Hotel Designs

    NEWS AND ANALYSIS FOR HOTELIERS, DESIGNERS AND INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS

    In Conversation With: COO and Partner of luxury hotel group LHM

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    Hotel Designs editor Hamish Kilburn catches up with Hans Joerg Meier the COO and Partner of LHM to discuss regional differences, design ethos’ and the challenges that come with setting up a new luxury hotel group…

    With a new hotel about to open just over the horizon, which will add to the LHM (Legian Hotel Management) portfolio, the luxe hotel group is starting to find its bare-foot luxury feet in the international hotel design sands. Currently based in Indonesia with plans to expand across the globe, its ambition to “raise expectations of what a holiday can be” has been set in stone by the COO and co-founder Hans Joerg Meier. As its next hotel, The Legian Sire, Lombok, prepares for a Q1 2019 Launch, we caught up with Joerg Meier to find out  what the future for the hotel group looks like.

    Hamish Kilburn: What has LHM identified as differences in markets between Indonesia and Europe?
    Hans Joerg Meier: Travellers from Europe are seeking an authentic Indonesian/Balinese cultural experience – the warm and sincere service/hospitality. Furthermore, European guests want to travel around the island, visiting temples, renowned rice paddies, tasting local cuisine and attending cooking classes. Many are also keen to attend/participate in a local ceremony. Our regular guests from the local Indonesian market are very familiar with Bali/Seminyak where The Legian is located, and most seek a getaway to relax in the hotel from the pressures of their working lifestyle. They come to wine and dine and visit friends. This pattern is also similar with our regional markets from Hong Kong and Singapore. Both European and Indonesian markets are very interested in our wellness programs and following this we have recently launched a new wellness concept ‘Wellness by the Legian’ which will be available in all LHM hotels.

    HK: There seems to be a lot of emphasis on experiences when it comes to luxury travel. Is the experience more important than the product these days? 
    HJM: I am of the opinion that both are equally important. A good product is imperative and superior guest experiences personifies the product and vice versa. They synergize each other and are essential for the luxury traveller.

    Image caption: Legian Seminyak, Bali

    HK: Can you explain the design ethos of LHM properties?
    HJM: Each LHM property is/will be exquisitely crafted by renowned architects and interior designers as well as legendary local artisans. This will reflect the sophisticated taste of our refined clientele who will feel right at home within LHM’s exceptional natural timeless surroundings, each one tastefully and utterly unique in their style.

    HK: What are the main challenges for a new hotel group in today’s hotel landscape?
    HJM: The main challenges include coming up with unique selling/marketing ideas which clearly differentiate the brand from the many competitors. It is also important to have a clear strategy in place and stick to it, not to follow every single trend, but rather create a bespoke experience. New hotel groups need to have a solid structure in place which allows the brand to expand on firm grounds without becoming too corporate. The key element is to form a strong team and nurture talents to take on more responsibility and to fully embrace the culture of the company. It is important that the team truly understands and is passionate about the brand so the company can successfully expand in the right direction. People are key in our industry as every guest interaction is vital.

    Image caption: The site at Legian Sire, Lombok

    HK: How did the management team come together?
    HJM: Our first property, The Legian, Seminyak Bali has been owned by the Djohan’s family since the opening in 1996. Irma Djohan, The youngest daughter of Robby and Nanan Djohan, has a career in banking and at the same time was mentored by her father to eventually become a partner at LHM. Ralf Ohletz von Plattenberg was working for Adrain Zecha at Aman and GHM for over 30 years and was part of the team who setup The Legian. As for myself, I was working with GHM, who managed The Legian, for 15 years. Therefore, Irma, Ralf and myself knew each other. When the late Robby Djohan decided to start his own management company, he brought the 3 of us together help him form LHM, based on our diversified backgrounds.

    Image credit: Legian Sire, Lombok

    HK: The team clearly has a lot of experience in luxury. What key elements have you taken from Como, Peninsula and Aman to make LHM truly luxurious?
    HJM: The LHM team have utilised their experience to create LHM’s own bespoke luxury key elements. LHM balances authentic unsurpassed service within captivating environments of exquisite craftsmanship reflecting the sophisticated lifestyle and intellectual curiosity of our guests. Every LHM property reflects its location, culture and people and does not wish to be a ‘cookie cutter’ brand. The one main key element I have taken from all my experience is that the people are key to creating a truly memorable and luxurious experience.

    HK: How important is location when expanding a luxury hotel portfolio?
    HJM: Location is important not just for each individual property but expansion should be based on a strategic plan. Some destinations may complement each other which can be of great advantage to boost occupancy. LHM’s 5 year business plan focussed on Indonesia and South East Asia which allows us to streamline efforts and keep operations efficient.

    The Brit List 2018 – hotelier profiles

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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. We continue with profiling our winning hoteliers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs 

    Mark Sainsbury – The Zetter Group 

    The Zetter Group has become known for value-driven, boutique properties, rich with character. It is this attention to detail, narrative and the guest experience that sets The Zetter Group’s properties apart from the competition.

    The Zetter Group is owned by partners Mark Sainsbury, Michael Benyan & Jason Catifeoglou. After The Zetter Hotel, the Group opened The Zetter Townhouse, Clerkenwell in 2011; Grain Store in 2013; and The Zetter Townhouse, Marylebone in 2015.

    Michael Achenbaum – The Curtain, London 

    Michael Achenbaum never shies away from a hospitality industry challenge. An entrepreneurial visionary, he and his associates have co-developed more than $1 billion in property since 1999.

    The Curtain brings with it a breadth of creative energy to the area. The members club provides a place to network, play, learn and explore, with all the tools in place for both professional encounters and for times when work needs to take a back seat. For hotel guests The Curtain, with its sleek interiors and bursts of Shoreditch character, offers the best of luxury hospitality infused with the energy of creative east London. The hotel features 120 luxurious guestrooms and suites, a restaurant from Chef Marcus Samuelsson, a rooftop pool and a whimsical cabaret that offers a very unique blend of high energy acts that are sexy and cutting edge.

    Michael Bonsor – The Rosewood, London 

    Michael Bonsor, the Managing Director of the Rosewood London, is in charge of one of the capital’s most successful establishments, with a number of awards to its
    name.

    Bonsor brings more than 17 years of hotel management experience in the luxury segment, having begun his career at the Four Seasons in several locations in the USA. Before his arrival at Rosewood London, Bonsor was at Claridge’s, first as Food and Beverage Manager and later became Hotel Operations Manager.

    Nick Hanson – Idle Rocks Hotel, St Mawes

    Nick Hanson is an experienced hotelier who looks after the gem in the Southwest, Idle Rocks Hotel, St Mawes. He understands that success comes through managing a motivated and cohesive team. Since qualifying with an Honours Degree from Oxford Brookes, he has been fortunate to develop his management techniques by working alongside and learning from the very best hoteliers and chefs.

    Hanson joined the team from his role as General Manager of luxury spa hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant, The Bath Priory.

    Peter Kienst – The Principal Manchester

    With more than 27 years’ experience in the industry, Peter Kienast is the much-loved General Manager of The Principal Manchester who is often
    complimented for delivering excellent service.

    With its clock tower and striking Victorian architecture, The Principal Manchester is an unmistakable landmark in the city’s skyline. A magnificent, terracotta Grade II listed building, the hotel has a history dating back to 1890, when it first opened as The Refuge Assurance Company headquarters.

     

    Unilin: Bespoke Walls Fast with ClicWall Deco

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    UNILIN, division panels, is leading digital print directly onto its durable, high-quality melamine-faced wall panels with ClicWall Deco…

    ClicWall Deco provides a high-performance surface that can be personalised with a high-definition digital image, turning any wall into a true eye-catcher. Used successfully by retailers including Carrefour and hotels such as Marmotta Hotel and Auberge de la Ferme; ClicWall Deco can be used to create unique displays, shop-in-shop concepts and stylish feature walls that bring true individualism to any space.

    Technically superior to ensure long-term use in commercial environments, splash-proof and scratch-resistant; all ClicWall Deco panels feature a patented Uniclic locking profile and easy slide strip for rapid installation, making it one of the easiest wall panel systems available today. In a panel size of 600mm x 2785mm, the 10mm thick panels are also available in FR (fire retardant) specification.

    Jurgen Plas, marketing manager, UNILIN, division panels, comments: “ClicWall Deco offers design freedom for interior designers and specifiers, allowing the creation of bespoke walls that look fantastic without compromising durability, everyday performance and low maintenance.

    “The system is already proving popular with retailers, hoteliers and other businesses looking to create a unique concept, partnering brilliantly with our EVOLA panels for a feature that stays looking good and is really simple to look after, even in intensive commercial environments.”

    Alongside the standard ClicWall range, available in 106 flawless decorative effects including wood finishes, concrete effects, brushed metals and solid colours; ClicWall Deco gives designers the chance to create ‘wow’ interiors while providing clients with a wall made for long-term use.

    Free samples of ClicWall can be ordered directly from UNILIN, division panels.

    UNILIN is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Main image credit: Unilin

    The First Roma Dolce to open in February 2019

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    The 19th-Century building will shelter Rome’s first patisserie-style hotel…

    Situated on Via del Corso, ‘The First Roma Dolce’, a new patisserie-themed boutique hotel, is set to open its doors in February 2019. The Dolce will be the newest addition to the ‘First Experience’, which joins three distinctly unique hotels together and emboldens guests to truly experience the city as locals.

    The hotel will be housed within a classic 19th-Century building designed by the renowned Italian architect and urban planner Giuseppe Valadier, who is known and widely celebrated for creating the elliptical design of Piazza del Popolo.

    “The hotel encourages guests to feel as though they ‘live’ in the city during their trip.”

    The boutique hotel will shelter 23 refined suites and guestrooms, with views overlooking the bustling Via del Corso. With particular attention being paid to the contemporary design of the guestrooms and spacious suites, the hotel encourages guests to feel as though they ‘live’ in the city during their trip. State-of-the-art amenities include in-room fitness equipment, and ensure The Dolce will become guests’ ‘home-away-from-home’, offering an elegant yet comfortable and familiar atmosphere whilst visiting the Italian capital.

    Image Credit: First Experience

    An innovative patisserie-style restaurant will serve sweet treats from the pasticceria during the summer, whilst offering guests gourmet experiences such as chocolate tastings during the winter months.

    Providing the very same award-winning hospitality as its sister property, The First Roma Arte, the two hotels are located less than five minutes walk away from each other. Guests of The First Roma Dolce will be able to enjoy the facilities at The First Roma Arte, including the Michelin-Star restaurant Acquolina and the newly redesigned panoramic rooftop terrace. The ‘home-away-from-home’ concept is threaded through both properties, with guests encouraged to enjoy the unique offerings of each hotel, for real immersion into Roman culture and the intimate ‘First Experience’.

    Image Credit: First Experience

    A third hotel, ‘The First Roma Sensi’, will open in late 2019, completing the ‘First Experience’ under the Pavilions Hotels & Resorts collection. The First Roma Dolce is affiliated to Preferred Hotels & Resorts and is a member of the L.V.X collection.

    Top stories of 2018 – editor’s round-up

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    With more than half a million viewers this year in 2018, Hotel Designs has enjoyed a fantastic 12 months of exclusive stories, features, events and some rather spectacular hotel reviews. Here, the editor of Hotel Designs, Hamish Kilburn, runs us through the top nine articles of 2018…

    The age-old saying goes: “Out with the old and in with the new” – and it has never felt more appropriate than it does in this moment as I sit down to write this significant write-up. Our industry is dominated by major shifts in trends and opinions, many of which were created in the number events that we were proudly media partners of this year. Therefore, we, the leading international hotel design website, must continue to remain relevant with our content, while showing that we are ahead of the curve in our own design – everything is about to change. For the minute, though – before we launch our new logo and fabulous website designed to be as visual and interactive as our readers themselves are – let’s take a moment to reflect on what a cracking year 2018 turned out to be.

    Since joining the company as editor in May 2018, I have had many overwhelming moments. The first came just weeks into my role when I was whisked up to the stunning Scottish Perthshire countryside to review the mighty Gleneagles. The ‘am I dreaming moment’ came shortly after our excursion up the mountains in 4x4s. Taking in the tremendous scenes that stretched over the horizon, I heard a faint ambiance of buzzing that become louder as a helicopter appeared from the clouds. It hovered for a moment and began its descent. “This is your ride back to the hotel,” said our very helpful PR manager looking rather smug with herself – talk about setting standards as embarked on my editorship.

    Another experience that remains etched into my memory is my time at London Design Festival 2018. I will never forget surviving on four hours sleep per night (something I have become accustomed to in my role here) in order to be at every major launch at every event (and after-party). Meeting the leaders and visionaries of our industry is all the thanks we require, as it allows us to be at the core of the hotel design world.

    One other unforgettable breakthrough of the year was introducing, for the first time, interactive hotel reviews. Working with ACT Studios has allowed us to give our audience a truly immersive experience when reading our reviews, allowing them to find out exactly which products are in each guestroom and suite and where to purchase them.

    The year continued with more exclusive features with international leading profiles from the likes of CEO of Meliá Hotels International, Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, the new Managing Director of WATG, Martin Pease, the Managing Director (EMEA) of Wyndham Hotels, Dimitris Manikis, Creative Director of HBA London, Constantina Tsoutsikou and the Principal of Richmond International, Fiona Thompson, who was also our headline speaker at our inaugural Meet Up North.

    And so, as with all good things in life, we come to the end of 2018, but not before remembering our top stories of the year as we are on the cusp of welcoming in a new era in Hotel Designs…

    1) IHG launches voco, a new upscale hotel brand

    Topping the Hotel Designs viewing charts is IHG. I was thrilled to have been one of four journalists who were invited to the exclusive launch of the new brand, where I learnt all about the significance of three logos (finch, owl and flamingo).

    Just months after, the hotel brand unveiled their first hotel and it was located in the Gold Coast.

    2) Elivi Skiathos to open June 2018

    Family-owned five-star hotel will offering private pools, a sea-facing four-bedroom villa, spa and panoramic views.

    The Elivi Skiathos Hotel, owned and developed by father and daughter team Elias and Vivi Nathanailidi, opened in June 2018 and marked the first hospitality venture by Elivi Hotels.

    The 213,000m² hotel is surrounded by a wildlife refuge and offers direct access to four beaches in Skiathos: Koukounaries, Ambelakia, Banana and Little Banana Beach.

    Elivi Skiathos features modern, spacious rooms and suites only a few steps away from the shore, with private pools and courtyards integrated into the area’s existing natural features and walking paths bordered by forests of olive and pine trees.

    3) Editor’s round-up of London Design Festival 

    Ten design districts, nine days, eight talks, seven parties, six after parties, five exhibitions, four hours sleep between each day, three fabulous media partners, two tired legs and ONE city. This year, an estimated number of more than 450,000 designers, architects and creatives from more than 75 countries visited the 16th edition of London Design Festival – and what a way to remind the world of London’s position as one of the best design hubs in the world than with the installation of a fifth lion protecting the city’s landmark Neslon’s Column in Trafalgar Square. We were ready to hear London Design Festival roar, and with two days still remaining, that roar can still be heard echoing in an around the city.

    4) Checking in to Gleneageles, Scotland

    Positioned in 344 hectares of land, under Perthshire’s Ochil Hills, is a Scottish jewel. The ever-majestic Gleneaglesfirst soared to be a natural star in the spotlight when it first opened its grand doors in 1924. Its ‘cutting of the ribbon’ was celebrated with Scotland’s first ever outside broadcast, and these moments of the hotel’s many milestones can be found injected into the fabrics of many pockets of the today’s Gleneagles. The hotel’s general manager, Conor O’Leary, was recently awarded ‘Innovation in Design – Hotelier of the Year’ at The Brit List 2018.

    5) IN CONVERSATION WITH: Ronald Homsy, CEO and co-founder, Utopian Hotel Collection

    In a quiet café just off London’s Sloane Square, which is a pleasant experience itself, something amazing is happening: I am about to meet one of the men behind a new hotel collection that inspires through one-off experiences. The sharp-looking businessman approaches my table and takes off his tailored blazer and rolls up his sleeves to shake my hand, which breaks down all formal barriers. The CEO and co-founder of Utopian Hotel Collection, Ronald Homsy, sits down comfortably and starts to share what I can tell has been a driving passion of his for years.

    6) Meet Up North took networking in the North to new heights

    More than 200 of the industry’s leaders and visionaries from within the hotel design gathered on the terrace of King Street Townhouse in Manchester for the first ever Meet Up North on July 18, 2018.

    Sponsored by Marca Corona, the event, which boasted an unparalleled perspective of the Manchester sunset, welcomed hoteliers, architects, interior designers and key-industry suppliers.

    7) Checking in to Hotel Gotham, Manchester’s decadent playground

    This year, we sent Hotel Designs interactive by launching our ever-so-popular hotel reviews. The second interactive hotel review (the first can be read here) is Hotel Gotham. Ever since its bold entrance onto the unapologetically loud Manchester scene in 2015, Hotel Gotham’s alluring charm has tantalised many senses of those who have passed through its spectacularly framed automatic doors. I, for one, am one of them, and I hold my hands up proudly to say that I have formed a lust for decadence and luxury since checking in.

    8) Chelsom Lighting launches Edition 26

    Tapered perforated metal shades, brushed brass rings and even glass icicles were some of the focal trends that were unveiled at Recommended Supplier Chelsom Lighting’s launch of Edition 26 in May 2018.

    Two years since the launch of Edition 25, leading designers, procurement experts and friends of the firm gathered at One Marylebone in central London to celebrate the awaited unveiling of the collection.

    9) Oscar Wilde’s grandson opens first Wilde Aparthotel in London

    Merlin Holland, the only grandson of famous Irish playwright and poet Oscar Wilde, was the guest of honour at the official opening of Staycity Group’s Wilde Aparthotels London [Photograph (from left to right): Jason Delany, Director of Brand, Product & Marketing; Merlin Holland; Tom Walsh, CEO; Keith Freeman, COO; Atul Prakash, GM].

    The Brit List 2018 – hotelier profiles

     676 433 Hamish Kilburn
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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. We continue with profiling our winning hoteliers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top hoteliers

    Faye Stone – The Pig in the Wall 

    Recently promoted as the Hotel Director of The Pig in the Wall, Faye Stone originally joined the five-strong Pig group, which is owned and operated by Home Grown Hotels, in 2012 at the original Pig hotel in Brockenhurst, Hampshire.

    The Pig in the Wall is situated in Southampton’s medieval city walls and operates as a bed and breakfast accomadtion.

    Fiona Moores – The Pig at Combe

    A Lover of cycling, fair weather and discovering new food and drink, Fiona Moores became the general manager of The Pig at Combe in 2016, when the 27-key property opened. Under Moores’ leadership, the hotel became the winner in the Conde Nast Traveler HOT LIST 2017 awards.

    As with all PIG hotels, the establishment has a particular focus on the fresh produce grown, offering guests a quintessentially British experience from check in to check out.

    Gareth Banner – The Ned, London

    Gareth Banner is the Managing Director of The Ned: a hotel, members club andcollection of restaurants in the City of London from Soho House & Co and Sydell Group.

    Gareth graduated in 1999 from Oxford Brookes University with a degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management. His first appointment was with Marriott International and he subsequently held a number of project management and senior operations roles.

    After eight years with Marriott, Gareth became Hotel Manager at The Cavendish London in 2006. During this time, he was involved in bringing the hotel back into private ownership. Gareth moved to London’s original boutique hotel, The Hempel as General Manger in 2008, where he fundamentally restructured and repositioned the five star, 50-bedroom luxury hotel before facilitating a sale of the business at the end of 2012.

    In 2013 Gareth was appointed General Manager at the iconic St. Pancras Renaissance. He was charged to provide strategic leadership for positioning the five star, 207 bedroom & 38 suite hotel, following the completion of a £200m restoration of the building in 2011.

    After joining The Ned team in 2016, Gareth’s vision was for The Ned to change the face of the City of London. Originally designed by English architect, Sir Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyens in 1924, the Grade I-listed building opened in May 2017 and includes ten restaurants, 250 bedrooms, and ‘Ned’s Club’ – where members have access to a rooftop pool, gym, spa, hamam and late night lounge bar. In 2018 The Ned has been presented with the City Heritage Award and named ‘Best Hotel’ in the GQ Food and Drink Awards.

    Jasdeep Sodhi – Hotel Indigo – 1 Leicester Square

    Located in the Neighbourhood of Cinematic Glamour, Hotel Indigo London-1 Leicester Square boasts 95 boutique style rooms, a sky-high rooftop bar and Restaurant including private space suitable for meetings, media events, pitches and huddles.

    Since opening in the spring of this year, Jasdeep Sodhi and his team have welcomed guests from around the globe to experience Leicester Square
    from a unique point of view.

     

    7 hotels that are great for writers

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    In the hunt for inspiration, writer Harry Southworth and editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn scour the globe to find the best hotels and suites for writers… 

    To theme or not to theme, that is the question. From New York to Paris, London to Costa Rica, there are many hotels around the world that have balanced their chosen theme perfectly within the interiors. Following the news that business travel spending is expected to reach a whopping $1.7 trillion by 2022, as reported by Business Traveller, the decision to create experiences over simple hotel rooms is arguably at its highest. To help get those creative juices flowing, here are seven of our favourite hotels from around the world that are great for writers.

    1) Belleclaire Hotel, New York

    Belleclaire Hotel, New York guestroom

    Image credit: Belleclaire Hotel, New York

    Hotel Belleclaire in New York is mentioned in several sources as one of the most premium hotels for writers. Its cosy home-from-home rooms with Broadway-facing windows are alone enough to inspire anyone to write; it’s an American classic that never fades. Inspired by America’s most famous and witty authors, once a guest of the hotel itself, the spacious suite includes a plush and relaxed living scene that will inspire the next chapter of your novel.

    2) The Writer’s Penthouse, The Corinthia 

    The Writer's Penthouse bedroom at Corinthia London, adorned in dark hues

    Image credit: Corinthia London

    The next chapter. A postcard home. In all its guises, the written word is celebrated at The Writer’s Penthouse at the esteemed Corinthia London. Anyone who can write… anything… will be inspired by its comfortable and plush charm.

    Not surprisingly, the desk occupies a premier position within the library-like lounge. Custom-designed and crafted from dark walnut, the two-metre-long writing table features nickel metalwork details to the underside and high-quality leather inlay to the desktop. Around the walls, over a thousand books add to the literary ambiance, complemented by artwork featuring handwritten letters.

    Notwithstanding the wordy allusions, this penthouse suite is not a mere writer’s den but a stylish, sophisticated London residence. Any discerning guest will warm to its discreet luxury and easy-going opulence, as evidenced by the bespoke Makassar ebony cocktail cabinet. A triumph of understated urbanity, it features mirrored pullout trays, leather-lined drawers and a fold-down cocktail-making area. Other elegant touches include a limestone fireplace, antique writing bureau and unique side table with a mirror-like cast resin top. Upstairs, linked by a private internal lift, the king-size bed, bespoke bedside cabinets and bathroom of Fior di Bosco marble extend the theme of quiet, sumptuous comfort.

    3) The Betsy, South Beach Miami

    Light, bright and fresh interiors. Cream sofa and statement bookcase

    Image credit: The Betsy, South Beach, Miami

    Considering that it is owned by Jonathan Plutzik, son of a wartime poet Hyam Plutzik, it’s no surprise that The Betsy features on our list of great hotels for writers. The location alone, Miami Beach, Florida, can help fulfill dreams of any writer seeking inspiration. The hotel provides special rooms for writers, but even the working studio in the public areas offer ample space for business travellers.

    4) Hermitage Plantation Inn, Nevis

    Exterior shot of Hermitage Plantation Inn in Nevis, framed by large palm trees

    Image credit: Hermitage Plantation Inn, Nevis

    With regulations stating that no tree on the island is allowed to be taller than a palm tree, Nevis in the Caribbean is one of the world’s most naturally tranquil destinations. Furthermore, with a population of less than 12,000 – it arguably has more green vervet monkeys than people – every guest on the island is made to feel welcome and is treated more like a neighbour rather than a tourist. The far-flung destination in the West Indies may well be small in size, but what it lacks in land mass it certainly makes up for in personality along with its unmatched luxury offerings. Hermitage Plantation Inn is just one of the hotels that adorns this understated luxury in its interiors and facilities. It was here where June Goodfield wrote the tale Rivers of Time: Why is everyone talking about Philippa?, which is a novel that explores the story of one of the first women who stepped foot on Nevis, after Goodfield discovered her tombstone when she first visited the naturally striking island in 1985.

    5) The Standard, East Village, New York

    This hotel is unique because, each year, writers can raffle a residency for a period of three weeks in one of its suites. The Standard East Village offers this lottery in partnership with the Paris Review. Offering maximum comfort for writers, from notebooks in the lobby to unlimited cups of coffee to refill you when working during the whole stay, the is a favourite for award-winning poet, Ansel Elkins.

    6)  Le Pavillon des Lettres, Paris

    Cosy guestroom with clear words written above the bed on the grey headboard. The room is modern and designed specifically for writing lovers

    Image credit: Le Pavillon des Lettres

    Designed with bookworms in mind, this hotel has a room (and writer) for every letter of the alphabet. Located in Paris’s chic 8th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and the River Seine, the  four-star luxury boutique hotel’s room reflect the personalities of famous writers. Le Pavillon des Lettres is privately owned and operated by the Chevalier family, who own two other Parisian hotels: Le Pavillon de la Reine in the Place des Vosges, and Hôtel du Petit Moulin on the Rue du Poitou.

    7) Hotel X, Toronto, Canada

    A sharp, dynamic library in Hotel X. The space features monochrome tiles and colourful bookshelf

    Image credit: Hotel X, Toronto

    With its totally out-of-this-world vistas over the city below, Hotel X arrived in Toronto in May of this year and, as well as unveiling stunning suites that feature floor-to-ceiling windows, opened its doors to a sedate and laid-back library in the public areas.

    Main image credit: The Corinthia London 

    The Brit List 2018 – hotelier profiles

     676 433 Hamish Kilburn
    By:
    0

    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. We continue with profiling our 25 winning hoteliers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top hoteliers

    Barney Cunliffe – The Gilpin 

    Barney Cunliffe is the Managing Director of the truly family run The Gilpin. At the heart of the hotel is a very passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for guests who return time and again for romance, celebrations and escapes.

    For Cunliffe and his team, hospitality starts with a very warm welcome and ends with a friendly goodbye, with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences in between.

    Brian Benson – The Gainsborough

    Brian Benson’s genuine charm and warmth, which echoes throughout The Gainsborough, makes him a truly exceptional hotelier in Britain today.

    The hotel, which was reviewed by Hotel Designs, was opened in 2015 with interiors by celebrated designer Alexandra Champalimaud. It prides itself as Bath’s most exclusive hotel as it is the only hotel spa in the city that taps into the natural heated thermal springs.

    Conor O’Leary – Gleneagles (Winner, Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year)

    Conor O’Leary, who brings more than 20 years’ experience to his role, first joined Gleneagles in November 2016 when he took up the position of Hotel Manager, with chief responsibility for all food and beverage operations across the hotel and estate.

    Since then, he has exceeded in his mission to enhance the reputation of Perthshire and to position Gleneagles as Scotland’s luxury playground with a number of pursuits, activities and opportunities outside a typical hotel. The most recent addition to the hotel is Ochil House, featured as part of a review by Hotel Designs as an exceptional add-on meeting area designed by Ennismore’s design team, led by Charlie North.

    David Morgan-Hewitt – The Goring

    The charismatic Managing Director is as much of an institution as the hotel itself, having been with The Goring since 1990. In his 25 years at the hotel, he has overseen some of its greatest and exciting periods of transformation.

    This year, Morgan-Hewitt was named Top General Manager of the Year Worldwide by Luxury Travel Advisor. In addition to leading the hotel
    forward, he also sits on the Executive Committee of the Master Innholders and is an Honorary Catering Advisor to the Army.

    Debrah Dhugga – Dukes Hotel London

    Whilst the hotel’s interiors boast a home-away-from-home feel, it is DUKES LONDON’s impeccable service which truly makes it one of the best boutique hotels in London. Debrah Dhugga, Managing Director of DUKES COLLECTION, ensures that each team member offers a five-star guest experience, helping to create lasting memories throughout the stay within an iconic, yet chic environment. The Mission Statement for DUKES LONDON’s team is: “A hidden gem where we create personalised experiences with passion. It is somewhere rather special”.

    The intimate and exclusive hotel has been welcoming guests for 110 years and features 90 rooms, including 11 suites and one Penthouse Suite. DUKES LONDON boasts a Drawing Room and Conservatory, the signature restaurant GBR, the renowned DUKES Bar, a gym and health club, a Cognac & Cigar Garden, as well as three well-appointed meeting rooms and elegant wedding facilities. Dhugga is, as far as we could find, the only female hotel Managing Director in London.

    Top 5 New Years Eve venues in and around London

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    If you are on the hunt for inspiration this New Years Eve look no further as we explore five fabulous NYE venues in London… 

    In a city steeped in history and with New Year’s eve around the corner, we have decided to amplify the best designed venues in and around London which lend themselves to the party night of the year.

    1) The Dorchester

    Image credit: The Dorchester

    Sipping champagne as fireworks light up the London skyline is a moment you’ll never forget. The Dorchester invites you to join The Penthouse & Pavilion for a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration with live entertainment, canapés and drinks until midnight. Then as the clock chimes, toast with a glass of Krug champagne on the balcony and treat yourself to our tempting dessert buffet.

    Positioned on the hotel’s 8th floor, the Penthouse & Pavilion is a theatrical suite of party rooms designed in 1953 by Oliver Messel bathed in natural daylight. Today, the rooms offer the only example of his work not in a private house. Inspired by the theatrical design of Sleeping Beauty, Messel created a virtual wonderland with an ornate mirrored forest; golden birds perched on twigs as door handles and light fixtures that resemble gilded Edwardian bird cages.  The Penthouse features floor to ceiling French windows opening onto a spacious garden terrace, with a fountain of frolicking cherubs, and impressive panoramic views taking in London’s London Eye, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament.  Oliver Messel’s nephew Lord Snowdon’s guests to the celebrated rooms have included Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Tom Stoppard, Sir Dirk Bogarde, Sir John Gielgud, Jeremy Irons, Eric Clapton, Issey Miyake, John Galliano, Dame Judi Dench, Richard E. Grant, and Jane Horrocks.

    2) Radio Rooftop, ME Hotel

    Image Credit: ME Hotel

    Enjoy what are said to be the best views of London for a New Year’s Eve extravaganza like no other. Expect fireworks from Radio Rooftop, accompanied by a DJ playing late into the night. Indulge in a selection of hot and cold luxury canapes, artisan cheeses, sweet treats, a chocolate fountain and open bar as you bring in the New Year.

    The triangular site of the ME Hotel on the corner of Aldwych was once the home of the Gaiety Theatre, which was damaged during the war and demolished to make way for office development. Completing the grand sweep of buildings that make up the 1920s crescent, the new scheme repairs the urban grain and restores a little lost glamour to the heart of the West End. The project is the first flagship hotel in which everything, from the shell of the building to the bathroom fittings, has been designed by the practice – the result is an elegant fusion of interior and exterior design that signals a new contemporary approach for London’s boutique hotels.

    The design, which was imagined and created by Foster + Partners seamlessly integrates the construction of a 157-key hotel with the restoration of the adjacent 1904 Marconi House, whose interior has been entirely restructured to accommodate 87 apartments.

    3) The Lanesborough

    Image credit: The Lanesborough

    For the first time in the hotel’s illustrious history, The Lanesborough will be closing its doors for a New Years Eve party unlike any other. The quintessentially British hotel will be transformed into the most luxurious, beautiful (and we expect anything but tame) hotel party in collaboration with Moët & Chandon Champagne.

    Designed by the decorated design house Alberto Pinto, the richly decorated grand dining room will be transformed into an exclusive nightclub. Cigar sommeliers in the Garden Room, one of the city’s most reputed cigar lounges, will offer guests a wide variety of world-renowned cigars.

    4) Shangri La At The The Shard

    Image credit: The Shard

    Designed by Dexter Moren Associates, Shangri-La At The Shard has been the party to attend on NYE thanks to its striking and unmatched panoramic views across London.

    The Gatsby theme, which will involve a live swing orchestra, a six-course tasting menu and dancing into the New Year with a live DJ set will continue until early hours of 2019.

    5) Coworth Park 

    Image credit: Coworth Park

    With its rural setting and charming country atmosphere, Coworth Park is a wonderful place to celebrate the festive season. A stones through from London, the beautiful event spaces, from the elegant Oak Room to the grand fairytale setting of The Tower House.

    Coworth Park offers idyllic relaxation in many guises, from a rural detox to an indulgent, romantic escape. Here you’ll find an experience to refresh every sense within our welcoming oasis of calm.

    Main image credit: The Lanesborough

    Skopos Fabrics unveils durable on-trend velvets

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    With a growing trend in velvets, Skopos Fabrics launches a new collection for the contract market…

    Providing a sophisticated burst of colour to contract interiors, Bonita FR velvets by Skopos are being launched this autumn to provide a simple matt, cotton-look velvet option for contract furniture.

    The collection consists of 24 skus, ranging from muted tones to bright jewel colours, in a luxurious velvet, crib five backed to meet the strict FR standards for European contract requirements.

    This collection meets the requirements for hospitality and leisure interiors and with a waterproof layer as standard, is also a great option for care interiors, where durability is top priority. The collection achieves 40,000 martindale rubs, meeting the needs for severe contract fabrics.

    Skopos is an ISO9001 accredited company and has over 45 years’ specialist experience in the design and manufacture of high-performance FR contract fabrics for the hospitality, cruise, care and leisure sectors.

    Skopos is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Hotel Summit returns in 2019 in new home

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    Celebrating 21 years, Hotel Summit returns July 8 – 9 in Heythrop Park, Oxfordshire… 

    Following the success of yet another sell-out event in 2018, Hotel Summit is back next year and will be sheltered under a new roof at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire.

    Known nationwide as the original meet-the-buyers event for the hotel industry, Hotel Summit is specifically organised for senior professionals who are directly responsible for purchasing and procurement within their organisation, and those who provide the latest and greatest products and services within the sector.

    The highly focused two-day event brings together hotel professionals and key industry solution providers. Consisting of one-to-one business meetings, interactive seminars and valuable networking opportunities, the concept bridges together delegates and suppliers in a unique networking setting.

