Hotel Designs

    NEWS AND ANALYSIS FOR HOTELIERS, DESIGNERS AND INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS
    King Street Townhouse

    Calling all interior designers, architects and hoteliers

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    Hotel Designs is set to take the Hotel Designs Meet Up brand to Manchester this 18 July, and we would love to offer you complimentary attendance to the event.

    Our Meet Up concept is hugely successful and one which always sells out. If you are based in the north of the UK or otherwise and are interested in an evening which includes drinks and canapés in Manchester’s trendy King Street Townhouse contact us now. In order to attend the event free of charge we will need you to fill in some details to qualify. Click here to secure your place before it is too late.

    Some of the names already confirmed to attend are; Fusion By Design, Best Western Hotels, The Lowry Hotel, The Royal Toby Hotel, Hotel Sheraton, Xcentric Hotels, Hotel Football, Last Drop Village Hotel & Spa, DV8 Designs Ltd, Coolsilk and B3 Designers to name but a few.

    For those of you that don’t know what these events entail, they are simply an opportunity for you to network with industry peers from across the hospitality industry in a relaxed and informal setting whilst enjoying some complimentary drinks and nibbles.

    Full event details including start time and location, can be found here.

    Our headline partner for this event is Marca Corona whom we announced last week. If you are a supplier to the hotel industry and are interested in attending/supporting this Meet Up please contact Jennie Lane now to find out how you can get involved.

     

    Hotel Designs hits new traffic high in April

     1016 577 Katy Phillips
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    Hotel Designs has enjoyed a record-breaking month, with visitors to the website in April topping 49,000.

    It’s an 18 per cent leap on traffic generated by the site over the previous month, with Hotel Design’s social media channels also seeing a boost – Twitter followers now stand at over 13,000; with Facebook and Instagram figures both exceeding 1,500.

    “We’re proud to create great content that gets right to the heart of the industry,” said publisher Katy Phillips. “Our continually good traffic figures demonstrate that Hotel Designs resonates with the community.”

    During 2018 Hotel Designs continues to build on that community, with the March Meet Up event selling out. The Meet Up heads north this summer, with 200+ hoteliers, interior designers and architects expected to attend the networking event at King Street Townhouse, Manchester on the evening of July 18th. For ticket enquiries click here.

    Meanwhile, the Hotel Summit takes place on June 4th & 5th at the Radisson Blu Hotel, London Stansted. This unique event matches hoteliers with suppliers for a series of pre-arranged, face-to-face meetings. Find out more here.

    Domus to launch ‘Piano’ from Mutina at Clerkenwell Design Week

     800 573 Hamish Kilburn
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    Domus will host the official UK launch of new tile collection ‘Piano’ from Italian design house Mutina during Clerkenwell Design Week, 22 – 24 May 2018.

    Created by French designers Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, Piano is a striking, colourful partially glazed porcelain tile collection available exclusively from Domus in the UK.

    With the Piano collection, Mutina re-discovered the technology of double charged clay, enabling them to obtain different textural effects in a wide range of colours. The slight variation in size and specific use of glaze creates a ‘vibrating’ effect, similar to the shimmering image of reflections on the water, creating an optical illusion of a non-geometrical figure.

    “The tiles can be fitted together at will, to create endless layout possibilities, said Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec when describing the collection. “Their random disposition is mysterious and creates the impression of a total continuation of space. This systemic rhythm always creates the space for originality.”

    The range is made with coloured clays to which layers of glaze are added in different widths. There are five base colours: white, grey, blue, green and pink and two rectangular sizes (7.5 x 30cm and 10 x 30cm). The tiles are arranged by colour and are grouped together by the lead colourway in the same box, this allows for the greatest variation and ability to create a vibrant fitted tile layout. Piano is suitable for floors and walls, both indoors and outdoors.

    Hotel Designs editor Hamish Kilburn will be at Clerkenwell Design Week on the 24 May. Please tweet us if you would like to arrange a meeting.

    For more information on Domus, click here.

    Six Senses Kaplankaya opens

     640 360 Hamish Kilburn
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    Hotel brand Six Senses has opened its third property this year. The opening of the 141-key Six Senses Kaplankaya, Turkey, suggests that tourism in the region is alive once more.

    Located across the bay from Bodrum on a naturally beautiful stretch of ancient Aegean coast, Six Senses Kaplankaya is carved into giant rock formations with green-roofed buildings layered down towards the coastline.

    The hotel opens with the aim to encourage positive economic and social growth in Turkey. New York-based design house Clodagh Design preserved the spectacular natural surroundings and heritage of the local area when imagining the hotel.

    The resort is surrounded by undulating hills clad in evergreens, rugged rocks, wild olive trees and cypresses, and flanked by secluded golden beaches and the turquoise sea’s lapping waves. Kaplankaya itself is steeped in history and art, with the Six Senses a striking mosaic of architecture blending world-class contemporary design with the diverse and dramatic landscape’s raw beauty.

    High design

    Seamlessly merging old with new, Six Senses Kaplankaya combines contemporary architecture and high-tech comforts for its 141 guestrooms including Suites and Pool Villas. Pioneering eco-conscious spirit, Clodagah has captured the essence of stylish destination.

    Upon arrival, guests walk through a lantern-lit portal through wooden doors and into a sky-lit lobby, where there is a glass railing to look down over the floors below and out to sea.

    Beneath the lobby, a sculptural collage of kilim rugs and leather-clad ottomans atop layered Turkish rugs are interspersed with tables crafted from large pieces of wood from the local olive trees. An expansive, gold-leaf wooden table glows, as it offers Turkish delicacies and signature beverages to arriving visitors.

    The warm, yet contemporary design, influenced by traditional Turkish touches, continues in the guestrooms where features include woven leather and local flat-weave carpets. The soft hues are grounding and conducive to sleep, along with two lamps specially designed to regulate circadian rhythms with the incorporation of indigo, ochre and flashes of deep turquoise lights. In-room amenities include high-spec coffee machines, a well-stocked minibar and a pass through to the outside corridor for the discrete delivery of room service. On the technology front, there’s an iPad for mood control of air-conditioning and lights, Marshall Bluetooth speaker and WiFi.

    Expert wellbeing

    Six Senses Kaplankaya is home to one of the most extensive and advanced spa and wellness offerings within the Six Senses portfolio, providing guests and residents with a truly integrated approach to optimal wellness.

    Spread over 10,000m² (107,640ft²), the spa journey at Six Senses Spa Kaplankaya begins with a seven-metre (23-foot) meditation walk, illuminated by glowing ottoman patterns and a ceiling filled with glittering lights to create a magical and soothing guest experience. The spa is spread over two floors and includes 20 treatment rooms, multiple steam rooms, hydrotherapy pool, traditional Turkish Hamman, ice room, crystal steam room, Finnish sauna, private watsu pool, nail salon and hair salon, and the much-loved Six Senses Alchemy Bar – first introduced at Six Senses Douro Valley – where guests can skilfully blend organic and sustainable ingredients to create their own lotions and potions.

    F&B

    Elsewhere in the hotel, Mediterranean and Aegean-inspired cuisine is the overarching theme at the three dining venues: Sage & Sea Restaurant and Bar, Wild Thyme Restaurant and Bar, and Mezze by the Sea Restaurant.

    With a further four hotels slated to open this year, Six Senses continues to experience substantial international growth in the market.

    www.sixsenses.com/resorts/kaplankaya

    Hotel Martinez Reopens in Cannes

     150 150 Hamish Kilburn
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    Hotel opening marks the second property in Europe within The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. 

    Following major renovations and a complete redesign, Hôtel Martinez, Cannes has reopened the 409-key hotel as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.

    Located on Boulevard de la Croisette, the hotel is one of the most recognizable hotels on the French Riviera, rich in both culture and history.

    As part of a collection of unique and independent properties, the 1930s landmark has played host to some of the world’s most distinguished guests, offering the perfect location to enjoy Cannes, including the Palais des Festivals.

    Every aspect of the hotel-wide redesign pays tribute to its illustrious past while setting it up for the future. Parisian architect Pierre-Yves Rochon has combined the hotel’s original Art Deco style, with contemporary, chic design that takes inspiration from the colors of the French Riviera and the Mediterranean way of life.

    New features include Version Originale, a restaurant serving authentic regional dishes with a creative twist, Le Martinez Bar offering a festive and glamorous atmosphere and Le Jardin du Martinez, an alfresco dining terrace with a Mediterranean garden setting.

    “We are thrilled to reopen Hôtel Martinez as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and delivering story-worthy experiences for the modern traveler,” said Alessandro Cresta, general manager of Hôtel Martinez. “The renovations have given new life to the iconic building while preserving its historic charm, and we are excited to unveil these ahead of the Cannes Film Festival. We look forward to welcoming guests old and new to experience the relaxed, yet glamorous atmosphere that has become synonymous with the French Riviera.”

    Hôtel Martinez is the second property in France in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, joining Hôtel du Louvre in Paris, which is currently closed for renovation. Together they represent a significant milestone for the brand in France and Europe.

    Guestrooms

    The hotel’s 409 newly renovated Art Deco rooms and suites overlook the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The contemporary interior design by Pierre-Yves Rochon reflects the 1930s with each room featuring white lacquer furnishings and subtle touches of sky blue or light yellow creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The exclusive Suite des Oliviers and the Penthouse Suite offer one of Europe’s largest private terraces overlooking the sea and the Promenade de la Croisette.

    F&B

    The main restaurant, Version Originale, promises a unique experience, through new culinary concepts and traditions from all over the world that push culinary boundaries.

    Meanwhile, Le Jardin du Martinez offers the perfect outdoor setting for guests to relax in the sun. The garden terrace restaurant delivers a taste of fresh, organic and creative cuisine inspired by the French Riviera. Guests can enjoy a relaxed picnic atmosphere within an oasis of palm and lemon trees.

    La Palme d’Or, the two Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Christian Sinicropi is known for creative Mediterranean cuisine taking inspiration from art, literature and philosophy and transforming the best local and seasonal produce into true works of art. The sensory experience is enhanced by the restaurant’s elegant design and the panoramic view over the bay of Cannes and the glistening Mediterranean Sea.

    The Martinez Bar offers creative cocktails and vintage drink offerings served alongside gourmet pintxos prepared on a teppan plancha. With a glamorous setting, clinking glasses and live music, the Great Gatsby spirit of the roaring twenties is ever-present as the sun goes down on the Croisette.

    The Zplage private beach is the perfect sunny spot to relax and enjoy a colorful cocktail or smoothie. The menu offers fresh, local produce and ingredients carefully selected by our chef and prepared in an authentic Mediterranean fashion.

    Wellbeing and recreation

    The L.RAPHAEL Beauty Spa in Cannes is a haven for peace and tranquility. It offers a wide range of relaxing and luxurious treatments including its signature Oxy treatment, a non-invasive skin therapy using a stream of oxygen that delivers active ingredients.

    For guests who want to stay active, they can enjoy a total body workout at the fitness center and sauna which are open daily, or for those who prefer running outdoors, Cannes and its surrounding area boast a variety of running routes with beautiful landscapes and views. The concierge team is happy to provide running maps and share their recommendations to recharge your spirit.

    Services and facilities

    The Kids Club, open in July and August as well as during the winter holiday period, will offer a range of exciting activities for young guests (between 4 and 11 years old). The program includes individual and team games, as well as educational activities supervised by a professional staff.

    Meeting space
    Hôtel Martinez offers 26,910 square feet of meeting space and 15 flexible meeting rooms. Certified with the Green Globe Gold status, Hôtel Martinez was the first hotel member of Green Globe in the French Riviera who committed to protect the environment and use sustainable business practices throughout the entire event planning process.

    For more information, please visit www.HotelMartinez.com.

    Brintons designed bespoke carpets for Hyatt Regency Paris Charles de Gaulle

     700 476 Hamish Kilburn
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    Leading carpeting manufacturer Brintons has manufactured quirky bespoke carpets for the Hyatt Regency Paris Charles de Gaulle’s flexible working and meeting space, Le Campus.

    The carpeting manufacturer worked in conjunction with design company Virserius Studio and general construction company, Vöcker Hospitality on the renovation, following the design brief to evoke nostalgia for university, to inspire creative thinking and enhance the exchange of ideas.

    This direction led Virserius Studio to take inspiration from the structure of molecules, using the hotel’s bright colour palettes as stimulus for the bespoke designs.

    “We manufactured Brintons bespoke axminster carpets using strong, really vibrant colours to stand out against the grey background,” said Mahlmann. “The pattern is made up of cubes of different sizes, and appears to fade from dark to light. The placement of the pattern is designed to draw you in as you approach a room, and as you enter reveals itself as an artwork on the floor. The carpets add a lot of value to the overall feel of the finished spaces.”

    Brintons

    Brintons manufactured approximately 700sqm of carpets for the renovation of the hotel. The pattern colour scheme is purposefully different in each room and the vibrant colours were chosen deliberately to match the rest of the interior design elements, from curtains to wall paint.

    Brintons are 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.

    Hamish Kilburn

    Hotel Designs appoints new editor

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    Hotel Designs is pleased to announce the arrival of Hamish Kilburn as the brand’s new editor.

    Kilburn, former features editor of SPACE, was most recently an account manager at sports and destination PR and marketing agency Sponge Marketing. During his role, he worked on a number of campaigns for the likes of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. and Nevis Tourism Authority.

    “I am delighted to be checking back into the hotel industry,” said Kilburn on his appointment. “More than anything, I’m looking forward to catching up with incredible international interior designers, architects, procurement companies and manufacturers to unlock emerging trends.”

    Bringing with him a wealth of industry experience, Kilburn looks forward to expanding the specialist content that Hotel Designs is so well known for.

    With his ample experience as a writer, Hotel Designs looks forward to seeing where Kilburn can take the brand in the future as we look to broaden our reach.

    “We are thrilled to be welcoming Hamish to the team. With a huge number of industry contacts to call upon, we are keen to see what his plans are for Hotel Designs and where he will make an impact. We have key features planned in the coming months including news on what the big hotel chains are doing right now, the latest technology on offer to hoteliers and operators and a spotlight on soft furnishings as well as trending fabrics and textiles, plus lots more” said Katy Phillips, publisher of Hotel Designs.

    “In addition, we also have a number of highly focused events planned where you’ll be able to meet with Hamish to discuss your brands and products – the Hotel Summit now in its 20th year, takes place on June 4th and 5th. In addition, we are taking our Meet Up event to Manchester in July because of demand to host one of our successful networking events in the region.  If you are a hotelier, interior designer, architect or supplier to the hotel industry you cannot miss these events.”

    Kilburn can be contacted on email or by phone; 01992 374103.

     

     

    Bee Osborn

    Q&A: BEE OSBORN, OSBORN INTERIORS – FROM SELLING HOUSES TO CREATING EXTRAORDINARY DESIGN PROJECTS

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    Hotel Designs recently caught up with Bee Osborn, owner of Osborn Interiors to discuss her design process and why it is so important to believe in your own ability.

    Bee has been an interior designer for over two decades. She draws inspiration from classic design and proportion. She is extremely passionate about lighting and considers is a vital element of any project.

    We begin…

    How did you get in to the industry and why?

    Bee Osborn: About 20 years ago I started buying and selling houses as a way to make ends meet and support my two young daughters.  Often when I did up a house to sell, friends would ask me if I could help them decorate theirs.  Eventually after years of being asked this I plucked up to courage to help a friend decorate her house from top to bottom, one thing led to another and before I knew it, it became a full time business.

    Do you believe that training on some level is important or that certain industry qualifications help you to win business?

    BO: Definitely, not only does it give you confidence in yourself but I’m sure it gives clients confidence in you too.  Doing the Inchbald course taught me how to draw plans, elevations, perspectives, spacial planning, as well as learning about architecture & the history of design.  Despite years of doing interior decorating before completing the Inchbald course, the process took me to the next level and I really felt able to call myself an interior designer as opposed to a decorator.

    What or who inspires your design projects?

    BO: Any type of travel inspires me enormously. Just getting out and about and seeing new things, shapes and textures gives you ideas.  Also the headspace you gain whilst walking, frees your mind to receive creative ideas. Other designers who inspire me are Veere Greney, Stephen Gamble & Anouska Hemple all for their bold designs that are traditional but with a contemporary twist.

    You have worked in this industry for a number of years. Over your time spent designing for both commercial and residential projects what has been your favourite and the one you are most proud of and why?

    BO: Hotel Le Toiny in St Barth’s. It had a very quick turnaround, from the initial site visit to the installation (incorporating the complete redesign of the entire hotel) was just 5 months. The client was very supportive and approved everything immediately and it was transformed from a dark, rather gloomy space to a light, calm, beautiful hotel.  In addition we were able to use lots of wonderful materials: petrified wood, handmade linens, bleached sycamore, oyster shells, mother of pearl, antique mirror & lots of bespoke items giving it a unique, understated, luxurious look.  It was an utter joy to work on, except the tight time frame meant I didn’t sleep for those 5 months!

    You have incorporated many of the latest technology and innovation offerings in to your designs – which has excited you most?

    BO: Hiding electronic chips into leather key fobs.  It doesn’t impact on the design but does alert the PA system when a guest has left the room so that housekeeping and maintenance can go in freely.  It also takes the lighting and air-con down to the minimum level, which reverts as soon as the guest re-enters the room again.  It saves on energy without compromising on style.

    What is it that you like so much about a hotel design project?

    BO: The freedom to create exciting, comfortable spaces that people can dip into and escape from their everyday lives.

    Why do you believe lighting is so important to a design project?

    BO: Lighting is all about creating atmosphere and can make or break a scheme.  I believe it should be subtle, with pockets of light in layers from the floor to the ceiling.  I like it when you hardly notice the fitting, and just feel the gentle light it emits.  Ambient, accent and task lighting, are all equally important in creating a balanced, visually comfortable space.

    Can you make a project practical whilst maintaining something that is visually pleasing?

    BO: This is hard!  Practicality can curb design, but on hotel projects it is very important to think comfort and practicality first.  Obviously guests aren’t as careful when staying in a hotel as they are in their own home, so you need to consider this carefully.  We use lots of indoor/outdoor fabrics to aid with spillages and wear & tear.  We are mindful when choosing finishes for furniture and it is a constant battle of trying to achieve the look you want with a practical finish.  In St Barth’s every single piece of upholstery had to have loose covers so it could be removed for washing.  It is hard to create a sharp clean look with loose covers but not impossible.  In addition, all 3,000 metres of the handmade linen that we used had to be pre-washed and shrunk before making up, which was a job itself!

    What is the biggest change you’ve witnessed since being an interior designer and starting out over two decades ago?

    BO: The increase of the digital world.  From old fashioned physical mood boards that we used to present with, now it is all done electronically with presentations on iPads and CGI’s. With SketchUp models, clients being able to walk around the space and feel what it will be like before it is even built.  However, some clients still love our hand drawn perspectives as they are so beautiful and softer than CGI’s.

    List 3 pieces of advice you would pass on to a budding interior designer who is just starting out?

    BO: Believe in yourself is my number one.  Having a positive outlook too, even if things don’t feel positive at the time, fake it to make it.  Both are key to any success in life.  But as far as interior design is concerned, learning to be still and visualise, picture the space in your mind and hold it there, until it becomes a reality.

    Dukes London unveils new Deluxe room as part of renovations

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    New-look Deluxe room category design led by DesignLSM.

    Dukes London has taken the wraps off its new Deluxe room category, which has been introduced as part of a renovation project covering both the bedrooms and public areas of the hotel.

    The Mayfair-based five-star hotel offers 90 rooms in total, with the 22 newly-refurbished Deluxe rooms having been individually designed by DesignLSM.

    Each room is decorated in greys and whites, which Dukes says creates a soothing and relaxing ambience, worming in tandem with soft furnishings to lend a modern twist to the hotel’s classical tone.

    Other touches in the Deluxe rooms include matching bedspreads and armchairs in a variety of colours, including duck egg blue, mustard yellow and slate grey, while the bathrooms are finished in white marble.

    Sally Peters, Associate of LSM Design, said:“The bedroom refurbishment project with Dukes has been a real labour of love, it was a huge undertaking to give each of the 90 rooms the consideration it deserved, to find fabrics that are beautiful yet resilient and to bring enough change to the rooms to be impactful whilst respecting the much loved history and guest anticipation of the Dukes experience. Dukes has a very restful atmosphere and we feel we have struck a perfect balance between cool, neutral and vibrant accent. I love the colour palette and the rich textured fabrics. The bespoke artwork maximises the impact of the upholstery tones pulling the whole design together. The rooms are a visual and sensory treat, each one having its own individuality.”

    Wider Refurbishment

    The opening of the new room category marks the completion of Dukes London’s multimillion pound refurbishment, which includes a new-look lobby, renovated bedrooms, the new St James’ Suite for events and the Great British Restaurant, headed up by Executive Chef Nigel Mendham.

    Debrah Dhugga, Managing Director of Dukes Collection, said: “Our aim is to enhance and enrich what our guests know and love about the Dukes experience, whilst maintaining our award-winning five-star service and attention to detail that the hotel is so well-known for.”

    Hilton Garden Inn opens in Qidong

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    Opening marks the arrival of the first international hotel brand in the Chinese city.

    Hilton has opened the 181-room Hilton Garden Inn Qidong, owned by Jiangsu Hui Long Tang Culture Investment Development Co. Ltd, managed by Hilton itself and located within Central Park Mall, a recreational hub in the Chinese city’s central business district.

    The opening marks the arrival of the first international hotel brand in Qidong, which is located at the estuary of the Yangtze River across from Shanghai, and is home to the fourth largest fishery port in China. The city has six industrial zones covering pharmaceutical, mechanic and civil construction industries, and is a fast-growing economic engine for Jiangsu province.

    The Hilton Garden Inn Qidong is located 103 kilometers from Shanghai Pudong International Airport and 25 kilometers away from Golden Beach, with the usual guest amenities in place, including 42-inch LED TVs, walk-in showers, mini-refrigerators and generous work spaces with ergonomic furniture.

     

    “We are extremely proud to be the first international hotel brand to enter Qidong city, and we look forward to extending Hilton Garden Inn’s award-winning, service-driven culture to the area,” said John Greenleaf, global head, Hilton Garden Inn. “The opening of Hilton Garden Inn Qidong is a testament to Hilton’s commitment to sustained growth throughout China.”

    “The opening of Hilton Garden Inn Qidong furthers our mission to be the most hospitable company in the world, especially as we continue to tap the burgeoning potential of the mid-market sector in China,” said Qian Jin, area president, Greater China and Mongolia, Hilton. “I am confident that the hotel will not only offer visitors to Qidong a revitalizing experience, but will also contribute to advancing the tourism industry in the city.”

    Villa revamp to begin at Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa

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    Five-star resort undertakes seven-month refurbishment project.

    Beachcomber Hotels & Resorts has confirmed the refurbishment of its high-end villas at Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa in Mauritius.

    Detail are sketchy, but the project will run from 14th May to mid-November 2018 and will give the five-star 13 beachfront Paradis Villas a fresh look within its surroundings on a private section of beach on Le Morne Peninsula.

    The refurbishment includes new colours, textures and interiors that the company says encompass a ‘stress-free ambiance, parallel to the local laid-back way of living’.

    The revamped villas will offer subtle hues of cream and beige with accents influenced by the sea and Mauritian flora. Imprints of local plants will be on bathroom screens, complemented by wall prints and fabrics.

    The resort is located against Morne Brabant mountain, a UNESCO world heritage site surrounded by a tropical lagoon, sandy beach and 18-hole golf course.

    Hampton by Hilton unveils new design prototype

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    Leading upper-midscale brand introduces flexible design concept ‘leveraging latest architectural trends’.

    Hampton by Hilton has unveiled a new Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton and Hampton Inn by Hilton prototype for the Americas.

    Featuring a contemporized exterior design, refreshed public space décor and updated guestroom case goods, the brand says its new prototype provides owners and developers with a flexible building model that embraces emerging guest preferences, improved functionality and design efficiency.

    Hampton says the new prototype builds on its existing model, helping to ‘position it for continued success and category leadership’. In addition, the prototype is intended to drive the brand’s strategic growth plans as it looks to increase its portfolio of 2,345 open hotels and pipeline of more than 610 properties globally.

