Hotel Designs

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the opening of the Holiday Inn® Cúcuta hotel. The new build, 98-room hotel is IHG’s first property in the city of Cúcuta and the fourth Holiday Inn hotel in Colombia. Amenities at the Holiday Inn Cúcuta hotel include an outdoor swimming pool, a fully-equipped fitness centre and more than 2,400 square feet of meeting space with capacity for 450 people. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Madeira, which offers various local and regional dishes.

The hotel is located in the city of Cúcuta, the capital of Norte de Santander and the sixth largest city in Colombia. The city is an important commercial centre and is notable for bilateral trade and manufacturing. The Holiday Inn Cúcuta hotel is conveniently situated in front of the city’s largest shopping mall, Ventura Plaza Centro Comercial, near the city’s top business district and only 15 minutes away from Cúcuta International Airport.

Gerardo Murray, Regional Vice President, Distribution and Commercial Marketing, Mexico, Latin America and The Caribbean, IHG, said: “We are very pleased to introduce the Holiday Inn brand to Cúcuta in conjunction with Grupo Suites S.A. With its close proximity to Venezuela, Cúcuta is well positioned to benefit from the increasing trade market between Colombia and Venezuela, and we have no doubt that this hotel will meet the needs of guests travelling to the city for business.”
The Holiday Inn brand opened the doors of its first hotel in 1952 and since then, has been making travel more enjoyable for generations of travellers all over the world. Whether on the journey of a lifetime, a family vacation or business, guests know they can expect the contemporary design, modern amenities, and warm, welcoming service that distinguish the Holiday Inn brand.

Holiday Inn Cúcuta hotel, located at Calle 11a #1e-132, is owned by Grupo Suites S.A. and is managed by Cúcuta Suites S.A.S.

Results for the Year Ended 31 December 2014

New customer experience driving strong growthFinancial Highlights
• RevPar(1) up 16.8% to £34.24 (2013: £29.32); outperforming the market
• Total revenue up 14.9% to £497.2m (2013: £432.6m)
• Average room rate(1) up 15.1% to £45.33
• Occupancy(1) up 1.0 percentage point to 75.5%
• EBITDA(2) up 63.5% to £66.2m (2013: £40.5m)

Operational Highlights
• £100m modernisation programme now nearing completion
• 90% of UK guest rooms now modernised with new room design
• Average Trip Advisor score of 4 out of 5 stars at modernised hotels
• Improved quality driving strong growth from business customers
• Excellent progress on centralised yield management driving rate

Q1 2015 Trading and Outlook
• Strong momentum and outperformance continued into the new year
• Q1 UK RevPar(1) up 17.6%(3) on prior year (STR Mid & Econ. Market 10.7%)
• EBITDA(2) for the 12 months to the end of Q1 2015 of £77.3m(3)
• 15 new hotels expected to open in 2015 with 5 already open
• On-track to continue our turnaround and deliver further growth

Peter Gowers, Travelodge Chief Executive commented: “The value hotel market is performing well and new Travelodge is delivering strong outperformance. Our £100m modernisation programme is nearing completion. New king-size Travelodge Dreamer® Beds have been introduced in every UK hotel and 90% of our UK rooms now feature our new room design. Customer feedback on our changes has been excellent and we have seen strong growth from business customers. The improved guest experience and effective yield management have led to significant profit growth.”

“The momentum we saw in 2014 has continued into the new year and we have seen an encouraging start to 2015. The value hotel market remains strong and we continue to outperform our competitive set. We see considerable potential for further like-for-like sales growth and are targeting the roll out of the brand to at least 250 further sites across the UK.”

Financial Performance
Our new Travelodge strategy to improve quality levels and drive effective yield management is delivering strong results, with significant outperformance of our market segment.

2014 RevPar was up 16.8% to £34.24, outperforming the Smith Travel Research Midscale and Economy Sector growth for the same period of 12.3%.
Substantial improvements in our room product fuelled significant growth from business customers and these trends, together with effective yield management led to a 15.1% increase in our average room rates to £45.33 (2013: £39.38). Occupancy was also up by 1.0 percentage point, to 75.5% (2013: 74.5%).

Growth was particularly strong in the UK regions, where the economic recovery gathers pace and we continue to outperform.

Total revenues were up 14.9% to £497.2m. With costs tightly controlled, 2014 EBITDA was up 63.5% to £66.2m.

Our strong momentum and outperformance continued into the first quarter of 2015.
For the 12 months to the end of Q1 2015, EBITDA increased to £77.3m.

Operational Review
We have made excellent progress on the ‘new Travelodge’ strategy set out in 2013.

Encouraged by the early returns from our modernisation programme, we took the decision in early 2014 to accelerate the roll-out of our new-look room design and to install the new Travelodge Dreamer® beds in every UK hotel by October 2014.

90% of UK rooms now feature the new look and feel. Customer feedback has been excellent, with a Trip Advisor score of 4 out of 5 stars at our modernised hotels.

We commenced our first advertising campaign for 4 years in mid-2014 to reinvigorate our brand, which is one of the best known in the UK with 90.5% recognition. Our strong direct distribution model, with almost 80% of reservations made online direct with Travelodge, led to almost 1 million visits to the website every week.

We opened five new hotels (515 rooms) in 2014 and closed the year with 38,430 rooms across the UK, Spain and Ireland.

We expect to open fifteen new hotels with a further 1,300 rooms in 2015.

The new hotels for 2015 include London locations at Wembley (opened in February), Richmond and Greenwich; a new central Glasgow property and key regional locations including the Thames Valley tech corridor, Southampton (opened in March) and Bristol.

We have identified potential for more than 250 further hotels across the UK, with the new hotels expected to support the creation of more than 3,000 new jobs.

Secondary market sales for Travelodge hotels have been strong and our shareholders acquired 144 Travelodge hotels from independent landlords during 2014.

Carlson Rezidor announces the very first Radisson Red in Europe, the Middle East and Africa: the group’s new upscale lifestyle select brand launches in Cape Town, South Africa. The Radisson Red Hotel V&A Waterfront will open in late 2016 and be located at the V&A Waterfront, with 24 million visitors per annum one of Africa’s most visited cultural and historical hubs. Set on the edge of a natural harbour with the Table Mountain as its backdrop, the V&A Waterfront offers a cosmopolitan mix of experiences ranging from shopping to exclusive entertainment. It also features prime residential and commercial property. The signing also strengthens Carlson Rezidor’s presence in Cape Town where the group now operates 5 hotels with almost 800 rooms of the brands Radisson Blu, Radisson Red and Park Inn by Radisson, and further solidifies Carlson Rezidor’s African pipeline: with 30 hotels and 6,500 rooms the company has the largest pipeline of hotels and rooms under development on the entire continent.

Featuring offers and services such as flexible, functional guest rooms, paperless check in, and 24/7 deli & bar, Radisson Red highlights a new hotel philosophy. “This transaction marks the launch of our brand in a key destination. Radisson Red complements our global brand portfolio ranging from mid-scale to luxury, and unlocks commercial value by capturing the growing guest segment of the millennial travellers. Set for ambitious growth in urban locations, the brand targets 60+ hotels worldwide by the year 2020”, commented Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer of Rezidor.

The Radisson Red Hotel V&A Waterfront will form part of the new “Silo District” of the V&A Waterfront that will also be home to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA). Designed by Thomas Heatherwick of Heatherwick Studio in London, the museum is scheduled to open in late 2016. The founding collection is that of German businessman Jochen Zeitz, gifted in perpetuity to the museum. Art connoisseurs already place MOCAA in the same category as the Metropolitan Museum in New York.

Besides 235 guest rooms which include Studios, Studio 4’s and Studio Sweets, the Radisson Red will offer a “Redeli” and a “Ouibar” where tempting taster plates, wine & beer and bottled cocktails will be available 24/7. Business travellers will benefit from 5 meeting event studios with an area of 460sqm. And after a long day of meetings or sightseeing in Cape Town, guests can relax in the “Red Face” fitness studio and rooftop swimming pool or enjoy a sunset cocktail with DJ performances at the hotel’s rooftop garden terrace and bar.

The site is also located in walking distance of the Cape Town Convention Centre (CTICC) which hosts all major meetings and events in the city. The V&A Waterfront is easily accessible by car, train, ship and helicopter, and is 20km away from Cape Town’s International Airport.

The Radisson Red Hotel V&A Waterfront Cape Town will be operated by The Rezidor Hotel Group.

GROHE is delighted to unveil its new complete stylish cubic solution for the bathroom, offering sleek geometric designs for bath mixers, showers, thermostats and accessories. The range provides a sophisticated and luxurious one-stop brassware solution for customers looking to create a statement in their bathroom. Included in the new range is the Grohtherm Cube thermostat, which combines the high quality, safety and technology expected from all GROHE products, now packaged in a stylish cubic design. The Grohtherm Cube features GROHE’s innovative and precision engineered Turbostat technology to deliver a safe and enjoyable showering experience.

The Grohtherm Cube can be paired with GROHE’s new Euphoria shower system, featuring a cube hand held shower and a luxurious XL square fixed rainshower. The shower is equipped with GROHE’s DreamSpray technology, to help the user achieve ultimate relaxation. GROHE’s Eurocube bath mixers coordinate perfectly with the design.

To complete the look, GROHE now provides Essential Cube accessories. From soap dishes to dressing gown hooks, all the accessories are designed in the same distinctive cubic style for a beautiful and striking bathroom.

GROHE’s Cube brassware range delivers effortless sophistication and style, to make a statement in the bathroom.

Click here to contact GROHE via their website: www.grohe.com/uk

Qatar Airways has acquired the Novotel Edinburgh Park Hotel in Scotland, one of the best-located hotels for travellers to Edinburgh and an excellent base for exploring the rest of Scotland. The hotel will continue to be managed and operated under the Novotel brand by Accor which operates more than 3,700 quality hotels worldwide.The Novotel Edinburgh Park marks the second hotel acquisition by Qatar Airways outside of Qatar, where it owns the five-star Oryx Rotana Hotel in Doha and runs the new airside Hamad International Airport Hotel. The first acquisition, earlier this year, was the Sheraton Skyline Hotel at Heathrow Airport in London.

The Novotel Edinburgh Park, a four-star property located on Lochside Avenue, adjacent to the Edinburgh Business Park, and conveniently located near to Edinburgh International Airport, has a direct tram link to both the airport as well as Edinburgh city centre. The Hotel is on the doorstep of Edinburgh Business Park, widely acknowledged as Scotland’s premier business park, which currently boasts 7,000 employees in blue chip companies, making the hotel the ideal stay for business travellers, and attendees at business events and conferences, as well as tourists, due to its easy access to the highway network, tram and train stations. The hotel is within 15 minutes of the airport and 25 minutes of the city centre by tram.

The hotel offers 170 high quality rooms and suites; five purpose-designed, fully equipped and flexible meeting rooms for up to 170 people theatre style; an indoor pool, gym, and sauna; and food and beverage offerings. All bedrooms are equipped with an en-suite bath/shower, sofa bed, ergonomic work area, LCD TV and Wi-Fi connection. Executive rooms also feature an Espresso machine, iPod docking station and extra amenities. The Novotel Edinburgh Park also offers 95 parking spaces, for Park & Fly passengers.

The hotel will provide Qatar Airways’ guests from around the world with end-to-end comfort when visiting Scotland for business or pleasure. This is consistent with Qatar Airways premium traveller experience and strategy of expanding into the hotel business, delivering quality and convenience to passengers travelling on its modern fleet. The purchase of the Novotel Edinburgh Park is part of that overall service offering and growth strategy, which is expected to include further hotels in key destinations.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “The Novotel Edinburgh Park is an excellent addition to our travel portfolio, complementing our five-star hotel the Oryx Rotana in Doha and Sheraton Skyline Hotel Heathrow, making it easy for passengers who wish to spend some time in Edinburgh before travelling further afield in Scotland.”

Qatar Airways has won many awards for the quality of its service in the skies, including World’s Best Business Class at the latest Business Traveller Awards in 2014.

Morgans Hotel Group Co., has recently announced its partnership with IFA Hotels & Resorts (IFA HR) to bring the Delano brand to the Middle East with Delano Dubai. Scheduled to open in 2017 as the third hotel in the Delano portfolio, Delano Dubai’s 110-key deluxe hotel apartment property will be situated on Palm Jumeirah and will form part of a contemporary mixed-used resort development known as The8.“Dubai is an ideal destination for us to debut our first Delano property in the Middle East,” said Jason Kalisman, Interim CEO of Morgans Hotel Group. “The location and resort concept speaks to the Delano guest experience of providing an oasis of sensuality and soul, and where sophistication and ease seamlessly blend with timeless design. Delano Dubai’s prime beachfront island location on Palm Jumeirah will have a sleek contemporary design and upscale resort facilities which will attract an international clientele who embrace style, elegance and luxury.”

The 110 distinctive apartments will include one, two, and three bedroom units with furnishings and fittings curated to the highest standards as well as a unique Presidential Suite. Guests of the Delano Dubai property will feel a sense of familiarity and affinity with the original Delano properties in South Beach, Miami and Las Vegas – all of which have a clean, elegant contemporary aesthetic and an evocative nature.

“Managing this hotel with their specialist asset management, IFA Hotel Investments, will enable us to benefit from their extensive experience in development and operations in this market, and allow us to work together to redefine Dubai’s resort scene,” continued Kalisman.

The8 is currently under construction and will feature both the Delano-branded hotel apartments, as well as other stand-alone residential properties offering diverse facilities and entertainment. IFA Hotel Investments (IFA HI) will oversee the asset management and operational aspect of the development. Launched in 2014, The8 has been architecturally designed as ultra-sleek and modern, drawing inspiration from the fashion, design, and lifestyle elements of Miami’s South Beach. The8 will contain resort-style facilities including extensive water-sports, a gym, tennis courts, a signature beachfront restaurant, beach cabanas, barbecue and event areas, as well as dedicated amenities for young families.

“The selection process saw many international brands interested in the project and I am delighted with the final choice of the Delano brand, backed by Morgans Hotel Groups’ expertise,” said Joe Sita, IFA HI CEO, who led the extensive operator search with the asset advisory team. “The entrance of the Delano brand into this region, working alongside our residential services teams, will augment a growing brand implementation strategy within the city.”

