Sani Resort, the five-star resort and ecological reserve in Halkidiki, is expanding its choice of suites and rooms with a brand new adult-friendly hotel, Sani Dunes, set to open at the end of June 2017.
This chic new destination will offer a private beach, indoor and outdoor heated pools, an exclusive spa with six private treatment rooms, including a couple’s suite with private steam bath, a special Thai massage cabin, fitness studio and gourmet restaurants.
Low-rise contemporary accommodation will comprise 80 exceptionally spacious Junior Suites and Panorama Junior Suites, as well as 56 Double and Family Rooms, all furnished with stylish, handcrafted Mediterranean touches. Several suites will offer beautifully appointed terraces, balconies or private gardens.
DoubleTree by Hilton has announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central, located in the centre of the city. The property is owned and managed by Amaris Hospitality and is joining Hilton’s Scottish portfolio of 16 properties.
Having undergone a £11 million refurbishment, this new hotel in the centre of Glasgow is home to 300 modern guest rooms, including three fully equipped suites. DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central also offers world-class conference facilities with Scotland’s largest hotel meeting space, The Grand Ballroom.
The ballroom can accommodate up to 1,500 meeting or event attendees, making it the perfect space in Scotland for large events, conferences and weddings. A further 12 meeting spaces are also available on site, all with natural daylight and state-of-the-art equipment.
Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president and global head, DoubleTree by Hilton said, “The sophisticated property offers close proximity to a number of top attractions, including the SSE Hydro arena, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and major nearby businesses. Beyond this, DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central offers guests the welcoming comforts and hospitality that travellers can expect from DoubleTree by Hilton, starting with the presentation of a warm, Chocolate Chip Cookie at check-in, a symbol of the kindness that makes a stay with us so memorable.”
Guests can unwind and refresh at the hotel’s heated pool, sauna and steam rooms. Additionally, the property’s restaurant, Brisket, offers another space for guests to relax.
John Brennan, CEO of Amaris Hospitality said, “We are extremely excited to be opening the new DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central Hotel after an extensive £11 million investment and refurbishment. This wonderful, city-centre hotel is Amaris Hospitality’s second Hilton brand hotel in Scotland. We look for great hotels in world class locations and the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central Hotel is the perfect addition to the Amaris portfolio.”
Red Planet Hotels, the fast-growing pan-Asian budget hotel chain has announced it has received $70 million (£53.7 million) from Goldman Sachs, the leading global investment bank.
Founded in 2010, Red Planet Hotels owns and operates a portfolio of 26 hotels in Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The funds from Goldman Sachs will facilitate the activation of a confirmed pipeline for 10 hotels to open over the next 24 months.
Red Planet Hotels Chief Executive Officer, Tim Hansing, said the investment would solidify the company’s current expansion roadmap and help to establish a basis to close a final round of private investor equity to support further expansion of the brand.
“We have a well-diversified portfolio over four countries, and have developed a highly systemised brand. We have also created a unique customer-facing IT platform that is without parallel in our market. We now have substantial growth opportunities not only in our existing markets but also in additional countries where we are confident our brand and product will excel,” Mr Hansing added.
“To have our company, our people, our product, and our brand be funded by Goldman Sachs indeed gives us the confidence that we are on the right track to our stated goal of a 2018 IPO.”
Since 2011 Red Planet Hotels has raised $240 million (£184 million) of capital and the funds from Goldman Sachs position the company well to complete its next and final pre-IPO round of capital raising amounting to $250 million (£192 million).
Z Hotels has injected its signature style into a collection of Georgian townhouses in the capital’s lively West End, offering urban luxury at an affordable price: a city stay at out of town prices.
Z Hotels at Gloucester Place With rooms from just £85 per night, the venture is a first for the brand, consisting of a designer conversion of five individual townhouses in Gloucester Place, ideally located between Portman Square and Marylebone Road.
Known for expertly designed and compact accommodation across the portfolio, the hotel invites guests to unwind in beautiful listed buildings with a contemporary and stylish upgrade. New room types are available, including King bedrooms and Junior Suites with additional lounge areas and large wardrobes. Guests in all of the 94 bedrooms will be able to take advantage of the spacious and relaxed Z Café located at 51- 53 Gloucester Place, the biggest yet for Z Hotels.
Z Hotels CLUB at Gloucester Place At the same time, the hotel has introduced another exciting new concept within this venture. Z Hotels CLUB is a 20 bedroom designer townhouse conversion located at 87 Gloucester Place. With bedrooms designed to the same high standard associated with all Z Hotels, all CLUB bookings include complimentary breakfast, drinks and snacks throughout the day, afternoon tea and cocktails. The communal area offers a sociable meeting place where guests can truly make themselves at home. Prices start from £110 a night.
As with all Z Hotels, each bedroom features a large Samsung HD TV with a full selection of Sky Sports, BT Sports and Sky Movies available at no extra cost, power shower, bespoke hand-crafted bed, luxury bed linen and free Wi-Fi.
Bev King, director of Z Hotels commented: “We are really excited to be developing the brand and experimenting with the beautiful Gloucester Place properties. The structure and layout of the townhouses allowed us trying something new, and although the majority of the rooms are bigger, the ethos of Z continues to remain throughout the new hotel.”
Leonardo Hotels is opening its second UK hotel in Edinburgh on October 7.
Following the launch of Leonardo Hotel London Heathrow Airport in March 2015, the brand is continuing with its European expansion, with the new 282-bed Edinburgh hotel up and running next month.
The centrally-located hotel is a former Premier Inn, of which there are currently six in Edinburgh alone. The Leonardo Hotel will now undergo a renovation process, overseen by interior designer Andreas Neudahm.
As well as the 282 bedrooms, the building is home to four function rooms and a conference centre.
Daniel Roger, Managing Director Europe, said: “We are delighted to add Edinburgh to our portfolio. The capital of Scotland is a fascinating and multifaceted city. It is second only to London as the largest economic and trade center in Great Britain. I am certain that we can expect a positive response from our guests at the new destination, as we are offering them another attractive addition to our existing hotels.”
Leonardo Hotels is the European division of Fattal Hotels Group, founded by David Fattal in Israel. Leonardo Hotels has been present with over 65 hotels in more than 35 destinations on the European market since 2007, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary as well as Italy.
Virgin Hotels, the lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, has announced plans to open and operate a new hotel in Milpitas, California, within a new neighborhood development of top tier residential and retail stores called “The Fields.”
The mixed used development broke ground in November 2015 and the hotel is expected to break ground in the autumn of 2017. The Silicon Valley hotel will be managed by Virgin Hotels and developed by Lyon Living.
“As we grow the Virgin Hotels brand, the way we continue to expand our footprint in key destinations that align with our brand values is incredibly exciting. Our move into Silicon Valley is the perfect example of this, given our dedication to thoughtful technology within our guest experience,” says Raul Leal, CEO of Virgin Hotels. “The city of Milpitas is also experiencing a revitalization driven by the tech industry and developments like The Fields, so we’re thrilled to be a significant part of that growth and look forward to welcoming those travelers visiting Silicon Valley for both business and pleasure.”
Virgin Hotels Silicon Valley, anticipated to open Fall 2019, will feature 200 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites; multiple dining and drinking outlets, including the brand’s flagship space, The Commons Club; a coffee shop; numerous meeting spaces; and a rooftop bar and live music venue. Strategically located between the I-680 and I-880 freeways, the development is also adjacent to Milpitas’ Great Mall, which is currently undergoing a $20 million renovation.
The brand’s first hotel, Virgin Hotels Chicago, is now open and accepting reservations with Nashville, Dallas, Palm Springs and New York slated to open next. Virgin Hotels continues to explore properties in cities such as Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, Austin, Seattle, San Francisco, Washington DC, and London; locations where it is pursuing hotel and office conversions and ground-up development.
Chelsom is pleased to reveal its work with Martin Brudnizki Design Studio and the Cardy Group in creating a stunning custom designed lighting scheme for the guestrooms and suites of one of New York’s coolest new hotel openings – Thompson Hotels The Beekman.
The scheme was completely individual in its entirety as to be expected from MBDS and the lighting pieces designed for the project were no exception. Key pieces included Art Deco-themed bespoke ceiling pendants in antique brass and frosted glass with laser cut detailing for the entrance lobbies to the suites, in addition to stunning mouth-blown smoke glass chandeliers adorning all the guestrooms and suites.
Bespoke orb ceramic table lamps in an olive green crackled finish complete with decorative collar were specified for the bedside along with a kitsch foo dog table lamp in imperial blue.
The lighting scheme was further supplemented by the addition of a striking desk lamp in the form of mouth-blown Venetian glass hand-painted egg in a plethora of vivid colours. The guestroom lighting scheme was completed by two floor lamps; the first being a metal fitting finished in matt black with a decorative wooden handle, teamed with a peacock blue French drum shade lined in gold to give a warm ambient light and create a subtle shimmer effect. The second piece was a retro feel angle poised metal floor standard with a solid marble base and brass detailing finished with a coloured can shaped head.
A duo of vintage inspired chrome wall sconces positioned either side of a centrepiece mirror adorn all bathrooms. Dimmable LED light sources are encased in moulded optical frosted glass to create a classic yet eclectic feel, one perfectly in-keeping with both the flawless interior scheme created by the team at MBDS and the historic building itself.
Hilton’s Hampton by Hilton brand has announced the opening of its newest property, Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Zeytinburnu.
The 162-room hotel joins the Hampton by Hilton family of Hampton Inn by Hilton and Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton hotels, and joins a further 44 Hilton properties in Turkey.
Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Zeytinburnu is conveniently located 13 kilometres from Istanbul Ataturk Airport.
The LEED (Leadership in Energy Environment Design) Platinum certified property has been recognised for its green building features, including its significant water and energy savings. Preserving the environment is one of the key pillars of Travel with Purpose, Hilton’s corporate responsibility strategy.
Free Wi-Fi, a business centre and five meeting rooms are also available. Each guestroom features high-quality amenities, including the brand’s signature Clean and fresh Hampton bed®, 40-inch LCD TV and complimentary coffee and tea.
A boathouse in Windermere has been transformed into one of the Lake District’s most exclusive holiday destinations, set in secluded woodland at Storrs Hall hotel, which recently became part of the Bespoke Hotels collection.
The Grade II* listed building has undergone renovation work costing more than £500,000. Available to book from September 2016, its guests will be able to enjoy the totally private luxury accommodation with stunning views across the lake.
The Boathouse; Storrs Hall; Windermere JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY
Guests will access the 200-year-old boathouse via a keypad at the handmade gates. The building’s refurbishment includes bespoke fixtures and fittings, from the unique American black walnut bed, Arte three-dimensional textile wall coverings and a Keuco bathroom, to an iPad-controlled mood-lighting and sound system which controls everything from the window blinds to the Sonos music equipment. This historic building has been reinvented with solid oak woodwork, a huge spa shower which becomes a steam room, and underfloor heating.
The Boathouse; Storrs Hall; Windermere
JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY
The Boathouse; Storrs Hall; Windermere
JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY
Both the bed and the bath face the picture window, making the most of the location. Mark Hindle, the owner of Storrs Hall, said: “We are creating the perfect holiday destination with total privacy for those who want all the service and luxury this lovely hotel has to offer.
The Boathouse; Storrs Hall; Windermere JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY
The transformation of the boathouse is part of a massive renovation project at Storrs Hall by the Hindle family. Since 2013, the public areas and nearly all of the 30 bedrooms and suites have been refurbished, with the rest of the rooms due to be completed by early 2017. More renovation work is then planned for the rest of the Storrs Hall estate, including its self-catering lakeside lodges.
The Boathouse; Storrs Hall; Windermere JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY
More than £50,000 is being spent on each room and suite in the hotel. They have been individually designed to feature Italian marble, contemporary bathrooms and décor to frame the lake views many of the rooms enjoy.
A new 163-room Four Seasons hotel and private residential complex is going to be built on Montreal’s de la Montagne St, Quebec property developer Carbonleo has announced.
The $250 million (£145 million) project, already under construction on the long-vacant site, will include 18 “exclusive private residences,” three restaurants and a 6,000-square-foot ballroom and be directly connected to the Ogilvy department store on Ste-Catherine St., itself getting a $60-million expansion and rebranding by owner Holt Renfrew & Co.
Part of the hotel project will be atop the 220,000-square-foot Holt/Ogilvy retail complex.
“Montrealers have been waiting to see how De la Montagne St. would evolve and we’re very proud to be part of this unique project while contributing to the revitalization of this downtown area,” said Andrew Lutfy, chairman of the board of Carbonleo. “This will become an exciting lifestyle and dining epicentre for both Montrealers and visitors.”
Scheduled completion date for the hotel is the end of 2018.
DesignLSM has recently completed the interior design for Burger & Lobster – Leicester Square, helping to bring the popular concept to the exclusive location of the 5-star W hotel.
The restaurant forms part of the brand’s current expansion plans along with the recent openings of the London sites of West India Quay and Holborn.
Located a short stroll away from the bustling Soho site, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square is housed beneath the W’s striking exterior, in an arresting double height space with a vast mezzanine upper floor featuring an open kitchen and dining area.
DesignLSM designers retained some of the sites original features including the grand brass bar front, central spiral staircase and timber flooring carefully curating these elements into the brand’s unique design scheme.
Inside the restaurant a dazzling hanging light chandelier takes centre stage, designed to be evocative of the luxury hotel’s external lighting facade. The signature features of lobster tanks and bold banquette seating create an instantly recognisable connection to the Burger & Lobster brand accompanied by the new addition of a refined and relaxed downstairs bar and lounge area.
DesignLSM have worked with Burger & Lobster on all of their restaurants in the UK and internationally, helping to establish the unique brand through signature interior design elements in each of their hugely popular restaurants.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Burger & Lobster and assist them with their ambitious growth – we have relished the opportunity of developing the brand and interiors as they have expanded, creating a truly recognisable personality and engaging environment. We look forward to continuing this exciting and enjoyable journey with our client,” said Andrew Harwood, Projects Director.
GROHE’s innovative technology uses the tap’s own water flow to drive a turbine, concealed in a small box installed below the basin.
This converts the energy from the flowing water into storable electrical energy which then powers the tap’s infrared function. Just 60 seconds of running water delivers and stores enough energy to power the mixer for 24 hours- saving water, energy and money for your project.
The Powerbox’s simple design means its positive benefits can be applied to a wide number of applications. It’s especially suited to busy public facilities, from airports and hotels to offices and public institutions. Its self-sustaining power model and low maintenance design also makes it perfect for projects where mains electricity is absent or unreliable, and is a great choice for projects emphasising sustainability and eco-efficiency.
The PowerBox maintains GROHE’s standards of design excellence, and can be used with three different tap designs – GROHE’s Europlus E, Eurosmart Cosmopolitan E for mixed water and the Euroeco Cosmopolitan E for a cold or pre-blended water.
Raj Mistry, GROHE UK Marketing Director, comments: “The self-sufficient PowerBox from GROHE is a smart and sustainable choice for projects. The mixer is able to deliver an energy efficient and money saving solution for a wide variety of commercial uses”.
American furniture retailer West Elm has announced this week that it will launch a boutique hotel brand – West Elm Hotels – in partnership with hospitality firm DDK.
The first properties are expected to be located in Detroit, Minneapolis, Savannah, Charlotte, and Indianapolis and are planned to open in late 2018. Additional locations will be announced at a future date.
“After twenty-six consecutive quarters of double-digit comparative growth, including our successful entry into the commercial furnishings market with West Elm Workspace, we’ve created an active bond with our customers that can extend beyond home and work,” said Jim Brett, president of West Elm. “By adapting the framework design of each hotel to reflect the mood and identity of its host city, we will continue to engage the adventurous spirit of our customers as they follow us to our next level of hospitality.”
As part of West Elm’s ongoing commitment and relationship with makers around the world, each West Elm hotel will feature local design elements that celebrate community and reflect traditional décor, handicraft, cuisine and culture from the region. Artwork will be commissioned and curated locally for each guest room as well as for the communal, common areas in each hotel.
To test its ideas for West Elm Hotels, the company built mock rooms in a warehouse in Brooklyn. The room furnishings are custom designed for the hotels, including marine blue tile in the bathroom, marble coffee tables and 280-thread count cotton sheets.
“There is a growing desire among modern travellers to immerse themselves in the place they are visiting. They want a boutique experience, and expect great, reliable service that caters to their needs,” said David Bowd, co-founder of DDK. “Our general managers will serve as innkeepers, and West Elm HOTELS will focus on making real community connections for visitors and residents alike.”
A network of locally managed properties, West Elm HOTELS revolves around three key tenets: – Wholehearted hospitality: Great service, personalised attention, regional knowledge and community connections will help guests feel like a local and at home. – Distinctive, thoughtful design: Each property will have its own design point of view, from the exterior architecture to custom installations, such as locally crafted art and bespoke furnishings. – Community connection: Communal spaces and one-of-a-kind experiences will bring guests and neighbors together in a relaxed, collective setting.
True to the West Elm brand, these tenets will be reflected in the design, programming and overall guest visit to offer an inviting and accessible hospitality experience. Guests will also be able to purchase the furnishings and artwork found in any room on-line at www.westelm.com.
Hilton has announced that one of the most treasured landmarks in St. Louis is the latest addition to Curio – A Collection by Hilton.
Following a $40 million transformation, St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton offers 539 luxurious rooms and suites in what was once the largest and most ornate railway terminal in the United States with some guest room floors designed and furnished with a railroad theme. Built in 1894 and converted to a hotel in 1985, the National Historic Landmark in downtown St. Louis is well-known for its iconic jewel – the massive Grand Hall, a lobby lounge area with 65-foot ornate vaulted ceilings on which a dazzling 3D light show is projected nightly.
“Across the Curio collection, we take pride in offering guests unique hotel experiences that exude local flavor so, we welcome the landmark St. Louis Union Station Hotel to Curio,” said Mark Nogal, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton. “With its luminescent Grand Hall and eclectic amenities, this iconic property allows guests to discover all St. Louis has to offer and enriches our growing global brand.”
Built of Indiana limestone and reminiscent of a French Castle, St. Louis Union Station retains many charming architectural features from its past, such as original mosaic tile work, the mysterious Romanesque “whispering arch” and the signature 280-foot clock tower. Its centerpiece is the historic Grand Hall, where guests can enjoy local craft beers and seasonally inspired small plate offerings beneath gold-leaf ceilings surrounded by Romanesque arches and stained glass windows.
Projected on the Grand Hall’s 65-foot tall ceilings and across the entire space, the nightly 3D light show is comprised of 30 vignettes, all stretching the barrier of creative design, innovation and story-telling. The first of its kind high-definition projection mapping experience in the United States, the award-winning extravaganza captivates guests of all ages via vignettes told though sound, music and cutting edge 3D animation.
The Hotel Designs Summit was held at Radisson Blu London Stansted on 12-13 September, with a host of hoteliers, designers and manufacturers all joining together for meetings, networking sessions and seminars. Hotel Designs had the pleasure of catching up with Deema Sahyoun, founder and director at inD Creations…
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Hotel Designs: Hello Deema, tell us a bit about yourself and your background in the industry… Deema Sahyoun: I actually started off a product designer, and then I got quite lucky and fell into a job in hotel design by coincidence. I absolutely fell in love with the hospitality industry – especially the creativity it allows, the challenges you face and the joy you can bring people through a space.
So, I freelanced for about four or five years but always wanted to start my own company and I have slowly built up my company over the last four years. In the last year I’ve just found my niche within the boutique and independently-owned hotels where, although it’s a smaller budget, it’s rewarding to achieve beauty with a tighter budget and that’s what I specialise in now.