    Feedback & Research

    “The new prototype is a natural evolution of our proven model that has made Hampton the segment’s market leader and is in direct response to owner and guest feedback and research,” said Shruti Gandhi Buckley, global head, Hampton by Hilton. “The prototype demonstrates our commitment to providing better value to owners through conscientious, thoughtful design and enhancing the guest experience to meet the evolving needs of travelers.”

    The prototype introduces a new blend of various elements influenced by the latest design trends, in-depth guest research and valuable input from key stakeholders.

    The new exterior design incorporates modern architectural cues while maintaining the flat roof design from the previous prototype to create a consistent thread across the brand. The exterior façade features enhanced lighting, a signature fin design and paint scheme, and enlarged windows to update the look of the exterior as well as increase natural light in the guest rooms.

    The modern porte-cochère creates a ‘warm’ Hampton welcome, while affording owners the flexibility to use local materials. In addition, the new prototype stresses efficiency in its design, with 2,000 sq. ft. less building area required.

    In an effort to reinvigorate public spaces, modifications include a reimagined lobby and front desk area with customized signage and décor, complemented with choreographed pops of color. Communal areas emphasize functionality and comfort to promote guest socialization and gathering throughout the day, while corridors and meeting rooms feature a clean, crisp design.

    Guestrooms have been redesigned with warm color palettes, signature bedding and space-saving alterations like mounted TVs, fully-functional storage units and desk area. The guest bathrooms feature improved lighting, décor and bath fixtures.

    This summer, the brand will release a renovation guide for existing hotels for the lobby and exterior spaces. A guestroom guide has already been released for use by new and existing hotels.

    Twelve Architects to transform Bodmin Jail into a 63 bed hotel

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    Ambitious project to include bat sanctuary and museum elements.

    Twelve Architects has revealed more details about its project to transform Bodmin Jail into a hotel and museum, including a 2019 opening date.

    The 19th Century Grade II listed building will have its old cells knocked through to create large living areas and have a glass ceiling installed to cheer up what has historically been an unwelcoming place.

    That said, the company says the original design and features will be kept central to the renovated building, which will also offer a bat sanctuary (to accommodate the jail’s most recent inmates) and a museum element that will detail the building’s past.

    In fact, with more than 50 hangings carried out on the site, the hotel will likely become a hot ghost hunting spot on Cornwall’s hotel circuit.

    Marca Corona Ristorante Dark

    Marca Corona to headline sponsor Hotel Designs Meet Up North

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    The Hotel Designs Meet Up North takes place at the King Street Townhouse, in central Manchester on 18 July.

    And Hotel Designs is delighted to announce Marca Corona as headline sponsor of the event.

    The Meet Up in Manchester will follow the same format as our London editions and take place from 6-9.30 p.m. Guests, including hoteliers, designers, architects and hospitality industry suppliers are invited to attend the event to forge valuable professional relationships.

    Since 1741 Marca Corona has been producing top quality ceramics and has broadened Made in Italy style worldwide. At the Hotel Designs Meet Up North, Marca Corona will be unveiling floor in porcelain stoneware, mosaics and white body wall tiles for guests to visualise, touch and discuss.

    “We enormously proud to be supporting the first Hotel Designs Meet Up in the North of the UK. Meeting with the high calibre designers, architects and hoteliers in the room makes this such an attractive opportunity for us, especially because we are looking to drive our brand awareness in this area of the country,” says Simone Rivasi, Projects Division at Marca Corona. “During the course of the Meet Up, we will be showcasing examples of the new collections: Arkistone, Bold and Elemento,” she added.

    If you are a suppliers to the hospitality industry looking to meet top names from both industries, contact Jennie Lane on 01992 374098 or on j.lane@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

    The Hotel Designs Meet Up North is completely free for hoteliers, architects and designers; click here to confirm your attendance.

    TUI Blue expands its portfolio to ten hotels

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    Two new openings for the lifestyle hotel brand in Majorca and Turkey.

    TUI Group’s two year-old lifestyle hotel brand TUI Blue has grown its portfolio to ten hotels, with the addition of TUI Blue Rocador in Majorca and TUI Blue Marmaris on the Turkish Aegean.

    The newly opened TUI Blue Rocador 4-star hotel is located directly on the beach in Cala d’Or in the southeast of Majorca and offers 211 rooms. The TUI Blue Marmaris – also 4-star – has begun receiving its first guests, offering 279 rooms spread across cottage-style villas in a pine forest.

    Both hotels focus on adults and couples and can be booked by guests over 16. TUI says the Blue brand offers a ‘modern interpretation of typical regional cuisine’, cutting-edge technology and the Bluef!t concept for fitness, wellness and nutrition.

    “With TUI Blue, we have launched a hotel brand that blends TUI’s quality and brand propositions with entirely individual and authentic holiday experiences,” said Erik Friemuth, Managing Director TUI Hotels & Resorts. “The success of our hotel concept is reflected by high customer satisfaction levels. We will continue to expand the concept in future.”

    “This new type of hotel is now represented by ten hotels in eight countries,” added Artur Gerber, Managing Director TUI Blue. “We are now planning to take the next step by offering our customers further destinations in the medium- and long-haul segments.”

    Renaissance to renovate half of North American hotel portfolio this year

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    Renaissance Paris Vendome Hotel also gets a makeover as group plans to launch in 16 new locations.

    Renaissance Hotels has confirmed marquee renovations around the world, including nearly half of the brands hotels in North America.

    The brand is also slated to debut in 16 new neighborhoods globally in the next 12 months, including Chelsea, Philadelphia, Warsaw, Taipei and Hangzhou.

    “We have been on a journey to evolve our hotels’ design to reflect what the Renaissance brand offers today: a sense of clever theatricality and an open invitation to experience something a little unexpected during our guests’ travels,” said George Fleck, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing & Management, Renaissance Hotels. “The brand’s design momentum coupled with our engaging Navigators and entertaining Evening Bar Rituals are sure to inspire stories worth sharing among travelers and locals alike.”

    Inspired by the notion that Renaissance Hotels can set the scene for the spontaneous to happen, the brand’s design strategy leverages architecture, interiors and art together – creating what it says are engaging elements and inviting guests to go “off-script” and experience something they weren’t planning.

    “Whether a new build, conversion or renovation, the design of each Renaissance hotel employs different principles to create a dynamic tension and theatrical spirit that introduces an unexpected sense of the neighborhood to our guests,” said David Kepron, Vice President, Global Brand Design Strategies, Marriott International. “There is an overarching and recognizable design DNA that sets the stage for stories worth re-telling, but Chelsea will feel very different than Charleston, as will Paris and Philadelphia.”

    Following the recent opening of Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel, the brand will the complete a multi-million dollar renovation of Renaissance Paris Vendome Hotel this month.

    Designed by Didier Gomez, the 97-room hotel is inspired by the fashion designers and jewelers that have had their salons in the square. With creatively layered patterns and textures throughout the interiors, each guestroom features statement art pieces of French feminine style that wrap the ceiling, a signature of the brand.

     

    Join Athenaeum House, Hilton, Yotel, Fullers and more at the Hotel Summit

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    Don’t forget to register for your FREE place at the 20th Anniversary Hotel Summit, which is taking place at the Radisson Blu, London Stansted on June 4th & 5th – Click here for all the details. 

    It’s the hotel industry’s premier face-to-face networking event, where industry suppliers and buyers converge for a series of highly productive meetings.

    Among the hotelier and hospitality delegates already registered are representatives from Athenaeum House, Best Western Hotels, Citystay Limited, Cranleigh Boutique, Deansgate Motel, De Vere Chicheley Hall, Fullers, Hampton by Hilton, Hotel Indigo, Hilton Garden Inn Brussels, Intercontinental London Park Lane, Laura Ashley Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien Piccadilly, Marriott International, Metropolitan Pub Company, Shangri-la Hotel at The Shard, Wyndham Hotel Group, Yotel Hotels and many more.

    In addition to meetings with suppliers, all delegates will have access to a series of high profile seminars from leaders in the hospitality sector, including:-

    Aly Thompson – Trivago
    “Trivago Industry Insights: UK regional data highlights”

    Tony Morris – GSK
    “Procurement: Frustration or facilitation?”

    Adam Hamadache – Direct Hotel Marketing
    “More Direct Bookings: How my hotel does 96% direct bookings”

    John Heffernan – Red Live Media
    “Why the hotel sector needs an evolving digital marketing approach”

    Plus, network with like-minded professionals and enjoy full complimentary hospitality, including overnight accommodation and an invitation to our gala dinner with entertainment.

    Places are limited and on a first come, first serve basis, so if you’d like to join us at this year’s 20th anniversary Summit, please click here to confirm your place.

    Or for more information, contact Victoria Petch on 01992 374082 / v.petch@forumevents.co.uk.

    Alternatively, if you are interested in exhibiting at the 2018 event, please contact Jennie Lane now on 01992 374098 or j.lane@forumevents.co.uk.

    ARTIQ and Anita Rosato Interior Design curate zoological collection for London Marriott Hotel Regents Park

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    Project is the third ARTIQ has completed with Anita Rosato Interior Design and Marriott.

    Art consultants ARTIQ have worked with Anita Rosato Interior Design on the curation of a location-specific art collection for London Marriott Hotel Regents Park, based on a zoological theme.

    The project is part of the hotel’s multi-million pound renovation scheme and represents the third ARTIQ has completed with Anita Rosato Interior Design and Marriott, following previous collaborations on both London Heathrow Marriott hotel and London Marriott Hotel Maida Vale.

    For the Regents Park, ARTIQ worked with the overall project team, which also included Tower Eight, Benjamin West and the hotel operating team, to develop a new and bespoke art collection that would complement the hotel’s high-end redesign, as well as reflecting the hotel’s proximity to Regent’s Park, ZSL London Zoo and to the former villages that make up the wider area.

    The full redesign remit covered the lobby, executive lounge, meetings and events spaces, as well as new and existing bedrooms, with ARTIQ’s area of work concentrated on the guestrooms, linking corridors and lift lobbies.

    For the latter, ARTIQ, under the direction of Head of Operations Katie Terres, says it drew inspiration from the natural surroundings of Regent’s Park and nearby Primrose Hill, procuring a series of botanical photographs that include reflections of the ‘Primrose Flower’.

    ARTIQ also procured a series of original prints by local artists with zoological themes for the guestrooms, including work by local artists Nadia Taylor and Joanna Ham, both of whom had been initially selected for the project by Anita Rosato Interior Design.

    “On Anita’s recommendation, we commissioned Nadia to create new interpretations of her iconic bird collages, working with the artist to develop the pieces of art using bespoke colour schemes to complement the interiors,” said Terres.

    Work by artist and illustrator Joanna Ham is focused around animal motifs, with the character ‘Rabbit’ taking centre stage in her minimalist aesthetic. Joanna is the founder of London design house HAM and is a significant figure in the local contemporary art and design scene, having collaborated with brands including Liberty, Designjunction, Mother, Billy Name, Topshop and Colette.

    “Joanna’s work tallies with the hotel’s commitment to local artists and adds a contemporary splash of monochrome to the bedroom design,” Terres explained.

    Additionally, ARTIQ directly commissioned Tropicana, by London-based painter and illustrator Margaux Carpentier, whose previous works include murals for ZSL London Zoo. The piece is a vibrant, playful depiction of tropical animals, with Margaux’s use of vivid orange in Tropicana complimenting the palette and orange detailing of the scheme’s interior by Anita Rosato Interior Design.

    Anita Rosato Interior Design also created a sculpture for the guestroom art collection: a bespoke wire elephant sculpture, which ARTIQ then templated and commissioned for manufacture. The sculptures are intended to create a sense of fun and provide a playful focal point for guests.

    General Manager, Tony Owen, said: “We recognise that modern traveller needs are constantly changing and the new refurbishment ensures that our offering falls in line with these demands.”

    Conrad Osaka

    Q&A: INTERVIEW WITH ATSUSHI KANEDA, LIGHTING DESIGNER, CONRAD OSAKA

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    SORAA has always been a fixture in lighting design projects that incorporate strong artistic and design elements. So when world-renowned lighting design firm Worktecht reached out with a new hotel project that needed to blend visual art and design, it was a no-brainer.

    The Conrad Osaka is a five-star hotel located in the middle of the Umeda and Namba districts in downtown Osaka that opened its doors in June 2017. The 40-story Conrad boasts impressive views of the downtown cityscape, but the real draw of the hotel lies inside where light, stunning visual art, and architectural elements perfectly collide.


    Here, SORAA speaks with lighting designer and founder of Worktecht, Atsushi Kaneda, to find out what inspired him to create a space that so seamlessly merges art and design through light.


    Why did you choose to use SORAA over other lighting companies in the Conrad Hotel Osaka?

    Atsushi Kaneda: The interior design of the Conrad Osaka combines various artworks allowing guests to feel like they’re staying in a contemporary art museum. To make sure we highlight the artworks perfectly, SORAA lamps were just the best choice for our design.

    What was the design inspiration for the Conrad Hotel project?

    AK: The interior design concept for the hotel was “The Address to the Sky.” The natural elements of “Water”, “Sky”, “Fire” and “Star” became the theme of each area. We were really inspired by these elements and started to think about how the lighting could bring the corresponding special atmosphere and perception to immerse people in.

    How was light used to highlight architectural elements and art inside the hotel?

    AK: In order to create the sky-like lighting environment, we incorporated fixtures carefully to illuminate objects and eliminate some shadows, aiming to generate a sense of floating. For example, the uplights around the artwork at the entrance render the crystal beads from the bottom to the top and exhibit them in a way that makes them seem weightless.

    Do you think that light can alter the “mood” of a space, and how?

    AK: Light can absolutely alter how people perceive the environment, both consciously and unconsciously, including their emotion, mental state, and thinking about the atmosphere. If a delicate art piece is illuminated in the proper way, the focal light reveals its material and texture so that viewers will feel surprised and moved by the authenticity of the aesthetic. For the ambient lighting, when the light smoothly and subtly changes, following the time shift and seasons passing, our natural instinct is to respond to the light and deeply feel it.

    What was your favourite lighting design element in the Conrad Hotel and why?

    AK: It is the illuminated artwork of “God of Wind and Thunder” at the entrance. The sense of floating on the artwork was created by the hidden uplights around. It was a challenge at the beginning, but the final effect is really appealing and successful.

    Hyatt reveals Hyatt Centric Melbourne development plans

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    The new hotel will mark the second Hyatt Centric brand hotel in Australia.

    Hyatt Hotels Corporation has confirmed that one of its affiliates has entered into a management agreement with Little Projects for a Hyatt Centric hotel in Melbourne, Australia.

    Hyatt Centric Melbourne will be located on Downie Street, joining 20 Hyatt Centric brand hotels worldwide and soon-to-open hotels in Chile and Peru.

    Slated to open in 2020, the hotel will feature 280 guestrooms and suites, a restaurant and rooftop bar, minutes from the city’s Docklands and Southbank precincts and in close proximity to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Center and the Crown Entertainment Complex.

    The company says expansions and continued development of the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Center, Etihad Stadium, and the Docklands office precincts are expected to further attract local and international travellers.

    Extended Hyatt Presence in Melbourne

    The Hyatt Centric Melbourne plan follows the recent announcement of the Hyatt Centric Hobart and the opening of Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo earlier this year. The hotel will complement Hyatt’s brand presence in Australia’s second-most populous city, joining the Park Hyatt Melbourne, Grand Hyatt Melbourne and Hyatt Place Essendon Fields.

    “We are thrilled to work with Little Projects, a respected developer in Melbourne that shares our vision of authenticity and creativity, to bring the Hyatt Centric brand to Australia for the second time,” said Asia Pacific Group President, David Udell, Hyatt Hotels Corporation. “Melbourne’s cosmopolitan vibe makes it an ideal destination for a Hyatt Centric hotel.”

     

    Stanneylands Hotel

    GUEST BLOG: HOW IMPORTANT IS ERGONOMICS WHEN IT COMES TO HOTEL DESIGN?

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    Headed up by Managing Director Lee Birchall, DV8 Designs is renowned for designing and delivering unique and exceptionally creative solutions to each client depending on the site, brief and budget, with flexibility as one of its core strengths.

    Lee is responsible for designing a number of hotels and venues across the UK. From country house classics to upmarket boutiques, DV8 Designs has an expansive portfolio that varies significantly. One common derivative between all of these projects, however, is the use of ergonomics which essentially captures just how guests will utilise their surroundings. Ergonomics aims to create safe, comfortable and productive spaces by transferring human abilities and limitations into fully functioning design.

    Lee said: “Good interior design amounts to much more than just aesthetic appeal; a well-designed space should enhance the purpose for which it was intended. Ergonomics is the starting point for any creative venture of ours and is particular poignant within the hotel sector, with such venues often enclosing multi-purpose spaces ranging from guest rooms to conference halls, bars and restaurants to name a few – all existing under one roof. With a hotel of any size, it is crucial to get the layout just right to amplify the customer experience, using empathetic design to map out a guest’s journey from room to room with seamless efficiency.

    “DV8 Designs was recently recruited to oversee the creative overhaul of The Stanneylands, located in Wilmslow, Cheshire, which saw us completely renovate the venue including 52 bedrooms, the restaurant and bar area, conservatory, reception area and function room. Before the team could even begin to think about how the space would look visually, we needed to get to grips with how the venue would operate & function – this is where ergonomics comes in to play.

    Stanneylands Hotel

    “Our design brief began with a deconstruction of the original layout, assessing its functionality and practicality which led to a reworked and more efficient floor plan spanning across two levels. Finalising something as essential as a hotel layout involves careful assessment of each unique area, taking into consideration its proposed use and ensuring that each space is fit for purpose in terms of size and positioning within the venue.

    “As part of the renovation, ergonomics played a crucial role in determining the functionality of certain spaces and saw us transform aspects of the hotel beyond aesthetic design, changing the capacity in which rooms would be used by guests and staff members alike. Aptly named ‘The Attic’, our team took this secluded guest room and created an additional, more intimate meeting space furnished with bespoke timber cabinet fittings that provided additional storage and housed the technical kit. The largest suite, ‘The State Room’, was designed with large-scale events in mind, allowing the venue to cater for the likes of weddings and corporate occasions. The fixtures and fittings, including carpets and lighting, were selected to ensure both practicality in terms of event management and maintenance, whilst complimenting the overall design brief.

    Stanneylands Hotel

    “One of the most practical ergonomic challenges posed within the hotel sector is the positioning of the welcome desk; the heart of any hotel and often the first port of call for visitors. As well as serving as a key focal point for guests upon arrival, the welcome desk is also a workspace, often in use 24 hours a day. Great design not only caters to the needs of the customer but also aims to create a productive workspace for employees, with hotels being no exception to this rule.

    “As an interior designer, it is essential to think in the mind-set of the customer and employee alike, combining both of their unique needs to create a venue that flows seamlessly. Not only is layout and functional design important for the overall practicality of a hotel, but it also ensures minimum risks in case of a hazard, allowing easy navigation around the building and quick access to different areas within the vicinity.”

     

     

    Fort Partners and Four Seasons break ground at Fort Lauderdale site

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    Experienced design and architectural team starts work on 22-storey oceanfront property.

    Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Fort Lauderdale, developed by Fort Partners, will become a destination for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, offering 90 private residences and 130 guest rooms.

    It’s the third collaboration between Four Seasons and Fort Partners, joining Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach and Four Seasons Hotel and Residences at The Surf Club, extending the luxury brand’s presence in South Florida.

    The development team is led by Fort Partners’ Founder Nadim Ashi and Principal Ramzi Achi, with interior design led by London-based Tara Bernerd, who was responsible for the building’s full interior architecture. In addition, Martin Brudnizki, a London-based hospitality designer, created the property’s restaurants, lounges and pool areas.

    Miami-based architect Kobi Karp is the lead architect behind the development, having worked on projects in the Caribbean, Far East, the Black Sea region and the Middle East.

    Finally, Fernando Wong is the leading landscape architect for Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Fort Lauderdale, which will have one-third of the property devoted to green space.

    The 22-storey oceanfront property will see hotel rooms reside on the fourth through the 11th floors and the Private Residences begin on floor five. Of the residential portion, the developer has achieved more than $100 million in sales to date, sold to an international mix of buyers from across the Americas and Europe.

    Team of Global Minds

    “We commissioned a team of global minds to create an exemplary hotel and residential property unlike any other in Fort Lauderdale,” said Nadim Ashi, Founder of Fort Partners. “Four Seasons is defining Fort Lauderdale as a global destination and is capturing an international audience. We are committed to developing a world-class hotel and lifestyle.”

    “Four Seasons has a history of entering into markets and setting the standard for luxury lifestyle experiences. This new property will be no exception, and we look forward to opening our doors in the vibrant city of Fort Lauderdale,” says J. Allen Smith, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “In partnership with Fort Partners and our team of international design visionaries, every detail – from location to design to amenities – reflects the highest standards of quality and excellence.”

    Smith continues, “Four Seasons will manage both the Hotel and Private Residences, delivering our world-class service to guests and to our homeowners on a permanent basis. This is what will set us apart in Fort Lauderdale and will establish this property as the best luxury lifestyle experience in the city.”

    The 90 residences will range in size from one to four bedrooms, including furnished and fully appointed as well as unfurnished options. Residences will range from 780 square feet (72 square metres) to more than 6,000 square feet (560 square metres). The tallest floors of the building will feature four penthouses and three exclusive Sky Homes with dramatic 20-foot (6-metre) ceilings.

    AccorHotels acquires Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

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    Deal is subject to regulatory approval, but should complete this year.

    AccorHotels has signed an agreement with Mövenpick Holding and Kingdom Holding to acquire Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, for a cash amount of €482 million.

    Founded in 1973 in Switzerland, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts operates in 27 countries with 84 hotels and more than 20,000 rooms, with a strong presence in Europe and the Middle East.

    Mövenpick also plans to open 42 additional hotels by 2021, representing almost 11,000 rooms, focused on the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific. The Group employs more than 16,000 people worldwide.

    AccorHotels says the deal implies a 14.9X 2019e EBITDA multiple before synergies (including transaction costs), and less than 10X pro forma 2019e EBITDA after run rate synergies and committed development pipeline. It also says the transaction will have an accretive impact on Group earnings from the first year.

    The company says Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts will benefit from its loyalty program, distribution channels and operating systems, which will help optimise performance.

    The acquisition further consolidates the AccorHotels footprint in Europe and Middle East and accelerates growth in Africa and Asia. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, however, but should be completed during the second half of 2018.

    Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of AccorHotels, said: “With the acquisition of Mövenpick, we are consolidating our leadership in the European market and are further accelerating our growth in emerging markets, in particular in Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific. The Mövenpick brand is the perfect combination of modernity and authenticity and ideally complements our portfolio. Its European-Swiss heritage is a perfect fit with AccorHotels. By joining the Group, it will benefit from AccorHotels’ power, particularly in terms of distribution, loyalty-building and development. This transaction illustrates the strategy we intend to pursue with the opening up of AccorInvest’s capital: to seize tactical opportunities to strengthen our positions and consolidate our leaderships, as well as leverage our growth.”

    W Ibiza confirmed for summer 2019

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    Marriott International subsidiary W Hotels Worldwide has confirmed that it will open a 162 room W Ibiza in Summer 2019 in Santa Eulalia del Río.

    Owned by Inversions Hoteleres Ebza S.L., W Ibiza will have a beachfront location with three distinct design concepts for dining, drinking and relaxing, complemented by a rooftop sunset bar and adults only WET Deck (the brand’s signature take on poolside entertainment). A second WET Deck will have direct access to the beachfront promenade and Santa Eulalia beach.

    There will also be a 4,000 square foot Away Spa with seven private treatment rooms and the brand’s signature FIT gym.

    W Ibiza will join a portfolio of more than 50 W Hotels around the world, including recently opened locations W Shanghai – The Bund and W Goa.

    Spain is on track to have four W Hotels by 2021, with the opening of W Madrid (2019), W Ibiza (2019) and W Marbella (2021) slated to join the W Barcelona. In total, W Hotels says it’s on track to have 75 hotels globally by the end of 2020.

    “With its playful energy and bohemian spirit, Ibiza is an ideal destination and perfect match for W Hotels,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “We have been present in Ibiza since 2010 with a variety of W music events and partnerships, so we’re thrilled to be finally opening a W Hotel on the island that we know our guests love. Following the success of W Barcelona and the forthcoming debuts of W Madrid (2019) and W Marbella (2021), W Ibiza will remix the expected and provide a new take on the (in)famous island.”