“This new management agreement with Morgans Hotel Group, one of the world’s most celebrated boutique hotel brands, brings a new design aesthetic and style of service to the region,” said Khaled Esbaitah, CEO IFA HR Middle East. “We sought to ensure that whichever operator was brought in to manage the hotel apartments facilities located within The8 complex would add significantly to the development’s offer. We feel that with the Delano as part of The8 complex, we have achieved the perfect match.”

The Chalon chair from GALLERY DIRECT’s Hudson Living range is a timeless button back chair designed to give an elegant feel to a room. Upholstered in a luxurious velvet fabric, the chair has an ultra comfortable feather topped seat. Also available is the Chalon Ottoman, a stylish chesterfield style footstool designed to complement the chair for the complete luxury look.

Both the chair and the footstool are manufactured in a choice of two sophisticated colours, Mocha and Deep Teal.

The new Stockholm from Gallery Direct’s Hudson Living range offers a natural take on a contemporary design. Made using recycled Teak samplings with a dry sealed finish, the Stockholm makes an unusual and eye-catching addition to a room, displaying the natural beauty of the wood. The table is available in 2 sizes, a coffee table and a side table.

Gallery’s new Hudson Living furniture collection is a range of design led, personality pieces that combine the best of traditional craftsmanship with new technology and exciting materials.

+44 (0) 17 95 43 91 59
Click here to contact Gallery Direct: http://www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Worldhotels has welcomed seven new hotels to its global portfolio in the first quarter of 2015. The new additions are comprised of five hotels in Europe and two in Asia – and include hotels in new Worldhotels destinations. In order to become part of the global Worldhotels portfolio, the hotels must meet the group’s high quality standards. In addition, applicants have to fit the strategic objectives of Worldhotels.

“We are strategically developing our portfolio to add new key destinations and reinforce destinations with high potential”, says Geoff Andrew, Chief Operating Officer at Worldhotels. “At our size, we need to carefully consider how we grow our portfolio. Our development strategy has to reflect our focus on quality over quantity.”

The latest hotels in Asia include Hotel Sav in the centre of Hong Kong as well as Hotel Luna in Vigan City, Philippines – a new Worldhotels destination. The additions in Europe complement Worldhotels’ portfolio in popular destinations such as Paris and Amsterdam as well as expand the group to new cities such as Bardolino in Italy. They are: Worldhotel Wings Rotterdam; Amsterdam Tropen Hotel in Amsterdam; Victoria Palace Hotel in Paris; Swiss Diamond Hotel Lugano in Vico Morcote, Switzerland; and Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme in Bardolino, Italy.

All of them share their trust in Worldhotels’ distinctive business model, which offers independent hotels and local hotel groups the exposure and commercial strength of an international chain, whilst leaving them full operational freedom. In addition to that, the hotels rely on Worldhotels’ global sales office footprint to help them expand their international reach.

A ‘Boutique Spa’ by definition sets a level of expectation that it will be compact and bijou. When you arrive at Milford Hall Hotel you could be forgiven for driving past the understated brick building with traditional wooden doors that was originally a garage and workshop. Pass the mini patio with tables and chairs, set invitingly in front of a spectacular wall of ivy. The ivy is artificial – an imaginative solution for creating a feature where you have a wall that is in need of a little clever disguise. But follow the attractive brick pathway through a wrought iron gate you are transported into a spa that is far from bijou in stature and feel. The solid double doors with striking textured handles, tell a story about this spa that is a treat for the senses.

Using a selection of textures on the walls, flooring and careful choice of furniture, Spa Creators are the Spa Consultants behind this spa that has ingeniously used every possible space to turn this building into a ‘Spa Tardis’ with a Euro Asian fusion that gives it a contemporary and relaxed feel.

The Lime Tree Spa has three treatment rooms, a manicure station, a generous size sauna, a bronze mosaic tiled experience shower and four ceramic sculpted heated loungers in a room with fully bi-folding doors that enjoy the view of an attractively sheltered outdoor hot tub and patio area with more tables and chairs for relaxation.

This spa feels considerably more airy, open and well-appointed in comparison to many other larger spas.

Follow the glass and wooden balustrade staircase up to a mezzanine that houses a treatment room with a relaxation area complete with two sofas, two chairs and a pair of hot pink chaise longue that sit either side of a window that frames the spas very own Lime Tree.

Downstairs, the wall of the corridor that leads to the fully equipped gym from Mattrix and the second and third treatment rooms is clad with Muraspec ocean wave moulded panel reminiscent of ripples in the sand.

Crown Sports Lockers created the changing room lockers. Each of the three treatment rooms is wall papered with different neutral tones of cream, bronze and silver respectively with a lime tree design.

The luxurious treatment beds from Ellisons are finished with pebble coloured luxury towels and matching pebble coloured fleecy blankets embroidered with the Lime Tree Spa logo. The white waffle ‘Healthy’ bathrobes are also embroidered with the Lime Tree Spa logo (all supplied by BC Softwear).

Spa Creators and the team at The Lime Tree Spa created the menu of treatments using brand Caudalie, with a wide range of luxurious vineyard themed treatments that fit well with the Euro Asian theme.

Spa Manager Sarah Moore says ‘The Lime Tree Spa has a great feel about it. It is not often that you walk into a brand new building and you already feel at home. It is also a brand new team at the Lime Tree but we have already gelled – Spa Creators have achieved this and we are delighted with the results.’

To contact Spa Creators, please visit their website: www.spacreators.co.uk

Mercure Bristol North, The Grange Hotel has undergone a major investment, transforming the 19th century manor house. The extensive refurbishment includes the renovation of the hotel’s ground floor including the restaurant, bar, lounge and reception area as well as the redesign of the hotel’s largest event space, The Park Suite, to provide the ideal setting to cater for all occasions.The stunning Bath stone manor house, located in a peaceful pocket of North Bristol countryside, will unveil its new look at an official opening on May 15. As part of the refurbishment the hotel will present a brand new image, which includes new lighting, carpets and drapes plus a brand new sophisticated colour scheme. Creating a stylish and contemporary feel, the hotel retains its historical features and uses current colours and fabrics to give a modern day style.

Interior designer Helen Hooper of HH Interiors, who has previously worked with Jupiter Hotels on renovation projects across the UK, comments on the project: “Throughout the public areas of the hotel, the interior fuses contemporary fabrics and colours with traditional period features and detail. There are bespoke touches throughout the design. The fabrics are luxurious and sumptuous in elegant colours with a mixture of fine textures to create a relaxed ambience. We wanted to embrace and treasure locally inspired touches such as art work commissioned by local artists, which is on display throughout the hotel.”

The investment also includes the redesign of The Park Suite, to provide the perfect location for any event or wedding. With large French doors, which open onto the courtyard to overlook the picturesque landscaped gardens, the magnificent suite, which can accommodate up to 160 guests for a wedding reception, offers the perfect backdrop.

Continued on page two…

Hamilton Litestat was officially welcomed at May Design Series into the ranks of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) as an ‘Industry Partner’.Rex Liddiard, Marketing & Events Executive at the BIID met with Gavin Williams, Hamilton’s Marketing Manager and sealed the inaugural membership with a certificate presentation on Hamilton’s stand.

A British company established in 1968, Hamilton has already built a formidable reputation within the interiors fashion industry. Well known for its on-trend range of decorative electrical wiring accessories, lighting controls and multi-room audio systems, Hamilton has become a leading supplier to interior designers and interiors specifiers.

Going that extra mile
The aim of this move to join BIID is to consolidate and demonstrate the company’s commitment to the sector and to establish even closer working relationships with designers and the industry as a whole. When it comes to the exceptional or something unique for that special project, it’s worth knowing which companies will go that extra mile to make the project a success. Hamilton not only offers non-standard plates in a special finish or colours but its bespoke design and manufacturing service, Savile Row, can create tailor-made prototypes to a highly finished standard to help designers to sell-in their custom-built ideas to customers.

Hence, Hamilton can offer BIID members a complete consultative service across every type of interiors projects, regardless of scope and scale.

Gavin Williams says: “We are delighted to have been accepted as an ‘Industry Partner’ within the BIID. There is a strong commitment among our team to be an active member, working with fellow members and the committee to support and advance the institutes initiatives and activities.”

Rex Liddiard, Marketing & Events Exec at the BIID says: “Hamilton is an excellent example of everything we look for in an industry partner. We are committed to encouraging and supporting creativity and competence in the field of interior design but it’s only with help of the likes of inspirational and quality led suppliers like Hamilton, that this can be achieved. Interior designers are constantly seeking the innovative and exceptional and there is no doubt Hamilton ticks all the boxes on all fronts!”

To contact Hamilton Litestat, please visit their website: www.hamilton-litestat.com

Designed by Peter Roth, and with all the stylish characteristics of the original Evosa, the Evosa Congress from Burgess Furniture sets the bar in outstanding design and quality. Available in three model options, all come with a stylish, chrome-plated steel frame and the latest innovative stacking buffers.The slim webbed seat and unique hidden back construction creates an exceptionally supportive framework which becomes moulded to your back. This provides enduring comfort for your customers while maintaining a light weight chair that can be frame stacked up to 10 high.

A wide range of finishes are offered together with a large selection of fabrics from the Burgess collection, leading to beautiful and bespoke seating solutions.

With its effortless blend of classic elegance and modern ergonomics, the Evosa Congress is the perfect chair for the most prestigious venues.

To contact Burgess Furniture, please visit their website: www.burgessfurniture.com

Llandudno Travelodge, an 82- room property has been opened on the site of the former Clarence House hotel on Gloddeath Street. The hotel is part of a mixed-use development programme which includes three retail units being located below the hotel. To mark Travelodge coming to Llandudno, an official opening event was held at the hotel where The Mayor of Llandudno, Councillor Malcolm Bullock joined Travelodge’s Chief Financial Officer, Jo Boydell to officially open the hotel.

As part of the celebrations, to mark this momentous moment, Travelodge also invited local residents to attend the opening event and have the opportunity to win a luxurious bespoke king-size Travelodge Dreamer bed worth £600. The lucky winner was Mrs Jennifer Jones.

Llandudno Travelodge has been designed in the Company’s new contemporary brand look, which includes a new room design which has been created by Travelodge customers. The hero of the new room is the new bespoke luxurious Travelodge Dreamer bed and for the first time, the hotel chain has also introduced Truckle beds into all of its family rooms for children.

Jo Boydell, Travelodge’s Chief Financial Officer said: “We are delighted to making history today by opening our first Travelodge in Llandudno, which is also the first branded hotel in the town centre. Llandudno is a great location for Travelodge and by offering great quality rooms at unbeatable prices we are perfectly positioned as the county’s favourite hotel brand for value, which will help attract new visitors to the area. This is great news for the local community too, as our research shows annually Travelodge customers will boost the local economy by £2 million during their stay.”

Mayor of Llandudno said: “It is good to see good quality reasonable priced accommodation in the town. There is a need for it. It is nice to see a run-down building restored and brought back into use. I wish them well.”

Llandudno Travelodge is being managed by Joanne Cawthray, who started her career as a receptionist at Porthmadog Travelodge in 2010 and rapidly climbed the career ladder and become a hotel manager within three months of starting with the company. Since then, Joanne has had two children and has managed various Travelodge hotels across North Wales.

Joanne’s strong team of 15 staff have been employed via Travelodge’s relationship with the Job Centre Plus – which helps the long term unemployed back into the workplace.
Joanne Cawthray, Llandudno Travelodge Hotel Manager said: “I am thrilled to be managing the very first branded hotel in the heart of Llandudno only minutes from the beach and famous pier. The hotel has got off to a flying start and we are fully booked for the Llandudno Air Show and Elton John concert in June. Also our reservation data shows we are expected to be sold out for this summer.”

“To celebrate coming to Llandudno, we thought it would be a good idea for a local resident to win the hero of our new room, the new bespoke luxurious Travelodge Dreamer bed. We have installed these beds into all of our 38,000 rooms across the UK as part of a £100 million modernisation programme. Congratulations to Mrs Jennifer Jones for being the proud owner of a new Travelodge Dreamer bed.”

Llandudno Travelodge offers a range of rooms which includes: family, double and accessible. A Travelodge family room caters for either two adults and two children or three adults. The room features two space saving comfy truckle beds, providing an enhanced service for families staying in the room. When the beds are in use the base can be used for storing luggage, providing extra space in the room.

Each room has en-suite facilities with eco-friendly showers, in-room toiletries including liquid soap, a flat screen TV with 18 free digital channels, free tea and coffee making facilities, and Wi-Fi for 30 minutes and then £3 for up to 24 hours.

Four Seasons Hotel Doha is pleased to announce – in partnership with acclaimed Chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa, the highly anticipated debut of Nobu Doha which opened on Friday, April 17, 2015. Located at the water’s edge along the Hotel’s private marina, Nobu Doha showcases Chef Matsuhisa’s innovative signature new-style Japanese cuisine complemented by an equally imaginative setting in the 26,000 square-foot contemporary restaurant. Offering a truly exclusive culinary experience, found nowhere else, the tri-level Nobu Doha boasts the largest of its kind in the world and is the only Nobu at a Four Seasons in the Middle East. Designed by Chef Matsuhisa’s longtime architect and internationally recognized design partner, David Rockwell and his firm Rockwell Group, the restaurant captures a distinct look and feel for Nobu’s largest global outpost. As a clever homage to Doha’s rich pearl diving past, the circular three-story restaurant resembles an ornate coiled shell. Elliptical ribbons of river stone capped with bronze accents form the exterior of the structure and create the three-tiered levels of the restaurant. Inside, Nobu Doha seamlessly transitions the shell-like inspiration throughout the seven distinct dining and lounge areas. Each space incorporates Nobu’s iconic design palette influenced by nature, such as warm wood, shimmering glasswork to reflect water elements, and rich layering of textiles.

Ideal for large or small gatherings, the airy dining and lounge spaces include an expansive 134-seat interior dining area; intimate 10-seat sushi counter; two exclusive private dining rooms; a sophisticated White Pearl Bar & Lounge; a stylish Black Pearl Bar & Lounge; and a one-of-a-kind 38-seat roof top lounge that encompasses both indoor and outdoor seating options. Strategically positioned along the Arabian Gulf, guests can experience unobstructed panoramic water or cityscape views, whether dining inside or out.