    Tailored to meet your requirements like no other event.
    Hotel Summit will deliver a first-rate return on investment, putting suppliers in touch with hotel professionals who have specifically asked to meet you, would like to discuss your products and services, and are pro-actively looking for solutions for their organisation’s facilities and interiors.

    The Summit also offers an unparalleled opportunity for suppliers to promote their service solutions to senior decision makers, who have the authority to spend and are reviewing their current suppliers.

    Key benefits
    Forum Events will organise personalised appointments between purchasing professionals and suppliers to meet in their own dedicated meeting booth. Each supplier will have a series of 25 minute meetings with key decision makers over the two days.
    Suppliers are guaranteed a captive audience of professionals, pre-selected and matched meetings, and cost effective measurable ROI, without any time-wasters and hidden costs.

    For more information and to register your interest, click here. 

     

    Top five stories of the week: New hotel openings, living coral inspires Kaboom rug and Citizenm’s award-winning Dometic Drawer minibar

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    Following a swathe of new hotel openings, editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn, lists this week’s top stories…

    As the year comes to a close and we head into 2019, the editorial desk at Hotel Designs has witnessed a major uplift in known hotel brands expanding into yet-to-be discovered areas this week.

    This also coincides with the feature for January 2019, where we will have a key focus on new hotel launches and spas. If you wish to find out more, or know of a product that we should be talking about, please contact Zoe Guerrier on 01992 374059 or z.guerrier@forumevents.co.uk.


    1) Curio Collection by Hilton opens in Canary Wharf

    Lincoln Plaza London
    Located for the curious traveller looking to explore the city, Lincoln Plaza London is a short distance from iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and The O2. The hotel echoes the sleek architectural cues of Canary Wharf, drawing inspiration from the area’s rich industrial heritage.

    2) Illullian unveils Kaboom rug in living coral
    Illulian unveil Kaboom ru
    Kaboom depicts a great explosion that recalls the action painting, a highly-charged, impulsive style of abstract gestural painting during which paint is energetically splashed, spilt or dribbled onto a canvas. The outcome? A veritable work of art: Kaboom is the distinctive, irreverent sign of a splash of colour, enhanced by the use of blue & living coral.

    3) Citizenm agree to use award-winning Dometic Drawer minibar

    Lifestyle hotel brand CitizenM has selected Dometic to equip its rooms with stylish Noiseless Drawer Minibars and sleek in room Top Opening Safes. Dometic, a brand widely associated for providing products for use in recreational vehicles and premium car are devoted to trying to enrich people’s experiences away from home.

    4) Four Seasons opens its first Greece Hotel
    Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel
    Long a favoured playground of Athenians and international celebrities, the Astir Palace Hotel is now being transformed into the first Four Seasons experience in Greece. Following a significant renovation and reinvention, a new generation of travellers is poised to fall in love with this very special seaside enclave.

    5) Longevity Wellness worldwide takes state-of-the-art Wellness Hotel to Portugal

    June 2019 will witness the grand opening of the five-star Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel, located in Alvor, Portugal. The state-of-the-art wellness centre is the first of its kind in the region, where it will boast modern, integrative and regenerative medicine with advanced wellness and preventative diagnostics, therapies and programmes.

    Illulian unveils Kaboom rug in living coral

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    Now that Pantone has announced The Colour of the Year for 2019, Illulian is pleased to unveil its exclusive Kaboom rug in the shade of Living Coral…

    Kaboom depicts a great explosion that recalls the action painting, a highly-charged, impulsive style of abstract gestural painting during which paint is energetically splashed, spilt or dribbled onto a canvas.

    The outcome? A veritable work of art: Kaboom is the distinctive, irreverent sign of a splash of colour, enhanced by the use of blue & living coral.

    “An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energizes and enlivens with a softer edge.”

    Its incredible palette evokes comfort, positivity and effervescence at the same time. An ironic and charming rug knotted and carded by hand.

    Kaboom belongs to the Design Collection: Himalayan wool, pure silk and vegetable colours are the essential elements that contribute to giving the carpet a sophisticated appearance; soft chromatic details guarantee any environment an elegant allure.

    Longevity Wellness Worldwide takes state-of-the-art wellness hotel to Portugal

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    Situated in Alvor, Portugal, the new property will offer a selection of impactful programmes, as well as two restaurants, a medical spa and 70 bedrooms and suites…

    June 2019 will witness the grand opening of the five-star Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel, located in Alvor, Portugal.

    The state-of-the-art wellness centre is the first of its kind in the region, where it will boast modern, integrative and regenerative medicine with advanced wellness and preventative diagnostics, therapies and programmes.

    Opened by Longevity Wellness Worldwide, the hotel will feature a variety of impactful programmes including from light programmes for beginners including relax and spa or detox to intensive longer specialised programmes around women’s health optimisation or intense detox and reshape.

    “Longevity has learned over the years the wide range of clients’ issues and needs when they are looking for a health and wellness holiday,” said Nazir Sacoor, CEO of Longevity Wellness Worldwide.

    “From younger to older clients, from those who lead healthier lifestyles to those who struggle to maintain a wellness way of life, the needs are quite varied amongst different people and the actual needs of one same person evolve over time. Our upcoming flagship Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel, is aimed at being a world class product with 360-degree solutions in health and wellness to meet all such needs.

    On-site, the property will also boast two restaurants including a rooftop Pure Cafe by Longevity with a panoramic view over the sea. Meanwhile, the The Mediterrânico Restaurant by Longevity and the Chill Out & Relax Tea Lounge will be found on the ground floor, where the chefs will have a key focus on serving fresh food.

    The adults-only hotel will provide guests with panoramic views of the bay of Alvor, while a total of 70 bedrooms and suites will consist of standard Longevity rooms, junior suites, Longevity thematic suites and 1 premium Longevity ‘The One’ suite.

    The Brit List 2018 – Designers profiles

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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. We continue with profiling our winning designers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top designers

    Rachel Johnson – vice president, studio director of the London Studio, Wimberly Interiors

    Rachel Johnson brings to the team at Wimberly Interiors more than 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry. Her appreciation for design and pragmatic approach to interior renovation has led to her working with some of the most celebrated hotel brands such as Bellagio, St. Regis, Hard Rock and Nobu among others.

    As a senior interior designer, Johnson is proficient in meeting the needs of the client and advising on new innovative design techniques that introduce individuality to the project. Her acute eye for detail has been cultivated from extensive experience in the design industry. Having worked as a contract manager accompanied by more than 10 years’ experience in design management, Johnson has a strong understanding of the hospitality industry and the processes involved in project development.

    Rebecca Hunt – Director, Suna Interior Design 

    Suna Interior Design is an award-winning boutique interior design consultancy, which provides interior services for property developers and the hospitality industry. Rebecca Hunt and Helen Fewster head up the London-based studio ensuring that a high level of attention is dedicated to each client and project.

    Tara Bernerd – Founder, Tara Bernerd & Partners 

    Interior Designer, Tara Bernerd pictured in The Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, London, U.K.Thursday, Aug. 20, 2015. Photographer: Jason Alden for The Wall Street Journal for The Wall Street Journal
    Photographer: Jason Alden

    British designer Tara Bernerd is the founder of Tara Bernerd & Partners, a leading international interior architecture and design practice based in London’s Belgravia. Having cut her creative teeth under Philippe Starck at his YOO design studio in the 1990s, Bernerd has earned a reputation as one of the world’s foremost interior architectural designers.

    An avowed design crusader, she believes that design can and should make a difference. Working on projects across the globe, Bernerd and her team strive to create a feeling of authenticity for each property by establishing a distinct design DNA that is true to both the location and the people who will make it their home. Whether in a hotel lobby, a restaurant, or a private residence, they seek to create meaning and connection through a distinct sense of place.

    Terry McGinnity – Global Executive Design Director, GA Design (London)

    Originally trained as an Architect in Australia, Terry McGinnity moved to London to continue his career. After assuming the role of managing director of GA Design in 1998, he has turned the studio into one of the most dynamic and interesting interior design firms working out of the UK.

    He has recentlymoved into the position of global executive design director where he oversees the creative output for all GA projects. GA Design deserves its place in the Brit List 2018 following the completion of iconic interior designs such as The Corinthia London, W Taipei, Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam and more recently W Shanghai.

    Tim Murray – Creative Director, Helen Green Design

    Since the sad passing of Helen Green in 2012, the DNA of Green’s legacy is evident in the designs that have come out of the London studio in recent years. Leading that legacy now is Tim Murray. With more than 20 years’ experience of working in some of the UK’s most well-known interior design houses, Murray heads up the team of 20 at Helen Green Design Studio’s Knightsbridge residence. Spearheading the future creative direction and
    development of the company, Murray’s love of design was influenced by his mother who was a fashion journalist and his father who was also an
    interior designer. His role at Helen Green Design offers the opportunity to ensure the firm continuously evolves on a creative level – while also remaining artistically flexible to meet client needs.

    Curio Collection by Hilton opens in Canary Wharf

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    The opening of Lincoln Plaza London is the newest addition to Curio Collection by Hilton, which joins a global portfolio of more than 60 upper upscale, one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts.

    Jack Speak - hero shot_

    Jack Speak – Lincoln Plaza London, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Located for the curious traveller looking to explore the city, Lincoln Plaza London is a short distance from iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and The O2. The hotel echoes the sleek architectural cues of Canary Wharf, drawing inspiration from the area’s rich industrial heritage.

    In the lobby, guests are welcomed by polished concrete floors, a steel feature wall and steel-framed windows, allowing daylight to flood into the space. Its contemporary design is authentic to the surrounding area, where guests can visit the eclectic boutiques and enjoy the variety of entertainment around the hotel.

    Reflective of London’s dynamic atmosphere, Lincoln Plaza London promises a comfortable and stylish stay for guests, in addition to being the venue of choice for locals to drink and dine in style. The hotel boasts an exceptional variety of dining outlets including a Pan-Indian restaurant from celebrated chef Cyrus Todiwala OBE DL.

    Alternatively, the Food Store concept is a contemporary restaurant, bar and grocer where guests and locals can relax, dine and stock up on provisions.

    “We are thrilled to bring Curio Collection by Hilton to London’s premier business district Canary Wharf, perfectly located for both business and leisure travellers, marking the arrival of the second Curio Collection property in London and increasing the Shiva Hotels’ portfolio to five Hilton-branded properties,” said Ashley Cole, general manager of Lincoln Plaza London “Whether guests want to visit us to explore the many unique attractions on our doorstep or to simply spend time enjoying our stylish hotel and incredible dining offering, we look forward to welcoming guests and can cater to all types of travellers.”

    Lincoln Plaza London, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Lincoln Plaza London, Curio Collection by Hilton

    For more information about the Curio Collection by Hilton or Lincoln Plaza London, visit the website today. 

     

    The Brit List 2018 – designer profiles

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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. We continue with profiling our winning designers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top designers 2018

    Katherine Neathercoat – Head of interior design, Scott Brownrigg 

    Katherine Neathercoat joined Scott Brownrigg’s award-winning interior design team in 2017 as director/head of UK interior design. Based in the Endell Street office, Neathercoat leads the creative design direction of the interior design service for the brand. Working closely with the team, she is responsible for growing the interiors business, expanding its client base and developing the studio’s multi-sector offering, together with supporting Scott Brownrigg’s wider international growth initiatives.

    As the head of interior design, she is integral to ensuring the success and high calibre of every project and has worked on numerous notable schemes for clients as diverse as Hard Rock, Expedia, Berkeley Homes, Thomson Reuters, glh Hotels, Canary Wharf Group and Lendlease.

    Kim Partridge – Founder and Director, Kim Partridge Interiors 

    Kim Partridge Interiors creates high-end hospitality and residential spaces with a personal touch. New to hotel design, Partridge has made a statement entrance having just completed the award-winning Neo-Gothic flavour interiors for Adare Manor.

    “There is much that I find rewarding about my work, but essentially, I get the most thrill out of sourcing those final pieces that make a space personal,” Partridge said on her website. “I absolutely love books and libraries, so often aim to find something unusual relating to the project that will tell a story.”

    Maria Vafiadis – Managing Director, MKV Design 

    The founder and managing director of MKV Design, Maria Vafiadis is an established thought-leader within the interior design world. With her body of work expanding more than two decades, Vafiadis’ ‘every project is one-off’ approach reflects her constant quest for new ideas.

    Her ability to celebrate location is at the heart of the new Bürgenstock Hotel, which is located 500m above Lake Lucerne in Switzerland.

    Martin Brudnizki – Director, MBDS (winner – Innovation in Design – Interior Designer of the Year)

    Martin Brudnizki is one of the world’s most acclaimed designers – and for good reason. Previous prevalent projects in the hospitality industry include The Ivy in Soho, Sexy Fish and The Beekman in New York. His recent works include Cambridge’s new hotel, University Arms, and Annabel’s nightclub in London. Brudnizki’s love for design started from a young age. His mother was a stylist and his father a mechanical engineer; the combination of these elements embedded a deep understanding of aesthetics alongside a grounding in functionality.

    Following a number of successful positions at renowned interior design firms, Brudnizki established his eponymous studio in London in 2000 and later in 2012 launched a New York studio in response to the growth in demand.

    Nicholas Stoupas – Director, Twenty2degrees 

    Nicholas Stoupas has successfully led a number of prestigious projects including Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Hyatt Regency Minsk, Hilton Bankside, InterContinental Westminster, Aloft Abu Dhabi and Russel Hotel London. Working with Joseph Stella, he is currently working on projects such as Le Meridian Abuja, Hyatt Regency Rawalpindi, Four Points Sheraton Abuja, Westin Abuja.

    The Bigger the better according to Rosanna Lonsdale

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    Bigger is most definitely better according to Rosanna Lonsdale’s latest collection of large decorative lamps.

    The latest collection of ‘Large Lamps’ from the brand promises to add weight and grandeur to a room, with handmade works of lighting art. The collection which consists of both monochromatic and nature-inspired imagery is sure to subtly grab the attention of all those in its presence.

    “Available with a clear base that gives a much a much more clean-cut contemporary look to a classic design.”

    Rosanna Londsdale designs and hand makes her lamps in London, and still applies the same decoupage techniques used by her acclaimed grandmother, Monica Greig

    Each lamp is handmade in London, through a meticulous process of painting and decorating glass vases from the inside, using the 18th Century technique, Decalcomania.

     

     

    CitizenM agree to use award-winning Dometic drawer minibar

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    Dometic will provide its Drawer Minibars and Top Open Safes to complement citizenM’s elegantly designed modular rooms in new facilities and build-outs across the globe.

    Lifestyle hotel brand CitizenM has selected Dometic to equip its rooms with stylish Noiseless Drawer Minibars and sleek in room Top Opening Safes.

    Dometic, a brand widely associated for providing products for use in recreational vehicles and premium car are devoted to trying to enrich people’s experiences away from home.

    As part of this new deal, the hotel brand will benefit from the award-winning Dometic Drawer Minibar, the first A++ rated 20L drawer minibar on the market. As well as the unique top-opening safe, complete with LED display and digital keyboard.

    Fatiha Babou, head of lodging EMEA at Dometic, said: “We are excited to be a part of citizenM’s fantastic development. Their brand is inspiring a new generation of travellers and disrupting the industry. Our awarded design and technology will support the fulfilment of mobile citizens’ needs during their stay at citizenM.”

    The Brit List 2018 – Designer Profiles

     676 433 Hamish Kilburn
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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. We continue with profiling our winning designers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top designers 2018

    Harry Gregory – Director, ARA Design 

    Harry Gregory has more than 35 years’ experience in designing hotels, restaurants and private residences worldwide. After graduating from the Royal College of Art, he worked on product design and later specialised in furniture design at Dale Keller & Associates.

    Gregory then made the move to GA Design in London, incorporating his product expertise into interior architectural design. It was there that he met Andre Avedian, and acknowledging their complementary work patterns and mutual desire to create a truly bespoke experience for clients, they co-founded Ara Design to deliver just this.

    Harry Harris – Managing Director, SUSD

    SUSD recently completed The Curtain, which opened as Shoreditch’s new kid on the block and has a key focus on private members’ clubs look and feel. With more than 25 years’ experience, Harris who founded SUSD Ltd, has been at the forefront of the renaissance in private members’ clubs in the UK.

    SUSD specialises in delivering standard-setting, complex projects, within strict time and budget requirements. Its vision is to provide a project delivery service of the highest standard incorporating collaborative working combined with innovative thinking.

    Helen Fewster – Director, Suna International Design

    Suna Interior Design is an award-winning boutique interior design consultancy who provides interior services for property developers and the hospitality industry. Helen Fewster and Rebecca Hunt head up the London-based studio ensuring that a high level of attention is dedicated to each client and project.

    “As a tight-knit team of designers, we ensure concepts and visions become reality, producing lifestyle enhancing designs delivered through a consistently personal service. We are proud of the portfolio we have created, which is showcased here.”

    Jo Littlefair – Director, co-founder and designer-at-large, Goddard Littlefair

    Jo Littlefair is a designer-at-large for the company, bringing inspiration from her travels into the studio and sharing her passion for new and exciting dining, dwelling and hospitality experiences. Littlefair’s curious and observant nature quickly recognises coming evolutions in consumer, industry and design trends. Her particular focus is on delivery, ensuring that the essence of a concept has always been fully evoked and that all the softer details and touchpoints meet her exacting standards.

    Littlefair is regularly asked to write and speak about innovations in consumer behaviour, as well as in developments in luxury-market fabrics, furniture and colour.

    Joseph Stella – Director, Twenty2Degrees

    Prior to working with Twenty2Degrees, Joseph Stella worked as a senior designer for Jestico + Whiles and RPW Design.

    He is currently working on projects such as Le Meridian Abuja, Hyatt Regency Rawalpindi, Four Points Sheraton Abuja and Westin Abuja. Since joining the company in 2013, Stella has brought to the team a diverse and open approach to design that encapsulates the ethos of twenty2degrees, strengthening the conceptual side of the practice.

     

    Four seasons opens its first Greece hotel

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    Long a favoured playground of Athenians and international celebrities, the Astir Palace Hotel is now being transformed into the first Four Seasons experience in Greece. Following a significant renovation and reinvention, a new generation of travellers is poised to fall in love with this very special seaside enclave…

    Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel AthensJust minutes from the historic city centre of Athens stands a pine-clad peninsula jutting into the Aegean Sea. Now home to the new Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel confirmed to open March 29, 2019.

    Guests will have a choice of rooms that include: Mid-century modern Nafsika building with azure sea views, laidback relaxation in the Bauhaus-esque Arion and the ultimate in beachside luxury with 61 renovated Bungalows nestled among the trees at the water’s edge.

    Sam IoannidisFour Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, the Hotel’s General Manager, said: “Nowhere in the world do ancient culture and modern lifestyle come together so beautifully than in Greece.

    “With our close proximity to the city – just 30 minutes from both the Acropolis and the airport – the ideal Greek vacation has never been more accessible. Whether taking a quick break or staying a few weeks to take in all the sights and immerse yourself in the glamour and fun of the Athenian Riviera.”

    ARTIQ moves into new era of experiential art

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    Art consultants ARTIQ, which is among the leading brands at the forefront of the way art is used and communicated in the commercial work, have launched a new artist residency offer for their hospitality clients…

    ARTIQ has launched its first residency, a private-audience-only event programme with hospitality company Ennismore. Called Tea Sessions, the programme takes the form of an exclusive series of artist performances by the Ukrainian-born, London-based painter, Olha Pryymak, at London’s Ennismore Sessions House, a Grade II-listed, Palladian-style development.

    Olha Pryymak explains the residency event to guests

    Olha Pryymak explains the residency event to guests

    With a number of Pryymak’s works also on show in the space, the ‘tea session’ performances, for selected guests, are based on the artist’s fascination with ancient folk medicine and were inspired by her research trips to rural Latvia, as well as by her family’s origins as herbalists. Residency participants will have the opportunity to experience a subversive take on the traditional afternoon tea, joining Pryymak for an intimate exploration on the themes of dialogue, memory and wellness.

    Patrick McCrae, CEO at ARTIQ, said: “Our new artist residency offer meets both the heightened demand for experiential art by hotels and also enables hotels to create memorable, location-specific events that enhance their brand, deepen their association with their location and create an emotional resonance on the part of guests.

    “For a hotel’s marketing team, the residencies provide date-specific calendar attractions for guests and an interesting reason for staying in touch.”

    The Brit List 2018: Designer profiles

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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. This week, we continue with profiling our winning designers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top Designers 2018

    Constantina Tsoutsikou – Creative Director, HBA London 

    Constantia Tsoutsikou is proving herself to be a leader not only as the creative director of HBA London, but also as a true visionary in the arena of
    international hotel design.

    Her most recent work includes The Orient in Jerusalem and this year she has spoken at a number of international trade fairs, the most recent of which was Maison Objet in Paris.

    Dexter Moren – Director, Dexter Moren Associates 

    Dexter Moren is the founding director of Dexter Moren Associates (DMA) and is recognised as an industry leader in the international hotel design sector. DMA is an award-winning hotel, hospitality and residential architecture & interior design firm based in London.

    DMA’s most recent projects include The Curtain and Dorsett City Hotel in Aldgate. In addition to these, the firm is also working on The Westin, City of London, as well as a hotel development in Southwark.

    Emma King – Head of Interior Design (Europe) IHG 

    Emma King leads the InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) interior design team in Europe and is responsible for the design, development and product quality of all new openings and refurbishments. King is currently leading the design of IHG’s big capital investments including InterContinental London Park Lane, InterContinental Paris Le Grand and InterContinental Berlin, but also the launch of the hotel group’s new brand voco. She is also tasked with the integration of the innovation program at IHG, and has worked on the repositioning strategy and implementation of the new generation Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn and the Crowne
    Plaza Brands.

    King and her team have been instrumental in positioning the Hotel Indigo brand with a ‘neighbourhood story’ led design for each site. No brand has been left untouched, with IHG’s long stay offering, Staybridge Suites, also being redesigned with investment potential in mind. An interior architect by training at Cardiff University and despite over 20 years’ hotel design experience, she believes that there is always more to learn.

    Fiona Thompson – Principal, Richmond International 

    Richmond International has designed some of the world’s most prestigious hotel designs in locations from London to Barbados. Fiona Thompson, as the Principal of the studio, is involved in all aspects of the company, and is responsible for both the projects and the day-to-day running of the company. As the recent headline speaker at Hotel Designs Meet Up North,

    Thompson continues to be an influencer as the landscape of international hotel designs continues to evolve.

    Frances Blackham – Design Director, Trevillion Interiors 

    Having recently led her team to complete the £6 million refurbishment of the Radisson Blu Hotel Nice and the Radisson Blu Stansted airport, including new
    guestrooms, restaurants and the iconic Atrium Space and Wine Tower Bar, Trevillion Interiors has proven time and time again that it is ahead of the curve of hotel interior design.

    The firm’s impressive client list includes Best Western, QHotels, Radisson Blu, Royal Garden Hotel and IHG.

    In Conversation with: Michael Seum, how Grohe recreated a classic

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    Grohe’s Vice President of Design, Michael Seum, talks about revisiting a classic, challenging the engineers and creating an icon in the new Atrio (as published in Grohe Magazine No. 2 2018)… 

    Redesigning a classic is a task not to be taken lightly. It’s a design opportunity that involves walking a tightrope between respecting the past and opening oneself up to contemporary ideas. Grohe’s Vice President of Design Michael Seum, however, was delighted to step up to the challenge with the classic Grohe Atrio faucet. It was, he says, an exciting opportunity to build on the strengths of this Grohe icon while giving it a feeling of timelessness.

    Grohe: What was the idea behind the new Atrio? 
    Michael Seum: For me, the very definition of an icon is something you can draw from memory. We are calling this the icon of elegance and precision. The elegance is drawn from a single circle , or a cylinder right, which is one of the most feminine geometrical features you can find: pure and perfect. It;s a firmly contemporary design, but with the right interior decor strategy, it could fit in a classic or cosmopolitan environment. Because we’ve used such a simple, singular geometry, the precision has an analogue, tactile feel to it. So much of this world is digital and uber-connected that we felt like for our spa collection, we needed to have this tactility. And it’s done in such a way that even when you look at the design, all of the intersections are precise. Nothing is off-centre.

    Image credit: Grohe

    G: How is is driven by the technology that’s inside, like the cartridges? 
    MS: The quality of the design comes through the craftsmanship and also the precision of our high-quality cartridges. There are three principles that we draw from: the cylindrical element that drives the entire line, an absolutely pure intersection of all these geometries, and lastly, the obsessive attention to proportion. We wanted a design that celebrates the quality of the Grohe cartridge – its the perfect expression of our design DNA.

    G: How long, from first sketch to now, have you and your team been working on this? 
    MS: We had a discussion about the possibility of having the spa geometry perfectly intersect, I think, about 18 months ago. While we came pretty quickly to the idea, the execution was actually the hardest part of the job; getting the engineering team to find a way to do that.

    “It really is iconic, it’s beautiful, it’s flexible and it’s simple.”

    G: What challenges did you have to overcome with the engineering? 
    MS: The engineers saw the potential of the design. But they also saw that it was their responsibility to help us realise it. So I’m really pleased at how they’ve embraced the design vision and made all of the technical elements work, going through such meticulous, geometrical work with the Atrio. This is where the precision of the tactile feedback, the craftsmanship, the quality, the handmade aspects – it’s all due to their efforts.

    Image credit: Grohe

    G: How has the feedback on this product been so far? 
    MS: We’ve had some sneak previews with a few long-standing customers and architects that we have very positive relationships with. We do a lot of work on projects that are two to five years – and the response when we put this on the table is just jaw-dropping. It really is iconic, it’s beautiful, it’s flexible and it’s simple. We designed something that allows architects or consumers to design spaces in so many different ways. The fact that the product is so simple means that it can work with different interior strategies. They see that immediately.

    G: What plans do you have for the Atrio in the future? 
    MS: We will launch it in Spa Colours over time. Because this design is so neutral, we believe that this is the vehicle for expressing new colour and finish possibilities in the bathroom. It’s a design that works in so many different environments, from classic to contemporary to cosmopolitan. It has transformatative affect in those spaces.

    Grohe is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Main image credit: Grohe 
    Image caption: Grohe’s Vice President of Design, Michael Seum

     

     

     

    Hotel Designs becomes media partner of Surface Design Show

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    Surface Design Show 2019 will celebrate the best in new and innovative surfaces…

    Hotel Designs has confirmed that it is a media partner for the Surface Design Show 2019, which takes place From February 5 – 7 at London’s Business Design Centre.

    Providing a platform for architects, designers and specifiers to explore the best in interior and exterior surface materials, lighting design, development and innovation, the show is the only event in the UK that focuses solely on interior and exterior surfaces.

    For more than ten years Surface Design Show has been the place where industry professionals immerse themselves in the latest materials for the built environment, gain new insights and network with like-minded designers, architects and suppliers.

    “As technology opens up the floor for new and creative surfaces, we are delighted to help put the spotlight on the Surface Design Show 2019 as a media partner,” said editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn. “As well as showcasing the latest surface trends within the design sphere, the show’s talks and social opportunities make this event one of the most interactive design networking events in the calendar.”

    Surface Design Show 2019 also features some 40 talks from more than 50 industry professionals, all designed to engage and inspire.

    Image credit: Vicalvi

    The Opening Night Debate returns from 6.30pm on the first day of the Show, Tuesday 5 February. Organised in association with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and New London Architecture (NLA) it will discuss whether factory-made housing can provide Londoners with better places to live. The panel will be chaired by Peter Murray of NLA, with Ben Derbyshire of HTA Design and RIBA President, Carl Vann of Pollard Thomas Edwards and Hazel Rounding of shedkm debating the topic ‘Factory-made Housing: is this the solution to building better homes long term?’.

    Returning for 2019 is the ever popular PechaKucha Evening, hosted by Chris Dyson of Chris Dyson Architects on 6 February from 6.30pm. Speakers include Nigel Ostime of Hawkins Brown; Soraya Khan of Theis and Khan Architects; Alex Scott-Whitby of ScottWhitbyStudio; Stuart Piercy of Piercy and Co; Simon Fraser of Hopkins Architects; Alison Brooks of Alison Brooks Architects; Lucia Berasaluce of Haptic Architects and Ben Cousins of Cousins & Cousins Architects. Presenters will discuss ‘Identities and Boundaries: site specific responses to modern architecture’ in an exciting and inspiring format using 20 images, each discussed for 20 seconds.

    Stone Gallery, which is officially supported by Stone Federation GB whose Stone Knowledge Hub forms a focal point for the event, will also be returning to Surface Design Show 2019. Stone Gallery, which is also supported by media partner Tomorrow’s Tile & Stone, is an industry-leading event for architects and designers to meet and specify natural stone. The Stone Hub stage will host a series of presentations curated by Arup.

    Image credit: Soundspace

    Now in its fifth year Light School, the home of architectural lighting, allows architects and designers to touch, compare and learn about innovative lighting and technology products. The Light School arena, Light Talks, will return once again supported by the Institution of Lighting Professionals and LED Linear.

    Since 2013 the Show has hosted the Surface Design Awards, now recognised as one of the most respected events in the design calendar. The 2019 Awards received 197 entries from 22 countries, including America, Italy, China and India. There are 13 awards that recognise exterior and interior surfaces for different sectors of design, including commercial, housing, light and surface, public building, retail, sustainable, and temporary structure.

    The shortlist for this year’s Surface Design Awards consists of an impressive 43 categories across seven categories, including entries from Zaha Hadid Architects, Studio Egret West and Chris Dyson Architects from the UK, Rockwell Group from the USA, and Kengo Kuma & Associates from Japan. Each entry is an exemplary example of creative and innovative use of materials and lighting in both interior and exterior schemes. Some projects received nominations across several categories, resulting in 48 finalists. The Awards Presentation will take place on the morning of Thursday 7 February, at Surface Design Show. Tickets to the Presentation are available via the Surface Design Show website. Award partners include; James Latham, Finsa, Business Design Centre, Soluis and Roof Maker.

    To register for your tickets, click here. 

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    SPOTLIGHT ON: Hotel Openings and Spas (January 2019)

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    Kick-starting 2019 with a bang, throughout January Hotel Designs’ Spotlight On will look ahead to the most anticipated hotel openings for 2019 as well as relaxing you back into the year by shining the spotlight on Spas… 

    Creating a sense of balance between anticipation and relaxation, Hotel Designs is starting next year by shining the spotlight on both hotel openings and spas.

    Hotel openings

    Image credit: Savoy Palace

    Starting in January, we will be looking ahead to all the hottest and most-anticipated hotel openings that we should expect over the next 12 months. From modern metropolis’ to far-flung destinations that exude luxury, we will discover all the latest hotel design hotspots and all the unassuming gems that should be on your hotel design radar.

    Spas

    Image credit: The Gainsborough Bath & Spa

    With the wellness trend showing no time of stopping any time soon, there is now arguably more attention as a consumer towards the hotel spa than there is on the guestroom. Throughout January we will be checking out the best spas from around the world and understanding what is it that makes a spa experience spectacular.

    If you wish to find out more, or know of a product that we should be talking about, please contact Zoe Guerrier on 01992 374059 or z.guerrier@forumevents.co.uk

    Main image credit: Gleneagles, Scotland

    The Brit List 2018: Designer profiles

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    In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 75 finalists in the Hotel Designs Brit List 2018. This week, we begin by profiling our winning designers in alphabetical order…

    This year’s The Brit List 2018 concluded on November 22, when leading designers, hoteliers and architects gathered at BEAT London to find out which of them made it on to this year’s The Brit List 2018. The hundreds of nominees and entries were whittled down by the event’s five judges, who were:

    • Gilly Craft, President of the British Institute of Interior Design
    • Charles Leon, founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design
    • Gerri Gallagher, former associate editor, Tatler
    • Lysbeth Fox, founder and director of Fox PR
    • Hamish Kilburn, editor, Hotel Designs

    Top Designers 2018

    Alex Kravetz, Director – Alex Kravetz Design

    Having just completed the Radisson Blu Astrid Antwerp, which is sheltered in one of the city’s most iconic buildings, the design company continues to send ripples through the industry with its creative way of storytelling through interior design.

    Alex Kravetz started his career as a designer at the Opera & Ballet Theatre, before moving on to create the stage designs at the Royal Shakespeare Company. A hospitality design career followed naturally, and he soon reflected narrative onto the walls, into the fabrics and under striking lighting on the international hotel design stage, using location and culture as key inspirations behind each project. Kravetz has a deep understanding of the luxury market together with his ability to take an innovative approach to timeless elegance and chic dramatic interior architecture.

    Andrew Linwood – Director, Areen Design 

    Areen Design London

    As head of Areen Design, Andrew Linwood’s role covers all aspects surrounding a project, from inception to installation. Linwood has designed interiors for many of the world’s leading hotel groups including, among others, Hilton Hotels, Marriott International, Radisson and Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

    An interior design degree-holder having worked in the UK, across Europe and Asia, Linwood has been monumental in making Areen Hospitality a force in the international interior design scene. The firm currently has projects underway in Europe, the MENA region, India, Central Asia and China.

    Ariane Steinbeck – Managing Director, RPW Design

    Ariane Steinbeck and her team have most recently, and most notably, completed The Capital Suite in London’s Intercontinental Park Lane. The hotel has been designed in order to capture subtle references of the hotel’s unique location with it being situated adjacent to Hyde Park. Having previously worked on well-known projects such as Marriot County Hall, Steinbeck continues to be a major name and face in the industry, known for sensitively and effortlessly breathing new life into hotel interiors from around the world.

    Steinbeck is an active contributor in the hospitality and the interior design industry. Serving as a frequent speaker and judge at hotel industry events and awards, Steinbeck is also often a commentator on changing trends and guest expectations in numerous publications and documentaries.

    Bee Osborn – Director, Osborn Interiors

    In a recent interview with Hotel Designs, Bee Osborn explained how she became the pioneering creative that she is known as being today. Osborn admits that her favourite project was Hotel Le Toiny in St Barths because of how everything came together at once. Osborn’s advice to young designers is to ‘believe in yourself’ and to ‘never be too established to stop learning’.

    The designer draws inspiration from classic design and proportion, but always infuses her work with modern up-to-date energy. Osborn is passionate about lighting and believes it is key to any project. Together with her experienced team, she produces balanced harmonious interiors that are both practical and awe-inspiring.

    Christopher Ash – Director, Project Orange

    Recently interviewed in by Hotel Designs, Christopher Ash helms Project Orange with his business partner James Soane.