    GROHE secures nine Red Dot Awards

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    Parent company LIXIL wins a further six awards across various categories.

    GROHE has won a record nine awards at the Red Dot Design Awards 2018 – one of the most prestigious international design recognitions.

    The competition is organised by Design Zentrum NordrheinWestfalen in Germany, with GROHE receiving the prestigious “Red Dots” for the GROHE Red and the new GROHE BLUE Home Pull-Out water systems, plus bathroom collections such as the new ATRIO range, which recently launched at Fuorisalone in Milan.

    The nine winning GROHE products were:

    RED Kettle Hot Water tap

    BLUE Home Chilled Still and Sparkling filtered Water Tap

    ATRIO Collection

    Sense & Sense Guard Water Security System (2 awards)

    SmartControl Concealed

    Essence Spa Colours Collection

    Architectural Flush Plates

    Euphoria 260 Showerhead

    There were also six more Red Dot Awards for LIXIL, while the jury awarded the title “Honourable Mention” for LIXIL’s SATO V-Trap Toilet System, a twin- pit pour-flush latrine.

    Each of the awarded products will be displayed in the exhibition of the Red Dot Design Museum in Essen. In addition, they will be presented in the Red Dot Design Yearbook, at the online portal Red Dot 21, in the app, and the online exhibition starting on 9th July 2018.

    Michael Seum, Vice President Design at GROHE, said: “GROHE attaches great importance to the fact that design as a corporate value is more than just a driver. Rather, it is firmly anchored in the company’s DNA. My team and I are very happy about this outstanding recognition of our work. We are honored that our design philosophy is so well respected in the creative community. Our products have to stand out in an extremely competitive environment. Design is a very important key element. We want to create something unique and new, while also achieving design permanence. In addition to that, the aesthetics have to embody a deeper ease of use that will make it a pleasure for consumers to interact with our product.”

    The international Red Dot Design competition is organized by the Design Zentrum NordrheinWestfalen e.V. in Germany and honours the best products of the year. Designers and manufacturers submit their products and a jury of 40 experts assesses the submissions based on criteria such as degree of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, longevity and ecological compatibility. This year, the jurors received submissions from 59 countries.

    GUEST BLOG: Overlooked Things to Consider for Your Hotel Rooms

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    A hotel room is a space to escape from your daily life and indulge in a bit of luxury – or perhaps a home-from-home sanctuary for overnight business trips. Whatever a guest’s needs, it’s important to keep your rooms as up-to-date, practical and functional as possible. 

    When it comes to creating a space where guests will feel comfortable and at home, it’s worth thinking about those finer details that are often overlooked. In your quest to execute a first-class hospitality experience, first impressions mean everything – here OWO Living looks at some tips to help you wow your next visitors.

    Technological treats 

    The average British person owns approximately 3.5 internet connected devices, so you’d expect your guests to want to use them while on a hotel stay – especially if they’re on a business trip. Free, fast WiFi is a great place to start, but you should also consider the orientation of the power outlets in the room – near to beds and desks are the best options if you’re keen to keep everyone from teenagers to professionals happy.

    To keep the room more in line with modern homes, consider adding a personal assistant like a Google Home or an Amazon Echo to the room, which can be programmed to integrate with the room’s lights and TV. The Wynn Las Vegas has already placed Amazon Echos into 300 rooms, which surely points to the future of luxury hospitality.

    Productivity boosters

    If your hotel is situated near a convention centre or a bustling business district, you’re likely to get a lot of guests who require a quiet space to help them prep for meetings and presentations. This is where the hotel bedroom furniture you choose really counts. A comfortable bed is obviously at the top of anyone’s agenda, but what else will impress?

    A large, sturdy desk is always a good start, with plenty of room for papers to be double-checked and laptops to be set up. For a welcome addition, consider updating your hot drink making facilities to include a higher quality of tea and coffee to add a more premium feel to the room. Also, as mentioned above, make sure the desk has plenty of sockets for laptop chargers, so nothing need interrupt your guests’ workflow.

    Things to help guests unwind

    The primary purposes of any hotel room are relaxation and a good night’s sleep – with a hotel often being the preferred option over late night travelling or overnight flights. If it’s a hectic business trip or an exhausting sightseeing day, a private space where guests can unwind and leave the day behind will definitely be welcomed.

    The bath is a great place to do this, as indulging in a long soak can help leave the day behind – be that memories of a difficult meeting or sore feet from exploring. For added flair, consider including some bath bombs – a luxury upgrade on the standard hotel bathroom toiletries that’ll get your guests excited to spend some downtime in the tub.

    Super sleep enhancers

    Many hotels, especially those in urban areas, fail to provide guests with the quiet time they want and need. Whether holidaying or working, sleep is paramount, and it could be the difference between a stellar TripAdvisor score or legions of unhappy commenters – not to mention the decider in whether a guest books with you again.

    To combat noise, consider placing a white noise generator in the room to be used to block out street sounds from outside. If light is the issue, then blackout blinds are an immediate and inexpensive solution. Business people or airport travelers that need to rise early will thank you for these additions, as there’s nothing more frustrating than disturbed sleep when the minutes are ticking ever closer to your alarm.

    These are only a few considerations, so make sure you keep your ear to the ground in terms of the latest hotel innovations and demands from a changing and expanding guest portfolio. Each guest will want and need something different from a hotel room, but with some minor updates like those listed above, you can help visitors work, play and relax in peace and comfort.

    UK’s first Radisson RED hotel opens in Glasgow

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    Style and technology to the fore, with Glasgow comic artist Frank Quitely designing the wallpaper.

    Radisson Hotel Group has opened its first RED hotel in the UK, with the 174-room Radisson RED Glasgow also the first new-build Radisson RED property to open in Europe.

    Radisson RED is Radisson Hotel Group’s upscale, select service hotel brand, focused on informal services, the latest technology, and what the company calls ‘bold’ design.

    The Radisson RED Glasgow in the heart of the city’s music and art scene and is being pitched as an ideal base from which to explore, particularly for people visiting for gigs at the SSE Hydro.


    Technology is to the fore, with keyless entry, self-check-in and check-out, plus  the RED app, which guests can use for a number of things, from requesting extra pillows to arranging a group ride to airport.

    Radisson RED Glasgow is the brand’s fifth hotel to open around the world, joining RED hotels in Brussels, Campinas, Cape Town, and Minneapolis. In terms of design, natural materials meet colourful accents and eclectic design pieces – the bold wallpaper, designed by Glasgow comic artist Frank Quitely, is intended to make the rooms feel fun, modern and minimal.

    The ground floor space with the OUIBar + KTCHN is the hotel’s food, drink and social hub, serving food, wine and craft beers.

    Meanwhile, each of the three events studios – 66sqm, 40sqm and 55sqm – is equipped with modern tech and super-fast Wi-Fi.


    Hotel Curator Michael Weston said: “We’re all so excited to open and introduce RED to Glasgow and the wider UK. The RED experience is different – we encourage laughter, playfulness and even a little mischief with guests, and we use our spaces as a showcase for some of the best local talent in art, design, music and fashion. We really hope people come to the hotel, love what they see, and come back again and again.”

    Richard Moore, Area Senior Vice President, UK, Ireland & Western Europe, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “Radisson RED is bold and pushes the boundaries of the traditional hospitality experience, and I can’t think of a better fit for the UK’s first RED than the city of Glasgow. We’re genuinely excited to give people the opportunity to enjoy RED, and I feel confident that as well as having a fantastic product in a great location, we have the best team in place to deliver a memorable and RED experience for guests.”

    Brutalist Ikea-owned building in New Haven to become a hotel?

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    Reports in the local press suggest an interesting project is underway behind the scenes.

    Plans are underway to turn a Brutalist office building in New England, originally designed by Marcel Breuer and currently owned by Ikea, into a hotel.

    According to local news reports, the Pirelli Tire Building has been the subject of extended discussions over its future, with the Swedish furniture giant – which has a store on the same piece of land – favouring a hotel option.

    Further details are sketchy, beyond a source from the area’s Development Commission confirming that the issue of the building and the hotel redevelopment option has been discussed at its last meeting.

    According Wikipedia, the Pirelli Tire Building was truncated in 2003 to accommodate the construction the IKEA store. And there’s an interesting design connection – IKEA’s furniture has in the past and present been heavily influenced by the Bauhaus school, where Breuer taught.

    We’re slightly excited to see what the hotel possibilities could be.

    Mezemiso rooftop bar & restaurant launching at Crowne Plaza London – Albert Embankment

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    Crowne Plaza hopes the venue one of the places to be seen in London this summer.

    It has been confirmed that Crowne Plaza London – Albert Embankment will offer a ‘chic’ sky terrace called Mezemiso when the hotel opens in June this year.

    The rooftop bar and restaurant will be situated on the building’s 14th floor, with panoramic views of the River Thames, with design based around a mix of sophisticated blue hues along with copper and metallic tones.

    The space will have fireplaces and floor to ceiling glass windows, with a modern bar area offering wine and spirits collections, a shisha and cigar terrace, and what’s described as sumptuous seating.

    There’s room for alfresco dining with a Lebanese concept and menu, which Crowne Plaza hope will make the venue one of the places to be seen in London this summer.

    The hotel is being opened as part of a new brand platform from Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resort that launched earlier in 2017 called ‘We’re All Business, Mostly’. The company says the $200 million brand investment shows its commitment to ‘remain at the forefront of the new way of doing business with design-led, culturally-relevant and technology-enabled solutions’.

    Located on the South Bank of the Thames and created by ADS Design and RPW Design, the hotel offers views over the river, including the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. Its team is headed by General Manager Fabio Gallo, who has led a number of openings prior to Albert Embankment.

    Historic hotels Heritage Marketing Program launched in US

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    “If a hotel was not built recently, then consumers will categorize the hotel as either historic or old.”

    Historic Hotels of America has teamed up with the Brand Heritage Institute to offer an executive education program in heritage marketing.

    The Brand Heritage Institute will develop and offer annual seminars in strategic marketing, which are customised for hoteliers at historic hotels inducted into Historic Hotels of America.

    The first of these activities will be a seminar leading to an executive education Certificate in Heritage Marketing for Historic Hotels, which will be offered to owners, general managers, and other senior leaders of historic hotels during the Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide 2018 Annual Conference.

    The first annual seminar will be held on October 30th, 2018 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, which is celebrating the centennial of its opening in 1918.

    The program director will be Bradford Hudson, who is a marketing professor at Boston College. He is also President of the Brand Heritage Institute, which is an independent non-profit corporation devoted to research, education, and publishing about topics at the intersection of marketing and history.

    Consumer Appeal

    Hudson said: “Brand heritage is an emerging concept within the marketing discipline, which suggests that the historical status of older companies is often explicitly linked to their brand identity and consumer appeal. A historic hotel represents a special variant, because its brand identity is inseparably linked to its architectural history and to the cultural dimensions of its environment.

    “If a hotel was not built recently, then consumers will categorize the hotel as either historic or old. Obviously, it is better to be historic. Each historic hotel offers a unique experience that cannot be duplicated by competitors, and its history represents an important element of differentiation. Historic hotels can achieve a significant advantage in ADR and REVPAR versus newer competitors in the same segment. The key variable seems to be the degree to which the older hotel emphasizes and celebrates its history.”

    Hudson continued: “From one viewpoint, historic hotels are pioneers in brand heritage and have been at the forefront of heritage marketing since the founding of Historic Hotels of America almost three decades ago. It could be argued that companies in other industries should be learning from hotels, not vice versa. However, based on my experience as an industry executive and academic researcher, it seems clear that practical efforts must be aligned with theoretical principles in order to make marketing programs more effective and expenditures more efficient.

    “Executives responsible for marketing historic companies need to know how brand heritage works at a fundamental level and be able to explain why people buy historic products of any type. Understanding the nature of heritage in competitive strategy and consumer behavior will help hoteliers position and leverage their historic hotels to maximum advantage, and thereby attain practical benefits in demand and pricing, which is the ultimate purpose of our new executive education program.”

    Rome’s Palazzo Montemartini joins Radi­­sson Collection

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    The philosophy of the newly launched Radisson Collection matches particularly well with the distinctive traits of Palazzo Montemartini.

    Radisson Hotel Group has added the Palazzo Montemartini in Rome to Radisson Collection, effective from June 2018.

    Built back in 1881, Palazzo Montemartini is situated near the Baths of Diocletian and the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli designed by Michelangelo.

    In terms of style and setting, the hotel combines modern design with a truly authentic flavour, and is made up of 82 rooms and suites, as well as events halls. The Senses Restaurant & Lounge Bar offers local fare, complemented by views of the Servian Wall – the very first wall of ancient Rome, according to boffins.


    There’s also the Montemartini SPA by Caschera – a lifestyle space with jacuzzi, heated hydro tonic pool, treatment rooms including a dedicated salt room, sauna and hammam, sensory and chromotherapy showers.

    Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer, said: “We couldn’t have asked for a more iconic destination than Rome to add a new Radisson Collection to the world. Palazzo Montemartini is a perfect addition to our portfolio. It’s a modern icon that respects the brand promise of Radisson Collection through its authenticity, design and exceptional service. We are looking forward to building on the heritage of this legendary hotel and showcase the true colors of Radisson Collection in one of the world’s most loved cities.”

    “The philosophy of the newly launched Radisson Collection matches particularly well with the distinctive traits of Palazzo Montemartini, focused on providing a friendly luxury experience,” said Giuseppe Marchese, CEO of Ragosta Hotels Collection that owns Palazzo Montemartini. “We are proud to join the Radisson Hotel Group and launch the first Radisson Collection in Italy.”

    Studio Saxe designs tropical terraces for Mint Santa Theresa

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    Inspired by Greek architecture, minimalism and Scandinavian design.

    Costa Rican architects Studio Saxe have taken their established ‘tropical’ style and applied it to the Mint Santa Theresa hotel, which steps down a steep coastal hillside and is made up of a series of terraces that can be completely opened up to the elements.

    A large central space has been designed to encourage social interactions between guests and everything is surrounded by the verdant landscape, which invades the hotel in all directions.

    Inspired by Greek architecture, minimalism and Scandinavian design, the hotel’s Swedish owners commissioned Studio Saxe for the project based on their previous tropical builds and renovations.

    Hotel residents occupy individual pavilion-like structures where they can retreat into a private zone and yet still interact with the nature around them. The guest rooms can be opened up completely to a personal terrace with an ocean view to the front and a garden with tropical plants in the rear. The bathrooms also have an open layout, giving the guests the opportunity to shower while listening to the sound of the crashing waves.

    Each room is a afforded its own rooftop terrace, complete with plants, a sail for shade and furnished with rattan furniture made in Sarchí, a Costa Rican town famous for its inhabitants’ craftsmanship.

    Studio Saxe used locally-sourced materials throughout the project, such as in ceilings that are made of “caña brava” (a type of grass) installed in an intricate fishbone pattern. Local craftsmen have also created custom furniture made of local wood and using traditional techniques.

    The heart of Mint Santa Teresa is the communal lounge area with its an infinity pool and sunset bar. It is open on all sides save for a single wall of plants by the entrance, providing the guests with some privacy while maintaining the natural setting. The lounge serves as a meeting spot for guests, owners and locals of the area.

    Benjamin Garcia Saxe said: “Hotels traditionally became vast objects in the landscape that bear no relation to their surroundings and are devoid of genuine human interaction. At Mint, we endeavored to create a contextual design that adapts to its landscape and offers a new type of experience for a breed of traveler seeking authenticity. We worked hard on creating spaces that combine an appreciation of natural beauty with a rich array of possibilities for social and cultural interaction. The result is a completely unique way of thinking about hospitality and wellness.”

    IN PICTURES: Hotel Savoy collaboration with Emilio Pucci

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    Full details and gallery of showcasing the Florence hotel’s new look.

    The Hotel Savoy in Florence has reopened its doors after an extensive renovation project in collaboration with Florentine fashion house, Emilio Pucci.

    Director of Design, Olga Polizzi, sought to enhance the timeless elegance of the hotel using hints of the Renaissance and artisans. Laudomia Pucci, Image Director at Emilio Pucci, has collaborated on the project, bringing  Italian design into the hotel to create what Hotel Savoy calls a ‘unique ambiance’.

    The hotel entrance and lobby have been reinstated to their original grandeur, with a five meter high corniced ceiling. The fluid and mostly white space is punctuated with colourful art and design, including paintings by Luca Pignatelli.

    Pucci’s touch continues throughout the lobby, where the print has been carried over on cushions that decorate the sofas in a strong solid statement of black and fuchsia, while two armchairs feature a velvet flower print that merges renaissance motifs with a ‘pop art spirit’.

    The modern and sophisticated look of the hotel lobby is completed with a hand tufted rug featuring the iconic “Lamborghini” print from the Emilio Pucci Archives in nuances of pinks, greys, white and black.

    Polizzi & Pucci have also created a new look for the guest rooms and suites which have been designed to give a sense of calm, freshness and the tranquil tones used, combined with the luxurious fabrics in a mix of materials, create a predominantly Italian feel, mirroring the essence of Rocco Forte.

    You can browse a full gallery of the renovated areas below:

    Kaldewei joins WWF’s Southeast Asia marine conservation programme

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    Project to reduce plastic waste through sustainable waste management.

    Bathrooms specialist Kaldewei has joined forces with the WWF’s marine conservation programme in Southeast Asia, with the aim of improving waste management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.

    Announcing the drive, the company cited forecasts that by 2050 the oceans will contain as much plastic waste as fish. The first indications are already visible today: animals are perishing after ingesting plastic; microplastic is being found in many species of fish.

    Furthermore, studies show that organised waste management is not practised in Southeast Asia and uncontrolled dumping of residual waste is a common occurrence. Owing to regular flooding in river basins, large quantities of this waste is swept into the oceans.

    “Sustainability is enshrined in the Kaldewei corporate philosophy,” said Kaldewei Managing Director Franz Kaldewei. “We are happy to support the WWF’s important work to prevent plastic waste in the oceans, and we are confident that with our commitment we will be making a valuable contribution to marine conservation and the preservation of natural living environments.”

    Keeping plastic out of the oceans

    Working together, Kaldewei and the WWF are aiming to combat not only the impacts, but also the causes of environmental pollution. The aim of the project in the Mekong Delta is to quickly reduce the volume of waste by up to 80 per cent by means of separation and recycling, to shut down dumps over the long term and to clear disposal sites.

    The partners hope that these measures will prevent large quantities of plastic from entering the ocean via the rivers and canals on the Mekong Delta every year, as is currently the case.

    In manufacturing its shower surfaces, bathtubs and washbasins made of steel enamel – a composite of steel and glass – Kaldewei says it has always used natural raw materials that are 100% recyclable.

    “For us, this partnership with the WWF is a logical step in our constant endeavours for a clean environment,” Kaldewei added.

    Paintfinity

    INTRODUCING PAINTFINITY, A TRULY SUSTAINABLE PAINT

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    Paintfinity – the sustainable paint tailored to the contract interiors market from a certified Carbon Neutral company.

    Sustainability is a big buzz word right now and using products which are sustainably sourced is of paramount importance. As a result, businesses are now required to become much more transparent about their environmental practices and think of innovative ways to support the world in which we live.

    WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE PAINT?

    Paintfinity takes environmental sustainability seriously across every element of its business, allowing their customers to use less of the world’s resources whilst being confident in a high quality, durable product.

    Not only are their products environmentally friendly they are also virtually odourless, are 100% water based pure acrylic and include no solvents or oils.

    Chris Davies, Managing Director of Paintfinity says, “For many years working as a chartered building surveyor I had been concerned with the levels of waste and pollutants produced by the building sector in the UK. However, because of my background, producing a product that was less harmful to the environment was not enough, it had to out-perform non-green products, respond to the demands of the toughest environments and it had to use less resources to do so.

    Four years ago we developed a unique range of highly performing, sustainable paint products aimed specifically at the contract market and launched Paintfinity in 2014. We now sell to many of the leading hotels in the UK, including The Dorchester, Savoy, Hilton Group, Principal Hotel Company and De Vere Hotels to name but a few.”

    For more information on Paintfinity click here

    HAVWOODS SHOWCASES COMPOSITE DECKING SOLUTIONS

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    In preparation for the warmer months, we take a look at what international wood flooring brand, Havwoods has to offer to hoteliers looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.

    Practical, yet aesthetically pleasing, Havwoods has developed a pioneering collection of resilient and robust composite decking. Whether for residential or large-scale commercial use, Havwoods delivers high-performing boards that will not warp, splinter or rot, to provide a superior outdoor surface that will withstand the elements all year around. Available in two distinctive collections, XSCAPE and TREKKER. Both designed to bring the beauty of timber to the outdoors whilst tackling the issue of wood’s naturally hydroscopic quality with their composite structure.

    XSCAPE

    Beautifully constructed from wood fibre and high-density polyethylene, XSCAPE offers a strong and substantial board that will prove resilient against the impact of moisture, mould and extreme weather conditions. The design’s distinctive wood grain pattern lends a natural finish to the decking surface, whilst the bonded material ensures maximum resistance to external wear and tear.


    TREKKER

    Havwoods’ advanced composite decking collection provides customers with a diverse selection of colour grades and textured designs, to suit most exterior schemes. To complete the look, team Havwoods’ decking with matching fascia panels and decorative trims, designed to create a streamlined aesthetic to your exterior surface infrastructure. All trims and cladding are manufactured in the same manner as the boards and are equally as resistant to harsh weather conditions.

     

    For more information on the Havwood product ranges or to order, please click here  or call +44(0)1524 737000

    Edition Hotels launches ‘Stay Plastic Free’ industry initiative

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    Boutique chain Edition Hotels has unveiled a new initiative to omit single use plastic from the hotel industry.

    The initiative – ‘Stay Plastic Free’ – was developed by Ben Pundole (Vice President of Brand Experiences) will see all Edition hotels become 90% single use plastic free by the end of Q1 2018 – with the intention of being 100% single use plastic free by the end of Q1 2019.

    The company says the campaign has been inspired by the recent anti-plastic activism in the UK, spurred in part by Sir David Attenborough’s widely-viewed Blue Planet series.

    In a statement Edition Hotels said: “The initiative strives to onboard others both within the hospitality industry and outside of to commit to removing plastic from everyday use – and provides the tools and resources to help them do so. The initiative will inspire hotels and hoteliers worldwide to use alternatives to single-use plastic.”

    Stay Plastic Free will provide a library of plastic alternative vendors and contacts for everything from plastic free mini bar items, coffee cups, straws, water bottles, bathroom amenities and food containers.

    Working alongside both Lonely Whale and Project Zero, led by Tyrone Wood and James Jagger, Stay Plastic Free has enlisted support from both oceans charities and the scientists behind them. The program has also enlisted support from industry authorities including Randy Gerber, Alan Faena and Andre Balazs as advocates.

    In addition to plastic reductions throughout its properties, Edition is leading a campaign committee of influential hoteliers —which Pundole hopes will include the likes of Design Hotels, Soho House, and Chiltern Firehouse — to look at industry-wide solutions to the plastic problem.

    As part of the campaign Edition will produce a short film highlighting the impact of single use plastic from the hotel industry on the environment.

    Oscar Wilde’s grandson opens first Wilde Aparthotel in London

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    New Staycity hotel is located on The Strand.

    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].

    Holland, along with Staycity Group CEO Tom Walsh, cut the ribbon on the apartment building, the first of the company’s premium Wilde brand, the design and concept of which has been inspired by Oscar Wilde himself.

    The 106-room Wilde is located on The Strand, close to the popular tourist area of Covent Garden and the heart of London’s theatre-land, and offers guests a choice of studios, superior studios and double rooms over eight floors, including three sky level studios.

    European Rollout of Wilde Brand

    Staycity intends to roll out the Wilde brand across gateway city centre locations throughout Europe. The Strand will be followed by a second on Edinburgh’s King’s Stables Road (123 apartments) at the end of 2019, two properties in Berlin opening 2019/2020, and another on Manchester’s St Peter’s Square opening in 2020 with 256 apartments.

    Holland said: “I’m delighted to be involved with the opening of Wilde. My grandfather took a great interest in aesthetics, particularly in interior design. He memorably said ‘have nothing in your house that is not useful or beautiful’.”

