Hotel Designs

NEWS AND ANALYSIS FOR HOTELIERS, DESIGNERS AND INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS
Hilton Brings Unforgettable Waldorf Astoria Experience to the Maldives

Hilton to bring Waldorf Astoria experience to the Maldives

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Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a management agreement with Ithaafushi Investments for the brand’s first new-build resort in the Maldives. Located on the exclusive South Male Atoll, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives will be the second hotel in the Maldives for Hilton, adding to a total of 11 Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts properties open or under development in Asia Pacific.

“Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts continues to deliver on its mission to be the world’s fastest growing, most innovative luxury hotel brand, expanding its global footprint with landmark signings in iconic destinations,” said John Vanderslice, global head, luxury and lifestyle brands, Hilton.

“Waldorf Astoria Maldives will set a new standard for Maldivian luxury, offering global travellers first class accommodations in a unique and inspirational environment where they can experience our bespoke True Waldorf Service, while enjoying an unforgettable getaway in the Indian Ocean.”

Hilton Brings Unforgettable Waldorf Astoria Experience to the MaldivesSpanning three islands in the South Male Atoll, approximately 23 kilometres from Velana International Airport, about 20 minutes away from the Maldivian capital of Male, Waldorf Astoria Maldives will offer the best of both worlds – an exclusive, charming escape with easy access to the mainland. The resort will boast 10 dining outlets, including nine specialty restaurants, providing guests with a selection of unique experiences.

“We are thrilled to continue our luxury expansion in Asia by introducing Waldorf Astoria in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. With magnificent natural beauty and an amazing underwater world, the Maldives remains an inspirational choice for world travellers today,” said Guy Phillips, senior vice president of development – Asia & Australasia, Hilton.

The Maldives is famous for its natural beauty and world-renowned dive sites. Consisting of approximately 1,190 islands and sandbanks, encircled by a lagoon of crystal clear water, it is home to exclusive and spectacular underwater life. In addition to the extensive range of water-based adventure sport available, other activities, include exploring island villages, sourcing local handicrafts, visiting the National Museum and watching cultural performances. With its unspoiled beauty and rich and vibrant culture, the Maldives is a perfect getaway.

Product Spotlight: DuraSquare – The fusion of rectangle and circle

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With its new DuraSquare collection, Duravit presents an upgrade of Vero Air that sets new standards with its clarity, precision and reduction.

The design of the new series blends the meticulous edges of the rectangular outer form with organically flowing inner contours. The washbasins and bathtubs are made of the innovative, sustainable Duravit-developed materials DuraCeram® and DuraSolid®.

Duravit
The minimalist basins are made of the innovative DuraCeram® ceramic compound. This material makes it possible to create easy-to-maintain above-counter basins with an extremely thin, yet robust rim. The washbasins can be combined with the new matching DuraSquare furniture frame which is height-adjustable and is available in either chrome or matt black, with a practical glass shelf for additional storage.

The design of the DuraSquare bathtubs perfectly complements the washbasins. Made of the cast mineral material DuraSolid®, the range has a warm, pleasant feel and is now available, for the first time, as a built-in version.

Bespoke Hotels appointed to manage Manchester’s Townhouse Hotel

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Bespoke Hotels is delighted to announce that it has been appointed to oversee management of Manchester’s Townhouse Hotel. Set beside the city’s renowned Portland Street, the 85-bedroom property, itself a former cotton warehouse with a history dating back to the Industrial Revolution, has been acquired this month by Fragrance Group.

Set to feature within Bespoke Hotels’ portfolio alongside the award-winning Hotel Gotham, itself just a stone’s throw away in Central Manchester, The Townhouse Hotel forms part of a significantly expansion into the UK market by the Singaporean Fragrance Group. Purchased alongside a number of properties across the country, including The Palace Hotel in Torquay and Blackpool’s Imperial Hotel, the Townhouse is seen as a central pillar of their strategy, particularly given Manchester’s robust trading performance in recent years.

Townhouse Manchester
“We are extremely pleased to have reached an agreement to take The Townhouse under our wing”, commented Haydn Fentum, CEO of Bespoke Hotels. “Following on the heels of Hotel Gotham’s notable success, we have long been investigating means to further our commitment to Manchester and increase our presence within the city, with a historic property such as this providing the ideal vehicle through which to do so.”

“Bespoke Hotels have a proven track record across both Manchester and the wider UK market”, added James Koh, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Fragrance Group Ltd. “The city forms a cornerstone of our UK investment strategy, and the Townhouse is a property that we view as having tremendous potential within this. We are excited to be investing in Manchester at a time when it is rapidly establishing itself as one of the foremost destinations in Europe, both commercially and in the eyes of tourists.”

A42440 Vitra new Solid S bathroom tap

Product Spotlight: Bathroom brassware from VitrA

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Sized to suit smaller bathrooms, VitrA’s new Solid S brassware is competitively priced and includes a full selection of fittings.

The compact yet solid body shape, sharply angled spout and flat, easy to turn control handle make Solid S a perfect companion for contemporary sanitaryware with its neat design maximising space on the basin.

There are two standard monobloc basin mixers, one with a pop-up waste and a tall deck-mounted mixer with a swan neck swivel spout. The showering range includes mixers for bath/shower and shower only and two built-in options; one for bath/shower and a shower only version. The range is completed by a wall-mounted bath filler spout and a bidet mixer.

A42444 bath shower mixer recessed SOLID S from VitrA“We know that many consumers are looking for simple, reliable contemporary brassware and Solid S meets the demand,” commented Margaret Talbot, marketing manager of VitrA. “Like all our brassware it features a 100% brass body and a top-quality mixer cartridge that ensures smooth, trouble free performance.”

2-8 September: Top 10 stories of the week

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From hotel openings to product spotlights to everything in between, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…

1. Room Mate Hotels adds Istanbul property
Room Mate Hotels, the Spanish global company founded and chaired by Kike Sarasola, has increased its portfolio with a new opening in the heart of the exotic city of Istanbul.

2. Women in IHG senior staff reaches record high
InterContinental Hotels Group has announced that female senior talent across Holiday Inn Express hotels in Southeast Asia (SEA) is at an all-time high. This follows the appointment of two GMs who completed the company’s General Manager Express Lane programme.

3. In Conversation: Miranda Martin, IHS event director
Ahead of the Independent Hotel Show in October, Hotel Designs caught up with the event director Miranda Martin to get her thoughts on this year’s edition…

4. Hotel Designs Reader Survey 2017-2018
Here at Hotel Designs, we like to provide content that is both engaging and useful for our audience. As we continue to move forward, we’d like to get some feedback from our readers in order to continue bringing you what you want to see.

5. Lighting trends at Decorex 2017
For forty years, Decorex has been the UK’s leading luxury interiors showcase and where the design-minded come to discover trends and gain new inspiration from over 400 exhibitors and this year will be no exception.

6. Project Spotlight: Areen Design – Sheraton Madagascar
Located in Madagascar’s capital city Antananarivo, the 25-storey Sheraton hotel is being transformed with all guest rooms and public spaces undergoing major refurbishment, with interiors by Areen Design’s award-winning hospitality team.

7. £8.5m Expansion for Edinburgh city-centre charity hotel
An Edinburgh hotel that puts profits back into advancing surgical standards worldwide to improve patient outcomes is to undergo a major £8.5m 52 room expansion.

8. Renaissance debuts two design-led airport hotels
As part of Renaissance Hotels global ‘renaissance’, the brand is reimagining the traditional airport hotel experience, with two new debuts: The newly-opened Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel and the newly-renovated Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel.

9. Marriott dual-branded Residence Inn and SpringHill Suites Clearwater Beach now open
Key International – a prominent real estate investment and development company specialising in hospitality – has recently opened the new Marriott dual-branded Residence Inn (140 suites) and SpringHill Suites Clearwater Beach (115 suites).

10. FIVE TO WATCH: BEST UK COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS
As summer comes to a close, the cosy winter months close in. With this in mind, Hotel Designs profiles five of our favourite country house hotels across the UK…

MK Electric's new Dimensions range has been launched

MK Electric’s Dimensions range for Electrical Industry Awards

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Leading manufacturer of stylish electrical accessories, MK Electric, has announced that its latest range of wiring devices, Dimensions, has been shortlisted for Commercial Product of the Year at the Electrical Industry Awards.

Designed to recognise the very best of product innovation in the electrical sector, the Electrical Industry Awards offer a valuable barometer of the latest and greatest products entering the market, providing hoteliers and hotel specifiers with a guide to the best new ranges available.

The Commercial Product of the Year category recognises the electrical accessories which offer outstanding functionality to commercial sectors such as hospitality. Dimensions, which launched this summer, was designed to respond to the needs of audiences such as hotel developers, and includes a two-piece installation process which means that the clip-on frontplates can be easily interchanged to match the evolving décor of a building.

Offering screwless design and a choice of eight different finishes, the range provides scalability which can add the finishing touch to any room – whether that’s a deluxe suite or back-of-house office areas. In line with customer demand, Dimensions also incorporates products such as integrated USB socket outlets for easy smart device charging, LED dimmers, keycard switches and ‘do not disturb’ switches, all with a unified look.

Emma Segelov, head of marketing at MK Electric, said: “We are delighted that Dimensions has been shortlisted for Commercial Product of the Year. We developed the range to meet the needs of a fast-paced commercial hospitality environment, and this award is testament to the success of that – we look forward to the results!”

The winning products will be announced at an awards ceremony on the 26 October at The Royal Garden Hotel, London.

Brit List 2017

Brit List 2017: Designer profiles

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In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 50 finalists in the HD Brit List 2017 – this week, we continue profiling our winning designers…

DENNIS IRVINE – DENNIS IRVINE STUDIO
Dennis’ background in interior design is a rich one having grown up drawing and making, his passion for all things creative led him to studying interior architecture, to working with Mary Fox Linton to eventually setting up his eponymous design studio. It’s from this standpoint that Dennis was tasked with breathing new life into the Estate House, Jumby Bay in Antigua.

Combining the colonial impressions of the main resort with a contemporaneous perspective on the locale, the Estate House’s redesign represented a challenge of capturing the spirit of the island, something wholly embraced by Dennis.

EMMA KING – INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL GROUP
Emma leads InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Interior Design team in Europe and is responsible for the design, development and product quality of all new openings andEmma King refurbishments. Since joining IHG in January 2013, Emma has become an integral part of the Design & Engineering team. She is leading the design of IHG’s big capital investments including InterContinental London Park Lane, InterContinental Paris Le Grand and InterContinental Berlin.

Emma and her team have been instrumental in positioning the Hotel Indigo brand with a “neighbourhood story” led design for each site. No brand has been left untouched, with IHG’s long stay offering, Staybridge Suites, also being redesigned with investment potential in mind.

JOHN LEWIS – RICHMOND INTERNATIONAL
John LewisRichmond have designed some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, in locations from London to Barbados, since its establishment in 1966. John Lewis, as an associate, forms part of the team of directors and designers who have worked on Richmond’s projects in recent years which include London West Hollywood, The Beaumont Hotel and Hilton Opera Paris.

Perhaps the most striking project in the last two years has been Richmond’s work at The Langham London on its Regent Wing, as part of the hotel’s 150-year anniversary celebrations, with suites designed to incorporate Regency-style design with ‘modernised, discrete technology’.

ANDREW LINWOOD – AREEN DESIGN
As head of Areen Hospitality, Andrew is involved in a host of aspects surrounding a project from inception to installation. He has designed interiors for many of the world’s leading hotel groups from Hilton to Marriott, Radisson to Starwood.

An Interior Design degree-holder, having worked in the UK, across Europe, and in both Hong Kong and Singapore; Andrew has been monumental in making Areen Hospitality the force in the interior design world it currently is. Areen Hospitality has projects under way in Europe, the MENA region, India, Central Asia and China.

DAVID MELLOR – DAVID RICHARD MELLOR DESIGN
David’s key aim with his commercial interior design service is to create ‘inspiring environments’ that welcome and relax. His bespoke approach to each project and contemporary design solutions are used to transform and optimise the hotel spaces around the country; whether it is a hotel requiring a complete refurbishment or a specific rooms in need of a refresh.

His work can be found in The Royal Oak Hotel in Welshpool, The Churchill in York, The Crown Hotel, Harrogate; Corus Hotels as well as several Best Western properties.

Harriet Forde Design to build The Perfect Hotel Bedroom at the Independent Hotel Show

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Established interior designer Harriet Forde has been commissioned to put together ‘The Perfect Hotel Bedroom’ for the Independent Hotel Show.

Harriet, a director of the British Institute of Interior Design, will use her vision to build a real-life version of a hotel bedroom on the show floor. Guided by consumer preferences in areas such as lighting, soft furnishings, technology preferences and storage requirements, she will also use furnishings and equipment from the show’s exhibitors to help create it.

The Perfect Hotel Bedroom, in partnership with Chic Retreats, is a brand-new feature for the Independent Hotel Show and has been determined by the results of a survey completed by over 1,800 consumers. Additional research and industry comment will also be included in a final report to be available for hoteliers to take away from the show.

Harriet, who works on both hotel and residential projects in the UK, Europe and the Middle East, says the line between residential and hotel interior design has become ‘increasingly blurred’ in recent years as hotel guests seek a more ‘at home’ environment with aspirational elements.
“Hotel bedrooms have become less formal and as people become more design literate, guests enjoy bedrooms that are furnished with design classics that they might recognize,” she says. “Mid-20th century design is making a comeback in the residential sector which can also be seen in the more unique hotels in East London.”

Harriet says lighting has become an integral part of hotel bedroom design as it influences the ambience of the room. Natural materials such as wood, marble and coloured glass are also increasingly being used in hotel design she has found.

However, some of the traditional service aspects we associate with a hotel stay, such as room service and the mini-bar are waning in popularity she feels.

“Today’s hotel guest is becoming more health conscious and requires healthy meals not normally available on room service menus, and are less likely to pay for a chocolate bar from the mini bar,” adds Forde.

Having begun her study of interior design at the London School of Furniture, Harriet went on to graduate from the prestigious Central St Martin’s university with a degree in textiles. Following more than 10 years’ experience in the hospitality sector — working for the likes of Richard Daniels, Richmond International and Areen Design — she eventually set up her own practice in 1999 where she continues to personally head every project.

Harriet is applying the standard design stages to The Perfect Hotel Bedroom – concepting, design development, design detailing and documentation, execution and installation. The survey results are the ‘client’ with whom there would normally be lots of discussion and interaction, so to aid the process of getting into the space mentally she has created a profile of the guests to bring it alive.

Room Mate Hotels adds Istanbul Property

Room Mate Hotels adds Istanbul property

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Room Mate Hotels, the Spanish global company founded and chaired by Kike Sarasola, has increased its portfolio with a new opening in the heart of the exotic city of Istanbul.

Room Mate Emir contributes to the international expansion of the company, which plans to inaugurate in the following year new hotels in cities like Rotterdam, Madrid and Paris.

Room Mate Hotels is an innovative company which is based on the idea that the best way to travel is by visiting friends all around the world. Every Room Mate Hotel has a person’s name and a completely different personality. In this case, Emir is elegant, classic and adventurous, the perfect travelling companion to know in depth the marvelous Istanbul.

Room Mate Hotels adds Istanbul Property
Room Mate Emir has also a spectacular interior design. In this case, the project bears the signature of the acclaimed designer Lázaro Rosa Violán. Emir is the perfect blend of avante-garde furnishings set in a classical building, making it all the more striking. Lázaro Rosa Violán chose to keep the building’s history alive through a distinctive combination of modern day elements, designer furniture, and different materials, all enhanced with an abundance of natural light. Room Mate Emir offers large and spacious suites with everything that everyone would need for a perfect stay.

Its founder and president, Kike Sarasola, is one of the best known and recognised entrepreneurs in the hotelier sector. After succeeding as an Olympic equestrian and working in different business sectors, Sarasola is currently a reference of innovation and creativity in the hotel industry.

Room Mate Hotels adds Istanbul PropertyIn Sarasola’s own words: “Room Mate Hotels are located in the centre of the most emblematic and cosmopolitan cities in the world and Istanbul is one of them. A place where exoticism and culture merge to offer a unique travel experience. We are completely in love with Istanbul. For this reason, we are very proud to increase our portfolio with Emir, our new elegant, modern and stylish new friend. A really special hotel that will bring our guests closer to the wonders of Turkey”.

Room Mate Hotels was born in 2005 with Room Mate Mario as its first establishment in Madrid and currently has 21 more with presence in Milan, Florence, Amsterdam, New York, Miami, Mexico City, Madrid, Barcelona, Salamanca, Malaga, Granada and now Istanbul. Last year, Room Mate Hotels increased revenues by 32% and hopes to continue with this positive tendency in 2017.

Residence Inn

Marriott dual-branded Residence Inn and SpringHill Suites Clearwater Beach now open

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Key International – a prominent real estate investment and development company specialising in hospitality – has recently opened the new Marriott dual-branded Residence Inn (140 suites) and SpringHill Suites Clearwater Beach (115 suites).

The firm has appointed LBA Hospitality – a full-scale hotel management, development and consulting firm – to oversee the properties.

Co-located at 309 Coronado Drive, both hotels feature oversized guestrooms with a coastal vibe, flexible living, working and sleeping space, stunning views of Clearwater Bay and a wide array of shared amenities.

“Thanks in part to the city’s successful Beach by Design redevelopment plan to revitalise Clearwater Beach, the destination is thriving with both leisure and business travelers, and we are thrilled to be part of this record growth,” said Shawn Gracey, Executive Vice President of Hospitality with Key International. “Having two properties at one address allows guests to choose the hotel that best suits their unique travel needs, while enjoying access to another for even more experiences.”

The fusion of these two unique Marriott brands presents a variety of added amenities. Guests will enjoy mobile check-in/check-out, a mix of suite types with in-room Smart TVs, complimentary signature daily healthy-choice breakfast, shared outdoor swimming pool with expanded deck, state-of-the-art fitness center, meeting space, 24/7 business center, guest laundry, 24-hour market and valet/covered parking. The properties are also pet-friendly and will offer the Marriott Rewards loyalty program.

Minimalism and luxury: the new Grohe rainshower revealed

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Grohe is ushering in the next generation of bathrooms with its newly launched rainshower, which looks to combine soothing, delicate showers with invigorating and refreshing massage functionalities. Available in round or square options, the design intends to provide users with a luxurious shower experience set to look the part in any modern bathroom or wet room.

Manufactured at the Grohe plant in Lahr, Germany, the extra-large shower head is supported by a slender shower arm designed to fit neatly into any shower without looking out of place. The Rainshower 310 2-Jet showers features oval water outlets arranged in a star-shaped pattern at the centre of the spray face generate a vigorous massage jet.

They are surrounded by an arrangement of nozzles producing a much gentler PureRain spray, meaning users can choose between a concentrated jet to loosen up tense muscles or rinse shampoo out of their hair and a rain shower softly enveloping their body. Cleaning the shower face is just as easy; the SpeedClean design of the silicone nozzles means that limescale can simply be wiped off.

Despite their 310mm diameter, or edge length in the square option, the showers never feel obtrusive. This is thanks to their low-profile body and uniquely streamlined silhouette. The beautifully slim shower arm comes with a matching round or square wall rosette. The new showers are optimally paired with the new SmartControl Concealed units, whose depth of only 43mm ensures minimum intrusion into the shower, leaving maximum room to move around.

Design-coordinated hand showers and other water fittings are available in the extensive range of bathroom products from Grohe, the brand that is synonymous with flexibility in bathroom design and fully personalised shower experiences.

For more information, you can visit Grohe’s website here for more information.

World’s Second Largest Grand Hyatt Hotel to Open in Jeju, South Korea

World’s second largest Grand Hyatt Hotel to open in South Korea

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Hyatt has signed a management agreement with Lotte Tour Development for a Grand Hyatt hotel in Jeju City, South Korea. The new hotel, expected to be the second largest Grand Hyatt hotel in the world, will be Hyatt’s sixth property in the country.

The Grand Hyatt Jeju will have 1,600 rooms, 11 food and beverage outlets, approximately 1,200-square-metres of meeting space, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, two spas (Western and Korean) with a total of eight treatment rooms and two kids clubs.

Lotte Tour will be the lead developer of the Dream Tower Integrated Resort project in Jeju, along with Greenland Group, one of China”s largest state-run real estate developers. The project will feature two towers as well as a retail podium.

“We are extremely pleased to be collaborating with Lotte Tour for the first time. As one of South Korea”s leading multinational corporations, Lotte Tour has a deep legacy of travel and hospitality in the country,” said David Udell, Group President, Asia-Pacific at Hyatt. “We look forward to working with Lotte Tour to create a new vision of the Grand Hyatt brand in Jeju, reflective of the island”s unique environment, and providing travelers with our first-class service and hospitality.”

Sekers - Ticino Collection

Product Spotlight: Sekers – Ticino Collection

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Sekers is pleased to announce the launch of Ticino, a collection of two subtle, shimmering fabrics suitable for contract curtains, bedding and accessories.

Lugano is a versatile semi plain combining a lustrous chenille yarn with a matt yarn in a striking strie construction and Riviera is an elegant plain with a slub weft, creating a raw silk effect.

Available in a palette of forty refined shades ranging from cool metallic tones and sophisticated neutrals to rich rust and opulent greens and reds, Ticino is a handsome addition to any interior and is an ideal choice for the designer specifying for the hospitality and leisure markets.

Woven in 100% polyester, the Ticino collection is washable and is suitable for all aspects of the contract market. Both fabrics meet all relevant UK & US standards for curtains, accessories and bedding; in addition Lugano meets IMO standards for curtains, with both designs meeting IMO standards for bedding making this washable collection the perfect selection for any contract application.

Laurence Llewellyn Bowen turns on hotel Illuminations

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TV personality Laurence Llewellyn Bowen appeared at Blackpool’s Best Western Carlton to pull the lever to switch on the hotel’s curated Illuminations display. The star, who has taken part in the iconic Blackpool switch on for several years, collaborated with the Illuminations team to produce a set of dazzling light sculptures as part of the hotel’s first ever display.

The display marks the first ever time that a Blackpool hotel has taken part in the light show, and the team collaborated with Llewellyn Bowen in the hopes of adding an appropriate personality to the event. Meticulously planned, the project features lamps outside the hotel as well as on the roof, with LED lights shooting pastel colours through the hotel’s fountains.

The event is expected to bring both new and returning customers to the hotel, and the famed interior designer was excited to have been part of creating the spectacle, which is expected to run for the next three years.

“They really want to reflect the heritage and sophistication of Blackpool in the 1930s,” explained Laurence Llewellyn Bowen, according to Hotel Owner. “By delving into the illuminations archive we have been able to take inspiration from wonderful art deco designs.”

InterContinental Hotels Group

Women in IHG senior staff reaches record high

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InterContinental Hotels Group has announced that female senior talent across Holiday Inn Express hotels in Southeast Asia (SEA) is at an all-time high. This follows the appointment of two GMs who completed the company’s General Manager Express Lane programme.

IHG graduates Nattareutai Thanapoomikul (Aimmy) and Ashleigh Garside are now at the helm of the operational teams at Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 and Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong respectively.

Launched in 2014, the General Manager Express Lane programme identifies potential candidates based on flexibility, business acumen and resilience, and supports them with learning and development and in-house mentorship.

To date, IHG has placed three General Managers from the programme into hotels across SEA.

Leanne Harwood, vice president, operations, South East Asia and Korea, IHG, said: “Having strong leaders in our hotels makes absolutely all the difference in not just driving performance for our business and owners, but also how we develop and grow the talent in our hotels teams.

“The programme has also addressed the gender balance, with more than half our Holiday Inn Express General Managers being female across the region and all Holiday Inn Express hotels in Thailand have female leaders at the helm.”

Opinion: Mitre Linen - Keeping hotel guests cool

Opinion: Mitre Linen – Keeping hotel guests cool

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A hot and stuffy hotel room is not conducive to a good night’s sleep. Research suggests that if the temperature of a room is too high, then it will take longer for an individual to fall asleep and, when they finally do, this sleep can be disturbed leading to guests feeling irritable in the morning.