HD: And what’s your inspiration, what inspires you when working on a project? DS: It’s a number of different things – first and foremost, it’s the building and the impression you get when you first walk in. And then meeting the people that work there. Many of these hotels are older and have been owned by the same family for a long time, and the managers have worked there for years – so for me, it’s about getting a sense of the culture of the hotel.
Next it’s case of the general area and location of the property. And then the challenges of the space usually lead the creative process. For example, with tiny rooms, it’s how you work to make them appear bigger.
Some of the work carried out by inD Creations
HD: What’s your favourite design that you’ve seen? DS: That’s always a difficult question to answer! I like a whole range of different design elements… [HD: I suppose they reflect the personalities of the designers?]…Exactly, and their distinctive styles! But I mean, I like Firmdale Hotels a lot and how Kit Kemp is led by the environment around the properties in her design.
I think it’s important a that hotel design moves with the way we live, that includes the environment and how we eat, how we move, how we relax and so on. I think Kit Kemp does that well within the boutique industry allowing it to flood into the way the hotels look feel
HD: And what about your own – a project you really enjoyed working on? DS: Oh gosh, I have many that I’ve enjoyed for different reasons! But I did a project in Egypt and, being from the Middle East, I quite enjoyed bringing a sense of modernity to the Arab culture and making it trendy.
I have been working closely with Capricorn Hotels over the last few years and it has been a joy working with them; we have a long term plan towards bringing their hotels to life and it has been a great experience being part of such a great team.
I also did the bar at the K West Hotel in Shepherd’s Bush – and I really enjoyed that project because there was a lot of juicy creativity that I could bring into that because of its story.
HD: And what future trends can you see coming in the next three years? DS: Well, I think the way people are looking at hotels is completely changing – people are shying away from branded hotels, and the idea that if I go to this hotel anywhere around the world it will look exactly the same. It’s all about being individual, being independent and about giving people a sense of place. It’s about the language between its location and getting the people who are staying there to go out and get a feel of the locale.
And then we’re definitely seeing an influence from the way we live – so, not filling the room with desks for example, as nobody likes sitting facing the wall; people would rather you had a nice communal area with coffees and somewhere to work. So the standard things you need in a hotel are completely changing – having smaller wardrobes, but bigger lounge space for example.
HD: Are there trends your clients are specifically asking for? DS: I tend to play it by ear – I don’t know if it’s just me, but the clients I work with really rely on me to keep on top of trends! But a couple of their main stipulations are always that it lasts a long while and space is used well.
Sekers proudly launches Nova Scotia, a new upholstery collection of six textured designs, available in a palette of 38 colours, ranging from earthy neutrals to radiant jewel tones.
Nova Scotia is a versatile mix of designs ranging from large and small scale basket weaves to multi-tonal plains.
Supplied with a Crib 5 flame retardant backing and with a minimum Martindale abrasion performance of 40,000, Nova Scotia is perfect for the most demanding upholstery application and the ideal choice for the commercial hospitality, leisure and marine markets.
ALL SALES AND SAMPLING ENQUIRIES TO: Sekers Fabrics Limited 7a Nobel Road, Wester Gourdie Industrial Estate Dundee, DD2 4UH Sales Tel: +44 (0) 1946 517501 Sales Fax: +44 (0) 1946 517502 UK & Ireland Email: sales@sekers.co.uk Export Email: export@sekers.co.uk www.sekersfabrics.co.uk
IHG is looking for suitable sites in Sydney and Melbourne for its Hotel Indigo brand.
Bruce Ryde, IHG’s Asia, Middle East and Africa head of luxury and lifestyle brand marketing, said: “We feel the brand will resonate in Australia as it is a mature market and travellers are always looking for a new experience. The Indigo brand would, we feel, work well in places like Surry Hills and the eastern suburbs and we are keen to be there sooner rather than later.”
IHG launched its first Indigo in the Asia Pacific region in January last year with the Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road and the second in July this year with the opening of Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach will open in late 2016.
“Guest reaction is now immediate, so as hoteliers we must offer a point of difference, which is the aim of the Indigo brand,” said Ryde. “Each Hotel Indigo property is distinct, with no two alike, as each is designed to reflect the local culture, character and history of its surrounding area. From the service to the architecture to the cuisine, all Indigo properties evoke the unique tastes and cultures that make up the communities of the neighbourhood in which they are located.”
W Hotels Worldwide, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, today announced the debut of W Dubai – Al Habtoor City, the brand’s first hotel in the emirate.
Owned by the Al Habtoor Group, the design-led lifestyle brand is set to shake up the destination with its rooftop W Lounge, pulsating WET pool deck and innovative fashion and music happenings. The opening marks the W brand’s second outpost in the Middle East, following the debut of W Doha in 2009.
Set within the ambitious Al Habtoor City project, the Emirate’s first fully-integrated urban resort, W Dubai – Al Habtoor City rises 33 stories above the vibrant Sheikh Zayed Road, overlooking the newly built Dubai Water Canal. Upon arrival, guests are whisked up 30 floors to the W Lounge (the W brand’s reinterpretation of the staid hotel lobby) where a jaw-dropping, panoramic view of the shimmering city awaits.
Destination restaurant Namu, located above the W Lounge, bathes diners in golden light from the setting sun, offering an original fusion of Japanese and Korean flavors served in a futuristic setting with asymmetrical furnishings. Level Seven, a causal and sociable hotspot, serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine from a theatrical open kitchen and features a chef’s table, and crudo bar.
The menu is inspired by the chef’s daily market finds and seasonal produce, including small, shareable plates. Adorned with wood, steel and vintage art, the natural Mediterranean-inspired décor sets the tone for a relaxing and delectable meal.
Igniting the pulsing heart of Dubai’s social scene is the hotel’s WET Deck. Boldly landscaped, the WET pool deck transforms from a glamorous place to lounge by day, with outdoor pools, private cabanas, light bites and refreshing drinks, to an evening hotspot to see and be seen. DJs play hypnotic sets while guests sip on W signature cocktails and soak in the sultry, vibrant atmosphere.
The Steigenberger Hotel Group has opened its second hotel in Turkey – the Steigenberger Airport Hotel Istanbul.
“We are proud to open our second hotel in Turkey and to expand our international portfolio further. Our guests will enjoy Turkish hospitality meeting German standards in one of the most pulsating cities of the world,” said Puneet Chhatwal, CEO of the Steigenberger Hotel Group.
All 209 guest rooms feature both innovative design elements as well as flexible workspaces. All guests have free Wi-Fi access, and rooms are equipped with LCD flat screens. The hotel also houses a modern health and beauty spa centre along with a spacious gym with the latest exercise equipment, a Turkish bath, a steam room, a sauna, a jacuzzi and an indoor swimming pool. For conferences or meetings, the hotel offers an 860 square metre pillar-free Grand Ballroom and three additional meeting rooms.
Hotel General Manager Ali Türk said: “I am very excited about our cooperation with Steigenberger. Combining our knowledge of the hospitality industry in Turkey and Steigenberger’s quality and expertise in the marketplace, I am confident that Steigenberger Airport Hotel Istanbul is poised to develop at an exceptional pace. I believe that the long lasting reputation of our company with its association with Steigenberger will enable this unique business hotel to achieve its full potential and pave the way for a successful and mutually beneficial collaboration for many years to come.”
Brexit – and its impact on the hospitality industry – is managing to keep itself in the headlines. Plus Brad Pitt is in the news for something other than his divorce…
6. REVIEW: Chilston Park, Kent Tucked away in 22 acres of Kent countryside is the beautiful Chilston Park – a Grade I-listed manor house from the 15th century – home to a 53-room hotel
Following the successful launch of its newly updated HiB Novum furniture collection, HiB is delighted to open its doors to its very first Novum showroom – enabling customers to experience the innovation behind each design first hand.
The new showroom, located within HiB’s National Distribution Centre in Tamworth, provides a seamless journey through its Novum collection which now boasts ten stunning ranges. Each design is shown in an aspirational room setting, complete with styling, to illustrate the full design possibilities available.
As another big pull, customers visiting the showroom will be able to get a glimpse of the brand new Prima, Duet, and Arc ranges; all of which combine sleek styling and neutral colourways, ensuring broad appeal for the modern customer.
Key features on show include a free, clever 8-way internal storage divider, enabling consumers to more easily compartmentalise their bathroom items, as well as optional LED illumination for the ultimate ‘wow factor’. Visitors will also be able to see the breadth of units and basins sizes, providing real flexibility for their customers.
Ash Chilver, sales director at HiB comments: “As a business committed to developing innovative designs which are not only beautiful in style but come with many distinguishable details, we wanted to invest in a showroom to allow us to showcase our HiB Novum offer and what it is all about.
“After all, it’s often difficult to appreciate how a design looks and feels simply by consulting a brochure, so by visiting our showroom retailers can see our portfolio and how it may work in their showroom setting.”
For more information on HiB, please visit www.hib.co.uk
Sekers proudly launches Nahla, a new fabric backed vinyl contract wallcovering collection of six designs – Abuko, Balule, Kalimba, Mara, Raffia & Tembe.
Nahla is a versatile mix of textural designs including bark and plaster effects, animal skins and natural silk and is available in an extensive palette of 68 colours ranging from sophisticated neutrals to radiant jewel tones in matt, pearlescent and metallic finishes.
Meeting all relevant UK and American standards for contract wallcoverings and IMO certified, Nahla is scrubbable and available in 130cm wide rolls, making it the ideal choice for the commercial hospitality, leisure and marine markets.
ALL SALES AND SAMPLING ENQUIRIES TO: Sekers Fabrics Limited 7a Nobel Road, Wester Gourdie Industrial Estate Dundee, DD2 4UH Sales Tel: +44 (0) 1946 517501 Sales Fax: +44 (0) 1946 517502 UK & Ireland Email: sales@sekers.co.uk Export Email: export@sekers.co.uk www.sekersfabrics.co.uk
Marriott International has completed its acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, creating the world’s largest hotel company.
Marriott now offers the most comprehensive portfolio of brands including leading lifestyle brands, a significant global footprint, and leadership in the luxury and select-service tiers as well as the convention and resort segment.
Beginning today (Friday 23 September), Marriott will match member status across Marriott Rewards – which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards – and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), enabling members to transfer points between the programs for travel and exclusive experiences when they link their accounts later today.
New Marriott logo
The new company will operate or franchise more than 5,700 properties and 1.1 million rooms, representing 30 leading brands from the moderate-tier to luxury in over 110 countries. With the completion of this acquisition, Marriott’s distribution has more than doubled in Asia and the Middle East & Africa combined.
What does this mean for the UK? – Marriott’s UK & Ireland portfolio now amounts to 80 hotels across 17 different brands, and makes up 15% of the total European footprint with over 16,000 open rooms – Guests are offered unparalleled choice across a variety of brands in the UK & Ireland, from EDITION to Aloft, and Le Meridien to Residence Inn – Moxy Hotels, Courtyard by Marriott and W Hotels are in the pipeline for the UK & Ireland – Marriott now employs 8,716 staff in the UK & Ireland (managed hotels and above property only)
What does this mean in Europe? – Marriott’s European portfolio now has 504 hotels open, with nearly 104,000 rooms open and nearly 19,000 rooms in the signed pipeline – This takes Marriott International from the 10th largest hotel group in Europe to the third largest – Marriott will be the largest luxury hotel company in Europe – Marriott doubles in size in Italy, Turkey, Austria, Poland and Portugal – New markets include Malta, Croatia, Slovakia, Monaco, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Albania, Tajikistan and Slovenia
The Park Lane Hong Kong, a Pullman Hotel announces the opening of its 8,000-sq-ft hotly-anticipated destination rooftop bar – SKYE bar and restaurant.
A communal space for today’s global nomads, SKYE’s modern design adds to the wow factor of the Hotel, whose HK$300 million makeover saw the complete revamp of the roof space, dazzling the crowd with a modern look helmed by Design Worldwide Partnership (DWP). The resulting sleek look boasts an element of comfort, enhanced by the creative works of German street artist, KEF.
Seating 165 people, SKYE includes the main dining room, three private rooms and the temperature-controlled outdoor terrace dominated with an illuminating oblong bar with views of Victoria Harbour and Victoria Park.
The Park Lane Hong Kong, has unveiled a HK$300 million (£29 million) makeover, rebranding itself as ‘The Park Lane Hong Kong, a Pullman Hotel’ since January 2015. Located in the heart of Causeway Bay, The Park Lane Hong Kong, a Pullman Hotel offers well-appointed rooms with views of the city landscape, Victoria Park and Harbour.
Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, situated next to Rwanda’s renowned Volcanoes National Park, is on track to open for guests in June 2017. Comprising just six forest villas, Bisate Lodge will offer a luxurious base from which to visit the nearby gorilla conservation experience.
“We are extremely proud of the progress we have made with Bisate, especially with regards to our pioneering reforestation programme which has already seen over 5 000 indigenous trees planted to date in partnership with the newly-created Tuzamurane Cooperative. This incredible opportunity to use our model of responsible ecotourism to contribute to positive conservation and community empowerment in such a unique and exciting Rwanda environment is exactly why we do what we do”, said Wilderness Safaris CEO, Keith Vincent.
Featuring six luxurious forest villas, the real generosity of Bisate in the Rwandan context will be the amount of private and exclusive space that surrounds the Lodge, cosseting it in a rare natural landscape brimming with Albertine Rift biodiversity and beauty. Each spacious forest villa will comprise a generous yet intimate combination of bedroom, reception space and bathroom, all warmed by a central fireplace and with views out across a private deck towards Mount Bisoke.
Bisate’s sophisticated architectural and interior design will be rooted in Rwandan building tradition as exemplified in the design of the Royal Palace of the traditional monarch. This spherical, thatched structure echoes the thousands of hills that dot the Rwandan landscape, while the richly-detailed interiors will exhibit surfaces and screens made from a variety of woven materials with strong resonance in Rwandan culture.
From the birthplace of the brand, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts has marked a milestone as its first-ever hotel and celebrated flagship in Paris revealed the completion of its multi-million dollar renovation.
Following the hotel’s transformation, the property now boasts reimagined guestrooms, suites and the transformation of the hotel’s public spaces, including the legendary Jazz Club Etoile and brand’s signature lobby concept: Le Méridien Hub. Design was by interior architect Jean-Philippe Nuel.
“With a stronger and more globally diverse portfolio than ever before, Le Méridien has hit its stride with guests and locals as well as owners and developers around the world,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts. “We are delighted to have the crown jewel of our brand shining brightly once more in the City of Light, as Le Méridien returns to its roots with distinctive design and bold Destination Unlocked positioning.”
Located in the 17th arrondissement, anchored by Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées, the hotel is the largest hotel in central Paris. The redesign of the hotel’s rooms was led by French interior architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, while London-based firm Michaelis Boyd restyled all the public areas; both draw inspiration from the brand’s mid-century modern design aesthetic.
The Majestic Hotel Group has announced the opening of Midmost Hotel Barcelona.
Meaning, “in the exact centre,” Midmost is centrally positioned in the city’s “Golden Triangle,” between Plaza Catalunya and Plaza Universitat. Under five-minutes from Las Ramblas, the hotel’s location speaks to Barcelona’s modern culture with nearby health-conscious restaurants, art galleries, and contemporary museums. Embracing the values of the eclectic neighbourhood, modern simplicity and vintage style go hand in hand to create a hotel with a distinctive personality, in tune with the guests who stay there. In addition to a terrace bar and rooftop pool, the boutique property comprises 56 rooms and suites.
Housed within a nearly 100-year old building, the Midmost Hotel stands squarely at the intersection of old and new. Historical elements such as the 1919 façade and an original iron staircase were preserved in the design process, while new touches like an industrial-style front door and custom light fixtures provide modern sophistication. A nod to the property’s Mediterranean locale, the interior colour scheme is predominantly white and blue, accented by golden tones and bathroom floors lined with Catalan tiles.
The Midmost rooftop offers a backyard-feel with lush tropical plants, terrace beds, wood benches, and comfortable seating areas.
Owned by the Majestic Hotel Group, Midmost Hotel Barcelona enjoys the benefits of nearly 100 years of experience shared by its sister property Majestic Hotel and Spa Barcelona.
The inaugural edition of the newly rebranded Hotel Designs Summit launched on September 12-13 at the Radisson Blu London Stansted to roaring success.
This unique event matched hoteliers with suppliers and manufacturers for a series of pre-arranged one-on-one meetings. In addition, a programme of informative and inspirational seminars were hosted by Aly Thompson from Trivago, Yasmin Chopin, HD Editor Daniel Fountain, MHNA Studio’s Nicolas Adnet and Peter Ducker of the Institute of Hospitality, with a gala dinner and evening entertainment providing perfect networking opportunities, further business opportunities and peer-to-peer engagement.
One of the headlines of the summit was the news that Global Design Concepts quoted a £1 million project as a result of meetings at the summit. And the success of the event was echoed by delegates and suppliers who attended…
‘The most personally focused and well organised event I’ve attended. An excellent balance between meeting our needs with networking opportunities, thank you’ Edgar House
‘Unique event, great combination of peer to peer engagement, innovative suppliers and information future focused trend setting seminars’ Atheneaum House Hotel
‘A well organised event with a great mix of suppliers and clients. I certain this will aid companies to work together on a long term basis & form continued business relationships’ Dalesauna
‘Fantastic team, very well organised. Great support. Event well managed, friendly and helpful, great contacts, 1-2-1 meetings very effective way of doing business. Great opportunity for your company. Well done and we will be back’ The Light Yard
Hotel Designs is hosting its second ‘Meet Up’ networking event of the year, perfect for hotel and interior design industries. If you are a hotelier, interior designer or architect, you can attend on the 16th November, 6:00-9:00 at the Grange St Pauls, London.
Contact us by emailing j.lane@forumevents.co.uk, or by calling 01992 374098 and asking to speak to a member of the team.
Marriott Hotels has unveiled its #MGravityRoom, an interactive replica of the brand’s evolving modern guest room designs. Located in the Greatroom of the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge, this inverted replica of a guest room will be open from September 21 to October 1, 2016, allowing visitors to experience, snap and share photos.
Visitors have the opportunity to walk into the installation where a closet, desk and TV appear to float on the walls and ceiling. A how-to on the desk will prompt guests to position themselves and capture a photo to appear as if they are walking on the ceiling of the modern guest room. When one takes photos and rotate them 90-degrees, they will appear as if one is floating upside-down within the space.
“Travelers today crave inspiration and unique experiences,” said Matthew Carroll, vice president and global brand manager, Marriott Hotels. “We see the #MGravityRoom as a creative way of showcasing the transformation of our brand and how we’re meeting the evolving needs of our guest. We have pushed the limits in our design and this allows us to have some fun with it while sharing our newest ideas.”
To bring its #MGravityRoom vision to life, Marriott Hotels worked with design teams and partners, including Marriott I + A Design Studio, Fairmont Designs, Brookline Furniture, Belstone, Wolf Gordon, Mosaic Tile Company, Historic Timber and Plank, Sandler Seating, and Designtex creating an imaginative expression of Marriott Hotels modernised rooms.
As a leader in its lodging tier, Marriott Hotels is no stranger to forging new trails and introducing new innovations to the hospitality industry. Next month, the brand will officially launch M Beta at Charlotte Marriott City Centre, a “live beta” hotel where guests are invited to test the newest and best product and services concepts first-hand and give feedback in real-time. The brand also recently announced its partnership with TED, bringing new ideas and creative conversation to guests. It changed the future of in-room entertainment by forging a first-of-its-kind partnership with Netflix and last year, Marriott Hotels introduced the first-ever in-room virtual reality experience.
