Hotel Designs

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the opening of Sheraton Valley Forge Hotel in King of Prussia, just 18 minutes from downtown Philadelphia. The highly anticipated property offers a vibrant, open atmosphere and all of the Sheraton brand’s recently improved amenities and services. Owned and operated by Wurzak Hotel Group, Sheraton Valley Forge features 180 rooms, extensive, state-of-the-art meeting facilities and a Sheraton Club Lounge.The lobby’s dynamic open design is enhanced by soaring, 25 foot ceilings, an abundance of natural light and custom-designed furniture. At the heart of the lobby is the signature “Link@Sheraton(R) experience with Microsoft®” – the brand’s social connectivity hub. All guest rooms are outfitted with the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, designed to meet AAA’s Five Diamond Award® criteria, an oversized work desk, ergonomic chair, high-speed Internet and 42-inch flat panel television. Sheraton Club guests will enjoy upgraded amenities, as well as complimentary breakfast, beverages and evening hors d’oeuvres in the Sheraton Club Lounge.

Sheraton Valley Forge Hotel provides more than 25,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space including 13 conference rooms and two executive board rooms. Additional amenities include an indoor pool and full-service restaurant. The hotel’s fitness facility features the brand’s revolutionary new health and fitness program, Sheraton Fitness, Programmed by Core Performance, designed exclusively for Sheraton guests through its partner Core Performance.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Monday 1st October saw the opening of the new build Holiday Inn Southend in Essex. The £10 million investment provides luxury 4* accommodation and services conveniently located at the entrance to Southend Airport and railway station sector.Reception is immediately visible from the entrance with a reception lounge to the right and lifts to the five floors on the left. Further to the left of the lift lobby is the Lounge – a café option for a quick bite to eat. Through the Lounge is the Laker Suite, a conference and banqueting facility that holds up to 150 guests. The name was apparently selected as a tribute to Sir Freddie Laker, the airline entrepreneur who operated from Southend Airport in the 1950’s. Smaller meeting rooms are available and are named Ambassador, Britannia and Carvair in honour of those planes that featured in Southend Airport’s history.

Similar décor and furnishings are used seamlessly through reception, the Lounge and into the conference area with large floor to ceiling windows veiled with voile curtains. This still allows natural light into the areas whilst keeping the slightly disappointing views of the main road and car park to a minimum. There are incredible views of Southend and the airport, cleverly reserved for the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar.

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IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has recently announced the opening of the Crowne Plaza Tulsa, Okla. The eleven-story, 286-room hotel underwent a conversion from a Hilton and features newly redesigned guestrooms and public spaces. The hotel features 13,000 square feet of meeting space with five total ballrooms. The space can be configured into as many as six meeting rooms for smaller meetings. The Crowne Plaza offers a signature comprehensive meetings program that ensures a seamless planning process and an exceptional meeting experience consisting of three key components: a Two-Hour Response Guarantee, a Crowne Meetings Director and a Daily Meetings Debrief.

The Crowne Plaza Tulsa – Southern Hills boasts 286 guestrooms, including one presidential suite and six junior suites. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including complimentary wireless Internet in guest rooms, king beds with pull-out sofas, a fitness centre, business centre and an all-seasons indoor pool.

The hotel’s food and beverage offering includes Legends Grill; a casual restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. For breakfast, the Legends Grill features a buffet and made-to-order eggs and omelettes. The Falls Lounge offers dinner and cocktails. Other amenities include onsite complimentary parking and complimentary shuttle service.

The Crowne Plaza Tulsa – Southern Hills is independently owned by McSam Hotels and operated by Packard Management Group, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.

Ibis, the benchmark in the economy segment, is pushing ahead with its transformation in line with evolving trends in consumer preferences and cementing its leadership in the worldwide economy hotel sector. This is the first step in Accor’s strategy to modernise all its brands. “What we are doing with ibis is reinventing economy hotels by setting a new standard. Our goal is to open up new territories – I mean new hotel experiences as well as new geographies. This project is unprecedented. It has put ibis’ vision one step ahead. It is treating our customers to unrivalled choice at affordable prices and our franchisees to even more brand appeal,” explains Accor Chairman and CEO Denis Hennequin.

This economy-brand revitalisation project kicked off on 13 September 2011 and involved grouping ibis, ibis Styles (all seasons) and ibis budget (Etap Hotel) within one single ibis family. The project’s goals were ambitious and it is outpacing traditional hospitality-industry cycles: by the end of October 2012, 100% of the UK network and 80% of the ibis network worldwide (1,280 hotels) will boast the new banners. The project will be complete by the end of 2012.

This revolution also involves revamping ibis hotel bedding

The fact that roughly 70% of guests rank comfortable beds as the single most important factor when they choose an economy hotel* prompted Accor to develop an exclusive bedding concept – Sweet BedTM by ibis, ibis Styles, ibis budget – to treat customers to unrivalled comfort and establish a solid reputation on that score.

* July 2012 Accor Business Traveller survey

The new ibis and ibis budget, public areas – lobbies, reception desks and bars – have been revamped into contemporary living areas brimming with uncompromising designer class. These areas were unveiled last June and 50 hotels worldwide will have completed the renovation work by the end of this year.

In the UK the first of these designs will be visible in London in 2013.

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Marriott International’s world-class luxury hotel brand, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, has announced plans to convert the existing 118-room Bristol Buenaventura, making it the first resort and first hotel for the brand in Panama. The future JW Marriott Panama Golf & Beach Resort will be located within the master-planned Buenaventura beachfront community, near the town of Rio Hato, about 80 miles southwest of Panama City, on the Pacific Coast of Panama. The property will be operated by Marriott under an agreement with the Bristol Hospitality Group, which will retain ownership of the resort. The property is located in Buenaventura, undoubtedly Panama’s most exclusive resort community, approximately 80 miles southwest of Panama City on Panama’s Pacific coast. The resort is nestled on 1,000 lush acres with 118 accommodations, including five expansive suites and four residence-style villas.

In addition to 118 guest rooms and suites, the resort features five restaurants, a recently opened 18-hole Nicklaus Design course, a fitness centre, spa, kids club and new beach club complete with breathtaking infinity pool and waterfront butler service. The hotel has 517 square meters of meeting space, including a grand ballroom and four smaller meeting rooms.

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W Hotels Worldwide has announced the opening of the first W Hotel in Singapore with the debut of W Singapore – Sentosa Cove and The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove. Owned and developed by an affiliate of City Developments Limited, W Singapore is an urban oasis located on Sentosa, the city’s most glamorous island only minutes away from downtown Singapore. Designed by London-based architects WATG and renowned design firm Rockwell Group, W Singapore has been inspired by the buzzing energy of the city set against Sentosa’s natural surroundings to create a new scene in this international capital. Adjacent to the 228 W-branded residences, the hotel offers a fully integrated lifestyle experience, featuring 240 guest rooms and suites, two signature restaurants, a destination bar, the W Lounge experience, WET pool deck and bar, Away Spa, and more than 1,500 meters of modern meeting and event space.Island Glamour Unleashed on Sentosa Island

Located minutes away from Singapore’s Central Business District, fashionable shopping and iconic sights, Sentosa Island is a modern playground for stylish locals and international jetsetters alike, offering lush rainforests, sandy beaches, award-winning spas, luxurious residences, and a deep-water yachting marina. W Singapore and The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove are situated in the heart of Sentosa and adjacent to Quayside Isle, a unique specialty retail complex with waterfront restaurants and shops.

The design of W Singapore has been inspired by modern interpretations of Sentosa’s lush, tropical landscape. For instance, upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a waterfall with projections of vibrant graphic patterns on the water, while the outdoor terrace features glowing grass lights, rock-shaped daybeds, and an over-scaled rock garden. Patterns evoking Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim Orchid, can be found throughout W Singapore and serving as inspiration for guestrooms. In the hotel’s W Lounge, a DJ console carved out of natural stone creates a centrepiece, overlooking the lawn, which illuminates in the evening.

Sip and Mix, Indulge and Escape in Singapore’s New Urban Oasis

Setting a new gourmet scene in Singapore, SKIRT, the W brand’s first contemporary grill restaurant, makes its debut with a slick bar for sipping the latest cocktails and aging cabinets serving the finest meats, sensational seafood, signature soups and tantalizing desserts. The Kitchen Table all-day dining restaurant features an interactive experience with various live food stations and tastings at the whim of the chef. WOOBAR, W Singapore’s destination nightclub, offers innovative cocktails creations by the W mixologist and sounds by the hotel’s resident DJ at nightfall. For a chill out moment, WET Bar is a poolside spot to socialize, sip and nibble under Singapore’s glistening sun.

W Singapore features an Away® Spa, the W brand’s signature spa concept that offers an escape for both guests and locals to detox and refuel for what’s to come. Guests of the spa are greeted by rainforest-inspired decor and natural sculptural pieces that personify the exotic gardens of Singapore. Away at W Singapore exclusively features iLA products and highly-customized beds that offer maximum comfort. For guests seeking the ultimate spa experience, W Singapore offers nine Away guest rooms and suites, located on the spa level of the hotel and each featuring a private plunge pool. The hotel also features GYM state-of-the art fitness center and WET pool deck, featuring a 1,300 square meter outdoor pool with 24 underwater speakers.

All guest rooms and suites at W Singapore feature a signature W Bed, Munchie Box stocked with exclusive amenities, 40″ LED HD TV, state-of-the-art surround sound system, high-speed Wi-Fi, and MP3 player plug-and-play device. All bathrooms are stocked with Bliss®
amenities to ensure a relaxing experience after a day of sun or night of fun. The hotel offers W’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service philosophy, offering guests whatever they want, whenever they want it, as long as it’s legal!

W Singapore features more than 1,500 square meters of meeting and event space, including an 732-square-meter Great Room, seven meeting rooms, and a stunning outdoor space outfitted with adaptable conference furniture and state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment. W Singapore is the first hotel in the city to feature private berthing stations along the shore with direct access to the Great Room for an enhanced grand entrance.

About The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove

The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove is an award-winning, W-branded high lux condominium by the marina with berthing facilities for yacht owners right at its backyard. Supported by the neighbouring W Hotel’s Whatever / Whenever® concierge services, The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove boast of a complete W lifestyle for the affluent unlike any other. Complimented with Quayside Isle’s dining and retail experiences at its doorstep, residents at this superbly located Sentosa Cove home that is minutes away from the city, will be spoilt for choice. Be one of the few to live and own the W lifestyle. This integrated luxury enclave, which comprises The Residences at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, W Singapore – Sentosa Cove and Quayside Isle, has been envisioned and developed by City Developments Limited (CDL), Singapore’s trusted property pioneer since 1963.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Recognized worldwide for its stunning accommodations, Bellagio announced recently that it will remodel all 928 rooms and suites in the resort’s Spa Tower beginning August 19. Following Bellagio’s $70 million redesign of 2,568 guest rooms in its main tower in 2011, the Spa Tower remodel will encompass 819 guest rooms and 109 suites including the prestigious Chairman and Presidential suites. The $40 million project is expected to be completed by December 2012.

“The Spa Tower remodel will broaden our distinct selection of luxury accommodations and strengthen our commitment to the overall evolution of the Bellagio experience,” said Randy Morton, president and COO of Bellagio. “The new designs and layouts of the suites are exquisite and complement the contemporary ambiance we’ve created throughout the resort.”

In addition to the Resort King and Resort Queen guest rooms, the Spa Tower features a wide range of suites including the 850-square-foot Salon Suites; the 1,000-square-foot Bellagio Suites; the 1,500-square-foot Penthouses; the 1,900-square-foot two-bedroom Bellagio Suites; and the 4,000-square-foot Chairman and Presidential suites.