    After completing the commission to reinvent the venerable Swan Hotel in Southwold, Suffolk for Adnams Brewery, Ash and his team are now putting a lot of focus on the future of hotel design, including work on, Room 2, which is a new Southampton aparthotel, and have been appointed to design the interiors for the quirky and edgy NHow London.

     

    Top 5 stories of the week: Controversial colours, London reloaded and a Manchester arrival

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    With 2019 on the horizon, and the focus in the international hotel design market being firmly fixed on what the future brings, Hamish Kilburn reviews the week’s headlines… 

    Who would have thought that a colour – especially one that is as calming as Living Coral – could create so many divided opinions? Now that we have thrown it back to review this year’s major product launches, Hotel Designs is looking ahead to understand how the future predictions in trends will effect the look and feel of hotels around the world.

    This week’s headlines have been full of colour. Hotel Indigo finally arrives in Manchester, Condé Nast Traveller highlighted its editors’ favourite hotels who one London-based hotel even unlocked the door to a guestroom that resembles the womb. It’s never a dull moment on the editorial desk at Hotel Designs, and here are the stories that grabbed the attention of the industry over the last five days.

    1) Design-led NHow Hotel to arrive in London in Summer 2019

    Image credit: Project Orange

    Designed by Project Orange, the 190-key nhow London will arrive in the British capital in summer 2019. Located between Islington and Shoreditch within the ‘250 City Road’ development designed by acclaimed architectural firm Foster + Partners, the four-star hotel will be NH Hotel Group’s second property in the UK.

    2) Inside the London guestroom designed to resemble the womb

    Image credit: Simba/Cuckooz/ Billy Bolton

    Launching today, Cuckooz has opened unlocked to a new sleeping experience by launching a guestroom that has been designed to resemble the womb.

    The nine-month project, which resulted in The Zed Room being opened, was inspired by the safety and ‘snugness’ of the womb and comes complete with muted lighting, soft-pink walls and a high-tech mattress.

    3) Pantone’s colour of the year divides opinions

    Image credit: YouTube/Pantone

    Pantone determined that 2019’s colour of the year will be Living Coral, or Pantone 16-1546. Since then, though, there have been suggestions that the peachy orange shade, which is a clear and defiant move away from this year’s colour of choice, Ultra Violet, has been compared to cheap bridesmaid dresses or budget toilet roll, as well as it being considered as 60 per cent of the world’s remaining reefs are now at risk of being destroyed by human activity.

    4) Condé Nast Traveller reveals its editors’ all-time favourite hotels from around the world

    Image credit: Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club, Miami

    With 78 hotels ranging from game-changer Heckfield Place in Hampshire, to the romantic Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany, the nostalgic St. Regis New York and plenty to choose from in far-flung destinations, Condé Nast Traveller shines a rather bright and dynamic spotlight on the most wonderful places to stay next year with The Gold List 2019:

    5) Hotel Indigo arrives in Manchester

    Image credit: Hotel Indigo

    Hotel Indigo® Manchester – Victoria Station has arrived, marking the brand’s debut in one of the UK’s largest cities, which was described earlier this year as a hive for hotel design. Famous for its cotton mills and its role in the industrial revolution, Manchester is a vibrant city that is rapidly expanding and regenerating, complementing its historical setting and its quirky contemporary feel.

    If you would like to be kept up to date with the latest happenings and news in international hotel design, subscribe to receiving our newsletter here.

    Main image credit: Ellerman House, Cape Town

    Baros Maldives launches new luxury villas

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    The interior design extension creates a new era of luxury for the resort… 

    Baros Maldives, an award-winning boutique island retreat in the Maldives, renowned for its discreet, personalised service and lush natural environment, is proud to announce the addition of two distinctive new Suites to its blissful collection of Villas. Named as the Baros Suites, each suite of 200sqm features a spacious, luxurious bedroom, a concealed, semi open-air bathroom and a large living area with sliding glass doors opening on to a wooden deck with sun loungers and dining area, a swimming pool and a thatched gazebo with a traditional swing overlooking the ocean.

    “Baros Maldives was one of the first resorts to open to the public in 1973.”

    Located on the eastern shore of the island, within an easy walk to all facilities, The Baros Suites are designed to provide a haven of seclusion allowing guests to enjoy the freedom of space as well being able to relax within the utmost privacy. Guests staying in a Baros Suite benefit from private transfer to and from the resort by luxury yacht, a dedicated Suite Butler on call at all times and a bottle of champagne and fruit platter on arrival.

    Image credit: Baros Maldives

    Formerly a coconut plantation, Baros Maldives was one of the first resorts to open to the public in 1973 and also won the Top Luxury Resort of the Year by TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice.

    Main image credit: Baros Maldives

    Hamilton Litestat has the perfect accompaniment to Spiced Honey

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    British electrical solutions provider Hamilton’s bronze electrical accessories a perfect match for Dulux Colour of the Year 2019…

    Paint brand Dulux has announced ‘Spiced Honey’ its Colour of the Year 2019 as it forecasts the home colour trends for the upcoming year. The warm and earthy deep ochre hue is balanced by mid-brown and burgundy to create a contemporary and versatile shade that is complemented by sophisticated bronze, brass and copper finishes.

    Each year, international design authorities gather to discuss global design trends that best capture the current times. Following a period of unpredictability, the warm, comforting and classic tone of Spiced Honey has been selected during expert trend analysis for signalling optimism, positivity, energy and transformation as we move into 2019.

    “Hamilton’s bronze switch plates and sockets are available in Copper Bronze, Connaught Bronze, Etrium Bronze and Richmond Bronze finishes.”

    The contemporary yet classic shade can be paired with diverse palettes and different materials to create a range of moods with a space, from calming through to energising. Bronze, brass and copper are particularly complementary materials, with Hamilton Litestat’s electrical accessories in these finishes bringing both contemporary and sophisticated accents to Spiced Honey for on-trend interior schemes.

    “Brasses and bronzes are very much the finishes of 2019,” says Rob Matthews of interior design & architecture team, Matthews Mee. “The warm metallic tones bring a sophisticated, luxe finish to a space, whether that’s with a high shine or brushed matte finish, and complement Spiced Honey. Having featured Hamilton’s decorative wiring accessories in a recent five-star hotel project, I’m an advocate of the high-quality electrical solutions, with its Richmond Bronze finish adding subtle elegance and refinement.”

    Hamilton’s bronze switch plates and sockets are available in Copper Bronze, Connaught Bronze, Etrium Bronze and Richmond Bronze finishes, while its Antique Brass finish also enhances Spiced Honey.

    Offering a wide range of modern functionality – including dual 2.4A USB double switched socket plates – Hamilton’s solutions are specified in high-end hotels and residencies to deliver a sophisticated finish. All five brass and bronze finishes are available in Linea plate designs, as well as Hamilton’s Hartland CFX and Sheer CFX designs, while Antique Brass is also available in Hartland and Sheer collections.

    Hamilton litestat, which celebrated a major milestone in 2018 when the business reached its 50th anniversary, is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Main Image caption: Matthews Mee brought elegant sophistication to the ‘Anne Boleyn Wing’ in Hever Castle, Kent, with Hamilton’s Hartland CFX® decorative plates in a Richmond Bronze finish. This renovation of the five-star period property aimed to bring together historical elements, modern comforts and contemporary style.

     

    Design-led NHow Hotel to arrive in London in Summer 2019

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    nhow London will be a disruptive twist on traditional British icons…

    Designed by Project Orange, the 190-key nhow London will arrive in the British capital in summer 2019. Located between Islington and Shoreditch within the ‘250 City Road’ development designed by acclaimed architectural firm Foster + Partners, the four-star hotel will be NH Hotel Group’s second property in the UK.

    Under the theme ‘London Reloaded’, the design will combine traditional British icons with unconventional contemporary elements.

    Image credit: Project Orange

    Traditional icons meet street art

    A ‘Big Ben’ rocket sculpture will be one of the lobby’s most striking elements. Eclectic ensembles of colourful furniture on ‘pixelated’ carpets will invite guests to unwind, while an installation made from wooden boards around an LED fireplace creates a relaxing atmosphere.

    “Visitors will find themselves immersed in a world of art and design that tells a story and engages the senses.”

    The restaurant, The Bell, will be an avant-garde version of a traditional British pub, with green leather seating coiling through the room and tables featuring cockney rhyming slang. Huge gold bell lights, a reminder of the city’s famous church bells, will softly light the space. In contrast, the central pillar will feature a pixelated LED grid generating ever-changing moving images.

    “As a vibrant, international metropolis, London is the perfect location for a nhow hotel,” said Maarten Markus, Managing Director Northern Europe of NH Hotel Group. “Cosmopolitan cities are inherently dynamic, ceaselessly producing new cultural, social and artistic trends. Our nhow hotels are an expression and measure of this dynamic. nhow London will reflect both the industrial past and technological future of its location and will become a creative hub for the neighbourhood.”

    Expect the unexpected

    In keeping with the other hotels under the nhow brand, guests will enjoy surprising and unconventional details and services. Architect James Soane from Project Orange explains: “nhow London will have a unique interior concept, perfectly tailored to its location. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a world of art and design that tells a story and engages the senses; a dynamic melting pot created to surprise and inspire the guests.”

    image credit: Project Orange

    Colourful textures will confront contemporary art in the rooms, creating an unforgettable version of London. Punk will meet high tech style, while graffiti will appear alongside unconventional images of past monarchs.

    NH Hotel Group is breaking new ground with its nhow hotels, combining the contemporary architecture and designs of renowned trendsetters such as Matteo Thun (nhow Milano), Rem Koolhaas (nhow Rotterdam/nhow Amsterdam RAI), Karim Rashid (nhow Berlin) and Teresa Sapey (nhow Marseille) with urban trends. nhow hotels shape their surroundings with their striking designs, becoming hotspots and destinations for travellers and locals alike.

    In devising the design concept for each nhow hotel, NH Hotel Group works with Enrique Tellechea, founder of the branding consultancy The Null, who is working top-down on the brand’s construction. Nothing at a nhow hotel is preordained. Everything is unexpected, iconic, inspirational and surprising, from the lobby to the rooms, the restaurants, the corridors, the meeting rooms and the creative spaces. The nhow experience is unique for each guest but has the ‘wow’ factor in common. Located in key urban areas undergoing a transformation, nhow hotels quickly become landmarks for self-discovery, experimentation and creativity.

     

    Leading integrated design firm predicts 2019 design trends

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    WATG’s Muriel Muirden, Executive Vice President and Global Director of Strategy, forecasts the top hospitality and design trends to look out for in 2019…

    WATG, which has been breaking ground on the hotel design scene for more than 73 years, has revealed its forecast of the hospitality and design trends for 2019. As another year ends, and 2019 beckons, Muriel Muirden, Executive Vice President and Global Director of Strategy, shares the top trends in the hospitality and travel sectors, that will be shaping the year ahead, including women-only journeys, ‘Voluntourism’, the return of ‘Slow Travel’ and hyper-personalisation.

    Girl power

    Women are heading out of their comfort zone and seeking new high-octane adventures, including women-only journeys that empower and provide an opportunity to develop new skills and passions. This includes a growing interest in women-only ‘voluntourism’, that support local women in remote and undeveloped communities around the world. A 2018 survey of US women identified that 73 per cent of women felt that travel makes them stronger. Now, 75 per cent of cultural, adventure and nature travellers are female.

    The road more travelled

    By 2030 a mind-boggling 1.8 billion tourists will be on their road to discovery, impacting on heritage icons, must-see cities and outstanding natural environments across the world. A key topic for the year ahead will be how to maximise economic benefits while managing environmental and social downsides everywhere from Maya Bay in Thailand to the Everglades National Park in Florida; this is a global dilemma. Dispersing travellers to new icons and managing flows will require new investment in infrastructure, tourism and hospitality assets and pioneering marketing. Hoteliers need to join forces with governments and have a strong voice in developing solutions and innovative strategies.

    It’s all about me

    Hyper-personalisation and the discovery of bespoke experiences will rise in 2019, as craving the unconventional and the dazzling Instagram moment will be rocket fuelled. From private dinners with influential local figures to obscure local festivals and events in breath-taking locations, the creation of the ‘one-of-a-kind’ will have strong resonance in the year ahead. Celebration travel will grow at a rapid pace and become stronger and more innovative in content.

    Back to the future

    In unsettled times, nostalgia comes back into vogue. In this uncertain and somewhat crazy world, we believe it is back to the future with strong growth in slow travel for 2019 – river cruises, railway journeys, and heritage hotels are all hot topics. Even in the much-stereotyped China market, we are seeing shiny modern hotels losing out to heritage hotels, reflecting a desire to understand and embrace history in a rapidly changing built environment.

    Refurbish, repurpose and recycle

    As the sharing and resale economy grows apace and we increasingly reject the built-in obsolescence of so much of what we buy, product designers are reassessing product lifespans. So, what are the implications for the hospitality sector? Could 2019 see the first refurbishment strategy where 100 percent of the redesign is built upon repurposed and recycled furniture and fittings? We know of more pipeline brands in concept evolution that will connect with the market through their eco-values.

    Other trends for the forthcoming year include brands facing an ‘Identity Crisis’, as well as consumer’s entering a period of ‘Food Fanaticism.’ Lastly, WATG highlights a trend in hotel resort’s landscape using colour therapy gardens to calm guests.

    Main image credit: King Abdullah Economic City/WATG

    Kaldewei produces more than 50,000 varieties of shower products

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    With 100 years of shower expertise, bathroom specialist Kaldewei prides itself on having a shower product for almost any design… 

    With consumers becoming more and more discerning with regard to modern bathroom design, shower design has taken somewhat of a leap forward recently and leading bathroom specialists are having to extend their portfolio arm to match. One of those leaders, which has collected more than 150 accolades because of its innovative design, is Kaldewei and has just announced that it produces more than 50,000 ways of designing the modern shower.

    Since the company launched its first shower, more than 60 years ago, it has continued to develop its ‘original shower’ made of steel enamel with new lines, features and system components. The focus of Kaldewei product developments, both in the past and present, has been for the benefit of the end user and the ease of assembly for plumbers. Today, the enamelled shower surface segment alone takes in ten model lines, five different surfaces, 34 colours and 57 different sizes across 50,000 exciting product versions made of superior Kaldewei steel enamel. From classic shower tray to absolutely flat floor-level enamelled shower surfaces, rectangular, square or specially shaped – Kaldewei delivers the right model of shower for bathrooms of every size and style, and, of course, the right assembly solution for every position in a room be it for a new-build or a refurbishment.

    “The trend for floor-level shower areas calls for systems that work well with minimal built heights.”

    Simple, flat, flexible: integrated system for every requirement

    These days shower solutions must not only be persuasive in terms of design but should also be able to respond flexibly to different installation situations. The trend for floor-level shower areas calls for systems that work well with minimal built heights. Kaldewei, not only meets the latest standards here, but actually sets them: with innovative combinations of shower surface, waste fitting and assembly systems that are easy and safe to install, allow extremely low built heights of just 61 millimetres and which, thanks to flexible variation options, can be integrated into every part of the room. The ESR II installation system and the KA 90 waste fitting, for instance, have demonstrated their practical benefits. Meticulously thought out down to the last detail and perfected over sixty years, complete solutions from Kaldewei offer flawless shower design.

    With a portfolio of more than 600 shower surfaces, washbasins and bathtubs, the premium manufacturer provides perfectly coordinated solutions for project business and private clients – featuring a uniform material throughout and harmonious design.

    Kaldewei is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Protocol’s Airwave furniture balances style, comfort and versatility

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    Montreal-based designer Charles Godbout has partnered with furniture Recommended Supplier Protocol to create Airwave for hotel communal areas…

    As a sector that is always having to be ahead of the hotel consumer curve – sometimes as much as five years ahead – the contract furniture market continues to push design boundaries in order to balance ergonomic design with style.

    Meanwhile, designers look towards the leading suppliers in this sector to establish which products and models will suit the modern hotel lobby.

    Image credit: Protocol

    Cue the launch of Airwave by Protocol, which is an exciting new modular seating solution that has been designed in collaboration with award-winning interior designer Charles Godbout. AirWave’s design embraces the balance between style, comfort and versatility and can be configured for use in all contract environments including hotel lobbies, corporate offices, universities and even airport lounges.

    “The backs and sides of the high and low models combine to create various patterns of sinusoidal curves.”

    The seating range starts with simple ottomans and benches that can be arranged in a linear or curved series, followed by endless possible configurations of single and double seats. The backs and sides of the high and low models combine to create various patterns of sinusoidal curves, allowing you to optimise the floor space, creating either communal or private environments.

    The option to include wireless mobile charging, USB-A, USB-C and UKF sockets brings this solution to the forefront of power-enabled seating.

    The AirWave models can be customised in several different fabric options and it can be upholstered in co-ordinating or contrasting colours to suit each designer’s scheme.

    Protocol is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Main image credit: Protocol

    Hyatt Regency Seattle opens as largest hotel in the Pacific Northwest

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    For Hyatt Hotels, size matters as it opens the new full-serve hotel which shelters more than 1,200 guestrooms, three dining experiences and 103,000 square feet of meeting and event space… 

    Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Seattle, which is now the largest hotel in the Pacific Northwest. With its sprawling, dynamic event space – not to mention the number of guestrooms – the hotel joins two other Seattle-area Hyatt Regency properties.

    The 45-storey hotel features 1,260 guestrooms, all of which are furnished with floor-to-ceiling windows, sizeable modern bathrooms, 65-inch TVs and a collection of black-and-white photography, shot by six Seattle-based photographers, highlighting the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest region. The hotel also provides guests with a StayFit® Fitness Centre, outfitted with Peloton bikes and other Technogym state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment, and an expansive Hyatt Regency Club lounge with fire pits and wraparound patio that provides guests with stellar views of downtown Seattle.

    Located just two short blocks from the Washington State Convention Center and adjacent to The Summit, the planned convention centre expansion building slated to open Spring 2022, Hyatt Regency Seattle offers more than 103,000 square feet of dynamic meeting and event space for a variety of gatherings, ranging from intimate meetings to larger conferences and weddings.

    “Upon arriving, guests will notice the bright, open, and contemporary design.”

    “Progress is all around us,” says Hyatt Regency Seattle General Manager Tom Wolf. “No other addition to Seattle’s vastly updated cityscape is more important for Seattle tourism than the new, very visible contemporary building right in the middle of town: Hyatt Regency Seattle. With the opening of the largest hotel in the Pacific Northwest this year, Seattle will finally have the meeting space options it needs.”

    Image credit: LMN Architects

    Built by local developer R.C. Hedreen Company, in collaboration with Seattle-based companies LMN Architects and Sellen Construction Group, the new hotel features elements that celebrate the Pacific Northwest region and can be seen throughout the property’s guestrooms and public spaces. Upon arriving, guests will notice the bright, open, and contemporary design, matched with floor-to-ceiling windows to let in as much natural light as possible, and purposefully selected, locally inspired art and photography.

    “LMN believes that architecture celebrates the inherent qualities of the region, community and site.”

    R.C. Hedreen Company successfully builds and operates hotels in Seattle, and its portfolio includes Grand Hyatt Seattle and Hyatt Olive 8. To leave a lasting impact on the Pacific Northwest region with Hyatt Regency Seattle, the local companies who understand Seattle real estate were brought in to collaborate, design and build the impressive sky-high hotel. LMN believes that architecture celebrates the inherent qualities of the region, community and site. Any new building functions in relationship to the fabric of its physical location and community of users, as well as its social, cultural and environmental context. Sellen is Seattle’s premiere builder – building communities, relationships and of course most of the significant buildings in town.

    Additionally, Hyatt Regency Seattle is targeting LEED Gold Certification in 2019, which is the second highest green building rating in the world. As part of their efforts, Hyatt Regency Seattle has incorporated many sustainable elements into its guest amenities and overall design, including:

    • Premium large-format bath amenities in each guestroom bathroom, saving more than one million plastic bottles in waste.
    • Installing a light-colored roof to reduce the urban heat-island effect.
    • Incorporating a highly efficient laundry system that captures both heat and water after use to reduce the need for additional energy to preheat incoming water to the laundry system.

    Main image credit: LMN Architects

    Ginger debuts brand’s new interior scheme in Goa

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    India has never seen anything like the new interior scheme that has been unveiled at Ginger Panjim in Goa… 

    Ginger, part of the newly branded IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited), will introduce the lean luxe segment, the first of its kind in India, with the first prototype hotel being Panjim Goa.

    The new identity of Ginger presents a co-existence of contrasts through re-imagined spaces, blurring the lines of work and play and bringing together a fusion of global and local experiences that are vibrant, quirky, intuitive and smart.

    The redesigned spaces will bring together attractive public areas as well as spots designed for solitude, allowing the smooth transition from one to the other. They come alive with vivacious high energy global music and unique artwork installations. The all-day diner Café Et Cetera offers comfort food and doubles up as a personal workstation.

    “The Ginger brand journey is aligned to Aspiration 2022 that defines a brandscape that addresses diverse customer segments and price points,” said Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of The Indian Hotels Company Limited.“It will be an important growth vehicle for the company and we are looking at quickly scaling up the brand to a large number of hotels across India.”

    The service style of Ginger is designed around the on-the-go lifestyle of the target audience enabling them to do more whether it is on-the-go breakfast, express laundry service or quick munch snack bars.

    Deepika Rao, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ginger said: “The brand is slated to appeal to an on-the-go lifestyle and is anchored in the idea of seamlessness, facilitating a ‘never stop’ lifestyle. Ginger will now be an aspirational hotel chain that is also surprisingly affordable.”

    The company has received overwhelming interest from the hotel development community and has signed six new hotels already in this financial year taking the portfolio to 56 hotels, the highest in its competition set. The new openings in the next two quarters will be in Madgaon in Goa, Patna, Sanand, Surat, and Visakhapatnam.

    All image credits: Ginger Hotels

    Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to expand in Dubai

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    The hotel chain giant is expected to open a further three hotels in Dubai…

    Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with a large global presence of more than 9,000 hotels across more than 80 countries, is set to increase its footprint in Dubai with three new managed hotels as part of the Deira Waterfront Development by Ithra Dubai, a wholly owned subsidiary of Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD). The hotels will operate under the Wyndham, Days by Wyndham, and Super 8 by Wyndham brands.

    Also known as the Deira Enrichment Project, Ithra Dubai’s development is a mixed-use area situated along the Dubai creek in the southern part of Deira. Communal facilities, public amenities and open spaces will create a dynamic urban community along the shores of the Dubai Creek and will deliver key commercial growth opportunities for the city. The addition of three new hotels to the first phase of the development will also draw domestic and international business and leisure visitors looking for accommodation suited to a range of budgets.

    “We are very excited to welcome Wyndham Hotels & Resorts as a partner of our flagship development in Deira,” said Issam Galadari, Director and CEO of Ithra Dubai. “Ithra Dubai’s development in Deira will enhance this busy and bustling part of Dubai, and will add to its rich tapestry woven by communities past and present. The collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts will bring a new dimension to the area’s hospitality services, and will elevate and facilitate new pathways for trade and business in the heart of Dubai’s commercial district.”

    “The 282 rooms and suites at Wyndham Deira Waterfront will appeal to upscale travellers.”

    “The addition of three of our most iconic global brands to this important area demonstrates Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to Dubai and the Middle East region as a whole,” said Ignace Bauwens, Regional Vice President for Middle East, Eurasia and Africa, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.“Together with Ithra Dubai, we know we can preserve the heritage of the area whilst still meeting the needs of the modern traveller and contributing to growing the district’s commercial opportunity. Offering three very distinct hotel brands ranging from upscale to economy will also ensure the area holds great appeal for visitors to Dubai from many different source markets.”
    The 282 rooms and suites at Wyndham Deira Waterfront will appeal to upscale travellers looking for tailored services and amenities to match, with its extensive meeting, fitness and leisure facilities, including a rooftop pool with views over the Gulf.

    Days Hotel Deira Waterfront will give midscale travellers a fresh burst of energy with its 131 quality rooms and suites, as well as an all-day dining restaurant and meeting facilities.

    Through its network of over 798,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveller, Wyndham commands a leading presence in both the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry.

     

    Great Hotels of the World sees increased investment over next two years

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    The increased investment comes after Great Hotels of the World was recently acquired by GuestCentric… 

    Great Hotels of the World (GHOTW), which includes in its collection properties such as Atlantis The Palm Dubai and Altis Belém Hotel & Spa, will receive more than €3,000,000 investment over the next two years.

    GHOTW is a well-established sales and marketing hotel representation company for upscale independent hotels, specialising in the business travel and MICE market.  Following GuestCentric’s full acquisition of the brand, GHOTW now provides unparalleled access to technology, and high-tech, high-touch experiences to its member hotels across the world.

    GuestCentric’s investment will be focused in enhancing GHOTW’s presence in the bleisure market. The GHOTW portfolio includes 60 hotels in prime locations, with an average of 150+ bedrooms, and always with superb business and meeting facilities. Crucially, each hotel also has exceptional leisure and spa facilities, meaning they are perfectly positioned to target bleisure travellers.

    Image credit: GHOTW

    Since its founding in 2004, GHOTW has offered buyers the utmost in MICE offerings via its venue-searching services in particular, and member hotels have had the benefits of belonging to a larger soft-brand group while retaining individuality and autonomy. Now, members will have access to even more cutting-edge technology and services, following GuestCentric’s investment.

    Of the investment, President & CEO of GHOTW, Pedro Colaco, commented: “Following the full acquisition of GHOTW under GuestCentric, we are excited to be bringing together two likeminded brands who put technology and service at the forefront of business and bleisure travel. This renewed investment feels particularly relevant given the bleisure market now affects between half and two thirds of all business trips in the world’s main outbound markets; to stay at the forefront of this sector, we must continue our investment and grow the services as far as we can.”

    GHOTW has been providing its members with a globally recognised brand, best-in-class MICE Sales & Lead Generation and Corporate Sales & GDS Connectivity, for many years. Now, hotel members also have access to a cutting-edge digital suite that includes integrated Web Design, Booking Engine and Channel Manager. These services are offered in flexible and modular packages, so that members can commit only to the services relevant to their individual property.

    Main image credit: GHOTW

    Pantone’s colour of the year divides opinions

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    Will Pantone’s peachy orange, sunset-like colour of Living Coral raise awareness of global warming, or is this just another marketing ploy? Hamish Kilburn investigates… 

    Earlier last week, colour expert Pantone determined that 2019’s colour of the year will be Living Coral, or Pantone 16-1546. Since then, though, there have been suggestions that the peachy orange shade, which is a clear and defiant move away from this year’s colour of choice, Ultra Violet, has been compared to cheap bridesmaid dresses or budget toilet roll, as well as it being considered as 60 per cent of the world’s remaining reefs are now at risk of being destroyed by human activity.

    “While this year’s Ultra Violet shade evoked designers to feel at their boldest, Living Coral has been determined to layer a sense of calmness.”

    In the original press release, the company described the colour as an “animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energises and enlivens with a softer edge. Sociable and spirited, the engaging nature of Pantone 16-1546 Living Coral welcomes and encourages lighthearted activity.”

    While this year’s Ultra Violet shade evoked designers to feel at their boldest, Living Coral has been determined to layer a sense of calmness over interiors and expected to juxtapose the onslaught of digital technology and social media increasingly embedding into daily life.

    It seems as if the opinion to create a smoother and softer environment is shared by other predictions, such as Dulux which recently announced that its colour of 2019 is a shade called Spiced Honey.

    As some argue that one colour cannot resemble the current complex climate, others would argue that this bold marketing move has further raised awareness of one of the worst natural disasters happening in our oceans currently.

    What do you think, is the horizon looking peachy orange Living Coral to you? Tweet us with your thoughts using @hoteldesigns 

    Main image credit: YouTube/Pantone

     

     

     

    Hotel Elephant Weimar reopens to capture the property’s artistic and architectural heritage

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    Following an Extensive Renovation, Hotel Elephant Weimer Joins The brand’s portfolio of four independent hotels in Germany…

    Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s distinctive collection of passionately independent hotels, has revealed the latest addition to its portfolio with the reopening of Hotel Elephant Weimar following a nine month full renovation. The boutique hotel offers 99 guestrooms, all of which have been redesigned to capture the spirit of the property’s artistic and architectural heritage. Three elegant and spacious suites are named after art, literature and architectural luminaries that have previously stayed as guests, including Lyonel Feininger, Thomas Mann and Walter Gropius.

    Located in the city centre’s historical market square, the hotel has been a cultural hub for more than three centuries, known for its classic Art Deco and Bauhaus features.“We are thrilled to reintroduce one of Germany’s most historic hotels, uniting its rich history with an exceptional renovation,” said John Licence, Vice President Premium & Select Brands Europe at Marriott International. “Exactly like nothing else, this timeless hotel upholds Autograph Collection Hotels’ values of vision, design and craft.”

    “The colour palette throughout the property consists of rich, natural tones of grey, blue and dark emerald.”

    The unique design is a result of the creative collaboration of Bost Interior Design and DK Architekten, which draws upon 1920s elegance fused with an eclectic mix of iconic German structural design and modern flourishes. Taking inspiration from Germany’s leading literary figure, Goethe and his Theory of Colours, the colour palette throughout the property consists of rich, natural tones of grey, blue and dark emerald. While a thoughtfully curated collection of contemporary artwork adorns the hotel walls, the hotel is especially proud to be exhibiting works from leading German artists Georg Baselitz and Elvira Bach.

    Image credit: Autograph Collection Hotels

    Celebrated for its artistic and cultural heritage, the historic hotel remains the ultimate hub for city explorers and is situated a stone’s throw from the very best that Weimar has to offer. With 19 of the city’s sites listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage list and an array of cultural hotspots including the Classical Weimar ensemble, Herzogin Anna Amalia Library and the Memory of the World, guests can enlist the hotel’s in-house cultural concierge to make the most of their trip.

    The culinary highlight of the hotel is Restaurant AnnA, specialising in local, authentic cuisine in a stylish and contemporary setting.

    The Lichtsaal room, meanwhile, is situated at the heart of the hotel offering a cultural hub for guests and local residents to meet and enjoy the properties unique art collection as well as a curated programme concerts, readings and plays.

    A state-of-the-art sauna and fitness area will also be opening in February 2019. For meetings and events, the hotel provides 560m² of spacious and adaptable event and banquet space, accommodating up to 100 guests per room. Three unique meeting rooms filled with natural light are available to book, equipped with high-quality conference technology.

    Condé Nast Traveller reveals its editors’ all-time favourite hotels from around the world

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    As we prepare to wrap up another year of innovation, design and style, here are what our friends over at Condé Nast Traveller believe are the hotels to visit in 2019… 

    If there’s one thing we have learned in 2018, when it comes to predicting the next hotel design hotspot, it’s that location is everything. Towns, cities, villages – even islands – that evoke one-off experiences tend to become destinations that lend themselves naturally to luxury design-led hotels. We have seen this time and time again, which is why Africa for example has long been a destination that many hotel owners and chains have bookmarked for future development. The real task is designing the seamless link between the design of the hotel and its setting.

    With a recent survey suggesting that 95 per cent of consumers would rather spend money on an experience over product, it’s clear that designers, architects and hoteliers need to further consider location and how the property would blend into its surroundings. In order to establish, from a consumer point of view, which hotels are at the top of their game, we have peered over the fence to understand what our friends over in London’s Vogue House believe are the best hotels in the world.

    With 78 hotels ranging from game-changer Heckfield Place in Hampshire, to the romantic Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany, the nostalgic St. Regis New York and plenty to choose from in far-flung destinations, Condé Nast Traveller shines a rather bright and dynamic spotlight on the most wonderful places to stay next year with The Gold List 2019:

    UK

    Claridge’s, London
    Covent Garden Hotel, London
    The Kensington, London
    Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire:
    Lucknam Park, near Bath
    Heckfield Place, Hampshire

    Image credit: Firmdale Hotels

    EUROPE

    FRANCE

    Hôtel de Crillon, Paris
    La Réserve Paris
    Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes
    Les Fermes de Marie, Megève

    Image credit: Oetker Collection

    ITALY

    Aman Venice
    Belmond Hotel Caruso, Amalfi Coast
    Le Sirenuse, Positano
    JK Place Capri
    Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli, Lake Garda
    Castello di Vicarello, Tuscany
    Borgo Egnazia, Puglia
    Hotel Il Pellicano, Tuscany

    SPAIN

    Soho House Barcelona
    Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, Palma de Mallorca

    IRELAND

    Ballyfin

    GREECE

    Perivolas, Santorini

    CYRPUS

    Anassa Hotel

    DENMARK 

    Hotel Sanders, Copenhagen

    SWEDEN

    Ett Hem, Stockholm

    ICELAND

    Deplar Farm

    NORWAY

    The Thief, Oslo

    AFRICA & THE INDIAN OCEAN

     MOROCCO

    La Mamounia, Marrakech
    L’Hôtel Marrakech

    TANZANIA

    Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Grumeti

    SOUTH AFRICA

    Ellerman House, Cape Town

    Image credit: Ellerman House, Cape Town

    KENYA

    &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara

    BOTSWANA

    Jack’s Camp

    MALDIVES

    Amilla Fushi
    Soneva Fushi

    MAURITIUS

    One&Only Le Saint Géran

    SEYCHELLES

    Six Senses Zil Pasyon

     THE MIDDLE EAST

     OMAN

    Six Senses Zighy Bay

    Image credit: Six Senses

    DUBAI

    Bulgari Resort Dubai
    Madinat Jumeirah

    ASIA

    INDIA

    Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
    The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
    The Leela Palace New Delhi

    JAPAN

    Aman Tokyo

    Image credit: Aman Tokyo

    THAILAND

    Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
    The Siam, Bangkok

    CAMBODIA 

    Song Saa Private Island

    CHINA

    The Upper House, Hong Kong
    The Peninsula Shanghai
    The Opposite House, Beijing

    Image Credit: The Upper House, Hong Kong

    AUSTRALASIA & THE SOUTH PACIFIC

     NEW ZEALAND

    The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, North Island

    AUSTRALIA 

    Halcyon House, New South Wales

    FRENCH POLYNESIA

    The Brando

    SOUTH AMERICA & MEXICO

    BRAZIL 

    Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa, Trancoso
    Hotel Unique, São Paulo

    Image credit: Hotel Unique

    CHILIE 

    Awasi Atacama

    ARGENTINA

    Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt, Buenos Aires

    Image credit: Park Hyatt

    MEXICO

    Chablé, Yucatan
    Hotel Esencia, Quintana Roo

    NORTH AMERICA & CARIBBEAN

     USA

    The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel, New York
    The St. Regis New York
    The Carlyle, New York
    Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii
    Amangiri, Utah
    Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club, Miami
    Hotel Bel-Air, LA
    Sunset Tower Hotel, LA
    The Dewberry, Charleston
    The Robey Chicago
    Farmhouse Inn Sonoma
    Wynn Las Vegas
    The Peninsula Chicago

    Image credit: The Beekman, New York

    CANADA 

    Clayoquot, Vancouver Island

    THE CARIBBEAN

    GoldenEye, Jamaica
    Playa Grande Beach Club, Rio San Juan, Dominican Republic
    The Cotton House, Mustique
    COMO Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
    Bahama House, Harbour Island

    Image credit: COMO Hotels & Resort

    Through Condé Nast Traveller’s award-winning editorial team under Editor-in-Chief, Melinda Stevens, The Gold List 2019 provides inspiration and expert consumer advice for discerning travellers on where to stay. Hotel Designs will be following this in January with an editorial around the top hotel openings of 2019.