This month sees the launch of The Mash Inn, an 18th century inn located in the leafy Buckinghamshire village of Radnage, which has been given a new lease of life by restaurateur Nick Mash.
Built in 1745 and lovingly restored over the last year, the inn houses five stylish and comfortable en-suite bedrooms and a 32-seat dining room, located adjacent to a wood-fired open grill and kitchen.
Nick invites his guests to enjoy his unique brand of ‘home from home’ hospitality from the moment they step through the door, greeting them with a welcome drink in the cosy snug or on the terrace, overlooking the inn’s kitchen garden and picturesque surroundings.
The overall interior of The Mash Inn tells the story of Britain’s heritage of furniture making, featuring rustic wooden floors, original beams and furniture and ironmongery hand-worked by local craftsmen. Stylish Bates & Lambourne oak chairs and tables, including a 14 seater communal table crafted from a single felled oak tree are entirely bespoke to the inn, and were designed by Nick himself.
The five upstairs bedrooms have a cosy feel, with stunning views, beautifully crafted king-size Hypnos beds, free standing baths, Wi-Fi and L:A Bruket toiletries. Breakfast is delivered to the room, comprised of an array of homemade baked bread, viennoiserie and foraged fruit jams, as well as buttermilk yoghurts, granola with freshly made Rare Company tea and Climpson & Sons coffee.
Restauranteur and founder of The Mash Inn, Nick Mash says: “I want folks to be able to come out here, get back to nature, eat nature and get back to a childhood of hiking through fields, living without frills and get a taste of being in working farmland. Pickling, curing, foraging, tending to our kitchen garden and playing with the hand-built wood-fired cooking range is a normal day at the Mash Inn. I am bored of the traditional set up that we are all so used to, seated at little tables and presented with fuss and nonsense – here you can leave your table and stand in the kitchen and watch the flames dance under the food. There are no more doors between customers and kitchens, it’s a fully interactive and honest experience.”
UK hotels increased capital expenditure by 57% to £1.62 billion in 2015/16, up from £1.03 billion in the previous year to compete with newer tech rivals, according to research by Funding Options, the online business finance supermarket.
Funding Options explains that established hotels are investing in their facilities and improving their offerings to stay competitive. Consumers now have a much greater selection of options available to them with the rise of online competitors such as Airbnb. As a result, alternatives are increasingly threatening the market share of traditional hotels.
The 57% rise in expenditure is the third consecutive year that UK hotels have increased capital spending.
Source: Finance Options
Funding Options says that hotels are now looking to build on the potential increase in ‘staycations’. With the fall in sterling in the wake of the Brexit vote, people are likely to get better value for money by staying in the UK.
Conrad Ford, CEO of Funding Options, comments: “Established hotel chains are investing more into their offerings to keep their market share in the face of increased competition.
“Hotels will be competing with each other and online-only alternatives to capitalise on the increase in domestic tourism and staycations as the pound and concerns remain over the safety of some continental destinations.”
Russia’s largest new hotel complex, Novotel Adagio ibis Moscow Kievskaya by AccorHotels management, is located right in the heart of Moscow, alongside the Moscow River and in between major business and historic districts.
Hotels surrounded by modern architectural ensembles and legendary historical buildings such as The House of the Government of the Russian Federation, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Moscow Kievskaya railway station.
The complex consists of three well-known international hotel brands of various categories under one roof. Multifunctional shopping and hotel complex combines three hotels: Novotel Moscow Kievskaya with 202 rooms, Adagio Moscow Kievskaya with 149 rooms and ibis Moscow Kievskaya with 350 rooms.
Modern and stylish hotels offer the highest standards of international brands and a wide range of services: 24 hour room service, a cozy bar, two restaurants, a conference centre equipped with the latest technology and a wellness centre with a swimming pool.
Cementing its position as a market leader within the bathroom industry, sanitary solutions and piping systems manufacturer Geberit has been named as one of the world’s most innovative companies by Forbes.
The Swiss brand, which has a UK headquarters in Warwick and stockists throughout the country, joins such household names as Amazon, Starbucks and Visa in the top 100 most innovative companies worldwide. Ranked at number 85 on the list, Geberit is officially more innovative than major names from Coca-Cola to ITV.
The rankings are based on what the US business magazine calls an innovation premium (IP), the difference between a firm’s enterprise value and a net present value of cash flows from its existing businesses. According to Forbes, only those industries that are known to invest in innovation are included.
With innovation as one of its core values, Geberit invests significantly in research and development, securing its long-held position as a market-leader in the bathroom sector. Critical to its on-going success, this Commitment to Innovation is founded on basic research in areas including hygiene and acoustics.
Such innovations include the Geberit Duofix framing system, which simplifies the installation process of wall-hung sanitaryware and Geberit AquaClean, the leading shower toilet range that introduces the very latest in WC technology into the bathroom. Geberit Mapress press fitting system is also revolutionising the way pipework is fitted in buildings as much today as when it was first launched more than 50 years ago.
“It is a real honour to be ranked among the 100 most innovative companies in the world by Forbes,” comments Mark Larden, Geberit Managing Director. “This position reflects the value that the company has within its DNA and what we deliver each day to our customers.”
For further information contact Geberit on 01926 516800, visit www.geberit.co.uk
Sekers introduces Malmo Collection, a luxurious wool melton with heather tones, providing a beautiful drape and plush hand Malmo is suitable for contract upholstery, curtains, cushions and bedding and is available in a versatile palette of 26 saturated colours, including hot pink to bold green.
With a high abrasion performance of 60,000 Martindale and inherently fire retardant, Malmo is ideal for the commercial market, meeting all relevant UK and American standards for upholstery, curtains and bedding, and IMO standards for upholstery and bedding.
ALL SALES AND SAMPLING ENQUIRIES TO: Sekers Fabrics Limited 7a Nobel Road, Wester Gourdie Industrial Estate Dundee, DD2 4UH Sales Tel: +44 (0) 1946 517501 Sales Fax: +44 (0) 1946 517502 UK & Ireland Email: sales@sekers.co.uk Export Email: export@sekers.co.uk www.sekersfabrics.co.uk
“Downtown New York has been reborn as the most vibrant neighbourhood in city,” says Peter Humig, General Manager of the all-new Hotel. “It’s no longer simply a business district. You can feel the energy the minute you arrive, and we are proud to be in the heart of it.”
Dramatic architecture is changing the city’s famous skyline as new buildings rise, cultural institutions open their doors and existing ones reinvent themselves, while luxury shopping and destination dining debuts weekly. Advertising innovators, media influencers and the growing information industry have joined the already well-established financial and tech start ups Downtown.
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown is the ideal home base for exploring the new Lower Manhattan. Located in Tribeca just steps from Wall Street, the World Trade Center and the stunning new Oculus, it’s also close to designer shopping in Soho, nightlife in the Meatpacking District and the relaxed tranquillity of the city’s waterfront.
Upon entry into the two-story lobby at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown, layers of architectural elements respond to the ever-evolving urban landscape just outside. Feet rest on cream-coloured travertine and soft wool carpeting as the eye takes in original artworks displayed against rich wood walls and woven metal screens. Brushed bronze accents and fabrics in muted jewel tones invite casual socialising, while a dramatic suspended staircase hints at the gracious gathering spaces above.
Manhattan’s chic style is evident in 189 Hotel rooms and suites designed by Soho and Toronto-based design studio Yabu Pushelberg. The rooms are tastefully appointed as one might find in a private home with light blues, greys and taupes, providing a backdrop to a technologically advanced guest room that is filled with natural light. Marble bathrooms and deep soaking tubs help complete the design elements that one would expect at Four Seasons. Hotel guests can take refuge from the city in luxurious rooms ranging from 400 to 2,400 square feet (37 to 223 square metres) with every need anticipated.
Starwood Capital Group, a leading global private investment firm, announced last week that it will launch PRINCIPAL, a new urban lifestyle hotel group, on 1st November 2016, following a capital investment in the portfolio of approximately £150 million.
Principal is a collection of city-centre hotels based in landmark buildings in exceptional locations across the United Kingdom. The distinctive heritage and resulting relationship between the properties and their surroundings are the cornerstones of the Principal brand. Each of the hotels has a story to tell — of its history, its design and architecture, its quirks and characters, and its role in shaping the city and forging relationships with local partners, whether corporate or creative. From the elegant Georgian townhouses that form the core of The Principal Edinburgh George Street (formerly The George Hotel) to the clock tower that’s synonymous with The Principal Manchester (formerly The Palace Hotel) and its history as the headquarters for the Refuge Assurance Company— Principal Hotels define their cities and neighbourhoods.
“At the heart of a great business is a unique and authentic story. Our people and our buildings have great stories to tell, and these stories differentiate you from the competition, giving your guests and your staff something to cheer about,” said Barry Sternlicht, Chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital Group. “Reviving these historic, grande-dame hotels is a truly great story— they are spectacular buildings in which we can create dynamic scenes. The story of each hotel, its amazing history and architecture is the opposite of the mass-produced chain hotel, and provides us with a canvas on which to curate a unique sense of place.”
The Principal Manchester The Principal Manchester, on the corner of Oxford Street and Whitworth Street, occupies three adjoining buildings dating to between 1895 and 1932. Designed by Alfred Waterhouse, his son Paul, and Stanley Birkett, all three buildings were commissioned by The Refuge Assurance Company as its company headquarters, and they include the iconic, 66m (217ft) clock tower, which has become a symbol of the city and its status as a centre of industry and commerce.
Following an investment of more than £25 million, The Principal Manchester has been remodelled from top to toe to create 270 loft-style bedrooms and suites designed by Michaelis Boyd Architects; 17 meeting and event spaces, including the largest hotel ballroom in the northwest of England; The Refuge Dining Room and Public Bar, curated by DJs-turned-restaurateurs Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford; and a double-height lobby in which stands a specially commissioned, 600kg (1300lb), 3m (10ft) high bronze horse sculpted by Sophie Dickens, a reference to the turning circle for horse-and-carriage that once occupied the centre of the space.
The Principal York The Principal York (formerly The Royal York Hotel) dates from 1878, and was built to complement and serve the significant expansion of York Railway Station, with landscaped, private gardens running to three acres. Local Tadcaster stone gives the exterior a honeyed glow, and the imposing façade suggests a grand country home more than a Victorian railway hotel. The sensitive architectural restoration, by 3D Reid and Goddard Littlefair, places an elegant Garden Room at the hub of the hotel, next to the main lobby and the sweeping grand staircase, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea whilst looking out across manicured lawns to York Minster in the distance. In addition to 155 guest rooms and suites, The Principal York offers an Events Centre and 10 additional meeting and event spaces; a gym and indoor pool; the Chapter House bar, serving local craft ales alongside wines, spirits and cocktails; and The Refectory Kitchen & Terrace, whose cooking champions fresh, seasonal, local produce and the abundant larder of “God’s own country.”
The Principal Edinburgh Completing the trio of hotels at launch, The Principal Edinburgh on George Street has been welcoming hotel guests since 1881. At its heart are five listed Georgian townhouses, built in 1775 as homes for Edinburgh’s most prosperous citizens—among them James Ferrier, a lawyer, who bought No. 25 and whose daughter, Susan, was considered by Sir Walter Scott to be the equal of Jane Austen. Their former home is now The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen, where local Head Chef Colin Fleming champions modern Scottish cooking, and the bar team oversees an impressive collection of local spirits, from single malts to Edinburgh gin and Scottish vodka.
The Principal portfolio also includes Principal Partners—iconic hotels that will join the brand over the course of 2017, among them The Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow; The Hotel Russell in London, which is currently closed and is due to reopen next summer as The Principal London; and the former Martins Bank, which will open as The Principal Liverpool in early 2018.
Looking to add to its collection of hotels unified by discerning design, SIR hotels announces three brand new properties opening in Berlin, Hamburg, and Amsterdam.
This autumn will see the opening of Sir Savigny in Berlin, followed by Sir Adam, their second outpost in Amsterdam, and finally Sir Nikolai in Hamburg. Although each property boasts a unique design concept defined by their namesake, they all reject the traditional hotel model and instead imbue a sense of staying at the home of a close friend — albeit one with impeccable taste in city pied-à-terres.
“With three new openings, 2016 is an exciting year for us. Ever since we envisioned our first SIR hotel, we wanted to see the SIR family grow in other urban hotspots and we’re thrilled to announce it’s happening,” says Liran Wizman, Owner and Founder of Europe Hotels Private Collection.
Sir Savigny, Berlin, Germany Sir Savigny’s eponymous host is the consummate epicurean traveler finally putting down roots in the emerging district of Charlottenburg, west Berlin. Opening in October, Sir Savigny’s traveling sense is demonstrated in the 44 luxurious guest rooms, elegantly outfitted by Amsterdam-based designer Saar Zafrir to ensure the utmost comfort and convenience.
SIR Hotels – Berlin
The fluid design of the ground-floor reception rooms has been created by award-winning interior designers Baranowitz + Kronenberg, allowing guests to slip seamlessly between perusing Sir Savigny’s book collection in The Library to sipping aperitifs fireside in the Winter Garden. The flowing space leads to The Butcher, a hip neighborhood burger bar offering haute fast food, defined by culinary craftsmanship and the finest Aberdeen Angus beef. Bookending the property is the Savigny Garden, a leafy urban retreat perfectly placed for whiling away halcyon city days amid stylized graffiti and Sir Savigny’s eclectic art collection.
Sir Adam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Innovative, award-winning New York-based agency Icrave has been entrusted with the design of SIR hotel’s second outpost in the Netherlands, the achingly chic pad of music aficionado Sir Adam. Taking to the decks at the iconic A’DAM tower in winter 2016, Sir Adam is set to become the pulse-quickening cultural hub at Amsterdam City IJ-River. The host’s love of music permeates every aspect of the hotel, from the Crosley record players and illuminated song lyrics in the 108 guestrooms to the fully comprehensive Music Library.
SIR Hotels – Amsterdam
However, music junkies will truly find their tribe at The Hub, a co-working space-meets-concept store overlooking The Butcher Social Club. Defying definition, The Butcher Social Club comprises an oh-so-cool gourmet burger joint, island bar with live DJ sets, and a living lobby complete with river terrace. From here, a spiral staircase ascends to rooftop drinking den The Beer Garden and creative studio space The Deck, boasting an unrivalled vista over the city, which is best viewed from one of its four hot tubs. When combined, the two sky-high spaces are set to play host to the capital’s hottest events.
Sir Nikolai, Hamburg, Germany Urbane, charming, and effortlessly elegant, Sir Nikolai’s hosting skills are a lesson in philoxenia, as guests at the waterside mercantile mansion will soon discover. Opening winter 2016 on the Nikolaifleet canal in Hamburg’s old town, design agency FG Stijl have directed their award-winning nous to artfully combining the stately merchant townhouse and adjoining goods store to create Sir Nikolai’s 94-room debonair digs.
SIR Hotels – Hamburg
Extending into the glasscovered Courtyard, the patio is the beating heart of the hotel with its fluid inside/out setup playing host to both cozy fireside soirées and the eternal cocktail hours of summer. The subterranean SPA takes on an elegant yet casual vibe, taking care of body and mind in Sir Nikolai’s inimitable style. While more immediate nourishment comes courtesy of IZAKAYA, an innovative Japanese-Peruvian dining experience which pushes the boundaries of Nikkei cuisine in urban-chic surroundings.
Hilton has announced the official opening of Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora, marking Hilton’s debut in Montenegro. Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora offers 180 spacious and modern guest rooms, including 23 suites. The hotel’s Presidential Suite boasts a panoramic lounge overlooking the city.
Guest and locals can enjoy a variety of food and beverage options on-property, including:
– Sky Bar: located on the 8th floor, an indoor and outdoor bar offering spectacular views over the entire city. – Restaurant Crna Gora: the hotel’s signature restaurant offering a la carte and buffet-style international and local specialties, located on the lobby level. – Terrace Fontana: a destination for the local community, the relaxed space offers original local specialties along with homemade ice creams and cakes, all with sweeping views of the fountain. – The Bar and Cigar Club: offering a rich choice of international cigars within the hotel’s lobby level bar, along with comfortable furniture and a wide beverage list.
To cater to meetings and events, including weddings, the hotel also offers one of Podgorica’s largest meeting space, with five meeting and conference rooms, all with natural daylight, along with the pillar-free, 425-square-metre Crystal Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 435 guests in theatre style.
Located on the Ground, Mezzanine and first floors, Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora also offers one of the largest spas in the city featuring a Finnish sauna, Bio sauna and steam bath. Designed in accordance with the latest fitness trends, Doclea Spa includes an indoor pool, experience showers offering visual, sound, temperature and aromatic effects and VIP massage rooms spread over 1,300 square metres.
The material revolution continues with new experimental projects designed by students at HGK, the Academy of Art and Design Basel/Switzerland, utilising the material capabilities of SaphirKeramik, to be presented inside the Swiss country pavilion at TENT in collaboration with Design Prize Switzerland and Laufen Bathrooms.
For the 10th edition of the London Design Fair, 22 to 25 September 2016, Laufen Bathrooms will be on hand at TENT, Truman Brewery with a special area in collaboration with Design Prize Switzerland, the competition whose goal is to encourage exchange, mediation and promotion of Swiss design.
This area will host a selection of winning projects in the SaphirKeramik contest – a competition involving students from the Academy of Art and Design (Hochschule für Gestaltung und Kunst) HGK of Basel, who were asked to explore the limits and potential of SaphirKeramik through the creation of innovative objects for the bath using the award winning material developed by Laufen. An expert jury, which included the renowned designers Konstantin Grcic and Toan Nguyen, honoured the best designs.
Besides the results of this stimulating competition, the space will feature several products in SaphirKeramik from the VAL collection designed by Konstantin Grcic, which demonstrate Laufen’s ability to also produce items with this material on an industrial scale.
The incessant research continues on SaphirKeramik, the revolutionary material launched by Laufen in 2013, which thanks to the corundum additive in its formula makes it possible to produce ceramics in smaller thicknesses with very strong walls, leading to slimmer lines, a true breakthrough for the world of bathroom ceramics. Started in-house with a long development phase and then pursued in collaboration with renowned designers, this research has now been opened up to students as well, with their ability to bring a different, stimulating approach – fresh, creative ideas, free of the influences generated by years of professional experience.
Experimentation has always been one of the strong points of Laufen Bathrooms, which once again demonstrates its role of leadership in terms of innovation and design, working not only with internationally acclaimed designers but also with talented young creatives.
Sekers are pleased to launch Idaho, a distressed antique look mock-hide upholstery collection, available in a palette of 12 rich colours, including warm naturals, greys and red. Idaho is a versatile fabric with a wonderfully soft handle.
Supplied with a Crib 5 flame retardant backing and with a Martindale abrasion performance of 50,000, Idaho is perfect for the most demanding upholstery application and the ideal choice for the commercial hospitality, leisure and marine markets.
ALL SALES AND SAMPLING ENQUIRIES TO: Sekers Fabrics Limited 7a Nobel Road, Wester Gourdie Industrial Estate Dundee, DD2 4UH Sales Tel: +44 (0) 1946 517501 Sales Fax: +44 (0) 1946 517502 UK & Ireland Email: sales@sekers.co.uk Export Email: export@sekers.co.uk www.sekersfabrics.co.uk
Demonstrating the impact of good carpet design, Wilton Carpets Commercial is coming to the Independent Hotel Show with In Stock ranges designed to meet the needs of the sector.
With the brand-new Iona woven axminster heritage tartan designs, as well as the tufted Chantilly and Signature ranges, Wilton Carpets will be showing independent hoteliers that it can deliver striking design across a range of carpets suitable for public areas and bedroom use, all with fast delivery.