Additionally, as part of this remodel, Bellagio will introduce three new Executive Hospitality Suites created with entertainment and technology in mind. The 2,500-square-foot suites each will feature a billiards lounge and separate home theater living area allowing guests to comfortably host intimate, yet interactive events in a vibrant setting.

Created by the talented MGM Resorts International Design Group, the new Spa Tower Resort Rooms will be consistent with the three designs represented in Bellagio’s main tower. The Resort King Rooms will feature an indigo and silver combination or a green tea and plum palette while the Resort Queen Rooms will welcome guests with an amber and butterscotch motif.

Remodeled Resort Rooms in the Spa Tower will be available for reservation in early September. The new suites will be available beginning in November.

Menzies Hotels, one of the UK’s leading independent hotel groups has launched a brand new look, feel and vision across its portfolio and unveiled details of an impressive redevelopment plan for 2012. The simple but impassioned core ethos of; ‘You’re in a good place’ has be created to run throughout all elements of the business. It will be particularly prominent in the areas of; breakfast, welcome and farewell, bedrooms, business services and leisure stays – the crucial elements identified by guests of Menzies Hotels that make up an enjoyable hotel experience.

A new brand identity has also been designed which features a modern logo in blue and gold, new signage for both external and internal usage, fresh new brochures and a cleaner, easier-to-use website featuring great offers.

Niall Geoghegan, Chairman, Menzies Hotels commented; “Menzies Hotels aims to be one of the UK’s leading hotel brands, offering an experience that is so consistently good, relaxing and friendly that it feels like home. Our new messaging; “You’re in a good place is a really important phrase in delivering this and will sit right at the heart of everything we stand for and in every communication with guests, no matter how big or small.”

Throughout 2012, Menzies Hotels will also be investing around £7 million into its portfolio with a variety of redevelopment projects.

This includes a £2.2 million refurbishment at its flagship property; Menzies Welcombe Hotel, Spa & Golf Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, a £1.1 million investment at both Bournemouth properties; Menzies Carlton and East Cliff Court as well as significant investment to the bedrooms at Menzies Prince Regent in Chigwell and Menzies Cambridge.

Most recently, the hotel group has unveiled a brand new breakfast menu, developed following an extensive review of its current offering and feedback from guests who were able to trial it before it was officially launched last month.

Marriott International, Inc. has recently announced the first TownePlace Suites hotel to open as part of its LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environment Volume Program) Volume Program – the TownePlace Suites Denver Airport at Gateway Park in Colorado. TownePlace Suites is the hospitality leader’s second brand to construct a hotel built using Marriott’s LEED Volume Program. The hotel will be the brand’s first exemplary property using the LEED Volume prototype. Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the LEED Volume Program removes the guess work from the process for property developers, such as hotel owners who want to build a LEED-certified hotel, saving them time and money. Volume certification provides a streamlined path to LEED certification based on a pre-approved prototype and process.

Owners of these hotels save about $100,000 in upfront costs and six months of design time. Additionally, owners can expect to save 25 percent in energy and water consumption and should recover their additional investment in five to six years—possibly sooner depending on federal and local government incentives.

Opened May 8, the TownePlace Suites Denver like all Marriott LEED Volume hotels features a number of elements that focus on energy and water efficiency and recycling. Some of those elements include:
– Light-colored roofing that reflects heat and saves energy;
– 70 percent ENERGY STAR® certified appliances including refrigerators, TVs, computers and kitchen equipment;
– Water-efficient toilets and aerated bathroom faucets;
– 10 percent of the building materials used contain recycled content;
– “On Demand” ventilation that provides fresh air for occupied spaces without wasting energy on unoccupied areas of the property;
– LED lighting – controls that turn off the lights;
– Incorporates high-tech daylight sensors to reduce electrical lighting with natural sunlight and
– Uses renewable energy sources such as solar or wind.

The TownePlace Suites Denver also features a warm lobby and friendly “hello” signage that welcomes guests to the check-in area. Guests and staff interact using a floor-to-ceiling TowneMap® that helps guests settle into the local area by featuring great places to eat, popular night spots, recreation areas, shopping and services, such as dry cleaners and local car wash outlets.

The hotel offers a complimentary continental breakfast every morning in the lobby area, as well as 24-hour complimentary On Us℠ coffee service, guests who want a quick snack can also select food and beverage items from the 24-hour access In a Pinch® Market.

Marriott’s entire select-service and extended-stay portfolios — Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, Residence Inn, SpringHill Suites and TownePlace Suites – are all LEED Volume certified. In addition to the LEED Volume certified TownePlace Suites Denver, the Residence Inn Austin in Texas, which is scheduled to open in early 2013 will be the first of its brand to be LEED Volume certified. The SpringHill Suites and Fairfield Inn brands have projects under development. Across the Marriott portfolio, there are more than 90 hotels that are LEED- certified or registered by the USGBC.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced that it plans to debut the Aloft brand in South Korea in late 2014, signing an agreement with development partner Youngshin HRD. Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of OKHOW Co., Ltd. The hotel, Aloft Suwon, will be the first Aloft hotel in South Korea, adding to the brand’s global expansion plan and growth momentum in Asia Pacific that has been building up in recent years. A game-changer since its 2008 debut, Aloft Hotels and its vibrant “style at a steal” brand proposition is geared toward the next generation of travellers, pioneering initiatives in music, design, and technology; and providing modern comforts and a fun social guest experience at an affordable price point. The Aloft brand has consistently garnered high guest satisfaction scores since its launch, with select hotels ranking among TripAdvisor’s 2012 “Top 25 Trendiest Hotels in the US and around the world.” In addition to new developments, the Aloft brand’s global growth plans include conversions and adaptive-reuse projects.

Aloft Suwon is located in Yeongtong-dong in the heart of historical Suwon, the provincial capital of Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Suwon is a major industrial center, housing Samsung Electronics’ digital city and a large factory complex; it is also home to 14 university campuses. Located about 60 kilometres from Incheon International Airport and 30 kilometres from Seoul, the hotel is well connected by various modes of transportation. It offers easy access to numerous sights, including the impressive UNESCO World Heritage site of Hwaseong Fortress, the Suwon business district, and local government offices.

Slated to open in October 2014, Aloft Suwon is part of a mixed use development that also consists of retail and residential spaces. The hotel occupies the 4th to 11th floors, featuring 120 guest rooms, including 114 standard rooms and six suites, in a modern, fresh, and fun setting. It also boasts a 404 square meter meeting and function space, and two food and beverage facilities, including the buzzing signature lounge and bar, and an all-day dining restaurant. Other amenities include a 275 square meter recreational facility, with a well equipped gym, and it is situated adjacent to an 854 square meter spa that provides signature rejuvenating treatments.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Continent Worldwide Hotels is proud to commence the soft opening of its business hotel Altis Hotel by Continent, Langkawi – Malaysia in September 2012 and following openings a new tourist destination in Bangladesh, Continent Sea Princess Cox’s Bazar alongside Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang – Makassar, Indonesia in December 2012.Following these three diverse openings, Continent Worldwide announced another city hotel and the third property in Indonesia, Urbana Hotel Jemursai by Continent which is expected to open early 2015.

Group currently has in Bangladesh another two developments beside of Continent Sea Princess in Cox’s Bazar; Continent Grand Titanic Hotel (opening 2013), Ancyra Dove Hotel (opening 2015), two developments in Kuakata, Continent Grand Hotel (opening 2013), Princess Prithy Resort (opening 2014) and one development in Rangamati, Continent Titanic Resort (opening 2013)

“There are a lot more ongoing negotiations in Asia and I believe we will be announcing soon our new “Urban Hotel Collection” branded hotel developments and also “Continent” branded hotels in Indonesia, India, Pakistan and Malaysia” said, CEO Mr. Kenan Saral and added “We are rapidly growing not just in Asia but in another regions as well, by slow but stable steps. Due to the economic turn downs in Middle East and Africa; there are a lot of hotel owners who are started to look alternative brand licenses and operators; who has reasonable fees and better values than other well known hotel chains. We are experiencing and receiving more and more inquiries every day.”

Marriott International, Inc. continues to grow its world-class JW Marriott hotel brand with the opening of JW Marriott Essex House New York, the brand’s first hotel in New York City. The 509-room hotel is located on Central Park South in Manhattan’s renowned midtown neighbourhood, boasting sky-high views of Central Park and situated just steps from famed Fifth Avenue shopping, dining and entertainment. The property was most recently the Jumeirah Essex House and reopened today as JW Marriott Essex House New York. An anticipated addition to Marriott International’s luxury JW Marriott global brand portfolio, the landmark hotel features 509 guestrooms and suites ranging from 300 to 2,500 square feet. JW Marriott Essex House New York is a destination for leisure and business travellers alike, offering world-class dining, expansive meeting space and a tranquil spa and fitness centre. A beautifully appointed Executive Lounge – an autograph feature of JW hotels worldwide – will be built in early 2013. Travellers also have the opportunity to enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences from JW Marriott’s brand partners, including fine art exhibitions from Christie’s, signature in-room bath amenities from Aromatherapy Associates and nutritious, balanced menu options from Keri Glassman.

Mr. Stephen Batta was named General Manager of JW Marriott Essex House New York. With more than 20 years of industry experience, Batta has spent the majority of his career in the New York City market. Most recently, Batta was the General Manager of the Renaissance New York Hotel 57, where he led his team to achieve exceptionally high associate engagement levels and placed a strong focus on leadership development.

The iconic Essex House first opened its doors in October 1931 and at that time, was the tallest tower in New York City. Marriott International operated the hotel from 1969 to 1984 and though the hotel has grown and changed under several hospitality brands over the years, the building remains one of Manhattan’s most revered Art Deco masterpieces of the 1930s. JW Marriott Essex House New York is one of more than 200 hotels and resorts across the country that is recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture and ambiance.

Accor is set to open four new hotels in London in October; a Novotel and ibis hotel in Blackfriars, a second ibis hotel in Shepherd’s Bush and a new addition to the growing Mercure hotel portfolio, opening in Greenwich.During this incredibly important year for London, Accor aims to further expand its presence in the city by developing new hotels, creating jobs and investing in the training and development of young people in the hospitality industry.

This year alone Accor UK & Ireland is opening more than 1000 additional bedrooms in London, across six new hotel openings and two extensions to existing hotels. In addition, this year Accor is investing in the refurbishment of a further 12 London hotels. This brings the Group’s London portfolio to 53 hotels and well over nine thousand bedrooms across the Capital. The announcement follows recent openings in Croydon, Whitechapel and King’s Cross.

Commenting on the opening of the new hotels, Thomas Dubaere, Managing Director, Accor UK & Ireland said: “2012 is an incredibly important year for London. As the market leader in Europe and a key business player in the hospitality industry, Accor has treated this important year as a strategic opportunity to boost our presence in the UK’s capital by investing in upcoming areas such as Shepherd’s Bush, Blackfriars, Whitechapel and King’s Cross, and improving the training and development of young people in the hospitality industry, to ensure a long term legacy for 2012 and beyond.”

The newly built Novotel and ibis London Blackfriars hotels occupy unique expansive purpose-built adjoining buildings, offering easy access to the city and Eurostar connections at St. Pancras International. Forming part of the regeneration of the Blackfriars area, these two new hotels have led to the creation of more than 70 jobs in the local area.

Encompassing the latest in consumer technology, visitors to the 4* Novotel London Blackfriars will be greeted by self-service touch screen check in systems, in addition to the standard check-in desks, to allow guests to check in quickly and easily. All 182 bedrooms in the hotel include a media hub for iPads, iPods and tablets. The new-build hotel also features restaurant, bar, seven meetings rooms, a state-of-the-art gym, saunarium and swimming pool.

The 297-bedrooms flagship ibis London Blackfriars hotel also comprises a modern and fresh feel with a new-style open plan reception and living space that opens up the hotel’s public spaces with contemporary design and sleek, modern interiors.

