Hotel Designs

Occupying a private island in the heart of the lagoon, the St. Regis Venice San Clemente Palace marks the official debut of the St. Regis brand in Venice. Only a ten-minute boat ride from the renowned St. Mark’s Square, the island will offer guests both an oasis from and easy access to the bustling Venetian streets and canals.

Combining celebrations of the re-opening with the start of the 56th Venice Art Biennale, the landmark property is establishing itself as the perfect base to explore the arts with a huge open-air art display. Open now to guests and art lovers alike, the hotel’s extensive park showcases the works from world-famous artists including Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj.

Architects and designers can now explore the different environments of the Zaha Hadid-designed Roca London Gallery and gain CPD points. The leading bathroom manufacturer, Roca, is now offering RIBA and BIID-approved guided tours of its inspirational Gallery, located in Chelsea’s Design Quarter. During the 45-minute long tour, attendees will discuss the various aspects of the Gallery’s conception and construction, covering everything from the challenges presented by the original space and existing conditions, to the design concept, spatial strategies, and the design and construction timeline, detailing how the materials for the building were chosen.

The CPD tour will give attendees an understanding of how Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) translated Roca’s brief into an exciting, award-winning concept.

Roca’s Training and Exhibitions Manager Cristiane Kopp comments: “Roca London Gallery is an inspiring piece of architecture. The guided tour gives architects and designers the opportunity to understand how this unique design concept was realised, and reflects Roca’s commitment to providing an insightful and innovative CPD programme.”

Individuals or groups can book a Guided Tour of Roca London Gallery, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm. Evening tours are also possible for groups only. Contact cpd.contact@uk.roca.net

Other RIBA-approved CPD materials from Roca:
• A CPD approved article on Roca’s most innovative WC to date – the In-Tank Meridian. The first of its kind to integrate the cistern into the pan, the article provides information about the groundbreaking product design, and how it differs from any other WC. Visit www.ripacpd.com to find the Roca article.

• Identifying factors affecting both product development and innovations that are influencing bathroom design, Roca’s 45 minute seminar ‘Shaping the Bathroom Space of the Future’ considers new technologies and the importance of design details in future bathroom environments. This seminar can be delivered at the gallery or another convenient location.

To book the RIBA-approved Guided Tour of the Roca London Gallery, or to enquire about the CPD seminar email cpd.contact@uk.roca.net

For further information contact Roca London Gallery, Station Court, Townmead Road, London, SW6 2PY
Tel: 0207 610 9503 / Website: www.uk.roca.com

Pullman Hotels & Resorts has recently announced that the Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lakes Towers is now open.

Elegant and contemporary in design with a warm ambience, that makes one feel right at home, The Pullman Hotel & Residence Jumeirah Lakes Towers is situated in Cluster T of the master planned, lakeside community. The 35-storey tower features 354 rooms, 278 deluxe rooms and 76 luxurious suites and serviced apartments, with a comprehensive food and beverage offering, fitness and spa facilities and conference and events venues.

Towering high at 137 meters, the property sits in close proximity to Dubai Marina, the TECOM business districts, and the world-famous Emirates Golf Club, as well as Dubai’s main shopping destinations.

The eight-story AC Hotel Washington, DC at National Harbor features 192 guest rooms and six suites, 3,700-square-feet of meeting space and a fitness centre. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, and signature spaces including AC Kitchen, AC Library and AC Lounge. BAR WITH A TWIST
At AC Hotel, beverages come first. The AC Lounge features all-knowing bartenders who act as a go-to source for exploring the local area. Guests can experience classic drinks, like its signature Gintonic, along with small plates at the AC Lounge. The lounge delivers to its guests’ handcrafted cocktails, wine on tap, and local craft beers in a can.

EUROPEAN-INSPIRED FOOD SCENE
The food scene found at AC Hotel stems from its Spanish roots, offering tapas in the evening at AC Lounge and a European-inspired breakfast at AC Kitchen. Guests enjoy freshly baked croissants flown in from France, hand sliced prosciutto from a Berkel artisan slicer, an assortment of cheeses, sweet and savoury tarts, and freshly brewed hot and iced coffee.

ART SCENE
AC Hotel Washington, DC at National Harbor was designed purposefully and has incorporated the linear design of the harbor into its art. Upon entering the eight-story hotel, guests will find a rope wall inspired by boats docked on the Potomac River, as well as modern nautical accents throughout. Outside in National Harbor lies a growing public art scene of both international and local artists. Special highlights include the iconic “The Awakening” statue by J. Steward Johnson, Jr. and “The Beckoning” by Albert Paley.

MILLENNIAL-DRIVEN EXPERIENCE
Looking to engage the millennial traveller, AC Hotels by Marriott incorporates a design-focus approach. Guests will find open-concept closets and integrated work desk and luggage benches in all rooms. Complimentary WiFi, ample USB and power ports and smart TVs that can stream on-demand content is a much appreciated, added bonus.

A PART OF THE COMMUNITY
AC Hotel adds to the roster of new investments in the growing destination of National Harbor. With its opening, it has created nearly 50 new jobs with more than half of the positions filled by associates living in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Operated under a long-term management agreement by Marriott International, the hotel is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties.

York’s Best Western Monkbar Hotel has unveiled its new, state-of-the-art function suite.

Located in the heart of the city of York, The Monkbar Hotel is the ideal venue to hold meetings ranging in size from six up to 250.The flexible Dales Suite – which can be broken down to four smaller function rooms – is one of the main features of the hotel’s £3m programme of expansion and improvements.

Perfect for disabled guests, the ground-floor space incorporates integrated audio/visual technology, wide screen projection& HDMI connectivity, and benefits from floor to ceiling natural daylight and air-conditioning. Complimentary high-speed internet access is included for all delegates.

Nikki Brannan, Monkbar Hotel sales manager, said: “The Dales Suite adds a new and exciting dimension to our events and conference offering.

“This new state-of-the-art facility, designed and constructed with both delegate and organiser in mind, is a welcome addition to our five existing function rooms.

“In addition, our brand new bedrooms – which takes the total to 125 – means we can now cater for bigger conferences, particularly where guests are requiring overnight accommodation.”

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has recently announced the opening of the 257-room, full-service Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago, the first Hyatt Centric branded property to open worldwide. The hotel will deliver on the brand’s mission of putting its guests at the centre of the action in the best destinations. Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago is owned by Integrated Clark Monroe, LLC and managed by Interstate Hotels & Resorts.Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago is in a 22-story, 1927 art deco office building designed by Frank Chase, located at 100 W. Monroe St. in downtown Chicago. The property has undergone a transformative renovation into an iconic new hotel while maintaining the integrity of the building’s roots and preserving its historical details. One feature of the property is the adaptive reuse of the original landowner and farmer Willard Jones’ cow path that was used to herd cattle – now it is a special walkway that leads locals and guests to the hotel’s rooftop bar.

The modern and urban guest rooms balance the energy of the city with a calm, inviting respite through minimal but upscale features, which include unique bathroom designs with private showers and water closet areas.
“It is most significant and particularly rewarding that our first Hyatt property is also the first of its kind, worldwide,” said John T. Murphy, managing member, Integrated Clark Monroe, LLC. “We couldn’t be more delighted with the outcome of this group effort and certainly see this as the beginning of a very successful relationship.”

The hotel will offer guests multiple dining options, including a seasonal rooftop bar, AIRE, with creative signature cocktails, contemporary and eclectic décor and panoramic views of the Chicago cityscape. It also features an upscale French bistro, Cochon Volant Bakery Brasserie and Bar, serving gourmet cheeses, fresh baked goods, organic juices, and culinary masterpieces by James Beard award-winning Master Chef Roland Liccioni.

The hotel features 2,513 square feet of meeting space with each conference room named for an influential figure in the Loop’s history: famed industrialist Charles Yerkes; landowner Willard Jones; author Frank Norris; and sculptor Alvin Meyer.

Accor Asia Pacific has been appointed by Pristine Island Investments Pte Ltd to manage a new resort being built in one of the most unspoilt areas of the Maldives. The 68-villa Mercure will open in 2016, and will be located in the south of the Maldives in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll in the Indian Ocean, a spectacular lagoon teeming with colourful marine life and boasting unmatched diving and snorkelling options.

Bringing stylish mid-scale accommodation to the pristine south of the Maldives The Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort will provide one of the best-value accommodation options in the spectacular Maldives, with 68 villas including 43 located over water and 25 scattered along the white sandy beach. The resort will be built using local materials, bright colours and stylish furniture with the interiors designed to reflect the Maldivian culture and the spirit of travel. It will be the only Maldivian beach resort directly accessible by domestic plane, without the need of an additional speedboat journey. Facilities will include an all-day restaurant, lobby lounge, pool and pool bar, sunset bar, spa and gym as well as a range of watersports including a dive centre. The arrival of the Kooddoo Airport has opened up the beautiful south of the island nation, away from most of the resort developments further north of the archipelago.

“The mid-scale Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort will be our first hotel development in the Maldives and we are pleased to partner with Accor which has a large brand portfolio catering to different market segments and a strong brand presence in Europe and Asia”, said Mr Ronald Leo, CEO of Pristine Island Investments Pte Ltd.

Accor has a long relationship with the Keong Kong Holdings Pte Ltd, the majority shareholder of Pristine Islands Investment, as they appointed Accor to build and manage the flagship ibis Singapore Bencoolen Resort back in 2007. The success of that hotel has given Pristine Islands Investment great confidence in choosing Accor as its partner on this exciting new project in the Maldives.

Chelsom were commissioned to create a series of bespoke lighting products onboard Britain’s biggest ever cruise ship, the £473 million P&O Britannia, which was officially named by Her Majesty The Queen at a glittering ceremony in Southampton in MarchThe 3,647 passenger luxury cruise liner is the largest vessel designed for the British holiday market and stretches longer than the Eiffel Tower is tall. It boasts 15 passenger decks, 26 bars and eateries and 4 swimming pools. It also features a three-tier atrium, a 936-seater theatre and a multi-million pound art collection.

Having most recently collaborated with award winning designers Richmond International on London’s 5-star boutique hotel ,The Beaumont, Chelsom once again partnered with their design team to produce an array of unique lighting products for the public areas designed to enhance the sophisticated luxury of the wider interior scheme. Chelsom’s vast experience in devising lighting schemes for marine projects ensured that all products supplied blended superior design and functionality with the exacting requirements of marine specification.

One of the standout pieces created by Chelsom was a dramatic gold centrepiece specified for the Epicurean Restaurant. Over 9 meters of interwoven gilded metal ribbons form a sculptural ceiling feature running the length of the restaurant to create visual impact. Each of the ribbons was fitted with an LED strip on the upper side to give a warm reflective glow from the ceiling plate above.

Chelsom produced another illuminated ceiling structure for the Live Lounge bar area featuring a series of sculptural 3D diamonds in gloss black and metallic gold fixed to the ceiling in pairs of smaller and larger sizes to give a more organic look to the piece whilst emitting a soft ambient glow reflected in the gilded ceiling above. The Oasis spa area also features statement linear and circular light installations using clear acrylic solid rods of varying lengths along the main wall and the central treatment area of the spa. Each rod has an individual integral LED module housed at the top and has been designed with bubbles inside to give a waterfall effect picking up and refracting the light to generate a warm ambient glow suited to the relaxing spa environment.

In addition to these statement custom-made pieces, Chelsom supplied a series of 12-armed bespoke chandeliers for the ship’s Supper and Limelight Clubs, finished in copper with complementary copper shades to provide a touch of decadence to the surroundings. A quartet of bespoke, rectangular LED fittings in matt black were also produced for the Cookery Club designed to provide functional light to optimise space and generate efficient light for working conditions.

Director Will Chelsom said, “We have worked with P&O Cruises on a number of projects over recent years and it was a true privilege to have been part of such a prestigious project as Britannia. To be able to add Britannia to our marine portfolio is undoubtedly a real honour and is testimony to the expertise we have accumulated within the marine sector. With a number of high profile marine projects on the horizon for 2015 and beyond this will hopefully further cement our reputation as one of the leading designers and suppliers of decorative lighting to the international marine sector.”

01253 831401
Chelsom.co.uk

Leisure Plan are pleased to announce the availability of their 2015 catalogue which can be requested by calling 01279 816001.Luxury Outdoor Designer Furniture from Leisure Plan – a perfect partnership from Leisure Plan

Three leading brands – from one exclusive source. Leisure Plan represents three of the most distinguished brands of European outdoor furniture: Dedon, Ego Paris and Fischer Mobel.

All collections are on permanent display at our large showroom, located close to the M25/M11 or approximately 30 minutes from London Liverpool Street station.

Unique Selling Points

Leisure Plan’s large stockholding also ensures a fast and reliable delivery service throughout the UK and overseas. When you place an order with us, we manage the whole process. Your items are hand-picked by our Warehouse Manager from our premises in Bishops Stortford and then delivered using our own transport ensuring arrival at the right place at the agreed time.

The WOW Factor!

For the finishing touch, Leisure Plan’s own in-house UK cushion workshop offers a bespoke production service supported by an extensive choice of fabrics, colours and styles, including a COM make-up service and all cushions comply with UK fire regulations.

Click here to contact Leisure Plan www.leisureplan.co.uk

Located in Nanning, capital of the Guangxi Province, the 445m tall mixed-use Nanning China Resource Center Tower is sited along Minzu Avenue at the heart of the burgeoning Fengling District. The 255,000 square meter tower is linked to public transportation through underground connections at the B1 level, and to adjacent buildings via indoor and outdoor pedestrian corridors at the ground and sixth floors respectively. Upon completion, the NRC Tower will be the tallest building in Nanning.The design of the tower is derived from its multiple uses which include 170,000 square meters of Class A office space, 5,000 square meters of boutique retail, and a 45,000 square meters luxury Shangri-La hotel.

The angled geometries of the façades are designed to reinforce the crystalline form while celebrating the tower’s verticality. Entirely encased in floor to ceiling high performance glass, the skin design features integrated ceramic shading elements that offer added solar control while maintaining ample natural light without obstructing views.

Designed to LEED-NC Gold standards, the high performing façade is one of many features holistically integrated towards reducing the project’s environmental footprint while providing a world class level of comfort and quality.

“The overall effect of the tower is of a crystalline form ascending to the sky; culminating in an illuminated beacon that will define the new Nanning skyline,” says Paul De Santis, LEED AP, principal at Goettsch Partners (GP) who designed the project.

Royal warranted carpet manufacturer Brintons is to launch Ciranda, its third Axminster carpet collection in collaboration with designer Virginia Langley.Ciranda is a contemporary application of rhythm in design, and Virginia took her inspiration from the influence of the vivacious & hypnotic movements of traditional Brazilian dance. With freestyle brush strokes & bold painted textures, Virginia has simulated these rhythmic dances into expressive patterns to create the collection.

“I’ve been designing for Brintons for over a year now and I am thoroughly enjoying being part of such a dynamic company and team,” says Virginia Langley. “It is wonderful to see my artwork and textures come to life with Brinton’s Axminster carpet. There are so many amazing details that I can achieve with their woven products which really shows the high end quality that sets them apart.”

Virginia credits her inspiration for Ciranda to the experience of travelling the world. She added: “Whether is has been to Europe, the Islands of Fiji, or to South America; the many places I have been fortunate to visit have traditional dancers adorned with flowing fabrics, natural grasses, and sometimes local flora. To me, dance is a time to be expressive and creative by following a rhythm to feel light-hearted & free. I hope these designs bring these feelings and atmosphere everywhere they go.”

This collection, based on the thriving trends of simplistic textural styling, combines organic and industrial silhouettes in dynamic combinations. The result is a modern and sophisticated collection bringing music and dance to Axminster carpet design.

For more information on Brintons and its range of products and services for the commercial sector, visit www.brintons.net or call 01562 635665.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the opening of The Westin Jekyll Island, a 200-room, convention-class, beachfront hotel on Georgia’s acclaimed barrier island. The five-story, U-shaped, beachfront hotel was designed by LLW Architects of Memphis, Tenn., to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, (LEED) Silver specifications and minimize the hotel’s impact on the barrier island’s sensitive surroundings. The 8,750 cubic yards of concrete used in the construction were sourced from a plant in Brunswick, Ga., only 15 miles from the site. Westin brand room design specifications also are 60 percent more sustainable than conventionally built guest rooms, providing a more healthful guest environment.

