Bangkok.
Directly connected to the BTS SkyTrain via an impressive 300-meter skywalk, guests will have swift and direct access to the city’s coolest districts including Thong Lo, Ekkamai and Asoke, as well as the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre located in Bang Na. The site also provides direct transportation to and from both international airports, ensuring on-the-go guests have a quick and easy commute. Guests will also be within walking distance to nearby retail and dining options, multi-purpose event halls and an educational institute.
A tech village of the future, Cloud 11 is the second anchor project among MQDC’s masterplan to develop the precinct into Bangkok’s premier South Sukhumvit Innovation District. It is located opposite True Digital Park, Southeast Asia’s largest tech and startup hub, which was developed by MQDC and completed in 2022. Designed with green and open spaces, YOTEL Bangkok will sit at the centre of this up-and-coming tech-focused neighbourhood.
The signing of YOTEL Bangkok follows the announcement of YOTEL Tokyo (opening late 2024) and signifies the brand’s commitment to growth in the region. The property will join YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road and YOTELAIR Changi in Asia.
Sneak peek: inside 1 Hotel Mayfair, designed by G.A Group
Ahead of its anticipated arrival on July 13, SH Hotels & Resorts has let slip some interesting details regarding the hospitality inside 1 Hotel Mayfair…
Just when we thought 2023 couldn’t get more exciting for London’s hotel scene, SH Hotels & Resorts emerges with the news that 1 Hotels will be making its UK debut this summer.
The nature-inspired luxury lifestyle hotel brand, founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, has announced that its UK flagship and first European destination, located in the heart of London’s historic Mayfair, is now accepting reservations. The nine-storey ‘sustainable sanctuary’ overlooks the stately trees and verdant lawns of magnificent Green Park, just steps away from the world-class galleries, sophisticated boutiques, first-class restaurants and renowned emporia of Bond Street, Berkeley Square and Piccadilly.
1 Hotel Mayfair, designed by G.A Group in partnership with SH Hotels & Resorts internal design team, consciously creates an unexpected fusion of sustainability and luxury in the fashionable heart of London’s most exclusive hospitality district. The hotel brings a fresh breath of air enlivened by a deep love of and respect for nature within easy strolling distance of capital highlights such as The Royal Academy, the West End theatre district, and Buckingham Palace.
“We are delighted to bring nature and our mission of sustainable luxury to Mayfair, the very heart of London, one of the most important travel markets in the world,” said Barry Sternlicht, 1 Hotels Founder and Chairman of SH Hotels & Resorts. “We are thrilled to bring our unique fusion of fresh comfort, conscious sustainability, exceptional bespoke service, understated elegance, wellness and nutrition to London.”
“We’ve reimagined the traditional luxury hotel experience for Mayfair by infusing our love for nature with effortless sophistication,” said SH Hotels & Resorts Chief Executive Officer Raul Leal. “With this opening we celebrate our distinctive brand’s entry into Europe and the dynamic and culturally rich city of London.”
Image credit: SH Hotels & Resorts
Opting for reconstruction over new construction, this urban oasis, built to BREEAM Excellent standards, utilised 80 per cent of the existing structure, which was repurposed to minimise adverse environmental impact. Living green-trellised exterior walls transform former hard surfaces into natural vertical landscapes. A freshly cobbled and pedestrianised previous parking lot creates a harmonious outdoor public space, now gifted to the neighbourhood, where passing Londoners can connect to nature and the surrounding community.
Atop the building, two new complete floors were added and introduce 35 stunning suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive outdoor spaces, inviting guests to entertain or relax while overlooking Green Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks. The double height Green Park Penthouse Suite features a sprawling footprint of 274 square metres which makes it the largest one-bedroom Suite in Mayfair. The Green Park Penthouse can be further expanded to two bedrooms at 304 square metres and three bedrooms at 340 square metres. It features a wrap-around terrace and retractable sliding doors that open fully to sweeping and dramatic park views.
Image credit: SH Hotels & Resorts
All 181 rooms including 44 suites invite guests to rest, revive and restore in an enveloping nest, warmly welcomed by walls lined with native British moss and more than 200 local and regional plant species thriving throughout the property. At every interior turn, guests encounter works exclusively commissioned from nature-influenced local artists designed to provoke a sense of closer connection to the venerable landscape of Britain.
Dovetale, the ground-floor restaurant from internationally renowned two Michelin starred chef Tom Sellers will feature seasonal, organic, locally sourced quality fare from hand-dived scallops to farm-raised lamb. The signature cocktail bar is named after Dover Yard, which has been painstakingly revitalised as part of the project. The menu offers creative concoctions rooted in local traditions. Neighbours Cafe offers light snacks and barista-made ethical fair-trade coffee at a central communal table. The Bamford Wellness Spa offers the best of bespoke treatments following in full faith Lady Bamford’s holistic approach to health and wellness.
Image credit: SH Hotels & Resorts
Before it has even opened, we can tell that 1 Hotel Mayfair effortlessly fuses the finest natural sources, resources and artisanal products inspired by British heritage with the buzzy creativity and contemporary charm of 21st Century London’s most vibrant neighbourhood. We can’t wait to step inside.
Making brass taps from sandcastles – in the factory with Perrin & Rowe
Editor Hamish Kilburn was given a sneak-peek preview of House of Rohl’s new RIBA-approved CPD course for Perrin & Rowe. Inside the bathroom brand’s Wolverhampton factory, designers and architects will soon be able to learn all stages of the manufacturing process, which starts with grains of sand…
Watching, hearing (even smelling) the 25kg brass ingots melt before being hand-poured into sand-casted moulds is a powerful experience. It is truly multi-sensory and, yes, it requires ear defenders.
Although casters can only create one fixture at a time, I’m surprised how quick the casting takes – it is, I’m told, the ame method used to make F1 components. The cooling is almost instant – blink and you will miss it. The seamless movement of lock, pour, tilt, open and cool has become ingrained in the minds of the skilled casters here inside Perrin & Rowe’s Wolverhampton factory.
Image credit: Hoxton / Ennismore
As the sand inside the mold starts to crumble away, the skeleton of the product is revealed, but that is just the beginning of an extensive process that includes soldering, cutting, plating, polishing and quality care before this tap is ready for assembly.
For designers and architects to fully understand the journey of a Perrin & Rowe tap – and how the brand manufactures all 30-plus components for each product – House of Rohl is about to launch its first RIBA-approved CPD course, which will take its delegates through the production line. Like all new courses, lab-rat journalists are required to polish out the details, which is why I am spending the day in the region of England affectionately known as the Black Country, to appreciate, in person, a lack of mass production.
The Perrin & Rowe manufacturing process is almost hypnotising. It’s a well-oiled machine that is, almost single-handedly, keeping British bathroom manufacturing alive. I say ‘almost’ because, whatever way you look at it, skills such as casting, soldering and polishing – to the level required by Perrin & Rowe – are dying trades.
It’s no surprise, therefore, that at the heart of the factory are talented and interesting people. The team feel like a family, and in some cases they are. There are brothers working alongside sisters, uncles training nephews. Peter, for example, who’s brother and son also work on the factory floor, is a caster who has been with the company for 25 years.
In that time, little has changed in terms of the manufacturing process. Some tech has been introduced to allow the brand to achieve beyond-human accuracy when it comes to cutting threads in the pipes, for example, but much of the process has to remain handmade in order for the brand to maintain its high-quality reputation in a congested bathroom arena.
Image credit: Perrin & Rowe
Once each component is finished and soldered by hand, and after the plating stages, the most time-consuming – arguably most dangerous – part of the process takes place. Polishing can last hours to guarantee the Perrin & Rowe quality finish. This is where the brand also able to amplify its creative edge, with an extensive range of finishes that designers can choose from, including satin and aged-brass.
What I believe sets brands like Perrin & Rowe and groups like House of Rohl apart, aside from socially driving British manufacturing into a new era, are the intuitive environmental initiatives. Firstly, any offcuts are re-melted down and put back into the manufacturing process. And that’s not all. The group has a programme to recycle and reuse swarf and oil and House of Rohl has partnered with Severn Trent to process and safely discharge water.
The final part of the process, before the products are packaged and delivered to the brand’s other factory in Rainham, Essex, for final assembly, is the quality and water testing.
Image credit: Perrin & Rowe
So what gives this CPD course value and meaning? Well, put bluntly, it’s not like Perrin & Rowe needs the PR in order to get designers interested in its products. The fact that the brand is specified internationally in renowned hotels globally is an accurate measurement of the its success. Yes, by allowing designers in to discover the hands-on manufacturing process as it happens is an authentic way to allow designers to fully appreciate the various hands-on skills required to deliver the quality and quantity of products. But more than that, the CPD course will capture the design community to experience what put British manufacturing on the map in the first place – the brands who are not fuelled just by profit, but also by people. Perhaps, therefore, it is CDP with a dose of industry CPR to pump oxygen – and awareness – into the muscles of British manufacturing to keep it alive and healthy.
House of Rohl is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Leading commercial tile supplier CTD Tiles has reaffirmed its long-standing relationship with Mosa to become the manufacturer’s main UK distributor…
Throughout the year, but especially during major design festivals like Clerkenwell Design Week,Hotel Designs gravitates towards meaningful collaborations. Following the closure of the Mosa Design Studio in Clerkenwell, London, CTD Architectural Tiles is now the largest supplier and stockist of Mosa tiles in the UK.
Products from Mosa tiles are ideally suited for use in various commercial settings and combine aesthetic appeal with impressive environmental credentials. As the first ceramic tile company in the world to hold full Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold certification for nearly its entire tile collection, Mosa modular tiles can be used on floors, walls, terraces, and facades and are available in a wide range of colours and shapes.
Image credit: CTD Tiles
As the UK’s main supplier of Mosa tiles, CTD Architectural Tiles can assist interior designers and architects with valuable technical and specification information, including help with meeting sustainability targets and practical guidance to ensure successful commercial tile installations.
CTD Architectural Tiles’ nationwide team of regionally based specification sales managers are also on hand to offer full project support and ensure customers always get the very best solution for their projects.
Andrew Sadler, CTD Architectural Tiles’ sales director commented: “We are thrilled to be Mosa’s largest and main distributor in the UK. Mosa’s commitment to sustainability aligns with CTD Architectural Tiles’ own values and ethos and for many years, we have worked closely with Mosa to bring the latest sustainable tile designs to our clients. We are delighted to continue our partnership as we support our clients’ creative visions.”
CTD Architectural Tiles can offer access to the full range of Mosa’s tile collections, as well as expert advice on sustainable tile design for commercial projects. From the classic Global range to the innovative Murals collection, there is a Mosa tile to suit every project. Further design flexibility is available via Mosa’s stunning Colours range of gloss wall tiles which offers a core spectrum of 50 contrasting colours and the additional option to have specific and bespoke colours matched.
CTD Architectural Tiles, which is the go-to destination for anyone looking to create stunning, sustainable spaces using Mosa tiles.
CTD Architectural Tiles is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Turning the tap on creative bathroom solutions to see at Clerkenwell Design Week, Villeroy & Boch is showcasing a number of new products that can’t not share with you…
Fresh from ISH, Villeroy & Boch has been showcasing several ranges, including several new tap collections, at Clerkenwell Design Week – the UK’s leading independent design festival.
The bathroom brand has been one of the world’s leading premium brands for top-quality ceramic products since 1748, and is ‘proud’ to celebrate 275 years at one of the UK’s most important design events.
The team at Villeroy & Boch are showcasing new tap collections, including Loop & Friends, Liberty, O.Novo, Architectura, Conum, Dawn and Subway 3.0. With the introduction of its fitting range, Villeroy & Boch offers comprehensive solutions for the entire bathroom, which meet professional partner and customer expectations of the brand. The new taps are perfectly matched to the Villeroy & Boch bathroom collections, are easy to install and are of uncompromisingly high quality.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Alongside the new collections is the innovative TwistFlush from Villeroy & Boch. The revolutionary TwistFlush toilet flushing system combines exceptionally clean and hygienic flush performance with extremely efficient use of water. The secret: the patent-pending TwistFlush technology uses the physical force of a controlled water vortex, which flushes almost all of the inside of the toilet bowl while carrying waste away.
We are also loving the Subway 3.0 and Memento ranges including the Memento Semi Recessed Basin and Subway 3.0 Vanity Unit.
Villeroy & Boch, on stand DF2A at the Design Field’s exhibition of the show, is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
The bathroom reimagined: hansgrohe launches ‘Green Vision’
Two years in planning, Green Vision is the brainchild of hansgrohe and PHOENIX design that completely ‘rethinks’ the bathroom through sustainable design…
After two years of developing a vision of a sustainable bathroom that functions almost without water, an interdisciplinary team of hansgrohe innovators and PHOENIX design have created the concept design of the ‘Green Vision’, which uses 90 per cent less water, 90 per cent less energy and therefore 90 per cent fewer CO2e emissions in the bathroom.
The concept goes far beyond the usual sustainability triad ‘Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle’ and ‘Rethinks’ our individual needs in the bathroom. With a planet-centric design, it aims to consider these questions: how can consumption be reduced to conserve increasingly scarce water and energy resources? How can the carbon footprint of a bathroom be reduced to as close to zero as possible over its average 20-year service life?
Image credit: Hansgrohe
Individual wellness needs are in clear conflict with the growing need to save water. To help tackle this issue, Hansgrohe’s Green Vision separates hygiene and wellbeing to enable virtually waterless regeneration, by looking at two specific areas:
BASE – Space for Physical Hygiene
BASE is a new conceptual platform for personal hygiene, that includes a 10-litre shower with PH-neutralised water to enable showering with virtually no shampoo or shower gel. The overhead shower features a light that will become darker as the water begins to run low in the shower, so users know how much water is left. The used shower water is then collected and used for flushing the toilet, to create a circular flow of water in the bathroom.
The platform also includes a new visionary wash station, featuring three spray types: a non-heated, misty spray for hand/face washing, and both heated and non-heated mono spray for smaller hygiene rituals. The wash station also features a sensor on the arc to detect the desired spray type, which stops automatically as soon as the hands are no longer beneath the spray nozzles, to prevent the unnecessary use of water.
Finally, BASE includes a brand-new separating toilet. The toilet uses a pivoting lid to separate faeces and urine to reduce the number of toilet flushes, and utilises the used water collected from the shower. A bidet function means the toilet does not require toilet paper, which makes a significant contribution to the reduction of CO2e emissions. This innovation also saves a total of around 55,000 litres of virtual water, which is used in the production of toilet paper.*
Image credit: Hansgrohe
SPHERE – Space for Mental Hygiene
SPHERE is the conceptual area of the bathroom used for mental retreat, which includes an inviting armchair with a flexible dome. The dome creates a multi-sensory experience through an interplay of light, sounds and warm water vapour infused with essential oils, with the minimal consumption of water, energy and thus fewer CO2e emissions. There is also the ability to open or close the dome, which creates different states that impact the intensity of the experience, almost like a bathtub, but without wasting water and energy.
The interior space of the Green Vision utilises materials within a circular economy. For example, aluminium extracted from seawater is used instead of chrome-plated brass for everything metallic, such as the fixtures. The bathroom furniture is also made of wood and recycled materials, giving the space a warm yet earthy feel.
Image credit: Hansgrohe
Showcasing the Green Vision – ISH 2023
This month, Hansgrohe showcased the Green Vision concept study to the public for the first time at ISH in Frankfurt.
Steffen Erath, Head of Innovation and Sustainability, Hansgrohe Group, comments on the concept: “Together with PHOENIX, we set out to solve the problems of the future in the bathroom: water shortage, climate crisis and resource scarcity. The result is a modular system based on the idea of a circular economy, keeping circles small and closing them as quickly as possible. Part of sharing this concept is to open discussion around ‘Green Vision’ in the bathroom, not only leading to further development and ideation of our own but perhaps even more far-reaching concepts in the industry.”
Matthias Oesterle, Design Director at PHOENIX, adds his thoughts: “Global warming and our use of resources needs to be rethought. The sanitary industry has a responsibility to develop new solutions that are not only produced more sustainably but above all, make more efficient use of resources in the bathroom. Alongside Hansgrohe, the Green Vision embodies the challenges that this rethinking entails, addressing them in both a targeted and tangible manner.”
The technical innovations of the individual modules of the Green Vision are already being incorporated into the development of AXOR and hansgrohe products and will continue to inspire Hansgrohe’s overall ambition to reduce water consumption in the bathroom without compromising on experience.
*Calculated over the life cycle of an average bathroom used by a family of four. Source: Hansgrohe Bathroom Analysis 2022.
Hansgrohe is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Sneak peek: Octant Vila Monte reveals 4 new biophilic suites
Following its first anniversary, Octant Hotels has unveiled four new luxurious suites at boho-chic farmhouse hotel Octant Vila Monte. Located in the heart of the Algarve, surrounded by fragrant citrus trees and pink bougainvillea, the new Solarium and Secret Suites reflect biophilic design principles to nurture the guests’ relationship to the surrounding landscape…
Launched in the middle of 2022, Octant Hotels eight boutique properties, situated across the Algarve, Alentejo and Azores in Portugal, appeal to a new generation of travellers who seek deeper connections with the world around them. Each Octant Hotel reflects the regions where they operate and ushers in a ‘new latitude of freedom’ for the Discovery Hotel Management group with the eradication of formal check in and out times, closing times for swimming pools, and deadlines for breakfast.
Image credit: Octant Hotels
Octant Vila Monte’s new boho finca-style Solarium and Secret Suites offer guests an even wider choice of laid-back luxury, each complete with a private heated plunge pool and garden view terrace. Located in the Casa de Cima building, adjacent to the central hotel, guests can enjoy the exclusivity and calm of this adults only area whilst still enjoying access to Octant Vila Monte’s À Terra restaurant, serving traditional Portuguese specialities, an outdoor pool and solarium, holistic wellness centre and private butler service.
Image credit: Octant Hotels
Octant Vila Monte was created as a collaboration between architect Jorge Guimarães and landscape architect Teresa Barão. The hotel’s exterior design combines traditional Portuguese elements with contemporary cutting-edge lines. Outdoor terraces highlight the farmhouses carefully landscaped nine-hectare grounds—replete with aromatic plants, olive trees, water reservoirs, and a vegetable garden. The interiors, designed by Vera Iachia, who has worked with Andy Warhol and Jacques Grange, features reinterpreted materials and elements of traditional Algarve architecture, incorporating decorative pieces created by local artisans among other regional flourishes, such as white masonry, mat grasses, and traditional fabrics.
Image credit: Octant Hotels
For guests looking to experience the true tranquillity of southern Portugal, the new Solarium Suite is the ideal choice. Taking cues from the local vernacular and climate, the suite mirrors the visual and spatial architypes of traditional Algarve architecture with geometric design patterns and contemporary furniture that draws on the country’s craft traditions such as basketry and weaving. Outside, a generous garden with a private plunge pool and solarium ensures plenty of space for relaxation, while the terrace, basked in sunlight creates a sense of harmony with nature.
Image credit: Octant Hotels
Image credit: Octant Hotels
Perfect for couples looking for a more idyllic escape, the three new Secret Suites come with added privacy and a butler on-hand for last-minute reservations at the spa and restaurant. Design maximises the use of social spaces with an outdoor patio complete with furniture and shaded by towering carob trees, and an immersion pool, reminiscent of typical Algarve ponds. Inside, elegant interiors provide an intimate experience in reserved and private spaces.
Image credit: Octant Hotels
Each distinct in design, the three Secret Suites reflect the Algarve landscape from the blue hues of the plunge pool mirroring the clear Portuguese skies and white-washed pool emulating the typical houses of the region, to the green pool designed to accentuate the lush gardens surrounding Octant Vila Monte.
With two swimming pools, a tennis court, wellness activities and experiences ranging from boat trips, picnics on a deserted beach and tailor-made unique moments, there’s no better place to escape to for tranquillity and relaxation this summer than Octant Vila Monte and its new suites.
Live from CDW 23: Ideal Standard debuts new collections
Ideal Standard is making bold statements this year, and its presence at Clerkenwell Design Week is no exception. This week, the bathroom brand is unveiling several new collections – and here are our editor’s pick of our favourite…
During Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, IdealStandard has unveiled a plethora of new design-led ranges at its London Design and Specification Centre (LDSC), including additions to the manufacturer’s premium Atelier Collections.
London is currently welcoming designers and architects from across the world for the highly regarded design event. During the week, IdealStandard’s LDSC is hosting a series of interactive design sessions and networking events, including a drop-in pottery workshop and an evening party to celebrate its new Gusto kitchen tap range.
Image credit: Ideal Standard
Gusto marks IdealStandard’s latest expansion into the kitchen market, but it won’t be the only new product on display. Continuing its partnership with design powerhouse Palomba Serafini Associati, IdealStandard will also be showcasing its sustainable Alu+ shower offering and the new contemporary glossy grey finish for its popular i.life collection, with additional products introduced for the i.life B range.
Launching in October 2023, this year’s highlight will be the minimalist Solos range, characterised by its sleek lines and defined edges. Part of the design-led Atelier Collections, the innovative and visually-striking collection features a unique combination of both basin and fitting, as well as a range of sophisticated showering solutions. These upcoming additions will provide visitors with an exclusive look at what’s to come from IdealStandard over the next 12 months.
Image credit: Ideal Standard
“Clerkenwell is one of the most important design events of the calendar, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the showroom and explore the latest trends in the industry,” said Yiota Toumba, Senior Designer at IdealStandard. “It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase our new solutions, as well as highlight how we are integrating sustainability into products with ranges like Alu+. We’re also excited to discuss our new ESG report, as well as how sustainability is influencing the future of design.”
Ideal Standard is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Case Study: Modieus rolls out the carpets in The Royce
After a two-year period of renovations, with carpets and rugs created by Modieus, Melbourne’s iconic The Royce Hotel has been revitalised and reimagined, drawing inspiration from the golden age of hotels, bringing back the grandeur, indulgence and uncompromising quality…
Originally built in the 1920’s as a luxury car showroom, the building had all the glitz and glamour of a Hollywood Hills mansion, with a lofty gold ceiling and marble stairs. More like a ballroom than a showroom, walking into the space in the 1920s was like entering a theatrical world of fast cars, movie stars and flowing Champagne. Many of the building’s original features are on full display as this stunning renovation, along with the carpet designs by Modieus, draws inspiration from the Hollywood flamboyance and the spirit of indulgence of the Roaring 20s. From the grand marble-tiled staircase in the lounge, to the lavish ballroom, indulgent eateries, an over-the-top bar and opulently appointed rooms.
Image credit: The Royce Hotel
“The original showroom followed closely on the heels of the Melbourne land boom of the 1880s, where Melbourne was the richest city in the world at the time,” explained Nick McLennan, General Manager. “This was an important theme to celebrate when it came to the redesign of this iconic landmark. Elements of opulent materiality are all throughout the project,” Mclennan continued. “Lighting is extravagant with bespoke feature lights in shimmering crystal bringing gravitas and glamour in equal measure. Moreover, the material palette makes direct correlation to the Rolls-Royce car with mauve and silver tones realised as carved carpets in plush wool, polished Macassar Ebony, lacquered timbers, polished nickel, and leather upholstered furniture.”
Image credit: The Royce Hotel
Image credit: The Royce Hotel
The carpets and rugs running throughout the property were created by Modieus, who have built a reputation for creativity and a dedication to supplying stylish and design-led commercial flooring. “Our business is built on the firm belief that our customers should never have to compromise,” said Xander Okhuizen, Founder, Modieus, when discussing the approach the brand took on this historic project. “It was vital we encapsulated the right look, whilst ensuring the carpets and rugs are a suitable specification for each area of the hotel.”