“Chef Matsuhisa’s cuisine is about materiality, the quality of the ingredients, the translucency of the fish and the combination of colors and textures in every bite,” said Shawn Sullivan, Partner and Studio Leader, Rockwell Group. “For Nobu Doha, we developed a design vocabulary of rich, highly crafted materials influenced by the cuisine and the history and stunning natural beauty of Doha Bay.”

At the opening of its new Southampton West Quay hotel, which is located yards away from one of the UK’s leading Ports (Southampton Port), Travelodge has announced that it is looking for 14 new hotel sites in key Port locations across Britain in a bid to capitalise on the cruise boom. These 14 new hotels represent an investment of £84 million and will create 350 new jobs. Southampton West Quay Travelodge is a 94-room property which represents an investment of £6 million and has created 30 new jobs. This opening has boosted Travelodge’s presence in Southampton to three hotels.

The transformation of the UK ports industry during the last ten years has created a thriving and highly competitive industry with the number of people taking trips from UK ports rising year on year. Today the UK is the number one cruise market in Europe and the second largest in the world. Figures from the Department for Transport highlight that number of UK International Sea Passengers rose to 22.4million in 2013.

Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruises are the most popular amongst British holidaymakers. In 2013, one in three UK passengers chose Northern Europe as their cruise destination, with Norway being the stand out destination. In addition 49% of UK passengers started their cruises at a British port in 2013 and this is forecast to overtake fly cruises.

Travelodge has 516 hotels in the UK, Ireland and Spain and 48 of its properties are located in the vicinity of Britain’s busiest Ports. As a result of the record number of Britons taking to the waves, these 48 Port based Travelodge hotels have reported a 9% increase in occupancy during the last 12 months.

Paul Harvey, Travelodge Managing Director, Property said: “As a result of more Britons taking to the waves, we have also experienced a boom at Travelodge. Our Port based hotels have seen a 9% rise in occupancy as Britons kick start their dream sea holiday by staying over in a Travelodge hotel prior to early embarkation.

“To support this growing holiday trend, we are looking for a further 14 new hotel sites at UK’s busiest Port locations. This includes another site in Southampton, Portsmouth, Plymouth, Liverpool, Newcastle and Harwich.”

James Cooper, Chief Executive Officer of Associated British Ports, said: “The UK’s ports are going through something of a renaissance at the moment with significant investments taking place across the country. One of the fastest growing segments has been ferry traffic as people increasingly appreciate that ferries offer better value and less hassle than the alternatives. Also add the extraordinary growth in the cruise industry in recent years and it is not surprising that demand for hotels in our ports is also increasing.”

In March I made a long overdue trip back from the antipodean colonies to the motherland. To break up the frenetic efforts to see everyone, I took a short trip across La Manche to stay briefly in picturesque Paris and lodging at a French classic, Le Belmont.

Le Belmont is a four star hotel in the heart of the city. The building is a very old block, typical of Paris, and has all of the character that goes with it. Its location just off the Champs-Élysées is a major attraction, placing the hotel at the heart of tourist Paris. Both the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe are a 10 minute walk and there is a metro station at the end of the street.
The hotel is decorated in a pseudo Parisian Palatial style, cut with marks of modernism. The public areas filled with furniture leaning towards a French aristocratic persuasion but the rooms have modern colourful chandeliers and the fireplace is filled with colour-changing LED candles.

The corridors are somewhat confronting, as they lack good lighting, and as a consequence are very dark, emphasised by the paint colours. The bedrooms are in a typically extravagant style but with a clear budget restraint. While the headboards appear as velvet curtaining in the imagery, this is actually a printed fabric with a fabric panel across the top, to give a more three dimensional effect.

Global modular flooring manufacturer, Interface, has unveiled its latest technical innovation by creating the world’s first recycled latex substitute using laminate found in car glass.Driven by its commitment to Mission Zero, Interface has developed a method for using recycled poly-vinyl butyral (PVB) to replace the existing latex pre-coat widely used in the carpet tile industry to fix the yarn to the backing.

PVB is the laminate found in glass which prevents it from shattering, and is most commonly found in car windscreens. The industry has been recycling this type of glass for some time but had found no solution for recycling the PVB.

Working alongside new and old partners, including Shark Solutions, Interface invested 10 years of research in developing the ground-breaking process and, as a result of this co-innovation, PVB has been given a second life in a new, sustainable supply chain.

PVB has a carbon footprint that is 80 per cent less than the existing latex pre-coat used in the industry. Interface Europe currently uses 43 per cent of recycled or bio-based raw materials and the Mission Zero goal is 100 per cent by 2020.

The new material will bring Interface’s use of recycled or bio-based raw materials to 66 per cent when applied to all products and, as such, in the next two years, Interface believes products with up to 90 per cent recycled or bio-based content will be achievable.

By avoiding the use of SBR latex by using PVB, Interface’s products comply with the Swedish scheme, SundaHus.

Interface’s Scandinavian collection is the first range available with recycled PVB.

To contact Interface, please visit their website: www.interface.co.uk

The multi award-winning developer, Crown Group, has recently announced the highly anticipated details of Crown Ashfield; an oasis of luxury residences.The AUD $88-Million resort-style development is located nine kilometres from the Sydney CBD, six kilometres from the University of Sydney, 10 kilometers from the airport, 300 meters from Ashfield Mall and 750 meters from the railway station Ashfield.

Crown Ashfield apartment will begin sales at same-day launch events in Sydney, Indonesia and Singapore on May 23.

“After the success of the global launch of Sydney by Crown in November we’re pleased to announce the global launch of our newest world-class project Crown Ashfield,” said Karen Chia, country director of Crown Group Singapore.

The forward-thinking design by Surry Hills architects Turner features natural, organic elements throughout including an internal atrium, abundant natural light, a flowing sculpted water feature and lush greenery.

Located at 168 Liverpool Road close to shops, restaurants, schools and public transport, the modern nine-storey development comprises 79 boutique apartments, four exclusive retail spaces, resident and visitors’ car parking, grand lobby lounge, theatrette, piano room and rooftop communal facilities including a terrace and a recreational area with spectacular city views.

“Crown Ashfield can also be regarded as one of our best offers for potential investors in Asia, especially Singapore,” Karen added.

Over the last 5 years, the value of residential property in Ashfield has grown by 72.2 per cent, with apartments increasing by 57 per cent, while the median house prices are approximately AUD1.2 million dollars.

“Ashfield is becoming increasingly popular with local and international buyers because of its exceptional growth in property values and its close proximity to the CBD,” Karen said.

Crown Group Chief Executive Iwan Sunito said Crown Ashfield will be an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

“Crown Ashfield will be a sanctuary for its residents, a place where they can feel revitalised after a busy day,” Mr Sunito said.

“This boutique luxury development embodies our desire to redefine the boundaries of design and innovation; the architecture is sharp and refined; the forest interior concept is stunning and the view is spectacular.

“Crown Ashfield is an important milestone for Crown Group as our brand continues to gain momentum around the world,” he said.

New images released today reveal light-filled common areas, luxurious living and dining spaces and a rooftop terrace with spectacular uninterrupted views of Sydney’s CBD and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Apartments have been designed with modern lifestyles and the latest technology in mind and include an abundance of internal storage and Miele appliances. Many apartments also include a multipurpose media lounge, easily utilized as additional lounge seating.

Principal and founder of Turner, Nicholas Turner, said Crown Ashfield’s design, with elegant and naturally finished qualities used throughout the residents’ lounge, piano room and theatrette, creates “a calm and cool entry sequence.”

“Crown Ashfield will present as a high quality, contributory piece of contemporary architecture, prominently located along the ridge of Ashfield,” Mr Turner said.

“The metaphor of the tree is used to express the verticality of the facade screening and dramatic floating roof and also reference the natural, serene materials within the building”.

Winner of some of the most coveted industry awards, including the 2014 UDIA NSW best concept design, Crown Group has earned a reputation for outstanding residential developments with five-star resort style facilities.

Crown Group achieved an impressive $173 million in sales within four hours at the launch of Sydney by Crown in November, after reaching its $100 million sales target within two hours.

Crown Group is now accepting expressions of interest for Crown Ashfield, with sales set to begin on May 23.

The luxury development is due for completion in mid-2016.

Luxury fabric specialist, Kobe, has welcomed Olen Watt, a new sales agent for its Essente brand, covering Ireland (North and South).

Olen is well-established within the industry, having worked in soft furnishings for over 10 years. He said: “I am delighted to be on board and working with such a strong and continually evolving brand.“I look forward to meeting clients and using my wealth of experience in the industry to help guide them in creating inspirational interiors.”

Being a father of three he doesn’t get much spare time, but any he does get, he spends improving his golf handicap.

Kobe UK is part of the Dutch-based Kobefab International company which supplies more than 8,000 interior design and soft furnishing customers in over 60 countries with more than 7,000 products from its headquarters in Valkenswaard, Holland. More than 90 per cent of its products are developed in-house and 95 per cent of all sourcing is done in Europe.

Kobe’s Contract Sales holds a gold membership with Trevira CS and has a wide range of 100 per cent Trevira CS fabrics – which are Oekoteks 100 certified and are regarded as the highest quality in FR inherent fabrics.

Kobe’s vinyl wall coverings are also FR inherent, durable and demand minimal maintenance. They contain recycled materials and are printed using water-based inks making them environmentally sound. Kobe wallcoverings can also contribute to a building achieving LEED credits.

The UK operation is based in Crowthorne, Berkshire. To contact Kobe, please visit their website: en.kobe.eu

New and ultra-chic Murat Reis is a hidden gem in the incredible area of Ayvalik – a part of Turkey that has long been a favourite destination for locals but little known outside the country. Stylish and smart, this spectacular hotel is the only one of its kind, including captivating views of the Aegean coast and a once in a lifetime opportunity to discover an undiscovered Turkish Delight. Set on a spectacular panoramic location, the Murat Reis Hotel has just completed a major renovation transforming the hotel’s luxurious 91 rooms, luxury bungalows and Exclusive Villa. It’s stylishly modern with a Mediterranean accent: whitewashed greys, crisp blue striped linens and light coloured Turkish Travertine marble floors. The luxury resort offers breath-taking natural views, lush green gardens and pine trees wrapped around the legendary slopes of the Kaz mountains; accented by calming waterways and what may be the loveliest sunsets in the world.

Known for its oxygen rich, clean air, the area is a major draw. Indeed, Ayvalik represents undiscovered Turkey at its best. Ayvalık Islands Nature Park is Turkey’s largest nature reserve in Turkey, with the richest underwater floor structure. Nearby there are more than twenty islands that form an ecological niche of underwater flora and fauna and 60 diving locations that provide suitable conditions all year long. Red corals have been identified in 34 places – more than the Red Sea – and helpfully, there is daily diving instruction on offer.

With two million olive trees, the area is famous for both its olives and olive oil – and it’s beauty. The charming, centuries old stone houses are built in traditional Greek materials in neo-classical style and the nearby island of Cunda (just 10 minutes away by boat) houses the Taxiarchis Church, a great example of traditional Byzantine architecture. Ayvalik has recently become a surfer’s paradise as well, as the wind that blows landward from the sea is ideal for surfing, windsurfing and the increasingly popular parachute surfing.

Naturally, with so many islands nearby, the seafood is incredible. There is gilt head, bream (dorata), red mullet, sea bream, red sea bream (coral fish), dentex, sea bass, bogue, squid, octopus, prawns, sea urchins, clams… and of course, the skullcap which is a fish unique to Ayvalık.

Murat Reis offers sunset wine tastings, two chic restaurants offering a wide selection of modern Mediterranean foods along with incredible views. There is a deck bar, pool bar and lobby bar all on offer and for the highly motivated, a vast menu of water-sports including waterskiing, wakeboard, monoski, ringo, matte, canoe, and SUP. In the Murat Reis luxury spa and fitness centre there is a heated open pool, sauna, steam room and Turkish Bath and all gym equipment affords excellent sea and island views whilst exercising. There are opportunities to visit local olive oil factories, the ancient Leka Panagia Monastery, and both city and island tours.

The Precision Concept from Lano Flooring Solutions is set to redefine axminster carpet with any pattern in one of four pre-determined colourways available in just 15-days from orders of just 50 square metres. Manufactured on high-tech precision looms, 12 on-trend designs are each available in four colourways delivering fast woven carpet in a colour and style that offer adaptability for hospitality and leisure environments. Unusually using a three-ply yarn that provides superior appearance retention and pinpoint pattern reproduction regardless of intricacy and number of colours, carpets from the Precision Concept offer exceptional design clarity.

An 80% British and New Zealand wool and 20% polyamide blend provides the best mix of durability, resilience and value. A nine-row axminster construction helps to deliver toughness for busy commercial locations.

Birger Karlsson, UK sales director, Lano:

“The Precision Concept provides designers, contractors and owners with beautiful semi-bespoke axminster in exceptionally short timescales and with a very small order quantity. This means smaller hospitality environments such as public houses and boutique B&Bs can benefit from luxurious semi-bespoke axminster.”

With a Class 33 Heavy Contract Rating and designs that lift any interior environment, carpets from the Precision Concept are an assured flooring choice delivered fast.

For further information, freephone 00800 5266 5266, www.lano.com

Axel Schoenert architects was commissioned by Paris Inn Group to refurbish the Paris-Gare de l’Est Hotel, an area of 9,000 sq m. The modernized four-star hotel will open in Paris this July 2015 with 206 bedrooms. Zsofia Varnagy & Axel Schoenert have redesigned the entire hotel, from the architectural reconfiguration of the spaces to the interior design, putting their mark on even the smallest details.

The hotel’s 200 bedrooms will be increased to 206 following the redevelopment. Decorated in four different tones (turquoise, yellow, blue and violet), inspired by the colours and freshness of spring, each individual and welcoming room will boast an elegant en-suite bathroom.

The new lobby design focuses on optimising spaces in order to create an open and welcoming environment. The breakfast room, reserved for hotel guests, will seat 96 after renovation. The pale tones of the interior design will be subtly picked out by touches of colour, creating a more spacious and luminous environment.

The hotel bar, which is open to the public, will be unusually furnished with a collection of elegant curves, warm and colourful, designed especially by Zsofia Varnagy. Cosy and private, it will make the perfect place for a business meeting or a moment of relaxation.

