Marriott International will acquire Starwood Hotels and Resorts in a deal believed to be worth $12.2 billion, and when it was first announced consumers weren’t the only ones taken by surprise by the news. Analysts and investors expressed surprise at the acquisition.
The move will form the largest hotel group in the world, and whatever your thoughts on it, here are five things you need to know about the deal…
– Marriott weren’t the only suitors for Starwood, Intercontinental Hotels and Hyatt Hotels had long been vying to buy out the company.
– The acquisition will offer up thousands more rooms to choose from when booking. Combined, the group will own more than 5,500 hotels worldwide, 30 distinctive chains and more than a million guest rooms.
– Due to anti-competitive issues in China, and at the request of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), Marriott and Starwood have agreed to extend the time period for MOFCOM to complete its review of the merger transaction. This additional review period, known as phase three, could last up to 60 days.
– Starwood and Marriott can actually mutually agree to terminate the merger agreement, even with stockholder approval. The deal’s kill date is open until 31 December of this year. However, there’s the matter of a $400-million termination fee if either side decides to end the deal.
– When Marriott’s takeover of Starwood is complete, the chain will have 30 hotel brands.
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts has announced its newest property, Waldorf Astoria San Francisco, which will be the centerpiece of a two million square-foot, mixed-used complex that will feature luxury entertainment, retail and office space.
Waldorf Astoria San Francisco will reside within the first 21 storeys of a signature tower designed by the architecture firm Foster + Partners. Located at Mission Street between Ecker and 1st Streets, Waldorf Astoria San Francisco will be ideally situated in the city’s exciting new Transbay Neighborhood, in the centre of a vast redevelopment project surrounding the Transbay Transit Centre.
Bordered by Market Street on the north, Embarcadero on the east, Folsom Street on the south, and Hawthorne Street to the west, the Transbay Neighborhood is an inspirational environment unto itself. Transportation friendly with wide sidewalks and bike paths, the neighbourhood has a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants, as well as contemporary green spaces which have been carefully planned as key components of the area.
World-renowned hospitality design firm, Hirsch Bedner Associates, brings their award-winning design to Waldorf Astoria San Francisco’s interiors to seamlessly blend the brand’s signature worldly sophistication with modern accoutrements reflective of this iconic destination.
The hotel will offer an elegant and spacious spa and will also feature an iconic Peacock Alley serving a San Francisco approach to the legendary cuisine and libations that have established Waldorf Astoria as synonymous with unforgettable luxury experiences.
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat, located in the sub district of Raigad, is now open. Situated in the natural surroundings of verdant greenery and awe-inspiring landscapes of the nearby hills, Karjat is a popular weekend destination for regional tourism and international travellers.
The 102-room, new build, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat is a convenient two-hour drive from Mumbai and Pune. The resort offers 360-degree views of the stunning Sahyadri Mountains which is nestled along on the banks of the Ulhas River.
Speaking on the hotel’s opening, Raj Rana, chief executive officer, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group said: “We are excited to partner with Mr. Chakraborty to launch this upper upscale resort. This resort’s opening reinforces our commitment to enhance the brand’s portfolio and further expand our presence in resort destinations throughout India. With its unparalleled resort experience and commitment to excellence, we are confident Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat will be a shining success.”
The hotel’s award-winning design by Chapman Taylor predominantly features Eastern themes with nods to Thai and Balinese architecture, while retaining an internal narrative that celebrates Indian design, culture and spirit.
Designed to welcome the savvy, modern traveler, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat offers well-appointed rooms and suites, with modern amenities. 24-hour room service, high speed, complimentary Wi-Fi, a complimentary tea and coffee maker in each room, and a fully-stocked minibar all ensure a comfortable stay. Additionally, each room is fully fitted with a digital in-room safe, a digital clock with a docking station, Internet television, a hair dryer, independent shower cubicles and balconies with loungers.
A multitude of dining options includes the Riverside Poolside Bar, which allows guests to dine under the stars, a luxury that most city-dwellers are unaccustomed to. The venue offers an extensive selection of grills and barbecues, accompanied by customized cocktails. The Blu Lounge is a cozy yet sophisticated bar where guests can unwind over an extraordinary array of international and domestic wines, spirits and cocktails, accompanied by a curated selection of small bites. An outdoor deck area encourages guests to enjoy being surrounded by the resort’s multiple water bodies, in a laid-back yet elegant setting. The Palms is the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, featuring some of the most popular dishes seen on menus both in India and around the globe. Guests can sample the executive chef’s culinary innovations while admiring the pool view and surrounding greenery.
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat is designed to be the ideal choice for banqueting events of all types. Guests looking to host weddings at the property will have two outdoor sections, the Party Greens and Grand Lawn, to choose from. Spanning a vast 18,000 square feet, the areas allow guests the flexibility and space to create the perfect event of their choosing, fully supported by the hotel’s expert team of event professionals. Modern audio-visual equipment with drop-down screens and seamless Wi-Fi coverage, elegant décor with rich wood finishing, gold-leaf accents, carefully-curated artworks, mood lighting, and an expansive array of personalized menu options all ensure a memorable, on-property experience, be it for business or pleasure.
The resort’s owner, Suhasish Chakraborty, said, “Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat offers a beautiful balance between modern design and enveloping natural beauty. It is a first-of-its-kind luxury offering in an upcoming destination, complete with great connectivity, service excellence and quality standards befitting of the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. We are excited to introduce this property to a range of discerning guests.”
With this newest addition, there are now 29 Radisson Blu hotels in India under Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s portfolio.
DoubleTree by Hilton has announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Wroclaw, housed in the uniquely designed 6-storey OVO Wroclaw complex.
The OVO Wroclaw is a landmark edifice spearheading a revolution in urban Polish design. The upscale hotel joins three DoubleTree by Hilton properties open in Poland and over 70 DoubleTree by Hilton properties open across Europe.
Boasting 189 stylish guest rooms and suites, including the Presidential suite with an attractive view of Słowacki Park, the hotel caters well for corporate travellers with its contemporary Executive Lounge. The design-led property is located in Wroclaw’s town centre on Podwale Street, nearby to the Main Square. Envisioned by the acclaimed GSARCH-Gottesman Szmelcman architecture firm, the property’s modern and sleek rounded exterior seamlessly blends the curved lines of the building with a stylish minimalism that typifies the interior spaces
The hotel features Wroclaw’s newest destination bar, the atmospheric OVO bar and restaurant, which offers a live cooking station. OVO offers a dynamic dining space with dishes built for sharing and an a la carte menu. As the evening progresses, a DJ takes to the decks while guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the hotel lobby, overlooking green outdoor space. OVO offers a courtyard that is open to Wroclaw’s local residents – a relaxed environment allowing up to 100 guests, open from breakfast until late night.
DoubleTree by Hilton Wroclaw offers world-class conference facilities right in the city centre. Seven flexible function rooms are available to hold a casual business meeting, briefing or training session. The visually striking hotel also serves as the perfect venue for a wedding, offering a 317 sq. m. ballroom with a height of up to 5.5 metres, divisible into three smaller areas. The entertainment continues with the hotel’s modern casino opening later this year.
“We look forward to welcoming guests to our hotel and delighting them with DoubleTree by Hilton’s kind and caring service. Wroclaw is rapidly becoming a tourist destination in its own right and demand is rising, so we are in an ideal location,” said Matthias Herd, general manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Wroclaw. “I am certain that the hotel’s range of facilities will cater to the needs of business and leisure travellers alike and will provide a new, fresh level of hospitality to this vibrant city.”
Meliá Hotels has announced the opening of the Meliá Makassar, a new hotel in Indonesia, which becomes the sixth hotel operated by the company in the country, with another 10 hotels in the process of opening in the pipeline.
Makassar is the capital of South Sulawesi province and the largest city on the island of Sulawesi, with a population of one-and-a-half million people and the dominant commercial centre and transportation hub in eastern Indonesia. The hotel is ideally located just 25 minutes from Sultan Hassanuddin international airport and just a 5-minute walk from the main shopping and business areas.
This four-star hotel provides 135 newly-built rooms equipped with a full range of facilities and the latest technology. Some of the rooms also include “The Level” service, which raises the quality of a hotel stay to the highest levels of demand. The Meliá Makassar has been designed to meet the most exquisite international standards, and its magnificent facilities also house several meeting rooms, a pool, spa and restaurants. Also of note is The Society rooftop bar which is quickly expected to become a landmark venue in the city.
Bernardo Cabot, Vice President Asia Pacific for Meliá Hotels International, highlighted the hotel’s potential to become the ideal choice for business and leisure travellers to the capital of South Sulawesi, “thanks to its excellent location and Meliá’s experience in the management of “bleisure” hotels (business + leisure), the Melia Makassar is destined to become a benchmark for modern hospitality in the city. ”
The hotel is operated under the Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand, one of the company’s most historic brands and guardian of the values that best represent the company. In the words of Cabot, “the Meliá Makassar hotel brings our brand standards to the city and the market is sure to acknowledge the efforts made by both the hotel owners and Meliá Hotels International in our ongoing commitment to Indonesia”.
Indonesia is the country in which the company started its international expansion in 1985. The opening of the Meliá Bali hotel that year was the starting point for a globalisation strategy which now sees the company installed in more than 40 countries worldwide, with a special focus on Asia Pacific, where it currently manages 33 hotels either already in operation or scheduled to open in the future.
The business partner of former Liverpool and England footballer Steven Gerrard plans to open a £20 million boutique hotel in Liverpool.
Paul Adams, who already co-owns The Vincent in Exchange Flags with the decorated footballer and will be the operator of the project, has said the hotel will be located in the Merseyside city’s Ropewalks area.
The hotel has been designed by Falconer Chester Hall and will predominately consist of brickwork after a review of the design by Liverpool’s council’s planning department.
Work will kick off on the new development next week, with the hotel expected to open in December 2017.
As the ranks of the ultra-wealthy swell across Southeast Asia, so does the heightening expectations for accommodation that costs thousands of dollars per night. So, one Indonesian resort has just priced its top suite at US $10,000 per night.
“Seems like a lot to pay for one night, I know,” said The Sanchaya’s estate manager Anshuman Narayan. “But when money is no object, and you’re shopping for a memory to last a lifetime, the cost may very well turn out to be a bigger bargain than you’d thought.”
So what does one get for $10,000 per night at the Bintan Villa?
A four-bedroom beachfront presidential suite, the Vanda Villa, to start. The luxe accommodation comes with an around-the-clock butler, a dedicated chef in its kitchen, private infinity pool and a separate guest house. The Sanchaya is located 45 minutes from Singapore by ferry, on a secluded stretch of beach whose powder white sands rival those made famous by The Maldives. All of that beach is but a few steps from the Vanda Villa’s sprawling terrace.
Spanning a total of 1045 square metres, The Vanda Villa has already played host to royal families from the Middle East, celebrities from around the world, private wedding parties and major product launches.
The villa is bedecked with neutral, crisp and earthy tones, polished parquet floors, Chinese-style cabinets, and rare pieces of art and furnishings that open windows on Singapore’s history and culture. Other exquisite touches include customized Luzern bone china designs and table glassware from Austria’s House of Riedel. Named for Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda ‘Miss Joaquim’ orchid, the hotel’s premier accommodation draws inspiration from the Lion City’s black and white houses, tropical beauty and architectural heritage.
Each of the two-storey villa’s four bedrooms boasts king size beds and customised encaustic tiled bathrooms with separate Lefroy Brooks clawfoot baths and showers. The clawfoot baths anchor The Sanchaya’s ‘romantic bath ritual’, Featuring chocolate strawberries and champagne, or cheese and port, or canapés and single malt or wine. Candlelight and customised bath salts round out the ritual.
Other luxuries on offer include wine and cheese tastings with the estate’s sommelier, in-villa massages with your choice of customized chakras oils, and private sessions with the yoga instructor. Plush Singaporean Ploh bed and bath linen and a pillow menu offering an array of European neck, body and reading pillows amplify the comfort levels.
The Vanda’s technological charms include a Bang & Olufsen TV and sound systems, iPads with a broad spectrum of pre-loaded movies and Apple TV. On the 9.6 hectare Sanchaya estate, the facilities include a croquet lawn, Olympic-size infinity pool, two restaurants and The Bar, replete with vintage prints, antique telescopes, porter chairs and other trappings of a 19th Century Explorer’s Club.
Housing birdcage chandeliers, pith helmets, large brown tufted lounges and a vast selection of handpicked books, The Salon and Library is The Sanchaya’s wine, cheese and cigar lounge. An adjacent glass-walled space, called Decanter, stocks hundreds of wine labels.
Hotel occupancy in London showed its sixth consecutive quarter of year-on-year decline with Brexit poised to subdue the sector further, according to the latest Hotel Bulletin: Q2 2016, published this week by HVS, AlixPartners and AM:PM.
Hotel occupancy in the capital, in common with other major European cities, continues to be affected by increased global terrorist activity. London has also seen a decline in the number of US tourists travelling because of the presidential election. The impact has been a 2% decline in London’s RevPAR compared with Q2 2015 and average room rates failing to increase for the second consecutive quarter.
“Whilst this is significant in the short term, London is, and will remain, a huge magnet for inbound tourism so the longer term future of the capital’s hotel sector is still positive, even when taking account the new hotels in the pipeline and the potential impact of the Brexit implementation causing economic wobbles,” commented HVS chairman Russell Kett.
Across the UK the picture was more varied, although with overall demand sluggish average RevPAR growth only reached 2%. This is seen as further evidence we may be approaching the top of the property cycle in some locations.
Performance of hotels across the 12 UK cities reviewed varied significantly in Q2. Birmingham was top with RevPAR growth of 16%, while hotels in the Roman city of Bath saw RevPAR up 11% year-on-year on the back of a boost in international tourists.
In contrast Newcastle recorded another quarter of RevPAR decline, down 4%, as the combined effects of a 10% increase in hotel supply over the past 12 months and strong comparators last year came into play. Aberdeen saw RevPAR decline 24% year-on-year as hotel occupancy continues to suffer from the city’s exposure to the oil and gas industry. If predictions that oil prices will continue to fall are correct, this will further suppress demand for the city’s hotels.
“Performance has always been very location-driven,” commented Kett, “with localised supply and demand issues having an impact on hotels’ operating performance. UK-wide averages tend to hide these fluctuations and even the performance within an individual city can vary quite markedly from hotel to hotel,” he added.
Apart from the £575m acquisition of Atlas Hotels by London & Regional, mergers and acquisitions in the sector have also been subdued throughout 2016 due to uncertainties surrounding Brexit, weaker economic growth in China, terrorism in France, Belgium and Turkey, and the US presidential elections.
Now the outcome of the referendum is known and Britain gears up to leave Europe, there is cautious optimism that the hotel sector will remain an attractive source of investment for global investors interested in the medium-to long-term growth perspective. However, this is reliant on the UK remaining an investor-friendly market post-Brexit.
“The Brexit decision is having the double-impact of weaker sterling and a reduction in anticipated economic growth. This is both good, and bad, news for the sector in that Britain becomes a cheaper destination for overseas visitors, dampening outgoing UK travel but potentially increasing the F&B costs as some suppliers pass on price rises. Hotel transaction activity is also likely to slow down as investors assess the outlook of future trading but in the longer term we are optimistic the UK will remain an attractive source of investment for global investors,“ Kett concluded.
Fairmont Austin, the new 37-storey luxury hotel opening summer 2017, has unveiled natural design elements that will pay homage to the neighbouring Palm Park, currently undergoing revitalisation by the non-profit Waller Creek Conservancy.
Fairmont Austin’s proximity to both Palm Park and Waller Creek inspired Warren Sheets, of San Francisco-based interior design firm Warren Sheets Design, to create an organic continuity from the hotel’s environment to the spaces within, realising the ‘hotel on a park’ concept in a multitude of spectacular and unexpected ways. “On a broader scope, I was looking at how important outdoor life is to Austinites and to the state itself,” said Sheets. “Because the hotel is on a park, I brought The Park into the hotel. All the interior elements down to the smallest details weave a cohesive narrative that honors this beautiful city and will serve to welcome guests with trademark hospitality.”
Upon entering, guests are greeted by two 24-feet-high by 26-feet-wide towering Heritage Oak trees which flank the reception desk; while The Park Lounge features a geometric, life-size topiary garden with majestically imposing tree, and moving lights aimed at the ceiling. Indigenous greenery and cultural references also appear throughout the hotel’s interior.
Fairmont Austin’s outdoor spaces were designed by dwg., an Austin-based landscape architecture studio. dwg. was selected to ensure a seamless integration of Waller Creek’s vision with Fairmont’s environmentally sustainable standards.
“Our design for the landscape celebrates and embraces the unique location and proximity of the hotel to Waller Creek and Palm Park. The tagline we used for the project was a ‘hotel in a park’ and, subsequently the rooftop pool, gardens and event spaces became known as ‘a park in a hotel’. The vision for the landscape is very innovative and amplifies the unique and critical ecosystem of Waller Creek,” said Daniel Woodroffe, president of dwg. “This is accomplished by using native and adapted plants and trees and significantly reducing water consumption by harvesting the AC condensate from the hotel’s air conditioning system. Ensuring the brand standards of the hotel and the commitment to sustainability was very important to the success of our design.”
The Red River Canopy Walk, a 33-foot-tall elevated connection from Fairmont Austin to the Austin Convention Center, will allow the public and guests to view Waller Creek and Palm Park from a unique aerial perspective. The pedestrian bridge will include a stairway and ramp leading to Palm Park and three miles of new hike and bike trails. The elegant, open-air design of the Canopy Walk will reinforce Waller Creek’s mission of renewing urban parks to create authentic and uplifting experiences that reflect Austin’s dynamic spirit.
“Fairmont Austin is devoted to honoring public treasures like Palm Park and Waller Creek, while contributing in meaningful ways to the city’s future,” said Michael McMahon, director of sales and marketing for Fairmont Austin. “The revival of Palm Park, the transformation of neighboring Red River and Rainey Street Districts, coupled with the hotel’s distinct interior and exterior design will be nothing short of spectacular.”
Fairmont Austin is currently progressing at a floor-a-week pace and will open summer 2017.
Kindred Resorts & Hotels, a collection of independent hotels and resorts focused exclusively on the group and meetings market in North America, has added five properties to its portfolio.
There are currently 56 properties in the portfolio and the new additions include Amangani; High Hampton Inn & Country Club; Rancho de los Caballeros; Sea Island; and Sun Mountain Lodge.
Amangani, which translates to “peaceful home,” is a 40-suite retreat in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Nestled in Cashiers, North Carolina, High Hampton Inn & Country Club features natural surroundings with mountain views and a rustic ambiance.
Established in 1948 and family owned for three generations, Rancho de los Caballeros sits on 20,000 acres of High Sonoran Desert in Wickenburg, Arizona. Sea Island, which has sat on the Georgia coast since 1928, features five miles of private beach, 16 tennis courts, a beach club, three championship golf courses and more. Sun Mountain Lodge is located in Winthrop, Washington and offers mountains views of Washington state.
News has emerged this week that a colony of honey bees have checked in on the rooftop of Edinburgh’s luxury hotel The Balmoral in a bid to produce home-grown honey for guests to enjoy at mealtimes in the luxury boutique.
A similar concept is also taking off across the Atlantic at the Admiral Hotel in Mobile, Alabama. Under the leadership of General Manager Joe Langford, the idea to harvest honey in-house is proving a popular one with staff and guests.
According to local media, in addition to producing the honey, the bees help pollinate a small garden of produce, used for special recipes in the Admiral’s kitchen. Currently Spencer grows watermelon, peas, cabbage, okra, peas and tomatoes in the small patches of soil.
With the UK and further afield being hit by a decline in bee populations, these sort of concepts are vital. Bees pollinate a third of everything we eat and play a vital role in sustaining the planet’s ecosystems. More than 80% of crops grown for human consumption need bees to pollinate them to increase their yields.
Much kudos to The Balmoral and the Admiral for their campaigns. We love this sort of project here at Hotel Designs.
Alderney, the third largest of the Channel Islands, continues its investment in expanding its varied accommodation offering with the opening of The Adventurer’s Rest.
Sitting in the heart of St Anne, Alderney’s historic capital and only town, the hotel is a new concept for the island with its edgy, industrial interiors and individually appointed rooms.
One of the island’s larger hotels, The Adventurer’s Rest offers 20 generously-sized en-suite bedrooms including two suites, individually designed with contemporary and classic interiors and each with their own character. It also boasts a new public bar and restaurant, Chez Bar, as well as an Orangery and two al-fresco areas.
Alderney is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, which also includes the islands of Herm and Sark, and lies 23 miles north east of Guernsey and eight miles off the coast of France. It is a 15 minute flight or an hour and a half boat ride from Guernsey.
Double rooms at The Adventurer’s Rest are priced at £70 per night, including breakfast based on two people sharing. For more information or to book, visit www.adventurersrest.co.uk
Marriott International opens its second hotel in Belarus with the addition of Minsk Marriott Hotel, the capital’s first 5-star internationally rated hotel, which is now open for business.
The deluxe Minsk Marriott Hotel sits within a new compound located on the Svisloch riverside offering an exceptional range of services under one roof including a sports and entertainment complex, which comprises a state-of-the-art sports arena for 3,000 people complete with cafes and bars, a modern gym, a wellness centre with spa services, a tennis and squash academy and a cinema.
The Minsk Marriott Hotel’s 217 deluxe guest rooms, including 25 suites, are designed with a spacious and upgraded look with tailored solutions that are as inventive as the guest. They reflect elements of the hotel’s locale and Belarussian heritage, including hand-made wall finishings and natural colours and materials to create a calm and elegant environment. Many of the rooms also offer balconies and panoramic riverside views.