Dining options at The Westin Jekyll Island include The Reserve, an upscale, casual restaurant serving the freshest local seafood and Salty’s poolside bar and café for cocktails and lighter fare. At Harry’s @The Reserve, the hotel’s outdoor rooftop bar, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the beach and ocean. Westin SuperFoodsRX™ options are on the menu at all three restaurants.

The Westin Jekyll Island is an ideal choice for small groups, weddings and reunions in search of a premier location, offering 5,260 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and banquet facilities, as well as outdoor venues. Additional facilities include a resort-style outdoor pool, the flexible, Tangent™ at Westin workspace where groups of four or more can collaborate, and the brand’s signature WestinWORKOUT® gym experience, including loaner gear and a running concierge.

The Westin Jekyll Island is the cornerstone of Jekyll Island’s Beach Village project, which includes an oceanfront promenade, village green, restaurants, upscale boutiques, Great Dunes Park and the 128,000-square-foot Jekyll Island Convention Center – the only beachfront convention center in the southeast.

The hotel is owned by Jekyll Oceanfront Hotel, LLC (JOFH), a joint venture comprised of several investors including Leon N. Weiner & Associates, Inc, a nationally recognized real estate development company, and New Castle Hotels & Resorts, an award- winning, independent third-party hotel manager.

This spring, Muraspec introduces WALLMOTION; a carefully curated collection of wallcoverings, with high-impact designs that deliver outstanding looks, echoing both current and future trends in wall finishes. In addition to stone, tile, concrete and wood effects, this launch collection includes metallic, floral and abstract designs; scalable to size, and customizable in colour for the perfect result, each and every time.

Muraspec will be, continuously, adding new designs to the WALLMOTION collection, demonstrating one of the many advantages of having in-house teams. You’ll always find up-to-the-minute looks, alongside longstanding favourites!

For more information, including samples, please contact Muraspec’s Customer Services team on 08705 117118 or visit www.muraspec.com

The new Casa Display Cabinet from GALLERY DIRECT’s Hudson Living range is shown here in a weathered mindy ash finish, but is also available in a painted soft grey. These elegant cabinets are ideal for modern living, offering a stylish storage solution.

With superb attention to detail, they feature complementary coloured back panels and hand cast hardware.

Supplied fully assembled, they include 2 adjustable height shelves.

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

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

Leading Japanese hotelier Fujita Kanko Inc. has recently opened the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, the Hotel Gracery brand’s new flagship, in Kabukicho, Tokyo’s entertainment and nightlife hub (the Tokyo district that never sleeps) in the Shinjuku ward. The 970-room hotel opens as part of a brand-new Kabukicho entertainment complex, Shinjuku Toho Building. The building also offers a 12-screen cinema complex and various dining and amusement facilities. For months, there has been worldwide buzz about the hotel’s one-of-a-kind Godzilla-themed guest rooms that will transport guests into the world of the celebrated monster movies. “We are excited about Hotel Gracery Shinjuku’s debut after so much anticipation. Our Godzilla-themed rooms are booked for months. We are ready to demonstrate that our commitment to service is bigger than Godzilla,” says Akira Segawa, President and CEO of Fujita Kanko.

There are two types of Godzilla-themed rooms. The Godzilla Room, located on the top floor and the only room of its kind, enjoys a Godzilla-themed interior including wall panels and a trick wall with special effects, a life-size replica of Godzilla’s claw looming over the beds, and a Godzilla figure standing in the room. Godzilla Room guests can bring home original Godzilla memorabilia not available anywhere else.

Guests can also choose one of six Godzilla View Rooms, where they can see from their windows a life-size replica of Godzilla’s head on the hotel’s eighth-floor terrace. The View Rooms have the same interior as the hotel’s other guest rooms.

Anticipating a large number of international guests, the hotel set up a designated international guest counter, with staff to offer assistance in English, Chinese, Korean and Thai. The concierge also helps guests find and book various tickets, sightseeing, night spots and restaurants. Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, the only property of its size and quality in Kabukicho, also offers two dining facilities and spacious guest rooms with separated toilets/bathrooms.

New research by Barclays shows that the over 65s added £37 billion*(2) to the UK economy through spending on the Hospitality & Leisure sector in the last year. This contribution equates to over a third (36%) more than the average consumer and 27% higher than the 35 – 54 year olds who are the second biggest spending generation.Despite this, the An ageing population: the untapped potential for hospitality and leisure businesses report from Barclays Corporate Banking, reveals that the UK Hospitality & Leisure Sector has missed out on at least a further £16 billion in additional revenues by underestimating the spending power of the older generation in the last year.

Sector must innovate and re-focus to capitalise
Just 5% of businesses within the sector see the “overlooked generation” (those aged 65 and over) as the most important demographic in terms of sales and revenue for their company. In fact only one in five businesses (22%) ranked over 65s in their top three target age groups. While a significant number of Hotel and Travel businesses are alert to the fact that the over 65s spend more per customer than any other group (38% and 44% respectively), more than a third (37%) of businesses in the sector perceive 34-44 year olds as their priority target market, despite these consumers spending less money on average.

Furthermore, more than three quarters of businesses (76%) have no plans to introduce products or services that specifically targets the over 65s. Of these, 37% have not even considered targeting this age group and 28% see little financial opportunity in catering to them.

Without action, this missed opportunity is only set to increase in line with the UK’s ageing population. The total annual spend of over 65s could grow to at least £57 billion by 2025*(3), based on the projected 34% growth in the population of over 65s. This could be even higher considering the increased mobility and active lifestyles the over 65s are now living.

Mike Saul, Head of Hospitality and Leisure at Barclays, said: “It is clear from the Report that the over 65 age group is a huge and untapped opportunity for the Hospitality and Leisure Sector with the UK. There appears to be a gulf between the perception and reality of the spending power of over 65s. By not fully focusing on the needs of this generation, and the revenue growth opportunity they represent, businesses may risk missing out on their share of £16 billion this year alone.

“We have found that almost two-fifths of businesses in the sector expect that the proportion of their turnover generated by over 65s will increase over the next five years. Yet more needs to be done to start planning and accommodating for the currently ‘overlooked generation’. By investment in targeting these customers now, businesses can pre-empt the effects of an ageing population, ensuring they are able to meet and capitalise on the increasing demand.”

Continued on page two…

For the last fifteen years HotelDesigns has travelled the world looking at hotels – over 300 having been visited and critiqued through these pages. Almost all have been personally visited by yours truly, and for years I have criticised hotels for their lack of understanding of luxury and for their, in my view foolish, focus on the 34 – 44 age group.

In part this was sparked by reaction to one of the first hotels visited, the Meridien Vienna, with its luxury bathroom with walk-in shower with a stool inside, and the freestanding bathtub with its pole dancers’ pole. This seemed to me to have the design that catered both for the young and the older guest alike. Interestingly too, the design came from a theatre designer rather than an interior designer – a little like the beginnings of Richmond International, now known as a respected interiors house but in its heyday founded and driven to the top of the league by Bob Lush, its inspired theatre designer founder.I have spoken at conferences and had arguments with board members of Hilton and Starwood amongst others who seemed to me to fail to appreciate the true meaning of luxury. A few, like consultancy TRi, have supported my views but in general the bean counters have driven hotels largely down the Millennial worship trail ignoring that these are the people who are struggling to buy houses, pay for their kids etc., and that the real economic power has lain with their parents.

Now Barclays Bank has quantified the amount that hotels are missing out on through this myopia. Oh yes – for some it has been a strength, such as Citizen M who have focussed on the younger guest, or others such as Premier Inn who have tried very successfully to deliver luxury at a budget price (their hotels would have been considered four star not so long ago).

Barclay’s figures now show how the over 65’s added £37 billion spending in the Hospitality and Leisure sector in the last year, over a third more than the average consumer and 27% higher than the 35 – 54 years olds. My own observations through my travel experience is that these numbers are higher still in other markets such as those in mature European destinations or in the more esoteric such as the games parks of Africa.

Continued on page two…

The first Cambria Suites in New York City, the premier location for Choice Hotels’ premier, highest-end brand, is now open for business at 123 West 28th Street in Chelsea’s Flower District. The flagship site has been designed tip to toe by Gene Kaufman Architect (GKA), from the gently curving façade to the urban chic interiors that will set the tone for all future U.S. Cambria locations, including a GKA-designed Times Square location at 30 West 46th Street set to open next fall.The project’s developers are the brothers Robert and Philip Chun of We Care Trading Company LTD.

Choice was drawn to GKA because of the firm’s track record for maximizing key counts in a market with less space, more competition and higher costs than any other in the U.S. For this first New York Cambria, a completely customized rather than brand-standard 56,500-square-foot, 18-story hotel, GKA configured 135 comfortably sized suites ranging from 230 square feet to 400 square feet.

For the exterior, GKA designed an elegant, softly-curving façade that offers a quiet contrast to the perpendicular fronts of the hotel’s neighbors, a Hilton Garden Inn next door and a Marriott Fairfield Inn across the street, both designed by GKA.

The unique interiors were designed by GKA’s interiors team, known for creating sleek, contemporary decors that bring the city into the hotel in stylish and eye-catching ways. For this project in the heart of Chelsea, the group chose materials that recall the area’s industrial past and developed a unifying floral concept, realized in wall hangings, wall coverings and framed artwork, that alludes to the surrounding Flower District.

Said GKA principal Gene Kaufman: “Choice invited us to completely reimagine Cambria’s interiors, and that’s what we’ve done. The layout and design of both the common areas and the suites work together to maximize open space and deliver a fun, fresh and distinctly New York sensibility.”

While an earlier planned opening of the hotel was pushed back due to construction delays, the extra time gave GKA the chance to tweak every detail of the design to achieve the desired effect.

A new look for Cambria
To announce its entry into the New York market – the premier hospitality market in the country – and to set the tone for all future U.S. locations, Cambria sought a design concept that would add a sense of luxury and urban chic to the identity of its highest-end brand.

GKA rose to the occasion, designing a loft-like lobby that is as sophisticated as it is welcoming. The reception, lounge/bar and dining areas flow easily into one another, the open space interrupted only by carefully placed groupings of contemporary, custom-upholstered couches and sectional pieces (by Munrod) and streamlined lounge chairs (Nios, by Arcadia).

Enhancing the loft-like ambiance and recalling Chelsea’s manufacturing past are contrasting areas of concrete and raw-wood planked flooring, concrete wall finishes (by Get Real Surfaces, as are the concrete floors), fragmented mirror mosaics (by Mixed-Up Mosaics) and bronze-tinted glass. The striking yet unobtrusive overhead light fixtures (by Eureka and Marset) are reminiscent of, but more elegant than, the kind of industrial lighting that might have once been found in Chelsea factories (the table and floor lamps are by Vibia and Artemide, respectively).

Contrasting nicely with the lobby’s warmer tones are the jewel-like colors of the arresting oversize floral wall hangings, handmade in felt by local artist Liora Manne using a needle-punch process. The images of giant flowers in full bloom, replicated in photo collages (printed by Koroseal) lining the hallways and in framed artwork in the suites, erupt with intense, bold color, reminding guests of the surrounding Chelsea Flower District.

Upstairs, guests will find thoughtfully planned, comfortably sized and well-appointed suites that offer a respite from the city, a place to relax and regroup. Each of the rooms, which range in size from 230 square feet to 400 square feet, has a generous sleeping area; a large, functional work space; a sizable bathroom; and guest seating. Custom wardrobes and dressers maximize floor space by incorporating every kind of storage a guest might need. Plank flooring, sliding glass shower doors and, in many of the suites, floor-to-ceiling windows that let in abundant natural light, create a feeling of expansiveness.

Completing the picture is gentle, understated lighting and soft-toned bedding, wall coverings and carpets (by Shaw Hospitality Group) offset by gold-accented draperies.

Drawing inspiration from nature these latest two collections from Newmor provide a contrast which is sure to delight.

True to its name, Ashlar Block captures the beauty and texture of finely cut masonry. Available in 9 colours, the collection brings a new depth in urban sophistication through its clever use of texture, natural hues and metallic highlights. The large scale block design provides the perfect industrial look which continues to be a popular trend in both commercial and residential interiors.Suzanne Edwards, Design Manager at Newmor explains ‘it is the purity of stone and the precision with which the blocks are cut that define the Ashlar look. Our team at Newmor has achieved this through carefully mixing print effects with a finely textured emboss, all crafted and printed in our own manufacturing facility in Welshpool’.

The large scale design works well for any size of wall, its sleek design captures the natural stone finish and the introduction of metallic copper and old-gold adds a layer of refinement not seen in urban interiors.

Elegant and understated, Fenn provides a timeless addition to any well-designed scheme. Inspired by grass-cloth, this intricate collection of 12 colourways uses Newmor’s unique embossing capability to create detailed vertical threads. The fine textured strands are married with layers of subtle colour to create a charming collection that is both delicate and structured.

Getting the texture and colour combination right was key explains Suzanne, ‘we began by developing a palette of highly usable natural shades. Subtle cross colouring added depth to the colour options, for example we mixed shades of tinted greys with heathery purples. Fenn captivates the best of the trend for natural textures and colours seen everywhere at the moment. As a collection it works as well in either a contemporary or classical scheme’.

The palette contains innocent shades of greys, off whites and blues, used in innovative ways which give interior designers the freedom to experiment with texture.

PRODUCT INFORMATION:
• All items fully stocked, order by 5pm for next day UK delivery.
• Designed, manufactured and stocked in the UK
• 5 year warranty against manufacturing defects
• Large samples are readily available on request
• Fully washable and in most cases can be scrubbed repeatedly to remove any marks without damaging the product itself
• Manufactured to include anti-microbial protection as standards to help in the controls of fungi, actinomycetes and bacteria
• Fire Rated
• Resistant to temporary staining of oils, fats, mild acids and alkalines

Click here to contact Newmor: newmor.com

Morgan at Clerkenwell Design Week 2015

Visitors to the 1 Dallington Street showroom during this year’s CDW can expect an exciting and participative programme of events.British artist David Shillinglaw will create a thought-provoking installation on the main double-height gallery wall. The work is entitled ‘Black Box Kaleidoscope’ and the inspiration is ‘Positive-Proper-Gander’. David will be running art workshops in the showroom on Wednesday 20th May at 12pm and 4pm.
Visit www.morganlondon.uk to reserve your place as spaces are limited.

Morgan Studio will be launching the new Kyoto collection at CDW. Inspired by Japanese gardens and bridges, this is a system of linear benches that interlock to create reception area seating. It is fully upholstered and features timber, glass or marble table tops. An official launch party for the new product will take place on Wednesday 20th May from 5.30pm, sponsored by Andrew Muirhead.

On Tuesday 19th May at 10am, visitors are invited to view an exhibition of short-listed entries for the FIRA Future@Work student design competition, sponsored by Morgan. In addition, leading industry ergonomist Levent Çaglar, from FIRA, will be discussing the evolution of the workplace and sharing his predictions for the future. A total of £5000 will be awarded to the top 3 winners, including the winner from visitors voting during CDW.

Crosta & Mollica will be serving delicious Italian Bruschetta from their stylish 3 wheeled Piaggio Ape, in front of the Morgan showroom throughout the week.

For more information about Morgan, visit www.morganfurniture.co.uk

This Spring will see a beautiful new addition to the Skopos Upholstery portfolio. The new Boulevard collection takes influence from architectural detailing with facets of metallic yarn glinting in contrast to a soft chenille and natural matt backdrop, adding texture, warmth and contemporary flavour. The two designs: a sophisticated chevron and a small scattered check, are presented in a range of current colours to add an elegant finishing touch to contract interiors. The Boulevard designs have been specially developed to work across interiors for hospitality, leisure and cruise, offering designs that contrast beautifully together or work well alone, to fit with the needs of the project.

The collection comes with a Crib 5 flame retardant backing as standard.

The collection meets the requirements for Flame Retardancy standards across the UK and Europe, IMO standards and matches severe contract requirements with up to 50,000 martindale rubs.

Free samples of the collection are available now. Please call 01924 436 666 for more details or visit our website to view the collection.