“We understand that many hoteliers do not need or want a completely bespoke solution and are looking for well-designed carpet that provides them with flexibility, quality and value, all while being easy to get hold of,” comments Damian Roscoe, head of creative, Wilton Carpets Commercial. “Our In Stock portfolio does exactly this and we take great pride in ensuring the designs available bring a special touch to interiors, giving that boutique feel without the longer lead times or price-tag of a fully bespoke option.”
Visitors to the Wiltshire-based manufacturer’s stand will be able to discover the depth of its design library in both woven and tufted styles, as well as its ability to deliver fast-track bespoke solutions for orders as little as 100m2 in Ready to Weave. Certainly of interest to larger independent hotels, this service allows existing designs to be recoloured or new designs created in one of three colour palettes for delivery in just two to four weeks.
Wilton Carpets will be exhibiting at the Independent Hotel Show, Stand 222, Olympia, 18-19 October 2016
For further information contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com
Hilton has welcomed the 30-acre DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as the latest addition to the DoubleTree by Hilton portfolio of 465+ hotels after a property-wide renovation and expansion project of the resort.
Formerly known as the Springmaid Beach Resort, the seaside hotel now boasts a 20,000 square-foot main building, ocean view restaurant and lounge, “grab & go” snack area and outdoor entertainment terrace.
The centerpiece of the 12-month, multi-million dollar transformation is a new main building, which houses the new lobby area and guest registration, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline as well as new entertaining amenities and offerings including restaurants and a food market.
“Delivering a fantastic sense of arrival, the main building perfectly embodies the new look and feel of the resort,” said Michael Frits, general manager, DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront. “Our guests are now immediately greeted by the expanse of shoreline and Atlantic blue waters through floor-to-ceiling windows as well as a sophisticated beach design and vibe created by vaulted ceilings, dramatic lighting, sleek furniture, and coastal colors and fabrics.”
“Since the purchase, we were eager to complete the renovation of this celebrated resort, taking careful consideration to preserve its status on the Grand Strand, while introducing modern amenities and offerings for guests to enjoy for a lifetime,” said Kenneth Fearn, managing partner for Integrated Capital.
Cotswold House, the award winning luxury hotel and spa has undergone a significant £1 million restoration which includes a full renovation of their restaurant, bistro, suites and bedrooms, as well as wedding and event spaces.
Cotswold House has also opened a new Tea Room, inviting guests to enjoy delicious scones, sandwiches and teas throughout their stay. The contemporary hotel will be officially re-launched with an exclusive event on Thursday 6 October 2016.
Craig Webb, general manager of Cotswold House Hotel & Spa commented: “The hotel refurbishment has been an exciting project for both our staff and the local residents of Chipping Campden. We’ve had an excellent response from clients new and old and look forward to welcoming more and more guests over the next few months.”
Craig concluded: “We’ve got a fantastic, experienced team in place who are eager to show off the new renovation. We’re looking forward to welcoming guests on 6 October and hope the public are as thrilled with the refurbishment as we are.”
Marriott International has opened Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea – Hawaii’s first.
Set against a contemporary Hawaiian motif, the all-suite hotel consists of studio, one and two bedroom offerings. Each suite boasts spacious living zones and fully equipped kitchens. The upscale furnishings; deluxe bedding; flat screen TVs; functional work surfaces, and generous lanais (balconies) that open to a views of the ocean or mountainside — all provide the comfort and flexibility for guests to feel at home in paradise.
The Great Room leads to the outdoor living area where guests will enjoy the outdoor pool and hot tub and the patio bar with fire pits. For fun in the sun, guests have the option of putting on the golf green or shooting hoops at the Sport Court® — all with Maui’s natural landscape as the perfect backdrop.
Residence Inn’s signature services and amenities including: complimentary hot breakfast, free grocery delivery service; fitness centre; Wi-Fi; business centre, and laundry facilities are available to all guests. The property also features a 24/7 Market, which provides easy access to grab-and-go snacks and sundries. Additionally, guests who wish to explore the island are encouraged to log-in to the Under Armour mapmyfitness app for a curated running route of the surrounding area. The Residence Inn Wailea Maui also accepts pets.
The property contains 1,800-square-feet of indoor function space, which breaks out into the Molokai and Molokini meeting rooms, and a lush green lawn for outdoor special events. The 410 square-foot Boardroom is complete with state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment and designed to accommodate business meetings.
In addition to the resort-like features, Residence Inn Maui Wailea offers guests convenient access to The Shops at Wailea, three championship golf courses at Wailea Golf Club, Wailea Tennis Club and three beaches: Makena, Wailea and Ulua. The resort is in close proximity to several of the area’s top visitor attractions such as Maui Ocean Center, and Pacific Whale Foundation, accessible via the courtesy shuttle.
With Decorex just a few days away, the excitement for this year’s event is building. Here’s a preview of just some of what attendees can expect…
The Heritage of Chair Making: A spectacular entrance embracing this year’s theme, the roots of design, curated by renowned British Furniture Designer Tim Gosling. Working with the historic collections from the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Frederick Parker Collection, the exhibition will document the links between interior design, architecture and the exceptional heritage of British craftsmanship throughout the ages. Tim has asked 12 leading British visual creators: Jasper Conran, Michael Craig-Martin, James Dyson, Tim Gosling, Anya Hindmarch, Roger Jones, Robert Kime, Jo Malone, Philip Mould, Sir Paul Smith, William Yeoward, and Andrew Winch, to choose their favourite piece and why it speaks to them.
Crafthouse: A series of interactive roomsets presented by The New Craftsmen, which explores the fundamental characteristics of what makes a home by studying the domestic rituals by which we live. Building upon the strong anthology of British makers, materials and skills, ‘Crafthouse’ will look to reconsider and question craft and how it is used in our lives, with makers taking up residency in each roomset, contextualizing them within a familiar environment and pushing them to the limits of their skills. The New Craftsmen will be hosting daily tours at 2pm.
120 New Exhibitors: More than 400 brands launching new collections, with 120 exhibitors new to the show. Don’t miss Allyson McDermott’s first ‘ready to hang’ wallpaper collection, Tom Raffield’s range of steam bent furniture and Hand & Eye Studio’s new ‘A-Beam’ terracotta light.
Future Heritage: An exhibition of new works by some of the leading names in contemporary British craft. This showcase of new materials and techniques is curated by renowned design and applied arts critic, Corinne Julius, with a select group of 14 makers presenting new work exclusively for this year’s Decorex. The works can be commissioned by interior designers and architects for use in their projects, such as lighting, flooring, and sound absorbent, fire resistant textiles.
Talks Programme: An interesting and diverse series of talks in the Seminar Theatre, in association with LuxDeco, offering debates and an insightful exploration around industry relevant topics, hosted by some of the leading names in the design world, including Ben Pentreath, Christine Van Der Hurd, Nina Campbell and Nicky Haslam. Not to be missed are a series of BIID mentoring roundtables in the Syon Estate Restaurant on Tuesday 20th September at 4:30pm, designed to support new and emerging designers making their way in the interior design profession.
Pedro da Costa creates new work for Decorex’s Crafthouse
Hospitality Offering: A classically inspired Champagne Bar designed by 1508 London, five-star dining at the Syon Estate Restaurant in association with Country Life magazine with scenic views of the Capability Brown landscape, gourmet cuisine from the ‘pop-up’ street food market, an entrance café transformed into a botanical fantasy designed by Nicky Haslam in collaboration with de Gournay, and the main café in association with HK One.
Wool Trail: Supporting The Campaign for Wool, Decorex has teamed up with Homes & Gardens to create a wool trail. Maps will be provided to visitors guiding them around the show highlighting the array of furniture, textiles and accessories made from this natural and sustainable material. Don’t miss the flock of live sheep in the pen at the entrance from ‘The Little Grey Sheep Company’.
Decorex International 2016 Date: Sunday 18 September – Wednesday 21 September 2016 Location: Syon Park, London
Continuing Harlequin’s rich tradition for producting stunning feature wallcoverings, the Design Studio has taken the concept into a new dimension with its latest, aptly-named collection: Standing Ovation.
A fashion-inspired, couture collection, Standing Ovation is assertive and flamboyant, oozing with vivacity and sophistication. A consummate celebration of pattern and colour, Standing Ovation comprises nine confident designs, over a total of forty options. Drawing on both existing best-selling fabric designs and on original artwork, the collection represents a mix of subtle silhouettes with an extravaganza of full-on colour and pattern.
Retailing from £50.00/roll, Standing Ovation’s wallcoverings come in either standard or wide-width, depending on the motif. They offer an aspirational yet affordable designer look and are guaranteed to bring an added verve to even the most understated scheme.
Bella Stripe: A recolouring of this design from Anoushka features ribbon stripes of varying widths in a stunning array of colours Coquette: A welcoming paradise of silhouetted flower stems, billowing florals and leaves, in a peaceful monochrome colourway Doyenne: Immerse yourself in a glorious world of overblown flowers and leaves, in a riot of delicious colours Epitome: Exotic and embracing, a stylised interpretation of pine cones, complete with prickly needles and flowers
Exuberance: A watery wonderland of painterly, expressionistic florals, appearing as though they are just drying on a corrugated cardboard background Floreale: A deliciously beguiling painterly floral motif featuring overblown peonies, foxgloves and foliage Persico: A glorious representation of British birds perched on branches Quintessence: An opulent 140cm wide x 3m long digitally-printed panel depicting oversized seedheads, artichokes, figs, pomegranates and other exotic fruits: wall art at its best! Salice: A magical backdrop of graceful and elegant sprays of pussy willow depicted in an abstract painterly manner to dramatic effect
The mouth-watering palette of colours, judiciously enhanced by hints of metallics, comes in a glorious array of shades: turquoise, emerald and navy; tangerine, coral and fuchsia; copper, gilver and gold; lemon, sepia and cornflower; ochre, stone and olive.
Standing Ovation will be launched at the beginning of September, and will be available nationally and internationally via a network of stockists.
Edwardian Hotels London has launched a new online and mobile check-in/check-out service across its portfolio of 12 hotels in the capital.
The service has been launched at the group’s 11 Radisson Blu Edwardian London Hotels and the May Fair Hotel, which it owns and manages. It follows a three-month trial period in which around one in four guests opted to test the service.
The web-based check-in, which can be accessed via a link sent to email or SMS, aims to give guests a “fast and convenient” check-in and check-out process.
On check-in, guests are able to choose preferences such as room type, proximity to lifts, a specific floor or room number and in-room amenities.
The service is part of a wider project to digitally transform the way the group engages with guests, and follows the launch of a robot concierge earlier this year.
Michael Mrini, director of IT, said: “We know that our guests’ time is very precious and they want their arrival at any of our hotels to go as seamlessly as possible. The option of checking in online or on mobile in advance of arrival lets them do that and pick up their key from concierge or guest relations.”
Guests who use the service can also check-out online, with invoices for their stay being sent directly to them via email.
Tucked away in 22 acres of Kent countryside is the beautiful Chilston Park – a Grade I-listed manor house from the 15th century – home to a 53-room hotel offering in the Hand Picked Hotels Collection.
But its idyllic location belies a fantastic location, close to the M20 and Channel Tunnel, and ease of access to London and the Eurotunnel. Not that you would know when walking around the extensive grounds or spending time in its rooms.
The building’s rich history over the centuries has seen architectural additions and furnished enrich this stunning property – 16th century wooden, carved panels above the main fireplace, twelve-paned sash windows and a smattering of priceless antiques left by the various families who have owned the property over the last five centuries.
On our visit, we were given a feature room and a suite to sample – Treen and Tudor respectively – and the design and furnishings in both continue the celebration of classic antiquity seen throughout the rest of the hotel. The Tudor suite in particular was a joy to behold, with stunning original beams throughout, spacious living spaces and a sumptuous standalone bath being the highlights – a perfect example of country house splendour.
Of Chilston’s 53 individually-named rooms, there are 15 in the main house, with the remainder located in the stone stables, coachman’s cottages and new extension outside. Mews rooms in the Stables and Coachman’s Cottages feature a more homely feel and courtyard views. All rooms are luxuriously appointed with Hotel Designs partners Hypnos beds, plush bed linens and toiletries.
The main dining option of Chilston Park is the Wedgwood blue-themed, classically decorated Culpepper’s Restaurant where the majority of guests will dine. But all the public spaces carry the same charm, with the centrepiece being the main staircase (above, left); a fantastically grand space and a perfect spot for drinks. Chilston Park also caters for business guests, with 10 meeting spaces and the ability to cater for up to 150 delegates.
With a blend of beautiful interiors, classic luxury and superb location – Chilston Park is a gem, and well worth a visit if one is in the area.
According to Global Industry Analytics’ Report – ‘The Global Tableware Market, February 2016’ – the global market for tableware is set to exceed $41 billion by 2020.
Two of the main drivers for this growth have been cited as consumers’ interest in social dining and the growing importance of food presentation. Also of importance is a surge in demand for vintage-styled tableware, a shift in preference from white bone china to more natural shades and a greater use of materials such as earthenware, iron stone, wood, cast iron, plastic and slate in response to the rising focus on materials and their functionality, rather than simply the design of tableware.
ADI Trading Ltd has represented leading tableware brand, Fortessa®, since 2004. Ian Bailey, Managing Director, comments: “We had observed some top chefs moving towards more rustic styled, stoneware products because it was easier to commission bespoke items. However, stoneware is heavy, easily chipped and not suited to the harsh environment of a busy catering establishment and as a result we have seen a move recently towards vitrified china with ‘handmade-inspired’ designs.”
The Fortessa® D&V TechnoCeramTM vitrified china range can deliver a beautifully rustic collection in colours such as ‘saffron’, ‘cayenne’ and ‘cilantro’ while the catering operator benefits from an extremely scratch resistant glaze, excellent chip resistance, high edge strength and a polished foot to avoid stacking marks.
Bailey added: “Towards the close of every century we see a ‘mega-trend’ and the latest trend for rustic tableware falls into this movement for nostalgia as we look for the ‘yesteryear’. However, we believe this trend will pass as we move towards the 2020’s and peoples’ interests become more futuristic.”
100% Design, the UK’s largest design trade show, returns to Olympia London 21-24 September, presenting leading national and international exhibitors across five sections; ‘Interiors’, ‘Workplace’, ‘Kitchens & Bathrooms’, ‘Design & Build’ and ‘Emerging Brands’.
As the outstanding meeting place for business and design, the 22nd edition explores the theme of ‘Experience’, which considers the many ways in which design guides, frames and improves the ways that we live, work and consume. Visitors can physically engage with the latest product innovations, establish new business relationships and network with design professionals.
Talks with 100% Design has been curated by the Design Museum as part of their ‘on loan’ campaign: bringing the museum out in to the world and the design community. The talks will feature agenda-setting discussions exploring trends in contemporary practice and the future of design, as well as giving a glimpse of what to expect from the new museum when it opens in Kensington on 24 November 2016.
Asif Khan (Credit: Jenny Lewis)
The programme is staged in a specially commissioned auditorium, designed by Miska Miller-Lovegrove. A second talks series focussing on professional development takes place in the Forum.
Tickets: 100% Design is free to trade professionals who register in advance, or £15 on the door Click here to register
LuxuryMade 21-24 September 2016, Olympia Pillar Halls Making its debut at the London Design Festival 2016 is LuxuryMade, a new show dedicated to contemporary decorative interiors. Staged alongside 100% Design close to the site of the new Design Museum, it is the latest addition to West Kensington’s burgeoning design offer. www.luxurymade.co.uk
Australian-owned Hotel Management Company StayWell Hospitality Group is staying true to its plans of global expansion by entering into a partnership with renowned United Kingdom hospitality company Fiveways Hospitality.
The newly formed Master Licensing Agreement between the two parties will enable StayWell Hospitality Group to significantly grow its Park Regis and Leisure Inn brands within the UK market.
StayWell Hospitality Group CEO Mr Simon Wan said that entering this agreement will help to secure an additional four hotels in the region within the next 48 months which is part of the groups overarching plan to reach 100 hotels globally within the next three years.
The United Kingdom and Europe as a whole, presents a great opportunity for our Park Regis and Leisure Inn brands, especially after the successful opening of Park Regis Birmingham in March 2016, Mr Wan said.
Fiveways Hospitality has a well established reputation and our partnership will deliver not only opportunities for further growth for StayWell in new destinations and cities but also offer top-shelf operational support to our hotel teams within the region, he said.
Fiveways Hospitality Managing Director, Stuart Broster also agrees that the brands future within Europe looks bright following the formalisation of the partnership agreement.
Rising above the banks of Bangkok’s picturesque Chao Phraya River, the world’s first purpose designed AVANI hotel, AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel, offers a smooth blend of contemporary style, modern warmth and stunning views across Asia’s most dynamic city.
On arrival guests are immediately greeted by an arresting view of the Chao Phraya River from the vast lobby, located on the eleventh floor. The open plan design blends reception, lounge, meeting, chill out and restaurant spaces. The interiors are spacious, the driving ethos is modernity, fused with comfort and great craftsmanship.
All of the hotel’s 248 stylish guest rooms and suites, boast uninterrupted city and river views.
The neutral décor is a blend of comfort and modernity, natural materials and high-tech equipment, along with extra conveniences such as a rain shower, dedicated work station with free WiFi and a media hub docking station. Each of the spacious River View Junior Suites features a bathroom with a view, outfitted with a freestanding tub.
At the other end of the terrace is ATTITUDE, Bangkok’s newest rooftop hot spot to see and be seen. Different areas of the restaurant and bar, intimate or collective, are designed for socialising and include an indoor lounge with a DJ booth, an open show kitchen, wine wall and outdoor lounge-style restaurant and bar.
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has announced the designation of Sheraton Salzburg Hotel as a Sheraton Grand, welcoming it to the brand’s premier tier of hotels recognised for their enticing destinations, distinguished designs, and excellence in service and guest experiences.
Having just completed a comprehensive, five year top-to-bottom renovation, the Sheraton Grand Salzburg joins a portfolio of 34 other Sheraton Grand properties worldwide, with destinations ranging from Istanbul and Dubai, to Beijing and beyond. Sheraton Grand is one of many initiatives currently underway as part of Starwood’s comprehensive plan to solidify Sheraton as a leading global hotel brand of choice, everywhere.
“As Starwood’s largest and most global brand, we remain focused on our work to keep Sheraton in the spotlight through the continued growth and halo effect of Sheraton Grand,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “With a refreshed and enhanced aesthetic thanks to its 10 million euro renovation, Sheraton Grand Salzburg is a best-in-class example of the brand’s new elevated approach to design, making it an ideal candidate for the brand’s premier tier.”
The refreshed Sheraton Grand Salzburg combines contemporary touches with traditional Salzburg design. The hotel has added 29 new rooms and suites, and carefully restored the entire sixth floor with tech-enhanced furnishings and premium materials, such as oiled oak floors and bespoke wooden furniture from Tyrol.
The minimalistic design concept of the rooms is harmoniously complemented by small details, such as the selection of black and white pictures depicting historical Salzburg scenes. The Sheraton Grand Salzburg also boasts an elevated dining experience with the addition of a show kitchen to the Mirabell Restaurant, providing guests a first-hand insight into culinary creations.
Brad Pitt is considering building an upscale complex for about 2,500 people in Croatia’s coastal town of Zablace.
It would be an extension of Zablace that would include a hotel, villas, a golf, restaurants and retail stores.
The Hollywood star wants it to be eco-friendly; its cost is estimated at $1.5 billion.
Brad Pitt already considered a project in this Croatia in 2012 when he wished to develop a resort in the country at Istia, under the name “Barabriga”, but it was not completed.