Guests looking to expand their horizons while traveling to a new destination will be spoilt for choice with an array of venues including Fornello, a Mediterranean restaurant with a summer terrace, private dining area for 10 people and open kitchen with chef’s table, and Barrel Bar, featuring authentic colonial style interiors and serving signature drinks.
Meetings and events are expertly catered for within the hotel’s 940 m2 of transformable meeting space, which includes eight flexible conference rooms and a multifunctional space for collaboration, workshops and private meetings for those looking for a bespoke meeting experience. Marriott Hotels’ signature meetings concept, Meetings Imagined, enables meeting and event planners to design their perfect event using the online platform and expert tips and advice.
The impressive Falcon Ballroom can accommodate up to 600 people for events ranging from traditional business meetings to extravagant galas. Bespoke chandeliers comprise over 800,000 crystal beads and offer modern lighting technologies to transform the atmosphere depending on the occasion.
Marriott Hotels, the signature brand of Marriott International, has welcomed Rotterdam Marriott Hotel to its portfolio.
Formerly known as The Manhatten Hotel Rotterdam, Rotterdam Marriott Hotel has undergone extensive renovation of its interiors to meet the needs of today’s traveller.
The hotel’s 230 luxurious guest rooms and suites feature modern amentites throughout and are designed with a spacious and upgraded look with tailored solutions that are as inventive as the guest. The lobby has been transformed into a vibrant space to welcome guests and visitors to relax and socialise.
“We want our guests to experience forward-thinking, aesthetically pleasing spaces that help foster their inventive nature,” said Matthew Carroll, vice president, Marriott Hotels. “Marriott Hotels has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in travel to create experiences that inspire and push our guests’ creativity.
The upgraded interiors are complemented by warm and personal service. Rotterdam Marriott Hotel offers 24-hour room service, valet parking and free high-speed internet. The fully equipped fitness centre offers guests the most high tech equipment for any kind of workout they want. An Executive Lounge, Business Centre, and nearly 600sqm of flexible space for meetings and events cater to guests. Through connections, the hotel also has the ability to coordinate with De Doelen International Congress Centre, which can accommodate groups of up to 3,000 visitors.
The debut of Marriott Hotels in Rotterdam marks a key moment in the development of the world port city. The hotel’s local area and commercial heart of the city, the Rotterdam Central District, has undergone significant change in recent years with the arrival of numerous international companies and extensive regeneration.
Marriott Hotels is on a transformational journey to enable its guests to Travel Brilliantly. Guests and travel enthusiasts can visit www.travelbrilliantly.com to experience the countless ways Marriott Hotels continues to meet the needs of today’s travellers. In addition to mobile check-in, checkout, room ready alerts and Mobile Requests, Marriott Hotels is piloting keyless entry with mobile devices at select properties.
The Otterburn Coach House Hotel is set in a stunning deer park and woodland around the former Otterburn Hall Hotel, which closed in 2012. The Coach House went under the hammer in January last year when it was sold along with the hall and other buildings. It will be the first of the developments on the site to rise from the ashes when it opens for business in August.
New owner Julie Blackie is targeting the huge wedding market that is now thriving in Otterburn, by providing a marriage venue and overspill accommodation for guests tying the knot at sites around the Northumberland town. She said: “Otterburn has become a really popular place for couples to marry, but there just wasn’t the level of overnight accommodation locally to meet demand from wedding guests.
“The Coach House will fill that gap in the market, and we’re also welcoming in parties and celebrations of our own to cater for local people and those visiting the area from further afield. We’ll be providing great food – including Sunday lunches – and an excellent atmosphere, so local people can enjoy a great night out without having to travel to Newcastle or Edinburgh for it,” she added.
Built in 1870 for Lord James Douglas, the Coach House has 14 bedrooms, a bar and dining area, and has undergone a major refurbishment since Julie bought it at auction. It’s part of the Otterburn Hall estate, which was originally a country estate popular for shooting and fishing. The Hall itself was turned into a spa hotel in the 1920s and in recent years was known as a wedding venue before closing unexpectedly in 2012.
Julie is using her creative and organisational nous to turn the Coach House into a must-visit destination. A former project manager with Newcastle City Council, she has a flair for organisation having previously worked as a trouble-shooter to turn around the fortunes of failing businesses in Newcastle. The family oriented businesswoman has also recently helped her daughter, Alice Hall set up the multi-million-pound turnover online fashion business; Pink Boutique and the Coach House business sees Julie working in partnership with another of her four daughters, Julie Burrows.
“It’s great to be able to work with my daughters in two very different businesses. They are both very talented and have great plans for the future and I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences with them.”
As well as her business ventures, Julie is a successful TV screenwriter, who has written for Hollyoaks and Casualty. She’s also the co-author of best-selling crime novel The Prodigal with Nicky Doherty under the joint pen name Nicky Black. She’ll be using all of her entrepreneurial and creative talents to put the Coach House firmly on the map, with coach trips for vintage-style teas, gourmet fine dining nights and facilities for dark sky stargazers, walkers, cyclists and dog owners all on the new hotel’s agenda.
The Coach House conversion will initially create five new jobs, including manager Laura Kennedy, who previously worked as assistant manager at the Newcastle-Gateshead Hilton. It’s a homecoming for Laura as she also previously worked in a local hotel and was brought up in nearby Bryness Village on the Scottish Border.
Laura said: ” This is a tremendous challenge and a very exciting opportunity for me to help the Coach House become one of the must go to hotels in the region. We’ve had a number of firm bookings on Bookings.com so the signs are already looking good for the future.
“We have an incredible team and I’m looking forward to making our guests feel valued and welcome. Otterburn has so much to offer and I’m proud to be such a big part of the hotel’s plans.”
Also earning a new position is head chef David Hadfield, who was previously employed at The Duck in Corbridge.
Hilton Worldwide’s Hampton by Hilton brand, the global mid-priced hotel, has announced the opening of its newest property, Hampton Inn by Hilton Penn Yan.
The 72-room hotel joins the Hampton by Hilton family of Hampton Inn by Hilton and Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton hotels. The hotel, located at 110 Mace Street, is managed by Keuka Lake Hotel. Hampton Inn by Hilton Penn Yan is nearby popular area attractions including Keuka Lake and Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
“We are thrilled to join the Hampton by Hilton portfolio with our new property in Penn Yan,” said Jessica Bacher, general manager. “This village has breathtaking views as well as many local historic landmarks for guests to delight in.”
Hampton Inn by Hilton Penn Yan also offers amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour business center with complimentary printing, a 1,100-square-foot meeting space that can accommodate up to 70 people, a heated indoor pool and a fitness center. Each guestroom includes high-quality amenities, including the brand’s signature Clean and fresh Hampton bed, LCD TV, microwave, refrigerator and coffee-maker.
Designed as an extension of the guestroom with a variety of seating and lighting options for both leisure and business travelers, the new hotel features the Perfect Mix Lobby. Within the lobby, guests can find Suite Shop, a food and beverage shop filled with snacks, toiletries, local merchandise and drinks for purchase.
I never cease to be amazed by the vast breadth of knowledge interior designers need in order to cope with all the different strands that need bringing together to create a successful interior design scheme.
They need to realise a harmonised interior which is above all a desirable destination, uses a refined colour palette, incorporates good proportions, is high on attention to detail and quality, has great style and is entirely practical in terms of the use for which the space is intended. The aim is always to give guests a great experience and ensure they look forward to returning.
But that is just the basics. Beyond that the interior designer has to have all the technical knowledge that goes in to the choice process when selecting individual components which go in to the room. Does the upholstery fabric meet relevant flammability regulations? Will the curtains fade through UV exposure? Will the wallpaper pattern repeat match the wall space available? Is the durability of the carpet suitable for contract use? Is all the electrical equipment suitably certified?
These and many other pieces of expert knowledge need to be at the designer’s fingertips to ensure they design a successful project.
That is where added value can come from the product supply chain who should undoubtedly be experts from within their own fields. At Chelsom, there was a time when our mantra of ‘give the client what they want’ meant exactly that, even if we felt the product designed and selected might not give the long term function or desired effect that was expected. Today we are proud that designers appreciate our expert knowledge and do ask us for advice with lighting issues.
Sometimes saying no is a real positive rather than a negative response because we are anticipating lighting problems which may not be immediately apparent.
For example, an aesthetic design may show a small diameter base on a table lamp to which we will say no as our software confirms it will not pass safety regulations for stability. We will advise that we cannot fit the requested dimmer switch because it is not compatible with the hotel’s existing dimming system. Sorry but we don’t recommend the touch switch you have requested because hotel guests will constantly be phoning the concierge to ask how to switch the lights on.
No you cannot have a one-piece ceiling plate on that chandelier because it needs access panels for maintenance and ventilation for the electronics inside. Rather than the crystals hanging on chains in your lobby visual, we would use delicate fixed rods to prevent the glass work swinging when open doors create a gust of wind.
Of course it is essential that if a manufacturer says something isn’t feasible, they have to propose an acceptable alternative based on their own expert knowledge. The interior designer therefore should always consider that he or she is consistently supported by a massive team of experts who can be trusted to give advice and opinions on the suitability of standard product or custom designs from within their own particular specialised area. Those manufacturers may not understand the whole story but they can certainly give added value in their own field.
For further information or to request a catalogue please contact 01253 831400 or email sales@chelsom.co.uk.
The Wellesley, a luxurious boutique hotel in Knightsbridge overlooking Hyde Park, has announced the launch of a striking 56m superyacht, now available for charter.
MY The Wellesley was originally built in the Netherlands by Oceanco and has completed a comprehensive refit by Sunrise Yachts and interior designers Dennis Irvine Studio to mirror the hotel’s glamorous Art Deco style. The yacht has already demonstrated its exceptional quality having received the coveted ‘Best Yacht of the Show’ award at the MYBA Charter Show on 5th May in Genoa.
A yacht charter is by its nature, entirely personalised. Up to 12 guests will be looked after by the permanent crew of 12 – on hand to cater to every whim. MY The Wellesley offers guests the hotel’s exceptional personal service on board a private yacht with a constantly changing backdrop of chic towns and secluded beaches.
The yacht has 350sqm of outdoor space spanning three decks. Relax in the Jacuzzi, hit the sundeck or try out the toys and tenders including jet skis, water skis and diving equipment under the guidance of qualified instructors.
Watch a movie at the outdoor cinema while the chef prepares hand-rolled sushi. Enjoy a massage on deck before regrouping for a seafood barbeque. Explore beaches or swim in bays and coves accessible only by boat. Indulge in some of the world’s finest cigars from the impressive humidor while sipping Cognac on MY The Wellesley’s smoking deck. Explore the Mediterranean’s cities and beaches, parties and ports on your own schedule, before retreating to the privacy and luxury of your onboard suite.
Smart technology and devices have become everyday essentials for many in today’s ‘always connected’ life, enabling people to do whatever they want, whenever and wherever.
Visitors to the Hamilton Litestat stand H17 will be able to see samples of their favourite and new ‘on trend’ collections that suit modern living, including the ‘now-essential’ dual USB switched sockets available in 10 elegant finishes – quenching today’s thirst for 24/7 access to smart devices in the home, hotels and the workplace.
Hamilton will also be demonstrating the latest developments with its Mercury® Lighting Control and Multi-room Audio system, including its RGB DMX control option where a colour wash can be given to an area with lighting. The DMX standard is becoming more popular domestically and in many boutique hotels to provide accent lighting and even add drama to a space.
Matching control plates are available from the Hamilton collections for that totally co-ordinated look.
Following substantial refurbishment works and a star-studded launch event, The Talbot has reopened its doors in the heart of Ripley in scenic Surrey, breathing new life into this historic coaching inn, which has played host to everyone from Audrey Hepburn to Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton during its 250-year history.
Having benefited from a £1 million investment, encompassing soft enhancements to the bedrooms and suites, the restaurant and bar areas, as well as the property’s substantial events and wedding facilities, The Talbot sees itself reinvigorated and ready to make its mark in the South East once again.
The addition of the renowned Michelin Starred figure of Martin Blunos to the role of Executive Chef has also helped to transform the Talbot’s culinary offering, with a brand new menu comprising modern flourishes alongside time-honoured British favourites, with an emphasis on versatility and locally sourced produce.
“The Talbot has always been a property brimming with personality”, said Graham Marskell, Managing Director of Bespoke Hotels. “We are delighted to have been able to bring out this unique character through a schedule of extensive refurbishment works, as well as an exciting new menu and dynamic team. We at Bespoke are looking forward to re-establishing the property both on a local and national level.”
Marlin Apartments, the leading serviced apartment provider in London has entered into a strategic partnership with Tink Labs, a Hong Kong-based technology incubator to introduce complimentary UK and international calls as well as internet access to all guests on-the-go.
Handy, an innovative flagship smartphone from Tink Labs, will be available across Marlin’s portfolio of more than 650 London apartments from September 2016 onwards. All Marlin guests will receive a virtual mobile number through the devices from which they can make not only free local calls but also international calls to 10 countries including the USA, Germany, India and China. Unlimited internet access will also be available on the devices.
Applications such as Google Maps, Facebook and Twitter will be pre-loaded on the smartphones coupled with a regularly updated London travel guide, enabling business travellers to remain connected around the clock and well-informed on the road. All personal data and browsing history will be automatically cleared from the devices after check-out.
Susan Cully, Managing Director of Marlin Apartments says: “The idea of combining the functionality of a personal smartphone and concierge service into one integrated device is industry-forward. We are delighted to have joined forces with Tink Labs to empower our guests to personalise their stay at Marlin regardless of their geographic locations.”
“Whilst we make a range of ancillary services even more accessible, we trust that our guests will be benefited from a further enhanced home-away-from-home experience,” she comments.
Terence Kwok, Founder and CEO of Tink Labs says: “Handy’s partnership with Marlin Apartments marks a tremendous leap forward in establishing our global presence and is testament to the importance of complete mobile connectivity in today’s tourism. Our services will be an extremely valuable asset for expanding the hospitality footprint of Marlin.”
The Hotel Designs Summit takes place on 12-13 September at Radisson Blu Hotel, London Stansted, and as well as fantastic networking opportunities and invaluable meetings, attendees will have the chance to hear talks from influential figures from the hotel and hospitality industry.
One of this year’s speakers is Nicolas Adnet, one half of the Studio MHNA design partnership, alongside Marc Hertrich. The duo have been imagining, optimising and designing solutions for over twenty years. Nicolas said: “After working in the fashion world, I met Marc and he introduced me to the wonderful world of interior design.” He added that his passion for sharing ideas was a key factor in drawing him to the industry.
According to Nicolas himself, via the medium of interior architecture and design, the pair ‘offer a certain vision of elegance, a cultured, respectful and approving look at history, but which is also serene and hungry for new technologies, arts and crafts and culture which transcends all barriers’.
When asked why events like the Hotel Designs Summit are important for the industry, Nicolas said: “It’s so important to share our experiences with the community, and to further our collective knowledge.”
During his talk at the Hotel Designs Summit, Nicolas Adnet will be discussing hotel trends for 2017 and beyond; what makes a trend and how to implement them in the hospitality sector.
hoteldesignssummit.co.uk If you would like more information on attending the event, please contact Jennie Lane on j.lane@forumevents.co.uk or 01992 374098.
The five-star Leeu Estates has opened its doors in Franschhoek, South Africa.
Numerous designers worked on the property’s architecture, interiors and gardens, including Spanish architect Tomeu Esteva, South African firm Graham Goosen and Johan Malherbe of Malherbe Rust Architects. Cape Town-based studio Beverley Boswell Designs focused on the interiors, while landscape designer Franchesca Watson crafted the gardens.
The 17-room boutique property is located on more than 168 acres of working vineyards. The renovated 19th-century Manor House has contemporary and classic detailing in its guestrooms and suites. Custom architecture and a relaxed colour scheme define the rooms, which also has curated artwork and sculptures from across the globe. Most rooms have terraces and fireplaces.
Named after the Afrikaans word for ‘small buck’, the Bokkie Garden has grasses and hedges typically found in the animal’s diet. There is also a bronze and granite sculpture by South African artist Angus Taylor. The property’s signature Leeu Spa houses a gym with mountain views, a nearly 50-foot-long infinity pool, and various wellness offerings.
Other amenities at the property include the garden terrace, which offers al fresco dining for up to 40 guests, and a reading room with a fireplace and views of the vineyards and gardens.
Hilton Garden Inn is pleased to announce the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Brussels Louise. The 143-room property is located in the heart of the city, in the art deco quarter of Brussels close by to the European Parliament.
“We are delighted to bring the Hilton Garden Inn brand to Brussels and to be able to serve the many tourists and business travelers who visit each year. It is exciting for Hilton Garden Inn to have presence in such an important European city,” said John Greenleaf, global head, Hilton Garden Inn. “Our new hotel joins more than 45 Hilton Garden Inns across Europe and offers guests a convenient and enjoyable place to stay.”
Hilton Garden Inn Brussels Louise is ideally set just off the beautiful Avenue Louise, the city’s upscale shopping area. The property is also within close proximity to Brussels International Airport and the Brussels South Station is just two metro stops away. With its 53 junior suites and seven two-bedroom suites both with kitchenette, Hilton Garden Inn Brussels Louise offers the perfect combination for both short and extended stays.
“The new Hilton Garden Inn is the perfect base for leisure travelers coming to explore the city, business travellers attending a nearby meeting and extended stay guests,” says Joris Cammaer, general manager, Hilton Garden Inn Brussels Louise. “Just a short walk from the hotel are main tourist sites and museums of Brussels: Grand Place, Royal Palace, Magritte Museum, and Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. We can’t wait to welcome guests and show them what Hilton Garden Inn has to offer”.
In addition, Hilton Garden Inn Brussels Louise boasts the Lounge Bar which serves hot and cold drinks, special draft Belgian beers* and a small bites menu. The Pavilion Pantry is also available, featuring a complete selection of salty snacks, sweet treats, cold beverages and frozen items, open 24 hours.
Hilton Garden Inn guests are treated to standard brand amenties and services, including complimentary W-Fi throughout the hotel, a 24-hour business centre, and fully-equipped fitness centre. All guest rooms boast the brand’s signature bedding featuring fresh, white duvets and crisp linens, as well as a spacious and clutter-free work desk with an ergonomic desk chair.
The oldest hotel in Hungary, Pest-Buda, has reopened after renovation as a 10-bedroom luxury boutique hotel.
Originally opened all the way back in 1696, the hotel is located in the Buda Castle district, the historic heart of the Hungarian capital. Pest-Buda offers four different room types – courtyard room, simple room, suite and atelier suite.
Atop the building, two atelier suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls, freestanding bathtubs, and oversized walk-in showers, all set against the backdrop of the original exposed brick baroque roof structure. A sleek, family-owned boutique hotel, it is surrounded by historic buildings and peaceful streets, while being only 10 minutes away from the city centre.
Interior designer Tibor Somlai was commissioned to give the property a “casual-classical Hungarian bistro and rustic luxury boutique hotel” style. The interior designer attempts to conjure an aesthetic that reflects our concept of “casual-classical Hungarian bistro and rustic- luxury boutique hotel in a fresh way.
It’s part of the Budapest-based Zsidai Gastronomy & Hospitality Group portfolio.
Located in the heart of Ghana’s thriving cultural scene and the economic hub of Accra, Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City is perfectly positioned for memorable corporate events.
This vibrant property is home to the largest conference facilities in Ghana and features over 1,750 sqm of sophisticated meeting space, ideal for hosting up to 850 people. The Kempinski Hotel Gold Goast City Accra is the only 5* hotel offering state of the art meeting facilities in the city. The hotel is a truly desirable destination for the corporate traveller and is located in the central business district within close proximity to government ministries and historical landmarks.
Conference & Meeting spaces The Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra offers exceptionally high levels of service and style throughout its exclusive spaces. The Grand Ballroom can cater up to 800 guest’s theatre style respectively, while the Executive Meeting Room is a fixed boardroom for up to 16 delegates equipped with cutting edge technology. The beautiful outside function area can be divided to create two individual meeting areas, hosting up to 100 and 250 guests banquet style. Day Delegate packages are also available and include WiFi, room hire, bespoke coffee breaks, stationery and a tailored working lunch. In total the hotel has six meeting rooms between 3sqm and 100sqm, which can be used for presentations, business meetings, banquets or receptions. On the sixth floor, guests staying in the Suites or Executive rooms can enjoy the exclusive privileges of the charming Executive Lounge. The lounge provides an inviting place to enjoy complimentary benefits such as drinks, canapés, newspapers, magazines and two exclusive boardrooms with state-of-the-art technology by day.
Accommodation Inspired by the heritage and vibrant colours of Ghana, each room features hardwood floors, luxuriant textiles, and carefully selected artwork. The rooms and suites are spacious; 142 of which have their own balconies. The hotel features 269 rooms including 22 luxury suites and 2 presidential suites. The suites draw inspiration from African artistry, featuring comfortable living areas and ergonomic work stations. Executive rooms and suites have the added benefit of overlooking the pool or city of Accra with access to the Executive Lounge. The Presidential Suites offer panoramic views of Accra and complimentary use of a luxury car chauffeur and 24 hour butler service. All rooms feature complimentary WiFi, Interactive TV, In-room safe, private bar and climate control.
The Grand Ballroom The hotel’s ballroom is the largest and most luxurious in Ghana and the jewel of the conference and event facilities. In total, the ballroom covers 970 sqm, divided between three areas and a foyer, and includes a 50sqm built-in stage. Whether guests plan for a luxury banquet, a musical performance or a glittering cocktail reception, the ballroom will provide a breath-taking venue.
Tresillo is the new, fashion-inspired collection of eclectic fabrics and wallcoverings from Harlequin, which will be launched mid-August 2016.
Vibrant and uplifting, the collection has an effortless flow that reflects its name: ‘Tresillo’ is a type of rhythm in Cuba and this free-spirited essence of Latin America, its dance, music, climate, people and lifestyle, resonates throughout the collection.