Skopos is an ISO9001 accredited company and has over 35 year’s specialist experience in the design and manufacture of high performance FR contract fabrics for the hospitality and leisure sector.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently introduced Tribute Portfolio™, the company’s 10th brand and second collection of independent hotels. Promising owners, Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®) members and guests the ability to “Stay Independent,” the Tribute Portfolio brand will be comprised of outstanding independent hotels and resorts. With a firm focus on four star, upper upscale hotels, Tribute Portfolio will complement Starwood’s The Luxury Collection brand and further solidify Starwood as the world’s most global high-end hotel company. The brand will make its début today with its first featured hotel, the iconic Royal Palm South Beach Miami and will soon open new hotels in Asheville, North Carolina, Nashville, Tennessee, Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina. “With Starwood’s history of brand innovation, design leadership and our leading global high-end footprint, we believe Tribute Portfolio will be an exciting solution for hotel owners of distinct properties who wish to maintain their independent spirit, yet benefit from Starwood’s powerful distribution, loyalty and sales platforms,” said Adam Aron, Starwood’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our mission with Tribute Portfolio is very simple: bring great hotels in great destinations to our loyal SPG members, who make up more than half of all Starwood stays.”

Aron continued, “We recognize that independent hotels also attract guests who are not already affiliated with SPG. Tribute Portfolio will provide a clear opportunity for us to grow our SPG member base and deliver more loyal guests across all of our Starwood hotels worldwide.”

With a long runway to grow, Starwood expects 100 Tribute Portfolio hotels by 2020

Aron said Starwood’s goal is to have 100 Tribute Portfolio hotels and resorts over the next five years. Initial focus on growth of this new brand will be in North America and Europe, and travellers can expect to see Tribute Portfolio properties in global markets within the first year.

“Nearly 50% of upper upscale hotels in the U.S. are independent, and likewise, 60% of four star hotels globally are not affiliated with a brand flag. This provides Starwood with a vast landscape to grow Tribute Portfolio,” said Dave Marr, Senior Vice President of Brand Management, North America and Global Brand Leader for Tribute Portfolio. “In speaking with many owners, it is clear that they welcome the opportunity to partner with Starwood to enhance the performance of their independent hotels. They are attracted to the benefits that will come from the power of SPG and our high-end Starwood sales customers coupled with the flexibility of minimal brand specific standards.”

Starwood’s The Luxury Collection, the hotel industry’s original “collection brand,” featuring some of the world’s most iconic independent luxury hotels, is in the midst of its most prolific growth spurt in its 21-year history. In the last decade, The Luxury Collection brand has tripled its footprint, growing more than 60% in the last five years alone. Marr continued, “Starwood has meticulously handpicked the luxury hotels featured in The Luxury Collection, and we will just as carefully select independent, upper upscale properties for Tribute Portfolio, ensuring a consistent high-end experience that meets guest and SPG member expectations around the world.”

Tribute Portfolio Answers SPG Members’ Demand for More Hotels in More Destinations, Plus Offers 10,000 Point Bonus

Tribute Portfolio properties will be located in high-demand destinations and markets where SPG members travel but today Starwood has little or no footprint.

“Our SPG members constantly tell us they want more choices in more destinations, and we see Tribute Portfolio as a nod to our members who have been front and center as we developed this brand,” said Mark Vondrasek, Starwood’s Senior Vice President, Distribution, Loyalty and Partnership Marketing. “They have told us they would like to stay with us whenever and wherever they can, and now we can reward them as they ‘Stay Independent.’”

According to a recent survey of SPG members conducted by Communispace in the SPG Advisory Community, 89% said they are interested in staying in independent hotels, particularly for leisure travel and special occasion trips to unique destinations. Additionally, nearly 70% of members said they have already stayed at an un-branded hotel property, representing a strong opportunity for the company. SPG members identified a diverse North American hotel wish-list that includes more Florida and Caribbean resorts as well as locations in California wine country, Las Vegas, and boutique markets like Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina. The list of “most wanted” global destinations features Alpine ski markets, African safari retreats, Southeast Asia resorts and Northern Europe, especially the Nordic countries. Demand is also on the rise for more hotels in South America, led by Rio, São Paulo and Buenos Aires as well as across Asia in primary markets such as Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Vondrasek continued, “SPG is the world’s richest hotel loyalty program. Our concentration of high-end hotel brands plus partnerships with companies like Delta, Uber, American Express, and Emirates Airline continue to raise the stakes in loyalty and make it very compelling for mega travelers to choose to stay with Starwood. With Tribute Portfolio, we are thrilled to offer members access to some of the world’s most exciting independent hotels.”

As with Starwood’s other nine brands, SPG members will be able to earn and redeem Starpoints® at Tribute Portfolio hotels and enjoy in-hotel elite tier benefits, such as upgrades, welcome amenities, late check-out and more. In celebration of Starwood’s 10th brand, SPG is offering members up to 10,000 bonus points for stays at Tribute Portfolio hotels through July 15, 2015. For more information and to register, visit www.spg.com/tributeportfolio.

From Miami to Nashville, Tribute Portfolio on Track to Reach 10 Hotels in First Year

The Tribute Portfolio brand’s debut property, the iconic Royal Palm South Beach Miami, boasts direct beach access to world famous South Beach and is ideally located on Collins Avenue, steps from Ocean Drive and the area’s luxury retail shopping and entertainment district. Owned by Chesapeake Lodging Trust and managed by HEI Hotels & Resorts, the Royal Palm South Beach, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, has been recently restored by Lauren Rottet of Rottet Studio as a modern homage to the hotel’s rich history. Dating back to 1939, the Royal Palm features 393 guestrooms, including more than 100 suites, two swimming pools surrounded by contemporary cabanas, a fully equipped gym, and more than 10,000 square feet of modern meeting and event space. Signature dining options include Florida Cookery Patio, an outdoor dining experience with approachable, local fare; South Shore bar and lounge, featuring a small plates menu and extensive cocktail list; and The Coffee Bar, providing all day coffee, juices, teas and pastries set in the hotel’s original green glass reception desk. A new destination restaurant, Byblos, will open this summer and feature Eastern Mediterranean fare by Executive Chef Stuart Cameron. Designed by Canadian design firm Munge Leung, this will be the first US outpost of the Toronto favorite.

Tribute Portfolio also launches with four soon-to-open hotel properties. In Asheville, North Carolina, the well-known BB&T Bank building, which draws inspiration from renowned modernist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, will open in 2017 as the Vandre Nouveau Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. The property is a partnership between McKibbon Hotel Group and Tower Associates and will include 150 guest rooms and suites, a destination restaurant and lobby bar, and more than 4,000 square feet of modern meeting and event space.
Starwood is also working with Rockbridge to open three Tribute Portfolio hotels. Debuting in 2016, the historically significant Noel Place Hotel in the Printers Alley area of downtown Nashville, Tennessee, will undergo a comprehensive renovation and feature 166 guestrooms and suites, a destination restaurant, rooftop bar and speakeasy. Also slated to open in 2016, a new build hotel in Savannah, Georgia, will be perfectly situated on River Street in the city’s Historic District and include 173 guestrooms and suites, an 11,000 square foot indoor/outdoor rooftop bar, outdoor swimming pool, and destination restaurant. In 2017, Tribute Portfolio will debut in the Historic District of Charleston, South Carolina, with a 100 guestroom hotel featuring a rooftop pool and bar, signature restaurant, and 11,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting and event space.

Hotels are Hero in New Marketing Campaign Launching Tribute Portfolio

In connection with today’s Tribute Portfolio announcement, Starwood will run full-page advertisements that prominently feature the brand’s tagline of “Stay Independent” in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, showcasing the first hotel to join the brand. Simultaneously, the company will launch an extensive global campaign to promote Tribute Portfolio in digital, social and traditional media channels, including advertising in both consumer and B2B print and digital outlets and event activations in key global markets. Starwood has also partnered with Instagram, the most engaged channel for SPG members, as one of the first brands to utilize the photo sharing platform’s new ad carousel format. As new hotels and resorts join the Tribute Portfolio brand, the campaign will continue to expand to further fuel excitement around the brand.

Tribute Portfolio will also launch with a digital initiative that will zero in on extraordinary independent moments found at hotels throughout the brand. Dubbed #OurLikes, the campaign will celebrate the captivating features and experiences that travelers love about staying independent. Going beyond the typical hotel brochure, these socially sourced vignettes from guests will unveil the secret spots, must-sees and can’t miss experiences of Tribute Portfolio hotels, such as the dimly-lit Edison bulbs that lead the way to an underground whiskey bar, the off-the-menu cocktail with ingredients the bartender will never disclose, or the undiscovered corner of the rooftop lounge that offers an uninterrupted view of the sunset.
“What makes Tribute Portfolio stand out is its simple focus on great independent hotels in exciting places that we know will absolutely delight our SPG members and guests,” concluded Marr.

People are changing. New York is changing. Luxury is changing. With The New York EDITION, Ian Schrager and Marriott International respond to this changing landscape by introducing a new luxury for a new generation.The New York EDITION makes its debut in the world-famous, iconic “Clocktower” building, otherwise known as the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Tower. The building was designed by the architectural firm of Napoleon LeBrun & Sons and completed in 1909. At the time, it was the tallest building in New York City until the Woolworth building appeared in 1913. It is situated on Madison Square Park in a neighbourhood of the city referred to as NoMad.

This new and exciting emerging area has never had a luxury hotel before. As a result, the Clocktower extends the very boundaries of luxury in New York City. The area has recently been transformed by the development of myriad luxury residential condominium buildings and fine dining restaurants, and is now ripe for luxury hotels. It sits right on the border between uptown and downtown, north of the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, Greenwich Village, Soho and Tribeca, and south of the 57th street shopping corridor and Times Square. With forces pushing from every direction, this area, together with Hudson Yards, is fast becoming the new centre of town. “Luxury has a new address,” says Arne Sorenson CEO of Marriott International. “With the opening of our first EDITION hotel in New York City and the loving restoration of the century old Clocktower building, we have ushered in a new era of timeless hospitality.”

The 273-room hotel will be activated by day and by night with a restaurant by London’s hottest young chef Jason Atherton, 2 bars and a billiard room. Inside, much of the building’s existing design was embraced, retaining and restoring the original dark wood on the walls and the floors on the second floor. But, the old was offset with the new to add a downtown New York City feel. The lobby and lobby bar’s classic Venetian plaster walls starkly contrast the custom cast concrete oversized windows that look out over Madison Square Park. The 30ft-long hand forged blackened steel fireplace and the sculptural spiral staircase leading up to the second floor are modern interpretations of those found in the grand mansions of Millionaire’s Row. The Jean-Michel Frank-inspired coffee tables and chairs of the 1920’s, Christian Liagre-designed floor lamps, concierge desk and chair, and lounge chairs inspired by modernist Erik Koling Andersen and Alvaro Alto all with fabrics and leathers in soft tones of oatmeal, silver and white, create a light and airy feel that is both warm and inviting. “It is impossible to label this look,” says Schrager. “And rightly so. We are never out for a look. We are out for a feel and an experience.”

The restaurant, on the second floor overlooking the park, is where the subtle play of modern and period design continues in new forms. Three intimate dining rooms, a parlour with a billiard table and a library serving cocktails, after dinner drinks and dessert, are separate as in a private home, but come together seamlessly to form a whole. Drawing from over four centuries of art and design, the rooms feature original herringbone oak floors, original mahogany wainscoting on the walls, and a restored Venetian plaster ceiling. The velvet chairs and banquettes, upholstered in rose, green and blue, are inspired by the vibrant colours of the Dutch masters, notably Vermeer. Each of the three dining areas has a large chandelier by modernist designer Eric Schmitt. They are made from three black iron arms that support a 7ft diameter ivory plaster ring.

Above the lobby and the restaurant are the 273 guest rooms. Guests enter into a dark oak wood panelled foyer, much as they would if they were entering an upscale New York apartment in the 1920s. The rooms are serene, comforting and feel like an oasis from the outside world. There is visual drama, too. The original windows in each room perfectly frame the New York City skyline. Many of the suites have 180-degree views of Manhattan and the 1,400 square foot penthouse apartment has 360-degree vistas. Each room has a classic, extra-long and deep floating white oak desk, inspired by Jean-Michel Frank, and a bed with a dark walnut headboard and a custom-built walnut platform with bespoke walnut nightstands.

Travellers’ tastes are changing when it comes to service, too. The EDITION brand has responded to this change by offering modern service that is accessible and gracious, charming and attentive, but not familiar, where the staff treats guests as individuals knowing just when to offer to help and just when to get out of the way. It expels traditional obsequious and pretentious service that today’s travellers are no longer interested in. EDITION creates the right service infrastructure to enable these travellers to do what they want to do, whatever it may be, whenever. One example can be seen with dining options. EDITION restaurants and room service offer the finest rare cuts of beef and wild Atlantic salmon, if that’s what guests want. But if a guest prefers a simple pasta with tomatoes and olive oil or a burger, those offerings will be available, delicious and won’t break the bank.

Marriott International has recently announced plans to open the first Courtyard by Marriott brand hotel in Curaçao in the city of Willemstad. The project will be developed by CMC Real Estate N.V. The 177-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel, scheduled to open in 2017, will be located only a few blocks from the existing cruise ship terminal. The property will be part of a mixed-used development that will include retail space, an entertainment area, three restaurants and a casino.

“The Courtyard by Marriott brand was a perfect fit for this hotel, and combined with Marriott’s backbone and sales engine, we are confident that the hotel will be highly successful and play a large role in the continued emergence of island,” said Mr. Klaus Moser, one of the shareholders and operator of the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Curaçao.

“The changing economic climate across the world and today’s technology has changed how people travel,” said Andrew Houghton, Area Vice President of the Caribbean at Marriott International. “Our guests want a room that has purpose and flexibility that enables a seamless transition between relaxing and working. Courtyard is designed to offer them a relaxing and functional space to work and enjoy their vacation the way they want to, when they want to.”

“With the success of the brand across Latin America and the Caribbean, the Courtyard by Marriott brand has become a favourite amongst regional travellers”, Laurent de Kousemaeker, Chief Development Officer, Caribbean & Latin America, Marriott International. “The new hotel in Curaçao will be a significant milestone in our rapid expansion across the Caribbean.”

The hotel will feature the brand’s signature refreshing business lobby, lobby bar, a coffee shop, an outdoor pool, fitness centre and flexible meeting space. Additionally, it will include the brand’s new modern guestroom design which is intuitive and thoughtful, offering flexible yet comfortable spaces that enable technology.

Marriott International is currently represented in Curaçao with the 248-room Curaçao Marriott Resort & Emerald Casino, and the 240-room Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino.

Join Roca for the 2015 edition of the AJ Women in Architecture (WIA) Talk, where we honour the contributions made by this years winners. We also welcome Amanda Levete, founder of architectural practice AL_A, who will pay a special tribute to the late Moira Gemmill, a WIA awards judge. Joint winners of the Emerging Woman Architect of the Year award vPPR Architects, and Woman Architect of the Year Teresa Borsuk (pictured) of Pollard Thomas Edwards Architects will discuss their careers and design approach. A Q&A session moderated by AJ editor Christine Murray will follow.

Event: 30th April 2015

Read more here

Tweet @RocaLONGallery with #WIA2015 and give us your views on the night.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation are pleased to announce the opening of Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad, the second Hyatt-branded property in Ahmedabad and the first Hyatt Regency-branded hotel to open in Gujarat state.Strategically located in the city centre, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad is within walking distance of the Sabarmati riverfront, only 20 minutes (9.4 km/5.8 mi) from the airport and in close proximity to the business and shopping districts. The hotel offers: 210 spacious rooms, including 19 suites; large meeting space options for corporate and social events; and multiple dining options to suit every occasion.

Guestrooms
Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad features 210 guestrooms including 19 suites, which offer a peaceful view of the Sabarmati River as well as the city of Ahmedabad. Ranging from 355 to 1,614 square feet, the guestrooms are contemporary and spacious. They are furnished in soothing shades and provide a refreshing elegance for guests to relax and revitalize. Each guestroom offers an ergonomically designed minibar; an iHome station with Bluetooth connectivity, digital clock and radio; a 40” LED TV; motorized curtains; and a spacious rain shower with a moveable wooden bench rest for guest convenience and comfort.

Dining
China House serves the spicy cuisine of the Sichuan province of China. The original China House at Grand Hyatt Mumbai is an award-winning, trend-setting restaurant. The Ahmedabad version has been designed to resemble a contemporary Chinese home with unconventional interiors, stylish private dining rooms, semi-private booths and open areas. The in-house signature beverages and authentic and delicious dishes cater to discerning appetites.