So how can you make sure your rooms – and your guests – remain cool and comfortable throughout the summer months?

Here Chris Tame, Mitre Linen’s National Sales Manager, provides us with his expert tips and advice to ensure that your guests experience a refreshing night’s sleep – even on the warmest of evenings.

1. Choose crisp cotton bed linen
Pure 100% cotton is a breathable fabric, which means it has the ability to transfer moisture away from the skin. This will keep your beds and your guests feeling cool and fresh all night long. Cotton is also soft to the touch and is a naturally hypoallergenic fabric which can also promote a comfortable sleeping environment. The higher the thread count, then the tighter the weave of the fabric, which adds to both its luxuriousness and its durability. Look for bed linen made with 100% cotton and with a thread count over 200 for a soft, luxurious and cooling feel.

2. Try a summer duvet
This is a good time of the year to replace a winter duvet with a lighter summer weight duvet – or to opt for an all year round 10.5 tog duvet so you don’t have to change them seasonally. Microfibre duvets are particularly good throughout the warmer summer months as, although they are light, they still feel luxurious and snuggly to sleep under. Choose one with a 100% cotton cover to promote an even cooler and crisp environment.

3. Shop around for innovative products
Small details can make a big difference to a guest’s stay, which is why we love the Coolguard pillow protector. Thanks to its innovative temperature controlled property, this ‘cool to touch’ pillow protector is designed to offer a peaceful cooling sensation. Offering these sort of innovative products provides your guests with the ultimate sleep solutions and also adds to their overall experience of their stay.

4. Replace heavy velour bathrobes for waffle weave
Nothing makes your guests feel special like a super snug bathrobe, but throughout the warmer months some guests may not welcome this gesture as much. I always advise my customers to provide their guests with a lighter bathrobe during the summer so they can still enjoy a little indulgence after bathing. Opt for a waffle weave design which will be lightweight yet soft to the touch.

Opinion: Mitre Linen - Keeping hotel guests cool5. Remember the little touches
Help to keep your guests cool by providing them with complimentary bottles of still and sparkling water in their rooms, kept refreshingly cool in the mini-bar. Why not also provide them with a friendly letter to make them feel welcomed whilst informing them of the gesture.

For more helpful tips and advice, call our friendly team on 01685 353 4456.
www.mitrelinen.com

Lighting the way: two new mirror designs from Bauhaus announced

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The Bauhaus range by Crosswater has revealed two new designs for its illuminated bathroom mirrors range. The new designs, Mike Pro and Dune, are launching among the range of contemporary LED mirrors looking to naturally, stylishly and unobtrusively assist with daily routines.

The designs offer a range of smart design features, including sensor on/off switches and colour changing illumination, these multifunctional mirrors look to not only provide a practical feature in the bathroom but also act as a stylish focal point too.

Designed to offer the latest in functional bathroom technology, the new Dune mirror boasts smart features throughout combined with sleek, up-to-the-minute styling. Beautifully illuminated from all angles, this smart mirror features the next generation of LED lighting, offering superior performance using the lowest possible energy consumption.

Operated via the mirror’s touch-sensitive controls, which are marked in three subtle sandblasted symbols, users can control the light’s on/off function, its brightness and a choice of three ambient illuminations: cool, warm and daylight. Going for simplicity the Mike Pro mirror is available in two sizes for landscape and portrait hanging, the simple form and classic framed illumination means that this design will coordinate effortlessly in any bathroom scheme.

Controlled by a clever PIR sensor discreetly placed on the mirror’s underside, users can turn the light on and off with a simple hand motion, making it both hygienic and easy to use.

For more information, you can visit Crosswater’s official site

ALOFT HOTELS BRINGS ITS CONTEMPORARY STYLE AND VIBRANT SOCIAL SCENE TO SAN JUAN

Aloft Hotels brings contemporary style, vibrant social scene to San Juan

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PRISA Group, the developers of The District San Juan, Puerto Rico’s premier entertainment destination, has unveiled the flag for its lifestyle-focused hotel at the Convention Centre District in Miramar.

The hotel, which has already broken ground and is expected to open the second half of 2019, will feature 175 loft-like guestrooms over seven stories with a variety of open spaces that are alive with activity and integrating the latest, innovative technology, including:

– the Re:mix lounge, an area for innovative programming and can’t-miss events;
– the Re:fuel café, the next-generation foodie fix from Aloft Hotels, offering made-to-order fresh, nutritious and grab-and-go food options from morning to midnight;
– the anchor of the hotel’s vibrant social scene, the W XYZ® bar is always lively. Mix, meet and mingle over music and cocktails. Guests can watch live acoustic concerts, part of the Live at Aloft Hotels events, while snacking on sharable plates and sipping on seasonal cocktails;
– Infinity pool and bar area with a 1,152 square foot fitness centre on the second level offering fantastic views of the Convention Centre and its fountains, and
– 6,000 square feet of flexible meeting space

The Aloft brand offers a tech-forward, vibrant experience and a modern style that is different by design. A hotbed of innovation, Aloft has piloted programmes such as the world’s first emoji-only room service menu, the world’s first robotic butler, the industry’s first keyless entry system and a groundbreaking streaming solution for guests to stream their favorite content direct to their rooms. Aloft San Juan will bring this tech-forward experience to The District.

Lighting trends at Decorex 2017

Lighting trends at Decorex 2017

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For forty years, Decorex has been the UK’s leading luxury interiors showcase and where the design-minded come to discover trends and gain new inspiration from over 400 exhibitors and this year will be no exception.

Showing the bright side of design will be London-based designers Margit Wittig, Naomi Paul and Sotis Studio, exhibiting pieces made from a range of materials; ceramics, textiles, bronze and resin.

With designs inspired by those of the historical architect, Lutyens will be adding a nod to the past with their furniture and lighting collections. Among those illuminating this year’s sculptural trends are hand-blown glass specialist Curiousa and Curiousa and glassware installation brand Lasvit.


Lighting at Decorex 2017: 1. 24 carat gold, black and textured pendant lights by Sotis Studio, (www.sotis.co.uk)
2. ‘Crystal Rock’ light by Arik Levy for Lasvit, (www.lasvit.com) 3. Table Lamp by Lutyens Contemporary, (www.lutyens-contemporary.com4. ‘Simple Shade 5’ by Naomi Paul, (www.naomipaul.co.uk) 5. bespoke floor lamp by Margit Wittig, (www.margitwittig.com) 6. ‘Tigerlily’ light by Curiousa & Curiousa (www.curiousa.co.uk)

£8.5m Expansion for Edinburgh City Centre Hotel

£8.5m Expansion for Edinburgh city-centre charity hotel

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An Edinburgh hotel that puts profits back into advancing surgical standards worldwide to improve patient outcomes is to undergo a major £8.5m 52 room expansion.

Following record occupancy numbers, Ten Hill Place is increasing to 129 rooms – close to a 70 per cent increase on its current provision of 77 rooms.

The expansion will sensitively renovate neighbouring Hill Place buildings, also currently owned by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) and used primarily as offices and by academics.
Operated by the college’s commercial arm, the hotel posted record turnover of £2.69m (2015-2016) in its last full recorded financial year – thanks to an impressive 88 per cent occupancy rate fuelled in part by highly positive TripAdvisor reviews.

Scott Mitchell, Commercial Director of RCSEd, said: “The tireless and inspiring work of the team involved with Ten Hill Place has given us this great opportunity to grow.

£8.5m Expansion for Edinburgh City Centre Hotel
“In turn, our expansion will give us a greater platform to generate the profits that go directly towards improving lives for surgical patients all around the world – including those in areas of conflict and extreme poverty.


“As the number of visitors to Edinburgh has soared, we have been able to tap into the market and develop our reputation – meaning that the hotel is now busy all year round. Having initially targeted visiting academics, medical professionals and delegates to conferences; our customer base is now especially varied – especially during festival season and Hogmanay.”

RCSEd Commercial Enterprises – which started out as just three people and is now more than 140 strong – will also rebrand to ‘Surgeons Quarter’ to mark the expansion of the organisation – with the full destination branding expected to be complete by Summer of 2018 to coincide with the conclusion of work at the hotel.

Capacity of the successful restaurant and wine bar will also be increased, and the expansion will provide space for a gym. Scott added: “We are hopeful that the expansion will enable the hotel to deliver its full potential, furthering what we already currently provide, our food and drinks offerings, assisting our charitable aims and boosting tourism and hospitality jobs in Edinburgh.”

The Royal College is one of the most august institutions in Scotland. It provides education and assessment for medical students, surgical trainees and consultants and supports research to advance standards of care for the future. Surgeons trained and assessed through the College take their life-saving and life-changing skills all over the world.

 

Areen Design - Sheraton Madagascar - Lobby (002)

Project Spotlight: Areen Design – Sheraton Madagascar

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Located in Madagascar’s capital city Antananarivo, the 25-storey Sheraton hotel is being transformed with all guest rooms and public spaces undergoing major refurbishment, with interiors by Areen Design’s award-winning hospitality team.

The 224-bed hotel is the latest project where Areen Design has been commissioned to offer a full design and procurement package, providing interior design services alongside a multi-million pound contract supplying the furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) and operating supplies & equipment (OS&E).

As Andrew Linwood, Head of Hospitality Design, explains: “Clients benefit from a deeply engrained design ‘know-how’ combined with procurement services based on quality and product durability. Design specifications are written with localisation, budget and suitability in mind, thanks to close collaboration between our departments. All this translates into better quality specifications, early and accurate budgeting, transparency, greater efficiencies, and ultimately cost savings while delivering a high quality service.”

Areen Design - Sheraton Madagascar - Spa
Andrew continues: “Alongside these benefits, our design team were also inspired by the project’s location. I believe our interior spaces now incorporate a strong flavour of the locality and the Malagasy heritage; from striking patterns and colours, to structures and metalwork. The standards international travellers expect from Sheraton have still been provided but with more than a firm nod towards local influence.”

With completion and handover expected to be in Q1 of 2018, the new interiors will welcome guests to spaces which reflect Marriott’s quality and international standards, alongside the values held by the Sheraton brand in the hospitality sector.

Mercure Nottingham City Centre Hotel reveals latest renovation

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Following the renovation of The George suite, the launch of the brand new lobby concept, the addition of the Curious Tavern and Lost Property the secret bar. Mercure Nottingham City Centre Hotel now reveals its brand new bedrooms.

After months of exploration and innovative design work by The Curious Design Company, Mercure Nottingham is proud to showcase the brand new concepts, fitted by Flagship shop fitters of Mansfield, enabling the ultimate experience for the discerning traveller. In keeping with the hotels historical elements of traditional English heritage, the new areas take their cue from the design concept of The Old George period elements with a modern twist, allowing the setting of luxury yet comfort.

Mercure Nottingham City Centre
The hotel’s design aesthetics are inspired by the building’s historic role as the first hotel in Nottingham. Strong colours, textured fabrics and up cycled furniture are artfully combined to balance the grand with the contemporary.

Mercure Nottingham City Centre
Daniel Brown, Managing Director of The Curious Design Company said, “Without rules, directive board or address, we wanted to ensure the property’s history prevails throughout with classical features showcasing the grandeur of its time.”

Mercure Nottingham City Centre
The brand new design plays homage to traditional English style incorporating bespoke surprises in each room; Whilst modern hospitality services and amenities, such as complimentary 24-hour Wi-Fi connection, Nespresso coffee machines and a 24 hour gym are sure to make every guests’ stay at Mercure Nottingham City Centre George Hotel truly extraordinary.

www.mercurenottingham.com

Brit List

Brit List 2017: Designer profiles

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In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 50 finalists in the HD Brit List 2017 – this week, we continue profiling our winning designers…

ANDY COOPER – OULSNAM DESIGN
Andy is a RIBA-accredited architect with Oulsnam Design, the brainchild of David and Georgina Oulsnam, and architecture and interior design firm based in Bakewell, with 35 years’ experience working in the Peak District National Park. Some of the recent projects Oulsnam Design has worked on include:
– The Belfry Hotel, Birmingham
– Bagshaw Hall & Lodge, Derbyshire
– Fischers Baslow Hall Hotel, Derbyshire
– The Maynard Hotel, Grindleford, Sheffield
– Worplesdon Place Hotel, Guildford

HELEN FEWSTER – SUNA INTERIOR DESIGN
Suna Interior Design is an award-winning boutique interior design consultancy who provide interior services for property developers and the hospitality industry. This year’s Brit List finalist Helen heads up the London-based studio alongside Rebecca Tucker, and takes great pride in the work Suna carries out all with a consistently personal service.

Carried out earlier this decade, a recent commercial highlight in the Suna portfolio was the work Helen and her team completed at Flemings Mayfair; after an initial design for five rooms, Suna were commissioned with six further designs across 50 rooms at the iconic Mayfair property.

LUCY GODDARD – NOCHINTZ
Lucy has owned and been creative director of NoChintz for a decade now; according to the company ethos NoChintz believes in good old-fashioned hard work and creativity. It balances cool with commercial to inspire and delight.

The company started life delivering contemporary furniture packs to property developers. A few private residential briefs and several commercial projects later, NoChintz quickly became one of the UK’s leading creative interior design studios with a portfolio of over 1000 projects and more than 250 clients – including The Inn at John O’Groats.

MICHELLE HOLLAND – GODDARD LITTLEFAIR
Goddard Littlefair Associate Michelle Holland joined the firm in early 2013 and has since worked on luxury show-flat schemes for the Canaletto in City Road; international hotel schemes for Corinthia and Hilton Hotels in Budapest and Cologne and on a number of major rebranded refurbishments for Starwood’s Principal Hotel Group in Glasgow, Edinburgh and York.

Although Michelle enjoys the full design process, her particular passion is the creative concept stages and project specification. She has no fear of numbers or figures, but is always happiest at the outset, putting together fabulous colour schemes, mood boards and sketches.

NICHOLAS HOLLINSHEAD – NH INTERIORS
Nicholas is renowned for his motto: “…minimalism is not a word in my vocabulary.” And that should give you some idea of how he approaches his work and the projects his NH Interiors firm are commissioned with. For more than ten years, Nicholas has been involved with leisure, private residence and hospitality projects providing interior design and consultancy services.

His work at Bovey Castle Hotel in Dartmoor, a luxury hotel in Devon, saw a £2 million restoration and refurbishment of the property. Nicholas’ work spanned the entire ground floor, transforming the restaurant, the bistro and the public rooms, plus a new boutique shop and the spa which has been refurbished in an Art Deco style.

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26 August -1 September: Top 10 stories of the week…

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From hotel openings to product spotlights to everything in between, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…

1. IN CONVERSATION: MIRANDA MARTIN, IHS EVENT DIRECTOR
Ahead of the Independent Hotel Show in October, Hotel Designs caught up with the event director Miranda Martin to get her thoughts on this year’s edition…

2. SNEAK PEEK: INTERCONTINENTAL LJUBLJANA
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands, continues its trailblazing heritage by opening the doors to InterContinental Ljubljana in Slovenia’s beguiling capital.

3. CHRISTMAS COMING EARLY THIS YEAR WITH THE HD MEET UP
Embrace the spirit of the holidays a little early this year and join us all at Hotel Designs as we usher in the end of the year with a bang at our next Hotel Designs Meet Up, this year with a Christmas Party theme.

4. FIVE TO WATCH: BEST UK COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS
As summer comes to a close, the cosy winter months close in. With this in mind, Hotel Designs profiles five of our favourite country house hotels across the UK…

5. HILTON GARDEN INN OPENS AT MANCHESTER EMIRATES OLD TRAFFORD
Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton’s award-winning mid-scale brand, has announced the opening of the 150-guestroom Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford, the brand’s first property in the city of Manchester.

6. ICONIC TORONTO WINDSOR ARMS HOTEL UNDERGOES STUNNING DESIGN TRANSFORMATION
The Windsor Arms Hotel has hired Toronto-based luxury design firm Dinel Design to conduct the renovation and re-styling of some of the internationally renowned Toronto Hotel’s key common area rooms which include, lobby, ballroom, conference rooms and tea rooms.

7. AVANI TO DEBUT IN THE MALDIVES WITH DEVELOPMENT OF AVANI FARES RESORT
AVANI Hotels & Resorts has announced the development of its first resort in the Maldives. AVANI Fares Maldives Resort will be located on Fares Island in the Baa Atoll and is scheduled to open in Q4 2019.

8. RENAISSANCE DEBUTS TWO DESIGN-LED AIRPORT HOTELS
As part of Renaissance Hotels global ‘renaissance’, the brand is reimagining the traditional airport hotel experience, with two new debuts…

9. RHU HOTEL DECLARED HOTEL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
The Garden Rooms Restaurant at the Rhu’s Rosslea Hall Hotel has been awarded the title of ‘Hotel restaurant of the Year’ at The Food Awards Scotland.

10. BRIT LIST 2017: DESIGNER PROFILES
In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 50 finalists in the HD Brit List 2017 – this week, we start with the first five designers…

Interior signage for Bella Sky, Copenhagen with identity created by Stockholm Design Lab

Forward Features: September – Signage

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In September, Hotel Designs will be focussing on signage.

“Good wayfinding is intuitive, seamless, integrated with the architecture and interiors. To deliver it means understanding the users of the space” – that’s according to Modulex CEO Eric Kirwan. It’s often overlooked how important good signage is in the hotel industry, something we will be focussing on this month.

Our clients within the carpet sector include Modulex and Signbox – see a full list of our clients here.

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

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

Five to Watch: Best UK country house hotels

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As summer comes to a close, the cosy winter months close in. With this in mind, Hotel Designs profiles five of our favourite country house hotels across the UK…

Gravetye Manor, Sussex
“The 17 bedrooms and suites at Gravetye Manor in East Grinstead are named after tree species found on the estate. Rich fabrics, fine antiques and hand crafted beds emphasise the classical beauty of the interiors, whilst floral themes bring the garden into the manor. All our rooms are individually furnished, providing the highest standards of comfort and are all equipped with flat screen televisions and iPod docking stations.” (Image: www.gravetyemanor.co.uk)

Image: http://www.gravetyemanor.co.uk/
Chewton Glen, Hampshire
“Chewton Glen is a quintessentially English, privately owned luxury Country House Hotel & Spa on the fringe of the New Forest. With some of England’s most stunning countryside rolling up around us and the calmness of the sea just moments away, Chewton Glen is an idyllic escape. You wouldn’t know we’re a mere two hours from London, easily reached by rail, air and road when you’re here, in such a tranquil setting. Christchurch, Bournemouth and Southampton are also nearby.” (Image: www.chewtonglen.com)

Image: https://www.chewtonglen.com/Luton Hoo, Bedfordshire
“Beyond the magnificent facade of the Mansion House which greets guests on arrival, lies a 5-star hotel on the border of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, which is like no other in the Home Counties. However, guests quickly discover that behind the imposing grandeur of Luton Hoo, the atmosphere is very relaxed and welcoming…” (Main Image Top: www.lutonhoo.co.uk)

Judges, Yarm, Yorkshire
“Judges Country House Hotel is an AA 4 Star Country House Hotel. Consistently rated by “The Good Hotel Guide”, particularly recommended by the Michelin Guide and praised by both “The Times”, “The Sunday Times” and “The Telegraph” newspapers Judges is one of the finest hotels and restaurants not only in North Yorkshire but also in the United Kingdom as a whole.” (Image: judgeshotel.co.uk)Image: https://judgeshotel.co.uk/

Askham Hall, Cumbria
“Award-winning Askham Hall is a place to stay and relax in a secluded part of the Lake District – the newest World Heritage Site. 17 bedrooms and a restaurant in the house. A converted ancient oak beamed party barn. A spa, hot tub and outdoor pool. Acres of grounds with beautiful surroundings in the heart of Cumbria’s Lowther Estate. A luxurious, intimate, unpretentious home from home awaits.” (Image: www.askhamhall.co.uk)

Pitchside Room Old Trafford

Hilton Garden Inn opens at Manchester Emirates Old Trafford

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Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton’s award-winning mid-scale brand, has announced the opening of the 150-guestroom Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford, the brand’s first property in the city of Manchester.

The state-of-the-art hotel is on-site at the renowned Emirates Old Trafford venue – home to Lancashire County Cricket Club, which hosts domestic and international cricket,
conferences and events and concerts for up to 50,000 people.

Of the 150 guestrooms, 85 overlook the world-famous cricket pitch, 80 of which have balconies. On match days, some of these rooms will be converted to hospitality boxes, offering unbeatable views for spectators.

Within the hotel, each guest room boasts the brand’s signature bedding featuring fresh, white duvets and crisp linens; a spacious and clutter-free work desk with an ergonomic desk chair; and an in-room “hospitality centre” with a mini fridge.

InterContinental Ljubljana

Sneak Peek: InterContinental Ljubljana

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InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands, continues its trailblazing heritage by opening the doors to InterContinental Ljubljana in Slovenia’s beguiling capital. The city is one of the latest rising stars in a hot list of emerging destinations in Eastern Europe.

Located in a modern 20-floor building in the centre of Ljubljana, the luxury InterContinental Ljubljana is just a short walk from the iconic Ljubljanica River, Park Tivoli and Ljubljana Castle. The hotel has 165 guest rooms including 15 suites, most with panoramic views, and features contemporary interior design with sophisticated details reflecting Slovenian authenticity.

InterContinental Llubljana

Ljubljana, Europe’s hidden gem
With its blend of culinary, design and cultural influences from neighbouring Austria, Italy and Croatia, Ljubljana sits in the heart of one of Europe’s most diverse countries. The charming city centre is steeped in history, architecture and a hive of traditional and fusion cuisine, making it the ideal 48-hour city break for romantics and culture lovers alike.

InterContinental Ljubljana is perfectly placed to explore the city, from enjoying the local brda wine or trying the newest food markets, or to discover the neighbouring regions, from wine-tasting in the Vipava Valley, boating on Lake Bled, or skiing in the Triglav national park.

InterContinental Llubljana

Tom Rowntree, Vice President Brand Management, Luxury & Boutique Brands Europe at InterContinental Hotels Group commented: “InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has been pioneering luxury travel in emerging destinations around the world for more than 70 years, and InterContinental Ljubljana is a prime example of this. Slovenia is a country of rich diversity, fusing multiple European influences in its food, culture, design and landscape – InterContinental Ljubljana brings this together in one very sophisticated and stylish offering.”

InterContinental Llubljana
B restaurant, a cocktail of flavours and local influence
Named after the prized Carniolan honey bee native to Slovenia, InterContinental Ljubljana’s B culinary concept, is overseen by Michelin-star Chef Alfredo Russo. Located on the 20th floor, B boasts an open kitchen and a large outdoor terrace with panoramic views of Ljubljana’s old town with the castle on one side and the Alps on the other.

Alfredo’s Mediterranean menu reflects the harmony between Italian and Slovenian cuisines. Incorporating fresh local ingredients, B’s dishes celebrate the vegetarian offerings from the nearby mountains along with the fish delicacies straight from the Adriatic Sea that wets both the Italian and Slovenian shore. The restaurant also boasts an extensive list of local wines and creative cocktails.

InterContinental Ljubljana also features a bar, a patisserie, a spa with an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spacious Club InterContinental lounge with a fireplace, and extensive meeting and banqueting space with capacities for up to 300 guests. In addition, using its international know how and local insights, Club InterContinental offers an enhanced service with bespoke package experiences and rewards.

Iconic Toronto Windsor Arms Hotel undergoes stunning design transformation

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The Windsor Arms Hotel has hired Toronto-based luxury design firm Dinel Design to conduct the renovation and re-styling of some of the internationally renowned Toronto Hotel’s key common area rooms which include, lobby, ballroom, conference rooms and tea rooms.