Five conference rooms, with windows to the outside, will boast all the latest technology to ensure agreeable workspaces to meet every need.

Harmonious, the overall interior design of the hotel will encapsulate all the energy and vigour of spring, offering a luxurious setting for an enjoyable experience in the heart of Paris.

Designed especially for the hotel by duo of designers Zsofia Varnagy & Axel Schoenert, the furniture line is made in harmony with the architectural concept which embodies spring’s energy and brightness and provides a pure wellbeing moment in the heart of Paris.

The chairs designed for the rooms include two different size and four different tones: turquoise, yellow, blue and violet. Recalling organic and vegetal shapes such as rose petal or flower, their design embody movement and lightness and pay tribute to nature.

With their rounded shapes and refined materials, the seats add softness and comfort to the hotel.

Ultralight and flexible, the chairs match perfectly with the hotel guest’s need : their small size is ideal to combine work and well-being.

Even the two coffee tables created for the rooms can echo to nature. Refined and rounded, they remind freshness and brightness of spring, and are harmoniously integrated the to interior design concept.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced that the 518-room Holiday Inn Resort® Montego Bay hotel has completed a $15 million renovation funded by ownership. The resort now features fully updated guest rooms, an ocean-view lobby with an open design and four restaurants offering a variety of cuisines including seafood, Japanese, Caribbean and Italian. The resort boasts 107 junior suites, 26 one-bedroom suites and five meeting rooms able to hold up to 1,550 people. The property also has 10 spacious KidSuites® which offer a kid-friendly design that allows children and adults to have their own space in the suite. Located on a half mile of private beach, the property also has its own private off-shore island called “Tek-It-Easy Island.” For guests looking to spend an afternoon off of the beach or out of the sun, the resort offers a game room and arcade, four tennis courts and a nine-hole mini golf course, also available for night play. While children enjoy a variety of staff-supervised activities as part of the Kid’s Club, which operates seven days per week, adults can take advantage of the property’s casino as well as various relaxing pubs and stylish lounges.

The resort is proud to be an IHG Green Engage™ hotel and offers unique programs to ensure sustainability. Throughout the property, there are water saving flush systems in the restrooms, waste treatment and re-use for on-site gardening as well as low energy lightbulbs on timing systems. Guests can also elect to participate in water conservation and paper recycling during their visit.

The Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay hotel is owned by Octagon Hotels Limited and managed by East Bay Management Company.

The Verbier Mirror and matching Verbier Console Table from GALLERY DIRECT will add an elegant touch to most rooms. The beautiful rectangular mirror and striking console table feature geometric mirror shapes in a painted gold finish.

They are both part of the exciting new Gallery Home collection.

+44 (0) 17 95 43 91 59
Click here to contact Gallery Direct: http://www.gallerydirect.co.uk

How USB charging is providing United Airlines with an Edge

Convenience is a gift bestowed by technology. It is readily offered by the smartphone, generously granted by the tablet, and amply provided by the digital camera. These labour saving devices have ushered in an age where convenience is no longer seen as a privilege, it is seen as a right. However, the modern traveller often faces an inherent conundrum when it comes time to charging their devices on the go. Where do I plug in?

Hello USB!
United Airlines have provided an answer in their newly completed VIP lounges – the United Global First Lounge and the United Club – at London Heathrow’s new Terminal 2: The Queen’s Terminal.

The Architect, Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB) approached the project as a hospitality assignment, creating unique and comfortable spaces designed to make customers feel at home while travelling.

Together, the two lounges occupy 22,000 square feet (2,043 square meters) of space and are located near the airline’s gates in Terminal 2’s satellite concourse. Both facilities feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the airfield, luxurious décor and vintage aviation-themed artwork. Both will also offer complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi and ample USB charging outlets, 168 from MK Electric’s Edge range to be exact.

This means that the weary VIP traveller need not look far to charge any number of their mobile devices, which could be up to at least three or more according to a recent Smart Brief poll.

New Luxury at Terminal 2
Designers and architects are fast adopting the term ‘new luxury’, which requires that design and art create special feelings, experiences and memories for clients. This differs from ‘old luxury’ which focused on the products themselves, leveraging expensive brand names and high-end materials.

This can especially be seen in the United Global First Lounge which is intended for first class passengers travelling with any Star Alliance carrier. Features in the lounge include an oversized Big Ben-style clock in its tea lounge section, a buffet area, a wine room, private phone booths and a quiet zone with sofas and privacy drapes.

This shift to ‘new luxury’ has ultimately meant that the electrical accessories sector must now create products that have the ability to respond, complement and enhance the overall look and feel of any given room.

Charging With an Edge
“The new lounges set the scene for opulence and a VIP experience, which is why 3DReid and SCB turned to MK Electric’s Edge range to meet expectations, said Nadine Deery, Channel Marketing Manager, MK Electric. “ The faceplates were finished in Desert Bronze to match the luxurious look and feel United Airlines wanted to create for their customers”.

This specific range combines both function and style with smooth, clean and very slim – in fact just 1.5mm thick – products. The range also provides MK’s 3-pin operated safety shutter system, which prevents misuse and unsafe access to live circuitry, providing travellers with peace of mind and comfort.

“MK Electric were able to facilitate United Airlines requirements to have both US and UK power sockets within the lounge and in a variety of finishes to match skirting and furniture trims – bronze in the United First lounge and chrome in the United Club”, said Felicity Hurling, from 3DReid.

“Given the number of passengers that wish to charge devices such as mobiles and laptops whilst in the lounge, it was also important that MK Electric were able to provide USB charging units that were able to be aesthetically integrated into bespoke handmade furniture within tight programme requirements”.

Deloitte’s president of Travel, Hospitality and Leisure, Adam Weissenberg, has outlined the need for companies in the sector to leverage the power of technology to improve customer experience and the travel and hospitality industry need to take note.

The USB charging module holds a simple but powerful advantage for all travellers looking to find a little comfort while travelling. It could offer a useful lifeline for those trying to make a last phone call to a loved one to help quell pre-flight jitters or simply relax knowing that when they reach their final destination they will be charged up and ready to hit the ground running.

To contact MK Electric, please visit their website: www.mkelectric.com

‘What could be simpler, SPAshell™’
For more a detailed discussion, full business presentation contact: alistair@spashell.com or call ++ 44 (0) 118 947 1857

Element Hotels, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. eco-innovation lab, has recently announced a collaboration with Sistine Solar, Inc.— a company that uses innovative design to change the way the world thinks about solar power — to produce a one-of-a-kind solar canopy for the Element brand. Element Dallas Fort Worth Airport will début a nature-themed, custom designed charging station that allows guests and locals to relax as they recharge their devices through the power of sunlight. A recognized industry leader in the eco-space, Element offers travellers a fresh, re-imagined extended stay hotel experience. This collaboration is a continued proof point of the brand’s commitment to sustainability and eco-design, further demonstrating how sustainability and socialization can go hand in hand. Just as Element has redefined the extended stay category through its contemporary design philosophy and eco-minded sensibilities, Sistine has transformed the bland, familiar aesthetic (think: boring black and blue grid) of solar technology. By using techniques from a wide range of disciplines – including mosaic art, solar photovoltaics, and optics – Sistine has developed SolarSkin, a patent-pending technology to create high-efficiency solar panels of any design, pattern or color. The one-of-a-kind solar canopy at Element Dallas Fort Worth Airport is inspired by the Element brand ethos that modern design flows from nature. Its unique design proves that green can, and should be, gorgeous.

Built as an off-grid installation, the unique Solar Canopy charging station, designed in partnership with Brooklyn-based architect, Ajmal Aqtash, will allow guests to sit in the shade, socialize and relax outside of the hotel as they recharge their personal electronic devices by harnessing the power of the sun. Additionally, the canopy has integrated LEDs that allow for nighttime illumination and enjoyment. As the panels absorb sunlight, solar energy converts the light into electricity, which guests can then use to charge their devices.

“We strongly believe in the transformative power of design,” commented Ido Salama, Co-Founder of Sistine Solar. “In working with a forward-thinking and powerful brand like Element, we see a tremendous opportunity to radically change people’s perceptions of renewable energy. Instead of hiding panels where no one will see them, as is often the case, we design our panels to be admired from up-close and from afar. We marry form and function to produce a one-of-a-kind guest experience – the magic happens the moment a guest plugs in their device, admires the beautiful nature-inspired design, and makes the connection that our sun is providing clean and renewable energy. In this way, we hope people will begin to see sustainability in a new light, accelerating the adoption of clean energy.”

As Starwood’s eco-innovation lab, Element is the first major hotel brand to mandate that all properties pursue the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for high-performance buildings. Offering bright, modern design and sustainable-minded sensibilities, Element Hotels are meant to fuel a life of balance while on the road, particularly when travelling for extended periods of time. The brand is a leader in the eco-innovation space and continues to pilot latest developments in sustainable technology. The solar canopy is currently at Element Dallas Fort Worth Airport North with plans to expand globally to Element’s nearly 20 hotels around the world.

YHA (England and Wales) is making the most of its fabulous locations and has invested £1 million in camping, glamping and cabin facilities at 63 of its Youth Hostels.

Already known for its 160-strong network of Youth Hostels across England and Wales, the investment in camping and cabin facilities is designed to make YHA even more accessible to people and capitalise further on the increase in Staycations in the UK.According to Visit England, foreign trips and holidays are 16% lower than they were before the recession and there has been a 15% increase* in families taking glamping holidays over the last year.

Last year the camping pods in the grounds of YHA South Downs were endorsed by Her Majesty the Queen who toured them as part of a visit to the £5 million Youth Hostel.

As well as camping pods, YHA offers an unrivalled range of alternative accommodation at its properties, including:

Cabins
Six-sided timber cabins available at YHA Canterbury and YHA Hawkshead that evoke images of The Shire. These fully insulated cabins sleep 4 – 5 people and boast double glazed windows, a double bed with a single over the top and a set of bunk beds. The cabin at YHA Canterbury even comes in a deluxe en suite bathroom option. Prices from £75.00 per night.

Camping Pods
Available at 7 locations, YHA’s camping pods sleep up to 4 adults and boast electrical sockets, radiators, and a small decking area for disposable BBQs. For true camping luxury, however, the Large Pod Deluxe comes with bedding, a wet room with WC and shower, double bed and double sofa bed as well as a kitchenette area with fridge, sink, kettle, crockery and microwave. Prices from £45.00 per night.

Huts
Camping huts are caravan-like shelters that offer a real back-to-nature experience. They provide cosy but remote accommodation for up to 7 people at two YHA locations. Although basic, the traditional wooden structures boast mod-cons like electric lighting and heating as well as table and chairs to plan your next day’s adventures. Prices from £36.00 per night.

Camping
Camping facilities are available at 31 YHAs across England and Wales. Families can pitch up their tent in the hostel grounds and reap all the benefits of the Youth Hostel facilities. Prices from £10.00 per night.

Glamping
Perfect for families who like camping but don’t like roughing it, YHA’s solar powered luxury bell tents are available at six YHAs in the South West. The bell tents come fully kitted out with bedding and are furnished with basics like bean bags, a double bed with three singles; perfect for a comfortable night’s sleep under the stars. Prices from £70.00 per night.

Camping Barns
YHA’s camping barns or ‘stone tents’, offer a more substantial shelter from the elements than a tent. Families and large groups can enjoy the remote, minimal nature of camping but under a sturdy roof at 18 locations across England and Wales. Prices from £8.00 per night.

Caroline White, Chief Executive of YHA (England and Wales), said: “We have so many properties with great outdoor space, acres in some instances, that it made absolute sense to utilise this to entice more people to stay with and experience YHA. We acknowledge that not everyone wants a home from home experience when on holiday, however guests who choose to camp or ‘glamp’ with YHA have access to our great self-catering facilities, bars, cafes, restaurants and indoor communal areas should the weather be truly awful.”

Since 2010 YHA (England and Wales) has invested £31 million in its network to create comfortable, contemporary-styled accommodation. Today’s Youth Hostels boast licensed bars and restaurants, and more private en suite rooms. The new-look YHA network, together with the investment in camping and cabin facilities, means YHA is now appealing to a new generation of traveller and holiday maker.

Recent sales figures for the 85-year-old charity show that 2014 was its best year ever. Occupancy across YHA’s 160-strong network was up 3.5% yielding an 8.1% growth in accommodation income and smashing the charity’s budgeted revenue increase by 200% and earning it a number of industry awards.

Caroline White added: “The capital investment programme at YHA has left the network virtually unrecognisable. Key to dispelling myths about Youth Hostels in the 21st century is getting people through the door or into their grounds to see how fantastic they are.”

To take a virtual tour of a modern YHA Youth Hostel visit www.yha.org.uk/hostel-virtual-tours

To find out more about YHA’s Cabins and Camping, visit: http://www.yha.org.uk/places-to-stay/camping-and-cabins

Majestic in appearance, sophisticated in design and peerless in pedigree, The Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo marks the return of an icon to the Egyptian capital. The historic property will reopen under Ritz-Carlton’s stewardship in late summer, heralding a new era of luxury hospitality in the heart of Cairo.The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo will open in the late summer of this year. The hotel is undergoing a complete renovation whilst retaining many of the original features, reminding guests of the cherished memories of days gone by, yet well-prepared to host a new generation of guests with a desire to uncover the mystique of the historic city. With the hotel nearing the handover stage, finishing touches will be made on its extensive renovation and with the help of Ladies and Gentlemen of the Ritz-Carlton, its rich culture of service in the hotel’s famed premises will be established.

Centred between the Nile and Tahrir Square, the hotel is easily accessible from Cairo’s key attractions and landmarks including the Arab League Headquarters and the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, home to the King Tut exhibition. In addition, the nearby Qasr El Nile Bridge links the hotel to the magnificent Cairo Opera House, a unique landmark of aesthetic and cultural interest in Egypt.

The hotel’s palatial proportions allow visitors to enjoy a sense of exclusivity and spaciousness, while appreciating the location in the heart of the city. The 331-room hotel houses ultramodern facilities including a spectacular Olympic-size pool with 17 private cabanas. The accommodations and interiors, all designed by eminent interior designer Frank Nicholson – a long-standing collaborator of the brand -are reminiscent of the timeless style of Ritz-Carlton properties around the globe whilst being anchored in the flavours and traditions of Egypt. In particular, the 50 exquisitely laid-out suites, including the elite Royal and Presidential suites, feature spectacular Nile views and offer an elevated sense of luxury.