Tinello is an exclusive home-style Italian restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is designed like a living room with interactive food stations.

The vibrant and chic Juniper Lounge is an ideal place for networking, informal meals and quiet business meetings. It serves an eclectic mix of Indian and international specialties in a relaxed ambience with hot and cold beverages as well as a special selection of farsaan.

Adjoining the lounge is a well-stocked retail bar, offering a premium selection of aperitifs, spirits, world wines and beer, all of which are consumable in the comfort of the guestroom.

Open around the clock, the Chai Shop is a casual tea and coffee house, serving a range of premium coffees, teas, fresh morning and evening bakes, an assortment of savories and exotic pastries.

Regency Club
Guests can enjoy the Hyatt Regency brand’s ‘hotel within a hotel’ concept at Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad. Located on the 10th floor, the Regency Club is unique to the city and offers a stunning view of the Sabarmati riverfront and skyline. Guests staying in Club floor rooms can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres.

Fitness & Relaxation
Aadi Spa’s holistic approach toward health and fitness focuses on a balanced mind, body and soul. Guests’ health needs can be met at the hotel’s recreational facilities, which include a Fitness Center equipped with cardio and strength training. Aadi Spa features five treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge and dedicated male and female wet areas. The wellness and relaxation facilities also include a 65-foot lap pool and whirlpool nestled into a landscaped garden terrace and a beauty salon.

Meeting & Event Space
With the expected growth in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.) demand in India, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad offers more than 14,000 square feet of meeting and event space, making it one of the largest hotel meetings and events facilities located in a five-star hotel in Ahmedabad. The spacious 6,045-square-foot Regency Ballroom with a 20-foot ceiling has an adjoining pre-function area. The ballroom can be further divided into two sections of 2,906 square feet and 3,132 square feet, respectively, for more intimate events. The hotel also offers two boardrooms, four meeting rooms and two flexible break away rooms that can be customized to suit guests’ needs.

With this extensive range of facilities and a separate entrance option, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad presents a perfect venue for a variety of events such as weddings, social banquets and conferences. The latest audio and visual equipment supported by a highly trained and dedicated team is on standby to take care of every detail and ensure the success of all events at the hotel.

Nicolas James Group is pleased to announce that preliminary work is now underway on the development of its new Southampton Harbour Hotel & Spa at Ocean Village.The start of the development marks a major milestone for the city, introducing Southampton’s first luxury five star standard hotel.

Enabling works and setting out are now underway, with construction due to follow in the next few months. The anticipated works program will then run for approximately 18-24 months.

Joining the Harbour Hotels portfolio, which currently features five premium hotels across the south west, the hotel will become the brand’s flagship property. Mike Warren, Managing Director of Harbour Hotels, comments:

“We are delighted that preliminary work is now underway for this exciting project. We are very confident that the hotel and its facilities will prove a fabulous addition to Southampton, boosting tourism and becoming a destination of choice for city-dwellers and visitors alike.”

A crucial boost for Southampton, the hotel will include 85 bedrooms, an indulgent Harbour Spa, with gym and swimming pool, along with the group’s award-winning Jetty restaurant concept, featuring a luxurious rooftop Champagne Bar.

Dawn Baxendale, Chief Executive of Southampton City Council, said: “It is fantastic news to hear that this exciting, luxury development is now moving forward. It will further establish Southampton’s waterfront as a magnificent destination for visitors and residents alike. The project endorses our wider City Centre Master Plan aspirations for Southampton; creating jobs, leisure opportunities and homes, while extending the range of developments already taking place across the city that will support our future economic supremacy on the south coast.”

The ground floor is set to include a large open plan lounge, restaurant and bar, which will extend out onto a terrace at the end of the existing promontory. The hotel will also feature private moorings for its seafaring guests.

Dean Smith, Operations and Marketing Director at MDL Marinas, commented: ““We are delighted that construction work has begun on what promises to be an incredible new hotel. This exciting new luxury development is the city’s first luxury five star standard hotel and will generate considerable benefits for the area upon its completion.”

“Alongside our world-class marina and the new Admiral’s Quay development, the hotel will represent another major step towards establishing Ocean Village as Southampton’s premier waterfront destination.”

A renowned London design house has been appointed to create luxury, nautical inspired interior concepts, with yacht chic décor and a coastal colour palette.

Set to be a welcome addition to the city, the hotel will have a number of flexible function rooms and will become a popular attraction during the annual Southampton Boat Show, offering additional restaurants and facilities in a waterfront setting.

Alongside the hotel, the Nicolas James Group is developing 100 luxury residential apartments for sale, with water views and exclusive use of the hotel’s Harbour Spa.

Located just minutes from Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) and the legendary “Las Vegas Strip,” Four Points by Sheraton Las Vegas East has recently opened with stylish and comfortable design for the smart traveller. “We are delighted to introduce our fast-growing Four Points brand to the lively city of Las Vegas,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President of Speciality Select Brands for Starwood.

“Four Points Las Vegas East Flamingo will resonate with global travelers seeking an honest value, great rates and genuine service while staying in ‘the Entertainment Capital of the World.’”

Owned and managed by JP Sethi Enterprises, Inc., the five-story hotel offers 129 spacious guest rooms, 1,625 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space, full-service dining, an outdoor pool and fitness centre.

Guests will enjoy all of the brand’s popular amenities including fast and free WiFi, complimentary bottled water, and a wide selection of craft and imported beer as part of the signature Best Brews™ program.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently announced the opening of the first Holiday Inn® hotel in the resort town of Huatulco, following a $6 million investment by the ownership. The 83-room new-build Holiday Inn Huatulco hotel is located near one of the most beautiful beaches in the southwestern state of Oaxaca and offers unrestricted views of the Pacific Ocean. Family-friendly amenities at the Holiday Inn Huatulco hotel include a swimming pool, a fully-equipped fitness center, Kids’ Club for children from 4 to 11 years and meeting space with capacity for 25 people. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s lobby and pool bars as well as the Jaguar restaurant which offers various local traditional dishes including mole con pollo, Tlayudas, Camarones al Mezcal and Tamal Oaxaqueño. Kids 12 and younger eat free when ordering from the kids’ menu in the hotel restaurant and accompanied by a dining adult.

The Holiday Inn Huatulco hotel, located at Blvd. Benito Juarez 6054 Sector “A”, Santa Maria Huatulco, is owned and managed by Inmobiliaria Balroy, S.A. de C.V.

Following the acquisition of Sanitec by Geberit earlier this year, an integration of the two companies Geberit and Twyford Bathrooms in the UK and Ireland is now underway, building the foundation of a new Geberit company with an unrivalled breadth and strength of offering.Combining the in-front-of-the-wall design competence in ceramics and complementary bathroom products from Twyford with the market leading behind-the-wall sanitary technology of Geberit, the integration of the two businesses will be as seamless as possible with the aim to maintain the high quality service customers have come to expect from the two brands.

As part of the merger, a newly appointed UK Management Team is now in place, under the leadership of UK Managing Director Mark Larden. Andy Lever, previously Commercial Sales Director becomes Sales Director Non Residential, while Jo Edwards has been promoted to Residential Sales Director. Russell Wright, formerly Residential and AquaClean Sales Director isnow Sales Director Retail, while Raffaela De Vittorio is now Marketing and Brands Director. Christine Chitty remains Finance and Administration Director, while former Head of Twyford UK Brent Hudson becomes Products and Technical Director.

The Geberit UK management team will oversee the integration process with the aim to form a new Geberit organisation from January 2016, with single sales, marketing and ordering processes.

Geberit – 0800 077 8365 www.geberit.co.uk

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is delighted to debut the highly anticipated St. Regis Istanbul. Owned by Nisantasi Konaklama ve Otel Hizmetleri A.S. (Demsa Group), The St. Regis Istanbul marks the debut of the luxury brand in Turkey. Nestled in the sophisticated Nişantaşı neighbourhood, The St. Regis Istanbul is surrounded by chic designer boutiques and boutique art galleries. The residential hotel sits atop Maçka Park and boasts breath-taking, floor-to-ceiling views of the Bosphorus from each of the 118 guestrooms and suites. Designed by Turkish architect Emre Arolat, The St. Regis Istanbul is a modern interpretation of Istanbul’s glamorous Art Deco era with a variety of contemporary art installations.

Wolfgang Puck’s Iconic Spago Restaurant
The St. Regis Istanbul is home to the first international outpost of Wolfgang Puck’s iconic Spago restaurant, which stars as the hotel’s signature culinary experience. Located on the hotel’s rooftop, the restaurant offers contemporary design and stunning views of the vibrant city. Poised to be the best address for celebrity spotting in Istanbul, the Spago lounge offers a seductive atmosphere above the busy streets of Istanbul all year round.

Exquisite Culinary Experiences
While the St. Regis Brasserie offers street-side action: an indoor show kitchen and bustling outdoor terrace, reminiscent of a Parisian café, the Petit “O” Bar follows the St. Regis tradition of creating a signature Bloody Mary cocktail with a local twist. Guests can enjoy the Misty Mary cocktail amidst the “Bosphorus Breeze” mural by Bedri Baykam, the Turkish artist commissioned to create a whimsical mural as the focal point for the bar. The mural is symbolic of the brand’s evolution: a modern iteration of the iconic King Cole Mural at The St. Regis New York, commissioned by St. Regis founder John Jacob Astor IV.

Impeccable Design
St. Regis’ commitment to art and design is brought to life at The St. Regis Istanbul, which showcases works by both internationally-acclaimed and emerging Turkish artists as part of the Demsa Collection of Art. This is complemented by custom pieces created for the hotel, including the spectacular Lasvit chandelier, which takes centre stage in the lobby.

The St. Regis Istanbul features an exquisitely designed Bentley Suite, second in the world only to the Bentley Suite at the brand’s flagship hotel in New York. Providing guests with the luxury, craftsmanship and style associated with both renowned international brands, the suite draws inspiration from the Bentley Continental GT model and features hand-crafted finishes and one-of-a-kind furnishings throughout.

Iridium Spa & Beyond Expectation Events
Born from the DNA of the timeless sophistication of the St. Regis brand, Iridium Spa offers a transformative spa journey that bestows the rarest luxury of all: time. With seven treatment rooms and two hammams, the spa offers bespoke treatments tailored to guests’ needs in an idyllic setting. The spa also features an indoor pool and fitness centre with the latest Technogym equipment designed by Antonio Citterio.

The St. Regis Istanbul is the perfect venue for special occasions, including exquisite weddings and intimate business gatherings. The hotel has seven meeting rooms, including the prestigious Astor Ballroom, setting an incomparable stage for a truly unforgettable event.

When Berkeley Homes built Ebury Square, a luxury development in Belgravia in central London, statement, high quality lighting was essential for the reception area that would be the first impression for residents and their guests. Working to interior designer Goddard Littlefair’s brief, Dernier & Hamlyn manufactured a number of chandeliers including one featuring hundreds of handmade glass lozenges, which were individually handpinned to a circular crystal fitting and mounted onto an antique brass framework. All of the elements of this stunning chandelier were then taken to the site where it was dressed and installed by Dernier & Hamlyn’s highly skilled team. Jo Littlefair, director and co-founder of Goddard Littlefair says: “From the outset we knew we wanted lighting in Ebury Square’s main entrance that was going to be a big focal piece. So whoever we chose to manufacture it had to be as passionate as us about attention to detail and exceeding our client’s requirements.”

Dernier & Hamlyn also manufactured other bespoke light fittings including chandeliers and lanterns for various public areas of Ebury Square that showcased a multitude of the unique skills of the Dernier & Hamlyn design, manufacturing and technical teams.

Jo Littlefair continues: “Dernier & Hamlyn worked hard to design and produce perfect lighting solutions to meet both our aesthetic and technical needs. We and our clients are delighted with the end result and I have the utmost respect for what the company does and for the way they worked with us. From helping us to source what was needed to fulfil what we had presented as CGI design proposals through to the high quality manufacture and very accommodating installation team, we were very impressed and will continue to use them for many other prestigious client projects.”

For more information, please visit www.dernier-hamlyn.com

Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand of Marriott International, Inc., celebrates the grand opening of Guyana Marriott Hotel Georgetown, the first Marriott International property for the country. Surrounded by the high-tech features and iconic glamour of the all-new Marriott Hotel, the 500 VIP guests, enjoyed the live music of the National Steel Orchestra, sipped on the Guyana Marriott Signature cocktail and dined from a specially curated menu by our executive chef of international and local Guyanese delights.The night of celebration offered the perfect opportunity to showcase the iconic brand’s belief that travel should be brilliant to attract the next generation of travellers. In attendance was the President of The Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Donald Ramotar along with Guyanese celebrities, local influencers and Marriott executives.

Guyana Marriott Ribbon Cutting Ceremony April 16th “This is a very exciting time for Marriott across Latin America – we plan to reach 150 hotels open and under development in the Caribbean and Latin America by end of 2017 and are thrilled to now be expanding into Guyana with our new partners,” said Rahul Vir, Area Vice President of South America at Marriott International. “With this project, not only are we bringing more hotel rooms to the Guyanese market, but also elevating the standards of hospitality in Georgetown which is experiencing a large growth in tourism.”

“We are confident that this beautiful hotel will be highly successful and open doors of opportunity for the local Guyanese workforce,” said Roberto Grisi, General Manager at the Guyana Marriott Hotel Georgetown. This hotel has over 200 wonderful Guyanese associates who have been through over 300 hours of Marriott’s world-class training to prepare them to receive our valued guests with open arms.”

TECHNOLOGY
The Guyana Marriott Hotel Georgetown débuts technology throughout the property starting with offering the fastest wireless internet available on the market making easier for travellers to stay connected through email, social media and video streaming. Recognizing that guests are dependent on their mobile devices, the hotel will offer the company’s innovative mobile check-in service for a seamless arrival process for guests. The property will also feature Red Coat Direct, a first-of-its-kind app that lets meeting planners input and adjust meeting requests with a swipe of a screen. Business travellers will appreciate the state-of-the-art fitness centre, complimentary for hotel guests only. Built for the athletic guest in mind, the fitness facility features the latest equipment and tech for cardio, strength and core training.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the opening of Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto. Located in the Arashiyama district in the western part of Kyoto, Suiran is situated on the riverside with sweeping views of the Arashiyama hills, a National Historic Site, and Place of Scenic Beauty, which is home to the famed Bamboo Grove. The residential hotel occupies part of the grounds of Tenryuji Temple, a World Heritage site that formerly housed “Rantei,” a well-known traditional Japanese ryokan from the 1960s long used by the Japanese government to entertain honourable guests.

Suiran features 39 luxuriously-appointed guestrooms, inspired by traditional ryokan-style accommodations, ranging from 500 to 1,000 square feet. Each room is designed to feature traditional motifs and culturally significant hues, while offering unparalleled natural vistas each season: from the dramatic cherry blossoms in Spring and the lush verdure in Summer, to Autumn’s bright tapestry of leaves and silvery blankets of snow in Winter.

Suiran also offers two private treatment rooms equipped with a Japanese-style open-air bath as well as the option for in-room treatments. Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese-style treatments, including SEIRAN, a body massage with tea seed oil, scrub with green tea and facial treatment with jade stones and collagen mask.

Exquisite Culinary Experiences
Suiran has preserved elements of its esteemed past, including two original structures, “Enmei-kaku,” which was built in 1899, and “Hasshoken,” constructed in 1910, which have undergone extensive restoration and now house the hotel’s restaurant, Kyo Suiran, and café, Saryo Hassui. Kyo Suiran offers a traditional yet modern dining experience where guests can enjoy locally inspired flavours in an authentic atmosphere. With its exposed straw-thatched roof, pillars and moon-shaped windows, Saryo Hasui serves exquisite meals centred around Japanese green tea.

Suiran is owned by Mori Trust Co., Ltd., Suiran.

Group business is booming and so is construction on the Mandalay Bay Convention Center expansion, adding 350,000 square feet of exhibit space, more carpeted ballroom space and 900 underground parking spaces for a total of more than 2 million square feet. The foundation has been laid and the underground garage, construction footings and columns all have been completed.The $66 million project is on schedule to welcome its first attendees in August, with the anticipated completion of the entire expansion and renovation in January 2016.