The contemporary ibis hotel in Shepherd’s Bush features 128 rooms and is situated next to the up-and-coming West12 centre and within five minutes of the Westfield Shopping Centre. Westfield was created following significant investment to regenerate the area, investment that continues with the plans to revitalise Shepherd’s Bush Market and the surrounding area including Shepherd’s Green, directly in front of the new hotel. Providing a further boost, ibis Shepherd’s Bush has led to the creation of 30 jobs in the local community and will ensure more visitors to the London suburb.

Both of the new ibis hotels will deliver a high quality food offering, focusing on dishes from around with the world.

The 145-bed Mercure Greenwich will open its doors in October, following a major conversion of the 1930’s Maurice Drummond House in Greenwich. The building, which won RIBA’s London Architectural Medal in 1946, will become Mercure’s 72nd hotel in the UK. The opening will create up to 70 jobs.

Dubaere added: “2012 provides a real opportunity for London to raise its profile as a business centre and tourist destination. It’s encouraging to see so many businesses in the hospitality industry responding to this opportunity by investing in the city and its people, so that we can reap the benefits in the long term. It is important to look at the successes of today and the ‘afterglow’; what are we going to do tomorrow? For Accor, the focus remains on our people and the continued investment in their development. Opening four new hotels in the Capital in one month is testament to our commitment to growth in London and in the UK.”

Following hot on the heels of the Diamond Jubilee, the Olympics and the much anticipated Paralympics, what an inspirational year it has been for Great Britain so far. With this in mind, Aqua-Innovations drew on inspirational British design talent and partnering with British manufactures to deliver a superior quality product with total quality control and no costly delays at customs.

Their in-house design team has created a beautiful set of unique designs that can be retrofitted to existing wet rooms and bathrooms to fit all major manufacturers or customised as required.

So whether it’s gold, silver or bronze Aqua-Innovations’ designer drain covers can fit the bill to complete the designer detail to your finished project. Available in a range of materials including: Gold Plated, Stainless Steel and Bronze.

Marriott International, Inc. continues to grow its world-class luxury JW Marriott hotel brand with the opening of the 153-room JW Marriott Cusco. The much anticipated hotel stands at an altitude of 11,154ft above sea level, the company’s highest-altitude hotel, and is situated at the gateway of the Andes mountain sanctuary Machu Picchu. The hotel will feature a highly customized design built around a colonial church and ancient Inca artefacts found on the site. The property will also epitomize the approachable elegance that distinguishes the JW Marriott brand, a global portfolio of 52 luxury hotels and resorts. For dining and recreation at the JW Marriott Cusco will feature two restaurants – Pirka Restaurant, which will include an original colonial wall from the convent and offer modern Peruvian cuisine; and the Qespi Bar & Ninna Sonnco Lounge. The hotel will also feature 24-hour room service, a foreign currency exchange office and retail stores such as HStern, Ilaria and Kuna. To ensure guest relaxation and well-being, the hotel will boast a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a 3,300 square foot Spa with dry saunas, steaming rooms, and a relaxation pool.

The 153 rooms and suites will all include luxury bedding, high speed internet, 42’’ plasma TV, alarm clock with iPod/iPad docking station, high-end coffee machine and the brand’s signature Aromatherapy Associates bathroom amenities.

Located in the heart of Cusco’s historical district, the JW Marriott Cusco will feature archaeological exhibits with the findings uncovered during excavation work dating back from Pre-Hispanic to Colonial and contemporary cultural superimposition. During the construction phases of the hotel, property owners Inversiones La Rioja, collaborated with national and international institutions that provide protection to human heritage. These institutions include:

• United Nations, Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
• The National Institute of Culture (INC)
• The Municipality of Cusco
• San Agustin de Cusco University

Few leisure destinations in the world compare with Cusco, designated a World Heritage site in the 1980’s and located in the Andes 11,000 feet above sea level. The city has witnessed the rise of the Inca Empire as well as its demise with Spanish colonization of the Americas in the 16th century. The city’s colonial art school is recognized as one of the most prolific in the Americas. Above all, Cusco serves as the gateway for the world-renowned mountain sanctuary Machu Picchu – accessible only by train along the sacred Urubamba valley – as well as other landmarks, such as the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the Inca sites of Kenko, Puca Pucara and the market towns of Pisac and Chincheros.

At an elevation of 11,200 feet above sea level, the JW Cusco will be the first Marriott property to have an in-room supplemental oxygen system to alleviate altitude adjustments.

His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent KG officially opened the newly-restored Wivenhoe House hotel, home of the Edge Hotel School, in Colchester on the 20th September.

The UK’s first hotel school where degree students combine their studies with work in a commercial luxury hotel, the Edge Hotel School is where the future leaders of the hospitality industry will learn their profession.A partnership between the University of Essex, its academic partner Kaplan, and the Edge Foundation, the Edge Hotel School took its first students in June and July, allowing them to be involved in opening a new hotel.

Andrea Tye, 28, from Tiptree, who is studying for a BA in Culinary Management, said: “ At the moment I am still really living the dream, everything I could have possibly have wanted in terms of a course and work experience is here.”

Andrea, who escorted the Royal visitor around the hotel, added: “It was really good to meet HRH The Duke of Kent. He seemed really interested in what we are doing.” Martin Kilgariff, 20, who also showed HRH around the public rooms and two of the bedrooms, said: “He found the whole idea of The Edge Hotel School extremely interesting. He was very keen to know of my experience in the hospitality industry.”

Students of the Edge Hotel School are working towards fast-track two year degrees, learning by doing through combining academic study with working in all areas of the hotel and restaurants, supervised by leading industry professionals. The hotel school curriculum has been developed in collaboration with employers and industry leaders and with industry needs in mind.

The eighteenth century Wivenhoe House, in Colchester, which was painted by John Constable, has undergone a £10 million-plus refurbishment, restoring it to its Georgian and Victorian grandeur.

The Duke of Kent met representatives of the three partners involved in establishing the Edge Hotel School, unveiled a plaque and signed the Visitors’ Book, before having lunch in the hotel’s Signatures Restaurant, prepared by Executive Chef Paul Boorman.

Stay amidst the treetops in Alila Ubud’s new Terrace Tree Villas

The boutique Balinese resort of Alila Ubud will launch four exclusive new Terrace Tree Villas this autumn, providing guests with the chance to experience the lush natural landscape.Set high above the Ayung river valley overlooking a stunning vista of alang alang plantations and rice paddies and perfectly positioned to capture the sunrise, the new villas combine a luxurious retreat with a true back to nature experience.

Designed as the most exclusive accommodation in the resort, the four spacious 120 sqm Terrace Tree Villas feature an indoor & outdoor living experience with a huge alfresco wood-decked living area providing the perfect place to dine, unwind and stargaze to a backdrop of the sights and sounds of its forest location.

The open-plan interiors are inspired by the natural setting combining the warmth of wood and recycled teak with elegant furnishings to create a relaxing, magical hideaway. Stunning views are available from every corner of the villa with the opportunity to wake up with the sun and take in the views from the bathtub that seemingly floats above the valley.

Each villa also features a generous King-bedded room, indoor bathroom with shower, bathtub and His & Hers Vanity, as well as a spacious lounge with day bed for whiling away lazy afternoons. For cosy evenings, a flatscreen 40’ Apple TV offers a selection of documentaries of ‘old Bali’ as well as movies and music.

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The first hotel to be awarded Palace status in France, Le Bristol Paris, is now the place to enjoy a drink in Paris following the opening of the beautiful Le Bar du Bristol. Designed by architect Pierre-Yves Rochon and Mrs Maja Oetker, Le Bar du Bristol, with its classical and modern décor, is already welcoming customers from Paris and around the world to its famous home in Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré. Le Bar du Bristol exudes timeless elegance, with a glass roof at the entrance, a mural fresco by French artist Thierry Bruet representing a lush garden, and the authentic Aubusson tapestry by Charles Pinçon dating back to 1740 which decorates the bar walls and depicts a Chinese garden with slender pagodas in the distance and a peacock in the foreground.
The atmosphere in the bar itself, which is closed off with thick silk curtains for greater intimacy, evokes old English clubs, with a wooden floor made from Versailles oak and magnificent panelling that is over 100 years old and made of natural pine from Esher in Surrey. Two bookcases flank the 19th century fireplace, which is made of marble from Sienna in Italy.

Furnishings in the bar include beautifully-made ochre-coloured winged armchairs, duck-egg-blue wall seats made by the prestigious Venetian company Rubelli, the small English Petworth Chairs in red and blue Italian leather and leopard-effect fabric produced by the silk manufacture Le Manach for the Giacometti stools from the House of Porto Romana. There are also touches of red leather for the bar stools and an imposing double-sided couch in the centre of the room, continuing the modern yet timeless theme.

Every evening, behind the panelled bar with its long top made of golden-coloured granite from Montana, a huge mirror becomes a screen reflected in the 18th century French mirror hanging opposite over the fireplace. Bottles of alcohol, carefully chosen for their exceptional qualities by Head Barman Maxime Hoerth are displayed in their purpose-made bottle holder, with smaller bottles of prestigious alcohols being displayed in the showcases that make up the lower half of the bookcase.

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Why Seattle has a reputation as a rainy city is beyond me. Every time I have visited this exciting hi-tech city the sun has shone into its tree lined streets. Home to Boeing, Starbucks and Microsoft this is a thriving city. Sometimes I am brought up short by references to it as part of the ‘Pacific Rim’ area that so excite investors as it seems so ‘East Coast’ in so many ways. Tourism here flourishes, in part because of its rôle as a jump off point for so many cruise liners taking tourists up the West Coast into Alaskan and Canadian waters. This is a competitive market, and Vancouver fights hard to take the business away, but the new cruise dock maintains Seattle’s position as does the constant refurbishment of its many superb hotels.Among the latest to refurbish is Kimpton’s Monaco, with the refurbishment completed in May 2012. My tour in August 2012 was opportune timewise, catching the hotel still fresh but at ease with the refurbishment. The scheme was developed by local designers Dawson Design Associates, based in Pioneer Square a short walk from the hotel. Of course no walk in Seattle can be done without going uphill – my companion pointed out that wearing high heels meant her feet were actually horizontal going uphill. Yeah, and downhill they do what?

Walking anywhere in Seattle is a delight, with cross streets steeply raked down to the harbour giving views across Puget Sound and its busy water traffic. Building and redevelopment carries on throughout Seattle and across the road from the Monaco is the remarkable bulk of the new (2004) Central Library, designed by Rem Koolhaas of OMA, making this junction of Spring and 4th Avenue totally unmissable. The Monaco is itself housed in a tall building – well this is the USA, right – housing 189 guestrooms and suites.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is delighted to announce the opening of the 176-room Mövenpick Hotel Ankara, a new contemporary hotel based in the heart of the Turkish capital’s fast-developing Söğütözü business district, ideally located for meetings, seminars or conferences. With nine meeting spaces including the stylish 390 sqm Bern Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Ankara offers flexible function spaces that can be customised to host between eight and 450 guests. The hotel is just 500 metres from the biggest convention and exhibition centre in Ankara, the newly opened 80,000 sqm Congresium, and next door to the prestigious five-storey, 155-store Armada Shopping Mall, a winner of the “Best Shopping Mall of the Year” voted by the International Council of Shopping Centres.Just 30km from the city’s international airport, the district is rapidly becoming a business base for global companies such as EON, BP and Oracle as well as home to Turkish government ministries, cutting edge medical facilities, ambitious media companies and luxurious residential developments.

“Ankara’s success as an international business hub is helping to shape Turkey’s reputation as a global economic powerhouse,” says Ola Ivarsson, chief operating officer for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts in Europe. “The city is the perfect location for our third hotel in Turkey after openings in Istanbul and Izmir and a great demonstration of our confident international growth. The combination of a convenient business location and the reputation for Swiss reliability, care and authentic warm welcome that Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts brings to the hotel are certain to ensure it will be a great success,” said Enis Pekuysal, president of Varan Otelcilik A.S., the owning company of the property.

