Hotel Designs

A brand that mirrors GROHE’s pursuit of excellence, Foster is an Italian company specialising in manufacturing stainless-steel sink solutions for the premium kitchen.Foster delivers elegance, performance, reliability and respect for the environment.

Partnering up with Foster sinks creates an opportunity to provide a “one box” solution which makes specification and purchasing much easier for the customer and final delivery.

GROHE’s award-winning kitchen mixer taps are made from the finest materials and feature the latest technologies – created to stand up to the daily demands of a busy kitchen.

Now, GROHE and FOSTER’s partnership will fuse together German Engineering with Italian Design to deliver a complete washing solution, with tap and sink solutions that deliver functionality, luxury design and performance without compromising on quality.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide used the recent Africa Hotel Investment Forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to announce its expansion in Africa and the Indian Ocean region.Today, the company has a strong footprint with 34 operating hotels and a robust pipeline of 20 hotels under development. With the expansion of its luxury, upscale and mid-market brands, Starwood will grow its portfolio by over 50% in the next five years, with more than 50 hotels operating and nine out of its 10 compelling lifestyle brands flying their flag in the region.

“The momentum of growth we are seeing in Africa today is unprecedented. It is a reiteration of the trust our owners have in us, the power of our distinct lifestyle brands and the strength of our global distribution and award-winning loyalty program,” said Michael Wale, President for Starwood, Europe, Africa and Middle East.

“Africa is a market with huge potential. With economic growth, a rising middle class and rapid urbanisation, the demand for travel and quality lodging will continue to grow and provide us with a significant opportunity to grow our brands and play our part in supporting many emerging markets across the continent.”

2015/2016 Opening Highlights

Starwood will open 7 hotels in the next year, including:

* Opening of Four Points by Sheraton Oran in November marking the entry of the brand into Algeria followed by Four Points by Sheraton Ikot Ekpene (Nigeria) in 2016.
* Opening of The Westin Soma Bay Golf Resort & Spa, after conversion which marks the entry of the brand into Egypt, followed by opening of a new Westin in Cairo, The Westin Katameya Dunes, in early 2016, further strengthening the Westin brand presence and consolidating Starwood’s position as a leading hospitality player in Egypt.
* The debut of Starwood’s ultra-luxury brand St. Regis in Egypt with opening of The St. Regis Cairo in 2016.
* Re-opening of the iconic Sheraton Cairo after extensive renovation in 2016.
* Opening of Sheraton Conakry, marking the entry of the brand and Starwood’s first hotel in Guinea

Starwood currently operates nearly 9,500 rooms in 13 countries including Algeria, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Seychelles, South Africa, Tunisia and Uganda. It is now set to debut into new countries like Guinea, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Rwanda, Senegal, South Sudan and Tanzania and will soon have more than 13,000 rooms with presence in 21 countries in Africa generating thousands of employment opportunities across the continent.

Will Chelsom has been promoted to Joint Managing Director of Chelsom as the company further consolidates its position as a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of decorative lighting to the international hospitality and marine markets. During the eight years he has been at Chelsom, Will has made an increasingly important and significant contribution to the continued growth and success of the company. He has had a major impact on developing new and existing client relationships along with increasing sales and marketing efforts and was responsible for leading the company’s recent rebrand in 2014. Chelsom prides itself on designing the lighting collections entirely in-house and Will has been fundamental to the recent successes in range direction and has been heavily involved in product design for the upcoming collection as previewed recently at Decorex and set to launch in full in May 2016.

Robert Chelsom says, “Obviously on a personal note I am very proud that we are celebrating what has now become a fourth generation family business and William will be the fourth Managing Director in Chelsom’s history. I am thrilled that we are going to be sharing the role of Joint Managing Director as we work extremely well together and I know I speak on behalf of everyone at Chelsom when I say that Will’s promotion is a major asset to the company, one which will hopefully see us maintain our position at the forefront of this extremely challenging industry.”

Will Chelsom said, “I have always felt there is huge potential for Chelsom as a business and I have relished my part in securing the significant successes we have enjoyed over recent years. The continued success wouldn’t have been achievable without the great team we have working with us, all of whom care massively about what they do putting customer satisfaction and excellent service levels above everything they do. I am really excited about what the future holds for Chelsom and I look forward to driving things on with my Father for many years to come.”

DoubleTree by Hilton is celebrating the opening of its first hotel in the medieval city of Krakow, Poland. The opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Krakow Hotel & Convention Centre also marks the completion of Hilton Worldwide’s only dual-branded property in Poland, joining Hampton by Hilton Krakow which opened in May this year.The contemporary hotel boasts 232 beautiful guest rooms, including 30 executive rooms and an Executive Lounge, 14 suites and the largest presidential suite in the city, measuring 184 square-metres. Guests can choose to dine in one of two onsite restaurants offering sumptuous Mediterranean and European cuisine or simply unwind after a long day in one of the hotels’ four bars.

DoubleTree by Hilton Krakow Hotel & Convention Centre is conveniently located near the Krakow Arena Hall and the Expo Krakow Fair Trade Centre. The hotel also offers a range of shuttle services to the city centre, airport, railway station and key tourism destinations such as the UNESCO World Heritage site Wieliczka Salt Mine, providing a fantastic base for business and leisure travellers alike.

The hotel has 16 flexible meeting spaces available that can accommodate up to 2,000 delegates, including a grand pillarless ballroom, making it an ideal location for a range of events, from business meetings and intimate cocktail receptions to weddings and corporate galas.

The hotel also has a car lift which opens out to the conference area and can hold up to 4.5 tons. After a long day, guests can relax and unwind in the hotel’s complimentary fitness centre, kick back in the sauna, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the indoor swimming pool.

Vaughan will be exhibiting at the Independent Hotel Show – from 20th-21st October 2015 – Stand 140.On display will be their new collection of alabaster wall lights, pendant ceiling lights, uplighters, task and desk lamps.

The Vaughan specialist hotel and contract team are on hand to show you around the stand.

Gallery Direct launched their Autumn/Winter Look Book at the Autumn Fair in Birmingham (September). From the beautifully elegant to the exquisitely modern, these new collections are set to inspire. Featuring around 160 new products across Gallery’s five brands, this stunning range of exclusively designed furniture and accessories will provide their clients all they need to achieve key on-trend looks for this autumn.The product launch included a range of new soft furnishings to expand their ever-stylish collection still further. Complete with luxurious sequins and lavish velvets, there are 3 new bedding ranges along with a variety of cushions and throws.

The new bedding collections include Lausanne, a luxurious quilt cover set with top cuff faux leather sequin panel and pleated detail. Coordinating cushions and bed runner complete this stylish range.

The Jacquard quilt cover set in grey features a geometric glimmer design with a plain top border detail and 200 thread count reverse. The third new bedding range is the Deco Sequin; this decadent quilt cover set has fan style sequin detail and a pleated top cuff. Coordinating cushions and bed runner complete the look.

As part of the new cushion range, the elegant Loire Round Velvet Cushion features a beautiful brooch detail in the centre and is available in three glamorous colours, red, teal and gold.

Further velvet and crushed velvet cushions, along with super soft double-sided throws and printed cushions, add a wide variety of new soft furnishings to Gallery’s catalogue, ensuring there are styles to suit all tastes and interiors.

AccorHotels, the world’s leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe, is pleased to announce it has entered into a commercial agreement with Amaris Hospitality Limited to manage 11 hotels (1,617 rooms) under Mercure, the leading midscale brand in the UK.The hotels are located in Aberdeen, Bristol, Exeter, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Daventry, Haydock, St Albans, Brands Hatch and Walton and will complete integration by the end of this year.

Thomas Dubaere, Managing Director AccorHotels UK & Ireland said: “The signing of this significant number of hotels further demonstrates the ability of AccorHotels to grow its presence in the UK and build on our leadership position, whilst proving our commitment to the midscale sector, as we continue to push towards our target of 300 hotels – 40,000 rooms – in the UK and Ireland.

These hotels will benefit enormously from joining AccorHotels’ powerful distribution network and be part of its market changing digital and technical offering which was set out in July and will offer a wide range of digital solutions to all its partners.

These additional properties significantly increase AccorHotel’s UK network to 217 hotels of which 84 are under the Mercure name, one for the leading UK midscale brands.

The Four Points by Sheraton brand has crossed the 200th hotel milestone worldwide, fueled by unprecedented demand in dynamic destinations across the globe. Boasting the largest pipeline in the Starwood Hotels & Resorts portfolio, Four Points continues to exceed expectations with plans to open 12 additional hotels around the world by the end of this year — roughly one a week.

With the recent openings of Four Points Istanbul Dudullu (Turkey); Four Points Seoul, Namsan (South Korea); Four Points Bali, Kuta (Indonesia); and Four Points Moncton (Canada), the brand, currently represented in 40 countries worldwide, continues its bullish global growth.

Four Points is on track to expand its portfolio of rooms by nearly 60% in the next five years with new hotels strategically located in nearly every corner of the globe. Today, the brand has 119 hotels in North America, 44 in Asia Pacific, 21 throughout Europe, Africa and the Middle East, and 19 in Latin America.

Movenpick Hotels & Resorts has revealed plans to open its first property in Nigeria, the largest economy in Africa.The company has signed a landmark deal with Queen Amina Garden Ventures Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Urban Shelter Ltd. a prominent Nigerian property development company, to manage the 250-key Movenpick Hotel and Conference Centre Abuja, marking another milestone in its ambitious African expansion strategy.

With a projected launch date of early 2019, the upscale hotel will be Movenpick Hotels & Resorts’ third property to open in West Africa. Located in the Nigerian capital’s desirable Jabi Lake district, an upmarket residential area undergoing rapid development, Movenpick Hotel and Conference Centre Abuja will offer guests a peaceful lakeside setting while also offering excellent road links to the nearby international airport and city centre. The Abuja property will be Movenpick’s first property in Nigeria – Africa’s largest economy

The property will be a focal point of The Queen Amina Garden, a stunning contemporary leisure and entertainment destination currently under construction, designed to cater to Nigeria’s growing affluent society and international guests, with key features including a retail promenade and residences.

Movenpick Hotel and Conference Centre Abuja will also cater to the capital’s swelling population with some areas of the city witnessing growth of between 20% and 30% annually. One million people live in Abuja, rising to four million if you take into account its suburban areas.

The hotel will comprise 250 rooms and suites; five food and beverage outlets including two specialty restaurants, one all-day-dining restaurant, a poolside bar/eatery and a lobby lounge; an Executive Club Lounge; one large fitness and spa facility for outside members; and a large natural resort setting including several pools, restaurants and tennis courts for hotel guests and where 200 cabanas will be available to rent.

With Abuja’s burgeoning MICE market in mind, an expansive dedicated conference centre will be complemented by a ballroom and three flexible meeting spaces.

Marriott International has announced the opening of the new 154-room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Lima, South America’s third largest city.The hotel situated at the intersection of Calle Alcanfores and Calle Schell in Lima’s upscale Miraflores neighbourhood known for its shopping, restaurants, antique dealers and breath taking ocean views.

“This new Courtyard by Marriott in Lima is a significant milestone in our rapid expansion across Latin America,” remarked Tim Sheldon, President of the Caribbean & Latin America at Marriott International, Inc.

“The hotel features a modern, functional design while embracing Peru’s vibrant culture and the amenities travelers trust from our globally renowned Marriott International brands.”

“From the refreshing, open business lobbies to our modern and spacious guest rooms, the Courtyard by Marriott Lima Miraflores offer business and leisure guests excellent space and flexibility to optimize their stay,” said Ursula Gutierrez, General Manager of the hotel.

In addition to 154 guest rooms, the hotel will feature the brand’s refreshing business lobby, the Bistro 400 restaurant, ample meeting space and recreational facilities include a fitness centre.

The Courtyard by Marriott Lima Miraflores also offers a refreshing and stylish room design that helps guests stay connected, productive and comfortable. Thoughtfully planned, each room features plush bedding, a functional work space, spacious bathrooms, a separate seating area and complimentary in-room high-speed Internet.

Marriott International is currently represented in Peru by the 300-room JW Marriott Lima and the 150-room JW Marriott Cuzco.

In the tradition of classic Scandinavian designs Baulmann Leuchten has developed a new range of pendant luminaires. In the standard range the metal reflectors are painted black on the outside and gold inside to create a warm, homelike lighting effect.

The E27 lampholder provides the flexibility to use any type of light bulb from classic dimmable incandescent lamps up to the latest LED bulbs.

As usual for the Baulmann range of products, these pendants can be customised in terms of finishes, type of suspension, and many more.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a dual branded hotel development in Munich, Germany.The two hotels – Holiday Inn® Munich City – East and Holiday Inn Express® Munich City – East will operate under a franchise agreement with Primestar Hotel Group.

Due to open in early 2018, the hotels are located within walking distance from Berg am Laim S bahn Train Station. The hotels are also just a fifteen minute journey away from the city centre and Munich International Airport, allowing for a short commute for fair goers and business travellers.

The 189-room Holiday Inn Express Munich City – East hotel will be a ‘next generation’ Holiday Inn Express hotel featuring the latest technology, an Express Café and Bar and larger cosier beds in the rooms. The new guest experience has been developed with industry-leading experts to meet the changing needs of today’s ‘smart traveller’ who seeks a short stay hotel experience that is efficient and uncomplicated.

Meanwhile the 118-room Holiday Inn Munich City – East hotel will feature the brand’s signature Open Lobby, as well as state-of-the-art conference facilities with multi-functional meeting rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and bar, as well as a gym and sauna.

With both hotels in the same building, the dual branded model allows for operational efficiencies through shared team members and facilities such as meeting space, leisure and fitness facilities and back of house areas.

The Palace Hotel, known for over a century as the arbiter of San Francisco style and society, was once at the centre of America’s first Golden Age of Travel, which inspired the exquisite interior re-design of the hotel led by Beatrice Girelli of indidesign.The hotel’s 556 luxuriously-appointed guestrooms, including 55 suites, reflect a modern sophistication, complemented by original design elements, including elegant crown moldings that frame wrought-iron windows and solid oak doors adorned with brass monogrammed knobs.

Photo: sfpalace.com

Dark wood furnishings, mixed metals, and artistic lighting juxtapose a fresh color palette of midnight blue, charcoal, dove grey and plum textiles to create an exquisitely layered look.
Former icons of industry, politics, innovation, aviation and cinema — who called The Palace their San Francisco home — inspired the guestroom design.

For instance, trim lines, stitching and tailored bed frames recall the details of men’s suiting and speak to the custom-made clothing worn by former guests such as Andrew Carnegie. Complementing the design of the space, feminine details are introduced in the drapery and upholstery, inspired by the sultry elegance of Sophia Loren. Nightstands are inspired by vintage travel trunks, like those carried by Amelia Earhart, with stitched leather details and chrome accents.

Photo: sfpalace.com

Several grand suites have been introduced to the hotel following the renovation, including the Royal Suite and the State Suite. The Royal Suite spans almost 1,000 square feet with breathtaking city views from curved windows that hug the corner of the suite’s living room. Meticulous architectural details, including an intricately carved marble fireplace, give the suite tremendous character and balance the palette of pale blue, plum and ivory textiles and furnishings throughout.