    Main image credit: Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club, Miami

    Hotel Indigo arrives in Manchester

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    The 187-key hotel will be situated in the stylish and ever-changing Manchester neighbourhood of the Northern Quarter… 

    Hotel Indigo® Manchester – Victoria Station has arrived, marking the brand’s debut in one of the UK’s largest cities, which was described earlier this year as a hive for hotel design. Famous for its cotton mills and its role in the industrial revolution, Manchester is a vibrant city that is rapidly expanding and regenerating, complementing its historical setting and its quirky contemporary feel.

    The new boutique hotel is located at the gateway to the Northern Quarter, which is described as Manchester’s creative heart. It is adjacent to Exchange Square, the city’s shopping district. Known for its bohemian bars and rustic charm, the Northern Quarter has a lively music scene, and includes bustling independent studios and shops. Guests can enjoy the laidback atmosphere come day and night, with a wide range of places to eat and drink.

    Hotel Indigo® Manchester – Victoria Station features 187 stylish guestrooms, with design inspired by Manchester’s rich and colourful history. The exterior of the hotel is a beautifully restored Grade II listed building, featuring an eye-catching contemporary tower, providing fantastic views of the city’s unmatched skyline.

    “We are truly proud to launch Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station. The hotel is situated in a prime location for those visiting Manchester and who wish to see and appreciate the city’s artistic side,” said James McDevitt, General Manager of the hotel. “Working with local designers, the interiors reflect the creative personality of the area, whilst reinforcing this first-class hotel we have created.”

    “Raw materials feature throughout the hotel, such as bare brick walls in the reception.”

    The hotel’s three room designs combine Manchester’s industrial past with modern luxury and style. Raw materials feature throughout the hotel, such as bare brick walls in the reception, complemented by iron pulleys and rope connecting to lights which have bespoke weaved baskets as shades.

    “Inspired by the neighbourhood around each property so just as no places are alike, no two Hotel Indigo properties are the same.”

    The guestrooms pay homage to Manchester’s cotton mill heritage by using rich, raw cotton on the bed, contrasting with green velvet, which gives the rooms an added sense of luxury. Drawing from Manchester’s literary and printing past, features also include lamps with books as stands and artwork in the form of metal lettering on the walls along with china pattern motifs which reference Manchester’s love of tea.

    Guestroom

    Image credit: Hotel Indigo, IHG

    The hotel features a restaurant and bar, Mamucium, headed by award-winning Mancunian chef Andrew Green. Named after the Roman fort that was the birthplace of modern Manchester, the 120-seat restaurant will serve a menu of classic, locally sourced food, topped off with a Northern spin. The venue’s centrepiece will be a stunning, silestone and brass bar area. There is also a cosy café, M Café, sheltered within the restored building.

    Inspired by the neighbourhood around each property so just as no places are alike, no two Hotel Indigo properties are the same. Each Hotel Indigo property features thoughtful design touches and vibrant restaurants and bars connected to the spirit of the local neighbourhood. There are currently 27 Hotel Indigo properties in Europe with another 17 due to open in the next three to five years.

    Main image credit: Hotel Indigo, IHG

     

    Lounge-800x532-768x511

    MINI VIEW: CANVAS Dallas Hotel reopens

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    The newly branded CANVAS has been reimagined by Studio 11 Design to paint a fresh industrial-chic perspective on the boutique hotel in Dallas that previously lacked colour and character… 

    Guests checking in to the newly launched CANVAS Hotel Dallas should expect color outside the lines as they enter into a space where art and hospitality collide to create dynamic and contemporary interiors.

    Formerly known as NYLO Dallas South Side, CANVAS Hotel Dallas is an art-centric base for modern trendsetters, an inspirational hub for relentless artisans, and a destination for locals to be creatively inspired while enjoying world-class dining and unparalleled skyline views.

    “CANVAS Dallas Hotel is a timely addition to the burgeoning district of South Dallas,” said Jack Matthews, president of Matthews Southwest, lead developer and co-owner. “With a prime location in the heart of the Cedars district, and in close proximity to downtown and the convention center,
    CANVAS is nestled in an eclectic neighborhood undergoing a renaissance in terms of culture, shopping, food, art, and music. This property is poised to be the destination of choice for modern travelers looking for an authentic Dallas experience that will inspire their creativity and satisfy their contemporary tastes.”

    “CANVAS paints a fresh perspective of its original building.”

    With 76 art-infused suites and guestrooms, CANVAS Hotel Dallas offers an authentic-yet unconventional Lone Star State adventure. As a blank slate for guests to create their own experiences, the rooms, suites, lobby area, and F&B outlets have been renovated and reimagined.

    The fresh interior design, décor and artistic elements directed by Dallas-based Studio 11 Design, CANVAS paints a fresh perspective of its original building, a structure integral to the history of South Dallas that is almost a century old, that has been well-preserved, refurbished and now LEED certified.

    Upon entering, guests are made to feel at home in the refreshed first-level lobby and restaurant with elements that portray a living room-feel. Intimate seating areas foster common social spaces in the eclectic industrial space, adorned with locally discovered and bespoke accessories from the Dallas area. The restaurant’s dining area converts into flexible meeting space, divided by a sliding glass partition.

    The guestrooms and suites feature quirky, loft-style design and décor, with 10-12 foot high ceilings, pressed concrete flooring, exposed brick, and funky industrial elements and fixtures. New custom carpeting, two lighting and art has been installed in all public areas and guest hallways, and the lobby has been reconfigured to be more conducive to social gatherings, common work areas and meeting the needs of the modern hotel guest. More room renovations are slated for 2019.

    From palette to palate, CANVAS Hotel Dallas brings two art-inspired restaurants and lounges to the South Side of Dallas. Chef’s Palette is the redesigned first-level lounge and restaurant where every plate is a tasteful expression of culinary creation.

    Meanwhile, the rooftop bar formerly known as SODA has been redesigned and renamed The Gallery Rooftop Lounge. The indoor/outdoor lounge offers a sweeping 270-degree view of the Dallas skyline, but the vista isn’t the only masterpiece at The Gallery. From chef-centric food offerings, to handcrafted cocktails and eclectic art by up-and-coming Dallas artists, everything at The Gallery Rooftop Lounge is an ode to originality.

    Whether guests are experiencing the hotel for the first time or whether they are locals enjoying the sharp and quirky public areas, the whole hotel has been lifted and redesigned to inspire. CANVAS Hotel Dallas will officially open on January 1, 2019.

     

    Wilton Carpets launches a creation of colours

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    The new colours are now available on all Ready to Weave carpets and Ready to Go fast-track collections…

    Featuring the Icelandic blue of Fjord, rich ochre of Demerara, rust tone of Burnt Copper and velvet-like Ruby; Creations is the latest colour palette now available on all Ready to Weave carpets and new Ready to Go fast-track collections from Wilton Carpets.

    A ranging, lively colourbank that has been developed to provide depth to accommodate hotel and hospitality interiors of all kinds, Creations encompasses functional, workman base tones and gorgeous radiating highlights. Bringing a sense of vitality and spirit to any traditional or modern design, the palette provides complement and contrast enough to create beautiful colourways on even the most complex of patterns.

    Rooted in the latest commercial interior trends, Creations can now be enjoyed on any of Ready to Weave collection, bringing fast semi-bespoke design to hotels, pubs and leisure venues. In these locations, base Gun Metal, Black, Jade and Granite can be combined with flashes of Fjord, Pebble, Demerara, Burnt Copper, Karma and Lime Zest to stunning effect.

    The first Ready to Go collection featuring Creations is also now available in the brand-new Havana, a narrowloom woven axminster available in 10 incredible fusionist designs that artfully blend layers of abstract pattern and familiar floral and geometric motifs.

    Dominated by the rich blues of Jade and Fjord with accents from Karma, Pebble and Burnt Copper, Havana’s enticingly named designs are inspired by cocktails with Pina Colada, Bellini, Black Velvet and Mint Julep, among others, reimagining themselves in the beautiful patterns and combinations throughout the collection.

    Woven in Wiltshire, Havana is crafted from 80 per cent pure new wool and 20 per cent nylon to provide an obtainable, long-lasting blend in an all-round seven-row quality perfect throughout corridors, lounge areas and busy bars.

    Wilton Carpets is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

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    Spotlight On: A Year in Review – top products launched in 2018 (Part 2)

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    Continuing this month’s Spotlight On feature on ‘A Year In Review’ (Products of the year 2018), we have highlighted what we believed to have been the game-changing product launches of 2018. Here is part two of our ultimate throwback…

    Following popular demand of our first article that we published on the top products that have launched in 2018, we have decided to revisit the archive to dig out the many other game-changing product launches of the year.

    1) Grohe: Is this the future of hotel toilets? (Recommended Supplier)

    Image credit: Grohe

    Since launching, GROHE Sensia Arena with its app-control features and three different spray patterns is becoming a popular choice among designers and hoteliers. Defined by GROHE as ‘new standard of personal hygiene’, The Sensia Arena (showcased at SLEEP + EAT) is a shower toilet, fast-becoming increasingly popular in international hotels thanks to its many unique features.

    2) Skopos: Mau Loa 

    Image credit: Skopos

    Mau Loa adds to the Skopos print portfolio and was seen on exhibition stands throughout Autumn and Winter.

    Inspired by the relaxing pace of Hawaiian life, Mau Loa (meaning ‘forever’) conveys a tranquil, exotic paradise through exquisite illustration, hand painting and mixed media.

    3) Meystyle LED wallpaper (WINNER: The Brit List 2018)

    Image credit: Meystyle

    Wallpaper specialist Meystyle launched the Conductivity collection with the mission to rescue walls from the background. The company has done this by integrating bold patterns with LED lights and crystals to create deep visual experiences that totally transform walls and wallpaper into works of art. The sister duo went on to win Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology at The Brit List 2018.

    4) Interface go carbon neutral on all products

    Image credit: Interface

    We love a juicy eco story here at Hotel Designs, so when we heard that contract carpet manufacturer Interface was going 100 per cent carbon neutral we hit the keyboard fast to amplify to our readers. Considering there is a major focus at the moment on manufacturing eco-friendly materials, this story has to land on our list of the top product launches and announcements in 2018.

    5) Morgan: Rio 2 collection (Recommended Supplier)

    Image credit: Morgan

    Contract furniture designer and manufacturer Morgan Furniture launched its new Rio 2 collection, created in collaboration with studio Integrate, at Sleep + Eat this year. Ahead of its launch, we had exclusive access to interview the architect behind the futuristic product, Mehran Gharleghi.

    6) Wilton Carpets: Kinetic Collection (Recommended Supplier)

    Image credit: Wilton Carpet

    Full of energy and design, Kinetic from Wilton Carpets features striking modern patterns made for forward-thinking leisure and hospitality spaces. Using colourways drawn from the manufacturer’s new Creations colour palette, Kinetic is bursting with dynamic shades of grey, blue and green.

    7) Kaldewei: Steel Enamal (Recommended Supplier)

    Image credit: Kaldewei

    Bathroom specialist Kaldewei fuses robust steel and exquisite glass together to create superior Kaldewei steel enamel. Bringing 100 years of experience to bear, the company today produces premium bathroom solutions made of a single material to a consistently high standard of quality that are appreciated all over the world.

    To read part one of our ultimate throwback, click here. 

    Main image credit: Meystyle

    Inside the London guestroom designed to resemble the womb

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    Design-led serviced apartments Cuckooz has collaborated with designers and sleep experts to launch the sleeping experience like no other… in the womb… 

    Launching today, Cuckooz has opened unlocked to a new sleeping experience by launching a guestroom that has been designed to resemble the womb.

    The nine-month project, which resulted in The Zed Room being opened, was inspired by the safety and ‘snugness’ of the womb and comes complete with muted lighting, soft-pink walls and a high-tech mattress.

    The aim of the collaboration between Cuckooz, Simba and Studio Stilton was to deliver a home away from home designed around the pursuit of sleep excellence by tackling the ‘first night effect’. The first night effect is a natural reaction discovered by scientists over a decade ago whereby one half of the brain acts as a ‘night watchman’ in unfamiliar surroundings – resulting in a poor night’s rest.

    Located in Shoreditch, the Zed Rooms have been designed with experts meticulously developing the state-of-the-art boutique apartments using insights rooted in the science of sleep.

    Designed to encourage REM-rich slumber – the type of sleep which increases brain activity, promotes learning and creates dreams, the rooms engage with every sensorial touchpoint of the body; constructing a holistic ecosystem that enhances sleep from the moment guests step through the door, helping them to power down, recharge and fight fatigue.

    “The disruption of the accommodation sector, how we travel, where we stay and what we accept as the norm when spending time away from home has been a long time coming,” said co-founder of Cuckooz, Fabienne O’Neill.” At Cuckooz we strive to be at the forefront of innovation within the hospitality sector and to push the boundaries when it comes to guest experience. Design and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do, which is why the collaboration with Simba and Studio Stilton was such a natural progression for us.”

    Image credit: Simba/Cuckooz/ Billy Bolton

    Inside the womb

    Each apartment has two rooms – the ‘Woom’ and ‘Loom’ Rooms. The Woom Room features an intricate cocoon-like bed which has been designed to mimic the safety and security of a womb, so guests sleep like a baby. The Loom Room is home to a snug four poster bed, designed for dreaming and draped with luxurious ethereal fabrics. Both rooms come complete with award-winning Hybrid mattress and temperature regulating pillows & duvets, to create a cosy retreat in which to escape the world, much like the home.

    Muted lighting, opulent blackout blinds and sound absorbing curtains help to promote positivity and relaxation while muting the brains ‘red alert’ status in a new environment. Luxurious ethereal fabrics compliment artwork scented with fresh linen and the rooms are decked out with miniatures from Neom, a London-based fragrance company dedicated to wellbeing. Their ‘Scent to Sleep’ range uses a blend of 19 essential oils – including English lavender, sweet basil and jasmine – to help guests drift off.

    “The sleep science isn’t confined to the bedroom. The living area has also been designed to put guests on the right track for a great night’s sleep.”

    If that wasn’t enough, each of the serviced-apartments feature: restorative scents and colours that relax muscles, invoke calm and mimic the moonlight; air cleansing soporific plants to eliminate toxins; cutting-edge home automation and electronics designed to keep guest’s body clocks operating naturally and healing background harmonies to calm the automatic nervous system, the endocrine and psychological stress response.

    Image credit: Simba/Cuckooz/ Billy Bolton

    The sleep science isn’t confined to the bedroom. The living area has also been designed to put guests on the right track for a great night’s sleep.

    “Sleep is an all-encompassing experience and every element matters. The Zed Rooms are an elaborate infrastructure of symbiotic components, geared entirely to honing quality sleep,” said sleep psychologist at Simba, Hope Bastine.

    The furniture’s rounded edges and softened corners mimic the sensation of bed, and the rocking chairs are on hand to lull guests into a relaxed state of mind. The prints on the walls have also been chosen to be inspirational dream fodder and the Penthouse terrace comes complete with yoga mats, meditation sessions via the iPad’s Calm app and naked light bulbs to create a sense of simplicity.

    Providing serviced accommodation goes far beyond a place to rest guests’ heads at night, it provides a comfortable, personalised option for those who simply don’t want to compromise the quality of their life style despite spending days, weeks even months away from home at a time, and that’s what we wanted to showcase with the Zed Rooms.

    Main image credit: Simba/Cuckooz/ Billy Bolton

    Scandic Hotels to expands with new design-led hotel in Munich

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    Scandic Hotels has signed a long-term lease agreement with developers Art-Invest Real Estate and Accumulata Real Estate regarding the operation of a new hotel, Scandic Munich Macherei…

    The largest hotel; company in the Nordic countries, Scandic Hotels, will operate the Scandic Munich Macherei, which is expected to open in 2021.

    The 234-key hotel will be part of the new area “Macherei”, which will undergo a total transformation, from current industry area to an urban and vibrant neighborhood with space for art and culture, modern offices and open meeting and communication zones. Scandic Munich Macherei is being designed by New York architects HWKN Hollwich Kushner and will be inspired by typical former developed industrial areas such as Brooklyn in New York.

    “Scandic Hotels currently has four hotels in operation in Germany.”

    “Scandic Munich Macherei is in line with Scandic’s strategy to expand in the largest cities in Germany. Munich is a sought-after city for hotel developments and we are proud to be part of this project that will further raise the awareness of Scandic in Germany,” says Even Frydenberg, President & CEO, Scandic Hotels Group.

    Scandic Hotels currently has four hotels in operation in Germany – two in Berlin, one in Hamburg and one in Frankfurt and a second Scandic hotel will also open 2021 in Frankfurt.

    “We believe that in Scandic we have found a perfect partner for this project. Scandic has a successful track record of operating prestigious hotels in Germany and will bring a new design edge to the city,” says Dr. Peter Ebertz at Art-Invest Real Estate. “We’re very happy to have entered this agreement and are hoping for future projects together.”

    Munich is the third largest city in Germany and a popular business location and financial centre.

    Scandic Hotels has 16,000 team members and a network of around 280 hotels in operation and under development in more than 130 destinations. Expanding to Munich confirms the company’s German focus and strategy and the new hotel will be an important addition to Scandic’s hotel portfolio.

    Marriott Hotels partner with LIFEWTR® in search for art and innovation

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    With a new app, guests checking in to Marriott Hotels will be able to customise their rooms virtually with art and they will be able to share their AR rooms on social media…  

    LIFEWTR® and Marriott Hotels have collaborated with the aim to bring more inspiration into the world through art and innovation, via new augmented reality (AR) in-room guest experience. As part of PepsiCo and Marriott International’s recent partnership renewal, LIFEWTR, the premium bottled water that exists to advance and showcase sources of art and creativity, is now the official in-room water for Marriott Hotels nationwide, encouraging guests to explore new worlds of creativity and inspiration within their Marriott Hotels guestroom.

    LIFEWTR and Marriott Hotels marry art and technology through a unique experience, where guests are encouraged to browse virtual artwork from LIFEWTR artists and transform the walls of their guest room according to their inspiration. The AR experience will be rolled out for guests in Marriott Hotels in the US throughout 2019.

    “LIFEWTR and Marriott Hotels are committed to advancing creativity and finding new and innovative ways to bring art to life,” said Stacy Taffet, Vice President, Water Portfolio, PepsiCo. “The collaboration allows us to take novel steps in a shared vision to provide guests a unique way to experience art and get even more art and innovation into the world via AR. LIFEWTR’s Series 7 bottles, which will be unveiled in early 2019, will further touch on this by supporting emerging creative talent who focus on art through technology.”

    “Guests can choose their LIFEWTR artwork and drag the artwork onto the virtual walls, or even color their own artwork to make the images their own.”

    “We are always looking for ways to engage and inspire our guests through innovative travel offerings, from the thoughtful design of our guest rooms to the enriching experiences we create with partners like LIFEWTR,” said Matthew Carroll, Vice President, Global Brand Management for Marriott Hotels. “With our latest AR venture, guests can enhance their stay with us by using technology and art to spark new ways of thinking – from there, the opportunities are endless.”

    How it works

    • Guests will receive a dose of inspiration by simply scanning a custom bottle tag on LIFEWTR bottles found in participating Marriott Hotels.
    • Users will be prompted to open the Facebook in-app camera for the AR experience to begin.
    • Once the code found on bottle tags is scanned, guests can customise their rooms virtually with an augmented reality art gallery available on their mobile device, featuring artwork from 18 LIFEWTR artists.
    • Guests can choose their LIFEWTR artwork and drag the artwork onto the virtual walls, or even color their own artwork to make the images their own.
    • They can then share photos of their unique décor with followers across social media directly within the application.

    For more information, please visit www.LIFEWTR.com and follow @LIFEWTR and @MarriottHotels using #UnlockingInspiration to join in on the conversation.

    Main image credit: Marriott Hotels

    Top 5 stories of the week: Festive interiors, predicting 2019’s colour trends and sleeping with the lions

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    From understanding Zimbabwe’s answer to luxury to finding the world’s best festive interiors, here are our top stories of the week…

    This week has been full of adventure in the Hotel Designs HQ. Not only did we published the highly anticipated hotel review on Matetsi Victoria Falls, but we also got into the spirit of the holidays by searching for hotels that are taking Christmas decorations to a whole new level. In between luxury and Christmas, we also managed to catch up one of our recommended suppliers in order to get their take on next year’s colour trends.

    Here are our top stories of the week:

    1) Checking in to Matetsi Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe’s answer to luxury

    Travelling 7,500 miles to Zimbabwe, on the search for luxury, I just happened to stumble into the award-winning Matetsi Victoria Falls. With expansion plans in the pipeline, here is my exclusive review on what I am calling Zim’s answer to luxury.

    2) 5 hotels taking the festive spirit to new heights this Christmas

    Unlike many industries, the hotel industry is one that gets little rest over the festive period. As soon as December strikes, marketing teams from the world’s most luxurious hotels take centre stage to present their properties in the best possible Christmas-themed light.

    From ice kingdoms to designer collaborations, here are our top picks of the hotels that are showcasing the best winter stories this festive period.

    3) In Conversation With: BISQUE’s Ellie Sawdy on 2019 colour trends

    Ever since Bisque first came on our radar, we have been impressed with how the company has taken a very practical – and historically mundane – item and used it to lift a whole interior space. The brand’s marketing manager, Ellie Sawdy, talks us through major colour trends, radiator pitfalls and 2019 surprises…

    4) Former 1920s bank in Zagreb opens as new luxury hotel

    Working in collaboration with project developers Ugo Group Zagreb, London-based design firm HBA London has converted a heritage property dating back to 1923 into a boutique hotel full of residential charm and sense of place.

    5) Goettsch Partners completes Colombia’s first Grand Hyatt

    Architecture firm Goettsch Partners has announced the completion of the Grand Hyatt Bogotá, a new, 372-key hotel complex with a 230-foottall elliptical tower marking the symbolic centre of an 18-building commercial complex.

    If you would like to be kept up to date with the latest happenings and news in international hotel design, subscribe to receiving our newsletter here.

    Savoy Palace slated to open in Funchal in summer 2019

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    With the aim to open a ‘modern take on an island steeped in history and tradition’, the only Leading Hotels of The World property in Madeira is expected to open in June 2019…

    A new member of the Leading Hotels of the World, which expected to open in June 2019 in Madeira, is already being donned a ‘game changer for the destination’ in relation to its contemporary luxury hotel offerings.

    Savoy Palace, a 16-storey, 352-key resort will unveil stunning Atlantic Ocean and garden views with striking design that will balance bold, modern and historical styles throughout.

    The resort will shelter an 11-room destination spa inspired by the island’s Laurissilva Forest, as well as five restaurants and bars, a kid’s club, numerous impressive swimming pools and a ‘boutique-hotel-within-a-hotel’ offering an exclusive panoramic space for suite guests.

    The bold, curved structure of the building has been designed by the award-winning team RH+ and Nini Andrade Silva, one of Portugal’s most famous interior designers, whose work includes the new W São Paulo and Nini Design Centre Funchal.

    “Entering the hotel will be like exploring a poetic world.”

    The overall concept is influenced by the Belle Epoque period, which is in harmony with the island’s rich resources; a dynamic blend of natural and cultural heritage. Entering the hotel will be like exploring a poetic world, complete with a mix of colours, textures and iconic ornaments and objects.

    The aesthetics will reference a number of elements echoing further its sense of place, such as the exuberant surrounding volcanic landscape, the unique man-made environment with ancient levadas (irrigation channels) and tunnels, the excellence and mastery of Madeiran embroidery, the centuries-old art of wickerwork, and the expertise involved in the productions of one of the best fortified wines in the world, Madeira wine.

    The resort’s common areas will be bold and inspirational with the emphasis on colour, sinuous curves suggesting plant forms, animals and women, as well as ornaments based on Art Nouveau.

    The guestrooms and suites at Savoy Palace will all include balconies, with distinct leisure and office areas, striking contemporary interiors, customised fabrics and made-to-measure furniture.

    The well-appointed and elegantly furnished rooms range from 40 to 260 square metres, characterised by exclusive and refined interiors, where quality and detail are at the forefront. There will be a wide range of suites for guests to choose from, some with their own swimming pools, and an impressive presidential suite with sweeping views. The resort will also include 226 apartments.

     The design of the 3000 sqm spa is inspired by the Laurissilva Forest, which remains the largest surviving laurel forest in the world. The spa houses 11 treatment rooms, sauna, Turkish bath, jacuzzi, ice fountain, sensory showers, halo-therapy room, relaxation room, champagne and nails bar, beauty salon and heated indoor pool.

    The main event space will be an 928 square metre multifunctional room, which will be, if required, able to divide into three rooms, with a maximum capacity for 1,300. There will also be five rooms of 48 square metres each and a lobby with a bar for group receptions.

    The opening of the hotel will indicate that the history of Savoy Hotels & Resorts is being reinvented but the goals remain the same: consolidating and projecting the centuries-old tradition and excellence of the Savoy brand at an international level.

    Goettsch Partners completes Colombia’s first Grand Hyatt

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    The Grand Hyatt hotel is “positioned as the crown jewel” of an 18-building commercial complex between the historic centre and airport and adds to the firm’s 30-plus hospitality works globally…

    Architecture firm Goettsch Partners has announced the completion of the Grand Hyatt Bogotá, a new, 372-key hotel complex with a 230-foottall elliptical tower marking the symbolic centre of an 18-building commercial complex. The new hotel, replete with helipad for visiting dignitaries, has debuted this fall as one of South America’s preferred destinations and accommodations. The Grand Hyatt Bogotá also signals another landmark addition to the extensive portfolio of hospitality architecture by Goettsch Partners – known globally as GP – spanning 30-plus major hotel projects and more than 50 million square feet of facilities on three continents.

    The project is the second for Goettsch Partners (GP) in South America, following the successful Grand Hyatt São Paulo in Brazil, which opened more than 15 years ago. The new project, developed by the Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo Organization and positioned by operator Hyatt Hotels Corporation as the premier hotel in the city and the first Grand Hyatt in Colombia, has paired architect GP with Chilean interior design firm Studio Echeverría Edwards. The architect of record and general contractor is Construcciones Planificadas, and GP collaborated with an international team of engineers and consultants, including a bioclimatic expert.

    “This new hotel complex represents an exceptional opportunity to create a singular and completely modern touchstone in South America to draw both international travelers and dignitaries as well as Colombian businesspeople and families looking for the finest experience — and the largest ballroom — available in Bogotá,” says Travis Soberg, AIA, LEED AP, principal and director of sustainable design for GP.

    “The Grand Hyatt Bogotá’s curving glass walls employ robust double glazing and a highly insulated envelope.”

    Designed to anchor the business district called Ciudad Empresarial Sarmiento Angulo and to integrate with its glass-and-steel office blocks set against the scenic mountain Monserrate, the Grand Hyatt Bogotá stands out in Colombia for its modern expression and incorporates leading-edge technology and design ideas. Unique to the region, the hotel is wrapped in a precision-engineered, blueglass curtain wall and detailed with wood millwork — both from Spain — as well as imported fabricated stone, among other high-end components.

    Image credit: James Steinkamp Photography courtesy Goettsch Partners

    The Grand Hyatt Bogotá’s curving glass walls employ robust double glazing and a highly insulated envelope, ensuring quiet guestrooms and other interior areas, says Soberg. A three-story podium clad in warm stone, natural wood, bronze-toned metals and glass wraps the lobby, restaurants and other amenities, offering views into the hotel and through to the commercial area’s central paseo, or walkway, from the adjoining neighborhood. Outdoor dining and gathering areas connect the hotel to the paseo’s pedestrian life, creating an active urban space and inviting atmosphere.

    “We have the best hotel in Colombia, an example of what can be achieved when things are thoughtfully considered,” the project’s leader and backer, businessman Dr. Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo, announced at the ribbon-cutting. “Today we deliver this Grand Hyatt as a world-class project.” Inside, the hotel complex opens to a dramatic atrium, leading to 30,000 square feet of meeting and event space, two signature restaurants, a bar and coffee shop, as well as a fitness center, pool and full-service spa. The ballroom is the largest regionally, according to the developers. “The taut, reflective glass façade heralds the arrival of the modern and progressive city of Bogotá,” says architect Michael F.Kaufman, AIA, LEED AP, partner-in-charge at GP. “Its design acknowledges the hotel’s role in this growing business district while gesturing to the city center and offering guestroom views to Bogotá’s downtown.”

    Main image credit: Goettsch Partners

    Former 1920s bank in Zagreb opens as new luxury hotel

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    Amadira Park Capital in Zagreb has been sensitively created by interior design firm HBA London…

    Working in collaboration with project developers Ugo Group Zagreb, London-based design firm HBA London has converted a heritage property dating back to 1923 into a boutique hotel full of residential charm and sense of place.

    The new hotel, which was previously a bank, is located on the important thoroughfare of Jurisiceva Street. The property’s bespoke interiors combine the original and the new with a deft touch, embracing the building’s historic character as a significant example of Secessionist architecture and translating this into interiors that are light, fresh and elegant with a touch of romanticism.

    “The colour palette is reminiscent of the charming rooftops of old Zagreb.”

    The public areas take meaning from Gesamtkunstwerk, meaning that they are a work of art that makes use of many artforms. These include the original, classically carved mahogany-clad columns which were removed during construction and then reinstated, as well as listed ceiling features, light fittings and magnificent arched windows. The interiors also feature new pieces that reflect the influences of 20th-century design, such as softly draped curtains and a variety of seating collections, and some restored antique furniture discovered in the building, now joined by new seating, including plush banquettes.

    Planned as a series of rooms, the public areas reinforce the suggestion of a private home overlaid with something of the winter garden, thanks to high ceilings, touches of Viennese-style detailing and an abundance of large pot plants. The colour palette is thoughtful, too, to the hotel’s location and are reminiscent of the charming rooftops of old Zagreb.

    The lobby area has the ambiance of a refined and intimate parlour. The two small reception desks, for example, would be equally at home in a private residence. The soft colour palette begins here in reception, combining pale blue and greys with crystal and satin gold – and behind the desks’ custom-designed sliding doors with panels of opaque and patterned glass obscure the bar beyond.

    “This has been a very special project because the client gave us creative free rein to think afresh and design a hotel that is different for Zagreb,” said HBA London’s Creative Director, Constantina Tsoutsikou who last month was confirmed as the headline speaker of IDAS. “We were blessed with the Secessionist and Art Nouveau heritage, and this lovely period for design infuses the new interiors which are fresh, playful and a little magical within a sometimes imposing architectural form. There will be something of a Croatian fairy tale to the guest experience.”

    The bar is glamorous, yet also of a residential scale; the epitome of the Secessionist soul. A marble-topped bar with a sculptural tiled front sits in the centre of the space under three beautiful contemporary chandeliers and an elegantly decorated ceiling which gives a nod to the building’s Art Nouveau inheritance. Guests can choose to either sip their cocktails perched on leather-upholstered bar stools or to relax in comfortable wicker armchairs.

    The café extends along one length of the façade and offers a variety of seating options from a marble-topped sharing table to deep armchairs arranged around low tables and dining tables with European brasserie style dining chairs. The colour palette is of soft green and yellow, velvets, trims and patterns predominate in the upholstery and there are multiple floor-standing pots containing large vertiginous plants. The café also doubles up as the hotel’s main event space with heavy velvet curtains that can be drawn across for privacy and carefully integrated technology.

    “The original mahogany cladding of the old banking hall is imposing but softened by delicate original wall lights.”

    Overscaled illustrations in the café are by David Doran, and the central artwork in the dining room is by the young Croatian artist, Mario Matakovic, who repurposes his old work into new compositions with an original aesthetic – a fitting allegory for the entire design vision.

    The restaurant continues with a popular trend of an “indoor garden” narrative with generous amounts of planting all around on various levels. The original mahogany cladding of the old banking hall is imposing but softened by delicate original wall lights restored by HBA London and complemented by the continuing hues of fresh green and golden highlights. In the centre of the room, a large ceiling light suggests a contemporised version of classic European dining room luminaires.

    Vibrant guestrooms

    Original, listed staircases lead up to light-filled bedroom corridors that wrap around a central courtyard. They are elegantly designed with details such as folkloric-inspired patterned carpets and punchy-blue guestroom doors.

    Guestrooms are especially residential in feel with a pretty palette of pink, pale yellow and blue, and contemporary Italian timber flooring from Berti. These are joyful rooms, filled with natural light thanks to their large windows and high ceilings and with design details that give a nod to the rural past of this location. Bathrooms are classically styled with a marble topped vanity, checkerboard tiled floor and a walk-in shower with fittings by Hotel Designs Recommended Supplier Grohe.

    Artwork in the guestrooms and corridors has been curated by HBA and Muzeo. It is composed of both handwritten and illustrative pieces as well as work inspired by textiles and crafts. Traditional, contemporary and contextual, the artwork lends insights into the heartbeat of the city, both past and present.

    The Bel Étage shelters the grander suites. This historic floor is strictly protected so design changes were constrained and HBA London focused on the selection of new furniture and accessories.

    The original building was designed in 1921 by Viennese architects Ernst Gottilf and Alexande Neumann who specialised in landmark bank buildings in central Europe.

    5 hotels taking the festive spirit to new heights this Christmas

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
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    The Christmas lights are on and the tree is up but not even Hotel Designs can compete with these incredible winter wonderlands that have been unveiled in luxury hotels across the world…  

    Unlike many industries, the hotel industry is one that gets little rest over the festive period. As soon as December strikes, marketing teams from the world’s most luxurious hotels take centre stage to present their properties in the best possible Christmas-themed light.