This historic boutique hotel is located in one of Toronto’s chicest neighbourhoods, within easy reach of the Royal Ontario Museum, the fashionable Yorkville streets and quaint luxury shops of Bloor Street, and the main shopping and restaurant artery of downtown Toronto. The luxury hotel has become a staple ‘must stay’ over the last decade for celebrities and notable international travellers that include dignitaries and Royal families who have been visiting the booming City.

“Design and service is a central part of the philosophy of our hotel, setting the tone and further creating a sense of style and classic comfort is the objectives of these design changes. The Dinel Design firm with their sophisticated and impeccable exquisite taste was chosen as it will bring that individuality we look to further achieve for the Windsor Arms not seen anywhere else in Canada,” says George Friedmann, Founder and Owner of the Windsor Arms.

Windsor Arms
Jacques Dinel, Founder of Dinel Design states: “The client is essential in inspiring the design process, focusing on the zeitgeist of the city throughout the property, working the traditional elements of the city or region in a contemporary way. The chosen approach for the Windsor Arms project was to capture the unique old-world guilded style of the building while providing the warmest features and comforts, home away from home. Although it sits at the centre of an ever-growing, contemporary metropolis, the eclectic, European design of the family-owned hotel is a fundamental component of the city’s architectural landscape.”

Residents and visitors will be able to begin exploring the incredible improvements to all common areas, the ballroom, conference rooms and the lobby in late August. Dinel Designs also finished work to the mid-twentieth century of the tea room, dining room, and bar.

Dinel Design is an exclusive, Toronto-based firm founded by Jacques Dinel. The unique style of work is a combination of elements from his time in London, Paris, Rome, and New York.

AVANI Fares Maldives

Avani to debut in the Maldives with development of Avani Fares Resort

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AVANI Hotels & Resorts has announced the development of its first resort in the Maldives. AVANI Fares Maldives Resort will be located on Fares Island in the Baa Atoll and is scheduled to open in Q4 2019.

This $70 million (£54 million) resort development is a joint venture partnership between Minor Hotels and Cyprea Group. Cyprea Group’s diversified Sri Lanka and Maldives business portfolio includes ownership and operation of Club Med Kani Maldives Resort located in North Male’ Atoll.

Alejandro Bernabe, Group Director AVANI Hotels & Resorts said: “The AVANI design philosophy is interestingly relaxed and contemporary and in tune with the environment of this development, using natural textures, colours and materials that reflect the location whilst incorporating advanced technology and modern conveniences.” The new upscale AVANI Fares Maldives Resort will comprise 200 guest rooms, including standard rooms and a selection of villas.

On arrival guests will immediately be welcomed by an arresting view of the Indian Ocean from the open plan lobby. This communal living space will blend reception, lounge, meeting space, all day restaurant and The Pantry, an AVANI hallmark, will serve a mix of comfort food and artisanal deli snacks around the clock.

The resort will also feature a speciality restaurant, AVANISPA, AVANI Kids Club and a large communal swimming pool and pool bar. The nearby Ahivahfushi Beyru dive site offers amazing reef diving with a plethora of sea life including Hawksbill Turtles, Reef Sharks and Manta Rays. It’s an underwater Eden for snorkellers and scuba enthusiasts.

AVANI Hotels & Resorts was launched in 2011 as a sister brand to Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, which currently has three resorts in the Maldives, including Anantara Kihavah which is also located in the Baa Atoll . Offering all the details that matter, AVANI blends genuine hospitality and modern lifestyle features with a passion for design. The brand already has a presence in the Indian Ocean with two resorts in Sri Lanka and one in the Seychelles.

Miranda Martin IHS

In Conversation: Miranda Martin, IHS event director

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Ahead of the Independent Hotel Show in October, Hotel Designs caught up with the event director Miranda Martin to get her thoughts on this year’s edition…

Hotel Designs: First off, how is everything going with the show planning?
Miranda Martin: We have a simply brilliant team of people here at Independent Hotel HQ. We’re super committed to delivering great experiences for everyone who attends the show. Every detail matters and a huge amount of effort has gone into making this edition remarkable. I’m confident that this year will truly be the best yet. We’re lucky because we’re confined by a finite space in the halls so when the stands sell out we get to focus on making the rest of the show even better.

One of the key tasks for this year was to focus on turning the heat up on design. Our exhibitor list is reflective of the hard work the team have put into researching and discovering brilliant brands to bring value and inspiration to our audience of luxury and boutique hoteliers. And the designed features at the show are the ‘pièce de résistance’. I can’t wait for people to see them.

Ahead of the Independent Hotel Show in October, Hotel Designs caught up with the event director Miranda Martin to get her thoughts on this year's edition...HD: Could you tell us what familiar features of the Independent Hotel Show guests can expect this year, but also anything new with this year’s edition we can look forward to?
MM: As always, guests can expect a strong line up of speakers revealing trends and practical solutions, together with a fully relevant collection of exhibiting companies showing the latest products and services available for hoteliers today.

New for this year’s event we have introduced ‘The Perfect Hotel Bedroom’ thread in partnership with Chic Retreats. We conducted a consumer survey to help generate answers around what makes the perfect hotel bedroom. And Harriet Forde Design studio is bringing that to life at the show. We propose to bring you ‘The Perfect Hotel Bedroom’ at the Independent Hotel Show. Come tell us what you think!

The Gymnasium for The Mind is a new concept too. Taking on board mindfulness and wellbeing trends as well as the need to mix up the format of the ‘stuff to do’ at the show, we’ve introduced a workshop area where guests will be encouraged to remove shoes and coats, sit on gym balls, and get stuck in; exercising their minds in an unusual format. Workshop topics will include design, artificial intelligence, cyber-crime prevention and spas for men….

HD: What are the key things you hope guests come away with from the show?
MM: The discovery of something they’ve never seen before; connections and relationships that will change their businesses forever; inspiration and motivation to make change and having had a terrific experience.

HD: Just how important are shows like IHS to the industry?
MM: We strive to serve and support independent hoteliers from across the land to help them stay current and deliver unforgettable experiences for their guests whilst optimising profitability and efficiency.

Ahead of the Independent Hotel Show in October, Hotel Designs caught up with the event director Miranda Martin to get her thoughts on this year's edition...Consumer demand changes at a rapid pace and so must the hotel industry if it wishes to keep up. We offer an annual touch point where hoteliers can network with likeminded people, see the latest products and hear future forecasts and trends. It’s the industry’s show. It’s a great show. It’s a great opportunity. You never know what connections you could make in a face to face environment. Done right, business events of this kind are invaluable.

HD: Thinking about the wider industry, how do you see Brexit affecting the independent/boutique market?
MM: Occupancy reports from this quarter have been hugely positive with an increase in inbound tourism and staycations. I don’t think hoteliers need to fear for a lack of demand
Of course staffing issues will arise but I see this as an opportunity for hoteliers to reimagine their recruitment and training processes, perhaps creating better opportunities in hospitality careers. I think people are going to have to up their game to make their businesses attractive places to work.

Attend our talk ‘Oh! What a Lovely Brexit!’ at the show to find out how Tourism can benefit from a new 21st century ‘Brand Britain’.


HD: And what trends are you seeing coming to the fore in this market?
MM: Mindfulness is everywhere, infiltrating many industries and led ultimately by a widespread consumer interest, hence our introduction of the Gymnasium for the Mind.
People are the priority. In a Brexit landscape, there are natural concerns about our workforce thus there’s a push on recruiting, training and creating an attractive career proposition for domestic staff. The show this year will focus heavily on this in our role of supporting independent hoteliers.


A focus on sustainable and seasonal menus, a continuation of a trend we’ve seen growing every year of the show, with a strong focus on grow-your-own, locally sourced, authentic propositions that are becoming increasingly supplier-led. Brand extensions – clever and strategic partnerships to engage the right type of consumer with your brand and widen your marketing message.

HD: Lastly, what does the future have in store for IHS – is expansion on the horizon?
MM: We have big plans. Not for this small but perfectly formed London edition… watch this space!

www.independenthotelshow.co.uk
17-18 October 2017, Olympia London

Renaissance Hotel airport hotels

Renaissance debuts two design-led airport hotels

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As part of Renaissance Hotels global ‘renaissance’, the brand is reimagining the traditional airport hotel experience, with two new debuts: The newly-opened Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel and the newly-renovated Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel.

RENAISSANCE ATLANTA AIRPORT GATEWAY HOTEL
– The new Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel recently opened this Spring and is designed by the acclaimed Rottet Studio.
– The property has 204 imaginatively styled guest rooms and 6,500 square feet of innovative meeting and event space.
– With seven storeys of dramatic design, integrated technology, and world-class amenities, the hotel is bringing Atlanta culture to airport guests and providing a stunning scene to experience locally inspired cuisine, emerging artists, and unexpected delights.

RENAISSANCE LOS ANGELES AIRPORT HOTEL
– Following its recent renovations led by CRA Design in Woodland Hills, the hotel offers completely new, renovated meeting spaces, a redesigned lobby and a brand new bar and restaurant.
– Mixing the personality of a boutique hotel with the urban style of LA, guests are greeted by a curated album wall and a neighborhood-inspired aesthetic that’s reflected in all aspects of the property’s refreshed design.

– The hotel’s new restaurant, Studio 12, offers up delectable California cuisine and 12 beer taps featuring local craft brews.
– For savvy travelers seeking an escape from the chaos of LAX and its large neighboring hotels, Renaissance Los Angeles Airport offers a more intimate alternative, blended with the feel of a trend-setting cosmopolitan studio.

renaissance-hotels.marriott.com

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Hotel Designs Reader Survey 2017-2018

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Here at Hotel Designs, we like to provide content that is both engaging and useful for our audience.

As we continue to move forward, we’d like to get some feedback from our readers in order to continue bringing you what you want to see.

Our 2017-2018 reader survey gives you the chance to let us know what content you currently like and content you want to see more of, as well as suggesting other topics you would find the most useful. We are continuing to evolve the HD brand, so it’s important to us that we listen to what our readers want and need from the website.

We would be grateful for just 5-10 minutes of your time to share your thoughts here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HDreadersurvey

A refurbished suite at Cameron House

Cameron House unveils final phase of £4m renovation

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Five-star Loch Lomond resort Cameron House has completed an extensive renovation programme.

The 12-month, £4 million project finished with a makeover of the hotel’s 136 bedrooms, including 26 suites. Inspiration has been taken from the property’s surroundings, with accents of tartan and layered paisleys throughout.

The hotel’s food and beverage offering has also been updated, along with public areas and the addition of the new Great Scots Bar Terrace.

Greyline Design headed up the renovation, with fabrics used from Osborne & Little, specially designed carpets from Gravity Flooring and upholstery from Zoffany. The main focal point in every room is a handmade leather sleigh bed designed by Paton Developments.

Resort Director Andy Roger says: “It’s fantastic to see the culmination of this multimillion-pound investment into the hotel. We hope guests will agree the new-look bedrooms complement the investment made throughout the resort, ensuring we continue to deliver a truly luxurious experience that offers guests only the best standards and showcases our hotel and its stunning location.”

Christmas coming early this year with the HD Meet Up

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Embrace the spirit of the holidays a little early this year and join us all at Hotel Designs as we usher in the end of the year with a bang at our next Hotel Designs Meet Up, this year with a Christmas Party theme.

A chance to wine, dine and network with some of the most influential figures in hotels and interior design, the Meet Up will take place at Home House, Portman Square in London on November 8th from 6pm until 10pm. As always, we will be offering the opportunity to make new connections and catch up with old friends among the canapés.

Meet up with professionals in a relaxed environment and sip down some Christmas spirit and look back on a year of uncertainty and change within an ever-moving industry. This marks the third Meet Up from Hotel Designs; an event popular with hoteliers, designers and architects, and offers a unique insight into the heart of the industry.

“Our Meet Ups are all about giving the Hotel Designs audience the opportunity to network and networking as we all know, is such a valuable way to expand your knowledge,” said Hotel Designs Publisher Katy Phillips. “Learn what your peers have been up to in 2017, share and reflect on your own business success from across the year and possibly most important, make new business connections and potentially new lifelong friends!”

“We hope to see you at the event for a festive tipple or two.”

Delegates can book their places here and if you want to find out more information, please contact Jennie Lane at j.lane@forumevents.co.uk or 01992 374098.

Rhu hotel declared hotel restaurant of the year

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The Garden Rooms Restaurant at the Rhu’s Rosslea Hall Hotel has been awarded the title of ‘Hotel restaurant of the Year’ at The Food Awards Scotland.

The hotel is managed by the leading independent hotel management in Britain, which holds national recognition in the hospitality industry through its partnership with some of the most prestigious international hotel brands, including IHG, Hilton, Accor, Marriott and Wyndham.

The win comes following head chef Tony Quinn’s regional success in the South West category for the last two consecutive years, and the team believe the locally sourced fresh produce and first-class service are the winning properties they will continue to champion into 2018 and beyond.

“We are over the moon that our Garden Rooms Restaurant has been recognised on the national stage by The Food Awards Scotland,” said Don McGregor, general manager of Rosslea Hall Hotel. “Tony and his team were up against some fantastic Scottish hotel restaurants and to pick up the overall award for Scotland shows they really are doing something right.”

Brit List 2017: Designer profiles

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In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 50 finalists in the HD Brit List 2017 – this week, we start with the first five designers…

ROBERT ANGELL – ROBERT ANGELL DESIGN INTERNATIONAL
Robert AngellBorn and raised in Dorset, Robert’s passion for design started at a young age when he became fascinated with making and creating things. Robert began his career being mentored by the late great David Collins, working together for 15 years, before launching his own design studio: Robert Angell Design International in 2010.

Since then, Robert has developed his own timeless and bespoke style, with design steeped in masterful glamour and luxury; he has designed some of the most talked-about hospitality spaces including the Award-winning Piccolino Cicchetti, London and Marcus at The Berkeley.

SUSIE ATKINSON – STUDIO ATKINSON
Recognising the importance of how a space will be used and that the architecture is only ever enhanced by a considered interior finish, Susie’s designs eschew the ‘fashionable’Susie Atkinson to bring a room to life with exquisite colours, contrasting textures, surprising and delightful pieces of furniture.

She builds on these elements in a design process that is about the balance of texture and mixing these with different textured surfaces such as wood, zinc or granite. Her timeless interiors can be found in private country houses, London town houses, boutique hotels – including Babington House – clubs, restaurants and spas.

GRAEME BANKS – BARR + WRAY
Graeme BanksWith 50 years’ experience Barr + Wray are the UK’s leading provider of spa engineering solutions and ideas for water and thermal experiences. Most of the spas commissioned are located within hotels and resorts of exceptional style and presence and their aim is to design and build spas to compliment a guest’s surroundings in every respect.

Graeme is design director at B+W’s Dubai office, and has played a crucial role in the operational design, interior design and technical design that goes towards creating B+W’S ‘unique spa experiences’ in what has become an over-saturated spa market.

DAVID CARTER – ALACARTER DESIGN
David is a celebrated London based interior designer, who works principally on high-end residential and commercial projects in the UK and abroad. He has been running his interior design practice for almost 25 years, providing his expertise to an international clientele. He works for clients who don’t want an ‘off-the-peg’ design solution, but who are looking for something genuinely bespoke and different.

His unique vision and the haunting beauty of his interiors have always attracted a huge amount of coverage in the world’s most influential design magazines. He has twice been shortlisted for the highly prestigious Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Award.

HENRY CHEBAANE – BLUE SKY HOSPITALITY
Henry ChebaaneBlue Sky Hospitality is a multi-disciplinary design studio specialised in the creation and development of hotel, retail, restaurants, bars, clubs and leisure branded concepts. The studio was created in 2002 by Henry Chebaane following 18 years of experience working for several international designers and luxury hospitality brands. The experience of the studio is built on over 250 projects in 39 countries.

Henry Chebaane, speaking about Blue Sky’s work at the Fireworks Steakhouse at the JW Marriott Absheron in the Azerbaijan capital Baku, said it was ‘inspired by the cultural and culinary lineage of fire within Caucasus’ – having been given the brief of creating a ‘land of fire’.

Hotel Designs Logo stacked & NEW strapline-012

19-25 August: Top 10 stories of the week…

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From hotel openings to product spotlights to everything in between, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…

1. AWARDS: ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ NAMED AT 2017 VIRTUOSO TRAVEL WEEK
International luxury travel network Virtuoso announced the winners of the eagerly awaited 2017 Best of the Best awards at the 29th annual Virtuoso Travel Week.

2. JUMBY BAY ISLAND RESORT TO OPEN IN OCTOBER
Oetker Collection has announced Jumby Bay Island as the next masterpiece property in the hospitality brand’s portfolio.

3. ROOM 2 TOP OPEN DESIGN-LED APARTHOTEL IN SOUTHAMPTON
Room 2 has announced the development of a new apart-hotel in Southampton, with a focus on design, comfort and value.

4. 100% DESIGN ANNOUNCES FEATURES AND INSTALLATIONS FOR 2017 SHOW
100% Design, the largest design trade show in the UK and the commercial cornerstone of London Design Festival, has announced a programme of specially commissioned installations at Olympia London as part of the show which runs 20-23 September.

5. SHANGRI-LA ANNOUNCES OPENING DATE FOR COLOMBO HOTEL
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has announced that Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo is set to open on 16 November 2017.

6. KIMPTON HOTEL BORN OPENS IN DENVER, COLORADO
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants has opened Kimpton Hotel Born Denver.

7. TWENTY FOUR SEVEN HOTELS TAKES OVER DOUBLETREE IN EL SEGUNDO
Twenty Four Seven Hotels has announced the addition of DoubleTree by Hilton LAX – El Segundo to its management portfolio. The LAX hotel is the first of four new management contracts in the LA area in 2017.

8. NEW HOTEL: BERGEN’S HISTORIC STOCK EXCHANGE REOPENS
The 127-bedroom hotel – with its timeless, neutral interiors, immaculate custom furnishings, and subtle nods to a grand and prestigious history – certainly lives up to this philosophy.

9. THE CURTAIN, SHOREDITCH SHORTLISTED FOR TWO AHEAD AWARDS
The Curtain is a nine storey, 120-key new-build restaurant, hotel and members club located at the heart of Shoreditch.

10. INNSIDE HAMBURG BRINGS CHIC URBAN LIFESTYLE TO GERMANY
INNSIDE by Meliá, the urban lifestyle hotel brand by Meliá Hotels international group, has announced the latest addition to its growing portfolio of global properties with the opening of INNSIDE Hamburg Hafen.

Tyndale

Torquay B&B Tyndale wins AA 5 stars after Mitre Linen makeover

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A boutique B&B in Torquay has been given an AA 5 stars B&B award plus a breakfast award thanks to the help of a Mitre Linen makeover. Daniel Kilik and Andrew Burton run Tyndale, a contemporary boutique B&B in the coastal resort.

They invited Mitre Linen to work closely with them to help them achieve a unique look for each of their guest rooms. Laura Webber, Mitre’s Regional Sales Manager, visited their B&B to advise on the best products for both the property and their guests.

As Daniel and Andrew were looking for something unique, Laura recommended that they use Mitre’s bespoke soft furnishings service, where they could choose from countless prints and fabrics and be guided throughout the project.

One room was given a striking geometric look and feel using black and gold while another was transformed with on trend denim colours and a crushed velvet headboard in silver for the beautiful new bed.

Taking inspiration from a room’s green wallpaper, another bedroom was given a crisp new look using curtains, runners and a mixture of cushions in Rhapsody aqua fabric. They also bought the Duke toppers from the Heritage range plus Tencel pillows and Microfibre duvets from the Luxury range as well as luxurious white bathrobes.

Daniel said: “When we took over the property in 2011, it was a run-down 3 star rated guest house in desperate need of some love and attention.

“With their industry knowledge, Mitre Linen have helped us create unique, elegant and contemporary boutique rooms for our guests.

“Their work has allowed us to re-launch as a boutique Bed and Breakfast and we are already seeing the benefits. Not only has our refurbishment and attractive new look helped us to achieve an increase in our room rates, but we now hold AA 5 stars plus a breakfast award.

Tyndale“Our guests have given us a 5 star rating on TripAdvisor and we have been praised for our ‘beautiful decoration’, ‘immaculate rooms’ and ‘high standard finish’.”

Mitre Linen’s Laura Webber said: “Daniel had a very clear vision of how he wanted the rooms to look – all contemporary and individual and each totally different. We spent time working together choosing colours and fabrics to complement each room’s colour scheme and he was very welcoming to my ideas. He was thrilled with the results and has had some wonderful feedback from guests on how stunning his rooms are.

“We love helping hoteliers in their refurbishment and, as an experienced hospitality provider for over 70 years, we understand that every establishment is unique.”

www.tyndaletorquay.com
www.mitrelinen.com
01685 353456
Sales@mitrelinen.com

First Curio hotel opens in London - The Trafalgar St James

First Curio hotel opens in London – The Trafalgar St James

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Overlooking the world-famous Trafalgar Square, The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton, officially joins the exclusive collection of more than 35 hotels and resorts.

As the first Curio Collection by Hilton hotel in the UK, the hotel was hand-picked to be a part of the global, upper upscale collection of one-of-a-kind independent properties all celebrated for their individuality.


The hotel boasts 131 bedrooms and 15 exquisite suites; each space is artfully accentuated with Art Deco design notes, tactile furnishings and bold colour choices creating a sanctuary of style.

A destination in itself, the hotel offers everything from contemporary bedrooms to a stunning rooftop bar with unrivalled panoramic views over the city, all in the bustle of central London. Opening this October, The Rooftop, formerly known as Vista, has been transformed into a year-round destination featuring a luxurious lounge and dining area.

First Curio hotel opens in London - The Trafalgar St JamesComplete with alfresco and canopy-covered seating, the 378-square-metre sky-high space features an open fireplace, heaters and blanket selection to provide warmth throughout the cooler months. For special occasions and intimate gatherings, Room – a glass-enclosed private dining Room with the capacity to seat 14 people – will be available for hire.

Hotel Highlights
– Musical Bedrooms: The bedrooms feature iconic wall art, celebrating the best of London’s music idols. For a classic British experience, guests can choose from an in-room book and tea selection.
– All the Details: Plush beds, LED illuminated makeup mirrors, Nespresso machines and conveniently located charging points have been placed in rooms for a pleasant and convenient guest experience.
– The Rooftop: Set atop London’s iconic skyline on the south west corner of London’s most central point, Nelson’s Column, The Rooftop Bar is counted amongst the world’s finest when it comes to alfresco drinking and dining.
– Comforts Reminiscent of Home: Biblio, the house living room, located in the hotel’s underground chamber, evokes the intimacy of a private members lounge in a setting that’s open to all.
– 24-hour Fitness: 24-hour gym access will help guests keep fit at a time that’s convenient for them.

curiocollection3.hilton.com

Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas

The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas unveils guestroom remodel

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The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has unveiled a refresh to its guest rooms across both the Boulevard and The Chelsea Towers.

The project, which kicks off this summer, will be fully complete in 2018 with 2,895 of the resort’s 3,027 rooms remodeled with influence from innovative and inspired designers, including New York-based Virserius Studio.

The newly designed rooms emphasise modern design and luxurious comfort and come as the result of a meticulous selection process that lasted over 18 months.

An initial list of 20 designers was engaged to bid on the project, from which eight were selected to present in Las Vegas. From there, four design firms, in addition to The Cosmopolitan”s internal design team, were chosen to construct model rooms on property.

The Cosmopolitan solicited feedback from more than 400 employees who toured the accommodations as well as frequent-staying guests, ranging from business to leisure travelers. The collected response played an integral role in determining which designs were selected, leading to interiors inspired by both The Cosmopolitan’s in-house design team alongside Virserius Studios.

www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com

Four Seasons Fairways

Four Seasons Fairways, Algarve to begin €2m refurbishment project

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In Quinta do Lago, nestled within the privacy and security of the Ria Formosa nature reserve, lies Four Seasons Fairways.

This discreet and elegant private resort and clubhouse – with 132 colonial style villas and apartments set in beautifully landscaped gardens is currently undertaking a major €2 million (£1.84 million) investment programme, designed to ensure the resort maintains its prestigious status.