Tresillo is a modern collection of soft, geometric motifs, subtle but statement patterns and effortless organic designs that have been inspired by global finds and international style. Tresillo’s vibrant fabrics and wallcoverings, with their strong emphasis on colour and pattern, will enliven and invigorate interior schemes: the motifs lend themselves particularly to floor to ceiling windows, loft living or fashionable townhouse conversions.
The curtain fabrics comprise three digital prints, an ikat semi-sheer, a woven jacquard and four embroidered fabrics. The prints include overlapping, ikat-edged disks, overblown abstract watercolour flower-heads and a ‘ribbed effect’ stripe; they achieve a sophisticated nuance of shade and tone through layering, further enhanced by a polished chintz finish.
The graphic-look jacquard features distressed, almost pixelated lines and embroideries include zingy, multicoloured narrow chevrons, triangles forming stripes and a mosaic tile effect. They are complemented by a core range of ten embossed, vinyl wallcoverings, some of which are wide-width. The embosses replicate a number of natural effects, including rope, raffia, bubbles, linen, tweed, crepe and canvas, which emphasise the motifs such as drying plaster, dragged brushstrokes, frescoes and deconstructed-looking chevron stripes.
Some of them are further enhanced by a watery, almost block-printed, appearance, metallic finishes, strié effects and ombré washes. The collection is accompanied by two upholstery ranges. Tresillo Velvets is a sumptuous range of lustrous, thick pile, slub-effect velvets in 32 glorious colourways, whilst Viscano Upholsteries features three easy-to-use geometric designs and a tactile textured plain.
There is a further book, Otomis, a chunky basket weave plain in 22 colours, with a mix of hues blended in the yarn resulting in a two-tone look. Sturdy and durable, Otomis is suitable for upholstery but could also be used for curtains if desired.
Tresillo has a lively and imaginative colour palette, grouped together in evocative combinations such as: rust, ruby and Nordic blue; damson, viola and blush; sky, emerald and zest; denim, nude and sky; tangerine, emerald and mint; pomegranate, slate and fig; mist and fawn; raspberry and caper; sea-glass and ochre; fuchsia and coral.
The collection will be available both nationally and internationally via a network of stockists from mid-August 2016.
The spectacular 17th century Wotton House in Surrey has revealed phase one of its £6million refurbishment. Nestled in 13 acres of stunning listed gardens in the Surrey countryside, the property has completed almost half of its bedroom renovations, as well as the first bedroom suite, the Jasmine Suite, located in the Mansion House.
The redesign is part of the group’s wider multi-million pound renovation project across its country estate hotels portfolio, placing the Mansion House building back at the very heart of its country property portfolio, to create country estate hotels where traditional values meet the latest luxuries. Using the grounds to great effect, the investment includes the addition of outdoor dining and sculpture parks to a number of properties, making the great outdoors an extension of the hotel itself.
Future phases of the Wotton House refurbishment will see the addition of 16 new suites in the Mansion House area of the hotel, bringing the total number of rooms to 127, all of which will feature stylish en-suites and fantastic views of either the beautiful gardens or the dramatic manor house entrance.
There will be a full overhaul of all public areas, bedrooms, the restaurant and bar, flexible meeting spaces, as well as the spectacular Old Library which is popular for both weddings and private dining.
The décor and theming of the refurbishment is classic heritage with modern comfort using stylish furnishings, sumptuous fabrics and traditional touches. The refurbished public areas will be decorated with vintage items such as globes, bound books and antique keys adding character and warmth to the hotel.
The hotel’s stunning Evelyn Suite, suitable for up to 180 delegates theatre-style or 120 for a banquet, has recently completed its refurbishment and boasts picturesque views of Wotton’s Grade II listed gardens. Its neutral décor provides a sophisticated look with detailing inspired by the building’s rich architecture. In addition to this, the hotel also features 20 flexible meeting and event spaces, all of which are flooded with natural light.
Surrey-based artist, Emma Stothard, has also been commissioned to create a number of new sculptures inspired by nature. Emma’s other work includes a willow sculpture for HRH the Prince of Wales set within the grounds of Highgrove. This is the first of a series of creative installations set to be launched across the refurbished Country House Hotel portfolio by teaming up with local artists.
Caroline Morrone, general manager at Wotton House, commented: “As a popular venue for the conference, business, leisure and wedding sectors, the project has been planned and designed to appeal to all our customers and provide an attractive, contemporary venue in stunning surroundings which pays homage to its history. We are delighted with the results so far and are already receiving fantastic feedback from our guests. We are confident that the new suites provide a luxurious accommodation offering to wedding parties and those looking for something a little more special.”
Hotel Designs is delighted to announce its media partnership for this year’s edition of Decorex International, being held at Syon Park, London on 18-21 September.
As Hotel Designs looks to further establish its name within the design and interiors industry, partnering with shows of the calibre of Decorex is the perfect way to reach key influencers and figures from across the industry.
Decorex International, the UK’s longest running design show and only one of its kind for the luxury interiors market, has been drawing the biggest names from design and interiors for almost 40 years.
Daniel Fountain, Hotel Designs editor, said of the partnership: “Having attended the Decorex show before, I am delighted we can have a presence at one of most well-known shows in the sector.
“Its reputation for being the place to discover the very latest trends and products places it at the top of most design professionals’ lists of must-attend-shows. I am excited Hotel Designs can be part of Decorex’s evolving and ever-increasing reputation,” he added.
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has announced the designation of the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, welcoming it to the brand’s premier tier of hotels recognised for their enticing destinations, distinguished designs and excellence in service and guest experiences.
Joining 32 other Sheraton Grand properties worldwide, the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane will start a new chapter in the hotel’s 90-year history this October, following a multi-million pound top-to-bottom renovation. Sheraton Grand is one of many initiatives currently underway for Sheraton 2020, a comprehensive plan designed to solidify Sheraton as the leading global hotel brand of choice, everywhere.
“Sheraton Grand celebrates the brand’s best-in-class hotels, each hand-selected based on a specific list of criteria ranging from sophisticated design and sought-after destinations, to unrivaled standards of service and impressive hotel amenities.” said Elena Mendez, Vice President, Sheraton, Westin and SSB brands in Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The award of ‘Grand’ status marks the renovated hotel becoming one of London’s emblematic historic hotels once again, further reinforcing Sheraton as a trusted voice in global travel.”
Having originally opened in 1927 at the height of the “Roaring Twenties,” the 303-room Sheraton Grand London Park Lane has undergone a complete transformation of its guest rooms and public spaces, combining the modern touches of a luxury hotel with careful restoration to retain the original elegance and Art Deco glamour of this historic property. The renovation features the addition of 43 Sheraton Club rooms and suites, which offer exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge, a private space where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, drinks and snacks during the day, a taster of The Palm Court afternoon tea, a full bar and evening canapés. For business travellers, the Club Rooms and suites also include complimentary use of a private meeting room within the Sheraton Club Lounge, which can seat up to eight people.
In addition to the Club rooms, the hotel’s 21 suites have been reconfigured to maximise space, with select rooms offering the option to connect adjoining suites, allowing for larger family travel. The hotel’s Grand Suite is a statement in luxury, comprised of an entrance lobby, master bedroom and bathroom, and living and dining areas. Rooms are interconnected with double-width, sliding pocket doors, enabling the entire suite to be opened into a single space.
From its heyday as the hangout of choice for socialites, celebrities and the aristocracy, the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane has a history of bringing people together in the heart of Mayfair. In the hotel’s famous Palm Court Lounge, sleek furniture and a magnificent stained glass ceiling provide the backdrop to a vibrant atmosphere and lively social scene.
The Sheraton Grand London Park Lane will officially relaunch in October 2016.
Sereno Hotels is pleased to announce the grand opening of Il Sereno Lago di Como, the first new hotel on Lake Como in decades, designed by famed Milan-based architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. The all-suite hotel features 30 suites, all with their own furnished terraces and lake views.
Il Sereno is the third property to join the Sereno Hotels portfolio after Le Sereno Hotel & Villas in St. Barthélemy and Villa Pliniana, also located on Lake Como. Decorated Milan restaurateur and Michelin star chef, Andrea Berton, is at the helm of the hotel’s signature restaurant, Ristorante Berton Al Lago, featuring an exquisite menu inspired by the region. Rounding out the all-star team, acclaimed botanist Patrick Blanc contributed his signature vertical botanical gardens throughout the property, including a spectacular “green sculpture” work of art.
“We are thrilled to open the doors of the much-anticipated Il Sereno Lago di Como,” said Luis Contreras, owner of Sereno Hotels. “This project has been a true labour of love between Sereno Hotels and Patricia Urquiola; and we are excited to introduce an entirely new design concept to Lake Como. We know devotees of Sereno Hotels and new guests alike will enjoy the exquisite design coupled with unparalleled attention to detail, amenities and relaxed service our brand is known for.”
In keeping with the Sereno Hotels philosophy of opening intimate, design-driven hotels in highly desired destinations, Spectacular views of Lake Como and scenic mountain ranges greet guests in airy lounge areas that seamlessly integrate the interior and exterior of the accommodations. At the centre of the hotel, Urquiola designed a stunning, original stairwell that serves as one of many focal points around the property.
Made with natural materials including walnut wood, the large steps are encased in bronze and effortlessly “float” as the lobby’s centerpiece. The dark and beautiful veins of the walnut wood complement the ceppo di grè stone found throughout the hotel. Guests will also find beautiful marble walls with bas-relief patterns that mimic the patterns found in the Venetian terrazzo floors of the restaurant. The hotel features just 30 spacious luxury suites, each with its own waterfront terrace and unobstructed views of Lake Como.
Modern and custom furnishings created by Urquiola complete the elegant and sophisticated design, with understated earthy tones of grey and walnut with touches of blue and green hues to incorporate the colors found in the surroundings of the iconic Italian Lake. Suite amenities include robes and towels made by D. Porthault for Il Sereno and bath toiletries by Ex Voto Paris, a private bar, 24-hour room service, cutting-edge technology including complimentary Wi-Fi, cordless telephones, flat screen TV’s and blue-tooth music systems. In-room spa services are also available.
“Sereno Hotels has perfected the art of providing luxury service in a relaxed manner and we look forward to introducing our brand of service to Lake Como,” said Samy Ghachem, Managing Director of Sereno Hotels. “Guests will have access to not only the best in design, amenities and cuisine, but will also find an attention to detail that is unrivalled.”
Urquiola’s collaboration did not end with the physical aspects of the hotel. Lake Como has been producing the world’s finest silks for centuries and Urquiola also designed silk scarves, or foulards, that are produced locally for hotel staff uniforms; in addition to a custom design that will be available for guests.
A new report has revealed that there are 183 hotel projects and 54,000 hotel rooms in the UAE hotel industry pipeline.
The hotel construction report by TopHotelProjects, exclusively written for Hotel Show Dubai 2016, says the majority of the new hotels are expected to open before 2020 and the busiest years are forecast to be 2017 (56 project openings) and 2018 (58 project openings).
Hotels opening in this time include the Paramount Hotel Dubai (2017); Hard Rock Hotel Abu Dhabi (2017); Citymax Hotel Ras Al Khaimah (2017); and Marriott Dubai Jumeirah (2018).
Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to lead in hotel construction across the UAE with a combined 155 hotel projects and 47,619 rooms in the pipeline. Other emirates with hotel construction underway include: Sharjah with six projects (959 rooms) and Ras Al-Khaimah with five projects (1,847 rooms).
Thomas van Vliet, CEO of Paramount Hotels & Resorts, said: “Paramount Hotel Dubai, expected to open by the end of 2017, will be the first ever Paramount Hotels & Resorts property as well as the operator’s UAE flagship hotel.
“The hotel, part of a mixed use complex also housing 1,197 serviced residences, offers a luxurious experience with a Californian edge and Hollywood vibe, housing 823 guest rooms and suites, some of which are themed after Paramount Pictures movies. We have three more projects underway in Dubai, with a total of 1,383 keys,” he added.
A new hotel development in Manchester has been given the green light, with a scheduled completion cost of £13 million and should be finished at the end of 2017.
SimpsonHaugh and Partners has secured planning permission for the new hotel on the Cable Street regeneration project in Manchester’s city centre.
The new hotel will be designed for Axcel Hospitality who aims to establish a ‘distinctive sense of place’.
The 8,000-square-metre scheme will be nine storeys high and created in the place of a surface car park. The four-star hotel will have 172 bedrooms, a café / bar, fitness centre and meeting rooms.
It is thought the new hotel could be operated by AC Hotels, under the Marriott brand. Construction is expected to begin in September and be completed by the end of 2017.
“With its sculpted massing and careful attention to materiality, the new hotel seeks to provide an exemplar high-quality design to stimulate regeneration throughout the rest of the New Cross district,” says Partner David Green of SimpsonHaugh and Partners.
The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, has announced the opening of The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel, marking Starwood’s first-ever luxury hotel in Japan’s capital city.
Managed by Prince Hotels, the distinguished property is situated in the prestigious Kioicho neighbourhood, with interiors by Rockwell Group Europe, and the hotel is the second property part of The Luxury Collection brand to open in Japan, following the debut of Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in Kyoto last year.
“We are thrilled to open our first luxury hotel in Tokyo with the debut of The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a market that attracts both business and leisure travellers from across the globe,” said Lothar Pehl, Senior Vice President, Operations and Global Initiatives, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific. “The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho presents indigenous flavours and colourful character within a rich cultural context, further elevating the luxury offerings in Japan’s capital city.”
Designed by Rockwell Group Europe, The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho features a striking contemporary aesthetic inspired by the sprawling sky and kaleidoscopic colours of the surrounding city. Located on the 30th to 36th floors of Tokyo Garden Terrace Kioicho, the hotel features 250 guestrooms, including 11 opulent suites that fuse traditional touches with modern amenities.
For unrivalled dining experiences, the hotel features four unique restaurants and bars, including Oasis Garden, an all-day dining venue with a sky garden setting; Washouku Souten, a Japanese restaurant with a contemporary dining room, sake bar, teppanyaki area, sushi counter and private dining room; Levita Sky Gallery Lounge, a sophisticated lounge serving tea, light snacks and cocktails and illumiid THE BAR, asignaturebar located on the 35th floor distinguished by floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Other facilities include the Kioi spa and fitness centre, operated by Swiss Perfection, which offers a large indoor pool, spa treatments, a sauna, and personal training, as well as a state-of-the-art business centre.
The adjacent Akasaka Prince Classic House, a western-style building completed in 1930 and the former residence of the last crown prince of Korea, is now home to La Maison Kioi, a modern French bistro; and the cosy Bar Napoleon. Preserving the historical ambience with a modern twist, Akasaka Prince Classic House also offers almost 3,000 square feet of an elegant banquet hall that can accommodate up to 140 guests.
“The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho caters to the top tier of Japan’s hospitality market,” said Shigeyoshi Akasaka, President of Prince Hotels, Inc. “We are confident that the hotel’s refined offerings and insightful programming will resonate with seasoned and affluent travellers, providing a fresh perspective from which to enjoy this vibrant city.”
The Park Hotels, pioneers of luxury boutique hotels in India, are delighted to announce the launch of yet another four-star ‘Zone by The Park’ hotel in Raipur.
Zone by The Park Raipur, a 72 room hotel, is strategically located at VIP Junction which is minutes away from Central Business District of Raipur and Swami Vivekanada Airport. Zone Raipur will offer great food and beverage options to its guests. It is home to the city’s largest banquet space of 13,000 sq. ft. making it ideal for weddings, conferences, events and meetings. The hotel will also have three excellent restaurants and city’s first night club, Z Disc.
Bazaar, the signature restaurant inspired by multi-hued charismatic native markets is located just off the lobby area. Interactive service and live cooking stations, such as Pizzeria and the Wokerie will give guests an immersive experience. Urban Spice Box, the exclusive Indian grill and kebab restaurant at the terrace and Playa by Zone, the rooftop pool framed by scenic views will be opened in the second phase.
Speaking at the launch, Vijay Dewan, Managing Director, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd. said, “Raipur is an emerging city that is enthusiastic about having a trendy lifestyle. There is a tremendous demand for exciting and glamorous options to indulge in and thus it open avenues for brands like ours. Zone Raipur will fill in that gap. This is our fourth property and we are planning to expand its footprint in South, North and West India.
“The hotel is designed to meet the requirements of the price-conscious, design-conscious urban traveller. Most of Raipur’s major attractions are just a short distance away. It is set to lead a social shift in hospitality; Taking hospitality to a whole new level making the hotel a social hotspot,” he added.
With acoustics being a crucial element of a building’s design, the RIBA-approved Geberit CPD training module now also has CIBSE seal of approval, making it an even more important addition to an architect’s CV.
CIBSE promotes the career of building services engineers in a number of ways, such as approving work-based training programmes, including the Geberit CPD ‘Embedding acoustics into design’. Providing a technical insight and definition of ‘noise’ and its causes, the CPD covers current British Standards relating to limiting bathroom sound.
The CPD also gives insight into Geberit’s thorough approach to noise reduction which starts with good design and ends with appropriate product choices and correct installation techniques.
The training, offered free of charge, helps architects, specifiers and M&E contractors understand the problem of noisy bathrooms, the importance of taking a holistic approach to minimising it and the most suitable products available to create a quiet bathroom that doesn’t impact on adjoining rooms.
The official CIBSE approval means the Geberit acoustics CPD module can be delivered as part of the Continuous Professional Development of Consultants, Chartered Engineers and Engineering Technicians.
Luxury fabric specialist Kobe, has introduced a new compact range of ‘room highs’, the extra wide fabrics for window décor.
The fabric is more than 300cm high with the pattern printed or woven horizontally across, making matching patterns and sewing seams a thing of the past. The sophisticated, luxurious easy-to-care-for, washable fabrics come in a palette of neutral pastels and rich deep tones.
The collection includes the enhanced Bacarole II, 28% cotton and 72% polyester, piece dyed and brushed to give a rustic cotton appearance, available in 44 shades.
The Levanto, is a cool solid plain created in 92% linen and 8% polyester with a subtle natural shine, in 46 colourways and Larino, an authentic linen look woven dobby comprising 100% polyester has a soft finish in 32 colours. Completing the range is the contemporary Castello, a multi-coloured semi plain in 100% polyester with the feel of natural linen, in nine shades and Filippa, a 100% polyester woven jacquard featuring a paisley design in seven tones.
Said David Harris, Managing Director of Kobe UK: “Seams really can take away from the beauty of a curtain and using single width curtains on standard window heights may mean having to sew seams. Sewing two pieces of fabric together to match the width of the window, creates a join. Not only can this spoil the look of curtains but can be time consuming and expensive.
“With room highs there is no extra fabric and sewing needed to match the width; no seams, look fantastic and drape beautifully. You save money on material, time and sewing costs.”
Kobe has a range of collections featuring room high fabrics as well as the standard widths. Both City Chic and Aurora offer the very latest trends in room-highs.
Gérard Ronzatti, the French architect, has completed a floating hotel project in the French capital.
Off Paris Seine debuts as France’s first floating hotel and features 54 rooms in total.
The largest boat docked in the French capital, Off Paris Seine is situated near the Gare d’Austerlitz. “The floating hotel is in actual fact two floating facilities that are strongly articulated and connected,” said Ronzatti Architects in a statement. “An accordion pleats’ system permits to keep a feeling of discreet rolling in order to really give an experience of living on the water.”
The 80-metre-long hotel also includes a restaurant, outdoor terrace, which opens out onto the riverbank and a small marina for small vessels.
Renowned TV and film actor Dominic West and his family are to convert a castle in Limerick, Ireland into a boutique hotel.
The 700-year-old Glin Castle, the ancestral home of West’s wife Catherine Fitzgerald, was on sale for £5.5 million, but the family changed their minds.
“Selling up was absolutely heart-breaking for all of us, especially my mother-in-law and my wife and luckily, we’re reopening it as a hotel, all going well, some time next year,” said West.
“I’m going to manage it. I want to be in charge or as much as my schedule will allow. Obviously there will be someone in place far more experienced and qualified than I coping with the day-to-day. But we want to be there. We’re going to be heavily involved. That’s why we’re moving home to Ireland. We spend a large amount of time there already. It is for all intents and purposes home for us.”
The castle has previously been rented out in its entirety to clients including Mick Jagger, Marianne Faithful and Talitha Getty.
Former hotel designer Patrick Goff shares his thoughts on the relationship between commissioners of design and their designers…
Recently I had dinner with a designer becoming exhausted with the stress of running a large (and very successful) practice. Disillusioned with client relations they were coming to terms with the designer as the elite of the servant classes, rather than being a member of ‘der management’. It is not the first time I have talked with colleagues (sometimes once competitors) with these reactions of feeling devalued by the avaricious money people who often claim credit for designers work. It seems to be the nature of society that those who are the creative drivers are rarely those who get the recognition – until they are dead of course…
The stress of building a design practice, then protecting and nurturing it at often great personal cost through recession to rebuild it again takes its toll. The creativity that the designers are known for is compressed and is then, like a lemon, squeezed by clients until the juice runs dry.
Some back off running practices and retreat to being sole practitioners, choosing to work less so that they feel they have a personal relationship with the creative problem solving. Others sell their businesses and go sailing, play golf or grow flowers. Most do this mentally bruised and stressed by client expectations and client demands that they deal only with the principals, disallowing delegation . They want ‘the engine driver, not the oily rag’. This persistent demand for personal service can kill the goose that lays the golden egg.
The roll call of designers retreating from the high profile leadership of the profession is great, maybe because of a basic humility, maybe because of a fragile sense of self, maybe because they despair seeing others claiming credit for their creative ability. Often press releases name the architect when it is the work of the interior designer that has created the spaces being written about. So great designers are left as the walking wounded of the creative industries.