    Staycity CEO and company founder Tom Walsh said: “We are honoured to have Merlin with us to mark the opening of our first Wilde and to share some insight into his famous grandfather. It’s fitting that our first Wilde is close to where Oscar lived in London. It is also opposite the Vaudeville Theatre, currently hosting an Oscar Wilde season, and is a short walk from the Oscar Wilde memorial, near Charing Cross.”

    Staycity Group is a privately held company based in Dublin offering quality short-term and long- term apartment and aparthotel lettings in central city locations across Europe. The properties operate under the Staycity Aparthotels and Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity brands.

    bar at the entrance of Doc Cheng's restaurant, Raffles Hotel, Singapore

    SPOTLIGHT ON: Bars, Restaurants & Catering

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    Throughout May Hotel Designs will focus on two essential components to a hotel’s make up – bars & restaurants and catering equipment…

    If you want to get your company and products in front of an audience of interior designers, procurement specialists and hoteliers for a month of specially focussed commentary, this is a fantastic opportunity.

    HOTELS NEED TO MAKE THEIR SOCIAL SPACES ‘DESTINATIONS’

    With so many bars and restaurants in existence these days, how does a hotel bar or restaurant keep its guests from straying elsewhere as well as attracting non-residents through its doors? The answer is through its design and the atmosphere that design creates. Customers of all ages need to feel excited, stimulated and comfortable – getting the style of a hotel restaurant, bar or café right is vital, will it disrupt staff workflow? How do safety regulations come into the design process?

    Ultimately a hotel bar or restaurant can be a key driver in enticing new customers, make a significant contribution to the hotels revenue and support overarching brand values. This month, we look at some of the best examples in the world right now.

    OFFER A FOOD EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER

    Food matters – fact. By making your menus current, different and unique, you will entice your guests. Restaurant and bar aesthetics aside, you have to make an impression with what is on the plates you serve.

    Current trends see locally sourced produce a key component whilst the look of the food it just as fundamental – sharing food pictures socially is huge and for an hotelier, an opportunity to maximise on free advertising. In order to get food to the table, hoteliers have to have the very best equipment and tools for their staff. We will be focussing on the behind-the-scenes of hospitality equipment – one of the biggest sectors in the industry – from the best equipment to regulations, and best practice.

    There are plenty of ways you can get involved with these features, from supplying an opinion piece to working with us on a targeted mini-series.

    If you wish to find out more, please contact Jennie Lane on 01992 374098 or j.lane@forumevents.co.uk

     

    Image supplied by William Cho

    Sekers unveils Suomi FR blackouts and Shogun upholstery collection

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    New curtians and upholstery ranges aimed at the hospitality, leisure and marine markets.

    Sekers has taken the wraps off its new Shogun upholstery and Suomi FR blackouts collections.

    Described as a semi-plain textured design, Shogun is available in 18 multi-colour shades including what the company calls sophisticated neutrals and porcelain blues.

    Incorporating FibreGuard, an advanced finish that Sekers says helps protect the fabric against spills and stains without having to resort to specialist cleaning, Shogun has been designed to be resistant to stains such as red wine and ballpoint pen.

    Sekers says Shogun is perfect for the most demanding upholstery application and, as such, the ideal for the commercial hospitality, leisure and marine markets – it’s supplied with a crib 5 flame retardant backing and a Martindale abrasion performance of 60,000 rubs.

    Suomi, meanwhile, is a new collection of FR blackouts in three designs, suitable for contract curtains and available in a palette of shades ranging from cool metallic tones and sophisticated neutrals and soft blues and teals.

    With a refined drape and subtle shimmer, Sekers says Suomi is an ideal choice for designers specifying for the hospitality, leisure and marine markets.

    Woven in 100% polyester with a 3 pass FR black out backing, Sekers says the Suomi collection is suitable for all aspects of the contract market, from hotels to cruise ships, meeting all relevant UK, US & IMO standards for curtains.

    Meliá Hotels International confirms new resorts for Dubai and Marrakesh

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    Spanish hotelier pushes its brands into more markets.

    Meliá Hotels International has confirmed it will be opening new resorts in the United Arab Emirates and Morocco during 2018.

    The first, currently known as the Desert Palm Dubai hotel (main image above), is an exclusive urban site 20 minutes from the city centre that will be re-opened in Q3 2018 as the Desert Palm Polo Club & Resort by Meliá.

    The hotel offers 38 rooms, suites and villas as well as a dining and wellness facilities and a horse riding school with a first-class polo field.

    In terms of design, Meliá says the resort will combine classic Spanish influence with an ‘uncompromising’ luxury experience.

    The hotel is the result of a partnership between Meliá Hotels International and the hotel owner, Albwardy Investment Group, with whom the Spanish company already operates three other hotels across Tanzania and Argentina.

    The second new hotel (pictured, below) will be part of the Sol by Meliá brand, with the addition of Sol Marrakesh – the Company’s fifth hotel in Morocco, which will operate under the family-friendly holiday resort brand.

    Located in the popular area of Palmaraie, the Sol Marrakesh is 18 kilometres from the airport and nine kilometres from the centre of the city. The resort, which first opened its doors in 1988, is currently closed for full refurbishment and will re-open in late 2018.

    Sol Marrakesh will offer 211 rooms (including 25 family units) as well as 6 hectares of indoor and outdoor space. Upon completion, services will include a spa with hammam, fitness facilities, four tennis courts, volleyball court, football pitch, golf driving range and swimming pool with sundeck.

    Gabriel Escarrer, Executive Vice President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, said: “Taking over operations at this exclusive Dubai resort makes Meliá Hotels International very proud and also gives us a chance to demonstrate our proven excellence in the management of luxury urban resorts in a market to which the Company is already firmly committed.”

     

    Thomas Crapper Harwood Washbasin

    Statement washbasins from Thomas Crapper

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    The perfect addition to any cloakroom, the beautifully designed Harwood washbasin is the latest addition to the Thomas Crapper collection.

    Made in Britain to the highest quality standards using long-lasting fireclay, the basin is guaranteed to be a centre-piece of the bathroom, with aesthetics that set it apart from the competition, combined with all the practical benefits expected from this trusted brand.

    Small yet perfectly formed, the Harwood washbasin features a deceptively generous bowl depth and a raised cartouche that proudly bears the Thomas Crapper name as a clear symbol of quality and style.

    Easy to mount to the wall, this washbasin is an ideal choice in a compact cloakroom. The Harwood washbasin is also the perfect partner for a wall-mounted basin mixer and high-level WC set for authentic and quintessentially British styling in what might be the smallest room you are styling.

    For more details or to view the full collection click here or call 01789 450522

     

    Bvlgari to open new luxury hotel in Tokyo

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    The 98 room hotel will be designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel.

    Real estate giant Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd has inked inked an agreement to open Japan’s first Bvlgari Hotel in the large-scale, mixed-use development planned for the Tokyo Station area.

    Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo is scheduled to open at the end of 2022 and will occupy the top seven floors, 39th – 45th, of an ultra-skyscraper planned for construction in the Yaesu 2-Chome North District Category-I Urban Redevelopment Project.

    As with other Bvlgari sites the hotel will be designed by the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and will be located within walking distance of the Imperial Palace and the shopping areas of both Nihombashi and Ginza. Its proximity to the Tokyo Station and the financial districts of Nihombashi and Marunouchi will make it attractive for business use too.

    In addition to the Bvlgari hotel, the tower will also be a high grade mixed-use with offices and retails. The hotel will offer 98 guest rooms in a variety of configurations, mainly twin and double rooms, as well as luxury suites and an ‘extraordinary’ Bvlgari Suite.

    Bvlgari Features

    The usual Bvlgari features such as Il Bar, Il Ristorante and the fireplace Lounge will all be available for the hotel guests, together with Il Cioccolato store, and a Ballroom including a large outdoor space. A 1,500 sqm Bvlgari Spa will include a state-of-the-art fitness centre and 25-metre indoor pool.

    The Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts portfolio currently includes properties in Milan, London, Bali, Beijing and Dubai. New openings are planned in 2018 in Shanghai and in 2020 in Moscow and Paris. Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo will be its ninth property and the first to open in Japan.

    Bvlgari CEO Jean Christophe Babin said: “We are extremely proud to be able to announce the Bvlgari Hotel in Tokyo, as it will be another important step for the Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts project. Japan is such a strategic market where Bvlgari as a brand has been present for 30 years. Jewellery and hospitality combine perfectly to meet Bvlgari’s clients expectations of a high level of service not only in our brand stores, but also when staying in our extraordinary properties offering luxury services in an environment which reflects the Bvlgari spirit. In addition, we are particularly honoured to partner on this extremely exciting project with Mitsui Fudosan, one of the leading Japanese companies in real-estate, while our uncompromising Italian contemporary style in hospitality will create a welcome addition and irresistible experience in the upscale Japanese hotel market.”

    GUEST BLOG: Likeable linens for hotel bedrooms & bathrooms

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    Hannah Moses of Better Bath shares her views on the importance of choosing the right linens for your hotel bedrooms and bathrooms and why she believes they should be top of the list when decorating said areas.

    Bedroom and bathroom linen decisions should be based on the quality and comfortability that your guest would enjoy the most. When choosing the right linens, you want to keep in mind that how your guest relax and sleep through the night can depend highly on the bed sheets and towels that they will use.

    How to Select Bedding Your Guest Will Love:

    The reason bedsheet fibers differ is in part because of seasonal weather changes along with the softness factor. Here are the fiber choices for fitted or flat bedsheets:

    • Satin- a man-made fiber that is lightweight and shiny in appearance
    • Bamboo- a type of tall grass that is made into fabric
    • Polyester- an inexpensive man-made fiber
    • Microfiber- a delicate synthetic fabric
    • Flannel- a heavier brushed fabric that provides warmth
    • Cotton- the most popular natural fabric
    • Silk- a smooth and shiny natural fabric
    • Blends- a combination of fibers

    Another factor to consider when choosing the right bedding for your guest is if they could potentially be sensitive to a particular fabric. One can always make sure to select a type of bedsheet fabric that is hypoallergenic such as organic cotton that is white in color or that is stained with natural dyes. The decision to choose hypoallergenic fabric can ultimately be a marketing opportunity to guest that would feel better knowing the bedding they lay on will be held to the highest standard.

    How to Select Towels Your Guest Will Love:

    Longevity of the towels you choose for your guest should be of highest importance. Theses towels will go through many washes through the use they endure. Towels are measured by grams per square meter, meaning lower GSM towels are usually lighter weight and thinner by touch, and higher GSM towels are heavier in weight and thicker by touch. Usually a towel that is in between the lower and higher GSM is a good choice.

    Egyptian cotton is something everyone is familiar with but not the first pick due to the high cost it can bear. You want your towels to feel luxurious as well as have ultimate drying ability to your guest. Classic white towels tend to work best due to the low fabric dyes that they will have. Going along with the hypoallergenic affect in the sheets, you will want this to continue in the guest bath.

    Colour! Select a Color Your Guest Will Love:

    While most guest bedding and bath linens are white due to the ease of washing and getting potential stains out work well, choosing earthy calming tones could be another option. Bright colors tend to have an effect on the brain, cool colors such as greys, blue, or even green ease the mind when one makes eye contact with them. White linens in the bathroom still hold true to going with most any color scheme and style the room might have, but on the other hand bed linens have a little wiggle room when choosing color.

    Extra Bedding & Duvet Covers You Guest Will Love:

    For additional warmth, you must have an assortment of blankets, comforters, or bedspreads. Buying comforters and blankets that are made from wool, cotton, or other fibers are essential to your guest comfortability. Duvet covers are another source of changing the style of the room in one quick change. Duvet covers have several pros; they are easy to remove and wash, one can change the color depending on season or room, and they add an extra choice of bedding that can be for warmth or style of the room instantly.

    If you are looking to revamp your bathrooms, click here now: http://www.betterbathnwa.com/

    SPA SPOTLIGHT: Opinion – Make a statement with your luxury hotel bathrooms

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    As part of Hotel Design’s spotlight this month on spa products and services, Michael Gray, GROHE UK Product Manager, investigates the design possibilities offered to hotels by the latest shower, lighting, music and faucet technologies for bathrooms…

    Luxury hotel bathrooms are designed to make a statement, using products that encourage wellbeing and promote a space of relaxation.

    As a result, there is a huge array of wellness products now available for the hotel and hospitality industry, including showers with mood lighting, steam functions and music controlled by Bluetooth.

    Oversized statement showerheads are also available, alongside products that offer a range of spray patterns designed to suit the user’s needs, with side shower sprays offering the opportunity for a massaging showering experience.

    Solutions for all budgets

    For smaller budgets, showering products are available that offer multiple spray patterns from an intense jet to a relaxing massage spray. This adds a simple but indulgent addition to your showering experience, offering you the choice to tailor the water flow to suit your mood.

    Hotel bathrooms should offer the ultimate sanctuary in which to unwind at the end of the day.  Features like showers with multiple spray patterns and massaging function to statement taps designed to catch the eye will always impress clients.

    Smart technology can also be considered for hotel bathrooms, particularly as more guests look to have a staycation to unwind and relax. Many smart products are now available in the bathroom from high tech toilets, to spa-inspired showers that help to create a relaxing bathroom sanctuary at the end of a busy day sightseeing or shopping.

    Already a well-known feature in commercial washrooms, touchless taps are now gaining popularity in hotel bathrooms due to their unique combination of comfort and hygiene and convenient hands-free activation. Through the touchless sensor activated control, the taps minimise the spread of bacteria to contribute to a healthy bathroom. This also helps to keep the tap sparkling clean for longer, reducing maintenance and maximising product life. They also often come with a timer which automatically stops the water flow after a desired length of time to reduce wastage.

    Stylish and hygienic

    Shower toilets are the norm in Asia and now there is an increasing demand for these hygienic toilet systems in Europe, in both hotels and homes. Shower toilets feature an integrated bidet system and are designed to harness the gentle and effective cleansing benefits of water to help deliver optimum hygiene levels in the bathroom, and often come with a host of advanced features. Thanks to the gentle and natural cleansing process, the need for toilet paper is eliminated, thus the systems offer excellent eco-credentials.

    Certain shower toilets offer smart technology, including extensive options that allow users to create a personalised cleansing routine, including adjusting the water pressure and position of the spray arm, to the preferred temperature, spray pattern and cleansing cycle.

    The individual settings can be controlled intuitively using either the remote control or via an app which allows users to store all their favourite settings on a digital device. Some brands have also taken into consideration common annoyances for users, such as having to go to the toilet at night, and have combatted this by designing toilets with LED lighting.

    GROHE are 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.

    To work with Hotel Designs on our SPA SPOTLIGHT feature across April please contact Jennie Lane / 01992 374098.

    Opinion: How can the hotel industry keep up with the innovations of Airbnb?

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    Airbnb is well covered on Hotel Designs. Here, Nakul Sharma, CEO and Founder of Hostmaker shares his thoughts on the online marketplace and hospitality service.

    In the hospitality industry, we are seeing more people looking for stylish yet affordable places to stay when on holiday. Airbnb has exploded in popularity in recent years, with the latest Airbnb data revealing a sharp rise in the number of bookings around Windsor for the royal wedding of 1,438%. The increase in popularity of homestays and the innovation in the sector has put increasing pressure on traditional hotels to keep up with modern demand.

    Homestays increasing in popularity

    In recent years, Airbnb and homestay platforms have become increasingly popular and expanded their appeal to a huge variety of people. Having previously been perceived as cheap alternatives to hotels, Airbnb was previously the reserve of the student traveller.

    But following the recent launch of Airbnb Plus and existing companies like Hostmaker, we are seeing an increase in demand from consumers looking for bespoke and boutique homestays with a certain ‘wow’ factor. These custom designed and curated properties are bringing a new offering to the hospitality market.

    An increase in trust around the sharing economy in general, as well as the increase in the level of quality has seen a growing number of bookings and inspired many to offer their homes as boutique homestays to guests. The growth in demand and supply has led a large rise in the number of lets.

    How homestay companies like Airbnb are challenging traditional hotels

    Homestays are now beginning to challenge traditional hoteliers as hosts offer more luxurious properties and experiences at affordable price points.

    Guests are also looking for unique experiences that can offer them an insight into the life and culture of the country they are visiting. The huge variety in the types of accommodation offered to guests bring both unique experiences and the chance to live like a local. With everything from traditional townhouses to luxury treehouses, guests have a huge variety of places to stay. This range of opportunities is something we have seen traditional hotels struggle with in the past.

    A lot of tourists choose hotels due to the perceived luxury service and also because of the knowledge that they can come and go as they please. We are now seeing hosts and homestay management companies curating apartments and offering guests total peace of mind by providing luxury experiences that you would expect to find in a hotel, such as airport pickup and key drop-off.

    What does this mean for the hotel industry?

    The increase in popularity of homestay platforms does not mean that hotels will cease to exist. Hotels still appeal to people in a way that homestays are not able to. For short stays of up to 2-3 nights, hotels will outperform homestays on price and suitability. But for longer trips, homestays provide both business and leisure travellers with greater flexibility, range of locations and type of property.

    Having worked in both the traditional hospitality industry and the property sharing sector, Nakul believes that these two seemingly competing industries are actually more compatible than first glance might suggest. They offer different aspects to a guest’s stay which may or may not appeal depending on the audience.

    How hotels can to adapt their offering to remain competitive

    Nakul expects to see hotels adapting to remain competitive and cater to guests wanting a luxury homestay experience. By moving into the homestay market, hotels will be able to use their hospitality expertise to help provide luxury 5-star levels of service within a homestay experience.

    Indeed, we are increasingly seeing hotels curating homestays to bring the luxury hotel experience to properties. Hotels need to continue to embrace the increasing demand for high quality homestays and use their hospitality expertise to remain ahead of current trends in the market.

    At present, homestays simply don’t have the capacity to take a lot of business away from hotels and in many guests’ minds, hotels still offer a level of security and quality that homestays cannot. However, the growing demand for homestay properties is clearly in the minds of hotels, as see more of them looking to move into the homestay market as it continues to grow.

    Hotel du Vin to open in Stratford-upon-Avon May 1st

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    The Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin in Clifton Village, Bristol, will follow shortly.

    Hotel du Vin will officially open the doors of its new site in, offering 46 rooms spread across two converted grade II-listed townhouses.

    Design is centred around colourful accents, wooden furniture and quirky artwork mix with the dark greys, teals and greens on the walls. In-room facilities include, roll top baths, large beds and Egyptian cotton as standard.

    Complementing the rooms is the Bistro, offering home-style French cooking, earthy dishes and slow-cooked foods.

    Next to the bistro is a courtyard, which will be used for al fresco dinning when the sun comes out. There’s also an event space that accommodates up to 70 people for meetings, weddings and celebrations, along with two smaller private dining rooms for 10-12 guests.

    The hotel is a ten-minute walk from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, in the centre of town on Rother Street – which is also home to Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic farmer’s market.

    This is the latest addition to Hotel du Vin’s family of luxury boutique hotels, and will soon be joined by another – The Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin in Clifton Village, Bristol.

    “Stratford-upon-Avon feels like such a natural pairing for Hotel du Vin, we’re really looking forward to welcoming guests into the hotel,” said Nick Halliday, Chief Operating Officer of Hotel du Vin. “The team have worked incredibly hard over the last few months to ensure we can bring a much-needed boutique hotel and bistro to the area, which is befitting of a town with so much character and history. It’s the ideal base for visitors and locals alike to stay, wine, dine and meet in comfort and style, something we like to think the Bard himself would have enjoyed.”

    Grand Hyatt Xi’an offers travellers Silk Road stop off

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    A new Grand Hyatt hotel has opened in Xi’an – one of China’s most ancient cities and the starting point for the ancient Silk Road trading post that connected East with West.

    Strategically located within the Xi’an High-Tech Industries Development Zone, home to more than 200 Fortune 500 companies, Grand Hyatt Xi’an forms part of the Maike Center, comprised of high-end retail and offices.

    Xi’an Greenland PICO International Convention & Exhibition Center as well as Xi’an Qujiang International Conference Exhibition Center are also situated nearby.

    Various tourist attractions, key transportation hubs and the international airport are also easily accessible from the hotel.

    Design and Guestrooms

    Inspired by a palatial mirage in the desert, the Grand Hyatt Xi’an hotel’s glass tower may appear cutting-edge, but the company says its design is firmly rooted in the city’s history. Representing the Silk Road, the 396-room hotel connects to an office tower via a Sky Bridge 328 feet above ground. At ground level, the faceted exterior of the hotel shapes the entrance comprised of a two-story atrium lobby topped with a triangular sloping glass roof. Inside, guests are greeted with a design inspired by the exotic desert wildlife, geography and culture of the modern Silk Road.

    Standard rooms in contemporary design start at 538 square feet, while deluxe rooms start at 807 square feet, all with floor-to-ceiling windows. Light brushed woods and terracotta or crimson accents have been used to create a ‘warm and relaxing’ ambience.

    “The heritage and history of Xi’an have been the backdrop for an impressive atmosphere of hospitality,” said Christopher Koehler, Hyatt’s vice president of operations and managing director for China. “As early as 1990, Xi’an has been of special importance for Hyatt as it was one of the first locations in which our brands entered China and where we have cultivated great talent and leaders over the years. We are grateful to Maike Group for developing such a spectacular property and are excited to support the development of the Silk Road in the process.”

     

    Dining and Drinking

    From the Sky Bridge, visitors can take in the 360-degree views of the city below. Against this backdrop, numerous dining experiences are available, ranging from local to global fare at The Lounge, Grand Café, Chang’an Bridge Chinese Restaurant and Allegro Restaurant & Bar.

    Grand Café is intended to conjure the feeling of a vibrant marketplace along the Silk Road, where chefs prepare local and global cuisines within interactive, open kitchens during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dressed in warm desert tones, The Lounge is intended as a spot for high-flyers to relax and meet.

    Chang’an Bridge Chinese Restaurant serves the regional cuisines of Canton and Shaanxi in a chic ambience that contrasts dramatic abacus-styled screens and red booth seating with rustic woods and Persian carpets. In addition to the main dining room, nine dining suites are available for exclusive private experiences with butler service.

    Opening later this year, Allegro Restaurant & Bar will bring a new level of personality to dining and nightlife in Xi’an. An Italian restaurant by day serving classic dishes and pizzas from a wood-fired oven, Allegro Restaurant & Bar will transform into a gastro lounge with specialty cocktails, wines and spirits, and live entertainment at night. The space can also be converted into a special event venue for meetings or events with natural light and impressive views.

    Later this year, Maple House will specialize in Pan-Asian and local Shaanxi BBQ specialties in a stylish setting enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors. Guests can also enjoy alfresco dining on the podium terrace atop the fifth floor, which is landscaped with fire pits and colorful gardens.

    Meetings and Events

    The 24,907 square feet of futuristic and customizable spaces at Grand Hyatt Xi’an host events, with both the Grand Ballroom and the Grand Salon enclosed by curving walls. Encircling the space is a nearly 10 foot high LED screen that can be used by event organizers for tailored presentations that “travel” around the entire Grand Ballroom.

    An additional 11 meeting rooms are available in varied sizes for customized business meetings or intimate social gatherings as well as a large open kitchen that offers a site for creative catering and networking.

     

    MnM Studio and Italian architects win at Bespoke Access Awards for hospitality

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    Paralympic Gold Medalist Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and RIBA Stirling Prize-winning architect Alan Stanton OBE judged range of International entries.

    MnM Studio Architects, along with Maria Brighenti and Marcello D’Orsi, were announced the joint winners of the 2017/18 Bespoke Access Awards, a design competition to create accessible solutions in hospitality, run in association with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and featuring a prize fund of £30,000.

    MnM Studio devised an innovative accommodation solution based around the four senses of smell, taste, sound and sight, with extensive use of Braille throughout. Termed “empathy through aesthetics”, the system aims to support the emotional state of the guest, while maintaining a distinct visual appeal via a stylish, curved design.

    “’Empathy through aesthetics’ perfectly encapsulates what we are aiming to do with the Access initiative”, said Baroness Celia Thomas, Chair of the Judging Panel and Patron of the Awards. “The emphasis placed on the emotional state of the guest was particularly impressive, given this is an area that is often overlooked.”