Similarly, the State Suite is designed to feel like an elegant San Francisco apartment with natural light that streams through large windows, classically-inspired contemporary furnishings, hardwood floors, lush custom-made area rugs throughout every room and a serene spa-like bath that completes this city retreat.

Photo: sfpalace.com

In addition to the introduction of several new specialty suites, the hotel’s renowned Presidential Suite has also been refreshed. Lined with expansive windows, the six-room suite wraps around the northwest corner of the hotel’s eighth floor, overlooking Market Street. The Presidential Suite’s luxurious bedroom is adorned in neutral tones and ocean blues alongside a large marble bath featuring a glass enclosed rain shower, spa tub, and exquisite amenities.

A spacious living room and formal dining room — each with original carved fireplaces, authentic architectural detail, and vintage chandeliers — are beautifully appointed with classically inspired, contemporary furnishings and a baby grand piano. The suite also features a media room, kitchen, and guest bath, completing the feeling of a private residence in a cosmopolitan city setting.

Eight brand new rooms are now available to guests of London’s Georgian House Hotel, famously home to four mysterious Wizard Chambers and Enchanted Chambers, as the 60-bedroom boutique hotel unveils £100,000 worth of new bedrooms in the final stage of a three year, hotel-wide interior design refresh. Refurbishment works, completed by hotel owner Serena von der Heyde, include both structural and decorative improvements, with the chosen colour palette showcasing some of Farrow & Ball’s timeless hues. This latest interior update brings all rooms within the family-owned hotel, built in 1851, to the same elegant and stylish finish as all other bedrooms, suites and apartments.

Speaking of the renovations, which she self-funded and planned in collaboration with interior designer Diana Holmes, Serena von der Heyde said: “Our long term plan is to reach 5 star guest accommodation status, and so this move to improve quality and space is an important part of the journey. The bespoke nature of the rooms reflects our commitment to highly personalised experiences and service.

We are making a beautiful and unique place which is in tune with the 1850s heritage, but our design is highly creative. In every room guests will find details that catch the eye, design that inspires, something beautiful. My vision is for a hotel where the experience of staying is an important part of the experience of London.”

To appeal to the family market and those wanting more space, two top floor bedrooms have been combined into one large room, featuring two double beds. Seven further bedrooms have had their original chimney breasts uncovered and restored to reveal their former splendour, often in the form of marble fire surrounds and mantels, and original Victorian tiles. The en-suite bathrooms adjoining these rooms have been enlarged and completely redecorated with three of the bathrooms now boasting full size baths, including a free-standing polished aluminium bathtub from SW1 Bathrooms.

It was of the upmost importance to owner, Serena von der Heyde to integrate contemporary design into the historic idiosyncrasies of the building and the rooms have been designed and decorated individually depending on the light, size and original features. Each of the rooms reflect Georgian House’s attitude to their guests; everyone is different and the rooms should be too.

The Georgian House Hotel continues to go from strength to strength, offering guests an individualised, boutique experience in a cosmopolitan, central location just minutes from Victoria Station, London.

A planning application is to be submitted to Chesterfield Borough Council seeking permission to convert the town’s landmark former Co-op store for a mixed leisure and restaurant use.The Co-op closed the doors of its department store in 2013 and it has been a key target for redevelopment since. A joint venture has now been agreed between Central England Cooperative and Jomast Developments Ltd to re-use the existing four storey building and create a new leisure development for Chesterfield.

Planning permission is expected to be submitted for consideration on 12 October and it is anticipated that this application will include:
* An 89 bedroom hotel on the upper floor
* Six family restaurants, of between 2,929 sq. ft and 3,796 sq. ft in size, on the ground floor
* A 16,000 sq. ft. health and fitness area in the basement

The news of the proposed redevelopment plans for the Co-op building follows on the back of the announcement earlier in the year that £1 billion of investment is taking place in the Borough over the next 10 years, including the £400 million Peak Resorts, £320 million Chesterfield Waterside, £88 million Markham Vale and Northern Gateway developments.

The world of glossy airbrushed photos of idealised hotel rooms has long gone. Today’s travellers expect transparency. They want to know exactly what to expect when they check-in. They read reviews and comments, they browse user-generated photos and Google Images. Increasingly they are expecting a virtual tour and – when hotels with this option generate 48% more bookings than those without – it pays to give it to them.

In case you hadn’t noticed, Google has changed the way its virtual tours work for hotels. Each area in the property is treated as a separate area with its own standalone tour. Lobbies, restaurants, bars, gyms, spas, bedrooms, suites and gardens can all be accessed and explored separately via a row of thumbnails at the bottom of the screen.

aardvark360’s tour of DoubleTree by Hilton in London

This has two effects: The first is that users can now jump more easily between different parts of the hotel with far fewer clicks, and the second is that the tour becomes the major part of the hotel’s profile on Google Hotel Finder. This disruptive booking platform has put virtual tours front-and-centre. Hotels with a tour are flagged immediately in search results, and the tour itself gets prominent position on the hotel’s profile summary, where the 360 imagery of bedrooms, bars, restaurants and facilities all appear ahead of traditional still photographs.

That might be because fully 92% of internet users indicated that the ability to see a spherical panorama or a 360-degree photo of a viewed product is one of the most essential features when they are browsing online.

aardvark360’s tour of the Hoxton Hotel, Shoreditch

Jay Scott-Nicholls of aardvark360, which specialises in Google virtual tours says: “We’ve seen exploding industry demand for hotel virtual tours. A year ago we were doing one a month, now it’s every other day. In the last month alone we’ve worked with everyone from family-owned boutique places, to trendy newcomers like The Hoxton and established global brands like Hilton”.

Beyond specific platforms like Google, interactive content can make the difference between first and second page positioning in the competitive arena of Search Engine Optimisation where hotels are forced to take advantage of any boost in rankings. Virtual tours increase page views by 40% and keeps visitors on-site for three times longer – all of which does not go unnoticed by the search engine crawlers.

A hotel is not a single product. It’s not just about the room – it’s about the facilities, the service and the style too. Businesses with the confidence to throw open their doors to online explorers are the ones who will earn the trust of the internet-savvy traveller.

Images provided by aardvark360.co.uk

Set in the heart of South Yorkshire’s historic market town, the new Mercure Doncaster Centre Danum Hotel recently opened its doors.The opening follows an extensive renovation and refurbishment of The Danum Hotel, which has occupied Doncaster’s High Street since 1809. The much loved local hotel is now aligned with Mercure, an international brand managed by Accorhotels.

Situated in the town centre and a short walk from the rail station, the Mercure Doncaster Centre Danum Hotel is a plush base from which guests can explore Doncaster, with its Norman castles, Regency buildings and rich horse racing heritage, as well as great shopping and nightlife.

The hotel’s 62 bedrooms offer a mix of the modern and the traditional, with each boasting exquisite décor, Hypnos beds and LCD TVs. The hotel will also offer 15 privilege rooms and two luxurious suites.

The reception space has been luxuriously refurbished to create a contemporary open lobby. Two reception pods will accommodate quick and hassle-free check in and check-out, demonstrating the Mercure brand’s continued commitment to putting the customer’s welcome experience at its heart.

Jonathan Sheard, SVP Operations Luxury, Upscale and Midscale Hotels, Accorhotels UK and Ireland commented, “This hotel is a really iconic hotel in Doncaster and we are very excited for it to be opening as a Mercure branded property. It celebrates everything which is exceptional about Mercure with a building that is in itself in harmony with the people and place. The refurbishment is stunning — we can’t wait for people to see it.”

Since the iconic Virgin Megastore left Times Square in 2009, New York City has been vacant of a Virgin hub for family and fans.However, late September marked a new milestone in the history of the Virgin brand and New York, as Virgin Hotels broke ground with the Lam Group on Virgin Hotels New York City.

Located in the NOMAD neighbourhood at 1227 Broadway between 29th and 30th, the property will serve as the brand’s flagship hotel and deliver a one-of-a-kind hotel experience in one of Virgin’s most favourite destinations.

“New York City isn’t just a destination for the Virgin airlines, but a place where some of the most successful Virgin brands have been incubated, where we’ve stunned crowds with stunts and where some of our most devoted fans live. It’s a very special city to the Virgin brand and I’m elated that Virgin Hotels will soon call it home,” said Sir Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Group.

To commemorate the groundbreaking and the history Virgin has in the Big Apple, Sir Richard joined Raul Leal, CEO of Virgin Hotels to bury a Virgin time capsule; a chest of mementos from Virgin company moments in New York. Some of the capsules contents included: Virgin Cola can, Wham Glam Thank You Ma’am CD from the Times Square Virgin Megastore, Virgin Atlantic onboard salt + pepper shakers, Virgin Hotels key cards, Virgin America headphones and JFK boarding pass, photos and more.

The hotel is slated to open in 2018 with 463 ‘chambers’ plus multiple concept suites, a rooftop pool and multiple dining outlets including The Commons Club and a rooftop bar. The first and second floors will be occupied with high end shopping, while Virgin Hotels will populate the floors above.

Aloft Hotels has announced its 100th worldwide hotel milestone, with the opening of Aloft College Station in Texas.Currently operating in 16 countries across the globe, Aloft has experienced incredible growth since it emerged onto the scene in 2008. With the recent openings of Aloft Manhattan Downtown – Financial District in New York City, Aloft Santa Clara (CA), Aloft Stuttgart and Aloft Munich in Germany, Aloft continues to expand in key global markets, with eight more hotels set to open by year’s end.

Aloft hotels now operate in nearly every corner of the world, with properties in North America, Mexico, Belgium, Germany, UK, Turkey, UAE, India, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Costa Rica, Colombia, Panama, and more. Development is booming.

Aloft signed as many hotel deals in the first half of 2015 as in all of 2014, and is in its fifth consecutive year of market share gain. The brand will expand its portfolio in Greater China to 10 hotels by year’s end and will continue to penetrate new markets globally.

Launched in 2008 as Starwood’s tech-forward incubator brand, Aloft is designed with a futuristic lens. Built on an agile platform, the Aloft brand’s innovation team works to develop and pilot new technologies to enhance the guest experience and cater to the lifestyle and needs of today’s emerging traveller.

In addition to milestone technological breakthroughs including the world’s first robotic butler, Botlr, as well as the introduction of Smart Check-In, which has now evolved into SPG Keyless— the hospitality industry’s first mobile, keyless entry system allowing guests to use their smart phone as a key— Aloft will soon pilot other innovations such as Virtual Reality, 3-D Food Printing and Smart Wake-Up, dreamt up from the brand’s Concept Rooms at its global Headquarters in Stamford, CT.

Dynamic lifestyle programming is also in the brand’s DNA, as Aloft offers a buzzing social scene for the early adopter including its renowned global music series, Live At Aloft Hotels, offering guests and locals free access to the hottest emerging artists at every Aloft Hotel around the world.

Tribute Portfolio™, the newest collection of independent hotels from Starwood Hotels & Resorts, has announced that it will be debuting on the United States’ west coast with the addition of the Riviera Palm Springs in California.Located on 21-acres in downtown Palm Springs, the resort is looking to establish itself as the go-to destination for locals and vacationers alike seeking the perfect desert getaway.

Ahead of its debut as the Riviera Palm Springs in November 2015, the property will undergo a multi-million dollar upgrade, including the addition of a new pool bar, wedding pavilion and enhanced lobby.

“The Riviera Palm Springs, with its memorable design elements and distinctive list of services and amenities, is a perfect addition to the Tribute Portfolio brand,” said Dave Marr, Global Brand Leader, Tribute Portfolio. “We look forward to working with the new owners and are excited to give our SPG members access to this magnificent resort in the classically chic destination of Palm Springs.”

The Riviera Palm Springs features 398 rooms and more than 52,000 square feet of both indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. The resort also offers a fitness center, business centre, three outdoor pools, and an 11,000-square-foot spa with 18 treatment rooms.

Tribute Portfolio is comprised of high-quality independent hotels around the globe. From boutique resorts to urban destination properties, guests can enjoy access to outstanding four star, upscale hotels with an ‘indie spirit’ while benefitting from the award-winning Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) program. Launched in April 2015 as Starwood’s 10th brand and second collection of independent hotels, Starwood plans to grow the Tribute Portfolio brand to 100 hotels by 2020.

World-renowned carpet manufacturer Brintons has collaborated with the luxurious Royal Chace Hotel, North London, to design and supply a unique custom made carpet for their spectacular ballroom.Working in partnership with Brian Nicholas, owner of The Royal Chace Hotel, the individually designed Brintons Axminster carpet was the leading feature in the refurbishment of the hotel’s Queen’s Suite ballroom.

The large banqueting suite, that hosts 250 guests, was transformed by the 700 metre carpet designed by Stacy Garcia. The modern Persian inspired carpet, detailed in gold motifs against a jewel blue palette, is part of Garcias’ ‘Nouveau Boho Collection’. The regal tones of the design compliment the oak panelled room, whilst adding a touch of modern elegance.

Brian Nicholas, Owner of The Royal Chace Hotel, said: “The carpet was the central focus of the refurbishment of the ballroom, it is the main feature of the Queen’s Suite, and it wouldn’t have looked complete without it.”

The stylish four-star hotel is set within five acres of land that overlooks stunning views of Hertfordshire, and the refurbishment of the ballroom was in keeping with the traditional history for which the landscape of the hotel is set within.

Brian added: “The design retains the old elegant style of the Queen’s Suite whilst bringing a new, modern twist through the elaborate motifs. It is fantastic to still retain the old ambiance of the ballroom whilst adding a new found beauty.”

In early September, Taylor’s Classics delivered the final pieces of furniture to the refurbished Simpsons restaurant in Birmingham. They worked closely with Andreas Antona and Luke Tipping as well as Leisure Concepts of Kenilworth to create a fresh and spacious feel to this long standing, Edgbaston based, Michelin star restaurant. The restaurant has been extended to allow additional dining beneath a beautiful glass roof.

Taylor’s Classics supplied a wide range of contemporary chairs, tables, sofas and outdoor furniture. The private dining room includes a 4.2 metre oak table to seat 14 whilst the lounge areas include our new Benchairs 936 tub chairs.

Andreas Antona said, “I am delighted that we have achieved the simple, elegant and open interiors that we were looking for as part of the redevelopment of Simpsons Restaurant. It is always a pleasure to work with Taylor’s Classics because the furniture is beautifully made, practical and the service and advice from the team makes everything simple and straightforward.”

Luxury Weave is the latest fabric to be introduced by Forbes Group to the range in which it makes table cloths, chair covers, restaurant skirting and table skirting.As the name suggests, Luxury Weave’s pattern is woven into it, appearing as an opulent sheen in the light. It’s a contemporary twist on a classic damask. Better still, it is woven in a 3.2m width making it especially suitable for large dining table cloths and table covers.

An example from the Luxury Weave fabric collection by Forbes Group

Luxury Weave comes in four designs: London (plain), Paris, Rome and Madrid. Its colour palette incorporates rich berry tones and scarlet through to white, subtle creams and putty.