Four Seasons Fairways
Last Winter, 32 of the villas underwent a complete refurbishment marking the beginning of a total overhaul of the entire resort. These extensive villa renovations cleverly blend authentic Portuguese style with a modern and vibrant interior décor and furnishings, new state-of-the-art kitchens and lighting design that is both functional and atmosphere-enhancing. Fresh blues and greens bring the beauty of the outdoors into the living space.

Designer furniture, granite bathrooms, bespoke artwork and custom interior fittings personalise each villa in individual, comfortable and stylish fashion. The focus is on easy living, relaxation and a home from home villa lifestyle.

By the start of the 2018 summer season a further renovation of another 20 villas along with the entire club-house facilities including the restaurant, bar, indoor and outdoor pools, kids club and fitness suite will be completed.

What sets Four Season Fairways apart is the privacy guests are given whilst enjoying all the facilities of an established and well-connected resort. Unlike anyone else in the area, Fairways offers private pools or Jacuzzis within each of its accommodation options, that range from two and three double bedrooms villas or apartments, catering for individuals, couples or family groups. With the Algarve enjoying 300 days of sunshine a year, each villa is also equipped with its own BBQ for al fresco dining all year round and the modern kitchens are fully-equipped for every culinary task.

Four Seasons Fairways is much more than a villa complex. Its clubhouse has a reputation for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. There are large indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sauna, steam room, a well-equipped gym, tennis, golf booking office and a beauty & wellness centre as well as a restaurant serving local and international fare.

www.fourseasonsfairways.com

Grand Hyatt Changsha set to open in south-central China

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Grand Hyatt Changsha, the first Grand Hyatt hotel in China’s Hunan Province, has celebrated its grand opening. The 354-room hotel crowns a 61-storey tower on prestigious Xiangjiang Road, offering breathtaking views of Xiang River and the city skyline.

A riverfront landmark just steps from Changsha’s historic sites, Grand Hyatt Changsha is expected to be the destination for impressive views and unforgettable dining experiences in the heart of this cosmopolitan city.

When guests arrive in the lobby, they will feel the crimson magnificence of the autumn maple trees on Yuelu Mountain and Xiang River. The red spice of Hunan’s legendary cuisine and the city’s energetic nightlife inspire the vibrant ambience. Bold crimson tints, rich textures and a sophisticated art collection provide a poignant cultural backdrop for Changsha’s showpiece of contemporary living.

Conceived by the renowned Singapore hotel design firm LTW Designworks, the hotel’s interiors create a strong sense of locale. The design concept is inspired by two classic Chinese red-ink wash paintings: Changsha by Fu Baoshi and Ten Thousand Hills in Red by Li Keran. The hotel design makes dramatic use of the unique Chinese red shades from these traditional ink wash paintings.

The constant flow and energy of Xiang River and Chinese historical motifs are also referenced in the natural textures and an impressively curated collection of contemporary artworks and sculptures richly displayed throughout the hotel.

Grand Hyatt Changsha features 354 contemporary guestrooms, including 31 suites, located on levels 46 to 61. The spacious rooms welcome guests into a modern Asian sanctuary styled with red textured walls, ochre-leather paneling, intricate Oriental patterned carpets and streamlined bespoke furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling windows command breathtaking high-rise views of the city or Xiang River from both the bedroom and bathroom.

changsha.grand.hyatt.com

House & Garden - Arlo and Jacobs - Decorex

House & Garden launch first design collection at Decorex 2017

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As the ultimate launchpad for new talent and the show of choice for the discerning interior design market, it was fitting for House & Garden to select Decorex International as the platform to debut their exciting new venture in collaboration with Arlo & Jacob.

To celebrate their 70th anniversary, House & Garden are launching their first ever furniture collection at the UK’s leading interior design fair this September.

Conceived by House & Garden decoration director, Gabby Deeming, and designed to keep the price accessible, each piece has considered proportions that are at once elegant and comfortable, with stylish details such as single seat cushions and painted legs.

House & Garden - Arlo and Jacobs - Decorex
Inspired by English country house style, with an emphasis on deep comfort and a sense of prettiness, this design collection offers statement pieces that would also make chic additions to sophisticated townhouse interiors. A contemporary take on classic shapes, each piece is instantly recognisable for its smart, refined design.

House & Garden - Arlo and Jacobs - Decorex
Arlo & Jacob were an obvious partner for the House & Garden Collection; a fresh, young brand with ambition, underpinned by craftsmanship and a heritage of almost a century of manufacturing in Long Eaton. With a broad collection of popular designs, the brand has the heritage and skills needed to bring the House & Garden Collection into reality.

The collection includes six elegant designs: three sofas, two chairs and a footstool. Each piece can be upholstered in up to 20 fabrics chosen by House & Garden, over 120 of Arlo & Jacob’s fabrics, as well as customers’ own fabrics.

17 – 20 Sept | Stand D28
www.decorex.com
www.houseandgarden.co.uk
www.arloandjacob.com

Terre Blanche

Terre Blanche triumphs at World Luxury Spa Awards

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Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort has been awarded ‘World’s Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa’ and ‘Western Europe’s Luxury Hideaway Spa’ in the 2017 World Luxury Spa Awards.

Focusing on rewarding and praising spas that have outshone beyond the normal means necessary, these recent accolades pay homage to Terre’s Blanche’s five star service and extensive spa facilities.

Terre Blanche’s two-story spa is home to 12 treatment rooms, 2 private suites, an Infusion Tea room, a spacious 20m swimming pool, sauna, steam room, laconium, hammam, fitness centre and relaxation room with a tropical shower and ice fountain, suiting to every spa goers needs.

New for 2017, Terre Blanche recently announced a new spa partnership with luxury organic cosmetics brand KOS PARIS, reinforcing the hotel’s dedication to eco-solutions and protection of the surrounding Provencal countryside.

en.terre-blanche.com

28th ICEHOTEL designs revealed

Hotel Concept Focus: Designs for 28th ICEHOTEL in Swedish Lapland unveiled

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Go to bed with a Fabergé egg, check into a space room, sleep within a hanging installation or under a giant cloud, or even settle down in snail world, all made entirely of ice and snow at this winter’s Icehotel.

These are just a few of the designs which have been announced for the unique hotel built each winter on the banks of the Torne river in Jukkasjärvi.

This year, 26 artists from 11 countries will join the Icehotel’s own design and building team in late November to create the 28th rendition of the hotel. It will open to coincide with the first #IceFlight of the season on 16th December 2017. This flight is now in its 11th year of operation taking Discover the World clients directly to the Icehotel in just 3.5 hours followed by a short 15-minute transfer from the airport.

ICEHOTEL 365

Last year’s vision for ICEHOTEL

The suite Hang in There features a unique hanging installation. Frozen sheets of ice drape around the central bed, whilst the Last Faberge Egg suite has a giant egg beside its bed and, the Space Room’s design takes its inspiration from a trip into outer space some 100km from planet earth. Many other surprises await with other suite designs hinted at in their names which include King Kong, White Desert, Monstera and Follow the White Rabbit.

A total of 15 unique Art Suites will be constructed, as well as an Ice Church and a dramatic main hall with a chandelier featuring 1,000 hand polished ice crystals.

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RELATED: ICEHOTEL 365 OPENS IN SWEDISH LAPLAND
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British designers and the selection process
Out of the 100s of applications, the artist teams are selected by the Icehotel’s design jury. Excitingly, two artists have been chosen from the UK this year, both experienced having been involved in last year’s hotel.

The two British artists’ designs to be chosen include the Liverpool based brother design duo, Hugh and Howard Miller. Hugh is a furniture designer and Howard an architect, landscape designer and RHS Chelsea gold medal winner in 2015. Their concept is called A Rich Seam – an accidental space created by an ice seam left over from frantic digging.

The second comes from Dorset based sculptor and taxidermist Lisa Lindqvist called a Wandering Cloud, an art installation featuring a gigantic cloud hanging over the bed. Lindqvist’s mother was Swedish, born in Kiruna and she already has several gold medals for England won at international snow sculpting competitions.

Sketch of art suite Wondering Cloud designed by Lisa Lindqvist

The selection process brings together creative minds from all over the world and from vastly different careers. Each team will see their ideas become reality in snow and ice as they personally construct the designs which makes Icehotel so unique.

The amount of snow used to create all the hotel’s rooms would be enough to make 700 million snowballs alone, with 5000 tons of ice harvested each Spring from the Torne River and stored until November when the building process starts in earnest.

www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/icehotel-holidays

Virtuoso Collection Awards

Awards: ‘Best of the Best’ named at 2017 Virtuoso Travel Week

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International luxury travel network Virtuoso announced the winners of the eagerly awaited 2017 Best of the Best awards at the 29th annual Virtuoso Travel Week.

The 11th annual ceremony celebrated this year’s top 11 hotels and hoteliers before 1,600 of luxury travel’s crème de la crème attending the Hotels & Resorts Dinner. Of particular note, Palazzo Seneca in Italy received the sought-after “Hotel of the Year” honour.

Virtuoso received input from its 800-plus travel agency partners and more than 16,000 professional travel advisors to name the winners in each category, from best dining experience to best wellness program.

Editors of VIRTUOSO LIFE, the network’s multi-award-winning magazine, offered their expert insight and hotel savvy to select the nominees on which the advisors voted. This year’s Best of the Best award recipients will be highlighted in the publication’s September/October.

With a broad-ranging portfolio of more than 1,200 hotels, resorts, villas and private island retreats in over 100 countries, Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts is revered as the industry’s most prestigious hotel program,e. Founded in 1992 with just 20 hotels, Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts is marking its 25th anniversary in 2017, celebrating the remarkable growth, quality and diversity that have become trademarks of the program over the past quarter-century.

2017 Virtuoso Best of the Best categories and winners:

Hotel of the Year: Palazzo Seneca, Norcia, Italy
“The Bianconi family doesn’t just own a lovely hotel. They are beautiful people indeed, who care for others less fortunate, love the land where they were born, and take good care of this land.” – Julia Kostina, Renshaw Travel, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week
Best Achievement in Design: Six Senses Douro Valley, Lamego, Portugal
“What sets this resort apart is that it retains the charm and beauty of a large country manor set among rolling hills and vineyards. There’s a prevailing sense of quiet, calm and relaxation as soon as you enter.” – Linda Zelisko, Travel Experts, a Virtuoso Agency

Best Dining Experience: La Terrazza – Hotel Eden Rome, Rome, Italy
“Have you ever eaten pasta surrounded by vapored dry ice? It is simply the most innovative dish I have ever seen.” – Jonathan Phillips, Camelback Odyssey Travel, a Virtuoso Agency

Chef Fabio Ciervo in his kitchen

Chef Fabio Ciervo in his kitchen

Best Bar: Bar Hemingway – Ritz Paris, Paris, France
“Walking into Bar Hemingway is like stepping back in time. Head bartender Colin Field is a book of stories. You can sit back, listen and just imagine.” – Liora Manilof, Forest Travel Agency, a Virtuoso Agency

Best Family Programme: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Naples, Florida, USA
“They have great options for families to visit local museums, bird sanctuaries, and a special program with a local artisan who leads their glass blowing classes. They really go out of their way to make the experiences as engaging as possible for the kids.” – Nick Cutrone, Vista Travel Consultants, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week

Best Wellness Programme: Canyon Ranch, Tucson, Arizona, USA
“The combination of four areas – physical, emotional, spiritual, and medical – is very unique in the wellness community. Most spas will cover a couple of the areas. Canyon Ranch can do it all. It has a wider range of options for the consumer than any other spa and the quality is outstanding!” – Peggy Purtell, Travel Experts, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week
Best Virtuoso Experience: Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
“From the moment you arrive in the Sanctuary Lounge and make a wish by throwing a little stone in the cenote, you know you are in a special place. Everything in the hotel is an experience so that makes it unique.” – Areli Guzman, Viajes Terranova, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week
Best Virtuoso Newcomer: Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown, New York, New York, USA
“The large wrought iron front doors give a luxurious first impression. But the standout feature is the beautiful spiral staircase and long hanging cascading sculpture on the ground level.” – Sylvia Betesh Lebovitch, Ovation Vacations, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week
Sustainable Tourism Leadership: Cavallo Point – the Lodge at Golden Gate, Sausalito, California, USA
“Sustainable tourism can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities. It’s a tale of tourism helping transform swords into plowshares.”- Costas Christ, Global Strategist, Sustainability, Virtuoso, of the former military base now transformed into an urban eco-resort

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week
Best Virtuoso Hotel Ambassador: Kees Hogetoorn – Grand Hotel Amsterdam, an Accor Hotel
“I knew nothing about his hotel prior to meeting Kees and he truly allowed the property to come to life. His passion and enthusiasm is unmatched.” – Jessica Renshaw, Renshaw Travel, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week
Hotelier of the Year: Susanne Hatje – Mandarin Oriental, New York, New York, New York, USA
“There is a peace of mind when I send clients her way because I know they will be taken care of by her amazing team that lead by her example. She makes every client stay memorable. She has an incredible vibrant and energetic personality, always engaging with guests.” – Miriam Omphroy, Forest Travel Agency, a Virtuoso Agency

Best of the Best Award Winners Named at Virtuoso Travel Week

www.virtuoso.com

Jumby Bay Island Resort to open in October

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Oetker Collection has announced Jumby Bay Island as the next masterpiece property in the hospitality brand’s portfolio.

The 300-acre private island resort, located two miles from Antigua, is slated to open on October 9 for the 2017/18 season. As the new operator of Jumby Bay, Oetker Collection will manage the island’s resort, as well as villa and estate home rentals.

Jumby Bay, Antigua——
RELATED LINKS: Q&A: DENNIS IRVINE – ESTATE HOUSE, JUMBY BAY RESORT DESIGNER
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With this addition, Oetker Collection expands its portfolio to ten properties; Jumby Bay joins Eden Rock – St Barths as the brand’s second in the Caribbean.

Jumby Bay
The island combines an established 40-room/suite resort with 50 individually designed, fully-staffed villa and estate home rentals. Villas and estates offer up to nine bedrooms, most with direct private beach access.

Additional resort features include three white sand beaches, three restaurants, an exceptional spa and fitness facilities, watersports, two pools and five tennis courts.

www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/jumby-bay-antigua

Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Barbados

Barbados Fairmont Royal Pavilion Hotel to undergo renovation

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On August 21, 2017, Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Barbados will embark on an exciting renovation project designed to significantly enhance the facilities of the hotel and provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for future guests.

The hotel lobby and all 72 guest rooms and suites will be completely transformed with a scheduled completion date of November 15, 2017, followed by a restaurant renovation in summer 2018.

In an effort to minimise impact to the high levels of service and top-quality guest experience for which Fairmont is known, the hotel will be closed for the invasive part of the renovation, from late September to mid-November 2017.

The newly renovated Fairmont Royal Pavilion is scheduled to re-open on November 12, 2017.

www.fairmont.com/barbados

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan

Mandarin Oriental Canouan to open in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

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Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will rebrand and manage a luxury hotel, currently operating on Canouan island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, from 1 November 2017.

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan will be the Group’s first property in the Caribbean.

The exclusive resort is expansive while being intimate and secluded, nestled on the powder white sands of Canouan Island which is only five square miles in total.

The whole island is dedicated to leisure pursuits including sailing, kayaking, diving, fishing, tennis and hiking, as well as golf at an 18-hole Jim Fazio-designed golf course. The hotel comprises 26 suites and 12 three to four bedroom villas.

All suites and villas have full ocean views, and each villa comes with a large private pool, just a few steps away from the ocean. A variety of restaurants and bars provide a range of cuisines and al fresco dining and the property also features an outdoor infinity pool, a spa and health club, with two overwater treatment cabanas accessible by boat.

The Group will also brand and manage a portfolio of new Residences at Mandarin Oriental, to be located near the hotel and scheduled to be available in 2020.

Room 2 has announced the development of a new apart-hotel in Southampton, with a focus on design, comfort and value

Room 2 to open design-led aparthotel in Southampton

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Room 2 has announced the development of a new apart-hotel in Southampton, with a focus on design, comfort and value.

The venue billed as the design hotel for the modern traveller, offers 71 studio rooms, and is located on 1-8 Queens Terrace in Southampton. The hotel is due to be completed by March 2018, with a further site planned to open in London next year.

1504 Room 2 Southampton LoungeFollowing the inaugural 2016 launch of Room 2 in West London, once again the approach strips the attitude out of the design hotel market, while offering flexible apartment style rooms and a focus on friendly, community living ideal for long and short-term business and leisure stays.

1504 Room 2 Southampton LoungeDesigned by Project Orange – the Shoreditch based architectural firm and design studio – the design takes advantage of large floor to ceiling heights. Raised sleeping decks and interior features echo the nostalgia of the golden age of cruise liners, a nod towards the importance of Southampton in cross-Atlantic travel.

1504 Room 2 Southampton Room
Room 2 combines a design hotel aesthetic with ‘home comforts’ including kitchen, work table, rainfall showers, free wifi, screen mirroring TV, king sized beds and air conditioning. In addition to this, a selection of rooms feature ‘mezzanine top decks’ for flexible stays accommodating families, children and sharers.

The public area offers a flexible ground floor, designed as a space to work, meet and relax. A grab and go coffee bar operates during the day and turns into a bar in the evening.

Room 2 Southampton Bathroom
Robert Godwin (28), founder of Room 2 and MD of property business Lamington Group, said: “We’re really excited to bring to Southampton what we feel is the first truly stylish hotel space, taking the best of the emerging design hotel sector, and designing memorable guest experiences tailored to both both long and short stays. We see a big need for high quality accommodation in the city, and we aim to deliver it.”

The brand has been designed to meet the changing needs of the modern business and leisure traveller, whilst offering home comforts with great service and great comfort.

www.room2southampton.com

100% Design announces features and installations for 2017 show

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100% Design, the largest design trade show in the UK and the commercial cornerstone of London Design Festival, has announced a programme of specially commissioned installations at Olympia London as part of the show which runs 20-23 September.

From an immersive entrance feature curated by design writer Max Fraser to the pivotal central bar and surprising features across the five distinct show sections, each installation explores the this year’s unifying theme of Elements. This considers everything from the fundamentals of design to the component parts that make up a product, the materials used to the stories and processes of development.

The bespoke features complement the presentations of hundreds of exhibitors, showcasing the very latest products across the 22,000 sqm grand hall at Olympia, which is flooded with natural day light. Whether in Design & Build, Interiors, Workplace, Kitchens and Bathrooms or Emerging Brands, many of this year’s displays have also been inspired by the show’s theme.

The entrance feature ‘Elements’ by Max Fraser
Max Fraser’s entrance feature brings together an edited selection of iconic products from the past and present, celebrating an element of each which boasts intelligent design solutions, sophisticated tooling or innovative production techniques. The aim is to spotlight just one aspect or detail, informing the visitor about the hidden research and development that goes into a product.

The feature focuses on the slender engineered leg of a sofa, the material join on a chair or the concealed tech within a light fitting. Each item will be accompanied by a succinct text explaining the specific element. The chosen products emphasise the importance of R&D and bring to our attention the exceptionally detailed elements that we might not normally notice, understand or appreciate.

The installation is supported by large geometric shapes, incorporating the show’s creative aesthetic for 2017. They dramatically cascade down from the distinctive Olympia ceiling and take visitors on a journey through timeless design classics.

The Central Bar
A symbolic juncture at the heart of both the show itself and the wider design industry, the Central Bar at 100% Design has always been a hub for networking and professional engagement. Focusing on this year’s theme Elements, Sally Hogarth has designed a seating area which features upright blocks in geometric shapes to create an abstract city skyline. Also defining the area and providing a moment of shelter are some greenery and foliage, which adds a metropolitan feel and seamlessly adapts with the environment.

100% Design 2017Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms
Taking inspiration from mosaics and the show’s theme, the feature in the Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms section showcases tiles by Kaza Concrete in an interactive setting. Forming the word ‘Elements’, each letter focuses on an element in design; line, shape, texture, form, colour, space, detail and craft.

Using an angled reflective surface which allows visitors to view the feature from a different perspective, the mosaic showcases tiles from various exhibitors in a unique setting.

100% Design 2017Design & Build Bar
Inspired by London bar design, this installation by Ross Bennett features a variety of elements found in the urban environment, such as London stock bricks made from the clay that the city sits on, pitted concrete similar to that of the Barbican Centre and oak referencing the river Thames. The bar also features playful materials such as brass, tin, rubber mac and bands which actually stand for objects that were of huge importance in historic London. For example, the capital had a royal monopoly on brass goods imported from the continent in the 17th century and the first patent for the idea of preserving food in tin cans, made by the merchant Peter Durand.

100% Design 2017Auditorium Café
New talent Benjamin Craven, who exhibited earlier this year at the One Year On showcase at New Designers, is designing a bold display of fabrics for the Auditorium Café. From screen-printing to digital, Craven uses heavy geometric lines that give order to what appears to be a haphazard array of clashing colours and patterns, resulting in designs that are anything but accidental.

100% Design 2017The Arper Bloggers Lounge returns to 100% Design
Furniture brand Arper hosts, for the second year, the digital hub of 100% Design: #ArperBloggersLounge. Centrally located, the Lounge is a dedicated area for bloggers and online media. It is the ideal place to work and network, hold interviews and meetings, all in an inspiring environment.

100% Design 2017Furnished with Arper’s colourful and distinctive pieces, the Lounge will echo the design of the central bar area whilst conveying its own distinctive feel. Vibrant and welcoming, it is fully equipped with free wi-fi and charging points, as well as refreshments. Official interviews and informal talks will be hosted in the Lounge with a programme of events to be announced shortly.

Abstracta at the Restaurant
Abstracta is creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere at the restaurant of the fair. The acoustic panels of the Swedish brand come in geometric and elegant shapes in nuanced and subtle colours. The sound-absorbing panels and modules can be assembled in a virtually infinite number of ways.

100% design 2017

www.100percentdesign.co.uk

New Road Hotel

Hotel Concept Focus: New Road Hotel to open in Whitechapel, October 2017

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New Road Hotel will be opening its doors in Whitechapel, London, in Q4 2017. Inspired by the increased popularity for social living and accessible luxury, the new concept hotel will be offering guests everything they need, and nothing they don’t. Independently owned, this 80-room boutique hotel with an edgy flair will fit perfectly into the East London scene.

On New Road Hotel’s doorstep is Shoreditch, famed for its buzzing bars and restaurants, and Aldgate is just moments away, the centre of London business. New Road Hotel’s concept will focus around stripped-back luxury and necessity, bringing guests together in their welcoming lobby spaces and perfecting the finer details of service, comfort, and food, down to a tee.

New Road Hotel is a true passion project for owners Monsur, Masrur, and Moksud Malik. The brothers decided to build New Road Hotel on the site of an old textile factory, formerly known as Service House, where their father once worked. Since its closure in 2000, the building has remained empty, until 2011 when the family decided to convert it into a hotel. Following a multi-million-pound investment, New Road Hotel is now almost ready to open its doors to the public. The hotel’s interior design and open plan architecture reflects both its heritage and location within London’s famous East End, where the garment trade boomed in the 1960s. With exposed brickwork, open lobby spaces flooded with light, and incredible views of London’s skyline, New Road Hotel will be a London hotel with a difference. The focus will be on sleek and efficient design, five-star service, and high functionality over frills and opulence.

New Road HotelIt’s no secret that space is at a premium in today’s London. New Road Hotel will tackle this with a clever combination of compact yet practical rooms and communal open spaces where guests are encouraged to work and socialise. Whether popping out of their room for a hot drink or snack; squeezing in a few productive hours on the laptop; or getting into some healthy competition with fellow guests on the pool table, the three lobbies (one on each floor) will have everything guests need to feel entertained in their home away from home. Hotel guests are no longer confined to their bedrooms with New Road Hotel’s exciting new concept!