    Alongside MnM Studio, freelance Italian architects Maria Brightei and Marcello D’Orsi were successful in the Architectural category, as well as being announced joint winners of the overall Celia Thomas Prize, worth a total of £20,000.

    Their design, which focused on the means through which existing accommodation can be renovated with the disabled traveler in mind, concentrated on the public spaces of hotels, and how subtle enhancements can be made to significantly increase the ease with which they are passed through.

    Customer Journey Often Overlooked

    “I was particularly struck by the attention they had paid to the customer journey through reception and the lobby areas”, said Alan Stanton, Stirling Prize-winning architect and member of the Judging Panel. “These are areas often overlooked by both architects and business owners alike, and it is easy to think of them as merely transient. But they can significantly improve or disrupt a guest’s experience, so it was exciting to see them highlighted and approached with such care.”

    “The architectural community across the country has really embraced the Access Awards since their launch in 2016”, said Jane Duncan, RIBA Immediate Past President. “It is tremendously encouraging for the future of accessible tourism to see this year’s awards attracting interest from around the world, as well as ideas shining a light on some of the more often-overlooked aspects of disabled travel.”

    The competition attracted submissions from the UK, Europe and Asia. Entrants competed across an expanded range of categories, including Product Design, Architecture, Service Applications (Digital) and Service Applications (Training). Alongside the overall Celia Thomas Prize, worth £20,000.

    The entries were judged by a panel which included Paralympic gold medalist Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Stirling Prize-winning architect Alan Stanton, Baroness Celia Thomas, Tom Perry, Head of the Cities Programme at the Design Council, Graeme Whippy, Disability Specialist for Channel Four, Alastair Hignell CBE, alongside Robin Sheppard.

    Full list of winners:

    MnM Studio Architects, Dubai
    Joint Winners of the Celia Thomas Prize

    Maria Brighenti with Marcello D’Orsi, Italy
    Joint Winners of the Celia Thomas Prize

    MnM Studio Architects, Dubai
    Joint Winners of the Architecture Category

    Maria Brighenti with Marcello D’Orsi, Italy
    Joint Winners of the Architecture Category

    Wilson Mason LLP, Lancashire
    Winners of the Product Design Category

    Purcell, London
    Winners of the Service Applications (Training) Category

    Neatebox Ltd, London
    Winners of Service Applications (Digital) Category

    Leonard Cheshire Award for Inclusive Employment Category – Not Awarded

    YOTEL inks deal to manage 451 room Istanbul New Airport hotel

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    Site represents London-based YOTEL’s first foray into Turkey.

    İstanbul New Airport (İNA) operator İGA and YOTEL have agreed an exclusive hotel management contract at the international connection hub.

    The hotel, which the partners say will be one of the biggest airport hotels in the world, with both airside and landside access, will offer 451 rooms and will be located inside the main terminal building.

    İGA sees the deal as an indication of İNA growing importance to holiday makers and business travellers, point out that the airport was ranked third in terms of total departing passenger numbers in Q1 2018.

    The stats back this up – İNA is Turkey’s biggest ever infrastructure project and will replace Ataturk Airport when it opens in October this year. The capacity of İNA will be expanded up to 200 million people once all four phases are completed and will have a total of six runways and three terminals, hosting nearly 100 airlines.

    İNA says it will set an example for the global airport architecture with its flexible and spacious terminal design rooted in Istanbul’s unique cultural and architectural values. Besides aesthetics, it will also have a ‘simple and practical setup with touches of traditional motifs’.

    For its part, YOTEL says it will will introduce its design and technology in two zones – one airside (102 rooms) and one landside (349 rooms). Both parts of the new hotel will feature public spaces including YOTEL’s Club Lounge concept with smart vending, working and relaxing areas, wellness centres and planted glazed atriums.

    In addition, the landside zone will include a restaurant, bar and 24/7 gym. The new hotel will also feature meeting spaces, which YOTEL says will be suited to small, large, formal and casual meetings.

    The site will be YOTEL’s largest airport hotel – it currently operates four under the YOTELAIR brand at London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol and Paris Charles de Gaulle.

    Making History

    “We are delighted to have chosen YOTEL as our new airport’s exclusive air and landside hotel operator”, said Kadri Samsunlu, CEO of İGA Airport Operation. “We are making history with İstanbul New Airport, already in its construction phase a multiple-world record breaking project that is likely to change the transportation and aviation dynamics of a tri-continent region covering Europe, Asia and Africa, and certain to have a lasting impact far beyond this geography.

    “YOTEL will contribute to our perfect passenger experience approach with unique innovative elemental luxury and technologically decked space.”

    Hubert Viriot, YOTEL’s CEO, said: “We’ve witnessed Turkey’s and particularly Istanbul’s remarkable economic and urban development, transformation and its noticeably increased popularity over the past few years. İstanbul New Airport will only further increase Istanbul’s ever-expanding popularity and economy and YOTEL is delighted to be a part of it. The prevailing ambitious vision to make İstanbul New Airport the largest transit hub in the world made it very attractive for us to be there, and we are extremely honoured to be chosen for this exciting project. This city aspires to high growth success, just like YOTEL, so we are a perfect match.”

     

    Four-star Hotel La Tour granted planning permission in Milton Keynes

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    Design concepts include ‘sun’ optical illusion.

    Planning permission has been granted for the four-star luxury Hotel La Tour in Milton Keynes, with the next phase of design planning now underway.

    The 250-bed hotel, located on Marlborough Gate, will include conference and meeting room services, a gym, spa and pool facilities as well as a rooftop restaurant with a viewing gallery.

    The scheme, designed by pHp Architects following a public consultation, also includes a design feature that creates the illusion of the sun on the east side of the hotel off Midsummer Boulevard. It works by surrounding a large circular feature with a mirror cladding system and using external lighting to complete the illusion.

    The development is owned by Hotel La Tour, a privately owned British hotel company. The next stage of design planning is underway, comprising Couch Perry Wilkes (CPW), the engineers providing the mechanical, engineering and plumbing (MEP) expertise as well as the BREEAM assessor role. The design team also includes Gleeds, pHp Architects and Scott, White and Hookins (SWH) Structural & Civil Engineers and Sharps Redmore Acoustics.

    Mark Stuart, managing director at Hotel La Tour, said: “We are delighted to receive the green light for the Milton Keynes hotel development. Our emphasis is on quality and the entire building design team have certainly delivered above and beyond that in their plans.

    “Hotel La Tour Milton Keynes will fill a much-needed luxury services gap within the area and bring life and connectivity to the Centre:MK area. It will also create approximately 200 new jobs as we recruit and develop local talent.”

    Matt Wrate, director at CPW, said: “We are thrilled that Hotel La Tour has been granted successful planning permission but we aren’t celebrating for long as the third stage of tender design plans are already in motion.

    “We are busy developing client specific solutions to ensure that the guests and staff have the best possible experience when visiting and working in the hotel. We are therefore working with specialist designers for interior design, audio visual, spa specialists and artists working on commissions within the development.

    “We are also excited to be providing a specialist lift consultancy service as the scheme will also include a scenic glass elevator, three further passenger lifts and a general lift and vehicle lift to service the conference facilities.”

    Wrate added: “We are working closely with Hotel La Tour and the other design team partners, such as Gleeds, to deliver a viable and sustainable luxury hotel for Milton Keynes.”

    International property and construction consultancy, Gleeds, is providing cost and project management services for the project and has been working with Hotel La Tour

    Brian McArdle, director at Gleeds, said: “Not only will Hotel La Tour provide luxury hotel accommodation for the city of Milton Keynes but through the construction process will help to drive the local economy and attract further inward investment into the region. We’re looking forward to work starting on site and delivering the scheme over the coming year.”

    Elivi Skiathos to open June 2018

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    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, will open on June 1st, marking 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 will feature what are described as 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.

    Comprised of three separate areas, guests can choose from the Elivi Xenia Hotel on the hilltop of Pounta Peninsula with 32 rooms, the 11 secluded Elivi Grace Suites set on the beach, or the 61 Elivi Nest Rooms, Villas & Suites amongst pine trees and olive groves.

    All three areas will feature elegantly appointed rooms, with an emphasis on sophisticated modern design and exceptional service.

    Swan Villa & Elivi Spa

    The Elivi Nest Rooms, Villas & Suites will be home to the Swan Villa – Spanning across two floors and measuring 200m², the seafront villa accommodates up to eight adults featuring four en-suite rooms, a kitchen, dining area, living room and a private pool.

    The Elivi Spa will offer three treatment rooms powered by Elemis, a hairdressing salon, manicure and pedicure stations, an indoor pool, Oriental Bath (Hammam), Sauna, and Elemis products to purchase. The hotel will also house an indoor and outdoor gym, tennis court, basketball court and football pitch.

    There will also be an outdoor pool located on the hilltop overlooking Ambelakia Beach and the Aegean Sea, as well as a large outdoor 200m² swimming pool situated by the Elivi Nest Rooms. All the pools are cleaned by an electrolysis system, so no chlorine.

    Elivi Skiathos will house a total of three restaurants and six bars including three beach bars. Each will serve their own twist on Greek food using locally sourced ingredients and exceptional cuisine to satisfy any palate.

    Tru by Hilton opens new US college sites

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    Wisconsin, Alabama and Florida hotels aimed at families, students and alumni.

    Hilton’s midscale hotel brand Tru by Hilton has opened five new hotels, three of which are its first college town properties, including Auburn, Alabama (Auburn University); Tallahassee, Florida (Florida State University) and Madison, Wisconsin (University of Wisconsin-Madison).

    Tru by Hilton has ongoing strategy of opening new sites in diverse areas, with upcoming hotel openings in urban, suburban, resort and interstate locations – these latest openings have been built with families, future students and alumni in mind and are the first opened by the brand in Wisconsin, Alabama and Florida.

    • The 106-room Tru by Hilton Madison West is located 15 minutes from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and a short drive from downtown Madison.
    • The 98-room Tru by Hilton Auburn is situated off I-85, four miles from Auburn University and a 10-minute drive from downtown Auburn.
    • The 90-room Tru by Hilton Tallahassee Central is located nine miles from Tallahassee International Airport and four miles from Florida State University and downtown Tallahassee.

    Come Fly With Me

    In addition to the college town properties, Tru by Hilton also recently opened hotels in Salt Lake City Airport, located in the SLC International Center, and Williamsville Buffalo Airport, situated next to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and a quick drive to Niagara Falls.

    “We’re excited to open properties in college towns where there is a need for a comfortable stay at an affordable price,” said Alexandra Jaritz, global head, Tru by Hilton. “When families visit their children away at college, they want an inviting place to stay with proximity to the university campus and downtown area. We look forward to expanding our presence in more college towns across the country.”

    Chinese investor buys Rosslea Hall Hotel – Refurbishment on the way?

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    Site on the shores of Gare Loch in Scotland ‘provides several opportunities’.

    BDL Select Hotels has sold the Rosslea Hall Hotel for an undisclosed sum to Chinese investor Tom Xu, making his first foray in to the UK hospitality market.

    The asset had an initial guide price of £2 million for the freehold interest, with JLL advising BDL throughout the sale process.

    The hotel was sold free of management and branding and provides several opportunities for the incoming investor to tactically reposition the hotel and add value.

    The 30-bedroom site comprises a prominent country house hotel located in the village of Rhu, with two function/conference rooms, on-site car parking for 80 vehicles, all set on the east shore of Gare Loch.

    Xu said: “We are delighted to acquire Rosslea Hall as our first hotel asset in the UK. The hotel has an excellent reputation in the local area, given the service provided by the team. We will continue the business as usual and work alongside the team in delivering the next, and better, chapter of the Rosslea Hall Hotel.”

    Neil Milligan, Associate Hotels & Hospitality at JLL, said: “This hotel offers a great mix of both corporate and leisure guests. The local naval base continues to expand, driving more employment to the local area, while the attractive gardens and waterside views make this a key Scottish wedding venue.”

    UK law firm Shepherd and Wedderburn acted as legal advisers on the sale for BDL Select Hotels.

    Meliá to open new hotel and shopping centre in Magaluf

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    July opening of Calvià Beach Plaza Hotel and Momentum Plaza latest upmarket development in Majorcan party resort.

    The latest stage in Meliá Hotels International’s seven-year €250 million investment in Majorca’s hugely popular Magaluf resort will open in July in the form of the Calvià Beach Plaza Hotel and Momentum Plaza shopping centre, creating 150 jobs in the process.

    Momentum Plaza will occupy almost 5,000 square metres of land on the site of the old Jamaica Hotel. The area has been converted into an open space, with recreational areas for residents and tourists, alongside a large, modern shopping area which will host a range of major international fashion retailers and restaurant brands.

    The centre will be open all year round, which Melia says demonstrates its drive to develop Magaluf as an all-season destination.

    Brands set to enter the Momentum Plaza so far include Mango, Springfield, Italian Loft, Koala Bay and Starbucks. The shopping centre will also offer almost 200 underground parking spaces to accommodate both tourists and residents from other parts of the island.

    Hanging Pool

    Meliá Hotels International will also open a new hotel to replace the old Jamaica Hotel. Calviá Beach Plaza will open in Summer 2018 and will feature avant-garde architecture and an innovative “hanging” pool, suspended between the roofs of two buildings. The sides and bottom of the pool will be transparent, creating a spectacular sight for visitors below and giving bathers magnificent (terrifying?) views over the sea.

    Mark Hoddinott, Company Vice President of Real Estate, said: “This will be the place that Magaluf was missing: A space to be used by both residents and tourists, who will no longer have to leave Magaluf to find quality shopping and dining facilities. It will also raise the bar for shopping in the destination, which has historically suffered from a shortage of quality shops, something that will no longer be the case with the arrival of Momentum Plaza.”

    Beatriz Ley, Director of Momentum Plaza, said: “The residents of Magaluf are as important to this project as the tourists. The Momentum Plaza has been designed to further enrich the superior quality facilities provided by the La Vila shopping centre and Katmandu Park, developing the area as a tourist destination and of course to revitalise Magaluf for its own residents. Momentum Plaza aims to become the major leisure destination for Magaluf for residents and visitors to enjoy that will combine shopping with an extensive programme of activities, entertainment and culture for 12 months of the year.”

    Gabriel Escarrer, Executive Vice President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, said: “The opening of the new Calviá Beach Plaza hotel and Momentum Plaza is the last major milestone of a bold project, which is closely linked to our family and our origins. Our aim is to return a lot of prestige prestige and quality to Magaluf and after seven years of activity and major investments, I can now say that we are extremely proud of the changes that have happened in the destination, which is once again sustainable for its community and attractive for investors.”

    Kerzner to launch One&Only Urban Resorts at Dubai’s One Za’abeel

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    Ithra Dubai development will open in 2020 with Kerzner’s new luxury urban offering.

    Kerzner International Holdings, which owns the Atlantis Resort & Residences and ultra-luxury One&Only Resorts brands, will launch its first One&Only Urban Resorts offering at One Za’abeel in Dubai.

    One Za’abeel is due to open in 2020, and is being developed by Ithra Dubai, a fully owned subsidiary of Investment Corporation of Dubai.

    The site is in the Za’abeel district of the city, strategically positioned at the crossroads of the old and new business districts of Dubai. The two-tower, high-rise mixed-use development incorporates One&Only One Za’abeel, luxury residences, serviced apartments, and office spaces, in addition to The Gallery, an retail podium, and a panoramic sky concourse, The Linx, which connects the two towers of One Za’abeel.

    Kerzner says the architectural design of each urban resort will celebrate the city —from storied landmarks to the introduction of cutting-edge new architecture; a natural hub for the influential and curious to gravitate for both business and pleasure.

    Offering unprecedented access to the city, One&Only will offer a perfect base for bespoke, exclusive exploration and sophisticated experiences. Home to a pulsating life and energy, entertainment is at the heart of every One&Only Urban Resort. One may never want to leave.


    Kerzner says One&Only Urban Resorts will offer an elevated experience for business, family and leisure travellers, as well as local residents, challenging the conventional city hotel experience – all urban resorts will offer green spaces, gyms will have a spectacular view of the city, and One Cycle and One Yoga will ensure guests get the rejuvenation and workout they need.

    Suites can be customised to suit the guest needs, being transformed into everything from a children’s playroom, walk-in closets to an art studio. In fact, specially designed suites for children will also be an option.


    “There is a duality to One Za’abeel, reflected in its two towers, that evokes pairings. Timeless elegance with function, efficiency with leisure, tradition with modernity, inclusion and privacy,” said His Excellency Mohammed I. Al Shaibani, Chairman of Kerzner International, Executive Director and CEO of Investment Corporation of Dubai. “The paired concepts come together where The Linx traverses the towers offering all those who get in touch with One Za’abeel one complete, bespoke, and very individual experience every time. That is why, it is very fitting that the first urban resort for One&Only opens in this development of the future.”

    “One Za’abeel will continue to develop Dubai in the global arena. Much more than a building, we are shaping communities to thrive and prosper. We are ultimately transforming the legacies of our past into landmarks of the future,” said Issam Galadari, CEO and Director of Ithra Dubai. “As the global benchmark of ultra-luxury, it makes sense for One&Only to operate the resort experience at One Za’abeel.”

    “Our ambition is to become part of the soul of any city we enter,” says Michael P. Wale, Chief Executive Officer, Kerzner International. “We are thrilled to be introducing One&Only to the urban space, providing something completely different for our discerning guests, delivered with our renowned personalized experience. Iconic buildings such as One Za’abeel are the perfect locations for One&Only Urban Resorts. We are proud One&Only One Za’abeel is part of the foundation of the next generation of the destination.”

    Naumi’s Auckland Airport Hotel designs new rooms with female travellers in mind

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    Blush rooms created by New Zealand female design duo Material Creative.

    The recently-opened Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel has unveiled four Blush rooms created by the New Zealand interior design company Material Creative, led by the female designer duo Toni Brandso and Liv Harper.

    During the design process, Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel says it looked to past research that indicated female travellers look for hotels that make them feel safe, comfortable, empowered and pampered.

    Feminine Touch

    In complementing tones of millennial pink with ombre rugs, the rooms have been designed to work with Naumi’s wider design ethos of bold colour and playful details. The Blush rooms ‘exude a bold, feminine touch and include luxurious self-care essentials and amenities to make life that little bit easier’.

    With this in mind, guests staying in the Blush rooms will have access to super food products such as Soak organic eye masks and goji berry bath salts.

    Guests staying in a Blush room can pack light as each comes with essentials including ghd straighteners, Dyson hairdryers, hair curlers, as well as jewellery boxes, yoga mats, backlit mirrors, silk robes and warming shawls.

    Each room also features a complimentary mini bar and a 50” Smart LED TV with Netflix streaming.

    Naumi Auckland Airport is due to launch two further designer-inspired Suites inspired by fashion house Missoni and artist Yayoi Kusama. The hotel says the rooms will reflect the group’s love of art and fashion and give a nod towards Naumi Singapore’s Andy Warhol and Coco Chanel-inspired suites.

    Conrad Maldives Rangali to create $15m ‘sleeping under the sea’ experience

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    ‘World’s first undersea residence’ will be completed 4Q 2018.

    The Conrad Maldives Rangali is investing $15 million in a new ‘sleeping under the sea’ experience, complementing the resort’s already submerged restaurant, Ithaa.

    Named The Muraka, or ‘coral’ in Dhivehi (the local language of the Maldives), the undersea residence will give guests an ‘intimate and immersive experience of one of the Earth’s most breathtaking marine environments’.

    Muraka is designed to blend into its environment, giving guests’ views of the Indian Ocean, with the vibrant colors and a diverse array of marine life.

    Envisioned by Crown Company Director Ahmed Saleem, and realized by Mike Murphy, leading engineer at M J Murphy Ltd., a New Zealand-based company that specializes in aquarium technology, the undersea residence is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface.

    The undersea suite features a king-size bedroom, living area, bathroom and spiral staircase that leads to the upper level living room. The undersea bedroom floor level sits five metres below sea level, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding marine environment.

    Muraka’s distinct design is akin to Ithaa’s with the curved acrylic dome, which boasts 180-degree panoramic views of the Indian Ocean’s intricate marine life.

    Muraka’s upper level features a twin-size bedroom, bathroom, powder room, gym, butler’s quarters, private security quarters, integrated living room, kitchen, bar and dining, which features a deck that purposely faces the direction of the sunset.

    On the opposite side of the villa sits the relaxation deck that faces the direction of sunrise, complete with an infinity swimming pool. The upper level also contains an additional king-size bedroom and bathroom, which has an ocean-facing bathtub. In total, Muraka can accommodate up to nine guests.

    “Driven by our inspiration to deliver innovative and transformative experiences to our global travellers, the world’s first undersea residence encourages guests to explore the Maldives from an entirely new perspective below the surface of the sea,” said Ahmed Saleem, a Director at Crown Company and chief architect and designer of the undersea residence. “The Muraka marks our second venture in underwater architecture and technology, next to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which is celebrating its 13th anniversary this month. Through our rich history of being a trailblazer in innovative luxury hospitality, we are proud to remain at the forefront of cutting-edge design, technology and architecture.”

    “Through our development of the world’s first undersea residence, we continue to shine a light on the Maldives as a luxury destination as well as a cultural and natural wonder for global travellers,” said Stefano Ruzza, General Manager at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. “We are excited to present Muraka’s unique sleeping under the sea experience to our future guests, providing them with an extraordinary seascape of the Maldives from an entirely new perspective.”

    Ikos Andalusia to open in May 2020 after €150 million investment

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    Opening follows acquisition of the Costa Del Sol Princess on Spain’s Costa Del Sol.

    Ikos Resorts has acquired the hotel Costa Del Sol Princess, in Estepona on Spain’s Costa Del Sol – its first acquisition in the Iberian Peninsula.

    Renamed Ikos Andalusia, the site is scheduled to open in May 2020 off that back of a €150 million investment, with the aim of becoming Spain’s ‘leading luxury all-inclusive resort’.

    Set on a beachfront site in Estepona, close to Marbella and a 60-minute drive from Malaga Airport, Ikos Andalusia will provide more than 400 luxury rooms and suites on 70,000 m2 of landscaped gardens and leisure facilities alongside 14,000m2 of beach front.

    In addition, the hotel will house eight restaurants, sports and theatre facilities, a spa, indoor and outdoor heated pools plus an Ikos Deluxe accommodation area.

    This will be the fifth Ikos resort, following recent expansion including Ikos Dassia, opening in May 2018, on the island of Corfu and Ikos Aria, opening in 2019 on the island of Kos, in Greece.

    Ikos Andalusia is owned and operated by Ikos International SCA, and managed by general partners, Andreas A. Andreadis and Mathieu Guillemin backed by leading international investors such as Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Oaktree Capital Management LP and Hermes GPE.

    “Estepona has always been a landmark destination for travellers seeking an ideal balance of sun, sea, lifestyle and culture. We are therefore excited to introduce our unique all-inclusive experience and the amazing Infinite Lifestyle promise to Spain by transforming the existing property within the sustainable framework of Ikos Green,” said Antonis Avdelas, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer of Ikos Resorts.

    Survey says: Business travellers want to go green, but don’t know where to start

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    Business travellers are on the look-out for greener places to stay.

    Over half of business travellers (52%) would like to make more sustainable choices when they travel, but don’t know how, according to Booking.com’s global Sustainable Travel Report.

    The report indicates that the green travel trend continues to gain momentum with a large majority of global travellers (87%) stating that they want to travel sustainably.

    Beyond personal travel, making the right choices for the planet is also extending to the professional sphere, with many people now considering how sustainable their business travel choices really are.

    Over half of business travellers questioned (52%) said they would like to make more sustainable choices when they travel, but also that they don’t yet know what steps to take.

    Some business travellers are already taking eco-friendly steps, however, when it comes to transport for example, with over half (56%) trying to travel by rail or road rather than taking flights, and 65% using public transportation as much as possible while on a business trip.

    Business travellers are also on the look-out for greener places to stay, with over two thirds (69%) intending to stay in eco-friendly accommodation over the next year.

    Booking.com says one of the best ways to ensure a trip has less ecological impact is to keep things as local as possible, such as selecting accommodation with locally sourced, sustainable in-room amenity kits or with restaurants that serve locally sourced ingredients.

    Making the best use of local resources not only provides a more authentic travel experience, but also helps to cut down the carbon footprint of a trip. Business travellers are increasingly recognizing this, with 70% favouring local products and services during their stay.