Over the last three years I have experienced a number of health problems culminating in being treated over the last year for cancer. I am pleased that I have been told it is ‘cured’ but I still have to be tested every 3 months against recurrence. It is a brutal shock to hear the word ‘cancer’ in diagnosis, and does bring about a reappraisal of purpose. Life can be cut short abruptly and 50% is now reckoned the proportion of us who will suffer cancer. I have been lucky that mine has responded to treatment, maybe yours will too?
The resurrection of an old project is typical of what is processing within me at the moment. Over 20 years in design has it seems created a huge reservoir of images and ideas that are determined to be realised through painting, drawing and, right now, photography. I feel like a stick on a flood, being pushed and tossed around at the mercy of these ideas, trying to go with the flow.
For many designers their sense of being wounded by the processes they go through, of having their creative muse squeezed dry, could be helped by a sabbatical return to their creative roots. Our society and the clients are great at demanding projects be completed faster – a new hotel now may be built in less than 12 months compared to the nearly 4 years of the first new build I did in 1983.
But the time for design needs to be protected if designers aren’t to feel like that squeezed lemon left after the pancake party. Creative thinkers need space for their unconscious to work as well as the conscious realisation of the ideas. Pressure for speedy results can produce banal realisations.
Without physical and emotional well-being it is difficult to realise ideas properly. I know I am storing pressure for future creative outpourings as I follow instructions to sit still and give healing a chance. It is impossible now to learn patience, I just have to drive on to realise as many of the ideas as I can over the coming years.
Meanwhile the current months of being walking wounded present different challenges for me. I now have time to think and space to create free of pressure. I pray for the years I need to tackle the ideas and hope the answers are visually strong, interesting and involving for others.
I hope that those design leaders who I see as walking wounded will not wait until their health breaks too, before taking the time out for themselves.
RIU Hotels & Resorts inaugurated the Riu Plaza New York Times Square, its first hotel in New York City. The newly-constructed hotel is located in Manhattan near Times Square on Restaurant Row. Riu built the 647-room hotel for $310 million, its largest hotel investment to date, including the purchase of the land, construction and decorating costs.
“This opening is a dream come true. It took us nearly ten years to find the most appropriate opportunity to invest in the right location in New York, in addition to the three years it took to prepare and build the hotel. However, without a doubt, all of the effort and work was worth it seeing how the Riu Plaza New York Times Square hotel is now a reality,” Luis Riu, CEO of Riu Hotels & Resorts, said in a statement.
Ivan Mayol, chief business officer at Riu Plaza Hotels, said the brand has been looking to develop a hotel in New York for roughly 10 years, but has been held back because it was unable to find a suitable location. After securing the location one block from Times Square, construction on the hotel began June 2013, setting in motion what Mayol called a personal milestone for the company’s CEO. “It’s like putting a flag on the moon,” Mayol said.
While its first New York hotel is already open, Mayol is already talking about a possible second. Riu, like most major brands, won’t be satisfied until it has multiple hotels open in every major U.S. city, and has earmarked future development ideas in Boston, San Francisco and more.
“We want to build, and it will be soon. All the money we make from these hotels we re-invest,” Mayol said. “If you asked me five years ago if we would have a hotel in New York by now and I would have expected it.”
For the near future, however, the Riu Times Square is still trying to stabilize in the midst of opening. While the hotel is currently packed with guests, the property’s assistant GM Micah Polansky said it originally hoped to open in November, but faced delays due to license issues.
“Traffic from Christmas would have been nice, but it’s always good to have time to iron out problems,” Polansky said. “Now is the time to establish a routine.”
Guestrooms at the 29-floor hotel are divided into doubles, executives, family suites, junior suites and the presidential suite. Among the guestroom amenities are minibars, flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi, which is available throughout the property.
The hotel also has two dining options. The first, Fashion, is an à la carte restaurant that is open for lunch and dinner, with a buffet breakfast offered each morning. It is also open for snacks from 12 PM to 11 PM daily. Also available to guests is a grab-and-go eater, Capital, which offers coffee, tea, soft drinks, snacks and sweets for guests on the go.
For business travelers, the hotel has two conference rooms with capacity for 70 and 75 people, respectively, along with two meeting rooms. Meeting planners and business travelers also have access to full audiovisual equipment and Wi-Fi.
With the opening of the Riu Plaza New York Times Square, Riu now has five hotels in its urban line: the Riu Plaza Berlin in Germany; the Riu Plaza Panama in Panama City, Panama; the Riu Plaza Guadalajara in Mexico; and the Riu Plaza Miami Beach.
The highly-anticipated 225-room AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Porto Maravilha and the 378-room AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca, have opened their doors, inviting guests to experience Brazil’s newest class of lifestyle hotels.
AC Hotels by Marriott celebrates the beauty of classic modern design with its European soul and Spanish roots, borne from the signature vision of renowned hotelier Antonio Catalan, who founded the brand in 1998. Marriott International formed a joint-venture with the successful brand in 2011 and has since launched AC Hotels by Marriott globally in France, Denmark, the United States, Mexico and now Brazil.
The two Rio openings debut the brand in Brazil following a successful launch in Latin America with openings in Guadalajara and Queretaro Antea, Mexico. Later this year, AC Hotels by Marriott is scheduled to expand its portfolio with hotels in Mexico City (Mexico), Panama City (Panama), and Santiago (Chile).
“We are thrilled to be bringing this new class of lifestyle hotel to two of Rio de Janeiro’s most dynamic neighborhoods – Porto Maravilha and Barra da Tijuca,” explains Toni Stoeckl, Vice President of Lifestyle Brands at Marriott International. “Our rapidly growing portfolio of design-led hotels illustrates Marriott International’s commitment to making distinctive architecture and design affordable and accessible for creatives and entrepreneurs around the world.”
Based on a belief that purposeful design improves lives, AC Hotels carves away what is unnecessary, in order to provide guests with thoughtfully designed moments of beauty; experiences that elevate their stay and help them focus on what is important to them. AC Hotel guests get only what they need, without paying for what they don’t. The result is sophisticated yet unpretentious style, innovative beverage and food programming with locally inspired experiences for both guests and locals.
“Rio de Janeiro is certainly one of South America’s most vibrant cities with a thriving art scene and energetic urban culture,” said Tim Sheldon, President of the Caribbean and Latin America at Marriott International. “With the recent opening of the Museu do Amanhã and the investment by the private sector and government in Porto Maravilha, we feel the AC Hotels brand will fit perfectly with the neighborhood’s revival. The AC Hotel Barra da Tijuca is centrally located in Barra and an excellent destination for next-generation travelers expected to visit the 2016 Summer Games in August.”
Signature Design AC Hotels by Marriott is designed for creative, entrepreneurial spirits who are constantly on the go and appreciate the oasis of a well-designed hotel that allows them to welcome moments of tranquility, be present and connect with others. Influenced by its European roots, the AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Porto Maravilha and the AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca showcase timeless design that is modern and sleek. Guest rooms incorporate inviting grays and charcoal tones, with clean lines accentuated by and wood floors; furniture is lifted off the floor to create a sense of space, and crisp white linens are used to create a look that is both refined and elegant.
Decorex International, the UK’s longest running design show and only one of its kind for the luxury interiors market, announces that it will partner with the London Design Fair, the umbrella brand for Tent London and Super Brands London, for the 2016 London Design Festival.
This collaboration between two complementary shows will see both present their exhibition consecutively, with Decorex open between 18 and 21 September and the London Design Fair from 22 to 25 September. A pass for either show will be valid at both, which means that visitors will be able to access two major destinations of the London Design Festival for virtually the entire festival.
In addition, the partnership will be promoted on social media, with both shows picking their highlights from each event. A dedicated entrance at the London Design Fair will greet visitors coming from Decorex to ensure a swift entry.
While both shows champion a different aspect of the design community, by joining forces Decorex and the London Design Fair are offering visitors a broader perspective on design. Through this enhanced experience, they are encouraging them to engage in an even wider discussion on the emerging trends and topics facing the industry today. Drawing on the synergies between the two, retail buyers, specifiers, architects, interior designers and design devotees can consider the many diverse facets of a range of contemporary interiors.
Simone du Bois, Brand Director for Decorex comments: “Given the sheer number and breadth of events to navigate during the London Design Festival, it can be overwhelming for design professionals with more focused time constraints. By partnering with the London Design Fair, we feel it offers a unique opportunity for our shared audience to experience some of the best British and International brands alongside fresh, new emerging talent. Highlights will include design collaborations from country pavilions to exciting new processes and technologies and the kudos of established brands.
For visitors, it offers excellent value for money and a curated experience to the very best London has to offer in terms of design.”
Jimmy MacDonald, the Founder & Director of the London Design Fair, says: “As the margins between design ad craft, retail and online, contract and end-user diminish; one show on its own will struggle to complete the visitor experience. Two shows might just deliver – actually we are very sure they will!”
Sands China has announced that its elegant French-themed property, The Parisian Macao, will open its doors on 13 September, 2016.
The launch of the newest addition to the Sands China Ltd portfolio of properties on the Cotai Strip marks yet another major milestone in the company’s efforts to support Macao’s development as a world centre of tourism and leisure. The Parisian Macao brings Sands China’s total Macao investment to more than US $13 billion (MOP 104 billion) to date.
Inspired by the magic and wonder of the famed City of Light, The Parisian Macao prominently features a half-scale authentic recreation of the Eiffel Tower. The property’s full array of integrated resort facilities includes 3,000 guestrooms and suites, convention and meeting space, international restaurants, spa, kids’ club, health club, pool deck with themed water park, 1,200-seat theatre, among other amenities. Its retail mall, Shoppes at Parisian, will offer the latest in fashion and couture in a setting reminiscent of the streets of Paris, with an eclectic mix of street artists and entertainers heightening the authentic experience.
Set to become a skyline-redefining landmark on the Cotai Strip, The Parisian Macao fulfils the original vision ofSheldon G. Adelson, chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands and Sands China Ltd.
“Our goal to create a large-scale leisure and business destination in Macao, which started with the opening of The Venetian Macao nearly 10 years ago, will be fully realized when The Parisian opens its doors in a matter of weeks,” Adelson said. “It’s unlikely another tourism development with the size and scope of the Cotai Strip will ever be achieved again. I am grateful for the hard work and determination of the countless people involved in this amazing development and the unwavering support of the people and government of Macao. Together, we have truly made history.”
Sands China President Dr. Wilfred Wong said: “The Parisian Macao is a property that will help cement Macao’sposition as one of the region’s must-see business and leisure destinations. With the launch of The Parisian Macao, Sands China remains committed to providing unforgettable experiences for our many guests and visitors – from around the world and from right here in Macao. We thank the Macao government for their continued support of our company, and our team members for their dedication and professionalism which bring our properties to life, day in and day out.”
pentahotels is known for its neighbourhood lifestyle design that makes their guests feel right at home, and with their newly refurbished and uniquely-designed bedrooms in Ipswich, they have created a one-of-a-kind design to complement their exclusive pentalounge.
The 126 spacious guest rooms are equipped with all key ingredients particular to the pentahotels style: necessary ports for mobile devices, free Wi-Fi and complementary “Pay-TV” on large flatscreens to enjoy your night just as you would at home. And with bedding of exceptional quality, guests easily anticipate a comfortable overnight stay at their favourite hotel chain.
Alastair Thomann, Managing Director of pentahotels, praises the great design of the new bedrooms: “With the refurbishment of our hotel in Ipswich we are taking another great step in establishing the pentahotels’ unique style all over the world and guarantee that our guests feel as comfortable as possible when they walk through the door. Our feedback received on the newly designed bedrooms has been outstanding.”
pentahotels represents a new generation of hotels. Known for its unique interior design and “neighbourhood” feel, the lifestyle brand stands for true innovation in the industry’s 4-star segment. With 28 hotels across seven countries on two continents, pentahotels offers individual and business travellers comfort and style in a relaxed atmosphere. The hallmark of the hotel chain is the pentalounge – a combination of lounge, bar, café and reception – that stands out with its “living room” look and feel.
The legendary Blue Bar at The Berkeley in the heart of Knightsbridge has recently re-opened following a six-month refurbishment.
Retaining its original look by David Collins with the classic Lutyens blue panelling was an important element of the bar’s remodelling.
Bespoke lighting manufacturer Dernier & Hamlyn worked with leading interior designer Robert Angell, protégé to the late Collins, to restore and reimagine ceiling, wall and pedestal lights that enhance this beautiful and charismatic bar.
Dernier & Hamlyn’s joint managing director Jeremy Quantrill says: “The Blue Bar is probably one of the most beautiful cocktail bars in London. We made the original Lutyens cardinal hat light fittings that have always been a notable feature in the bar, so to be asked back to restore them to their former glory and then enrich the space with new fittings designed by Robert Angell was an honour for us.”
The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts has announced it will open The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha, an elegant and iconic property that will rise high above the Xiangjiang River. The graceful landmark, designed by Callison RTKL and offering 310 spacious guest rooms — including 6 suites and an expansive 270-square-meter Presidential Suite – is scheduled to open September 2016.
“The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha will offer an urban oasis of modern luxury where guests can enjoy serene river views, captivating culture and prime access to the city’s multilayered history,” explained Eddie Tang, general manager.
Tao Yuanming’s famous poem “Journey to the Immortal of Peach Garden” is the inspiration for the hotel’s design. The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha takes guests on a journey from a lost paradise to a quiet urban oasis, capturing elements of Changsha’s glorious past, present and future.
All rooms and suites will offer breathtaking views of the city, the Meixi Lake and the stunning Meixi Lake International Cultural and Arts Center, a masterpiece by renowned architect Zaha Hadid.
The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha, is the first luxury international brand in the city, and will present one-of-a-kind experiences through the Luxury Collection’s Golden Thread Concierge Services. A hallmark of the brand, the bespoke offering unlocks the cultural, historic and natural treasures of the region, including experiences such as a visit the all-female embroiderers who create exquisite Hunan Embroidery; pottery glazing in the Tungguan Kiln or participation as a player in the Hunan Huaju Drama.
In the beautiful setting, guests will enjoy a relaxing suite of guest amenities that include a 25-metre heated indoor swimming pool, a 1,100-square-meter spa with 14 treatment rooms, four distinctive restaurants ranging from casual to elegant to entertaining, 2,700 square meters of flexible event space on the third level overlooking Meixi Lake including the 1,090-square-meter Jin Mao Grand Ballroom, meeting and board rooms.
The Lion Quays Hotel & Spa in Oswestry, Shropshire, has announced its next stage of its £1 million refurbishment, which is set to be completed in 2017.
The property is owned by Ashok Bansal, a former surgeon, who paid around £10 million to for the 82-bedroom property in 2015.
The hotel has completed the £500k upgrade of 41 of its bedrooms, with work to begin on the following 41 by the end of the year. The Lion Quays Hotel and Spa has recently renovated its conference space with a £100,000 investment.
The interior redesign features a palette of deep plum, mauve and bold splashes of colour, offset against white linens. Executive and ground-floor feature guestrooms offer Juliet balconies or canal side balconies.
Colin Jenno, general manager of the Lion Quays Hotel & Spa, said: “We are thrilled with the progress of the redevelopment of the hotel. We are infusing some contemporary styling and modern touches into the bedrooms, and matched with our warmth of service and great proximity to major towns such as Chester and Manchester, I can only see the hotel going from strength to strength.
“The hotel has already reaped the benefits of the early investment and meeting space refit, with occupancy forecast to increase by 2% this year and meeting booking up by 10% on this time last year. Great signs that the work we have carried out has been well received, and boding well for business next year.”
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced plans to open the first Kimpton hotel in the home of European fashion and design – Paris.
Situated in one of the city’s most sought-after districts, near the famous Paris Opéra, the luxury hotel is set to open its doors in 2020.
The hotel will be fully transformed with Kimpton’s signature bold and playful design to feature 149 guestrooms and 27 suites, luxury spa and fitness facilities, and a state-of-the-art meeting space overlooking the high-end Parisian streets, buildings and rooftops.
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, acquired by IHG in January 2015, is renowned for its innovative design and personal approach to guest service, using perks and amenities to make guests feel truly at home. It inspires with touches like yoga mats in every room, complimentary coffee and tea to start the day, a hosted evening Wine Hour, in-room fitness options and complimentary bikes to explore the local area. Kimpton’s award-winning destination restaurants and bars are loved locally, and provide guests with an authentic taste of the city.
Angela Brav, IHG’s Chief Executive Officer, Europe says: “Bringing Kimpton to Paris marks another milestone for expansion of the brand into Europe, and we’re delighted to be working with AXA IM – Real Assets to bring Kimpton to France. This hotel will have one of the most coveted addresses in the city and is set to create unbelievable memories and experiences for guests – in the way that only Kimpton can.”
The world-renowned How It’s Made TV documentary made by the Discovery Channel aired a segment on how electrical switches are made.
Shown on US TV on 18 July, the aim of the documentary is to show how common, everyday items are manufactured.
Wandsworth Electrical was selected as the location to highlight the processes and tools required to make light switches and plug sockets.
The 3-minute video takes the viewer through the process from cutting the raw material into plates, making the internal components and fixing the plates to the grids. It even highlights Wandsworth Electricals capability to make bespoke plate configurations, focusing on some designs for hotels.
As a company that has been manufacturing for over 100 years we are proud of the processes we use, the technicians who manufacture by hand our high quality collections and the fact we have kept our production in Great Britain whilst many of our competitors have moved operations to the far-east.
Ritchie House Albert Drive Woking Surrey GU21 5JY UK
On a recent editorial jaunt for Hotel Design’s sister publication (PA Life) I was invited to spend an evening at Clevedon Hall, a Victorian mansion conversion overlooking the Bristol Channel. My invitation was to experience their new corporate hosting (FULL REVIEW HERE), but the overnight stay allowed me to assess the considerable work that has been carried out on the property’s upper levels in recent years.
Originally used as office space for the venue’s long-thriving wedding hosting service, Jane Clayton & Company were tasked with restoring these upper floors to create 25 individually appointed bedrooms from the available space. It means that the interiors for each room have been uniquely designed and considered, taking into account size, aspect and architecture.
Speaking to Lawrence Dauncey, Clevedon Hall’s Corporate Concierge, he tells me that the firm have been careful to avoid a generic theme. Instead, and rather cleverly, Clayton and her team have kept a continuous theme running throughout the rooms through selection of furniture and furnishings and a subtle, nature-inspired colour palette.
Speaking of nature, my wonderfully-named ‘Peregrine’ suite is a gorgeous blend of greys, browns and cream and the attention to detail in the upholstery and accessories adds a luxuriously traditional feel – but having recently been completed, the room still retains a ‘freshly painted’ look. Both the bedroom and bathroom are spacious and a well-lit entrance hallway splits the two, a touch I particularly like as it keeps a degree of separation between the living and washroom areas.
The touches of luxury continue in the bathroom: an extremely hi-tech toilet in the Japanese style (which I’m reliably informed costs upwards of £6,000), a striking standalone sink unit, walk-in shower and generously-sized bathtub – it’s a shame I’m only staying for one evening. The colour scheme from the living quarters continue with light mink tiling and panels, with marble and mahogany adding touches of luxury.
The public spaces of the hotel where events are hosted – such as the Grand Library, Orangery, and Conrad Finzel and Dame Rosa Burden suites – are beautiful in the grand, traditional sense and (as I wrote elsewhere) ooze character and style. They boast stunning architectural features, including an old wood panelled library and many original features.
Plans have been approved and action is already under way to carry out a renovation of the ground-floor levels in a similar style to the guestrooms, bringing a contemporary feel to the Great Hall entrance area, which will bring the standard of this building inside and out to a very high level.
As I write, the hotel remains open to event or corporate guests only, and Lawrence tells me the owners plan to keep it that way. But the work already completed on the property, and considerable refurbishment to come on the ground floors (which I cannot wait to see for myself later in the year), make this an exemplary case study of interior design and using existing spaces well; so much so you might want to book an event just to try it for yourself…
Now a benchmark among Spain’s most renowned architects and interior designers, the boutique hotel La Isla y el Mar in Lanzarote, part of the Martínez Hermanos Group, has chosen the design, quality and exclusivity of Laufen’s products for its bathrooms.
Situated in the town harbour of Porto del Carmen and built by the architect José María Pérez Sánchez, using the island’s natural materials – such as volcanic stone – the design of this 4-star hotel manages to perfectly combine art and modernity, thereby achieving an intimate atmosphere.
Its 81 suites are equipped with exclusive, custom-made basins from Laufen, especially made for this project in Sentec – a solid surface material manufactured by Laufen, which has exceptional physical and microbial durability and is particularly suitable for hotels and public buildings delivering unique features that contribute to creating an elegant and avant-garde atmosphere which emanates throughout the hotel.
As the architect Pérez Sánchez stated: “The washbasin is the main component in all of the hotel’s bathrooms. It is displayed to the customer as if it were perched on a rock, which supports and frames it. The plants emerging from the rocks complement it. Although it may at the moment appear of secondary importance, the customer can also see the basin reflected in the floating mirror.”
The architect thus emphasizes the challenge of finding a piece that unites the high demands of its users. “A large surface for the customer’s items, a separate space for the amenities, and sufficient interior space. Laufen gave us the opportunity to make a basin for the hotel La Isla y el Mar with a material that could be adapted to the project,” he added. Sentec is a material that is unique, highly robust and recyclable.
Furthermore, all the bathrooms of La Isla y el Mar have the distinctive Kartell by Laufen design with slim shower trays, also made of Sentec, together with the orange-coloured accessories from the same collection, endowing them with the chic and sophisticated touch characteristic of Kartell by Laufen.
Implemented by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba (ps+a, Milan), the collection unites two signatures of international standing – Laufen and Kartell. Since it was launched nearly three years ago, it has been successfully presented all over the world with more than 500 points of sale in over 40 countries. The first single-brand shop of this collection was inaugurated last year in Milan and was a great success.