Image credit: The Royce Hotel
The Royce is a fine example of the timeless allure of the Art Deco period and the carpets and rugs encapsulate the opulence and glamour of the time. Displaying a luxurious subtlety of colour, the guestrooms and corridor carpets are all Axminister, woven in a solid plain colour. Modieus used their specialist knowledge in bevelled carving to create a hand tufted look. The carving pattern is a stylised art deco geometric shell/fan design.
Image credit: The Royce Hotel
The public areas incorporate luxurious hand tufted rugs in a plain colour with added bevelled carving. The pattern is a stylised floral and petal design in high/low pile height, achieving a beautifully opulent 3D effect. High quality craftsmanship is a hallmark of Art Deco style and as ever,Modieus have done a fabulous job of upholding it.
Modieus is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Inside SALT of Palmar, Design Hotels’ first hotel in Mauritius
SALT of Palmar, designed by architect Jean-François Adam and Camille Walala, has become the latest hotel to join the Design Hotels portfolio of contemporary hospitality jewels…
Facing east, in a village nestled between Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce, located on a miniature peninsula between two bays with calm turquoise waters overlooking the Indian Ocean, sits a special design-led hotel and destination. SALT of Palmar, which opened its doors in 2018, has just become Design Hotels’ the first property in Mauritius.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
Having made waves in the local hospitality scene with its bold design by Camille Walala, contemporary dining concept and commitment to giving back to its community, the adults-only boutique hotel encapsulates Design Hotels’ core values, which are rooted in purpose, connectedness and curiosity. The collective of hand-picked, design-driven properties are defined by unique creative expression, consciousness, and creating spaces for purposeful experiences—the addition of SALT of Palmar establishes a new partnership that acts as an anchor for a community of travellers seeking transformative and restorative adventures.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
Marking a new destination on the global Design Hotels map, SALT of Palmar has defied local expectations ever since it opened in 2018. “We’re thrilled to welcome SALT of Palmar to our community,” says Jenni Benzaquen, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Design Hotels. “This conscious hotel not only marks our first destination in Mauritius—an island that offers unending opportunities for exploration and local engagement—but it also embodies much of Design Hotels’ ethos through its bold interior design and its conscious connections with the local community.”
Image credit: SALT Resorts
“We are delighted that SALT of Palmar is the first resort in Mauritius to partner with the renowned Design Hotels,” added Paul Jones, SALT of Palmar’s Original and Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective. “It is a like-minded collaboration, grounded on the passion for genuine hospitality, cultural authenticity, and intriguing design and architecture. Rooted in sustainability and a humanistic approach to hospitality, SALT connects modern explorers with meaningful travel experiences. This artful and wellbeing-inspired resort takes the culturally curious to local people – not just places, and into the very heartbeat of the destination.” The global luxury hospitality group that currently manages 16 hotels and resorts around the world, including SALT.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
A gem just east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, the remote African island of Mauritius echoes with calls of exotic birds, fish, and tropical plants. Its magic not only lies in its unparalleled natural beauty but also its incredible mix of African, Indian, Chinese, and French cultures. Nestled in the ‘wild side’ of the island – head east – SALT of Palmar is rests where the coast unfurls in traditional villages, swathes of raw beachfront, sugarcane fields, mangroves and lagoons. In the coastal village of Palmar, white sand and sapphire waters are backdropped by old Indian silk saris ruffling in the wind, acting as makeshift fences between small plantations growing chilis and vegetables.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
With all of these sights in mind, Mauritius-born and based architect Jean-François Adam renovated the hotel’s existing structure, which was originally built in the style of a traditional Moroccan riad. “We had to bring these natural elements into the interiors,” he says. “We reoriented all the beds to face the sea, and we redesigned the pool for a better connection to the beach.”
Similarly, artist Walala brought the essences of the island into the interior design concept. “I was blown away by the vibrant colours around the island,” she said. “People paint their houses in the most amazing tones that really stand out against the emerald green of the plants and the ever-changing colours of the sky. I wanted to marry these tones with my signature pop colours.”
Image credit: SALT Resorts
As a result, the bright hues of the houses dotting the island—as well as the pinks of the awe-inspiring sunsets and greens of surrounding palms and sugarcane fields—appear everywhere across the property. The façade is painted peach with royal blue accents, the daybeds are a vibrant turquoise with orange piping, and even the beach towels are canary yellow. Walala also worked with an extraordinary range of artisans—lovingly referred to as the hotel’s “SaltShakers”—on the island to develop the entire range of furnishings at the hotel. Everything from the woven chairs by the pool to the rug in the library to mosaic tables, cushions, and sunbeds are bespoke. The hotel maintains close relationships with all the SaltShakers, and guests are invited to participate in workshops at their ateliers.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
Another highlight is SALT of Palmar’s onsite restaurant, The Good Kitchen, which has earned a reputation as a destination dining outlet that draws visitors and local Mauritians alike. It was one of the first places on the island to offer locally rooted yet globally inspired cuisine that caters to a variety of palates, with a menu including traditional Mauritian dishes as well as vegan and raw interpretations thereof.
Each of the hotel’s three bars – located on the beach, at the pool, and on the rooftop – has a distinct identity with its own menu of cocktails and alcohol-free drinks inspired by the sea, land, and mountains of Mauritius.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
In comparison to the rest of the hotel, the 59 guestrooms are more subdued to promote restful sleep. But playful splashes of colour are still found in features like fiery orange-red chairs and similarly hued tiled showers, plants in painted ceramic pots, and black-and-white striped cushions.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
Each room is equipped with a custom mattress by Carpe Diem, a company founded by a Swedish chiropractor, a bespoke guidebook and small selection of books by local authors, a beach basket made from recycled plastics by local artisan Reotee Buleeram, and refillable, all-natural toiletries. Natural products are also used in treatments at the hotel’s intimate spa, SALT Equilibrium, which also has a salt room for halotherapy. Complimentary movement activities, such as sunrise/sunset yoga classes, serenity beach walks, and beach volleyball, are frequently offered alongside more socially mindful events like workshops on food scrap regrowth and how to make bath fizzes.
Image credit: SALT Resorts
Outside of the hotel’s own walls, maintaining a strong connection with and giving back to the local community is an integral part of SALT’s expansive ethos. The hotel supports the nearby Laventure Technical School for Disabled and also organises the ‘Skill-Swap Programme’, which offers guests the opportunity to share their skills and talents with the local community, and vice versa. Previous exchanges have included a visiting interior designer giving local school children a class on art and a hairdresser teaching students about different ways to plait hair.
All eyes are on Italy, as IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced six new luxury and lifestyle hotels in its pipeline – Six Senses, InterContinental and Hotel Indigo hotels will more than double IHG’s luxury and lifestyle presence in Italy from four to ten properties…
Cementing its presence in this key growth market, the six new hotels are a result of a commitment by IHG to sustainable growth across Europe and includes highly anticipated openings for Six Senses and InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in the capital city of Rome, along with four further signings – a Vignette Collection property in Rome and Hotel Indigo hotels in Florence, Turin and Trieste.
“The addition of these hotels across our luxury and lifestyle portfolio is a meaningful contribution to IHG’s growth in Italy, which is a key market for us,” commented Eric Viale, Managing Director, Southern Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “It is also a reflection of the confidence our owners have in the success of our brands, as well as the trust our guests have in the experience they deliver.”
While the new Six Senses and Vignette Collection properties mark brand debuts in Italy, the three new Hotel Indigo properties join a strong existing footprint in Verona, Venice, Rome and Milan.
Six Senses Rome is now open, offering 12 different room types across its 96 keys, with options including secluded rooms with courtyard views and suites facing the bustling Via del Corso and neighbouring San Marcello al Corso Church. Guests can indulge in the Eat With Six Senses ethos, from all-day dining BIVIUM Restaurant-Café-Bar or up high on NOTOS Rooftop.
Image credit: Six Senses Rome
InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace has opened on the legendary Via Veneto. Featuring 160 guestrooms and luxury suites, the hotel embodies both charm and historical splendour. Multiple culinary options will be available and include Scarpetta NYC, serving elevated Italian and American cuisine, Charlie’s Rooftop and Anita’s Bar and Lounge. Charlie’s Rooftop will be the only roof top venue in the city open all year round.
Image credit: IHG Hotels & Resorts
Hotel Indigo Florence will open its doors in the second half of 2023 in the heart of the city, walking distance to major historic monuments and exclusive shopping areas. Opening together with Grape Hospitality following a full conversion and renovation, the hotel will offer 160 guestrooms and mark IHG’s return to the city.
The pipeline also includes Hotel Alexandra, Vignette Collection, which has been signed together with Molo Hotel Group and expected to open in the first half of 2025. Hotel Alexandra will enjoy its location on the established Via Veneto, just minutes from the Spanish steps and Trevi Fountain. Offering 81 guestrooms, a restaurant on Via Veneto and gym the hotel will become IHG’s first Vignette Collection property in Italy.
Image credit: IHG Hotels & Resorts
Hotel Indigo Turin, a 50-room hotel, will open in the coming months together with partners Gruppo CHC. To be located in the historic heart of Turin close to the Piazza Castello, Royal Theatre and Gardens, it will benefit from leisure guests, business travellers and event goers to the local Pala Olimpico.
Hotel Indigo Trieste is another piepline project, again partnering with Gruppo CHC. This conversion project will see an historical palace built in the 19th century transformed to a Hotel Indigo hotel and is set to open in late 2025. The property will enjoy the growing local area, whose Italian/ Slovenian border location has recently seen strong investment due to its local port, increase in cruise ship tourism and opening of a convention centre.
IHG has 27 hotels operating under six brands in Italy including Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, voco Hotels, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. There are a further seven properties in the pipeline, all but one of which are in the luxury and lifestyle space.
As guest expectations of hotel design and experiences soar, notes of luxury in the guestroom accessories can become the small differentiators that make the strongest statements. We spoke with luxury lifestyle brand Lusso, which supplies a range of its high-end products to luxury hotels around the world…
Lusso prides itself on an exceptional production process from beginning to end, however, the final finish of a product is the one that is recognised and remembered. The brand’s materials and finishes include its trademark and durable stone resin, which is the core material of Lusso’s baths and basins, along with sustainably sourced marble and a selection of rich brassware shades. Lusso’s most coveted finishes include the luxurious Italian Carrara marble, along with its brushed gold and matte black.
Image credit: Lusso
Image credit: Lusso
For hotels and developments with a pet-friendly policy, Lusso ensures that no member of the family is excluded from the luxury demographic and provides the finer things in life even when it comes to man’s best friend. The luxury pet bowls, available in a selection of beautiful marble finishes, match the rest of the brand’s marble homeware accessories.
Image credit: Lusso
Image credit: Lusso
Nothing completes a room quite like a scented candle and Lusso’s Cassis and Nectar scented candle instantly sets the mood for a luxury ambience, enhancing the space with a sweet floral aroma. A well designed candle can appeal to all the senses and can make a visual statement along with a sensory one as the perfect centrepiece for a console tables, side tables or a coffee table. Keep the design cohesive and match the candles with the rest of interior narrative with a product like the Cassini Candle Holder in the same lavish marble.
Image credit: Lusso
Image credit: Lusso
Elevate the guestroom experience by focussing on the details. It’s easy to overlook the essentials, particularly in bathroom design, however, by being mindful when choosing fixtures and fittings, nothing needs to be excluded when it comes to luxury design. Products such as soap dispensers, wall brackets, toilet roll holders and storage baskets can all be matched to the design theme, enabling the same finishes and colours to run from room to room.
Lusso is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
The first ever hotel in Tel Aviv unveils a new look
An Eclectic architecture-style property and the first-ever hotel in Tel Aviv has been reimagined by Bar Orian and ICONIQUE as a 44-key boutique hotel. Hotel Designs got a sneak peek inside…
Tel Aviv’s first-ever hotel, built in 1913, has re-opened after it was reimagined by architecture studio Bar Orian and design studio ICONIQUE into a design-savvy boutique hotel.
Elkonin Tel Aviv, part of the MGallery Hotel Collection, shelters 44 rooms in the charming neighbourhood of NEve Tzedek. It encompasses a glass-ensnared modern structure, which combined with the original edifice, reflects the past and present of Tel Aviv.
Image credit: Accor
The hotel was originally constructed in iconic Eclectic architecture and Art Deco-styles in 1913 by Malka and Menachem Elkonin with the mission of creating a welcoming retreat for international and local visitors to Tel Aviv-Jaffa. The hotel quickly became the gathering place for some of the world’s most prominent figures in art, literature, politics and royalty, including Albert Einstein, King Abdullah of Jordan, and the first prime minister of Israel, David Ben-Gurion.
Image credit: Amit Geron
Following the passing of Menachem Elkonin, the hotel lay dormant for several years before being acquired in 2004 by Franco-Israeli entrepreneur Dominique Romano, who was captivated by its rich heritage and set out to revive the boutique hotel in avant-garde French style.
Working alongside local architecture firm Bar Orian, Romano restored the 20th-century property, preserving its original architectural motifs while also adding a sleek and modern site-specific glass tower that provides access to the rooftop on the seventh-floor. The exclusive rooftop at Elkonin Tel Aviv is elevated with a swimming pool with striped-tile flooring and the Rooftop Bar, inspired by the Côte d’Azur, serving a specially curated menu of cocktails and light snacks and featuring sweeping vistas of the Tel Aviv cityscape and Mediterranean Sea.
Malka Suite, Elkonin Hotel, Tel Aviv
The interiors were designed by Adriana Schor of ICONIQUE studio, who created a timeless and sophisticated European-style ambiance with custom-designed furnishings and lighting by Art et Floritude. Schor presents a sense of understated elegance and simplicity throughout the hotel, drawing inspiration from the culturally rich city of Tel Aviv and the spirit of the French Riviera.
Room 204, Deluxe Terrace, Elkonin Hotel, MGallery Accor, Tel Aviv
The neutral colours and soft materials used throughout the hotel serve as a prelude to its peaceful atmosphere. Much of the hotel features exquisite herringbone floors, rattan (wicker) accents, custom-made Italian terrazzo and original ceramic tiles, coupled with a blue and terracotta colour-scheme. Elkonin Tel Aviv boasts 42 thoughtfully designed rooms and two suites with well-appointed bathrooms stocked with Clarins amenities and bespoke furniture made exclusively for the project.
The hotel also features a destination restaurant, L’Éoque by Jöel Robuchon that serves up a combination of French haute cuisine with Middle Eastern influences flavours and spices.
Image credit: Accor
Tranquility lies at the heart of Elkonin Tel Aviv’s ethos, which is home to Israel’s first spa by Clarins. The Clarins SPA is designed as a peaceful sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, with five treatment rooms, dressed in shades of white and beige, a relaxation lounge and Turkish-style hammam.
Product watch: introducing Chiasso from BAGNODESIGN
Combining two of the hottest trends in bathroom design into one beautiful collection, Chiasso is a new mixer range from the high-end BAGNODESIGN brand by SANIPEX GROUP…
Chiasso by BAGNODESIGN is a contemporary collection of basin and shower mixers, which is available in four versatile brassware finishes, but where the range really stands apart is with its beautiful accent porcelain handle.
Available in chrome, brushed nickel, soft bronze, and PVD gold, the inserts on the handles are customisable, and available in 12 finishes, with the opportunity to correspond with Alpine washbasins and countertops by the same brand. Bespoke inserts can also be produced in the SANIPEX Slab Fabrication Facility in Dubai, making Chiasso a fully customisable option that can be matched to the bathroom countertop and wall tiles.
Image credit: BAGNODESIGN
While the porcelain accent inserts draw the eye, the style points don’t end there. The mixers’ large, fluted handles and elegant, simplistic spout also combine to make this a stand-out brassware collection. The fluted design features in particular tie together seamlessly with the brand’s Orology and Bosco furniture choices, for a cohesive bathroom design.
Image credit: BAGNODESIGN
The Chiasso mixer range includes a three-hole deck-mounted basin mixer, three-hole concealed basin mixer, concealed thermostatic shower mixer, four-hole deck-mounted bath mixer, concealed stop valve, and a concealed two-way diverter.
Image credit: BAGNODESIGN
“Inspired by the trend of mixing natural materials with metal, the Chiasso range combines natural stone effect inserts with high-end brassware for a contemporary and elegant look,” said Katy Olsen, BAGNODESIGN Brand Manager, SANIPEX GROUP. “With 48 combinations to choose from selecting your style is as personal as choosing your most coveted watch or jewellery.”
Sanipex Group, which is planning some exciting events during Clerkenwell Design Week, is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Digging deeper into materiality and discovering the relationship between luxury, creativity and sustainability in hotel design, Editor Hamish Kilburn sat down with seven leading designers to get a grip on what materials matter in hotel design. Pauline Brettell writes…
Surrounded by the innovative use of materials running through the design of the Squire & Partners was unquestionably an appropriate setting for this roundtable conversation – inside a dome structure, overlooking London’s skyline. What’s more, the honest dialogue between leaders of the design community took place an hour before the venue opened its doors and Hotel Designs hosted MEET UP London.
With a backdrop of stripped back surfaces contrasting with (luxurious) finishes, the panel discussed not only the materials, but also the matter and mode of manufacture and why this does in fact matter! Discussion covered questions of material innovation and development, notions of luxury, locality and sustainability within the shifting boundaries of hospitality – all in the process of getting a better understanding on where this path is leading design, or is it where design is leading the development of materials?
On the panel:
Constantina Tsoutsikou, Founder and Creative Director, Studio LOST
David Harte, Co-Head of Interiors, Studio Moren
Lucy Bagshaw, Project Director and Sustainable Designer, tp bennett
Brigitta Spinocchia Freund, Creative Director Spinocchia Freund
Jorge Hernandez, Product and Design Manager, Bathroom Brands Group
Maria Cheung, Head of Interior Design, Squire & Partners
Jennifer de Vere-Hopkins, Associate Director, Jestico + Whiles
Hamish Kilburn, Editor, Hotel Designs
With a plethora of research being done around new materials for the construction and design industry – including products like graphene, hempcrete and even microalgae – in reality, how close are we to using some of these materials in design over other traditional ones in projects? The conversation started off right on point, by looking at what new products are not only available, but are actually fit for purpose and being put to practical use in projects. Can in fact the use of innovative materials transport a project, as well as making meaningful materials more accessible across the design board?
Image credit: Studio Moren
Hamish Kilburn: In reality, how close are we to using some of these materials in general architecture/design over other traditional ones in projects?
Maria Cheung: We are using Graphenstone paint right now in projects, which is a wonderful success story, as it is a product that is actually a practical and viable alternative. A mix of natural lime-based paint with graphene technology, it provides a durability and ticks all the sustainability boxes along with the aesthetic ones and practicality of application. Considering the thousands of metres of paint designers specify in commercial projects, this is a really exciting and practical material development, that can actually make a difference.
Lucy Bagshaw: There are so many exciting material and product innovations that as designers we see and discover at trade fairs and via suppliers, only to find when it comes to specifying them, they are either not suited to commercial application or, importantly, not tested for purpose. As designers, especially working in commercial and hospitality arena we are constantly faced with regulation and specification issues and we need to keep pushing to encourage suppliers to not only develop the products but take it that step further, do the testing and make it a viable option to specify.
David Harte: The reality is, is that the creative force in developing alternative materials often comes from smaller companies These creative small businesses often find it more difficult to move a product forward and get it up and running and tested for use for commercial interiors.
Image credit: Studio Moren / Jack Hardy
HK: How much of the progress in developing alternative materials is in coming from other industries, for example the fashion industry?
MC: Waste product from the fashion industry is clearly coming into our material supply chain. A few years ago, we saw a beautiful surface product called Really, which was developed from recycled denim, but it wasn’t, at the time a practical option for interior specification. However, the manufacturers took the feedback on board and have, over time, been able to produce a hard wearing, scratch resistant worktop, that is both beautiful and fit to purpose.
Constantina Tsoutsikou: Ensuring materials can be specified for the contract market definitely takes time and it is often the last step in the process of research and development. Unfortunately, once that is done, what started out as a sustainable product often becomes less so to make sure it is fire retardant, anti- slip and all the other regulations that need to be met.
Image credit: Studio LOST
While it is clear that there are some commercial success stories out there, many of the new and innovative products exploring alternative materiality remain a work-in-progress. Designers around the table agreed that it was key that collaboration between designers and suppliers is essential to keep pushing the process forward until both the creative and the practical elements join forces in what then becomes a successful product that functions well, looks good and ticks sustainable boxes. This means keeping an eye on the long-term vision and can be a process involving time, conversations and collaborations.
HK: As expectations of the hotel experience both shift and accelerate, it is key to understand these shifts and how materiality plays into it. Is in fact materiality the new luxury as luxury brands focus on feeling rather than just a finish?
David Harte: Tactility is what people really engage with – luxury is a feeling rather than a finish. It is a sense that can be created through design and the elements you interact with.
Brigitta Spinocchia Freund: Design is about approaching materials differently and understanding how this relates to what people are ultimately looking for from a hotel experience now. Across our projects, we explore and introduce concepts of spirituality in design and this can come across in many different ways – locality and sustainability are certainly part of that conversation, as is the carbon footprints of a product and a design. People are also looking for more now in terms of a hotel experience and materials need to evoke feelings.
Image credit: Spinocchia Freund
HK: With this shift in expectations, can materials then help to define a brand in hotel design? Are brands in fact open to exploring alternative paths and materials to communicate the same brand message by using a new vocabulary?
Jennifer de Vere-Hopkins: Risks are not necessarily being taken at the luxury level yet – lifestyle, mid-market and commercial clients seem to be more open to innovation or exploring unproven products. The aim to be net zero can sometimes involve taking a chance and in our experience, commercial clients are more open to that innovation and the element of risk that comes with it. To some brands, maintaining luxe means perfection, so materials need still to look new and fresh over time. Embracing longevity in materials involves an acceptance of patina and imperfection.
MC: Mid-level brands are maybe a bit more adventurous, being less concerned with perfection than a luxury brand. While there are still brand guidelines in place, there are usually elements for us as designers to play with. Working on a Ruby Hotel for example, there are quite specific brand guidelines, but there is still room for some design dialogue in the public areas, which allows us to interpret and reflect the location. Hopefully the result is about the brand but also, importantly, about the design collaboration between brand guideline and the local project-based designers.
CT: In the luxury segment, brands tend to look for similar touch points. The wording may sound similar– comfort, warmth, luxury – but then we interpret them differently across the brands and through the design details.
Image credit: Jestico + Whiles
Taking the conversation further, having noted that there is still some reluctance in the luxury market to explore alternatives that are not yet tried and tested, can designers persuade clients to move away from the use of materials that come with high carbon costs? What are the touchpoints that can swing a conversation? While price point certainly remains an issue, if the sustainable and ethical threads can be woven into the design narrative by the designer and the client can see enough value in the story, they might be tempted to go there. The role of the designer is integral to providing the client with both the information and narrative.
LB: Everyone loves to tell a story and if a client can see enough value in the story behind a sustainable product or material, then they are usually more likely to get on board the idea of lowering the carbon footprint – although the concept of carbon and carbon footprint still needs to be communicated in a tangible and relatable way.
BSP: As a designer, if you can come up with a story behind a material – the artisans, how it was created, its sustainable story – operators see the value of the story behind the product and are in fact proud to share the narrative behind a product. Design is increasingly becoming about the story and this can be used to shift the balance in terms of materials used.
CT: We are also finding that it can sometimes be almost halfway through the process before actual materiality is shared and the client gets to experience and understand the materials in real life rather than via zoom or renders. Those meetings when the client is able to touch and feel the texture of materials are completely different and are often the point when materiality can win over other considerations like budget.