The hotel’s simple yet elegant bedrooms will promise the utmost in comfort and cosiness, focused around getting the best night’s sleep possible. Features will include black out blinds, soft Fine Bedding Company sheets, and no whirring fridges or flashing lights to keep guests awake. For those wanting to add a little more to their in-room experience, exclusive loft rooms will boast indulgent hot tubs for evenings overlooking all the sights of London from this prime location.

No hotel is complete without a famous chef taking the reins at the signature restaurant, and New Road Hotel is excited to be working with Marco Pierre White to open Mr White’s English Chophouse. Combining his Italian heritage with his passion for the New York food scene, Marco will be serving up only the best cuts of meat cooked to perfection to hungry Londoners. The Chophouse will also be open for breakfast, or if guests are in a hurry they can still indulge in a delicious yet speedy start to the day with a bowl of cereal in the lobby’s Cereal Grind.

Making its mark as part of the ongoing regeneration of the Tower Hamlets and Whitechapel area, New Road Hotel is set to be East London’s hottest opening this year. Offering an alternative to the traditional five-star offering with its laid-back, inclusive concept, New Road Hotel will attract everyone from business commuters to young travellers wanting a more sociable hotel experience.

www.newroadhotel.co.uk

Duravit Vero Air

Duravit uses c-bonded technology for new Vero Air collection

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The new Vero Air retains the iconic, rectangular character of the Vero washbasins whilst introducing Duravit’s ground-breaking c-bonded technology – combining the unmistakable character of the original with a new level or precision and perfect proportions.

The straight interior surface and precise edges of the Vero Air washbasins reflect the collection’s linear charm. The use of patented c-bonded technology sees the washbasin and vanity unit being combined to form a minimalist masterpiece.

With the new Vero Air” c-bonded” version, the furniture washbasin is connected almost seamlessly to the vanity unit in a complex process. Thanks to the accurate and precise-fitting connecting technology, ceramic and furniture merge to form a single unit. The material thickness of the washbasin is hidden from view and reduced to the precise rim that, at the transition between the cool, smooth ceramic and the natural structure of the wood, feels uniquely pleasant to the touch.

Manufactured with millimetre precision, the furniture begins exactly where the ceramic ends. The materials blend together seamlessly to form a single, harmonious unit. Three generous widths are available: 800mm, 1000mm and 1200mm in a choice of wall-hung with single or double drawers.

However, the “c-bonded” solution does not just look and feel impressive: DuraCeram®, the patented special ceramic that actually makes this precision and moulding possible, is particularly wear-resistant. The large shelves at the sides are very practical and the smooth, seamless surfaces are also quick and easy to clean.

The vanity units of the L-Cube furniture feature Tip-On technology with its gentle push to open and close action. Choose from 31 colour finishes including matt and lacquered options, and a wide range of wood including the new subtly textured Oak Cashmere real wood veneer.

Brit List 2017

Brit List 2017 Hoteliers Profiles

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In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 50 finalists in the HD Brit List 2017 – this week, we continue with five more of the top 25 hoteliers…

ROBIN SHEPPARD – BESPOKE HOTELS
Together with his business partner Haydn Fentum, Robin launched the now supremely successful Bespoke Hotels back in 2001 as a management company, which nowadays comprises more than 170 hotels and 8,000 employees in the UK and abroad.

Given his wealth of experience in the sector, earlier this year, Robin was recognised by the government’s Office for Disability Issues as its ‘Hotel Sector Champion’ – a cause close to his heart; and his tireless commitment to ensuring the hospitality industry continues to improve its approach to access and experiences for disabled guests means he is a worthy winner at this year’s Brit List.

ANDREW THOMASON – GRAVETYE MANOR
Andrew’s culinary beginning in hospitality manifested itself in the running of a number of restaurants in Surrey before entering the hotel business. Andrew credits his four Robin Sheppardyears at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons under Raymond Blanc as Resident Manager with instilling him with a passion for luxury hotels and hospitality. He claims managing Gravetye Manor fulfils his true passion for country house hotels.

This passion for the sector has been vital for Gravetye Manor following its multi-million pound refurbishment programme, and his stewardship has seen the country manor become one of England’s top properties in the sector.

TONY TROY – PRINCIPAL HOTELS
Tony acts as CEO of the Principal Hotel Company, operator of more than 45 hotels throughout the UK under the lifestyle brands of Principal and De Vere. A career hotelier with over 25 years in the industry, Tony has helped shape the UK hospitality landscape from his first management buy-out in 1994 to managing a multi-billion pound capital investment and restructuring programme over the course of the last decade, acquiring some of the industry’s most prominent assets along the way.

Tony’s most recent undertaking, the £200m investment in landmark city and country estate hotels supported by Starwood Capital, a private alternative investment company which manages over $53 billion in assets, ensures the restoration of some of the UK’s finest hotels to their former glory.

ANDREW WILDSMITH – WILDSMITH HOTELS
Andrew made a monumental career change when he swapped the laboratory of a Cambridge-graduate chemist for being a hotelier in the stunning, remote landscapes of the Lake District. Since, he has opened three fantastic properties; Hipping Hall in Kirby Lonsdale, Ryebeck in Bowness-on-Windermere and his latest – Forest Side in Grasmere, which has recently been awarded a Michelin star for its superb dining offering.

Following extensive flooding in the winter of 15/16, Cumbrian tourism took a considerable hit. Its testament to Andrew and his team’s hard work that Wildsmith Hotels is now flourishing and quickly becoming talk of the industry.

SUE WILLIAMS – WHATLEY MANOR
Sue WilliamsSue’s storied career in hospitality has taken in the likes of Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons and Bath Priory – with arguably her finest achievement coming at Cliveden House, turning the fortunes of that Berkshire property around. Now hoping to do the same at the Relais & Chateaux property Whatley Manor, Sue’s passion and energy can already be seen in her short time there.

Here tonight at the Brit List, we honour her continued commitment to nurturing young talent in the hospitality industry with the Ten out of Ten programme, now in its seventh year of giving youths a chance to work at some of the UK’s top hotels.

Colombo - Shangri-La

Shangri-La announces opening date for Colombo hotel

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Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has announced that Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo is set to open on 16 November 2017.

The hotel will begin taking bookings from 1 September 2017 for stays from 1 December 2017.

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RELATED LINKS
SHANGRI-LA’S HAMBANTOTA RESORT, SRI LANKA NOW OPEN
AMARI ENTERS SRI LANKA WITH BEACHFRONT RESORT IN GALLE
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Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo will be the second property in Sri Lanka for the luxury Asian hospitality group – joining Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, which opened in June 2016 – and is anticipated to be one of the most prominent hotel launches in Sri Lanka in nearly 30 years.

Kimpton Hotel Born opens in Denver, Colorado

Kimpton Hotel Born opens in Denver, Colorado

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Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants has opened Kimpton Hotel Born Denver.

Located at the end of the Union Station platform and in the heart of one of the most dynamic urban districts in the United States, every detail of Hotel Born — from Bavarian-inspired materials to exposed concrete ceilings, from floor-to-ceiling windows to 700 original works by local Denver artists — has been crafted to impart an elevated, urban vibe that is uniquely Colorado, according to the company.

Developed by Continuum Partners, the co-master developers of the Union Station Transit Station, and designed by Denver-based Semple Brown in collaboration with Ellen Bruss of Ellen Bruss Design, Hotel Born has an Alpine modern design. Design elements include a balance of wood, concrete and metal.

The exterior of the building reflects the brick masonry of the area’s original historic warehouses. The lobby has knotty pine paneling, custom millwork, and walnut herringbone floors combined with board-formed concrete. Hand-woven rugs, textured materials, warm lighting and unique one-off custom furniture pieces are also included.

Hotel Born’s 200 guestrooms—40 of which are suites, including two premier suites with separate living rooms, six-top dining tables, wet bars and free-standing soaking tubs—feature dark brown and gold herringbone patterned carpet and a mix of traditional and modern furniture offset by fresh white walls. The most dramatic feature of the guest rooms are the knotty pine headboards which fold into a ceiling canopy. Each room features large floor-to-ceiling windows.

Condesa Cancun

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun completes multi-million dollar renovation

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La Colección, a selection of 12 resorts that encompasses the brands Live Aqua Resorts, Grand Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts, Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts and The Explorean, has announced the completion of a multi-million dollar renovation at Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive.

The resort and area icon now showcases fully enhanced guestrooms in its three towers and an upgraded Grand Ballroom Condesa that complement its favoured all-inclusive Mexican vacation experience that showcases authentic traditions and culture, family-friendly amenities and first-class meetings and events offering.

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun’s remodel included extensive upgrades to over 500 premium rooms and suites. Among the improvements include new décor using local materials such as conchuela, a compacted marine shell that maintains a room’s temperature at cool; wooden furniture; new electronic lock doors with proximity key; redesigned bathrooms and new modern guestroom furniture encompassing all natural materials; hurricane-shock proofed windows; updated rain showers; upgraded USB plugs; new 56″ Smart TVs in all guestrooms and a faster Wi-fi connection. Also brand new are the escalators that facilitate access from the motor lobby to the central lobby.

Already a much-lauded, award-winning resort, Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun is also a proud member of Fiesta Americana Grand Meetings Mexico, an exclusive collection of hotels that offer state-of-the-art facilities and services international meeting planners count on to deliver a grand meeting experience.

DoubleTree by Hilton - El Segundo

Twenty Four Seven Hotels takes over DoubleTree in El Segundo

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Twenty Four Seven Hotels has announced the addition of DoubleTree by Hilton LAX – El Segundo to its management portfolio. The LAX hotel is the first of four new management contracts in the LA area in 2017.

Twenty Four Seven Hotels played a pivotal role in the highly complex transaction providing guidance to the buyer on the transactional side with sourcing, underwriting and acquiring the hotel, and on the capitalisation side by assisting in the structuring of new mezzanine financing in conjunction with assumption of a senior CMBS loan.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel LAX is a 216-room property and the only full-service hotel within El Segundo, just minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Recognised as the aerospace capital of the world, the community of El Segundo is home to many of the world’s most influential Fortune 500 companies. Twenty Four Seven Hotels is based in Newport Beach and has also assumed management of the hotel.

Catering to both business and leisure travelers, the seven-story DoubleTree by Hilton LAX is ideally situated in El Segundo, a hotbed for industry and innovation with the famed Silicon Beach next door. The hotel underwent renovations in 2016 that consisted of a complete reconfiguration and enhancement of first-floor public areas and guestroom upgrades.

The design refresh of the remaining six floors of guestrooms and a brand-new pool deck will complete the transformation in early 2018, along with tech upgrades including Whistle, a guest-oriented text messaging system.

New Hotel: Bergen’s historic stock exchange reopens

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‘True luxury is always modest,’ muses Eero Koivisto, one of the Swedish architect and design trio Claesson Koivisto Rune. The firm have recently completed work on Bergen Børs, their third hotel project for hyperlocal Norwegian hospitality group De Bergenske inside a year.

The 127-bedroom hotel – with its timeless, neutral interiors, immaculate custom furnishings, and subtle nods to a grand and prestigious history – certainly lives up to this philosophy.

The firm have recently completed work on Bergen Børs, their third hotel project for hyperlocal Norwegian hospitality group De Bergenske inside a year
But there’s nothing modest about its location. Occupying the upper floors of what was once the city’s stock exchange, Bergen Børs occupies a prime position in the Bergen streetscape. A few moments’ stroll from the station, beside Bergen’s main square Torgallmenningen, and overlooking Bryggen – the picturesque and oft-Instagrammed row of harbourside Hanseatic buildings recognised as a Unesco World Heritage site – there’s no better address in town.

Today, the sight of those elegant warehouses on the wharf is a reminder of Bergen’s historical status as Northern Europe’s international trading capital. Opposite, Bergen Børs stands as another memento of the city’s glory days of trade. Built in 1862 and redeveloped in the 1890s, the stock exchange (børshuset) building is, from the outside, an imposing neo-Renaissance affair in red clay tile and soapstone – befitting the solemnity and significance of the transactions once conducted within.
The firm have recently completed work on Bergen Børs, their third hotel project for hyperlocal Norwegian hospitality group De Bergenske inside a year

Tailoring History
The challenge facing the architect was twofold: preserving the vestiges of the past without turning the hotel into a museum piece; and finding a way to unite the old stock exchange building with the two others that Bergen Børs stretches across. Each of these buildings – both former financial offices – originates from a different period, meaning that although parts of Bergen Børs date back the mid-19th century, other parts were built as recently as 1967.

The firm have recently completed work on Bergen Børs, their third hotel project for hyperlocal Norwegian hospitality group De Bergenske inside a year‘Bergen Børs is a luxury hotel situated in three different buildings, from three different eras. We wanted the new hotel to have a unified look and feel. For the guest, it had to feel seamless, therefore our design has a certain neutral modernity attached to it.’

– Eero Koivisto, architect, Claesson Koivisto Rune

To achieve an air of beyond-trend elegance, Eero and his colleagues landed on the theme of tailoring – they were, after all, effectively stitching three buildings together. But this is more than a metaphor, the patterns of the classic gent’s suit are subtly woven into the interiors. In the bedrooms, pinstripes running down the wallpaper and drapes; herringbone parquet and grid-pattern carpets adorn the floors; chequered and argyle tiles appear in the bathrooms; and houndstooth upholstery covers the lounge furniture. You might never notice it if you weren’t looking closely, but Bergen Børs is a tailor’s swatch book brought to life.

The firm have recently completed work on Bergen Børs, their third hotel project for hyperlocal Norwegian hospitality group De Bergenske inside a yearBergen Børs’ calming palette and subtle patterning is occasionally interrupted by a pop of colour or a graphic accent – a similar effect to an eccentrically bold pocket square in an otherwise sober suit. Other flourishes of character are found in the original features – decorative remnants of the hotel’s former life have been salvaged and interwoven throughout the space. The soundproofed doors that once guarded confidential conversations from eavesdroppers now open into one bedroom’s ensuite; and the former stock exchange manager’s office, complete with a heavily protected safe, now offers respite and privacy to whichever hotel guest is lucky enough to be handed the key.

The firm have recently completed work on Bergen Børs, their third hotel project for hyperlocal Norwegian hospitality group De Bergenske inside a yearThe effect serves to unify the three buildings into one integrated whole. Apart from the occasional change in ceiling height as you stroll its corridors, you’d never realise you were stepping between buildings and across decades. Bergen Børs is the tailor-made hotel where you can’t see the seams.

Food and drink
What used to be the Chamber of Commerce is now the hotel bar – a clubbily relaxed wood-panelled room where guests can sip cocktails or sample fine wines and craft beers at the marble bar, as the light from the vintage chandelier plays on the mirrored walls. Next door, the light and airy signature restaurant BARE transforms fine seasonal ingredients sourced in Bergen’s neighbouring fjord regions into authentic but adventurous Nordic dishes – all served up with an impressive harbour view.

Around the hotel
Whether guests are here for business or leisure, Bergen Børs puts the best of Bergen on their doorstep. De Bergenske’s claim that their newest opening is the city’s ‘most central hotel’ is impossible to refute. The railway is in walking distance, the airport bus stops just outside, and the harbour terminal opposite is the gateway to fjord-land adventures. Turn right, and the Fløibanen funicular, whisking guests up to the panorama-endowed peak of Mt Fløyen, is just up the street. Turn left, and you’re on boutique-lined Torgallmenningen, with the KODE art museums and a wealth of cafés, restaurants and green space a five-minute walk beyond.

www.bergenbors.no

Hotel Designs Logo stacked & NEW strapline-012

12-18 August: Top 10 stories of the week…

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From hotel openings to product spotlights to everything in between, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…

1. THE CURTAIN, SHOREDITCH SHORTLISTED FOR TWO AHEAD AWARDS
The Curtain is a nine storey, 120-key new-build restaurant, hotel and members club located at the heart of Shoreditch. The building is located on the site of a former 1970s office block on the corner of Curtain Road, and its design reinterprets the area’s 19th century warehouse heritage.

2. WINDERMERE HOTEL ELLERTHWAITE LODGE SELLS OFF-MARKET FOR £1M
Ellerthwaite Lodge, a four-star bed and breakfast located within walking distance of Lake Windermere in the Lake District, has been successfully sold, achieving a price in excess of £1 million.

3. 50% BRITS STRUGGLE TO SLEEP IN HOTELS: HOW OPERATORS CAN ENSURE PERFECT NIGHT’S SLEEP
Research from Beacon, the UK’s leading purchasing company, has revealed that over 50% of UK hotel guests struggle to get a good night’s sleep when staying in a hotel.

4. HOTEL CONCEPT FOCUS: TEMPTATION CANCUN RESORT NOW OPEN
Temptation Cancun Resort, part of Original Group, has reopened after a spectacular multi-million-dollar, complete rebuild taken up by award-winning Canadian designer Karim Rashid.

5. MITRE LINEN: HOW TO TRANSFORM A HOTEL BATHROOM IN 7 STEPS
Hotel and B&B guests wants to be able to relax and rejuvenate in a beautiful bathroom setting. So how can you make sure your bathrooms make a big statement and add to a guest’s experience of their stay?

6. HOTEL GROUP FOCUS: LEADING HOTELS OF THE WORLD WELCOMES EIGHT NEW MEMBERS
The Leading Hotels of the World is pleased to announce the addition of eight new members to its collection of over 375 independent, luxury hotels.

7. MORE THAN HALF OF HILTON PORTFOLIO TO BE ‘DIGITAL KEY’ ENABLED BY END OF 2017
Hilton has announced Digital Key will now be available at 362,000 hotel rooms across 2,000 hotels worldwide with the introduction of the exclusive technology at the Hampton Inn & Suites Washington DC-Navy Yard.

8. HOTEL DESIGNS IN MEDIA PARTNERSHIP WITH SLEEP 2017
Hotel Designs is delighted to announce, once again, its media partnership for the 2017 edition of Sleep, being held at London’s Business Design Centre on 21-22 November.

9. LUXURY HOTEL INVESTS IN PILKINGTON GLASS FOR NEW SPA COMPLEX
Rudding Park near Harrogate is one of the most highly regarded hotels in the UK, offering luxurious accommodation in a Grade-I listed regency house, set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland.

10. HARD ROCK INTERNATIONAL TO ROCK THE ALPS WITH DAVOS HOTEL
With presence in more than 70 countries across the globe, Hard Rock International is expanding its hotel portfolio to the Swiss Alps, announcing plans to open Hard Rock Hotel Davos.

Lancashire’s Barton Grange Hotel has certainly not rested on its success in the last few years. Having invested £670 000 in the last three years into upgrading its bedrooms, corridors and main events space - the Barton Suite, the Hotel has announced this week that owners have added a further £250 000 into upgrades at the Hotel

Lancashire’s Barton Grange ‘blooming’ after investment

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Lancashire’s Barton Grange Hotel has certainly not rested on its success in the last few years. Having invested £670 000 in the last three years into upgrading its bedrooms, corridors and main events space – the Barton Suite, the Hotel has announced this week that owners have added a further £250 000 into upgrades at the Hotel.

The Hotel has just completed refurbishment to its eight guest rooms in the adjacent Garden House, which is now offered to guests wishing to book larger groups into the Hotel such as for a private party, wedding or conference, or those just looking for extra privacy and a unique garden view during their stay.

Brides and grooms with weddings at the Hotel or companies staging a business event can also now take advantage of a newly landscaped ‘wedding’ garden. Designed by the Hotel’s sister company, the Barton Grange Landscapes, the gardens have been manicured with new shrubs, flowers, paving and lighting, to offer couples the option of hosting an al-fresco wedding drinks reception. Of course, not exclusively the realm of wedding guests, the space has the capacity to hold up to 200 people for a private drinks party or corporate cocktail evening, and can be a venue for a marquee seating 240 people.

Lancashire’s Barton Grange Hotel has certainly not rested on its success in the last few years. Having invested £670 000 in the last three years into upgrading its bedrooms, corridors and main events space - the Barton Suite, the Hotel has announced this week that owners have added a further £250 000 into upgrades at the Hotel.Lounge area renovations are also complete. With a warm, contemporary style mind, the lounge can now accommodate up to 30 guests for morning coffees, pre-dinner cocktails or night-caps, and adds a welcoming space to relax or meet friends at the Hotel’s entrance.

With general manager Daniel Rich at the helm for the past three years, the Hotel has already seen steady growth resulting from the upgrading of accommodation and meeting spaces, and improved marketing and management – but plans go further.

Lancashire’s Barton Grange Hotel has certainly not rested on its success in the last few years. Having invested £670 000 in the last three years into upgrading its bedrooms, corridors and main events space - the Barton Suite, the Hotel has announced this week that owners have added a further £250 000 into upgrades at the Hotel
The Hotel is now expanding its leisure offering, with the addition of a spa treatment services to its current indoor pool and gym. Two new treatment rooms will provide a range of therapeutic, beauty and salon treatments. This will be available to Hotel guests, people living locally and an exclusive club membership from early 2018.

Commenting on the development programme Daniel Rich, general manager said: “The final stages of the changes are about ensuring that the Hotel is very much the ‘go to’ destination for event organisers, wedding couples and leisure visitors to the local area.’

Lancashire’s Barton Grange Hotel has certainly not rested on its success in the last few years. Having invested £670 000 in the last three years into upgrading its bedrooms, corridors and main events space - the Barton Suite, the Hotel has announced this week that owners have added a further £250 000 into upgrades at the Hotel‘The opening of our leisure club’s spa services will give us scope to expand our customer base even further. At the moment it is a strong, growth sector and will enable the Hotel to attract a wider range of leisure travellers, as well as offering a greater service to our wedding couples and corporate clients looking for incentive breaks and bespoke ‘away-days’.’

Daniel added: ‘We are particularly delighted that we were able to use local tradespeople to help with the work carried out. Our philosophy has always been to source locally wherever we can, and this refurbishment has been no exception – from architects to builders, painters and decorators to flooring, and spa therapists to garden landscapers….all from Lancashire.’

“We are continuing to build on our success as the year progresses, with a growth in our events business of 20%, and our accommodation continues to show a strong performance with average room rates up by 10% on last year. These are firm foundations on which to continue to develop the business and I am confident that the investment in further upgrades at the Hotel will play a huge part in seeing the Hotel achieve greater success moving forwards.’

www.bartongrangehotel.com

Wolfscastle Country Hotel

Wolfscastle Country Hotel unveils new ‘Beauty and Wellness’ Spa

 819 519 Daniel Fountain
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Wolfscastle Country Hotel, member of The Great Inns of Britain, is proud to announce the opening of a new on site Beauty and Wellness Spa. The hotel’s newest addition is part of the 40th anniversary celebrations which are taking place throughout 2017.

The spa offers a high quality experience for guests to indulge in, with three new treatment rooms, a relaxation room and nail bar.

Wolfscastle Country Hotel has undergone various reincarnations over the ages to become one of Wales’ leading hotels and restaurants. Located in rural Pembrokeshire, the hotel has the advantage of being closely situated to countryside and the coast and boasts the 2 AA Rosette Allt yr Afon restaurant which offers culinary excellence in a Victorian style dining room.

The hotel is famed for their enviable wine list and with over 200 years of experience in wine trading, Wolfscastle Country Hotel is the perfect place to escape, relax and unwind.

greatinns.co.uk

Hyatt Regency

VIDEO: Hyatt Regency brand celebrates 50th anniversary with a new film

 998 604 Daniel Fountain
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The Hyatt Regency brand is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the launch of a new film titled, ‘Come Together’.

The film celebrates bringing groups together to build community and share unique ideas, which is exactly what the Hyatt Regency brand has done over the past 50 years. The ‘Come Together’ film is an extension of the recently launched World of Hyatt platform, which is built on a simple belief that a little understanding goes a long way and further underscores the incredible things that happen when groups come together.

Featuring spoken word artist Tarriona “Tank” Ball and directed by award-winning director Simon Benjamin, the “Come Together” film is inspired by the brand’s rich history – in 1967, Hyatt Regency Atlanta was among the first hotels in the city to open its doors to civil rights leaders.