    From ice kingdoms to designer collaborations, here are our top picks of the hotels that are showcasing the best winter stories this festive period.

    1) Claridge’s, London 

    Image credit: Claridge’s London

    Every year Claridges in London, one of the city’s finest and most-talked-about hotels, unveils an incredible take on tradition. With previous themes including a partnership with fashion icon Karl Largerfield, the task to unveil this year’s talk-of-the-town tree was arguably harder than ever.

    So this year’s tree, which was unveiled on November 27, has been designed by fashion icon and long-time friend of the hotel, Diane von Furstenberg.

    ‘The Tree of Love’ is inspired by von Furstenberg passion and strong belief in the power of love, symbolising life and nature, and drawing particularly from the creative influences of the astrological world. The six-metre sculptural tree is coloured with a blue iridescent lustre and shimmer, and is decorated with over 8,000 hand painted silver-leafed leaves, glass spheres and 150 hand-blown glass hearts.

    2) Liberty Hotel, Boston

    Image credit: Liberty Hotel, Boston

    Turning Christmas upside-down, quite literally, six Christmas trees hang from the ceiling of the Liberty’s 27-metre atrium. The eye-catching installation required workers to hang from safety harnesses in order to securely affix the trees which all range in size.

    3) Bellagio Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

    Image credit: Bellagio Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

    If you want to reach the limits of Christmas-themed hotels then look no further than Las Vegas. The Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Garden’s 2018 holiday installation is entitled ‘Majestic Holiday Magic’. It features the return of Queen Bellisima, and takes guests on a journey into her enchanted ice kingdom. The south bed houses the queen’s favorite family of Polar bears, playing and welcoming guests as they walk enter the Conservatory. The north bed features the queen’s castle, guarded by her majestic rotating soldiers. Lastly, the west bed holds the main attraction for this year. The holiday tree is a sight to behold, standing 42 metres in height and 18 metres in diameter, and is adorned with many beautiful ornaments.

    4) The Lanesborough, London 

    The Lanesborough, London

    This year’s tree in The Lanesborough has been given the royal nod, which is rather appropriate seeing as the hotel is situated a stones through from Buckingham Palace. The jewellers to the Royal Family, the House of Garrard, have payed homage to its distinguished roots in the 18th century in order to give guests a quintessentially British Christmas experience.

    5) The Plaza New York 

    Considering it is the iconic setting of one of the most festive films ever released, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, The Plaza New York has the power to capture the imaginations of many generations all under one roof. Last year, the hotel partnered with Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the film.

    Pre-Home Alone, though, the luxury hotel has set the standard for luxury and high quality service ever since it opened its majestic doors in 1907.

    Main image credit: Oetker Collection

     

    Avani Hotels & Resorts unveils sharp interiors in upscale resort in Koh Samui

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The new upscale hotel in Thailand’s Koh Samui opens as Avani Hotels and Resorts’ 24th property, with a further 15 currently in the pipeline… 

    Avani Hotels & Resorts is expanding its portfolio in Thailand with the launch of AVANI+ Samui, an upscale resort situated by Taling Ngam Bay on Koh Samui.

    The new seaside hideaway features 25 guestrooms, 27 private pool villas and six beachfront pool villas, which are all situated steps away from an untouched, secluded bay. Each room and suite has been designed to be spacious, with nature-inspired yet vibrant interiors complete with ample natural lighting that floods each room.

    Sunset view over the bay

    “We are excited to confirm the Avani+ Samui opening, the second addition to our Avani+ portfolio, providing guests with our signature Avani+ experience for their beach getaway,” said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO Minor Hotels, owning company of AVANI Hotels & Resorts. “An exclusive upscale resort offering all the Avani+ extras at one of the hottest island destinations in Thailand, Avani+ Samui also embraces an eco-friendly culture to help Samui maintain its natural beauty for future generations such as no plastic straws, bio-degradable materials and locally sourced ingredients.”

    Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, has long been a major island destination for local and international travellers. With its untouched beaches and easy access to the rest of the island, Taling Ngam Bay, on the southwest coast, is ideally situated to capture a wide consumer demographic.

    Avani currently operates 24 hotels and resorts in 15 countries worldwide. The opening of Avani + Samui follows the brand recently debuting properties in Australia, New Zealand, and Laos – and Avani currently has a further 15 new hotels in the pipeline, including a recent signings in Dubai, Bangkok, and Busan.

    Checking in to Matetsi Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe’s answer to luxury

     730 565 Hamish Kilburn
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    Checking in to Matetsi Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe’s answer to luxury

    Travelling 7,500 miles to Zimbabwe, editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn learns more about the design direction of one of the country’s most luxurious hotel offerings, the award-winning Matetsi Victoria Falls…

    Beyond the baobab trees – which are said to be sacred among the locals because of the natural healing powers they lock within their roots.

    In betweek the dehydrated shrubs on the African soil, elephants, hyenas, zebras, warthogs, leapards and lions sits an award-winning luxury riverside hotel that is indubitably one of the most luxurious offerings in Zimbabwe.

    After 15 minutes 4x4ing the dirt road into the heart of the 123,000-acre (55,000 hectres) reserve, we arrive at Matetsi Victoria Falls, a place that promises luxury, comfort and unmatched style. “I have the largest back yard in Africa,” jokes the owner John Gardiner who greets me on arrival. And with nothing between us and the natural safari, my experience in the African bush begins.

    The entrance of the hotel is framed by three traditional Mokoro (dug-out) canoes, which hang from wooden beams and sway in harmony with the soft Zambezi breeze. With no need for a traditional lobby, guests are immediately welcomed into the indoor-outdoor public areas complete with a copper bar and durable outdoor sofas and chairs scattered in a home-from-home setting that has been designed around nature, and not the other way round. “We didn’t take out a single tree when designing these camps, because we wanted these areas to remain as close to nature as we could,” said interior designer Kerry van Leenhoff , a previous graduate from Cape Town University of Technology who was hand-selected by Gardiner and totally supported in all her decisions. Using the striking vista of the Zambezi River, which flows towards the tremendous Victoria Falls, dining tables are placed in such a way to make every meal one to remember. “The lobby areas have been designed in order to encourage guests to connect with people and nature,” adds van Leenhoff.

    As we approach suite 17 – AKA, my home for the next four nights – I am reminded just how ‘in the sticks’ we are, catching a glimpse of an elephant and a giraffe just metres from each other as my key enters the lock. I open the heavy, black teak front door, which was recycled and polished from the previous lodge, and the room is immediately filled with light. Interestingly enough, though, this was not the case when the hotel first opened, as van Leenhoff explains: “When the hotel first opened and the guests gave us their feedback, we realised that we needed to revisit the lighting, especially in the public areas,” she says. “So we added some more outdoor feature lighting around the trees and columns in order to really pronounce what we felt were the important and dramatic areas of the hotel.” However, my immediate attention is not on the lighting. Instead, my imagination is taken over by the striking panoramic view of the Zambezi River, which I later find out is home to legend; the locals believe that a famous God is said to protect the flowing waters, and his name is Nyami Nyami. As legend goes, the spirit which is often depicted as half snake half fish, protects life in and around the river.

    The River Lodge Suite is everything you would expect of a luxury lodge in the bush, and so much more. The skin of matepi latte creates an organic ceiling and roof – and this material does more than just give a nod to the location. This decision was made in order to keep the lodge blending into its location and celebrate Zimbabwean culture. “It was really important for us to work with skilled craftsmen and women from our culture,” explains van Leenhoff. “We have such a diverse culture with about 16 different tribes and languages. We mainly focused around the Tonga tribes as we were by the river.” The result is that from the far side of the river, you can’t actually see where the hotel starts and ends, which suggests even further that the whole property has been created with nature in mind.

    Van Leenhoff decided to take Matetsi’s love for nature and the environment and inject it into the fabrics and the walls. The result is a naturally calming, peaceful abode, which empowers an everlasting feeling of total luxury and relaxation. Modern high-quality furniture and hand-scultpted trunks of trees used as tables create the perfect blend of modern, luxury and timeless décor.

    All 18 suites have been thoughtfully curated and the hotel is a credit to the talent of van Leenhoff. The art, for example is by Helen Teede who spent much time on site at Matetsi in order to find the inspiration of a unique collection of 18 paintings entitled ‘Mapping Matetsi’. Having done extensive walks and drives in the area, Teede divided the cartographic map of Matetsi unit seven into 18 parts and drew it to scale on each canvas, adding her own impressions of the river, the landscape and the pathways walked in the area, both man and animal-made. These 18 paintings hang separately in each suite. However, put together and these pieces of art actually form the aerial map of the reserve.

    With the privilege of space, the hotel shelters two camps: East Camp, West Camp and one large villa, River House, which sits in between the two camps. Interestingly, the whole team – chefs, butlers, housekeeping, back-of-house staff – alternate between both East and West camp every couple of weeks in order to maintain the property and keep service personable at all times.

    [easingslider id=”36178″]

    Gardiner, who I first met in London just a few weeks before my trip, is the real visionary behind the property surrounding the reserve. A local Zimbabwean hotelier, Gardiner has transformed the reserve since acquiring it in 2014 and aims to “give back to Zimbabwe”. With the help of his team, who all share Gardiner’s love for nature, he has restored and conserved the natural wildlife within the reserve by building various watering holes, 15 in total with a further 10 in the pipeline, I am told.

    Before I check out, I have an opportunity to exclusively discuss the future of Matetsi with the team and how it plans to expand its luxury arm. “We are working on a few things at the moment, which are really exciting projects,” adds van Leenhoff. “The design direction and our aim is to strike the balance between feeling isolated and feeling safe.” The new plans will further challenge conventional luxury lodges in Africa with a real focus on opening up the guests to undisturbed nature.

    The future sounds exciting and it’s clear that the design team and the hotel are totally in sync with ideas, vision and what luxury in Africa should look like. I leave Matetsi and Zimbabwe having cemented my respect in African design and culture. I am grateful that the reserve’s calming atmosphere allowed me to relax and escape from the lively London scene, if not only for a few days.

    Key suppliers

    Guest Suites-
    Tables/ Headboards/ Beds- Adam Seager Furniture (ZIM)
    Upholstery – Fiona Edmunds (ZIM)
    Desks/ Luggage racks/ Wardrobes/ Lounge chairs – Nigel Joselyn (ZIM)
    Pottery Pendants and Chandeliers- Chart Pottery (ZIM)
    Beaded Ottomans- CHIPO women’s group (ZIM)
    Spring stone Basins- Tonderayi Mahachi (ZIM)
    Bamboo Lights- STEP Trust (ZIM)
    Floor lamps- Collaboration between Bruce Elliot & Tonderayi Mahachi (ZIM)
    Porcupine wastepaper baskets- Lupane Women’s Centre (ZIM)
    Basin Tops- Zambezi Roots (ZIM)
    Bath- Euro trends (SA)
    Sanitary ware- Antique baths (SA)
    Nguni Cowhides- Holly Hudson (ZIM)
    Ceramics- Marjorie Wallace: Mutapo (ZIM)
    Mirrors- Brigette Lotter (ZIM)

    Main areas-
    Dining tables- Adam Seager Furniture (ZIM)
    Woven Screens- Collaboration between Jane Taylor & Judith Ncube of Matabeleland Weavers (ZIM)
    Curated Tables- Helen Teede (ZIM)
    Bar and Interactive kitchen- Collaboration between Adam Seager & Copperwares (ZIM)
    Woven Poufs – Lupane Women’s Centre (ZIM)
    Wrought Iron lights- Misty Edwards (ZIM)
    Pottery Pendants and Chandeliers- Chart Pottery (ZIM)
    Reed mats- Newlands Craft Market (ZIM)
    Shop – Nigel Joselyn (ZIM)
    Sofas- Fiona Edmunds (ZIM)
    Coco chairs- Coricraft (SA)
    Chairs/ Bar stools- Weylandts (SA)
    Boardroom table- Collaboration between Zambezi Roots & Complete Steel (ZIM)
    Ceramics- Marjorie Wallace: Mutapo (ZIM)
    Wine cellar Chandeliers- Basil & Lindy Rowlands (ZIM)
    Wine cellar- Ruwa Furniture (ZIM)

    In Conversation With: BISQUE’s Ellie Sawdy on 2019 colour trends

     800 531 Hamish Kilburn
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    Ever since Bisque first came on our radar, we have been impressed with how the company has taken a very practical – and historically mundane – item and used it to lift a whole interior space. The brand’s marketing manager, Ellie Sawdy, talks us through major colour trends, radiator pitfalls and 2019 surprises… 

    Ever since its humble beginnings in 1979, after Geoffrey Ward stumbled across a towel radiator (a product that was revolutionary at the turn of the decade) on his travels and was struck with idea of pioneering attractive radiators in the UK, BISQUE has made a major impact on the interior design scene.

    This year has been one of significance for the brand as it settles into a new home and is now able to welcome designers to experience the products at its showroom in the heart of London’s design hub, Islington Business Centre. But what’s next for the company that is always seen to be ahead of the curve – and can a radiator really have the power to change an interior design space? I caught up with the marketing manager whose natural trend radar is helping to steer the company into the future.

    Various ranges of colour

    Hamish Kilburn: How are radiators more than just heating appliances?
    Ellie Sawdy: No longer do you have go with a simple towel rail or a pressed steel panel radiator. With so many options you can now make a bold statement with your radiators. For example the Bisque Arteplano etched copper or brass finishes are like a work of art! Each one is individually acid etched making it completely unique. Its products like these that appeal to those boutique hotels or décor that is going for the wow factor.

    “Other trends include brass taps in kitchens and bathrooms.”

    HK: What major trends are you seeing for 2019?
    ES: We are seeing an increase in earthy tones for 2019, colours such as Spiced Honey which is Dulux’s colour of the year is a versatile colour perfect for a space that you want to be timeless. Bisque’s colour matching service means that we can match to colour like this to have a radiator that blends into your interior. Other trends include brass taps in kitchens and bathrooms. This finish helps you add warmth and shine to your interior. Depending on the finish of the brass you can have an industrial look or and polished clean finish.

    “So many colour trends have popped up throughout 2018.”

    HK: What can we expect to see in the products launching next year?
    ES: Next year Bisque are really focusing on their special finishes. Designers are mixing metals and adding shades of colour steering away from Chrome. With taps, showers and even light switches coming in materials such as polished brass or antique bronze we want to complement these shades to help designers create one seamless look. Our new bathroom products for 2019 work perfectly with traditional bathrooms with matching valves sets to complete the look, all of which are available in a variety of finishes.

    Coloured radiator

    HK: What are some major pitfalls designers fall down when it comes to selecting the radiators?
    ES: With so many beautiful designs you no longer have to try and hide the room radiator or towel rail, why not make it a feature? We allow designers to have something practical and stylish which are often timeless designs.

    HK: Can you explain a little bit more about Bisque and its entrance onto hotel design scene?
    ES: Bisque has always had a clear mission – to offer beautiful but practical radiators in the most exciting styles, colours and finishes. We have worked with both established designers to create innovative designs and no matter what they style, good design and quality are always paramount. This allows us to work with hotels to create a bespoke offering and provide world-class standards beyond minimal compliance with UK building regulations.

    HK: What was the biggest trend surprise of 2018 in interior design?
    ES: Colour is here to stay! So many colour trends have popped up throughout 2018 and all have been well received. Colour is creeping into people’s home and making an impact, people have lost the fear of committing to bold patterns and colour.

    In almost 40 years, through generation changes and shifting trends, BISQUE has continued to remain at the top of its interior design game by leading the luxury radiator industry into a colourful future. As one major anniversary approaches, we are watching this space carefully to see what’s next.

    BISQUE is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Featured image caption: Skye Brackpool

     

    Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa completes final stages of £10m redevelopment

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The newly redevelopment of the hotel & spa unveils contemporary design that blends Scandinavian style and British countryside sophistication… 

    Nestled in the heart of the Lake District’s beautiful Borrowdale valley, Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa is excited to share the luxury design details of its multi-million-pound redevelopment, including a new state-of-the-art spa and 18 new Spa Suites. The 87-bedroom hotel received a full ground-floor refurbishment in 2017 and in April 2018 opened a pan-Asian restaurant, Mizu. The final phase of the redevelopment is now complete, opening a new destination spa and accompanying spa suites.

    The new Falls Spa has been designed with guests’ comfort and relaxation in mind, featuring Scandi-inspired décor, bespoke designer furniture, luxury bathrooms and cosy seating areas. The purpose, style and mood of the spa according to each room’s function have been carefully considered. Furnishings and light fixtures by Tom Dixon and Moooi help blend streamlined Scandinavian style and British countryside sophistication.

    The overall ambience of the spa’s Champagne Bar is a moody, Scandinavian revival, reflected through its elegant light fixtures exclusively designed by George Cawardine for Anglepoise, Chen Bikovski for Compagnie and Terence Woodgate. The upholstery is all bespoke leather and fabric sourced from Skai, Warwick, Osborne and Little and Casamance. Soft furnishings have been meticulously chosen to entice spa goers to truly relax into their depths, leaving behind the stresses and strains of everyday life.

    “The Falls Spa is a natural haven where water inspires the fluidity of the spa design.”

    Guests are welcomed into the spa reception by stylish upholstered furniture, designed by Tom Dixon and Graham and Green, boasting  custom-made velvets, tweeds and dobby weaves, showcasing the best of elegant British design. Guests feel the harnessing power of nature as the earthy hues of the spa bring the outside in. The Khaki/Aqua/Chartreuse colour pallete is intended to compliment the environment whilst remaining fresh and contemporary.

    The spa’s Relaxation Room bridges the gap between interior and exterior through its floor to ceiling windows that fill the room with natural light and offer guests breath-taking panoramic views over the stunning fells, forest and lake. This room is designed to be more soothing and restful, with Anthracite panelling, Faux Shagreen ceiling and grey carpet, lifted by gleaming copper wall lights and plush loungers. The Relaxation Room loungers are bespoke for the spa, upholstered in Osborne and Little Velvet, complete with a custom-made cushion in reversible fabric from Zinc Textiles

    The treatment rooms complete the Scandinavian revival and Nordic retreat feel. Taking great inspiration from the beautiful surrounding nature and the hotel’s gorgeous grounds, the outdoors seamlessly blend with the spa interior. The Falls Spa is a natural haven where water inspires the fluidity of the spa design and treatments; from the soothing rhythm of the Lodore Falls waterfall, to the reflective tranquillity of Derwentwater. The walls and floor have a modern, functional take on lime washed wooden planks and Faux Shagreen ceiling to associate with the Relaxation Room. The treatment rooms feature ambient lights designed by renowned designer Moooi, with adjustable settings to tailor the mood of the room with the treatment being offered.

    After a dip in the infinity-edge vitality pool guests can make their way to their luxurious room, choosing from 18 brand new spa suites, allowing guests to maximise their time at The Falls Spa. Guests booking into the new Spa Suites enjoy complimentary access to The Falls Spa, while all other hotel guests can visit the spa for £25 for a four-hour experience. Most suites boast spacious balconies and panoramic views of the lake or surrounding forests. All suites are Scandi-inspired in their aesthetic and are fitted with modern, high quality amenities meaning that guests can settle down in a comfortable chair while reading a book or watching the large flat screen TV. When it comes to bed time, guests can look forward to a restful night’s sleep between crisp white sheets on luxurious Sealy beds.

    Room schemes are paired back, with textured wallpaper, whitewashed oak and teak cladding, while pops of colour in fabrics, carpets and abstract prints sourced from King & McGaw bring the rooms to life. Several of the bespoke upholstered sofas are fun redesigns of chaise lounge sofas, paired with cushions from Romo, Osborne and Little and Rubelli.

    This historic property is filled with understated yet luxurious touches such as muted tones of leather, tweed and rich velvets and a strong focus on modern design and high quality finish. Designed through a contemporary lens, these new design details blend seamlessly with the property’s traditional elements and offer guests an unforgettable stay in a luxurious and stylish hotel.

    EXCLUSIVE: New online platform now allows guests to choose their own rooms before checking in

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The new platform, Hotel Room Chooser, enables hoteliers to own customer relationships and data, increase direct bookings, maximise brand experience and encourage loyalty…

    Hotel Room Chooser is a newly launched online platform that allows guests to choose their own hotel room prior to check-in.

    The technology, which was recognised and shortlisted for The Brit List 2018’s Innovative Use Of Technology award, has been developed by London-based Filter Digital. Its innovation has is already being utilised by several leading hotel brands and chains, including GLH.

    The platform provides guests with a visual choice of location for their booking, so they can pick the best individual room or environment for their stay and enjoy complete peace of mind.

    Guests using the service are presented with bespoke interactive floorplans, photography, 360 experiences and more so they have everything they need to choose the room they want – and the entire experience is also optimised for mobile.

    A built-in notification system uses email and SMS to communicate with guests throughout the room choosing process, including confirmation once complete.

    “Hoteliers using Hotel Room Chooser also benefit from integration with reception desks at individual locations.”

    For hoteliers, Hotel Room Chooser has the flexibility to be either fully integrated into their existing CRM and booking journeys or sit outside of them as a post-booking process. It’s also fully scalable, with the option to add booking locations and apply multiple branding.

    The platform is hosted externally, with live API and network integration possible – crucially, all customer data is fully encrypted via SSL, making Hotel Room Chooser extremely secure.

    Hoteliers using Hotel Room Chooser also benefit from integration with reception desks at individual locations, all the while capturing customer feedback, with detailed real-time and monthly reporting available via an interactive dashboard.

    And this new technology has the power to dramatically increase direct bookings. In a recent survey of 500 customers where Hotel Room Chooser was available:

    • 75 per cent of customers did choose their own room
    • 96 per cent found the experience enjoyable
    • 98 per cent said they would use it again

    “We’re incredibly pleased that since its initial launch we have processed tens of thousands of bookings through Hotel Room Chooser, and it has been an unequivocal success for our partners,” said Filter Digital CEO Oliver Morrison. “In five years’, allowing guests to choose their own room will be a baseline offering, and hotel groups that aren’t able to offer this will be left behind as customers gravitate towards those that can provide this choice. We’re thrilled to be able to offer the platform for license to all hotel chains, particularly those looking to maximise the potential of direct booking channels.”

    Put simply, Hotel Room Chooser taps into the growing demand of interactivty and guests wanting a personalised service from check in to check out.

    .

    New research suggests the design and connectivity are key to attracting millennial hotel guests

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
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    To understand how hoteliers can win over the most competitive demographic in the hospitality sector – millennials – hotel furniture manufacturer Knightsbridge Furniture surveyed 1,000 18 – 34-year-olds to understand just how important design is in the modern hotel… 

    A recent survey, carried out by Knightsbridge Furniture, revealed that an overwhelming 87 per cent of consumers aged between 18 – 34 years old cited the interior design as important when booking a hotel, with 81 per cent identifying a ‘cool bar’ as a critical factor in their choice.

    The research also highlighted the power of social media as a communication tool – a topic that Hotel Designs covered a few months ago with Designing Instagrammable –  with 76 per cent professing to have shared an image of a hotel (including bar, pool, restaurant, bedroom) that they have stayed in. Furthermore it is a signifier of good taste, with 83 per cent stating that they booked a hotel because they had seen images from someone they follow on social media. 73 per cent check the social media feed of hotel before booking and one in three would be put off booking altogether if a hotel had no social media presence.

    “49 per cent would be put off if they couldn’t book instantly online.”

    A considered design scheme could also be part of the solution for hoteliers wanting to build a loyal following among the ‘millennial generation’. As whilst 82 per cent of millennials stating a preference for experiencing a new hotel each year, a significant 42 per cent will return for an impressive design.

    Website performance was another key area of investment for hotels – which is another topic that Hotel Designs has put in the spotlight recently with its Marketing in the Modern Age series of features. More than half of millennials would be put off booking a hotel if the website was difficult to use, 49 per cent would be put off if they couldn’t book instantly online.

    “Thriving hoteliers recognise the necessary investment in design, furniture and finishes to keep this audience returning,” said Alan Towns, Chief Executive Officer, of Knightsbridge Furniture.” Equally important is the management of social media channels and vitally, having the best Wi-Fi in town!”

    Main image credit: Knightsbridge

    Sekers launches two new sophisticated fabric ranges

     393 245 Hamish Kilburn
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    Fabric specialists Sekers launch BRAEMAR and PATAGON, two new fabric collections suitable for luxury curtains… 

    Sekers announces the launch of BRAEMAR, a wide width textural linen look plain suitable for contract curtains and accessories. Available in a palette of 25 sophisticated shades including stylish neutrals and soft vegetable hues, BRAEMAR is a versatile addition to any interior and is an ideal choice for the designer specifying for the hospitality and leisure markets.

    Woven in 100 per cent polyester, BRAEMAR is washable and is suitable for all aspects of the contract market. Meeting all relevant UK & USA standards for curtains and accessories, the collection is the perfect selection for any contract application.

    PATAGON – Bora, Canterbury, Khamsin, Marin, Pampero, Shamal, Zephyr & Zonda.

    The new range is a versatile collection of wide width sheers, including linen effect semi-plains, a dramatic texture with a subtle twist of metallic thread and a large scale decorative geometric design. PATAGON is available in a diverse palette ranging from sophisticated neutrals and cool metallic tones to a bold black & white colour combination. With a refined drape and a variety of textures, PATAGONis a handsome addition to any interior and is an ideal choice for the designer specifying for the hospitality, leisure and marine markets.

    The PATAGON collection is fully FR tested and is suitable for all aspects of the contract market from hotels to cruise ships. Meeting all relevant UK and US FR standards for curtains, this washable collections is the perfect selection for any contract application.

    Sekers is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    ITC Hotels opens first coastal resort

     Hamish Kilburn
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    ITC Hotels has officially opened its first coastal property in serene southern Goa, ITC Grand Goa, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa…

    Renowned for its impressive portfolio of city hotels, ITC Hotels has relaunched ITC Grand Goa, which was formerly operating as Park Hyatt Goa, introducing its range of restaurants, indulgent Kaya Kalp spa brand to the popular destination of Goa.

    Located on the Arossim beach in Cansaulim, South Goa, the resort with village-style architecture and design touchpoints is inspired by the region’s Indo-Portuguese heritage, in line with ITC’s ethos to inject a sense of place and destination into each hotel. Full of light and subtle texture, combined with traditional local touches and rich woods, the 252 guestrooms and suites feature sumptuous open-plan marble baths with spa inspired sunken tubs, as well as private outdoor balconies or patios. Select suites feature private outdoor rain showers and secluded secret gardens, while the expansive Presidential Suite promises breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, with a private lap pool, marble bath and private outdoor spa tub with whirlpool.

    “The opening of ITC Grand Goa marks a significant milestone in The Luxury Collection’s long-standing relationship with ITC, as our thirteenth property in India and our first beach resort in South Asia,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “Best known for its alluring beaches, ​Goa offers a diverse blend of Indian and Portuguese culture, architecture, and cuisine and we are thrilled to unlock this unique destination for global explorers, as only The Luxury Collection can.” ​

    ITC is globally reputed for its wide range and high level of cuisine and restaurants at each property, and ITC Grand Goa is no exception, offering six dining experiences that bring the colour and flavor of the destination to life.

    The Kaya Kalp The Royal Spa is set in the lush beachfront gardens has 16 exquisitely designed spa and treatment rooms where guests can enjoy traditional Indian therapies.

    Within the grounds, the resort’s swimming pool is a multi-level oasis set among lush gardens, making it the perfect spot to soak up the sun and take in the views of the Arabian sea.

    “After establishing our brand’s presence in the popular Golden Triangle circuit, New Delhi-Agra-Jaipur, the opening of ITC Grand Goa fortifies ITC Hotels’ leisure portfolio in this globally sought-after beach destination,” said Dipak Haksar, Chief Executive, ITC Hotels & WelcomHotels. “This resort embodies our commitment to showcase the diversity of India through unique and enriching experiences that bring to life both the culture and ethos of the destination. ITC Grand Goa further reinforces ITC Hotels’ exclusive partnership with The Luxury Collection brand in India.”

     The opening of ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa brings ITC’s luxury portfolio to thirteen hotels across ten cities in India. Set amidst 45 acres of lush landscaped gardens and coconut palms, with the pristine Arossim beach just steps from the hotel, ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa has all the ingredients to cater to the growing wellness trend that is sweeping the globe one hotel opening at a time.

    Ikos Resorts begins construction on €150 million development project

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The resort will be the company’s fifth property in the Ikos Resort portfolio and first outside of Greece, slated to complete construction in 2020… 

    Ikos Resorts has announced its move full speed ahead with the construction of Ikos Andalusia, having recently celebrated the cornerstone laying ceremony at the hotel. Located in Estepona, the €150 million development will be the group’s fifth resort and its first outside of Greece, opening its doors in May 2020.

    Construction of Ikos Andalusia started on November 15 with the placing of the first stone and will complete in March 2020. Once the works are complete, the resort will initiate a pre-opening period during April and will start welcoming guests in May 2020.

    The objective of the company is to position Ikos Andalusia as a benchmark for excellence in the luxury all-inclusive resorts sector in Spain, bringing its award-winning* Infinite Lifestyle experience to the Costa del Sol.

    Ikos Resorts announced the acquisition of the current Costa del Sol Princess hotel in Estepona in the first quarter of 2018. The brand will invest a total of €150 million in the reconstruction of the current building and its adaptation to the product and service standards of Ikos Resorts.

    “We are also delighted to be transforming the existing property into a world-class premium resort, adding further to the proven success story of Ikos Resorts, while investing further in beautiful Estepona and this magnificent region, said  Dr. Andreas Andreadis, CEO of Sani/Ikos Group. By offering premium holiday experiences to international luxury travelers we aim to contribute in Estepona’s development as a top luxury tourism destination worldwide”.

    The ceremony of the first stone was attended by different representatives of the company at an international level – Andreas Andreadis, CEO of Sani/Ikos Group; Luis Herault, CEO of Ikos Iberia, as well as local and regional authorities, who wanted to support the presentation of a project that will constitute as a milestone in the tourism transformation process in the region.

    “Located on the shores of a 14,000 square meter beach, Ikos Andalusia will offer 411 rooms and suites.”

    José María Urbano, Mayor of Estepona, thanked Ikos Resorts for investing in Estepona and expanding the city’s tourism offering.  “We are convinced that this new high-end resort will strengthen Estepona’s touristic brand in the international markets, while promoting employment and the revitalization of the economic sectors linked to tourism”, he said.

    On another note, Luis Herault, Chief Executive Officer of Ikos Iberia, commented: “With Ikos Andalusia, we will contribute to further develop Estepona as a high end destination by offering world class service excellence and individual unique Ikos touches such as the Dine-Out Service, which includes selected restaurants from the surrounding area in our offer to our guests, the Local Discovery complimentary drive around experience promoting interesting destination experiences, sourcing local produce, the Ikos Green initiatives and recruiting approx. 60% of the minimum of 635 jobs required, from the local community.”

    Located on the shores of a 14,000 square meter beach, Ikos Andalusia will offer 411 rooms and suites. In addition, the new resort will house seven restaurants, top-level sports facilities, a theatre, 3,100 square meters of heated and outdoor swimming pools, and a spa. It will also offer Ikos Deluxe Collection, an exclusive service meticulously created for the most discerning guests, offering a wide range of privileges and services including the use of reserved pool and beach areas.

    Hotel Designs breaks another traffic record

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Hotel Designs broke its third traffic record in 2018 last week as the website experienced its highest ever month of traffic in October, with 58,427 visitors to the website…

    In the month where the brand hosted The Brit List 2018 as well as publishing its second interactive hotel review, Hotel Designs also reported its highest ever month of traffic with 58,427 visitors to the website.

    November was a popular month for industry news, with many Hotel Designs Recommended Suppliers announcing new products to the international hotel design market, as well as many collecting new accolades for their innovation in design.

    Here are top five stories of November 2018:

    Inside The Brit List 
    Checking in to Hotel Gotham, Manchester’s decadent playground 
    In Conversation with: Patrick McCrae, co-founder and CEO of ARTIQ
    SPOTLIGHT ON: 7 inspiring art and photography hotels from around the world
    Creative Director of HBA London confirmed as headline speaker of Interior Design & Architecture Summit

    “This is a fantastic way to end what has been a successful year for our brand,” explains Katy Phillips, publisher of Hotel Designs. “Whats more, the most popular stories of November included our features around The Brit List, our interactive hotel review on Hotel Gotham and our original Spotlight On features around Art and Photography, proving further that we are publishing engaging stories for our loyal readers.”

    With show season coming to a close, Hotel Designs is now looking ahead to the future. Next year’s Hotel Summit is set to take place on June 3 and 4 at its new home, Heytrop Park in Oxfordshire, and the Interior Design and Architecture Summit will take place on April 29 at Hilton Tower Bridge Hotel, London.

    This month, Hotel Designs is focusing its monthly feature ‘Spotlight On’ around the major products that have dropped in 2018. If know of a product that has launched this year and believe that we should be talking about it, please contact Zoe Gurrier or call +44 (0)1992 374059

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    Spotlight On: A Year in Review – top products launched in 2018 (part 1)

     768 512 Hamish Kilburn
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    In order to kick-start our month’s Spotlight On feature on ‘A Year In Review’ (Products of the year 2018), we have highlighted what we believed to have been the game-changing product launches of 2018. Here is part one of our ultimate throwback…

    When December arrives, the finish line is in sight for our industry as we all prepare to hang up our tools for another year in order to celebrate the holidays. But just before we do, here’s a little throwback to reflect on this year’s major product launches. From new lighting ranges to the future of furniture (and everything in between), we believe this year has been a significant 365 days, with these products launching with the aim to help take international hotel design to into a new era. So, here are our top picks from those launches.

    1) Bisque – rustic and rose-gold finishes (Recommended Supplier)

    Bisque, the UK’s first ever luxury radiator brand, unveiled two new distinctive finishes in spring ’18 that stole the show. Rustique and Rose Copper are two styles that have been produced using an oxidation technique, creating a truly authentic finish. These bespoke designs are made to order and are available exclusively on Bisque’s Classic collection of radiators and from its newly opened showroom in Islington.