The bathrooms of the boutique hotel are complemented by a WC from Laufen’s Palace collection. Realised by the designer Andreas Dimitriadis (platinum design), they pay tribute to the outstanding properties of ceramics. The WCs of this series are ergonomically shaped and have a concealed mounting for a sophisticated finish.
A commitment to sustainable development and the protection of the environment is another one of the values shared by Laufen and the La Isla y el Mar hotel. For Laufen, which offers solutions that, among other things, contribute to saving water and energy, it is a priority to be involved in projects designed to protect the environment, and the cooperation between this Swiss company and this new hotel is one example of this.
Work is currently underway on the new Parklane Luxury Collection Resort & Spa which will replace the Le Meridien in Limassol.
Following the demands of Roman Nikitin, the major stakeholder in Emerald Coast Properties (75% owner of the hotel), renovation work on the existing hotel will be from the ground up. The project has been designed by Harrods Design Studio and is estimated to cost €70 million (£58 million), and expects to open its doors to guests towards at the end of 2017.
The hotel is being built on 100.000m² of sea front property, and will consist of 53 suites, each with its own private swimming pool and 222 luxurious rooms.
The hotel will also house a 2000m² conference centre with a ballroom, ten restaurants, and bars, three outdoor swimming pools, one of which will be filled with sea water, a spa with suites for Russian baths, children’s playground with a lake as well as a children’s restaurant.
Parklane Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is a member of the Luxury Collection, of the international chain belonging to Starwood Hotels & Resorts (Marriot International). According to Costas Tseriotis, CEO of L’Union Nationale (Tourism and Sea Resorts) Limited, the hotel will turn to traditional touristic markets such as England, Russia, and the Middle East.
It is also believed that the hotel will benefit from the regular 60 million customers of the Marriot International chain, who receive coupons which they can redeem for holidays among the chains 5,500 hotels around the world.
“Our vision is to create the top luxury tourist resort in Cyprus based on international standards, where guests will love to spend the summer, experience personalised attentive service and enjoy fine gastronomic experiences,” said Tseriotis.
Phil Foster, Managing Director of Love Energy Savings has shared his thoughts on the future of solar power and what this may mean for smaller hotels.
Whilst less than 2% of the world’s electricity is currently generated through solar photovoltaic technology, a recent report estimated that this figure could increase to as much as 13% by the year 2030.
What about solar panels for independent hotels? Solar panels aren’t just for homeowners; a growing number of companies are now starting to cater to businesses of all shapes and sizes who are looking to become a little greener. Switching to solar power can help to lower your bills and your carbon footprint.
In the past we have explored how businesses can invest in being green, and it’s never too late to start thinking about reducing your carbon footprint! Investing in solar panels for your business is the perfect place to start. Here are a few reasons why you should get on board…
Cut your business expenses The first and biggest advantage of installing solar panels is that your business expenses will be cut. Although you will have to pay for the initial investment, panels can pay for themselves in just a few years. Thanks to government initiatives such as the feed-in tariffs schemes, you can even start to earn money back from the electricity you generate, without having to pay for power from the National Grid. To learn more about the current feed-in tariff rates, and how to apply, Ofgem is your go-to source.
Phil Gilbert, Head of Business Solutions at E.ON, told us: “Energy costs can have a significant impact on a business’ bottom line, and generating your own power can put control firmly into your own hands. Cutting down waste, using smart technology to manage buildings and possibly generating your own power are all options to consider.
“Investing in energy efficiency or in new generation technologies such as solar make sound investments, often paying back in only a few years. Across Europe we are seeing customers actually profiting from improving their energy efficiency. As well as the bottom line impact, investing in new energy solutions can also unlock new growth and improve productivity and overall competitiveness.”
Boost your reputation and earn the public’s trust With climate change and the environment grabbing the headlines so often, people are naturally becoming more green-focused and are more conscious about the companies they choose to work with. Adding solar panels to your business can show people that you are committed to helping the environment, and is certainly something that is worth shouting about!
Annabelle Bean from Romag, says that the benefits of solar energy to SMEs can really go far beyond saving money: “Nothing will position your company as an environmentally-conscious brand more than investing in renewable energy for your business. Not only will you be able to have the peace of mind that you are using green energy, but the fact that you are doing so provides a great PR opportunity.
Hurawalhi Maldives – an example of sustainability in hospitality in action
“Being a sustainable business counts for a lot in the current marketplace, where the spotlight is well and truly on companies who do not prove their environmental credentials. When your customers see that you are setting yourself apart from the crowd and investing in a cleaner future, you will soon build up increased brand loyalty and trust.”
Improve your carbon footprint By cutting your dependence on electricity generated from burning gas, coal and oil, and instead turning to renewable forms of energy, you will be helping to drastically reduce your business’ carbon footprint. Phil Foster commented: “There are so many small things that businesses can do to cut their carbon footprint, but solar panels are a huge step forward towards our goal of slashing emissions. Here at Love Energy Savings, we want to see the technology developing further and becoming more readily available both to domestic and business customers.
“Even if the installation of solar panels is a little outside the budget of some SMEs, we always advocate using greener sources of energy. We work with a number of different independent suppliers, some of whom source a proportion of their energy supply from renewables, to give you a wider choice when switching your energy supplier.”
There is no doubt about it; clean energy is the future. More and more countries are stepping forward to announce their commitment to being greener, most recently, the US, Canada and Mexico who together pledged that 50% of their power would come from clean energy by the year 2025. That’s a huge promise, and solar power is going to play an enormous part in hitting such ambitious targets.
Wilton Carpets has announced the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Van De Wiele axminster carpet loom, the first of its kind in the UK, at a cost of some £1.5million.
Increasing capacity by five-times over the traditional axminster looms it replaced, the high-speed Van De Wiele produces miles of premium woven axminster carpet per week, helping Wilton Carpets to meet the growing demand for its stock and bespoke qualities.
Fed by Smart Creel technology, the axminster loom can seamlessly switch between colours and designs, allowing uninterrupted production of woven carpets for the hospitality industry. This world-first innovation sees robots fill each yarn feeder tube and determine the exact length required for any given carpet design, splicing automatically as one pattern switches to another. With minimal downtime, the machine dramatically improves manufacturing flexibility.
“The investment in this new loom enhances the growing stature of one of the UK’s foremost commercial carpet manufacturers and has been commissioned to ensure that Wilton Carpets can continue to service its growing customer base with the efficiency and quality for which the company is known,” says James Sprint, CEO, Wilton Carpets Commercial. “The first of its kind in the UK and bristling with the latest in production technology, the loom is already having a hugely positive impact on manufacturing operations, boosting capacity while giving unparalleled quality and efficiency.”
This comes as only good news for the manufacturer’s client base that reaches hospitality, leisure, public and commercial locations of all sizes right across the globe, with 1000s of locations enjoying the high-quality nature of carpet made right here in the UK.
Over the course of the next 12 months, the Van De Wiele axminster loom will use enough yarn to wrap around the equator six-times. Wilton Carpets has plans to introduce another two of these highly efficient Belgian-made machines at its Wiltshire production site.
For further information contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com
If you haven’t heard already, Hotel Designs is hosting the first edition of its rebranded hotel event on 12-13 September – just seven weeks away – so be sure to save the date and venue in your diary.
With a new approach to the Hotel Designs Summit, which will include an exclusive gala dinner with evening entertainment, you are invited to join us for an unrivalled two days of face-to-face business meetings, educational seminars and networking at the Radisson Blu, London Stansted.
The main aim of the event remains; to bring together suppliers and buyers from across the industry by supporting new and existing client relationships. In addition, we’ll look forward to welcoming first class speakers from within this truly vast sector. You will be joining representatives from hotels like the Shangri-La at the Shard, The Lanesborough, InterContinental London at O2 and the Corinthia Hotel.
Attendees can look forward to: – A personalised itinerary of 25 minute meetings with those you have asked to meet with; – Endless networking opportunities; – Educational seminars covering the latest innovations and trends; – Meals and refreshments; – Exclusive gala dinner with evening entertainment; – Overnight accommodation with breakfast included at the Radisson Blu Hotel;
Places are limited and on a first come, first serve basis, so if you’d like to join us for the exciting re-launch of the Summit, please click here to confirm your place.
For more information, please contact Jennie Lane on 01992 374098 or email j.lane@forumevents.co.uk
After an investment of 100 million Swiss Francs (£77 million) and a five-year complete renovation and expansion, the transformation of the iconic Hotel Royal Savoy is now complete. The 1500sqm Le Spa du Royal which opened this June is the latest addition to the hotel.
The new Le Spa du Royal features eight fabulous treatment rooms, two relaxation rooms, a ladies only spa, two private spa areas, an indoor and outdoor pool, a hammam, sauna, spa boutique, hair studio, and fitness centre.
The Royal Savoy Lausanne is a five-star hotel with a total of 196 bedrooms and suites, spread between the historic and the new contemporary building. The hotel also boasts a fabulous restaurant overlooking the private park, a stunning sky terrace with 360 panoramic views, and the largest ballroom in Lausanne.
First opened in 1906, the Royal Savoy Hotel has been a prestigious symbol of Lausanne for many years; its architectural magnificence, and tradition of hospitality, rivalling the best luxury hotels in Switzerland, and it has consistently attracted aristocracy and famous personalities. Constructed in neo-Baroque and Art Nouveau styles, the hotel was beautifully fitted out using the finest materials and quickly established itself as an essential part of Lausanne’s historic heritage.
Five-star luxury and sustainability have been seamlessly integrated at Hurawalhi Island Resort – a combination worthy of making any environmentally-aware urban dweller green with envy.
In a fragile environment like the Maldives, eco-conscious operations should be the norm and this brand new island has gone the extra mile to put as much back into its surroundings as it takes out. With 60% of the island powered by solar energy, there is also a water bottling plant to substantially reduce the island’s plastic consumption, a food recycling programme and a collection of local greenhouses producing fresh produce for guests. Together these innovative elements ensure that protecting the natural environment is as high a priority as the comfort Hurawalhi provides.
The company behind Hurawalhi, Crown & Champa Resorts, wanted to make the destination as environmentally sustainable as possible. At every step of the development process reducing the project’s carbon footprint was a key consideration. In what they have achieved at Hurawalhi, Crown & Champa has proved it’s possible to care for the environment without sacrificing elegance, luxury and a highly personalised approach to service.
Once finished, the island will boast 4,243m² of solar panels – approximately the size of 26 volleyball courts! Crucially, this technology has been seamlessly integrated into the resort’s architecture by New York-based architect, Yuji Yamazaki, who has successfully turned power generation into a stylish design feature. The panels are state of the art in design and are a far cry from earlier units; the panels at Hurawalhi sport a futuristic-looking appearance which contributes to the contemporary ambience. Rather than clashing with the environment, they make a welcome addition to Hurawalhi’s chic appearance.
Another step Hurawalhi has taken in order to minimise its environmental footprint is to monitor the island’s food supply and production. Owen Ealden, the island’s Food and Beverage Director, is a strong advocate of healthy and sustainable living and summarises Hurawalhi’s theme of eco-consciousness in a single sentence, ‘We want to focus on three areas: healthy people, healthy planet and healthy local communities.’ Hurawalhi has its own water bottling plant, reducing the plastic consumption of the island by using only glass bottles supplied by nearby sister island Kuredu and all restaurants only offer organic and biodynamic produce, allowing guests to enjoy wholesome and good nutrition, which is not only healthy, but also beneficial to the environment. Food waste is processed into fertilizers to use in Hurawalhi’s greenhouse, a process powered entirely by solar energy. The resort also strives for maximum food transparency and thoughtfully sourced produce, favouring local suppliers whenever possible, which gives guests a chance to sample something new.
Hurawalhi has a desalination system which filters sea-water and turns it into clean water for drinking and cooking, as well as to supply the luxurious rainfall showers in the villas. Efficient waste management systems ensure water waste is recycled wherever possible.
All of these green initiatives demonstrate Hurawalhi’s high regard for the environment. Amongst its many other eco-projects, Hurawalhi, which is surrounded by some of the best dive sites and marine life encounters in the world, has teamed up with Wise Oceans to support marine conservation and the continued research of the local Manta ray population and is dedicated to maintaining the stunning local reefs.
Hotel du Vin Brighton, the iconic boutique hotel brand, has unveiled its new look Bistro.
Staying true to its classic French roots, the new style is elegant and informal with a modern twist. Marble topped tables compliment the plush teal bench that runs through the centre. Bistro guests will enjoy the classic Parisian experience. Arriving through beautiful and dramatic entrance curtains, diners will settle into the luxurious settings with pictures inspired by the nautical and famous seaside destination.
With only the English Channel separating the beach-side Brighton hotel from its French heritage, guests will be able to savour the seaside classics such as generous seafood sharing platters or try out the new Flavours menu, a delicious array of small and large plates filled with fresh, seasonal ingredients. With wine in its DNA, the hotel now boasts its ever evolving and impressive wine list, ensuring that all tastes are catered for.
The refurbishment comes 15 years after Hotel du Vin Brighton’s debut, and showcases the brand’s continued commitment to set the trend for Brighton’s lovers of stylish food and drink.
The new look follows a period of significant investment into the hotel with upgraded outdoor terrace, bar and guest rooms.
Nick Halliday, Chief Operating Officer of Hotel du Vin, added, “We are delighted that the refurbishment of the new Bistro has been completed at Hotel du Vin Brighton. We look forward to welcoming guests into our new Bistro and showcasing the fantastic food we have on offer. Whilst Brighton is fast paced and always changing, it has always been recognised as a great dining destination. We are confident that the new experience we are offering guests will ensure that Hotel du Vin remains the cornerstone of what the City has to offer those who love great food and drink in a stylish setting.
Kudos Dsign is a leading luxury interior design agency for hospitality developments, designing innovative projects across the globe, from the iconic Burj Al Arab Terrace in Dubai to ‘Hotel With’ in Stockholm, the world’s first purpose-built underground hotel.
Based in Turku, Finland, Kudos prides themselves on their creativity and attention to detail in every aspect of the process, specially sourcing and custom-designing each element to fully explore the creative brief and deliver a unique and distinctive project through skillful design and beautiful materials.
Pia Litokorpi, CEO, founder and architect at Kudos Dsign, explains: “Kudos was born of a passion for fine design and craftsmanship, and is inspired by the elements of nature. Kudos works closely with its clients to share their vision, and bring conceptual ideas into reality through the combination of beauty and function, which makes each Kudos project unique and special.”
Case Study: Hotel With, Stockholm Located in the heart of Stockholm’s city centre, Hotel With has been built deep underground, with all 106 en-suite bedrooms sitting beneath the city’s renowned, bustling Urban Deli. Constructed within a former utilities basement this custom designed hotel delivers a modern experience, with no exterior walls and windows which guarantees total darkness and silence in soundproofed guest rooms.
Working within the restraints of this unusual location, Kudos introduced design elements to both enhance and compliment the underground experience. Corridors and public areas mimic a city street – complete with letter boxes and door knockers – for the illusion of outdoor space, while custom-designed carpets act as markers for hotel guests to avoid becoming disorientated while underground.
The special lighting scheme simulates natural light, while allowing for total darkness during the night. High specification soundproofing provides an urban haven of silence and a powerful sound system which allows guests to enjoy music or television to any desired volume with no disruption to other guests.
Case Study: Resorts World Bimini, Bahamas Resorts World Bimini is a brand new hotel on the remote Bimini Island of the Bahamas, opened in June 2016. This pristine natural location offers limited land, and required all aspects of development to have a minimum impact on local environment and marine life. Working within environmental challenges of construction on a remote island, the guest rooms were built and outfitted using a pre-assembly construction process not used before in the hotel industry.
Kudos Dsign introduced a number of unique design elements, one of the highlights being a rooftop infinity pool with a dramatic wraparound walkaway, along with the hotel’s signature swim-up suites. Special features created bespoke by Kudos include the lobby wine bar with a specially designed glass wall that doubles as wine storage, a two-sided reception desk which also acts as the lobby bar and a unique lobby lighting feature with 75 individual handmade pennant lamps.
Case Study: Burj Al Arab Terrace, Dubai Dubai’s iconic Burj Al Arab hotel recently unveiled ‘The Terrace’, opened to hotel guests in May 2016, Kudos designed the one-of-a-kind space which features pools, beach, cabanas and a restaurant and provides guests and members with a unique over-water beach experience.
Kudos was involved in every aspect of the terrace’s design and interior architecture, including shape of the spaces, specification of surface materials, as well as custom-designed indoor and outdoor furniture, soft furnishings and interior details.
Original, unconventional, relaxed and stylish – these properties describe the unique overall experience of pentahotels. With its unmistakable pentastyle, the young, dynamic hotel brand is one of the first to have made its mark and established itself as a pioneer in the lifestyle hotel segment.
pentahotels does not stick to standard principals. Innovation, a strong vision, a good dose of creativity and courage define the brand’s philosophy. It is evident that many things are different compared with market competitors in the sophisticated 4* hotel segment as soon as you step inside the hotel. This not only relates to the clear design.
Cool outfits, a distinct fragrance, relaxed music and the easy-going, yet professional, way of addressing guests are all just as much a part of it. What’s more, guests easily find everything they need, and at top quality. Free pay-TV, Sky Sports, in some hotels even a PlayStation 4 and a pinball machine in the room, as well as a quality of sleep that is unparalleled in this segment. This experience can be summarised as follows: fun with functionality, creativity with comfort, style with simplicity.
The design and the brand experience speak a clear language. This is also confirmed by Alastair Thomann, international managing director of pentahotels: “Ten years ago, we made our philosophy of a neighbourhood lifestyle available to guests for the first time with pentalounge – a mixture of a lobby, reception, bar and cafe. We are continually developing our open design concept further. We focus on our particular finesses and regionality.”
Since the relaunch of the hotel brand in 2007, pentahotels has become a successful global player. At the same time, the pentastyle – from “Design 1.0” to a globally applicable “Design 3.0” – has grown along with this almost organically. Design 3.0 will be presented to the public for the first time in Paris in Autumn 2016 and is being introduced in all newly-opened hotels.
Besides its own construction projects, penthotels also puts its fingerprints on various hotel conversion projects. The brand takes over existing hotels and creates its own world inside them. The joy of trying new and innovative things underlines the whole pentastyle-concept. „Even if some of our design experiments turn out to be unsuitable for our new acquisitions, we continue to find innovative solutions” says Alastair Thomann. “It is our goal to always be ahead of the trend and to stay an innovation leader”
A total of 28 hotels – in seven countries and on two continents – offer individual travellers and business travellers comfort and style in a relaxed atmosphere.
New hospitality group Flat Cap Hotels – founded in 2015 by brothers Oliver and Dominic Heywood – is planning to open a second property in Knutsford, Cheshire with the help of crowdfunding.
The group has purchased the former Crown Court in Knutsford and has submitted a planning application for change of use of the property that has been closed since 2010 as well as investing considerable sums in the refurbishment process.
Flat Cap Hotels plans to convert the property into a unique conference and banqueting venue. The site will have a 150 cover restaurant, champagne and cocktail bar with luxury hotel accommodation coming in the second phase of development.
The initial focus for the 2016 launch will be to develop one of the North West’s most prestige venues for conferences, weddings, private dining, meetings, exhibitions and events with a capacity up to 550 guests.
So far, the crowdfunding project has raised more than £20,000 of its £250,000 requirement, with funders able to donate from as little as £50 right up to the full amount to become ‘an investor partner who understands the vision and strategy’.
Having stayed in countless hotels, I am aware that the quality of a guest’s sleeping experience is one of the most important aspects of a stay – if not the most important.
So getting the choice of bed, mattress and linens right takes thought and time. But if that’s the hotel’s only offering, you might think the hotelier’s job has been made considerably easier.
For ‘conceptual artists’ Frank and Patrik Riklin, that’s exactly what’s happened. With the help of hospitality professional Daniel Charbonnier, their latest brainchild is the one-room, open-air Null Stern ‘hotel’ on a Swiss mountainside. The room has no walls, no ceiling and – aside from a few side-tables and lamps – no amenities. Guests must use a public toilet some 10 minutes’ walk away…
It’s the second accommodation offering from the pair after they launched a similar, ‘zero-star’ project in an underground, former nuclear bunker. And this one is going for an eye-watering £154 per night – which does include a butler service.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Charbonnier said: “Even though this version is radically different from the first one in the nuclear bunker, the essence and the spirit of the concept remains the same.
“To put the guest at the centre of the experience and to focus on the intangible by reducing everything else to the minimum.”
Concepts come and unsuccessful ones go, but several have stuck around through the years – think boutiques or technologically-focussed properties. Personally, however, I do think this is one ambitious project too far. The unpredictably of European weather aside (you can cancel with short notice dependant on weather), a hotel is the sum of several smaller parts that go to make an experience for the guest.
Strip away amenities, décor, structures and staff – you can’t really call this a hotel. More a glorified and over-priced camping spot in a Swiss field. I’m all for innovation in hotel design and architecture, but call me old-fashioned I do feel that should include walls and ceilings…
Just a matter of months after it won a well-deserved Green Tourism Award, Dorsett Shepherds Bush has been awarded the prestigious International Architecture Award 2016.
Awarded by the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, the winning projects for 2016 were selected in Milan during the 15th Venice Architecture Biennale.
Since 2004 The International Architecture Awards have been dedicated to honouring the finest, significant new buildings and planning projects designed and built by the world’s leading architects and urban planners.
The awards are committed to the recognition of excellence in architecture and urbanism from a global point of view, while they also highlight the directions and understanding of current and cutting-edge processes consistent with today’s design thinking.
Dorsett Shepherds Bush was recognised as the winner of the International Architecture Awards 2016 by a panel of distinguished architects, journalists and educators; having been selected from a competitive pool of 130 projects from over 40 nations.
The award was given for the work by the architects, Flanagan Lawrence, for the exterior design and the public areas of the interior.