Despite its elegance, Luxury Weave has the same easy care, machine washable and hard-wearing qualities as Forbes’ other fabrics, making it ideal for table cloths, skirting for dining and restaurant tables, chair covers, cocktail table covers and buffet skirting.

Created by Mehran Gharleghi from Studio INTEGRATE and Morgan Studio, RIO is ground-breaking in using 3D printing to create beautiful, comfortable and robust chairs for the commercial furniture market.RIO explores the relationship of the craft of yesterday with the craft of tomorrow. The resulting designs combine renowned timber craftsmanship from Morgan with Mehran’s talent for re-thinking materials and applying techniques that have only previously been used experimentally — in this case 3D printing. He uses a polyamide to give a white textured finish and also a smooth metallised resin.

RIO was created by Mehran Gharleghi of Studio INTEGRATE and Morgan Studio

Morgan Design Director, Katerina McMahon comments, “This is an exciting new departure for us at Morgan and indeed new for the market. 3D printing is recognised commercially for small items like jewellery and accessories and then many experimental projects but not much in between. Not yet featured in furniture for a wider audience.”

Three versions of RIO all present a clearly expressed structure: with tactile timber back, minimal but comfortable upholstered back or 3D printed intricate lattice framework.

The design for RIO was already underway by Morgan when the two companies joined forces, so Mehran’s objectives were to retain the existing design form, push the boundaries of design using 3D printing and create subtle variations in each chair. This was achieved using a mathematical algorithm and making small adjustments to it for a set of 6 3D printed chairs, so each of the 6 is slightly different as if carved by hand.

Mehran explains, “We had achieved the right shape but wanted to add something new. I removed as much material as possible to make the backrest lighter and flexible for extra comfort, while maintaining its strength. The final design resulted in a form which looks like inner structures of bone. It is nice to touch and there are no joints, even the connections to the chair base are from the same single piece of polyamide, making it incredibly strong. Each chair takes 24 hours to print.”

The new RIO collection was launched during the London Design Festival and can be viewed at Morgan’s showroom in Clerkenwell.

At HotelDesigns.net, we were delighted to be a media partner for the recent Hotel Summit 2015 at the Hilton London Wembley, where we met the fantastic team from BoConcept.After the event, we had the pleasure of speaking with one of their designers — Morten Georgsen – about all things design, inspirational figures and definite design faux-pas to avoid…

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HotelDesigns: How did you get into design? What drew you to the industry?

Morten Georgsen: I grew up in the countryside in Denmark — my parents took me to art galleries over weekends and our home was full of art and magazines about design, buildings and artists — so I was kind of ‘raised’ with it. If I hadn’t been a reasonably good footballer, I’m sure my friends would have bullied me even more for my awkward interests! However the deep interest for design opened up the chance of getting a job at Bang & Olufsen — where I worked for eight years. My design destiny was carved in granite.

—–HD: It was always on the cards then! What is it you love about design?

MG: Many things are said about having good or bad style — and it’s the same about design. I just feel that when things can be beautiful and intriguing to our senses — then why not design them to be that way? I really love to get to the root of a function and to materialise this function in a way that serves it — meaning that we’re not adding a lot of unnecessary rubbish, but being truthful to the functional idea in the aesthetics. Always fight to find the shortest way between function and design.

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HD: An ‘Occam’s razor’ approach, then — that makes sense! Is there anything you dislike about the industry?

MG: I’ve always tried to keep away from the “if you rub my back, I’ll rub yours” element of competitions and gatherings. I know it’s a part of the culture within creative industries like art, movies, music and design — but who are we to judge each other? Why not let the audience talk? See how much they buy, see how they talk about our designs and show them off to their friends. I’m proud and feel good when I see my designs on TV, or seeing families living with my furniture designs and enjoying them.

The Lugano Wall System from BoConcept, designed by Morten GeorgsenHD: Do you have any people who inspire your work or your approach to your work?

MG: When I was younger I got very inspired, or perhaps just learned things, from the designers and product managers at Bang & Olufsen, but today I think I get more inspired by my direct customers and their clients. When I see their needs or what can be done better, my right part of the brain goes into overdrive. Seeing what’s not there or what people cannot express in solid terms is often the best source of inspiration!

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HD: ‘Necessity is the mother of all invention’, after all! And moving on to your time at BoConcept, how would you define the philosophy of the company?

MG: The BoConcept philosophy is to offer modern design furniture based on Scandinavian ideas about function and simplicity to an urban-minded customer. Honestly, it’s actually very tough to design for BoConcept as you always have to get the very best out of yourself — you have to get to the core in order to design furniture with great value and that’s what BoConcept demands.

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HD: Is there are a particular product, range or project of which you are particularly proud?

MG: I’m so fortunate, as I am still involved with a huge part of the BoConcept collection — I am very proud of the ‘Milano’ table collection and the ‘Lugano’ wall system. The Milano, because it has become a classic within centre-based tables and an ‘icon’ of sorts within the collection. Lugano, because it is such a well-thought-through wall system. It’s versatile in style, function, size and price level — a true BoConcept product. And I can tell you, to make a wall system like that takes a lot of thought and re-thinking.

Morten’s favourite designs: the Lugano Wall System with drop-down and flip-up doors (R and L) as well as the ‘iconic’ Milano Table (C)HD: The perfect blend of functionality and cutting-edge design, sounds fantastic. What do you think makes good design? In your opinion, what are the most common mistakes made in interior design?

MG: As I mentioned before, good design is when function supports aesthetics/materials and vice versa… many designers make the mistake of not achieving this by not taking the time to get to the core of the challenge and thereby adding instead of taking away.

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HD: And lastly, what do you like to do in your free-time when you’re not busy designing?

MG: A big sport in Spain where I live is called Padel, something between squash and tennis. I play that very often. Apart from that I love Spanish cuisine and the small, beautiful restaurants that offer excellent food. Once a month, I meet with friends for a poker night. I like the game as it requires all parts of the brain. But like all passionate designers, there is hardly ever real ‘time off’ as ideas are always appearing when they want to… uncontrollable nuisances!

 

Morten’s particularly proud how iconic the Milano Table has become within the BoConcept collectionYou can see more of Morten’s work and the wider BoConcept range by clicking here

Its speed and ease of installation, low maintenance benefits, fresh and modern aesthetic and varied colour options, have seen Marley Eternit’s Cedral Lap weatherboard specified to play a central role in the contemporary re-creation of the iconic Butlins’ chalets at a new £16 million development in Minehead. West Lakes Village at Butlins’ Minehead resort has been created ahead of the company’s 80th birthday, with the construction of 117 colourful brand new holiday homes inspired by the original chalets created by Billy Butlin in the 1930s. Architects Allison Pike were actively involved in the project since inception, helping Butlins to evolve the chalet concept to meet the needs of 21st century families. Multi award winning Principal Contractors McGoff & Byrne were appointed for the construction phase of the development.

McGoff & Byrne specified Marley Eternit’s Cedral Lap weatherboard to create the colourful timber aesthetic synonymous with the facades of the original Butlins chalets, but with the longevity and simple installation offered by the fibre cement cladding. Harry Galloway, Construction Director from McGoff & Byrne, explains: “The original West Lakes Village design utilised timber for the chalets’ cladding. We amended the specification to Cedral as it provided us with a wide colour palette to choose from and would ensure the striking looks of the chalets’ exteriors lasted with minimal maintenance.

“The seaside location of the development means the chalets have to withstand exposure to salt, so we needed a cladding material that could stand-up to this challenge without requiring significant maintenance to keep the look fresh.

“The different pastel colours of the chalets are a key feature and help recreate the original Butlins 1930s’ feel. By using Cedral, we were able to obtain all of the colours we needed from the factory without having to paint on site, including a special made to order colour manufactured specifically for the project. Marley Eternit’s Cedral Lap weatherboard has been used as external cladding on all of the one and two storey lakeside, lake view and park view chalets clustered in landscaped parkland around two newly created lakes.

Fibre cement Cedral weatherboard is a low maintenance, rot free alternative to traditional timber weatherboarding with a life expectancy of 50 years and can be supplied in a standard range of 21 factory applied solid colours and two woodstain finishes. Cedral Lap is specially designed so the planks are overlapped when installed creating a traditional, clapper-board aesthetic. Or to create a more unusual aesthetic, Cedral Click planks are fitted together flush, creating a striking modern and contemporary facade.

Luxury fabric specialist, Kobe, has introduced Elements, a collection of 100% flame retardant chic and contemporary fabrics for both domestic and contract window décor and soft furnishings.A palette of rich and neutral tones complements the sophisticated collection of luxurious easy-to-care-for, washable fabrics. Their cool linen, soft satin and subtle metallic look is a perfect match for the geometric, herringbone and medallion designs.

The Elements range from KOBE is a collection of 100% flame retardant fabrics for both domestic and contract furnishings

Exciting creations include Trapezium. Embracing the signature Kobe style, this woven jacquard has a soft, supple satin touch and features a modern medallion pattern which can be reversed and is available in eight delicate colours. Screen is a woven jacquard with shimmering metallic yarns in silver and gold on an elegant satin base. This glamorous fabric is available in seven stunning colours.

The Elements room high collection includes Avoir, a 100% blackout woven dobby with a soft natural linen touch and comes in sophisticated cream, sand, light grey and charcoal. Complementing Avoir is Regulus, a 100% blackout lining in stylish off-white/cream. Convex room high is woven in a loose double panama with a soft metallic texture and is available in six cool neutral colours.

Elements contract window décor offers affordable prices and value for money while enjoying the signature Kobe style.

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts have announced their first Le Méridien resort in India, Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa.While being the first resort, it is the brand’s ninth property in the country, further strengthening the Paris-born brand’s presence throughout India. Nestled in the scenic Western Ghats, the resort is a few hours’ drive from the cosmopolitan centres of Mumbai and Pune.

The hotel features 122 stylishly appointed guestrooms and suites, all complemented with private balconies that offer expansive views of the surrounding natural scenery. Each room features the brand’s signature, destination-inspired amenities and the brand’s reinterpretation of the traditional lobby, the signature Le Méridien Hub, transforms the public space into a social gathering place.

“We are pleased to unveil the spectacular Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, a highly anticipated addition to our India portfolio”, said Dilip Puri, Managing Director India and Regional Vice President South Asia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “With its culturally-refined design and atmosphere combined with stunning views, the resort is sure to impress and attract travelers for a refreshing break, and emerge as a leading resort in the country.”

Other resort facilities include the Explore Spa by Le Méridien with eight treatment rooms including a hammam bath treatment room and a vichy shower treatment room. The well-equipped fitness centre along with both a lagoon style swimming pool and a rooftop infinity pool make for the ideal rejuvenating experience. The resort also offers 250 square metres of banqueting space including a ballroom, four versatile meeting rooms and a well-appointed business centre. The serene outdoor venues provide for inspiring spaces for meetings and events.

The resort provides seamless access to the quaint hill town’s rich tapestry of offerings, including a curated visit, courtesy of the brand’s UNLOCK ART programme, to the Devrai Art Village and the 5,000 year old Krishna Devi temple, using only the room’s key card for access.

All photos from lemeridienmahabaleshwar.com

Beacon Hill is known as a purveyor of the world’s finest silks. We collaborate with master weavers in Italy, India, Thailand and China to offer our customers original and worldwide exclusive silk textiles of the highest quality.And Beacon Hill’s showroom exclusive Maravilha collection celebrates the wanderlust of the Bohemian artist — the devotee of a life lived alongside beauty, authenticity, creativity and adventure. Maravilha is Portuguese for wonder and the collection is rife with opulent silk jacquards, intricate embroideries and bold patterns.

The fabrics are artisanal, intricate and embellished. Their designs are inspired by the streets of Rio, the Brazilian modernist architecture of Oscar Niemeyer and the country’s coastal shores. Maravilha, marked by intense colour and hidden, unexpected pleasures, is a design destination all of its own.

Click on the images below to see in more detail:

Plans for a new £5 million Premier Inn have been released after the hotel giant revealed its vision to transform the Shepherds Hotel site at Cockermouth in Cumbria.If approved, the proposals for an 80-bedroom hotel and Brewers Fayre restaurant would create up to 50 jobs. Premier Inn executives have said they believe the development will boost the area’s economy not just through jobs but by drawing more visitors to the area.

The Brewers Fayre, the firm says, will have space for 200 covers. There will be a 120-space car park. Premier Inn, which is also pursuing plans for a hotel in Penrith town centre, says the design of the Cockermouth scheme would be “in keeping with the local environment”.

It would see the current building, on Egremont Road, demolished and replaced with a “bespoke hotel and restaurant”. Designs went on show at the Kirkgate Centre and project team members will also field questions. After analysing comments, a planning application is expected to be lodged with Allerdale council later this year.

Premier Inn already has hotels in Carlisle and Whitehaven. To see the plans in full, click here.

Here at HotelDesigns.net, we like to provide content that is both engaging and useful for our audience. As we move forward, we’d like to get some feedback from our readers in order to continue bringing you what you want to see.Our 2015 reader survey gives you the chance to let us know what content you currently like and content you want to see more of, as well as suggesting other topics you would find the most useful. Having changed ownership earlier in the year, we have some big plans for the future of the HotelDesigns.net brand, so it’s important to us that we listen to what our readers want and need from the website.

To take part in the survey, simply click HERE or on the link below. It’s very short and your answers will be fully considered as we continue to grow and develop as a brand. Thank you for your continued support.

The Stowe mirror from Gallery Direct is a timeless, baroque style mirror. The elegant decorative frame is hand finished in silver leaf with a satin gloss sheen. A matching leaner mirror is available, and both sizes also offered in a chic, lightly distressed white finish.

For more information, please contact Gallery Direct via their website: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

The new Hilton London Bankside and its restaurant offerings OXBO Bankside and The Distillery are due to open in the coming weeks in the centre of London’s vibrant Bankside, just minutes from the Tate Modern.The launch marks an exciting new generation of Hilton hotels, featuring high-end, locally inspired food and drink offerings and contemporary interior design.

Located on the ground floor with direct access to Price’s Street and led by Executive Chef Paul Bates, formerly of The Beaumont and Intercontinental Park Lane, OXBO Bankside is a relaxed space for guests and locals alike to meet in the heart of the Bankside area, any time of day. The open kitchen with chefs cooking in front of the guests will enhance the personalised guest experience and add to the theatre of the restaurant.

Hilton London Bankside’s newest dining offerings OXBO Bankside and The Distillery set to launch in the coming weeks

James Clarke, General Manager of the Hilton London Bankside Hotel added “I am thrilled to be playing a pivotal role in opening the Hilton London Bankside and I can’t wait to be checking in our first guests at the end of the summer. I will be working closely with Paul and my team to ensure the hotel, our restaurant and our bar become destinations for Bankside in their own right.”