Construction began in October 2014 and since then 88,000 cubic yards of dirt have been excavated, 29,115 cubic yards of concrete poured and 200 construction jobs created. Forming the framework of the expansion’s Phase I is 335 tons of joists, 650 tons of trusses, 1,600 tons of structural steel and 548 tons of decking.

With the Mandalay Bay Convention Center expansion, Mandalay Bay can accommodate growing tradeshows as well as attract new shows with over 900,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space. The added carpeted space will allow for more corporate groups and associations. The project represents the continued commitment Mandalay Bay is making to the meetings and convention industry and to Las Vegas, the No. 1 trade show destination.

“With business volume increasing, this change provides us with more flexibility to host a wider variety of groups,” said Stephanie Glanzer, vice president of Sales for Mandalay Bay. “Whether hosting a small corporate group, mid-size association or large tradeshow, each group will have their own dedicated area within our convention center along with a dedicated team to assist in every detail.”

Hilton Worldwide is preparing to bring its Hilton Garden Inn brand to one of the UK’s top sporting venues, under a franchise agreement with Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC). Construction of Hilton Garden Inn Emirates Old Trafford is expected to begin later this year, before the hotel welcomes its first guests in early 2017. Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Our presence at top UK sporting venues is growing, and Hilton Garden Inn Emirates Old Trafford will be another impressive addition to our portfolio, joining Hilton Wembley, Hilton at St George’s Park, DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes, and Hilton at the Ageas Bowl, which is due to open this year. The hotel will play an important role in enhancing the growing mixed-use offer at Emirates Old Trafford, which has established itself as a thriving business and leisure hub.”

Chairman of Lancashire County Cricket Club, Michael Cairns OBE, said: “We are delighted to be working with Hilton Worldwide in this franchise agreement. The Old Trafford Lodge is now 16 years old and has been a great asset to Lancashire County Cricket Club. However, due to the growth in our conference and events business at Emirates Old Trafford the time has now come to capitalise on the value and suitability of our location and to construct a high quality branded 150-room hotel which will complement our stunning venue. This is another example of a global, world class brand partnering with Lancashire County Cricket Club following our naming rights agreement with Emirates – and we look forward to a hugely successful future together.”

Emirates Old Trafford has been home to Lancashire County Cricket Club for more than 150 years and has played host to a wide range of international sporting, business and entertainment events. Once construction is complete, the hotel will offer 150 guest rooms, spread over five floors, and 24 hour fitness centre.

Adrian Kurre, global head, Hilton Garden Inn, said, “Hilton Garden Inn is now present in more than 600 locations globally, and we are looking forward to bringing our upscale yet affordable brand to Emirates Old Trafford. The surrounding area benefits from robust demand for quality hotel accommodation, and Hilton Garden Inn Emirates Old Trafford will offer a new standard for guests visiting the LCCC and its many nearby attractions.”

Each Hilton Garden Inn offers guests complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, a 24 hour business centre, and a range of dining options. Hilton Garden Inn Emirates Old Trafford will include a restaurant, bar and The Pavilion Pantry® which will serve snacks throughout the day.

On a cold and fresh day in February with several inches of snow on the ground GALLERY DIRECT delivered 12 rooms of furniture and mirrors to the completely refurbished boutique MUCKRACH COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL in the Scottish Highlands just north of Aviemore. The Victorian shooting lodge has been lovingly restored to its former glory, where contemporary meets Victoriana. Boutique luxury has been brought to the Cairngorm National Park. Muckrach Country House Hotel opens its doors to the public in May 2015. Since January 2014 the historic shooting lodge has been totally refurbished from the bare bones of a soulless granite building into an opulent and lively hotel with a warm Highland welcome with quirky twists to the glamorous luxury and the latest technology. Everyone will become part of the clan!

Frank Hudson SPIRE collection and the spectacular MAINE WING bed with bespoke VERMONT in the sumptuous suites.

Muckrach Country House Hotel is an 11 bedroom Victorian Shooting Lodge set in 10 acres, surrounded by pastureland and a Scottish castle. Once part of the Seafield estate, the lodge was a vibrant hub for shooting and skiing parties of the 1900’s. Locals talk affectionately about Muckrach in its heyday, their sadness during its demise, and their excitement about its detailed restoration.

Frank Hudson MAINE WING bed with VERMONT and MANHATTAN with VALOIS feature mirror creating a stir.

Phil and Ed Cowap, the new owners, said “We are investing in the Highlands because we recognize the quality of the visitor offering in the Cairngorm National Park and we wish to enhance visitor experience by adding a luxury hotel to this area.”

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with Keith from Gallery Direct. His attention to detail and vast knowledge of the industry has been invaluable in the refurbishment process. Keith has helped us to create stunning and fabulous bedroom sets which create an immediate impression of luxury and charm. ”

Frank Hudson ALEXANDRIA creates a more feminine look for one suite and COLLECTION D’ ARTICLES for the Laird of the manor.

Every room is different and guarantees the guest a WOW factor and the warmest of hospitality at its best. This could be a hotel that you never want to leave.

Click here to contact Gallery Direct: http://www.gallerydirect.co.uk

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts , will welcome its second JW Marriott Hotel in Turkey on 15 May 2015. The 107-room property is located in the picturesque Yalikavak town on the Bodrum Peninsula with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, combining the alluring charm of the Turkish coast with JW Marriott’s contemporary design and intuitive service.With a sleek design that is simple yet considered, the hotel will offer visitors 107 tranquil and spacious guest rooms to choose from – including luxury suites and seven villas – overlooking the teal blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Family suites and two bedroom suites are ideal for groups or those travelling with children, whilst many of the villas offer a private pool for the ultimate retreat. The hotel sits on its own private beach and boasts a dock for guests arriving by boat or taking a day trip sailing.

JW Marriott Bodrum will offer exceptional dining experiences in an array of restaurants and bars, including: the Pool Grill, which offers all day dining but is ideal for breakfast as the gentle waves of the bay and slight breeze serve as nature’s best wake-up call; an a la carte restaurant which will serve signature dishes with an artistic flair as the sun sets, and a coffee lounge perfect for a decadent pastry or traditional Turkish coffee. Additionally, the hotel will present a vibrant beach bar serving indulgent cocktails, plus a lobby bar and chill-out bar.

In keeping with JW Marriott’s refined but informal ethos and personal service, JW Marriott Bodrum will offer guests the highest levels of relaxation and indulgence with a 2,000 square metre spa. Working with world renowned spa brands June Jacobs and Thalion, JW Marriott Bodrum’s spa will offer an extensive selection of 24 treatment rooms, a salt room and traditional Turkish baths. June Jacobs marries cutting-edge science with natural products for an efficacious and relaxing result and Thalion are marine cosmetics experts specialising in thalassotherapy. Together the brands will offer a spa experience that JW Marriott Bodrum guests are sure to adore.

Additional hotel facilities will include a kid’s club, two outdoor pools, one which is an infinity pool with views over the bay, and one indoor pool, a 420 square metre ballroom and five meeting rooms. JW Marriott Bodrum will also offer a unique space for al fresco events and weddings overlooking one of the peninsula’s most beautiful bays.

Just as the hotel provides a blend of traditional and contemporary Turkey, the location offers guests proximity to a number of cultural sights and adventure activities including the world-famous Yalikavak Marina, sailing across the Mediterranean, diving sites to explore fantastic reefs and the majestic Bodrum castle, once home to Herodotus, the Greek Historian. Furthermore, the hotel is conveniently located to the Bodrum Amphitheatre, an incredible structure accredited to the reign of King Mausolus, which offers a postcard-perfect view of Bodrum castle and the harbour.

JW Marriott Ankara was the brand’s first hotel in Turkey. JW Marriott Bodrum is the brand’s seventh property in Europe. Global openings planned include JW Marriott Cabo San Lucas Resort, Mexico (2015) and JW Marriott Vancouver Place Stadium, British Columbia, Canada (2016).

Specialist fabric manufacturer, Kobe UK, has introduced the stylish Essente floorstand to display its extensive collection of fabrics.The stands, which are made of a high quality, durable material, are beautifully embossed with the Essente brand, giving soft furnishing and retail customers a distinctive and freestanding brown and cream showcase for their fabrics. The stand has the capacity to hold between 50 – 55 hangers and is delivered fully assembled, direct to the stockist.

Essente offers a wide selection of chic, commercial and easy-care interior fabrics, reaching a broader clientele who enjoy the signature Kobe style – but at affordable prices (no more than £25 per metre at retail), giving value for money.

Said David Harris, md of Kobe UK: “The Essente collection benefits from Kobe quality and expertise while giving access to a wider customer base through its realistic price points. The new stand is the ideal platform on which customers can display their full range of Essente fabrics.”

Within Kobe’s sophisticated new automated warehouse and ERP system, the Essente collection – and its customers – benefit from the logistical excellence of Kobe.

Based in Crowthorne, Berkshire, Kobe UK is a specialist in luxury fabrics and has been supplying UK interior design and soft furnishing customers for 20 years, Kobe has a first class reputation for outstanding quality, innovative design and excellent customer service,

Kobe’s extensive collections create interiors that reflect the very latest trends for today, with a passion for fabrics and wall coverings Kobe considers the innovation and development of high-quality products of paramount importance.

Kobe’s contract sales hold a gold membership with Trevira CS and has a wide range of 100% Trevira CS fabrics – which are Oekoteks 100 certified and are regarded as the highest quality in FR inherent fabrics. Kobe’s vinyl wall coverings are also FR inherent, durable and demand minimal maintenance. They contain recycled materials and are printed using water based inks making them environmentally sound. Kobe wallcoverings can also contribute to a building achieving LEED credits.

Kobe will be showcasing Essente at The May Design Series, London ExCel 17-19 May 2015

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Macerich have recently announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center, the first new-build, full-service hotel in Tysons Corner to open in more than 20 years. The 18-story, 300-room Hyatt Regency hotel is designed to offer business and leisure travelers an upscale hotel experience, featuring rich design, modern guestrooms and state-of-the-art meeting space – all in the heart of the trendy downtown Tysons Corner.Situated in one of the most dynamic and visited communities is the metro area, Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center is part of Macerich’s breakthrough Tysons Corner Center mixed-use expansion, which includes the award-winning Tysons Tower trophy office building, VITA luxury apartments (expected to open later this year) and new restaurants, all built around The Plaza, an elevated, 1.5 acre public space with its own stop on the Washington Metro Silver Line. The center of this new vertical urban hub is the 2 million-square-foot Tysons Corner Center mall, drawing millions of visitors each year. The expanded Tysons Corner Center is quickly becoming a new downtown hub of Greater Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia.

Guestrooms
The vibrant and upbeat energy of Tysons Corner is captured in the style of the hotel’s upscale, urban accommodations. The hotel features 300 modern guestrooms, including 17 stylishly appointed suites and one Presidential Suite. Panoramic views from the guestrooms include sweeping views of downtown Tysons Corner and the bustling Plaza at Tysons Corner Center. The contemporary guestroom design evokes the atmosphere of a private apartment with 9-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and a separate seating area. Guestrooms are designed with a neutral color palette, set against warm wood tones and adorned with a collection of minimalistic and conceptual artwork. Distinct room features include marble bathrooms with rain shower heads, night-light foot sensors, 48-inch flat panel televisions with remote control, and the luxurious Hyatt Grand Bed®.

Social Spaces and Amenities
Social spaces take on a new meaning at Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center. The smartly configured lobby, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout guestrooms and public spaces, and convenient access to power outlets, meals and snacks are all designed to keep guests in sync with people and information.

Guests wishing to upgrade to the exclusive Regency Club® lounge will enjoy continental breakfast, midday snacks, and hors d’oeuvres and desserts in the evening. The hotel’s 24-hour StayFit® fitness center features state-of-the-art strength training machines and cardiovascular equipment, along with an indoor swimming pool. The hotel also provides guests with the convenience of an open workspace with computer stations and printing services, babysitting, currency exchange, and self-park or valet parking options.

Dining
Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center is home to Barrel & Bushel, a contemporary American-style restaurant and bar located on the Plaza level. The barrel-forward restaurant offers guests regionally-inspired food, the best local and craft beers available with 22 beer taps, more than 30 handpicked bourbons, and handcrafted cocktails. Barrel & Bushel’s menu will boasts fresh, handcrafted delicacies including house-made sausages, artisan desserts and handmade fudge. Private dining at Barrel & Bushel is also available for small parties.

The restaurant also offers Barrel & Bushel Express, a delivery service for guests who wish to eat-in. In addition to Barrel & Bushel, Tysons Corner Center offers a variety of dining options within a short walk from the hotel. Nearby restaurants include the upscale The Capital Grille, as well as more than 50 dining selections, from fast casual to food court options, located at Tysons Corner Center.

Special Events and Meetings Space
Located in the heart of Northern Virginia’s Tysons Corner business district, the hotel is close to the area’s technology and corporate centers, which are home to more than 400 leading companies and near the Pentagon and Defense community. Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center has more than 15,000 square feet of meeting space to accommodate a variety of groups or occasions. The beautiful 7,000-square-foot Regency Ballroom is able to host more than 600 guests with its modern 21-foot-high ceilings and elegant lighting for all occasions, and it can be separated into three small rooms if desired. In addition to the sophisticated ballroom, the hotel has 14 breakout rooms located on the second and fourth floors; the majority offer private terraces with natural light and city views.

Kempinski Al Othman Hotel in Al Khobar will have 218 rooms and suites. Guests will be able to choose from 141 rooms, 57 suites including two Presidential Suites and one Royal Suite spread over 250 square metres as well as 20 apartments with hotel service. Nine restaurants, cafés and bistros will serve culinary delights. The hotel will also have a fully-equipped fitness studio, a swimming pool and a luxurious Resense Spa. Located in the business centre of the city, just 20 minutes by car from Bahrain and 45 minutes from King Fahd International Airport, the hotel is the ideal location for business travellers.

The five-star hotel provides a variety of conference rooms for business meetings and event facilities, including two banquet halls each of 1,080 square metres and a well-equipped, state-of-the-art business centre that will satisfy the most demanding requirements.

This year Altfield are proud to introduce Altfield Luxe, our new couture range of wallcoverings and fabrics. These items are made by hand in collaboration with some of the most unique and artisan design houses from around the world. Each piece meticulously crafted utilizing traditional methods but made for the contemporary market. The goal…. to provide a home for these exclusive boutique collections and keep these beautiful techniques alive.

Assemblage for Altfield Luxe is Assemblage’s first standardized collection of wallcoverings. Their collection of wallcoverings are a base of hand laid plaster applied with pigment, mica, metal leafing or carving, creating distinctive organic designs. The beauty of this range is the depth of colour and true flexibility in production.

Assemblage was founded by husband and wife team Christian and Heidi Batteau with the intention of crafting the most exquisite handmade wallpaper available. Heidi and Christian have combined their years of sourcing the finest materials and refining their application to produce what has been called “fine art applied directly to the wall”.

To view this exclusive range visit Altfield’s website or pop into their newly refurbished showroom.

Chelsom are delighted to once again be exhibiting at HD Expo 2015 which takes place at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas on 13th-15th May. HD Expo is the USA’s premier trade show and conference for the international hospitality industry, remaining at the forefront by offering the newest and most innovative products and services, providing inspiration and connecting hospitality professionals from all facets of the business. This will be Chelsom’s 4th consecutive year exhibiting at the event and this year they will be showcasing a number of their brand new designs from the latest collection, Edition 24, with a large number of products on display being finished in the industrially inspired English Brass and Black Bronze combination which is a striking new addition to Chelsom’s range of finishes. Designed in-house by Robert and Will Chelsom, the collection has been created with the international hospitality marketplace at the core and is the company’s most distinctive to date both in terms of design and technology with nearly all pieces available with an LED option.

“HD Expo is the number one show in terms of interior design for the hospitality market in the USA and we are very pleased to be exhibiting again. As part of our expanding export division we have focussed our efforts on the US market over the last couple of years and HD Expo is a key date in the diaries of many leading hospitality professionals so it’s incredibly exciting to be showcasing a selection of new designs from what is undoubtedly our most different and design-led collection yet.” Commented Philip Macaulay, Sales Director.