Hilary Cross, the General Manager of the Dorsett Shepherds Bush Hotel commented “It is an honour to accept the International Architecture 2016 Award on the hotel’s behalf. This accolade is a rewarding acknowledgement of the hotel design team’s dedication to creating a stylish city hotel that blends the best of the East with the West.”
Separate facets of the interior were led by Wendy Chiu, Senior Vice President of Interior Design at the hotel. Wendy and her team have used a simple and elegant aesthetic to capture the unique Dorsett Hotels & Resorts brand essence, where Asia’s heritage of hospitality excellence meets British traditions of classic grandeur with a modern edge. Celebrating these two vibrant cultures, the 317 uniquely decorated rooms at Dorsett Shepherds Bush have been thoughtfully designed to combine traditional Asian warmth with British charm; with each room and suite featuring hints of 1930s Shanghai.
The Asian British fusion is continued thoughout the hotel creating unity between its lively and inviting private and communal areas, resulting in dynamic spaces that provide a more energised business and leisure travel experience. Behind the Grade II-listed façade is a striking black, gold and white lobby, two sumptuous restaurants – Pictures and Shikumen, and a destination bar, Jin, located in the hotel’s memorable atrium. The harmonious union of two remarkable cultures, through architecture and design, has been truly recognised in receiving this fantastic award.
The Peninsula Paris, located within walking distance of the Champs Elysees and some of the city’s most famous monuments, museums and luxury boutiques, joins a prestigious group of Parisian hotels accorded the “Palace” distinction.
Bestowed by the French Tourism Development Agency, ATOUT France, the “Palace” status was created in November 2010 to reward hotel excellence and to assist in promoting the French way of life on the international stage. ATOUT France is the official agency in charge of developing tourism in France, and of awarding the “Palace distinction”, above the 5-star ranking, to hotels with exceptional character. The agency is responsible for promoting the development of the tourism industry as country’s largest economic sector; its primary mission is to maintain a detailed and permanent system for monitoring and analysing supply and demand in the tourist market.
The hotel’s new General Manager, Ms Katja Henke, expressed her joy at the news: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this prestigious distinction. I wish to acknowledge the role played in this success by the hotel’s staff, who work every day to meet the highly demanding service standards for which The Peninsula Hotels group is known around the world.
“We will continue to work hard to ensure that this tradition of service excellence is maintained. I would also like to thank our partner, Katara Hospitality, who have allowed us to take part in this exciting adventure and who now have the honour of counting two establishments with the ‘Palace’ distinction in their portfolio.”
Opened on 1 August 2014, this first Peninsula Hotels outpost in Europe, in a joint venture with Katara Hospitality, instigated new standards of design, luxury and comfort. After more than four years of renovation and meticulous restoration, the iconic Haussmann building today offers 200 luxury rooms, including 34 suites. Five of the suites have private rooftop gardens offering a panoramic view of the most emblematic monuments in Paris.
Responding to the demands of the modern luxury tourism market, the rooms at The Peninsula Paris are amongst the largest in the capital and amongst the best in the world when it comes to technology. All rooms and suites are equipped with The Peninsula Hotels’ latest interactive technology.
The property’s three restaurants showcase France and the Peninsula group at their best. In the heart of the hotel, Le Lobby restaurant is classic, elegant and characteristic of Peninsula hotels around the world. Open for breakfast through to post-dinner drinks and late-night suppers, it’s also home to the famous and sophisticated Peninsula Afternoon Tea. With a theme inspired by both Chinese and French opera, LiLi restaurant takes Cantonese cuisine in Paris to new heights and pays tribute to the Asian heritage of The Peninsula Hotels.
Occupying a total of 1,800 sq m (19,000 sq ft), including a 20m (66 ft) swimming pool, The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula Paris – voted Best French Hotel Spa in the 2015 World Spa Awards and Best European Spa in the 2015 Villegiature Awards – offering tailored treatments by SATTVA by Simply Peninsula, ESPA and Biologique Recherche, is completely dedicated to serenity, beauty and fitness.
Combining classic Parisian chic and world-class hospitality, The Peninsula Paris is a coveted location for memorable moments in the French capital.
Taking over four substantial spaces at this year’s Decorex, The New Craftsmen will be presenting ‘CraftHouse’, a series of interactive roomsets exploring 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 room-set, contextualising them within a familiar environment and pushing them to the limits of their skills.
Recognised as a champion of contemporary British craft, Decorex is committed to providing a platform for individual craft makers/studios as it continues to meet the evolving needs of designers and specifiers working at the top end of the market. Some of the most noteworthy projects include an element of craft and interior designers are constantly drawing on this sector to commission truly bespoke work for its clients.
Room 1: Eating Nic Webb will highlight the processes and versatility of making with clay, with the space showcasing a selection of his collectible clay vessels and functional pieces for eating and serving food, while also featuring large sculptural furniture pieces rendered in scorched wood.
Room 2: Bathing Makers Malgorzata Bany and Jochen Holz will consider the bathing space, working in both Jesmonite and glass. Malgorzata will present a new textural range of tiles in Jesmonite and will also experiment with pigment and form to create new furniture including a console table. While Jochen will explore the possibilities of laboratory glass, showing a new lighting feature with neon gas and water pouring vessels.
Room 3: Sleeping Combining both Pedro da Costa Felgueiras and Georgia Kemball’s passion and knowledge of historic interiors and textiles, the space will display a strong use of rich colour, texture and pattern. Pedro’s lacquers and embellishments will be crafted from hand-ground pigments and minerals, while he will also be bringing to the fore the ancient craft of lead applications. Georgia’s textiles will build upon her debut collection for The New Craftsmen, including hand-made pieces as well as launching an exclusive fabric by the metre range, in collaboration with Bristol Weaving Mill.
Room 4: Working Serving as the studio for Crafthouse’s architect, the working area represents the hub from which all the other spaces were conceived. The studio will be encased in willow paneling hand-crafted by Hilary Burns, and braided handles by Aimee Betts, while furniture designer Gareth Neal has collaborated with basket-maker Annemarie O’Sullivan to present the third iteration of his line of chairs exclusive to The New Craftsmen.
The New Craftsmen worked with architect William Smalley to create a model of the founders’ retreat which will be on display in the workspace.
“This ambitious project – The New Craftsmen’s largest presentation to date – is all about unleashing the creativity of makers and giving them an opportunity to showcase their material fascination in a holistic environment. Each room has a completely different look and feel, but they are all united by a desire to bring material to the fore,” said Catherine Lock, Creative Director at The New Craftsmen.
“Crafthouse is an extension of the way in which our business is rapidly evolving, we are increasingly facilitating the opportunity for interior designers to play with the craft skill and an extensive material palette to realise new objects and finishes for projects. Our team have listened closely to their needs and desires and the 4 rooms offer up a whole plethora of new products, new ideas, new finishes and new inspiration,” she added.
Colours from every part of the spectrum, in a range of contemporary textures, give this collection by Skopos its connection to the Northern Lights.
With more than 60 skus this Trevira CS collection is ideal for FR contract upholstery, contract drapery and bedding.
This collection has been designed to provide ultimate flexibility for contract specifications, with no requirement for back-coating any of the 4 designs, fabrics are truly multi-purpose.
Design names have a Nordic flavour and fabrics are perfect for a variety of contract interiors, with a small herringbone, a chunky wool-look texture, and 2 smart natural-look plains. The Scandic influence comes through in the natural designs and the palette, a mix of simple understated neutrals and bright, trend led colours. The statement is simple, uncomplicated, yet confident.
Northern Lights meets all the requirements for British Standards and European flame retardancy, including M1 and is available with short minimums and lead times.
Launching officially in July – the response to the collection has already been extremely positive. Samples of the collection will be available soon.
Skopos is an ISO9001 accredited company and has over 40 year’s specialist experience in the design and manufacture of high performance FR contract fabrics for the hospitality sector.
Jonathan Nehmer + Associates, HVS Design and Carmina Wood Morris – firms specialising in the hospitality industry – are providing architecture and interior design services for a new Hyatt Place hotel in Niagara Falls.
JN+A is the design architect and CWM is the architect-of-record for the hotel. HVSD will be providing interior design services for the hotel.
The Hyatt Place Niagara Falls will be a six-storey, 128-room hotel located at the intersection of Rainbow Boulevard and Old Falls Street in Niagara Falls, in close proximity to Niagara Falls and Niagara Reservation State Park. The hotel will have 14,500-square-feet of meeting and banquet space on the top floor with views of the Falls. The first floor will include 7,000 square feet of retail along Old Falls Street.
The $35 million project began construction this month. The Hyatt Place Niagara Falls is owned by The Hamister Group, headquartered in Buffalo.
From the news of Portonovi launching villas for purchase to Paris Hilton announcing her launch of (yet another) one of her hotel brands, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…
2. 5 facts to know about…Hilton Hotels In light of 2016 marking their presence in 100 countries and territories, we have found five things you might not know about Hilton Hotels
3. First IntercityHotel outside Europe opens in Salalah, Oman Steigenberger is continuing its programme of expansion in the Middle East, as the first IntercityHotel outside Europe has now opened in Salalah, located 1,000 kilometres to the South-West of the capital Muscat in Oman
5. Conrad Hotels signs agreement for Bora Bora property Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s luxury hotel portfolio has announced the signing of a franchise agreement with SA BORA BORA NUI for the Conrad Bora Bora Nui
6. AccorHotels finalises purchase of FRHI group Following the approval of shareholders at the General Shareholders Meeting last week, AccorHotels Group officially announces the acquisition of FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI)
7. Ten Hill Place, Edinburgh joins BW Premier Collection BW Premier Collection has announced that Ten Hill Place, in central Edinburgh, will become the tenth member of Best Western Great Britain’s soft branded offering for high end hotels and the first in Scotland
10. W Goa to open in September The new W Goa opens this September – it marks W Hotels’ first property in India and is located in the tropical paradise of North Goa’s coast
The EVEN Hotel in Brooklyn, NY – the latest IHG hotel designed by Gene Kaufman Architect – opened this month. The 13-storey, 202-room hotel has been developed by CBCS Equities and Barone Management.
The steel structure has a modern and contextual design. An accentuated corner treatment at the intersection of Nevins and Schermerhorn streets, location of the hotel’s entrance, softens the impact of the 83,000 s/f hotel’s massing. Large glass storefronts further enliven the street-level experience and a large interior courtyard utilising the natural historic brick of the adjoining building creates an open, airy centerpiece that leads directly into the dining area.
“The opening of the EVEN Hotel Brooklyn and the Holiday Inn Brooklyn Nevins Station, another major project which we designed for IHGand which started welcoming visitors in April, leave no doubt that Downtown Brooklyn has arrived,” said Gene Kaufman, founder and principal of Gene Kaufman Architecture. “This is an exciting time to be in hospitality design and to be creating new premium locations for these IHG brands.”
The latest location of the health-conscious EVEN brand features a host of amenities. Guests can reach the two-level, 1,300 s/f fitness center, open 24/7, from the lobby via a feature staircase with a greenwall (the studio is also accessible by elevator). Other health-focused amenities include in-room “fitness zones” with cork flooring and personal exercise equipment, and myriad healthy food and beverage options like the made-to-order smoothies and Grab ‘n’ Go meals available in the ground floor Cork & Kale Market and Bar.
The new hotel is within walking distance of some of the area’s most popular attractions. These include the Barclay’s Center sports arena, the Brooklyn Academy of Music cultural center, the historic Brooklyn Heights neighborhood, and Brooklyn Navy Yard, and a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment and sightseeing venues. With the Atlantic Avenue-Pacific Street subway station, nearby, visitors have access to Manhattan, other parts of the borough, and the rest of the city.
The hotel’s interiors are by HVS Design and Andrew Myers Interior Design, with landscape design by Ambius.
Beautiful fabrics can transform any room in a hotel, from drab to delightful. David Harris, MD of luxury fabric specialist Kobe UK, takes a look at some of the different fabrics, textures, colours and patterns on offer today.
For hotels that want an interior that reflects a chic and contemporary lifestyle choose a palette of rich and neutral tones and go for a collection of sophisticated, luxurious easy-to-care-for, washable fabrics that are ideal for a commercial interior.
To complement the look go for a palette of soft and sumptuous shades ranging from metallic tones to gentle graceful hues, with distinct and intricate designs of geometric, floral, medallion and trellis patterns.
Kobe’s Elements collection includes Screen, a 100% polyester flame retardant woven jacquard curtain fabric with shimmering metallic yarns in silver and gold on an elegant satin base. This glamorous fabric is available in seven stunning colours.
There is also Trapezium which embraces the signature Kobe style. This 100% polyester flame retardant woven jacquard has a soft, supple satin touch and features a modern medallion pattern which can be reversed and is available in eight delicate colours.
Play around with contrasting colours in the paintwork, furnishings and well-chosen accessories in gold and bronze metallic hues for a touch of glamour or go for contrasting pastel tones.
For a stunning look for hotels that want to be remembered don’t be afraid to experiment with dark colours to create a mood of mystery as the latest room trends head for drama and elegance. Choose a sumptuous, moody blue, opulent bronze or the fiery glow of red, golden-brown or even daring dark green and go for room high fabrics for dramatic effect.
Room highs are the stylish, extra wide fabrics for window décor. The fabric is more than 300cm high with the pattern printed or woven horizontally across, making matching patterns and sewing seams a thing of the past.
Whatever hotel design and style, it’s always exciting to create something new and with Kobe’s Elements collection hotels can have affordable prices and value for money while still enjoying the signature Kobe style.
Kobe is a luxury fabric specialist with a UK operation based in Crowthorne, Berkshire. For further information please contact Email: salesuk@kobe.eu or call +44(0)1344 771653. www.en.kobe.eu
Grace Santorini reopened for the summer season in May 2016 with a fresh new design following a complete renovation to enhance the iconic luxury boutique hotel.
The renovation consultancy and interior design was handled by Fifth Element Interiors London and SMK Interiors Greece. The plans for Grace Santorini involved adding to the beauty of the interiors that had been the subject of consistent critical acclaim since it opened, reimagining the minimalist whitewashed rooms whilst delivering something authentic and true to its Hellenic heritage.
Innovative design, a new Champagne Lounge and dedicated yoga and Pilates studio provides guests with a significantly upgraded experience, whilst retaining the intimacy it has become synonymous with.
The 21-room hotel is carved into the cliff-face 300m above Santorini’s volcanic caldera. Award-winning architecture practices Divercity and Mplusm, known for their ability to handle challenging briefs in a variety of locations and contexts, were responsible for the original development of the hotel, completed in 2008. In 2010 they were tasked with the addition of The Villa, a 400 sq m luxury residence complete with its own Volcanic Spa, completed in 2012.
The understated design allows the extraordinary landscape to take centre stage. The hotel provides a contemporary interpretation of vernacular architecture, employing economy of space and simplicity. The infinity pool’s jagged outline echoes the zigzag paths that cross Santorini’s sheer terrain.
Founders of Fifth Element, Christina Logothetis and Staci Perkins-Surla, comment: “Our challenge was to preserve the original use of white and avoid cold minimalism, ensuring a balance that reveals an unmistakable sense of luxury and understated beauty. By subtly introducing a new colour palette with furnishings, fixtures and fittings exuding the highest standards of quality, we aimed to set standards on the global stage.”
Rooms & Suites The refurbished rooms and suites, whilst maintaining the Grace hallmark of elegance and simplicity, have a contemporary style, combining cutting edge and bespoke design alongside traditional handcrafted pieces.
The objective was to maximise the ability to enjoy the view and the space outside. Grace Santorini’s hotel rooms all have a frontal orientation to make the most of the panoramic views. Every single room allows you to have breakfast outside, 19 of the 21 rooms include plunge pools and the largest rooms have round day beds with retractable canopies.
Inspired by the island’s ‘yposkafa’ cave-like dwellings, the hotel has rounded walls and domed roofs excavated from the rock-face. All-white interiors with brushed concrete floors reiterate the trademark whitewashed houses of the Cyclades.
Elements of local materials and architectural techniques can be found throughout the hotel. This is exemplified by the feature of volcanic rock fragments that are positioned in the windows of four rooms, interspersed with apertures that provide glimpses to the sea. This echoes a local architectural technique in which minimal amounts of mortar are used, leaving gaps between the stonework creating a light-filtering screen that allows privacy, ventilation and casts dappled shadows as the sun goes down.
Accents in turquoise, aubergine or navy are featured in some rooms, a colour palette synonymous with Santorini and the Mediterranean. Traditional Aegean walnut was used for the design, as opposed to non-indigenous wood like teak and driftwood found in other island properties. 40% of the world’s walnut produced in the Peloponnese.
Products from the local region complement the interiors and include handmade walnut desks with Vibeffe 9500 Marble and walnut coffee tables. Wardrobes with solid walnut interiors include an innovative in-room bar which will offer a cocktail-making kit for guests. The luxurious bathrooms offer double vanity units with basins hand carved from solid Greek Statuario marble and spacious rain showers with mosaic feature walls.
The sofas are handmade in Greece and upholstered in C & C Milano fabrics along with handmade throws and rugs especially hand-dyed for Grace Santorini. Rooms are complete with a curated collection of accessories including pieces from the Cycladic Museum and Greek artisanal marble bowls. Further details include marble accessories and brass book ends based on traditional Greek design from Two is Company.
Boston Park Plaza is pleased to announce the completion of a comprehensive, multi-year, $100 million (£75 million) renovation and restoration project.
The extensive transformation includes the complete overhaul of the hotel’s 1,060 guestrooms and corridors, main entrances and lobby, meeting spaces, mezzanine levels, the addition of an all-new library room, and the replacement of all furniture and fixtures.
“This rejuvenation project has completely transformed Boston Park Plaza into a self-contained nucleus that pairs top-notch hospitality, world-class dining and high-end fitness amenities with the modern comforts and conveniences that today’s travelers have come to expect, all the while offering a uniquely Boston feel,” said Jon Crellin, managing director.
“Boston Park Plaza was thoughtfully redesigned with today’s modern travelers and executives in mind, and the hotel now truly reflects the city of Boston’s standing as a world-class destination known for its rich history and modern innovations.”
New high-end amenities include STRIP by Strega, a 5,700-square–foot, high-energy steakhouse concept by Boston-based restaurateur Nick Varano; DavidBartonGym and Cyc Fitness Boston – a 20,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness centre that includes complimentary gym access for hotel guests. Through the renovation, Boston Park Plaza has also gained an additional 6,000 square feet of fully-renovated professional meeting and pre-function space, bringing its grand total to 50,480 square feet. Boston Park Plaza’s storied ballroom has also been fully updated to feature a stunning new charcoal and ivory palette.
Photo credit: Michael Diskin
Designed by Sudbury, Massachusetts-based Parker Torres Design, Boston Park Plaza now evokes a youthful, innovative and international vibe that complements the hotel’s iconic architectural elements. The new lobby of the Boston Park Plaza boasts a sophisticated gray and white color palette, dramatic floor-to-ceiling columns encased in ceramic, new flooring, adjustable LED lighting, and sleek guest check-in stations designed to create a more intimate experience between hotel staff and guests. Located within the renovated lobby area is Off The Common, Boston Park Plaza’s new restaurant and lounge, which offers a sophisticated and contemporary setting to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, light bites and hand-crafted libations. Designed to satisfy the needs of many, Boston Park Plaza’s newly added library room can act as the ideal shared workspace and reading area, or simply serve as an inviting place to visit with friends.
Photo credit: Christine Gatti
As guests enter the hotel’s revitalised guestrooms and suites, which boast all-new lighting and much-improved acoustics, they’ll be welcomed by a handsome, tailored and chic palate of charcoal, caramel and camel tones that complement all-new stone-topped wooden cabinetry, custom upholstered headboards, and warmly-hued carpeting.
Adding a crisp, fresh touch to the highly-appointed guestrooms are completely renovated bathrooms featuring white tile surrounds, custom vanities, over-sized mirrors and large porcelain tile flooring. As a nod to Boston Park Plaza’s iconic design details, each room’s crown molding has been fully refinished in order to preserve signature elements that pair with the hotel’s new smart and sophisticated appearance.
Photo credit: Christine Gatti
Since purchasing the property, Sunstone Hotel Investors has performed a series of renovations to repair and restore all structural elements, which includes replacing the hotel’s roof; repairing the exterior façade; replacing sidewalk surrounds; replacing the hotel’s signature two-story decorative windows; modernisation of the elevator systems; and the installation of a state-of-the-art HVAC system that provides individual climate control for every guestroom, meeting space and common area.
Boston Park Plaza has also been hand-selected by Preferred Hotels & Resorts to be the newest experience available within its Lifestyle collection.
A Seaside Tsar should be appointed to help Britain’s forgotten seaside towns fight back from decades of decay according to new research which paints a grim picture of the problems facing many coastal communities.
The report, commissioned by the British Hospitality Association (BHA), says that people living in seaside towns are more likely to be poorly educated, unemployed, unemployable, lacking in ambition, claiming benefits and living in multiple occupation housing.
A separate survey, conducted by the owners of Butlin’s and the BHA, found that more than half of the British public have not visited the British seaside in the past three years, and 65% believe that the British seaside is run down and in need of investment. Nine out of the 10 most deprived neighbourhoods in England are seaside communities, according to the Department for Communities and Local Government 2015 Index of Multiple Deprivation.
The collapse of shipbuilding and fishing, the decline of the traditional annual holiday by the seaside, growing drug use, and cutbacks in budgets affecting maintenance of public places, street cleaning, tourism promotion and the providing of education have all contributed to the situation, says the report. Creating Coastal Powerhouses says that businesses in seaside towns are more likely to fail – especially if they provide accommodation – and calls on the Government to create Coastal Enterprise Zones to encourage businesses to move to and invest in the coast.