The current project is part of a collaboration with the architect Nikola Bašić and the investment firm TFI Holding. The investment firm has already invested about $70 million.
Hilton has reached a management agreement with Agricola Merse to bring Curio – A Collection by Hilton to Tuscany. The 101-guestroom La Bagnaia Golf & Spa Resort Siena is set to welcome guests from March 2017.
Surrounded by the beautiful Sienese countryside, La Bagnaia is a tranquil oasis set against a landscape scattered with charming medieval hamlets and towns. Spread over 1,100 hectares, the upscale hotel has a village-like look and feel, divided across a number of buildings and featuring two main ‘hamlets’ – Borgo La Bagnaia and Borgo la Filetta.
The resort includes the Buddha Spa by Clarins and is connected to an 18-hole golf course. The range of facilities provided by the hotel for leisure and business travellers include two restaurants and two bars, three swimming pools, 12 treatment rooms, a tennis court, and conference rooms which combined cater for almost 1,000 delegates.
Situated just 12km from the city of Siena – a World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations – the hotel is conveniently located for guests wishing to access the city’s many attractions including the Piazza del Campo, the Mangia Tower and the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral. Steeped in history, culture-rich Siena and its surrounding areas offer multiple attractions including exquisite Italian cuisine and world-famous vineyards.
Aberdeen City Council and Hilton Worldwide have signed a franchise licence agreement to open a 200-room Hilton Hotels & Resorts property at the new AECC, which will be managed by Redefine|BDL Hotels – the UK’s leading independent hotel management company.
Hilton Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre, set to be the fourth Hilton property in the city, will connect directly to the new AECC and is expected to create approximately 350 jobs.
The hotel, which is due to open in 2019, will include an executive lounge and up to 10 meeting rooms of variable size to complement the outstanding facilities of the adjoining conference centre. The hotel will also include a cocktail bar, speciality restaurant, fitness centre and wet leisure and spa facilities for guests and visitors to the exhibition centre to enjoy.
Hilton Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre is to be managed by Redefine|BDL Hotels. The Glasgow-based firm’s portfolio includes DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre and DoubleTree by Hilton Dundee.
Hilton is well established in Scotland with 20 properties currently trading in the country. Hilton Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre joins three Hilton hotels in Aberdeen – Hilton Aberdeen Treetops, DoubleTree by Hilton Aberdeen City Centre and Hilton Garden Inn Aberdeen City Centre.
The new hotel will be built in to the new AECC, which will provide four times the exhibition space available at the current venue, double the seated entertainment. The foremost conference and entertainment venue will be competing not just within Scotland but on a global stage.
Transforming hospitality interiors with beautiful bespoke design in the fastest lead-times currently available, Ready to Weave carpets from Wilton Carpets Commercial are ready in just two to four weeks.
Available in Ready to Weave – Our Design and Ready to Weave – Your Design, the two services allow creative freedom for hoteliers and interiors designers when specifying their ideal carpet.
In Our Design, users are invited to work with any of Wilton Carpets’ library of designs, with the option to use existing colour combinations or create a unique twist by selecting any of 12 colours from a pre-determined palette.
In Your Design, any library pattern can be recoloured, or custom designs realised, but in this case colours can be selected from any one of three permanently loomed palettes.
“Not only is the Ready to Weave service the fastest of its kind in the UK, it is also one of the most flexible, really allowing hoteliers and interior designers to explore the design potential of carpet,” says Damian Roscoe, head of creative, Wilton Carpets. “Whether guided through our pattern library, or adventuring into the world of bespoke design, Ready to Weave is a great way to create a unique look to hospitality environments.”
Delivering excellent versatility through a selection of woven axminster qualities (seven to 10-row) in a quality wool-rich construction, Ready to Weave carpets are great value and accessible from a small minimum order of just 100m2. Ready to Weave – Our Design and Ready to Weave – Your Design carpets are delivered in just 28-days from order, the shortest lead-time currently available for carpet made in the UK.
For further information contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com
While the newest generation of travelers – the oft written about ‘millennials’ – may not yet have the discretionary spending muscle of Gen Xers and Boomers, they are having a decidedly pronounced impact on the evolution of the branded hotel space. Unique experiences, lifestyle, design, and authenticity rule the day now. Does that sound the death knell of the branded hotel?
Vaunted brand names like Marriott, Starwood, Hilton, and Hyatt have given way to Andaz, Aloft, Curio, Canopy, and Moxy. Despite sounding oxymoronic, the terms “consistent,” “dependable,” and “predictable” (read: cookie-cutter) at one time were unique selling propositions. Now those descriptors have become toxic. Driven by the evolving demands of a younger, hipper, better educated and tech savvy consumer, terms like chic, unique, customised, curated, and personalized are what differentiate the hospitality product these days. Across the full spectrum of the hospitality sector – design, brand marketing, packaging, and promotion – if you want to get the attention of today’s traveler, you have to answer their question: “What have you got for ME?”
Hospitality companies are being challenged to offer unique, experiential, local, and authentic while maintaining the efficiencies their shareholders expect. The enforced uniformity of the major hotel companies was part of a larger business strategy that worked well for previous generations of travelers. Consumers liked uniformity and reliability, and so did the hotel companies’ bottom lines. Predictable amenities, features, furnishings, and layouts were appealing to both the guest and the hotel company CFO. Now, however, there is real pressure to carve out a distinct and authentic brand promise, while maintaining the efficiencies and economies of scale. And is that not an inherent conflict…the ‘commoditisation’ of unique?
As the shape of the bell curve changes, with the lifestyle/boutique properties moving from the fringe to the mainstream, are they in danger of becoming the mass-market hotel of the future? And will the Millennialsbegin to eschew the very movement they were responsible for driving in the first place? Ask brands like American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Gap that are reeling from the Millennials’ desire to express themselves as their own brand, rather than serve as ambassadors for someone else’s.
Whether the traveler wants to stay independent, seek the remarkably uncommon, or enjoy an unforgettable stay, hotels now more than ever need to figure out how to realistically serve this very demanding segment. Can smaller lifestyle brands keep up with the standards and scalability of the large brands? We’re at an inflection point where established norms of hospitality marketing and operations are on a collision course with Millennials’ preferences, behaviors, and attitudes.
Kerry brings proven leadership, client relationship management, and business development skills to MMGY’s Orlando office. He is an experienced marketer, entrepreneur, and innovator with deep travel industry connections and over 20 years of success connecting buyers and sellers in the travel arena. MMGY Global, the leading integrated travel and hospitality marketing firm in the USA.
North Hill City Resort, opening this month, is a new five-star luxury resort incorporating a modern contemporary design that embraces the destination of Chiang Mai. A five star resort, the design highlights the beauty of the resort’s idyllic and serene location while still close to tourist destinations, and captures outstanding views of Doi Suthep.
“We have put in a lot of thought into designing North Hill City Resort, and we are pleased to see it finally coming to life as we approach opening this month,” said Kanlapat Trakarnkoolpunt, managing director of North Hill City Resort. “We’re thrilled to welcome guests to experience the finished product, and we’re confident that they will enjoy the calming and fresh design with first-class materials and elements, ultimately focusing on the stunning Doi Suthep.”
Only 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city area, the boutique 42-room property’s primary design element is the surrounding green space and nature. Designed by landscape and architecture firm, RAFA, the resort maximizes outdoor spaces with an expansive outdoor amphitheater alongside a swimming pool and deck. In addition to panoramic views of Doi Suthep, this outdoor area serves as a venue for functions, meetings, weddings and also features a BBQ area.
With a modern design highlighting traditional Thai design elements, guestrooms feature a neutral color scheme with earthy brown and tan tones complimented by elegant stone and wood throughout. Additionally, the rooms feature state-of-the-art luxury amenities such as a 40” LED TV, 500 thread-count white bed linens, an area with a wooden desk and workspace and sprawling windows offering unobstructed views of the resort’s beautiful environs. Guests will enjoy luxurious bathrooms, including a large marble soaking tub and a shower panel with an overhead rainfall shower, a hand-held showerhead and body massage nozzles for the ultimate relaxation.
A quick walk away is North Hill Golf Club, a pristine 18-hole golf course in signature mint condition with panoramic Doi Suthep scenery. Next door will be a luxurious and state-of-the art clubhouse, including a welcoming lobby, a sweet and richly scented coffee corner and a Pro Shop where guests can purchase personalized services, souvenirs and golf equipment. The clubhouse will include a business lounge designed to meet the needs of business travelers on the road, a fitness studio with top-of-the-line equipment, a Cheval Blanc Lounge, a karaoke room, and a games room.
Perfect for groups of five to 300, the North Hill City Resort’s meeting and conference functions have a lot to offer. Each room has a unique design, including The Forum which features luxury dark brown hues and suites intimate groups of five to ten or the medium-sized The Merit Conference Room ideal for groups of up to 30 people. The Glory Room is features a serene white and grey color scheme, making it perfect for weddings or large company functions. Additionally the resort’s meetings space includes an outdoor area with a golf course view, holding up to 1,000 people.
The Spa has a Thai-contemporary design where luxury meets northern Thai influences. Consisting of three private rooms and four Thai massage rooms, spa-goers can expect to indulge in the ultimate relaxation and peace. Guests will also enjoy a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna
This autumn, luxury fabric specialist Kobe introduces Enchanted, a stunning collection of luxurious 100% flame retardant fabrics, perfect for contract window décor.
A balance between contemporary and traditional, the range features three woven jacquards with a smooth, supple feel. The palette of rich striking tones and neutrals complements the sophisticated collection of medallion, stylish lattice and coordinating geometric designs.
David Harris, MD Kobe UK: “For affordable luxury this autumn, the Enchanted collection showcases an exciting, rich and neutral palette of fire retardant fabrics suitable for commercial installations. The range benefits from the logistical expertise and quality of Kobe, while giving access to a wider customer base through its realistic price points.”
Enchanted contract window décor offers affordable prices and value for money while enjoying the signature Kobe style.
The Kobe UK sales office and studio is based in Crowthorne, Berkshire
The Edinburgh Grand is the latest addition to Lateral City Apartments’ portfolio of beautifully appointed serviced accommodation. As with existing developments, Old Town Chambers and Merchiston Residence, The Edinburgh Grand has evolved from a building of unique historical merit with an illustrious heritage, to offer a luxurious and distinct place to stay, in the heart of Scotland’s capital by the summer of 2017.
A striking Neo-Classical building, it stands on the south-east corner of notable St Andrew Square, within Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site and just minutes away from key transport links. This prestigious area, known for its designer boutiques, is steps away from the renowned George Street with its reputation as a lively and vivacious hub.
Formerly the National Bank of Scotland, the building was constructed between 1936 and 1942 gaining inspiration from Modernist American architecture. The imposing sandstone exterior reveals a grand interior with vast atrium, original marble columns, bronze balustrades and dark wood detailing.
Throughout the Edinburgh Grand’s transformation many of the building’s remarkable original features will be retained and incorporated into 50 luxury apartments. Clean lines and contemporary fixtures and fittings will integrate seamlessly with a decadent colour palette of olive greens and teal blues. Velvets, sheers and leather have been sourced to complement the unique wallcoverings and tailored furnishings to achieve an elegance that befits such exceptional architecture.
Over the next 12 months The Edinburgh Grand will emerge as the one-time bank is thoughtfully renovated and genuine features are restored. This is particularly evident as the original plate steel bank vaults are transformed into a modern on-site gym, while throughout the contemporary bathrooms, homage is paid to the original geometric black and white flooring that characterised the banking hall. The building’s distinctive circular atrium, a constant hallmark that dominates the soaring vestibule, will be carefully preserved and continue to fill the space with light.
Each apartment will retain a unique quality and layout, from the Grand Studio apartments, lined with rich Cognac timber panelled walls and furnished with striking authentic fireplaces, to the three-bedroom rooftop Penthouse, with its vast city view. Sleek kitchens, kitted out with the latest Siemens appliances and Nespresso coffee machines, offer guests independence whilst retaining that sense of aspirational luxury.
Apartments are suited to both short city breaks and longer business-focused stays, and can accommodate a range of group-sizes from six, down to the single traveller.
Alongside these stunning apartments, the building will also house a 200-cover bar and restaurant located in the former banking hall. Additionally, a coffeehouse and evening venue, will be run by Bon Vivant, offering late night entertainment and dining, while further retail outlets, to complement the site, are also planned and will be announced in due course. The apartment conversion is expected to be completed by summer 2017, adding The Edinburgh Grand to the remarkable portfolio of properties within the Lateral City Apartments group.
DoubleTree by Hilton has unveiled its first property in the bustling Dallas suburb of Arlington and its eighth throughout the Dallas metroplex.
DoubleTree by Hilton Arlington DFW South opens just a few miles from the community’s Entertainment district following an extensive, $10 million renovation.
Less than five miles from Six Flags Over Texas, AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Park and other attractions, the 237-room, five-storey property offers wide-ranging amenities and more than 6,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, all designed to serve the needs of leisure and business travelers. Formerly the Admiral Hotel, it is owned by Admiral Hotel Group LLC and managed by Hotel Equities.
From the moment they step into the welcoming, open-spaced lobby, visitors will see evidence of the property’s extensive renovation, with design treatments, artwork and architectural styles that pay homage to Texas landscape and history. The lobby’s Connectivity Zone features a floor-to-ceiling metal wall of TVs and decorative lighting, the perfect spot to socialize or explore online.
Guest rooms offer complimentary WiFi, a 40-inch HDTV, mini-refrigerator, coffeemaker and workspace; and many provide a pool view, patio or balcony. Whether featuring one king bed or two queen beds, each room provides guests with the soothing DoubleTree Sweet Dreams Sleep
Leisure-seeking guests may swim in the outdoor pool, or relax in one of the poolside cabanas. The complimentary fitness centre is accessible at any time, and features Precor cardio, strength and core fitness equipment. Other complimentary offerings are a 24-hour business center, as well as a roundtrip shuttle to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
DoubleTree by Hilton Arlington DFW South hotel can also accommodate business conferences, banquets and other events for up to 250 guests with 6,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Optional features include a state-of-the-art sound system, LCD projectors and other A/V equipment, and high-speed Internet access.
Dubai master developer Nakheel today signed a Letter of Intent with Hilton Worldwide to manage a new, 256-room hotel at Jumeirah Village Triangle.
Under the proposed agreement, the 18-storey hotel will be managed under the DoubleTree by Hiltonbrand, known for its warm, friendly service that provides upscale comfort for business and leisure travellers.
Announced three weeks ago as a major new feature of Nakheel’s upcoming Al Khail Avenue retail, dining and leisure hub, DoubleTree by Hilton will be directly linked to the mall’s 350 shops, restaurants and entertainment outlets.
The hotel will have 256 rooms (including four suites), an all-day restaurant, coffee shop, lounge, outdoor terrace, pool deck, gymnasium and car park, as well as a leisure club with preferential membership rates for residents of the Jumeirah Village Triangle community.
Nakheel awarded the AED1.5 billion contract to build the mall and hotel complex earlier this month. Construction will begin in October this year, with completion in 2019.
Nakheel’s growing hospitality portfolio includes nearly 5,200 rooms across 14 hotels and serviced apartment complexes at various locations in Dubai, while its retail project portfolio – the biggest in the Middle East – has more than 16 million square feet of lease space in operation or under development.
The Marriott-Starwood merger was back in the news this week – we look at potential hurdles to the deal. We’re just over a week away from the Hotel Designs as we welcome a speaker from trivago, Aly Thompson, who joins a fantastic seminar line-up for the two-day event at Radisson Blu London Stansted…
1. Opinion: Spanner in the works for Marriott-Starwood deal? Recent reports – albeit very liberally-sourced ones – seemed to suggest that Marriott was feeling a sense of ‘remorse’ about the deal and was looking for a way out to back out
7. ‘Pretty in Pink’ – Trends at Decorex 2016 Decorex International is the UK’s leading design show and the only one of its kind in the UK for the luxury interiors market
8. Banyan Tree launches first ever project in Australia Last month, Banyan Tree Executive Chairman Ho Kwon Ping and Lord Mayor of Brisbane Graham Quirk officially launched the Banyan group’s first ever Banyan Tree project in Australia
9. Soho House and Sydell Group reveal plans for The Ned London’s Soho House & Co and New York’s Sydell Group will join forces to create The Ned – a hotel, club and collection of restaurants in the former Midland Bank building City of London
Hilton has announced the opening of Chateau on The Park – Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton.
Formerly Chateau on The Park, this Christchurch icon is adjacent to Hagley Park, within walking distance to Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the western business district, and just a five-minute drive into the city. The hotel will be the second DoubleTree by Hilton to enter New Zealand and joins four Hilton Worldwide hotels in Auckland, Taupo and Queenstown.
Paul Hutton, vice president, operations, Australasia, said, “The city’s strong tourism market was the key driver for bringing the brand into the city. We are especially proud for the brand to be represented in the re-emerging city of Christchurch – an important hub for both business travellers and leisure tourism in New Zealand.”
Located on Deans Avenue and nestled amongst five acres of verdant gardens, this fully-refurbished hotel features 192 modern guest rooms. The cozy Den Bar is a great place to meet friends for a drink and the Garden Court Brasserie is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering al-fresco style dining. The hotel also features seven meeting spaces, a business centre, a heated outdoor swimming pool and a modern fitness room.
The Autograph Collection has welcomed a new boutique property to its collection. Hotel Xenia will be Autograph Collection’s third hotel in London, joining St Ermin’s and Threadneedles.
The first Autograph Collection property to grace West London, Hotel Xenia is an urban designed hotel located in a beautiful Victorian building on Cromwell Road in South Kensington. The 99 spacious guest rooms and suites offer some of the city’s largest living space and maintain a boutique charm through a combination of traditional comforts and contemporary touches, which complement the design ethos of Autograph Collection hotels.
The crowning glory of the hotel is the Xenia Suite with its own private balcony and onyx stone Turkish bath, complete with stunning views over West London.
The Xenia Lounge is an atmospheric setting for morning coffee or evening drinks with handmade Bohemia wallpaper and designer pieces. As night falls, soft lighting and the sounds of the Grand Piano transform the space into a relaxed and sultry bar area.
For further relaxation, guests can retreat to the Living Lounge, a cosy bolthole with an 84″ 3D Ultra HD TV, pool table, ping-pong table and a selection of board-games. The hotel is also home to a heated herb garden and humidor that houses a collection of Cuban cigars for guests to purchase.
John Licence, brand leader for Autograph Collection Hotels in Europe, comments: “We are delighted to welcome our third London hotel into the collection. As a hugely popular destination for both leisure and business travellers, we are really excited to have a presence in South Kensington. The portfolio continues to grow in Europe, and we believe that Hotel Xenia is a powerful addition as it truly embodies the philosophy of the collection, ensuring the brand’s offering continues to be exactly like nothing else.”
The Independent Hotel Show, presented by James Hallam Hospitality & Leisure, has released the much anticipated shortlist for its 2016 Independent Hotelier and Outstanding New Hotel Awards in association with Sky.
The Independent Hotelier Award gives recognition to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the boutique and independent hotel sector. The winner will already be making waves within the industry with a strong reputation for pushing boundaries and having the confidence to evolve and do things differently. Above all, the winner will be someone committed to the development of their team, the success of their establishment and the industry at large.