MC: It is great to find a material that sums up a project and gets the client onboard with the design vision. We recently developed a project around the concept of tide along the River Thames, incorporating tones and textures of rusted metals from the river banks. Finally, after a process of collaboration and conversation, Based Upon developed a material for us that worked on an aesthetic level in the design, as well as on a practical level for the client which was really exciting.
Image credit: Jestico + Whiles
Image credit: Based Upon
HK: There are a lot of brands out there that are using recycled plastic and creating statement pieces with character. Plastic has its connotations for not being luxurious. By looking at what is on the market today, can you see this changing?
MC: What actually defines luxury today is key to the question and one of the things that elevates a product is the level of craft involved. It is about the time and talent spent transforming a material into something beautiful. You can do that with plastics, the designs using ocean waste by furniture designer Brodie Neill being a case in point.
Jorge Hernandez: In the past recycled material have sometimes been a bit in your face with regards to plastic being the base product. What we are seeing now, as we continue to engage in the development process of materials, is a more understated use of the base product in materials like engineered leather and solid surfaces. While this is more about engineering than creativity, understated sustainability is becoming more common practice in the development of materials.
Image credit: Bathroom Brands Group
HK: Over the last few years, manufacturers have answered calls from the industry for more variety – bathrooms specifically when it comes to different finishes available. Has this changed the role of bathrooms from being practical spaces to being more driven by experience?
DH: The boundaries are definitely shifting and in some cases, disappearing as the bathroom comes right into the guestroom. This is definitely a credit to what is on the market from suppliers that we can do this and allows designers to make the bathroom a more inviting and design-led space as opposed to being separate and purely functional. It is rare to be asked to design a bathroom as a single entity now as both the bedroom and the bathroom constitute the guestroom experience.
JH: As bathroom product designers we are constantly exploring materiality in the bathroom – looking for innovations to make within the space and exploring the materials that will drive design forward. We need to ensure that designs and materials evolve both in terms of functionality and sustainability. The challenge is working with different material to get different finishes across the line to be able to crossmatch products and provide a broad range of design solutions.
Squire & Partners was the Exclusive Style Partner at MEET UP London. Bathroom Brands Group, which also supported this roundtable, is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Checking in: Park Lane New York – a reawakened iconic hotel
When Hotel Designs learnt that industry powerhouse Yabu Pushelberg had completed its two-year reimagination of the historic Park Lane New York, we needed to react fast. So, we sent Tonje Odegard over the pond to check in to the landmark hotel to explore its new design era…
Where do I start with this remarkable transformation of the renowned Park Lane New York? Global design studio and industry heavyweight Yabu Pushelberg has, in collaboration with LUCID (the hotel management Highgate’s in-house design team, who has kitted out the hotel’s new rooftop bar), reawakened the spirit of an iconic hotel and enhanced the guest experience even further.
Refurbishing a historic hotel without losing the integrity and identity that so strongly resides in its walls is a tall order. For guests entering the hotel for the first time and for seasoned visitors returning to their home-away-from-home there is a strong sense of expectation. It’s for this reason the designers decided to embrace Park Lane’s eccentric legacy and let it shape the new design language; give the guest what they would want and anticipate from an institution like Park Lane but package it up in an entirely new and unforeseen delivery.
Image credit: Alice Gao
Situated at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, there are a lot of other iconic competition in the neighbourhood, from The Plaza Hotel, Carnegie Hall, and The Museum of Modern Art. In other words, the team at Yabu Pushelberg knew that there were more than one reason to make the designs stand out.
Nonetheless, the design studio’s starting point for the design narrative started as it always does, with an immersion in the hotel’s locale, culture, and heritage. We’re talking old New York, decadence, glamour, glitz, and elegant vibrancy. Inspired by the hotel’s natural exuberance, the studio sought to inspire Park Lane New York’s renaissance. Rather than dismissing the hotel’s past, Yabu Pushelberg chose to celebrate its storied history by asserting its original spirit as an anchor upon which to build layers of wit, charm, exploration, and discovery.
Image credit: Adrian Gaut
In fact, the designers used the hotel’s previous owner, the iconic American businesswoman Leona Helmsley and her dog Trouble, as an inspiration for the design story. Known for her flamboyant and mischievous personality, the designers aimed for a colour palette that would evoke those exact emotions. This includes sophisticated creams starkly contrasted by deep and dark features. In particular, they focused on her dog, who was left with the entirety of his owner’s remaining fortune upon her death. The designers have imagined a young, dapper, and handsome dog residing at the hotel, living a life of lavishness, hosting opulent extravaganzas, proper tea parties, and chic soirées to be shared and enjoyed alongside his discerning and worldly companions.
Elsewhere, inspiration was drawn from the hotel’s leafy surroundings near Central Park and upper Manhattan’s overall sophistication. New York’s ubiquitous newsstands and landmarks such as Grand Central Station and beloved Bemelmans Bar served as further sources of design creativity.
Image credit: Adrian Gaut
This is most apparent in the bedrooms, which are effortlessly luxurious. Either with city views or vistas overlooking Central Park, visitors are guaranteed epic New York views, which does the majority of the work. Painted dressing room screens and headboards mirror the naturalistic park scenes in an artistic and stylish way while deep pastels, bright colours and dark blues add that touch of glamour. The distinct Art Deco of New York’s yesteryear is the overarching theme with posh velvets, patterned wallpapers, and curved edges.
A similar theme of Art Deco opulence follows through to the guest bathrooms, with golden taps, spacious showers, free-standing circular baths, and monochrome floor tiles against marble wall slabs.
Image credit: Adrian Gaut
Taking a closer look at the public areas, elegant details are what create the magic. Yabu Pushelberg repurposed Park Lane New York’s original chandeliers, sconces, and fixtures to sustainably infuse a modern graciousness throughout the property. This is particularly apparent in the nooks and crannies of the lobby. Curvy Art Deco furniture, illustrated wallpaper, animal figurines, and landscape-printed custom armchairs are just a few of the ones worth mentioning. The lobby’s curvy staircase fits nicely in with the glossy wall panels depicting natural wood and we especially love the separated check-in area, entered via Art Deco arches.
Image credit: Adrian Gaut
Moving onto the hotel’s F&B outlets, let’s start with the Rose Lane bar directly opposite the lobby, on the ground floor with its own separate entrance. The most striking features here are the giant crystal chandeliers and illustrated wall panels contrasted against deep, dark walls and ceilings. Adjacent to it is the conservatory-styled garden, which provides more seating. The brightness and airy feel to this space is an intriguing juxtaposition to the main bar space and provides respite to the dark and sensual indoor area. Full of greenery, it feels fresh and invigorating.
Image credit: Alice Gao
Harry’s New York Bar follows the similar dark, mysterious and sexy colour scheme as Rose Lane, but perhaps takes it even a step further. Masculine hues and materials such as deep navy blue, mahogany, two-toned marble, and velvet create the sophisticated finish. It feels old school and grown-up, especially with the help of the colourful art displayed on the wall and the textured and embossed ceiling.
Finishing on top, we find ourselves in the newly added rooftop bar, Darling, which has been conceptualised by LUCID. Transformed from an old penthouse residence, it has quite a different design language than the rest of the hotel. We welcome that, though, for a bit of spice and variation. The rooftop’s wrap-around terrace is covered, because at 47 floors it would be windy to say the least, but the solution is a black-and-white striped canvas roof which adds texture and intrigue to the space. This monochrome palette is contrasted by bright greens, warm oranges, and leafy patterns, complemented by lots of shrubs to create an energetic oasis.
Image credit: Alice Gao
Nearby Central Park is yet again referenced throughout, especially via the greenery, but also via a giant and intricate mural on the staircase where guests arrive – bold colours, florals, and animals set the tone. The indoor lounge and bar area features a sprawling mural designed by artist En Viu, and continues the visual artwork thread of storytelling found throughout the property. Elsewhere, there are pressed metal ceilings, black-and-white floors, and panelled walls, all juxtaposed with rich coloured furniture, marble tables, and ornate lighting.
While the aura of The Park Lane’s past has managed to remain intact over the years, it became obvious that the spirit of the hotel was weighed down by dated interiors. To capture the magic and share the wonder of The Park Lane Hotel’s epic tale with the New York of today, the hotel was in dire need of a refresh. By remixing the original qualities and defining characteristics of Park Lane New York with spirited modernity allowed Yabu Pushelberg to reassert the hotel as a present-day landmark imbued with thoughtful consideration and elevated flair.
Project Support Team – Hamilton’s best-kept secret is out!
We have just broken down exactly what Hamilton Litestat’s Project Support Team offers designers and hoteliers.
Hamilton Litestat, which is Headline Partner for MEET UP North on July 6, has been a pedigree within the hotel sector since the ’80s. In that time, the decorative wiring accessories brand has worked on a range of high profile boutique and international hotel design projects.
This is due, in part, to the behind-the-scenes efforts of its Project Support Team – quite possibly one of the wiring accessory industry’s best-kept secrets – that has been trusted by brands such as Hilton, Accor, IHG, Hotel Indigo, Bespoke Hotels, Whitbread, Marriott, Marine and Lawn Hotels & Resort Group, and Mastcraft Group, among others.
Image credit: IHG/Veerle Evens
The dedicated team of wiring accessory experts are an oracle of creative guidance, design and technical know-how that aspire to be your go-to-team throughout any hotel interiors project – from advice on aesthetics and on-trend finishes to bespoke product designs for projects requiring something a bit special and unique!
With hotels demanding ever more attention to detail in design, and guests expecting access to the latest in lighting control and charging technology, its unique service delivery approach comes into its own.
Hamilton’s structured and immersive approach offers start-to-finish support, which can be broken down into six steps.
Step one: The site visit
Experience has taught the company that it can add the greatest value to a project when involved from an early stage…so why not get them in! A site visit allows the team to fully understand the brief and associated design challenge, in situ, for themselves. From here, the team can make considered product suggestions and help identify and resolve any possible technical issues before they become a problem.
Of course, some clients already know exactly what they want. Hamilton’s team are still keen to share ideas and can offer a wealth of support throughout the project delivery.
Step two: Product selection
With its extensive portfolio of 23 designer collections, in 23 different finishes, most decorative wiring accessory briefs can be met by choosing a collection and finish from its standard designer range.
Image credit: Hamilton Litestat
Image credit: Hamilton Litestat
No one is better placed than the team at Hamilton to understand the merits of each collection and how they can support your award-winning project – with or without customisation.
Design guidance: With a wealth of industry knowledge, as well as full visibility of existing projects being processed in its factory, Hamilton Litestat can offer you of-the-moment insight into trending designs and finishes.
Know-how to take cost out of a project: When the budget for wiring accessories is tight but your client’s expectations remain high, the team will work with you to come up with the best value-engineered solution for your project without compromising on the quality or aesthetics, providing an affordable and effective solution that meets the brief.
Updates on new technology: With aesthetics just one part of the story, Hamilton’s team’s technical expertise means that the company can advise on current electrical regulations, which is especially relevant in large or complex projects.
In addition, the team can ensure that your decorative wiring solution stands the test of time as technology evolves. A great example of this is the introduction of USB-C charging and the development of combined USB-A&C power sockets which are currently available in a couple of charging options. With knowledge of your requirements, as well as wider industry and cultural trends, the company’s team can help you select the right one for your project.
Step three: Project quotation for your client meeting
With the insight garnered from step one, and decisions made in step two, the team provide a fully costed solution, with product descriptions and corresponding datasheets that include: installation guide, quality standard information, product guarantees and warranties. With this information to hand, you’re able to present and substantiate your design decisions with assurance on quality, technical data and price.
Step four: Free product sample service
Because Hamilton knows that seeing, touching and feeling is believing, its team can not only provide swatches of all of its standard plate finishes, but a production example of the finished product itself. Anything that will complement your mood board and help you sell your design scheme into your client. All samples are produced in its Bristol factory, which means a quick turnaround from them to you.
Image credit: Hamilton Litestat
Step five: Custom-made plates… a special!
Hamilton’s Bristol-based Bespoke Design Team are on hand to turn your product ideas into custom-made solutions when an interior scheme requires something a little different…or even a little special!
Media and control plates can be customised to your bespoke technical requirements and made to match any standard accessories selected as the basis of your decorative wiring accessories scheme.
For example, the bespoke functionality requirements of the accessories at Thornbury Castle Hotel were achieved with bedside plates that included individual toggle-switch control of the room chandelier, table lamps and bedside lamps and a single power socket with 2.1A USB port for charging smart devices. To enhance the guest experience, the function of each switch was clearly etched on each plate. The bespoke plates were based upon the brand’s Hartland collection, which, finished in Antique Brass, with its slim, sleek profile was the ideal box-fix design to harmonise with the ornate brass bedside lamps and dark wood panelling.
To kick-start the process, Hamilton’s in-house engineer will create a CAD line drawing to achieve the initial buy-in of both you and your client. From here, the company’s free sample service and finish swatches can be supplied to support your mood boards, finalise the design and obtain sign-off from your client.
With all design and manufacture taking place at the company’s Bristol HQ, which is set up with projects like yours in mind, the team are able to produce bespoke orders with a swift and seamless turnaround. It is worth bearing in mind that custom-made plates do take a little longer to produce than plates from the company’s standard range, however they will keep you updated on lead times throughout the process to ensure your expectations are met.
Image credit: Hamilton Litestat
Step six: Advice on product lead times
Standard or bespoke – whatever the product mix to make your final list, Hamilton will ensure you’re kept up to date through the whole project, on product lead times and to co-ordinate the delivery of your accessories to site. The team will even pack product in room-by-room boxes if required. Working closely with your electrical contractor – particularly on those more demanding briefs or challenging sites, the team will help to make sure every detail of your brief is met.
Reassuringly expert
Wherever you’re based, the company has a Project Support Team member nearby who will be happy to visit you at your studio or workplace and get your project on the right tracks. Safe in the knowledge that your decorative wiring accessories are in expert hands, you can enjoy the freedom to focus on other aspects of the project, to ensure both you and your client come away smiling.
Hamilton Litestat is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Ahead of joining a panel discussion at Interior Design & Architecture Summit, James Walsh, Creative Director of Studio Anyo, who has worked on a number of modular hotels for brands such as CitizenM, YOTEL, room2 and others, shares his ecological-design ethos on how to achieve a carbon-positive future in hotel development…
We are living in an eco-system that is on the verge of collapse due to global warming; reaching a point of no return possibly within our lifetime. So how sustainable is a discretionary industry based on leisure activities for a limited group of individuals?
In a time when people do not have clean water to drink, an industry that thrives on large, chlorinated swimming pools are claiming to be sustainable, but while the chlorine may be killing the green algae, the hospitality is still the same colour – greenwashed. The fundamentals of the travel industry are based on air travel, which is the most polluting of our carbon outputs with little sign of improvement until 2050 targets for carbon reduction and biofuels are capable of being implemented.
Meanwhile, hotels are asking their guests to reuse their towels and save on the cleaning bills – sustainability, tick – rather than requiring them to offset their travel carbon. It is time to reset and move toward a true sustainable approach for the leisure industry.
Image credit: Studio Anyo
So where do we start? There are two components that we must review to start creating a more sustainable industry. First is the carbon cycle, and then we need to review the impacts on our eco-system.
Let’s start with the carbon story, as it is perhaps the most pressing; given we are having incredible success at slow cooking the entire planet with excess heat due to the higher levels of carbon content in our atmosphere. Although the additional heat may seem great to the sun-worshipers, the frog in the pot will tell you that it is not sustainable for a long period. The carbon story is made up of two parts, the amount we use to create the building, embodied carbon, and the amount we need to use the building – operational carbon, travel, cleaning towels etc.
Image credit: YOTEL
Embodied carbon is now well-understood. It is modelled and embedded within many ESG requirements and a low-hanging fruit in terms of a move towards a sustainable future.
The start is simple: use more trees, wood, bamboo, earth walls etc., anything that grows and reduces carbon bringing a carbon credit to the building. Anything we make or process is carbon negative, and materials that use a carbon-intensive process, like concrete, for example, has a major negative carbon cost.
Transport plays its role. Importing timber from halfway around the world isn’t the way forward and adds more green to the greenwash. This part of the industry is maturing, and a lot of great work is happening in this area, particularly in the offsite manufacturing processes, which assists in reducing the carbon content of the building when done properly. All you must do now is state that you want a carbon-neutral building and add the cost impacts to your appraisal; let’s say 10 per cent uplift; and away we go.
Image credit: Studio Anyo
Operational carbon is where a lot of the cheating begins, and what is counted and what isn’t is a dark art controlled by the marketer. ESG policies should be entered into the Booker prize for fiction and carbon statements should be read as great works of mathematical manipulation where fact bears little relationship to reality.
So, what are the basics you need to produce more energy than you consume, and offset the amount of carbon need to create the building and the guests of the building using it? The fact is, currently, almost every activity requires energy to be used to undertake that activity releasing carbon to the atmosphere in the process. The challenge is to reduce/ eliminate the amount of carbon each activity takes.
There are many great examples of how these that can be easily implemented, sourcing renewable electricity, low water systems, removal of gas cooking etc. but it needs to be looked at holistically to be effective, and the fact is these costs need to be added to the guest’s bill.
Image credit: Studio Anyo
Let’s push the two narratives together to achieve a happy and healthy ending. If we reduce the amount of carbon used to create our buildings and reduce the amount of carbon used by our guests, then through the use of renewable energy sources possibly also within the building, i.e. solar panels, we can generate more energy than we need and use that to mitigate the carbon equation.
We can pay back our carbon costs within, say, 10 years and operate as a carbon positive enterprise, but we will need to do more to mitigate the damage done to date. This means the industry can, after the payback period, become carbon-positive and reduce the amount of carbon entering the atmosphere and perhaps, well, save the frog.
Finally, staying with the now truly greener frog, it would be great if the industry helped reduce the carbon story, but we must also look much further at our impact on our eco-system. The industry tends to focus on the most sensitive environment on the planet, so we experience how the frog lives and see it in its native environment. Without better consideration of the how we impact nature with our resort designs, we will destroy the very environment we are so keen to experience.
Through biophilia and permaculture/pattern design systems, we can look to nature to design our buildings to enhance the local environment, examples would be a living swimming pool which cleans its own water with reedbeds rather than a sterile chorine filled pool. Food for thought, perhaps, but are we willing to swim with the frogs rather than enjoying cuisses de grenouille?
James Walsh will join Editor Hamish Kilburn and a handful of other design experts to discuss ‘the green agenda’ the Interior Design & Architecture Summit, which takes place on June 26 at Hilton Canary Wharf London. Qualified designers are eligible to attend for free – just speak to Josh Kingsmill from Forum Events to book your place. If you are a supplier, and would like to meet qualified designers and architects at the event, please speak to Olivia Jackson.
A lot has changed in the seven decades since KEUCO was founded in 1953, but the goal and vision of the early days has remained – to make bathrooms that are both beautiful and comfortable…
Continuing the KEUCO story where it began, the company continues to develop and produce quality products in Germany and the headquarters are still located in Hemer, Westphalia, where it was originally formed in 1953. The original focus was on bathroom accessories, but the brand has continuously expanded, revised and supplemented its range and today offers an abundant range of fittings, accessories, mirror cabinets, washbasins and bathroom furniture all proudly ‘Made in Germany’.
Image credit: KEUCO
After all these years KEUCO knows precisely how to skilfully merge tradition with innovation to create outstanding bathrooms and have collected numerous design prizes for its innovative bathroom furnishing concepts and products along the way.The company is still family run and owned as 100 per cent of the company shareholders are all members of the original founders. Today, the company is managed by Lubert Winnecken and he is assisted by a management committee, this team is responsible for the day-to-day running of the business.
Image credit: KEUCO
The brand has a history of championing design and designers to make a statement in the bathroom. The 1970’s saw the trendsetting range by German designer Luigi Colani , the most famous designer in Germany at the time who worked alongside the brand to develop the first revolutionary bathroom design with accessories, light and mirrors all made by KEUCO.
The next decade saw the Solitair cabinet Sesam striking a strong pose and becoming an icon in the bathroom, while moving on to 2023 with the launch of AXESS with Studio FA Porsche, KEUCO continues to make bold design statements in the bathroom through its collaborations.
Image credit: KEUCO
Image credit: KEUCO
The design integrity as well as the continuity championed by the business, means the employees consider themselves to be part of an extended family business, one that values its employees and understands that it is the combination of the company’s historical knowledge with individual expertise that creates the KEUCO brand.
KEUCO is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
New renders released of W Milan, landing this autumn
The disruptive hospitality brand, W Hotels, will make its debut in the fashion capital of Italy with a 116-hotel to open in Milan, designed by Patricia Urpuiola, this autumn. Here’s what we know…
Given the brand’s relationship with fashion – it is literally written into its DNA – W Hotels’ debut arrival in Milan, this autumn, makes a lot of sense. Following the opening of W Rome, the disruptive hotel brand will make its mark in Italy’s fashion and design capital with the launch of a 116-key hotel that is expected to become the city’s up-and-coming hotspot.
WMilan, owned by Gruppo Statuto and managed by Marriott International Inc., will be located in Piazzetta Bossi, just behind the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala and moments from the bohemian Brera neighbourhood.
Image credit: Marriott International
The design project of Studio Urquiola has reinterpreted the Italian Rationalist architecture of the original ’50s building with a vibrant and contemporary interior design that catches the Milanese essence through its colours, materials, finishings and inspirations.
WMilanwill feature 116 stylish guestrooms including 14 suites and one Extreme WOW Suite, the brand’s signature take on a Presidential Suite.
The hotel will boast an eclectic mix of dining destinations, bringing world flavours to cosmopolitan guests and locals connectors alike. Japanese restaurant, Odachi, will showcase authentic cuisine in a sophisticated setting while those looking for a truly Italian experience can indulge at Scena by Michelin star Chef Andrea Berton.
Image credit: Marriott International
W Lounge will be a welcoming space at the heart of the hotel for guests to socialise over aperitivo, Milanese light bites and beats of live performances. A standout feature of WMilanwill be the iconic rooftop, complete with a pool and lounge areas providing the perfect spot to soak up the energy and skyline of the city. By night, Aria, the rooftop’s skybar transforms into the city’s hottest new hangout serving delicious food, cocktails and DJ sets.
Omni PGA Frisco Resort – marking a new chapter for golf hotels
International architecture firm, SB Architects, part of Egis Group, known for creating spaces that capture the history, culture and context of each location, has announced the opening of the new Omni PGA Frisco Resort, a mixed-use development in Frisco, Texas…
Nestled alongside the PGA of America Headquarters, Omni PGA Frisco Resort is made up of 500 luxurious guestrooms and suites, ten exclusive four-bedroom ranch houses for hosting events and parties, 13 restaurant and bar concepts, over 12,000 square metres of indoor-outdoor meeting space, four pools, a leading-edge golf training centre, a destination Mokara Spa – and the list goes on. Inspired by Texas modernism, SB Architects’ design for the development created an exciting golf and resort experience for advanced players, those new to the game and everyone in between, through the introduction of ’boutique experiences’ located throughout the resort development.
Image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
“The opening of the Omni PGA Frisco Resort represents an important milestone, not only in my career but for all of SB Architects given the size, scale and innovative vision of this impressive project,” said Bruce Wright, Senior Vice President and Principal, SB Architects. “It’s rare to get an opportunity to work with so many talented partners to create a true multifaceted project that will have such a profound impact on the future of golf as well as the City of Frisco, Texas. I’m so proud of the collaborative effort to transform this site not only into a world-class golf resort but a destination for excitement and gathering that will be enjoyed by so many for years to come.”