The Mövenpick Hotel Ankara is a welcome addition to the 21st century skyscraper success of Söğütözü, offering a bold architectural statement of its own. The design of the hotel reflects the curved shape of Turkey’s famous Nazar Boncuğu – the eye-shaped amulet traditionally worn to ward off evil – with a 12-storey central atrium and glass ceiling that floods the hotel with natural light. Despite the confident contemporary feel there are motifs and materials that reference traditional influences from the Turkish marble swirling around the spacious floors of public areas to the enormous glittering lobby chandelier created from hundreds of handmade crystal balls, a reminder of the country’s proud glass-making heritage. Large flat-screen televisions, glass partitioned bathrooms and stunning city views are signatures of many of the superior rooms, while the dedicated Executive Floors on the 11th and 12thfloors offer exclusive access to an Executive Lounge, terrace, meeting room, complimentary snacks and drinks and private check in. The hotel’s wellness and fitness centre includes four massage rooms, a Turkish ‘hammam’ bath, sauna, indoor plunge pool, whirlpool and cardio fitness zone. International spa classics as well as Turkish treatments are available.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the opening of the Sheraton Fuzhou Hotel in Fuzhou’s newly built, modern business district in China’s Fujian province. The hotel is owned by the Zhonggeng Group, and the introduction of the Sheraton brand to this vibrant, bustling port city represents Starwood’s vigorous expansion plan in China, extending its footprint to gateway cities as well as emerging markets across the nation. The Sheraton brand’s impressive global pipeline is being fuelled by phenomenal demand in China with 12 new Sheraton hotels slated to open across this fast-growing market by year’s end driven by strong demand in second and third tier cities.Sheraton Fuzhou Hotel fulfills a growing demand for upscale accommodations among business travelers, MICE planners, and convention participants. Situated in the heart of Fuzhou’s newly developed commercial district, the hotel is conveniently located beside China’s largest exhibition center, the Cross-Straits International Conference
and Exhibition Centre, on the banks of the Minjiang River. Sheraton Fuzhou Hotel also offers easy access to the city’s transportation network. It is about 8 kilometers from the Fuzhou South Railway Station, 14 kilometers from the Fuzhou Railway Station, and 45 kilometers from Fuzhou Changle International Airport.

Sheraton Fuzhou Hotel boasts 396 exquisitely appointed rooms and suites comprised of Deluxe, Premier, River-view and upgraded Club Room categories and offering a full range of amenities, including the plush, all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, designed using the AAA Five Diamond Award® criteria, high speed internet access, and luxurious bath and body products. The heart of the lobby features the Link@Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft®- a social hub in the lobby providing complimentary WiFi and PC workstations so guests can surf the internet, email loved ones, review local attractions and print boarding passes while on the road. Guests can also indulge in signature spa treatments at Shine Spa for Sheraton and keep fit through the brand’s revolutionary new health and fitness program, Sheraton FitnessSM programmed by Core Performance, designed exclusively for Sheraton guests through its partner Core Performance.

Three restaurants provide a range of world class cuisine. Feast®, the Sheraton brand’s signature all day dining restaurant, indulges guests with international favorites, while Yue® Chinese restaurant specializes in authentic Cantonese fare, focusing on locally sourced and
sustainably produced ingredients. Japanese restaurant Miyabi showcases the freshest foods in an innovative Japanese style. The comfortable Lobby Lounge serves refreshing cocktails, premium spirits, and freshly brewed coffee – an ideal venue for relaxing and socializing with colleagues or family members.

The hotel’s 4,200 square meters of function space includes a 1,800 square meter pillar-free Grand Ballroom that can be separated into three individual rooms and 17 other meeting and conference rooms, ranging from 48 to 400 square meters in size.

Where do you want to go next? For many, the answer this year will undoubtedly be Baku. As football fans worldwide look forward to the 2012 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup this Autumn, and the country’s first Four Seasons now welcoming guests, the capital of Azerbaijan is clearly marked on the world map. What was once a well-kept secret among oil industry executives who did business in the region in the past century, it is now attracting the interest of a much broader range of travellers. With its recent hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest, rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene, designer shopping, developing wine industry, ever-changing skyline and pulsing nightlife, as well as the business opportunities that continue to emerge in the country’s post-Soviet era, people from all over the world are now making their way to the city by the Caspian Sea.

Located on the promenade on the shores of the Caspian Sea in the Azeri capital, Four Seasons Hotel Baku offers the city’s finest accommodation in 171 rooms and suites, four restaurants and bars including the high-style Kaspia and Kaspia Bar, the exclusive enclave of the Jaleh Spa and Pool, lavish meeting spaces, and the signature service of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts Worldwide. The Beaux Arts-style Four Seasons Hotel Baku is the first in Azerbaijan, and the 90th property in the company’s worldwide portfolio of hotels and resorts.

Best Western International (BWI) – the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® – is continuing its rapid expansion in Asia Pacific with the launch of its first hotel in Nepal.Scheduled to open its doors in the Q1 of 2013, the 60-room Monty’s hotel signed into Best Western hotel chain will be a brand new midscale property in the heart of the Nepalese capital Kathmandu.

The new hotel will be located on Thamel Road, an area of downtown Kathmandu famed for its vast array of local restaurants and boutique shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs, as well as mountaineering outlets catering to Nepal’s booming adventure travel market.

“Nepal’s travel industry is booming, and Best Western is proud to offer a brand new hotel catering to the growing number of tourists wanting to experience this breathtaking country,” said Glenn de Souza, Best Western International’s Vice President International Operations – Asia & the Middle East.

“We are confident that the Monty’s hotel will be extremely popular both with our loyal guests and first-timers. Travelers are increasingly demanding excellent service levels and convenience at reasonable prices, and Best Western is perfectly positioned to meet their needs,” Mr. de Souza added.

The hotel feature includes; free Wi-Fi, local calls and complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant.

Nepal has witnessed a surge in tourist arrivals in recent years. In 2011, which was designated ‘Visit Nepal Year’ by the country’s Ministry of Tourism, more than 544,000 tourists entered the country through Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport – 21% more than in 2010.

This trend has continued in 2012, with arrivals increasing 23% in the first four months of this year, to almost 208,000.

With an increasing number of flight connections to Kathmandu, including the launch of new low-cost services by flydubai, Air Arabia, SpiceJet and IndiGo in recent years, demand for this enticing destination looks set to grow and grow.

We spend all our summer holidays in our fab little house in the Pyrenees Mountains in France and often visit the great Maisons and Chateaux in Toulouse.

We are adding lots more products onto the site but the four here give you a feel of opulence at a realistic price.If you have some images of antique rococo mirrors hanging within great buildings we would love to see them and showcase them in our review section.

Paris Gold Rococo Mirror

A beautiful Rococo styled mirror, this style of mirror could come straight out of a Classic French Chateau, ornate and eye-catching.

The mirror is made up of five mirror panels with an internal mirror size of 33 X 21, the external dimensions are shown above.

Lyon Gold Rococo Mirror

Stunning ornate Gold Rococo Mirror, opulence on a grand scale at an affordable price. The Lyon Gold Rococo Mirror makes the perfect centre piece for the grandest of rooms.

Octagonal Gold Rococo Mirror

Nine panels of cut glass come together to form this beautiful Octagonal Gold Rococo Mirror. In a style that takes you back to the days of Kings and Queens in France.

Toulouse Gold Rococo Mirror

A simple but elegant Gold Rococo Mirror offer you the style you want at an unbelievable price. Perfect for turning a guest room into a Palace.

All of the above mirrors come in gold and silver and are just a small selection of the dozens of different Rococo Mirrors available through Decoratif Design, want to know more? Call us on 01252 854654.

Accor has announced the opening of its first Pullman branded hotel in the UK, the Pullman London St Pancras.

Accor is establishing this international upscale brand in the UK in a move to widen its hotel brand portfolio in the UK, which currently includes Sofitel, MGallery, Novotel, Mercure, ibis, ibis Styles and ibis budget. Pullman London St Pancras, previously home to Accor’s Novotel brand, officially opens this month (September) following a comprehensive refurbishment which has seen the complete transformation of the hotel into one of London’s most contemporary and stylish hotels.

Entering the market as London’s newest upscale hotel brand, the UK’s first Pullman hotel is a cosmopolitan home of style and modernity. Situated just three minutes from King’s Cross St Pancras, the hotel features 312 bedrooms, with panoramic views of the London skyline, and a restaurant and bar named Golden Arrow. There are also 17 spaces for events and business meetings, including a 446-seat tiered theatre for arts and corporate use.

The hotel offers Pullman’s best signature services: Welcomer, Pullman bed, docking station, free Wi-Fi, Connectivity Lounge in partnership with Microsoft®, Co-Meeting offer for the MICE market, Nespresso® services, Vinoteca by Pullman wine selection and Open Kitchen in the new restaurant, Golden Arrow.

A stylish hotel for a cosmopolitan city
Today, the Pullman London St Pancras has been designed to exude high quality coupled with comfort and functionality to suit clientele of seasoned travelers.

The highly contemporary architecture and design of Pullman London St Pancras is instantly striking. The essence of modern London is captured in the design of the hotel’s public areas. The design takes much of its inspiration from its location, drawing on the urban connectivity or the area, the linear images of railway life and the bustling and energetic style of modern city life, all visible throughout the hotel’s creative, textured and colourful design.

A culinary journey
Guests can enjoy fabulous cuisine at the ‘Golden Arrow’ bar & restaurant which seats 94. The new restaurant is named after Golden Arrow, the famous all-first-class Pullman train service between Paris and Calais from the 1920’s which connected London to Paris, opening the UK up to the cultural, business and culinary influences of France and the rest of Europe. Chef Rees Smith centres Golden Arrow’s menu around modern European cuisine and the fine wines that match. Guests can enjoy the innovative Vinoteca by Pullman wine libraries which offer a wide range of wines by the glass; all perfectly paired with a range of dishes, or to be simply enjoyed on their own.

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio in Turkey is being expanded with two new deluxe hotels: a beach resort and a city resort in Bodrum. In addition to Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir, Bodrum will become another important feature destination in the Turkish market for this international hotel group with Swiss roots. The two new properties are scheduled to open in 2013 and 2014.Swissôtel’s future beach resort lies directly on the waterfront in Turgutreis, approximately 20 kilometres from the centre of Bodrum. The main two-storey hotel comprises 66 rooms and suites offering at least 40m2 per room, complemented by villas and duplex terraces in front, which house 72 residences that are 85 – 274m2 in size. Rounding off the offering are indoor and outdoor pools, Pürovel Spa & Sport, a wide variety of sport opportunities and various restaurants.

The Bodrum city project of Swissôtel is located in the hills of Bodrum, with a fascinating panoramic view over the city. 56 elegant rooms and suites, 45 private residences, three restaurants and Pürovel Spa & Sport will be available to all guests. The centre of Bodrum is 10 minutes from the hotel and the airport is just 20 minutes away. “Our hotel group has had a presence in Turkey for over 20 years, establishing an excellent reputation,” says Meinhard Huck, President Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. “Both holiday resorts in Bodrum are the perfect addition to our existing hotels in this very important market.”

The owner and developer of the project is Çagdaş Holding, advised by one of the world’s leading hospitality consultancies, Servotel Corporation. Both projects will be designed by internationally recognized architect Gokhan Avcıoglu (GA architects), who won several design awards in 2011. “We are happy to see our vision to diversify into luxury hotels internationally unfold with two world class properties in the fastest growing resort destination in Turkey”, says Cağdaş Çağlar, Vice President of Çağdaş Holding. “We are also happy to progress in this venture with our brand partner, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, representing quality, professionalism and excellent recognition both in the Turkish and international markets.”