    2) Duravit – XSquare (Recommended Supplier) 

    In conjunction with designer Kurt Merki Jr., Duravit created a furniture range that launched in July ’18. The range is specially attuned to the design of the contemporary DuraSquare washbasins. The striking feature is the quadrant-shaped chrome profile edging the furniture. On the floor-standing model, the transition to the leg frame is absolutely seamless. The chrome profile accentuates the edges of both variants. It continues along the corner radius of the washbasin, creating harmony and a striking independence.

    3) Hansgrohe – Power Rain

    Image credit: Hansgrohe

    Inspired by nature – think warm misty droplets – bathroom specialist Hansgrohe developed the new PowderRain spray, which many bathroom companies have followed suit. The product has been designed to make a shower feel like a warm summer rain experience. The innovative PowderRain spray is featured in a new Hansgrohe range of Raindance showerheads. In addition, as more and more hotel groups internationally pledge to reduce water wastage in their hotels, the PowderRain spray technology efficiently reduces water and energy consumption to help safeguard our planet’s natural resource.

    4) Brintons (Recommended Supplier) & Timorious Beasties – The Craigend Collection

    It’s nothing new that collaborations have been the focus on many suppliers’ strategies this year, with some companies going as far as partnering up with friends in different markets – all in the name of finding inspiration and pushing design boundaries. Brintons’ collaboration with Timorous Beasties is the perfect example of this – and to the suprise of nobody, the collection won Designer Collaboration of the Year.

    The Craigend collection was launched in May at this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week and consists of nine designs that are inspired by textures and surfaces found naturally underfoot, all reimagined in the Brintons’ signature 80/20 blend of 80 per cent wool and 20 per cent nylon.

    In designing Craigend, Timorous Beasties called upon their fascination with the often-brutal beauty of the natural world, as well as taking aesthetic inspiration from different crafting materials including paint, ink and fabric.

    5) Geberit  – AquaClean Tuma (Recommended Supplier) 

    Designed by renowned industrial designer Christoph Behling, the Geberit AquaClean Tuma fits harmoniously into any bathroom. Thanks to its elegant, streamlined design and compact shape (with a projection of just 553mm), the new shower toilet can add extra comfort to any sized bathroom, transforming them into an oasis of wellbeing.

    The new shower toilet can be tailored to suit any bathroom due to its design cover, which is available in several colours and materials. This helps to perfectly coordinate with Geberit’s extensive range of flush plates.

    6) Vaughan – The Tribal Collection (Recommended Supplier)

    Among the showrooms opening their doors at Focus18 was Vaughan, which showcased a new collection with a strong focus on table lamps. Demonstrating that interior design inspiration can come from anywhere, its new Tribal collection is based on travels around the globe that Lucy Vaughan, the creative director of the brand, has experienced. The result is an array of vibrant lampshades, embroidered cushions and unusual upholstered chairs which aim to celebrate the craftsmanship and culture of fabrics Vaughan and her daughter have sourced. Each unique in their own right, the products within the collection is ideal for boutique hotels looking to create a statement, an editorial story we brought you one week ahead of this launch.

    7) Moritz Waldemeyer – personalised lighting experience

    Pushing the boundaries in design is something that comes naturally for lighting expert Moritz Waldemeyer. Perhaps working  with the likes of Will.I.Am to create a jacket that lights up helps, but it’s his passion for taking lighting design further that keeps Waldemeyer firmly at the top of the lighting design food chain.

    In May, he provided Focus18 a specially commissioned installation, which offered an unforgettable immersive experience of light, colour and movement. Waldemeyer’s piece allowed the consumer to put any light in front of a sensor, which would then reflect the colour onto the wall.

    Waldemeyer continued to put his innovative foot forward as his studio become a supporting partner of The Brit List 2018, displaying yet another pioneering lighting installation.

    8) Chelsom Lighting – Edition 26

    Chelsom don’t do anything by halves, including how they lavishly launch new collections. Earlier this year, the lighting company impressed the world with the unveiling of Edition 26. Taking over London’s One Marylebone – and raising the bar of global product launches – the company showcased the the new items in spectacular fashion as each lit up the room with innovation, style and forward-thinking design.

    If you launched an innovative product 2018, or know of a new product that you believe is a game changer in international hotel design, then we want to hear all about it. Please email Zoe Gurrier or call +44(0)1992 374059.

     

    Marketing for the modern age: Negative Keywords – the quickest way to save a fortune on advertising

     Hamish Kilburn
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    For four weeks, Hotel Designs has been working with author and CEO of DHM, Adam Hamadache, in order to explore the minefield of marketing. In his fourth and final article in the series, Hamadache explores how identifying your brand’s negative keywords could help you to unlock a new audience…

    Pay-per-click advertising is something that just about every hotel has tried at some point, usually with underwhelming results.

    Typically, Google search ads gets the nod, with a carefully selected array of search terms (keywords) chosen, a daily budget set, and the campaign is set live.

    Whether this is set up by a marketing consultant, an agency, or even someone within the hotel itself, little regard is often given to ‘negative keywords’, if at all. These are the type of words and phrases that you don’t want to bid on, deeming them unsuitable or irrelevant to your product.

    Perhaps the most simplistic and obvious example being the omission of ‘cheap’ or ‘budget’ if you happen to be a luxury hotel bidding on a phrase-match or broad-match of the keyword ‘hotels in [your location]’. Put simply – your ad will appear when ‘hotels in [your location] is googled, but not when ‘cheap hotels in [your location]’ is googled.

    What you’re doing here is classing ‘cheap’ and ‘budget’ as negative keywords, in the hope that the users who click on your ads are (to a certain extent) pre-qualified, and hence, reducing the chance of wasted clicks and money.

    Fascinatingly, negative keywords are widely underused in hotel PPC (pay-per-click) campaigns, even if an external “expert” has set up the campaign and is managing it. All too often, my team and I will research which companies are advertising on certain keywords and find that the ad for a hotel in Devon has appeared for the keyword ‘wedding venues Lancashire’. Whilst the more observant of browsers might spot this and choose not to click, the majority of Googlers are trigger-happy and care-free with their clicks, serving to burn through the hotel’s (often modest) budget in a wasteful fashion.

    “Sometimes the words and phrases you might wish to omit as negative keywords are less obvious.”

    Whilst this location-based ad is an example of an incorrect campaign setup, sometimes the words and phrases you might wish to omit as negative keywords are less obvious. For instance, a spa hotel may bid on a broad-match of the keyword ‘spa hotels near Bristol’ and ensure that price-led words (cheap, budget, etc) and incorrect locations are saved as negative keywords during the setup but find that further words and phrases need to be omitted weeks after the campaign launches. ‘Spa hotels near Bristol with an outdoor pool’, for example could have been the actual search term typed into Google that achieved a click but omitting ‘outdoor pool’ wouldn’t necessarily be an immediately obvious choice as a negative keyword if the hotel in question doesn’t have this facility.

    This is where continuous management of your negative keywords is essential to keep wastage at a minimum. To do this, it’s a simple case of regularly (we recommend weekly) reviewing the actual phrases that people Googled before clicking on your ad, which you can access easily – this is referred to as your ‘search terms report’.

    Reading through this list, you’ll be able to see the weird and wonderful list of things people Googled that were deemed a broad-match or phrase-match to your selected keyword. So when you thought you were innocently targeting people searching for ‘hotels in Manchester’ you might find that you paid £2.47 for a single click when someone searched for ‘why are hotels in Manchester so expensive?’ or ‘what are the best hotels in Manchester to photograph.’ Clearly the intent to book in these two examples is somewhere between low and non-existent.

    Worse still, it is not uncommon to find a poorly managed campaign regularly spending 60-80 per cent of the budget on clicks where the Googled terms are similar to the above examples, serving to burn through the budget with an enormous amount of wastage and few (if any) conversions.

    The solution however is simple, if time-consuming at first. A weekly review of the search term report will show you where your budget is being spent and what you will to need omit thereafter. In this example, ‘photo’ or ‘photograph’ is unlikely to crop up regularly but worth adding to the negative keyword list. ‘Expensive’ featuring in the browser’s search might suggest a low-price requirement and should be added if the hotel in question is at the higher end of the market, and similarly a search term that features ‘why’ is likely to come from a browser with little or no intent to book and would also be a good term to add to the negative keyword list.

    If a PPC campaign is well-managed, the list of negative keywords should continue to grow, serving to refine the clicks to only the most suitable, high-intent browsers. Hotels can be forgiven for not having the time or knowledge to implement this continuously and effectively, but marketing professionals cannot. If in doubt about the effectiveness of your PPC campaign, it’s advisable to ask the person or agency managing it for the list of negative keywords associated to the campaign. Based on the high volume of poorly managed campaigns we see regularly from hotels, there’s a good chance that list won’t be long.

    About the author

    Adam Hamadache is the author of Amazon No.1 best-selling hotel book The Direct Method and the CEO of hotel marketing agency DHM. Having worked with hotels (including his own) for more than 10 years, Hamadache has created a proven marketing strategy to reduce over-reliance on expensive third party bookings. 

    The first article in this series by Hamadache explored why hotels should be ‘remarketing’ themselves.
    The second article in this series by Hamadache explored why hotels should learn all about the new SEO.
    The third article in this series by Hamadache explored the significance of algorithm changes 

    Main image credit: Pixabay

    Top five stories of the week: hellish hacks, Sleep Set success and redefining luxury with art

     Hamish Kilburn
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    With Sleep + Eat’s Sleep Sets declared as another successful installation following it taking shelter under a new home and Marriott Starwood suffering from a terrible hacking incident, this week has been a mix of highs and lows. Here are the top stories of the week, as selected by the editorial team at Hotel Designs…

    As we close November, we can reflect on a sensational month of understanding art and photography in international hotel design. With our Spotlight On feature of the month catapulting this topic into the fabrics of our writing, we have learned how art and photography has the power to completely define a hotel’s sense of place. While THE Park Hotels has enjoyed positive coverage around its vibrant collection of art-infused hotels, Marriott Starwood on the other hand has endured negative press around the security of its data. Here are the top five stories of the week:

    1) Half a billion people could be affected by major Marriott Starwood hack

    The hotel chain, Marriott Starwood, faces backlash as half and billion people’s data is feared to have been compromised. In a statement today, the hotel brand said that there have been unauthorised access to the database, which contains information such as encrypted payment card numbers made on or before September 10 of this year.

    2) Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa unveils $20 million renovation

    Designed by boutique multi-disciplinary design practice, Topo Design Studio, the newly transformed Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa now exhibits beautiful Maldivian architecture with a contemporary twist, reflecting the five-star experience guaranteed at the property.

    3) Sleep Sets 2018: Behind the keyhole

    Four international leading design houses were set the challenge to collaborate with four separate companies for this year’s Sleep Sets at SLEEP + EAT. Hamish Kilburn investigated how each designer turned vision into reality.

    4) Creative Director of HBA London confirmed as headline speaker of Interior Design & Architecture Summit

    Following her crowd-pleasing Sleep Set that was exhibited at SLEEP + EAT – and being highly commended at The Brit List 2018 in the Interior Designer of the Year category – Constantina Tsoutsikou, the creative Director of HBA London has been confirmed as the headline speaker of IDAS 2019.

    5) Redefining luxury hotels in India with clever injection of design and art

    Following THE Park Hotels celebrating 50 years of being unlike any other Indian hotel group, Priya Paul sat down with editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn to discuss the role of art in the hotel brand.

    Half a billion people could be affected by major Marriott Starwood hack

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The hotel chain, Marriott, faces backlash as half and billion people’s data is feared to have been compromised… 

    Hotel giant Marriott Starwood has been hit by what is said to be a vast hack that could affect up to half a billion people internationally, reports The Independent.

    In a statement today, the hotel brand said that there have been unauthorised access to the database, which contains information such as encrypted payment card numbers made on or before September 10 of this year.

    “There are two components needed to decrypt the payment card numbers, and at this point, Marriott has not been able to rule out the possibility that both were taken,” Marriott International said in the statement.

    It added that it has reacted to “investigate and address” the data security incident, which it “deeply regrets” happened.

    “The investigation has determined that there was unauthorised access to the database, which contained guest information relating to reservations at Starwood properties on or before September 10, 2018.”

    More to follow…

    Main image credit: Flickr (Mighty Travels) 

    Students from Peru Receive “Water Research Prize” at the World Architecture Festival

     800 600 Hamish Kilburn
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    GROHE and the World Architecture Festival (WAF) awarded the winner of the International Water Research Prize in Amsterdam, the Netherlands…

    Hotel Designs Recommedned Supplier GROHE and World Architectural Festival presented the Water Research Prize to Benen Desmaison who accepted the accolade on behalf of her students of the Pontificia Catholic University of Peru (PCUP). She received the prize money of £10,000, sponsored by WAF and founder partner GROHE. The presentation of the prize took place at the three-day festival’s kick-off.

    GROHE and WAF awarded the prize to a small-community water management system in the Amazon Rainforest. The area has the world’s highest precipitation rate per year, yet just under a third of its population has access to water. The PCUP team has developed a solution that collects, stores and processes rainwater using pipes. The project won against twelve competitors. The finalists on the competition’s shortlist were selected out of a total of 60 submissions.

    Work on the production of a rainwater storage system continues

    Commenting on the win, Desmaison said: “We are very grateful for this award as it will allow us and the communities in the Amazon Rainforest that work with us to continue to explore alternatives for the provision of water to peri-urban and rural areas. We aim to use this opportunity to work on the production of a rainwater storage system made using local materials and knowledge that can be easily integrated with traditional architectural typologies.”

    “First, when we were identifying projects with water scarcity issues, I could not imagine that the Peruvian Amazon would place on the shortlist,” said Michael Seum, Vice President Design at GROHE. “However, this carefully considered project highlights that less than a third of the population has access to water and the proposal of a communal water management system integrating pre-existing water networks sounds like a pragmatic and innovative solution. We are proud to present the £10,000 prize money for this research project.”

    The Water Research Prize, which GROHE and WAF use to support the PCUP team’s existing research, is based on the WAF Manifesto published last year. It describes the most important challenges for architects within the next ten years. Proper handling of water is a top priority. Other categories include topics such as the ageing of society and health, climate, energy and carbon, ethics and values, power and justice, smart cities, building technologies, recycling and virtual worlds.

    “At GROHE, we want to contribute to a better understanding of how water relates to its built environment. As such, we’re more than happy to support an architectural award that honours relevant research initiatives,” said Christopher Barger, Senior Vice President of Global Projects at GROHE. “I would like to thank the students of PCUP for bringing this specific water-related issue in the Amazon Rainforest to our attention. In addition, I want to congratulate them on the innovative solution that they have developed for this problem.”

    In addition to other Manifesto-related awards, the WAF also honours numerous architecture awards. In 2018, a total of more than 500 projects from over 50 countries have been shortlisted for awards in more than 30 categories. During the three-day event the finalists present live to the panel of international jury across three days of live judging. As in the past year, GROHE sponsors the “World Building of the Year Award”, which will be presented on 30th November. In addition, GROHE supports the awards in the categories “Hotel and Leisure” and “Housing and Residential”.

     

    Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa unveils $20 million renovation

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Marriott Hotels has announced the completion of a $20 million renovation to  Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives…

    Designed by boutique multi-disciplinary design practice, Topo Design Studio, the newly transformed Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa now exhibits beautiful Maldivian architecture with a contemporary twist, reflecting the five-star experience guaranteed at the property.

    Situated on the private island of Furanafushi in the Republic of Maldives, the five-star resort offers 176 guestrooms designed to blend into the surrounding turquoise waters, pristine beaches and lush greenery. The hotel also boasts a total of seven unique restaurants and bars, the Shine Spa for Sheraton (located on its very own island) and three outdoor tropical fresh water pools.



    Topo Design Studio has taken its inspiration from the surrounding environment to ensure that all aspects of the resort emulate a traditional Maldivian feel that is not compromised by the top of the range amenities. As a result, all aspects of the resort have been elegantly renovated, from the restyled landscape gardens around the swimming pools, to the room categories, the events spaces and restaurants, ensuring a completely dovetailed style throughout the island.

    “The hotel now boasts 10 different luxury room categories, all spaciously located around the island.”

    “We are delighted to have completed the renovation programme which has seen $20 million spent on redesigning Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa”, comments Emilio Fortini, General Manager for Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. “As the third eldest resort in the Maldives, dating back to 1937, it is very important to us that we continue to modernise our property to ensure it goes above and beyond the standards expected of a five-star resort without losing the feel of our surroundings. Subsequently, Sheraton Maldives has been carefully transformed and this is seen in our revamped restaurants with fresh menus, our newly designed bars, our bespoke villa host service and our innovative spa packages which are set to complete in January 2019. We look forward to welcoming both new and returning guests to discover these new enhancements, which I have no doubt will only enrich their experience on our unique tropical paradise.”

    The hotel now boasts 10 different luxury room categories, all spaciously located around the island, including the re-styled Deluxe Cottages, Cottage Water Bungalows and Water Bungalows with Pools. These spacious cottages all offer the utmost privacy and provide easy access to the beach and lagoon. As part of the renovation, they now feature an outdoor so guests can truly immerse themselves in their luscious green surroundings. The property has also introduced a new room category, Cottage with Pool, which has been designed with families in mind and boasts a private plunge pool for young children to safely splash around in with direct access to the heavenly white sandy beaches.

    Offering seven bars and restaurants in total, the resort ensures that a variety of dining options are available to guests, ranging from a casual al fresco treat to a quintessentially Maldivian feast. The newest addition to the completed renovations includes the centrally located Feast Restaurant which has been uniquely designed to emulate the local culture and now boasts a cadent coconut roofing and a sophisticated white colour scheme. Offering both breakfast and dinner, Feast restaurant comes to life with chefs creating dishes from around the world from live-cooking stations made from cleanly cut marble surfaces. Similarly, the Anchorage Bar has been elegantly renovated with a light and gentle colour palette that does not detract from the panoramic view of the stunning Indian Ocean. This creates a laid back atmosphere and encourages guests to relax on the comfortable day beds, listen to live music from a local band and sip on one of the resort’s signature cocktails.

     

    Editor checks in: November 2018

     Hamish Kilburn
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    And that’s a wrap!

    Show Season 2018 was a delicious cocktail of all the freshest, and tastiest, ingredients. Served up in a number of containers, each event unique in its structure, content and general look and feel. Sheltering insights of the future as well as game-changing product launches, the whole season has been one to remember, as we will review in next month’s Spotlight On feature.

    Following the incredible activities, exclusives and far too many after parties that surrounded Show Season 2018, the industry was in desperate need of a show-stopping climax. And that, this year, came in the fashionable form of The Brit List 2018, which showed up in an unlikely – yet warmly received – location and delivered an evening of celebrations and understated glamour. Deliberately designed this year take the industry outside of the hotel arena, The Brit List 2018 took place in a private members club, BEAT London. Enjoying that scene, and celebrating Britain’s leading figures in hotel design, were guests from the likes of Gleneagle’s Conor O’Leary, Ennismore’s Charlie North, HBA London’s Constantina Tsoutsikou, and Richmond International’s Terry McGillicuddy among many others; the room was heaving and further defined Britain as a major international hotel design hub. If you haven’t yet seen who the winners are (where have you been) click here.

    Another event which settled into a new home this year, as it outgrew the Business Design Centre in Islington, was SLEEP + EAT which was warmly welcomed to Olympia London. Introducing what were, in my mind, the best Sleep Sets were four fabulous design houses, which all pushed boundaries under the umbrella theme of ‘collaboration’. HBA London partnered with the National History Museum, Yasmine Mohmoudieh linked arms with Penguin Books, AB Concept stirred the mix with Maison Pierre Hermé Paris, while Denton Corker Marshall kicked off a partnership with West Ham United. Each set was stunning and being in the audience of the Sleep Sets lecture, where each designer explained their concept, was inspiring as it was interesting; a real personal treat.

    “This month has allowed our editorial team to mingle and meet up with old friends, while meeting new faces who are at the cusp of taking our industry forward.”

    This month’s hotel review opened up our eyes to disobedient interiors in the shape of Hotel Gotham. Together with our photography partners, ACT Studios, we were able to bring you into the review with us. This, our second interactive hotel review, comes as the hotel group prepares to welcome a new member to the Bespoke Hotels family.

    I believe that November 2018 was a significant 30 days in the calendar for designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers for a number of reasons. The first being that it welcomed and encouraged the industry – through various means and methods – to network with like-minded people. Secondly, it invited a number of major product launches, many of which were from our Hotel Designs Recommended Suppliers (which can be accessed here). And thirdly, this month has allowed our editorial team to mingle and meet up with old friends, while meeting new faces who are at the cusp of taking our industry forward. Long may that continue!

    Editor, Hotel Designs

    Smart tables for charging tables

     480 300 Hamish Kilburn
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    Contract Furniture Store investigates technology in our furniture and how charger-friendly tables will soon become uniform in all hotel public space – or at least they should be… 

    With Smartphone usage at an all-time high, battery anxiety is becoming the new norm, as the panoply of Apps we use to run our lives or businesses, becomes ever greater and more sophisticated.

    Carrying some sort of Charger has become a daily necessity never mind the constant battle to find a point to plug them in!

    Like complementary Wi-Fi which is now widely established and considered a given across many sectors, wireless charging is an extra service you can offer to your customers or employees to enhance their daily experience.

    Universal wireless charging solutions are the next step forwards with mainstream adoption of this built-in capability using the Qi standard looking set to increase and include 50 per cent of all handsets by 2022.

    Aircharge is a pioneer in bringing this wireless charging technology to public venues including office space, where it’s deployment can help brands enhance their services and connect with customers or employees in innovative and rewarding ways with it’s cloud-based IoT platform, utilising integrated Bluetooth beacon technology, giving Operators or Managers the chance to manage at differing levels.

    Technology meets Design

    Aircharge is one of the most progressive designers of technology-driven interiors products in the UK. Through collaboration with office and furniture designers and architects, Aircharge enables wireless charging wherever it is needed the most. All seamlessly and beautifully integrated to create a premium feel and enhanced experience, leaving access to power outlets and cables a thing of the past.

    Aircharge can be installed into any of the Contract Furniture Store’s table tops or desks, with a surface or subsurface integration, delivering a seamless finish and enhanced experience.

    Smart Tables for Smart Phones!

    Non-QI Device? Don’t worry! Through their range of receivers and accessories, we can enable non-Qi devices to enjoy the freedom of wireless charging.

    Whenever, wherever & whatever

    Aircharge leads the deployment of wireless charging on a global scale and is rapidly creating the widest eco-system for Qi wireless charging, enabling you to top up your battery throughout the course of the day, no matter where you are and what you do.

    For further details, please view here or contact the Contract Furniture Store.

    Contract Furniture Store is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    Sleep Sets 2018: Behind the keyhole

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Four international leading design houses were set the challenge to collaborate with four separate companies for this year’s Sleep Sets at SLEEP + EAT. Hamish Kilburn investigated how each designer turned vision into reality…

    It’s not an easy task by anyone’s imagination, but someone has to do it. Reviewing the Sleep + Eat Sleep Sets this year was an experience that inspired as well as taught. The major lesson was that it’s okay to look, think and work outside the hotel design box in order to create something for the future traveller.

    This year’s equally talented designers of the Sleep Sets were asked to go where no Sleep Set designer has dared to venture before; to collaborate with well-known brands that had, up until now, had no relationship with the fascinating, visual – and at times unforgiving – world of hotel design – what had they let themselves into? Raising to the challenge, though, were the four internationally renowned design houses: HBA London, AB Concept, Denton Corker Marshall and Yasmine Mahmoudieh and soon after receiving their briefs, it was game on!

    Several drafts later, deadline day approached. The leaders of each brand put down their tools and stood back to take in their work as the clock struck 10am and the doors of Sleep + Eat 2018 opened in Olympia London.

    HBA London partnered with The Natural History Museum

    Creating what Creative Director of HBA London, Constantina Tsoutsikou, described as the ‘modern-day explorer’s suite’, the company took guests almost completely into another world. Awakening the curious explorer in everyone who walked through the door, HBA London allowed us to explore the unexpected in the most immediate of surroundings. Stimulated by the beauty of the natural world and the importance of our connection with nature, the set cleverly encouraged the uncovering of treasures, the examination of exciting specimens and the drive to learn.

    AB Concept partnered with Maison Pierre Hermé

    Ed Ng and Terence Ngan bravely took inspiration from ‘fetish’ and one of the celebrated French patissier-chocolatier Pierre Hermé’s seasonal collections, to develop the sensual and provocative Fetish Suite. The suite was a safe haven for guests to indulge in their guilty pleasures, complete with delicious silver macaroons. A space of coquettish hide and reveal and a sense of voyeurism were created through the use of frosted and reflective mirrors and secretive spaces, adding to a tantalising experience as visitors were able to journey through the room.

    Denton Corker Marshall partnered with West Ham United

    Denton Corker Marshall, meanwhile, explored the locker room, or so it seemed. The lead designer, Angela Dapper, explained how she examined the transition between collective and individual space, while reflecting upon the layers of history and ritual of West Ham United when creating the space. The concept of the room offered moments to engage and to reflect, creating new personal experiences for each guest.

    The colour of West Ham, a deep claret, was used throughout, creating an intense backdrop for the concept room. This intensity was a dramatic contrast to the calm nature of the Sleep area, made from natural timber, warm light and natural bedding materials. The Sleep area was a soft space, reflecting the personal and quite beautiful stories we heard from West Ham fans. One couldn’t help but noticed the utilisation of the bed, which reminded me of the beds used in New Road Hotel. The bathroom was modest and minimal, again washed with a single colour, in this case yellow,with very streamlined matt black fittings.

    Yasmine Mahmoudieh partnered with Penguin Books

    Inspired by literary themes of happiness, love and wisdom that transcend space and time, Yasmine Mahmoudieh has created a narrative for her Sleep Set based on three different Penguin Books from diverse authors from varying points in history: Plato’s The Symposium, Selected Poems of Rumi, and Elizabeth and Her German Garden by Elizabeth Von Arnim. Each area within the room set will take its cue from a book, bringing leitmotifs to life and giving thoughtful visual expression to canonical written material.

    Interestingly, it was decided that this year’s sets would not be judged considering that each designer had different briefs to work on. This was a decision that left the audience of Sleep + Eat divided, but I for one would not have enjoyed being on that panel to make that decision. Considering the hype and anticipation of these four areas that grew before the event, audiences felt as if the Sleep Sets this year completely exceeded expectations, and I would have to agree.

     

    Cuba by Skopos: Budget has never looked so stylish

     800 483 Hamish Kilburn
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    Recommended Supplier Skopos Fabrics has launched a linen-look upholstery fabric range as a stylish budget upholstery option…

    A stylish linen-look waterproof, antimicrobial contract upholstery quality at a budget price. Cuba by Skopos launches this Autumn as a flexible upholstery solution, for contract spaces, in a contemporary palette.

    Previewing at the Care show and alongside the new print collection by Skopos, Cuba delivers texture, colour and durability. Looking equally stunning as a plain or when used together with other Skopos upholstery fabrics, Cuba is a great product for contract projects. With stocks available from October, Cuba has no minimums.  The collection achieves 40,000 Martindale rubs and meets FR requirements for contract interiors.

    Call the brand’s sales team for free samples of Cuba or visit its website.

    Skopos is an ISO9001 accredited company and has over 45 years’ specialist experience in the design and manufacture of high performance FR contract fabrics for the hospitality, cruise, care and leisure sectors.

    Skopos is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

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    Spotlight On: 5 inspirng art and photography hotels from around the world (part 2)

     768 512 Hamish Kilburn
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    Following the success of our article on 7 inspiring art and photography hotels from around the world, and to end our Spotlight On feature focusing around Art and Photography, here is part two… 

    It’s official: art and photography is taking over Hotel Designs, and it is doing so in some serious style, highlight major accents on the walls from around the world. Following part 1, here is our second trip around the globe to source the best examples of art and photography hotels.

    1) The Banke Hotel 5*, Paris

    The Banke Hotel 5*, as with all the Derby Hotel Collection’s properties, holds invaluable pieces of art from the private collection of Jordi Clos, the project manager of the group. Unique pieces are displayed on every floor for the pleasure of visitors and guests alike. On each level, and inside striking suites, guests can marvel the works of art, showcased in museum-style glass presentation boxes.

    The hotel exhibits Derby Hotels Collection’s most important collection of ethnic and archaeological jewelry from Africa, Pre-Columbian America and Asia. The collection is permanently displayed on each floor of the hotel in glass cases classified by culture. From Papua New Guinea, China, India and Tibet to the ancient tribes of Africa. Particularly notable are the ritual necklaces from Papua New Guinea, silver and ivory bracelets from Sri Lanka, shaman costumes from the Ivory Coast and talisman boxes from the Mali desert.

    2) The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas

    The Cosmopolitan lobby digital art installation, curated by art consultant Susan Walsh, combines architecture, contemporary art and technology to create an unexpected and dynamic experience. Eight 15′ digital columns and a panel spanning the length of the front desk continuously display a curated library of digital art, transforming the space into an immersive living narrative that incorporates elegant, fantastical and often poetic interpretations of life’s travels. In addition, clouds made from lego pieces hang above guests’ heads in the public areas.

    3) The Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik 

    Behind a large check-in desk, set within timber-panelled wall surround, is a triptych of artworks by Croatian artist Antonia Čačić, specially-commissioned for the project by the scheme’s art consultants ARTIQ. The 3m-long abstract triptych incorporates a palette of soft hues inspired by the colours of the Dalmatian coast.

    4) The Anthenaeum, London

    Turning heads in London’s leafy Mayfair – not as leafy as its exterior – is The Anthenaeum. Withing the striking building hangs a stunning art narrative that has been curated by the talented art consulant, Robin Greene. The main entrance creates a warm first impression for guests as representations of perfumes compliment each pillar.

    5) The Dolder Grand Hotel

    Image credit: The Dolder Grand

    Since the reopening of the Dolder Grand in 2008, more than 100 works of art by prestigious artists have graced the premises of this luxury hotel in Zurich. The most striking piece is arguably Andy Warhol’s “Big Retrospective Painting”, spanning 11 metres, which takes pride of place above the reception. Experience art at the Dolder Grand with our art ipads.

    Main image credit: David Biedert

    Creative Director of HBA London confirmed as headline speaker of Interior Design & Architecture Summit

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
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    Constanina Tsoutsikou, the creative director of HBA London has been confirmed as the headline speaker of Interior Design & Architecture Summit (IDAS) which takes place on April 29 at Hilton London Tower Bridge… 

    Following her crowd-pleasing Sleep Set that was exhibited at SLEEP + EAT – and being highly commended at The Brit List 2018 in the Interior Designer of the Year category – Constantina Tsoutsikou, the creative Director of HBA London has been confirmed as the headline speaker of IDAS 2019.

    The Summit, which will take place on April 29, 2019 at Hilton Tower Bridge is a one-day event, designed to connect senior executives working within the sector with product and service suppliers for face-to-face meetings and business networking.

    Tsoutsikou has been asked to speak at the event as she is proving herself to be a leader not only as the creative director of HBA London, but also as a true visionary in the arena of international hotel design. Her latest project to come out of the studio will launch soon and will be sheltered in a beautiful heritage building in Zegreb, Croatia; an area that Hotel Designs is pinpointing as a major design and travel destination in 2019.

    Tsoutsikou will take the microphone to talk to delegates about HBA London and how the firm has established itself as a leading international interior design studio, sharing key moments in her career that helped her excel. She will then join the editor of Hotel Designs, Hamish Kilburn for a live on-stage Q&A session.

    Speaking about being the confirmed headline speakers, Tsoutsikou said: “it is sometimes hard to carve out time for networking and collaborating opportunities in the day-to-day life of a designer.

    “Events such as the Interior Design & Architecture Summit allow for the industry as a whole to get together to not only do business, but also to discuss major topical issues, from one designer or architect to another. It’s also a great place to meet up with and make new friends.

    “I am delighted to be invited as the headline speaker of the event – I really look forward to catching up with Hamish on stage while making a great days out of it!”

    IDAS aims to support the design and architecture sector with a unique platform to help create long-lasting and mutually beneficial business connections. “I have had the pleasure of watching Tsoutsikou, over four years, grow from the senior designer she was four years ago into one of the world’s most popular Creative Director that she is now today,” said Kilburn. “With her distinct ability to light up any room with knowledge and inspiration, I look forward to hearing Tsoutsikou speak at the event and interviewing her in front of our audience of delegates.”

    How to register your interest in attending

    If you are a supplier to the hospitality industry looking to meet the top architects and interior designers, contact Victoria Petch on v.petch@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

    If you are an architect or interior designer and would like to attend the Summit, please contact Kerry Naumburger on k.naumburger@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

    For more information on the event, click here.

    Duravit sweeps the board at the German Design Awards winning four awards

     800 529 Hamish Kilburn
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    Duravit stands out at the 2018 German Design Awards with a Special Mention for the new Brioso bathroom furniture range and three “Winner” accolades for the XSquare, Shower+Bath and DuraSystem series…

    Recommended Supplier Duravit has come away from the 2018 German Design Awards with a total of four awards and new titles, as the panel of judges recognise key products in the brand’s portfolio.

    The Special Mention recognises works with designs demonstrating particularly successful details or solutions. This award honours the commitment of companies and designers.

    Brioso by Duravit received the Special Mention award. With “Brioso”, Duravit and designer Christian Werner have created a range of furniture that represents relaxation, freshness and “joie de vivre” for contemporary bathroom interiors. Its distinctive features include a precise, finely nuanced geometry produced by slender cabinet frames that form the edge of the furniture, mirrors, and mirror cabinets.

    The prestigious German Design Award 2019’s goal is to “discover, present, and honour unique trends in design.”

    XSquare – Winner
    Duravit’s XSquare was another winner of the evening. The furniture ranged was designed with Kurt Merki Jr. to match the style of the DuraSquare washbasins. The quadrant-shaped chrome profile which edges the furniture emphasises the striking design. While on the floor-standing model, the transition to the base is absolutely seamless, the chrome profile accentuates the frame of both variants.

    Shower + Bath – Winner
    The ingenious Shower+Bath, which unites a contemporary idea with creative use of space: the design by EOOS features a walk-in shower and bathtub in one, was the third winner of the evening. The integrated glass door turns the bathtub quickly and easily into an open shower with straightforward access.

    Duravit has already received ten awards in 2018.

    DuraSystem® – Winner
    With the DuraSystem installation frames, Duravit offers an entire range of bathroom fittings, in front of and behind the wall, from a single source. The electronic “A2” sensor plate in white glass permits contact-free operation.