Chelsom has become one of the leading designers, manufacturers and suppliers of decorative contract lighting to the international hospitality sector working on a number of significant projects in 2014 including a trio of central London Morgans Hotel Group projects including Mondrian at Sea Containers, The Sanderson and St. Martin’s Lane, Sheraton Dubai Creek, New York Hilton Midtown, The Beaumont London and Four Seasons Bahrain. Supplying both standard and custom designed lighting products, Chelsom has the expertise to enhance any hotel interior, whether 2-star or 6-star, from cutting edge contemporary to period buildings, guestroom to corridor to public spaces.

Chelsom will be on Stand 1521. For more information on HD Expo and to register to attend please go to: http://registration.experientevent.com/showhde151/default.aspx?flowcode=attendee

Click here to visit Chelsom’s website: www.chelsom.co.uk

Protea Hotels welcomes into its stable Malaga Hotel in Mpumalanga.

Protea Hotel Malaga recently underwent a refurbished which resulted in the hotel receiving an updated look inside and out. The classic Spanish design is complemented by the lush tropical gardens in which the hotel resides, a perfect backdrop for massages under the trees, offered by the hotel’s spa staff.
Mark Satterfield, Marriott International Business Leader in South Africa, said Protea Hotels was delighted to have a hotel with so much history join the group. Although the hotel was originally built as a stopover, it is, in fact, situated directly within a very famous tourism area and is the perfect stopover for travellers on their way to the Kruger National Park and Mozambique. Landmarks like the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window and the Three Rondavels mountain range all within easy drives of the hotel.

The conference facilities, which can accommodate groups as small as ten and as large as 200, are popular particularly because of their proximity to popular tourist attractions in the area.

Satterfield said: “Protea Hotels is lucky to have such a wide range of hotels in its stable, from the hyper-modern urban Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! properties, to iconic hotels like Malaga. And what they all have in common is a warm and receptive STAFF and excellent service. That is why GUESTS return to hotels like Malaga year after year.”

Protea Hotel Malaga is an excellent destination not only for sightseers to this beautiful part of the country, but also for keen outdoorsy types. The area offers a wide range of adventure sports, from rock climbing and abseiling, to mountain biking and trail running. For those with a more pastoral bent, birding and fishing are popular activities in the area.

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts continues to grow its India presence with the opening of its second hotel in Mumbai– JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. The brand new property promises a sophisticated retreat within the energetic city of Mumbai. Ideally located just one kilometre from the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai, the hotel is an ideal destination for business and leisure travellers alike. Spanning more than 15 acres, the JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is set to deliver an unparalleled experience, from its stunning design and signature service to a compelling restaurant scene celebrating local Indian cuisine. The hotel’s stylish lobby features open spaces and natural light anchored by a striking crystal chandelier descending down into an oversized marble bowl.

The luxury five-star property features 585 intimate rooms, which include 163 deluxe pool view rooms, 23 deluxe suites, 23 executive balcony rooms and one presidential suite. The property also boasts some of the most spacious guest rooms in its immediate vicinity.

Guests are invited to explore distinct dining options on property. The chic and contemporary JW Café isan all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant with an alfresco seating area while Romano’s offers authentic, home-style Italian fare. The Romano’s bar also offers decadent cocktails and mocktails as well as a premier selection of revered Italian wines. Located at the heart of the property is the JW Lounge, which serves as a cafe by day and a stylish lounge by night. The JW Baking Company offers indulgent pastries, coffee and deli favourites.

To accommodate large-format events and social gatherings, the JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar boasts a pillar-less 10,000 square foot Grand Ballroom, indoor and outdoor convention spaces, and 11 well-appointed meeting rooms with state-of-the-art conferencing and business facilities. The property’s spacious JW Lawns and Dining Theatre are ideal venues to accommodate picturesque weddings and social gatherings.

The hotel houses JW Marriott’s new branded spa concept Spa by JW. The Mumbai Sahar location is the first Spa by JW in Asia Pacific and the second worldwide. The spa promises to impart an environment of harmony and wellness, offering bespoke treatments and a range of classic spa rituals. All treatments are tailor-made to guests’ exact needs and are focused on four distinct benefit states – Calm, Indulge, Invigorate and Renew.

Spa by JW features seven treatment rooms including one couples treatment room and one ayurvedic treatment room that offers ancient beauty rituals using fresh and natural ingredients. Other facilities include a private couples jacuzzi, a dressing and make-up room, two steam and sauna rooms and two separate jacuzzi for men and women. Spa by JW hopes to be a one-stop shop for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation, whether travellers are on a tight schedule or have time to spare.

Additional facilities include, The JW Fitness Centre open 24-hours a day with the state-of-the-art equipment, catering to the needs of the fitness conscious. Poolside cabanas also make a perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.

Hilton Worldwide has recently announced the opening of the new 298-room Hilton Barra hotel in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With a privileged location on Avenida Abelardo Bueno in the heart of the Barra da Tijuca neighborhood, this newest hotel in Rio de Janeiro is set to be the first choice of fans visiting the city for the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.Developed by Carvalho Hosken S/A, the nine-story Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro displays a unique visual identity that blends a contemporary architecture and design, with the style and feel of the local Brazilian culture, all while contributing to the reduction of energy and water consumption. Top architects, interior designers and landscape artists played a pivotal role in creating a space where guests are embraced by their surroundings, including their entrance to a lobby of monumental scale with 37 meter height that when illuminated in the evening, acts as a gigantic glass box shining light throughout the property. Local artists contributed with exquisite works, and a key design element present throughout the property – a hollow form – creates a balance between light and the separation of space that allows a consistent flow through all ambiances. An outdoor garden rich in colours and textures completes the exclusive design.

Stay:
Ideal for both business and leisure travellers, the upscale Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro features 298 guest rooms, including executive floor rooms and suites all outfitted with comfortable and luxurious bedding, smart LED TVs, radio clock with Bluetooth technology, wireless Internet access, Nespresso coffee makers with complimentary capsules and amenities found in no other hotel in the area. Rooms are also equipped with sensors providing an automated system that combines guest comfort with energy efficiency. Guests staying in an executive room or suite enjoy the added benefit of the hotel’s executive floor service and executive lounge, offering light snacks and beverages with spectacular views of the Barra lagoons. Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro is the only hotel in Barra de Tijuca that offers this exclusive space and service.

A great base for events and business travellers, the Hilton hotel in Rio de Janeiro provides approximately 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space including 10 meeting rooms and two ballrooms, with total capacity for up to 950 guests. All rooms feature modern audiovisual equipment, soundproof walls, wireless Internet access and all the amenities and services needed for productive and stress-free event planning, including access to Meetings Simplified – a bundled events program for smaller meetings. The space is completed by a business centre with cutting edge work spaces and seamlessly integrated technology for maximum efficiency.

Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro offers a memorable dining experience with a signature restaurant for 140 guests, where the interior connects with the outdoor environment. A breakfast, lunch and dinner menu features culinary specialities and regional fare. The hotel’s rooftop is home to a charming Champagne House, welcoming guests to indulge in poolside beverages in an inviting ambiance. An outdoor rooftop swimming pool and fitness centre with cardio and strength training equipment complete the facilities.

Award winning bed manufacturer Hypnos has donated beds for all 18 rooms at Ronald McDonald House Oxford – the free ‘home away from home’ accommodation for families who have children being treated at John Radcliffe Hospital.Hypnos’ exclusive full service project management solution enabled a smooth transition from old to new, removing and disposing of the old beds and replacing with brand new Hypnos models. This was achieved within a four hour time frame, in order to cause as little disruption to families staying there as possible.

Last year 635 families stayed free of charge and for as long as they needed to at the House, which is located on the top floor of the children’s hospital. A ‘home away from home’ is provided for families, with communal kitchens, lounges and playrooms, as well as 18 en-suite bedrooms which Hypnos has provided 32 new beds for to help them get a good night’s sleep. Many of these beds have specialist hidden pull out beds, increasing occupancy.

Chris Ward, marketing director at Hypnos comments: “The House obviously plays a major role in supporting families who have children staying in the hospital and we’re delighted to donate our specialist beds engineered for the hospitality market to provide maximum comfort, hygiene, safety and durability while at the same time helping guests sleep comfortably.

“A good night’s rest is important at all times, especially in periods of our lives where we may experience stress and upset. This makes it more important than ever for the rooms in Ronald McDonald House Oxford to be kitted out with comfy beds, making sure those that stay there don’t have to worry about sleeping comfortably.

“As people are constantly staying in the House, it was vital that the old beds were removed and replaced as quickly as possible, keeping disruption to a minimum. The beds also meet contract standards, making them fire retardant and durable.”

Michelle Francis, house manager at Ronald McDonald House Oxford comments: “We are very grateful to Hypnos for kindly donating such high-quality beds for our families. Sleeping as well as possible helps the families cope better as their children are being treated.”

Ronald McDonald House Oxford is run by Ronald McDonald House Charities – the independent charity that provides free accommodation in or near hospital grounds across the UK. It has operated in the UK since 1989.

For more information about Hypnos, or to view the full product range, please visit our website or call +44 (0) 1159 732180.

With this five-star hotel, offering more than 269 rooms and suites, Kempinski brings a hitherto unknown standard of luxury to Accra. Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra is the luxury hotel group’s first hotel in Ghana and is scheduled to open in Q2 2015.Ideally located in the city centre, the new Kempinski hotel not only offers the most spacious rooms in Accra, but also two restaurants, a lobby with an open-air lounge, a cocktail bar and a pool lounge. 1,700 square metres of conference facilities, including the city’s largest ballroom, is available for conferences, meetings and other events. The hotel complex also includes boutiques spread over 7,000 square metres.

The hotel will also provide extensive spa and fitness facilities. The 3,000 square metre Resense Spa will be the largest and most luxurious spa in West Africa. Ten treatment rooms, relaxation areas, a hammam and a yoga studio will delight the hearts of guests in search of relaxation.

Hamilton Litestat’s Mobile Demonstration Vehicle (MDV) is touring Ireland for the first time until the 24 April 2015. It started at Kellihers Electrical in Waterford and the MDV’s route will take in:

20th April 14:00 – 17:00 FLAHERTY MARKETS – Castlebar
21st April 14:00 – 17:00 CLIFFORD ELECTRICAL – Carraroe
22nd April 08:30 – 14:30 HARPERS – Belfast
23rd April 08:30 – 14:30 HARPERS – Belfast
24th April 08:30 – 14:30 RICHMOND ELECTRICAL – Dublin Gavin Williams, Marketing Manager for Hamilton says: “Since we unveiled our Mobile Demo Vehicle last year it has toured the length and breadth of UK. The MDV has given electrical wholesaler staff, customers and clients the opportunity to see and experience first-hand Hamilton’s comprehensive, intelligent, easy-to-use control solutions and our switch plate & socket collections. We’ve been keen to give our many Irish customers the opportunity to utilise the vehicle for sometime so are particularly delighted that our Irish roadshow is underway.”

Switch Distribution and Harpers have worked with Hamilton’s Group Product Development & Export Sales Executive, John Purnell, to plan and implement the country-wide tour. Christine Noonan, Marketing Manager at Switch says: “This is an excellent opportunity for us to raise awareness of the benefits of Hamilton’s lighting and audio control solutions. We are very pleased to have secured so many great locations for the tour and are expecting the MDV to attract a great deal of attention throughout!”

Hamilton’s MDV is designed to give customers the chance to judge for themselves just how easy Mercury® lighting control and multi-room audio systems are to install. Hamilton’s technical sales team will be on hand throughout the tour to talk MDV visitors through all aspects of installing Hamilton’s Mercury® systems and to answer any questions.

Gavin explains: “With Hamilton there is nothing stopping electrical contractors increasing business by suggesting their customers take the first steps to a ‘Smart Home’ by beginning with a ‘Smarter Home’. The reality is every electrical installer knows all they need to know about smart technology with the Hamilton system because each Mercury control pack is supplied pre-programmed for 4-channel circuits. All the installer needs to do is work out the number of channels he requires, say 8 channels, then simply wire two 4-channel Mercury control packs together, setting the dip switches in the wall plate to correspond to the matching channel terminal in the pack. Even remote control is simple to set-up with Hamilton’s iOS app – it requires NO PROGRAMMING whatsoever!

Visit Hamilton’s website for full details on the MDV Ireland tour 2015 www.hamilton-litestat.com/news-and-events/hamiltons-mercury-roadshow-lights-up-the-emerald-isle/

Just over two years since its launch, having toured the project around the world and having opened more than 500 points of sale in more than 40 countries, Kartell by Laufen is launching its first monobrand store in the heart of Milan’s Brera district, at Via Pontaccio 10.

A signal to the international market that it is here to stay, the Kartell by Laufen catalogue comprises a full range of furnishings, accessories, sanitary ware and other bathroom fittings designed by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba. Its efforts were also recognised by some of the sector’s most eminent opinion leaders, including Wallpaper, which awarded it the prize for Best Wash at the Wallpaper Design Awards 2013, and Elle Decoration International, which named it the winner of the EDIDA 2014 prize in the Bathroom category. From 2013 to 2015, an intensive, far-reaching roadshow saw international events taking place in major cities (London, Brussels, Prague, Warsaw, New York, Miami, Paris and San Paolo) and took the project to some of the biggest design fairs in the world (Salone del Bagno 2014 and ISH Frankfurt 2015). These events gave the international public the chance to get up close and personal with the product and truly understand its value.

Since its début, more than 500 high-quality stores have been opened in more than 40 countries worldwide.

As proof of this commitment to retail, Kartell by Laufen is launching its first monobrand store in the heart of Brera, at Via Pontaccio 10: about 200 square metres, with four store windows opening onto the street. The setting of this first space is by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba, best interpreters of a new way of conceiving bathroom projects. The internationally famous architects and trend setters of this industry, as well as designers of the entire collection, feature the best of Kartell by Laufen in unexpected thematic and chromatic moods.

“Kartell by Laufen to us is an harmonic collection made of exciting icons representing the perfect balance between high-tech and pure beauty. And if Kartell by Laufen up to now has been synonymous with colour, feeing and transparency through ultrathin ceramics, innovative materials and new technology, now Kartell by Laufen becomes Architecture.

The first single-brand Kartell by Laufen showroom is conceived as architecture in the truest sense, where materials and space narrate the proportions and sensations of a place, the bathroom, now acknowledged as one of the most important in the home.

Walls become tactile and the curves integral part of a scenario that transforms the bathroom into an architectonic icon.

This is the aim of the Kartell by Laufen showroom, to reveal the DNA of these two companies, Kartell and Laufen, in an absolutely different way to how it has been seen up to now”
– Ludovica and Roberto Palomba

The space is articulated over two levels, and like the style of the brand, the ambient is exceptionally fresh, with the clean lines of the interiors playing on tactile combinations and architectonic volumes. On the other hand, the windows have much greater graphic impact: a luminous mesh of white backlit pedestals forming the base for Kartell by Laufen’s still life compositions on a backdrop of polychrome transparent plexiglas panels. The windows play a fundamental role in presenting the collections because the space is so different to the usual bathroom fitting showrooms, putting more emphasis on feelings, glamour and lifestyle.

The ground floor has five different settings, each corresponding to a different bathroom concept with the latest products: the 120 cm basin, the metallic basin units and the Boutique furnishings.

A long oblique wall at the entrance presents a working composition of one of Kartell by Laufen’s bathroom proposals.

The same wall displays the entire range of basins, and the taps too have a specifically dedicated technical area.

The lower level offers another seven installations, each very different in terms of dimensions and mood: some with strong colours, like the orange and total black bathrooms, others highly compact to show the great potential that even smaller, guest bathrooms have. And naturally there is a vast range of proposals for the hotels and contract sectors in general.

With this showroom and this layout Kartell by Laufen demonstrates the versatility of its collections, perfectly adaptable for installation with style and character into almost any context.

Milan is the ideal home for a retail project based on a monobrand concept and high-end distribution within the bathroom industry.

Kartell by Laufen
Via Pontaccio, 10
Milan
Until the 19 April, from 10am to 8pm
www.kartellbylaufen.com

Hunters Rest hotel, in its picturesque sub-tropical setting in the Magalies Mountains has been home to generations of holidaying families and has now joined the Protea Hotels portfolio of hotels.This Rustenburg hotel has prided itself on the kind of service that establishes relationships with guests. The hotel is family focussed in terms of the service delivery and facilities on offer.