Centara Hotels & Resorts is to open its first two properties in Sri Lanka during the second half of this year named “Centara Passikudah Resort & Spa Sri Lanka” and “Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa.” Both resort hotels will be operated by Centara under a management contract and will be part of the company’s core brand of four-star properties.

Centara Passikudah Resort & Spa Sri Lanka is a 126-room property located next to the beach at Passikudah, renowned for its long stretch of shallow coastline, while Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka is located on the Paradise Island peninsula at Bentota, flanked on one side by the Indian Ocean and the other by the Bentota River.

Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa with 166 units is flanked by a river on one side and a pristine beach on the other, the hotel is accessible only by ferry and all rooms have spectacular views.

Room types include Superior, Deluxe, Deluxe Pool Access, Family Residences, and Suites.

Restaurants include an all-day dining outlet serving Sri Lankan, Asian and international cuisines and features live cooking stations while a seafood restaurant and the Ceylon Club will have an emphasis on the Ceylonese tea heritage. The hotel will also operate dinner cruises up and down the river each evening.

Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa will have a Spa Cenvaree with six treatment rooms designed for singles and couples, and a Kids’ Club.

Centara Passikudah Resort & Spa is located on a long sweeping portion of Passikudah Beach, whose shallow waters are ideal for windsurfing, kayaking and bathing.

Room types include Superior, Deluxe and Premium Deluxe, Family Residence and Suites.

As well as the all-day restaurant and an attractive bar lounge, the hotel will feature Spice Market Restaurant and Elements, with interactive cooking stations focusing on freshly prepared Asian, Indian and Middle-Eastern dishes.

The hotel will feature a Spa Cenvaree, a fitness centre, and a Kids’ Club.

Meetings and events will form an integral portion of the market mix featuring Vandeloos Bay Ballroom which can welcome up to 150 guests at one time and complemented by state of the art audio visual equipment and professional event specialists to assist guests and delegates in exceeding their expectations.

W Hotels Worldwide has recently announced it has signed an agreement with Terranum Hotels to debut a new W Hotel in Bogota, Colombia. Slated to open in 2014, W Bogota will be a part of a larger mixed-use development, which will also include premium office space and high-end retail. W Bogota will be located in the heart of the fashionable Usaquen district in the northern part of the city, just steps away from the neighbourhood’s trendy restaurants, cafes, and shopping. W Bogota will be designed by New York-based Studio Gaia, who has drawn inspiration from Colombia’s famous El Dorado legend. According to the legend, during the pre-Colombian period, every time the indigenous Muisca tribe had a new Chief, the people would make offerings to their god by throwing gold, emeralds and semi-precious stones into the Guatavita Lake. The mystery and adventure of the El Dorado legend will come to life in the design of the hotel in innovative and unique ways, using colour, light and texture to bring in the vibrancy and glamour of Colombia’s varied landscape.

“The W brand’s expansion into Colombia is another milestone in bringing the global design powerhouse to the world’s most exciting cities and vibrant resort destinations,” said Vincent Gillet, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels and Le Méridien. “W will offer a completely new and distinctive experience to the hotel market in Bogota, providing a stylish escape and innovative design in one of the city’s most premier districts.”

W Bogota will provide an integrated contemporary lifestyle experience, offering 168 stylish guestrooms, including 20 suites and one Extreme Wow Suite (the W brand’s interpretation of the Presidential Suite), the signature W Lounge experience (the W take on the traditional hotel lobby), destination restaurant and nightclub, Away® spa, and 3,000 square foot Workout fitness centre. The hotel will also be an ideal venue for meetings with more than 12,000 square feet of function space, including a Great Room and five state-of-the-art meeting rooms. Guests will also be treated to the W brand’s iconic Whatever/Whenever® service philosophy, providing guests with whatever they want, whenever they want it.

W Bogota will be located only seven miles from the El Dorado International Airport in one of the premium areas in Colombia’s capital city, where many of the most prominent companies are based.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

COMO Hotels and Resorts has recently unveiled a detailed design concept for Point Yamu by COMO, a new resort in Thailand with interiors by Italian architect and designer, Paola Navone.Opening Summer 2013, Point Yamu on Phuket will be the Italian-born Navone’s first ever hotel project, her powerful vision bringing a fresh aesthetic to Thailand while reflecting the group’s ongoing commitment to the very best in contemporary design.

The beachside development – COMO’s first in Thailand outside Bangkok – will comprise a full-scale, 79-room resort with 30 villas, a spa and two restaurants. This is in addition to a clutch of private residences available to purchase; when they open in July 2013, these residences will occupy the same peaceful peninsula on the east side of the island with views out to the limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea.

Navone is creating at Point Yamu an environment that encapsulates the easygoing, sophisticated spirit of the company’s ‘by COMO’ island resorts – Parrot Cay in the Turks and Caicos and Cocoa Island in the Maldives. Point Yamu, inspired directly by the sea, will also be distinct in character by way of its contemporary look blended with elements of Thai culture.

Says Navone: “It’s about building a resort where you feel relaxed, you feel soft and not stressed by anything that surrounds you. To my mind the best hotels are contemporary places but at the same time they root you in a locale, so you know where you are. This balance is vital.”

At Point Yamu, Navone is employing a dazzling palette of bright aquamarines, inspired by the sea views, and blazing-hot oranges, reminiscent of Buddhist robes. Her clever use of Thai artisanal techniques put to new effect includes the traditional wood tiling in the restaurant – in this instance, used as the scales of a huge fish – and outsized, balloon-like lampshades fashioned from local woven rattan inspired by local crab and lobster traps.

Navone’s interior detailing also plays with proportions – a whimsical, magical approach that juxtaposes the outsized with something delicate, like the installation of stacked Thai tables supporting a single Thai ceramic vase.

Paola Navone has been at the forefront of worldclass interiors for over 30 years, as well as designing products for numerous leading brands, including Driade, Gervasoni, Guzzini, Poliform and Emu. Most recently her ‘Secret Garden’ at the Milano Salone del Mobile 2012 received high praise: big blue nests, interwoven with 13,000 hazelnut branches, hiding some of the most beautiful chandeliers of the Murano glassmaking tradition by Barovier&Toso. Based in Milan, she has lived in Hong Kong and worked extensively in South East Asia including Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Gabriela Henrichwark, Global Marketing Director for COMO Hotels and Resorts, said: “From the outset COMO wanted to work with Paola on Point Yamu. She is a true original in contemporary design, and as a westerner who has lived in and experienced eastern culture, her work embodies COMO’s global spirit.”

Point Yamu by COMO is just 20 minutes by car from Phuket International Airport and will be an attractive proposition for Asia-based guests looking for a short break to rejuvenate as well as long-haul guests seeking a comprehensive escape. Point Yamu will also offer a 100m swimming pool, a COMO Shambhala Retreat featuring eight treatments rooms as well as a yoga studio, an Italian and Thai restaurant, ‘glow’ featuring COMO Shambhala’s healthy cuisine, and a private beach. On opening, it will become the tenth property by COMO Hotels and Resorts.

This September, Langham Place, Mongkok, Hong Kong unveils its new, effortlessly stylish dining rooms at its two-Michelin star jewel, Ming Court.Alongside its design evolution, Ming Court’s mastermind, Executive Chef – Tsang Chiu King, reveals his new menu to complement the fresh aesthetic of his restaurant. In keeping with his vision of innovative Cantonese, his menu introduces both tradition and influences into his dishes, perfectly incorporating them into Ming Court’s reputable Cantonese menu to delight regular clients and welcome new diners.

Highlights of Chef Tsang’s new culinary creations include the luxurious Gold On Gold with Gold Caviar, Golden Sea Urchin, Lobster and Silky Egg White, presenting an unexpected, elegant blend of European caviar and multiple flavours from the sea. The bold, Boxed Australian Wagyu Beef with Black Truffle harmoniously combines black truffle with Wagyu, marrying Chef Tsang’s mastery of ingredients with his technique for creativity and delicateness.

Reappearing on the menu is all-time sensational favourite in Chef Tsang’s repertoire, Chilled Silk Bean Curd, Black Truffle and Gold Leaf. This culinary showstopper reflects the essence of modern Cantonese with Chef Tsang’s artistic touch in plating, designed to inspire each and every sense.

“We are delighted with the new dining rooms at Ming Court including one private room housing a single round of 16, and private rooms for up to 48. With these intimate dining spaces, we add another focus of exclusivity and stimulating hospitality to modern luxury.” says Shaun Campbell, General Manager of Langham Place, Mongkok, Hong Kong.

Speaking about the evolution of Ming Court and its menu, Chef Tsang says, “Over the past 8 years, we have created dishes with our heart and soul to bring guests a true, Cantonese dining experience. In the years to come, we will continue to engage our guests in many more unforgettable culinary journeys.”

Known for their original take on unique dining, Wine Guy Zach Yu and the team of passionate wine talents take the wine helm to enhance the culinary experience with over 450 wines from around the world, at Ming Cellar.

The highlights of July’s performance include:
• Profit drops but London still tops Europe as the UK capital hosts the world;
• Eastern European hoteliers enjoying strong summer trading.

A pair of Aloft hotels opening this month will have more in common than bold design and a buzzing social atmosphere; both are conversions of existing hotels, and highlight an exciting new growth channel for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.’s ‘style at a steal’ brand. Aloft San Francisco Airport will open its doors next week after 14 months of extensive renovations. The 253-room hotel marked a milestone as the first external conversion project undertaken by Aloft in 2011. The property, owned by Starwood, brings the in-demand Aloft brand to the Bay Area for the first time.

Aloft Nashville West End opened on the 6th September. The 139-room hotel marks Aloft Hotel’s debut in Nashville, and replaces the Hotel Indigo Nashville Music Row. The property itself is an adaptive reuse of an office building originally constructed in 1970.

Conversion or adaptive-reuse projects are also underway for Aloft in Tucson, Calgary and Atlanta. For guests, who have made Aloft one of the world’s most prized hospitality brands, conversions mean access to their favorite hotel at more key locations.

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Dora Hospitality, LLC has recently announced construction is already well underway for an 89 room extended stay hotel, the MainStay Suites in Williston, North Dakota. The MainStay Suites – Williston is expected to open in the Fall of 2012. The hotel plans to hire approximately 20 employees ranging from guest service representatives and housekeepers to a management team.The property is an Extended Stay hotel that will showcase comfortable rooms for people looking for long term stays. The MainStay Suites was developed to provide the features and amenities that guests want. It will feature a contemporary, innovative design that provides accessible comfort such as friendly service and a great night’s sleep, and will set new standards for business travelers and families alike.

This extended stay hotel will include a sweet shop gift shop, kitchens in every room, a complimentary hot breakfast buffet daily, evening manager’s reception, an area for guest to grill out in the gazebo, free guest washers and dryers, and an expanded Fitness Center.

The hotel design debuts a bold lodge feel décor and will create a residential atmosphere that is warm, inviting and comfortable. The hotel will feature a natural, fresh color palette that will make any guest feel like they are on a long vacation. Guest beds will be made using crisp, white bedding and the bathrooms will include a specially designed walk-in shower, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod in the rooms with bathtubs and great amenities.

The residential design includes business-focused necessities like complimentary high speed Internet access in the guest rooms, that is available both wired and wireless. In addition, each room will include comfortable queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, and flat panel high – definition televisions with cable access, hairdryer, coffee maker, iron and ironing board.

The MainStay Suites Williston has named Joe Dora, General Manager of its 89-room hotel located at 200 26th Street East, Williston ND 58801.

The MainStay Suites is owned by 26th Street Hospitality and managed by Dora Hospitality, LLC, the largest operator of extended stay hotels in North Dakota.