Image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
Throughout the pedestrian-focused property, the architectural design is warm, approachable and contemporary, to reflect the future-thinking approach of the development. Distinctive massing, courtyards, and layered natural materials were utilised to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The use of stone, large overhangs, wood detailing and ironwork all work together to create a modern contemporary feel. With golf at the heart of the resort, the guestrooms are positioned to prioritise views of the two championship courses – Fields Ranch East and Fields Ranch West.
Image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
Image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
The design challenge was to develop a destination resort of a residential scale and balance to accommodate 500 rooms and the significant group meeting space that is a signature of Omni Hotels & Resorts. SB Architects approached the challenge by creating smaller districts within the resort, weaving in pauses for reflection along the way to break up the scale of the project and keep people engaged with the architecture. The pedestrian-friendly environment is centered around the sport of golf but thoughtfully programmed as the Texas version of a boardwalk, with activities and events along the retail corridor that are designed to be equally engaging to non-golfers.
Image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
Created in collaboration with design partners Robert Glazier; Interior Designer, Jeffrey Beers International; and General Contractor, Brasfield & Gorrie; the resort is slated to become a leading destination for golf, providing an unparalleled experience for all visitors. In addition to the luxurious guest rooms, the property offers private ranch homes with dramatic views of two 18-hole championship golf courses designed by legendary designers, Beau Welling and Gil Hanse. Additionally, the resort features a lighted ten hole short course and two acre putting green, a Lounge by Topgolf, PGA Coaching Center and a practice facility anchored by a clubhouse and entertainment district. The result is a development that provides a full deck of offerings with multiple layers of different experiences.
Image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
“We set out to create an environment and destination that not only caters to the world-class golf aficionados, but also to the general public to whom golf might not be the draw,” said Regan Holton, Vice President of SB Architects’ Dallas office. “The Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) region is thriving with innovation and optimism, this portfolio-defining project galvanized SB Architects to launch our Dallas office. With a marquee set of clients in Texas, we’re excited to continue to pursue local opportunities.”
After PGA of America’s 56 years in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, the move to Frisco, Texas signals an exciting change. Named the ‘2018 Best Place to Live in America’, Frisco will be transformed with this development, bringing new vitality and economic growth to the local community. The inspiring architecture of the Omni PGA Frisco Resort complements the vision for this bold, state-of-the-art development, set to bring in a new chapter for the future of golf in America.
Main image credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts / SB Architects
Inside Park Hyatt Jakarta, designed by Conran & Partners
Following Conran & Partners completing the interiors of Jakarta’s latest luxury hotel, Park Hyatt Jakarta, Hotel Designs has been given the keys to explore the sophisticated design narrative…
Occupying 19 floors of a new landmark 37-storey building, the design inside the 222-key Park Hyatt Jakarta needed to work hard in order to achieve its aim of being the city’s most desired luxury hotels.
Image credit: Himawan Sutanto
With the expert team at Conran & Partners on board from initial concept stages, led by Principal Tina Norden, the hotel’s design scheme was simple: to inject the simple beauty and natural elements, such as Indonesian rainforests, into sophisticated spaces. “Park Hyatt as a brand focuses on contemporary luxury with a residential feel and importantly all hotels are conceived individually with no Park Hyatt the same,” Norden explained. “Our concept for Park Hyatt Jakarta focuses on bringing some of the beauty and variety of Indonesia to the city, highlighting nature, natural resources and crafts but elevating these to the level of a sophisticated hotel.
“Guests staying at Park Hyatt Jakarta may not venture further into Indonesia, even if they are this will be their starting point. We wanted to give the guest a first glimpse not only of the city, but also the country through our concept and give them a stylish base to explore.”
Image credit: Himawan Sutanto
The hotel’s design features a rich and warm colour scheme that transitions from darker tones on the lower levels to lighter, brighter hues on the higher floors. The interiors showcase an array of natural materials sourced from local artisans and suppliers, such as lava stone, intricate wood carvings, tribal shields, copper, and other traditional crafts.
Image credit: Himawan Sutanto
The hotel’s sustainability approach incorporates quality natural materials and a timeless design, alongside a strong cultural element, the design team working closely with local artisans, such as ceramists, to provide accessories, and art consultants sourcing native Ikat patterns and artwork, such as typical Indonesian wedding crowns and jewellery pieces, for the guest rooms.
Image credit: Himawan Sutanto
Each space within the hotel, including the extensive food and beverage offerings, has its own identity while remaining consistent with the overarching concept. Guests are welcomed by an open planted entrance featuring a carved stone artwork by renowned sculptor Richard North Lewis, leading to a lower lobby adorned with local shields and a ‘rock glass’ chandelier.
The sky lobby, with its stunning city views, is a striking and impressive greeting for arriving guests. The communal residential space on this floor is divided into four distinct areas, each providing a unique experience. A grand helical marble staircase in a double height glass volume overlooking the city leads guests to the Dining Room, which has bright and airy interiors, an open kitchen allowing guest to enter and help themselves to food, as well as more intimate event spaces.
Image credit: Himawan Sutanto
Conran&Partners drew inspiration from traditional Indonesian textile motifs and crafts with Lombok games, bespoke furniture, and locally sourced Ikat panels and artwork displayed across all 20 floors of the hotel. A significant portion of the FF&E was crafted by Indonesian-based furniture supplier, Saniharto, using native timbers and materials from the region.
Following years of design research to ensure that each element of the hotel sensitively reflects the brand and its iconic destination, Conran & Partners’ latest project is a true reflection of hotel luxury in 2023; paired-back, understated and purpose-driven. Without trying too hard, it has also effortlessly become the jewel of the crown in Jakarta’s latest new-build property.
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has been appointed by Eleven D&C Co., Ltd., one of Korea’s leading real estate developers, to manage Rosewood Seoul, a new build ultra-luxury hotel set to open in 2027. Here’s what we know…
The location of Rosewood Seoul holds significant cultural, historical and geographical value and places visitors within an exceptional area of the city. Situated beside Yongsan Park in the heart of the city, the hotel will exist within The Parkside Seoul, a revolutionary development occupying the former site of the United Nations Command. The mixed-use neighbourhood will also include high-end retail and residences connected by expansive outdoor spaces, creating a new environment for activity and human interaction. With frontage along Noksapyeong-daero, one of Seoul’s main thoroughfares, The Parkside Seoul serves as a connector to both the city’s traditional business district to the north and the modern Gangnam area to the south.
“Seoul is one of Asia’s most dynamic metropolises known for its innovation while simultaneously honouring its distinctive history and heritage,” said Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “We look forward to exploring this destination through the Rosewood lens and are thrilled to be working with our partners at Eleven D&C Co. to create an elevated lifestyle experience that will bring attention to Seoul amongst a new generation of ultra-luxury travellers.”
Led by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, the American architecture firm that has guided several of Rosewood’s projects across Asia, including Rosewood Hong Kong, Rosewood Bangkok and Rosewood Guangzhou, Rosewood Seoul’s design will channel Rosewood’s guiding A Sense of Place philosophy. This guiding principle ensures that each property’s destination serves to inform the entirety of the guest experience and Rosewood Seoul will be no exception. Inspired by Seoul’s famed architecture, known for its futuristic lines and eye-catching facades, the new hotel will blend seamlessly into the sleek and contemporary skyline of the city.
With interiors by design firm Space Copenhagen, Rosewood Seoul will feature approximately 250 guestrooms and suites, making it amongst the largest in the city. An urban resort in its own right, the property will boast a selection of amenities, including seven restaurants and bars and comprehensive wellness facilities. Curated to welcome both guests and locals, these offerings will also transform the hospitality landscape for residents. Through a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere, Rosewood Seoul will invite creatives, innovators and tastemakers to enjoy a collaborative and enriching environment.
Rosewood Seoul will also be home to an Asaya, Rosewood’s comprehensive wellness concept focused on the intersections between physical, mental and emotional well-being. This expression of Asaya will be designed to incorporate offerings that speak to Korea’s cutting-edge approach and commitment to health and beauty. Spanning 4,500 square metres, it will have multiple treatment rooms, hydrotherapy and relaxation areas, indoor pool, luxury locker rooms and saunas, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness centre and an indoor golfing facility. Additional hotel facilities will include extensive, multi-purpose event space totalling 1,800 square meters and Rosewood Explorers, the brand’s culturally inspired kids club concept.
The property will seek to offer as diverse an experience as the destination itself. A gateway for international business and a trendsetter in fashion, art, design, and music, the capital city is a natural fit for Rosewood’s unique approach to delivering luxury lifestyle experiences across Asia and around the globe.
Product watch: introducing Plusify Planet Edition from hansgrohe
Bathroom brand hansgrohe has launched the Pulsify Planet Edition hand-shower, which represents a holistic wellness approach to product innovation…
In most households, and hotels, the hot shower represents one of the biggest sources of energy costs and CO2 emissions but is also an indispensable daily wellness ritual we cherish. This creates a direct conflict for users, wanting to meet their wellness needs whilst also being conscious of conserving water and energy.
To help ease this conflict, hansgrohe, which has reported an increase of 11.9 per cent in sales last year, has achieved another milestone. And it comes in the form of sustainable product development – introducing the Pulsify Planet Edition hand-shower. The product not only represents a holistic approach to product innovation, considering both user experience and sustainability, but also considers resource conservation in all areas of the product life cycle.
When designing the Pulsify Planet Edition hand shower, innovators at hansgrohe asked themselves; “What impact does the production, use and disposal of a hand shower have on the environment?” and “How can the bathroom contribute to a more sustainable future?”. This led to the consideration of the entire product life cycle in the design.
Steffen Erath, Head of Sustainability, Hansgrohe SE, explains: “Taking a hot shower for one minute consumes about as much energy as driving an electric car full throttle on the road for the same amount of time – with Pulsify Planet, we had to make sure this high energy usage was being addressed.”
To reduce energy usage, Pulsify Planet only has six litres of water flowing through the hand shower per minute, without compromising on showering comfort. However, the production and disposal of chrome-plated products can also have an environmental impact.
“We looked at all aspects of the product life cycle, and managed to switch to a recyclate wherever water didn’t flow through the Pulsify Planet Edition,” added Raphael Zajac, Product Management at Hansgrohe. “Looking at the production process, we focused on cycles to ensure the materials could be recycled for as long as possible. This not only reduces the use of resources but also lowers transportation routes needed in the manufacturing process.”
Image credit: Hansgrohe
To close the loop in the sustainability principle ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’, the handle of the Pulsify Planet Edition is made from recycled plastic, and manufactured completely chrome-free. Hansgrohe developed a unique process for extracting the material used to make the handle itself with an ABS-coated plastic, made from end-of-life products and rejects, which are then shredded and cleaned. This is followed by a conversion into a high-quality granulate, which is a cleaner alternative to petroleum and fossil-based primary plastics, significantly reducing energy consumption during production. The process of developing ABS-coated plastic gives the material a sandy colour with small flecks, giving the products a unique look and elegant appearance.
To bring the complete Pulsify Planet collection to the bathroom, the product range includes WallStoris Planet Edition accessories and a textile shower host, the hansgrohe Designflex Planet Edition. With their neutral yet sleek design, the collection blends harmoniously into the modern bathroom, not only in terms of appearance but also functionality.
Hansgrohe is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
London’s iconic department store called upon the creatives at Northern Lights to create a striking lighting scheme that enhanced the dining experience at Frantzén…
Perched at the top of Harrods in London rests Swedish chef Björn Frantzén’s latest restaurant offering. Studio Frantzén serves critically acclaimed Nordic cuisine with an Asian twist, where diners can expect a fully immersive experience as they enjoy their dishes ‘from the fireplace’. The aesthetics echo the flagship restaurant Frantzén in Stockholm, set in a luxurious and contemporary interpretation of Scandinavian design.
Image credit: Northern Lights
Swedish designers Joyn Studio were appointed to transport guests from luxury retail to fine dining gastronomy. Nordic energy is injected throughout the impressive double-height atrium and roof terrace overlooking London’s skyline below, where everything from custom tableware, a hand-painted mural and bespoke luminaires has been meticulously designed to create a harmonious, connected atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
In the atrium the lighting emphasises the sheer grandeur of the space with a bespoke French tip candle chandelier, the creation of which was born from a collaboration between designers, consultants and suppliers. Artisan fabricators at Northern Lights worked closely with Front Studio, the concept creators for the chandelier, interior designers Joyn Studio, lighting consultants Lighting Design International, and the Harrods project management team to realise such an ambitious piece in less than eight weeks.
Image credit: Northern Lights
Inspired by the beauty of Swedish Christmas lights, the statement piece was expertly engineered by Northern Lights to give the impression of real candles floating effortlessly in mid-air.
“Mild steel was used for the construction of the 14 arms to maintain structural strength, keeping each arm ‘floating in space’, and finished in a custom powder coat chrome finish to subtly reflect the light,” explains Ives Bryan, Design Engineer at Northern Lights. “Each candle section houses individual mini connectors inside to minimise visual impact and facilitate ease of maintenance. One of the slimmest lamp holders available was used inside the vertical tubes to keep the candles as thin and as delicate as possible. The result is a breathtaking display that captures the essence of twinkling floating lights, bringing intimately dimmed, warm feature lighting to the double height space.”
To complement this striking statement piece, the mezzanine ceiling houses fifty bespoke hammered flush mount chrome pendants, ensuring guests below experience an interesting viewpoint of decorative lighting to further add to the intrigue and drama of the building.
The luminaire parts are all replaceable on-site and require minimal maintenance, whilst British manufacture keeps sustainability top of mind through a localised supply chain and a reduced logistical carbon footprint.
“Having worked with Harrods previously, we know their expectations and how to exceed them,” added Donna Bruce, Managing Director at Northern Lights. “This project showcases the passion and expertise of our team to create bespoke lighting installations that really deliver on their promise. It was fantastic to see this piece go through the various stages of production in our factory, but to then see it in-situ – that’s when it really comes alive.”
Northern Lights is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Hotel Genevieve – exploring the layers of Louisville
Situated in Louisville’s growing East Market District, Hotel Genevieve is a new hotel project from hospitality group Bunkhouse in collaboration with real estate development firm, Mountain Shore Properties and is Bunkhouse’s largest hotel to date…
Designed in collaboration by Bunkhouse and ROHE Creative, a female-owned and operated Philadelphia based interior design firm, Hotel Genevieve is inspired by a city that is much more layered than bourbon and horses, with design that represents the nuances that make Louisville a destination for all. An intersection of unexpected opposites, the hotel dives into the River City’s history. Richly decorated, each design accent tells a story, from bold usages of colour to a playful mix of vintage and modern furniture, and a vivacious art program featuring local talent.
Image credit: Nick Simonite
As Bunkhouse’s first urban core hotel, the design leans heavily on verdant green hues to contrast the metropolitan structure and location. Luxurious and feminine architectural details bring life to the space and reference the city’s namesake, King Louis XVI, heavily featuring Louisville’s vibrant local flora and fauna, with Goldenrod shining throughout the suites and ground floor restaurant.
“Louisville is such a great town,” said Amar Lalvani, Executive Chairman of Standard Hotels and Bunkhouse Group.”Beyond the Derby and the bourbon trail, both of which we love, the city has a lot to offer culturally in terms of the art scene and food scene as well. We were particularly taken by the NuLu neighbourhood which has this incredible vibe and community which we are excited to be part of. Like all our hotels, we hope and believe that Hotel Genevieve will become an anchor of the neighbourhood where locals and visitors mix seamlessly.”
Image credit: Nick Simonite
Turning off of Market Street in the heart of the bustling NuLu neighbourhood, guests are greeted by a large-scale mural leading to the neighbouring Rabbit Hole Distillery. Once inside the lobby, vibrant hues and curated accents such as terrazzo floors, provide the backdrop for vintage furniture and artwork that reference Louisville’s storied history, from horse racing and beloved musicians, to its quilting heritage, which is made modern by the locally-based Anchal Project and Jeffrey Sincich. As guest’s check-in, they can explore the curated selection of retail that Bunkhouse is known for, including their first collaboration with Block Shop Textiles on their coveted Kimono Robe and items from local makers.
Image credit: Nick Simonite
Four distinct culinary concepts are found throughout the hotel, concepted by Culinary Director Ashleigh Shanti, who brings a distinct voice rooted in African American food to the city. Awarded 2019 Eater Young Gun and named a 2020 finalist for the James Beard Rising Star Chef of the Year, Shanti weaves her passion for food history and storytelling to create an inviting culinary perspective. Each concept will feature unique, immersive takes on Southern classics with global flair, overseen by Executive Chef Devon Rosenblatt (previously from lauded North End Café).
Image credit: Nick Simonite
Image credit: Nick Simonite
Rosettes, the ground-floor all-day restaurant named for the ribbons won in horse races, offers a lively food experience driven by simple, local rustic ingredients and inspired by al fresco Parisian cafés and Shanti’s Southern/Appalachian background. Attached to the lobby, the space is elegant while maintaining a warm atmosphere, boasting brasserie details — cafe curtains, Royer-inspired lighting, and outdoor seating — that invite guests to linger over morning coffee and celebratory dinners.
Image credit: Nick Simonite
The rooftop lounge, Hotel Genevieve Bar, offers cocktails and light-fare inspired by French street food with Mediterranean influences set against sweeping views of the city and the Ohio River. The light-filled space with indoor and outdoor seating is loaded with toast-worthy accents like the grand chandelier over the bar and features an elevated and fun take on traditional, shareable bar food.
Mini Marché is the hotel’s mini market located off the lobby, which is part convenience store, part pop art installation, offering local Kentucky provisions and handmade goods by local artisans along with coffee and grab-and-go selections for breakfast and lunch. Mini Marché is also the entrance to the secretive pocket bar, Lucky Penny, which has a speakeasy vibe and is open for cocktails and bar snacks late into the night. The intimate space offers a moody contrast to the rest of the hotel with decadent details and ample sparkling accents, harkening to the lineage of the disco ball that lies in Louisville.
Image credit: Nick Simonite
The hotel’s name is inspired by a regional type of limestone, Saint Genevieve, which is a key ingredient in bourbon production and is prevalent throughout Texas, providing a link to the origins of Bunkhouse as it embarks on this new chapter in Kentucky. Saint Genevieve is also the patron saint of Paris, celebrating both the French origins of Louisville and the many women that worked to bring the hotel to life. This inspiration can be seen throughout the rooms, which offer a truly immersive experience with colours — such as shades of blue, terracotta and warm yellow — enveloping every surface including the ceiling.
Image credit: Nick Simonite
Custom, curvaceous consoles from ROHE in an ivory high-gloss lacquer reflect the saturated hues and add another layer of luminescence to the room. The bathrooms are equally luxe, with a vanity that speaks to the feminine curves of the console, crafted from cultured marble that is a custom mix of marble dust leftover from the ‘60s.
Image credit: Nick Simonite
Hotel Genevieve’s downtown location in the hip East Market district, also known as NuLu (standing for New Louisville), is a dining hub for everything from upscale eateries to local BBQ, alongside a diverse bar and distillery scene, art galleries, specialty stores and antique shops, and historic restoration projects. In line with Bunkhouse’s ethos of creating community-driven experiences, Hotel Genevieve will celebrate Louisville’s culture through programming with partners such as Black Soil Kentucky, Louisville Orchestra, and the Olmsted Parks Conservancy.
Sneak peek inside The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town in Zanzibar
Excitement is building as the latest hotel in The Neela Collection, The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town, is preparing to open the doors to Zanzibar’s historic city this July…
The Neela Collection was born from the desire to offer beautiful locations for families to spend quality time together while enjoying the freshest seasonal food surrounded by stunning natural beauty and the rich culture of Zanzibar. Each of the properties in the portfolio, can be found either in restored landmark heritage buildings or architecturally designed and built using local craftsmanship and international experts, have their distinct personality rooted in and authentic to their location.
Image credit: The Neela Collection
The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town has prioritised comfort and relaxation in 14 Deluxe and Superior rooms conceptualised by interior designer Nelly Levin. Seamlessly marrying vintage and new elements, the hotel draws from Stone Town’s rich cultural history and African, Arab, Indian, Persian and European influences to offer guests a warm and welcoming experience that is both contemporary and steeped in tradition.
Image credit: The Neela Collection
All Superior rooms have King Size beds, a luxurious standalone bath in the room, as well as a separate ensuite bathroom and large shower. The Deluxe Rooms are comfort epitomised, offering a choice of King Size or Twin beds and an ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower. High thread count linen makes resting that much more heavenly. All units in the beautifully restored building, which sits in one of Stone Town’s most desirable areas, offer luxurious room amenities one would expect from a high-end boutique hotel, but with the added touch of the Neela experience. Guests can look forward to unique room layouts that only a refurbished heritage building can offer.
Image credit: The Neela Collection
Aside from its bespoke interiors and service, The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town will shelter some unique food and beverage options. The in-house Breadfruit Restaurant & Café will offer a fantasy of flavour embracing Stone Town’s myriad influences. a case in point being the Lobster Brekkie Bun, with butter poached lobster, scrambled eggs, kewpie mayo and black sesame, while The Benedict is like no other iteration of the breakfast classic: Mahamri muffins, pulled goat, poached eggs, semi-dried tomatoes, Zafarani hollandaise, and herb shoots.
For the outdoors inclined, guests have a range of options to choose from thanks to the Neela Collection’s partnership with a local tour operator. From sunset cruises on a traditional dhow to swimming with dolphins and kitesurfing, the hotel will ensure that every visitor comes away with memories that last forever.
In The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town, developed by husband and wife, Steve and Raju Shaulis, in collaboration with a local partner, the trio have created an urban masterpiece that addresses an undersupply of high-end luxury hotels in Stone Town and which will now cater to the thousands of visitors who pass through its streets each year to marvel at breath-taking architecture and its famous homogenised character.
With several major projects across Africa, Asia and the Middle East in its portfolio, The Neela Collection is developing another oceanside boutique hotel in Fumba scheduled for opening in 2024, further cementing its position as the hotel group of choice in Zanzibar’s vibrant cultural heart.
Fritz Hansen to reveal first outdoor collection at CDW 2023
During this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week, Fritz Hansen will launch its first outdoor furniture collection, Skagerak by Fritz Hansen, within a Nordic inspired, indoor garden installation at the London showroom…
With creative installations, a wide-ranging talks programme and showrooms coming together to celebrate the power and language of design, Clerkenwell Design Week 2023 is hotting up to showcase the best the design community has to offer. Cutting through the noise as the brands and showrooms that use the festival as a springboard to launch new collections.
This year, Fritz Hansen will launch its first outdoor furniture collection, Skagerak by Fritz Hansen, with an immersive installation at the brand’s London showroom. As a backdrop to the launch – the creative installation will tell the story of sustainability and lasting design, through beautiful and classic outdoor furniture.
Skagerak by Fritz Hansen expands the existing collections of Fritz Hansen furniture and accessories, to bring the best of Danish design to every part of life – both indoors and out. Each piece of the outdoor furniture collection designed in collaboration with Hugo Passos and Aurelién Barby, is sold as flat-pack and made from the highest quality, sustainably sourced – FSC certified teak, which ages beautifully and requires minimal maintenance.
The collection includes…
Banco Bench
Image credit: Fritz Hansen
Banco Bench designed in collaboration with Hugo Passos is made from sustainable sourced teak and available in 2 versions – single or double facing. Originally conceived as a one-off piece for the 2019 Social Seating exhibition in Finland, the new version is more suitable for production but with the same beauty, derived from the simple premise of creating furniture to enhance the experience of nature. The backrest is expressive and functional – shaped perfectly for the contour of the back, enabling people to sit in either direction on the double facing bench.