    Of course, responsibility for eco-friendly travel choices rests not only with employees themselves. Booking.com says businesses are starting to take more responsibility and foster a more eco-friendly approach to business travel.

    In fact, 40% of business travellers say it is part of their company’s values to use eco-friendly accommodation, and over a third (35%) say it is part of their company’s travel policy. That said, the majority of those surveyed (61%) feel that their company should do more to promote eco-friendly accommodation options.

    Red Dot Award for Duravit’s C.1 tap series and Luv bathroom range

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    Duravit’s C.1 tap fitting series and Luv bathroom range have received the 2018 “Red Dot” Award for outstanding design.

    The company says the C.1 design range by Kurt Merki Jr. perfectly reflects its design language, featuring an ergonomic handle with a recess underneath that is comfortable to hold and permits precise operation.

    Meanwhile, the unusual design of Luv by Danish designer Cecilie Manz combines Nordic purism and what Duravit calls ‘timeless, emotional elegance’, with gentle forms following a stringent geometry.

    The Red Dot award for “Product Design”, which can trace its origins back to 1955, seeks out each year’s best products.

    In 2018 designers and manufacturers from 59 nations entered more than 6,300 objects in the competition.

    A40 strong jury evaluated the products individually as originals, while the same expert committee only awards the internationally renowned quality seal to products with an impressively high design quality and that satisfy stringent evaluation criteria.

    NEC Solihull campus home to new Moxy Hotel

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    The start-date for construction of a new hotel based on the NEC campus in Solihull, West Midlands has been confirmed for June 2018.

    Planning permission was secured earlier this year from Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council by Dutch-based developers, Vastint Hospitality.

    Branded as a Moxy Hotel, a Marriott International lifestyle brand, it will be built over eight floors, provide 224 bedrooms and is due to open in mid-2019.

    Interestingly, the construction technique will involve modular cross-laminated timber pods being manufactured in Italy and then transported in sections and assembled on site.

    The hotel complements significant investment on the NEC campus over recent years, including the £150m+ Resorts World complex that opened in late 2015.

    Bear Grylls & Merlin

    A Bear Grylls Adventure, to be operated by Merlin Entertainments, will open on the site later this year.

    The Dutch developers behind The Moxy Hotel are representative of a marked increase in foreign direct investment projects landing in Solihull in recent years. A total of 66 projects over the last five years (2012-2017) is more than double the figure in the previous five years, according to West Midlands Growth Company Regional Observatory.

    John Hornby, NEC Group’s Chief Operating Officer said: “This new hotel is an excellent addition to our site’s profile and will complement the existing range of hotels on site and in the surrounding area. As well as adding much-needed hotel room capacity, it will bring a fresh and vibrant ambience and experience for the six million visitors and guests attending the NEC, the Genting Arena and Birmingham Resorts World each year.

    “The next phase of our masterplan will be the arrival of Merlin’s Bear Grylls Adventure family leisure attraction this autumn.  That attraction will work well with The Moxy Hotel, and both developments are important components of our strategy to broaden the range of leisure uses on our site.”

    Emma Gray, Director of Marketing and Communications at the West Midlands Growth Company, the regional body responsible for tourism and inward investment, added: “More visitors than ever are choosing to spend time in the West Midlands, with a 17% rise in domestic tourists in the last five years and the largest growth in overseas visits of all UK regions in 2017. This has led to significant development activity across our business tourism sector, demonstrating the confidence that investors hold in the region’s visitor economy.

    “Moxy’s arrival on the NEC campus will give visitors a new choice when coming to the region for events and exhibitions, and to sample our leisure offer.”

    New Road Hotel opens for business in Whitechapel

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    Next to Whitechapel Station and a short walk from Brick Lane and the City.

    The New Road Hotel has opened fro business in East London’s uber trendy Whitechapel/City regeneration area,  offering 80 bedrooms and large social spaces, including a signature Chophouse restaurant, two private event rooms, a cereal bar, and a rooftop terrace.

    The laidback style has been designed to offer a value alternative to five star offerings in the area. With an overarching industrial design, thanks to the original use of the building as a textile factory, the hotel says its spaces have been filled with furniture pieces sourced from local markets and sellers, as it goes from an ‘independent and unique’ vibe.

    To compliment the pops of colour and texture, many objects from the original site were uncovered during the renovation and have been incorporated into the architecture and interiors of the hotel, including original doors, and a ‘Service’ sign hanging above the bar as a nod to the original name of the factory – Service House.

    Effort has also been made to make the most of small spaces (given space is at a premium in the area). Each bedroom sports original exposed brickwork alongside original large windows. Hypnos Beds are the focus of each bedroom, while mini bars, ironing boards have been removed from rooms to save space, placed instead in the thematic lounges on each floor.

    The building also offers pool tables, snack station, a library and fitness equipment.

    In terms of food and drink, The New Road Hotel is home to Marco Pierre White’s latest London restaurant – Mr White’s English Chophouse – which has been placed on the ground floor. There’s also the Cereal Grind – described as the first hotel-exclusive cereal café in the UK, combining the best of cereal and coffee together.

    Hampton expands footprint in US, China and Germany

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    Nine new properties taking in the mid-West and Far East.

    Hampton by Hilton has confirmed the opening of nine new properties, including Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Detroit/Warren in Michigan, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton St. George in Utah and Hampton by Hilton Dortmund Phoenix See in Germany.

    Meanwhile, the opening of two properties – Hampton by Hilton Shunde Longjiang, Foshan and Hampton by Hilton Suzhou Xiangcheng District – has extended the upper midscale brand’s position in China.

    A quick overview of each property:

    Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Detroit/Warren in Michigan:

    • Modern amenities, value and access to attractions make this hotel ideal for travel to the newly-revitalised Detroit area.
    • The hotel is near popular sites such as the Detroit Zoo, Hitsville USA Museum, casinos, and all major Detroit sporting venues: Comerica Park, Ford Field and the new Little Caesars Arena.

    Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton St. George in Utah:

    • The weather and scenery make St. George a popular spot for biking, golfing, bird-watching, hiking, rock climbing and boating.
    • The property is also along the route to Zion National Park, Lake Powell, Snow Canyon State Park and other areas of Southwest Utah.

    Hampton by Hilton Dortmund Phoenix See in Germany:

    • Centrally located, guests can watch football at Signal Iduna Park or visit the Ruhr District and cities like Bochum, Essen and Duisburg with ease.
    • Guests will enjoy the signature offerings of the Hampton brand, including complimentary breakfast every morning, a fitness center, and business center with free WiFi and natural lighting.

    Hampton has also grown its presence in Massachusetts, California, Oklahoma and Canada with the addition of Hampton Inn by Hilton Foxborough Mansfield, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Irvine-Orange County Airport, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City/Quail Springs and Hampton Inn by Hilton St. Paul, respectively.

    Wyndham Hotel Group unifies globally under ‘By Wyndham’ moniker

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    New hallmark will be applied to 7,074 hotels around the world, starting in North America with immediate effect.

    12 Wyndham Hotel Group brands, including  Super 8, Days Inn and Ramada, are have begun adding the ‘by Wyndham’ suffix to their names and signage as the company unites its signature lodging brands under the Wyndham banner.

    The full list of brands adding the ‘by Wyndham’ moniker are Super 8, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Travelodge, AmericInn, Baymont, Ramada, Ramada Encore, Dolce, Dazzler, Esplendor and Trademark – representing 7,074 properties globally.

    The firm says the move not only unites its diverse hoteliers under a common mission and name, but also expects it to favorably impact guest trial and brand awareness throughout the portfolio.

    Beginning April 16th, the updated brand names and logos will appear across Wyndham’s digital placements, from brand websites to mobile sites and third-party listings. Hotel owners in North America may immediately begin placing orders for their new signs. The updates will progress around the world with an expected completion date of December 2022.

    “As the leader in midscale and economy lodging, the Wyndham name has become synonymous with making hotel travel possible for all,” said Barry Goldstein, Wyndham’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “This new designation for our brands is a celebration of the accomplishments we’ve made in our mission to make travel possible for everyone, revolutionizing Wyndham Rewards and elevating our brands through a laser focus on quality, technology, and sales and marketing.”

    What’s In a Name?

    The ‘by Wyndham’ cross-branding initiative represents a further evolution of the company and its brand portfolio, leading up to its spin-off as a pure-play hotel franchising and hotel management company (Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc), which is scheduled to occur later this quarter.

    Wyndham’s Wingate, Microtel, Hawthorn Suites and Tryp brands already incorporate ‘by Wyndham’, and all twenty of the company’s hotel brands participate in its award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program, which has more than 55 million members.

    Wyndham cites research showing that nearly 45 per cent of consumers “feel better” about an endorsed brand, and almost one-third expect a better quality experience. The company claims it has already seen this effect on several of its existing brands, including Wingate by Wyndham and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham. For Wingate, the addition of ‘by Wyndham’ in 2007 significantly increased brand awareness, and Microtel has experienced a steady increase in RevPAR performance compared to industry benchmarks since the ‘by Wyndham’ addition.

    Multi-million pound refurbishment begins at Ramada Leicester Stage

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    The hotel will offer 80 of the latest design Holiday Inn bedrooms.

    The London Town Group is undertaking a multi-million pound refurbishment of The Ramada Leicester Stage to rebrand the hotel as the Holiday Inn Leicester Wigston.

    The remodelling and refurbishment plan is already under way, with a substantial amount of the work to be carried out in time for a reopening in late summer 2018.

    The hotel will offer 80 of the latest design Holiday Inn bedrooms, the new open lobby Holiday Inn concept, Starbucks Coffee, meeting rooms, Stage Suites function rooms and a Bella Italia restaurant.

    Events & Business

    The Stage Suites will be able to accommodate from 50 to 350 guests reception style or 250 guests for a wedding breakfast. There is free on-site parking for coaches and up to 150 cars.

    The the hotel will be positioned for a variety of business related activities, including meetings, gala dinners, team away days or team building days. The Holiday Inn Leicester Wigston is also fully licensed for civil ceremonies.

    David Greenwood, who has been the General Manager at Ramada Leicester Stage for the past 10 years, said: “We can’t wait to give our beautiful hotel the restoration it deserves, and give Leicester a hotel and function space it can be proud of.”

    Other hotels based in the region are the Sheffield Metropolitan and Mercure Nottingham City Centre, both of which have also undergone major refurbishment in recent times.

    Capella Sanya luxury resort to open during 4Q18 on Hainan Island

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    Design process to be led by Jean-Michel Gathy and Bill Bensley.

    Capella Hotel Group and Chinese developer China Gezhouba Group Real Estate have confirmed the opening of Capella Sanya in the last quarter of 2018.

    Located along the coastline of Blessed Bay on Hainan Island, Capella Sanya will be a new luxury landmark offering 190 rooms, suites and villas across 13.8 hectres of tropical coastline.

    Offering panoramic views of the South China Sea, Capella Sanya is a collaborative art piece by two designers: Jean-Michel Gathy and Bill Bensley. Inspired by a Chinese trader’s adventures along The Silk Road, Capella says the resort will encapsulate the rich culture and heritage of ethnic communities along what is an historic trade route.

    Accommodation choices include executive suites, 2- to 4-bedroom villas and a Presidential Suite within the Manor House, as well as five low-rise Mansions.


    There’s also some interesting backstory: The legend of Blessed Bay dates back to about 600 years ago, when a group of Persian traders arrived in China. On their way home, they were pounded by typhoon at sea. The survivors floated to an unknown bay, where they rallied their way home and made a good fortune eventually. In honor of their experience, they named the bay “Blessed Bay” (Tufu Bay in Chinese).

    “We are grateful for the opportunity to introduce the Capella Experience to China’s leading resort destination. Capella Sanya will exemplify the winning attributes of the world’s fifth best hotel brand, as voted by readers of Travel + Leisure,” said Nicholas M. Clayton, Chief Executive Officer of Capella Hotel Group.

    “Capella Sanya will be the new benchmark for China’s luxury beach resorts. Our pursuit of excellence in real estate development is complemented by Capella Hotel Group’s expertise in creating exceptional guest experiences,” said Mr. He Jingang, Chairman of China Gezhouba Real Estate.

    The Balmoral reveals new look for Scone & Crombie suite

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    Refurbished 220 square meter accommodation can be booked as a two or three bedroom suite.

    Rocco Forte Hotel’s Edinburgh property, The Balmoral, has revealed a new look for its flagship Scone & Crombie suite.

    Led by Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Hotels’ Director of Building & Design, and sister to Sir Rocco Forte, the company says the Scone & Crombie will become one of the largest suites in Scotland thanks to an extensive refurbishment.

    Named after the Scone Palace in Perthshire, the signature suite has been designed as the ultimate city base for families. The flexible accommodation stretches over 220 square meters and can be booked as a two or three bedroom suite.

    Private Check-Ins

    The addition of a sizeable entrance hall provides a location for discrete private check-ins and opens onto a multipurpose meetings and dining space.

    The sitting room, with its working fireplace and serene colour palette, has been designed to provide a restful foil for the scheme in which rich fabrics meet opulent furnishings.

    The master bedroom, meanwhile, has also be completely redesigned – combining what the company says is modernity and tradition with the juxtaposition of antique and heritage pieces with pops of colour and bold prints.

    Rocco Forte Hotels’ says the renovated rooms and suites are integral to its ongoing suite offering – the company has unveiled The Rocco Forte Suite Experience and as part of this, The Balmoral has created an exclusive cashmere turndown service for the Scone & Crombie with luxury Scottish cashmere brand Hawico.

    Outdoor Adventure

    In addition, two new experiences – Scone & Crombie Land and Scone & Crombie Sea – have also been created for guests of the suite in partnership with Scotland’s outdoor adventure specialists, Ossian. Offering access to sporting locations and private properties, Scone & Crombie Land will see Ossian founder, Ted Innes Ker, lead a tour of his family home in the Scottish Borders, Floors Castle, and host a dinner in the Duke’s Fishing Hut located right on the banks of the River Tweed.

    Scone & Crombie Sea, meanwhile, offers guests the opportunity to escape city aboard a luxury boat and explore the islands and coastline of the Firth of Forth. Guests will have a BBQ lunch in a rustic log cabin overlooking a vast sandy beach and across to the Bass Rock and May Island.

    Snotels hotel concept put up for sale as going concern

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    All IP, branding, trademarks and customer data available for acquisition.

    Snotels, an alpine-only hotel brand concept launched back in 2011, has been put up for sale by founder and owner, Michael Metcalfe.

    The brand was established to ‘provide independent hotels in alpine resorts and ski villages with the digital platforms, targeted branding, unique marketing and brand recognition needed to drive business results within a market where 86% of hotels are independently run’.

    The sale of Snotels will include all of its intellectual property, domain names, international trademarks, digital assets and audiences, hotel and customer databases and more.

    In a statement, Metcalfe said confident that this sale to a new owner is the best path to ensure Snotels has the financial resources and hotel brand infrastructure to realise opportunities in the global alpine sector:

    “As a niche hotel brand that launched during the global financial crisis, combined with the inherent seasonality of cash flows within mountain markets, the launch timing and financing was challenging and the rollout was discontinued.

    “Despite this, its category defining name and relevance remains exceptionally strong with alpine travellers. It represents a perfect opportunity for established hotel chains and travel firms to secure a high-potential niche brand offering within their portfolios, and to leverage their existing infrastructure to use the Snotels brand in line with their vision.”

    Snotels invites requests for more information and offers by 30 April and all interested buyers are able to contact Metcalfe via at michael@snotels.com or phone +61 402 124 520.

    Wilton Carpets weave a new look for Rushton Hall Hotel & Spa

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    Wilton Carpets has revealed details of its latest project, which required bringing a sense of occasion to the new Orangery of Rushton Hall Hotel & Spa, a 16th Century country house in Northamptonshire.

    The Grand Hall in the main house already featured a woven axminster bespoke design by Wilton, returning to warmth and grandeur after the hotel found the bare wood floors caused echoes.

    As such, when it came to a floor for the Orangery, the general manager at Rushton Hall, Valerie Hazelton, had a clear idea of what was required:

    “We wanted carpet in the Orangery to help with noise levels, as well as add a warmth and cosiness to the multi-purpose space, which we knew needed a neutral colour palette so that functions could bring their own theme and colours. The walls, curtains and chairs are plain, so it was important to offset this with a patterned carpet, but one that was still subtle enough to work with any event colour scheme chosen.”

    Bordered Geometric Design

    With previous experience of Wilton Carpets, Rushton Hall once again called upon the expertise of the Wiltshire-based manufacturer. Presenting a bordered geometric design with larger classical motifs inset, the pattern is contemporary while referencing the historic setting of the hotel’s architecture.

    Wilton worked closely with Hazelton to ensure that the final creation met the needs of the building: “Making a decision on such a big area is not an easy task and Wilton worked with me to develop the final grey and gold colour palette for the design, producing samples in various combinations until I was sure we had made the right choice. It’s a fresh design but goes really well with the traditional style of the building. The carpet is liked by all our guests, but brides and grooms in particular seem to love the mixture of gold and grey tones.”

    The carpet was woven in a premium 10-row quality in a rich British wool blend, ensuring it can withstand regular intense use and be easily cleaned between functions taking place in the Orangery for many years to come.

    In adjacent corridors, Wilton created another bespoke repeating geometric design, this time in a wool-rich tufted quality. In a green and dark gold colourway, the carpet’s pattern works to accommodate the walls of the 16th Century building, which are far from being straight and true. The carpets were made in Wiltshire, giving Hazelton the confidence to choose Wilton once again.

    “With Wilton weaving continuing to produce its carpets in Britain, it could offer me bespoke qualities within a quick timescale and I had the confidence that the carpet would be delivered on time with no delays or surprises along the way. We are absolutely delighted with our choice,” concludes Hazelton.

    Rushton Hall’s history dates back to 1438, when construction of the original building begun under Sir William Tresham. Now a Grade I Listed building set in 25-acres of immaculate grounds, Rushton Hall is one of the finest hotels in the Midlands, awarded four red stars and three rosettes. Offering guests luxury accommodation, the hotel is known throughout Northamptonshire as a setting for glamorous weddings and events.

    Hyatt plans for first dual-branded hotels at Charles De Gaulle Airport

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    The project will mark the first dual-branded hotels in Europe and the introduction of Hyatt’s select service brands in France.

    Hyatt Hotels has revealed plans for its first dual-branded Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels in Europe, after an affiliate of extended-stay operator Cycas Hospitality entered into a franchise agreement with another Hyatt affiliate.

    The hotels are being developed by French real estate company Kaufman & Broad, with the opening of Hyatt Place Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport and Hyatt House Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport in the second half of 2020 marking the introduction of Hyatt’s ‘select service’ brands in France, bringing the total number of Hyatt-branded hotels in the country to 10.

    Hyatt says the Hyatt Place and Hyatt House brands are rooted in consumer research indicating that guests seek stylish, comfortable, seamless experiences that accommodate their lifestyles and familiar routines. As such, the two brands offer casual hospitality and purposeful service in what is described as a smartly designed, high-tech and contemporary environment.

    Hyatt Place Charles De Gaulle Airport will bring the brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere, spacious guestrooms with distinct sleeping and living areas, and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour food offerings, to guests looking for a relaxing and uncomplicated place to stay before beginning the next leg of their journey.

    Hyatt House Charles De Gaulle Airport, meanwhile, will offer apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens, providing guests with the spaces and places that help make them feel more like home.

    The two hotels will offer an array of shared services and amenities that meet the needs of transient and extended-stay guests.

    With a combined total of 430 rooms, the 309-room Hyatt Place hotel and the 121-room Hyatt House hotel will share conference space, an extensive all-day dining/bar facility, a gym, and a large swimming pool, a rare amenity in this location.

    “We are delighted to announce the first Hyatt Place and Hyatt House dual-branded hotels in France, which highlights the growing relevance of Hyatt’s select service brands by way of franchise agreements in Europe,” said Felicity Black-Roberts, vice president of development – Europe and North Africa, Hyatt. “With this exciting, first of its kind development for Hyatt in Europe, we will be able to cater to a mix of travelers by offering two brands in one location.”

    “We are proud to continue our relationship with Hyatt. Opening our first properties in France is a major milestone in our international rollout plans, taking advantage of the growing and widely untapped market for select service and extended stay hotel concepts in Europe to bridge the gap between hotels and home,” said Asli Kutlucan, partner at Cycas Hospitality.

    “This realization demonstrates our expertise in hotel residences and proves our ability to respond to the hotel residences industry demand”, said David Laurent, Senior Vice-President Commercial Property and Major Urban Projects of Kaufman & Broad. “It also shows the capacity of Kaufman & Broad to develop several complex projects and meet the expectations of the population density and the new customs of the city.”

    There are eight Hyatt-branded hotels currently open in France, including Park Hyatt Paris-Vêndome, Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile, Hyatt Regency Paris Charles de Gaulle, Hyatt Paris Madeleine, Hôtel du Louvre, Hôtel Martinez, Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée and Hyatt Centric La Rosière.

    Hyatt Regency Chantilly is currently under development and is expected to open in autumn this year.

     

    Crowne Plaza London Albert Embankment – opening confirmed for June 2018

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    Created by ADS Design and RPW Design, it will be the first luxury hotel to open in the Albert Embankment area.

    Crown Plaza has confirmed that its Albert Embankment hotel will open in May, smack bang in the middle of London’s latest area of regeneration, which is also home to the new US Embassy and high profile residential developments such as Battersea Power Station and Embassy Gardens.

    The hotel is being opened as part of a new brand platform from Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resort that launched earlier in 2017 called ‘We’re All Business, Mostly’. The company says the $200 million brand investment shows its commitment to ‘remain at the forefront of the new way of doing business with design-led, culturally-relevant and technology-enabled solutions’.

    Located on the South Bank of the Thames and created by ADS Design and RPW Design, the hotel offers views over the river, including the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. Its team is headed by General Manager Fabio Gallo, who has led a number of openings prior to Albert Embankment.

    The jewel of the crown will be a chic sky terrace on the 14th floor, with panoramic views of the Thames and capacity for over 70 guests. A stand-alone destination, with space for alfresco dining and an International food concept, the design will see a mix of blue hues along with copper and metallic tones. There will be open fires, floor to ceiling glass, wine and spirits collections, a shisha and cigar terrace and soft seating.

    In keeping with the US Embassy neighbour, the hotel will offer an American lobby bar and restaurant, with capacity for over 70 guests. A bar will also stand at the centre of the room.


    There are 142 bedrooms, including six suites, many with unobstructed city and river views, via floor-to-ceiling windows. The colour scheme marries muted tones with maroon and rust hues, and what’s described as a clean, comfortable design. All of the rooms and suites are equipped with contemporary amenities, including Nespresso Machines and mini-bars.

    Fabio Gallo, General Manager, said: “We are thrilled to be leading the way as part of Crowne Plaza’s pioneering new concept, offering a premium and innovative service for the modern business traveller.

    “Essential to delivering this personalised experience are the people, behind it. We have carefully curated a team of talented individuals, all experts from across the service and hospitality industry, whose passion and dedication for service delivery, is key to driving our success.”

    “We understand that in a City that’s ‘always on’ we need to provide a hub where guests can work efficiently and comfortably, whilst simultaneously offering a vibrant space to relax, enjoy and revive at the end of the day. Crowne Plaza London Albert Embankment is at the very heart of this mind-set.”

    Meliá confirms 1Q19 opening fifth Paradisus property in Mexico

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    Inspired by Mexican design with nearly 500 rooms.

    Spain-based Meliá Hotels International has confirmed the launch of Paradisus Playa Mujeres in Q1 2019, becoming Mexico’s fifth Paradisus branded property.

    Located off the coast of Cancun, Paradisus Playa Mujeres is situated on the seafront within close proximity of Isla Mujeres, with bars, restaurants and shops, as well as a golf course designed by Australian professional legend Greg Norman.

    Meliá says the property has been inspired by Mexican design and architecture and will offer 498 rooms, each providing views of tropical gardens and beaches. All guest rooms will be contemporary in terms of features, providing a mini-bar, LCD TV, high speed internet connection and private balcony.

    Amenities will include Royal Service (adults-only) with private butlers and a Family Concierge. In addition, Paradisus Playa Mujeres will have four swimming pools, six bars and seven restaurants serving a variety of international cuisines.