“Hunters Rest encapsulates all the best of genuine warm hospitality in that GUESTS and STAFF get to know one another over the years. That sort of service –where relationships are built – is not as common as it once was, and Protea Hotels are delighted to welcome Hunters Rest into its service family,” said Mark Satterfield, Marriott International Business Leader in South Africa.

The hotel has undergone a refurbishment to the tune of R15 million to all the public areas and the owners have a lot more planned for the property’s refurbishment. Already, a chapel and an open-air boma give the ambience of the hotel an added dimension for people wanting to host weddings and big functions.

The hotel, which is only an hour‘s drive from Pretoria and an hour and a half’s drive from Johannesburg, has a strong focus on the outdoors, with its large swimming pool, nine-hole, 18-tee golf course and a nature reserve with a viewing deck. For the adventurous there is mountain biking and hiking, and there’s a newly renovated spa on site for those who want some pampering during their downtime.

At the same time, Protea Hotel Hunters Rest is perfectly geared for countryside conferencing, where corporates can bring their delegates from the cities to really break away and focus on their strategic or motivational sales conferences. It’s the perfect place also for special corporate and private events set in beautiful surroundings.

Protea Hotel Hunters Rest general manager Monique Kiefer, herself an outdoor enthusiast, said, “GUESTS generally want to experience something special and create their own memories. The STAFF at Hunters Rest are here to facilitate that special experience and they love what they do.”

With its strong focus on family, the hotel treats children as special GUESTS. There is a farmyard, horse riding, putt-putt and a heated pool.

Child minders and baby sitters are available on request for parents who wish to enjoy the fresh produce from surrounding farms at dinner in the contemporary George Wellington restaurant.

From Protea Hotel Hunters Rest it’s a short drive to Sun City and Hartebeespoort Dam.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl sets a new benchmark in luxury; situated 330 meters off the east coast of Qatar on a 400 hectare artificial island, The Pearl, the hotel is in one of Doha’s most sought-after locations. Offering more than 281 opulent rooms and suites, the luxury resort may indeed be called a palace. It officially opened on the 7th January, 2015.A vast 1,100 square metre ballroom is the ideal setting for VIP delegations and wedding celebrations.

The luxury resort also offers an exclusive beach in a private bay as well as various outdoor pools, a range of water sports facilities, a tennis court and yacht moorings. Last but not least, a 3,000 square metre Spa by Clarins completes the offering.

One of the most impressive hotels in the area, Marsa Malaz Kempinski offers six restaurants, two cafés, al fresco beach dining, an elegant lounge and a unique open-air roof terrace.

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Royal Warranted carpet manufacturer Brintons will be at the centre of the creative hub during Clerkenwell Design Week, where it will be showcasing a range of new designs as well as hosting a range of talks at the London Design Centre.Brintons can now reveal its exciting schedule for the week, which is not one to be missed, and it is inviting design savvy visitors to visit them at their showroom on the 19th to 21st May.

19th May 2014 – 12pm – Designing for Woven Axminster Carpets – RIBA Accredited CPD Presentation

Visitors can explore the key aspects of designing for Axminster carpet production at the RIBA Accredited CPD Presentation, which will feature everything from the initial brief through the design process to installation, designing for Electronic Jacquard and how this can be used to produce complex multi-part, large-scale floorscapes in a variety of interiors. The history of Axminster and advances in technology will also be explored.

The talk will display how Brintons are continuing to challenge conventional design rules and promote a new way of thinking about how carpet is used in an interior space.

20th May – 12pm – “The Bespoke Interior” with the 2 Lovely Gays

Interior designers the 2 Lovely Gays discuss bespoke interiors as an expression of who you are and how it can be a place for growth and happiness. The talk will focus on how to give people confidence by bridging the gap between the consumer and the interiors industry through collaborating with Brintons, and giving a platform for rising talents to create spaces that truly inspire.

A question and answer session will follow with interiors stylist and editor Emilio Pimentel-Reid, placing a spotlight on design with the 2 Lovely Gays, discussing all that is current in the interiors and design world today. There will also be the opportunity for audience members to ask questions and be part of the discussion.

21st May – 6.30pm – Exploring the archives with Talib Choudhry and Yvonne Smith

Talib Choudhry, interiors editor of the Telegraph Magazine, talks to Brintons’ archivist Yvonne Smith about the relevance of historic archives in design, and how historical research helps to build fresh, new collections with layers of meaning and narrative. Following the talk on the 21st May at 6.30pm will be a drinks reception for a chance to unwind after the event.

Brintons Inspirations collection

Brintons is to launch its brand new ‘Brintons Inspirations’ collection, at a special showcase at Clerkenwell Design Week. The designs have been created based on three themes including tropical, geometric, and architectural, by a team of in-house designers.

The 12-piece collection has been inspired from the latest in colour and fashion from the catwalk, interior design and architecture. The collection will be available to view online as a digital PDF for clients to download and designs will also be uploaded to Brintons’ interactive Design Studio Online, which is a tool for designers and customers to instantly access and search designs.

Stacy Garcia collection

Finally, Brintons will be launching its brand new collection designed in collaboration with award winning American hospitality designer Stacy Garcia in the UK, during Clerkenwell Design Week. This is the seventh collection designed in collaboration with Stacy, and the Urban Nomad is a collective gathering of culturally inspired designs containing influences from around the globe.

If you would like to attend any of the events please email Sarah Draper, Commercial Marketing Manager, sldraper@brintons.co.uk.

Responding to the needs of installers, Roca has extended four of its most popular brassware collections to include a smooth body basin mixer, with ½ inch flexible tails that complement UK pipework.L20, Targa, Monodin-N and Victoria (V2) are now all available as a smooth body basin mixer option. The clever design of these new deck-mounted mixers means there are no unsightly holes in the back of the tap where the pop up waste lever would usually be. The mixers also feature a flow straightener which improves the performance of the brassware in low pressure areas.

Installers looking to fulfil water and energy saving requirements can do so with these new smooth body basin mixers, all of which have a built-in eco-disc cartridge providing a level of resistance at 50 per cent of water flow. Using the same installation methods as a standard basin mixer, this gives the user control over how much water they use. In addition, L20 also features Roca’s ColdStart technology so the flow always starts with cold water and hot water systems are only activated when warm water is required, in order to save energy.

Each of the four new smooth body basin mixers are available in a chrome finish and feature Roca’s innovative EverShine, a special coating that repels stains and scratches and discourages lime scale build up. Each of the mixers is also fitted with a Roca cartridge, which boasts SofTurn technology, for smoothness, comfort and precision when choosing the desired water flow and temperature levels.

InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) Hotel Indigo® brand announces the signing of its first hotel in the state of Colorado, which will connect guests with Denver’s Lower Downtown neighbourhood (LoDo). The Hotel Indigo Denver location will be located within Union Tower West, a 200,000 square foot mixed-use development of office and retail space, co-developed by Portman Holdings and Hensel Phelps. Portman Holdings is also currently developing a portion of an existing 27-story office building to a 203-room Hotel Indigo in Downtown Atlanta. Jason Moskal, Vice President, Lifestyle Brands, The Americas, IHG said: “We are excited to expand the Hotel Indigo® brand into this incredible Downtown Denver neighbourhood. The local area around Union Station is home to many historical storefronts, warehouses and industrial buildings that help define the neighbourhood, creating the perfect location for our newest hotel. We’re looking forward to being part of this great community and opening our doors for guests to experience the area and be inspired by the service delivered by our Hotel Indigo team.”

The Hotel Indigo Denver hotel, expected to open in winter 2016, will be located at 1801 Wewatta Street adjacent to Denver Union Station. New additions to the station will soon include the historic station market where local vendors will offer a wide variety of produce, pastries and handmade items to take home or enjoy on their commute. The neighborhood already attracts residents and visitors with its dynamic mix of entertainment, shopping and cultural amenities, including art galleries, restaurants, specialty retail, nightclubs and jazz parlors all housed in preserved historic buildings. Popular LoDo attractions also include Wynkoop Brewing Company, Colorado’s first brewpub and Denver’s first craft brewery, 16th Street Mall, Commons Park, Cherry Creek bike path, and Coors Field. The 180-room property will have approximately 1,950 square feet of meeting space, a fitness centre, business centre, bar and restaurant.

Every Hotel Indigo® property is uniquely designed to reflect the culture, character and history of its surrounding neighbourhood. This Downtown Denver location will have a unique neighbourhood story that will be woven throughout the guest experience, from the seasonal and locally sourced food and drinks served in a stylish environment at the restaurant and bar, to the art, photography and architecture incorporated into the hotel’s design. Guestrooms will feature plush bedding, hard-surface flooring with area rugs, and spa-inspired bathrooms. The hotel will feature the brand’s Neighbourhood Guide, an innovative touchscreen display that connects guests to each other, to local neighbourhood mainstays, and to Hotel Indigo locations around the world. Hotel team members, many of whom are locals themselves, will share their favourite hidden gems with guests looking to explore and discover the neighbourhood.

The hotel is owned by CUOF IV LODO, LLC, and will be franchised by an affiliate of IHG.

Ambrish Baisiwala, Portman Holdings CEO said: “Portman is delighted to continue to partner with IHG in creating another distinct Hotel Indigo® hotel in such a prime location. We have a long history of developing unique hotels, and look forward to continuing this work in collaboration with IHG.”

In addition to this signing, the Hotel Indigo brand recently announced new properties signed in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Old Town Alexandria, Virginia and Frisco, Texas, as well as three new international openings, Hotel Indigo Paris – Opera, Hotel Indigo Helsinki – Boulevard and Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road.

Centara Pelican Bay Residence & Suites Krabi takes full advantage of its stunning location, having been designed as a cluster of low-rise buildings surrounding a swimming pool, with the area’s characteristically lush green tropical forest rising up around it. The residence offers a choice of modern apartments and pool suites with one, two or three bedrooms. Many of the suites come complete with their own outdoor plunge pool featuring either an ocean or pool view, or a garden terrace. Every room style features spacious living areas ranging from 81 to 190 square metres, made up of both indoor and outdoor areas, and all suites come with a large furnished terrace or balcony. All rooms and suites have a kitchenette, along with a full suite of modern amenities including complimentary wireless internet access.Centara Pelican Bay Residence & Suites Krabi also ensures that guests will be fully provided for when they’re not relaxing in the privacy of their own rooms. The Resort is home to an expansive swimming pool, which includes a child-friendly shallow end; a fully-equipped fitness centre and a ‘chilling lounge’ complete with internet stations, plus water sports, snorkelling and PADI diving which can all be easily arranged. 


The Resort’s relaxed all-day Globe restaurant is located poolside, serving up Thai and international dishes, while ‘The Nest’ is a hideaway perched three stories up, where drinks and light meals look their best against a stunning Andaman Sea backdrop. Whether families choose to stay beachside or visit ‘The Nest’, the Resort has added touches to make sure that parents can have as much fun as their children, with lounge-y cushions on the beach, and evening movie showings for a full family entertainment interlude.

Krabi itself offers visitors a huge array of memorable sights and activities, with nature trails and limestone islands forming natural playgrounds for countless rambles and adventures, even though Krabi International Airport is just 35 minutes away by road. There is a pier near to the Resort where boat trips can be arranged for island hopping, diving and snorkelling.

GALLERY DIRECT relaunched Frank Hudson at the January Furniture Show to much acclaim. With a long history of fine furniture making dating back to the Second World War, Frank Hudson is renowned for superb traditional craftsmanship. Gallery have maintained this heritage whilst simplifying the offer, introducing updated designs and finishes to rejuvenate the brand. Lower price points, achievable through economies of scale, make the offer more commercial.Their new collection of bedroom, luxury dining and occasional furniture is designed and manufactured to the highest standards to offer beautifully constructed and meticulously hand finished quality furniture.

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

Hot on the heels of hosting a successful Ryder Cup, The Gleneagles® Hotel have announces plans for a new 2500 square metre event space – The Gleneagles Arena.Located within Gleneagles’ 850 acre estate, as part of its Activity School complex, the Gleneagles Arena will transform one of its current equestrian arenas into a modern and versatile event space which also doubles as a 4-court indoor tennis centre.

Due to launch in May 2015, the new space will be perfect for conferences, exhibitions, product launches, concerts and team-building events. With capacity for 500 – 2000 guests, the five star resort will now be able to accommodate much larger groups.

Its key features include:
– Floor space of 2500 square metres
– The creation of a new combined reception and retail area
– 650 viewing seats
– Loading bay access doors
– 63 integrated hanging points tested to 500kg
– 200A power supply with MCCB panel with a variety of sockets
– A dedicated access route from car park, with 500 spaces
– LED house lights and oil-fired heating

Stuart Smith, Gleneagles’ Director of Events & Leisure, said:
“After celebrating our 90th anniversary and hosting The Ryder Cup, this has been one of the most memorable years in Gleneagles history, and we are delighted that we’ll be able to keep the momentum going in 2015 with the launch of this fantastic new events space. It’s going to be an amazing blank canvas for all kinds of events – from car launches, to concerts, to foodie extravaganzas.

“With 232 luxury bedrooms, fourteen function rooms and a wide range of leisure activities, Gleneagles already attracts some really high-profile, exciting events. The Gleneagles Arena will simply take us to the next level, meaning we can handle larger groups, and hopefully stage many more world-class events in the coming years.”

The Gleneagles Arena project represents a £650,000 investment, the latest in a long line of recent upgrades. These have included a £5 million refurbishment of The Club earlier in 2014, a £3 million overhaul of the Dormy Clubhouse in 2011, the installation of The Blue Bar – a new outdoor whisky and cigar bar – in the same year, and a £1 million investment in its PGA Centenary Course in 2012. Earlier this month, Gleneagles also completed a £250,000 refurbishment of its flagship conference venue, The Gleneagles Suite.

Gleneagles’ existing equestrian offering at the Activity School will be retained, with coaching for all levels still being offered to leisure and corporate guests alike in its small arena and outdoor facilities.

Style Matters’ latest project sees a whole collection of beautiful, bespoke furniture featured throughout the highly anticipated Hotel Gotham – opened on the 7th April.Working with Oliver Redfern, lead designer at Squid Inc, burnished metals teamed with dark polished woods are coupled with soft velvets in blue and raspberry to create ‘Europe’s sexiest hotel’.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the début of its Element brand in North Dakota. Owned and managed by StaySharpe Hotels, the new Element hotel offers smart, sustainable lodging for eco-conscious travellers with 130 light-filled rooms and an atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance and on the move. Element Fargo is ideally situated across from the new $494 million Sanford Fargo Medical Centre and is just ten minutes from one of Microsoft Corporation’s largest campuses in North America. The newly constructed hotel is also close to historic downtown Fargo, West Acres Mall and the Fargodome – home of the North Dakota State University Bison. Located in the southeast corner of North Dakota, Fargo is part of the Fargo/Moorhead/West Fargo metropolitan area, which is experiencing rapid growth driven by its energy, technology and manufacturing sectors.

Element Hotels feature natural light, modern design, healthy options and eco-minded sensibilities. This re-imagined extended stay experience is perfect for the traveller who is visiting for a few days or a few weeks. Guests can fuel their day with the healthy Rise breakfast and wind down with the Relax evening wine reception – both complimentary. Spacious studios and one-bedroom suites at Element Fargo feature a fluid design of modular furniture, flat-screen LED televisions ranging from 40” to 65”, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms will also include fully equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms will 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. The hotel will offer fast and free wired and wireless high-speed internet and a 453 square-foot meeting room with modular furnishings, a flexible layout and cutting-edge technology that can be customized to meet any business or social need.

Element is the first major hotel brand to mandate that all properties pursue the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for high-performance buildings. It’s recognized as an industry leader in the eco-space and offers travellers a fresh, re-imagined interpretation of the extended stay hotel experience.

Element is experiencing incredible growth momentum. With 19 deals signed in 2014, the brand is on track to triple its portfolio by 2017. On the heels of opening its first hotel outside of North America in Frankfurt, Germany, Element will open its first hotel in China later this year followed by new hotels in London, Amsterdam, Boston and Philadelphia, signifying the global appeal of the brand.