The Plank Collection
Image credit: Fritz Hansen
A bench, table and chair designed in collaboration with Aurelién Barby, is formed from simple yet playful lines, and are all perfect for relaxing outdoors, family occasions or entertaining. Benches can be placed end to end, for larger gatherings. A neat, wide-slatted surface, slanted back and ledge, give a light feel to a strong bench.
During Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, Fritz Hansen will also reveal the Spring collections from Fritz Hansen that include the AntTM chair designed originally in 1952 by Arne Jacobsen, and produced for the first time in front upholstery, in both textiles and leather. Offering a tactile interplay of textures, the new version will be available in 16 colours curated by Italian creative and gallerist, Carla Sozzani.
The reveal of the PK4TM lounge chair sees the piece reissued for the first time since it was designed by Poul Kjærholm in 1952 and produced then in just 20 pieces for family and friends. In 2023 Fritz Hansen adds PK4 to the PK collection, permanently.
Image credit: Fritz Hansen
A new story of materiality focuses on Fauske marble as a new material option for the tables in the Kjærholm Collection. Named after the quarry in the Norwegian town of Fauske, inside the Arctic Circle, where it originates – Fauske has a raw textured touch and sea-like glistening dynamic, expressed through its complex and ancient mineral composition. “These tabletops are abstract works of art,” says Marie-Louise Høstbo, Creative Design Director, Fritz Hansen.
Fritz Hansen is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Product watch: Emery Walker’s House from Morris & Co.
Sanderson Design Group has introduced four new designs and six rediscovered William Morris classics in this collection, which explores the relationship between two extraordinarily creative families…
Collaborator, comrade, friend and neighbour – Sir Emery Walker was all these things and more to the now-iconic designer, William Morris. This collection centres on Walker’s abode, 7 Hammersmith Terrace, where a rich variety of original Morris & Co. furnishings still ornament rooms today. Rediscovering designs long out of production and incredible handmade artefacts from the house, this collaboration celebrates 7 Hammersmith Terrace as one of the last great vestiges of the Arts & Crafts movement.
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
Recognising the loving and creative relationship between the families of William Morris and Sir Emery Walker, the collection offers something fresh and reawakened for every lover of interiors. With one of the highest numbers of new and re-introduced Morris & Co. designs of any collection this century, this release marks a moment to be celebrated by William Morris fans across the world. Every measure has been taken to maintain the high craft standards first established by William Morris, with hand-finished touches along with the highest standard of woven and printed qualities. Where designs reference those in Emery Walker’s House, the original colourway is usually offered.
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
A new addition to the Morris & Co. range, Emery’s Willow features unmistakable bubble-like shapes as a backdrop, introducing an element of play to this 1874 design. The willow tree, with its delicately entwining branches and curling leaves, is a motif William Morris returned to throughout his creative life.
In the bedroom of Emery Walker’s House lies a most incredible object, now interpreted by the Morris & Co. design studio; a crewel embroidered coverlet. Created by May Morris, daughter of William Morris, for Emery’s wife, Mary, during the last bedridden years of her life, it exemplifies May’s astonishing needlework abilities. The May’s Coverlet addition to the collection is made using hand-guided embroidery on a 100 per cent linen base cloth to carefully replicate the fine stitching pattern by May Morris.
Image credit: Sanderson Design Group
The final bloom in the Morris bouquet, Rambling Rose depicts that iconic stalwart of forest walks and cottage gardens alike, the English rose. Climbing, twisting and turning, this thorned rose’s beguiling labyrinthine structure betrays the rose’s symbolisation of earthly love and purity. A rarer feature in his wallpapers, the rose was a motif William Morris repeatedly turned to in tapestry as well as in poetry.
Sanderson Design Group is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
4 ways to transform the bathroom into a wellness oasis
For those seeking to create those moments of calm and serenity, Villeroy & Boch has created some simple tips for transforming the bathroom into a private wellness temple, which is perfect for unwinding and washing away the stresses of everyday life…
A quiet moment, relaxation, invigoration – wellness includes all of this, as it provides a temporary escape from daily routine and allows thoughts to wander. Creating the environment that facilitates this can be done by simply focussing on the details. Lighting, surfaces and colour all play a part in creating a space that can elevate the day-to-day functionality of the bathroom into a place of personal inspiration.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Add natural elements
Adding natural materials and accessories can help to create a relaxing atmosphere. Surfaces and textures like wood, bamboo and cotton can be used to bring nature from the outside in. Villeroy & Boch has a number of collections including Collaro, Antao and Finion which offer wood-toned furniture that radiates warmth and comfort. Introducing practical but pleasing wooden accessories also increase cosiness – a rustic stool can be used as a table and wooden bath shelves provide space for a book and or a cup of warming herbal tea.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Use soothing colours
Incorporating comforting colours such as wintry blues or serene greens into the bathroom can help create a soothing atmosphere. However, it is important to think beyond just tiles and paint when thinking about your comforting colour scheme. Villeroy & Boch’s Artis washbasin range is a great option. The collection offers four forms and nine colours, which are perfect for incorporating calming colours into the wellness oasis.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Functionality
A functional bathroom is essential for a stress-free experience. With this in mind, choose fixtures and fittings that maximise space and make it easy to keep a bathroom clutter-free and organised. The Subway 3.0 collection from Villeroy & Boch is designed with functionality at the forefront without forgetting design considerations.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Consider lighting
Avoid stark white lighting when designing a bathroom. Where possible, ensure that the bathroom is bathed in natural light by adding windows or even a skylight. Where this isn’t feasible, consider adding gentle lighting so that the user can customise the light to be softer. To do this, add dimmable ceiling lights or alternative forms of lighting such as More to See Lite mirrors from Villeroy & Boch.
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
Bring the outside in
Finally, focussing on nature will always contribute to a sense of wellness and can be easily achieved by incorporating plants into the design as many plants thrive in the tropical humidity of the bathroom. Bringing nature into the bathroom can help to create a calm, natural oasis which is the perfect place to relax and unwind from everyday stresses. Alongside adding colour, they also add texture to the bathroom and keep the bathroom looking lush and green as well as being a nod towards biophilic design.
Villeroy & Boch is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
HBA unveils news design for Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay
Drawing inspiration from the Wynwood murals, Art Deco architecture and the legendary sunrises and sunsets of Miami, HBA San Francisco developed an elevated new identity for the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay interiors true to the locale, its history and its vibrant culture…
HBA San Francisco has completed the redesign of Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, a 607-key hotel located at the intersection of Miami’s downtown arts and design districts using playful colours and the locations Art Deco history to establish a strong design narrative. Hues of sunset orange, soft coral and teal blue are infused throughout the lobby area, F&B spaces, guestrooms and suites and corridors. Furnishings and materials, sourced from artisans around the world and throughout the US, are woven together in a cohesive narrative, much like the cultural fabric of Miami.
Image credit: Noah Webb
“Walking around downtown Miami and the surrounding neighbourhoods of Wynwood and Brickell, we were reminded that art and inspiration are truly everywhere,” said HBA San Francisco Senior Designer Alecia Enriquez. “This essence of creativity and wonder is something we wanted the guest to feel from the moment they arrive. Seeing our vision come together has been incredibly rewarding.”
Image credit: Noah Webb
Setting the tone for the experience found within, the lobby arrival is a refreshing welcome. Voluminous ceiling heights invite natural light and spatial exploration, while soft curves create balance and warmth with beauty. Miami’s local art, architecture and colour palette are articulated in the application of material. Above the reception desk, an undulating focal screen made of natural wood captivates the eye, then draws it down to the wall behind where intricate tile work recalls Miami’s turquoise waters. Custom rug patterns at the convivial seating groups express bold geometry and combined with backlit accent lighting, add energy and excitement to the lobby lounge space.
Image credit: Noah Webb
Image credit: Noah Webb
Journeying beyond the lobby leads to the discovery of a new coastal dining concept and bar, Gold Coast Kitchen + Cocktails, as well as the addition of Marriott’s first downtown Miami M Club. Reconfigured to provide connectivity with the outdoors, the restaurant and bar open outward for life and fun to carry onto the waterfront deck, where touches of vibrant colours invigorate the senses and luxurious lounge seating positions guests for dining with a view.
Image credit: Noah Webb
Inside the restaurant, the dining room design takes cues from Streamline Moderne style with contemporary sensibilities in a watercolour-inspired palette. A banquette serves as a playful diversion with structural relevance, punctuated by porthole-like openings in an affectionate nod to Miami’s cruise industry while also maintaining visual connection within the space. Fluted blue tiling in the buffet area brings an element of texture and is illuminated by rope lighting for a moment of understated theatricality.
Image credit: Noah Webb
“By relocating the bar and opening up walls, we were able to make the food & beverage experiences more amenable to the environment they’re in by giving them line of sight to the bay,” continued Enriquez. “In the bar area, we focused on deeper shades of teal with pops of murals to cultivate energy. The handmade Italian tiles at the bar front provide cohesiveness with the vernacular of the lobby, yet applied here in an original interpretation. Custom pendant lighting adds further dimension and visual interest.”
Image credit: Noah Webb
Elsewhere, the M Club showcases pastel tones of the colour palette to usher in a more relaxing while still spirited mood. At the entry, an oversized lampshade suspends from the ceiling with distinction. Black metal accents, terrazzo stone on the tables, ribbed tile work and geometric screening elements of natural wood continue the storyline rooted in Miami’s culture and history.
Guestrooms and suites are elevated with fresh white at the walls along with new furnishings and fixtures. Behind the headboard is a custom mural that makes its own art statement. Carpet patterns are reflective of the ocean and seamlessly transition into the guestroom corridors.
Editor Hamish Kilburn marks five years leading the editorial direction of Hotel Designs with a few words about embracing the in-between moments and championing the risk-takers…
If there was ever a week to remind myself of the whirlwind that I call ‘my editorship’ it was this one. In seven days, I have visited a brassware factory in Wolverhampton, explored Venice in style (nothing can beat a water-taxi transfer from the hotel to the airport) and hosted one of our most successful networking events to date, MEET UP London 2023. Even as I write this, trying to capture five years in one, punchy Editor’s Letter, it feels apt that I am squished in the middle seat, battling with food poisoning, on a long-haul flight to embark on Hotel Designs’ next hotel review – travel and design journalism is not what it used to be.
While the end destinations for each of those mini trips are, indeed, extraordinary, the in-between moments captured along the way are just as heart-racing, albeit for very different reasons. I like to think them as the corridors of the hotel, easy to ignore when in a rush to get from A to B, but often they are captivating, long-winding spaces that channel guests from one state of mind to another.
Image caption: Image caption: When I met Matthew Balon, Head of Design at Ruby Hotels, the morning after the launch party of Ruby Leni in Dusseldorf
Image credit: When I met the delightful Dimitris Manikis, President and Managing Director (EMEA) of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
Image Caption: When Priya Paul spilled the tea on 50 years of leading The Park Hotels
My ‘corridor adventures’ are anything by luxurious and are perhaps full of more drama than most, a statement that anyone who has ever travelled with can endorse or challenge. Take my recent trip to Venice, for example. While catching the first flight out of London Gatwick, I managed to abandon my laptop in the airport’s security line, leaving me with no choice but to write and file an article on my phone during the flight. Or last night, missing the second to last train home from London to join a Zoom call with an international client, hoping that the bad WiFi connection in the train station terminal would conceal the shadows that were lurking under my eyes. Believe it or not, it’s these experiences, which connect to wider journeys, that make the job what it is – there really is never a dull moment on the editorial desk.
As I mark five years of being Editor of Hotel Designs, doing what I know best, keeping busy leaving little time to celebrate or think, I am determined to start embracing and making memories out of the moments in time that to the naked eye may look insignificant. These chapter fillers tell the true story about the role I lead. While the far-flung destinations that my editorship has unlocked over the years – from St Lucia to Italy, Mauritius to the Maldives – have left me speechless, it has always been the people behind the design who have fuelled my curiosity; the designers, architects, hoteliers and creatives who have created and curated these one-off experiences and, so often, made the impossible feel not only possible, but also practical.
It’s this passion to amplify authentic design narratives, shared I hasten to add by every member of the Hotel Designs team, in every department, that helped shape this wonderful, bold brand into what it is today. Not only are we able to serve our loyal readers with the latest news as well as engaging features from around the global hospitality and hotel design landscape, but we are also able to champion them annually with The Brit List Awards 2022, a campaign that continues to identify gamechangers in our industry, from design to development, hospitality to technological innovation.
Last year, for the first time in our campaign’s history, in amongst the nine individual and worthy award winners, Kerry Acheson, an Associate at Ica, who became the first woman to win Architect of the Year following her work on Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. For our whole team, this was a moment I doubt we will ever forget.
Image caption: Kerry Acheson becoming the first woman to win Architect of the Year at The Brit List Awards. | Image credit: Hotel Designs/The Brit List Awards 2022
It’s true what they say, an editorship is a relationship in the sense that you get out of it what you put in; a constant push and pull. Half a decade in, I feel it is the right time to announce my engagement to this brand, hoping it will lead towards a successful marriage that will be kept alive, and on its toes, by keeping the conversation flowing. Whether it’s a roundtable, panel discussion, exclusive interview, hotel review or hosting one of our many networking events and parties throughout the year, our brand has never been shy to develop so that it remains a catalyst for collaboration – constantly connecting like-minded creatives to help the industry to evolve with purpose.
In truth, five years has felt more like five minutes. I would like to thank everyone who has welcomed this collaborative approach, including the entire team at Hotel Designs and Forum Events, all the brands that have partnered with us, the PR agencies that have transported me to experience extraordinary destinations and the individuals who have taken risks to give journalists like me on the editorial desk something worth writing about.
Image caption: A panel discussion I chaired with Marie Soliman, Tom Middleton and Mark Bruce on sensory experiences in hotel design. | Image credit: Independent Hotel Show
I have and will never take for granted the pace of this ever-evolving industry in the constantly expanding arena that we call hotel design and hospitality. It is my pleasure to consciously lead these conversations and angle the spotlights on the real influencers of tomorrow.
Over the years, I have been inspired by many impressions that leaders and visionaries have unknowingly left on me. These include lessons like leading confidently from within a pack, embracing peoples’ differences and embracing style over fashion in hotel design. When it comes to rounding off Editor’s Letters, though, I am yet to master the art of not overthinking it. It would be ideal to finish this chapter with a grand statement about change or what it really takes to serve the industry I have fallen deeply in love with. But somewhere over the Indian Ocean the captain has switched on the ‘fasten seat belt’ as we begin our final decent. Laptops, therefore, must soon be stowed away. So, instead of leaving you with a metaphor about ‘the journey’ itself, it feels right to end this letter here; unfinished, just like my editorship with Hotel Designs.
Editor, Hotel Designs.
Image captions (top to bottom, left to right): Where the #hotelhandstand was born, in (or on) Jade Mountain in St Lucia; Just arrived to review Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives; Exploring the new collections inside the Arte Showroom; Hosting The Brit List Awards 2021 after the most stressful year of our team’s lives, the pandemic; Checking in to a hotel somewhere in Yorkshire; Celebrating the ‘it’s a wrap moment’ on a shoot with The Other House.
Unilin Panels is unlocking ‘the key to happiness’ with workshops and events at The Gallery Clerkenwell during this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week. Here’s what we know…
During Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, Unilin Panels is getting hands-on, with a range of workshops exploring the notions of your own happy place and what it takes to make interior experiences that support happiness and wellbeing. Throughout, designers will also be able to explore the brand’s 2022 – 2026 collection, including the award-winning Master Oak HPL.
The campaign has been launched to highlight emotion in design. “The question of whether it’s possible to make people happy through the interiors we create is something that connects us all,” said Charlotte Van Vlierberghe, Brand Manager at Unilin Panels. “We’ll use Clerkenwell Design Week to explore the idea of happiness beyond the products we make, looking at how experiences with interiors are shaped by our senses, as well as practical aspects such as comfort and visual understanding.”
The brand will kick things off on Tuesday with a morning of ethical single origin coffee tasting and learn to perfect a morning brew that will make sure any day starts off right. By the afternoon, Unilin Panels will be asking designers to hone their skills in an architectural drawing masterclass and sketch out their very own happy place.
The programme for Wednesday will see designers discovering the natural scents with a close connection to personal wellbeing and creating unique essential oil room spray. Designers will also be able to join podcaster and design commentator Grant Gibson as he hosts a panel discussion on whether a design for the happiness of all generations can ever be achieved.
On Thursday, The Gallery Clerkenwell will welcome Miracle Tree, a mind-bending experience where a magic pill will alter ones perception of taste in surprising and delightful ways. Of course, it wouldn’t be Clerkenwell Design Week without a party, so the design and architecture community are welcome to stop by Unilin Panels in the evening for street-side Tacos and a live DJ playing uplifting tunes to dance the night away.
Unilin Panels is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Working from the starting point that lighting is the emotional layer that connects people to spaces, LedsC4 has designed its outdoor lighting range to enhance the connection between the interior and exterior spaces…
LedsC4 engages daily with technical, design and installation matters to find the most suitable solution for a space. With its emphasis on architectural lighting solutions, outdoor lighting becomes about more than simply leading you down the garden path, but more about enhancing the structural elements of the environment it is throwing a light on.
Detailed and meticulously designed, Orbit is a differential element that transforms the life around it, lighting vegetation, objects or settings with its warm and elegant lighting. The simplicity of its silhouette provides added value, as it surrenders all prominence to the light, which has been painstakingly developed to offer advanced technical features with various options for directing the light beam. Orbit is the ideal choice for creating warm environments in areas where lighting is the key to success when it comes to connecting with customers and users. Featuring soft shapes and various choices of finishes and light beam directions, Orbit’s mere presence grants a distinct touch of quality to the space it inhabits.
Image caption: Orbit | Image credit: LedsC4
Image caption: Juncus | Image credit: LedsC4
Inspired by natural rushes, the Juncus collection blends seamlessly with the vegetation and environment. The possibility of adjusting the height of the bollards, the mobility of the heads and their brown finish allow these luminaires to blend in fully with natural landscapes. Designed to easily choose and switch between lighting with maximum visual comfort or with maximum light beam emission, without the need for tools.
Vercle is a minimalist lighting solution, designed to give true prominence to the vegetation and create purer and more relaxed spaces between the landscape and people. This minimalist and invisible collection allows you to illuminate the outlines of trees and all kinds of plants and garden elements. The outer part of the profile is higher than the lower one to maximize visual comfort. Vercle’s total light control allows you to devise different scenes that can be adapted to the architecture in the space and to each moment.
Image caption: Vercle | Image credit: LedsC4
Click is a clean, compact design, which is also highly practical as it has been designed so that its installation is compatible with universal mechanism boxes. The driver is included inside the luminaire, making installation even more straightforward. Click is compatible with all universal mechanism boxes: square and round, outdoor and indoor, construction and plasterboard.
Bat is all about the elasticity of light in the smallest space and is a signage light that has been meticulously designed down to every last detail, from the sculpting of the light it emits to its structure featuring a textured body in different finishes. Ribs for installation in plasterboard and special anti-open cable gland to ensure watertightness in outdoor settings.
LedsC4 is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Product watch: Meadow and Carrara – new collections from Newmor
Hot off the Newmor press, Meadow and Carrara encapsulate the moody ambience of the brands Dark Matter trend, whilst also capturing the essence of biophilic design. We caught up with Rose Campbell, Head of Design and Marketing at Newmor Wallcoverings to hear more about the inspiration behind the new design collections…
Inspired by organic elements, the timeless and sophisticated commercial designs of Meadow and Carrara by Newmor find a perfect partner with the popular Lyon collection. The new Meadow design is a clean, stylised take on a field full of flowers, evoking feelings of spring and a connection with the great outdoors. The design is elevated by the delicate spun silk background of Lyon, the coordinating plain.
Image credit: Newmor
Image credit: Newmor
“Carrara marble has been quarried since Roman times in the mountains just outside the city of Carrara in Tuscany, Italy,” explained Campbell, Head of Design and Marketing at Newmor. “Our new design pays homage to the raw organic nuances within marble enhanced by the rough stone emboss, accented by delicate metallic veins which add a touch of elegance to this organic design. The colour palette is soft and sophisticated based on the natural mineral tones of marble with the deep slate grey adding drama.”
Image credit: Newmor
“Meadow, Lyon and Lyon stripe have been specifically styled to create a full scheme solution and can all be mixed and matched to create a complimentary or contrasting design statement.,” continued Campbell. “Lyon’s elegant vertical spun silk design, featuring a delicately detailed emboss that catches the light and captures the character of this classic fabric The colour palette is calm and muted, with trend pops of noir, olive, rust, amethyst and indigo”.
Much has been written about the positive effect of biophilic interiors, but there is also a quiet luxury to Newmor’s new designs. Their understated elegance, timeless appeal, and high-quality materials deliver a new level of refinement to create enduring and liveable commercial spaces.
Image credit: Newmor
Integral to the brand is its locality, as a product that is designed and manufactured in the UK. “Specifying Newmor provides provenance and peace of mind, but also a knowledge that you are supporting UK manufacturing and design,” said David Johnston, Managing Director, Newmor. “As well as investing in new stocked ranges we recently launched our Digital Design Studio catalogue. Being responsive to our clients’ changing needs sits at the heart of our business. Together our stock facility and digital print capability makes us extremely agile.”
Launched last month, Newmor’s Digital Design Studio catalogue is a compendium of new and existing collections. This 104-page resource makes specifying bespoke designs much easier. All designs can be recoloured, rescaled and digitally printed onto a host of substrates including textures, metallics and window films. Newmor can even create WallArt by framing designs or printing directly onto canvas.
Newmor is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Arte takes us on a tour through the Sahara, bringing every aspect of the desert to life in the Kharga collection…
The Kharga oasis was an important stop on the ancient trade route that connected various different oases in Egypt. In this collection, Arte traverses the terrain of the Sahara, bringing every aspect of the desert to life, from the dazzling afternoon sun to the star-studded sky at night and from the shapes of the dunes to the fine structure of desert sand. Even the details and materials used in the traditional carpets and robes of nomads are featured. In short, this collection is highly reminiscent of the mysterious desert life.
Image credit: Arte
The legend of Zerzura tells the story of a fertile oasis in the desert west of the Nile, of which its existence was never proven. This mythical scene of sand dunes and palm trees is brought beautifully to life on a velvet background. Zerzura is available in three colourways.
Image caption: Barkhan | Image credit: Arte
Image caption: Bayuda | Image credit: Arte
Barkhan dunes are crescent-shaped dunes created by the wind. This shape forms the inspiration for the detailed design of this Arte wallcovering, made in a tactile, soft velvet fabric and available in four colourways.
The ochre sandbanks in the Sudanese Bayuda Desert are dotted with rocks. Here, gold prospectors tried their luck in the shallow mines. The whimsical lines combined with the sparkling gold in this pattern are clear references to their source of inspiration. This design is available in three colourways.
Image caption: Gobi | Image credit: Arte
Image caption: Atacama | Image credit: Arte
As soon as night falls, millions of stars appear in the clear sky of the Gobi Desert, one of the coldest deserts in the world. The comparison with a magnificent starry sky is unmistakable. The contrast of the glittering dots with the deep or soft colours literally elevates this pattern to higher spheres. Gobi is available in five colourways.
Atacama is a luxurious bouclé fabric, which contains real alpaca wool. Alpacas live on the high plains of the Andean Mountains, including the Atacama Desert in Chile. This tactile design has a direct link to the traditional costumes of the inhabitants of this region and is available in five colourways.