    Celebrating the region’s cultural heritage, Paradisus Playa Mujeres will feature a sculpture in the lobby curated by local artists, a garden wall and mirrored water feature, as well as retail space. Upon arrival to the hotel, guests will be invited to the Welcome Lounge, where they will be able to enjoy drinks next to an outdoor waterfall.

    The resort will also feature a motor lobby, arcade room, covered theatre, outdoor plaza for shows, coffee bar, juice bar, kids club, changing rooms, four business centre stations, and a convention centre/ballroom with a capacity for up to 1,500 people. It will offer video mapping technology and a state-of-the-art audiovisual system.

    Trivago take the keynote address at Hotel Summit 2018

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    Join us at the Hotel Summit this summer and you’ll get exclusive insights into Trivago’s consumer insights research.

    The Hotel Summit is the hotel industry’s premier face-to-face networking event, where industry suppliers and buyers converge for a series of highly productive meetings. This year the event will be held at the Radisson Blu, London Stansted on June 4th – 5th. Click here for all the details. 

    As well as providing event goers with the opportunity to meet, face-to-face to discuss their requirements and projects, the Summit will host a series of informative seminar sessions designed to give superlative take-home tips and ideas.

    This year’s keynote session is being presented by Aly Thompson, Regional Industry Manager at Trivago. The presentation, ‘Trivago Industry Insights: UK regional data highlights’, will provide data insights about visitors to the UK to reveal travellers’ online behaviour and preferences, and help hoteliers target hotel marketing efforts and drive more hotel bookings. 

    • Where do travellers to the UK come from?
    • What types of travellers are they?
    • How does seasonality affect their price and booking preferences?
    • How does traveller behaviour differ from region to region?
    • How can hoteliers harness these insights for a better online marketing strategy?

    As we announced last week, Trivago are also supporting the Hotel Summit as our drinks reception partner.

    Other sessions to look forward to whilst at the Summit include;

    • Procurement: Frustration or facilitation? – by Tony Morris, GSK
    • More direct bookings: How my hotel does 96% direct bookings – by Adam Hamadache, Direct Hotel Marketing
    • Why the hotel sector needs an evolving digital marketing approach – by John Heffernan, Red Live Media

    Places are limited and on a first come, first serve basis, so if you’d like to join us at this year’s 20th anniversary Summit, please click here to confirm your place.

    If you are interested in exhibiting at the 2018 event, please contact Jennie Lane now on 01992 374098 or j.lane@forumevents.co.uk.

    THE Park Hotels India launches adults-only property in Baga River, Goa

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    The luxurious interiors hint at Portuguese influences with bold accents of yellow, the traditional colour of Goa. With local Goan artists a prominent feature throughout, this really is a leading art and design-centric property.

    Developed by London-based design group Project Orange in partnership with THE Park Hotel, Baga River, Goa, this hotel brand is a pioneer of design and boutique hotels in India. Surrounded by rich greenery, coconut trees and scenic views across the lagoon, this property, with 28-bedrooms, will be the first of THE Park Hotels to be an adults-only hotel (over 18) and is one of the few boutique adults-only hotels in all of India.

    OUTDOOR FURNITURE SPOTLIGHT: The Bolero range from Nisbets

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    As part of Hotel Design’s spotlight this month on outdoor furniture, we highlight the latest Bolero range from Nisbets.

    “Creating the right atmosphere is essential for hoteliers to ensure that they attract the maximum amount of custom, so it is important that furniture choices are considered carefully as they have a huge impact on the vibe of any hotel,” says Richard Ebbs, Head of Brands for Nisbets Plc.

    An eye-catching outdoor seating area is the perfect way for hoteliers to encourage passers-by to choose their hotel over their competitors during the summer months, and it is therefore vital that any outdoor furniture is in line with current trends along with being both well maintained and clean.

    The Bolero range from Nisbets combines on-trend looks with an outstanding weather resistant finish which can be used both indoor and outdoor, depending on a hotel’s changing needs over the course of the year. In addition, the range includes designs with lightweight yet strong aluminium frames, ensuring that the furniture is easy to move as needed, maximising flow and storage within the workplace for hotel operators whilst minimising the effort of any seating rearrangement needed by staff.

    Wood and metal designs work well within a wide range of interior and exterior settings, and will allow hoteliers to update the desired atmosphere without having to replace everything.

    The new Bolero Steel and Acacia range, available from Nisbets,  includes chairs, tables, benches and bar stools which add an attractive industrial look to indoor or outdoor seating areas. Made from sturdy steel and pre-treated acacia wood and easy to assemble, they have a versatile look perfectly to suited to many different aesthetics.

    To see the full range, click here.

    To work with Hotel Designs on our OUTDOOR FURNITURE SPOTLIGHT feature across April please contact Jennie Lane / 01992 374098.

    Best Western Brook Hotel, Norwich

    Best Western to invest £98m in UK hotels over next two years

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    Brand committed to improving guest experiences in member hotels.

    Best Western Great Britain says it has invested of £214m across its member hotels since 2015, which it claims reflects its ongoing confidence in the market despite concerns around Brexit.

    With 251 independently owned and managed hotels under the Best Western brand, the figure equates to an estimated £855,000 per property between 2015 and 2019.

    In addition, Best Western has confirmed it will invest a further £70m across in the UK during 2017, with £28m currently planned for 2019.

    Best Western says that when asked about the impact of Brexit it found that 98.8% of its members were not concerned and continued to invest in improving their properties, showing no signs of cautiousness. 

    North of England Investment

    Some of the most significant investments within the Best Western portfolio have been to properties in the North of England and Scotland, including over £6m at Castle Green Hotel in Kendal, BW Premier Collection; an estimated £8m at Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection in Edinburgh; and £3.5m at the Best Western Dundee Invercarse Hotel, Dundee.

    Rob Paterson, Chief Executive of Best Western Great Britain, said: “The figures are a strong signal to guests and the industry that Best Western continues to invest for the future and change for the better. We are committed to improving guest experiences in our member hotels and the multi-million pound investments being made are increasing NPS scores, raising brand standards and guest expectations. In the last 18 months we have seen a significant pipeline of hotels approved or activated, with 50% of applicants this year for our new brands.

    “What is encouraging for guests and investors is that the planned level of investment for 2019 remains high and will increase further. We are proud to champion independent hotels in Great Britain and have plans to make our membership model more attractive, accelerating our growth for guests in the next few years.”

    Curio Collection by Hilton opens first Paris hotel

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    52 rooms in Montparnasse area themed on the ‘Roaring Twenties’.

    Hilton has opened the Niepce Paris Hotel, the first Curio Collection hotel to open in the French capital, taking the sub-brand’s global total to just shy of 50 locations.

     

    Located in the Montparnasse area of Paris, the hotel is situated a few metres from Montparnasse train station, giving guests easy access to the most iconic monuments and sites in the city.

    The hotel is themed around the ‘Roaring Twenties’ in a nod to one of the most influential photographers of the time – Janine Niepce, whose shots are featured in the hotel’s public areas, in the corridors and on ceiling displays.

    Guests can choose from 52 rooms, including three suites, featuring tablet control systems and high-speed internet, with the suites also including a separate living area.

    “We are delighted to welcome Niepce Paris Hotel to Curio Collection by Hilton, as we make our debut in the iconic city of Paris” said Mark Nogal, Global Head, Curio Collection by Hilton. “The opening of Niepce Paris highlights our commitment to expand our collection in key destinations around the world, and we look forward to providing our customers with an unforgettable experience in the district of Montparnasse.”

    The hotel also caters to small meetings with a 73-square metre conference room with a 55-inch flat screen, wireless video projector and Wi-Fi. There’s also a ‘wellness area’ for those looking to stay fit during their stay, with a high-tech gym.

    “Last year, Paris welcomed 16 million travellers, a record number of visitors for the past 10 years. In light of this increase in tourism, we are very excited to develop our portfolio of hotels in the city and we are delighted to open our first hotel for the Curio Collection by Hilton brand in the capital city”, says Simon Vincent, Executive Vice President and President, Europe, Middle East and Africa.

    Niepce Paris Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton is also part of Hilton Honors, the loyalty program for Hilton’s 14 hotel brands.

    Roca takes inspiration from its past for new Carmen collection

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    The collection includes a close coupled WC, basin and pedestal, with a complementary furniture range and mirror.

    Roca says its new Carmen range is based on its collection from the 1940s, having been launched to celebrate the company’s centenary.

    However, it still features the latest in technology and material innovations. For example, the WC is rimless for greater hygiene and easier cleaning, as well as being fitted with a water distributor that Roca says provides an improved flushing performance.

    The seat cover has been manufactured with SUPRALIT, a new exclusive resin registered by Roca, which it says is more durable (offering greater resistance to chemical agents and to discolouration), more hygienic (four times less porous material) and easier to clean (surface with soft and rounded angles).

    The collection includes a close coupled WC, basin and pedestal, with a complementary furniture range and mirror also available.

    Roca has also developed a range of Carmen brassware to complete the product family. It has an authentic period design with  the latest generation of flow limiters that its says guarantee a 5l/m flow, regardless of the system pressure.

    As well as its ceramic disc operation, the Carmen taps has the Roca Evershine electroplating process applied for anticorrosion, lifetime brightness and anti-scratching.

    “Over the last few years, the trend for vintage and classical design has continued to grow,” said Alan Dodds, Managing Director of Roca UK. “From the research we have conducted, vintage means more than just antiques, it is about classic and timeless design that is still relevant today. That is why we have introduced Carmen, it is a collection that is routed in the past but has all the attributes to complement a modern bathroom.”

    For more information visit Roca now

    Ace partnering with NTT Urban Development for Kyoto hotel

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    Architect Kengo Kuma will seek to blend old and new Japan.

    Ace Hotel Group has partnered with NTT Urban Development Corporation to design and build the Ace Hotel Kyoto, a new cultural hub that will be part of the ShinPuhKan redevelopment.

    Designed in part by architect Kengo Kuma, Ace Hotel Kyoto will open in Winter 2019 in an area with a industrial and imperial legacy. The firm says Kuma’s designs will blend new with old, incorporating renovations of the historic building — erected in the mid 1920s as the Kyoto Central Telephone Office — into the new build.

    Kuma is known for his work in Japan and abroad, including the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center in Tokyo, the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum and the forthcoming Olympic Stadium for the Tokyo 2020 Games. His designs tend to embrace natural materials and light, and create spaces for interaction and comfort.

    Connected to Kyoto

    “The thought was to create a hotel that is connected to Kyoto and open to the surrounding area,” said Kuma. “To begin with, the proposition was to create a dense garden where communities, as well as the past and the present, are connected to this venerable land with its various gardens, which have existed since the Heian period.

    The existing Kyoto central telephone office building was designed by one of the great Japanese modern architects, Tetsuro Yoshida. Through the central courtyard, the red brick building will converse and create a new harmony with a wooden grid system that reminisces traditional Kyoto.

    “The integrity of Aneyakoji road and Higashino-toin road was preserved through the delicate use of fine louvers and meshes,” said Kuma. “These louvers and meshes also act as environmental devices, which gently filters light and wind. Furthermore, the concrete was mixed with iron oxide to produce a fine warm color, which cannot be fabricated by paint. Every detail and material was thought through to connect the building, land and history together.”

    “It’s been our long-standing dream to put down roots in Japan,” said Brad Wilson, President at Ace Hotel Group. “We feel incredibly humbled and grateful to work with such well-respected and admirable partners as NTT Urban Development Corporation and Kengo Kuma to make our dreams a reality, creating a space that honors the beauty and history of Kyoto while fostering global connection and cultural innovation.”

    Aurora Station to become first luxury hotel in space

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    2022: A Space Odyssey 

    Plans for the first-ever luxury space hotel have been unveiled by tech start-up Orion Span, with the Aurora Station set to open its landing bay doors for paying punters in 2022.

    The (by its very nature) exclusive hotel will host six people at a time, including two crew members, with a 12-day stay starting at – ahem – $9.5M per person.

    Deposits are now being accepted for a future stay on Aurora Station, which is slated to launch in late 2021 and host its first guests a year later. The fully refundable deposit is $80,000 per person and can be reserved online.

    It won’t be quite as simple as packing your bags and taking a taxi to the space port – Prior to take-off, those set to travel on Aurora Station will take a three-month Orion Span Astronaut Certification (OSAC). Phase one of the certification program is done online, with the next portion completed in-person at Orion Span’s training facility in Houston, Texas. The final certification is completed during a traveler’s stay on Aurora Station.

    Step Into The Holodeck

    In terms of the design and experience, Orion Span says travelers will enjoy the exhilaration of zero gravity and fly freely throughout Aurora Station, see the northern and southern lights, take part in research experiments such as growing food while in orbit (which they can take home with them as the ultimate souvenir), enjoy a virtual reality experience on the holodeck, and stay in touch or live stream with their loved ones back home via high-speed wireless internet access.

    Aurora Station guests will travel 200 miles above the Earth’s surface in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), completing a pass around the entire planet every 90 minutes, meaning those aboard will see an average of 16 sunrises and sunsets every 24 hours.

    The company’s leadership team includes Chief Executive Officer Frank Bunger, who is a serial entrepreneur and technology start-up executive credited with multiple startups under his belt; Chief Technology Officer David Jarvis – a lifelong entrepreneur, human spaceflight engineer, and payload developer with breadth and depth in the management and operations of the International Space Station (ISS); Chief Architect Frank Eichstadt, who is an industrial designer and space architect credited with being the principal architect on the ISS Enterprise module; and Chief Operating Officer Marv LeBlanc – a former general manager and program manager with decades of executive space experience running operations and mission control.

    “We developed Aurora Station to provide a turnkey destination in space. Upon launch, Aurora Station goes into service immediately, bringing travelers into space quicker and at a lower price point than ever seen before, while still providing an unforgettable experience,” said Bunger. “Orion Span has additionally taken what was historically a 24-month training regimen to prepare travelers to visit a space station and streamlined it to three months, at a fraction of the cost. Our goal is to make space accessible to all, by continuing to drive greater value at lower cost.”

    “Aurora Station is incredibly versatile and has multiple uses beyond serving as a hotel,” Bunger added. “We will offer full charters to space agencies who are looking to achieve human spaceflight in orbit for a fraction of the cost – and only pay for what they use. We will support zero gravity research, as well as in space manufacturing. Our architecture is such that we can easily add capacity, enabling us to grow with market demand like a city growing skyward on Earth. We will later sell dedicated modules as the world’s first condominiums in space. Future Aurora owners can live in, visit, or sublease their space condo. This is an exciting frontier and Orion Span is proud to pave the way.”

    Chelsom collaborates with Joyce Wang Studio and Benjamin West on Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park lighting

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    Chelsom worked closely with Joyce Wang Studio and procurement specialist Benjamin West to create a custom designed lighting scheme for the refurbishment of guestrooms, corridors and public areas in the 5-star Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London.

    The interior scheme was completely original, with Joyce Wang designing the lighting pieces, taking inspiration from the textures, forms and colours found in London’s iconic Hyde Park. The design team created an eclectic range of fittings in a variety of different materials, all of which required a range of manufacturing techniques.

    The combination of differing rich brass metalwork alongside textured glasses and organic materials was deliberate to create a striking visual impact.

    Statement chandeliers are prominent in the suites and guestrooms, each featuring individual lighting designs. Chandeliers in the suites take on organic forms with branch like brass arms sprawling across the ceiling finished with cracked glass acorns.

    Other stand out chandeliers feature a trio of asymmetrically positioned ultra-shallow light units housing integral LED light sources. Each light unit features faux alabaster bottom diffusers and solid clear glass rods positioned around the perimeter creating a sparkle of twinkling light. Unique bedside wall sconces have dark metal frames which house jewel-like glass diffusers refracting beautiful light effects across the walls.

    In keeping with the nearby Royal Horseguards Parade, corridor and bathroom light fittings were manufactured using synthetic horse hair. Bathroom wall sconces show the hair wrapped tightly around metal backplates to act as reflectors to the backlit light sources while magnanimous square pendants adorned with ribbed glass rods and ponytails of hair line the corridors.

    In the public areas, Chelsom says it has been sensitive to the period architecture of the interior. In the main entrance lobby the company supplied modernised balustrade mounted light fixtures, which continue the overarching theme of crackled glass tones with rich brass metalwork.

    As part of the refurbishment the team also restored existing chandeliers in the Rosebury Lounge, upgrading the technology and restoring the metalwork.

    Meliá Cuba to open seven new hotels by 2020

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    The company will operate 2,145 new rooms in Cuba by the end of 2018.

    Meliá Cuba has added five new hotels with 409 rooms to its portfolio on the island of Cuba during the first quarter of 2018.

    The hotels are located in the cities of Cienfuegos (Hotel La Union, Hotel Jagua and Hotel Meliá San Carlos) and Camagüey (Hotel Colón and Gran Hotel) and represent a new style of hotels for Meliá in Cuba: all are small to medium-size, set inside historical buildings in upmarket locations.

    By the end of 2018, the firm will also have opened two new flagship hotels in Varadero and Cayo Santa María. The Meliá Internacional, Varadero, will have 934 rooms and the Paradisus Los Cayos, Cayo Santa María will have 802 rooms. This will take the total of new, ‘superior’ quality rooms opened by Meliá Hotels International in Cuba during the year to more than 2,145.

    The Spanish hotel group is also set to open Hotel INNSIDE Camagüey, as well as three hotels in the city of Trinidad before 2020 as part of an ambitious expansion plan.

    The properties in Trinidad will include Meliá Trinidad, Meliá Punta Ancón and the Sol House Ancón, which is the result of the conversion of the current Hotel Ancón.

    Wider Cuban Tourism Strategy

    Meliá Hotels International says it has aligned its plans with the wider Cuban strategy to diversify its tourism industry, offering prestigious hotels with familiar brands in historic cities, along with exciting tours and experiences.

    It’s also aiming to help increase the number of visitors to these areas and to prolong average length of stay, ultimately helping to raise profile of these destinations to a wide range of tourists.

    Gabriel Escarrer, Vice President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, said: “Within the framework of our strong commitment to helping improve Cuban tourism, we have the opportunity to promote unique cities with exceptional tourism potential, such as Cienfuegos, Camagüey, Santiago de Cuba, or Havana. This guarantees the internationally acknowledged Meliá service and quality standards from the east to the west of the island. The hotels in the new destinations, which are already in operation, will take on our Meliá brand (Meliá La Unión, Meliá San Carlos, Meliá Colón, Meliá Gran Hotel) and INNSIDE by Meliá brand (INNSIDE Cienfuegos Jagua and INNSIDE Camagüey) once they have been fully adapted to the brand standards.”

    Francesc Camps, Deputy Managing Director of Meliá Cuba, said: “The new hotels will provide us a chance to show our commitment to the development of balanced and sustainable tourism in Cuba and to demonstrate the value that our brands can add. These hotels in heritage cities are well integrated with the cultural and social fabric of their destinations, and give us a chance to provide travellers with experiences focused on discovering more about the local culture and heritage.”

    Crete’s The Royal Blue prepares to open doors after extensive renovation

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    The hotel says the works will place it at the top table of Cretan hospitality.

    The five star Royal Blue in Crete will open its doors again this month after a major facelift to its rooms, suites, reception, lobby, bars and restaurants.

    Located between Rethymnon and Heraklion on the Greek island’s northern coast, the will also be reopening with a new outdoor gym and bar, adults-only gourmet restaurant and new 507 square feet marina lined with its own private beaches.

    With 190 rooms, waterfront suites and villas offering 180 degree views of the coastline, the hotel says the works will place it at the top table of Cretan hospitality.

    The marina will moor up to 27 boats and include three beaches, with one reserved exclusively for adults, set within a design aesthetic that seeks to balance the authenticity of local Cretan culture and heritage with contemporary influences.


    Symposium is the resort’s main restaurant where guests can witness dishes being cooked fresh in front of them, while the new adults-only mystical à la carte restaurant is Cave: an idyllic backdrop for romantic dining. For guests seeking authentic Cretan cuisine is Elia, the resort’s pool-side restaurant.

    Discreetly hidden in its own private bay the hotel is now dressed in what it describes as muted tones, natural woods, clean lines and crisp whites.

    Lulie Fisher appointed to design luxury villas at Blue Amber Zanzibar

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    The first residential phase at Blue Amber Zanzibar consists of 47 luxury double storey villas.

    Lulie Fisher Design Studio has been appointed to design the luxury beach and golf-front villas recently launched as the first phase of the landmark Blue Amber resort in Zanzibar.

    Developed by Pennyroyal, Blue Amber Zanzibar is a tropical island resort that the company claims, once complete, will be Africa’s largest mixed-use development – it includes five international hotels, an Ernie Els signature 18-hole golf course, a water park, and an underwater restaurant and nightclub.

    “We are thrilled to announce that we recently appointed Lulie Fisher as the Interior Designer of the Blue Amber Resort, residential units,” said Saleh Said, Managing Director of Pennyroyal Limited. “Her depth of experience and detailed industry knowledge of over 25 years will raise the bar on design standards, enabling potential investors a glimpse into the dream lifestyle on offer in Zanzibar.”

    Before launching Lulie Fisher Design Studio in 2016, Fisher spent more than 25 years of working as an architect and interior designer at Foster + Partners in London and later at Aedas Interiors’ Studio in Dubai.

    During her time at Foster + Partners, Fisher worked on projects including the LSE Library, the Robert Gordon University, The Bexley Business Academy and Canary Wharf Underground Station in London. Projects she directed and led have won awards including RIBA best building, London Civic Trust, Scotland Civic Society and runner up in the Stirling Prize for Architecture.

    The first residential phase at Blue Amber Zanzibar consists of 47 luxury double storey villas designed to maximise the views of either ocean, lakes, or golf course.

    Aesthetic of Zanzibar

    “The beauty of the site is unprecedented for us and the vision for its sustainable development is very exciting,” said Fisher. “We knew we wanted to create a very contemporary, timeless and luxurious atmosphere, but also integrate elements from the history and aesthetic of Zanzibar that provide the development with a strong sense of place and unique attributes. We sought to create an elegant, neutral backdrop using rich materials and finishes while adding key ‘feature’ walls and furniture pieces that either incorporate or are directly inspired from African design, colours, textiles and textures. We are absolutely delighted to be appointed to collaborate with Pennyroyal on this truly wonderful and unique project.”

    Pennyroyal says the natural palettes will be juxtaposed with elements of luxury and sophistication, including elegant and functional kitchens and bathrooms. Pale blues have been introduced into the sanitary ware collections in the form of free standing sculptural bath tubs with floor mounted faucets and wash basin vessels mounted on live edge timber vanities.

    Park Regis Birmingham to undertake £650k conference facility overhaul

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    City scape views and an open plan design from fitted led by Tang Interiors on the way.

    Park Regis in Birmingham is to relaunch its conferencing facilities this summer, with a remodelled space boasting 360° views across the city.

    The new space will be fitted out by Tang Interiors, a group company of Birmingham-based Colmore Tang Construction, which specialises in refurbishment and interiors for the commercial, retail, restaurant and hospitality sectors.

    The £650,000 investment in the 16th floor facility will see a new 1,250 sq ft open-plan conference space with floor-to-ceiling windows, accommodating up to 240 delegates.

    Meanwhile, the 15th floor – where the existing conference facilities are located – will be remodelled to create additional meeting rooms and break-out areas, as well as a new bar area.

    In total, the four-star Park Regis will be able to accommodate 450 conference delegates on floors 15 and 16.

    Significant Investment

    “This is a significant investment for us and it will ensure that we remain one of the foremost city centre hotel venues for conferences and business events,” said General Manager Mark Payne.

    “It has given us an opportunity to completely rethink our conference offering and we are excited by  our plans because it will really enhance our existing facilities. Whether businesses and organisations are planning day events or overnight conferences, we are confident that Park Regis will continue to deliver unparalleled corporate facilities and services to delegates.”

    As well as new conference space, delegates will be able to use a dedicated entrance – separate to the hotel – on floor one on the corner of Broad Street, which will take them directly to the 15th floor where there will be a new welcoming reception and cloakroom area.

    Overnight guests will be able to leave their luggage at the reception and it will be taken to their rooms while they attend the conference.