The Generation Companies, LLC (Generation), a real estate developer, owner, receiver, asset manager and operator of extended-stay and select- service hotels, recently broke ground on the Augusta, Georgia Home2 Suites by Hilton. The 123-suite, four-story, upper mid-tier hotel brand brings a hip and humble design to its target audience: the savvy yet cost-conscious extended-stay guest. Located at Walton Way Extension and Exchange Lane, the property is slated for completion the first quarter of 2013. “We have worked closely with the neighborhood to design a hotel that will be an excellent addition to the area,” said William Smith, Managing Director, Real Estate & Construction at Generation. “It is located on the hill overlooking the Augusta Exchange, an 87-acre regional power center with extensive shopping and restaurant facilities.”

“We are excited to have kicked off another great hotel development at a time when it is still quite challenging to get new hotel construction deals done,” said Generation President, H. Mark Daley, III. “With our second Home2 Suites by Hilton underway, we continue our 50+ year legacy of leading the industry with progressive lodging development. For this project our goal is laser focused: provide a perfect Home2 hotel to Augusta, Georgia in time to host guests for next year’s Masters Golf Tournament. That’s only nine months away, but our team is up to the challenge, as they have proven time and time again.”

The Classic Venetian Mirrors are often overlooked, yet when placed in a bedroom they can add a touch of class that you cannot get from any other style of mirror.Old fashioned they may be, but we like to think of them as stylish and classic, and when purchased in larger quantities, they’re not as expensive as you may imagine.

Classic Venetian Mirror
This is the Classic shape for a Venetian Mirror, with elegant curves this mirror is perfect in a bedroom adding a touch of luxury and class.

Solar Venetian Mirror
A pretty Venetian style mirror which would add a touch of elegance to any room.

Elegance Venetian Mirror
Large elegant Venetian Mirror, a stunning product that will create a fantastic impression in any room. Amazing if you have a room with lots of light coming onto the light get refracted in all directions.

This is just a small introduction to the world of Venetian Mirrors, we have dozens more that are not yet shown on our gallery/shop. If you have a certain style that you need sourced please contact Steve on 01252 854654.

Regents Court has unveiled a fresh new look following the completion of a refurbishment which transformed the iconic hotel over winter.

New paint, furniture, lighting, blinds and an upgrade to the hotel’s WiFi, which is now provided free to guests, are among the improvements made to the spacious, iconic Potts Point apartments. The completion of the refurbishment comes ahead of 8Hotels’ first anniversary as operator of the Regents Court’s property.

Founder and CEO of 8Hotels, Paul Fischmann, said he was thrilled with the results of the refurbishment that had helped restore the apartments to their former glory.

“We’ve worked closely with the owners to reinvigorate the hotel and the Regents Court brand in order to reclaim its title as one of Sydney’s preeminent boutique hotel residencies,” Fischmann said.

Fischmann said the completion of the refurbishment was a significant step towards 8Hotels achieving its stated goal: to reengage Regent Court’s great history and rebuild its former reputation.

“Combine these changes to the improvements our dedicated team has made to the service and the operations of the property, and I feel I can confidently say that Regents Court is in its best shape ever,” he said.

“We’ve looked at the big details, but also spent a lot of time focusing on the little details and we will continue to look for ways to improve this product further. For example we’ll be placing MicroCloud’sluxurious Bed Toppers in each room in the coming months to make the beds even more opulent and comfortable than they are now.”

Regents Court is superbly located in the heart of Potts Point where guests can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and harbour from the roof top garden. This eclectic and cosmopolitan neighbourhood is home to many of Sydney’s finest cafés, restaurants and boutiques and is just a stone’s throw to Kings Cross nightlife and central to the CBD, Woolloomooloo and Darlinghurst.

Marriott International announced recently that the new Courtyard San Jose Airport, conveniently located 5 minutes away from The Juan Santamaria International Airport, has opened its doors for business. The new sleek and modern 127-room hotel is San Jose’s second Courtyard by Marriott property and features the Refreshing Business lobby, providing travellers with free Wi-Fi and a great place to work or relax with a variety of flexible seating options. The property has a practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions making it a LEED certified hotel. This means that there will be 18% more energy-efficient, 35% reduced water consumption, 30% Use of regional materials and 5% renewable energy on-site (solar panels to preheat water).
Each of the 127 stylish and modern units, including 5 suites, offers free high-speed internet access, contemporary work space, safe deposit box, LCD televisions and deluxe bedding. Courtyard San Jose Airport is located minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport and will offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. The hotel includes five meeting rooms all located on the first floor of the property; rooms for guests with disabilities; on-site parking, a swimming pool; a state of the art fitness centre and a Go-board in the lobby so that travellers can check the status of their plane and the news and weather of the destination they will be travelling to.

Centro Bistro, Courtyard Marriott San Jose Airport Hotel’s premiere restaurant, offers a flavourful menu with local and international cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Room service will also be available 24 hours a day as well as the Market for quick on-the-go meals.

The Courtyard by Marriott brand features hotels with a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced while travelling. Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ desire for choice and control and allow them to use the public space and guest rooms to meet all of their needs while on the road. With more than 900 locations in 37 countries, Courtyard has more locations than any other Marriott International brand.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group have built a chain of 30 top quality hotels with over 10,000 bedrooms, focussed around the Pacific rim. With the reopening of the Pan Pacific Singapore this month comes the expected November opening of the new flagship PARKROYAL hotel on Pickering Street, whilst next December sees the opening of 200 Pan Pacific Serviced Suites in Ningbo, China, sharing a compound with the 430 bedroom Pan Pacific Hotel that opened last month.Designed by award-winning design firm WOHA, PARKROYAL on Pickering features a hotel-in-a-garden concept and sustainable features that have earned it a Green Mark Platinum score, the nation’s highest green rating.

Other design practices used by the group elsewhere include the ubiquitous Wilson Associates, Seattle’s Dawson Design Associates, Ong & Ong Architects, Australian firm CHADA as well as global design company Hirsch Bedner.

PARKROYAL and Pan Pacific are the brands of Pan Pacific Hotels Group, a public-listed hotel subsidiary of UOL Group Limited of Singapore that has a portfolio of investment and development properties. PARKROYAL on Pickering is the latest iteration and is the flagship hotel of the brand. The extraordinary hotel features rainwater harvesting, solar cells, a 300m nature trail and waterfall walk capped by a rooftop bar.

On the other side of the Pacific, Pan Pacific Hotels Group are investing in additional suites at their hotel in that other well known Pacific Rim city, Seattle. In most instances the suites are converted from existing bedrooms. In going to the US Pacific West Coast Pan Pacific, like Shangri-la and other Asian hotel groups, are going where there trade routes lead, where Asian business men look for familiar names, much as Americans look for Hilton or Marriott, and Brits the pub.

The high-profile redevelopment of the ground floor lobby at Taj Crowne Plaza London – St James, designed by global architecture, urbanism and design practice Broadway Malyan, has completed.The project, delivered in partnership with client Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, creates a new, fresh guest experience that honours the heritage features of the existing interior, with the practice’s design brief including the lobby lounge and reception, lobby bar and restaurant at the hotel, located at 51 Buckingham Gate, London.

51 Buckingham Gate is one of central London’s finest grand hotels, an established institution that has accommodated travellers, celebrities, ministers and presidents. Many years of service had taken their toll and the time had come to unveil a new revived lobby experience that coincided with the renovation of the guestrooms.

The practice’s strategy was to draw on and complement the romantic late Victorian-early Edwardian architectural splendour by introducing sophisticated and modern classic furniture and lighting pieces. Its resultant materials selection was refined and involved working with the finest manufacturers to deliver intricately crafted furniture with superior quality marquetry.

Upholstered in hi-sheen silk and velvet fabrics, these pieces reflect the light from the glamorous Murano glass chandeliers above. Feature pieces include an art deco inspired decorative mirror flanked by a dramatic pair of eccentric wing chairs in velvet upholstery.

Louvre Hotels Group announces the opening of the new Golden Tulip Miedzyzdroje Residence in Northern Poland few weeks after the opening of its newly built Campanile and Premiere Classe Wroclaw Centrum. Golden Tulip Miedzyzdroje Residence will welcome guests in that top Polish seaside resort destination. It will be located in the picturesque area at the Baltic Sea, near a long and sandy beach, 10 minutes from the city centre and in the neighborhood of all local attractions.

Golden Tulip Miedzyzdroje Residence includes 110 spacious modern apartments, a restaurant, a bar & lounge, two equipped conference rooms, spa facilities and a large underground parking.

With that new addition to its portfolio, Louvre Hotels Group has now in Poland two Golden Tulip, nine Campanile and two Premiere Classe for a total of about 1,500 rooms. The development results from a fruitful cooperation with a strategic partner Qualia Development, part of PKO Bank Polski. In a joint pipeline between Louvre Hotels Group and Qualia Development, there are 6 other projects to be located in diverse cities such as Warsaw, Gdansk/Sopot or Zakopane.

Matthieu Evrard, Chief Development Officer of Louvre Hotels Group underlined that “The Group is delighted to see the first new-built project with Qualia opening only few months after the Strategic Franchise Partnership Agreement signed between the two groups”.

Louvre Hotels Group is pursuing its dynamic development in Central Europe and plan to develop about 15 new hotels in Poland and also to open in the near future new units in Lithuania and Ukraine.

Pullman, Accor’s upscale hotel brand for today’s cosmopolitan traveller, announces the opening of Pullman Anshan Time Square, in downtown Anshan, the city dubbed China’s “Capital of Iron and Steel”. This new opening, in the north-eastern Liaoning Province, illustrates Pullman’s vigorous expansion in China, which ranks it as the largest country market in the Pullman network. It has 14 hotels in that country, and will open a further 26 there by 2015.Located in Lishan District, Pullman Anshan Time Square enjoys easy access to the city’s airports, and is near government buildings and downtown tourist attractions such as the Jade Buddha Garden and the Tanggangzi hot spring.

This first-class hotel providing a range of innovative amenities and services with a personal touch is a milestone in the city’s developing hospitality landscape.

331 modern and connected rooms

Pullman Anshan Time Square is an urban retreat with 331 spacious guestrooms including 20 suites. Upon arrival, guests receive a warm welcome by the signature Pullman Welcomer. Based in the lobby and instantly identifiable, the Welcomer greets customers and remains their contact to accommodate all types of needs throughout their stay.

The hotel’s spacious and functional rooms and suites all feature 42-inch LCD TV sets with a wide choice of channels, rainforest showers and complimentary high-speed Internet access. They provide a soothing setting to work and are ideal to relax. Guests will also find a yoga mat in their rooms, combined with an innovative fitness programme developed by Pullman in China to provide a tailored response to ever-growing demand from health-savvy business travellers.

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Rezidor has launched a group-wide energy-saving initiative: The ambitious and pro-active programme Think Planet targets an energy consumption reduction of 25% by the year 2016 in all Rezidor hotels across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The group is currently present in 70 countries where 330+ hotels of the brands Radisson Blu, Park Inn by Radisson and Hotel Missoni are operated, and 100 further properties are under development. “Think Planet reinforces Rezidor’s position as one of the industry leaders in terms of sustainability. Many of our hotels have already introduced progressive, environmentally friendly measures – now we are spreading these initiatives into all our properties and focus on key energy-saving investments that will have the biggest impact”, said Inge Huijbrechts, Director Responsible Business at Rezidor. “At the same time, we are currently faced with significantly rising energy costs in many countries, along with government carbon taxation. Moving forward, reducing our energy consumption will also contribute to maximizing our profits”, added Wolfgang M. Neumann, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Rezidor.

Think Planet has been developed and is driven by a specially formed, interdepartmental and cross-regional team at Rezidor – with representatives from Technical Services, Operations, Purchasing, Finance, and Responsible Business. The programme’s first phase, a company-wide energy audit, has already been carried out and resulted in a general Energy Action Plan listing the group’s top energy priorities.