Image caption: Moire | Image credit: Arte
Image caption: Tenere | Image credit: Arte
Ténéré, an area in the southern Sahara, is known as one of the driest deserts in the world. The dehydrated and cracked desert soil forms the inspiration for the lacquered imitation leather wallcovering of the same name. Ténéré is available in eight colourways.
The final design in the collection, Moiré references the blinding rays of sun on water and desert sand, resulting in wavy, hypnotic designs and create a moiré effect on the glossy fabric. The motifs are completely random, making each wallcovering unique. A stunning textile wallcovering to which the moiré-technique has been applied in a process by which designs of wavy fluctuations and smaller or larger concentric motives are produced.
Arte is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Wellness meets luxury in Dubai villa designed by Bergman Design House
Bergman Design House has unveiled its newest project, the Thoughtful Barefoot Luxury Villa in Dubai’s luxurious Tilal Al Ghaf residential community. We stepped inside – barefoot of course – to have a look…
Marie Soliman and Albin Berglund of Bergman Design House have unveiled the interiors for the new Thoughtful Barefoot Luxury Villa. The internationally acclaimed design studio’s vision for thoughtful luxury will appeal to those who enjoy the finer things in life, but also care about their own sense of wellness. This villa offers intimacy, privacy and a quiet and peaceful indoor-outdoor sanctuary within which to relax, recharge and feel fulfilled. With a light and airy palette and the use of natural materials throughout, the lines between outside and in are blurred, resulting in a soulful space in which owners will wish to kick off their shoes, soak up the surrounding nature and unwind.
Image credit: Bergman Design House
The six-bedroom, six-bathroom villa with two powder rooms provides over 352 square metres of exquisite indoor-outdoor living space and sits on Lanai Island’s glittering, sand-lined lagoon and has been designed with the wellness-conscious aesthete in mind.
“Our design palette is light, organic and carved with rich layers of Zen,” commented Albin Berglund, Co-Founder, Bergman Design House. “We have used our signature materials and expert craftsmanship in a new calm and mesmeric space located in a stunning sandy lagoon within easy reach of the city of Dubai. This private residence is perfect for spending time with family and loved ones—it soothes and comforts, it is a sanctuary.”
Image credit: Bergman Design House
The property is located on the lagoon with soft, inviting white sandy beaches; an idyllic oasis of calm within which to relax or be active. Along with sunbathing and water activities, residents will be able to enjoy purpose-built barbecue areas, a fully equipped outdoor gym complete with hydrotherapy pool and a range of beach-friendly sporting activities.
“My absolute favourite space in the villa is the hidden gym surrounded by the mesmeric landscape,” said Marie Soliman, Founder and Creative Director, Bergman Design House. “I could personally live there all day! An absolute dream of fully equipped and tailored gym equipment, hydrotherapy, boxing, you name it!”
Image credit: Bergman Design House
“We also love the use of modern limewash paint specially developed to create surfaces with soul and spaces with a relaxed, natural look and feel – all while using organic ingredients,” added Berglund.
Image credit: Bergman Design House
Image credit: Bergman Design House
Bergman Design House used natural paint without any harmful fumes or substances throughout the villa. As a raw material, made from seashells, it starts as a stone or, chemically, calcium carbonate. It then gets heated with fire, during the process of which carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, creating calcium oxide. After cooling down, the burned limestone rocks get mixed into water. This then liquifies the stone, and it becomes lime putty, or calcium hydroxide. The lime putty forms the basis of the paint, which then gets mixed and purified before pigments are added. When it is then finally painted on the wall it completes the full circle back to microscopic stone. It does so with the simple action of combining itself with the previously released CO2 from the air.
The location of the property, Tilal Al Ghaf Dubai, is the new barefoot luxury vision for the Dubai flagship multi-functional community of Majid Al Futtaim. It is conceived as an integrated life experience based on sustainable design, art and the science of organizing a place, to create a cultural and soulful community for family living.
The eyes (and ears) of the world are on the northwest this week as the city of Liverpool transforms to host the Eurovision Song Contest. Cutting through the noise, Hotel Designs focuses its spotlight on the best design-led hotels in Liverpool…
Liverpool may well be the birthplace of many British music icons – The beetles, Cilla Black, Gerry and the Pacemakers and Elvis Costello among them – but it is also a cultural hub. Liverpool, which this week becomes the host city of the Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine, is famous for its architectural marvels, both on the water (The Titanic was registered in the city) and on land (the Royal Liver Building has been the podcast of Liverpool).
In recent years, gravitating towards the warmth and charm of scouser hospitality and amplifying the city’s rich culture, independent restaurants and a handful of charming hotels have emerged to reflect unmatched design narratives that add texture to the overall British hotel scene.
Here’s our Editor’s pick of the protagonist design-led hotels in Liverpool…
Aloft Liverpool
Image credit: Marriott International
Given that this week is all about ‘the music’, as global fans of the world’s largest music contest builds momentum and gets underway, how could we not start this round-up with a brand that is designed to – and was born to – resonate the power of music, in both design and hospitality.
Aloft Liverpool is not only quirky and cool by the very nature of the ‘Aloft’ brand’s DNA, it also stands on its own as an iconic hotel wrapped in 18th Century architecture. Sheltered inside the Royal Insurance Building, the 116-key hotel is a true meeting of new design and classic architecture. The Neo Baroque style of the building is injected in every touchpoint of the building, including the guestrooms and suites.
Hope Street Hotel
Image credit: Hope Street Hotel
Image credit: Hope Street Hotel
Known as the city’s ‘first boutique hotel’, Hope Street Hotel sits in the heart of Liverpool’s Georgian neighbourhood and oozes a layered city-chic look and feel. The hotel houses original features of pink Cheshire brick, iron pillars and pitch-pine beams. The cherry and walnut bespoke furniture and solid oak and birch floors complement the hotel’s ‘favourite colour’ of white: crisp white, chalky white and plump snowy white.
In 2020, the hotel announced a renovation that included indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sun loungers, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, a hammam and tepidarium with heated beds and seven treatment rooms. In short, there is no wellness experience in Liverpool quite like it!
Malmaison Liverpool
Image credit: Malmaison Liverpool
When it comes to the hotel F&B scene in Liverpool, ignore Malmaison Liverpool at your peril. The 130-key, waterside hotel has just unveiled the result of its most recent renovation, to its restaurant. The renovation included bespoke flooring design inspired by the river Mersey in its design, booth seating and a large disco ball positioned in the lobby to add character.
The Titanic
Image credit: The Titanic
Image credit: The Titanic
Perhaps it’s the legacy that makes the hospitality experience at The Titanic stand out from the crowd. Others would argue it’s the design and the generous bedroom sizes (starting at no less than 56 square metres). In truth, though, it’s probably a mixture of both, together with warm welcomes from the team and impressive public areas, that allows The Titanic to retain its reputation as one of the city’s most admired luxury hotels.
The hotel has been a key piece in the restoration of the historic docks. The busy warehouse has now transformed into a hospitality hub full of character, which preserves the charm of the original Victorian architecture combined with contemporary design.
Beyond the iconic lobby and spacious guestrooms, hidden underground of Stanley Dock lies the hotel’s wellness area. Maya Blue Wellness is The Titanic’s best (or worst) kept secret. The sanctuary comprises of a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, sanarium, foot bath, experience shower and relaxation area making of Maya Blue Wellness offers an extensive range of wellness treatments and packages only minutes away from Liverpool Central.
Epic Apart Hotel – Duke Street
Image credit: Epic Apart Hotel – Duke Street
Inside a refurbished Victorian building – a former printing office – Duke Street’s original features, such as wooden-beam ceilings, reflects a home-from-home vibe that feels distinctly residential. This, paired with a contemporary design scheme and impressive artwork hung throughout the various apartments, the spaces feel refined and exclusive.
2 Blackburne Terrace
Image credit: 2 Blackburne Terrace
Image credit: 2 Blackburne Terrace
Located on a hill amid an unexpected enclave of grand Georgian architecture, 2 Blackburne Terrace is quite the checking-in experience. The boldly designed B&B in an 1826 mansion is all about breaking the mould in the British hospitality scheme – it unapologetically flies the flag for the indys as the groups muscle in.
Every suite is individually designed, creating a bespoke space with unique furniture and sophisticated lighting, opening a particularly wide palate of moods, modes and tones by night. With deep wool carpets and the finest 500 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, guests feel wrapped in a brave new world.
> Since you’re here, why not join us for MEET UP North, which takes place just a few miles from Liverpool in Manchester on July 6, 2023?
Zannier Hotels to transform and take over Île de Bendor
Zannier Hotels has been appointed to manage the redesign of the iconic French private island Île de Bendor, which was first brought to life by pastis pioneer, Paul Ricard, 70 years ago. Much more than a resort project, the 2026 launch will see Zannier Hotels manage and operate the island destination from start to finish…
Following a competitive tender for the contract of the land, which saw Zannier Hotels pitch against some of the best international management companies, the brand has been selected by the Ricard family to inject a new age of magic into the island. Managing and operating the island destination from start to finish is a natural next step for the Zannier Hotels as it continues to cement its reputation as a management company.
Image credit: Zannier Hotels
“For this exceptional project, very meaningful to the Ricard family and entirely financed by the holding, we took the time to select the best possible partner,” discussed Marc de Jouffroy, Board Member of Société Paul Ricard, in charge of the project. “Given that the property will remain under our family, we wanted to ensure that the partner we chose to embark on this journey with was completely aligned to the ethos and vision of our founding father, Paul Ricard. We chose Zannier Hotels because they perfectly understood the soul of Île de Bendor and because our family shares their approach to luxury, valuing authenticity, simplicity, and emotion. We are convinced that, together, we will restore Île de Bendor to its former glory and make it one of the most iconic destinations in the Mediterranean.”
Image credit: Zannier Hotels
Over the next three years, Île de Bendor will undergo a complete transformation and will once again become a buzzing social hub in the bay of Bandol, embodying the playful spirit of the French Riviera. The renovation will see the six hectare island emerge as a Provençal-style village and convivial gathering space rooted in the island’s old-world glamour and inimitable spirit, home to an array of restaurant, bar and social spaces – including the second outpost of Nonna Bazaar, the immersive dining concept launched by Zannier Hotels in Menorca last year – alongside a characterful Beach Club, curated artisan village, holistic wellness offering and impressive spa.
Image credit: Zannier Hotels
A stylish boutique hotel with 93 keys will become the sixth property in the Zannier portfolio, with the brand currently operating five hotels, resorts and lodges around the world: Le Chalet, France; Phum Baitang, Cambodia; Omaanda, Namibia; Sonop, Namibia; and Bãi San Hô, Vietnam. Located in a prime position on the Côte d’Azur, with a particular attention to sustainability, the project will be the second in the homeland of the brand’s founder, Arnaud Zannier. His very first property, Zannier Hotels Le Chalet, opened in Megève in 2011.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Ricard family on this pioneering project highlighting the magical island of Bendor, set to become the Zannier Hotels European flagship,” said Arnaud Zannier, Founder of Zannier Hotels. “At Zannier Hotels, we are committed to creating individually exceptional and truly unique projects around the world, rooted in artisan-led design, gastronomic heritage, sustainable development and one-of-a-kind experiences – from life-enhancing wellness to meaningful cultural connection – and Zannier Hotels Bendor will be no exception, encompassing all of these values.”
Image credit: Zannier Hotels
Working as a united front, the Ricard family, Hardel Le Bihan Architectes, Niez Studio Paysagistes and Zannier Hotels will oversee all aspects of the island’s evolution including all architectural, landscaping and interior design decisions. Meanwhile, F&B and wellness concepts will marry the success of those already in place at Zannier Hotels’ existing properties and restaurants around the world, with the very best of Mediterranean culture, landscape and community.
Set to become a destination in itself, the launch of Zannier Hotels Bendor is an exciting next chapter for Zannier Hotels as the brand continues to make its mark beyond the hotel space. The announcement of Île de Bendor follows the recent launch of Zannier Private Estates, a collection of remarkable private homes in France, Portugal and Menorca available for exclusive use, with another set to open its doors in Mauritius later this year, as well as the 2022 opening of multi-sensory lifestyle and restaurant concept, Nonna Bazaar.
British furniture designer, Liang & Emil, believe in making ordinary moments remarkable and its new SS23 collection offers some innovative solutions that can fit seamlessly into any design aesthetic. Writer Pauline Brettell has picked out a few of the standout designs from across the collections…
The new Liang & Eimil collections, timed to coincide with the change of seasons, promise to bring freshness and cosiness to the longer daylight hours heralding in the summer. Each collection – chairs, mid-century modern furniture, tables and lighting – has been created to add a touch of elegance to any room, be it in a home, hotel or restaurant.
The Tauron dining chair is upholstered in soft, plush fabric and provides back support, allowing you to focus on enjoying your dinner in comfort. The trio of Maplin armchairs are similarly upholstered in luxurious cosiness that you would unassumingly stroke. The chairs come in three different finishes, each with its own distinct style. While each piece may be suited to a different style, the overall look is effortlessly timeless, supported by an air of understated sophistication.
Image credit: Liang & Eimil
Each piece in the new Mid Century Modern Furniture Collection is designed to bring a sense of fun and joy to any space. The use of bold colours and playful shapes creates a dynamic and lively atmosphere, while the clean lines and simple forms maintain the timeless appeal of mid-century modern design. The sideboards are perfect for adding storage and style to any room. With a variety of sizes and finishes available, they can be used to create a statement piece that also serves a functional purpose.
The Bourne side tables are another versatile addition to any space. Whether used as a bedside table or as an accent piece in a living room, its unique shape and colours add a touch of whimsy and charm. At the heart of this collection is a commitment to quality and craftsmanship and each piece is made with the finest materials and attention to detail.
Image credit: Liang & Eimil
Image credit: Liang & Eimil
The statement lighting collection makes creating the perfect ambience much easier, with six new lighting designs to choose from. From classic pendant lights to modern floor lamps and exquisite chandeliers, the designs and finishes all have a distinct appearance when illuminated. Both the Faro floor lamp and the Majestic chandelier in the new collection are bold yet versatile designs, which make a strong addition to any scheme.
Image credit: Liang & Eimil
The final page is the collection of new table designs. tables. Aston is an innovative ceramic table with a marble effect. Spilled red wine will not make anyone anxious, as you get marble elegance with minimal maintenance. Making a strong statement, handcrafted with matt black ash wood and contrasting tempered black glass surface, the Baltimore table embodies both simplicity and luxury, providing both form and function to any room.
Liang & Eimil is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Introducing Brama, a boutique jewel inside Bromley Old Town Hall
Brama, Bromley’s newest and only boutique hotel, is preparing to open its doors in the summer – the new lifestyle hotel is part of the major renovation of Bromley Old Town Hall bringing a new lease of life to the much-loved historical building and surrounding area…
Steeped in history, the Bromley Old Town Hall officially opened in 1907, and has since played host to the wedding of David Bowie, the local seat of government, and even provided shelter in the event of a nuclear fallout during World War II. Its foundations were laid in 1906 and it was extended multiple times before sadly becoming vacant. The re-opening of Bromley Old Town Hall and Brama signals a reinvigoration of the building’s spirit and a renewal of its purpose.
Image credit
From design to delivery, service to sustainability, every detail has been considered in the development of Bromley Old Town Hall, resulting in a space where collaboration and community can come to life. The building’s original art deco design still runs throughout the 23-key boutique hotel which features subtle architectural nods to the era, while incorporating modern elements for a comfortable stay.
Image credit: Brama
Image credit: Brama
The design-led hotel is perfectly positioned for locals, visitors and city workers alike, in the heart of Greater London’s most up-and-coming destination, Bromley was recently named the best area of London to live in. Not only home to Brama, Bromley Old Town Hall has been transformed into a new multi-use destination for the neighbourhood, which is its first proof of concept site with a whole ecosystem of amenities. Brama joins flexible workspace by Clockwise and all-day restaurant Dorothy and Marshall, meaning guests can book a desk for their working day or a table for dinner. The space has been designed to enhance interactions, spark inspiration and cultivate a sense of true belonging.
Image credit: Brama
Image credit: Brama
Dorothy and Marshall is located in the courthouse of the former Bromley Old Town Hall, paying homage to the building’s history with beautiful soaring ceilings and windows that bathe the room in natural light. The restaurant celebrates the combination of nourishing, quality fare and great company in the grandest of settings; whilst soaring ceilings and elegant arched windows bathe the room in natural light and add a sense of drama to the dining experience. Guests are invited to enjoy carefully sourced ingredients transformed into high quality cuisine, prepared by a dedicated team of chefs.
The return of Bromley Old Town Hall is being driven by Alexandra Livesey, Managing Director of Brama and Chief Operating Officer of Clockwise. “Bromley Old Town Hall has such a rich heritage, we discovered amazing architectural details which we’ve worked tirelessly to restore carefully and sensitively while introducing practical modern elements,” expanded Livesay. “We wanted to bring the building back to life, position it once again as a space for the community and local area while welcoming guests from further afield to show all that Bromley has to offer. The opening of Brama Hotel as part of this mixed use scheme is an exciting addition and there’s nothing else like it in the area.”
The inclusion of Clockwise enables guests to seamlessly move from bedroom to office. At almost 6,000 square metres, with beautifully designed dedicated offices, private desks, meeting rooms, a members’ lounge, café and terrace, Bromley Old Town Hall is Clockwise’s newest flagship and one of its largest to date. All memberships are wrapped up in a simple price without any hidden fees or tricky terms, making it the ideal place to work remotely just outside the city.
Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton has opened in the heart of Bordeaux’s Mériadeck District. With its unique industrial style, the vibrant hotel is designed to be an inspiring, creative and lively setting to immerse travellers and locals alike with the neighbourhood…
The debut of Marty Hotel Bordeaux marks significant growth of Tapestry Collection in the region as the brand’s third European property to debut in 2023. The hotel boasts a large bar topped with an avalanche of chandeliers which serves as the central hub within the hotel lobby and is decorated in a fusion of classical wood, steel and concrete industrial features interspersed with bright colours, vintage furniture, and multi-textured fabrics.
Image credit: Hilton International
The hotel shelters 61 stripped-back guestrooms, many with terraces and balconies and all providing a cosy atmosphere featuring stocked bookcases, wooden panels, industrial lighting and a variety of textures.
“Now more than ever, travellers are searching for unique experiences and distinctive hotels that enhance their stay,” said Matt Schuyler, Chief Brand Officer, Hilton. “Today, we welcome Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton to our expanding portfolio in France. This hotel will authentically connect guests to the culture and charm of the area and is an exciting addition to our growing collection of Lifestyle properties in France.”
Image credit: Hilton International
“Marty is so much more than an ordinary hotel: it’s a new urban hotel in Bordeaux that inspires guests to explore the local culture. It’s a haven for creative types, where artsy bedrooms and a trendy bar – not to mention a whole host of works of art – converge and interact with each other,” said Aurélie Jadelus, General Manager. “The name MARTY is derived from a combination of the letter “M” of the Mériadeck district and the ‘arty’ concept, highlighting the vital role that art plays in the venue. This new hotel is a genuine incubator, halfway between an art gallery and a living space.”
From dawn to dusk, Marty will be serving cuisine that is firmly rooted in the Bordeaux terroir. A delicious buffet stocked with fine, fresh products is available in the early morning, while guests can celebrate the end of a workday with dishes centred around local products made by artisan partners Bouche and La Cave à Titoune.
Industry insight: how wellness is changing in hotel design
Thought leaders from across the architecture, design, education, engineering and plumbing industries have come together to discuss the future of washroom design in hotel design. The whitepaper was commissioned by Ideal Standard and Armitage Shanks…
In a recently published whitepaper study from bathroom brands Ideal Standard and Armitage Shanks, nine industry-leading voices cover a range of key themes and topics that are impacting the washroom sector. The report, Washroom Design for Tomorrow, includes a focus on sustainability and the circular economy; looking at more efficient ways to use and re-use water within these spaces, while also reducing their carbon footprint in line with the decarbonisation goals that are so crucial for modern developers.
The research also lifts the lid on the growing conversation around making washrooms accessible for all – and what this means, not just in the context of making beautifully designed spaces for differently abled users, but also around the greater introduction of gender-neutral toilet facilities and self-contained cubicles aka ‘super loos’.
Image credit: Ideal Standard
When it comes to design trends, the report explores the increasing emphasis on encouraging people back to the office by bringing the comforts of home into all areas of a workplace – including the washroom – and the impact on manufacturers, designers and specifiers, while also highlighting key hygiene technology that can be introduced to create more efficient, durable and comfortable spaces.
Image credit: Ideal Standard
Speaking on the whitepaper, Anil Madan, Non-Residential Marketing Manager at Ideal Standard and Armitage Shanks, said: “The washroom sector is in a period of transition, with greater scrutiny on making these spaces as well-designed as possible. Sustainability is, of course, central to the development of both new washrooms and the products within them. But beyond this, there are also new rules and regulations to consider around accessibility, infection risk management and grey water, and how these factors can be properly incorporated into washroom solutions.
“By working with thought leaders from across a variety of industries, we were able to create a whitepaper that looks to the future of commercial washrooms, and identified the need for a more holistic approach to the design, specification and maintenance of these spaces. We’re thrilled to finally be able to unveil the finished report and thank all those who lent their voices to such a unique resource.”
Washroom Design for Tomorrow features contributions from Meehan Green, TOT Architects, Inspired Washrooms, CubicWorks, Liverpool John Moores University, ISG, AS Mechanical and Electrical, Crusoe Architects Ltd, and Good and Tillotson.
Ideal Standard is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
British furniture designer and manufacturer Morgan is expanding its curvaceous Bilbao collection with two sofas and a lounge chair with a timber base. Designed by Tim Rundle, the new additions will debut at Clerkenwell Design Week…
First launched at London Design Festival last year, the Bilbao collection from Morgan was inspired by a desire to juxtapose soft, organic surfaces with crisp, sharp edges. A two-seater and three-seater sofa explore this contrast further, with the latter featuring a distinctive kidney bean shape. Like the original lounge chair, the sofas are fully upholstered and planted firmly on the ground.
Image credit: Philip Vile
“We’re seeing an increased preference for softness in hospitality spaces,” discussed Tim Rundle, Designer. “The Bilbao collection, with its full volumes and primarily upholstered surfaces, will help designers bring warmth to those environments, from the social spaces of hotel lobbies and lounges to the privacy of the bedrooms.”
The new lounge chair offers designers and specifiers a different aesthetic, combining sensuous upholstery and striking timber detail. The base reinforces the fluidity of the other pieces in the collection, giving the appearance of being carved from a single block of wood, with all elements blending into one another.
“Bilbao was well received after launching last year and we’ve since seen it widely specified across all sectors,” said Erin Johnson, Design Director, Morgan. “These new additions offer considerably more options and flexibility to meet clients’ aesthetic and spatial requirements.”
During CDW, Morgan will host a private viewing of a new art installation called ‘Verso’ by British artist Corin Kennington, as well as a lighting display by Bert Frank. Join Morgan, along with live jazz and drinks on the Tuesday evening, in its Clerkenwell showroom.
Morgan is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Duravit wins five prizes, including Red Dot Design Award
Duravit has been recognised for its outstanding design quality and has been awarded five prizes at the Red Dot Design Award and iF DESIGN AWARD 2023…
Duravit made its presence felt in the ‘Product Design 2023’ category, winning several awards across its portfolio. Sebastian Herkner’s Zencha designer bathroom collection, the Tulum, faucet range designed by Philippe Starck and Duravit’s own Sustano shower tray all won over the distinguished Red Dot Design Award jury. The 133-member, independent and international jury of experts of the iF DESIGN AWARD was also won over by Zencha and the Duravit No. 1 campaign, handing over another two ‘winners’ to the bathroom brand.