Through her poetic spoken word style, Ball tells the Hyatt Regency brand’s story of understanding with grace and care, while encouraging people to come together to share their ideas and perspectives.

www.hyattregency.com

The Curtain - Shoreditch

The Curtain, Shoreditch shortlisted for two AHEAD awards

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The Curtain is a nine storey, 120-key new-build restaurant, hotel and members club located at the heart of Shoreditch. The building is located on the site of a former 1970s office block on the corner of Curtain Road, and its design reinterprets the area’s 19th century warehouse heritage.

The project has been shortlisted for two AHEAD awards, with Dexter Moren Associates having been shortlisted for The Curtain in the ‘Urban Hotel – Newbuild’ category and interior designers Duncan Miller Ullmann having been shortlisted for The Curtain in the ‘Event Spaces category’.

In June 2017 lead architect, Zoe Tallon of Dexter Moren Associates, was announced as the winner of the prestigious Creative Spark Award, for her work on the project. The award recognises the best-designed new hotel, and is voted by delegates of the TOPHOTELPROJECTS World Tour London, comprising a wide selection of influential industry peers including fellow architects, hoteliers, investors, interior designers, suppliers and media.

An industrial vision
Contemporary Shoreditch is in constant flux, developing from an unfashionable backwater to London’s capital of creativity in the 1990s, before evolving to become home to the UK’s technology start-up scene. As a result, the area has undergone significant gentrification accompanied and driven by a host new art galleries, creative hubs, pop-up shops and restaurants, quirky pubs, clubs and eateries.

Hotelier Michael Achenbaum had a vision for a new high-profile restaurant, hotel and members club sitting right in the heart of Shoreditch, which would reflect the area’s architectural heritage, industrial history, and current creativity. Michael hired architects Dexter Moren Associates to transform this vision into reality.

The Curtain - ShoreditchExciting and eclectic
The facade consists of red brick with large-framed Crittall Windows which complement the urban / industrial aesthetic and gives the building a character and identity of its own. The Curtain features a live music venue in a fully soundproofed basement, a state-of-the-art gym, wellness area with treatment and steam rooms, screening room, ballroom, and a 1,600ft2 rooftop restaurant bar. There is also a Moroccan-style heated pool offering stunning views across the City skyline; three restaurants, the LIDO, Red Rooster and Tienda Roosteria; and a members only bar, Billy’s Bar Meanwhile, British rock photographer Mick Rock supplied some of his iconic photography for the building, adding further to The Curtain’s stylish eclecticism.

Sensitive to history…
Dexter Moren Associate’s design reflects the industrial warehouse aesthetic of this part of Shoreditch. An important consideration was to create a modern hotel building which is highly sensitive to the site’s historical context. This has been achieved through the use of urban red brickwork, profiled metal panels, large Crittall-style windows with deep reveals and bullnose brick sills.

Inspiration for the exterior came from the many cabinet factories and colour warehouses that previously stood on the site. In these buildings the block is broken up vertically by the delivery doors to the warehouse; this also has the visual effect of breaking down a large facade into a smaller, more residential scale. The Curtain design uses this device to break up the visual mass of the building while retaining its overall cohesion by the use of brickwork throughout.

The Curtain - Shoreditch…but embracing Shoreditch’s present
The interior features art supplied by Mick Rock, famous for photographing music legends such as David Bowie, Lou Reed and Blondie, and for creating some of the key images of the Seventies. The artwork will therefore reflect the heady atmosphere of one of London’s hottest cultural centres. Rooms and suites feature exposed brick walls, hardwood flooring, black-framed factory windows.

The Curtain - Shoreditch
The Curtain is also designed to be a positive contribution to Shoreditch: not just as a landmark building, but one that helps to repair the streetscape by the use of proportions respectful of the surrounding buildings and reflecting the heritage of the site. Public realm engagement is further enhanced by a number of street level entrances. There will be a total of five bars throughout the hotel, including in the garden courtyard. Entry-level Courtyard rooms will look into a light well and come with separate toilet and a large shower room, while loft suites will have their own large terraces with views across the cityscape.

INNSIDE Hamburg

INNSIDE Hamburg brings chic urban lifestyle to Germany

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INNSIDE by Meliá, the urban lifestyle hotel brand by Meliá Hotels international group, has announced the latest addition to its growing portfolio of global properties with the opening of INNSIDE Hamburg Hafen.

INNSIDE by Meliá hotels are known for their strategic city locations and INNSIDE Hamburg Haffen is testimony to this with a prime position in the Hammerbrook district.

Near the Hafencity quarter and with a dedicated pier on the Mittelkanal channel, the hotel is a short walk from the city center and the world renowned Speicherstadt district, making it the perfect choice for pleasure seekers as well as modern work trippers, who want to achieve more than just business when they travel, intent getting to know the cities they visit like a local.

INNSIDE Hamburg
INNSIDE Hamburg Hafen’s staff are all sharp city insiders, able to provide any visitor with local tips as to how to get the most out of their city stay, with advice on everything from where to go for a traditional Hamburgian dinner, to the best park for an evening run.

In keeping with the young, fresh and innovative design that characterises the INNSIDE by Meliá brand, the hotel offers 207 stylish rooms and suites across six levels.

Their sleek design is dominated by monochrome white, black and silver colouring, creating interesting accents due to subtle, indirect lighting that also complements the luxurious wooden texture of the floors. All rooms and lifestyle suites boast king or queen-size beds, individually adjustable air conditioning, a 40-inch LED television set, a free soft drink minibar, free Wi-Fi, desks including a media hub and high-speed Internet access, as well as open-plan bathrooms with a rain shower.

INNSIDE Hamburg
“At INNSIDE Hamburg Hafen, the spacious and impressive lobby with an integrated bar and restaurant is divided by various pieces of furniture into stylishly multifunctional, shared spaces where guests can work in a relaxed atmosphere, eat in company, or simply relax on the comfortable furniture. We call this the Open Living Lounge, specifically designed to facilitate networking and socialising alike.” says Kai Lamlé, Managing Director Germany of Meliá Hotels International, explaining the trend behind these co-working and communal areas.

The chic and modern lobby, which no longer includes a classic reception desk, but a digital check-in/check-out machine, a merchandising corner and a communal table, leads guests to the “Werft” bar and restaurant area with its large waterfront deck overlooking the Mittelkanal channel.

INNSIDE Hamburg Hafen provides more than 230 square meters of conference space to accommodate modern business needs. This includes two bright, fully air-conditioned event rooms which are flexibly combinable and equipped with state-of-the-art media technology.

INNSIDE Hamburg
INNSIDE Hamburg Hafen, once again underlines INNSIDE by Meliá’s commitment to Germany, which, after Spain, is the second-largest European market of the Meliá Hotels International (MHI) group. Meliá Hotels International (MHI) owns the INNSIDE by Meliá brand, 14 of their 27 German hotels are INNSIDE hotels. INNSIDE by Meliá is one of Meliá Hotels International’s fastest growing brands, with key new openings in Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East allowing guests to maximise their leisure time during business trips wherever they are in the world.

Kai Lamlé, Managing Director Germany of Meliá Hotels International comments: “We’ve been looking for a suitable location for a long time in Hamburg, and still see a lot of market potential here – also for other brands run by our company.” The INNSIDE by Meliá brand was originally developed in Germany and has been part of Meliá Hotels International since 2007. It is one of Meliá’s most successful and strongest expanding city hotel brands on a global level.

Stanley House completes considerable five-figure investment

Stanley House completes considerable five-figure investment

 930 512 Daniel Fountain
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The award-winning Stanley House Hotel and Spa, Mellor, has unveiled the second part of its five-figure renovation project.

The investment includes an extensive refurbishment of the multi-purpose function rooms, The Stables and The Lodge, while the hotel’s bridal suites and a further two Manor House bedrooms have undergone complete transformation, offering guests four elegant Manor House suites.

The two function rooms, used for weddings, private events and for business conferences, have been furnished to the highest standards, with a new light, soft, feminine colour scheme breathing new life into the suites to strike a chord with brides-to-be, while the bar’s seating area even boasts horse print upholstery velvet from Mulberry Home.


Meanwhile, the Manor House’s Grade II listed status has led to a tasteful restoration of the rooms, meaning many of the building’s original features – enchanting wooden beams and exposed stonework – remain.

The renovation means the Manor House rooms have been brought up to a standard in line with the international class of the hotel’s Woodlands and Spa building. Some of the rooms feature an opulent bold and rich colour palette, roll top baths add even more luxury, while the original windows hold snug seats, offering unrivalled views out to the rolling Ribble Valley countryside.

The project has been led by Lake District-based interior designer, Sarah Jane Nielsen, renowned for work at the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in London’s Mayfair. Her hotel portfolio, includes the creation of the Spa lodges and Gilpin Spice at the Lake District’s Gilpin Lodge. This work gained national recognition, winning the prize for ‘Hotel Interiors’ at the United Kingdom Property Awards 2016-17.

Sarah Jane Nielsen, of Sarah Jane Nielsen Ltd, added: “When I first viewed the Manor House I was spellbound with its potential. There could be no more romantic a venue for the bride and her entourage to preen, gloss and enjoy the preparation process for the big day.

“I wanted to inject a contemporary design edge to the property to excite the guest, but still hold on to its sophisticated intrigue with elegance in this age of building. The rooms had to be personal, comfortable and hugely inspiring in line with the enchantment of the building.

“In the Stables, a neutral, soft colour scheme has been selected to enable brides to feel that the space is their own and can be transformed to suit any style or theme of wedding. The elegantly muted colour scheme is tasteful and sophisticated and will melt into the background but can also hold its own for brides who do not wish to dress the room. Our entire scheme was chosen with this flexibility in mind.

“A contrast of soft grey and fresh white keeps the Lodge space bright and light. An accent of deep green is earthy and grounding, bringing the outside in by reflecting the view of the gardens out of the expansive windows and French doors.”

Bride and grooms to be will get to take in the newly renovated function suites at the upcoming wedding open day on Sunday, September 17, seeing how the room could look on their big day, while the completed bedrooms will also be available for guests to view.

Ellerthwaite Lodge

Windermere hotel Ellerthwaite Lodge sells off-market for £1m

 998 635 Daniel Fountain
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Ellerthwaite Lodge, a four-star bed and breakfast located within walking distance of Lake Windermere in the Lake District, has been successfully sold, achieving a price in excess of £1 million.

The 19th century property which comprises 17 en-suite bedrooms, a dining room, and ground floor coffee shop was sold off-market by Alastair Rushton, of Lonsdale Hotels Limited to Jonathan Denby at South Lakes Hotels.

Jonathan Denby, managing director of South Lakes Hotels said: “I’m delighted to add this exceptional property to our existing portfolio bringing the group total to six Lake District hotels, all of which benefit from the Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.

“We aim to continue the excellent standards set by the previous owner Alastair Rushton. Our plans are to operate the business on an all-year-round basis, catering for both national and international guests.”

Alistair Greenhalgh, a director at LSH Hotels, which represented the seller during the sale, said: “Ellerthwaite Lodge is an attractive 19th century property which benefits from a superb corner plot and a honey pot trading location, which makes it a very appealing investment opportunity.

“This sale highlights an increasing trend for well-qualified purchasers returning to the leisure market to acquire correctly priced assets that offer a good reliable income, and strong growth opportunities. We are currently in contact with a number of buyers looking for similar opportunities.”

Temptation Cancun Resort - Frontal Rendering

Hotel Concept Focus: Temptation Cancun Resort now open

 999 545 Daniel Fountain
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Temptation Cancun Resort, part of Original Group, has reopened after a spectacular multi-million-dollar, complete rebuild taken up by award-winning Canadian designer Karim Rashid.

Inspired by the human body, the new resort’s 430 guestrooms and public spaces epitomise Karim’s signature ‘sensual minimalism’ style, including an iconic multi-coloured seven-storey façade. An evolutionary concept in Cancun, the ‘Playground for Grown-Ups’ welcomes adults-only (21+) to experience a sensual vibe throughout the entire property, with its bright colours and rounded, human-like shapes designed to optimise feelings of connectivity and attraction.

Temptation Cancun Resort - Bash Bedroom IIThe design makeover for Temptation Cancun Resort began on September 25, 2016. After a successful trajectory as the number one adult-centric, all-inclusive resort in the Mexican Caribbean, Temptation’s transformation has refined and elevated its original concept by enhancing the guest experience with the highest international hotel standards and a ground-breaking design. Complemented by superior entertainment, gastronomic and accommodation offerings, an electrifying vibe continues to be the hallmark of this beachfront, topless-optional resort.

Temptation Cancun Resort - Bash BathroomNewly reimagined guestrooms evoke a vivid sense through design capturing the innovative spirit of Cancun. The colour palette includes bright colours and smooth textures, fused with long lines and soft curves that simulate the natural beauty and sensuality of the human body through abstract art. Each of the 430 rooms and suites offer a private terrace or balcony, where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea or the property’s lush tropical gardens.

Temptation Cancun Resort - Master Suite RenderingAll rooms feature an LED TV, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and an in-room minibar. A selection of rooms and suites include pool and beach butler service, pillow menu, outdoor Jacuzzis, aromatherapy and Blissful Beds among other state-of-the-art amenities.

Temptation Cancun Resort - Pool Side Rendering
Spa Rosé facilities include: a sauna, steam room, Swiss shower, cold water pool and a large Jacuzzi. In addition, it offers a peaceful waiting area where a refreshing variety of teas and other relaxing beverages are served.

www.temptation-experience.com

TownePlace Suites Orlando at SeaWorld opens

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando opens at SeaWorld

 610 423 Daniel Fountain
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TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld, managed by LBA Hospitality and owned by Mandala Holdings, is now open in the heart of the city’s magical attractions.

Located across the street from SeaWorld Orlando and right around the corner from Discovery Cove, Aquatica Orlando, Orange County Convention Centre, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World, the hotel will serve travelers the utmost in hospitality in the city known as the number one meeting destination in the US and the location for a record of 68 million visitors last year.

As an all-suites hotel, TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld consists of 6 floors with 188 rooms featuring full kitchens, kids’ suites, an outdoor pool, an on-site fitness centre, a business centre, free continental breakfast and concierge. In addition, as an Official Hotel of SeaWorld, guests at the property will also have exclusive park benefits at SeaWorld and Aquatica including complimentary transportation, and discounts on merchandise and culinary purchases in the parks.

Led by general manager Alex Figueroa, named LBA’s General Manager of the Year in 2016, and Biljana Djokovic, director of sales, TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld is one of two properties LBA plans to launch this summer in Orlando. Holiday Inn Express and Suites Orlando at SeaWorld, a six storey hotel with 181 guest rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness centre, business center and meeting space, will open in a few short months.

Mitre Linen - Bathroom accesories

Mitre Linen: How to transform a hotel bathroom in 7 steps

 960 640 Daniel Fountain
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Hotel and B&B guests wants to be able to relax and rejuvenate in a beautiful bathroom setting. So how can you make sure your bathrooms make a big statement and add to a guest’s experience of their stay?

Chris Tame, Mitre Linen’s National Sales Manager, says: “Even when they are regularly renovated, hotel bathrooms tend to be heavily used by guests which makes them easy to look tired.”

Here he gives his tips to refresh a bathroom in a cost effective way to ensure the rooms are not out of action for any length of time…

1. Update your bathroom blinds
Windows are a focal point in any room which makes it important to regularly update and refresh your bathroom blinds. With heavy use, they can easily become splashed with shower gel, toothpaste and even make-up over time. Updating your bathroom blinds gives you the chance to tie the look of the room in with your chosen colour scheme. Or, if you want to make a statement, bright blinds can bring a pop of colour to a bathroom. Using lighter coloured fabric shades in your bathroom blinds will allow more sunlight to filter into the room while still maintaining privacy.

2. Refresh your bathroom towels
Super soft white towels that smell clean and fresh are high on the list of what B&B guests want. We also know that half of guests think an establishment is better if it provides branded towels and 60% prefer a large bath sheet to a large towel. Providing wonderfully heavyweight towels is an attention to detail that can help to create a truly tranquil experience for guests. Indulge your guests with luxuriously soft 600gsm pure cotton for a crisp clean look for your bathroom or try microcotton Turkish towels which have the ability to absorb water almost instantaneously.

Mitre Linen - Bathroom accesoriesIf you want to co-ordinate your towels with your colour scheme, consider 100% coloured towels which come in shades ranging from navy and chocolate to blue and mint. Alternatively, the towel border can be colour matched with the hotel’s desired Pantone. For a more bespoke experience, why not embroider your logo on towels.

3. Upgrade essential extras
Consider the little touches which can make a difference to a bathroom. As well as providing useful storage solutions such as simple glass jars and bottles, update your bathroom bins, tissue holders and hair dryers. Creating a neat and uncluttered room will help to make the space aesthetically pleasing for your guests.

4. Renew your shower curtains
Shower curtains are heavily used and it is important to update and renew them before they start to look tired. Go for 100% polyester and consider whether to choose from an innovative hookless shower curtain with a detachable backing which you can easily remove to wash and simply re-attach with poppers, or a plain hook shower curtain.

Mitre Linen - Bathroom accesories5. Re-grout your tiles
Refresh your bathroom tiles by re-grouting them. This is a cost effective way to revitalise your bathroom and make it look like new again. It also helps to prevent any water leaks from occurring.

6. Add an element of luxury with bathrobes and slippers
Exceed your guest’s expectations and bring a touch of luxury to your bathrooms with a sumptuous, fluffy bathrobe and an indulgent pair of slippers for your guests to sink their feet into. A wonderfully soft bathrobe and slippers – embroidered with your company logo – can make guests feel special. Bathrobes come in a variety of fabric options from waffle weave and polyester to 100% cotton and heavyweight velour. You can even offer your guests bathrobes for the whole family with a range of smaller sizes now available for children.

7. Ensure bathroom safety
Ensure safety while bathing with a non-slip rubber bath mat. Practical and good value, these mats are slip-resistant and are anti-fungal treated.

For more helpful tips and advice, call our friendly team on 01685 353 454.
www.mitrelinen.com
Sales@mitrelinen.com

Sleeping

50% Brits struggle to sleep in hotels: how operators can ensure perfect night’s sleep

 999 569 Daniel Fountain
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Research from Beacon, the UK’s leading purchasing company, has revealed that over 50% of UK hotel guests struggle to get a good night’s sleep when staying in a hotel. With summer holiday in full swing, Beacon, working alongside its leading bedding supplier Fogarty, has pulled together its top tips on how operators can make sure guests get a restful sleep during their all-important summer breaks away.

With a good night’s sleep high on the nation’s agenda, sleep expert, Dr. Sleep from Fogarty, discusses the importance of sleep: “We spend a third of our lives asleep, and evidence proves that the quality of this sleep is essential to allow us to reach our full potential during our waking hours. Small changes can make a big difference in improving your guest’s sleep experience, which in turn will undoubtedly lead to greater customer loyalty.”

SleepingLauren Parker, Buyer at Beacon, continued: “So many of us are struggling to sleep in hotels, but this can easily be improved, and operators should capitalise on this opportunity. Our recent research found that guests would be willing to pay an extra £10 for a larger room, £8 for a choice of pillows, £9 for a larger bed and £10 for an extra bed to help with their sleep in hotels, suggesting there is money to be made in offering sleep related upgrades. This indicates how important sleep is to guests, so considering some small changes could really benefit your business.”

Top Tips with the help of Dr. Sleep and Fogarty

Fresh plants
Consider investing in fresh plants in your hotel bedrooms to help to maintain good air quality. We would suggest choosing flowers such as jasmine or lavender; these scents are known to have a positive effect on the quality of sleep. The display of flowers in a bedroom also creates a more soothing and relaxing atmosphere, putting your guests at ease.

Bedroom thermometers
As you get ready to go to sleep, your body begins to cool down to its optimal sleep temperature. To help this process, use bedroom thermometers to set the temperature in bedrooms to between 15-18 degrees, or by giving guests the option to turn off their heating about an hour before bedtime; which is plenty of time for the room to reach this temperature.

Soundproofing
Hotels can be noisy, with this creating disturbances for some sleepers. You can provide your guests with a more peaceful sleep through soundproofing bedrooms, which needn’t cost the earth – thicker curtains, or the provision of ear plugs can help improve guest experiences.

SleepingLavender
Studies have shown that the scent of lavender has excellent sedative effects and helps to promote better sleep. To reap the benefits of this in hotel bedrooms, you can invest in the plant, a diffuser or pillow sprays. Lavender pillow sprays have become increasingly popular, with one of Beacon’s leading suppliers, Gilchrist & Soames, stating that sales for 2016/17 have increased by 40% over the 2015/16 period.

Anti-allergy bedding
During spring and summer many of us will experience an increase in allergic symptoms. Allergies are one of the most common causes of sleep disturbances and anti allergy bedding helps protect your guests. Fogarty provides an anti allergy range, fully endorsed by Anti-Allergy UK, that has been treated with anti-microbial material, providing you with peace of mind that your bedding is fresh, clean and safe.

For more information about Beacon please visit www.beaconpurchasing.co.uk

Embassy Suites by Hilton - Chicago

Embassy Suites by Hilton completes renovation of Chicago O’Hare Rosemont hotel

 850 566 Daniel Fountain
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Officials of The Dow Hotel Company (DHC), a leading national hotel owner/investor and operator, has announced the completion of the $10 million (£7.7 million) renovation of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport – Rosemont.

The renovation focused on all aspects of the hotel, including guest rooms, public spaces and back-of-house areas.

The renovation enhanced virtually all aspects of the hotel. Guest rooms received fresh soft goods, upholstered furniture and artwork. All guest baths gained new tiling, while some were converted to stand-up showers.

Public spaces were completely redone, including alterations to the atrium, pool, fitness centre, lobby, elevators and employee locker rooms. The business centre was upgraded to Embassy Suites by Hilton’s Connectivity Zone with modern furniture. The two executive boardrooms received new tables, wood work, refrigerators and televisions.

Exterior hotel improvements range from building enhancements to completely redone landscaping.

Hotel Designs in media partnership with Sleep 2017

 850 460 Daniel Fountain
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Hotel Designs is delighted to announce, once again, its media partnership for the 2017 edition of Sleep, being held at London’s Business Design Centre on 21-22 November.

As Hotel Designs continues to maintain its position within the interior design and hotel industry, partnering with shows of the pedigree of Sleep is the perfect way to reach key influencers and figures from across the industry.

At Sleep 2017, attendees can:
– Meet over 4,600 of the global hotel design, development and architecture community
– Discover how hotel brands can deliver beyond the functional for lasting memories that inspire
– Source the best products for hotel design from the finest hand-picked suppliers
– Explore unique installations and exclusive design collaborations from renowned industry names
– Hear from the visionaries pushing boundaries from the heart of the sector at the annual industry Conference
– Network with those inspiring hotel interiors globally at show hub and renowned social destination The Sleeper Bar

Joel Butler, the brand director said: “We are delighted to be working with Hotel Designs and looking forward to a very exciting show that brings the global hotel design, development and architecture community together at Sleep on 21-22 November.”

Daniel Fountain, editor of Hotel Designs, added: “Having attended Sleep for several years now, I am delighted we will continue to have a presence at one of most well-known shows in the sector. Its reputation for being the place to meet and discover new people and trends, it’s at the top of most design professionals’ lists of must-attend-shows. I am excited Hotel Designs can be part of Sleep’s ever-increasing popularity,” he added.

www.thesleepevent.com

Tru by Hilton - Orlando, Florida

Tru by Hilton Hotel to be developed in Orlando, Florida

 849 537 Daniel Fountain
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Hilton and Epelboim Development Group have announced a new development deal to build an all-new Tru by Hilton in Orlando, Florida, bringing the innovative, midscale hotel brand to a new market.

The eight-storey, 259-room hotel will be the largest Tru property to date and will be located just south of the Orange County Convention Centre.