In hotel operations, Think Planet focuses on creating smart energy habits – such as switching off lights & equipment, turning heating and cooling to eco-mode, and reporting energy related issues that request attention and preventive maintenance. The basic Think Planet tools are simple and low-cost solutions: They comprise daylight and motion sensors for lighting, condensation water recuperation from air-conditioning, and alarms on freezers. Considerable investments are made to completely move to energy efficient lighting in all hotels, install variable extraction systems in the kitchens, and optimize building management systems and heating-, ventilation- and air condition installations. “We focus on energy saving investments with a return on investment up to 7 years”, explained Inge Huijbrechts. The energy saving results are monitored and verified through monthly reports on environmental key performance indicators.

A crucial factor of the energy-saving initiative is staff engagement: In line with Rezidor’s unique service philosophy Yes I Can! and with the help of the Think Planet’s mascot, the cute firefly Lumi, all 35,000+ employees participate in the initiative. Dedicated audio- and video trainings inform about smart energy saving habits in housekeeping, kitchen and meeting areas, a monthly “Lumiquiz” and a competition for the most efficient, energy saving hotel of the year ensure continuous employee motivation and involvement.

Think Planet is the newest part of Rezidor’s Responsible Business Programme that dates back to the year 1989. In 2001, Rezidor was one of the first international hotel companies to introduce a group-wide programme consisting of three main pillars: health and safety of guests and employees, respect for social and ethical issues within the company, and a reduced environmental footprint. Rezidor actively partners with third-party eco labels such as Green Key, supports the charity organization World Childhood Foundation, and has signed the United Nations Global Compact. In 2010, 2011 and 2012, Rezidor was awarded as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by the US-think tank Ethisphere.

Autograph Collection has announced that Denver’s most iconic luxury hotel, The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, has joined its exclusive portfolio of independently owned and operated properties. In conjunction with its 120th anniversary this month, The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is the 35th property to be added to Autograph Collection’s growing roster of hotels. Open for business every day since its inception in 1892, The Brown Palace joins the company of some of the world’s most exceptional properties including Turnberry Isle Miami in Miami, Florida, The Algonquin Hotel in New York, New York, the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, and The Saint Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana. The hotel will continue to be operated by Quorum Hotels & Resorts, which has been involved with The Brown Palace since 1987.Autograph Collection, an exclusive collection of upper upscale and luxury hotels within Marriott International’s global portfolio, is comprised of independent hotels with distinct personalities in major cities and desired destinations worldwide. A natural fit for the iconic Brown Palace, Autograph Collection celebrates innovative hotels that offer the variety of one-of-a-kind, authentic experiences that many guests are seeking when they travel.

Each Autograph Collection hotel possesses its own distinct identity and appeals to discerning travelers who are looking for a creative experience that only an independent hotel can deliver. Joining Autograph Collection allows The Brown Palace to further showcase its renowned legacy and extraordinary personality. Through the partnership, the hotel will gain access to Marriott International’s global sales and marketing channels, including the award winning Marriott Rewards loyalty program.

Managed by Quorum Hotels and Resorts, The Brown Palace has received numerous honours and accolades over the years, including being named a Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond property. Together, the Quorum leadership and Autograph Collection affiliation will highlight The Brown Palace’s individuality while offering guests the benefits and scale of the Marriott International system and revenue platforms.

About The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is a Forbes Four Star, AAA Four Diamond luxury landmark located in the heart of downtown Denver. It is a charter member of National Trust Historic Hotels of America and is managed by Quorum Hotels and Resorts, a full service management company headquartered in Dallas.

And then there were two in Hong Kong! Ibis has recently opened its second hotel in this archipelago that has been dubbed the Pearl of the East. It was an exciting challenge and the ibis teams in this uncannily buoyant part of the world pulled it off. This hotel is in the heart of Hong Kong’s business, cultural and retail district, and a short walk from the Mass Transit Railway station, and from Macau Ferry Pier terminal and heliport. The impressive building houses 550 up-to-the-minute contemporary rooms inter alia featuring bay windows, high ceilings, new bedding and free Wi-Fi access, i.e. all ibis’ hallmark quality standards.

Tony Yau, a spokesman for Common Empire Development, the company that owns the building, remarked, “This hotel is in a part of Hong Kong where demand for budget hotel rooms is strong. Ibis has established a worldwide reputation, so we are confident that ibis hotels in this region will prosper.”

A dramatic, undulating timber canopy has been completed over the Orchard Hotel, which is currently under construction on the University Park campus at The University of Nottingham. The rolling canopy is one of the most striking features of the £20 million, 202-bed eco-friendly hotel, designed by RHWL Architects and being built by BAM Construction for the University. The oversailing canopy highlights the hotel’s entrance providing solar shading and filtered light to the public front-of-house reception and foyer lounges within. The ripple of the structure reflects the contours of the hillside orchard landscape in which the building sits, whilst the use of timber responds to the natural setting of mature trees nearby. The two hotel bedroom wings sit comfortably either side of the entrance and canopy.

Corrie Jones, Associate at RHWL Architects, said:
“This will be a landmark hotel that reflects its beautiful parkland setting, right from the design and choice of materials through to the furnishings of each room.

“The site itself offered an opportunity to forge a strong link between the conference centre and the rest of the university, and this is something that has strongly driven our design.”

Mark Ferrie, BAM Construction’s project manager said: “The installation of the canopy marks the last key architectural element in the construction which is due for completion in November.”

The hotel, located to the South West of Nottingham city centre and accessed from Beeston Lane, will be operated by DeVere Venues. It will serve the adjacent East Midlands Conference Centre and provide accommodation for visiting students, lecturers and parents as well as business travellers.

The project’s commitment to the surrounding environment is further reflected in its high level of sustainability. The development is aiming for a BREEAM rating of Excellent, with sustainable features including a green roof system, photovoltaic panels, smart building management systems and energy efficient lighting, glazing and ventilation systems.

The Roomzzz Aparthotel site in Newcastle has two phases and the development will have an end value of over £5M.

Mark Walton Head of Roomzzz Aparthotel UK comments – ‘2012 is an important year for the brand with key investment into major UK cities. Roomzzz Aparthotel is known for its innovation and with that the ability to attract large and varied demographics to its locations which has driven the company to a strong position year on year. We are investing a further £500,000 into the development of an additional 11 apartments in our Manchester CITY location in order to help cope with demand.’Roomzzz Aparthotel are currently undertaking a bold restoration of Friar House in the City Centre of Newcastle – a large Georgian House originally built in the 1700’s. The building is grade II listed and is being adapted to house 44 lifestyle led, luxurious apartments and suites as part of the completed development. Phase 1 is on schedule to be open in November 2012 with rooms on sale now.

The development of one of Newcastle’s most historic buildings is causing a stir within the industry with anticipation for the scheme which follows the exacting original room layout of Friar House with super luxe suites following the footprint of the house from the grand staircase into the scullery, kitchens, bathrooms and reception rooms. Historic relics from the house such as a bank vault, the cast iron range from the servants’ quarters and sweeping grand master staircase which has been beautifully restored feature prominently within the apartment designs.

Walton continues – ‘Roomzzz booking trends are showing excellent repeat bookings and a clear navigation through our locations by our guests. We have had an unprecedented level of interest in Newcastle CITY with advance bookings well ahead of target.

Newcastle CITY is the fifth site in the Roomzzz Aparthotel portfolio and Walton is confident that the brand will bring new dimension to staying away from home for the North East. He comments ‘Roomzzz Newcastle City gives suggestions and aspirations to a luxurious lifestyle that sometimes may seem beyond our day to day reach – we match luxe and Apple technology with affordability and practicality, the combination of which promises to strengthen the marketplace in terms of luxury stays in Newcastle’.

He continues ‘Newcastle City is an incredibly exciting location for the brand – we are looking forward to being immersed in the rich vibrancy that the City offers residents and tourists alike. We are proud to be a part of Newcastle’s hospitable future. We are bringing an influx of new jobs to the City and are looking forward to Roomzzz Newcastle CITY sharing Newcastle’s famed warmth and hospitality through the Aparthotel and our choice of team to all of our guests’

Marriott International has recently celebrated the opening of the 383-room Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel in Shanghai. The hotel is managed in partnership with Shanghai Caohejing Park Huagang Properties Ltd., and represents the sixth Renaissance-branded hotel to open the city. Renaissance Hotels is the signature lifestyle brand within the Marriott International global portfolio of 17 hotel brands. The hotel is centrally located in the Caohejing New Technology Development Zone in the Xuhui district, offering a retreat for business travellers in the heart of the neighbourhood. Situated within five minutes of Shanghai Metro Line 9, the hotel boasts easy access to the nearby Hongqiao business district, and the shopping and dining hub of Xujiahui. The hotel is also conveniently located near the Hongqiao Transportation Hub and Shanghai International Airport.

The Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing offers 383 Deluxe Rooms, Club Rooms and Suites, including the Presidential Suite. Rooms are stylishly warm and vibrant and packed full of five-star amenities and technology: fully-wired and equipped to accommodate both business and leisure guests. The area’s first international hotel, the Renaissance balances a mix of traditional Chinese décor fused with a contemporary Western feel. The hotel’s chic and spacious interiors with elevated ceilings and expansive windows provide plenty of natural light and a relaxing, spacious environment. With 14 meeting room options of varying sizes including a divisible, pillar-free 570m2 Grand Ballroom, the hotel offers the setting for meetings, special events and dream weddings in the area.

Four destination restaurants and the hotel lounge deliver the best in local and international cuisine from quick snacks and leisurely afternoons of ‘Sip & Savour,’ to family gatherings and fine dining. Wanli, the hotel’s signature Chinese fine-dining restaurant, offers Cantonese and Shanghainese delicacies, while its ten private dining rooms (seating of up to 20 guests) boasts East-meets-West features of modern design entwined with local history and elements of feng shui.

Smoki Moto is a modern, casual and cosmopolitan restaurant offering Korean BBQ, sushi and teppanyaki favorites and signature Sojo cocktails. The hotel’s all-day dining spot, Café BLD, is a new take on Renaissance Hotel’s three-meal restaurant serving the best of local and international favourites prepared in an open kitchen. The Lounge offers a cool transformation from morning to evening where you can sample afternoon tea and discover the best in fine wines and “R” cocktails in the evening, while enjoying live music as part of RLife LIVE, the Renaissance brand’s renowned entertainment program.

The 24-hour Fitness Center is equipped with the latest in cardiovascular equipment, free weights, and an indoor swimming pool. Qualified personal trainers are on hand to assist guests, along with a full complement of amenities including steam room and sauna.

For guests up for a bit of well-deserved pampering, the Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing redefines the R&R experience with its very own wellness sanctuary featuring TOUCH SPA – professional facilities providing luxurious body and beauty rituals in seven private treatment rooms.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has opened its first hotel in Austria in the capital city of Vienna. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, a 202 room property located on the central Schubertring Boulevard, is the ninth hotel in Europe for the luxury hotel company. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is an elegant building composed of four historic palaces dating back to the 19th century and is located in the heart of the city with incredible views of Vienna’s landmarks from its rooms and roof top bar. The cultural heritage of the city with its museums, opera, concert halls and historic buildings is just a short stroll from the hotel.

The hotel embraces tradition with many original design features which have been painstakingly preserved and integrated into the interiors offering a strong sense of place. An impressive marble staircase is a stunning feature of the hotel interior, decorative mural paintings together with intricate wood carvings and panelling were all carefully restored and form an essential part of the hotel’s character.

The Ritz-Carlton Vienna reflects the city’s combination of Imperial tradition and contemporary creativity in its design and interiors incorporating both historic and modern features.

The hotel’s stylish guestrooms and suites include 43 suites and a spacious Presidential suite of rooms on the second floor with many original features. The Club Lounge is located on the seventh floor and provides guests exclusive access to a private concierge service, a gastronomic food and beverage presentation throughout the day and views of the city scape from its windows below the eaves of the hotel.