The shortlist for the Independent Hotelier Award is: Andrew Wildsmith – owner, Hipping Hall & Forest Side, Cowan Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale Ian and Christa Taylor – owners, Abbey Hotel, Bath & Villa Magdula, Bath Paul Milsom – chairman and MD, Milsom Hotels, Essex and Suffolk Richard Ball – executive chairman, Calcot, Barnsley House, Lord Crewe Arms, The Painswick Kate Levin – general manager, The Capital, Knightsbridge, London Edmund and Charles Inkin – owners, EATDRINKSLEEP
Now in its fourth year, the Outstanding New Hotel Award is designed to highlight and recognise independent, luxury and boutique hotels that have been opened or relaunched within the last three years and have made a significant impact within the industry. The winning hotel will showcase the pinnacle of innovation, demonstrating outstanding service and guest experience as well as creating a unique personality and hotel culture.
The shortlist for Outstanding New Hotel is: The Laslett, Notting Hill, London Penally Abbey, Penally, Wales Soho Farmhouse, Great Tew, Oxfordshire The Pig at Combe, Honiton, Devon Padstow Townhouse, Padstow, Cornwall The Royal Oak, Swallowcliffe, Salisbury, Wiltshire
The shortlist was selected and decided by a panel of industry heavy-weights and experts. Voting for the awards is now live and the winners will be announced at the awards ceremony immediately following the first day of the show on 18th October 2016. Previous winners include Olga Polizzi, voted Independent Hotelier 2015 and Hotel Gotham, winner of the Outstanding New Hotel award 2015.
To discover more and to register for this must-attend event for independent hoteliers and industry professionals, visit independenthotelshow.co.uk.
The re-imagined Grade II listed Palé Hall is now officially open as one of the finest country house hotels in Wales and the UK, and the first member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World in Wales. New owners Alan and Angela Harper have lovingly restored the historic house to its former glory, creating a peaceful and luxurious retreat surrounded by the natural beauty of the Welsh valleys on the edge of Snowdonia National Park.
Palé Hall is one of Wales’s most important surviving homes with a fascinating history dating back to the late 19th century when Henry Robertson, a railway engineer, industrialist and contemporary of Brunel, bought the estate as a grand personal project at the end of his transformative career in building public works. Since construction, the manor house has played host to some of Britain’s most famous figures including Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill.
In its new chapter as a hotel, 18 guest bedrooms and suites have been individually designed with their own style and personal identity, as have the beautiful light-filled public areas of the house including the opulent drawing room and tranquil parlour overlooking the grounds. General Manager Pim Wolfs, who has a wealth of experience from establishments including Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, is in charge of ensuring guests experience the very best personal service throughout their stay.
The individually designed guestrooms use soft yet playful Zoffany furnishings and quintessentially British William Morris prints. Each room holds its own history, such as the aptly named Victoria Suite, home to the bed that Queen Victoria once slept in and her original bathtub. Choose from ‘Classic Rooms’, ‘Turret Suites’, ‘Grand Rooms’, ‘Master Rooms’ and ‘Superior Suites’. A very special highlight is the amazing wood panelled Churchill Suite, where Churchill is alleged to have played snooker on his many visits to Palé Hall. Every guestroom enjoys a stunning view across the rural Welsh landscape, with window seats or deeply comfortable sofas and armchairs from which to watch the world go by.
The three dining areas within the house provide breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner to residents and non-residents, each with a different look and feel. The largest of them is the grand Henry Robertson dining room, followed by the Venetian dining room and finally the intimate library, the perfect setting for private dining.
Is there about to be a spanner thrown into the works for the Marriott-Starwood merger? Recent reports – albeit very liberally-sourced ones – seemed to suggest that Marriott was feeling a sense of ‘remorse’ about the deal and was looking for a way out to back out.
While the source cited is allegedly ‘close to the deal’, the veracity of their claims and their anonymity remains very much in question.
So, could there be a kernel of truth in the claim? Possibly. The fact Marriott beat out Anbang has led to a ‘transaction review’ from the Chinese which is delaying the closure of the deal. While frustrating, the review is unlikely to stop the deal closing. But as with all merger deals, the longer the closure takes, the more the negative voices grow louder. Seeds of doubt about how good a deal has been agreed will begin to grow in the minds of Marriott executives.
Secondly – and it’s been a talking point since the deal was first announced – the uncertainty in combining the two groups’ reward programmes is proving more of an obstacle than first hoped. Granted, this will be the key in ensuring Marriott have got the best deal for the $12 billion spent. But there’s no reason to suggest such difficulties will lead to a breakdown of the deal.
And, in truth, small hurdles that sour the deal in the short term and could be used by twitchy Marriott executives as justification for pulling out of the deal are unlikely to derail this ‘megamerger’ in the long term – executives on both sides should rest easy that anonymous sources will have to do a lot more to do so.
Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay is expected to open just north of Patong Beach in November offering stylish rooms for hotel guests. CLUB Wyndham ASIA, a part of the Wyndham Vacation Ownership business, has also signed an agreement subject to specified requirements which once complete, will give CLUB Wyndham ASIA members access to luxurious apartments at the resort.
Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay’s 214 rooms and facilities are designed to highlight its stunning locale nestled on the edge of a cliff which boasts sweeping views of the Andaman Sea. The resort is a stone’s throw away from Phuket’s vibrant entertainment precinct yet just far enough to enjoy only the sounds of peaceful waves rolling into shore.
The rooms will bring the outdoors in by illuminating its plush setting and spectacular sea views. The 48m2 standard rooms will offer guests the luxury of space together with plush furnishings and a full suite of in-room amenities. Each of the resort’s 152 pool villas, the most in the Kalim-Patong area, will feature a private outdoor sundeck and a six- or nine-metre infinity pool overlooking the ocean, providing guests with privacy and seclusion as well as ultimate comfort and relaxation.
Wyndham Hotel Group is actively expanding its diverse footprint of offerings in the region, having just recently announced the signing of a new Wyndham hotel in Danang, Vietnam. The company currently has nearly 8,000 properties worldwide with over 1200 hotels open and operating across the Asia Pacific Region under its Ramada, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Days Inn, TRYP by Wyndham and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Super 8 brands.
Last month, Banyan Tree Executive Chairman Ho Kwon Ping and Lord Mayor of Brisbane Graham Quirk officially launched the Banyan group’s first ever Banyan Tree project in Australia.
The iconic site atop the Kangaroo Point cliffs offers panoramic views across the river city, which has proved to be a major draw, along with an unprecedented level of features and inclusions that has not been seen before in the luxury residential market.
While the Brisbane residences have a unique aesthetic to others in the Banyan Tree stable, there is commonality with a number of key elements for which the brand has become synonymous including a 24-hour onsite concierge, Banyan Tree Spa and Gallery, providore-style food offering on the ground floor and rooftop gardens and infinity pool.
Interest and sales in the AUD $150-million-dollar development have been strong, with over a quarter of the 76 private residences sold in the pre-launch period to a mixture of local and interstate buyers as well as current Banyan Tree owners.
Coinciding with the official launch, the Queensland headquartered Watpac are in line to be announced as the successful tender to oversee the construction of the project. Over 500 jobs will be created during the works slated to commence in Q4 of 2016 and to be completed in early 2019.
Banyan Tree has also unveiled an outstanding display suite adjacent to the construction site, which offers prospective buyers a preview of a full-scale two-bedroom residence showing off the voluminous space, premium finishes and attention-to-detail.
The holistic offering for owners includes 24-hour Banyan Tree concierge service, onsite Banyan Tree Spa and retail Gallery, premium dining venues and an exclusive rooftop garden with private function room, barbeque facilities, daybeds and an expansive infinity pool.
The property will also feature additional gymnasium, and a secure underground car park. Residents will also enjoy proximity to some of the city’s best dining and cultural precincts, as well as schools, universities, hospitals and transportation.
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, alongside Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) and ASB Development Limited, has announced that the renowned luxury resort – The Nam Hai Hoi An – will be managed by Four Seasons as of December 20, 2016.
An intimate resort, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam will offer 40 private residence villas and 60 newly-renovated resort villas, all featuring outdoor showers, terraces, and expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces. At the heart of the Resort lies a series of three pools, flanked by palm trees and offering unobstructed views of Hoi An’s white sand beach and breaking shore. The extensive amenities at the Resort will include three world-class dining venues – offering both beach and pool-side dining, as well as an all-new Vietnamese cooking school.
J. Allen Smith, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts adds, “Vietnam is an important growth market for Four Seasons and this is a unique opportunity to quickly establish a presence in the country’s top resort destination with partners HPL and ASB, who believe in the culture of Four Seasons and share our vision for success.”
“As we continue to extend our presence across Asia Pacific we are focused on ensuring that each new addition to our portfolio represents the very best of Four Seasons, offering the highest levels of service excellence and product quality,” continues Smith. “Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam will be no exception and we are excited to mark our entry into Vietnam with such a desirable location and a luxury product that will appeal to regional and international travellers, as well as private residence owners.”
Renovations to the resort will add an all-new beach bar, kids club and a variety of water sports to the existing tennis, badminton and basketball courts, and fitness centre. The Resort will also offer a world-class spa, featuring eight private pavilions surrounded by the glass-like waters of a lotus pond.
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam will be the latest addition to the exclusive collection ofFour Seasons resorts in the Asia Pacific region, including two resorts in Bali; two resorts, a private island, and a private catamaran in the Maldives; three resorts in Thailand; and resorts in Bora Bora and Langkawi.
Home2 Suites by Hilton, part of Hilton Worldwide’s industry-first All Suites portfolio, announced earlier this month its newest property, Home2 Suites by Hilton Houston Willowbrook.
Offering 108 suites, the hotel is designed for travelers looking for a fresh, new stay experience, as the Home2 Suites Houston Willowbrook complements increased attention the city is getting from travelers planning trips next year for Super Bowl LI.
Managed by TMI Hospitality, Home2 Suites Houston Willowbrook offers guests all-suite accommodations featuring fully-equipped kitchens and modular furniture allowing for guests to personalise their room.
The hotel also features easy access to technology with complimentary Internet, inviting community 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 breakfast that includes more than 400 potential combinations.
Guests can also enjoy an outdoor saline pool, grill and patio area. Most Home2 Suites properties are pet-friendly.
Exhibiting at the Independent Hotel Show for the first time, British electricals designer and manufacturer Hamilton Litestat will be demonstrating its vast range of luxury products and new technologies to enhance the hotel guest experience at the must-attend show, held on 18-19 October 2016 at Olympia West in London.
In such a fast-paced culture, consumers are continually seeking innovative technologies and the highest levels in comfort and style: it can be extremely difficult and costly for independent hoteliers to keep up with the latest demands. Hamilton will showcase its cutting-edge technologies and chic products that deliver the latest functionality cost effectively for the boutique and independent hotel sector.
Smart controls deliver huge experiential impact but can actually save a hotelier money. Get inspired by the Hamilton’s Mercury Lighting Control system at the Independent Hotel Show. The Mercury system can be used to deliver appropriate mood lighting schemes at the flick of a switch or touch of a button while also achieving significant cost and energy savings of up to 80%.
The latest development in lighting control is the RGB DMX option, where a colour-wash can be used as accent lighting to add drama to a space. – ideal for use in guest rooms, bars and restaurants. Matching control plates are available from the Hamilton collections for that totally coordinated look.
Also on show is Hamilton’s Mercury Multi-Room Audio System, which allows guests to listen to their own music effortlessly via USB and/or Bluetooth connections throughout their suite. Audio can be isolated to one area or can be played through all of the room’s speakers, again at the touch of a button.
Both the lighting and audio systems can be controlled via Hamilton’s vast portfolio of switch plates and ‘key card switch’ systems, which can be effortlessly programmed to activate specific pre-set lighting scenes as well as control other room functions such as air conditioning, blinds and entertainment centres.
Hamilton’s coordinating socket plates will also be on show, including the latest USB charging options and international sockets. There’s a design and finish to suit every taste, with a special bespoke service available to create a solution that’s tailor-made to your exact requirements.
Visit Hamilton on Stand 261 at the Independent Hotel Show to get inspiration and see how the latest products and technologies can enhance your guest experience.
Accelerating growth in emerging markets across the globe, Starwood Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Four Points Benin City, Nigeria.
Owned by Eagle Hospitality and Leisure Limited, the sleek new Four Points hotel is built for the modern traveler with an emphasis on approachable design and stylish comfort. Conveniently located in the heart of Benin City – the capital city of Edo State, one of the 36 states in Nigeria – the hotel is situated within a five-minute drive to the airport and no more than 10 minutes from the government and business district.
Four Points Benin City offers 176 spacious guest rooms and suites along with exciting food and beverage options including an all-day dining restaurant, a pool bar and the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program featuring local beers at the lobby bar and lounge – the ideal spot to watch sports matches and unwind with friends and colleagues.
Other hotel facilities include a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness centre, an outdoor pool, 400 square meters of flexible meeting spaces and a fully equipped business center. The hotel will provide all of the brand’s defining elements including the signature Four Points bed, complimentary bottled water in all rooms and suites, fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and an energizing breakfast with fresh coffee that helps guests start and end the day right.
With over 200 hotels in nearly 40 countries around the world, Four Points continues to penetrate new markets, globally. The brand is on track to expand its portfolio of rooms by more than 50% in the next five years.
Curio – A Collection by Hilton announced this week the opening of Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton. The upscale, one-of-a-kind hotel is Hilton Worldwide’s first property on the island of Ibiza. Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is part of Hilton Worldwide’s Curio brand, a rapidly-expanding global collection of distinctive upscale and luxury hotels.
Originally established in 1933, Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is steeped in history as it was the first purpose-built hotel on the island and has been declared an asset of cultural interest by UNESCO. With its opening as part of the Curio collection, the property has been fully refurbished while maintaining its neo-colonial facade. The hotel’s 33 elegant guest rooms have been decorated by famed interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán and most rooms offer views of the old town and harbour.
Cafe Montesol sits on the ground floor of the hotel and has been a hub for social life in Ibiza since it was originally established in 1933. It is known among local residents as a place to gather and socialise while enjoying Spanish Mediterranean cuisine and tapas specialities, and can accommodate up to 300 guests. Its cocktail bar is the perfect place to lounge while enjoying a refreshing drink and its street terrace overlooks Vara de Rey Boulevard.
“Each hotel selected to join the collection is hand-picked for its distinctive character and Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is no exception to this as it joins 23 Curio hotels open around the world, including Reichshof Hamburg in Germany which was the first Curio hotel to open in EMEA,” said Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president and global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton. “We are delighted to add this property to our growing portfolio. With its prime location, bespoke concierge service and top restaurant, the hotel is ideal for travellers to Ibiza.”
We’re less than two weeks away from the start of the new-look Hotel Designs Summit – two days dedicated to hotel design, facilities and development – being held at the Radisson Blu London Stansted on 12-13 September 2016.
As part of this year’s speaker programme, we’re delighted to announce the attendance of Aly Thompson, Industry Manager for UK and Irelandfor trivago, the world’s largest hotel metasearch that serves 120 million visitors per month and receives 4 million requests per day.
She’s part of trivago’s newly founded Hotel Relations team; a unit that is reinventing the way trivago connects with hoteliers worldwide through its core product, trivago Hotel Manager (tHM). Her goal is to establish trivago as the number one marketing channel for hoteliers, to empower them to boost their ranking on trivago and drive bookings directly to their hotel websites.
Before taking on her current role, Aly has been working at trivago in Advertiser Communication and our Marketplace team, gaining an advanced understanding of trivago’s market dynamics and developing resources to guide advertisers in optimising their campaigns on trivago.
Aly studied marketing and communication in New Zealand and Australia and has worked in strategy and communication for several government agencies in New Zealand. She comes from a family of entrepreneurs and is passionate about empowering hoteliers to harness the power of digital marketing to target guests around the world.
About trivago Hotel Manager
trivago aspires to become the number one marketing channel for hoteliers by reinventing the way they connect them with their 120 million monthly travelers – via the trivago Hotel Manager (tHM). Over 200,000 hoteliers worldwide already use the metasearch marketing platform to boost their ranking on trivago by building a unique hotel profile and driving direct bookings on their own website. The platform currently operates in eight languages across 17 countries.
At trivago, we are focused on empowering our 120+ million monthly travelers to find their ideal hotel at the lowest rate, by offering total transparency of the online hotel market. Our team of over 1000+ creative and focused minds from all corners of the globe, are working to develop fast, game-changing, unbiased, consumer-centric products — in order to better not only what we do, but the industry as a whole. Using trivago’s hotel search, you can sift through over 1 million hotels, from 250+ booking sites and hotel chains in 190+ countries, at once. Founded in 2005, trivago currently operates on 55 live international platforms in 33 languages.
Previously known as the Hotel Summit and rebranded as part of Forum Events’ acquisition of Hotel Designs, the HD Summit can help you find the perfect match and can save time sourcing suppliers through a proven concept of meeting and negotiating supplier contracts.
W Hotels Worldwide, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, has announced the completion of its highly anticipated multi-million dollar renovation of W Seattle.
The hotel’s Pacific Northwest location inspired the renovation, with all 415 guest rooms and suites, lobby space, restaurant and meeting spaces transformed by design firm, Krause + Sawyer, along with the award-winning design team from W Hotels.
In a nod to the city’s reputation as one of the defining music capitals of the world, the W brand also recently announced that W Seattle will soon be home to the first W Sound Suite in North America, a private music studio and writer’s room for professional recording artists, studio musicians, as well as hotel guests, to record in style while on the road.
Inspired by the destination’s timeless beauty, W Seattle is naturally connected to the city’s burgeoning business empires of tech, music, design and more, which sit alongside the lush wilderness that the Emerald City is renowned for.
Serving as the setting where backpacks and briefcases mix and mingle, the hotel’s innovative design mirrors the duality of this cosmopolitan centre. Upon entry, grand wooden ‘lodge poles’ (inspired by the Northwest’s Native American culture) and tree-ring flooring (a nod to the city’s logging industry), greet guests alongside a DJ booth crafted from an airplane turbine, which illustrates Seattle’s aviation history.
Newly reimagined guestrooms evoke a sense of the ultimate ‘urban lodge’ through design that captures the innovative spirit of Seattle. The color palette is derived from the blue hues of Seattle, with pops of purple, teal and yellow gold incorporated into a grey canvas inspired by the city’s infamously moody skies. The focal point of each room is the headboard ‘Lodge Wall’, connecting creative design to nature through stacked wood beams backlit by LED lights.
The spirit of the great outdoors is contrasted against elements inspired by the city’s iconic grunge music scene. The rooms feature plaid accent pillows and a Pendleton pattern reflected in the silver, white and gray Mylar wallpaper created exclusively for the guest rooms. Details mimicking Seattle’s storied aviation history influenced materials and finishes – polished, aerodynamic shapes for wall and desk lighting, as well as the design of the desk chair. The throw blanket pattern comes from a Boeing 747 model kit on scale, and a pillow with a jet image punctuates each bed.
Two Manhattan hotels designed by Gene Kaufman Architect for Quadram Global’s new micro-hotel Arlo brand are slated to open this autumn in Manhattan, one in NoMad and one in Hudson Square.
The 11-storey, 325-key Arlo Hudson Square, which will open at 231 Hudson Street (also known as 503 Canal Street) on September 6, is a 97,000-square-foot hotel created by merging two adjoining parcels. The project increased in size during the design process as two sets of air rights were obtained, allowing the architects to design for a larger space than had originally been envisioned.
The hotel will have expansive outdoor space comprising a large rooftop terrace with a bar/lounge and an equally large ground floor courtyard, also with a lounge. Arlo Hudson Square will also have the latest eatery of Chef Harold Moore, Executive Chef and owner of the West Village’s successful Commerce Restaurant. Called Harold’s Meat + 3, the restaurant will be 2,400 square feet.
The hotel’s interiors, which include meeting rooms, have been designed by AvroKO. Landscape design is by MDD Landscape Design.