    Bryan O’Sullivan Studio reveals The Magnolia Algarve design inspirations

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    ‘The best of Palm Springs in the Algarve with a spin on the iconic 1950s motor-hotel aesthetic’.

    Interior design firm Bryan O’Sullivan Studio has lifted the lid on its inspirations for The Magnolia Hotel, which recently opened in the Algarve resort of Quinta Do Lago in Portugal.

    The idea was to play on the heritage of the resort as a holiday destination and a place for relaxation and enjoyment – The company says its choice of Palm Springs opened design possibilities with the freedom of using as much as colour, texture and items of visual interest that would work well naturally in a warm environment.

    The hotel itself attracts a younger demographic looking for a relaxed, affordable and fun new way to experience the Algarve. As alternative accommodation option, The Magnolia Hotel objective is to bring a new energy and character to the well-established Quinta Do Lago resort, appealing to fitness fanatic and gourmet enthusiast alike.

    Fresh & Unseen

    Bryan O’Sullivan, the design lead for the project, said: “The design brief for the Magnolia Hotel was to bring something completely fresh and unseen to the Algarve. The design is light, playful and inviting for lazy days spent sipping cocktails by the pool or grazing fresh local dishes in the restaurant. First-hand experience during our recent trip to Palm Springs helped shape the design, taking the glory days of the 1950’s American Motel with the pastel art deco hues of Miami’s downtown to create a bright, glamorous travel spot to this beautiful corner of Portugal.”

    The existing architecture of The Magnolia Hotel already lent itself to a classic mid-century motel format. The bedroom blocks are separated from the main reception with an outdoor pool and dining area. The theme of Palm Springs starts with a two-tone pastel hued façade on the drive-way entrance, intended as a direct link to classic 20th Century American architecture.

    Above the façade is a neon feature of a diving girl, once again connecting the theme with the surrounding environment of the Algarve.

    Updated Decor & Amenities   

    The Magnolia Hotel offers 74 guest rooms each with a private veranda, 3 suites and 7 exclusive cottages. Each room offers twin or king beds, steam showers and modern appliances, including 300 thread count cotton sheets and high-speed Wi-Fi. All suites and cottages can sleep up to 2 adults and 2 children.

    The guest rooms are pink and white in colour scheme, with the signature Magnolia red acting as accent colours on the bedroom furniture and amenities. Each of the individual rooms feature new integrated fabric upholstered headboards and retro industrial-style furniture bringing together comfort and contemporary pieces.

    The interior of the Lobby and Bar Area sports a graphic striped ceiling and a custom-made botanical tile mural on the main bar by Surface Design Studio. The dusty pink scheme reigns strong amongst an eclectic mix of retro-style furniture, lighting and brightly coloured kilim rugs.  

    At the heart of the hotel is the outdoor heated swimming pool area which is punctuated by yellow and white pinstripe parasols and bespoke outdoor furniture. At night the space is complemented with an array of strung festoon lights and a live DJ.

    Home2 Suites by Hilton opens Las Vegas Strip South

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    Home2 Suites by Hilton has revealed its newest property – the Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Strip South.

    Featuring 120 suites and a range of tech-focussed and eco-conscious amenities, the hotel aims to help welcome the 42 million visitors to Las Vegas every year.

    “Following a strong 2017 in which we opened more than 70 Home2 Suites properties, debuting our first hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada is a major milestone for the brand,” said Adrian Kurre, global head for Home2 Suites by Hilton. “Built into our nightly rate, we’re able to offer tremendous value-centric amenities and all suite accommodations that will appeal to both business and leisure travellers visiting this energising destination.”

    Home from Home

    Owned and managed by National Hospitality Management, Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Strip South offers all-suite accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and modular furniture, providing guests with the flexibility to customise their suite to their style and preference.

    The hotel also features complimentary internet, inviting communal spaces, and trademark Home2 Suites amenities such as Spin2 Cycle, a combined laundry and fitness area, Home2 MKT for ‘grab-and-go’ items, and the Inspired Table, a complimentary daily breakfast that includes more than 400 potential combinations. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor saline pool and patio. Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Strip South is pet-friendly.

    Located at 7740 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Strip South offers guests convenient access to the Strip, McCarran International Airport and the Las Vegas Convention Center. A variety of entertainment, shopping and dining options is nearby. The hotel is a short drive from Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, allowing travellers to see another side of the state.

    SPA SPOTLIGHT: How Kaldewei helped Hotel am Meer to create a unique experience

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    As part of Hotel Design’s spotlight this month on spa products and services, we take a look at how the family-run Hotel am Meer is leading the way when it comes to offering wellness and beauty treatments…

    Located on the Baltic island of Rügen, Hotel am Meer has undergone extensive upgrading within the last 12 months, with innovative technology and modern design blending together to create a 21st Century spa experience like no other.

    ‘Meerspa’ offers three unique wellbeing experiences – the Sound Wave bathtub audio system, the Skin Touch cosmetic treatment and Vivo Turbo Plus whirl system, all by premier German bathroom solutions manufacturer Kaldewei.

    Working with Kaldewei, the 4-star hotel can now offer all of its guests a cosmetic bath with a rejuvenating effect while they immerse themselves in their favourite music, or enjoy the benefits of a massage in the whirl bath.

    Speaking the same language

    Owner Wolfgang Schewe made the decision to invest in the innovative technology for the spa treatments after listening to the wishes of his guests and talking to staff. Schewe realised there was less demand for ‘classic’ bath treatments, and more of a requirement for a boutique approach, offering a modern experience and utilising the range of individual pampering treatments now available.

    The ‘Meerspa’ has proved to be an instant success with new and existing customers using the services, according to the hotel, particularly the use of the Kaldewei Skin Touch treatment in a hotel, which is a world-first. During a Skin Touch treatment, the bathwater is enriched with millions of microbubbles of air.

    “Our spa guests particularly like the new Kaldewei Skin Touch system: the microbubbles of air enrich the skin with oxygen, leaving it smooth and supple,” explained Schewe. “Guests really enjoy using this new kind of beauty treatment and appreciate the long-lasting effect of Kaldewei Skin Touch.

    “Our guests are very happy to use this new kind of beauty treatment and particularly appreciate the benefits of Kaldewei Skin Touch,” commented Schewe. “For us too, this investment makes sense because we can offer our guests completely new and attractive treatments, thus recouping a part of our additional costs.”

    Kaldewei are 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.

    To work with Hotel Designs on our SPA SPOTLIGHT feature across April please contact Jennie Lane / 01992 374098

    Hotel Summit welcomes a host of partners

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    With two months to go until the 20th anniversary edition of the Hotel Summit, we are pleased to confirm support from a huge array of industry suppliers.

    So far, attending this year are;

    Headline partner –
    Simba Sleep Limited

    Gold partners –
    Salto Systems, Chroma Flooring, QCR, Wandsworth Group, Centrica Business Solutions, Portable Floormaker, Dyson, B Light Group, Vogue, Pulsar, Anchor Hospitality Logistics and Project Blinds.

    Silver partners –
    Crosswater, Birchall Tea, Delabie, James Alexander, Heritage Bathrooms, Tarkett Flooring, ADI Trading and Airwave.

    Drinks reception partner –
    Trviago

    The Hotel Summit will take place on June 4 to 5, 2018, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, London Stansted.

    Over the course of the two days, attendees can enjoy interactive seminars and networking opportunities, while taking part in one-to-one business meetings.

    Places are limited and on a first come, first serve basis, so if you’d like to join us at this year’s 20th anniversary Summit, please click here to confirm your place.

    For more information and what to expect from the two-day event click here.

    If you are interested in exhibiting at the 2018 event, please contact Jennie Lane now on 01992 374098 or j.lane@forumevents.co.uk.

    Upcoming Ocean Resort joins the Hyatt Group

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    The Ocean Resort Casino will be part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt when it opens in Atlantic City this summer.

    The news comes following an agreement between AC Ocean Walk and Hyatt Hotels, with the $3 billion, 1,399-room resort will be situated on the Atlantic Boardwalk. At 710 feet and 60 stories tall, it will be the tallest structure in Atlantic City and is expected to open in summer 2018.

    “We are excited to be affiliating Ocean Resort Casino with The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand, and to be introducing Hyatt to Atlantic City, one of the nation’s most visited resort and casino destinations,” said David Tarr, senior vice president of development, Americas, Hyatt. “AC Ocean Walk’s spectacular resort will establish a new standard on Atlantic City’s Boardwalk, making it a fitting addition to The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio.”

    XHEAD: Luxury dining, entertainment & wellness

    The expansive 6.4 million-square-foot luxury resort will feature a 138,000-square-foot luxury casino, 160,000 square feet of indoor meeting and convention space with another 90,000 square feet of flexible outdoor special event space, five swimming pools, including a salt-water pool, a sun deck with cabanas, and distinctive dining from premiere restaurant groups Garces Group and LDV Hospitality plus entertainment experiences that will feature lively day and nightclubs and a best-in-class sports bar.

    The resort will include a 32,000-square-foot onsite location of ‘exhale’, Hyatt’s newly acquired fitness and spa brand, which will feature 32 treatment rooms, a mind body studio and retail boutique. The new spa will be the first exhale experience to open within a Hyatt-branded property.

    “It is an honour for us to join forces with one of the world’s most renowned hotel brands: Hyatt. Hyatt has an incredible 60-plus-year legacy in the industry, and its loyal global customer base will have access to an authentic way to experience all that makes Atlantic City attractive and popular. We are thrilled and proud to be joining The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio as we prepare for the resort’s opening this summer,” added Bruce Deifik, chairman of AC Ocean Walk.

    The Ocean Resort Casino will be the eighth hotel in North America to open as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio, which launched in 2016. It joins the recently opened Holston House Nashville in Nashville, The Bellevue Hotel in Philadelphia, and Spirit Ridge in Osoyoos, British Columbia. The Eliza Jane in New Orleans is expected to join the portfolio, when it opens this spring. In addition, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt properties include The Driskill in Austin, Texas, Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Phoenix, The Confidante in Miami Beach, Hotel du Louvre in Paris, and Carmelo Resort & Spa in Uruguay.

    Duravit present the ultimate toilet experience

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    Refreshing, clean, pleasant – all the Duravit toilet products and features offer a new and convenient way to feel good.

    The SensoWash® shower-toilet seats ensure modern toilet hygiene and an improved quality of life. Each of the functions and practical features, even the design, are perfectly co-ordinated for an incomparable, freshly washed feel.

    The SensoWash® Slim seat with soft closing mechanism and “Rearwash”, “Ladywash” or “Comfortwash” features combines all the essential functions. The entire seat can be removed in one go for easy cleaning. The SensoWash® Starck e shower-toilet seat has a replacement spray head, energy-saving mode and additional features such as a night light. The slender and elegant remote control for all the SensoWash shower-toilet seats is discreet and completely intuitive to operate.

    Furthermore, the new rimless toilets optimise the flushing process: thanks to the open design, the rim is cleaned hygienically and efficiently and the entire inner surface is rinsed with a dynamic and powerful jet that uses only a small amount of water. Another advantage in terms of hygiene: the special anti-bacterial HygieneGlaze2.0 coating, which is baked into the ceramic surface during the firing process, acts fast
    and effectively, killing 99.9% of germs and providing lasting protection.

     

    Duravit introduces new range of tap fittings

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    Following the success of C.1, Duravit introduces two further universal tap fitting ranges – B.1 and B.2. The ranges are positioned in the entry and mid-level price segment.

    For Duravit, these tap fittings represent an extension of the fundamental concept of designing the bathroom in a streamlined and consistent “language,” and allow for a complete Duravit bathroom. The tap fitting ranges, B.1 and B.2, are competitively priced offering added value, particularly for architects and developers. B.1 features soft, round contours, while B.2 boasts a straight-lined, striking design. Two different spout heights (S and M) cater to personal requirements for the washbasin.

    Polished chrome surfaces ensure a pleasant feel on all models. The water jet can be optimally adapted to the user’s needs thanks to an individually adjustable aerator. B.1 and B.2 also offer an ideal tap fitting solution for any installation scenario in all other areas of the bathroom, such as the bidet, shower and bathtub.

    For the shower, there is a choice between single-lever shower mixers and a thermostatic shower mixer for exposed or concealed installation. These can be combined with any square or round showerheads for wall or ceiling installation, and shower rails and hand showers in various versions. Ready-made, pre-fitted shower systems with showerheads and hand showers are available as a full practical solution – and can also be fitted retrospectively. All options are available for the bathtub: from the tub rim tap fitting to freestanding bath mixers; from thermostatic to single-lever mixers for exposed or concealed installation.

    The Duravit BlueBox®, a universal installation system for a range of tap fitting designs (lever mixers or thermostats), is used for concealed installation. This allows the design decision to be taken even after the basic set has been installed.

    Duravit wins the iF GOLD AWARD 2018

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    Duravit C.1 tap fittings win the iF GOLD AWARD 2018 – Luv, Vero Air c-bonded and the BioTracer honoured with the iF DESIGN AWARD March 2018 – making it the 41st iF DESIGN AWARD for the company.

    The iF GOLD AWARD acknowledges the design excellence, execution, consideration of environmental standards, functionality and innovations of the new C.1 tap fittings range. This award again confirms Duravit’s high level of design expertise. In addition, Luv, Vero Air c-bonded and the BioTracer were honoured with the iF DESIGN AWARD.

    The iF DESIGN AWARD is awarded once a year by the world’s oldest independent design institution – this year comprising 63-strong, independent, international expert judges with their high and innovative design competence.

    The “iF GOLD AWARD” was accepted by the designer Kurt Merki Jr., Product Manager for Tap Fittings Timo-Marcel Nagel and Head of PR Joseph Greilinger at the awards ceremony on 9th March in Munich.

    Chairman of the Board of Management, Dr. Frank Richter said “Our aspiration is: to make designer bathrooms come alive. This is guaranteed by the highest quality, original design and comfort-enhancing technology. This brand essence defines our DNA worldwide, and it distinguishes everything we do. To our delight, the iF GOLD AWARD this year proves that we are on the right track”.

    The C.1 design range perfectly reflects Duravit’s design language. The ergonomic handle with a recess underneath feels comfortable in the hand and permits a precise operation. Sophisticated details, such as the gap between the base plate and handle which has been reduced to a minimum, add to the elegant look.


    Four different heights for a range of basin dimensions, three-hole tap fittings in two heights and wall-mounted fittings with a spout in two lengths provide comfort at the washbasin as well as matching design. C.1 also offers an ideal tap fitting solution for the bidet, shower and bathtub.

    Luv, Vero Air c-bonded and the BioTracer were also honoured with the iF DESIGN AWARD. Offering a vision of the future, the BioTracer was first shown at ISH 2017. In line with all Duravit products, the BioTracer will offer exceptional comfort and hygiene functions, along with the ability to monitor urine to evaluate levels of health and wellbeing. The BioTracer is currently a prototype and once validated, Duravit plans to make the BioTracer available initially in mainland Europe.

     

    Novum and Wyndham sign multi-development Euro deal

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    A long-term development agreement between Novum Hospitality and Wyndham Hotel Group has been announced, with both companies developing new hotels in key destinations across Europe, including Germany, Austria, Belgium, The Netherlands, Poland, UK and Republic of Ireland.

    Founded in 1988, German-based Novum Hospitality has grown to become one of Germany’s largest hotel management groups, boasting over 20,000 rooms across 160 hotels. The new agreement with Wyndham Hotel Group means any new hotels developed will join the Novum management portfolio under the Wyndham Grand, Wyndham, Wyndham Garden, Ramada, Ramada Encore, TRYP by Wyndham, Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, Days Inn and Super 8 brands.

    Growth Opportunity

    Discussing the new agreement, Christian Michel, vice president development central & Eastern Europe (EMEA) Wyndham Hotel Group, said: “Novum Hospitality has a long-standing reputation for developing high quality hotels in urban hotspots throughout Europe, and its expansion plans perfectly complement our development objectives in this dynamic market.

    “Europe offers tremendous potential and working with Novum Hospitality will enable us to further extend our footprint with more quality accommodation in a diverse range of destinations.”

    Novum CEO and owner David Etmenan added: “This strategic alliance with Wyndham Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest and most diverse hotel companies, is an extraordinary growth opportunity for us. We are already planning a number of projects in sought-after destinations in Europe and we look forward to developing up to 20 hotels together in the future.”

    £15m Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate development funded by HSBC

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    Major redevelopment project will create up to 60 new jobs for the local economy with the support of a multi-million pound finance facility from HSBC.

    The Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate in Cornwall is to complete a long-planned £15 million redevelopment after securing funding from HSBC.

    The 125-acre Estate, which is already home to the luxury Carbis Bay Hotel, a range of self-catering properties, a privately-owned 25-acre Blue Flag beach, two restaurants and spa facilities, will is adding eight luxury beach lodges and a 15,185 sq ft multi-use venue, creating up to 60 new jobs for the local economy in the process.

    The two and three storey beach lodges with rooftop or beach gardens and hot tubs are expected to be ready for guests in July 2018, followed by completion of the ocean suites, an extensive events venue and dining and retail facilities towards the end of the year.

    The hotel says its new venue will enhance the Estate’s current offer and promote it as a ‘must-see’ destination stop for tourists to the region.

    Additionally, it will be possible to hold larger corporate and society events and weddings with a capacity of up to 200 guests.

    The Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate is also using some of the HSBC funding to install two combined heat and power (CHP) units at the development. The units will recycle waste energy generated at the site and use it to power the existing hotel, the beach lodges and multi-use venue, in turn helping reduce energy costs and its overall impact on the environment.

    Eight Years In The Making

    Stephen Baker, Owner of Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate, said: “Work began on our ambitious redevelopment project in November 2015 but it was 2010 when we first started the planning application process, so this really has been a labour of love for us for almost a decade. The scheme has been heavily supported by HSBC and in particular our relationship director, Martin Rowe, who alongside his team, has fully understood the complexity of our finance requirements throughout, which is allowing us to future-proof the hotel and Estate by making better use of the site and improving the wide-ranging facilities for our guests.”

    James Jordan, HSBC’s Area Director for Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, added: “HSBC has a long history of supporting businesses in the leisure and hospitality industry, not just here in the South West but right across the UK. Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate is an outstanding example of an ambitious and forward-thinking business which we are proud to have supported over the years. As Stephen says, his funding requirements have been complex at times, but our team has been able to get under the skin of the business and showcase the experience we have in the sector. We look forward to seeing the project when it’s complete and supporting the business with future ventures… although we suspect it may be some time before they embark on something of this magnitude again!”

    Scotland’s Green Tourism efforts applauded

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    Sustainable tourism business in Scotland has saved 1 million tonnes of water and ¼ million tonnes of carbon according to an impacts report published by the sustainable accreditation organisation, Green Tourism.

    The report, entitled ’20 years of making a difference’, addresses the positive impact Green Tourism accredited businesses have had on the environment over a period of twenty years.

    Green Tourism sustainability assessments undertaken by the organisation spanning the last twenty years have revealed carbon and water savings, habitat and biodiversity creation, waste recovery, local procurement and business savings.

    The detailed analysis was undertaken across tourism businesses including hoteliers, visitor attractions, tour operators and event and conference venues across Scotland.

    The impact of a combined sustainable approach across 809 Scottish accredited businesses shows that 5 million ‘green’ bed nights were enjoyed in 2017, with 25 million visitors choosing sustainable destinations, attractions and venues in 2016.

    Furthermore, 1.5 million trees have been planted by environmentally-aware tourism businesses over the last 20 years.

    The report also shows that the ‘green movement’ is gaining traction, with 30% of tourism businesses now part of a local food initiative, an increase of 150% in 5 years.

    In addition, 298 (84%) food service businesses have switched to sustainable sourcing with at least 60% of their menus coming from local producers in the last year.

    Ongoing Process

    Green Tourism Managing Director Andrea Nicholas (pictured above with Chairman Jon Proctor) said: “Green Tourism’s impact over the last 20 years has seen the growth of renewable energy sources, millions of tonnes of carbon and water saved and a stronger emphasis on local produce amongst participating businesses. Tourism is in a unique position to deliver sustainable goals as the industry connects people, places and our planet.”

    Green Tourism Chairman Jon Proctor said: “By assessing the performance of businesses against over 150 sustainability indicators, we have access to in-depth data on what sustainable organisations are doing in order to meet their sustainability goals. This is an ongoing process highlighting where improvements can be made and it goes beyond cost savings; we encourage tourism businesses to invest in their local community by enabling guests to experience local cultural experiences or social projects. Our research has shown that Green Tourism accredited businesses are more efficient and offer better customer experiences.”

    Impact On The Environment

    Green Tourism says it is setting ambitious targets to broaden its reach and penetration.

    Nicholas added: “Our ambitions are to support a wider range and number of businesses through digital technologies. By making assessments more accessible and productive and reporting easier we can support businesses on their green journey which, cumulatively is making a significant impact on the environment.”

    Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: “The success of Scottish tourism rests not only on its economic competitiveness but also on protecting and enhancing the environment, society and culture, which are vital to the brand, the industry and our ability to continue to attract visitors from around the world time and time again.

    “The fantastic work of Green Tourism over the past 20 years, and the businesses that have implemented a wide range of environmental and social practices, has made great strides in spearheading and showcasing sustainable tourism in Scotland.

    “Scotland’s reputation as a quality destination relies on continued investment and innovation. As visitors become more socially and environmentally conscious – as identified by our 2017 Trend, ‘Hunt for Sustainability’ – going green has become increasingly important.”

    Malmaison to open in Edinburgh’s New Town

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    Boutique hotel brand has signed a development agreement to renovate a Grade A Listed property in St Andrew Square.

    Malmaison Hotel du Vin Group has signed an agreement with S Harrison Developments to redevelop the Grade A listed Buchan House in to its latest boutique hotel, marking its second Edinburgh location and creating 50 jobs in the process.

    Planning permission was granted for the ‘multimillion pound’ project in November last year and renovation work on the St. Andrew Square venue will begin in the first half of 2018, ahead of an opening in 2019.

    Malmaison says it will restore the building’s period features and inject a distinctive, design style to make Buchan House a unique hotel offering within the famous Georgian architecture of Edinburgh’s New Town.

    The new hotel will offer 72 bedrooms and suites, alongside a Chez Mal Bar and Brasserie.

    Ongoing Expansion

    Buchan House will complement the Malmaison Edinburgh Leith, which was the first Malmaison to open back in 1994. It also marks the latest development in a period of significant growth and investment for the brand, including plans to introduce Malmaison to Bournemouth and York, as well as the roll-out of its contemporary Chez Mal bar and brasserie and Work + Play meeting and events concept.

    Guus Bakker, Chief Executive Officer, Malmaison Hotel du Vin, said: “Edinburgh is a much loved global destination for tourists and businesses alike, and Malmaison is a great fit for the City and its visitors. We are delighted to be complementing our very first hotel, in Leith, with a great venue for visitors to the city centre. Where better to demonstrate our commitment to Scotland than with the opening of Malmaison in the famous St Andrews Square?”

    Ramsdale Hall Hotel completes £400k ballroom renovation

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    Project also included a new entrance and an area for private receptions.

    The Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa in Country Durham has invested £400,000 to give a new look to its main ballroom – which includes the creation of a new entrance and an area for private receptions.

    The hotel says the investment will enable it to maintain its four-star standards, particularly for weddings, conferences and other events.

    The ballroom – which until recently was reached via a side entrance – now opens up at the front of the hotel with a new set of windows, designed to flood the area with natural light.

    The room, one of a number of spaces that the hotel has for events, can accommodate from 80 to 180 for a wedding breakfast or meeting and up to 250 for an evening reception or conference.

    The transformation of the ballroom follows on from a range of developments at Ramside Hall Hotel in recent years, which now offers 127 luxury bedrooms, two championship golf courses and an award-winning spa.

    John Adamson, owner of the hotel which is part of Ramside Estates, believes the transformation will be a huge hit with couples planning their weddings at Ramside: “The ballroom has always been extremely popular for both events and wedding celebrations and the new frontage will make it even more attractive.

    “It looks fantastic as a backdrop for photographs and also has the real wow factor for when guests arrive at the hotel.”

     Along with the ballroom, Ramside has a range of other event spaces, including the Bishops Suite, which can take up to 500 people and can also be broken down into a number of smaller rooms, the Fountain Room, which can take up to 80, and a number of smaller board rooms, which are perfect for intimate dinners or small meetings.