With its celebrated attention to detail and expansive facilities, the hotel encourages the leisure and business traveller to be assured of seamless service and a relaxed stay. Guests can unwind in the spa, which offers a plethora of treatments to work or travel weary guests, including the signature Rasul therapy. Guests can cap their wellness journey with a sunset yoga session on the spa terrace overlooking the Nile.

The hotel’s meetings and conference facilities include the Alf Leila wa Leila Ballroom, another original feature of the hotel, ideal for weddings of a grand scale. In addition, a new conference centre offers avant-garde conference spaces including a 1,700 square meter conference hall.

Gastronomes visiting Egypt will also be spoilt for choice with an array of dining venues. With innovative and cutting edge fare spanning Arabian, Italian and Continental cuisine, complemented by gorgeous views and appealing ambience, the hotel’s dining venues are set to be a culinary revelation for the city’s residents and visitors.

Eurasia… Caucasus…Azerbaijan – throughout the world, myths, legends and facts about Fire are often lost in the smoke of Time and History… only to be mixed, edited and retold for new generations.

In Azerbaijan, fire has shaped the culinary and cultural landscapes for centuries: whether hunting dragons like the hero Bayram Gur, burning natural gas vents at the Zoroastrian Ateshga, collecting embers at Yanar Dag, preparing smoky tea samovar with coals or grilling aromatic kebabs. Today, the memory of this vast shared heritage of fire has been assembled in the city of Baku at the JW Marriott Absheron and re-imagined as “FIREWORKS”, a dining destination for the 21st Century, created by the acclaimed international restaurant designer Henry Chebaane and his team from Blue Sky Hospitality studio. A place high in symbolism, aesthetic drama, kinetic stimulations and taste sensations: fireworks for the senses!

Guarding and protecting the guests at the entrance is an imposing life-size wild bull cast in shimmering molten bronze, celebrating the raw power of fire and sheer life energy that it enables, providing mankind with a warm home and tasty steaks.

Also at the entrance are two dragon skulls: one male and one female represent the mythology of fire: opposite but complementary natural forces (yin/yang, heat/oxygen) that starts fire and sustain the full life cycle on Earth.

“FIREWORKS” is entered via a ceremonial canopy of glowing metal rods, translucent bricks and wooden blocks symbolising the ritualistic elements of grilling and roasting with live fire. These elements are repeated throughout the space on walls and ceilings in different compositions of light, shadow and textures imbuing the whole dining space with a distinctive halo of comforting warmth and sophisticated drama.

The fireworks canopy acting as an inverted red carpet leads guests onto an experiential discovery of the features and facilities to try: the Private Dining Room, the Fireworks kitchen, the Whisky & Brandy library and the Wine bar, itself part of the dramatic dining area and finally the large outdoor terrace with its wide fire bowls, interactive display kitchen and commanding views over the city.

“Born of fire” is an exclusive piece of 4-Dimensional conceptual art that covers most of the ceiling above the dining area. Inspired by the legend of Prometheus bringing the original fire to mankind from the Caucasus mountains, it is a composition of several hundreds walnut bricks. The surface area is cracked open by a massive lighting bolt, revealing a metalised glass surface that softly glows in a myriad of red and amber tones, evolving throughout the day and night.

Caucasian walnut and European oak are used for all furniture, carpentry and floors combined with full aniline leather upholstery in various tones of burnt earth, recalling the pigments used in classical paintings and wool-dyeing for local rugs.

The multi-cultural restaurant team provides a confident, friendly, intuitive and knowledgeable service that is fast, competent and informal.

The culinary team, also multi-cultural produce a menu that is easy to remember and execute, quick to prepare and deliver, with some dishes starting at prices attractive to a relatively wide audience and others that provide status-affirming opportunities.

Land of fire – kitchen works – urban style: experience it all at Fireworks Urban Kitchen.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has announced its newest hotel in the UK – Hilton at The Ageas Bowl Southampton which officially opened yesterday, 14th May 2015.Featuring stunning architecture and design, the 171-guestroom property overlooks The Ageas Bowl cricket ground. The hotel introduces a range of dining options including the Spa Café, the Lakeview Sports Bar and all-day dining restaurant BEEFY’S, serving English cuisine, and providing a relaxing setting for business lunches, sport breaks, drinks or special events.

Hilton at The Ageas Bowl Southampton is an impressive venue for corporate events or grand banquets, offering eight meeting rooms and the largest ballroom in the region with more than 1,500 square meters of event space, hosting up to 700 people. The hotel also provides an Executive Lounge, along with a 24-hour business center offering a variety of amenities and services to help guests stay connected during their stay.

The UK’s first Hilton eforea spa including eight treatment rooms, spa pool, salon, nail bar and restaurant, offers guests personalised, transformative journeys to help invigorate, relax and revitalise. To keep energised, guests can visit the hotel’s fitness room or the adjacent Hampshire Tennis Club, which also features indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

Design is by EPR Architects
Bedroom casegoods by Curtis Furniture & Doors

The Sanderson range of cushions reflect the elegant colour palette and classic English design that distinguish Sanderson’s exquisite wallcoverings and fabrics.Sanderson Cushions offer the perfect finishing touch for any interior. Inspired by signature designs from the Sanderson fabric and wallpaper range, each print has been specifically designed for cushions.

Carefully curated from the Aegean, Voyage of Discovery, Fabienne and Vintage 2 collections, nine statement digitally printed cushions are complemented by eight sumptuous velvet jewel toned Icaria cushions.

Adding an element of fun are eight Little Sanderson cushions. Four whimsical, yet educational designs from the Abracazoo collection have been created into an adorable capsule range of cushions for the little people in your life.

Click here to contact Sanderson via their website: www.sanderson-uk.com

Fresh on the heels of announcing an unprecedented joint venture (JV) hotel management company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dusit International confirms the first two projects of the newly established JV company that are now underway.The collaboration between Dusit and local partners Dyar Hotels and Resorts is off to a strong start, now that the Dusit Thani Jeddah and dusitD2 Salwa Doha (Qatar) hotels have been confirmed.

Scheduled to open in 2018 in the Kingdom’s second largest city, the Dusit Thani Jeddah will come under Dusit’s original upper-upscale hotel brand Dusit Thani, most well-known for providing its legendary gracious hospitality to guests worldwide. The hotel will offer 211 guest rooms, including 38 suites and one Royal Suite. Dining options will range from a coffee shop to all-day dining and specialty restaurants.

Business travellers will be well catered for with an Executive Lounge, business centre and multi-purpose hall to suit various meeting and event needs. Additionally, a dedicated floor for female guests, separate male and female spas and a swimming pool will ensure guests have a thoroughly comfortable stay.
With a convenient location on the city’s main arterial road, just 2.5 kilometres from the upcoming mixed-use Jeddah Gate development, the Dusit Thani Jeddah will be within easy reach of both midtown and the Corniche.

In neighbouring Qatar, the dusitD2 Salwa is also slated to open in 2018. It will come under Dusit’s chic and contemporary “next generation” dusitD2 brand, offering 240 guest rooms including 28 suites. Operated in a Shariah-compliant manner, the two specialty restaurants, an all-day dining option, 2 wedding halls, 10 meeting rooms, a swimming pool and spa will provide facilities and services to suit all leisure and business travellers.

The dusitD2 Salwa will be located right in the heart of Doha, just minutes away from tourist attractions such as the Doha Fort, Souq Waquif and the Qatar National Museum. This ideal location also means the hotel will be only 5 kilometres away from the Doha International Airport and 10 kilometres away from the new Hamad International Airport.

Aside from these projects, a further five properties are currently under negotiation by the JV company in the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah. Together, these cities form the largest tourism market within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and present a host of opportunities for the growing company.

“We are thrilled to move ahead on these two exciting projects which set solid foundations for the JV,” said Mr Andrew Shaw, Director of Development – Europe, Middle East and Africa of Dusit International. “We are confident that with the support of our partners at Dyar Hotels and Resorts, who have over 30 years of local expertise, we will succeed in bringing completely unique products to the market, marrying our hallmark gracious Thai hospitality with local customs and traditions.”

For hospitality environments looking for sophisticated natural look carpets with the durability to withstand commercial use, the new Jaudon woven two-tone loop pile from Lano Flooring Solutions provides the answer. Using a Wilton construction for quality and durability, Jaudon makes the most of Lano Flooring Solutions’ three-ply yarn that delivers exceptional resilience and definition for better design clarity. A high-performance 80% wool 20% polyamide blend gives excellent appearance retention, important for less heavily patterned carpets such as this.

“Many hospitality environments want to move away from strong patterns towards designs with a more natural feel and Jaudon lets them do this, with all the security and quality of woven wool carpet designed for commercial use,” explains Birger Karlsson, UK sales director.

Available in three designs – a pindot, houndstooth and diamond pindot – in a range of deep naturals, grey and charcoal tonal combinations, the Jaudon collection is ideal for use in hospitality bedrooms and with its General Commercial rating, for general use in smaller locations such as boutique hotels and B&Bs. Jaudon is also available in a custom design for larger projects.

For further information, freephone 00800 5266 5266, www.lano.com

New and ultra stylish Kata Rocks hotel is a true game changer for luxury tourism. Sleek and chic, offering a minimalist vibe, this magnificent hotel is unlike anything else in Thailand, including extraordinary and spellbinding views of the Andaman Sea. Set on a spectacular panoramic location, Kata Rocks offers a superb spa, design-led apartment sized rooms including spa suites, all with private infinity pools. Located near Kata, a clean-cut resort town, this hotel has fast established itself as the hot destination for the affluent yachting crowd.

With 34 one, two, three and four-bedroom Sky Villas stacked across the hillside – these are big, bright and beautiful, and come with fully-fitted kitchens, living and dining areas. There are also floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening onto private infinity pools, each of which is a minimum of seven-metres long. The furnishings are sleek and Italian-made, here it’s all white-on white: there are white linens, and white umbrellas shading white sunbeds beside a white-tiled pool.

There is also an oceanfront restaurant, 35-metre swimming pool with poolside bar, a sublime Infinite Luxury Spa housing everything from energy pods to light-emitting treatment beds, which combine beautifully with Ila products and traditional Thai wellness philosophies.

With their own private infinity pools, each Sky Villa is designed to impart an unparalleled sense of space and tranquillity, creating a sense of harmony and balance with its lush tropical surroundings. Kata Rocks has already collected prestigious design accolades in the International Property Awards, competing against projects from over one-hundred countries around the world. Each of the villas is privately owned, but managed by Infinite Luxury on behalf of the owners.

Kata Rocks developer and operator Infinite Luxury is a construction and residential development company founded for over 20 years in London’s fashionable Notting Hill. This is their first luxury resort property and the first of several new resort projects planned.

With spring in full bloom, GALLERY DIRECT’s Isabella Quilt Cover Set from their Gallery Home soft furnishings collection is perfect for brightening up any bedroom. This beautifully vibrant oversized watercolour floral bed linen set with coloured piping is made from 100% cotton sateen.

The set is available in 4 sizes along with matching housewife pillowcases.

+44 (0) 17 95 43 91 59
Click here to contact Gallery Direct: http://www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Jumeirah Group has unveiled the name for Jumeirah’s new hotel at Madinat Jumeirah, scheduled to open during 2016: it will be known as Jumeirah Al Naseem.The name ‘Al Naseem’, which means a gentle wind or sea breeze in Arabic, reflects the location of the hotel on the shoreline of the Arabian Gulf and the open aspect of its design.

Jumeirah Al Naseem will have 430 luxurious rooms and suites, complete with walk-in rain showers, floor-to-ceiling windows and private outdoor terraces. The hotel is set among lush, landscaped gardens and offers three large swimming pools, as well as private beach access. Two banqueting rooms, each measuring 75 square metres, will complement the existing conference and events facilities at Madinat Jumeirah.

Guests will have access to the Madinat Theatre, the resort’s waterways serviced by traditional wooden abra boats, a kids club and over 50 restaurants and bars at Souk Madinat Jumeirah; as well as the award-winning Talise Spa, watersports and Wild Wadi Waterpark.

Jumeirah Al Naseem promises a modern-day Arabian experience, sitting alongside the palatial elegance of Jumeirah Al Qasr, the calm sophistication of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam and the discrete charm of Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, the exquisite summerhouses that were recently listed by Tripadvisor as one of the Top 25 Hotels in the World. Jumeirah Al Naseem is located next to Jumeirah Mina A’Salam on the city’s longest private beach, looking out over Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Following the tenth anniversary of Madinat Jumeirah, the opening of the new hotel in 2016 will mark the completion of one of the world’s finest luxury resorts.

Raising the standard in guest service and luxury accommodations yet again, Bellagio recently completed the remodel of the final 403 suites in the resort’s main tower. This marks the conclusion of an approximately $165 million remodel that began in 2011 and encompassed all 3,933 of the resort’s rooms and suites.“Our team has developed an incredible collection of newly redesigned rooms and suites, each meant to create an elevated and memorable guest experience,” said Randy Morton, president and COO of Bellagio. “We are excited to unveil these new accommodations and look forward to welcoming new and loyal guests from around the world.”

Created by the MGM Resorts International Design Group, the Bellagio Tower’s redesigned suites offer refined furnishings with high-style surfaces such as lacquer and exotic wood graining as well as sumptuous fabrics influenced by modern fashion. Key design elements and color themes are consistent with the remodeled suites in the Spa Tower, along with a new color palette of spring greens and Dragonfruit pink meant to promote rejuvenation of the spirit.

March Highlights
• Average rates fall in Dubai but rise in Abu Dhabi
• Beirut and Sharm El Sheikh hotels witness a boost in occupancy on the back of strong demand
• Revenues up but profits down in Doha hotels

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is to open The St. Regis Langkawi in November 2015. The hotel is situated within an idyllic cove with 85 well-appointed suites and 3 water villas, each boasting a spectacular view of the Straits of Malacca. Each guestroom will also feature the signature St. Regis Butler Service. Trained in the English tradition, St. Regis butlers provide discerning guests with around-the-clock customised services, anticipating each guest’s every need. The hotel is close to Kuah town, Langkawi’s shopping and commercial centre, and is approximately a 20-minute drive from Langkawi International Airport.Owned by Integrated Nautical Resort Sdn Bhd (INR), the resort is a joint-venture between Rajawali Group, Malaysia Ministry of Finance and Langkawi Development Authority.