The 37-story, 250-key Arlo NoMad will open later this fall at 11 East 31st Street, between Madison and Fifth avenues. One of its many attractions is the roof deck, with its wrap-around views of the city and large terrace, both made possible by the stacked mechanicals that free up the maximum amount of space. The roof is just one of the many spaces the hotel offers guests for relaxing and meeting friends. In fact, with its small but well-appointed guest rooms and its large public spaces, with places to eat, lounge and enjoy cocktails, the 91,000-square-foot hotel will be a new type of high-end hotel, one designed as much for socializing as for sleep.
Says Gene Kaufman, Founder and Principal of Gene Kaufman Architect: “Our goal for each of these hotels was to create a look that reflected the neighborhood in which it resides. In Hudson Square, we’ve used aged brick to emulate the appearance of the area’s historic industrial buildings, while in the more bustling, urban NoMad we’ve designed a light, airy glass tower that floats above its neighbors and towers against the sky.”
Hilton and Al-Rai Real Estate have announced plans today which will see the luxury Conrad Hotels & Resorts and midscale Hilton Garden Inn open their doors to guests in early 2019.
The development forms part of an ambitious expansion project which will see almost $1 billion devoted towards solidifying the position of The Avenues Mall in Kuwait City as one of the world’s top retail destinations.
Conrad Kuwait This 158-guestroom luxury property will form part of the extension of the Mall’s popular ‘Prestige’ district, which opened in 2012. The district forms Kuwait’s largest luxury shopping destination, home to 47 luxury retail units under a 23 metre dome. The hotel will feature a ballroom, multiple dining options, and an outdoor pool and spa. The hotel’s design concept will complement the Prestige district’s use of copper and rare ‘Portoro’ stone, imported from the mountains of Italy.
Hilton Garden Inn Kuwait Adjoining two of the new districts being created under the fourth phase expansion, Hilton Garden Inn Kuwait will become the brand’s largest hotel in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. Boasting 430 guestrooms in an imposing tower structure at the Northern end of the Mall, the main entrance of the property will be located in ‘The Forum’ which will provide a central meeting point within the mall. The property will also border the new ‘Electra’ district set to create a vibrant international atmosphere inspired by the bright lights and high technology of cities such as Tokyo and Hong Kong.
Jim Holthouser, executive vice president, global brands, Hilton Worldwide, said: “The Avenues is a truly world-class destination and a fitting home to two of our world-class brands. Both have celebrated landmark openings in the Middle East this year, with Conrad becoming our first luxury brand to welcome guests to Makkah, while Hilton Garden Inn has debuted at another of the region’s flagship retail spaces, Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates. We look forward to adding Kuwait to both portfolios.”
The Hyatt Place and Hyatt House brands continue growth in new markets with the opening of 10 hotels across the globe during the second quarter of 2016.
Of the 10 Hyatt Place and HYATT house hotel openings in the second quarter, 40 percent were in the Asia Pacific region, including the first dual-branded Hyatt Place and HYATT house hotels in Shenzhen, China, which create a combined experience that enables guests to enjoy the benefits of both brands under one roof. Additionally, HYATT house Shenzhen Airport marks the first HYATT house hotel in Asia.
“The openings of four Hyatt Place and HYATT house hotels in Asia Pacific are a testament to our commitment to strategic growth for these brands throughout the region and the world,” said Steve Haggerty, Hyatt’s global head of capital strategy, franchising and select service. “We are proud that Hyatt Place and HYATT house hotels continue to meet travelers’ needs in key cities globally, further demonstrating the overall strength and resonance of the brands with developers, owners and guests.”
The newly opened Hyatt Place hotels include: – Hyatt Place Phuket Patong (161 rooms), Phuket, Thailand – Hyatt Place Washington DC/Georgetown/West End (168 rooms), Washington, D.C. – Hyatt Place Kansas City/Lenexa City Center (127 rooms), Lenexa, Kan. – Hyatt Place Shenzhen Airport (167 rooms), Shenzhen, China – Hyatt Place Luoyang (248 rooms), Luoyang, China – Hyatt Place London Heathrow Hayes (170 rooms), Hayes, United Kingdom – Hyatt Place Cleveland/Lyndhurst/Legacy Village (135 rooms), Lyndhurst, Ohio – Hyatt Place Chicago/O’Hare Airport (200 rooms), Rosemont, Ill.
The newly opened HYATT house hotels include: – Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport (112 rooms), Shenzhen, China – Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston (114 rooms), Evanston, Ill.
Additionally, the HYATT house brand has been recognized by J.D. Power as “Highest in Guest Satisfaction among North American Upper Extended Stay Hotel Chains.” As a result of guest ratings in the recently released J.D. Power 2016 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index StudySM, the HYATT house brand led the upper extended stay segment with 856 points, scoring 12 points higher than the segment average.
To learn more about Hyatt Place hotels or to make a reservation, visit www.hyattplace.com, and for more information about HYATT house hotels or to book a reservation, visit www.hyatthouse.com.
Imagine asking a hotel room to turn up the air conditioning when it gets too hot or to turn on the lights before getting out of bed. Well, the future is here and it just checked in at Aloft Hotels. Starwood has unveiled the results of its top secret “Project: Jetson” experiment, and are excited to reveal the first-ever voice activated hotel room, giving guests entirely new ways to interact using “Hey Siri.”
Each Aloft Voice-Activated Hotel Room is equipped with an iPad running a custom Aloft app used for controlling the in-room guest experience, with HomeKit-enabled accessories including room temperature, lighting options and more. These new rooms are available today at Aloft Boston Seaport and at Aloft Santa Clara.
“Forget the phrase ‘at the touch of your fingertips.’ Today’s early adopter, hyper-connected traveller wants a level of personalisation unlike ever before, and that means being able to control their hotel experience with the sound of their voice,” said Brian McGuinness, Global Brand Leader, Aloft Hotels. “We’re thrilled to be the first hotel brand to bring voice-activation to our guests in this way, using Siri to control room temperature, lighting and more during their stay.”
When guests arrive, they will launch a custom Aloft app on their in-room iPad to control various aspects of their voice-activated room. A personalised welcome screen will advise guests on how to set up their room and use their own voice with “Hey Siri.” Each iPad also offers a simple tutorial to guide guests through the setup process and answer any questions they may have.
Here is a sampling of what the smartest hotel room in the world can do:
– Control Temperature – Wake up hot at 2 am? Simply ask Siri to adjust the temperature on the Ecobee HomeKit-enabled thermostat by saying “Hey Siri, cool the room” to your desired setting. – Adjust Lighting – Watching a movie or reading in bed? Use Homekit-enabled Philips Hue lights to select preset lighting options for every mood including: Re:set (standard lighting); Re:lax (evening); Re:view (movie theater); and Re:vive (morning). Just ask Siri to turn on the lights, turn off the lights, or simply say good morning. – “Set the Mood (Music) – Singing in the shower but want a new track? Say “Hey Siri, put on my morning playlist.” To use this feature, guests must be signed into their iTunes account on the iPad. Music plays through the guest’s personal device. – Explore Local Attractions – Need a virtual concierge? Just ask “Hey Siri, what are some attractions near me?” so you can navigate the area like a local.
The new Aloft Voice-Activated Hotel Rooms also allow guests to browse the internet, check the weather and more. At the end of each stay, all iPads are reset and all personal preferences are removed from the device.
Rezidor announces the signing of three new properties in the UAE: the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront and the Park Inn by Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island will already welcome the first guests in Q2 of 2017. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View will open its doors in Q1 of 2018.
“The UAE is a key strategic market for us. Dubai, the world’s fourth most visited city in 2015 with 14.2 million overnight visitors has been on an unprecedented growth journey for the last decade. The emirate’s ambition is to hit 20 million visitors by 2020 and position the country as both a world-class business and leisure destination. We want to contribute to the on-going journey and support this fast-growing sector together with our experienced regional partners”, said Wolfgang Neumann, President & CEO of Rezidor.
The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront is located in the largest and most impressive waterfront development in the world within Business Bay known as Dubai Water Canal, the new business district of Dubai. The property will comprise 432 rooms including designer suites. It will offer several dining experiences, including one all-day dining restaurant and bar with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa – currently the tallest skyscraper in the world – a Makar Scottish bar and the brand’s signature FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar. Guests will also appreciate the pool and the spa. The property will also address local and international business guests with meeting and conferencing facilities on a surface of over 1,000sqm.
Also located on the Dubai Water Canal in the city’s new hub of Business Bay, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View has an ideal central location. It comprises 188 stylish rooms and 16 suites, a meeting and conference area on a surface of 131 sqm, a business center and a 341sqm banquet hall. Guest will also enjoy one of Radisson Blu’s signature Food & Drink concepts in its four restaurants, one coffee shop, a selection of shops, a gymnasium on a total surface of 181sqm, and exceptional views of the Burj Khalifa.
In the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, Rezidor is adding its first the Park Inn by Radisson Resort on Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island. Meaning “headland of the small huts”, Ras Al Khaimah is a growing destination for leisure and business travel. On Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s first man-made archipelago, guests will enjoy impressive views of the Arabian Gulf. The beach resort, comprising of two buildings, will offer 408 rooms including 24 superior rooms, family rooms and suites, one all dining restaurant, 2 restaurants, one lobby café and one lobby bar. Extensive meeting and event spaces are planned, such as other facilities including a swimming pool and a spa.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced that the group will add five new Holiday Inn and Holiday Express hotels to its growing presence in Germany. Having signed 4,000 rooms (24 hotels) within the first half of the year, this is the company’s best signings performance since 2008.
Robert Shepherd, Chief Development Officer Europe, IHG, said: “The German hotel market is accelerating at pace and we are well positioned to take advantage of the appetite for branded growth. 57% of the market is unbranded, so there is a lot of opportunity for IHG to add value with our international brands. Several of our signings in the last few months have been with long-standing partners of IHG, who have signed multiple development agreements with the company. It’s a great start as we head into this quarter.”
The signings are confirmed to develop properties within the following regions:
Baden-Wuerttemberg As part of the MDA signed with long-standing partner TriStar, who will be the owner and franchisee of the hotel, Holiday Inn Express Pforzheim will be a new build with the advantages of our next generation design.
• Guests will enjoy the hotel’s most innovative and smart technology at every stage of their stay including a better more comfortable night’s sleep, a functional and flexible place to work and relax in the room, and a lobby that provides a welcoming space to relax or meet with friends or colleagues • The 140-room hotel, set to open in late 2019, will be of benefit to the area given its position as an economic and cultural hub and ideal location, being situated between Karlsruhe and Stuttgart
Baden-Wuerttemberg will also benefit from two further Holiday Inn brand family hotels within Mannheim. Holiday Inn Mannheim City – Hauptbahnhof (pictured, main) is ideally located outside Mannheim train station and within walking distance of the city centre, financial district and University of Mannheim.
It will open in 2018 and has been signed in conjunction with MDA partner Primestar. The second largest city in Baden-Wurttemberg after Stuttgart, travellers will be able to enjoy the iconic Luisenpark, just twenty minutes’ walk from the hotel’s location. It will also feature an Open Lobby, a central element to the development of newly built Holiday Inn hotels. The lobby enables dwell time for our guests and the community alike. Holiday Inn Express Mannheim will be located within Mannheim City Centre. Owned and franchised by MDA partner Foremost Hospitality, the new build hotel will have 160 rooms and feature next generation design.
Bavaria Holiday Inn Express Regensburg will be constructed with Hubert Haupt Immobilienmanagement GmbH. The hotel will be franchised by Success Hotel Management GmbH, a MDA partner who already license four other Holiday Inn Express hotels.
• Holiday Inn Express Regensburg will form part of a new development retail and office site and also offer the next-generation design in each of the 182 rooms and public areas • Regensburg is a UNESCO world heritage site with a renowned Christmas market, making it popular with leisure travellers, and with several global brands including BMW, Amazon and Toshiba recently setting up bases in the city, it has confirmed itself as a business centre. The hotel will open in late 2017
North Rhine-Westphalia Franchised by TriStar, Holiday Inn Express Oberhausen will feature next-generation design and is set to open early next year (no, will not open early next year – they have not started construction yet, will probably open early 2018). Oberhausen is a city of cultural nuances: it annually hosts the International Short Film Festival, but is also a hub for the steel industry. The hotel will have 140 rooms.
IHG has 64 hotels in Germany and 33 in the pipeline, including 53 Holiday Inn brand family hotels open with 32 in the pipeline.
W Hotels Worldwide expands its Latin American portfolio with the opening of W Punta de Mita in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit.
W Punta de Mita is the 48th W Hotel worldwide and fifth W Hotel in Latin America following W Santiago, W Mexico City, W Vieques Island and W Bogota, bringing closer Starwood’s goal of reaching 75 hotels by 2020.
Designed by ASET/AOMA in collaboration with Oakland-based design firm Mister Important Design, and Starwood’s award-winning design team, W Punta de Mita is inspired by the local bohemian surf culture found throughout Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Steeped in historical, social and spiritual context, the design of the hotel conveys colourful Mexico; the blues of the bay and the coast surrounding Puerto Vallarta; traditional patterns of the Huichol people (indigenous people of Nayarit); images of traditional Mexican celebration; sensational sunsets over the beach; vivid handcrafts with ancient roots and the amalgamation of Spanish and indigenous cultures all of which are brought to life throughout the hotel’s luxurious and stylish villas, public spaces, and buzzing bars and restaurants.
When designing the property, careful measures were put in place to ensure that the natural surroundings – the ancient fig trees and natural springs – were not disturbed during construction. Many of these natural features are showcased throughout the hotel’s design including the reuse of spring water in the reflection pools and within the spa.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a cheeky and oversized 9-foot Huichol statue standing in a reflection pool, along with a fleet of colourful Tuk Tuks with artwork customized by Revolución Del Sueño, a Sayulita based design studio, that whisk travelers from the main entrance to the Welcome area and Living Room (the brand’s take on the hotel lobby), as well as around the grounds. Backdrops behind the Welcome Desks, are reimagined versions of Papel Picado, a traditional Mexican folk art that hangs in villages during community events and celebrations and evocative of being welcomed into a Mexican fiesta. Mexican wrestling masks (Lucha Libre); historical figures with surfboards; mariachi instruments; candy skulls, evoking death; and sayings such as “Mexico es Amor” and “Canta y No Lllores” translating to Sing and Don’t Cry (a line from a famous local song which highlights the culture’s upbeat disposition) are artfully embedded into the hotel’s design.
A bright blue and green mosaic “Camino Huichol” walkway, stretching over 450 feet, acts as the central nervous system of the space, with restaurants and shops branching off. The walkway guides guests from the Welcome area, through the Living Room and onto the center walkway of the WET deck (pool area), finally jutting out over the beach for that Insta-worthy view of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Comprised of more than three quarters of a million individual tiles, the colours and scenes depicted within the design are inspired by the Huichol people who are indigenous to this area of Mexico.
W Punta de Mita’s Living Room (W’s answer to the staid hotel lobby) is inspired by a traditional Palapa, one big open space with no walls to divide the area, and is anchored by a rectangular bar that replicates an altar.
Located about the property are three beautifully designed, locally-inspired murals by Mexican graffiti artist Nacho Bernal, depicting different takes on W Punta de Mita’s surrounding area. One piece of art found on the side of the beachfront villas depicts a jungle scene with a jaguar adorned in Huichol beads, an animal that was said to be the guardian of the Huichol culture. However, the jaguar is always hidden (as it is in the mural) and legend says that if the animal is seen it will only be seconds before it pounces.
The hotel offers a selection of 119 stylishly designed guest villas, including one Extreme WOW Suite (the W brand’s take on the traditional Presidential Suite). All villas and suites feature private balconies or patios, artisanal Mexican tiled floors and headboards fashioned from either surfboards or punctured tin replicating the design found in local churches, as well as the signature W Bed and sumptuous Bliss® bath amenities.
Cleverly incorporated into the décor of each villa are repurposed vintage photographs of Mexican historical figures, such as Frida Kahlo, by Revolución Del Sueño. A cluster of casitas called Ocean Escape Villas resemble a pre-Hispanic fishing village of the past. Surrounding the property’s spring-fed lake, the villas are designed in a way to highlight the natural beauty – each has private terraces and an enclosed open-roofed patio for stargazing by night and natural light by day. The Jungle Escape Villas feature private balconies allowing for intimate views of the surrounding natural beauty, including the bright red trunks of the papelillo trees and hanging vines of the forest. The villas are offset to accommodate these ancient trees and to respect the topography of the area.
The 4,460 square foot, 2-bedroom Extreme WOW Suite is inspired by the Mexican Flag – the red is found in the tiles of the pool, the green in the surrounding vegetation and the white in the expansive views of the crashing waves on the beach seen from the suite’s private terrace. The center focal point of the room is the swimming pool that circles around the suite’s island-like living room and can only be accessed by a small wooden bridge above the water.
Chevrolet 3800 truck, the vibrant Latin American recipes blend citrus and raw fish or seafood seasoned together for a refreshing break from the Mexican sun. Venazu, open all day, is the hotel’s casual dining restaurant offering guests authentic Mexican cuisine with must-try dishes like Taco de Langosta al Pastor, Risotto de Huitlacoche, and Venado Cocida en Hoyas de Aguacate. With locally sourced materials – from the colorful upholstery to the brightly painted, refurbished Mexican baking shelves reused as partitions – the space fosters a convivial, lively atmosphere with sweeping views of the ocean, evocative of a Mexican town during their weeklong fiesta.
W Punta de Mita’s 4,000 square foot AWAY Spa is designed to feel like a forest cave. Centered in the room is a hanging chandelier of glass flowers in the colors of a Mexican sunset, alongside a beauty bar with stations for manicures, pedicures, waxing, blow outs and more. The Relaxation Deck features intricate cutouts in the wood to accommodate for the roots of surrounding guardian fig trees. The Therapy Pools beside a natural spring offer different treatments such as hydrotherapy, cold mist, hydro jets, pressure showers, and waterfalls with varied temperatures. Each of the five treatment rooms incorporate water into the design with beds strategically placed over glass cutouts in the floor to overlook a fish pond.
An A-Z* of the hotel trade will be attending this unique two-day networking event…
There are less than two weeks to go until the Hotel Designs Summit takes place. And if you’re a hotel owner or manager – or if you supply this booming sector – there’s a limited time to book your place at this hugely influential event.
The Hotel Designs Summit takes place on Monday September 12th and Tuesday September 13th at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Stansted. This unique event matches hoteliers with hotel suppliers for a series of pre-arranged one-on-one meetings. In addition, a series of informative and inspirational seminars are hosted, while a gala dinner with evening entertainment, plus other networking opportunities, provide further business opportunities and peer-to-peer engagement.
An A to Z* of the UK’s leading hotel brands are attending – from Arts Club London to Best Western; Carlton Hotels to DeVere Venues; Episode Hotels to Frithwood House; Grafton Manor to Hotel Café Royal; InterContinental to Kew Green Hotels; Lemo Hotels to Merlin Entertainment; Nine Capital to Park Inn; Ravis Hospitality to Suite Hospitality; The Lanesborough to Ufford Park Hotel to Village Hotels and Wyboston Lakes (*okay, A to W… you find a hotel brand starting with ‘Z’…)
The seminar programme includes sessions from Trivago, Areen Hospitality, Edgar House, Yasmin Chopin Interior Design and the Institute of Hospitality.
There are just a handful of supplier booths available now, so contact Jennie Lane today to secure your place at the event. Contact her on 01992 374098 or email j.lane@forumevents.co.uk
Decorex International is the UK’s leading design show and the only one of its kind in the UK for the luxury interiors market.