    The German Design Award is a premium international prize given by the Rat für Formgebung (Council for Design). Each year high-calibre submissions in product and communication design are recognised, each in its own way a pioneer in the international design landscape.

    Duravit has already received ten awards in 2018 including the IF Award, the Red Dot Award and now the German Design Award 2019 as well as more than 170 international design awards since the start of the 1990s.

    Duravit is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

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    Spotlight On: A Year In Review (products)

     768 474 Hamish Kilburn
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    Throughout December, Hotel Design’ Spotlight On will be throwing it back to the major products that have launched over the last 12 months… 

    Next month, as the industry starts wrapping up the year, Hotel Designs will be giving you the ultimate throwback, highlighting the major products that dropped in the hotel industry this year.

    By revisiting this year’s international trade shows – including Milan Design Week, Clerkenwell Design Week, Decorex, 100 % Design, designjunction and SLEEP + EAT – we will bring you all the hottest product launches.

    We will cover everything from the idea of personalised lighting to new bathroom furniture, impressive carpet collaborations to apps that allow consumers to purchase items in the hotel (and everything in between). Hotel Designs will be celebrating the products that have launched to become gamechangers in 2019 and the international hotel design.

    If you wish to find out more, or know of a product that we should be talking about, please contact Zoe Guerrier on 01992 374059 or z.guerrier@forumevents.co.uk

    Main image credit: Deadgood, Brintons, Grohe, Hansgrohe, Hamilton Litestat, Bang Olufsen, Chelsom Lighting

    Redefining luxury hotels in India with clever injection of design and art

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Following THE Park Hotels celebrating 50 years of being unlike any other Indian hotel group, Priya Paul sat down with editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn to discuss the role of art in the hotel brand… 

    Just months ago, I was catching up with who I consider the businesswoman of the year (certainly in the hotel design sphere that is). Priya Paul is a delightful woman who exudes warmth and charm. Her kindness, however, should not be confused for weakness, as her team hit a major milestone, having just recently celebrated THE Park Hotels’ 50th anniversary. Paul defiantly pushed her brands to visually be worlds apart from any other luxury hotel in India. As well as providing personalised experiences for all guests checking in, each hotel in her portfolio is designed to be trendy, forward-thinking with art defining the hotel’s sense-of-place.

    THE Park is present in Bangalore*, Chennai*, Hyderabad*, Kochi, Kolkata*, Navi Mumbai, New Delhi* and Visakhapatnam. THE Park Collection is intimate, personalised, and tailored to transmit an inimitable guest experience. It includes The Park Calangute* (Goa), The Park Baga River (Goa), The Denmark Tavern (Kolkata) and a heritage hotel in Chettinad (2019). Its sister brand, Zone By THE Park, is also across India, currently with seven hotels with the focus on tier two cities.

    All of the hotels within the portfolio layer a strong emphasis of contemporary design in its private and public spaces. Style and luxury enhances everything – be it paintings, furniture, accessories or contemporary art.

    The brand is heightened by each property’s boutique concept through an art route. The art objects spread all over these star deluxe hotels, gives them a specific identity.

    Art in all its manifestations and forms are found in the various hotels. From traditional tribal art to edgy digital art and inspired installations enthrall our guests. Known artists share space with fresher inspiration. The result is a combination of dynamic interpretation of life.

    Five minutes with Priya Paul:

    Hamish Kilburn: How much of the overall budget would you allocate to art in one of your hotels?
    Priya Paul: It depends from project to project . But it is about 5 per cent of the total budget of the project.

    HK: How significant is good art in hotel design?
    PP: It is extremely significant for me. I have always believed in using art and local handicrafts for each of my hotels. I am extremely lucky that I work in India, where each region has wonderful traditional crafts people. I enjoy working with them and enable traditional art and crafts into contemporary work for my hotels.

    HK: You’re an experienced traveller. Without naming and shaming, what’s the worst art you have seen in hotels and how can hotels get it so wrong?
    PP: For me personally the worst is when the hotel has put no thought into it and buys completely non-descript copies, while there are so many young artists that can be encouraged.

    HK: How is art now being depicted beyond the frame in hotel design?
    PP: Art is no longer something that hangs on the wall. We have used sculptures, ceramics and three-dimensional work in our hotels. We have used artworks as wallpapers and have even were the first ones to use video and digital art in hotels. Art is becoming more immersive. I know for my next project, I will work more with video and sound.

    Examples of art and photography at THE Park Hotel:

    THE Park, Chennai

    The Park Chennai is an evocative luxury space located on the premises of erstwhile Gemini Film Studios. Elegant, Sensuous, Rich, it houses the theatre of life in its private and public spaces.  The Hotel aims at creating a visual drama at every step. Well known artists have aptly brought out at The Park Hotels the chic and yet antique culture of Chennai.

    The Lotus is the national flower of India and a sculpture by Hemi Bawa was chosen to be placed at the entrance of the hotel as a welcoming gesture. The Steel at the base depicts the water while the granite pebbles provide a shimmering effect. It exemplifies the fusion at various levels – of light and shadow, natural and manmade.

    Manish Nai, an abstract artist has worked with mixed mediums like jute, paper etc. Born in 1980, he has completed his course from the L.S.Raheja School of Art, Mumbai. His works are also exhibited in Art Access Weel at Birla Academy, Nehru Centre and Cymroza Art Gallery. He exhibits his work at the lobby of THE Park Chennai.

    Meanwhile, artist Sonja Weder’s work exhibits at 601 restaurant. She has used natural vegetation that is processed and laminated like her current exhibits the banana leaf and the flame of the forest.

    Eminent sculptor Ray Mecker currently settled in Pondicherry uses ceramic as his medium for his abstract art which is displayed at the Atrium on the fourth floor.

    THE Park Chennai proudly associates itself with talented art photographers who have lended their work at the public and private spaces of the hotel. To name a few they are Amit Pasricha, Sheena Sippy, Bharat Sikka, Bharat Ramaruthnam.

    In the Pasha, there is a sculpture called HIGH at the entrance, a unique light sculpture by Krishnaraj Chonat is in the shape of a giant eagle suspended from the ceiling. Its bright red glow warms the white pearl encrusted silver leather wings.

    Lobby comes alive every evening with the digitized projection of films on large screens. Digital art in the lift is by Sonia Khurana. Also in the lift are computer games and cartoons reflecting the changing times and tastes.

     

    THE Park, Bangalore

    The first contemporary Indian boutique hotel is small, luxurious and intimate. The first boutique hotel is all about style – a specially designed environment that creates a wealth of experience. Tatler Magazine in its definitive Travel Guide 2003 has rated this as one of the 101 best hotels in the world. It is a unique 109 -room experience, designed by Conran & Partners, UK.

    The design philosophy is a fusion of the vibrant colours and landscapes of India with International style. Each area is specially designed to provide a richer and more sensual interaction. The hotel draws on Indian sensations and environment to provide travelers an ‘urban retreat’. The pristine white four-storied structure belies the luxury and flamboyance of the interiors. Flashes of brilliant colour from the balcony windows break the façade.

    Some of the art that you will see here

    Lobby: The main attraction in the lobby is an intricately carved black wooden pillar specially crafted by local craftsmen. The artistic pillar is a fusion of local hoysala art form and the much talked about Khajuraho art form. The pillar provides an exciting relief by its Indian feel amidst the contemporary feel of the lobby.

    i-bar: The art installation at the I-bar is a backlit graphic, which is inspired by the focus on technology in the city also famous for silk. There are colourful strands, which depict silk threads and wires. Words like click, touch, feel that feature in the installation enhance the human angle to the piece. Paintings by Jiteh Kalet are strategically placed at the entrance to the bar.

    Rooms and corridors: The photographers were specially commissioned for this area of the hotel. The first floor corridor showcases:

    Coloured Photographs by Sanjay Acharya, Gurinder Osan, Manish Swaroop. The second and third floor has images by French photographer Laurent de Gaulle. Fourth floor sees the work of Nitin Upadhaya. Each room at The Park, Bangalore has black and white photographs showcasing the essence of the Garden City’s sights, sounds and scents. Saibal Das and Fawzan Hussain were specially commissioned to capture on film the city’s various moods across 24-hours – from daybreak at Cubbon Park to the bright night lights of MG road. These are an extension of The Park Hotels’ ideology – to incorporate the essence of the city in which it is located, into the design of its hotels.

    THE Park, New Delhi:

    MIST at THE Park New Delhi

    MIST at THE Park New Delhi

    Flagging off the heart of the Capital’s business and entertainment center, stands The Park New Delhi. It overlooks the historic 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory and is in the city’s hub – Connaught Place.

    The artists that you are likely to see here are AK Raina, Shobha Broota, Jagdish Dey, Altaf Hussain, Yusuf Arrakal, Ojha, Priya Ravish Mehra, Manish Kansara, Sukhvinder Singh, Morden Madhvani, Paramjit Singh, Pooja Broota, Hema Joshi.

    THE Park, Vizag:

    The Park, Vizag, spread over 7 acres of spectacular landscaped lawns, overlooking the Bay of Bengal, has a perfect, picturesque ambience as an urban beach resort. The Park’s location offers sandy beaches complete with a lighthouse to underline the romance of the sea with breathtaking sunrises and lovely tropical gardens. The art and décor of the hotel has traces of tribal art of Andhra Pradesh and the tropical themed landscaped lawns are co-related with the influence of Buddhist ruins found in and around the area.

    Sculptures of Apsaras in stone greet you as you enter the hotel. The lobby also boats of Tribal Art from the neighboring Arakku Valley (Sculpture of Dristi Dolls) and traditional kalamkari paintings. Paintings by Kiran Rathore and Manish Gupta adorn the walls of the lift lobbies. The outdoor crafts court depicting the story of Ramayana is the creation of local artist Sairam. These pillars are perfect examples of Savara Art.

    (Savara is ancient tribal clan who belong to the hills of coastal Andhra Pradesh. Traditionally these tribes believe in their Gods and Ghosts of their dead ancestors live with them on the paintings and pictures drawn in their homes. They consider each home to be a temple and most sacrifices are done within their home. Paintings are done with clay and chalk mostly in dark wheat, yellow, white and black colours. The pictures depict daily happenings and lifestyles of their community. The pictures are simple & follow a geometrical pattern of straight lines, triangles, squares and simple life forms.)

    “There’s no place like home,” or not according to latest survey

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Gen z (18 – 24-year-old) travellers have visited more places overseas than UK destinations, a recent survey reveals…

    Travellers aged 18-24 have visited more overseas destinations in the last five years than they have in the UK, according to a new study by Best Western Great Britain, suggesting that more attention needs to be made into the design direction – and facilities – of hotels in Britain.

    The research explored UK travel trends, revealing the holiday habits of the nation and the main influences on their choice of holiday destination.

    The study found that people between 18 and 24 years old have seen more destinations abroad than they have in the UK. This generation, on average, has visited four places overseas, while only visiting two locations in their home country.

    It’s not all bad for Blighty though. In general, one in four people surveyed (25 per cent) say they have visited three UK destinations in the past five years, whilst a similar amount (24 per cent) said that they haven’t visited any overseas destinations, indicating that UK tourism is still alive and well, despite global travel taking priority among younger travellers.

    People aged over 55 years are the most likely to have not visited a destination abroad in the last five years (29 per cent). This decision could be down to the price difference between a UK and international break, with this age group stating price as the main influence that persuades them to visit a UK tourist destination.

    The research also explored Brits’ major motivations for choosing their holiday destination. Over half (57 per cent) of those in Yorkshire stated that they are most influenced by price when considering a vacation – just higher than the national average of 54 per cent.

    The top 10 influences on booking a UK break are:

    • Price (54 per cent)
    • Attractions/landmarks (52 per cent)
    • Views (49 per cent)
    • Hotels / accommodation (39 per cent)
    • Weather (39 per cent)
    • Food and drink (29 per cent)
    • Culture (23 per cent)
    • Accessibility i.e. good transport links (22 per cent)
    • Proximity to home (19 per cent)
    • Nostalgia (19 per cent)

    Rob Paterson, CEO at Best Western Great Britain, said: “It was fascinating to learn which factors Brits consider the most when choosing where to travel.

    “Sometimes we can be guilty of prioritising overseas travel and forgetting about the wonderful places closer to home. Staycations allow you to get away and explore our beautiful country, without the usual high costs and stress of travelling abroad. There is more to explore in Great Britain so for your next holiday, why not consider visiting some of our own brilliant destinations?”

    The survey launches after another study concluded that 95 per cent of travellers would, these days, rather spend money on a luxury experience rather than a luxury product. 

    Main image credit: Pixabay

    New luxury hotel heading for Palma de Mallorca in Spring ’19

     Hamish Kilburn
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    A new luxury hotel in Palma de Mallorca, designed by Swedish interior designer Magnus Ehrland, is slated to open in spring 2019…

    A new luxury hotel, El Llorenç Parc de la Mar, will open its doors in the heart of Palma de Mallorca in  spring 2019. Said to be “the first of its kind on the island”, the hotel will boast 35 exclusive guestrooms, Le Labo amenities throughout, two swimming pools, a rooftop bar, a new destination restaurant and a spa in collaboration with Natura Bissé.

    The location of El Llorenç combines authentic luxury and tranquillity, situated in La Calatrava, the oldest neighbourhood in the city. The area is a meeting point for all of the cultures that have shaped the Mallorca as it is known today, and the hotel is within walking distance of historical attractions such as the Arab Baths and the famous Catedral de Mallorca.

    “El Llorenç Parc de la Mar is a unique hotel that embodies the best of what Mallorca has to offer, whilst also offering something that hasn’t been seen on the island before,” said Joan Comas, the hotel’s general manager. The hotel has the versatility to tailor to the needs of the modern traveller – whether they want to rejuvenate, party or site-see. The hotel delivers on all of the traditional requirements for seamless travel, whilst being modern, innovative and tech-savvy at the same time.”

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    El Llorenç’s striking interiors are the work of established Swedish interior designer Magnus Ehrland. The hotel’s design offers a new direction in Balearic style, presenting a step away from the well-rehearsed white beach linens and wicker combination, and instead offering a richer aesthetic that – whilst contemporary in spirit – pays homage to the history of Palma. Moorish motifs can be found throughout the hotel’s design, seen throughout the property in authentic dark wood lattice-work and Arab-Mallorcan tiling details.

    El Llorenç Parc de le Mar will also be home to one of the most unique gastronomic offerings in the Mediterranean. Spearheaded by renowned Mallorcan chef Santi Taura, the hotel’s restaurant DINS will offer a unique dining experience inspired by the island’s traditional cuisine and made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

    Guests of El Llorenç Parc de la Mar will find themselves in a welcoming and stylish environment perfect for a break at any time of the year. Those coming out during Mallorca’s long summer can enjoy the expansive views of the bay from the rooftop bar, Balinese beds and the largest infinity pool in Palma; for those looking for a restorative break, time can also be spent enjoying the sensational spa, featuring a 14-metre indoor thermal pool and treatment room offering an array of beauty and wellness services curated by Spanish brand, Natura Bissé.

    Marketing for the modern age: Algorithm changes don’t do it for me either – but this is HUGE

     Hamish Kilburn
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    For four weeks, Hotel Designs is working with author and CEO of DHM, Adam Hamadache, in order to explore the minefield of marketing. In his third article in the series of four, Hamadache explores why hotels should explore a video-centric approach to their social media platforms in light of the algorithm changes…

    For those of us that are not technically-minded (or gifted, for that matter), an ‘algorithm change’ by one of the big tech companies offers little in the way of stimulation. Not least because there seems to be a new one every month, with each new update promising to ‘change the internet as we know it’ or so the scaremongers would have us believe.

    So when Facebook were making a ‘big announcement’ earlier this year, understandably, few paid a great deal of notice across the hotel industry. And yet, it’s probably been the biggest digital shift since those online travel agents turned up 10+ years ago. Remarkably though, nearly 12 months have gone by and it’s still relatively unnoticed by many.

    The logical question therefore being: if it’s gone unnoticed by so many, was it really all that important?

    The answer to that question is undoubtedly ‘yes’, and here’s why:

    Most hotels, especially those at the higher end of the luxury spectrum, spend time, money and effort on keeping their Facebook pages up to date, but without a basic grasp of the Facebook algorithm change that came into effect in January 2018, a hefty chunk of that investment is being completely wasted.

    “So if you happen to have 10,000 Facebook likes on your hotel’s page, but 9,500 haven’t really engaged with your content for a long time, your audience is not 10,000, it’s much closer to 500.”

    At the start of 2018, Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder and CEO of Facebook, announced that the social media platform would be prioritising ‘meaningful interactions’, meaning that as a user, you will be served posts that it believes you are most likely to engage with by way of a like, comment or share. Furthermore, ‘friends’ would get a higher prioritisation than ‘pages’ (businesses) in your newsfeed. It went further to explain that content from within ‘groups’ would also be given a higher level of prioritisation. All very logical.

    To put it another way, if someone liked your page two years ago and hasn’t liked, commented or shared any of your posts in that time, the chances of them continuing to see your Facebook posts is close to zero. So if you happen to have 10,000 Facebook likes on your hotel’s page, but 9,500 haven’t really engaged with your content for a long time, your audience is not 10,000, it’s much closer to 500.

    This all makes commercial sense – for years Facebook gave us all a very loud megaphone for free. We could boom our messages to a captive audience, chat with them and even sell our products and services to them. Now they’ve effectively turned down our metaphorical megaphones to a volume slightly louder than a whisper, and conveniently given us access to the volume button, but only if we’re prepared to pay for it via boosted posts and the like.

    “Beautiful room pans and aerobatic drone shots that bring the product to life, sell a hotel far better than a cluster of images.”

    The most notable thing however is that video posting doesn’t seem to have been subject to the same limitations in reach. Where an image or text post might reach 300 people, the same content in video would likely reach closer to 1,000, all things being equal.

    That’s significant for hotels, especially at the higher end of the market, who’s products lend themselves well to this medium. Beautiful room pans and aerobatic drone shots that bring the product to life, sell a hotel far better than a cluster of images. And yet, fewer than two per cent of hotels are utilising this channel to its full potential, continuing to naively post text and images to an audience that hasn’t necessarily lost interest, they just can’t hear you through the noise.

    ‘Groups’ on Facebook are also a fantastic way to quieten the pages and friends competing for your customer’s attention. Facebook deems a group slightly higher ranked than a standard business page, so encouraging your followers to join a ‘VIP’ or ‘special offers’ club has proven a useful means to continue the conversation and engagement.

    There of course remains the question as to whether Facebook has had its day, and whether other social channels will take the mantel of the biggest social media platform. A valid discussion point, but as of September 2018, Facebook still had 2.27 billion active users use its site, compared to Instagram’s one billion.

    The world of social media will inevitably change over time, but for now, Facebook is still top dog, and hotels who invest in content for the site, must adopt a video-centric approach, or risk having their messages drowned out by the noise.

    About the author

    Adam Hamadache is the author of Amazon No.1 best-selling hotel book The Direct Method and the CEO of hotel marketing agency DHM. Having worked with hotels (including his own) for more than 10 years, Hamadache has created a proven marketing strategy to reduce over-reliance on expensive third party bookings. 

    The first article in this serires by Hamadache explored why hotels should be ‘remarketing’ themselves.
    The second article in this serires by Hamadache explored why hotels should learn all about the new SEO. 

    Main image credit: Pexels

    Top five stories of the week: Brit List success, artistic talents and a hotel unlike any other

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    Following last night’s The Brit List, here are the top five stories of the week, as selected by editor Hamish Kilburn… 

    In my editor’s letter in The Brit List 2018, which can be read here, I ask why it is that a tiny spec of land in the Northern Hemisphere could have such a large impact on the rest of the world. Well, my question was answered last night in a private members club as the industry’s leaders gathered for the unveiling of The List as well as our newly launched awards. It was a truly spectacular evening, full of engaging talks, insights, lighting demonstrations and plenty of tension as the winners were revealed. One thing is for certain, Britain is – and will continue to be – a major design hub of the world. Congratulations to the full 75 individuals who made it on to this year’s The Brit List, who have each proven that they are leading the way in international hotel design from the shores of Britain.

    Here are the top five stories of the week:

    1) Winners of The Brit List crowned

    Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, Gleneagles’ Conor O’Leary and Bespoke Hotels among those who swooped trophies at The Brit List 2018.

    Britain’s top interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers gathered last night for The Brit List 2018 at BEAT London, where the profiles of the top 75 influencers in British hotel design, as well as crowning the winners of the six newly launched awards.

    2) IN CONVERSATION WITH: Patrick McCrae, Co-founder and CEO of art consultancy ARTIQ

    Earlier this month, ARTIQ inspired me – as a young design enthusiast – to think outside the box when critiquing art in hotels around the world. The term ‘talent searching’ has never been so clear as it was at the final of the Graduate Art Prize. The room was full of ideas, some yet to be sketched. ARTIQ, which launched the awards in 2012, is led by the dynamic and charismatic Patrick McCrae. Considering his team’s work that hangs on the stunning walls of prestigious hotels such as Gleneagles and Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, I had the pleasure of catching up with McCrae to find out more.

    3) B3 Designers breathes new American life into Marriott Hotel’s champions bar in Frankfurt

    B3 Designers, which has gone from strength to strength since launching in 2002, has unveiled its latest project, which captures a little bit of America into the F&B areas of Frankfurt’s Marriott hotel…

    Restaurant and hotel interior design specialist, B3 Designers has recently unveiled its latest interior design and branding project. Champions Bar & Restaurant, located within Frankfurt’s Marriott hotel, is a European sports bar and restaurant serving classic bar dishes and drinks in the German city’s central district of Innenstadt.

    4) Inside The Brit List 2018 

    The Brit List 2018 took place last night at BEAT London, welcoming the top interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to network and mingle to celebrate Britain’s position in international hotel design. Here are the official images of the evening.

    Hotel Designs‘ nationwide search to find Britain’s top interior designers, hoteliers and architects came to a close last night as the leaders of our industry gathered for the awards ceremony. The winners of The Brit List 2018 awards were crowned and the top 75 influencers in British hotel design were announced.

    5) InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland has opened as the brand’s 200th hotel

    InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), as one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has opened InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, which has been under construction for the past 10 year. Developed by Shimao Group and managed by IHG, InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland has been masterfully built into the side wall of a formerly abandoned quarry in Southwestern Shanghai. Stretching 88 metres underground, the hotel was nominated as one of the architectural wonders of the world by the National Geographic Channel’s MegaStructures series due to its pioneering architectural design.

    Britlist_28-800x602

    Inside The Brit List 2018

     800 602 Hamish Kilburn
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    The Brit List 2018 took place last night at BEAT London, welcoming the top interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to network and mingle to celebrate Britain’s position in international hotel design. Here are the official images of the evening… 

    Hotel Designs‘ nationwide search to find Britain’s top interior designers, hoteliers and architects came to a close last night as the leaders of our industry gathered for the awards ceremony. The winners of The Brit List 2018 awards were crowned and the top 75 influencers in British hotel design were announced.

    Here are the official photographs inside The Brit List 2018.

    If you have images of the night that you wish to share, please use the hashtag #TheBritList2018

    Winners of The Brit List 2018 crowned

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, Gleneagles’ Conor O’Leary and Bespoke Hotels among those who swooped trophies at The Brit List 2018…

    Britain’s top interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers gathered last night for The Brit List 2018 at BEAT London, where the profiles of the top 75 influencers in British hotel design, as well as crowning the winners of the six newly launched awards.

    READ THE BRIT LIST 2018 BY CLICKING HERE.

    “The Brit List is a fantastic example of what we are trying to achieve at Hotel Designs,” said Katy Phillips, publisher of Hotel Designs. This event is a great platform for the leaders of our industry and we want to continue to profile all influencers in hotel design, as well as crowning deserving winners.”

    The event, which was deliberately sheltered in a venue like no other, welcomed key speakers from the likes of British Institute of Interior Design’s (BIID), Charles Leon, and experimental lighting expert to the stars, Moritz Waldemeyer. Switching on this year’s Brit List was event sponsor Hamilton Litestat.

    Hosting The Brit List 2018, Hotel Designs editor, Hamish Kilburn said: “Narrowing down our nominees and entries was a fantastic experience, which allowed us to highlight the individuals working in Britain who are making a real difference in International hotel design. I would like to congratulate all the winners, but I would also like to thank the judges from the bottom of my heart, who made the whole process seamless and enjoyable throughout.”

    And the winners of The Brit List 2018 are…

    Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year

    Winner: Martin Brudnizki, MBDS

    Highly commended: Constantina Tsoutsikou, HBA London

    Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year

    Winner: Conor O’Leary, Gleneagles

    Highly commended: Thomas Kochs, The Corinthia London

    Inspiration in Design – Architect of the Year

    Winner: David Archer, Archer Humphryes

    Highly commended: John Denton, Denton Corcker & Marshall

    Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology

    Winner: Meystyle LED Wallpaper

    Highly commended: Criton App

    The Eco Award

    Winner: Eden Project Hotel

    Highly commended: Deadgood, Hug Chair

    Outstanding Contribution to the Hotel Industry

    Winner: Robin Sheppard, Bespoke Hotels

    The Brit List launched last year to highlight the top 50 individuals – interior designers and hoteliers – who are working in Britain, carving new paths in international hotel design. This year’s event went even further, extending the list to 75 names in order to include architects.

    The evening also unveiled, for the first time, the Hotel Designs new branding, which will launch in 2019.

    More images of the evening to follow.

    The Brit List 2018 becomes sold-out event

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Hours before the leading interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers gather at BEAT London for The Brit List 2018, the event hits its maximum capacity… 

    The Brit List 2018, which will take place this evening at BEAT London from 6.30pm, is now sold out* as the key players of the industry prepare to find out who among them is on this year’s list of 75 influencers in design and hospitality.

    As well as expanding the list to now include the top 25 architects, this year’s event will also crown the winners of six newly launched awards, which are:

    • Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year (Sponsored by Tarkett Flooring)
    • Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Architect of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology (Sponsored by DLAppTap)
    • The Eco Award
    • Outstanding Contribution to the Hotel Industry

    Speaking ahead of The Brit List 2018, editor of Hotel Designs and host of the evening, said: “This year, The Brit List has catapulted its way to firmly land in the calendar as an event not to be missed. We look forward to welcoming everyone this evening as we, together, celebrate Britain’s leading position in the world of international hotel design. I look forward to personally congratulating all of the 75 individuals who have earned their place in The Brit List 2018 as well as the six soon-to-be crowned winners of our awards.”

    Directions to BEAT London:

    Address: 48 Margaret St, Marylebone, London W1W 8SE
    Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus

    Event timings: 6.30 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

    6.30 p.m. Welcome drinks are served
    7.00 p.m. Welcome speech from Hotel Designs Editor, Hamish Kilburn, to include unveiling of The Brit List 2018 winners
    7.15 p.m. Canapés are served
    7.15 p.m. Headline speaker, Charles Leon, Leon Black Interior Architecture addresses the Brit List 2018 – Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit
    7.30 p.m. Awards presentation commences
    8.00 p.m. Headline speaker, Moritz Waldemeyer, Studio Moritz Waldemeyer addresses The Brit List 2018 – Hotel lighting; how it has changed in recent times and how is lighting technology allowing for more creative interiors
    8.15 p.m. Celebrations and networking

    BRIT LIST 2018 Industry Partner: British Institute of Interior Design

    BRIT LIST 2018 Event Sponsor: Hamilton Litestat

    BRIT LIST 2018 Supporting Partner: Studio Moritz Waldemeyer

    BRIT LIST 2018 Award Sponsor: Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year: Tarkett

    The Brit List 2018 Innovation In Technology Award sponsor: DLAppTap

    #TheBritList2018

    * We have reserved a limited number of last-minute tickets for delegates and suppliers. Please contact k.phillips@forumevents.co.uk to purchase yours.

    IN CONVERSATION WITH: Patrick McCrae, Co-founder and CEO of art consultancy ARTIQ

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    As our ‘Spotlight On’ feature on Art and Photography becomes even more colourful, editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn caught up with the charming, and equally talented, visionary who is ARTIQ‘s co-founder and CEO Patrick McCrae. Together the pair discuss talent searching and how the art consultancy firm is leading art in hotels into uncharted waters…

    Earlier this month, ARTIQ inspired me – as a young design enthusiast – to think outside the box when critiquing art in hotels around the world. The term ‘talent searching’ has never been so clear as it was at the final of the Graduate Art Prize. The room was full of ideas, some yet to be sketched. ARTIQ, which launched the awards in 2012, is led by the dynamic and charismatic Patrick McCrae. Considering his team’s work that hangs on the stunning walls of prestigious hotels such as Gleneagles and Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, I had the pleasure of catching up with McCrae to find out more.

    Hamish Kilburn: What do you look for when searching for new art talent?

    Patrick McCrae: Innovation, creativity and sustainability. ARTIQ is interested in representing a diverse group of artists, but with the same level of ambition as our own and an exceptionally high level of quality. We work across many different media, from painting and sculpture to photography, prints and illustration, and we’re always on the lookout for artists making waves in their communities in the territories in which we’re active. We like efficient people and good communicators too! As we’re so hands-on with our artists, it’s really important to foster a close working relationship. Our clients see us as their conduit to the artworld, so it’s important too that we can reflect the calibre and standards of our clients in the artwork we put forward.

    ARTIQ were commissioned to curate an art collection for The Marriott Heathrow Conference, Banqueting & Event Space, redesigned by EPR Architects alongside works for the bedrooms, designed by Anita Rosato Interior Design.

    Image caption: ARTIQ were commissioned to curate an art collection for The Marriott Heathrow Conference, Banqueting & Event Space, redesigned by EPR Architects alongside works for the bedrooms, designed by Anita Rosato Interior Design.

    HK: Which hotel has recently stopped you in your tracks because of its art – and can you describe it?

    PM: In February, I stayed in a tiny boutique hotel on Waheike Island, New Zealand.  I was there for the Auckland Arts Festival before touring around a bit and this was the last night in the country before coming home, so I really wanted to escape.  The hotel was run by a husband-and-wife team and set atop a huge vineyard in an olive grove (it was all a bit extra).  The plan was really to submerge in natural beauty before heading back to London.  The place was incredible: a spacious suite with floor to ceiling windows opening completely on two sides to a terrace with sun chairs and a table and the most absurdly picturesque view ever.  However, what really stuck me was the art collection, almost a lesson in modern art!  Miro, Picasso, Kandinsky nestled amongst local artists inspired by the views.  Every piece had a story and had been purchased over years by the owners.  It was the aesthetic so many of our clients are inspired by – the idea of a collector’s collection, each piece relevant, each modern work by an artist known to the family, collected and transported by hand back to the hotel.

    HK: British artists seem to be so attractive to hotel clients from around the world. But what is it that Britain has that other countries may lack?

    PM: There are indeed many fantastic British artists and I think this stems from the strength of the UK’s art market, which allows a certain freedom and flexibility when it comes to creating and collaborating. At ARTIQ we adopt a fair pay policy and in turn have found that our artists are more open to working on commissions in a much less restrictive way. However, we do think it is extremely important that when working on an international project to support local artists and not just to promote a British-is-best mentality. For example, with Mode ApartHotel Arc de Triomphe, our team of art researchers sourced work by Parisian artists Christian Gastaldi and Matheiu Bernard to reflect the culture and innovation of the city and offer a powerful place-making tool for the hotelier, as well as a unique opportunity for guests to experience local arts and culture as soon as they reach their accommodation.

    The London Marriott Regents Park ARTIQ worked closely with Anita Rosato Interior Design on the curation of a fun and location-specific art collection for London Marriott Hotel Regents Park

    Image caption: The London Marriott Regents Park
    ARTIQ worked closely with Anita Rosato Interior Design on the curation of a fun and location-specific art collection for London Marriott Hotel Regents Park

    HK: What advice would you give to young artists aspire to branch out into the commercial market?

    PM: Here are my seven top tips:

    • Find your voice: in terms of subject and style, don’t be swayed by trends as these change and you’ll be left behind.
    • Know your business: from your prices to your intellectual property –  spend a bit of time working out your pricing, do a bit of research on industry practice, a-n, The Artists Information Company has a lot of great resources.
    • Think about how can you help clients ‘get’ your work? Maybe it’s the story, maybe’s it’s how many hours you spend on a piece or maybe it’s the materials? Think about what makes your process a ‘practice’.
    • Draw the line (early): Do you want to only sell originals? Do you want to do editions? Decide what you want now – it can always shift but makes you less likely to make uncomfortable compromises later in your career. The commercial art world can get hectic in terms of pace, and you want to lay a solid foundation early on.
    • Support others and they’ll return the favour: Whether it’s a gallerist, curator, or fellow artist – opportunities can come from the unlikeliest places. Find peers and mentors who truly want the best for you and can be trusted to advise on prices/opportunities/where your work is going.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want: if the client is really interested in the work, they’ll bite – it’s a negotiation, so play your part!
    • Grow your network! Go to shows, go to openings, network, be nice, ask for business cards and follow-up.

    Image caption: The guestrooms at The London Marriott Regents Park were designed by Anita Rosato Interior Design, the art is all by Claire Brewster (ARTIQ)

    HK: For designers working within tight budgets, how can they use art to help completely transform a hotel?

    PM: When working within a tight budget, there are several ways to maximise the potential of your art. Firstly, consider renting a collection rather than buying. A rental collection can not only offer an affordable alternative to purchase, but in fact can attract more guests with a 3-6 monthly change that the marketing team can regularly talk about! In the same way, be open and clear about budget constraints from the get-go and your consultant can therefore tailor ideas that are specific to your project, rather than selling you something you cannot afford.

    Think about the volume of the art you’re specifcying.  Think about areas of high traffic or strong perspective.  The ends of corridors, lift lobbies or walk-ways wherever everyone will travel to their rooms.  With a focus on key traffic areas and a reduction in volume, art can be carefully curated to impress continually.

    A salon hang is another very cost-effective idea, whereby relatively inexpensive art, when grouped together, can create a bespoke and high-visual impact, as the viewer’s eye tends to focus on the whole rather than the individual.

    Finally, you should be working with a consultant for whom budget restraints can also lead to creative, even transformative, outcomes. For example, approaching the end of The Principal Edinburgh, our team had a tight budget for the public areas. Thinking outside of the box, ARTIQ used vintage frames for the new, commissioned pieces, which not only looked fantastic but brought a whole other dimension to the project.