A myriad of culinary experiences, with five food and beverage venues, will keep up with the rich heritage and legacy of the St. Regis brand. The resort’s signature bar will serve the legendary Bloody Mary cocktail, born at the flagship St. Regis New York hotel in the early 1900s. The resort will also create a local version of the Bloody Mary, a tradition that every St. Regis around the world cherishes.

Guests at The St. Regis Langkawi will also be able to indulge in a range of luxurious specialty massages and well-being treatments, crafted to pamper and allure their weary senses in a tranquil and private Spa Salon. Other resort amenities will include a swimming pool, gym and function space, with access to expanded meeting facilities at the ultra-modern Langkawi International Convention Centre (LICC).

The property is one kilometre from a new integrated coastal development, which encompasses the Langkawi International Convention Centre (LICC), an extensive, 6,100 square metres meeting and conference venue. Featuring state-of-the-art facilities amidst luxurious surroundings, LICC recently hosted high profile functions, including the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting in March 2015 and the ASEAN Leaders Summit this April. With its largest meeting area boasting 1,600 square metres of space, LICC is ready to raise the bar on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) in the region.

The integrated coastal development also offers existing and new facilities that complement LICC’s services, enhancing visitors’ lifestyle experiences in Langkawi. These include the Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa, Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, a high end retail hub, improved landscaping of Eagle Square Park and much more.

The distinctive elegance of the Screw table lamp makes it one of the signature fittings from Chelsom’s latest collection, a true statement piece ideal for public areas and prestigious guestrooms. Understated in terms of its design, the beauty of the lamp comes from the handmade ceramic corkscrew shaped base as inspired by the current trend of working geometric shapes in to product design. The uniqueness of the piece is further emphasised by the specialised bronze metallic lustre glaze hand applied for each individual fitting.

Screw is offered in two standard glaze finishes including high gloss Bronze metallic as pictured and gloss White although a wide number of special glaze finishes can be made to order on request.

01253 831401
Chelsom.co.uk

Luxury boutique hotel Flemings Mayfair is investing £14 million in an impressive refurbishment plan, which will see 129 new-look bedrooms, suites and apartments, alongside a new tea lounge, an intimate, sophisticated bar and brand new restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Shaun Rankin. Work began last year on the family-owned leading SLH (Small Luxury Hotels of the World) and is due for completion in the first quarter of 2016. The hotel remains fully operational during this exciting time.Bedrooms, Suites, Apartments, Penthouse & Townhouse
The first phase of the refurbishment project is now nearing completion, which will transform 40 of its bedrooms and suites and its ten Mayfair apartments, each with individual themes and fabulous attention to detail. A selection of bedrooms, junior suites and studio suites as well as one, two and three-bed apartments – most of which benefit from a private entrance on Clarges Street or in the case of the Townhouse, a private entrance on Half Moon Street – will be finalised in June.

Interior designers Tully Filmer took inspiration from the heritage of the hotel, returning the bedrooms to their generous Georgian splendour with three metre high ceilings and period features. The elegant bedrooms are decorated with a nod to the glamorous 1930’s, with shades of bronze and soft greys, along with bespoke furniture designed in silver stained fiddle-back Sycamore. The feel of each bedroom is serenely calm and restful with timeless detailing and quiet luxury.

Celebrity artwork from renowned photographer Andy Gotts MBE, who has shot the likes of Harrison Ford, Kate Moss, Kylie Minogue and Robert De Niro, adorn the bedroom walls. Many of these pictures were taken at Flemings over the past six months and form part of its new private collection.

Adding to the opulent feel of the suites, guests will be able to enjoy their own complimentary gin bar. Designed in conjunction with spirits experts and celebrated authors Joel Harrison and Neil Ridley, those wishing to unwind can choose from five gins, including Flemings’ own signature blend, created in collaboration with Shaun Rankin, and all located within specially designed gin cabinets.

For the ultimate break, book the top floor penthouse suite, which sleeps six, and includes use of a private lift and roof terrace – great for secluded outdoor entertaining or al-fresco drinks and dining.

The stunning Townhouse on Half Moon Street comprises seven beautifully appointed bedrooms, which can be either booked individually as suites or entirely as a whole property.

The Drawing Room – a modern interpretation on a traditional Georgian Drawing room – created in conjunction with The East India Company, offers guests an elegant Indian-inspired space to enjoy traditional and exotic teas. The 30-cover space boasts hand-painted De Gournay wall panels and a library stocked with books from Assouline.

New for 2016
The second phase of the development will commence in January 2016 and is set to see the remaining hotel rooms revamped alongside the complete refurbishment of the bar and restaurant areas. During this stage the hotel will again remain fully operational.

New Bar & Restaurant by Executive Chef Shaun Rankin
March 2016 will see the opening of a new bar & restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Shaun Rankin, who will join Flemings Mayfair as Executive Chef. Shaun has been Jersey-based for twenty years and has held a Michelin star for 11 years, with Bohemia and now his own Jersey restaurant, Ormer. He is highly-acclaimed and is one of the original Great British Chefs. His new venture with Flemings Hotel will run alongside his current Jersey restaurant and he will be a great addition to the Flemings family.

Originally opened in 1851 and converted from 13 Georgian townhouses, award-winning hotel Flemings Mayfair offers unrivalled luxury accommodation in one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods – just steps away from Green Park, Piccadilly and a short walk from Buckingham Palace.

Perhaps you’ve read reviews on Trip Advisor saying your hotel bedrooms need an upgrade, or maybe your hotel lobby area is looking more 1915 than 2015? You know it’s time for that hotel refurbishment you’ve been thinking about, but you’re not completely sure where to start. Approaching and planning a hotel furniture refurbishment project can be a daunting task. For many interior designers and architects it’s a full time job… yet, if you’re an independent hotel owner or manager, you might be about to embark on a hotel refurbishment project on top of your already demanding job.

Who are Curtis Furniture?
Curtis are a specialist hotel furniture and doors supplier with over 15 years of experience in planning and managing hotel refurbishment projects and fit-outs for hotels across the UK. This experience means we’re well qualified to offer advice on preparing for your next project. Find out more about Curtis

What to consider before a hotel refurbishment

Step one
At the outset, the key questions are:
• What areas of your hotel need to be refurbished? The bedrooms, the restaurant, the bar?
• What is your budget?
• If you can’t stretch to everything straightaway, which areas of your hotel will take priority?
• Is there a particular event or peak holiday season you’d like the refurbishment to be completed by – or a quiet period when the project would cause minimum disruption to your guests and minimise the financial impact of having rooms offline?

Step two
The next step is to think about your preferred design style – and the star rating you need to maintain or are striving for:
• Are you aiming for 3*, 4* or 5*?
• Is it a boutique room design you’re looking for – or perhaps a stylish, functional space for the business traveller?
• What are the best room layouts and pieces of furniture to maximise your let-able space?
• You might also think about whether to employ a hotel interior designer or architect, depending on the size and scope of the project – or if you can manage it on your own.

Once you’ve started to think about these questions, it’s time to find the right supplier or suppliers.

How Curtis Furniture can help you

Curtis works with hotel owners, managers and interior designers to deliver beautiful hotel interiors. We aim to provide as much or as little support as our clients want or need. This includes helping to:
• Plan your room layouts – to create an impact and maximise your space
• ‘Get the best bang for your buck’ by recommending different finish and fabric options
• Choose the right style of furniture to create the look you want
• Plan your project to help ensure it misses your peak occupancy periods
• Consider the factors that will help to achieve a 3, 4 or 5 star rating
• Plus, we can recommend an interior designer or architect should you need one.

Curtis Furniture & Doors manufactures hotel bedroom case goods, internal and external doors, public area furniture, chairs and tables. We also supply other complementary products, including an exclusive range of sofas and sofa beds in partnership with DFS Contract. See our product range.

Contact Curtis
Whether you’re just at the ideas stage or you have a clear picture of your requirements, call 0113 248 0605 or enquire online – and request a free refurbishment consultation at your hotel.

Follow us on Twitter: @CURTISFURNITURE
Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com

These useful tips have been provided by Gareth Brett, board director. Curtis are hotel furniture & doors specialists – and a leading UK manufacturer of hotel bedroom case goods.

Celebrating 15 years, St Martins Lane, Morgans Hotel Group Co.’s first European hotel, has revealed a fresh new contemporary design and updated public spaces to mark the milestone anniversary. With renewed emphasis on comfort and simplicity across its 204 guestrooms, St Martins Lane’s recently completed renovation also includes a revitalization of its acclaimed in-house restaurant, Asia de Cuba, with a tantalizing new menu under Cuban-born executive chef Luis Pous, as well as the launch of London’s newest late night cocktail lounge, Blind Spot.

Situated in London’s theatre district at the heart of Covent Garden, Blind Spot is an intimate urban escape that has been beautifully conceived by renowned interior designer Tim Andreas of Banjo Ad Inc. Andreas has paid homage to Philippe Starck, St Martins Lane’s original designer, and his original ethos by blurring the lines between baroque and minimalist, extravagance and simplicity.

Guests can begin their journey in the Den, a modern gathering place situated just off the lobby. The décor is warm and sophisticated, with a tongue-in-cheek British flair. The art on the walls animates the space with larger-than-life portraits and visual puns. The Den is ideally suited to relaxing with a cup of tea or champagne before embarking into the heart of London, and serves a selection of hot and cold snacks throughout the day including toasted English crumpets, Cuban style sandwiches with BBQ pork and charcuterie and devilled eggs.

Asia de Cuba, a Chino-Latino fusion restaurant with an established reputation for delicious and unexpected cuisine, has been restyled to reflect an exciting new menu curated by Chef Luis Pous. Chic, sophisticated, and glamorous, Asia de Cuba lets the food do the talking with dishes that are intensely flavored, imaginatively prepared and ultimately celebratory – all served in a high-energy environment.

The new décor evokes the senses of Havana – home to one of Latin America’s oldest and largest Chinatown neighbourhoods. The new menu at Asia de Cuba represents Chef Pous’ interpretation of what Asian-influenced Cuban food would be today if Cubans had been able to innovate and evolve their cuisine over the past 50 years.

For an innovative cocktail experience, as the sun sets, guests can slip behind the lobby’s curious tea counter and through a hidden doorway, to find themselves in Blind Spot, a golden cocktail lounge inspired by the world’s finest exotic teas. Tea made its journey from Asia to Great Britain in the 1660s, forever linking the continents and inspiring culinary palates. The link is expressed in every aspect of Blind Spot, from the colour scheme to the tastes.

Cocktail consultant Andrew Loudon, whose experience includes managing of-the-moment cocktail bar Satan’s Whiskers and the distinguished 69 Colebrooke Row, has devised a series of signature drinks, some of which blend teas with refreshing market ingredients, such as Camellia; a black tea vodka with Chambord, Aperol, lemon and raspberries, and Ora Negra; a Palo Cortado sherry with orange blossom water and Perrier Jouet.

Continued on page two…

The Mercury® DK1 and the DK1E lighting control kits from Hamilton present an ideal ‘out-of-the-box’ opportunity for electrical installers to exploit the growing trend towards a smarter home. Touch here to get started
Described as entry-level systems, both the DK1 and the DK1E kits contain everything needed to control one lighting circuit with the now standard ‘Touch Screen’ control plate. The DK1 kit is controlled using a wired touch screen plate, and the DK1E has built-in Ethernet and enables wireless control via iPad and iPhone using Hamilton’s downloadable APP, available on the APP Store.

Taking the first step to a smart home just got easier.
The customer benefits of installing a smart lighting control system are compelling: controlling ambiance and mood light levels at the touch of a button to enhance carefully planned living space; satisfying the insatiable appetite to remotely control all aspects of our homes/lives via an app, and of course the possible significant energy savings makes lighting control a natural choice.

Setting the scene
Everything about this smart lighting control solution just looks and feels right: simplicity is at the forefront of its design making it easy to install. Basic day-to-day lighting scenarios, from simple dimming to scene-setting programmes, can be set, stored and recalled – all at the touch of a button.

Start small and think big
The encased dimmer hub is straightforward to access and wire-in and for simple 4-channel applications can work ‘Out of the box’. For projects that require more circuits, say in a kitchen, lounge and dining room, the dimmer packs can be linked together and configured using simple dip switch settings – NO PROGRAMMING is required.

The finishing touch
Customers will love controlling their lighting via the touch screen controller, which comes in a white plastic plate finish as standard but can be upgraded at no extra cost to a metal finish from Hamilton’s Hartland CFX® or Sheer CFX® collections. The system can also be controlled by a handheld infra-red remote control.

Easy to set & store scenes with the touch of a button
When installing the Touch Screen controller, absolutely no commissioning work is required as the unit is pre-loaded with the necessary software. The process of setting the light scenes is not dissimilar to programming a car radio – simply hold your finger on the icon button until it locks in!

1. Set the desired light level using the circuit buttons: a brief press will turn the lights on/off, a prolonged press will raise/lower the light level
2. Press and hold down scene button 1.
3. The LED will flash five times.
4. Keep a finger on the scene button until the LED stops flashing and goes solid, then goes out.
5. Scene 1 is now stored.

In the DK1 kit box:
1 x MDP4x600+3AR Dimming Pack
1 x Touch Screen Control Plate
1 x Touch Screen Interface
1 x Infra-Red Remote Control

In the DK1E kit box:
1 x MDP4x600+3AR+E Dimming Pack – with built-in Ethernet for wireless control
1 x Touch Screen Control Plate
1 x Touch Screen Interface
1 x Infra-Red Remote Control

DK1 at a glance
• 4 channels each rated at 600W.
• One 3 amp volt free relay output (mains or LV).
• Touch Screen interface as standard.
• Simple to program scene setting (just push & hold).
• Compatible with LED lamps.
• Expandable system beyond lighting control e.g.audio, blinds, fans etc.
• DK1E option enables wireless control using Mercury® iOS APP, available on the APP Store.
• Option to replace standard white plastic control plate with a Hamilton metal plate from either the Hartland CFX® or Sheer CFX® ranges, at no extra cost.
• Conventional switch plates & sockets are also available in Hartland CFX® and Sheer CFX®, for a co-ordinated look!