The hospitality and tourism industry employs 4.5m people or 14% of the UK workforce. The association, which represents more than 40,000 businesses in the sector, cites the successful regeneration of Folkestone in Kent and along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset and east Devon as examples of how the British seaside can recover
It has produced a seven point action plan to breathe new life into seaside towns which calls on the Government to:
Appoint a Seaside Tsar to coordinate a coherent response across all departments and spending – very much like Lord Heseltine’s work in Liverpool in the 1980s.
Establish Coastal Action Groups, to develop a co-ordinated response and investment strategy to target the specific social and economic challenges that seaside towns face.
Create a progressive tax environment, including a reduction in Tourism VAT, to encourage coastal businesses to invest in themselves.
Create Coastal Enterprise Zones to incentivise investment and encourage businesses to move to the coast and create jobs.
Invest in critical infrastructure and improve broadband, rail and road connections, and protect against the threat of rising sea levels.
Improve education and training provision for young people and adults to ensure that they have the skills for a variety of sectors.
Support Local Authorities to tackle social issues and housing problems which reduce their attraction as visitor destination
Ufi Ibrahim, Chief Executive of the BHA said: “The British public want to enjoy the British Seaside, and those living in coastal communities want a thriving economy. We look forward to working with a Seaside Tsar to unlock the potential of the UK’s 6,000 kilometre coastline.
“Our members, who invest in and operate hospitality and tourism businesses recognise the problems facing many coastal communities but we also know there are fantastic opportunities to boost these places and help revive the Great British Seaside holiday.
“250 million visits are already made to the UK’s coast each year, generating £17 billion to the economy. But we know there is a lot more to do – and that can only happen with a concerted effort by a committed government and the private sector. Together we can turn the tide and bring a smile back to the seaside.”
Blumen Haus Lech will soon offer the ultimate Alpine retreat in the Austrian mountains, when this extraordinary nine suite hotel launches on 1 December 2016.
Blumen Haus Lech is British businessman Andrew Flowers’ first foray into the hospitality world and will redefine the luxury landscape in Lech, raising the bar for boutique hotels in Austria and beyond.
Commanding an outstanding position in the heart of one of the world’s premier ski destinations, Blumen Haus Lech will surpass all expectations with its nine super-suites, fine dining restaurant, indoor infinity pool, high-altitude hypoxic chamber, contemporary works of art and official partnership with high-end ski brand, Indigo.
Effortlessly blending the best of the old with the new, Blumen Haus Lech has been thoughtfully designed by Reinhard Strasser to combine tradition with exceptional style, comfort and state of the art technology.
Clad with reclaimed wood from the Tyrolian region and with a copper roof according to Alpine tradition, this is a hotel that pays respect to its history, yet understands its guest’s desire for unsurpassed modern luxuries.
The sumptuous bedrooms, living spaces and wet-room style bathrooms will feature the finest furnishings from Italian studio Minotti; luxurious Egyptian cotton bed linen and intuitive touches include state of the art fireplaces, Loewe TVs with access to NetFlix, Revox sound-systems and iPad wall activations to control everything from the lighting to air conditioning or heating. To disconnect, guests can step out onto a private balcony and terrace for stunning mountain views.
Blumen Haus Lech is an Alpine retreat for year round enjoyment. The destination is best known for its phenomenal skiing and is soon to be Austria’s largest interconnected ski area, owing to new lift connections. Yet it is also a beautiful destination to visit in the summer for hiking, painting, high altitude training or simply savouring its pastures and peaks at their uncrowded best. Blumen Haus Lech provides an idyllic base from which to explore the beauty of Lech, all year round.
For 50 years, EquipHotel has helped French and international hospitality and catering professionals to decipher trends, identify innovations, promote networking – with one goal: to propose new solutions and effective growth levers to every key players of the hotel & restaurant market.
Hospitality and restaurant professionals face challenges every day, especially in this current uncertain climate. EquipHotel represents a source of inspiration for them as well as a means to help their businesses grow.
Show facts and figures from 2014: – More than 110,000 professionals (including 20% of internationals): hotel and restaurant owners, investors, buyers, prescribers; – 1,600 exhibitors (including 30% of internationals); – 30 business sectors; – 500 chefs including 150 starred-chefs
Economy designer brand Ibis Styles is thinking big with the opening of not just one but two new hotels in Budapest.
This is a new country for the brand and a new opportunity to once again convey its distinctive personality and character. To mark the occasion, the teams from AccorHotels Hungary have organised a custom inauguration event bringing together partners, clients and members of the local communities.
Opened back in May, the ibis Styles Budapest Centre and ibis Styles Budapest City, both former Mercure establishments, convey the “Happy Mood” feel of the ibis family. During the launch event, inspired by a storytelling concept for the two establishments, Gilles Clavie, President and CEO of Orbis SA/AccorHotels Eastern Europe, explained that: “The opening of the first ibis Styles hotels in Hungary is a major step for our Group in the region, as well as for the brand. With the arrival of ibis Styles to Hungary we are bringing innovation and a new hotel experience for the guests, offering unique design and atmosphere, a friendly service and welcome, where guest can feel the conviviality and unique storytelling created around the hotels”.
The talented Polish design agency Tremend created the interior decor for both establishments, which feature fun and distinctive living areas. Including bright and refreshing colours, modern materials, amusing geometric patterns and brightly-lit interiors, all aspects of the brand’s distinctive style contribute to a well-established and hard-hitting storytelling concept.
The goal of the ibis Styles Budapest Centre is to take its guests back to their happy childhood days with a “play” theme! With brightly coloured fitted carpets and video game illustrations featured on the walls of the bedrooms, game boards in the public areas and humorous signage, everything has been carefully designed to ensure that our guests have a fun and happy stay here.
For its part, the ibis Styles Budapest City offers guests a “bicycle ride” experience. This includes chair backs in the shape of handlebars, wheels for chandeliers, hanging bicycles or cycle lanes marked out on the ground. All cycle-related imagery inviting the guest to embark on a special journey.
“It was quite a gamble, but it paid off,” explained Armand Bikart, Design Director Eastern Europe at AccorHotels. “The challenge lay in totally redesigning the interior of two former Mercure hotels which were looking a little tired and even obsolete, with the aim of creating something completely different. And achieving all of this on a very tight budget. This is one of the brand’s first openings in the country and so we had to get it right. In my view, today we can all be very proud of the results. These two hotels are a showcase for modernity, with a very clear and unashamed designer feel to them”.
Hilton is to open a 170 guestroom hotel within the Taghazout Bay Resort located 10 miles north of the Moroccan coastal town of Agadir.
Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa is set to open in 2018 and will join three Hilton Worldwide hotels currently operating or under development in Morocco.
Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa is part of Morocco’s new sustainable Taghazout Bay Resort complex, which is set in the peaceful foothills of the Atlas Mountains and overlooks the stunning Atlantic coastline.
A progressive open-skies agreement with Europe has removed the limit on EU flights to Moroccan airports. As a result there are a significant number of flight routes from key source markets including Germany, France and Spain, whose tourists increasingly flock to Taghazout Bay Resort for its peaceful beaches and striking mountainous scenery.
Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa joins two Hilton Worldwide properties currently under development in Morocco. Hilton Tanger City Centre Hotel & Residences and Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa are both set to open in 2017.
“Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa takes us one hotel away from 50 Hilton Hotels and Resorts trading or under development across Africa,” said Jim Holthouser, executive vice president, global brands, Hilton Worldwide. “The brand has seen exceptional success across the continent since our longest trading hotel Hilton Addis Ababa first opened in 1969.”
The property will have stylish and spacious outdoor pool areas that overlook the bay’s curving beach, with direct access to the shore for guests of the hotel. In addition to its fully serviced spa the hotel will include two signature restaurants and a bar. For corporate travellers the hotel will include a ballroom suitable for up to 500 delegates and four meetings rooms.
Moxy Hotels, making a much-anticipated US debut, opened the brand’s second stateside property, Moxy New Orleans, on May 12th. Located right outside the city’s oldest neighborhood, the French Quarter, the 108-room hotel was designed by NY-based Stonehill & Taylor to capture the area’s artistic spirit and bohemian legacy.
Stonehill & Taylor’s approach was to infuse a youthful design with modern art, contemporary technology, and local influences, thereby creating an uniquely New Orleans experience while also delivering on Moxy’s mission.
Favouring expansive public spaces in lieu of larger guest rooms, Moxy’s ground level is comprised of lounge and library areas, large central bar, and fitness room. The industrial design is marked with details referencing historical New Orleans. The first floor has been stripped down to reveal the existing concrete flooring, as well as the exposed pipe and duct work to give the first floor a raw, warehouse feel.
The space is layered with a faded floor stencil influenced by Spanish tile, and light fixtures with street lamp-inspired metal detailing, adding authentic French Quarter flair.
Stonehill & Taylor emphasises an active, social, and autonomous experience, a hallmark of the Moxy brand, throughout the public space design. The main focal point of the lobby area, the bar, is clad in reclaimed wood and topped with textured black stone. Positioned prominently between the library and lounge areas, the bar doubles as a gathering place for drinks and conversation, as well as check-in, where guests can obtain room keys from bartenders.
Guests have several options for work or play; a non-traditional open meeting room serves as an AV-equipped workspace for small group meetings and presentations during the day, and a gathering place for drinks and games at night. Ample power sources also allow for individual workstations along the window seating and bar, while the lounge area is outfitted with board games and foosball table.
Outside of the fitness centre, lockers are provided for guests to store belongings, including carry-on size luggage, and serves as an alternative to traditional check-in desk storage. Nearby, a large mural by New Orleans artist, Reid Morris dominates an entire wall.
Stonehill & Taylor commissioned another local artist, Margot Couture, to paint a large mural within an interior lightwell; a striking, abstracted ikat piece spanning 10 stories. The mural is not only an exciting visual moment within the overall hotel, but adds particular value and interest to an otherwise challenging view from adjoining guest rooms.
Guest rooms are designed with an active traveller in mind, providing a quiet respite from a long day spent working or exploring the city. Rooms are bright and minimal with a largely neutral palette contrasting the colorful, vibrant look of the hotel’s public spaces. Accents include a hanging leather-look headboard, Acapulco chair, and graphic hand-knotted area rug.
Walls are lined in red oak with multiple hooks and pegs running the length of the room, one of Moxy’s most distinctive features. This alternative hanging system saves on space and allows for more comfortable smaller room sizes. Providing unique storage for clothes and belongings, the peg wall eliminates the need for closets and casegoods, while also allowing the foldable, hang-able chair and table to be conveniently stored away when not in use. An art wrapped panel creates visual interest within the space and provides additional pegs for hanging.
Bathrooms are clean and modern, with all-over white subway tile and a glass-enclosed, step-in shower. The vanity, in blackened steel with gray quartz top, is pulled into the main room in most guest rooms, allowing guests to socialize while getting ready. This feature is especially well suited for the New Orleans property’s unique shotgun-style suites where the shared bathroom and open vanity area is situated between two double beds.
Organisers of the Decorex International 2016 show are excited to reveal the leading industry figures who will be taking to the stage at the renowned Decorex Seminar Theatre.
For four days, those renowned for pushing design boundaries; from the use of rare materials; the influence of custom and culture and the art of collecting, retailing and branding will share their insights and experience. Highlights are below, for the full programme click here.
As well as a full programme of seminars, on Tuesday 20 September at 4.30pm in the Decorex Restaurant, the BIID will be chairing a series of mentoring sessions designed to support new and emerging designers making their way in the interior design profession.
Each table host boasts expertise within a specific interior design sector and participants are invited to spend 15 minutes with each: • Residential, BIID President Susie Rumbold, Tessuto Interiors • Commercial, May Fawzy, MF Design Studio • Hospitality, Harriet Forde, HF Design • Retail, Yentl Flo, Househam Henderson
To book a place at one of these sessions, please contact sam.fisher@ubm.com.
Only Decorex visitors can attend, secure your ticket now and benefit from exclusive insights to inspire your latest projects.
Made from WRAS approved materials and designed to fit a standard 1/2″ BSP hose connector, the new Twyford X120 Thermostatic Shower Valve is easy to install and packed with user benefits.
Ideal for projects where eco credentials are key, the X120 has a water-saving feature to control flow without compromising on performance, while a number of safety features make it the perfect choice for installation in family bathrooms too.
The X120 Thermostatic Shower Bar Valve has a temperature pre-set to 380°C, with a push-button over-ride to 460°C, while its Cool touch technology helps to prevent scalding to increase user safety. Measuring 270mm x 92mm, the Shower Bar Valve has a ceramic cartridge for smooth operation, as standard.
The X120 is also available as a Dual Control Recessed Thermostatic Shower Valve, measuring 240 x 150mm and with a temperature pre-set to a maximum of 420°C.
The globally operating Geberit Group is a European leader in the field of sanitary products. Geberit operates as an integrated group with a very strong local presence in most European countries.
In spite of the impending Marriott-Stwarwood merger, Hilton Hotels is still one of the behemoths of the hotel industry and remains one of the most well-known hospitality companies in the world. In light of 2016 marking their presence in 100 countries and territories, we have found five things you might not know about the company…
In 2015, Hilton signed over 100,000 new rooms for development, creating a global pipeline of 275,000 hotel rooms. Half this number are currently under construction, and represent almost 20% of the total hotel rooms under construction globally.
Around the world, Hilton manages 3,843 hotels with 596,765 rooms. That’s up some 39% since the company last reported earnings publicly in June 2007. It owns 4% of the hotels in its system.
Hilton’s loyalty scheme, Hilton HHonors, added six million new members in 2015. This is the brand’s highest number of enrollments ever in a single year. The number now accounts for 50 million members, who represent 52% of the occupancy for the company.
Hampton by Hilton is expected to open an additional 400 hotels in the next few years, including the first KSA property, due to open in 2018. Hampton by Hilton also passed its 200,000th room milestone in 2015 and now has a pipeline of more than 50,000 rooms.
Way back in 1971, a young John Lennon was lounging in one of the company’s hotels when he decided to do some brainstorming. He ended up writing the word “Imagine” on a piece of the hotel’s stationary.
A five-star hotel in Bath Spa has unveiled the new-look of its luxury suites, following a £150k refurbishment.
Five-star Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel has revealed the results of its £150,000 refurbishment. Three new suites have been added to its offering, which come with a butler service on hand to deliver champagne and canapés each evening and fill the bath ready for when guests return to the room.
Each of the furnished suites – The Grange Presidential, The Cavendish, and The Belgrave Executive – has a panoramic view over Bath, a four-poster bed, complimentary mini bar and a bathroom with a cast iron roll top bath.
The hotel’s spa has its own heated hydrotherapy room, plus treatment and relaxation rooms. Alongside this, the hotel is home to the 2-AA Rosette restaurant Vellore, and Colonnade and Rotunda bars.
Jonathan Dawson, regional managing director of Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel said: “This £150,000 investment in our stunning new suites really elevates the hotel. The new suites offer something for everyone – be it a sensual soak in a roll top bath or a luxurious night’s sleep in a four poster bed, these rooms are the perfect place for a little luxury.”
Over 30 new designs in more than 100 colourways makes this the largest new product launch seen in commercial wallcoverings this year. From designer labels, to on-trend textures and a brand new custom offer there really is something for every look and budget.
NEWMOR DESIGNER Our latest design collaboration with Iona Crawford is inspired by the vast beauty of the Scottish countryside, in the areas surrounding her home and studio. True to her passion for fine art, she has created 18 timeless yet distinctive designs exclusively for Newmor.
ZENITH Texture and metallics continue to dominate our interiors and these six new designs add even more choice to our collection. Available in over 30 colourways in surfaces ranging from bark and brushed steel to crackle and skin.
CELESTE This metallic watercolour design creates a stunning effect. The subtle use of copper lifts each of the twelve carefully selected colour options.
TUPELO As its namesake suggests, this chunky bark wallcovering has a tactile textured surface. Available in 24 organic metallic and pearlescent hues, Tupelo is an essential addition to your standard commercial wallcovering selection.
NEWMOR CUSTOM This new initiative shares on-trend designs that can be re-scaled, re-coloured and printed to your specification, all supported by a delivery service normally associated with stocked ranged. Raw Surfaces collection incorporate four iconic designs; ‘Rust’, ‘Brick’, ‘Marble’ and ‘Plaster’. The use of metallic inks on textured vinyl creates a contemporary and durable backdrop.
Geometrics are great for creating impact, bringing structure and making a statement in any commercial interior scheme. The four new designs, simply named; ‘Lines’, ‘Triangles’, ‘Marble Geometric’ and ‘Concrete Block’ pack a real punch!
Steigenberger is continuing its programme of expansion in the Middle East, as the first IntercityHotel outside Europe has now opened in Salalah, located 1,000 kilometres to the South-West of the capital Muscat in Oman. This is the first international mid-market hotel in the city.
The new hotel extends over eight stories and offers 70 rooms as well as a restaurant and a modern gym. One particular highlight is the roof-top swimming pool with fabulous views.
As usual, the IntercityHotel Salalah was built in a central location at the heart of the business district and within the immediate vicinity of various ministries. The airport is also only four kilometres away. Salalah is particularly popular because of its all-year round mild climate and its impressive natural environment.
Puneet Chhatwal, CEO of Steigenberger Hotels AG, commented: “Following our Steigenberger début in Dubai in November last year, we are now bringing our IntercityHotel brand to the Middle East for the first time. This represents a further important milestone for us.”
The project was implemented in conjunction with the owner Al Sedra Real Estate LLC of Oman, a subsidiary of the Golden Group of Companies, which is a multi-national operating in more than ten countries.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced it will debut the iconic W Hotels brand in Scotland with W Edinburgh.
Opening in 2021 and set to reinvigorate the city’s traditional hospitality scene, the hotel will be part of TH Real Estate’s Edinburgh St James scheme, which is set to complete in 2020. Designed by award-winning architecture and interior design practice Jestico + Whiles, in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, the 12-story building will feature a unique façade crafted from a winding steel ‘ribbon’.
W Edinburgh will form the centerpiece of the 1.7 million square-foot development, which will incorporate a vibrant blend of retail, entertainment, leisure and residential apartments, further reinforcing the city’s reputation as a booming cosmopolitan capital.
“As an established business hub with a thriving global tourism industry, we are confident that there will be a huge appetite for our innovative lifestyle brand in the Scottish capital,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “W Edinburgh’s location at the pulsing heart of the new Edinburgh St James development, combined with its innovative design, contemporary interiors and the W brand’s signature programming, will create the perfect setting for the second W hotel in the United Kingdom.”
W Edinburgh will redefine the city’s hospitality landscape with its modern design, signature amenities and a full calendar of W Happenings showcasing what’s new in design, fashion and music.
The hotel will offer 214 stylish guestrooms, including 20 suites and one Extreme Wow Suite (the W brand’s interpretation of the Presidential Suite). The rooftop will feature a buzzing destination bar and outdoor terrace, offering guests and locals 360-degree panoramic views of the historic skyline, along with a cutting-edge approach to cocktails and cuisine. Other areas will include W Lounge (the W brand’s energetic spin on the hotel lobby), a signature restaurant, FIT – the ultimate workout facility, and an AWAY Spa offering the W Hotels brand’s signature health and lifestyle experiences. An ideal venue for events, W Edinburgh will provide 2,450 square feet of ultra-modern event space.
Stephen Wicks, Director of Shopping Centres at TH Real Estate, said: “From the outset, our intention has been to secure a truly world class hotel operator for Edinburgh St James, complementing the rest of the development and forming an integral part of the scheme’s vibrant offer. We are delighted to have finalised this deal with Starwood Hotels and Resorts and to be welcoming such an iconic and established brand as W Hotels to Scotland for the very first time.”
North Hill City Resort, a new five-star luxury resort in Chiang Mai, is set to open in August 2016.
Perfect for business and leisure travelers alike, the boutique, 42-room resort offers a sophisticated and contemporary setting with outstanding views of Doi Suthep, ideal proximity to the new North Hill Golf Course, and unique amenities including an outdoor amphitheatre and outdoor swimming pool and deck.
The opening of the new resort in Chiang Mai coincides with the recent award by Travel + Leisure, whose readers voted Chiang Mai as one of the top 15 cities in the world, and the top city in Asia in Travel + Leisure’s “The World’s Best Cities” survey.
North Hill City Resort enjoys an idyllic location just outside of Chiang Mai, making for a unique gateway to the region’s natural and cultural attractions. Inspired by the beautiful environs of the region, the resort features a fresh, contemporary design that maximises outdoor spaces. The resort offers 42 spacious guest rooms and suites with serene views of Doi-Sothep in the distance.
The modern guest accommodations are thoughtfully appointed with state-of-the-art technology and luxury amenities, such as complimentary, high-speed WiFi, a 40” LED TV with satellite channels, 600 thread-count bed linens and complimentary buffet breakfast. The resort features a fitness centre with state-of-the-art cardio equipment along with an all-day dining restaurant and business lounge.
North Hill City Resort is an excellent choice for both leisure and business travelers. The resort is conveniently located 20 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport and downtown Chiang Mai. The new modern city 18-hole North Hill Golf Course is right next door and favorite regional attractions are a short drive away.
Further, the resort features a five-star suite of unique and modern amenities that make it an outstanding destination for business meetings and distinctive special events. An outdoor pool, deck and barbeque offer panoramic views of the countryside and Doi Suthep in the distance, while a lovely outdoor amphitheatre is a memorable setting for weddings and cocktail receptions. Guests will also enjoy The Vivace Lounge where a unique selection of cigars are available purchase and a new restaurant concept offering flavorful Italian cuisine.
North Hill City Resort houses a private organic farm that is more than 6,000sqm featuring a variety of vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, Chinese kale, Chinese cabbage, zucchini, lemongrass, garlic chives, Japanese mint, super-hot chilies and more. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to take a farm-to-table cooking class, where they will pick these local Thai herbs and vegetables to be used for their meals.