Tru by Hilton Orlando Convention Centre Area, which is expected to open in October 2019, is one of the brand’s 425 hotels in various stages of development.

With approximately 10 new properties slated to open this year, the brand has achieved the fastest-growing pipeline in the history of the hospitality industry.

Rudding Park Spa - Pilkington glass

Luxury hotel invests in Pilkington glass for new spa complex

 1000 570 Daniel Fountain
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Rudding Park near Harrogate is one of the most highly regarded hotels in the UK, offering luxurious accommodation in a Grade-I listed regency house, set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland.

So, when the hotel management decided to add a new luxury spa complex, the emphasis was on creating a world-class experience for visitors.

Architectural practice Enjoy Design was appointed to design the spa, and the result is a three-storey complex that includes 11 treatment rooms, a 17m swimming pool, a juniper log sauna, indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy pool, a restaurant and shop.

Project: New spa complex at Rudding Park, Harrogate
Client: Rudding Park
Architect: Enjoy Design
Main contractor: Henry Boot Construction
Specialist glazing contractor: HW Architectural

A major feature of the design is its light-filled relaxation spaces, which can be used all-year-round, despite the colder winters and unreliable summers in the north of England. These include a ground-floor area surrounded on three sides by floor-to-ceiling glass, as well as a fully-glazed rooftop spa and garden.

The rooftop spa features an indoor-outdoor infinity pool, where guests can swim between the open and enclosed areas via a waterproof automatic door. A herbal steam bath, luxury steam room, panoramic experience showers and relaxing foot spa enhance the spa journey, whilst outside a spa bath and cabin sauna complete the experience.

Rudding Park Spa - Pilkington glassThe double-glazed sauna units incorporate Pilkington Suncool™ 66/33, a high performance solar control glass that helps to reduce transmission of energy from the sun to just 33 per cent, while allowing 66 per cent light transmission. This means that occupants can enjoy uninterrupted views of the grounds in a comfortable environment, whatever the season.

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RELATED: £9.5M SPA DEVELOPMENT AT RUDDING PARK NEARS COMPLETION
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The glass was installed using minimalistic aluminium frames from manufacturer Metal Technology, which sit flush together and give the appearance of frameless glazing externally.

Gregg Mitchell, director at Enjoy Design, said: “We set out to create a spa facility that is cutting edge, and which would impress the most seasoned spa visitors from around the world.


“Being able to relax on a lounger, looking out over an infinity pool at the stunning grounds beyond, in the depths of an English winter is something pretty special, and part of what makes this new spa genuinely world-class.

“The high performance solar control glass from Pilkington has allowed us to create this amazing space without compromising on the energy performance of the building.”

Michael Metcalfe, commercial sales manager at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, said: “For buildings where much of the envelope is glazed, excessive heat build-up will always be a potential concern. Solar control glass can make a significant difference by cutting the amount of solar energy entering the space, allowing the climate to be controlled much more efficiently.

“As a result, occupants can enjoy the feeling of being bathed in daylight, whether it’s July or December.”

Davos - Hard Rock Hotel

Hard Rock International to rock the Alps with Davos hotel

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With presence in more than 70 countries across the globe, Hard Rock International is expanding its hotel portfolio to the Swiss Alps, announcing plans to open Hard Rock Hotel Davos.

Working in collaboration with International Hospitality Service, the owner of Spenglers Hotel and Holsboer Residences in Davos, Hard Rock will electrify the region in December 2017. VIYM, a private equity firm with extensive expertise in the hospitality industry, consulted IHS on the deal.

Transforming the 130-year-old building, which houses the recently renovated Spenglers Hotel Davos with a new spa and soft design touches, Hard Rock Hotel Davos will give tribute to the building’s rich history of honoring Dr. Alexander Spengler and Willem Jan Holsboer – both pioneers in their respective fields.

As Davos became famous for the medical benefits its high altitude climate provided, Dr. Spengler was the first person to open a people’s sanatorium, while Holsboer developed the plans for the railway line to Davos. Recently renovated last year, the historic luxury boutique hotel will further continue its modern conversion by evolving into a music-inspired city escape with priceless memorabilia adorning the walls of the property, curated by a team of design experts to fit the local music scene while reflecting the region’s art, style and culture.

Through music appreciation and an imaginative environment, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos delivers products for the varied aspects of life – work, play and personal sanctuary.

For more information or to book a stay at any of the Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, please visit www.hardrockhotels.com.

Leading Hotels of the World

Hotel Group Focus: Leading Hotels of the World welcomes eight new members

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The Leading Hotels of the World is pleased to announce the addition of eight new members to its collection of over 375 independent, luxury hotels. Of these, six are also new to the hospitality scene in 2017. Spanning the globe from Canada to Spain to Korea, these distinguished properties offer varied styles of architecture and design, and immersive cultural experiences delivered by passionate hoteliers.

“We are delighted to welcome these celebrated new members to The Leading Hotels of the World,” said Deniz Omurgonulsen, Vice President, Membership, The Leading Hotels of the World. “Our guests are in search of quality and distinctiveness when staying with us and these global properties deliver both seamlessly. With the exciting new additions, our travelers can stay in a Venetian palace on the Grand Canal, a shikumen lanes home in Shanghai, a historic mansion in Montreal or St. Petersburg, or the fifth tallest high rise in the world in Seoul.”

Le Mount Stephen opened its doors in May 2017, proudly embracing the dynamism of today’s Montréal, while paying homage to the city’s rich heritage. The property isin the Golden Square Mile and the entrance and dining venues are withinthe George Stephen House, a historical monument and mansion built by Lord G. Stephen, the first president of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Beyond the entry the present is celebrated in a sleek contemporary tower that houses 90 prestigious rooms and sky-loft suites which all feature floor-to-ceiling windows. The interiors exude timeless elegance, showcasing a unique style and character while offering state-of the-art amenities.

Leading Hotels of the WorldBürgenstock Hotel (Obbuergen, Switzerland)
The newly built Bürgenstock Hotel will officially open August 28, 2017, boasting modern architecture, contemporary design and incomparable views over Lake Lucerne and the Alps. The property is part of the legendary Bürgenstock Resort, located in Central Switzerland, 500 meters above Lake Lucerne. Hospitality is a tradition here and famous guests like Audrey Hepburn and Charlie Chaplin have visited since the first Grand Hotel opened in 1873. Explore the expansive grounds, that include a 10,000-square-meter spa, a healthy living center, 12 restaurants, numerous boutiques, and a 9-hole golf course. Opportunities for active recreation also await, with tennis, golf, curling, water sports, hiking and bike trails all nearby.

Leading Hotels of the WorldLesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort (Zakynthos, Greece)
True to its name, Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort is surrounded by spectacular views of the Ionian Sea, offering privacy and peace of mind to the experienced traveler. The property opened in May 2017, with 65 guestrooms all facing the sea. Lesante Blu’s “it’s all about you” mentality is exhibited through its adults-only concept, private pools, state-of-the-art suites and discreet staff. Fine dining restaurants with Mediterranean flavors prepared by the Executive Chef George Plotas enhance the culinary offerings, while complete tranquility and rejuvenating moments can be enjoyed in the Essence Spa with a Germain de Cappucini treatment. For a picturesque arrival and departure, guests can arrange a helicopter transfer directly with Lesante Blu and take in all the sights of the Greek islands.

Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel (Venice, Italy)
The stunning Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel began welcoming guests through its 16th-century doors in August 2016, following a nearly 50-year closure of the historical edifice. The property is centrally located right on the Grand Canal and each of its 18 fastidiously decorated rooms and suites is based on an aspect of Venetian history and culture. Original features, including Renaissance frescoes and marble fireplaces, have been expertly restored by local specialists and are complemented with antiques and custom furnishings to display the Palazzo’s noble past. Helmed by an award-winning chef, Enrico Bartolini, GLAM Restaurant serves exclusive menus designed by the exceptionally talented culinary artist.

Gran Meliá de Mar (Mallorca, Spain)
Set in its own exclusive cove, Gran Meliá de Mar is surrounded by a magnificent garden of pine trees under the beautiful blue palette of the Mediterranean sky. Unique to Mallorca, Gran Meliá de Mar is an adults-only resort. It is inspired by an indulgent culture of relaxation where exquisite service and contemporary elegance meet. Guests will find spacious rooms and exceptional suites, all with balconies andspectacular views overlooking the sea.Fine dining with surprising Majorcan cuisine is available at four dining venues, and a Luxury Spa by Clarins offers the latest beauty and well-being treatments.

Leading Hotels of the WorldLotte St. Petersburg (St. Petersburg, Russia)
Lotte Hotel St. Petersburg is located onSt. Isaac’s Square with an enviable view of the city’s famous cathedral, the Moika River, the Blue Bridge, and in walking distance to the Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect and Mariinsky Theatre. The hotel opened in July 2017 and is a piece of history unto itself, occupying a mansion built for the honorary citizen Mrs. Yakunchikova. The first traces of the building appeared in the beginning of 19th century. John Quincy Adams, the first ambassador of the U.S. to Russia and the sixth President of the U.S., lived in the house from 1810 to 1811. The hotel features 150 classic and modern rooms, including seven suites. It features smart technology, state-of-the-art facilities and haute cuisine. Enjoy a meal at the Lounge restaurant or the premium Japanese MEGUmi restaurant. Two banquet halls and a Balinese Mandara Spa are also on site.

Leading Hotels of the WorldCapella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li (Shanghai, China)
Located in the cultural preservation zone of Xuhui District, Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li will open in September 2017, following a highly anticipated restoration and conversion project. The compound houses 22 rows of shikumen lanes, connecting more than 200 two-story houses dating back to the 1930s. Set against the glistening skyscrapers of Shanghai, original shikumen houses, which first appeared in the 1860s are a cultural rarity. Sensitively restored for discerning modern travelers, the striking buildings blend traditional Shanghainese and French architectural styles. The hotel portion of the luxury, urban resort consists of 55 three-level villas. The property will also be home to three-Michelin star chef Pierre Gagnaire’s only restaurant in Mainland China, Le Comptoir.

Leading Hotels of the WorldSigniel Seoul (Seoul, Korea)
Set in the greater Gangnam area, the Signiel Seoul opened in April 2017 and is located in the landmark Lotte World Tower, the fifth tallest high rise in the world. Soaring above the city, all rooms offer mesmerizing skyline views and combine classic and contemporary design, harmoniously blending influences of East and West. Guests can indulge in cuisine created by Michelin-starred chefs or sip on some bubbly at BAR 81 with the largest champagne collection in Korea, both located 342-meters up in the air. An impressive Evian spa, fitness center and a swimming pool are also available for some rest and relaxation after a bustling day in Seoul.

Leading Hotels of the WorldReopening after renovations:
Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet’s Paris
reopened in July following a six-month renovation. The 81 spacious rooms and suites boast refined materials and delicate fabrics and lighting, reflecting the distinctive signature of interior designer Jacques Garcia. Fouquet’s famed brasserie is also back on center stage on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, with Chef Pierre Gagnaire reinvigorating bistro cuisine.

Leading Hotels of the World

www.lhw.com

Hilton Digital Key

More than half of Hilton portfolio to be ‘Digital Key’ enabled by end of 2017

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Hilton has announced Digital Key will now be available at 362,000 hotel rooms across 2,000 hotels worldwide with the introduction of the exclusive technology at the Hampton Inn & Suites Washington DC-Navy Yard.

The milestone demonstrates Hilton’s continual ability to launch technology that improves the guest experience and do it on a global scale. Every new hotel that is opened worldwide, roughly one a day, is equipped with Digital Key technology.

The award-winning Hilton Honors app is designed to make travel easier and put control back in members’ hands so they get more out of their travel experience. From their smartphones, guests can book a room, check-in, choose their desired room from a digital floor plan set against Google Maps and request additional items to be in their room upon arrival. Hilton Honors members have widely adopted the app’s technology features and continue to set new records for usage and engagement, including 30 million digital check-ins, 3 million room key downloads and more than 13.6 million doors opened. In the month of July, a door was unlocked with Digital Key every two seconds.

“We know our customers operate in a digital world and we are obsessive about embracing technology that helps remove the friction points from our guests’ travel experiences. We’ve built a world of experiences at your fingertips with our app – you can check in, choose a room, set personal preferences and unlock your door using Digital Key,” said Geraldine Calpin, chief marketing officer at Hilton. “We’ve more than tripled our rate of Digital Key hotel installs since 2016 and are on pace to exceed our goal of 2,500 hotels by the end of 2017, enabling us to scale across our 14 brands worldwide to deliver exceptional and consistent experience for guests everywhere.”

Digital Key is live worldwide in 185 markets today, and Hilton will continue to expand to new regions throughout the remainder of the year. By the beginning of 2018, Hilton has committed to have well over half of its portfolio of hotels across all 14 brands, equipped with Digital Key, creating a consistent technology experience for guests regardless of where they stay across the globe.

Vienna House announces Warsaw hotel

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Vienna House have announced a new 164-room hotel in Warsaw’s Mokotów district to open in the summer of 2018. The new hotel, Vienna House Mokotów Warsaw, will be positioned as a 4-star business hotel located in the centre city’s thriving business area.

Warsaw has experienced significant growth in the last ten years and has become a leading destination with a focus on culture, politics and business. The district of Mokotów, located near Warsaw’s Chopin International Airport, has developed from an industrial area into a booming business district. The owner of the new hotel is private equity fund Garvest based in Polish Poznań and Vienna House Mokotów Warsaw will be managed under a lease agreement. The investment is set to total approximately €22 million (£20 million).

The hotel, designed by innovative Polish architectural firm Jems Architekci, will feature a nod to the area’s industrial past alongside contemporary and functional design concepts. The hotel will target business travellers along with local companies and residents with flexible meeting areas in the hotel’s lobby and high standard business facilities.

Brit List 2017 Hoteliers Profiles

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In the coming weeks, Hotel Designs will be profiling the 50 finalists in the HD Brit List 2017 – this week, we continue with five more of the top 25 hoteliers…

GERALDINE MILSOM – MILSOM HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS GROUP
The history of the Milsom group can be traced back almost seven decades, which has seen the group grow into one of the premium providers of accommodation and restaurant experiences in the Essex and Suffolk area. Geraldine and Paul Milsom opened Milsoms in 2001, and having undergone a refurbishment in 2015, the property has gone from strength to strength.

As someone who could appear in either side of the Brit List, the design of the refurbishment was led by Geraldine herself, which ensured the history and aesthetics of the building were retained, all while injecting a vibrant look for the future of the property.

MARIO OVSENJAK – HOTEL GOTHAM
Mario Ovsenjak arrived at Hotel Gotham in 2016 and has led the property from strength-to-strength ever since. The property has quickly established itself as one of the most buzzed-about hotels in the UK under his stewardship. Having worked extensively across the Bespoke Hotels portfolio, he boasts experience leading teams at a range of fine country house properties, including The Lambert Arms in Oxfordshire, Shaftesbury’s Grosvenor Arms, as well as the Prince Regent Hotel.

Prior to this, he held positions at several London establishments, including the Corus Hyde Park Hotel, The Royal Trafalgar and Piccadilly Hotels, as well as the Colonnade and Hotel Xenia.

MAILO POWER – THE ATHENAEUM HOUSE HOTEL
Mailo PowerThe owner of Athenaeum House Hotel in Waterford, Mailo has the Irish hospitality industry very close to her heart. The Athenaeum came about as a marriage of both hotel management and interior design, with Mailo’s background being in the latter across many hospitality and leisure projects.

Together with her husband Stan, himself an accomplished hotelier, Mailo has turned this Georgian gem into one of the best hospitality offerings in Waterford and the south-east of Ireland all whilst capturing the essence, heritage and history of Ireland. Mailo’s infectious passion for the hotel industry is clear to all those who meet her.

BHARAT RAI – GRANGE TOWER BRIDGE HOTEL
Bharat has more than 10 years’ professional experience within the hospitality industry with skills across a whole host of aspects of the industry, including strategic planning, Bharat Raimarketing, and sales initiatives, financial planning and analysis.

At the Grange Tower Bridge, he heads up a team of up to 250 employees and has consistently achieved against all expectations, surpassing KPI projections for revenue and guest services, and under his stewardship the hotel has become synonymous with affordable five-star luxury in the heart of the capital.

ADOLF SCHAUER – THE LANDMARK HOTEL
Adolf SchauerAdolf’s career in hospitality has taken in various aspects of the industry, from an early career in the kitchen, to financial controller to hotel manager – in both Germany and the UK. In January 2015, Adolf was appointed hotel manager at The Landmark London (having previously served as financial controller) and since, he has been responsible for the day-to-day management of the hotel and its staff, focusing on continually improving the guest experience.

His long and celebrated history in both the front-of-house operations and the financial aspect of hospitality means he has been the perfect appointment for this iconic London property and its continued place at the top table of the capital’s properties.

5-11 August: Top 10 stories of the week…

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From hotel openings to product spotlights to everything in between, we collate the top 10 most read stories on Hotel Designs this week…

1. HOTEL GROUP SPOTLIGHT: RADISSON BLU
Unique architecture and interiors, combined with a rich history and heritage, form the foundations of these eight hotels within the upscale Radisson Blu collection, which are located in some of Europe’s most popular, dynamic and stylish cities.

2. INTERCONTINENTAL HONG KONG TO UNDERGO A MAJOR RENOVATION
InterContinental Hong Kong is expected to close for a major renovation in the first quarter of 2019, with the entire renovation taking 12-16 months.

3. HISTORIC AMES BOSTON HOTEL REVEALS NEW LUXURY DESIGN
Glen Coben, of NYC-based architecture & design firm, Glen and Co. Architecture has just finished the renovation and redesign of the 1893, Ames Boston Hotel, and the restaurant inside, Cultivar, taking the building’s original architecture and redesigning it to merge the past, present and future.

4. HOTEL SUMMIT TO RETURN IN 2018
Forum Events is delighted to announce the return of the Hotel Summit in 2018. Hotel Designs is a proud partner of the event, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.

5. HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS ARRIVES IN TUXPAN, MEXICO
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of the Holiday Inn Express Tuxpan hotel in Veracruz, Mexico.

6. MATEUS BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN GOA CONVERTED
A heritage-listed Portuguese mansion built in 1879 has recently been renovated into a high-end boutique hotel in Panjim, located in the centre of Goa.

7. NIU SETTLES IN MANNHEIM WITH A NEW OPENING
Mannheim proudly presents its new project of the coming year. The NOVUM Hotel Group, together with the project developer GBl AG, is planning a Millennial brand niu hotel on Seckenheimer street near the historic city centre.

8. MANDARIN ORIENTAL ENTERS SOUTH AMERICA WITH HOTEL SANTIAGO
Hotel Santiago has opened under Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group management, following the Group’s announcement in May.

9. MILLENNIUM HILTON NEW YORK ONE UN PLAZA ANNOUNCED
Hilton has announced that ONE UN New York will join the Hilton network as Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza on August 30 as Hilton Hotels & Resorts’ seventh local property.

10. 5-STAR HOTEL ARRIVES IN PARRAMATTA WITH SKYE HOTEL SUITES
SKYE Hotel Suites Parramatta opens its doors this week, bringing unrivalled urban luxury to Sydney’s West. The highly-anticipated opening sees Crown Group lead the charge into Parramatta’s 5-star hotel market, elevating the suburb into Sydney’s second CBD.

IBEROSTAR Florida

IBEROSTAR opens new hotel in South Beach, Florida

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IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts, known for its luxurious four and five-star properties located in the most spectacular destinations around the world, has opened the doors of its second US hotel in Miami Beach, Florida.

The historic building, now renamed IBEROSTAR Berkeley, was fully renovated under a $43 million (£33 million) investment and is situated at 1610 Collins Avenue, right at the heart of South Beach.

The glamourous IBEROSTAR Berkeley features 96 brand-new, luxuriously designed guestrooms, including 20 premier rooms with balconies, a lush Sun Deck with spectacular views of Collins Avenue, and signature restaurant BLT Steak for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This pet-friendly hotel also offers a fully-equipped fitness room; a beautiful heated pool and deck with lounge area on the fourth floor; 24-hour room service; full housekeeping with turndown service; and beach club with towels, chairs and umbrellas; among other amenities and services. The standard and deluxe rooms feature one king and two queen size beds, respectively, as well as a minibar with snacks and soft drinks, onyx designer rain showers, comfortable workspaces with outlets and USB ports, and much more.

IBEROSTAR Berkeley is one of the new properties the brand has been developing within the urban segment, with a plan to reach a total of 15 in the next three years in key cities like Budapest, Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, New York, Havana, Santo Domingo and Lima, among others.

Arrow and Lines by Kobe

Kobe UK to showcase ranges at Sleep 2017

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Luxury fabric specialist, Kobe, will join other prestigious brands to introduce its new window décor, upholstery and soft furnishings collections at Sleep in November.

The two-day event takes place at the Business Design Centre in London where Kobe will unveil its latest ranges including its new room high and Boutique collections.

Kobe’s new range of room highs – the stylish, extra wide fabrics for window décor – are more than 300cm high with the pattern printed or woven horizontally across, making matching patterns and sewing seams a thing of the past.

The three new flame retardant collections include Arrow, a woven jacquard with a geometric pattern in 14 colours. Lines has a mix of matt and metallic look yarns in complementing and contrasting colours to create an all-over abstract design, available in 11 metallic tinted colourways.

Enchanted by Kobe
Buccari is a marquisette fabric woven with 100% Trevira CS yarns. The metallic look yarns create an elegant, supple fabric and come in 27 shades.

David Harris, managing director of Kobe UK, said: “We are excited to be part of Sleep again this year and to be showcasing our newest collections including Arrow and Lines.

“This season room highs will make a big impact. These fabrics make matching patterns and sewing seams a thing of the past and create striking, seamless drapes from ceiling to floor.”

Boutique Collection from Kobe UK

The Boutique collection of curtain and upholstery fabrics, is suitable for both domestic and contract use. This lavish mix of innovative textiles features sumptuous velvet, woven jacquard, cool cotton and a soft satin appearance. A palette of rich deep and softly nostalgic tones complements the geometric, floral, paisley and botanical patterns.

The collection includes Clemence and Adore, the former featuring a beautiful floral pattern on a subtle satin base and is available in three colours. Adore is woven with a range of vibrant coloured matt and shiny yarns, in a stunning paisley design to create a multi-dimensional effect on the damask pattern. It is available in eight colours.

Another range within the Boutique collection is Henry, a sumptuous velvet, made from 30% cotton, 20% polyester and 50% viscose. The palette of rich deep and neutral tones comes in a range of nine colours .

As Kobe’s Boutique upholstery collections are above 80% natural fibres, they are FR exempt when used in conjunction with a suitable flame retardant interliner. Alternatively they can be supplied with an ACE FR treatment which passes domestic upholstery (cigarette and match) BS5852 part 1, source 0 and 1, and contract upholstery (Crib 5) BS 5852 part 1, source 5 (Crib 5).

www.en.kobe.eu

T: 01344 771653
F: 01344 771663
E: salesuk@kobe.eu

Holiday Inn Express Tuxpan hotel

Holiday Inn Express arrives in Tuxpan, Mexico

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InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of the Holiday Inn Express Tuxpan hotel in Veracruz, Mexico. This new-build 132-room hotel is IHG’s third property in the city, with the Holiday Inn  and Crowne Plaza hotels already located nearby.

After the construction of the new Mexico-Tuxpan highway, Tuxpan is now the closest beach destination from Mexico City making it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and ecotourism adventures alike. The property also offers convenient access to the commercial and industrial areas, and it is a one-hour drive from El Tajin Archeological area.

The Holiday Inn Express Tuxpan hotel has a 24-hour fitness centre, indoor and outdoor children’s swimming pools, outdoor swimming pool for adults, meeting space and a spacious parking lot. Guest rooms have modern design, comfortable queen, king-size, or two double beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, 40” TV Flat Screen, iron and ironing board, minibar and an in-room coffee machine with complimentary coffee.

www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

Ames Boston

Historic Ames Boston Hotel reveals new luxury design

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Glen Coben, of NYC-based architecture & design firm, Glen and Co. Architecture has just finished the renovation and redesign of the 1893, Ames Boston Hotel, and the restaurant inside, Cultivar, taking the building’s original architecture and redesigning it to merge the past, present and future by blending modern elegance with its many preserved, original features, to create a combo of modern style and old-world sophistication.