Dstrikt restaurant, located on the ground floor with a summer terrace, offers authentic Austrian cuisine from the kitchen of Chef Wini Brugger, open throughout the day guests can enjoy locally grown produce and regional dishes. The rooftop bar Atmosphere is a unique location from which to discover the panoramic views of the city of Vienna and enjoy a relaxing drink. Melounge is adjacent to the lobby and is the perfect setting for the Viennese tradition of coffee and cake in the afternoon. The cosy D-Bar completes the sophisticated variety of bars and restaurants at the hotel open to both local residents and hotel guests.

The business facilities offered at the hotel include a range of meeting rooms featuring the stunning 300 square metre Crystal Ballroom decorated with thousands of sparkling crystals. Two permanent boardrooms and three function rooms with natural light are complemented by a Business Centre, all located on the first floor.

Recreational amenities comprise of a spectacular 18 metre indoor swimming pool, Fitness room, sauna and steam rooms. The boutique Guerlain Spa will offer six treatment rooms including two specially designed for couples.

Sofitel Luxury Hotels has successfully launched the Sofitel Mumbai BKC, in the heart of Mumbai, the first in an exciting line-up of future projects. French culture, design and gastronomy blend artistically with rich Indian tradition in a Neo Art Nouveau style, offering multifaceted experiences in cuisine, entertainment and relaxation; where buoyant business meets elegant lifestyle, and “Life is Magnifique”.The Sofitel Mumbai BKC is located at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) – the burgeoning financial district of Mumbai. Geographically in the centre of the city, BKC has excellent access to both major highways in Mumbai as well as the domestic and international terminals of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC has been meticulously designed by the architects at BBGM (U.S.A), with interior designers at the Miaja Design Group (Singapore) led by Isabelle Miaja, a renowned French designer. The hotel design embraces modern and elegant interiors creating a French contemporary feel with a blend of Indian colours, shapes and patterns. Marble and chandeliers for the lobby, design and elegance for the bedrooms with state of the art technology for the business centre, the Sofitel Mumbai BKC intends to become a key address in the city.

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Following an extensive multi-million pound renovation and redesign, Hilton Glasgow has announced the introduction of three new food and beverage outlets to the hotel.

Connich Bar, Morblas Restaurant and Ti Tea Lounge are three new concepts for the stylish city centre hotel, which will celebrate 20 years in the city later this year. The first to launch is Connich Bar, taking its name from the Scottish Gaelic word meaning ‘to encounter’. Located on the ground floor of the hotel, the much-anticipated venue is designed to be a stylish choice for hotel guests and visitors alike, providing the perfect place to meet and enjoy the talk of the day. Inviting guests to experience the warmth and passion of Scottish Hospitality at its best, the menu in Connich Bar offers both signature and classic cocktails as well as wee nibbles and bigger bites.

Following a remarkable overhaul from design company Central Design Studio, the bar has been successfully transformed into a modern, relaxing and welcoming space perfectly suited to the hotel’s location. The venue is set across one level and features extensive seating, TV screens for news and sporting events as well as a window wall allowing plenty of natural light.

The bar features stylish oversized arm chairs and banquette seating using a striking palette of orange and a more muted grey, combining the use of contrasting fabrics and textures.

Mood lighting throughout the space compliments the ever changing Scottish weather, whilst more intimate areas for small meetings and get-togethers can be found dotted throughout the bar.

Connich Bar will serve a fantastic range of specially selected wines and beers, premier spirits, Champagnes and Prosecco as well as an extensive list of malt whiskies. The bar also boasts a varied cocktail list, which is comprised of classic, Champagne, signature and calorie conscious cocktails.

Hungry guests can choose from a selection of sandwiches, wraps and paninis as well as the introduction of innovative Scottish themed snacks such as Tattie Scone Nachos and Crisp Haggis Bites. For those looking for something slightly more substantial, Connich Bar’s bigger bites range from healthy salads to classic fish and chips.

Following closely behind Connich Bar will be the new restaurant concept, Morblas. Derived from the Scottish Gaelic words for “Great” and “Taste”, Morblas will cater for all palates. A mixture of fresh starters, hearty main courses and grills as well as an extensive dessert menu will ensure dining options for all tastes.

Also launching in summer 2012 is the new afternoon tea lounge, Ti. Derived from the
Scottish Gaelic word for tea, Ti represents a modern, fashionable and cosmopolitan
companion to Connich Bar. Filled with energy and personality Ti not only offers traditional afternoon tea but will introduce new versions of the classic with the “Ti Afternoon Tea with a Twist” including “Confessions of a Chocoholic” and “Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea”.

Aloft Hotels has recently announced it has opened its 60th hotel globally with the opening of Aloft Asheville Downtown in Asheville, North Carolina. Owned and operated by McKibbon Hotel Group, Inc., Aloft Asheville Downtown will offer 115 stylish guest rooms and over 1,800 square feet of unique outdoor meeting space on its Air Level pool deck and The Ledge observation deck, as well as 649 square feet of indoor meeting space in an unbeatable downtown location.Aloft Asheville Downtown is walking distance to numerous restaurants, breweries, shops and galleries. Just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Biltmore House and Gardens, the hotel is within walking distance of Pack Square Park, Diana Wortham Theatre and the renowned Orange Peel music venue. Aloft Asheville Downtown features artwork in public spaces and guest rooms that is produced entirely by local artists, and is the only hotel in downtown with convenient covered parking.

Pioneering initiatives in pop culture, design, and technology have positioned Aloft as a must-have brand for the next generation of travelers. Aloft hotels has reported consistently high guest satisfaction scores since launch, reflecting the success of its modern, and vibrant design at an affordable price point. The Aloft social guest experience, with the buzzing re:mixTM lounge and happening w xyzTM bar, has earned select hotels within the portfolio designations on TripAdvisor’s 2011 “Top 10 Trendiest Hotels in the US” and “Top 10 Trendiest Hotels in the World” rankings lists.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

For the first time, Sofitel is to open its doors in Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital, with Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche. The glass building designed by Belgian architect Patrick Guénard reflects the breath of modernity that the country’s largest city is currently experiencing. Situated at the heart of the business district the 24-story hotel stands out in the skyline. Frenchmen Marc Hertrich and Nicolas Adnet were given the job of decorating its interior. The pair have managed to ingeniously mix clean lines with Moorish trimmings. The innovatively designed 141 bedrooms and 30 suites all have a view of the white city.

The hotel also offers a variety of dining possibilities. Mourad Mahfoud, Moroccan chef of L’Arabesque restaurant, who trained in Paris, subtly combines French cuisine with local seasonal products in this gastronomic restaurant. L’Atelier Oriental mixes flavours from the Maghreb, Arabia, Persia and Asia. The La Casart bar is the latest addition to Casablanca’s reputable night life. The bar lounge is dedicated to art, and its paintings and sculptures fit in perfectly with the decor, in particular René Caussanel’s mural “Jaune Soleil” (Yellow Sun).

Finally, resembling the apartments on the New-York roof-tops, the Penthouse situated on the 24th floor is a prestigious villa on the hotel rooftop, with protected access. The exclusive suite is breathtakingly decorated and has a 120m² terrace with an unobstructed view of the city.

With Sofitel Agadir Thalassa, this is the second hotel to open in Morocco in 2012 and brings the number of Sofitel hotels in the Kingdom to eight.

UK News

The Bank of England’s new Funding for Lending Scheme which is aims to unblock the flow of credit in Britain’s economy, will take more than a few months to fully bear fruit, BoE Paul Fisher said on Wednesday. Scepticism has already been raised as a number of the UK’s top lenders raise their STV rate on mortgages (further restricting credit and spending conditions for our consumers).With the BoE announcing another round of QE in July and unveiling the Funding for lending scheme, this morning’s broad money data will be of interest as will provide some indication of whether the bank’s stimulus is gaining traction.

GBPEUR traded between a range of 66 points yesterday with a high of 1.26486 and a low of 1.2582 hit first thing in the London session. Overnight comments from China agreeing to continue buying European government bonds have bought the pair to session lows of 1.2610.

GBPUSD traded within an equally tight range of 1.5802 to 1.5854 having a small flurry of activity post U.S GDP figures that showed no surprise to consensus. From here all eyes remain on Friday speech after which we look for either resistance of 1.5888 or support of 1.5750 to be tested.

A Citigroup survey suggests that expectation for the rate of inflation to climb in the coming year has increased in July to 2.8% from June’s 2.4%, further constraining likely consumer spending and making it harder for the economy to emerge from recession.
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International News

The ECB and the Fed are noticeably tight-lipped ahead of the ever important September briefings. Although the Kansas Fed sponsored Jackson Hole Economic Symposium is expected to shed light on fiscal policy and easing, it seems that speculation over what role the ECB will play in future bond buying remains the key concern across the major currencies.

The euro did see some pressure yesterday as we saw headlines that another Spanish region could potentially request government aid, reminding everyone of how close the situation is to disaster. It does seem however that most traders will remain somewhat side-lined until an understanding on the ECB’s intervention is made clearer.

EURUSD continues to hold above 1.25 with EUR peaking at 1.2573. The lowest key support of this range is being acknowledged as 1.2414, and traders suggest that any movement through 1.2588 may propel EUR higher to towards 1.27.

The upward revision to US GDP growth in the second quarter, to 1.7% from the preliminary estimate of 1.5%, offers little comfort as it is old news.

The alternative economic report, US GDI (gross domestic income) suggests that the US economy is hardly growing at all, which may go some way to explaining the slight dip in the value of the dollar over today’s session.

US personal spending for July should provide some insight into postings for third quarter GDP. Spending is forecast to increase by 0.5% after a flat reading for June.

French business sentiment remains low; although it did improve very slightly it remains at a level indicating an unfavourable economic situation. French Prime Minister Ayrault has come out to say publicly that he feels Eurobonds are in fact ‘necessary’ now, and that confidence is the main concern for the region.

Hotel Indigo has recently announced the opening of the Hotel Indigo Veracruz – Boca del Río. The new hotel, located in the Veracruz business district and just steps from the World Trade Center and America’s Plaza, offers guests the intimate service typically associated with boutique lodging along with the peace of mind and consistency expected from a large hotel group. The 106-room hotel features a warm and inviting environment with vibrant décor and colourful accents. The design reflects the cultural richness and folklore of this charming seaside community, including the old Veracruz lighthouse, which once welcomed travelling ships into port and now welcomes travellers of a different kind into the hotel.

Local traditions are also reflected in the hotel’s restaurant La Bamba Bistro, where local chefs incorporate elements representative of the region, including seafood dishes that draw on Veracruz’s history as a fishing town. The restaurant’s design was influenced by traditional music and dance, including photos of performers and flowing white drapes that recall the twirling dresses of Jarocha dancers.

With a focus on the creature comforts trend with a smaller footprint, space-efficient guestrooms feature plush bedding, high-definition flat-screen TVs, iHome stations and spa-inspired showers. Hard surface flooring with area rugs create a fresh, residential feel. Guestroom furniture is tinted in shades of orange and green to mirror the beauty of the local mangrove trees.

Common areas, including the restaurant, bar, swimming pool, gym, business centre, valet parking and Jamapa ballroom have free high-speed wired and wireless Internet access.
Each Hotel Indigo property is uniquely designed to reflect the culture, character and history of the surrounding neighbourhood. No two hotels are the same. Brand standards don’t dictate the number or size of rooms, making Hotel Indigo ideally suited to conversion properties or independent boutique hotels.

Jorge Caram Kuri, architect of the hotel and director of Gilca Construction led the hotel’s design. Interior Designer Walter Allen was responsible for the hotel’s décor. Hotel Indigo Veracruz- Boca del Rio is managed by Sebaspol Management Company under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.