Hilton London Bankside’s newest dining offerings OXBO Bankside and The Distillery set to launch in the coming weeks

The design of the restaurant and bar mirrors that of the wider hotel, reflecting the history and ambiance of the surrounding urban area. Exposed metal screens, bare brick work, reprocessed tube station tiles and bespoke joinery all feature, with furnishings of rich fabrics, inspired by William Morris, to create a style-led space for a relaxing yet stimulating dining experience.

The colour scheme features greens, mustard yellows and browns which matches the seltzer bottles decorating the bar and the large, modern copper sheet sculpture located on the stairs to the Ballroom. Sculptures by British artist, David Farrer, accentuate the interior design while reclaimed ceilings and murals have been designed especially for the hotel’s public spaces.

Hilton London Bankside’s newest dining offerings OXBO Bankside and The Distillery set to launch in the coming weeks

A spectacular Penny Wall will be installed in the entrance of The Distillery, featuring penny coins dating back to the 1860s. Spaces will be kept free for special guests and dignitaries to mark their visit to the hotel by placing their own pennies onto the structure.

Switch on the industrial look, or the classic look, or the natural look with a wide range of lamps and shades in different materials, such as glass, concrete, wood, colour-lacquered metal and rubber-coated aluminium. From understated to outrageous, BoConcept’s range of lamps fit any sort of feel or trend – find curvy models you can use instead of a pendant, or choose a more upright design that you can place by an armchair or sofa.

Click on the images below to see in more detail:

Click here to see more in the BoConcept lamp range

Announcing its début into Taiwan, Marriott International is pleased to announce the opening of the Taipei Marriott Hotel – the first five star international hotel in the Dazhi area of Taipei.Offering 320 luxury guest rooms, a convention centre, high-end shopping facilities and luxury apartments, the Taipei Marriott is the largest integrated destination complex in Taiwan and is perfect to attract both business and leisure travellers.

Guestrooms at the Taipei Marriott Hotel have been designed with soothing, neutral tones of ivory, cream and grey, accentuated by unobstructed views of Taipei through floor-to-ceiling windows. The bath experience offers double vanities and rain showers as well as other deluxe amenities. Each guestroom also features high-speed Internet access and a spacious work area.

Dining options at the hotel include five restaurants with an international selection of cuisines including:
The Lobby Lounge: all-day bites and drinks along with free WiFi
Garden Kitchen: all-day dining with Asian-inspired Western fare served semi-buffet style
Mark’s Teppanyaki: Japanese Teppanyaki, Chinese and Western cuisine at live cooking stations
The Dining Place Chinese restaurant: an elegant setting where guests are treated to a delicious variety of Cantonese and Sichuan dishes.
INGE’s bar and grill: for more intimate or special occasions, it offers gourmet cuisine accompanied by stunning views from the open-air terrace lounge on the 20th floor

With 32,300 square feet of pillar-less, flexible space that can be transformed into up to 13 meeting spaces, as well as an elegant 13,600 square-foot Grand Ballroom, the Taipei Marriott Hotel offers the largest state-of-the-art convention centre in Taipei and can accommodate a variety of functions.

Additional amenities include a health-club on the 19th floor with 24-hour fitness centre, a rooftop swimming pool with views of the Miramar Park Ferris Wheel and a luxury spa.

Marriott hotels incorporates a “Green Hotel Development” initiative and the Taipei Marriott Hotel features lush green surroundings with indigenous shrubbery and flowering plants, interspersed with pieces of art and sitting areas. Inspired by the nearby butterfly biosphere reserve on Mt. Jiannan, an aluminium sculpture named “Butterflies” and created by Spanish artist Manolo Valdes, sits in the centre of the landscape to serve as a tribute to nature and the arts.

What if individual control elements could be eliminated to make room for an uncluttered shower experience? Axor by Hansgrohe has worked on an answer to this question with the London-based design duo Barber & Osgerby.
Axor One — the brand’s first all-in-one interactive shower control element — made its debut at the London Design Festival on September 22 and is a confident, yet unobtrusive statement in the shower. Generously proportioned, but fascinatingly clean, it is a focal point for the senses.

“With Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby we transformed the idea of a central shower control element into an engaging, purely mechanical interface that refines showering into a tactile, precise and responsive practice”, Philippe Grohe, Head of Axor, explains.

“Axor One allows a completely fresh interpretation of water control: by consolidating many individual controls into one simple element, it streamlines both the look and functionality of the bathroom”, according to Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby. The possibility to simultaneously turn multiple water outlets on or off with the back of the hand or the elbow makes Axor One a convenient and engaging shower experience.

Temperature is set by turning the central dial; a small lever directly below regulates water volume, and the Eco Mode reduces water consumption up to 50%. The flow of water is activated and deactivated by tapping of the paddles: clear symbols indicate the specific water outlets the user can choose from (e.g. overhead, hand, or side shower). This unification of water outlet activation, water volume regulation, and temperature control, gives a sleek form to a structured function.
With its monolithic but soft form, Axor One creates a new spaciousness in the shower — a pleasant feeling of clarity and tranquility.

Plane surfaces, rounded edges, and an integrated mechanical interface, constitute a clearly structured concealed thermostat that eliminates distraction from a soothing shower experience. The refined proportions, sculpted form and accurate detailing make a timeless statement that merges seamlessly with any bathroom environment. With a variety of special finishes, ranging from subdued chrome to a bold red-gold, Axor One becomes as visible as the user would like it to be.

Axor One will be available in the UK from January 2016

The popular Four Points by Sheraton brand has made its debut in Newburgh, New York. That’s according to a statement released by Starwood Hotels and Resorts last week.The opening follows a multi-million dollar conversion project of the former Comfort Inn property on the site, which was spearheaded by Jonathan S. Lifschutz.

“My goal was to bring an internationally recognised brand to Newburgh, offering a new level of service to the area,” said Jonathan Lifschutz. “I’ve seen a growing need and demand for strong brands like Four Points to offer a new level of design and sophistication to secondary markets. Four Points by Sheraton Newburgh will offer business and leisure travelers a differentiated hotel experience for their lodging needs.”

The new Four Points by Sheraton Newburgh features 124 stylish guestrooms, an “open style” public space environment with a brand new two-story open lobby, complete with a lobby bar and restaurant serving American cuisine. The hotel also features a gift shop, business centre, lobby library, and the brand’s signature front desk experience.

The exterior of the new Four Points includes a brand new stucco façade, LED site lighting and site landscaping throughout the facility and a brand new parking lot with pavers accents by outdoor sitting areas for guests to enjoy the taste of the Hudson valley surroundings. The hotel features a courtyard area, complete with a heated outdoor pool surrounding by seating and event space for large parties of 200+ guests. The pool area will offer an exclusive menu catered toward families and business travellers.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts have announced the opening of two Aloft hotels in Germany. Aloft Munich and Aloft Stuttgart are the latest properties added to the German market, designed for today’s hyper-connected, tech-forward global traveller.“We’re thrilled to introduce the energy of the Aloft brand to the German market,” said Brian McGuinness, Global Brand Leader, Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “We’re in the innovative mind-set of designing our hotels for the future traveller, and we’re thrilled to bring Aloft’s passion for design, music and technology to the spirited cities of Munich and Stuttgart.”

Aloft Munich
Featuring 184 guest rooms, the hotel additionally features 96 square metres of meeting space across three Tactic Rooms. Located across the street from Hauptbahnhof, Munich’s central train station, the hotel features a courtyard, perfect for lounging and mingling, and Aloft’s WXYZ bar.

Aloft Stuttgart
Located in the heart of Stuttgart’s European Quarter as part of the Milaneo mixed-used development, Aloft Stuttgart features 165 rooms and three Tactic Meeting rooms – each with 20 square metres of flexible meeting space.

Signature amenities at every Aloft hotel include Re:fuel, a one-stop gourmet grab & go food and beverage area, a 24-hour fitness centre and fast & free WiFi.

The newly opened Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty is both an adaptive and new build property which enjoys a prominent location in the heart of Pittsburgh’s rejuvenated and thriving cultural district. Featuring 135 rooms, the boutique hotel has been designed with strong references to art, photography and architecture which uniquely brings East Liberty’s theatrical history to life at every turn.Inspired by East Liberty’s historic nightlife, theatre scene and innovators such as Carnegie and Mellon, guests entering the lobby at Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty are greeted by staff outfitted in uniforms custom created by local designer, Kiya Tomlin.

Wallace’s TapRoom, the hotel’s restaurant and bar, offers an American Tavern style menu as well as seasonal and locally sourced food and drinks from purveyors such as Zeke’s Coffee, Natrona Bottling, Mediterra Bake House, Thoma Meat Market, Turner Dairy and Emerald Valley Artisans.

Guest rooms feature plush bedding, wooden flooring (perhaps in reference to “treading the boards”?) with area rugs and a nod to the theatre era with a velvet curtain entrance and lamps designed to mirror stage lights. The hotel also features a two-room Governor’s Suite which offers a private sitting parlour, bar area and master suite with a separate powder room.

Guests also have access to a 24-hour fitness centre and 2,400 sq. ft. of meeting space.

The Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty hotel is owned by Governor’s Hotel Company, and managed by IHG.

The Hotel Indigo brand recently announced new properties signed in Los Angeles, California; Kansas City, Missouri; Denver, Colorado and a second hotel in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as well as two new international signings including Berlin, Germany and Bali, Indonesia.

Hilton Garden Inn has announced the opening of the Hilton Garden Inn Dallas Downtown, a 171-Room hotel located in a mixed-use project within Dallas’ well-known LTV building, historically significant for its contribution to national banking and business as well as many architectural milestones.HRI Properties, LLC – the hotel’s owner – has invested $80 million renovating the property and features a 24-hour business centre, state-of-the-art fitness centre, outdoor pool with relaxing sundeck and 32-story unique high-rise tower offering stunning views of the Dallas skyline. The hotel also features more than 5,000 square feet of flexible meeting space overlooking the cityscape, lush greenery and iconic Thanks-giving Square.

Dining options include the Shelby Hall Restaurant & Bar which offers seasonal Southern cuisine with a modern twist, signature cocktails, and evening room service. The Pavilion Pantry® is open 24 hours and features a complete selection of salty snacks, sweet treats, cold beverages, and frozen, microwaveable packaged items.

All 171 guest rooms feature a spacious work desk with an ergonomic desk chair, mini fridge, microwave oven and Keurig coffee maker.

“The energy and atmosphere of our hotel aligns perfectly with the vibrant city that is Dallas,” said Stephanie Mehail, general manager. “We offer an exceptional full-service experience, perfect location and the impressive amenities expected from a downtown property.”

In an agreement with Belgrade Waterfront LLC, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. have announced that two W properties are scheduled to open in Belgrade, Serbia in 2019.W Belgrade and The Residences at W Belgrade will be located in the heart of the Belgrade Waterfront, a new one million square meter community including retail outlets, restaurant and bars, offices, public parks and leisure attractions.

“We are thrilled to establish our relationship with Belgrade Waterfront LLC and introduce the W Hotels’ brand energetic DNA to Serbia, especially into Belgrade,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The Serbian capital is an exciting emerging city and a burgeoning tourist destination in Europe. We look forward to attracting both local and international guests to W Belgrade and this spectacular new city hub.”

W Belgrade
Featuring 120 stylish guest rooms and suites, the W Belgrade is centrally located on the waterfront with spectacular views overlooking the Sava River. The hotel will also offer an all-day dining venue, a destination bar and W Living Room. Other facilities will include a Spa, state-of-the-art fitness facility and a pool deck and bar. W Belgrade will feature more than 450 square meters of ultra-modern meeting and event space.

The Residences at W Belgrade
With 165 luxurious branded residential apartments spanning across two towers, apartment sizes range between 55 to 100 square meters and residents may enjoy access to the facilities and services at W Belgrade.

“Welcoming a leading hotel brand shows tourist potential for both Belgrade and Serbia,” Nikola Nedeljkovic, General Manager, Belgrade Waterfront. “Starwood Hotels & Resorts shares the same values as Belgrade Waterfront in providing an unmatched lifestyle choice for its residents and guests. As the first hospitality project in Belgrade Waterfront, W Belgrade is ideally situated in a prime waterfront setting near the River Sava, next to the first two BW Residences residential towers. We are delighted that W Hotels will help us contribute to an influx of tourism to the capital.”

As the team at Robert Allen Design so eloquently put it: “Trim is the high note in the enchanting symphony of interior design.” With its impeccable array of beautifully crafted and luxurious articles in various scales and in any colour imaginable, Robert Allen offers more intriguing options than ever before for designers seeking the perfect finishing touch.

Good design lies in the details and using Robert Allen trims adds polish to a proj¬ect. Explore existing favourites in fresh colours, like Greek Key Braid and Library Brush, as well as new patterns, such as Modern Bead and Jeweled Cord.

Click on the images below to see in more detail:

Crosswater is delighted to announce two recent promotions in their Contracts department. The moves represent the success and growth of this current area of the business.
After seven years at Crosswater working as a Warehouse Operative in the Spares Department, Jamie Dunmall has been promoted to Contracts Office Commercial Estimator & Technical Coordinator for both residential and hotel projects.

Holly Thomas has also been promoted to Contracts Office House Builder Estimator after previously working in the Sales and Returns Department for 6 years. She will be quoting, tracking and forecasting the House Builder projects.

Taylor’s Classics are delighted to be back at The Restaurant Show which, for the first time, is going to be at Olympia. The show runs from 5th – 7th October and they will be delighted to meet you on stand UP10 on the Balcony area. Taylor’s Classics have some new furniture and some old favourites which include traditional, post-war and contemporary furniture. They will be introducing a number of new models too, including the Bristol armchair.

Contact them to discuss your project today on +44(0)1785 240444 or email sales@taylorsclassics.com

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide are pleased to announce the opening of an Aloft hotel in January 2017 within the state of Indiana. Aloft South Bend will be a strategic conversion from the former Magnuson Grand Hotel located at 213 Washington Street, walking distance from numerous restaurants, bars and clubs.

The hotel will undergo a $15 million dollar renovation and redesign led by Kramer Design Group, the architect and designer of Aloft Detroit at the David Whitney. Aloft South Bend will feature a ground-floor lobby and occupy eleven floors of the mixed-use building, which will also include residential units and a parking garage. Hotel amenities will include an indoor Splash pool, an expanded 24-hour fitness facility, re:fuel at Aloft – a one-stop gourmet grab & go food and beverage area.

Aloft South Bend will also feature 183 rooms, 3,750 square feet of flexible meeting space and live music performances at the W XYZ bar.

“Aloft South Bend will inject new energy into the city’s downtown and attract early adopters with its tech-forward mind-set, leading-edge design and buzzing social scene,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President, Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “Due to its resounding success with next generation travelers across the globe, Aloft is gaining significant growth momentum as we near 100 hotels worldwide.”

Royal warranted carpet manufacturer Brintons has designed and supplied a bespoke, custom-made carpet to the opulent Beach Rotana hotel in Abu Dhabi to create a royal feel in its luxurious ballroom.Rotana, one of the leading hotel management companies within the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Eastern Europe, appointed the Kidderminster-based manufacturer to supply its high quality carpet for the 1,100 square-metre Al Thuraya Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 1,200 guests at Rotana’s flagship hotel, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.