Swissotel Hotels & Resorts, a leading brand in the FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI) portfolio, today announced that it has entered into an agreement with resort developer PT Bali Ragawisata to manage Swissotel Bali, a new 170-room resort scheduled to open in late 2017.
Situated on a striking cliff top in Bukit Pandawa, an expansive and upscale master-planned resort development, Swissotel Bali will enjoy an enviable location on the island, mere minutes from top attractions favoured by international jet-setters and a short drive from the Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport.
Designed by TONTON Studio, a leading design firm with extensive experience in high-end hotel development across Indonesia, the resort will offer scenic views of the Indian Ocean from stunning guestrooms featuring spacious outdoor balconies. Completing the guest experience will be a private beach club, four exquisite dining outlets including a spectacular bar, the brand’s signature Pürovel Spa & Sport, and 400 square metres (4,300 square feet) of indoor meeting space with outdoor function areas.
“This is an exciting new addition for the Swissotel brand and a perfect complement to our company’s growing portfolio of city and resort destinations throughout Asia and worldwide,” said Wayne Buckingham, senior vice president, Asia Pacific, FRHI Hotels & Resorts. “In keeping with Swissotel’s brand promise of promoting quality in life, the resort will offer a very inspiring atmosphere which will be bolstered with local attributes authentic to the locale. To be pairing an unbelievable resort product with the natural paradise that is Bali is nothing short of magic.”
“We are extremely pleased to be partnering with FRHI on this new Swissotel resort project and look forward to working with them to create a truly world-class property,” said Djie Tjian An, PT. Bali Ragawisata. “Bali is a thriving holiday destination popular with travellers from all over the world who are looking for the ultimate mix of relaxation, adventure and cultural flair; Swissotel will deliver against this and more.”
Located between Java and Lombok, Bali is an island with a population of 3.9 million. It is one of Asia’s leading vacation hotspots and the largest tourist destination in the country, recording more international arrivals than Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. In addition to its world-famous beaches, Bali is renowned for its highly developed arts, including traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking, and music.
Swissotel Hotels & Resorts, renowned for its Swiss inspired hospitality, is extending its international reach with plans to open a number of new developments in the coming years. Projects are slated for China, India, Russia and Turkey as well as other exciting destinations globally.
Following the approval of shareholders at the General Shareholders Meeting last week, AccorHotels Group officially announces the acquisition of FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI) and its three prestigious luxury hotel brands: Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel.
This addition of three remarkable brands instantly positions AccorHotels as a leading player in the global luxury hotel market, increases long term growth potential and profitability, and significantly expands the company’s footprint in North America, the world’s largest and most influential consumer market.
“Today is a great day for our group,” says Sébastien Bazin, chairman and CEO of AccorHotels. “The acquisition of these three emblematic luxury hotel brands is a historical milestone for AccorHotels. It will open up amazing growth prospects, lift our international presence to unprecedented heights, and build value over the long term.”
Joining AccorHotels’ global network is a portfolio of globally admired brands, which includes management of many of the world’s most iconic and historic hotels located in key strategic cities around the world, including: The Savoy in London, Raffles Singapore, Fairmont San Francisco, New York’s The Plaza, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City, and Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris.
Combining FRHI’s proven track record and deep expertise in operating and marketing luxury hotels, with AccorHotels robust global operating platform, extensive loyalty base and industry leading digital capabilities, means the Group is uniquely positioned to deliver the most profitable returns and best growth potential across all market segments.
“We remain committed to providing guests with unparalleled service, while also keeping the ambition to deliver exceptional return on investment for our shareholders and hotel owners,” adds Bazin. “By leveraging the operational synergies between FRHI and AccorHotels, we are well-positioned to accelerate the growth of our luxury brands and offer guests even more exciting hotel choices and destinations to explore.”
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has teed up a second resort hotel on China’s only tropical island of Hainan, signing a management agreement with Hainan Golden Tide Tourism Development.
Commanding a prized east coast location near the city of Wanning, the private ocean-front setting of The Ritz-Carlton resort with its two crescents of white sandy beach, will also include the debut of the first Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in China. The challenging 18-hole course will be designed by golf legend, Jack Nicklaus.
The Ritz-Carlton, Nanyan Bay is scheduled to open in 2017 offering 244 generous guestrooms and suites in addition to 14 private villas. Five dining options include a Chinese restaurant, pool bar and grill, all-day dining restaurant and lobby lounge. Weddings and meetings will be hosted in lavish settings amid the 800sqm Grand Ballroom and the 1,600sqm of meeting and event venue space. A luxury spa, fitness center, recreation pavilion and multiple swimming pools are among the resort’s private facilities. Completing the ocean view development will be residences, entertainment and luxury retail stores.
The Hainan government has highlighted Wanning as a new tourism hub by completing infrastructure projects such as a new nearby airport, a high speed railway and new roads to improve accessibility.
It has placed emphasis on showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage and wealth of natural landmarks. The Ritz-Carlton, Nanyan Bay is surrounded by the famed Dongshan Ridge which is known as the First Mountain of Hainan with the oldest Buddhist temples in the province.
The location is also close to several natural hotsprings and nature trails leading into the ancient tropical rainforests with 4,600 kinds of flora and fauna and the home to one of the three important local ethnic tribes – the Miao people. Wanning prefecture is also home to the largest surf club in Asia and the home of international caliber surfing competitions.
Paris Hilton, the heiress and reality TV star, plans to launch her own brand of luxury hotels, opening properties in Dubai, New York and Las Vegas, according to Forbes.
Hilton is the great-granddaughter of Conrad Hilton, the founder of Hilton Hotels. The new brand is expected to be eponymous.
Speaking to the LA Times, Hilton said: “I’m getting into real estate, following [in] my family’s footsteps, but my own thing, without the Hilton name.”
The properties are not her first hospitality project. The celebrity heiress has already collaborated with Century Properties in the Philippines on the launch of the Paris Beach Club at Azure Urban Resort Residence. The second Paris Beach Club is currently under construction in Parañaque, north of Manila.
The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) is the leading source of global hospitality expertise and counsel, represented by some two hundred of the industry’s most respected professionals from across six continents.
ISHC also functions as a key industry figure, providing a resource for expert opinion on timely and topical matters facing the hospitality industry. With the vote for Brexit now a reality, ISHC have put together a panel of experts to give their opinions on how Brexit will affect the hospitality and tourism industry.
Brexit Viewpoint from Ireland – by Weldon Mather Founder & Director of WM Consultancy Ltd and ISHC Member
The Brexit result stunned most of the European business community, and has had some immediate consequences. While sterling has weakened, inbound visitor arrivals to the UK should increase and while London’s performance has been positive up to April, year-to-date May RevPAR was down 3.0% to £99.88 (US$146.63), as a result of a 2.7% decline in occupancy. Regional UK saw RevPAR increase by 2.2% to £46.87 (US$68.80). Britons may be less inclined to travel overseas however initial indicators have not shown any decline in the pace of overseas bookings. However, the outbound tourists to the Republic of Ireland (in particular from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland which is divided by a 300 mile land border) may be threatened by weaker sterling and potential border restrictions.
No other country will be affected more that the Republic of Ireland as a result of Brexit, which accounts for more than 50% of all exports to the UK. Over 43% of inbound visitor arrivals to the Republic emanate from the UK and it is estimated that the Republic’s GDP could be impacted by up to 2% when, and if the UK separates from the UK. On the positive side, as the only English speaking and Euro denominated country in the EU, Ireland stands to gain greater FDI as a beachhead into the EU that may see City of London financial services relocate to Dublin, attracted by a more benign 12.5% corporation tax.
Short Term and Long Term Consequences– by Herbert Mascha, Managing Partner of MRP Hotels and ISHC Member
In the short term devaluation of the BPD makes the UK more attractive to tourists and shoppers, especially from US. The devaluation of the EURO against US$ makes EU destinations more attractive to tourists from outside EU. Tourists from UK could be less in destinations like Spain, Greece depending if people cancel their trips because they are facing reduction of value of BPD or reductions of their incomes in the near future.
For me most importantly, investments into new hotel developments or renovations may be put on hold because of uncertainty; we still have a lot of projects on hold because of the latest crises. The long term effects really depend on how the EU and UK agree on their future relationship. If Brexodus of agencies, banks and companies happens, this could cause a shift in business travel to other destinations as well as investment in hotel infrastructure in the new destinations.
Long Term Implications – By Aris Ikkos Research Director INSETE and ISHC Member
Considering long term implications, one has to think what will be the impact of Brexit on the EU (and the world at large), not just Britain. Should the EU dissolve (fully or partially) by similar –exit referendums in other countries as well, we will be living in a completely different world and it is anybody’s guess what it will look like. My guess is that it will be much more uncertain and much more autocratic. In this sense the impact of Brexit may be more important outside Britain than inside the country.
Immediate Effects – by Christophe de Bruyn Director of TOURISM & LEISURE Indra Business Consulting and ISHC Member
Immediate effects are and will increasingly be cancellations of booked but unpaid holidays by UK citizens and a lower volume of last minute bookings from UK citizens. In the midterm until Brexit procedures are clear and currency stabilise we could see a reduction of UK trips abroad and lower spending, which should lead tourism destinations, hotels and resorts to look for substitute clients to cover UK clients’ reduction. There was a similar situation last year with Russian tourists and several years ago when Germany went through a minor internal economic crisis of minor growth.
Tourism from the UK to Greece – by Aris Ikkos ISHC Research Director of INSETE and ISHC Member
We did some analysis for inbound tourism from the UK to Greece and the euro/pound exchange plays a crucial role, while the level of UK GDP measured in pounds is less important. Our analysis has shown that the average spend, in UKP terms, is remarkably stable. If you add to this the uncertainty surrounding the British economy at the moment and the fact that many Britons book their holidays at a maximum 2 months before departure, we expect a significant negative impact this year.
Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa has unveiled the results of a $6.8 million (£5.1 million) renovation that has infused the popular resort with a relaxed, breezy coastal style.
The new design at the Palm Beach resort blurs the lines between indoor and out, encouraging guests to step out and enjoy the fresh air and beachfront setting.
The lobby is an inviting, oval-shaped great room where soaring wood-paneled columns, conversational groupings of curved-back sofas, lounge chairs, and glass-topped tables encourage guests to gather for a drink or relax for a moment and charge their personal electronics. Furnishings are light and airy, with upholstery in a textured, natural shade that evokes the Florida sand and accent pillows in ocean blues and greens.
The undulating pattern of the great room’s new carpet is reminiscent of ocean waves, creating a sense of movement that draws the eye outward to a monumental fountain, refinished in opalescent mosaic tiles, that serves as the focal point of the newly renovated patio. Guests can lounge al-fresco under the Florida sun by day, shaded by patio umbrellas, and starry skies by night.
Floor-to-ceiling windows in the great room, bar and lounge flood the area in natural light by day. In the evening, lights are dimmed and the ambience transformed. At the entrance to the bar and lounge is a new communal high top for up to 14 guests, creating a relaxing space to mingle while waiting to be seated at 3800 Ocean, a celebrated restaurant on Singer Island.
Charging stations throughout the bar area let patrons power up their personal electronics as they relax. Under-lighting casts the entire bar in a warm glow, while accent lights on the back bar showcase the inventory of bottles. In the lounge area, banquettes are newly upholstered in a pattern of natural and blue with deep ocean blue seats and tufted with nail head trim. Dramatic hardwood flooring – whose stripe effect of light and dark woods recalls the deck of a vintage Chris Craft yacht – extends throughout the restaurant and lounge and has been sanded and stained to restore its original beauty.
Throughout the Palm Beach resort’s 193 one- and two-bedroom guest suites, thicker, more textured carpeting feels luxurious under bare feet and provides more visual interest, with a tonal effect that evokes waves and sand. Walls have been painted in clean white, and sofas and lounge chair fabrics are soft and subtle for a relaxed, coastal feel. New throw pillows with a turtle pattern are inspired by Singer Island’s resident sea turtle population and are a nod to the resort’s ongoing support of the nearby Loggerhead Marine Life Center through sales of plush turtles that are displayed in-room.
In the guest bedrooms of two-bedroom suites, beds are set against a bold photo mural of driftwood rising out of the sea.
Perfect for meetings, social soirees and wedding celebrations, the Palm Beach, Florida resort’s 3,600-square-feet of event space has also been refreshed. New carpet gives the rooms a sense of depth, movement and water, and walls have been lightened to be more inviting.
From this summer onwards the five-star hotel, IBEROSTAR, in Playa de Palma will be home to the first GROHE Experience Suite in Mallorca.
The new suite spa is located on 7th floor of the hotel and allows guests to enjoy a spacious outdoor area with outstanding views of the local beaches. It has a large and bright bedroom-living room, a large terrace with an outdoor bathtub and a first-class GROHE bathroom to enjoy a private spa experience.
The suite is equipped with the latest GROHE technologies and has been designed to provide a luxurious sensory experience for the customer.
Shower area: F-digital Deluxe The immersive shower area has been designed to take the spa experience to the next level. Equipped with an exclusive F-digital Deluxe shower cabin, the area features a large rain shower head, chromotherapy, side massage shower sprays, ambient music and different types of steam generators, including hammam or Turkish bath, for the ultimate indulgent showering experience.
The F Digital Deluxe can be controlled by a programmable touchscreen panel or app to ensure that guests have full control of all functions, including water temperature and pressure during their shower.
Bath area: Allure range The bath area is divided into two spaces: an interior bathtub featuring a GROHE Allure collection striking waterfall spout, and a beautiful outdoor bathtub to enjoy the climate and spectacular views of Mallorca.
Toilet area: Sensia Arena The GROHE Sensia Arena completes the full spa experience in the suite. The innovative shower toilet incorporates the latest in Japanese technology to deliver maximum personal hygiene.
The Arena is much more than just a bidet and WC combined, and is packed with state-of-the-art features, such as a touchscreen remote control allowing you to save your favourite cleansing settings. The Sensia Arena also comes with innovative features such as an air-infused shower spray, a rimless bowl, automatic lid opening and automatic flushing and rinsing using GROHE sensor technology.
The GROHE Experience Suite in Mallorca represents the brand’s concept of the bathroom, understood as a private space for relaxation, comfort and intimacy. By creating this exclusive suite, GROHE consolidates its prestige in the hospitality industry in Spain and reaffirms its commitment to Mallorca, a market where GROHE opened a new showroom last October.
Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel, completed a redesign of its guestrooms and suites, unveiling a new environment with custom-designed furnishings. The property is located in the Financial District in New York.
Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel in New York’s Financial District, has completed the refurbishment of its guestrooms and suites.
Designed by Bill Rooney Studio, a New York-based interior design firm, the 130 rooms and suites now display a combination of neutrals, browns and taupe accents, and a dark-stained trim is found in the spaces. Grey tones accompany a geometric patterned accent wall adjacent to the bed’s leather headboard and camel accent colours at the wainscoting, while flannel drapery help provide scale to the large windows. Leather furniture and accessories, including a bespoke mid-century lounge seat and a tailor-made magazine rack, and a chalk stripe carpet are also new.
Abstract photography by New York-based Rajmohan Fotograf, Maryland artist Llewellyn Berry and Venezuela-born Tony Vazquez-Figueroa also feature in the newly-appointed rooms. Other amenities in Gild Hall are the lobby library, and – adjacent to the lobby – Felice Ristorante, which has wood detailing.
BW Premier Collection has announced that Ten Hill Place, in central Edinburgh, will become the tenth member of Best Western Great Britain’s soft branded offering for high end hotels and the first in Scotland.
Operated by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Commercial Enterprises, the profits of this hotel go back to the College, which provides education and assessment for medical professionals and trainees. This unique partnership is mirrored by the hotel’s aesthetic, which fuses the traditional Edinburgh Georgian terrace exterior with a modern and elegant interior. Thanks to its links with The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Ten Hill Place can offer both historical and purpose-built modern rooms for meetings, conferences, private functions and weddings, along with its fabulous range of bedrooms and suites.
The unusual property is located right in the centre of Edinburgh, with the historic Old Town and Royal Mile just a stone’s throw away. In addition, the Festival Theatre and National Museums are around the corner and the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace are just down the road.
Rob Payne, CEO of Best Western GB comments: “We’re delighted to welcome Ten Hill Place into the BW Premier Collection, marking our ten-property milestone. We know our guests will love this city central location paired with the luxury this collection provides. BW Premier Collection is an exceptional proposition for great British hotels that want to retain and celebrate their independence in the knowledge that they have the security of Best Western behind them, particularly in such uncertain times.”
Scott Mitchell, Commercial Director of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Commercial Enterprises comments: “Joining BW Premier Collection is an exciting prospect for us, and enables us to reach Best Western’s sales and marketing platforms as well as a group of like-minded hoteliers, each with unique properties.”
BW Premier Collection is Best Western’s premium soft brand for hotels that are 4* and above. It launched in 2014 and Ten Hill Place marks the tenth addition to this exclusive group. Other properties in the group include Hazlewood Castle, Yorkshire and The Richmond, Liverpool.
From the news that Euro 2016 winner Cristiano Ronaldo opened his first hotel to tips for hoteliers in keeping up with guests’ technological demands, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…
Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s (CWT) latest white paper, launched this week, shows corporate travel buyers need to start thinking about the implications now and start planning
With the number of consumer internet enabled devices continuing to rise, one in ten (13%) hoteliers are still not happy with the Wi-Fi service they currently provide
The hotly anticipated, exclusive first properties at Portonovi, Montenegro – the Adriatic’s newest luxury lifestyle destination – have been released for purchase this week (14th July).
The €650 million luxury development at Portonovi, set to make Montenegro the next destination for the discerning global traveller, is being built on the secluded shores of Montenegro’s picturesque Boka Bay, with the first phase due to open in the second half of 2017.
The sophisticated properties will sit on a narrow and exclusive part of the bay, affording spectacular views from the properties and the perfect location for superyachts to explore 300 kilometres of stunning fjord-like coastline as well as quick access to the Adriatic. The 26 hectare resort will comprise of 290 properties from luxurious, spacious town houses and apartments set in the heart of its Mediterranean-style village, to stylish villas in its landscaped gardens, to sleek penthouse apartments and sky villas with infinity pools overlooking the marina.
Property owners at Portonovi are being offered a selection of layout options by renowned architects, Harper Downie and CallisonRTKL. In addition Harrods Interiors has completed an entirely bespoke interior design scheme for the show apartments in Portonovi’s Lower Village. Portonovi’s discerning clients will be able to select elements, from furniture to wall coverings, or the whole scheme and the highly reputed and exclusive Harrods Interiors will dress their new Montenegrin home.
The 113 properties being put on sale today consist of 89 properties in the Lower Village and 24 in the Marina Apartments. All will be completed and ready for occupation by residents in the second half of 2017. Ahmet Erentok, Chairman of Azmont Investments, owners of Portonovi, says: “We are creating a destination which will exceed expectations, providing some of today’s most enriching experiences that will become tomorrow’s benchmarks.
“From the high level of pre-registrations we have already received, we have every reason to expect strong sales from the outset, and we look forward to welcoming the first residents to Portonovi next year.”
Portonovi will also be home to Europe’s first One&Only resort, One&Only Portonovi. Opening in 2018, it will feature approximately 140 ultra-luxury guest rooms, suites and villas, the Espace Chenot Health Wellness Spa, restaurants by award-winning chefs and world-renowned boutiques. The Portonovi Marina will feature 220 berths for yachts and superyachts. It will be one of the most naturally protected marinas in the region, and offer excellent access to the Adriatic with the islands off the Dalmatian Coast just a day’s sail away.
A focal point of the Marina will be the members-only Portonovi Yacht Club. Designed for the exclusive use of yacht owners, it is being created by the award-winning British design studio Winch Design.
The development will also include upscale retail options such as designer boutiques from premium international luxury fashion brands.
From the Africa Hotel Investment Forum in Togo, Starwood Hotels & Resorts announced that it will introduce its booming Four Points by Sheraton brand in Tanzania with the signing of Four Points By Sheraton Arusha and Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salaam. Together both hotels will add more than 230 rooms and significantly expand the brand’s presence in East Africa.
“The entry of Four Points to Tanzania is a milestone addition to our rapidly growing footprint in Africa and reflects the strong traction the brand has gained in the region,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “Tanzania has long been on travelers’ bucket list and Four Points by Sheraton is reinventing travel by offering guests exactly what they need while on the road.”
Owned by Union Trust Limited, the historic Arusha Hotel founded in 1894 will be re-branded as a 108-room Four Points by Sheraton after completion of an ongoing renovation. Arusha acts as the major tourist gateway to the Serengeti Safari circuit and Mount Kilimanjaro. Set within three acres of tropical gardens, Four Points by Sheraton Arusha will offer guests a peaceful getaway located only a few kilometers from the famous Clock Tower in Arusha, known to be the Center of Africa.
Also a conversion from an existing independent hotel, the 126 room Four Points by Sheraton Dar es Salaam is owned by New African Hotel Limited and is located in the central business district of Dar es Salaam, close to the docking area known as the “Harbor of Peace.” Dar es Salaam is a gateway to Zanzibar and other exotic islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago as well as to the Northern Safari territories.
Both hotels will offer modern rooms as well as food and beverage options including an all-day dining restaurant and a pool bar. Guests can also experience 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 fitness center, an outdoor pool and flexible meeting spaces. Both hotels will provide all of the brand’s defining elements including the signature Four Points bed, free 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.
“The Four Points brand has the largest global pipeline within Starwood’s portfolio of brands,” said Neil George, Senior Vice President Acquisitions & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Africa & Middle East. “With two Four Points by Sheraton hotels currently operating in Africa and eight more in the pipeline, the brand is enjoying great interest from developers across the continent. These signings underpin Starwood’s conversion-friendly approach and our ability to convert hotels within a short amount of time as we strive to maximize value for our partners and create experiences for our guests.”
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