Image credit: Duravit
The accomplished Zencha bathroom collection by Herkner is inspired by traditional Japanese rituals and craftsmanship. Above-counter basins with a gentle outwards slope and generously proportioned bathtubs meet minimalist furniture, all delivered an outstanding design quality that impressed the juries at the Red Dot Award. The collection, already the recipient of a German Design Award, was crowned the ‘winner’ at the Red Dot Award and iF DESIGN AWARD.
Image credit: Duravit
The monolithic design of the Tulum by Philippe Starck faucet series reduces the faucet to its elementary components and skillfully creates accents, while being hugely adaptable. Available in two colour options, Tulum impresses with a balanced composition of round and square shapes to create an impression of visual clarity. Its iconic shape and sheer elegance were also crowned a ‘winner’ in the Red Dot Award’s ‘Product Design 2023’ category.
Image credit: Duravit
The recyclable and customisable shower tray Sustano by Duravit, the first recyclable shower tray, comes in six colours and is very easy to customise and cut to size. The Sustano can be installed flush with the floor, semi-recessed or on the floor tiles depending on structural factors and personal preference. The elegant, calm design language of the shower tray, made from the sustainable material DuroCast Nature, also sufficiently impressed the jury of the Red Dot Award to be crowned as ‘winner’.
The Duravit No. 1 campaign expresses that life does not end at the bathroom door. Not even when you’re just starting out – in your first home or shared apartment. Duravit promises an upgrade for every day and keeps this promise with the Duravit No. 1 complete bathroom series in the entry-level segment. Saint Elmo’s concept convinced the jury of experts of the iF DESIGN AWARD to award the creative product campaign of Duravit No. 1 as ‘winner’.
Duravit is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Lifestyle aparthotel brand Locke has announced it will open its sixth Locke in London, Ember Locke, in July 2023, with interiors by Atelier Ochre and House of Dré. We take a closer look at its boudoir style of a bygone era…
The latest aparthotel from Locke, spread across eight floors, will include 121 apartments, ranging from studios to duplex one-bedroom apartments. The lobby and common areas of Ember Locke will be complemented by a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, small stage for live performances, co-working space, meeting room and garden. Additional facilities include a gym and laundry room. Prominently situated on the historic Cromwell Road, the hotel is in a neighbourhood rich with culture and is within walking distance of some of London’s most famous museums, including the Natural History Museum, the V&A, the Science Museum and the Design Museum.
Image credit: Ember Locke
Designed in collaboration by creative and interior design studios Atelier Ochre and House of Dré, the inspiration behind the design was taken from the late Kensington Roof Gardens and the laissez-faire flamboyance demonstrated by the iconic mid-century fashion brand Biba, born in Kensington’s bohemian fashion scene in the 1960’s. The warm and distinctive interiors of the hotel, and the layering of casual and bohemian spaces with soft ambient tones and hues, welcome guests and provide solace from the bustle of Cromwell Road. Elements of warm earthy tones have been combined with maximalist furnishings, while Art Deco styles are combined with 21st century retro futurism, making the interiors a nostalgia-soaked reimagining of over a decade of glamour in Kensington. Bespoke art pieces by House of Dré adorn the walls in the guestrooms and public spaces, while a host of local and up-and-coming artist’s work has been chosen to be displayed throughout the property.
Image credit: Ember Locke
Image credit: Ember Locke
“We’re very excited to be opening our first property in West London, in an ideal neighbourhood for Locke,” said Eric Jafari, Chief Development Officer and Creative Director, Locke. “This part of West London has long captured the attention of leisure and business travellers alike – you have some of the city’s best museums and shopping locations on your doorstep and in the last few years the area has had a real spotlight on it, with some of the best restaurants in London opening here. With the buzzing neighbourhood of Notting Hill close by and tranquil Hyde Park moments away, we are excited for Ember Locke to open its doors for guests.”
The interiors of the apartments have been curated as a series of boudoir rooms with colourful tones, luxurious materials, vibrant patterns and Art Deco details. Guests are transported to a bygone, yet fundamentally modern era, through bold character pieces including sweeping rolled banquette seating, deconstructed wardrobes and retro fittings. Elements of glamour are evident throughout with brass detailing, fringes, tassels and heavy dividing curtains ensuring a sophisticated feel to the apartments.
Sneak peek: The Chedi Hegra in Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Chedi Hegra will be the first hotel to welcome guests to a uniquely authentic luxury experience deep in the ancient Nabataean site in north-west Saudi Arabia…
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has partnered with luxury hotel operator GHM to develop The Chedi Hegra. Situated within Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and opening by Q4 2023 (latterly named one of Saudi’s hottest 2024 hotels), The Chedi Hegra will offer 35 bespoke guestrooms, each with its own distinct connection to the Hegra landscape, a breath-taking testimony of human expression within the natural environment.
RCU is building the hotel directly into several existing structures, including an old railway station and surrounding buildings, Hegra Fort and others. Structural and exterior walls, some with historical mud-brick construction, are being preserved and integrated with modern architecture. The vast majority of the UNESCO World Heritage Site will remain untouched by construction and will be carefully preserved to maintain the integrity of Hegra’s incredible human and natural heritage.
Image credit: GHM
RCU has also ensured all design and construction efforts align with the Sustainability Charter for AlUla, including a light-touch tourism approach, imaginative infrastructure, planting of native flora and an electric mobility system. Where possible, the project will use local construction materials and work with local businesses and labour. The hotel is expected to create at least 120 jobs once fully operational.
Image credit: GHM
The property will feature three fine-dining restaurants, a café and a full-service spa and pool, with many of the buildings connected by an overhead art canopy focused on wind movement and natural light. The on-site restaurants will each offer unique experiences for hotel guests and others visiting Hegra. One of the restaurants inside the old railway station will feature an exhibition of carefully preserved artefacts, including a fully restored train, while another will sit within the Hegra Fort and a third will feature unobstructed views from a sunken water basin seating area.
Image credit: GHM
“GHM is thrilled to introduce this luxurious heritage boutique hotel that will offer authentic, unrivalled lifestyle experience deep within the ancient Nabataean site of Hegra,” said Tommy Lai, Chief Executive Officer, GHM. “As the first hotel within Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, we are committed to preserve the site’s integrity while seamlessly integrating modern architecture and comforts. I am certain that guests will recognise and appreciate the value we place in minimising our environmental impact, through the sustainable efforts of the hotel, in addition to our dedication in conserving the legacy of Hegra – a true GHM hallmark of creating inspired spaces.”
GHM’s exclusive portfolio includes The Chedi AI Bait, Sharjah, UAE, The Chedi Muscat, Oman, The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland, The Chedi Hotel and Residences Luštica Bay, Montenegro, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha, Qatar and The Chedi El Gouna, Red Sea, Egypt. As part of the brand’s plans to continue its legacy globally, GHM currently has five projects in the pipeline which include The Chedi Wadi Safar and The Chedi Trojena in Saudi Arabia.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the debut of its Vignette Collection to the UK with the signing of The Halyard at Ropewalks Liverpool, Vignette Collection in partnership with Molo Hotels…
Vignette Collection is IHG Hotels & Resorts’ first collection brand and is a family of one-of-a-kind properties in sought-after urban and resort locations where guests can indulge in a growing passion for stays that are authentic, experiential and considerate. The Halyard at Ropewalks Liverpool, Vignette Collection will open later this year under a franchise agreement with Molo Hotels and will be operated by Lighthouse Hotel Management. The 133-key luxury hotel, designed by Ica, is set in the historic Ropewalks district in the heart of Liverpool, boasting a restaurant, an on-site gym, conferencing facilities and roof top terrace that will further boost the area’s reputation as a gastronomic hub.
Image credit: IHG Hotels & Resorts
“We’re thrilled to be bringing Vignette Collection to the UK – a new luxury brand in an established market for IHG,” commented Willemijn Geels, VP Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “Vignette Collection gives strategic partners and owners, like Molo Hotels, the opportunity to retain their distinctive hotel identity, while benefitting from IHG’s global scale, Luxury & Lifestyle expertise and powerful IHG One Rewards loyalty programme. The brand has shown incredible success across the globe in its first year, with 14 hotels signed or opened, which speaks volumes to its emphasis on delivering one-of-a-kind stays and memorable moments alongside a commitment to more responsible travel. Liverpool’s popularity continues to grow as a hub of culture and I’m confident the luxury offering of Vignette Collection will bring a new offering to the city.”
Image credit: IHG Hotels & Resorts
“I’m so excited to be opening the first Vignette Collection hotel in the UK,” said Ross Morrow, Managing Director, Molo Hotels. “We see a gap in the market to deliver luxury stays in Liverpool and we’re excited to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to deliver a hotel that celebrates the history of such an important city. Liverpool is a thriving market with growing demand and IHG’s enterprise system will allow us to better serve guests at The Halyard at Ropewalks Liverpool, Vignette Collection from later this year.”
The signing of The Halyard at Ropewalks Liverpool, Vignette Collection follows a number of signings for the brand across Europe, including in Reit im Winkl, Germany and Budapest, Hungary and the opening of the first European Vignette Collection hotel in Porto, Portugal. More than 100 properties globally are anticipated to join Vignette Collection over the next 10 years.
Case study: TREND take a dive into the Andaz Dubai
The Andaz Dubai Hotel swimming pool mosaic is a detailed example of how modern luxury design can pay homage to a city’s rich cultural history…
Dubai is renowned for its modern and luxurious living, with its trademark towering skyscrapers and record-breaking architecture. However, there is much more to this UAE city than its highly polished exterior and beneath the stainless steel and glass lies a rich and colourful history that spans back centuries. Design by GDS understood this when it was commissioned to decorate the pool area at the Hyatt Andaz Dubai Hotel on the iconic Palm Jumeirah.
Image credit: TREND Group
Instead of opting for the usual glitz and glitter, the design studio decided to delve into Dubai’s artistic heritage and create a design that echoed traditional Arabesque patterns and colours. These complex geometric shapes, intertwined lines and floral motifs date back as far as the 10th century and can be found throughout the Islamic world, adorning palaces, mosques and domes. Over the years, these patterns have been translated and redefined in many forms and can be found on a range of surfaces from tiles to textiles.
Image credit: TREND Group
To bring this unique design to life, Design by GDS utilised TREND 2x2cm glass mosaics into customised CAD decoration, creating a series of interlinked patterns that not only echo traditional Arabesque designs but also add a distinctive 21st-century twist to the space. The pool, which forms a bridge between two buildings at roof level, overlooks the sweeping Dubai coast and the iconic Burj Al Arab, demanding a strong visual identity of its own.
The Andaz Dubai Hotel pool area is a space that not only reflects the stunning beauty of its surroundings but also celebrates the deep artistic heritage that Dubai holds. This unique design is an invitation for guests to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of Dubai while still enjoying the comfort and elegance of the Hyatt hotel complex.
TREND Group is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Parkside collaborates with artist Lois O’Hara to celebrate 40 years
Celebrating 40 years in the tile specification business, Parkside is collaborating with multi-disciplinary artist Lois O’Hara at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023…
2023 marks four decades of Parkside’s involvement in tile specification. To celebrate this milestone, the brand is collaborating with Brighton-based visual artist Lois O’Hara, launching Parkside 40 Years x Lois O’Hara at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023.
O’Hara’s unmistakably playful patterns and positive visual narratives have graced Wembley Park, Grand Designs Live, Brighton’s seafront and Westfield Stratford. Her work also includes brand partnerships with Adidas and Pantone, as well as the cover of OnOffice magazine.
Parkside 40 Years x Lois O’Hara will see the artist adorn the exterior and interior of the company’s Clerkenwell Sustainability and Design Studio with a one-off design. Bringing colour to the streets of Clerkenwell throughout the festival, it’s a must-see stop for anyone visiting Clerkenwell Design Week. Parkside will also be celebrating with the Parkside 40 Years x Lois O’Hara Party on Thursday evening.
Image caption: Lois O’Hara collaborated with CDW last year. | Image credit: CDW
“We’re excited to be marking 40 years with a collaboration with one of the UK’s most exciting artists, and I can’t wait to see how Lois takes over our Clerkenwell Sustainability and Design Studio,” said James Journet, Sales Design Director at Parkside. “It’s a great way to mark the occasion and we look forward to welcoming the design community to celebrate with us at the Parkside 40 Years x Lois O’Hara Party on Thursday night.”
Since its inception, Parkside has been providing contemporary porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tiles to commercial interiors. Providing design-led and sustainable tiles, including exclusive ranges such as the new Principle mass-produced 91 per cent recycled content tile, Parkside has built a reputation for technical excellence and innovation.
Parkside will also be producing a limited run of Parkside 40 Years x Lois O’Hara totes, so make sure you visit the studio throughout Clerkenwell Design Week to pick up a piece of this exclusive design.
Parkside is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Exposing character inside spa at St James’ Court Hotel, London
Emil Eve Architects was open to a lesson in history when its team worked to create a new Jiva Spa and wellness centre inside St James’ Court Taj Hotel London. Editor Hamish Kilburn speaks to Emma Perkin, Director at the studio…
Modern traveller demands for experience-led wellness facilities have challenged the London hotel scene in recent years, where space is understandably limited and building regulations are often restrictive. Despite having to face both challenges, Emil Eve Architects was able to create a new wellness experience for St James’ Court London Taj Hotel, using the building’s foundations to carve a layered narrative into the design scheme.
Located in the Victorian cellars of the luxury hotel, the new spa facilities include a glowing vitality pool which wraps around the hotel’s original brick walls, a steam room clad in continuous milled sections of Carrara marble and a sauna created from solid sections of thermally treated Alder wood. In addition, two single treatment rooms a one couple’s suite incorporate bespoke walnut joinery and a marble-clad bathing area.
Image credit: St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
The brief was to transform the hotel’s Victorian cellar – with its thick, brick and block walls – into a new spa and wellness setting. “Due to the total lack of natural light and the inherent low ceilings, a concept and material palette was developed which aimed to create an atmospheric and richly textured interior,” explained Emma Perkin, Director, Emil Eve Architects.. “This complimented and celebrated the existing character and history of the space.” The architects spent four months developing the unique design, which took nine months to complete on site.
Image credit: St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
In order for modern spas to operate and perform, they require and create high temperatures and humidity levels, which require very tight control. The building, on the other hand, was breathable, badly insulated and vulnerable to the effects of humidity. “Typically a building like this would be fully lined in order to control the effects of humidity and temperature loss,” Perkin said. “In order to exposure the historic brick, and meet the complex technical and services challenges of the brief, we undertook several phases of research and testing to the development of a specification for the works which would adequately seal the bricks, retain an acceptable level of breathability and also express the rich texture and character of the brickwork.”
Terrazzo changing rooms inside St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
One of the many strands of this project, faced by Perkin and her team was to blend both modern wellness facilities into a space that felt timeless. The answer was in the materials. “We used Carrara marble and white terrazzo to create bright and luxurious surfaces for the floors and changing areas, contrasting with darker walls, relaxation areas and treatment rooms,” Perkin told Hotel Designs. “Bespoke walnut joinery and doors have been incorporated throughout along with ambient lighting by Viabizzunno.
“We wanted to create something atmospheric and rich so we started by looking at the existing textures in the space. We discovered that the basement was built from Victorian bricks so we decided to expose these and test a range of techniques for applying a finish. In the end we used a black clay plaster which beautifully reveals the texture of the bricks through its surface.”
Image credit: St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
Image credit: St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
The spa experience is sensory journey. Using lighting to soften the atmosphere enabled the architects to create dramatic moments within the space. “On entering the spa, the light level drops to a warm ambient glow so the brightness of the pool creates real drama in the dark space,” Perkin added. “The pool itself has two discreet bathing areas: the main area leads into a more secluded space where guests can have more privacy.
“The next stage of the visitors’ journey is the steam room, made entirely from milled curving slabs of Carrara marble, giving it a soft but luxurious feeling. The sauna is lighter in design and formed using Alder timber slats, which have a rich smell of the forest. Again, we used an existing space for this, which has an irregular shape ideal for a sauna. The treatment rooms also incorporate marble, dark timber and exposed brickwork.”
Image credit: St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
The team at Emil Eve Architects have been able to sensitively carve a contemporary look and feel into the traditional building, and was a finalist in the Surface Design Awards 2023 in both the Public Building and the Commercial Building Interiors categories. “We worked really hard on the Jiva Spa, trying to achieve something beautiful and technically challenging – combining state of the art services infrastructure with traditional approaches to breathable construction – and to fit all the different areas of the visitors’ wellness journey within a very constrained space,” Perkin explained.
Beyond accolades, though, the studio has given the Victorian cellars in the hotel a new purpose, while also ushering St James’ Court London Taj Hotel into the new era of luxury hospitality, where wellness and wellbeing play protagonist roles – but in a way that gives the hotel its own identity. Put simply, there is nothing quite like it on the London hospitality scene.
Main image credit: St James’ Court London Taj Hotel
Preview: what to expect at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023
Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW), now in its 12th edition, will return to London between May 23 – 25. Taking place across the whole of Clerkenwell, a neighbourhood renowned for its high concentration of architects and designers, the festival is set to offer its biggest programme yet – featuring more than 600 events and for the first time, merging with its sister show, Design London. Here are a few of the events and exhibitions that have caught our eye…
CDW 2023 sees a total of 12 exhibition venues across Clerkenwell including Design Fields, Contract, Light, Project, Elements, British Collection, Detail, Platform, Ceramics of Italy, Old Sessions House (the festival hub) and two new additions – Catapult and The Garden. While these unique venues will present over 300 design brands and emerging talent covering furniture, kitchens and bathrooms, materials and surfaces, textiles, decorative accessories and lighting, an extensive network of more than 130 local showroom partners will host product launches, workshops and talks over the three days of the festival. So much to see, so little time…
Image credit: Graphenstone Paints / CDW
Image credit: Ercol / CDW
Headlining this year’s CDW Presents programme is a specially commissioned installation by British artist, Steve Messam – who exhibits internationally and is well known for his large-scale, inflatable artwork reimagining our everyday surroundings. At the festival, the County Durham-based artist will bring his distinctive public art to St John’s Gate of the Order of St John. This site-specific piece, titled Gateway, will feature 27 giant spikes hand-sewn in a striking blue textile. It forms part of Messam’s ongoing art series taking over historic architectural sites – and inviting the public to examine their environment in a new light through its deliberately ambiguous shape and size.
Image credit: CDW
Creating a more sustainable way of living remains a key subject matter for many design manufacturers and makers. Using modern technology and the latest research, designers are exploring new ways to challenge the status quo while tackling these industry-wide issues with a global outlook. As part of the CDW Presents series, SYMBIOCENE LIVING: Mycelium Building Block is an interpretive, artistic mycelium installation that encourages the public to envision and engage with fungi architecture. While the modular feature is made of mycelium blocks with a 3D printed timber shell, the blocks will be arranged to create a different formation incorporating abstract seating and towers on each day of the festival. Set to be situated outside Clerkenwell & Social on St John’s Square, this one-off installation is designed by East London-based PLP Architecture – which has produced some of the world’s greenest and most intelligent designs through a profound commitment to social, economic and environmental values.
Image credit: Heiter X / CDW
At Old Sessions House, Heiter X – a sustainable food design and experience studio founded by Estonia-based Helis Heiter – will launch its first collection of sculptural tableware in collaboration with Krohwin. Crafted using traditional building techniques and innovative 3D clay printing technology, the Mound Collection is made from raw clay and natural carnauba wax – as well as repurposed food industry waste including buckwheat and hemp shells. The collection symbolises the mounds of food wasted every day, serving as a visual reminder of the need for more conscious consumption and waste reduction. The new tableware will be shown alongside Terra Firma, an edible tablescape aimed to spark conversation and inspire change in the way we think about and interact with food.
Image credit: Gareth Gardner
Image credit:
Among some of the headline names this year is London-born-and-bred artist and designer Morag Myerscough – who will open the festival’s talks programme, Conversations at Clerkenwell, in Spa Fields. She will speak with Bethan Ryder, Editorial Director of WGSN, about her unique approach to transforming places and championing community through joyful installations and artworks. On St John’s Square, Myerscough is also responsible for creating the exterior wall of a freestanding installation from leading acoustics specialist, BAUX. Designed by its in-house team along with Form Us With Love, this special exhibition highlights the work of eight students from Scandinavia’s finest architectural institutes.
Keeping things colourful, Domus has teamed up with London-based multidisciplinary artist and designer Yinka Ilori to create his debut tile collection which will be launched in the showroom at CDW. Drawing on inspiration from nature and sunlight alongside his British-Nigerian heritage, two ranges – Glaze and Screen – capture the dynamic, geometric lines and shapes used across traditional African patterns and architecture.
Continuing the conversation on collaborations and colour, Parkside will be celebrating the Parkside 40 Years x Lois O’Hara collection with the artist adorning the exterior and interior of the company’s Clerkenwell Sustainability and Design Studio with a one-off design. Bringing colour to the streets of Clerkenwell throughout the festival, it’s a must-see stop for anyone visiting Clerkenwell Design Week.
Image credit: Curiosa / CDW
Image credit: Kostas Synodis / CDW
Image credit: Knot My Name / CDW
The UK continues to lead the way in championing the best talent and finest craftsmanship – and visitors to this year’s CDW will not be disappointed by the eclectic mix of independent makers and businesses this country has to offer. Impossible to list all the makers and designers in this sneak peek, but here are a few that we will be looking out for:
Now in its 12th year, Curiousa is renowned for its bespoke hand-blown glass lighting made in its Derbyshire-based old mill studio. At CDW, the brand will present its new Wave chandelier – designed by its founder Esther Patterson – as part of the Light exhibition, which is always top of the design checklist.
London-based furniture designer and sculptor Kostas Synodis will join the festival for the first time. Blending art and design with his signature pared-down aesthetic, the newcomer will exhibit a new foldable low deckchair. Made from three pieces of veneer plywood cut out of the same panels to minimise material.
Fibre artist Livi Hecht of London-based Knot My Name will display her contemporary artwork. Using eco-friendly materials, Hecht produces handmade macramé products and made-to-order pieces. Both Synodis and Hecht will have work on display at the Platform exhibition venue.
Image credit: Hotel Designs
Taking to the stage in the Havwoods showroom, Hotel Designs Editor Hamish Kilburn will be speaking with Hen’a Yadav, Creative Director at HBA and exploring the concept of designing for the future.
And finally, Clerkenwell is as much about people as it is about products and at the end of the day as buyers, designers, architects and developers get to network over variations of cocktails and canapés. Hotel Designs will be hosting a CDW Takeover in collaboration with Sanipex Group in the new Bagnodesign showroom, which is strictly open to designers, architects, hoteliers and developers.
You can find more information about the events taking place during CDW23 here.
Episode 31 of DESIGN POD, the design podcast for all designers and architects, goes off the beaten track. Editor Hamish Kilburn shares a powerful interview with Dereck Joubert, Co-Founder of Great Plains, to understand the emotional relationship between nature and design…
For the latest episode of DESIGN POD, sponsored by Geberit, we are in Africa – or ‘man’s home’, as Dereck Joubert, Founder of Great Plains would put it. Editor Hamish Kilburn is on a journey of discover to understand more about how the brand approaches luxury hospitality; putting people second to nature.
With safari camps in Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe and looking to build properties in Uganda, Great Plans, led by husband-and-wife team Dereck and Beverly Joubert, is seriously and unapologetically changing the game in luxury safari travel.