Brintons were asked to turn a simple geometric pattern into a contemporary design, with colours such as gold and purple specified to move away from usual Arabic schemes and instead reflect more traditionally regal and classic interiors.

Tadek Kurasinski, Brintons Business Manager for the UAE, commented: “We worked closely with the hotel to ensure we were in keeping with the current hotel style, but to also give the ballroom interiors a big impact to be a standalone showcase of the hotel.

“In the carpet we introduced a small wave in the geometric pattern to show a beach and sand effect to reflect its location, and these subtle adjustments lent themselves well to the hotel’s ambiance and theme.”

Brintons has worked with the Beach Rotana, which is ideally located in the centre of Abu Dhabi, for over two years and has supplied carpet to the existing hotel corridors. These designs were chosen from Brintons Art Fusion collection and help accentuate the hotel’s luxurious theme.

Once a year, representatives of the international hotel industry converge on the British capital to seek inspiration and swap ideas. Held at London’s Business Design Centre on November 24-25 2015, the tenth edition of Sleep sees GROHE, a founder member of the event, reprise its role as the main sponsor and showcase its latest offering for the hotel trade.GROHE is delighted that it will exhibit a wide range of innovations for modern hotel bathrooms at the event. New products such as the exclusive Grandera™ Collection in “Warm Sunset” rose gold and the GROHE Sensia® shower WC, delivering the utmost in hygiene and comfort, will be on display at Sleep 2015.

GROHE will also showcase its BestMatch™ tool, which assists planners in matching taps to basins, complemented by a selection of particularly resource-efficient solutions. In addition, the exhibit introduces visitors to the manufacturer’s current “Masters of Technology” ad campaign, which illustrates that progress and advancement at GROHE are firmly rooted in the company’s history and tradition.

GROHE’s luxurious VIP Lounge returns to the event, offering visitors an opportunity to relax and network while touring the exhibition. In addition, GROHE will be attending the European Hotel Design Awards taking place on the evening of the 24th November.

An invaluable source of inspiration and an excellent platform for networking, the anniversary edition of Sleep will be an important innovation generator for the global hotel design community. For more information on GROHE’s products please visit www.grohe.com/uk.

Starwood Hotels has announced the debut of its eco-conscious brand Element in Montana – its first in the state – with the opening of Element Bozeman.Owned by a group of Bozeman investors, the newly constructed Element hotel offers a stylish and sustainable new option for travelers with 104 light-filled rooms and an atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance while on the road.

Photos: starwoodhotels.com

Element Bozeman is ideally positioned at the centre of the city’s entertainment district and just 15 minutes from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). The new Element is located in the city’s business district, near a variety of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and night life. Known for its outdoor lifestyle, Bozeman is a year-round tourist destination with proximity to Yellowstone National Park and several world class ski areas, including Big Sky Resort.

Photos: starwoodhotels.com

As the first major hotel brand to mandate that all properties pursue sustainable certifications, Element is recognised as an industry leader in the eco-space and offers travellers a fresh, reimagined interpretation of the traditional hotel experience with natural light, modern design, healthy options and eco-centered amenities.

Photos: starwoodhotels.com

Spacious studios and one-bedroom suites at Element Bozeman feature a fluid design of modular furniture, flat-screen LED televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms also include fully equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms feature an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet. Staying on the move is easy with complimentary bikes to borrow, a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness centre and an indoor saline swimming pool and sauna.

Photos: starwoodhotels.com

Element is experiencing incredible growth momentum. With 19 deals signed in 2014, the brand is on track to triple its global portfolio in the next 3 years. On the heels of opening its first hotel outside of North America in Frankfurt, Germany, Element opened its first hotel in China this year to be followed by new hotels in London, Amsterdam, Boston and Philadelphia, signifying the global appeal of the brand.

The Jeeves Silver Drinks Cabinet from Gallery Direct offers the height of suave elegance with a hint of retro. The cabinet features fine reeded lines beautifully hand gilded in silver leaf with a contrasting black interior and mirrored back panel.

For more information, please contact Gallery Direct via their website: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced this week Aloft, the innovative hotel brand for today’s hyper-connected global traveller, has expanded its New York City portfolio with the opening of its first Aloft hotel in the Financial District.Owned by Lam Generation and managed by Real Hospitality, Aloft Manhattan Downtown — Financial District features 125 loft-like rooms, tech-forward experiences, a buzzing social scene, and a full line-up of innovative music-driven programming. The hotel joins Aloft Harlem and Aloft New York Brooklyn as the third Aloft hotel in the New York City area.

Aloft Financial District is ideally located on Ann Street, a short walk from the New York Stock Exchange, City Hall, One World Trade Center and numerous global corporate headquarters including Goldman Sachs and American Express. Notable New York City landmarks are also within reach by walking or via subway, including Battery Park, the Brooklyn Bridge Promenade, the Statue of Liberty, South Street Seaport, SoHo, Chinatown and Brooklyn.

Amenities at Aloft Financial District include a 24-hour fitness center, the brand’s signature W XYZ® bar, 250 square feet of flexible meeting space, the re:mix lounge and re:fuel at Aloft — a one-stop grab & go food and beverage area.

The Aloft brand’s innovative and exclusive initiatives set it apart from the competition. Aloft Hotels recently announced the launch of SPG Keyless — an evolution of Aloft’s Smart Check-in — the hospitality industry’s first mobile, keyless entry system allowing guests to use their smart phone as a key.

The technology is rolling out to all Aloft, Element and W Hotels Worldwide by year’s end. Additionally, every Aloft hotel around the world offers live, free access to local emerging artists and some of the hottest bands with Live at Aloft Hotels programming at the W XYZ® bars.

Aloft remains the fastest growing brand in the history of hospitality with 100 hotels in 15 countries. Recently marked by the openings of Aloft Munich in Germany and Aloft South Beach in Miami, the brand continues to expand in key global markets with eight additional hotels set to open by the end of 2015.

The 4-star Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel and Spa situated in the Welsh capital of Cardiff has undergone an extensive refurbishment, transforming its bedrooms and public spaces.Mercure, a “locally inspired” brand, has drawn influence for the hotel’s new interior design from Cardiff itself. Inspired by Cardiff’s Millennium Centre, Bay and Castle, the interior design is permeated with Welsh copper and slate incorporating copper pendant lighting, slate feature wall and Welsh woolen upholstery.

The refurbishment has completely transformed the public spaces creating intimate seating areas, stand-out design and reclaimed timber effect flooring to deliver a stylish and airy environment for eating, drinking, dining or lounging.

The refurbishment is in keeping with Mercure’s ‘Welcome’ concept, which has reinvented the guest experience through a new open-plan and inviting lobby design. Unprecedented in midscale hotels, the new concept is designed to provide guests with a unique and distinguished experience from arrival, which is in harmony with a friendly, flexible and relaxed experience.

A major part of the refurbishment has been the new dining area, known as the Urban Bar and Kitchen, is an open-plan space with statement booth style seating offset by a magnificent circular bar. Developing the local design concept further, dock-inspired rope installations pervade the contemporary surroundings whilst marine waterways and bay enthused artwork sit alongside historical photography adorning the walls.

The hotel offers a range of accommodation across its newly renovated 165 bedrooms, including superior rooms, privilege rooms, four suites and one Presidential Suite. Residing on the 15th floor, the Presidential Suite boasts stunning views across the city, as do the eight corner rooms on each floor, suitable for VIP guests or as a perfect launch event location.

Continuing the strong design feel, all bedrooms have been refurbished with quirky artwork paying homage to iconic figures linked to sporting events including Henry VIII holding a cricket bat amongst others. Each bedroom is equipped with a TV including international satellite channels; 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi access, which is also available throughout the hotel.

The hotel is also home to the newly repositioned Spa offering an array of therapeutic treatments promoting rest and relaxation alongside more unusual methods such as Counsillor. Guests can make use of the spacious 16m indoor pool, thermal suite, fully equipped gym, sauna and steam room as part of their stay.

Luxury fabric specialist, Kobe, has introduced its Essente autumn collection of contemporary curtain and upholstery fabrics. The fresh and contemporary range features a variety of plains in a cool linen, soft suede and silk satin appearance. This natural palette of pastel and neutral tones complements the sophisticated collection of fresh and contemporary geometrical, embroidered and floral designs.

Said David Harris, md of Kobe UK: “The Essente collection benefits from the logistical expertise and quality of Kobe, while giving access to a wider customer base through its realistic price points. The range is suitable for both domestic and commercial installations.”

Essente’s curtain and upholstery fabrics include Exeter and Cambridge, both comprising of 100% polyester. Exeter is a timeless plain with a natural linen texture available in a range of 31 colours. Cambridge is a luxurious soft suede in a range of 22 colours.

The Essente Savanna collection, a range of upholstery fabrics, includes Antelope, a woven jacquard comprising 100% polyester featuring a traditional herringbone pattern, available in 13 colours. Serval has a semi-solid wool look and feel, woven with multi-coloured yarns. It comprises 65% polyester and 35% cotton and comes in a range of 10 colours.

The autumn collection follows on from the success of the previous Essente ranges which offer a wide selection of chic, commercial and easy-care interior fabrics. As a sister brand, Essente benefits from the logistical excellence of Kobe and its sophisticated automated warehouse and ERP system.

The collection is easy-to-care-for, washable and suitable for upholstery and soft furnishings.

When used for upholstery Kobe’s Essente fabrics can be supplied with a domestic backcoat which complies with the BS 5852 ignition source 0 and 1, passing the cigarette and match test.

All Kobe’s upholstery fabrics offer exceptional durability, scoring highly on the Martindale Rub Test.

The opening of the 296-room Renaissance Suzhou Wujiang Hotel in Shengze is the first internationally branded hotel in the area expanding Marriott’s footprint in China and one step closer to their goal of making Marriott International the most popular global tourism company in Asia Pacific, according to Henry Lee, Chief Operation Official, Greater China of Marriott International.

In addition to the 296 guest rooms, the new Renaissance Suzhou Wujiang Hotel also boasts 15 spacious suites that have their own kitchenettes with refrigerators. All guest rooms feature plush bedding, high speed wireless internet, an LED TV and a spacious work area.

Guests may also enjoy a 24-hour fitness centre as well as an indoor heated swimming pool boasting magnificent lake views.

Dining and bar facilities at the Renaissance Suzhou Wujiang Hotel includes:

Wan Li Chinese Restaurant – flavours of Canton, Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces are served in a chic and inviting interior within 11 private dining rooms.
Food Studio – serves a wide range of international specialties in the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant that offers buffet and a la cart dining.
Smokimoto Korean Restaurant – offers delicious traditional Korean dishes including a sumptuous barbeque selection as well as fresh Japanese sashimi.
R Bar – a chic and energetic evening gathering place that offers live music, a variety of canapés, cocktails, craft beers and fresh juices.

The Renaissance Suzhou Wujiang Hotel features 3,800 square metres of conference and meeting space, with a stunning 1,600 square metre pillar-less Grand Ballroom that can be partitioned into three smaller rooms, and is equipped with a 140 square meter LCD screen and state-of-the-art audiovisual system. The Junior Ballroom is 400 square meters in area and can also be partitioned into three sections. There are also six multipurpose rooms for small groups and meetings.

As a major stop along the ancient Silk Road, Shengze was a famously prosperous base for silk production. Its remaining Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasty buildings now draw thousands of tourists each year. Today silk remains the focus of a more diversified local economy for Shengze, which also includes a burgeoning high-tech sector and hundreds of foreign enterprises. Local businesses benefit from the city’s location at the junction of three of the most economically developed administrative divisions of China – Zhejiang Province, Jiangsu Province and the Municipality of Shanghai.

Auchrannie Resort, already an awarding winning destination on the Isle of Arran, now boasts a brand new 3-storey Spa Resort Executive Wing. The 18 executive bedrooms and two suites enhance its existing two hotels, three restaurants, 30 5 star lodges, spas, indoor and outdoor play and adventure centres.

Auchrannie was a perfect brief for Newmor, able to manufacture high performance wallcovering to individual design needs

The new development allowed the team to take a different look to their usual style; offering opulent, contemporary interiors with an atmospheric feel and a quirky connection to the natural environment. A perfect brief for Newmor, able to manufacture high performance wallcovering to individual design needs. The solution was a custom design featuring trees complemented by Arbour a wood grain stocked wallcovering.

It was essential that the wallcoverings were both luxurious and hardwearing. The fabric backed vinyl stylised wood effect was carefully designed to give the impression of rough-hewn wood while at the same time having an ultra-modern metallic feel.

The Arbour design from Newmor is the perfect backdrop for the pods

As well as stunning finishes to all bedrooms, the first two floors feature guest lounges leading to an external balcony. The executive rooms and two executive suites have full use of the resort’s Stromach Lounge, to enjoy complementary snacks and refreshments as well the outdoor hot tub with fabulous views of Glen Cloy. The lounge area in the executive suites come complete with a ‘chill out pod’ — a circular pod inset into the wall where people can recline and relax.

It was essential that the wallcoverings were both luxurious and hardwearing

The Arbour design from Newmor is the perfect backdrop for the pods, its hand drawn detail of wood grain textures, including knots, creates a natural feel whilst maintaining a contemporary look. Richard Small, General Manager at the resort, is delighted: “We are very pleased with the positive feedback we have had so far, guests appreciate the large picture windows, bespoke wall coverings, ambient lighting and sumptuous furnishings throughout.”

2016 is shaping up to be a great year for Four Seasons with the opening of several new hotels and resorts planned for the UAE, Kuwait, Japan, China and the USA. A summary of the openings are as follows:

Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island:
This 200-room property is located in the heart of the new Central Business District with 124 private and serviced residences. An array of dining options are planned for the hotel, including a retro-modern Chicago steakhouse. A cocktail bar and a poolside restaurant with views overlooking the sea are also planned.

Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre:

A 106-room hotel with an 8th floor sky bar boasting Burj Khalifa views, with a cigar room on the mezzanine. Also included will be a rooftop pool and garden to provide a welcome oasis in this fast-paced city. Interiors by Tihany Design.

Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya:
This 263-room property is located in the central business district. An Italian dining concept created around three wood-burning ovens as well as a pan-Asian restaurant – both with outdoor terraces on the penthouse level – will be among five food and beverage options. Interiors by Yabu Pushelberg will include a spectacular indoor pool in the beautifully designed spa and fitness complex.

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto:

The Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto features 124 rooms, 57 Four Seasons Private Residences, a spa and fitness centre with a pool, and four food and beverage concepts. Local artists will be featured throughout the traditionally-inspired modern décor characterised by an understated Japanese aesthetic. The hotel will be located in the city’s historic Higashiyama-ku district.

Four Seasons Hotel Tianjin:
The 259-room property will be the brand’s 9th hotel in the country. Part of a mixed complex with an office tower and retail stores, the Hotel is in a pedestrian-friendly area near Nanjing Road, the city’s main east-west thoroughfare and Bingjiang Avenue, the city’s major shopping area. With three food and beverage options and a spa and fitness facility with a pool, the hotel will be the first Four Seasons in China’s 4th most populous city.

Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown:

Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan in the Tribeca district, the 185-room building is designed by Robert AM Stern Architects with interiors by Yabu Pushelberg. It will feature an exclusive spa and fitness facility, naturally-lit event spaces, and soon-to-be-revealed street level restaurant and bar concept, as well as 157 Private Residences.

Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko Olina:

This 358-room beachfront hotel is located on the island’s sunset coast featuring multiple beaches and pools – several reserved for adults only – a multi-level spa and wellness centre plus on-site tennis and watersports, and preferred access at the Ko Olina golf club. Event spaces can host up to 900 guests. New design by Philpotts Interiors will enhance the original building by architect Edward Killingsworth.

Four Seasons Hotel The Surf Club:

The exclusive 77-room property is set within a 9-acre (3.6-hectare) complex with 965 feet (300 metres) of Atlantic beachfront. It will offer more than 40 beach cabanas among landscaped gardens and four pools. Design architects for the Hotel and 150 Private Residences are Richard Meier & Partners.

Hampton by Hilton, the global brand of more than 2,000 mid-priced Hampton Inn by Hilton, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton and Hampton by Hilton hotels, has announced the opening of its newest property – the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Claremore, Oklahoma.Guestrooms at the 80-room hotel are equipped with the brand’s signature Clean and fresh Hampton bed®, LCD flat-screen TV, microwave, fridge, coffeemaker and work desk. Inviting suites are also available, offering additional space and a comfortable sleeper sofa.

The new hotel features the Perfect Mix Lobby, designed as an extension of the guestroom with a variety of seating and lighting options for both leisure and business travellers. Additionally, the hotel features TREATS, a new food and beverage shop filled with snacks, toiletries, local merchandise and drinks for purchase.

Located at 1811 South Scissortail Avenue in Claremore, the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Claremore is managed by Leisure Hospitality Management and offers free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour business centre, a 1,000 square foot meeting space that can accommodate up to 70 people and a fitness centre. Leisure facilities include a relaxing indoor swimming pool and whirlpool tub. The hotel also provides free On the House hot breakfast as well as Hampton’s On the RunTM Breakfast Bags, available on weekdays.

“We are eager to welcome guests to the beautiful historical district of Claremore and offer the ultimate in quality accommodations and amenities,” said Sonia Vieira, general manager. “With our expansive meeting space and friendly staff, we are look forward to hosting visitors and gatherings in our contemporary new location.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has signed an agreement to develop a new-build Sheraton hotel in Brazil, owned by local real estate developer, Grupo Mendes.The Sheraton Santos Hotel, due to open in 2017, is part of a mixed used development that includes residences, offices and retail space. Featuring 213 guestrooms, the property will offer all of the Sheraton brand’s signature amenities, including an ultramodern Sheraton Club Lounge, a lobby bar serving the brand’s latest food and beverage program Paired, a signature restaurant, the Shine Spa for Sheraton™, a pool and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

“Brazil continues to be a key growth market for us and we’re seeing strong momentum in the region,” said Jorge Giannattasio, Senior Vice President and Chief of Operations, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America. “When the hotel opens in 2017, we will once again be the first international hotel chain to enter an important and emerging city, reinforcing the global power of the Sheraton brand.”

Sheraton Santos Hotel will cater to the increased demand from international and national business travellers, boasting some of the largest meetings and events space in the city with more than 15,000 square feet of meeting space, including a Grand Ballroom measuring almost 5,000 square feet and various banquet rooms.

“Brazil, with its sheer size and potential, offers many opportunities for us to expand our brands in both primary and secondary cities,” said Victor Vazquez, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions & Development, Latin America. “The signing of Sheraton Santos is a testament to our strong brand recognition in the country and demand for our brands from guests, customers and development partners.”

Few things make a room come together more than a rug. With BoConcept’s collection you get a rug that fits your interior perfectly.From bold to elegant, BoConcept rugs are all handmade pieces of art in high-quality materials like cowhide, knitted wool and shiny strands that are put together in an elegant, shaggy way.

Their collection offers a wide range of rugs to complete the look of a room and have been carefully selected to match their range of furniture.

Click on the images below to see in more detail:

To see other examples and for more information on rugs in the BoConcept range, click here.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.® are pleased to announce the opening of the 175-room Aloft Santa Clara located in Silicon Valley, California.

Re:mixSM lounge. Images available at www.aloftsantaclara.com
Featuring 2,800 square feet of meeting space, an outdoor deck, 24-hour re-charge gym, outdoor pool and the brand’s signature W XYZ bar. The Aloft Santa Clara also features a re:fuel at Aloft – a one-stop gourmet grab & go food and beverage area.

“Aloft Santa Clara is a highly anticipated new hotel in this bustling technology hub, and we expect it will quickly emerge as a top choice among visitors to Silicon Valley,” said Umesh Patel, Vice President, CalTex Hospitality, Inc. “The Aloft brand has experienced phenomenal growth, due to its distinctive sense of style, buzzing social scene and line-up of innovative programming.”

Owned by CalTex Hospitality, Inc. and managed by Lodgic Hospitality, the Aloft Santa Clara features the recently launched SPG Keyless—an evolution of Aloft’s Smart Check-in— the hospitality industry’s first mobile, keyless entry system allowing guests to use their smart phone as a key. The technology is rolling out to all Aloft, Element and W Hotels Worldwide by year’s end.

“Aloft Santa Clara is an exciting new addition to the brand’s growing Silicon Valley portfolio and will offer travellers a uniquely tech-forward hotel experience,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President, Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “As Starwood’s hub of technological innovation, Aloft appeals to the early adopter with its forward-thinking approach to hospitality.”

Courtyard by Marriott is rapidly expanding its international presence and has recently announced the opening of a new 144-room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Bogota.

The Courtyard by Marriott Bogota

Bogota is known as one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in South America and the new Courtyard by Marriott Bogota is perfectly positioned to service this financial, political and cultural centre with its prestigious Avenida El Dorado location close to the new terminal at El Dorado International Airport.

“The El Dorado Airport recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation and is considered among the key hubs in Latin America, making the Courtyard by Marriott Bogota on Avenida El Dorado an excellent option for the modern regional business traveller,” said Sergio Ohliger, general manager of the hotel.

The Courtyard by Marriott Bogota features a business lobby, lobby bar, the casual dining CENTRO restaurant, flexible meeting space and recreational facilities, including a swimming pool and sauna. Additionally, it includes the brand’s new modern guestroom design and features plush bedding, a functional work space, spacious bathrooms, a separate seating area and complimentary in-room high-speed Internet.

The hotel is part of a mixed-use complex which includes prime office and retail space.

Two of Sydney’s iconic heritage-listed buildings — the former Clare Hotel pub and the Carlton & United Breweries Administration Building have been carefully adjoined by a glass link-way under the engineered expertise of Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects.The result: a distinctive and unique design-led property constructed with obsessive attention to aesthetics and a focus on retaining as many interesting and original features as possible, which is set to be Sydney’s finest boutique design hotel — and is now officially open for business.

Photos: theoldclarehotel.com.au

The Old Clare Hotel brings a unique offering to the city’s hotel market. Not only a place to stay — but for curious travellers and locals alike to entertain, enjoy and experience the cornerstone of Chippendale, the thriving, emerging city suburb.

A total of sixty two rooms and suites of seven distinctive types feature high ceilings, large original framed windows, heritage timber panelling and original exposed walls. Highlights include the heritage C.U.B. Suite — featuring spacious separate sleeping quarters, ample meeting, living and dining space with an eight-seater table and an anteroom with library. The Mary O’ Suite — named after Chippendale character, Mary O’Shea, also known as Pig Mary entails a separate entertaining and dining area for up to eight guests, a wet bar and sleeping quarters overlooking Kensington Street.

Photos: theoldclarehotel.com.au

The Chippendale Lofts are both contemporary and spacious, featuring a private bedroom with open white marble bathroom and sitting area over two levels. Intricate, quirky objects and fixtures have been hand-selected to furnish each space; including .PSLAB pendant lights, vintage furniture, custom tote bags and cushions inspired by Australian fauna and flora created by Eloise Rapp.

There are sixty two custom made desk lamps fashioned from transformed vintage machinery of decades past by Paul Firbank a.k.a. The Rag and Bone Man, while New Zealand brand Triumph & Disaster challenge the senses with specialised amenity sets in each room. Throughout the hotel, Maison Balzac have created a bespoke and welcoming scent, evoking the memories of the past.

Photos: theoldclarehotel.com.au

Downstairs, The Clare bar adjoins the hotel reception – embracing the ethos of its earlier incarnation as preferred watering hole for locals, indie rock lovers, bohemians, artists and intellectuals. Upstairs, an expansive Rooftop Pool and Bar with panoramic views of the surrounding district is the ultimate locale to have a sunrise yoga session or sundowner in equal measure.

Additional amenities at The Old Clare Hotel include a private gym and a heritage meeting space. A day spa will also launch in early 2016. Outside of The Old Clare Hotel; explore the Chippendale neighbourhood by custom made bicycle.

Photos: theoldclarehotel.com.au

Three independent restaurants, offering different dining experiences, will also open as part of The Old Clare Hotel. Automata, Clayton Wells’ first solo restaurant, seating sixty guests and serving a constantly changing five-course menu has opened on Kensington Street. Silvereye, situated on level two of the hotel is by former Noma chef, Sam Miller, and will offer two tasting menus.

The new premium budget ibis Styles Glasgow Centre George Square has opened its doors following a £7m investment converting the property from the abandoned Telfer House building.

Operated by Glasgow-based Redefine|BDL Hotels, the hotel has been designed with Glasgow’s culture in mind, along with a large dose of humour as it celebrates the city’s bold personality.

From the grit of the Clydeside shipyards and the creative genius of Glasgow’s most famous sons, to the hilarious traits of “The Big Yin” himself, Billy Connolly, the ibis Styles Glasgow Centre George Square captures the city’s bountiful banter throughout its design.

Inge Van Ooteghem, SVP Operations Economy and Budget Hotels, comments: “We are delighted to open ibis Styles Glasgow Centre George Square – a hotel that perfectly blends humour and creative flair throughout its design. Whether guests are here for business or leisure, they’ll experience the vibrancy and charm of Glasgow through the fabric of the hotel walls.”

Whilst the design is outrageously fun, there are subtle touches throughout the hotel. Carets feature quotations from the local shipyard works and weaved within them is the beloved rose emblem, a subtle nod to the world-renowned Glaswegian architect, designer and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Guest rooms feature a digital print headboard featuring iconic images of the city and traffic cone lights, with stencilled crane illustrations in the bathroom mirrors and on the bedrooms walls, giving the impression the TV is suspended from a height.

A city where visitors are welcomed with a warm hug and a wee dram, ibis Styles Glasgow Centre George Square offers business and leisure travellers the perfect stay with great location at a great price. Visit www.ibis.com to book your stay.

The award-winning Domes of Elounda, Crete are proud to be the first hotel to join the Autograph Collection, Marriott International’s striking collection of independent hotels.A collection of 78 suites and 40 villas, Domes of Elounda fits perfectly with the vision of Autograph Collection and represents an exciting move for its global growth strategy.

Domes of Elounda offers Mediterranean style in an elegant setting coupled with considerable levels of privacy and lavish comfort which has made this a favourite getaway for A-list celebrities and influential businesspeople.

The property has recently completed a multi-million pound expansion which includes 28 Domes Luxury Residences furnished with every imaginable amenity and generous private swimming pools, along with a brand new family area offering an array of activities for all ages.

George P. Spanos, vice president of Ledra Hotels and Villas, commented: “For Marriott International to join forces with Domes of Elounda under the umbrella of Autograph Collection is an acknowledgement of our efforts and commitment to offer distinctive hospitality experiences. With this strategic partnership, Domes of Elounda enters dynamically into a new era of further developments.”

Hilton Worldwide has announced that its DoubleTree brand will make its entry into Colombia with the signing of two new franchise license agreements.

Hilton plans to convert two Hoteles Cosmos hotels in Bogotá into DoubleTree by Hilton properties, with both continuing to be operated by Cosmos Hotels – one of Colombia’s most-recognised hotel brands for over thirty years.The conversion of the Cosmos Insignia Hotel into the DoubleTree by Hilton Bogotá Parque 93 is scheduled to open in December 2015. Retaining all 132 guest rooms, the hotel will feature the restaurant Agata, a Lobby Lounge and an executive lounge with Bar. Located in the centre of Bogotá’s Chicó neighbourhood, it is just minutes away from restaurants, cafés and bars of Parque 93.

Tower C of the Hotel & Convention Centre Cosmos 100 will be converted into an 88-room DoubleTree by Hilton Bogotá Calle 100, scheduled to open in February 2016. Located in the north end of the city, the hotel will feature a lobby lounge and restaurant and will benefit from direct access to the Cosmos 100 meeting and event space.

Guest rooms will feature a broad range of modern furnishings and an array of complimentary amenities will be available to guests, including WiFi throughout the hotel’s public areas and guest rooms, 24-hour business centre, 24-hour fitness centre, and airport shuttle.

“Bogotá’s geographic location and international airport, which has direct global flights from over 50 destinations, making it the northern hub for South America, have enabled the city to grow as a business hub and an ideal place for guests seeking the upscale, full-service experience that only DoubleTree by Hilton can deliver,” said John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton. “We look forward to welcoming guests to these new properties, starting with the signature warm chocolate chip cookie greeting at check-in and continuing through every touch point of our guests’ stay.”

Robert Allen’s latest collections of Drapeable Textures pay homage to understated glamour, elevating design staples by infusing them with shimmer and sheen.The lines offer two distinct qualities: Lustre subtly glows with foil prints and faux silks, while Tonal Mélange contains slubbier textures achieved with irregular weaves and twisted yarns. Neutrals, metallics and pastels anchor the collections’ long colour lines.

Click on the images below for more detail:

To see other examples and for more information on drapeable textures in the Robert Allen range, click here.

Marriott certainly has ambitious plans for its brands within South Africa. The acquisition of Protea Hotels in 2014 has secured, at least for now, Marriott as the largest hotel operator in Africa with 38 projected developments within the next five years on the continent across Marriott’s seven brands.The rapidly expanding economic growth in Africa is important to Marriott’s growth strategy, and the development of two new properties in Johannesburg scheduled for February 2018 will accommodate Africa’s growing middle class and youth population with upscale residential living and hotel in one of Africa’s iconic cities.

Located in the Melrose Arch precinct in Johannesburg, the 150-room Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch and 200-unit Marriott Executive Apartments Johannesburg Melrose Arch are part of a mixed-use development owned by The Amdec Group. Two Protea Hotels already feature within the complex: the African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel and Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Melrose Arch, and this partnership further strengthens the relationship between Marriott and the Amdec Group.

The Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch will feature the new branding which is currently being rolled out globally and will include a modernisation of the brand’s overall appeal as well as redesigned lobbies and public spaces known as ‘Greatrooms’.