For further information on the new Mercury® DK1 & DK1E Lighting Control Kits, please visit: www.hamilton-litestat.com or call +44 (0)1747 860088

The long awaited Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen Airport Hotel opened its doors on the 8th of May. It comprises of 193 air-conditioned contemporary bedrooms featuring pocket sprung mattresses, high quality bedding, a choice of pillows, 32-inch HD TV’s, 1 meeting room, restaurant and bar offering all day dining menu, 251 car parking spaces. On top of this the operational hotel will create 50 new jobs. The hotel is located within a 5-minute walk through our linked covered walkway to Aberdeen International Airport and within easy reach to four key business parks – ABZ, D2, Aberdeen Gateway and Prime Four. The hotel is also conveniently located close to Dyce railway station and the city centre making it ideal for all business and leisure guests alike.

The restaurant & bar offers a friendly and warm ambience accompanied by quality food from our all day dining menu, serving national and international cuisine. Professional service ensures that diners are kept especially happy and the contemporary interior ensures a great dining experience.

Express start breakfast is included for every guest at the Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen Airport. Guests can enjoy a delicious bacon bap, egg and cheese wraps, Moma’s Porridge and freshly brewed coffee. Continental style breakfast is also available including a great bakery selection, yoghurts and fruit which are all available to take should you wish.

The Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen Airport Hotel is owned and operated by Dominvs Hospitality, who also own The Crowne Plaza Aberdeen Airport which is due to open late August 2015.

Property agents Colliers International seeks new owners for two unique Cotswold hotels.

Both properties offer potential buyers a solid investment opportunity, and are on the market for a combined sum of just under £1.8m.Located near the centre of the historic town Cirencester, The Old Bungalow guest house is on the market for £775,000. Current owners of the property are couple Garry and Hannah Smith; well known in the local area for having previously owned the Oddfellows pub on Chester Street at the heart of the town. The couple, who have both enjoyed a profitable self-run business, are now looking to continue their success in the local B&B industry.

With its seven en suite bedrooms, the property offers its new investors the option of running a low-key business as Garry and Hannah have, or the opportunity to accept one of many new letting opportunities which are turned down on a regular basis.

Constructed in the 1920s, the bungalow sits on a large plot overlooking a garden with ample parking to the front and to the rear of the property. Many original features – such as its pitch tile-covered roof and wide entrance hall – are still present throughout, complimented by a large breakfast room and conservatory lounge.

Finally, the property also offers its new owners their own separate accommodation – the substantial two-floored outbuilding holds a self-contained apartment which is located to the rear of the property.

The utterly charming Burford House is the second Cotswold property on the market, for a cool £1m. The eight bedroom hotel located at the heart of Burford’s High Street in Oxon is said to date back to the 16th Century, and is one of the most highly regarded small hotels in the area, having received the prestigious AA 5 Star Guest Accommodation Highly Commended award.

Having recently been refurbished, the hotel now enjoys a five-star standard throughout. It has eight bedrooms spread over its ground and upper two floors – all complete with luxurious, over-sized en-suite bathrooms.

The property offers many public areas, including a front sitting room overlooking the High Street, a Garden Room and a second lounge opening onto the rear courtyard, all furnished to a high standard. The Grade II listed building also includes a basement cellar.

Original features are maintained throughout the property – from wooden floors and a large stone surround fireplace to French windows to the rear of the building; the property is full of character.

Director of Hotels Agency at Colliers International’s Bristol office, Peter Brunt, said: “Situated at the heart of one of the Cotswold’s busiest towns, Burford House offers a wonderful opportunity for new investors. Trade in the town is almost completely made up of tourists, and sees visitors looking to enjoy the Tudor houses and ancient markets flocking to the town all year round.

“The Old Bungalow in Cirencester is another property with real marketability. The area is a thriving commercial centre, and as such the hotel is well-placed to achieve a consistently high level of occupancy.

“We have seen many properties in this area enjoy success on the market in recent years – properties that have recently sold nearby include the Highway Hotel and Burford Lodge; both are doing well in the hands of their new owners.

“Both of these properties offer a wonderful opportunity for investors looking to start a business in a beautiful part of the country with an enduring appeal to tourists and locals alike.”

Rockstars, fashionistas and superstars are all about to arrive at ibis hotels in the global hotel brand’s latest TV campaign ‘Everybody’s famous at ibis’ which has recently launched.

ibis hotels has launched a global advertising campaign that stylishly challenges the perceptions of the economy hotel brand. The new ad campaign is chic, humorous and entertaining and portrays ibis hotels in a new light, as the perfect fit for even the most glamorous personalities. Celebrities, rich, famous or not, everybody’s famous at ibis and every hotel offers the style, space and service to suit your lifestyle and let each guests be the star of their own stay.

The “Everybody’s famous at ibis” TVC, which launched in the UK on the 1st May across Channel 4 owned and partner channels, included spots on Alan Carr Chatty Man, Big Bang Theory, and the Island with Bear Grills. The campaign will support both brand and tactical activities all year long in the UK.

Commenting on the new campaign, Karelle Lamouche, VP Marketing and Communications Accor Brands UK and Ireland, said: “ibis has redefined the economy segment in product, service and communication. ibis has become a lifestyle brand, not just an economy hotel brand that offers the best sleep for the best price. The ibis family has kick-started a revolution in its market’s standards with an in-depth customer-experience revamp, in record time for an international network this size. The hotels are now the best on the market offering a style and quality of design and service that is second to none. The new advertising campaign communicates this with the style, humour, quality and personality of the ibis brand.”

A COMMUNICATION TERRITORY THAT CAPTURES IBIS’ TRANSFORMATION
ibis has built the highest exposure in its segment and is the “first choice” brand in 11 countries around the world. The repositioning of the three brands into the ibis family – ibis budget, ibis Styles and ibis – has had an effect, boosting exposure for ibis Styles (+2, to 5 points) and ibis budget (+9, to 14 points). (Source: BDRC).

ibis hotels have strengthened their brand values around products and services at reasonable prices and are venturing into a new, universal, off-beat and high-impact communication territory – “Everybody’s Famous”. The campaign strategy shows, with a humorous slant, that even the most discerning customers are now choosing ibis brand hotels because the outstanding services and comfort make them the self-evident choice. These chic, extravagant, colourful characters we admire or find entertaining reach ibis hotels with great pomp and find a hotel that is as stylish and colourful as they are.

This new 360° communication territory is unique and distinctive, and will be reaching a wide variety of communication channels (TV, digital, partnerships and PR). The campaign was designed particularly to travel on digital media and social networks – especially on Facebook where ibis brands have 600,000 fans. The multichannel communications campaign includes a #famousatibis campaign taking the brand conversation across social channels in all territories.

This campaign will reach 15 countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East in 2015. The total media investment is in excess of €15 million.

March Highlights
• Profit growth for Amsterdam and Vienna
• Slow start for Milan and Rome
• St Petersburg performed

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the signing of The Westin Manila Sonata Place and The Residences at The Westin Manila Sonata Place, a new build property owned by Robinsons Land Corporation.The Westin Manila Sonata Place and The Residences at The Westin Manila Sonata Place is slated to open in 2019, joining two other Philippines-based hotels in the Starwood pipeline—The Westin Manila Bayshore and Sheraton Manila Hotel, scheduled to open in 2018 and 2017.

With 300 guestrooms, The Westin Manila Sonata Place is perfectly located on San Miguel Avenue, the main street of Ortigas Business District in downtown Manila. The Residences at The Westin Manila Sonata Place will feature nearly 350 private residential apartments, ranging from one to three bedroom units. Approximately 11 kilometers from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the development embraces the Westin brand positioning of For a better you™ by offering amenities and programs designed to inspire balance and enhance well-being, leaving guests and residents feeling better than when they first arrived.

The Westin Manila Sonata Place will offer guestrooms fully equipped with the brand’s signature amenities, such as the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed, the Heavenly® Bath experience, and an ergonomic work area for optimal productivity. The hotel will also offer three food and beverage venues, including the Lobby Lounge, a full service restaurant and a specialty restaurant.

Other features and programs designed to help guests feel their best include the WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, a full-service spa, and a swimming pool. In addition, the hotel will expand Manila’s offerings for meetings and event planners with over 1,400 square meters of function space, including two ballrooms and six meeting rooms. Owners of The Residences at The Westin Manila Sonata Place will enjoy a separate pool, fitness center and lounge, as well as access to the public areas of the hotel—such as the lounge, spa, and dining venues.

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Staff from Jameson Seating visited Milan last month as part of Salone Del Mobile, which brought about some wonderful new products and trends. Our favourite has to be from leading designers and manufacturers, Billiani, who we are one of the approved UK distributors for.

With a new collections Eileen & Spy and additions to the Doll, W, Croissant & Hippy families we are expecting these products to be very popular throughout 2015/16.

Billiani have also increased there finishes range & due to popular demand all stools can now be cut down to mid height.

Of course if you do need a unique finish then we can finish to your specification.

Then combined with our manufacturing capabilities we can provide a complete solution whether for a hotel, restaurant or other hospitality project.

For any pricing or further information on any of these products please send us an enquiry & see the below links to download the latest Billiani Catalogue & Posters.

Billiani Belonging Catalogue
Billiani Belonging Poster
Billiani Finishes
Billiani Eileen Poster

Click here to contact Jameson Seating: www.jamesonseating.co.uk

Pullman has recently been appointed to manage a new resort being built in one of the most unspoilt areas of the Maldives. The 120-villa Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort will open in 2018 and will be located in the south of the Maldives in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll in the Indian Ocean, a spectacular lagoon teeming with colourful marine life and boasting unmatched diving and snorkelling options.Located just 10 minutes by speedboat from the new airport on the gorgeous, unspoilt Maamutaa Island which spans 195,000 square metres the Pullman Maamutaa will be one of the most modern resorts in the Maldives.

Guests will enjoy five-star services and facilities including 80 spacious overwater villas and 40 villas dotted around the pristine beach, two swimming pools, a lounge, an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a sunset bar perched over the lagoon, spa and fitness centre, organic gardens, tennis court, kids club, beach playground as well as a dive centre and watersports centre so that guests can make the most out of their stay in this spectacular location.

Setting new standards in bathroom design, Simpsons, the leading British supplier of shower enclosures and modular wetroom solutions, has launched a pioneering, ultra-thin ceramic shower tray. Created from a single fusion at temperatures of 1250˚C, PLUS+TON benchmarks ceramic design in the bathroom. The innovative sanitary ware is completely scratch, stain and slip proof. It’s also 100% eco-friendly due to its recyclable quality and having been produced without using any emissions.The core fire clay has been specially formatted to create the densest, strongest and smoothest ceramic with a non-porous surface. This makes it virtually impossible for any solvent or liquid including hair dye, nail polish and even hydrochloric acid to penetrate the glazed finish. Spillages can simply be removed with water to leave the tray looking as good as new. This advanced feature also prevents the build-up of limescale deposits.

Created using the highest quality of raw materials, PLUS+TON also includes Bacterclean as standard. This is a revolutionary non-toxic antibacterial treatment, achieved by the high temperature glaze process that eliminates the development of pathogenic agents by up to 99%. Made in Italy, it features an ingenious structure that makes it incredibly lightweight. With a thickness of just 30mm, they’re almost 30% lighter than a stone resin tray. With its fully glazed sides, it’s completely reversible and can be installed in any bathroom environment, whether adjacent to walls, in the centre of the room or flush to the floor.

Click here to contact Simpsons: www.simpsons-enclosures.co.uk

The former InterContinental Berchtesgaden has been reborn as an Alpine lifestyle resort, merging unpretentious design with rustic Bavarian flair, topped off with cordial Kempinski service. The hotel’s new character is immediately apparent when entering the impressively re-designed lobby with its new oakwood floor, oversized lampshades and mounted stag’s head, exuding warm Alpine hospitality. The reopening sees a redesign of two of the three restaurants, exciting new menus in the Michelin Star restaurant Le Ciel and the introduction of the Kempinski The Spa concept in the hotel’s wellness area.This third Alpine resort under the Kempinski umbrella is closely tied to the region, with local products available at the bar, in the restaurants and in the spa. Materials like wood, loden and leather dominate the interior design. Kempinski’s signature brand ambassador, the “Lady in Red”, made her premier appearance in a stunning red dirndl – an exclusive design by Caroline Fischer Couture. Another first for Kempinski is the introduction of an Activities Concierge, whose sole job it is to provide the right activity tips and recommendations for any taste in any weather.

Modern and straightforward in appearance, the hotel comprises 138 rooms and suites on four floors along with the Kempinski The Spa, three restaurants, a bar and six meeting rooms. A unique feature is the panoramic view from anywhere in the hotel that makes the Alpine peaks and meadows appear to be within arms’ reach.

The soul and centre of the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden is the spacious lobby with its elegant oakwood floor, soft earthen colour palette and high-end interiors. The 7-metres-high wall of hewn Styrian gneiss, several oversized lampshades and contemporary antler lamps are true eye-catchers. Here guests can relax around the open fireplace and discuss the day’s events or find a new favourite among 130 types of gin and over 300 types of whisky at the Kaminbar. The interiors of the 138 rooms and suites were maintained in their unpretentious classic design, each one featuring a balcony, a terrace or floor-to-ceiling windows. Freshly cut flowers, cosy cushions, a well-stocked minibar containing soft drinks and local beer, as well as turndown service all create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

In honour of the opening under the Kempinski brand, Michelin-starred chef Ulrich Heiman created three new menus for the Le Ciel: Welt (world), Bayerische Alpen (Bavarian Alps) and the purely vegetarian menu called Kraut & Rüben. Gourmets can look forward to the reopening of the Le Ciel on May 22. The comfortable Bergstüberl restaurant serves traditional Alpine dishes in a casual beer garden atmosphere. Named after the first mountaineer to traverse the Watzmann East Face in 1881, the second new restaurant, the Johann Grill, serves refined regional cuisine like free-roaming ox carpaccio or venison filet. The extensive terrace offering panoramic views is the perfect place to linger a little longer.