Decorex – now in its 39th year – is firmly recognised among the international design community as the trusted resource for high-end interior designers, retailers, property developers, hoteliers and architects.
L-R: ‘Jet Set Collection – New York’ flooring by Artisans of Devizes, £12 per sheet (artisansofdevizes.com) // ‘Perse Gray’ paint by Paint and Paper Library, from £31 per 750ml (paintandpaperlibrary.com) // ‘Venezia – Gray’ rug by William Yeoward, £1,495 (williamyeoward.com)
Decorex is where the trade comes to discover trends for the upcoming season and this year will be no exception. With over 400 exhibitors, from leading names to emerging talents, visitors have the chance to see new collections first-hand.
L-R: ‘405 Line’ cushion by Eleanor Pritchard, £110 (eleanorpritchard.com) // ‘Kala Checks’ organic cotton towel by Stitch by Stitch, £40 (stitchbystitch.com)
The four-day show takes place each September in the prestigious location of Syon Park, attracting 13,000 professional trade visitors from across the globe. Decorex will be exploring the roots of design as the 2016 show theme.
Nobu Miami Beach is delighted to unveil its new website, now taking reservations for stays beginning September 16, 2016. Guests can use the site to book reservations and discover the property’s exclusive guest room retreats and unique amenities.
Renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Academy Award winner Robert De Niro, Hollywood producer Meir Teper and Australian business tycoon James Packer are the visionaries behind the flagship hotel, slated to soft open this fall. “Since opening my restaurant in Miami Beach 16 years ago, I have felt a connection to this city and the people. Now with the Nobu Hotel, I feel like I have a new home,” Chef Nobu said.
The Nobu Hotel features world-renowned Japanese restaurant Nobu Miami, Helene Henderson’s Malibu Farm, along with rooms and suites set within the Eden Roc Miami Beach’s landmark Morris Lapidus tower.
Designed by architect David Rockwell, the property will deliver a fun-luxury experience with Nobu amenities for guests, while paying homage to Eden Roc’s venerable heritage. The hotel’s 206 spacious guest rooms and suites offer stunning ocean and Intracoastal views with designs that draw upon Japanese architecture and the hotel’s oceanfront location to evoke a contemporary Japanese beach house. All rooms and suites feature private bars and exclusive food and beverage offering, Barcelona’s Nature Bissé bath amenities, custom Nobu mattress and Fili d’Oro bed linen.
Thirty-five luxury suites embody peace and relaxation and are adorned with sleek furnishings and teak accents. The three penthouse suites offer breathtaking ocean views and 2,400 square feet of elegant decor available for guests seeking luxury accommodations or a venue for an exquisite event.
The perfect hotel for food lovers, the heart of the experience is Nobu Miami. The restaurant serves its genre-defining cuisine to a strong following of international tastemakers and devotees in its soaring dining room, and also offers a tantalizing 24 hour in-room dining menu designed especially for Nobu Hotel Miami Beach. Nobu guests will soon have exclusive access to a private Nobu pool with soaring views of the ocean and beach with Nobu poolside service and menus.
Complementing Nobu’s high-energy dining experience, the first east coast outpost of Chef and Swedish transplant Helene Henderson’s Malibu Farm will grace the property’s oceanfront dining space. Helene’s food philosophy – “fresh, organic, local” – is simple and revolves around finding the best ingredients and doing little to modify them. Malibu Farm at Nobu Hotel Miami Beach will source produce from area farms and markets, combining local influences with Helene’s California home.
Belfast waterfront will be the site of the city’s newest hotel with the construction of Marriott International’s City Quays Hotel.
This will be Marriott’s first hotel in Northern Ireland, joining the company’s portfolio of nearly 4,500 hotels located in 87 countries and territories around the world. The four-star hotel will include 188 rooms, a restaurant, a bar/lounge, fitness facilities and meeting rooms.
Graeme Johnston, Belfast Harbour ’s Property Director, said: “Bringing Marriott to Northern Ireland for the first time is great news for both business and leisure travellers as well as for the city.
“The hotel will also be well placed to tap into Belfast’s growing reputation as a conference destination with the newly-refurbished Waterfront Hall just a short riverside walk away.
“With views of Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic the hotel will also appeal to inbound tourists and – given Marriott’s reputation for quality – we’re confident that it will appeal strongly to local people looking for a new leisure experience.”
Marriott already has two hotels in Ireland: the world famous Shelbourne Dublin, a Renaissance Hotel and Powerscourt Hotel, Autograph Collection in Co Wicklow. Marriott International hotels in London include the five-star JW Marriott Grosvenor House and St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.
“We are delighted to bring our lifestyle hotel brand, AC Hotels by Marriott, to the revitalised City Quays area of Belfast,” said Paul Thomas, Director International Development.
“This will be the first AC Hotel by Marriott in Northern Ireland, demonstrating our commitment to opening design-led hotels in thriving destinations where we see growing demand from discerning travellers seeking a refreshed hotel experience. We look forward to being part of this exciting and flourishing city.”
London’s Soho House & Co and New York’s Sydell Group will join forces to create The Ned – a hotel, club and collection of restaurants in the former Midland Bank building City of London.
The Grade I listed former bank building was designed by Sir Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyens in the 1920s as the headquarters of Midland Bank which at the time was the largest clearing house bank in the world.
The beautiful building will be fully restored and converted to hotel use and will feature nine unique restaurants and bars, majestic event spaces converted from the former executive offices and board rooms, extensive health and leisure facilities, grooming facilities, a roof top terrace with pool overlooking St. Pauls as well as a membership club.
Guest rooms will feature 1920s and 1930s style design with brass and mahogany furniture, chandeliers, vintage pieces, hand-knotted Afghan rugs and rain forest showers. Staying at The Ned entitles guests to a temporary membership of Ned’s Club.
The property is scheduled to open in early 2017. Photos: thened.com
Thamrin Ekspress Indonesia has announced the opening of Four Points Jakarta, Thamrin. The opening marks the first Four Points property in Jakarta, and the sixth in Indonesia. The hotel is part of an approximate 159,000 square foot mixed used development that consists of offices located on the upper floors of the building and the hotel.
Four Points Jakarta, Thamrin features 164 guest rooms fitted with the Four Points brand’s signature bedding. The hotel features an all-day dining venue, which incorporates the brand’s signature Best Brews program, allowing guests to sample a range of local craft and artisan beers.
For meetings and events, Four Points Jakarta, Thamrin has three comfortable, stylish meeting spaces totaling 1,615 square feet that overlooks the lively Thamrin business district. The hotel also offers a 24 hour fitness center that is fully equipped with a range of high-endurance and low impact workout equipment.
Four Points Jakarta, Thamrin is strategically located along Jl M.H. Thamrin at Menara Topas, a major road running through the Central Business District in Jakarta with high visibility for corporate clients. The hotel is located just under one half a mile north of the famous Selamat Datang roundabout near multinational corporate offices, embassies, megamalls, retail shops, restaurants and bars.
For guests looking to immerse in the rich history and culture of Jakarta during their stay at the hotel, they can visit Pasar Baru, the oldest shopping centre in the city that dates back to the Dutch colonial era, Sunda Kelapa, a 17th century port to see the world’s last wind-powered trading schooners, or take in captivating views from the observation deck at Monas, a National Monument located in the centre of Freedom Square. All are located within 7.5 miles of the hotel.
London-based Distinction Group have partnered with Portuguese decking company Tecnodeck and the two will be exhibiting together at the forthcoming Hotel Show in Dubai.
Distinction have been designing and manufacturing high quality furniture for over 30 years, working with both boutique and world-renowned hotel and development groups to create luxurious hotel bedrooms, bars and restaurants furnished and finished to the very highest standards. Distinction are proud of their British base but are gaining an enviable reputation in the Middle East, with a number of projects already underway or approaching completion in the region.
Tecnodeck, a manufacturer of innovative wood-plastic composite decking, recognised the importance of the Middle East market some time ago and has been looking to grow its commercial presence in the region.
“We know that Distinction is a well-recognised UK company and very well placed in this booming region of the world, with all the skills to promote and develop an interesting market for both companies” says Tecnodeck CEO Pedro Machado. “We decided the timing was right to establish a distribution co-operation. We already have projects running and the decision of both companies to exhibit together at the Hotel Show Dubai reflects our ongoing collaboration.”
Distinction Sales and Marketing Director, Thomas Elliott agrees: “We’re very proud to be partnering with Tecnodeck for this year’s exhibition. Their innovative decking saw great interest at the Hotel Show Jeddah and we look to gain them more business here – their products are perfectly suited to the growing Saudi market and it only makes sense for us to partner at the show together.”
“This is our third year attending the Hotel Show Dubai. The previous two shows have proved it to be the best platform for meeting new clients in the UAE, leading us to develop some of our biggest business deals in the region.”
Distinction will be showing a selection of new furniture designs at the Show, including the striking Cubo Armchair and the EHL Chair. The EHL hotel chair has been designed specifically for the UAE climate, featuring a wood-effect metal frame to ensure durability.
In Dubai, Distinction are working with luxury hotel brands such as The Langham hospitality Group and Viceroy, both to debut in 2017. Meeting this increasing demand for their sleek design and high quality finish, Distinction are planning a new showroom in Immam Shaffi Street, Jeddah. The showroom will allow for even smoother client liaison and project management, building on the company’s expertise and experience in the region.
Distinction can be found at stand 3D121 at the Hotel Show Dubai, 17-19 September at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Limitless are in the process of revolutionising the concept of disability by correcting the misapprehension that ‘disabled access’ is a synonym for ‘wheelchair access’, thereby ensuring that businesses can better serve the needs of all disabled people.
By failing to grasp the broad spectrum of meaning covered by the term, ‘disability’, a majority of businesses are forfeiting some £1.8 billion per month, as over 75% of disabled people avoid services which they feel do not meet their needs.
With a loyalty rate of over 85% and a yearly spend of more than £3 billion on accommodation in the UK, this is a market that the hospitality industry cannot ignore. Skyline Apartments recognises this and has partnered with Limitless Travel in a move to satisfy a demographic that constitutes more than 10% of the population.
Having assessed Skyline’s facilities and procedures, Limitless will consult with the senior management team to set out clear recommendations on how they can make low-cost improvements to the service they provide for disabled guests.
Angus Drummond, the CEO and founder of Limitless Travel, said “Through this partnership, Skyline apartments will distinguish themselves as an organisation committed to providing the very best in accessible accommodation.”
Thiago Hahn, CEO at Skyline, agreed with this assessment and added, “Skyline is passionate about ensuring the best possible experience for all guests, regardless of their personal circumstances. Therefore, we are delighted to enter into this partnership with Limitless Travel, which will result in a more comprehensive and wider-ranging service for our guests with disabilities.”
Limitless Travel will use their innovative and in-depth bespoke training methods to equip Skyline’s entire front of house team with the skills required to provide the best services possible for guests with disabilities. The result will be an organisation that is fully conversant with the requirements of all disabled people, an outcome which can only enhance Skyline’s international reputation as a progressive company.
The new Holiday Inn Manchester City Centre, designed by Dexter Moren Associates, has officially opened.
The vibrant interiors for the 298-key hotel have been inspired by the city’s cultural icons and rich industrial heritage. The interior concept combines custom-made nostalgic features, combined with the latest technology and high quality contemporary finishes.
A signature open lobby concept combines an open plan reception, restaurant, lounge and Starbucks cafe. Suites are named after famous local footballing heroes and function rooms after home-grown musicians. Guest rooms range from standard to luxury top-end suites.
“There is a quote by the legendary Tony Wilson (of Factory Records fame) illuminated in neon lights on the ground floor reading ‘This is Manchester, we do things differently here’ and I think this perfectly sums up the significance of the city, the hotel brand, our approach and this particular design concept,” says DMA interior designer, David Harte.
Hyatt Hotels has officially opened the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, marking the brand’s official entry into Canada.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, the thirteenth hotel in the portfolio, joins other Andaz hotels in global gateway cities and top resort destinations. Three other Andaz hotels plan to join the portfolio by the end of 2016, including Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Andaz Delhi and Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya.
Set in the heart of ByWard Market, a historical marketplace and present-day urban centre of chic boutiques, galleries, restaurants and nightlife, the capital’s newest hotel boasts 200 contemporary guest rooms, six inspired studio meeting spaces, a ground floor restaurant and bar, as well as a stunning rooftop lounge, offering sweeping views of the Ottawa cityscape.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market worked with award-winning interior design firm Mason Studio to bring the hotel’s local vision to life. Each floor of the 16-storey hotel reflects the history and character of a Canadian province or territory. Upon entering the space, guests are welcomed into an inviting lounge environment with custom-designed low sectional seating.
Overhead, Mason Studio enlisted the expertise of Toronto-based furniture makers Hollis + Morris to create a lighting installation made of mixed Canadian-wood species. Patterned rugs and copper metal accents provide pops of color and texture against the understated lobby, clad in natural, local materials such as oak paneling and grey stone floors. Artwork throughout the hotel gives a nod to its surrounding culture and has been curated by the Canadian Council Art Bank, home to the largest collection of contemporary Canadian art.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market offers spacious studio spaces and lounges that create a customisable backdrop for a variety of events and functions. Spanning 4,500 square feet of flexible function space, the natural light and creative dining and drink menus make the spaces ideal for meetings and intimate social functions. In keeping with the interior design of the hotel, the studio space furniture features modern detailing and a neutral palette.
The positive impact of the UK’s Brexit decision on the domestic hotel market was revealed last week as official figures show billions of pounds staying in the United Kingdom.
While the surge in UK holidays after the 23 June vote had been predicted, the findings by the Tourism Alliance exclusive to the Mail on Sunday show a huge rise both in visitors from abroad and in Britons opting for a staycation – worth some £1.4 billion to the UK economy.
The extra takings in 2016 for staycations alone are set to be £2.4 billion, according to the findings, whose members include the British Hospitality Association, ABTA and regional tourist boards. While £1 billion of that was spent before June 23, the total additional staycation income for the whole year is expected to be £1.4 billion.
The falling pound since the Brexit vote has made holidays more expensive for Britons going abroad and cheaper for foreign tourists coming here – giving Britain’s tourism a double boost. It all means the industry is set for a record-breaking year, and factors believed to be adding to the boom include the recent good weather, low interest rates and fears of terrorism overseas.
The Tourism Alliance estimated that spending by Britons on UK holidays has been up by 17 per cent on 2015 so far this year. Alliance director Kurt Janson told the Mail the additional £2.4 billion has the potential to create around 40,000 new jobs in tourism and hospitality.
A British furniture maker, landscape designer and taxidermist are among the first artists to be announced for this year’s seasonal ICEHOTEL which is set to open its doors to the first guests in Swedish Lapland in less than three months’ time.
However, the big news for this year is for the first time ever a whole new ice experience will be opening in Jukkasjärvi – ICEHOTEL 365, the world’s first ever year round ice hotel which will be open 365 days of the year and will coexist during the Winter months alongside the seasonal ICEHOTEL.
ICEHOTEL 365 is expected to open first in mid-November, a month ahead of the seasonal hotel which will open as usual in mid-December and melt back into the river in the spring. During the summer months solar panels warmed from the Midnight Sun will generate power to cool ICEHOTEL 365. It will feature 20 ice suites in total, nine of which will be ‘deluxe’ offering a warm en-suite bathroom, sauna and changing area adjacent to the frozen bedroom area. In addition, there will be a champagne bar as well as an ice art gallery.
A few of the other ingenious designs which will be enjoyed by guests this year include a House of Cards made from ice and snow, an exotic palace inspired by Casablanca, and an Art Deco suite. There will be a total of 35 unique ice suites made entirely from ice and snow showcasing different designs across both hotels. A total of 40 artists’ designs have been chosen which will also be used for the ice chapel, ICEBAR, the main halls and a new ice gallery in ICEHTOEL 365. Like the seasonal hotel, suite designs will change in the permanent hotel on an annual basis.
Two particularly enticing designs include ‘Lapland Waves’ where the waves have frozen to ice with the bed floating as if buoyed by the ocean, as well as the ‘White Cathedral’ created as a homage to sculptor Ferdinand Cheval who built what is known as the ‘ideal’ palace in south east France in the late 1800s from pebbles he collected on his rounds as a postman.
The amount of snow taken to create its 55 rooms, as well as its church and bar, is enough to make a staggering 700 million snowballs. The chandeliers alone will feature over 1000 hand cut ice crystals. 5,000 tons of ice are harvested each spring from the Torne River and stored until October when the building process starts in earnest and the artists gather to be personally involved in the build.
Conrad Hotels & Resorts smart luxury hotel brand, today announced the opening of Conrad Xiamen, on the southwestern coast of Xiamen Island.
Owned by Shimao Group and managed by Hilton, Conrad Xiamen is the first Conrad hotel in Fujian province, the sixth in China among a portfolio that includes Conrad Hong Kong, Conrad Sanya Haitang Bay, Conrad Dalian, Conrad Macao, and Conrad Beijing, and joins the larger Hilton portfolio of over 70 hotels in China.
Conrad Xiamen occupies the 37th to 54th floors of the iconic 300-metre tall Shimao Straits Tower, in the heart of Siming’s Central Business District. Designed to be a shopping, leisure, and business hub, Shimao Straits Tower is a striking sea-facing landmark with a sail-shaped design boasting expansive views of the famous Gulangyu Island.
Conrad Xiamen has 241 guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views. Averaging 60 square meters, the rooms have walk-in wardrobes, large flat screen TVs, Wi-Fi and wired Internet access, Nespresso machines, hydrotherapy rain showers and 400-thread count luxury bed linens. Alternatively, guests can opt for suites and executive rooms with exclusive access to the Executive Lounge on the 54th floor.
Overlooking the city from the 37th floor is a 24-hour Health Club with a full range of cardio and strength training equipment, as well as personal trainers. The heated 25-meter indoor pool offers sea views and guests can also unwind in the Jacuzzi or enjoy personalized treatments at Conrad Spa, which uses only the purest natural products.
With over 2,000-square-meters of flexible meeting space and state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, Conrad Xiamen is also an ideal venue for corporate events, social gatherings and weddings. There are eight multifunction meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 210 people and a pillar-less, 760-square meter ballroom that is connected to a sea-facing 380-square-metre foyer.
Luxury chalet operator Bramble Ski is delighted to introduce two new ultra-exclusive chalets for the 2016/17 ski season. Chalet Weiss Spa sees Bramble Ski’s first foray into the picturesque resort of Kitzbühel, Austria, while Chalet Tschöder grows the operator’s elite offering in St Anton to nine properties.
The Bramble Ski chalets both sleep 14 people in seven bedrooms and between them boast exceptional facilities including a spa, sauna, hammam, gym, cinema room, indoor pool, outdoor hot tub and more.
Chalet Weiss Spa, Kitzbühel, Austria Beautifully put together, the bottom two floors are dedicated to spa and wellness, with one of the highlights being the 15m indoor swimming pool. The lower ground floor houses the pool, a sauna, hammam and massage room. The floor below has a well-equipped gym with cross trainer, running machine, power plates and yoga space.
The master bedroom is a work of art with an open fireplace, dressing room, en-suite bathroom with a whirlpool bath tub and separate shower. It has direct access to the chalet‘s spacious south-facing terrace.
Chalet Tschöder, St Anton, Austria Spread over four floors, the chalet offers a spacious drawing room with open fire place, a bar where guests can enjoy a pre-dinner glass of Champagne, a main living and dining area, a large terrace which can be arranged to create a sitting and dining area and affords spectacular views of skiers skiing home, one bunk room and six en-suite bedrooms including a master suite that is located in the eaves of the chalet and has its own floor.
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