The Marriott Executive Apartments Johannesburg Melrose Arch provide upscale residential living with personalised service and an assurance that the environment has all the comforts of home.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and LATAM Hotels Corp are pleased to announce the opening of the 126-room Hyatt Place Tegucigalpa, in Honduras. “We are excited to be contributing to the Hyatt Place brand’s expansion in Central America with the opening of Hyatt Place Tegucigalpa,” stated Mr. Fernando Paiz, President of LATAM Hotels Corp. “As business and leisure travel grows in Honduras, we believe Hyatt Place hotels offer travelers style, innovation, 24/7 convenience and every modern comfort to create a seamless stay in the city.”

The hotel offers a Gallery Kitchen breakfast and 24/7 Gallery Menu with meals prepared at any time of the day; 24/7 Gallery Menu & Market and Coffee to Cocktails Bar.

As well as 24/7 meal options, there is also a 24-hour StayFit Gym, a heated rooftop outdoor pool and deck and 3,000 square feet of flexible meeting/function space with free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

To celebrate the first Hyatt Place hotel in Honduras, the hotel commissioned special artwork from artist, Santos Arzu Quioto. Reflecting the colours and textures of the city of Tegucigalpa, the artwork – described by the artist as “Cartography of Tegucigalpa” or “Cerro de la Plata” (Silver Mountain) – is abstract work and forms a focal piece in the hotel’s Gallery area.

“The Hyatt Place brand was designed from the insight of our guests’ appreciation for approachable style, where design and quality is delivered in a very simple and affordable fashion, offering a seamless travel experience for guests,” said Steven Dominguez, vice president of global brands for Hyatt Place and Hyatt House. “As the Hyatt portfolio of brands continues to enter new markets throughout the region, we are delighted that the opening of Hyatt Place Tegucigalpa marks the first Hyatt branded hotel in Honduras.”

2015 has been a very busy year so far for Burgess Furniture. Not only have we launched our contemporary Evosa Congress Range, we have also been busy revamping and relaunching our Classic Chair brochure. The relaunch brings a modern twist to some of our much loved classic chairs.This year at The Hotel Show, which runs from the 28th to the 30th September, we will be showcasing our new Evosa Congress chair range. The Evosa Congress is a frame stacking chair with all the stylish characteristics of the original Evosa. Its slender, chrome plated steel frame has the option to come fully upholstered or with a knitted mesh back, but whichever option, it is always the apex of modernity and comfort.

The Evosa Congress is just one in a long line of products that are renowned, not just in the Middle East, but worldwide for their elegance, quality and reliability. To this day, our banquet and conference chairs and tables are still proudly designed and manufactured in the UK, and from there, are exported all over the world.

Come along to our stand 6E216 and see our great range of products for yourself!

Hilton London Wembley, in the shadow of one of the world’s most iconic stadiums, was the backdrop for this year’s Hotel Summit, where more than 50 delegates and 25 suppliers gathered for an afternoon of networking and showcasing the latest products in the hotel industry. Daniel Fountain was on hand to review proceedings.

The Hotel Summit has quickly become one of the more popular events on the conference circuit, and with its networking opportunities, tailor-made itineraries for each delegate and specifically designed meetings for suppliers — it’s easy to see why.

As well as identifying new suppliers that can offer interior design products and facilities management services, in industries as wide ranging as upholstery, lighting, and security systems the delegates enjoyed two seminars – which bookended the networking sessions – from the Society of British and International Design (SBID) President Vanessa Brady and Qbic Hotels MD Julie Fawcett.

Vanessa Brady led the delegates through how to gain more business while investing and strengthening existing contacts with the opening presentation. This was followed at the end of the day by a talk by Julie Fawcett, who explained why OTAs shouldn’t be considered the enemy of hoteliers. Meanwhile, the main chunk of the day – the networking opportunities — enabled suppliers and buyers to get down to the business of exchanging project and product details, forging new connections and sealing deals.

The hotel industry is one of the most competitive in the world. And with so many events within the industry, it can be difficult to decide which ones to attend. The huge exhibitions are always popular, but the endless walking, not knowing who to speak to and no confirmed sell can feel like a waste of time. Unique events like the Hotel Summit are making trade shows a thing of the past.

For information on the next summit, contact Jade Oliver for information and availability on j.oliver@forumevents.co.uk or 01992 374054.

A contract signing has taken place between Marriott International and Hanwha Hotels & Resorts for the future management of THE PLAZA, located in South Korea, scheduled to begin in early 2016.Nestled amidst Korea’s historical district, Seoul’s 600-year history and rich culture is an essential part of THE PLAZA’s design aesthetic and has become a symbol of grandeur within the city.

Featuring nine banquet halls that can accommodate up to 600 guests, a Grand Ballroom for up to 450 guests and Xystum House on the hotel’s top floor, THE PLAZA is an ideal venue for both large-scale events and private functions.

“We are delighted that the partnership will bring together Autograph Collection and Marriott International’s strength in global marketing and sales with THE PLAZA’s local brand and heritage,” said Shim Kyung Seob, CEO of Hanwha Hotels & Resorts. “This is an important milestone as the hotel celebrates its 40th anniversary next year.”

Italian architect and designer, Guido Ciompi has been appointed to renovate the hotel ahead of its new branding under the Autograph Collection. The interior design and furniture within the 410 guest rooms will be modernised and offer a variety of schemes as well as incorporating enhanced technology such as a smart touchpad to control room temperature, lighting and other amenities in the room.

The Autograph Collection has become well-known for its culinary expertise and a new team of regional chefs will staff the restaurants and bars at THE PLAZA to offer an unforgettable experience. TAOYUEN is a Chinese restaurant featuring modern Shanghai-style cooking; MURASAKI, a Japanese restaurant that combines modern techniques with simple and casual Neoclassic Kaiseki; and TUSCANY, an Italian restaurant helmed by Michelin-star head chef Maurizio Ceccato.

An agreement has been signed between Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and Shenzhen Hazens Real Estate Investment Group, LLC to open a new Sheraton Hotel in the San Gabriel area, close to downtown Los Angeles. Scheduled to open in 2018, the Sheraton San Gabriel will break ground this month (September) and is expected to feature 277 guest rooms, 11 suites and more than 10,000 square feet of meeting space – spread across four rooms.

The hotel will feature the brand’s signature offerings, including the Sheraton Club® and a luxury spa. Other leisure facilities will include a bar, pool, fitness facilities and two restaurants offering Chinese and steakhouse options.

“The signing of Sheraton San Gabriel further reinforces our commitment to expanding our largest and most global brand with world-class properties in key gateway markets,” said Allison Reid, Senior Vice President of North America Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “We are thrilled to expand our relationship with Hazens Real Estate Investment Group, LLC to bring Sheraton to San Gabriel.”

Brintons, the world’s leading carpet manufacturer, showcased a ‘Best of British’ themed exhibition at Maison & Objet Paris’ 20th anniversary.The prestigious show ran from the 4th – 8th September and was the first year that Brintons had exhibited at the design event.

Brintons displayed a design from its HD Weave collection that was created in collaboration with Cristian Zuzunaga. The collection allows up to 32 colours to be weaved together to create breath-taking photorealistic illusions.

Its new Inspirations collection was also incorporated into the display, and the inspiration behind the range was based upon three themes including tropical, geometric and architectural, all designed by a team of in-house designers.

Anna Plumb, Europe Sales Manager for Brintons, comments: “Maison & Objet Paris has always been a key event, attracting designers, manufacturers and viewers to become fully immersed into the world of design. It was a fantastic and exciting opportunity to showcase our latest HD collection and new inspirations collection at the exhibition.

“This year we’ve had a very strong year launching a range of new collections as well as a plethora of bespoke carpets for a diverse range of commercial projects. It was a real pleasure to be able to showcase and promote all of our work at Maison & Object.”

Country Group Development (CGD) and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts are partnering up with world-renowned designers Denniston, led by award-winning architectural and interior design legend Jean-Michel Gathy, to design the interiors of Bangkok’s exclusive Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, set to open in 2018.The announcement marks the first collaboration between the world’s leading name in luxury hotels and resorts, and one of the leading interior design talents of his generation.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is a low-rise, urban resort hotel sprawled across the entire southern span of Chao Phraya Estate. Set on one of the largest land areas directly allocated to one hotel with an unprecedented 200 metres of river frontage, it is poised to become a truly unique urban resort arranged in a series of cascading green courtyards and lush landscapes. It will also feature state-of-the-art meeting and function spaces, including the largest riverfront Grand Ballroom in Bangkok; and a myriad of world-class entertainment offerings along the property’s waterfront promenade featuring an array of restaurants and bars.

The concept for the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is to create an iconic destination and bring to life the brand’s vision for Bangkok’s first truly urban resort. “Bangkok is a truly engaging and incredible city that inspires me with its energy and rich heritage. What excited me about the Four Seasons project was Country Group’s unique vision and value proposition in creating the first true ultra-luxury, urban resort hotel, which distinguishes itself from all-other developments in Bangkok. It is a great opportunity to be part of an iconic development that is set to redefine the urban resort concept in Asia,” said Mr. Gathy.

Denniston will work on the interior and hardscape design of Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River with BAMO designing the interiors of Four Seasons Private Residences Bangkok at Chao Phraya River – both consultants will work alongside the acclaimed masterplan and design consultants Hamiltons International.

AccorHotels has signed a management agreement with Aria Ziggurat for two properties in Tehran; both are scheduled to open in October 2015.

Novotel IKIA and ibis IKIA

Novotel IKIA (296 rooms) and ibis IKIA (196 rooms) are connected to the main terminal of Imam Khomeini International Airport and are the first international group to launch its brands in Iran.

Positioned to attract domestic and international business travellers and tourists, guests will enjoy a choice of Iranian and international cuisine, large meeting rooms and convention venues, as well as wellness facilities – including spas, fitness centres and swimming pools.

Sébastien Bazin, AccorHotels’ Chairman and CEO, said at a press conference in Tehran: “We are very excited about signing this partnership with Aria Ziggurat in Iran. We are certain that Novotel and ibis will fit perfectly into the growth momentum that Iran’s hospitality sector is enjoying. Our brands are looking at huge growth potential in this country, which is home to almost 80 million people and is expanding its economy. Our ambition is to develop an important network in the country thanks to our global portfolio of brands covering all segments, from luxury to midscale and economy.”

Minor Hotel Group (MHG), currently with a portfolio of 134 hotels and resorts in 22 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean, has announced a strategic partnership with Nakheel to co-invest and develop a 500-key AVANI hotel in Dubai, set to open in 2018.AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel will be located in Deira Islands, a unique waterfront entertainment, tourist and residential destination being developed in alignment with the emirate’s ‘Dubai Vision 2020’.

Comprising four islands situated adjacent to Dubai’s Deira district, Deira Islands, developed by Nakheel, will feature a variety of beachfront resorts, hotels and residential communities, a shopping mall, a waterfront night market and an impressive amphitheatre able to accommodate up to 30,000 people. The AVANI hotel will be close to Dubai International Airport, with views of the Dubai skyline and across the Arabian Gulf.

The new-build hotel is the first of MHG’s vibrant AVANI brand to be announced in the UAE. Blending genuine hospitality and relaxed comfort with a passion for design, contemporary style and modern lifestyle essentials, AVANI offers all the details that matter for a seamless stay.

AVANI was launched by Minor Hotel Group in 2011 in response to an increasingly influential group of discerning travellers who appreciate good design and excellent service, but also demand great value. The brand currently has 13 properties in operation in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Seychelles, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Zambia, with a pipeline of further openings.

MHG currently has a portfolio of nine hotels in the UAE across three of its brands – Anantara, PER AQUUM and Oaks.

New from Crosswater, Dial is the latest in push-button shower technology, which allows you to precisely control the flow of water and temperature simultaneously. Available in both single and double outlet options, Dial sets a new benchmark in bathroom design with cutting-edge on/off operation offering complete showering control at the touch of a button.

This innovation allows for multifunctional showering and bathing, whereby outlets can be used both independently and in-sync with a superior effect to that of standard diverters.

Smart on the inside, Dial has been created with ultra-modern yet carefully considered design concepts. Behind the scenes it is intuitive, high-performing and even works on low-pressure systems if installed with a flow activated shower pump.

On the outside, Dial’s aesthetics are contemporary and sleek with clear symbols inscribed onto the controls to easily identify functions.

Available in four of Crosswater’s designer ranges – Central, Belgravia, Kai Lever and Pier – there’s a style to suit any bathroom scheme, from the sleek and contemporary to the more traditional.

Featuring 11 separate water flow positions, Dial offers the perfect flexibility between eco-friendly showering and luxurious high-pressure power.

Operated by a simple push button function, the controls are highly responsive for instant shut off making it the ideal multifunctional choice for the modern bathroom.

Currently under construction in Washington’s district of Renton is the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport. Due for completion in 2017, the hotel will be located on a 5.5-acre lakefront site offering stunning panoramic views of Downtown Seattle, the Olympic Mountains and Mt. Rainer. In a tribute to the Seattle Seahawk’s 12th Man, the hotel will rise 12 storeys high and honours the 12s – the given name for the team’s loyal fans. As part of a mixed-use development, the hotel will feature alongside luxury apartments, three office towers, and retail space and the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport is envisioned to be the premier hotel on Lake Washington.

Each of the hotel’s 347 rooms, including 31 suites, will be configured to enhance business and leisure with seamless connectivity. Glass art wall structures and local art will feature throughout the hotel to infuse the beauty of the hotel’s surroundings and views of Lake Washington into the design.

“The City of Renton strongly supports the development of a waterfront hotel. Once constructed, this Hyatt Regency hotel will serve as a critical catalyst for the emerging South Lake Washington neighbourhood. This new development will have a positive impact on our region’s employment base as well as demand for business services, tourism, and convention business,” said City of Renton Mayor Denis Law.

Dining options will include a waterfront restaurant and bar with outdoor terrace, as well as private dining rooms. A residentially inspired display kitchen will be integrated directly within the guest event area.

43,000 square feet of meeting and pre-function space, including a 15,000 square foot Grand Ballroom, a junior ballroom and eight meeting rooms will be available to guests. For events al fresco, planners and guests can take their meetings outside to the hotel’s expansive outdoor, Northwest garden-landscaped event terraces of up to 12,000 square feet that overlook Lake Washington.

In addition, there will be a VIP lounge area known as the Regency Club®, a full service spa, fitness centre, and an indoor pool.

Gallery Direct Holdings Ltd are pleased to announce the purchase of Dreamworks Beds, a successful UK mattress and upholstery manufacturer, in a strategic deal which will expand the skills and services available via Gallery Direct. Dreamworks Beds will continue to trade on a standalone basis as a sister company to Gallery Direct. Peter Delaney will be the Managing Director of both businesses going forward.

“This is fantastic news for Gallery’s and Dreamworks Beds’ clients across the UK” commented Peter Delaney, Managing Director of Gallery Direct. “The Dreamworks Beds team produces well-designed, great value quality products that are hand made in the UK and delivered within an incredible 2-3 weeks. I am confident that both businesses will be able to work closely together to deliver benefits to both Companies and their respective customers.”