Under the Kempinski umbrella, the resort introduces Kempinski The Spa with a 1400 sqm wellness area including an outdoor pool and relaxation area. The spa offers twelve treatment rooms where guests can enjoy La Prairie and Alpienne products and treatments inspired by the seasons of the year. Precious natural oils, organic Alpine herbs, local salts and fresh mountain spring water round out the range of products used by the wellness professionals. Exclusive treatments with a regional twist, specially developed for the hotel, include salt stone massages, tied to the long-standing tradition of salt mining in the Berchtesgaden region.

Stunning Alpine nature awaits guests literally on their doorstep, giving trail riders, hikers and mountaineers everything they could hope for. The affiliated Golf Club Berchtesgaden’s 9-hole golf course is one of the highest golf courses in Germany. In winter, the hotel offers immediate access to the Gutshof auf dem Eckerbichl ski area. For excellent shopping and cultural treats, guests can head down to Berchtesgaden or to nearby Salzburg. From families with children to couples and singles, from outdoor enthusiasts to culture vultures, the Activities Concierge is sure to recommend activities to fit the bill on sunny and on rainy days alike.

Gallery Direct’s new Maison range from their Hudson Living catalogue has been designed with a busy lifestyle in mind. It features co-ordinating statement and functional furniture to add chic, character and charm to rooms. The collection includes dining furniture, occasional tables, arm chairs, 2 seater sofas and sideboards. One of the new Maison products is an extending round dining table, seen here in Cool Grey, designed to seat 4 to 6 people. The hand painted colour perfectly complements the top which is veneered in mindy ash with a limed, weathered finish for a natural, warm look.

The Maison Balloon Back and Button Chairs with their weathered frames co-ordinate beautifully with the table to give a sophisticated lifestyle look.

All the furniture in the Hudson Living collection is design led and manufactured to the highest standards, combining the best of traditional craftsmanship with new technology and quality materials.

+44 (0) 17 95 43 91 59
www.gallerydirect.co.uk

March Highlights
• UK Provinces continue to shine against London
• Cost control lifts Chester hotel profits
• Stratford upon Avon on the up

The opening of the ibis Lille Centre Grand Palais marks a significant milestone for Accor as it the first to showcase every new concept the brand will soon include. The hallmarks include the wide open areas, designer features and comfort-enhancing amenities to welcome business travellers and tourists keen on exploring this city.After just 18 months in construction, the ibis Lille Centre Grand Palais opened on the 4th March. It spans seven stories and was built to encapsulate the brand’s up-to-the-minute comfort spirit by Olivier Dolicque and Baptiste Plantet from APSIS, a Lille-based architect firm. Marie-Laure Ducrocq created the interior architecture alongside the ibis teams.

The natural raw materials and warm colours (woods and reds) in the reception areas add an unprecedented relaxed and inviting dimension to economy hotels. These areas are open and interconnected. The partitions in the lobby are gone so staff and guests now meet in an open, more laid-back area. An ultramodern projection screen in the background broadcasts a wealth of useful information (weather forecasts, pricing, deals, etc.) with an informal, intuitive slant.

Around the reception area, guests can now have a seat in the TV lounge or Business Corner to catch the latest news, connect, work, read or drink their coffee.

This state-of-the-art, cosy hotel has 91 Sweet Rooms by ibis™, including nine suites and three rooms for mobility-impaired guests. Prices start at €73€ and these rooms will envelop travellers in a unique, original experience of economy hospitality amid printed decorative motifs, elegant and practical lighting, new headboards creating a four-poster effect, and snug flooring enhancing the comfortable, home-away-from home feel.

The rooms are 17 to 21 sq. m. and all have the Sweet Bed by ibis™, including the duvet and super-soft pillows, 22-inch flat-screen LCD TVs, generously-sized bathrooms, modular desks and free Wi-Fi. And a lot of work went into the soundproofing so guests can also sleep and work peacefully.

The hotel also offers ibis kitchen Lounge concept. To suit guests’ preferences, breakfast is served from 6:30 to 10:00 am and the buffet includes a choice of local specialities. The Lounge Bar welcomes patrons 24/7 and serves an assortment of snacks in laid-back, easy-going surroundings decorated with a sense of humour (bubbly visuals, rocking chairs, game-board tables and more).

The ibis Lille Centre Grand Palais also has a light-filled 30 sq. m. meeting room opening out onto a terrace for professional customers. This meeting room can seat 14 to 22 people depending on the configuration and includes a video-projector, screen and Wi-Fi access.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®) has announced the opening of Crowne Plaza® Berlin – Potsdamer Platz (formerly the Wyndham Grand Berlin Potsdamer Platz). The hotel will operate under a management agreement with All Stars Hotel Development and Management Company.The hotel features 256 rooms including 19 suites, an executive floor with a separate lounge and roof terrace. Furthermore the hotel offers 500m2 of meeting and event facilities, including eight flexible function rooms and one divisible ballroom which can host meetings and events for up to 250 people. In addition, the hotel offers 400m2 of leisure facilities with a spa, fitness area and treatment rooms.

The hotel’s designer furniture, natural stone mosaic floor and cosy open fireplace create a welcoming atmosphere in the spacious lobby. The hotel’s restaurant “The Post” offers the charm of an elegant French brasserie and freshly prepared Mediterranean specialties for dining. Diners can watch the chefs in action in an open show kitchen, whilst in the inner-court guests can take advantage of the spacious terrace.

Crowne Plaza Berlin – Potsdamer Platz is well placed to meet the needs of international and domestic business travellers who frequent the city. It is close to governmental buildings, political party headquarters and other businesses, and within a 15 minute walk of Potsdamer Platz – one of the most visited sights in Berlin with its shops, restaurants and bars. It is equally suited to leisure guests being close to some of Berlin’s major tourist attractions, and well connected to Berlin’s airports and the central railway station.

Roomzzz Aparthotel, part of the Parklane Group has confirmed their second Manchester site will be in the £30M redevelopment of the iconic Corn Exchange in the City Centre. A significant move for the brand, after enjoying six years as one of the leading accommodation providers in Manchester.Mark Walton – head of Roomzzz Aparthotel UK comments, ‘The demand in the City for Roomzzz Aparthotel is substantial – we are running at 100% occupancy week on week, a second location in close proximity is a strategic game-changer for the brand.’

The Corn Exchange development will be the second historic site that Roomzzz have developed in the City. Roomzzz took on an urban mill conversion on Princess Street and have successfully curated a dynamic offering which sees the brand sitting at Number 1 on Trip Advisor based on customer reviews.

The Corn Exchange scheme will merge the Roomzzz ‘New Generation’ concept, debuting in Chester in April 2015 with bold bespoke interior designs, resulting in a combination ranging from ultra-sleek 21 sqm pods to super luxury palatial penthouses to form a total of 114 apartments.
The intention is to cement the Roomzzz reputation as Manchester’s leading accommodation provider and to compete for the status one of the best properties in the UK.

Mark Walton comments: ‘Our ability to operate multiple sites in the same City is tried, tested and proven in Leeds. Consumer requests for more Roomzzz illustrates the fact that the Aparthotel is an increasingly popular choice for booking accommodation in major UK cities. Guests appreciate the freedom Roomzzz allow them in terms of lifestyle choices – cooking an evening meal, office space in each apartment with free wifi and National & Mobile phone calls and the flexibility to stay from one night to a year. We committed to 100% transparency on our prices in 2006, this, alongside innovative design, strategic city choices and our ability to drive value alongside luxury, confirms Roomzzz Aparthotel’s position in the marketplace as the one to watch’.

Walton concludes, ‘Roomzzz Aparthotel are delighted to be partnering with Aviva and working with hotel consultants Christie + Co and DWF, who provided legal advice, to transform the iconic heritage of The Corn Exchange into a beacon for modern lifestyle choices for affordable luxe accommodation in the UK. This is a large investment, with a £13M commitment to create a spectacular property that will not only illustrate the progression and development of Roomzzz but will be seen as the revival and legacy of this historic part of Manchester.’

’Simon Green from Corn Exchange owners Aviva Property Investors Trust said: ‘We are committed to the full redevelopment of this remarkable building. The vision is to create a new legacy destination for the city and the Roomzzz Aparthotel investment will cement the future fortunes of Corn Exchange and act as a catalyst for an even more exciting regeneration of this part of the city centre.’

Roomzzz at The Corn Exchange will be taking bookings from February 2016 and will open in mid 2016.

MK Electric, the UK’s leading manufacturer of wiring accessories, has integrated its USB charging capabilities into its iconic product portfolio. MK Electric was one of the first UK manufacturers to introduce a range of award winning USB charging modules, and now this technology is being integrated into six of its wiring device ranges including Logic Plus, Metalclad Plus, Albany Plus, Edge, Aspect and the newly introduced Elements range. The USB charging solutions are designed to provide a faster and optimised charging performance and enhance user experience in a world where we are accustomed to the immediacy and convenience that technology provides.As smartphones and tablets increasingly become the device of choice for business and personal use, the ability to charge these devices via USB ports is critical. This is especially true for millennials (18-34 year olds), who are predicted to account for approximately 75 per cent of the global workforce by 2025, and have come to expect, and even depend on, having connectivity and information at their fingertips.

However, whilst travelling, millennials are often faced with challenges when their devices run out of battery. An online YouGov survey conducted by MK Electric revealed that, while 85 per cent of millennials carry chargeable devices whilst travelling, over a quarter of this age group have lost contact with people they are travelling with due to loss of battery power on their devices. Moreover, according to the survey data, losing battery power can make millennials feel ‘very frustrated’ (39 per cent), ‘anxious’ (26 per cent) and/or ‘in a panic’ (13 per cent) when they are travelling.

Nadine Deery, Channel Marketing Manager says: “As we all become increasingly dependent on technology to support and manage our lifestyles, companies must produce innovative products and solutions to stay in tune with this evolving landscape.” She continues: “At MK Electric, we believe the solution will be found in flexible and reliable solutions that simplify and enhance user experience, such as USB charging capabilities.”

USB charging becomes more sophisticated with MK Electric’s ability to provide optimum charging compatibilities. The MK USB Integrated Sockets include Dynamic Device Recognition; the ability to detect charging nuances in the device and its appetite for power. The Dynamic Device Recognition is unique to each USB port, which means that different manufacturers’ devices on both iOS and Android can be charged simultaneously without any impairment to the other. For the ultimate user experience, each port can also charge different types of devices, such as smartphones and tablets, at the same time.

The MK USB Integrated Sockets offer a simple but powerful advantage for airports, hotels, universities, schools, offices and retail outlets for quick and convenient charging. The fixed installation USB chargers remove the need for continual PAT testing of adaptors, reducing the risk of unapproved chargers being used, which can lead to damage of devices.

Designed with versatility in mind, the MK Electric USB Integrated Socket has its USB ports vertically stacked under the rockers allowing for each of the USB outlets to be used simultaneously, even when transformer plug tops are in use. This strategic design provides space to manoeuvre charging cords and reduces stress on cables while charging. Users can also benefit from the fixed installation USB charger by requiring just one cable to be used for multiple devices, which avoids the need to carry a variety of bulky adaptors for different devices.

While building innovation into its product ranges, MK Electric has ensured that safety, quality and reliability are, as always, at the forefront of design. The USB Integrated Sockets, like the entire MK wiring device ranges, include a 3-Pin “Child Resistant Shutter System”, designed to inhibit access to the electricity supply, unless all 3 pins of a standard British 13A plug are in position. In addition, the Logic Plus range, with its high grade thermoset material, provides inherent antimicrobial properties.

The easy to install USB Integrated Sockets hold the CE mark as they conform to all of the safety certification and approvals applicable for a 13A socket including BS5733, BS1363-2 and IEC 61558-2-16. All products will fit into a 35mm back box, with the exception of the Edge range which requires a 47mm back box.

MK Electric offer a wide range of front-plates in a variety of finishes and its Design Service also allows customers to create their own bespoke combinations. The USB Integrated Sockets are available from May 2015.

For more information please visit: www.mkelectric.co.uk

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, FFC Capital Corp. and Crescent Hotels & Resorts today announce the opening of the 155-room Hyatt Place Pittsburgh South/Meadows Racetrack & Casino in Washington, PA. The hotel is connected to The Meadows Casino by an enclosed walkway bridge, and it is the first Hyatt Place hotel to open in Pennsylvania’s Washington County.Hyatt Place Pittsburgh South/Meadows Racetrack & Casino offers:
• 155 spacious guestrooms, all of which feature a swiveling 42-inch HDTV, the plush Hyatt Grand Bed® and Cozy Corner sectional sofa
• Free Wi-Fi everywhere
• Parlay Lounge, the hotel’s signature bar
• Complimentary a.m. Kitchen Skillet TM breakfast for guests, featuring freshly prepared breakfast sandwiches, a variety of fresh fruits, hot and cold cereal, yogurt, breads, premium coffee and an assortment of juices
• 24/7 Gallery Menu serving made-to-order entrees and appetizers around the clock
• A Coffee to Cocktails Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails
• 1,800 square feet of flexible, high-tech meeting/function space
• Complimentary 24-hour gym for guests

Guests of Hyatt Place Pittsburgh South/Meadows Racetrack & Casino can enjoy the hotel’s signature bar, Parlay Lounge. Featuring specialty drinks, local brews and an extensive menu, including sushi rolled to order, Parlay Lounge is a great addition to Southwestern Pennsylvania’s nightlife scene. The bar area features eleven 55-inch TVs, and the outdoor patio with a fire pit offers three 65-inch TVs to stay tuned to popular sporting events. Live music from local bands will also be available on select days.

Other amenities include a variety of premiere dining options, 24-lane bowling alley suitable for all ages and live shows and entertainment every weekend. Banquet and event space is available for groups up to 2,000 attendees, and can be booked with hotel accommodations through a dedicated meeting package at Hyatt Place Pittsburgh South/Meadows Racetrack & Casino.

Marriott International, Inc has recently announced the development of the 130 room Moxy Tbilisi Hotel located in Saarbrucken Square, central Tbilisi (Georgia). It will be the third Marriott International property owned by GMT Group in Tbilisi in addition to the Courtyard Tbilisi and Tbilisi Marriott Hotel. GMT Group has partnered with Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), a government agency, to provide USD25 million for the construction of the hotel which will be part of new retail and office development around Saarbrucken Square. The hotel will be situated in a prime location close to the River Mtkvari and a short drive from the historic city centre with its picturesque cafes and restaurants, popular with both tourists and business travellers.