    B3 Designers breathes new American life into Marriott Hotel’s champions bar in Frankfurt

     Hamish Kilburn
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    B3 Designers, which has gone from strength to strength since launching in 2002, has unveiled its latest project, which captures a little bit of America into the F&B areas of Frankfurt’s Marriott hotel…

    Restaurant and hotel interior design specialist, B3 Designers has recently unveiled its latest interior design and branding project. Champions Bar & Restaurant, located within Frankfurt’s Marriott hotel, is a European sports bar and restaurant serving classic bar dishes and drinks in the German city’s central district of Innenstadt.

    The previous bar and restaurant, with its all-American theme, had been an iconic destination in Frankfurt for decades. Marriott’s design brief to B3 for the refurbished 220-cover bar and restaurant was to work around the themes of its history and heritage, sports, burgers and beer, to create a space where guests can enjoy themselves in a casual and relaxed environment. To bring this brief to life, B3 Designers has developed a design that completely celebrates a nostalgic, vintage European sports bar.

    The heritage look-and-feel is woven throughout, starting gently at the entrance door inside, with a vintage trophy display. Once inside, the large bar featuring fluted timber, sits centre backed by a wooden menu display with old-school scoreboard-styled lettering. The furniture includes a mixture of high-bar seating and long communal oak timber tables with bench seats, and in the lower dining area is a mix of full-length curved booth seating, leather-upholstered banquettes with high back rests, and lower-level tables and chairs.

    The abundant use of natural materials, rich tones and the darker colour scheme evokes a masculine, warm and comfortable vibe. The use of copper finishes on the bar’s countertop and beer taps is a nod to the traditional brewery tanks widely used in beer production. While black-and-white chequered tiling in the raised bar area and diamond-motif upholstery pay homage to the traditional football and referees kit. And the slatted timber booth seating evokes stadia-seating of a bygone era. Olympics and other sports-themed artwork and paraphernalia such as vintage footballs and boots, boxing gloves and bags, tennis rackets and photographs are scattered tastefully throughout the space.

    One of the design challenges was working the 12 HD large projector screens into the design, and, more specifically, making sure they didn’t detract from the ambience during times when sports events are not being broadcast. B3 Designers has ensured the overhead screens are concealed discreetly above when not in use, and drop via a central motorised system, allowing the space to function as a standalone restaurant. Yet, during sports broadcasts, these screens play an important role in creating a premium seating sports experience around the restaurant.

    The Brit List 2018: Five places remain

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Just five places remain for The Brit List 2018, taking place tomorrow at BEAT London…

    There are just five places left to be claimed for The Brit List 2018.

    With just one day remaining until The Brit List 2018 is unveiled – and the winners of the six newly launched events are announced – time for designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to purchase their tickets to meet up with Britain’s leading influencers in international hotel design is running out.

    Hamilton Litestat is confirmed to switch on The Brit List 2018 to unveil the top 75 interior designers, hoteliers and architects operating in Britain today. Following this, the winners of The Brit List’s newly launched awards will also be crowned. The categories are:

    • Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year (Award Sponsor: Tarkett Flooring)
    • Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Architect of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology (Award Sponsor: DLAppTapp)
    • The Eco Award
    • Outstanding Contribution to the Hotel Industry

    Studio directors, managing directors and general managers from companies such as HBA London, GA Design, RPW Design, WATG, Goddard Littlefair, EPR Architects, Bespoke Hotels, Gleneagles, Rosewood Hotels and Hotel Gotham are all among those who have confirmed their attendance at The Brit List 2018.

    The Past President of the British Institute Interior Design (BIID) and co-founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design, Charles Leon, will speak on Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit. Leon, who was one of the five judges for The Brit List 2018 and the awards, said ahead of the awards: “I am delighted to have been asked to speak at The Brit List 2018. Two of the UK’s major contributions to why Britain holds its place as a major international hub has always been its quirky education system and its ability to send out into the world innovative thinkers, not just in design and the arts, but in science, technology and research too. If we don’t teach people how to think, rather than what to think, our future is doomed – and I am excited to speak about this and the future of British hotel design and architecture on the night.”

    In addition to Leon’s speakership, guests will also enjoy a talk by lighting expert to the stars, Moritz Waldemeyer. The experimental lighting expert, who exhibited a tactile personalised lighting display at London Design Festival this year, will speak to the audience on how hotel lighting has changed in recent years how lighting technology is allowing for more creative interiors.

    Event timings: 6.30 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

    6.30 p.m. Welcome drinks are served
    7.00 p.m. Welcome speech from Hotel Designs Editor, Hamish Kilburn, and The Brit List 2018 winners unveiled
    7.15 p.m. Canapés are served
    7.15 p.m. Headline speaker, Charles Leon, Leon Black Interior Architecture addresses the Brit List 2018 – Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit
    7.30 p.m. Awards presentation commences
    8.00 p.m. Headline speaker, Moritz Waldemeyer, Studio Moritz Waldemeyer addresses The Brit List 2018 – Hotel lighting; how it has changed in recent times and how is lighting technology allowing for more creative interiors
    8.15 p.m. Celebrations and networking

    Directions to BEAT London:

    Address: 48 Margaret St, Marylebone, London W1W 8SE
    Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus

    BRIT LIST 2018 Industry Partner: British Institute of Interior Design

    BRIT LIST 2018 Event Sponsor: Hamilton Litestat

    BRIT LIST 2018 Supporting Partner: Studio Moritz Waldemeyer

    BRIT LIST 2018 Award Sponsor: Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year: Tarkett

    The Brit List 2018 Innovation In Technology Award Sponsor: DLAppTap

    Macaulay Sinclair transforms former met bar into Gridiron at Como Metropolitan London

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The interior, architecture and design studio behind the new Gridiron restaurant within COMO Metropolitan London Hotel in Old Park Lane, Mayfair has been unveiled as Nottingham-based Macaulay Sinclair…

    Design studio Macaulay Sinclair, which has created exceptional spaces for the hospitality sector such as Gleneagles, has transformed the former Met Bar into the new 60-cover restaurant and bar at COMO Matropolitan London Hotel, which opened this autumn.

    Headed up by co-directors John Macaulay and Mike Sinclair, the studio has worked with a number of well-known multi-site and independent restaurant and bar operators across London and beyond, including Hawksmoor, Dishoom and Wright Brothers.

    “The Met Bar was a go-to London destination and the celebrity haunt of the nineties and noughties era,” Sinclair said. “We are proud to have been part of the team to bring an indulgent and intimate dining experience into such a landmark location.”

    The prestigious venue will be overseen by renowned chef Richard H. Turner of Turner and George, Blacklock, Hawksmoor and Meatopia.

    Mike continued: “In order to give the new restaurant and bar its own identity while remaining synonymous with the COMO brand the interior design has been kept simple and understated, providing a subtle backdrop for Turner’s kitchen.”

    Paying homage to the art of grilling over an open fire, the new restaurant has an open kitchen with modern live-fire grillroom. The interior is dominated by monochrome palette throughout, with accents of red, dark wood and marble. Wall finishings remain simple and sleek, and the stripped back furniture matches the ethos of the food and service: comfort and style without unnecessary formality.

     

     

    From luxe hotels to Golf clubs, Wilton Carpets offers the perfect round

     800 600 Hamish Kilburn
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    Hotel Designs Recommended Supplier Wilton Carpets has injected a little bit of hotel luxe into high-end golf clubs in the UK… 

    Far more than just a place to enjoy socialising after the back nine, modern golf clubs place their interiors under high demand. With a dual-role as a daytime sporting and conferencing venue and night-time wedding, party and event space; extensive opening hours are particularly hard on flooring and so many clubs turn to woven carpet from Wilton Carpets.

    Wool-rich carpets from Wilton are particularly hard-wearing and easy to maintain and this makes them ideal for use in lounges, suites, receptions, function rooms and dining areas. Successfully installed in prestigious golf and country clubs the world over, Wilton continues to deliver stylish tailor-made carpets that reflect the ambitions of these multi-purpose venues to be a welcoming, high-quality space for members and bookings.

    Whether designs straight off the loom with ready-to-go stock designs, a semi-custom carpet with Ready to Weave, or a completely bespoke pattern created with the design team at the Wilton, the company has something to offer every size of establishment. For a carpet that embraces high standards and reflects the design and ambience of the building in question, golf clubs need look no further than the British manufacturer. With quality recognised nationally by many clubs including Formby Hall Golf Resort, Huddersfield Golf Club, Mere Golf Club and Gleneagles, and internationally with America’s Hyde Park Golf and Country Club, Mountain Brook Club and Frenchman’s Reserve Club; Wilton has a proven track-record.

    Long corridors at Gleneagles

    Image credit: Goddard Littlefair, Gleneagles

    Weaving beautiful wool carpet in the Wiltshire town from which the company derives its name, Wilton can provide numerous qualities to suit the individual needs of spaces.  Whether a purposeful seven-row woven axminster for general use areas, nine-row for function spaces, or 11-row spike-resistant carpet for thoroughfares and course entrances; each carpet retains the quality and longevity that has made woven carpet the recognised premium choice for golf and country clubs.

    Now with the excellent value of ready-to-go carpets, Wilton is ensuring clubs can begin enjoying a new British wool carpet with excellent value and no minimum order in just 14 days. The collection holds a broad library of traditional and modern designs, including exciting fusions such as the new Kinetic or Urban ranges and the distressed vintage tartans of Nova Scotia. Meeting the challenge when a fast refurbishment is required, Ready to Go offers huge scope to find the ideal carpet.

    For a carpet that can echo a club’s identity, or simply tie-in beautifully to a colour scheme, the Ready to Weave concept allows any design to be created in a combination of colours selected from one of three permanently-loomed palettes. The advantage here is a bespoke look with quicker production and a more obtainable cost from a minimum order of 100m2. Ready to Weave is fast becoming a favourite among golf clubs refurbishing interiors and wanting to add a touch of personalisation.

    For establishments where specific requirements are set in terms of interior layout, colour, design and pattern, or simply when a bespoke carpet would best suit ambition, the manufacturer can offer a bespoke solution. From club motifs and logos to intricate traditional or modern patterns, the Wilton Carpets bespoke programme delivers the very finest wool-rich woven axminster carpets.

    Wilton Carpets is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    The Brit List 2018: Three days to go

     Hamish Kilburn
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    Time is running out in order to claim your ticket to what is being billed as ‘the after party of show season 2018’…

    With just three days until The Brit List 2018 is unveiled – and the winners of the six newly launched events are announced – time for designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to purchase their tickets to meet up with Britain’s leading influencers in international hotel design is running out. There are now just a few remaining tickets left.

    Hamilton Litestat is confirmed to switch on The Brit List 2018 to unveil the top 75 interior designers, hoteliers and architects operating in Britain today. Following this, the winners of The Brit List’s newly launched awards will also be crowned. The categories are:

    • Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year (Award Sponsor: Tarkett Flooring)
    • Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Architect of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology (Award Sponsor: DLAppTapp)
    • The Eco Award
    • Outstanding Contribution to the Hotel Industry

    Studio directors, managing directors and general managers from companies such as HBA London, GA Design, RPW Design, WATG, Goddard Littlefair, EPR Architects, Bespoke Hotels, Gleneagles, Rosewood Hotels and Hotel Gotham are all among those who have confirmed their attendance at The Brit List 2018.

    The Past President of the British Institute Interior Design (BIID) and co-founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design, Charles Leon, will speak on Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit. Leon, who was one of the five judges for The Brit List 2018 and the awards, said ahead of the awards: “I am delighted to have been asked to speak at The Brit List 2018. Two of the UK’s major contributions to why Britain holds its place as a major international hub has always been its quirky education system and its ability to send out into the world innovative thinkers, not just in design and the arts, but in science, technology and research too. If we don’t teach people how to think, rather than what to think, our future is doomed – and I am excited to speak about this and the future of British hotel design and architecture on the night.”

    In addition to Leon’s speakership, guests will also enjoy a talk by lighting expert to the stars, Moritz Waldemeyer. The experimental lighting expert, who exhibited a tactile personalised lighting display at London Design Festival this year, will speak to the audience on how hotel lighting has changed in recent years how lighting technology is allowing for more creative interiors.

    Event timings: 6.30 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

    6.30 p.m. Welcome drinks are served
    7.00 p.m. Welcome speech from Hotel Designs Editor, Hamish Kilburn, and The Brit List 2018 winners unveiled
    7.15 p.m. Canapés are served
    7.15 p.m. Headline speaker, Charles Leon, Leon Black Interior Architecture addresses the Brit List 2018 – Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit
    7.30 p.m. Awards presentation commences
    8.00 p.m. Headline speaker, Moritz Waldemeyer, Studio Moritz Waldemeyer addresses The Brit List 2018 – Hotel lighting; how it has changed in recent times and how is lighting technology allowing for more creative interiors
    8.15 p.m. Celebrations and networking

    Directions to BEAT London:

    Address: 48 Margaret St, Marylebone, London W1W 8SE
    Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus

    BRIT LIST 2018 Industry Partner: British Institute of Interior Design

    BRIT LIST 2018 Event Sponsor: Hamilton Litestat

    BRIT LIST 2018 Supporting Partner: Studio Moritz Waldemeyer

    BRIT LIST 2018 Award Sponsor: Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year: Tarkett

    The Brit List 2018 Innovation In Technology Award Sponsor: DLAppTap

    Ruby Hotels unveils plans for UK and international expansion in 2019 and 2020

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
    2

    The Munich-based hotel brand, Ruby Hotels, has announced plans to open an additional eight hotels by 2020…

    Pioneering the ‘Lean Luxury’ concept, Ruby Hotels is attempting to break new ground in international hotel developement as it announces that it will add eight new hotels to its portfolio by 2020.

    The hotel group, which currently operates six hotels, plans to expand the brand across international waters with a hotel slated to open its first UK-based hotel, opening on London’s vibrant Southbank in Autumn 2019. In addition, the Group is preparing to open hotels in areas such as Zurich, Cologne, Frankfurt and Shanghai before the end of 2020.

    The ‘Lean Luxury’ model eschews hotel features typically associated with high-end properties, such as in-house restaurants, mini-bars and room service. These are replaced with communal areas serving an organic breakfast without the need of a chef or full kitchen, as well as ‘maxi bar’ vending machines and galley kitchens.

    The guestrooms sheltered underneath each property portray a more relaxed vibe. Each room is luxurious, white and clean-looking with strong interior statements in the lighting and fittings. Meanwhile, the facilities such as a 24-hour bar, co-working spaces, a boutique movie theatre and a yoga studio appeal to the modern-day traveller and current modern traveller trends.

    The public areas in all the hotels balance an industrial look and feel with a distinct music theme running throughout. The corridors, on the other hand are playful, with vibrant pops of colour in the carpet dominating the space.

    Modular architectural designs capitalise on space, while flexible, unconventional layouts and intelligent technological solutions allow the hotel group to occupy real-estate traditionally seen as unsuitable for hoteliers, without compromising on the experience offered to guests.

    Technology is also a major theme that is explored throughout the properties; in each room guests will find a personal tablet PC and smartphone pre-loaded with Ruby Hotels’ local city guides, social media apps and unlimited data and calls, while a state-of-the-art self-check-in system makes use of tablet-computers to reduce check-in time to under one minute.

    Ruby Group, led by founder and CEO Michael Struck, launched in 2013. By having a lean organisational structure and concentrating on the essentials, Ruby Hotels has managed to create a contemporary, affordable form of luxury for modern, cost- and style-conscious customers.

    FIRST LOOK: London’s Belmond Cadogan Hotel to open in February 2019

     1024 480 Hamish Kilburn
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    The luxury hotel, which is ideally located in the heart of London, will open its decadent doors in February 2019… 

    With luxury brands and high-end retailers of Knightsbridge just off the main entrance and the artistic heart of Chelsea just off the side entrance, the 54-key Belmond Cadogan Hotel, which will open in February 2019, is ideally located in the heart of London in between the two fashionable districts, somewhat capturing the best of both worlds.

    Belmond, with architecture leadership by Blair Associates, have carefully preserved the London legacy of the property by sensitively restoring five 1800s Queen Anne-Style buildings that are unique to both aptly leafy neighborhoods.

    What is described on its website as being ‘truly a welcome home’, the hotel has been renovated to balance – like its location – a distinct feeling of comfort and style. Inside the property, the interior design will reflect modern British style with a distinctive contemporary feel. Much of the inspiration draws inspiration from the hotel’s original features. Steeped in colourful history, the hotel’s many walls tell many fascinating tales from Oscar Wilde to Lillie Langtry, both of whom were regular residents at the hotel. The restaurant and bar are in the hotel have been designed by Russell Sage Studio, while the guestrooms and suites have been carefully imagined and created by GA Design International. The firm’s global executive design director (London), Terry Mcginnty, has been shortlisted for The Brit List 2018 for his work on previous iconic hotels as well as the work his team are completing for Belmond Cadogan Hotel.

    Considering art is a major feature of this month, more than 400 pieces of original artwork will be found throughout the hotel, from more than 20 artists, many of whom are UK-based.

    Guests checking in will have access to the private Cadogan Place gardens (one of Chelsea’s largest garden squares and once site of the 18thcentury London Botanic Gardens) and for complete privacy, a residential entrance is accessible via Pony Street.

     

    Mitre Linen’s Top UK Hotel Room Attendants Named

     800 566 Hamish Kilburn
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    Mitre Linen’s Room Attendant of the Year Awards recipients announced…

    Winner: Tad Janeczek of Chilston Park Hotel, Kent
    Runner Up: Anna Lupton of Carr House Farm B&B, York

    The winner and the runner up of the Mitre Linen Room Attendant of the Year Award 2018 have been named.

    Finishing the competition in runner up, and receiving £500 Mitre Linen voucher was Anna Lupton of Carr House Farm B&B, York. ““I am so excited to accept this award and feel incredibly proud,” said Lupton. “It’s really important to me that our guests have a fantastic experience when they stay here and I like to ensure that the rooms are perfect.  If I can offer something a little extra to make their stay even better, then that’s what I will do.”

    Taking the crown, though, of the Mitre Linen’s Room Attendent of the Year and winning the top prize of £750 Mitre Linen voucher was Tad Janeczek of Chilston Park Hotel, Kent. “I love working at Chilston Park Hotel, the team here are absolutely fantastic,” said Janeczek. “Working as a room attendant is an amazing career and I really enjoy making our guests feel welcome and ensuring that they have the best experience when they stay with us.  Winning this award is just incredible and I am truly thrilled.”

    Mark Lewis, CEO of Hospitality Action, had the “unbelievably difficult” task of determining the winner and runner up between the six finalists. “I was thoroughly impressed with all of the entries received, the standard of housekeeping was incredible and a credit to all of the establishments who nominated a room attendant,” Lewis said at the awards. “Tad and Anna impressed me with their overall dedication to their profession and their continuous strive to achieve perfection for their guests.”

    The 2018 Room Attendant of the Year Awards give well-deserved recognition to this key role as a part of the smooth running of a hotel. A hotel’s room attendants help maintain the good reputation of the hotel where they work by providing high-quality service and upholding impeccable room standards.

    Mitre Linen is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

     

    InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland has opened as the brand’s 200th hotel

     Hamish Kilburn
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    The luxury hotel, InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, becomes the brand’s 200th hotel and unveils apt art installation to honour the milestone…

    InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), as one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has opened InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, which has been under construction for the past 10 year. Developed by Shimao Group and managed by IHG, InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland has been masterfully built into the side wall of a formerly abandoned quarry in Southwestern Shanghai. Stretching 88 metres underground, the hotel was nominated as one of the architectural wonders of the world by the National Geographic Channel’s MegaStructures series due to its pioneering architectural design.

    “The art installation is made from 200 champagne bottles individually hand-painted by Alexander Hall in his bright and energetic drip-style.”

    Marking 200 captivating destinations around the world

    To celebrate reaching 200 destinations, the InterContinental brand partnered with London-based contemporary artist Alexander Hall, also known under the alias Haut de Gamme©, to create a stunning art installation, commemorating the milestone. The art installation is made from 200 champagne bottles individually hand-painted by Alexander Hall in his bright and energetic drip-style, with unique artwork on each bottle inspired by each destination. The finished bottles are suspended together in a stunning oeuvre to reveal the number ‘200’.

    An architectural feat

    The concept and façade was designed by JADE+QA, led by architect and former Atkins employee Martin Jochman who worked with local architect firm ECADI (East China Architectural Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd.), which was responsible for design development, construction documents, structural design and MEP. The interior design firms are AB Concept and Cheng Chung Design (CCD) were menawhile responsible for the interior design.

    The new-build InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland combines the brand’s signature luxury with revolutionary design at a wonderfully unique location, creating an unprecedented experience. Located at Sheshan Mountain Range, this new hotel is mostly subterranean, with two floors above ground and 16 below ground, including two floors underwater. Individually designed to best reflect both modern elegance and the unique features of the quarry’s landscape, all 336 guestrooms and suites provide ample, luxury living spaces with spectacular views of waterfalls and the surrounding cliffs.

    [easingslider id=”35845″]

    The stunning underwater loft offers two awe-inspiring levels: the landing deck at water level houses the outdoor terrace and living room, whilst the underwater bedrooms are encased within a turquoise aquarium where guests will be surrounded by the schools of fish that swim by. All hotel rooms on the bottom floor are provided with around-the-clock butler service to ensure a truly hassle-free stay experience and keep guests feeling truly pampered.

    “We are delighted to be joining forces with Shimao Group again to open InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland – an architectural masterpiece which is a wonder and beauty in the global hospitality industry,” said Ms. Lin Wang, CMO of Greater China, IHG. “ IHG has maintained staggering growth since entering the Chinese market in 1984, and the opening of InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland marks a significant milestone in our development strategy and further enhances our luxury portfolio in China. With its exceptional experiences and personalised services, the hotel is ready to welcome guests to a world of alluring luxury and natural wonder, inviting everyone to live and enjoy the InterContinental life.”

    As the world’s first and largest international luxury travel hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts have been welcoming guests with new international destinations for decades – from historic buildings to city landmarks and immersive resorts in every corner of the globe. Celebrating the brand DNA of service, sophistication and style, InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland will create unprecedented hospitality experiences for guests and stand out as a must-visit destination for visitors to the financial capital of China.

     

    Has GROHE got the answer to the future of hotel toilets?

     800 596 Hamish Kilburn
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    GROHE Sensia Arena, with its app-control features and three different spray patterns, is becoming a popular choice among designers and hoteliers…

    Defined by GROHE as ‘new standard of personal hygiene’, The Sensia Arena (being showcased at SLEEP + EAT tomorrow on stand L53) is a shower toilet, fast-becoming increasingly popular in international hotels thanks to its many unique features.

    The product stands for Intelligent Care. Behind it are visionary ideas from GROHE, some of the most modern technology available and the unparalleled ability to combine it all. Users can enjoy innovative functions that are tailored to personal needs, resulting in a more comfortable, more hygienic and more soothing experience rather than using using paper. The toilet includes the following features:

    • Personal cleaning (users can select one of three spray patterns)
    • Drying (users can choose a drying setting with warm air and regulate the temperature)
    • Flushing (the flush is designed to push water around the full area of the toilet)
    • The whole toilet system can be controlled via an app

    GROHE Sensia Arena stands for Intelligent Care. Behind it are visionary ideas from GROHE, the most modern technology available. More comfortable, hygienic and soothing than using paper, with the GROHE Sensia Arena you can offer your guests a new standard of personal hygiene.

    GROHE is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

    The Brit List 2018: Days to go

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
    0

    There are now just four days left for interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to claim their tickets to one of the most anticipated hotel design awards events of the year… 

    With just four days until The Brit List 2018 is unveiled – and the winners of the six newly launched events are announced – time for designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to purchase their tickets to meet up with Britain’s leading influencers in international hotel design is running out.

    Hamilton Litestat is confirmed to switch on The Brit List 2018 to unveil the top 75 interior designers, hoteliers and architects operating in Britain today. Following this, the winners of The Brit List’s newly launched awards will also be crowned. The categories are:

    • Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year (Award Sponsor: Tarkett Flooring)
    • Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Architect of the Year
    • Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology (Award Sponsor: DLAppTapp)
    • The Eco Award
    • Outstanding Contribution to the Hotel Industry

    Studio directors, managing directors and general managers from companies such as HBA London, GA Design, RPW Design, WATG, Goddard Littlefair, EPR Architects, Bespoke Hotels, Gleneagles, Rosewood Hotels and Hotel Gotham are all among those who have confirmed their attendance at The Brit List 2018.

    The Past President of the British Institute Interior Design (BIID) and co-founder of Leon Black Architecture and Interior Design, Charles Leon, will speak on Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit. Leon, who was one of the five judges for The Brit List 2018 and the awards, said ahead of the awards: “I am delighted to have been asked to speak at The Brit List 2018. Two of the UK’s major contributions to why Britain holds its place as a major international hub has always been its quirky education system and its ability to send out into the world innovative thinkers, not just in design and the arts, but in science, technology and research too. If we don’t teach people how to think, rather than what to think, our future is doomed – and I am excited to speak about this and the future of British hotel design and architecture on the night.”

    In addition to Leon’s speakership, guests will also enjoy a talk by lighting expert to the stars, Moritz Waldemeyer. The experimental lighting expert, who exhibited a tactile personalised lighting display at London Design Festival this year, will speak to the audience on how hotel lighting has changed in recent years how lighting technology is allowing for more creative interiors.

    Event timings: 6.30 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

    6.30 p.m. Welcome drinks are served
    7.00 p.m. Welcome speech from Hotel Designs Editor, Hamish Kilburn, and The Brit List 2018 winners unveiled
    7.15 p.m. Canapés are served
    7.15 p.m. Headline speaker, Charles Leon, Leon Black Interior Architecture addresses the Brit List 2018 – Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit
    7.30 p.m. Awards presentation commences
    8.00 p.m. Headline speaker, Moritz Waldemeyer, Studio Moritz Waldemeyer addresses The Brit List 2018 – Hotel lighting; how it has changed in recent times and how is lighting technology allowing for more creative interiors
    8.15 p.m. Celebrations and networking

    Directions to BEAT London:

    Address: 48 Margaret St, Marylebone, London W1W 8SE
    Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus

    BRIT LIST 2018 Industry Partner: British Institute of Interior Design

    BRIT LIST 2018 Event Sponsor: Hamilton Litestat

    BRIT LIST 2018 Supporting Partner: Studio Moritz Waldemeyer

    BRIT LIST 2018 Award Sponsor: Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year: Tarkett

    The Brit List 2018 Innovation In Technology Award Sponsor: DLAppTap

    Marketing for the modern age: Conversion Rate Optimisation – the new ‘SEO’

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
    0

    For four weeks, Hotel Designs is working with author and CEO of DHM, Adam Hamadache, in order to explore the minefield of marketing. In his second article in the series of four, Hamadache explores a new acronym that should be on every hotel group’s radar, CRO… 

    For years, Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) has dominated the rhetoric, and discussion around digital marketing in the boutique hotel sector. SEO of course being the process of optimising your website in such a way that moves its listing further up the rankings on search engines like Google for search terms that fit the product best. In short, SEO is about more relevant traffic to your website.

    However, a new acronym has popped up in recent years, and it’s worth taking note. CRO (Conversion Rate Optimisation) is the process of analysing website data in a bid to improve the amount of transactions achieved, relative to the volume of traffic received. Or in plain English: trying to squeeze as much business out of your website as possible.

    The reason CRO – rather than SEO – should be on your radar, is best explained by the “leaky bucket” analogy. The basic premise being that your website is very much like a water bucket with lots of tiny holes in it. SEO is akin to pouring more water in at the top, whereas CRO is identifying where those holes are, and plugging them. The argument here being; CRO is the far wiser pursuit, in an attempt to keep more water in the bucket.

    “The general rule of thumb is that if you keep browsers on your website for longer, the chances of them turning from ‘looker’ to ‘booker’ increases.”

    An example of one of these ‘holes’ might be the image gallery page on your website, where perhaps 20 per cent of your traffic is leaving your website because the page is too slow to load. The ‘plugging’ of this ‘hole’ would be to speed up the loading time of this page, reducing the amount of people who get frustrated and leave. Simple, but effective.

    Whilst this one small change is unlikely to rocket your conversion stats, the general rule of thumb is that if you keep browsers on your website for longer, the chances of them turning from ‘looker’ to ‘booker’ increases.

    An advanced CRO strategy goes beyond just speeding up the load time and can involve things like split-testing landing pages – the process of serving 50% of your website’s traffic to version A of the website, and the other half to version B to determine which version converts best.

    Put into practice, this might also involve the use of geo-targeted landing pages, using a sophisticated IP address tracking tool to determine the location of the web-browser, and using that information to present them a homepage most likely to serve them best. Whilst the technicalities of this can be complex, the premise of serving food and beverage imagery and copy to web-browsers within close proximity of the hotel, and accommodation-themed content to those a little further afield makes logical sense and can vastly improve conversion rates.

    “And therein lies the other big problem with SEO – it’s more difficult than ever to work your way up the ranks.”

    Yes, the technology of websites has moved on, but why should a CRO budget be replacing your SEO budget, you might wonder? Chances are, your hotel website doesn’t need more traffic, it just needs to convert more of it. It’s not uncommon for a 30-bedroom property to receive over 5,000 unique users to its website each month, but average one booking a day through its direct channel.

    In the above website example, 5,000 unique users are needed to achieve 30 bookings each month: a conversion rate of 0.6 per cent. To achieve one extra booking per day, an SEO strategy would need to deliver an extra 5,000 unique users each month, whereas a CRO strategy would need to find just an extra 30 customers out of the original 5,000. Needless to say, it’s a great deal easier and cheaper to double your website’s conversion rate, than it is to double your traffic.

    And therein lies the other big problem with SEO – it’s more difficult than ever to work your way up the ranks, let alone double the volume of traffic. Google’s become incredibly smart, to the point where the strategies that guaranteed higher traffic just 3 years ago, actively work against your website today. And who’s to say that the things your SEO agency are doing today, won’t change next year and undo all their good work?

    Whilst this is unlikely, Google’s algorithms are almost certain to continue to adapt and become smarter, leaving a “traffic plateau effect” for businesses like boutique hotels, unable to rank high for the most lucrative search terms, but served a healthy and well-proportioned dose of traffic for their needs.

    The point is, and has always been this: it’s not important how much traffic your website gets, rather how much of that traffic goes onto convert into a booking. CRO – the intelligent use of data and technology to convert more sales – should be prioritised over SEO based on both logical and economical grounds.

    About the author

    Adam Hamadache is the author of Amazon No.1 best-selling hotel book The Direct Method and the CEO of hotel marketing agency DHM. Having worked with hotels (including his own) for more than 10 years, Hamadache has created a proven marketing strategy to reduce over-reliance on expensive third party bookings. 

    The first article in this serires by Hamadache explored why hotels should be ‘remarketing’ themselves. 

    Main image credit: Pixabay

    Top stories of the week: MOB talks, Brit List countdown and celebrating Manchester’s decadent playground

     Hamish Kilburn
    By:
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    With less than a week until interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers descend on BEAT London for The Brit List 2018, editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn breaks down the top five stories of the week… 

    There seems to be a lot of uncertainty in the air at the moment – mainly around the political situation in the UK. While the nation performs the political ‘Hokey Cokey’, Hotel Designs has been busy speaking to interior designers, hotel groups and architects on why Britain strongly remains a major international design hub. Celebrating Britain as wonderful incubator of ideas, we are counting down to our most anticipated event this year, The Brit List 2018. There are very limited spaces left, so if you would like to purchase your ticket to network with the industry’s leading designers, hoteliers and architects, click here. I look forward to welcoming you to the climax of our nationwide search to find the hotel design influencers in Britain today. Until then, though, here are the top five stories of the week.

    1) Interactive hotel review: Checking in to Hotel Gotham, Manchester’s decadent playground

    As Manchester continues to turn heads on the hotel design scene, I checked in to check out Hotel Gotham’s bold and decadent interiors – all sheltered within a former bank.

    Ever since its bold entrance onto the unapologetically loud Manchester scene in 2015, Hotel Gotham’s alluring charm has tantalised many senses of those who have passed through its spectacularly framed automatic doors. I, for one, am one of them, and I hold my hands up proudly to say that I have formed a lust for decadence and luxury since checking in.

    2) The Brit List 2018: One week to go

    In seven days time, the UK’s leading designers, hoteliers and architects will gather at BEAT London for what is being dubbed the ‘after-party of SLEEP + EAT’ for a networking event like no other.

    With just seven days until The Brit List 2018 is unveiled and the winners of the six newly launched events are announced, time for designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers to purchase their tickets to meet up with the UK’s leading influencers in international hotel design is running out.

    3) MOB HOTEL speaks to Hotel Designs about expansion plans in Europe and the US

    The hotel group, which launched last year with two properties, has announced large plans to expand its lifestyle portfolio in Europe and the US with a Washington hotel in the pipeline. I sat down with the CEO, Cyril Aouizerate, to find out more.

    I predict a riot, at least in the hotel scene anyway. Since launching in November of last year, MOB HOTEL has started a revolution, proving that the centre of a city’s action does not have to neccessarily be geographically pinned in the centre of the city. The lifestyle brand has turned up the volume – and thrown in a bit of colour – in the mid-market sector with two quirky hotels; one located in a Paris Flea Market, the other situated riverside in Lyon.

    4) IHG opens first voco on Australia’s Gold Coast

    Following the exclusive unveiling of the new branding just five months ago, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has opened the first hotel globally for its new upscale hotel brand: voco™. Owned by Australian property investment firm SB&G Group and located on the shores of the Gold Coast, voco™ Gold Coast is now open for guests to soak up the sun, sand and sea in Australia’s beloved Surfers Paradise.

    voco™, inspired by the meaning ‘to invite’ or to ‘come together’ in Latin, will combine the informality and charm of an individual hotel, with the quality and reassurance of a global and respected brand. The public spaces of voco™ Gold Coast emphasise this social element, fittingly named Social House Café, which collectively houses a bar and lounge within the venue, offering a space for everyone.

    5) Overcoming Grade II listed challenges to create £1.8m boutique hotel

    Two derelict office buildings in Leicester – adjacent to the site of the car park where King Richard III’s remains were discovered in 2015 – have been converted into the 28-key boutique hotel, St Martins Lodge, which has just opened.

    Building Services Design (BSD) provided mechanical and electrical engineering services for the Grade II listed Georgian buildings, with many of the original features being retained –including the hallway, with its chandelier and staircase.

    Don’t forget, you can keep up to date on all the latest happens and all the trends by following our social channels: Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and LinkedIn.