The revitalised 15-story, 114-suite Ames Boston Hotel merges the past, present and future, offering a blend of modern style and old-world sophistication. Glen blended his designs with the many preserved, original features of the hotel, including the lobby’s tiled mosaic arched ceiling and a marble staircase that runs from the first floor to the roof.

The renovated lobby features sleek new check-in stations and a casual seating area accented by warmly-toned wood shelving and trim pieces. Adjacent to the revamped entryway is The Library, which boasts the same eye-catching, mid-century design scheme that begins in the lobby and serves as communal workspace.

The 114 guestrooms incorporate modern and timeless elements with a refreshed chic color palette that evokes a sense of calm and peace. The design of the 1,7000 SF event space, including the Oliver & Oakes room, serve as the ultimate customisable setting for personalised, intimate get-togethers, banquets and conferences, along with lounge, classroom and theater-style meetings and presentations.

www.ameshotel.com

Palm Springs to welcome Kimpton Hotel, as ‘Downtown’ redevelopment prepares to launch

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This November, the city of Palm Springs will see the official launch of its revamped ‘Downtown’, following a revitalisation project that has taken more than a decade in planning.

The multi-million pound development has already seen a number of restaurants, retailers and hotels open, with the eagerly anticipated opening of the new boutique hotel Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel still to come in October.

The project, overseen by Grit Development, will enhance the allure of the city, which is often referred to as ‘Hollywood’s playground’, attracting even more visitors to experience its renowned mid-century design, edgy Hollywood vibes, 350-plus days of sunshine and desert adventures.

Perhaps the crowning glory of the development, The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, whose design seamlessly mixes the brand’s luxury urban design with the mid-century modern characteristics of the city. Featuring 153 light-filled rooms, jaw-dropping views of the region’s desert oasis and the highest rooftop in the city, the seven-story building will be the first new build hotel in the city for a number of years.

Aside from indulging in the hotel’s design, rooftop pool, 4 Saints Restaurant, and dramatic vistas, guests will find plenty to entertain them within walking distance, including the Palm Springs Art Museum. For those looking for a little more adventure, the surrounding desert has the perfect day out, with the world’s largest rotating aerial tramway, the must-see Indian Canyons, off-road tours and range of hiking routes, to name but a few.

The downtown redevelopment has already celebrated the opening of women’s specialty clothing brand Free People, eclectic boutique Francesca’s, island-inspired Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar, along with a number of other brands.

www.visitpalmsprings.com

InterContinental Hong Kong

InterContinental Hong Kong to undergo a major renovation

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InterContinental Hong Kong is expected to close for a major renovation in the first quarter of 2019, with the entire renovation taking 12-16 months.

The hotel will undergo a spectacular transformation that will position it as one of the top hotels not only in Asia, but also as one of the world’s most iconic hotels.

InterContinental Hong KongThe total transformation will span all guest rooms and suites including bathrooms, all public areas, restaurants and event venues, as well as a redesign of the building façade with a contemporary new look.

InterContinental Hong KongThe hotel’s celebrated restaurants and event venues are anticipated to reopen in the evenings from late summer 2019. Yan Toh Heen, InterContinental Hong Kong’s 2-Michelin star Cantonese restaurant, will remain open for dinner throughout the renovation.

IntercityHotel Frankfurt

A new IntercityHotel for Frankfurt city centre

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The new IntercityHotel Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof Süd will open for business by the beginning of 2019.

Offering 400 guest rooms, six conference rooms, a bar and a restaurant, it will become the largest hotel to operate under the IntercityHotel brand and will also feature the new interior design concept created by the Italian architect Matteo Thun.

The building which will house the hotel is currently under construction as part of a major regeneration scheme for a larger site lying to the South of Frankfurt Main Station, progress on which can be viewed via a special webcam.

The IntercityHotel Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof Süd will be located within the direct proximity of a new bus station offering inter-city services and near a newly constructed multi-storey public car park.

Radisson BLU Hotel Belgrade

Hotel Group Spotlight: Radisson Blu

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Unique architecture and interiors, combined with a rich history and heritage, form the foundations of these eight hotels within the upscale Radisson Blu collection, which are located in some of Europe’s most popular, dynamic and stylish cities.

These include Radisson Blu Strand Hotel, Stockholm; Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Copenhagen; Radisson Blu Old Mill Hotel, Belgrade; Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam; Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt; Radisson Blu Hotel, Berlin, Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado and Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport.

With interiors by acclaimed designers, creative culinary concepts by world-renowned chefs and housed within architecturally striking or deeply historic buildings; these hotels effortlessly blend a sense of place with an innovative and inspirational approach towards hospitality. With an eye firmly on the future, 2017 and 2018 will see fresh enhancements to hotels within the collection, the launch of creative collaborations and exciting brand developments; making the brand the one to watch in the hotel world.

Radisson Blu Strand Hotel, Stockholm
Stylish Nordic design meets a rich history dating back to 1912, when the 170-bedroom hotel first opened its doors; since which it has played host to the great and the good, from Ingrid Bergman to Greta Garbo and Zara Larsson. Sky high luxury can be enjoyed in the Tower Suite with panoramic views over Stockholm, whilst Autumn will see the hotel welcome a new culinary hot-spot, The Strand. Within walking distance of the hotel, guests will find the best of the city’s shopping, nightlife and cultural experiences.

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Copenhagen
Renowned Danish architect Arne Jacobsen designed the sleek, modern Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Copenhagen, which is just a short walk from some of this Danish capital’s top attractions such as the Tivoli Gardens. Iconic design features include the hotel’s spiral staircase and unique “Swan” and “Egg” chairs. Guests can expect an iconic design-led experience throughout the 260 room and suite hotel, with memorable moments created by a world-class service delivery from the dedicated team.

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Copenhagen
Radisson Blu Old Mill Hotel, Belgrade
Industrial-chic awaits at this award-winning design hotel in emerging tourism destination Belgrade. Behind the design is Graft Architects who’s use of natural materials such as oak, copper and brick, combined with contemporary touches, have breathed life into this historic 19th century building. Guests can enjoy Serbian inspired dishes at the hotel’s OMB LARDER + LOUNGE and explore this lively city, beautiful lakes and beaches.

Radisson BLU Hotel Belgrade

Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam
This 18th century former merchants house encapsulates the maritime heritage of Amsterdam and is embraced on either side by two canals. History meets modernity in the one-of-a-kind suites and Pastorie Bar, which was once connected to a clandestine church and is now known for its insta-factor. Locally, guests can shop along the Nine Streets, full of one-off boutiques and galleries and quirky independent stores.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt
The only round, all-glass hotel in Europe cost over $100 million to build and is a true architectural wonder, both outside and in, with interiors designed by dynamic trio John Seifert, Adam Tihany and Matteo Thun. Two new WOHNIDEE Suites launched in March, a creative collaboration between Wohnidee Magazine and Joi-Design with items in the suites available to purchase. 16 state-of-the-art conference rooms including one Brain Box room and show rooms for car launches.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Berlin
Guests can expect a truly unique arrival at Radisson Blu Hotel Berlin, where sophistication and sea life await. The hotel lobby is home to the world’s largest freestanding cylindrical aquarium, the AquaDom. After a day spent exploring Berlin and its eclectic art and fashion scene, guests can relax and unwind at the hotel’s Heaven Spa & Fitness, complete with a bio and Finnish sauna, swimming pool and spa treatments. The hotel boasts 15 state-of-the-art meeting rooms, including the DomLounge for sky-high views.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado
This boutique 54 bedroom and suite hotel in the El Barrio de las Lestras district provides guests with a stylish base in the heart of cosmopolitan Madrid. After a day spent experiencing the sights and sounds of the city, including the nearby Prado Museum and Retiro Park, guests can relax and unwind with a drink in hand at the hotel’s Cask Restaurant, Bar and Terrace. Down below the hotel, a swimming pool and spa can be found.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport
The only hotel with direct access to the terminal at Zurich Airport is also just a 10-minute train ride into down-town Zurich and offers Switzerland’s largest meeting and conference facilities with 52 different spaces. Come February 2018, guests will be treated to an exciting new culinary concept by Chef Haim Cohen, who is known for fine dining with contemporary Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. The exterior was designed by Atelier WW Architekten and is a Swiss landmark.

Radisson Blu ZurichWith thanks to Grifco PR, which has been appointed by The Rezidor Hotel Group to handle the consumer public relations for selected Radisson Blu hotels.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa introduces new villas

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This year, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is excited to offer families more space and couples more privacy with the launch of two new luxury villa categories, including the resort’s first two-bedroom family villas and more villas with private pools.

Since the five-star resort welcomed its first guests in 2009 it has undergone several refurbishments to offer guests the ultimate luxury Maldivian experience and this latest project, expected to finish in October 2017, is no different.

Hadahaa’s renovation work is currently underway and will take place in two phases while the stunning Maldivian resort stays open to guests. Once complete, guests will have the choice of six room categories, including the new Deluxe Park Pool Villas and 2 Bedroom Park Pool Villas. In addition to the resort’s babysitting, yoga, snorkelling and junior PADI diving already offered for children, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa will launch a brand-new family offering, including daily kids activities, new kids’ welcome packs and a complimentary babysitting service to allow parents to enjoy some quality time as a couple. These additional family offerings will compliment these new villas, which are ideal for families looking for a holiday in the Maldives.

Park Hyatt Maldives HadahaaDeluxe Park Pool Villas
With an additional 100 square metres of space, the eight new Deluxe Park Pool Villas will offer guests a more spacious and luxurious experience than Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa’s existing Park Pool Villas. Nestled within natural lush vegetation, the new 265 square-metre timber and stone villas will boast floor-to-ceiling windows and a private outdoor bathroom, with a terrazzo bathtub and rain shower. The villa’s very own plunge pool and semi submerged sunbeds will offer guests the ideal place to cool off in ultimate comfort, surrounded by peaceful and idyllic surrounds. Guests can relax and enjoy an intimate evening drink in the villa’s tranquil outdoor seating area or take advantage of the soft sandy beach with two loungers just a few steps away via a private pathway.

2 Bedroom Park Pool Villas
For the first time, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is delighted to offer families the chance to stay at the resort under the same roof, with the introduction of three new 2 Bedroom Park Pool Villas. Set within Maldivian greenery, these villas will include a second bedroom with twin beds and an additional bathroom, so families can enjoy precious time away together, without compromising on space, style, luxury or comfort. Both bedrooms are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows and the master bedroom features a king bed with an outdoor terrazzo bathtub and rain shower. The private plunge pool is perfect for children to play in, while parents can relax on the two semi submerged sunbeds or cosy up with a book in the outdoor seating area. With private beach access, fun and games in the sand and sea are only a stone’s throw away.

Park Hyatt Maldives HadahaaWith these exciting new villa options and much more planned to accommodate families, there has never been a better time to take time out for a family holiday and visit Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa.

Mateus Boutique Goa

Mateus Boutique Hotel in Goa converted

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A heritage-listed Portuguese mansion built in 1879 has recently been renovated into a high-end boutique hotel in Panjim, located in the centre of Goa.

Jonathan Fernandes, a New York based architect and internationally renowned interior designer Isla Van Damme (aka Loulou), wove their magic into the building’s interiors to transform the property from its dilapidated state to its former glory, and what is now Mateus Boutique Hotel.

The Mateus Boutique hotel has nine elegantly appointed rooms. Each room is uniquely designed in keeping with an old Portuguese feel with Loulou exploiting the intrinsic beauty of the little nooks, niches and lofts that are scattered throughout the mansion. Jonathan and Loulou have kept the old-world elegance and mixed it with a splash of new and modern amenities to create a luxurious home away from home.

The mansion looks majestic from the outside with framed arched windows, ornate balconies and stucco mouldings. The inside is breathtaking with high ceilings, little niches that add character and the flooring is a combination of the old Portuguese tiles and the original timber flooring.

www.mateusgoa.com

Niu Mannheim

niu settles in Mannheim with a new opening

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Mannheim proudly presents its new project of the coming year. The NOVUM Hotel Group, together with the project developer GBl AG, is planning a Millennial brand niu hotel on Seckenheimer street near the historic city centre.

The opening of this 170-room hotel is scheduled for November 2018. Together with GBI AG, the Hamburg group is already planning several hotel projects.

The facade is being designed by the Prasch Buken Partner architect”s office and JOI-Design is responsible for the interior design.

“The strategic selection of our location is the most important part of our dynamic expansion. Mannheim is the economic and cultural center of the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan region and is located directly in the “Dreiländereck”, the tri-border area,” says David Etmenan, Chief Executive Officer & owner of the NOVUM Hotel Group.

Project Spotlight: nAscent artwork on display at Hotel 50 Bowery

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Artwork by nAscent Art New York helped new Chinatown hotel, Hotel 50 Bowery, show off its roots at its June opening.

nAscent curated public area artwork for the hotel reflecting the Chinatown neighborhood and deeply rooted Asian culture. nAscent Art included artwork by Nick Golebiewski, Jonathan Clark, and Beijing-based street artist, Dake Wong, whose artwork added a fresh twist on traditional Chinese culture.

50 Bowery Corridor
“We’re thrilled to see the fruition of our work with Hotel 50 Bowery, adding to Chinatown’s rich history in lower Manhattan,” said James Wallace, CEO of nAscent Art.

“We chose artwork complementing the hotel’s bold design by Wimberly Interiors, while also paying homage to the heritage of the developers and of the area,” says Jen Wallace, co-founder and director of art at nAscent Art. “In addition to the artwork we installed on the walls, we really enjoyed working with Joie De Vivre Hotels, who had one of the artists ‘hijack’ the hotel’s social media accounts and give guests an insider’s look at the artist in action. Innovative and exciting.”

50 Bowery diptych
The 229-room boutique hotel was developed by Chu Enterprises and is owned by two families with deep roots in the Asian community—the Harilela family in Hong Kong and the Chu family in New York.

For its New York City debut, Joie De Vivre Hotels collaborated with Alex Chu Enterprises, LLC to bring Hotel 50 Bowery—the tallest building the historic heart of Lower Manhattan has seen since the Confucius Plaza completed in 1975—to rise.

Denise Ellis

In Conversation: Denise Ellis discusses ever-changing hotel design

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Head of interior design and conservation at Nottingham-based Franklin Ellis Architects, Denise Ellis, who has worked with the firm for over 24 years, is a heavyweight in the hotel interior design industry.

Having worked with international brands though to independents including Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Best Western, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites, Denise discusses the ever-changing sector and the changes that influence hotel interior design.


“The hotel sector has changed hugely since I began working for Franklin Ellis Architects. Whilst the firm and I have work on projects across a range of sectors, hotels are 90% of what I do and are my passion. Guests reactions to the interior of a hotel is driven by emotion and having worked on over 25 hotel projects, I have a clear vision of the type of emotions and responses I want to gain from people as they step over the threshold of a hotel for the first time.

“Each project is very different and the hotel industry is an extremely competitive and ever-changing market which means the owners are having to up their game and constantly renew their offering. Over the last 10 years, hotel design has changed considerably and this is down to the wider trends that affect our day to day lives; like how we communicate, how we spend our free time, technology and fashion. For example, you won’t find many (good) hotels that don’t have plenty of power points, phone charge ports and fast Wi-Fi in communal areas.

“Unlike 10 years ago, most hotels, large or small, now strive to offer an intimate setting for its guests. Hotels are looking to create an experience that the customers will enjoy but also remember, so they return. Previously hotels were more of a necessity and while they did of course create spaces guests wanted to be, hotels were more focussed on formality and minimalism.

“Today, most hotels try to create a home-from-home with a level of informality and relaxation to cater to a range of customers and their demands. Brands now have a wider food and drink offer to suit more informed palettes, state of the art gyms and spas are much more common place, more communal areas and break-out spaces have been created for people to work as well as quiet spaces for those who want to read or work in a more private setting.


“Hotels are investing much more than they used to in the restaurants and bars, doing all they can to attract not just guests to eat and drink in the hotel but to also non-guests.

“People expect more from their hotel visits now too, discerning customers like to have something to aspire to for their own homes such as high-end soft furnishing, quirky decoration and cool lighting for example. Hotel interior design must take on the many demands of today’s customers and create spaces that are not only functional but awe-inspiring and memorable.


“My inspiration comes from all around me. I believe the element that makes a hotel unique and interesting is its location and sense of place. I try to make sure that the interior design in some way reflects the community around to create an instant connection. Hotels, including large multi-nationals, are adding elements to the interiors that are relevant to that local are; be it paintings of local landmarks or items that are made locally, hotels want to integrate into its surrounding area and be a part of the local community.

Hotel Summit

Hotel Summit to return in 2018

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Forum Events is delighted to announce the return of the Hotel Summit in 2018. Hotel Designs is a proud partner of the event, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.

Taking place on 4-5 June 2018 at Radisson Blu London Stansted, the Hotel Summit is specifically organised for senior professionals who are directly responsible for procuring and purchasing within their organisation, and those who provide the latest products within the sector.

Aiming to build long-lasting business relationships between product and service suppliers and hotel owners and designers, the Summit matches hoteliers with hotel suppliers for a series of pre-arranged one-on-one meetings. In addition, a series of informative and inspirational seminars are hosted, while a gala dinner with evening entertainment, plus other networking opportunities, provide further business opportunities and peer-to-peer engagement.

One of the highlights of the 2016 incarnation was the news that Global Design Concepts quoted a £1 million project as a result of meetings at the Summit. And the success of the event was echoed by delegates and suppliers who attended.

For more information or to enquire about booking a place, please contact Jennie Lane on 01992 374098 or j.lane@forumevents.co.uk

www.hotel-summit.co.uk

Roxy-Pacific acquires second hotel asset in Japan

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Established property and hospitality group with an AsiaPacific focus, Roxy-Pacific Holdings, has announced the acquisition of its second hotel asset in Japan, Tenmabashi Grand Hotel Osaka.

Launched in May 2017, the 154-room Tenmabashi Grand Hotel Osaka is an 8-minute walk away from Tenjibashi shopping street – the longest shopping street in Japan. Nearby tourist hotspots include the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, Osaka Castle Park, as well as the famous Cherry Blossoms at the Osaka Mint Bureau.

The 9-storey hotel comprising 3,672-square-metres of total floor area will, upon completion of the acquisition in October 2017, be self-managed by the Group’s Noku Roxy hospitality management arm, which currently operates a boutique hotel in Kyoto, Japan – Noku Kyoto.

Through its furnishings and curated list of attractions and F&B offerings in the vicinity, the Noku Roxy brand aims to showcase the best version of the city, as well as hidden gems only visited by the locals. Attention to detail and personalised experiences also create a differentiated stay for guests.

Osaka received a record number of foreign visitors in 2016 exceeding 9.4 million, representing a 31% hike from 20152. The city also boasts one of the highest hotel occupancy rates of any major city in Japan.

Amongst the Noku Roxy hospitality brand asset pipeline includes a 50-villa resort in Maldives, and a separate resort in the Chalong sub-district of Phuket, Thailand, planned for launch in the last quarter of 2017 and 2019, respectively.

Hotel Santiago

Mandarin Oriental enters South America with Hotel Santiago

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Hotel Santiago has opened under Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group management, following the Group’s announcement in May. Formerly the Grand Hyatt Santiago, the property will undergo an extensive guestroom and public area renovation, the first stage of which is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2018.

The hotel will remain open throughout the period, and is now accepting reservations. This is the Group’s first property in South America.

The property comprises 310 guestrooms including 23 suites with commanding views of the city and the Andes. Its 25,000-square-metre grounds contain a large free-form outdoor pool and landscaped gardens which provide a resort environment for guests. The hotel currently features five restaurants and bars as well as extensive banqueting and meeting space. Additional facilities include a spa and fitness centre.

Hotel Santiago will continue to operate throughout the first phase of the renovation which will reposition the property as a Mandarin Oriental hotel in the third quarter of 2018. The new luxury accommodation, public areas and landscaped gardens will be redesigned to reflect local culture, with features inspired by Mandarin Oriental’s Asian heritage.

Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza announced

Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza announced

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Hilton has announced that ONE UN New York will join the Hilton network as Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza on August 30 as Hilton Hotels & Resorts’ seventh local property.

The landmark hotel, situated alongside the United Nations headquarters, has long welcomed both leisure and business travellers, and the world’s most esteemed leaders, diplomats and heads of state.

The iconic property is now poised to deliver Hilton’s flagship hospitality to visitors from across the globe.

It has completed a $68 million phased renovation since 2012, which preserved the distinctive architecture and layout of the original Kevin Roche-designed building, while upgrading the hotel’s 439 guest rooms and suites, meetings and event spaces, public areas and restaurant.

Fun fact: I’m usually the person friends rely on to organise trips, schedules, and group plans.

Workhighlights: Successfully coordinating events from planning through to delivery and seeing everything come together on the day.

Fun fact: I’m a keen cyclist and will happily bore people with copious amounts of cycling chat. My top cycling experience (so far) would have to be riding in the spectacular mountains of Crete.

Work highlights: Charles joined Forum Events in 2022. With a background in publishing, editorial media and events, Charles brings a wealth of experience to his role as Senior Production Manager. Having being involved with SPACE from the outset, he is excited to see the brand grow and develop.

Fun fact: People tell Sienna she gives off Bridget Jones vibes, and she loves to bake, always making sure there are shortbreads floating around the office

Work highlights: Sienna joined Forum Events & Media Group while studying Communications and Media, starting in the sales team where she managed and helped launch the first the PA Life Leading Venues of London SHOWCASE, where she built relationships with luxury venues across the capital. Drawn to the stories behind these spaces, she naturally transitioned into the editorial team, creating social media and editorial content. Upon graduating in June 2026, she is excited to be joining as Assistant Editor for Hotel Designs and SPACE.

Fun fact: When not working, Jess can usually be found tending to her kitchen garden in the Sussex countryside or foraging for herbs in the nearby woods. A keen grower, she recently studied a RHS Level 2 Diploma in the Principles of Horticulture during her spare time.

Work highlights: Jess joined SPACE magazine in 2022 and has since progressed from Assistant Editor to Editor. During this time, she has worked across many aspects of the publication – from shaping editorial strategy and overseeing operations to contributing to art direction and representing the brand on stage at industry events including Surface Design Show and WOW!house.

Alongside her role at SPACE, Jess has built a creative career spanning the arts, culture, design and travel sectors. Prior to joining the magazine, she spent more than a decade in the commercial art industry, in artist liaison, gallery management, and curating collections for the hospitality sector across hotels and cruise ships. During this time, she also worked on freelance projects as a writer, photographer, and creative content producer.
 
Jess studied photojournalism at London College of Communication and the Danish School of Media and Journalism and holds a first-class BA (Hons) in Culture, Criticism and Curation from Central Saint Martins.

Fun fact: Katy has spent years perfecting all kinds of accents and loves a good impersonation!

Work highlights: Katy has been with Hotel Designs since the beginning, way back in 2015 when Forum Events & Media Group acquired the brand.

During this time, she has fostered many meaningful relationships with clients from across the hospitality spectrum, as well as playing a pivotal role in the launch of The Brit List Awards, Hotel Designs MEET UPs, client-led roundtables and panel talks, brand and website redesigns, HD Wellness Sets, DESIGN POD podcast, Hotel Designs LIVE panel talk series, Accessible Design Talks and more. Katy is always on the lookout for the next opportunity to help grow the Hotel Designs brand even further.
 
Most recently Katy has stepped in to the role of Publisher at SPACE magazine, the printed bi-monthly publication focused on hotel design, architecture, and development.

Together these platforms offer a comprehensive 360-degree service encompassing digital media, print publishing, and live events – providing unparalleled value to advertisers, partners, and readers alike.