“As a national geographic explorer and conservationist, studying lions our whole lives, we realised that we needed to not just save one [animal] at a time, but to look at the land that these creatures needed,” Dereck told Hamish Kilburn on the podcast episode. To secure this land, the Joubert’s created Great Plains, a tourism model that funds the selfless conservation work.
This journey started with one camp in Botswana, and soon multiplied. The considered approach at the start of each development always starts the same; with Dereck and Beverly camping out under the stars, exposed to the elements, in order to take conscious steps to ensure that each property, deliberately designed to feel ‘semi-permanent’ – works with and not just in nature’s spectacular setting. “The way we design was to limit impact on environment,” Dereck says. “I also wanted to convey a sense on impermanence. I wanted to give a sense that we, all of our guests are temporary here. We are here for a moment. We are visitors to landscapes like this.”
Redefining luxury through the filmmaker’s lens, Dereck and Beverly’s social approach to luxury travel is just the beginning. The duo and their team are committed not only to wildlife conservation in Africa, but, through many charities and initiatives launched and nurtured by Dereck and Beverly themselves, they also work tirelessly to offer and promote equal opportunities for those living and working in and around their camps. This took on a whole new meaning after one incident, sensitively explored on the podcast episode, that Beverly fighting for her life in hospital.
The full 45-minute podcast episode, which follows episode 30, is available to listen to on all major podcast platforms – just search ‘DESIGN POD’ wherever you get your podcasts. The next episode will drop on May 10 with Alessandro Munge, who will join Kilburn to ‘transforming spaces’.
From the pulsing centre of Manhattan, to the heart of the British countryside, this month’s hottest hotel openings span the globe, bringing with them a glamourous amount of design inspiration in all its guises…
It is always interesting when working on these VIP opening ’roundup’ pieces, how often a theme emerges. Maybe it is a seasonal thing, a trend thing or pure serendipity, but May’s list shows a clear inclination to a layered natural colour palette – from the sweeping gold Lissoni-designed staircase in Hotel AKA, to the warm burnt oranges in the velvet drapes in Villa Ikognito in Oslo, or the Mediterranean terracotta’s that run through the latest Louboutin design, there is a feeling of warmth, an earthed luxury, that runs through all the designs and details of the this months hottest hotels offering.
Hotel AKA NoMad
Image credit: Hotel AKA / Lissoni & Partners
Located in Manhattan’s Design District, the design of Hotel AKA NoMad has been led by Italian architect and designer Piero Lissoni. The hotel is distinguished by an atmosphere of tranquility and peace, a place of refuge in the city. The entrance is designed to act as a filter that transports guests from the pulsating heart of New York into a refined and sophisticated oasis.The design concept by Lissoni is expressed through an interior that embraces a range of influences from Japan to Scandinavia. The diffused light generates soft and enticing environments, natural materials such as wood and stone form the backdrop to fabrics of light and neutral tones, while the bespoke furnishings are juxtaposed with contemporary design and iconic objects.
“At our NoMad location, we are working closely with Piero and his team to infuse a tranquil and sophisticated design that strikes the perfect balance between the privacy and contentment of a residence and the hospitality, service, and style of an intimate hotel,” said Larry Korman, President of AKA.
Vermelho Melides
Image credit: Vermelho Melides
Image credit: Jose Castellar
Passionate for decades about the arts, crafts and cultures of the world, Christian Louboutin, better known for those iconic red heels than hotels, found something unique in a small village in southern Portugal. Inspired by the unique light and personality of the location, it is a place he would retreat to for weeks to design his winter collections. Inviting guests to kick of their heels and relax, he has created a boutique property and as one would expect, the 13 guestrooms are full of designer details, colourful tiles and fabulous frescoes – all with that particular Louboutin luxe and style. The hotel Vermelho Melides has been sensitively carved around the building’s detailed architecture. The interiors are punctuated with art, antique furniture and full of bold personality, while the guestrooms are slightly more muted to create a sense of place and calm.
Villa Inkognito
Image credit: Sommerro
Following Sommerro’s grand opening in September 2022 as Oslo’s first luxury neighbourhood hotel, the property has launched Villa Inkognito, a private 11-suite retreat located next door. A rare gem offering a mix of luxury and escapism in Oslo’s vibrant West End, Villa Inkognito is unique to Oslo as the only urban villa available to book in its entirety or on an individual room basis. With highlights ranging from thoughtfully designed bedrooms to unmatched personalised service, Villa Inkognito is an elegant oasis meticulously designed to be the ultimate home away from home.
Designed to capture the feel of a very stylish private home, Villa Inkognito comes alive through the vision of GrecoDeco, the New York- and London-based studio that also directed the interior design of Sommerro’s living and social spaces. The design team delved into the historic building’s past to create interior spaces embellished with a mix of antiques, original artwork, decorative details, and classic Scandinavian furnishings.
Birch Selsdon
Image credit: Birch
Staying true to the brand’s personality, the 177-key Birch hotel is expected to bring Londoners and travellers alike, an oasis of calm. The design team from Sella Concept and A-nrd have collectively created a layer of contemporary flair on top of an existing red-brick mansion in South London. As well as creating tranquil guestrooms and suites, the designers have transformed the building to shelter a lido, a wellness space and two restaurants, which will use produce from Selsdon’s own grounds to create the chef’s seasonal, farm-to-fork menus. The hotel will also feature three bars, a co-working hub, family wing and kids club, activity studios and several communal spaces from snugs to the Orangerie.
Hotel Genevieve
Image credit: Bunkhouse Hotels
Situated in Louisville’s growing East Market District, Hotel Genevieve is a new hotel project from the Austin hospitality group Bunkhouse in collaboration with real estate development firm, Mountain Shore Properties. At 122 guestrooms, it is Bunkhouse’s largest hotel to date and melds new architecture with considered touches that reference the city’s one-of-a-kind history. The hotel features an all-day ground floor restaurant, rooftop bar and lounge with expansive city views, vibrant mini market, and intimate secret bar.
Designed in collaboration by Bunkhouse and ROHE Creative, a female-owned and operated Philadelphia based interior design firm, Hotel Genevieve is inspired by a city that is much more layered than bourbon and horses, with design that represents the nuances that make Louisville a destination for all. An intersection of unexpected opposites, the hotel dives into the River City’s history. Richly decorated, each design accent tells a story, from bold usages of colour to a playful mix of vintage and modern furniture.
Capella Sydney
Image credit: Capella Sydney
Located in what was originally the Department of Education building, Capella Sydney, has opened its heritage-listed doors. Balancing storied architectural features with a contemporary design aesthetic, Capella Sydney celebrates the Australian panorama through its interiors, location and experiences. The unparalleled spaces within the hotel showcases curated artwork, sophisticated furnishings and intriguing objet d’art. The 192 guestrooms and suites span eight levels and are anchored by three ground-level food and beverage offerings, including signature restaurant, Brasserie 1930 and McRae Bar.
The ground level also features six meeting and event spaces catering for groups of up to 80 guests, while wellness-seeking guests will make their way to Level Six to discover the world-class health and spa facilities.
Municipal Hotel Liverpool
Image credit: Accor
The Municipal Liverpool hotel is joining MGallery, Accor Group’s luxury boutique-hotel brand and has opened in a Grade II listed heritage building from the mid-19th on the city’s vibrant Dale Street and combines stylish, modern opulence with historic charm. Managed by leading hotel management company, RBH Hospitality, the iconic building will shelter 179 luxurious guestrooms across four floors, with considered design references throughout that pay homage to the building’s rich heritage of French and Italian influences. Design will play a leading role at The Municipal Liverpool – MGallery, with many of the building’s existing materials and features refreshed to create elegant new focal points.
Reminders of the building’s past life as a council building will also remain visible throughout the space, from a series of seven-foot-tall statues on the façade, to vintage phones and library style desks indoors. Reinventing a landmark of Liverpool’s heritage, the high point of the hotel is the building’s iconic clocktower, visible from across the city, that has also been carefully restored to bring it back to full working order and catches the guests’ attention on time.
Selina Dakhla
Image credit: Magdalena Bodzioch
Finally, ending on a laid-back note, Israeli owned hotel chain Selina is opening its second co-working, co-living hotel in the south of Morocco. Selina Dakhla, located between the Atlantic Ocean and the sweeping Western Sahara provides a haven of peace, along with plenty of opportunities for more energetic activities with its position on the northern edge of a vast lagoon making kite-surfing the go-to activity, with sand boarding and buggy rides following closely behind. In addition to a range of beautifully designed accommodation, on-site features include a restaurant, surf and kite surf experiences, wellness facilities, swimming pool and the only coworking space in town.
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts will debut in the Maldives with Rosewood Ranfaru. Slated to open in 2027, this is what we know about the latest development in the brand’s thoughtful growth pipeline…
One of the most coveted island destinations on the planet, the Maldives are considered by many to be the ultimate luxury wanderlust experience. Now, having achieved worldwide recognition as a preeminent tropical paradise, the Maldives is looking toward the future with an eye on longevity and sustainability, making the destination a natural fit for the unique approach to luxury lifestyle offered by Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Rosewood Ranfaru will reflect Rosewood’s guiding A Sense of Place philosophy through a highly curated experience that emphasises privacy, luxury and a connection to the natural habitat.
Rosewood Ranfaru will offer approximately 120 beachfront and overwater villas, ranging in size from one- to five-bedrooms, all with private pools and a select number located on private islands. In true Rosewood fashion, unsurpassed service and amenities will be central to the guest experience, including a Rosewood Explorer’s Club to spark discovery and inspire imagination among the youngest visitors. At the heart of the property will lie several specialty restaurants, a beach club and an Asaya well-being facility and fitness centre, together offering a holistic wellness escape. A true leisure oasis, Rosewood Ranfaru will also feature numerous swimming pools, both for adults and families, paddle courts and an array of water sports that will allow guests to fully explore the peaceful and crystal-clear waters of the encircling lagoon.
Stretched across a striking chain of private islands around a pristine lagoon in the South Male Atoll, the property will be situated less than an hour away from Velana International Airport in Male. From touchdown to toes in the sand, guests will be able to make the journey to the resort via either a short yacht ride or a ten-minute seaplane hop. Both experiences will exude the same level of luxury that awaits on the property’s shores. Upon arrival to the resort, travellers will be met with endless opportunity to embark on truly restorative getaways, all surrounded by stunning views of the world’s most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Developed by Estithmar Holding, this project represents the next generation of Maldives tourism and elevates the overall luxury offerings available in this sublime corner of the globe.
YOTEL set to make its European YOTELPAD debut in London
YOTEL has announced plans to debut its disruptive aparthotel brand, YOTELPAD, in Europe with the opening of YOTELPAD London Stratford in Q4 2023 – here’s what we know…
YOTEL created YOTELPAD in 2018 to challenge to the traditional aparthotel space. The brand was born in answer to rising guest demand for more flexibility in accommodation type, due to changes in consumer lifestyles and work habits. Staying true to YOTEL’s DNA, YOTELPAD prioritises smart design and technology, delivering modern studios, referred to as PADs, featuring multi-functional live/work/sleep areas, stylish bathrooms featuring amenities from partner Urban Jungle and fully-equipped kitchenettes – all at an affordable price point.
Following a long-term management agreement with owner, Silver Mascot Limited, YOTELPAD London Stratford will be YOTEL’s seventh property in the UK and third in London, joining its London City and London Shoreditch properties. The Stratford hotel will offer a home away from home for travellers, featuring 62-PADs, 24-hour Mission Control (YOTEL’s answer to traditional reception), Grab & Go, laundry facilities and ample storage space. The property will also be home to food & beverage and retail space due to open in 2024.
“We are delighted to announce the news that YOTELPAD London Stratford will be opening this year,” commented Paul Glennon, Director, Silver Mascot Limited. “YOTELPAD stood out as a truly different offering in the aparthotel space and we look forward to a long and rewarding relationship with YOTEL.”
Image credit: YOTEL
The new build property joins the brands expanding portfolio of YOTELPADs, with all operating properties currently based in the United States. With global growth a top priority for YOTEL, the expansion into new and existing territories is expected to form a crucial part of the brand’s commitment to 50 hotels by 2025.
“We’re incredibly excited to be opening our first YOTELPAD property outside of the US this year, and to be bringing the product to the UK and European market for the first time,” said Rohan Thakkar, Chief Development Officer, YOTEL. “With increased demand for flexible stays that offer more space to live, work and play, whatever the length of stay, whether one night, one week or one year, we’re confident that YOTELPAD is the answer for travellers globally. Committed to expanding our footprint to meet demand worldwide, it will be a key driver in achieving our ambitious growth targets.”
Having received multi-billion-pound investment sparked by the 2012 Olympics, Stratford is now one of London’s leading shopping, restaurant and entertainment destinations with some of the best transport links in the capital, including the new Elizabeth line that connects the area with mainline stations, airports and central London. Located on Broadway, YOTELPAD London Stratford is ideally positioned for non-stop travellers wanting to explore this thriving neighbourhood.
YOTEL is the Exclusive Style Partner for MEET UP North, which will take place on July 6 at YOTEL Manchester.
With a wide variety of colours, shapes, designs and sizes to choose from, Hyperion Tiles Director Richard Skeoch gives his top tips on which materials to consider when adding tiled pattern to a wall or floor…
Patterned floor tiles and wall tiles can be used to maximum effect and make an instant style statement, while additionally being a practical design solution in a hotel or hospitality environment. Aside from colours and surface patterns available from Hyperion Tiles, the material of the tile also needs to be considered when deciding on the appropriate pattern to take up the wall or lay on the floor.
When focussing on the floor, durability and slip-resistance is key, making porcelain a preferred choice. Taking tiles and pattern up the wall, the options are greater. Some patterned floor tiles may be suitable for both surfaces, giving a seamless design and making a strong statement. Additionally, a tile shape, structure and the way it is laid can be used to create a pattern that is not dependant on decorative surface pattern.
“Ceramic versions can make fantastic wall tiles because they are softer and easier to cut,” explained Richard Skeoch, Director, Hyperion Tiles. “They tend to cost less than porcelain and will absorb more water than their porcelain counterparts. Ceramic patterned floor and wall tiles come in a variety of intricate patterns. However, they can be prone to cracking in extremely cold weather. So they may be less suited to patios or garden paths, for example.”
Image credit: Hyperion Tiles
The reflective qualities of glass tiles can make a space feel larger and lighter when adding pattern to a surface. “In the form of patterned floor and wall tiles, these tiles can help to bounce light around a room, ” continued Skeoch. ” You’ll also find they’re easy to maintain as you can keep them clean with soapy water. Their non-absorbent properties make them a great choice for a room with high humidity, such as a bathroom.”
A Stone tile is another great choice for patterned floor and wall tiles as it is incredibly dense and hardwearing. Natural stone also tends to age beautifully which gives it its innate charm and inherent beauty. Depending on the stone you choose, the tile will require some form of sealing. Marble, for example, is naturally porous and resealing with specialist products may be necessary from time to time.
Encaustic tiles, otherwise known as cement, come in a host of colours and patterns. Mineral pigments are mixed and poured into a mould and they are cured at room temperature with a coloured layer on top. “These tiles have a high thermal mass so they hold their temperature well,” said Skeoch. ” They are also highly versatile, so you could install encaustic patterned floor tiles, which flow from indoors to outside living areas.”
Hyperion Tiles deliver an exceptional portfolio of products for floors, walls and ceilings which, will stand the test of time and have a highly skilled team available to offer expert advice, such as technical know-how and in-depth product knowledge, to hoteliers, designers, specifiers and architects.
Hyperion Tiles is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Flavia Luxury Hotel – a sculptural project by RootStudio
The boutique hotel, Flavia, has been designed in harmony with its Oaxaca surroundings. It celebrates the contrast between the exterior structure and its cosy interior, which enhances the sensory experience…
A precise ratio between ITS natural surroundings, the volumes and the space were the guidelines that defined the design of Flavia Luxury Hotel, whose atmosphere evokes sensations and stories inspired by all the wealth of Oaxaca. The building, designed by João Boto Cæiro for RootStudio, is situated on the flanks of the San Felipe mountain in the natural reserve of the Cordillera de la Sierra Norte in Oaxaca. It was developed in accordance with the rhythms of an organic and sculptural planning method. Boto Cæiro shaped the building in such a manner that it maintained the specific characteristics of the land surface, adapting itself to the natural slope of the terrain and alternating the spaces, proportions, light and shadow with the endemic vegetation and raw materials such as concrete, timber and glass.
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
Entering the quintessential RootStudio design, means finding oneself in a dynamic, emotional atmosphere, where the pared-back simplicity is the result of a deep reflection on the mission of contemporary architecture. The result is a unique lodging with a restaurant, panoramic pool and 11 guestrooms each with their own atmosphere and layout.
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
Guests can enjoy the eclectic character of this building with four double-height stories, complemented by the sculptural landscaping by Luis Zárate—renowned for his work on Oaxaca’s Ethnobotanical Garden—that introduces cacti, pochote trees, pitayas, and aquatic plants to the gardens, courtyards, and terraces.
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
The hotel façade is dominated by the rustic character of raw concrete, contrasting with the warmth and elegance of the interior. The colour palette of the public spaces and suites was built around five earth hues that harmonize with the tropical timber and the omnipresent force of the concrete.
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
A singular characteristic of Flavia hotel is the sensory impression produced by each of its rooms, all of which are unique while maintaining a dialogue with each other. An example of this is Bunker, an underground room that is so well illuminated it becomes the antithesis of its name. Likewise, luminosity is a feature of both Nubes and Copal rooms, the latter dominated by striking picture windows. The Teatro room, as its name suggests, emphasises the dramatic character of a space that invites introspection, while Kundavi, Biblioteca, Cuarto de Máquinas and Xolo embrace the warmth of woods as a leading element. Finally, in Roja, Selva, and Kuni rooms the contrast between textures is the principal theme.
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
The furnishings throughout the hotel were expressly created to project a rich sense of sophistication alongside the works of local artists who bring their aesthetic to the different spaces of the boutique hotel. Included are works by Sabino Guisu, Adán Paredes, Dali Nieto, Jesús Cuevas, Rolando Rojas, Francisco López Monterrosa, and Lucio Santiago. The Flavia experience is complemented by a range of different amenities, such as a wellness zone, a private function room and an organic vegetable garden that reinforce its mission of inviting guests to discover Oaxaca from the singular perspective of a kaleidoscope of emotions, stories, and sensations.
Image credit: Lizzet and Deslior
Based in Oaxaca City and directed by João Boto Cæiro, RootStudio was founded in 2009 as a multidisciplinary studio that encompasses architecture, design, illustration, painting, and sculpture. Over more than a decade of work, RootStudio has forged a unique signature that distinguishes its projects and Flavia Luxury Hotel joins its portfolio, whose common denominator lies in a harmonious integration with the landscape and a total commitment to social responsibility.
In the factory: exploring the weft and warp of Edmund Bell
Exploring the intricacies of the Edmund Bell printed, flocked, blackouts and sheers over multiple floors was a journey that took in the layers and level of attention required to equip a bolt of woven fabric with the qualities demanded by the hospitality industry and as writer Pauline Brettell discovered, there is a lot more to those bolts of blackout than meets the eye…
Edmund Bell has a long history in the textile trade, having started in apparel linings with curtain linings soon becoming the mainstay of the business. The most decisive move toward the interiors textiles range, interestingly, came during the Blitz, in response to the need for a simple blackout – a much less technical item than what is produced today – and social shifts continue to impact the process as the brand responds to both consumer, client and changing market demands.
From evolving fire standards, concerns about hygiene and the demands of the contract industry, suppliers like Edmund Bell have to continually shift and stretch to provide attractive fabrics that, importantly, do the job. Moving on from the Blitz, sustainability and the drive to protect the planet are the more contemporary concerns having a fundamental impact on and driving change. Walking through the factory, it is clear that contract fabrics have to be all things to all people, fulfil fire standards, remain as durable as customers have come to expect, while also including recycled content and finally be recyclable.
Image credit: Edmund Bell
Taking in the technical terms of slub and crossweave, weft and warp as we wound our way up and down the production line, the level of both detail and process that transforms bolt upon bolt of unprocessed fabric into a fully functional blackout or thermal contract quality fabric is remarkable. What is equally remarkable is how an industry like this, essentially dependant on chemicals and potions, processes and production is rising to the challenge of sustainability – something which on the surface of things is not necessarily a natural fit.
In conversation with the designers behind the scenes at the factory, another challenge being faced comes from an interesting intersection of economics and aesthetics. A move towards a more minimalistic approach to textiles in many interiors settings is being driven by cost-cutting as well as design considerations and this in turn, has meant that many performance features need to be combined within the same product. For example, thermal, light control and acoustic properties are all important factors in the experience of a hotel guestroom and nowadays a single Edmund Bell fabric article is required to address all of these needs at once.
Image credit: Edmund Bell
Image credit: Edmund Bell
What was key in the conversation throughout the day, from machinists to engineers to designers, is the enthusiasm for testing the limits of the process and then coming up with solutions – solutions that allow both the planet and the price point to co-exist. While hospitality brands and designers are increasingly asking more questions about provenance, price remains key and sustainability still frequently takes a back seat to cost by the end of the procurement cycle. Rising to the challenge, the entire team at Edmund Bell are striving to make changes and develop new ranges to achieve what customers are looking for, in terms of both sustainability and price point.
Image credit: Edmund Bell
Continuing the sustainability conversation as we went deeper into the factory, this is not a new subject in the company, which started looking in earnest into recycled yarns in 2017/18 when it became clear this was a concern on the customer radar. The parameters of this conversation are however constantly changing as the story takes on an increasingly circular solution, with recyclable being as important as recycled. As provenance comes through the supply chain it needs to include water recyclability and reduction, green energy, as well as recycled yarn. There is no doubt that Edmund Bell is devoting time, energy and innovation to questions of sustainability, but as a business still needing to turn a profit, the challenge to complete the loop on recycled content remains a balancing act.
Image credit: Edmund Bell
The champions of the recycled fabric ranges that have become a core part of the company ethos are LINK and SWAY collections. Both these sheer weaves are made using recycled Repreve yarns, which are in turn made from recycled plastic bottles and so truly fulfil a sustainable message. These fabrics also meet all the strict testing protocols required for contract fabrics, maintaining that balance between practicality and the planet again.
Additional pieces to the sustainable puzzle, are the questions of durability and performance – including recycled content is unhelpful if the resulting fabric doesn’t last as long as it should and doesn’t achieve what you need it to in terms of usage. In all of the new developments, Edmund Bell is working to offer transparent sustainable initiatives like post-consumer recycled content whilst still ticking all of the practical concerns clients have come to expect.
Image credit: Edmund Bell
Image credit: Edmund Bell
While functionality may be the driving force in the company, there remains plenty of room and inspiration for design and aesthetics in the Edmund Bell studio. Catching up with the bespoke design process was as intriguing as the production floor, where a tiger and a monkey where being painstakingly removed from an established design at the request of a client – flora without the fauna – a bespoke service provided by the studio allowing designers to change details and colourways. The design possibilities are, quite literally, endless! Continuing to maintain the balance between design and function, the online design-hub is an additional company feature that provides clients with both design inspiration and practical specifications.
What was both exciting and interesting as we were guided through the factory and design studio, was that the changes being made towards both sustainability and creativity are wide ranging – from upholding new requirements for recycled and chemical content with upstream suppliers, to managing production processes and waste, to developing downstream recycling options for clients, right through to taking part in carbon offsetting initiatives. The changes with the biggest impact on both these strands are undoubtedly infrastructure developments to the finishing facility, where efficiencies are constantly being developed, machines updated and even power sources entirely switched out. Considering the many millions of metres of textiles finished and processed here every year, this is no mean feat.
Edmund Bell is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
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