“The uniting of two strong businesses, which are ambitious, progressive and financially secure, is good news for our employees and clients alike,” commented Peter Ziemniak, Managing Director of Dreamworks Beds. “It is business as usual for our staff, suppliers and customers, as we look forward to continuing to build on our existing relationships.”

The two businesses have agreed an undisclosed sum, in a private sale which will see a strengthened product offer and growth, by developing this award winning British manufacturer of bedroom products further.

“It’s been an honour and a pleasure at Dreamworks Beds, although sometimes very tough, to have achieved all the things we have done as a team,” added Peter Ziemniak “and I will be leaving behind people I have known for many years. I am confident that with Gallery Direct at the helm, the future looks very positive and our colleagues and clients will be in very capable hands going forward.”

There are just over three months to go until the 26th ICEHOTEL in Swedish Lapland opens its doors to the public (11 December 2015).And to celebrate, structural plans and unique designs for the hotel have been revealed, by Discover the World, the leading ICEHOTEL experts.

From a life-sized ice elephant and a Russian imperial-inspired theatre set, to a room full of flying sheep and a 1970’s love capsule, 19 uniquely crafted suites will be built. The amount of snow taken to create its 55 rooms, as well as its church and bar, is enough to make a staggering 700 million snowballs (with its frozen chandeliers using over 1000 hand cut ice crystals) taking an astonishing 48,000 hours of labour.

Designers from around the world will be involved in the hotel’s distinctive designs including a team from the UK – architect Matt Chan and dancer/choreographer Annie Hanauer. They are all set to create a Cairn Forest suite; a woodland scene featuring piles of ice cairns which collectively make up towers and arches.

Clockwise from top left: Live Your Time Suite, Jose Carlos Cabello Millan and Javier Colomino; Elephant in the Room, Anna Sofia; Flying Buttress Suite, Hans Aescht; Eye Suite, Nicolas Triboulot and Laurent Grapin – Photos courtesy of discover-the-world.co.uk

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Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, childhood beach-holiday joy has been brought to life by the Zand Hotel. The project is the brainchild of event organisers at Global PowWow, who spent four weeks building rooms — of which there are 60 in total — as part of a sand sculpture festival in the towns of Sneek and Oss in the Netherlands. Thankfully, not all the furniture is made of sand — as we’re not sure how comfortable a bed made out of sand would be.

The hotel is fully booked for this year, but good news for those adults wanting to relive childhood memories of days out at the beach — the organisers plan on repeating the feat again next year and building similar structures in Germany and right here in the UK.

Photos courtesy of zandhotel.nl

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of the first Holiday Inn hotel in the Santa Fe district of Mexico City. The hotel is owned and managed by Operadora de Estancias Turísticas S.C., and located just 30 minutes from the Mexico City International Airport. Gerardo Murray, Vice President, Distribution and Commercial Marketing, Mexico, Latin America & The Caribbean, IHG said: “We are thrilled to bring the Holiday Inn brand to Santa Fe. The area is quickly developing and becoming a business hub, and we are confident that travelers will welcome the warm service and modern amenities found at a trusted brand like Holiday Inn.”

The Holiday Inn – Mexico Santa Fe hotel features 95 well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, fully-equipped fitness centre, business centre and meeting rooms with capacity for 500 people. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s lobby bar and restaurant, L‘Etoile, which offers various traditional Mexican dishes.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of Hotel Indigo® Berlin City – East Side.The new-build hotel will be owned by Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) and will operate under a franchise agreement with development agreement (MDA) partner Tristar Hotel Group. This hotel will be the eighth development under IHG’s MDA agreement with Tristar.

Opening during the autumn of 2017, the hotel joins Hotel Indigo® Berlin – Alexanderplatz and Hotel Indigo® Berlin – Ku’damm in Germany’s capital. The property will feature 119 rooms, a gym, a restaurant and a rooftop bar with an outdoor terrace, and is within walking distance of Berlin’s Warschauer Strasse and Ostbahnhof train stations.

Hotel Indigo Berlin City – East Side will be located in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, one of the most creative districts in Berlin, and surrounded by a lively cultural scene and popular entertainment options. The hotel will be part of Mercedes Platz, a complex located opposite the Mercedes-Benz Arena. Mercedes Platz, also owned by AEG, will feature numerous restaurants and bars, a 4,000 capacity event hall and a state-of-the art movie theatre.

Its visitor numbers are projected to reach 20 million annually and the complex will open in 2018. Hotel Indigo Berlin City – East Side is set to become the heart and soul of the dynamically growing urban quarter along the East-Side-Gallery (remains of the Berlin wall).

In 2014 IHG doubled its number of signings in Germany in comparison to 2013, signing twelve contracts with new and existing owner partners. IHG plans to double the number of hotels in Germany either open or in the pipeline over the next five years. IHG currently has the largest active development pipeline in Germany’s branded hotel market with more than 4,400 rooms.

Hilton Birmingham Metropole’s fifth floor Executive Lounge has a new interior design, featuring seating and tables by RHA Furniture.

The curved reception desk was custom made at RHA’s UK factory. Over 60 items of contract furniture were selected from RHA’s UK and Italian collections.

The new interior and elegant furniture offer guests a smart but cosy space for both work and relaxation. At the heart of the room, close to the buffet counters, are dining tables and chairs to seat 28 people, including 2 poseur tables and high stools beside the windows; the surrounding area offers beautifully upholstered soft seating and a mixture of large and small coffee tables.

 

The custom made reception desk made at RHA Furniture’s UK factory; featuring a beautiful wood effect laminate top and veneer frame to match on brushed stainless steel plinths.

 

RHA Furniture has been a Hilton Approved Supplier for over 20 years and has produced furniture for the group in over 15 countries and to over 60 hotels. Past Hilton projects, featuring RHA Furniture, include Hilton at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton; The Lounge at Hilton Birmingham Metropole; public areas and suites at the Conrad Algarve in Portugal.

Contact RHA Furniture for more information or to discuss custom made furniture for a project you are currently working on.

Clarke and Clarke are pleased to announce the launch of two new collections, Latour and Cordoba, at this year’s Decorex International from the 20th to 23rd September at Syon Park.Latour
Rich and luxurious, Latour is a collection of three small scale chenille weaves and a stunning digital print on the same dual purpose quality.

The style pays homage to the glamorous French Golden Age, where gem and dark colours such as magenta, deep blue and peacock mix with opulent metallics

Cordoba
A realistic faux leather, which can be used in both residential and contract spaces. This very hard wearing, flame retardant fabric comes in a total of 41 colours.

For more details regarding these new ranges and to view other stunning fabrics, please visit them on stand E39.

Renaissance Hotels have announced the opening of their first hotel in North India, the Renaissance Lucknow Hotel. The 112-room property is the tallest hotel to open in Lucknow and offers incredible views of the Gomti River. Located in the city centre, the hotel provides easy access to business hubs and extensive onsite facilities for social events and meetings in its 26,000 square feet of versatile space.

The Renaissance Lucknow Hotel features a contemporary design that is juxtaposed against the heritage background of Lucknow. Designed with refined sophistication and exuberant fun, Renaissance Lucknow Hotel has 96 tastefully appointed rooms and 16 suites that offer modern luxury and unparalleled convenience to its guests. All guest rooms feature cotton rich linen, 42-inch LED HD televisions, spacious work and seating areas along-with a modern three-point bathroom.

A variety of dining options are available at the Renaissance Lucknow Hotel which include L – 14, the international cuisine all day dining restaurant; Sepia – the Awadhi speciality fine dining restaurant, Coffee & Cakes; and the Sky Bar – the poolside bar located on the 16th floor.

A fitness centre, yoga studio, rooftop infinity pool and Jacuzzi are also available at the hotel.

Marking the occasion said Mr. Rajeev Menon, Chief Operating Officer – South East Asia & Pacific for Marriott International. “Lucknow is fast emerging as a cultural and business hub in Uttar Pradesh and makes for the perfect location for a Renaissance Hotel. Renaissance Hotels is a global, lifestyle hospitality brand that seeks to inspire and provoke its guests to discover something new and different each and every time they visit.”

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of the new-build Holiday Inn Express® and Suites Vaudreuil-Dorion hotel in Quebec. It joins other properties in the surrounding areas of Montreal, including a new-build Holiday Inn hotel scheduled to open in Downtown Montreal in 2017.Hotel amenities include a 24-hour business centre with seven suites – each featuring a private meeting room for up to four people; 1,820 square feet of meeting space which can accommodate up to 225 people; a 24-hour fitness centre and indoor saltwater pool.

Guest rooms are comfortably styled with a modern interior and available in queen, king-size or two-double beds with a sitting area and in-room coffee machine.

Kristopher Wekarchuk, General Manager, Holiday Inn Express Vaudreuil-Dorion said: “The Vaudreuil-Dorion market is a great fit for the Holiday Inn Express brand due to its convenient location near Pierre Elliot Trudeau Airport, Joseph Carrier Industrial Park and Kraft Canada. We look forward to providing our guests with unmatched comfort and convenience at a great value.”

Kobe UK, the luxury fabric specialist, is celebrating 20 years of supplying UK interior design and soft furnishing customers with its contemporary and classic collections.The company, now known for its iconic ranges such as City Chic, Brissac and Aurora, began in 1995 when Kobe UK became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Dutch textiles group Kobefab International, since then the business has gone from strength to strength.

MD David Harris, who has been at the helm of the UK operation for the full two decades, said: “There have been many milestones along the way, but today the company is an established brand in the UK, growing from a very small team to now covering the whole country.”

In 1998 the company took over distribution in Ireland and a few years later established its successful contract sales division. Kobe’s contract fabrics are used to complete major projects from around the world, including the hospitality and healthcare markets.

Supporting the business going forward has been a priority and it has continued to reinforce its contracts team and its sales team, which now operates throughout the UK and Ireland.

However it has not always been good news. In 2010 disaster struck when a fire swept through the company’s head office in Holland. Fortunately, a quick-thinking team working at the site hurriedly setup a temporary warehouse, which meant for its significant customer base, business carried on as usual.

Said David Harris: “It’s been an exciting and sometimes challenging 20 years but we wouldn’t have it any other way. The company has developed considerably, we have a great team, business is still growing and we are looking forward to the next 20 years. I even have my own 50 year milestone this year!”

The company has launched a number of stunning collections over the years including Aurora, Gabra, Nomad, City Chic, Brissac and Wellington. Then in 2013 it launched the Essente brand, a collection of fabrics designed to reach a broader clientele, looking for a cost effective option, with the quality and reassurance of the Kobe name.

Having moved from its beginnings in temporary accommodation on to its Woodley premises, the company is now settled at its headquarters in Crowthorne , Berkshire.

Kobe UK will be showcasing it’s latest collections at Decorex International in September and to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary it is inviting you to meet the team at Stand J22 and have a chance to win one of 20 bottles of Champagne.

Kobe will also be at the Independent Hotel Show in October, the Sleep Show in November 2015 and the January Furniture Show 2016.

Reopening its doors after an extensive refurbishment, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Odile last year, is the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos located in San José del Cabo, Mexico. A newly designed open air lobby welcomes guests into the resort which draws architectural inspiration taken from its stunning Baja surroundings and history. As part of the transformation, the hotel now features 591 suites, including 34 swim-up suites, 12 restaurants, bars and lounges, and a KidZ Club with Water Park.

“We are delighted to celebrate the reopening of Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos in such a vibrant destination and community,” said Carlos Cabrera, senior vice president of all-inclusive operations for Hyatt. “The resort transformation has been spectacular and true to offering a distinctive all-inclusive experiences for guests of all ages. We look forward to welcoming back guests and inviting new Hyatt guests to discover the breadth of activities, dining experiences or relaxation they seek from an all-inclusive getaway.”

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is now able to offer extensive dining options which include: a Mexican Plaza featuring an authentic Tequila Bar and fiesta atmosphere; a new Sports Bar; an Italian beachfront restaurant; an expanded Asian restaurant with a separate Sushi Bar, Teppanyaki Grill and à la carte dining in Tatami-style seating; and two international buffet restaurants.

For business travellers, the hotel now offers a streamlined registration for meeting attendees and incentive groups in a dedicated meeting and events lobby adjacent to the resort’s 35,000 square feet of conference space.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has signed a management agreement for the Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort, a conversion property owned by Kiroro Resort Holdings. Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort is part of a dual signing with The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Hokkaido, both of which are scheduled to open in December 2015. The deal marks the first Sheraton ski resort in Japan, the brand’s re-entry in the famed region of Hokkaido, and the first Tribute Portfolio hotel signed in Asia Pacific.

Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort will feature 140 guestrooms, including expansive suites, designed to evoke regional architectural styles. Guests can stay connected in comfort in the Sheraton Club® lounge with its complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments, and free Wi-Fi.

(Photo: www.kiroro.co.jp)

At the all-day dining restaurant, guests can also savour an extensive range of creative Japanese and western buffet style dishes, alongside a grab-and-go cafeteria. The lobby provides further space where guests can relax while enjoying unique cocktails and memorable culinary dishes.

The property, located in one of Japan’s premier ski destinations, boasts easy access to the slopes at the Kiroro integrated mountain resort area, which is famous for its exceptional powder skiing, 21 well-groomed trails suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, mogul courses, and a children’s snow park.

The resort is less than a 90-minute drive from New Chitose International Airport and a 40-minute drive from the port of Otaru via a free shuttle service. Hokkaido is also connected to the island of Honshu by the underwater railway Seikan Tunnel.

A new latest generation InterCityHotel is being developed in Herford in North Rhine-Westphalia. Located within the direct vicinity of the town’s world famous MARTa Art Museum, the hotel is set to meet the artistic aspirations of its environment.

The InterCityHotel Herford will offer 135 rooms, each of which will be at least 20 m² in size, will deliver a feel-good factor whilst conference facilities extending over an area of 100 m2 and featuring two rooms and a pre-function section will be available for meetings and events.

Culinary needs will be served by a restaurant and a Bistro Lounge. The “FreeCityTicket”, which entitles guests to use local public transport free of charge, is included in the price of overnight accommodation and provides a real added value.

The Herford hotel will be Steigenberger’s ninth property in the North-Rhine Westphalia state

Puneet Chhatwal, CEO of Steigenberger Hotels AG, believes that the new location is a perfect match for the company’s expansion strategy. “North-Rhine Westphalia is an important federal state for us, and we now have nine hotels here. Herford lies at the centre of a major business region. Our hotel is being developed in the MARTa Quarter, which is named after the famous museum. It will be housed in a modern and design-oriented building that will appeal to art lovers and indeed to all our guests.”

InterCityHotel GmbH’s franchise agreement partner on this occasion is Felix Hospitality GmbH & Co. KG, a company owned by Fidelis Hospitality Group.

The new building has been designed by the Herford-based firm archwerk GmbH & Co. KG, Chief Architect Karsten K. Monke. The technical hotel design concept and initiation of selection of operator was secured by Professor Christian Buer from Nemis, a specialist planning consultancy agency in the hotel and tourism sector.