Set within 120 acres of glorious Sussex countryside, Alexander House is a luxury manor house with beautiful vistas, a choice of restaurants, an award-winning Utopia Spa and rooms designed for absolute comfort. A further 18 suites and 1 master suite were recently added to this 5 Star Boutique Hotel and Spa. A new build construction presented the owners with a golden opportunity to incorporate state-of-the-art modern amenities and technology within the layout and design of the suites and public spaces within the structure. The Brief: Hamilton was approached to provide a total solution for both lighting control and bespoke complementary switch plates and sockets for the New ‘Cedar Lodge’ suites set within the Alexander House estate, comprising two floors of luxury 5 Star accommodation. Pre-set controlled lighting scenes to suit the time of day and create a homely warm ambiance were a priority as was ease of use for both staff and guests. Plus the design and quality of the control plates and accessories needed to meet the exacting and aspirational concepts and themes presented by the project’s interior design team.

The Solution: Working with Electrical Contractor, Mark Hooper, Hartland CFX®, in a Satin Stainless finish, was selected from Hamilton’s extensive range of designer and bespoke switch plate and sockets. Slim and elegant with soft rounded edges, the Hartland CFX® range perfectly complemented the vibrant and stylish design throughout the new accommodation. Essentially, the faceplates are firmly held in place to the back frame with a patented 4-point clipping system, concealing the fixings for a seamless finish.

Making light work: Hamilton ensured lighting control is at every guests’ fingertips by installing a Mercury® Lighting Control Pack (MDP4x600+VFR) in every suite. The entry-level lighting control solution is especially suited to this scenario where flexible lighting control on a small scale is required. Using this system, simple LED dimming to multiple scene-setting programmes can be set, stored and recalled at the touch of a button. Four control plates were installed per room and suite; a master control at the entrance door, one either side of the bed and one within the en-suite. The exception was the extremely spacious master suite, spread across two floors, where two Mercury® Lighting Control packs were installed. Here control was needed throughout the bedroom, generous en-suite, living area, stairs and bathroom. Within each suite the lighting scenes have been programmed exactly the same and set up for ease of use by guests. In the corridor and Lobby again there is a dimming system. Each being controlled by a time clock creating various scenes throughout the day.

The Result: Hamilton focused on meeting the specific needs of this luxurious hotel and spa. In doing so it created and delivered a bespoke solution drawing on its unique range of timeless and ‘on trend’ socket and switch plate designs and the company’s own Mercury® lighting control system. Control plates and system working together to create a stylish and efficient solution designed to withstand wear and tear and look good for longer – a prerequisite in a hotel and public environment.

SACO, The Serviced Apartment Company, has released new online research commissioned through YouGov which reveals that travellers are not primarily swayed by luxuries such as food and comfort but almost two thirds (62%) that have travelled for business in the last 2 years, are hungry for a high-speed internet connection.In a survey of 2,000 British adults, the serviced apartment provider found that “Millennials*” are more likely to have travelled for business in the last 2 years than those 35+ (25% and 15% respectively), demonstrating how important it is that companies and travel suppliers need to understand what this cohort need, want, expect and set themselves up accordingly.

Results have shown that 51% of “Millennial” travellers, i.e. those have travelled for either business or leisure in the past 2 years, value a high-speed broadband connection, compared to 39% of older travellers, and that on the whole; 46% of younger people are more enthusiastic about future innovations, with appetite for access to tech in rooms being notably higher than older age brackets.

There is nothing more important for all business travellers than a good night’s sleep with the productivity it leads to the following day, and this is explained by the 89% choosing a comfortable bed as an important factor when staying away from home.

With “Millennials” twice as likely as older people, 11% compared to 5%, to associate serviced apartments with being sociable, it’s no wonder that serviced apartment providers are focusing less on purely leisure facilities and instead creating ‘blended’ spaces suitable for both socialising and networking.

For “Millennials”, the more authentic the networking and socialising opportunities are, the better, as results have shown that these younger travellers are more likely than others to want to be seen as ‘local’ when travelling for work (12% in comparison to those aged 35+ at 7%).

Ben Harper, Sales Director of SACO, said: “Our new research findings serve to underpin the travel behaviours of Millennials and consequently what we foresee for the future of business travel.

“SACO know that by 2020, Millennials will represent over half the workforce, and therefore their insight into technological innovations and what they want from a serviced apartment is gold dust.

“We’re considering these findings as we continue to expand and tailor our services to the modern traveller of today and tomorrow.”

SACO has recently announced new apartment locations and exciting news about their “Digital Revolution” – designed by customers for customers.

Apartment buildings are being developed in key global locations that will offer modern spaces to make staying away from home a more immersive, warm localised experience.

Distinguished by its polished Art Deco accents and large sweeping staircase, iconic London restaurant and late-night venue, Quaglino’s, has benefited from a dramatic facelift. The signature staircase, balcony bar, main restaurant and mezzanine private dining rooms have been elegantly restored. A large central cocktail bar has been added and the crustacean bar replaced by a stage for intimate live music performances.

With the new interior masterminded by Russell Sage Studio, every item of flooring, furniture and artwork have been replaced. Meeting the brief for dressed-up glamorous dining, distinctive Morgan furniture collections were specified in striking fabrics for the most exclusive areas of the restaurant.

Upstairs, visible through the glass balustrade, Seville winged-back chairs, Siena and Miami lounge chairs from Morgan entice diners up to the balcony bar, while Pastille bar stools provide a cool perch for a cocktail. Pimlico chairs with their curved profile and oval seat are a smooth option for private dining. Single pedestal tables from the Diva collection also feature as part of the fit-out which includes over 150 individual Morgan pieces.

Rendezvous, an idyllic and intimate Caribbean hideaway designed exclusively for couples, announces a $12.5 million renovation that unveils significant interior design updates to its Seaside Suites and Verandah Suites, including brand new bathrooms, room layouts, furniture and colour schemes, as well as the addition of an á la carte beachside restaurant, Malabar. SEASIDE SUITES
Situated on the ground floor, Rendezvous’ popular Seaside Suites allow guests access to spacious decks with views of the beachside pool, the Caribbean Sea, and the property’s tropical gardens. Each suite has been fitted with new wardrobes, and new furniture, including fine hardwood pieces and a king-sized bed, in addition to a new open bathroom, featuring a spacious bathtub and his-and-her amenities. Additionally, the suites now feature large floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to the outdoors, letting in the ocean breeze and maximising natural light in the space. The outdoor terraces feature new furniture, including a sofa and an outdoor cantilever umbrella. The suites are decorated in white, mint green and blue pastels, inspired by the Caribbean Sea’s soothing colours.

VERANDAH SUITES
The two-story Verandah Suites with views of the exotic on-property gardens also underwent a full refurbishment, including the addition of an open bathroom and new layouts to the room and veranda. Each bathroom now boasts porcelain tiles, a free-standing tranquillity soaking tub, a walk-in shower featuring frameless glass shower doors, and a new vanity, while the room refresh includes new Oak closets, a set of sliding doors in lieu of the former windows, a king-sized bed, and bedding and décor in rust, pearl and coral tones. The renovation refreshed the large 12-foot deep verandas overlooking the island with a love-seat and a coffee table to provide a more intimate setting. Both Seaside and Verandah Suites have amenities such as a mini refrigerator, tea and coffee appliances, and docking station.

MALABAR, A TOES–IN–THE–SAND EXPERIENCE
Expected to open in autumn 2015, Malabar continues Rendezvous’ commitment to enhancing their guests’ experiences, by expanding the resort’s current dining options to include an on-the-beach seaside á la carte restaurant that will be partially surrounded by St. Lucia’s exotic greenery. The dining room will rest under an open sail, exposing guests to a soothing ocean breeze and soundtrack, and its décor will include dining tables and chairs hand crafted from the local Samaan tree and drift wood making for a great indigenous eco-friendly restaurant. With a maximum capacity of 40, Malabar will be able to accommodate parties of two, four or eight, and reservations will be required. Guests will be able to enjoy light cuisine made from local island ingredients and daily hand-picked items from the market.

Old Town Chambers, a collection of five star serviced apartments that forms part of a £46m redevelopment of three medieval closes off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, has been accredited with the Association of Serviced Apartment Providers (ASAP) Quality Assessment Marque. The 50 apartments, including a 15th century townhouse and penthouse, blend state-of the-art facilities with centuries old architectural features, such as solid stone walls, original fireplaces and painted wall panels and beams, contrasting against double smoked French oak wooden flooring and Italian tiling, alongside the latest home entertainment system and a 24 hour concierge service.

Emerging from the 15th century Advocate’s, Roxburgh’s and Warriston’s Closes, the apartments capitalise on the historical character of the site as well as some of the most captivating views across the city’s Princes Street Gardens, to give tourist and business visitors a unique city centre experience.

Julie Grieve, CEO of Lateral City, operator of the Old Town Chambers, said:
“We are delighted to have been accredited by The Association of Serviced Apartment Providers. It is an important step in our growth that our standards are measured and we are delighted to have achieved the ASAP marque.

“Serviced apartments are growing in popularity as tourists and business visitors seek out a more independent stay. Our offering at Old Town Chambers is, above all, about style and amazing spaces – from 15th century vaulted rooms to suites with stunning views across Princes Street.”

ASAP Quality Assessment ensures members of the ASAP who have been accredited are compliant with core legal, health & safety practices and provides the industry with a means of measuring and comparing the quality of Serviced Apartments. Every member of the ASAP displaying the marque will have participated in the Quality Assessment Program and have successfully achieve accreditation.
James Foice, Managing Director of the ASAP commented:

“I’d like to congratulate Old Town Chambers for successfully achieving their ASAP quality accreditation.

“Their high quality product and the very high customer service standards achieved are a wonderful example of excellence in our sector.

“We’re delighted that our scheme is now beginning to gain recognition from the corporate travel sector and are now able to announce that we will be rolling it out internationally early next month.”

Roca Corporación Empresarial, S.A. is the parent corporation of a group of companies dedicated to designing, manufacturing and selling bathroom products to architects and interior designers. A world leader in the bathroom industry Roca is active in over 135 markets. It also has an area dedicated to the production and sale of floor and wall tiles in the ceramic tile division.

Founded in 1917, Roca produces and sells everything required to fully equip the bathroom space and you can research their full range through the Directory listings. Over the last few decades Roca has developed an identity through design, characterised by the mesmeric Hadid-designed showroom at Imperial Wharf, next to London’s Chelsea Design centres. Excellence in design and constant adaptation to new market trends have become company hallmarks, accelerated by their acquisition of the Laufen brand.Inherent in this approach are strong environmental credentials, shown in the development of new technologies applied to devices which minimise the consumption of water and energy . The bathroom business claimed world leadership position in the early months of 2006.

At the cutting edge in design Roca’s extraordinary international expansion creates the need to offer versatile products that adapt to the cultures of the different markets in which it operates. For this reason, in 2005 the Roca Design Centre was redefined, centred on research into design trends on the basis of a multicultural, multidisciplinary approach, and the search for and coordination of first-class technological suppliers throughout the world.

The Roca Design Centre has enjoyed the collaboration of the most prestigious architecture studios (Chipperfield, Herzog & de Meuron, Moneo, Ferrater) and design firms (Giugiaro, Schmidt & Lackner, Benedito Design). This focus on design has been rewarded with several distinctions and awards at both national and international levels. The design emphasis really grew with the 2008 Roca Barcelona Gallery, the company’s flagship building and its centre for social, cultural and exhibition activities. A product of Carlos Ferrater’s OAB architecture studio this was the first of the design centres of which Hadid’s Chelsea landmark is one of the latest.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has recently announced the opening of the 122-room Holiday Inn® Indianapolis Airport. The hotel is hiring 50 employees ranging from Food Server, Room Attendants, and Guest Services Representatives.The 82,000sq.-ft.Holiday Inn Indianapolis Airport was developed to be more efficient to build, operate and maintain. It features a contemporary, innovative design that provides accessible comfort and sets new standards for business travellers and families alike. There are currently more than 60 Holiday Inn hotels operating in the Americas in the “Next-Generation” prototype design.

The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar, “Burger Theory.” This new offering from the Holiday Inn® Brand is rustic yet chic designed to be a lively, casual, eating and drinking experience with the bar as the central attraction. This is a new “Concept” for the Holiday Inn brand. The Holiday Inn Indianapolis Airport is only the third hotel to have “Burger Theory.” It features eight draft beers and 24 bottle options with regional and local craft brews, along with a great selection of wine and cocktails. The centralized bar adds a social aspect to the restaurant, with music infusing just the right amount of energy and TV’s that can be seen from virtually any seat. Our friendly and knowledgeable waiters and bartenders are excited to welcome guests to the area, recommend a refreshing beverage and suggest a delicious food item from the menu. The “Concept” is best known for its fresh house-made burgers, utilizing a proprietary grind of USDA Certified Angus Beef. Select from our variety of specialty burgers or customize your own with wide choice of proteins, tasty toppings and buns, freshly prepared with care by our chefs. There are plenty of other great culinary options including savoury starters, freshly crafted salads and our 1/4lb hot dog. You can complete your meal with a signature house-made mini-dessert, served in individual mason jars. And throughout the meal, our warm “guests-come-first”, professional staff takes pride in making all – families, business travellers and groups – feel welcome while serving their meals with a smile. This is a drinking and dining experience that’s tasty, social, relaxing – and fun! Room Service Right…On Time™, also a standard at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time.

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Just as designing good lighting for hotels is about more than creating stylish products that are on trend and look great, being a successful contract supplier is about much more than simply manufacturing mass quantities of product and shipping it on to the associated projects. It’s essential that we consider projects on an individual basis and from multiple perspectives to ensure we can demonstrate that we are meeting not only the requirements of the interior designers but also those of the hotel operators, purchasers and above all else the guests all of whom have differing needs from the same project. So what does each party want?The interior designer is pushing the boundaries more than ever before, always looking to create unique interior schemes for hotels that offer something different and inevitably lighting is an essential part of that. Designers need to feel confident that they are working in collaboration with a knowledgeable and capable lighting specialist, a forward thinking company they can trust to deliver accurate and prompt responses at every stage of a project whether that’s producing drawings and 3D renderings from early design concepts through to creating samples and prototypes and ultimately delivering stylish functional pieces that work and meet exacting contract requirements. It’s not just enough to come up with products that simply look the part, we pride ourselves on not only having a great product selection but also being able to fully cooperate with designers to create design solutions that demonstrate our technical capabilities and flexibility when it comes to manufacturing and design- you have to be able to offer the full package or someone else will.

Hoteliers expect stylish design and quality whilst working to what are often becoming increasingly tighter budgets so it should be a given that both are essential for contract use. Products need to be designed to withstand frequent and often forceful handling and as specialists we need to demonstrate that we can work with clients to recognise their requirements and provide them with well considered lighting solutions that offer long term functionality. Blending cutting edge style with the latest technological developments is becoming more important than ever but we constantly need to ask ourselves how we can make the lighting experience better for the hotelier by saving money on running and maintenance costs. LEDs are now an essential light source in many hospitality spaces as sustainability continues to become even more of a priority so it’s important that we recognise the need to go green as the wave of the future and integrate LED technology into our fittings for future energy saving and in doing so proving our commitment to taking sustainability seriously. The needs of the hotelier don’t just stop once the fittings have been installed, clients want and expect an after sales service so it’s important we are there to support them and help address any issues that may arise. Design, quality, efficiency and price are all important but without the level of service to match all are in danger of becoming secondary no matter how great the product may actually look.

The requirements of the purchaser are arguably the most practical out of the mix. Somewhat less concerned with the overall design and functionality of the products, the purchaser ultimately wants to know they are dealing with a trusted supplier who truly understands the contract market and the associated pressures that go with it. They want to work with a solution focussed company who can meet the varying logistical requirements of a project, one whom they can rely on to deliver on time and within budget. For us, reaching budget levels shouldn’t mean reducing quality, it’s about being flexible and clever in manufacturing to create a specific look that doesn’t compromise the overall design aesthetic yet is achievable on varying budgets especially where lower priced targets are concerned. Excellent service levels are vital and it’s our job as suppliers to be as responsive and agile as possible to ensure the whole process runs smoothly and to instil confidence at every stage of the process.

Lighting really does make or break the traveller’s experience. It’s much more than just about creating the ‘wow factor’ which naturally has to be the designer’s priority and instead needs to address the increasingly multifunctional requirements of the hotel environment and that of the guestroom in particular. One of the biggest complaints to front desks is that guestrooms are under-lit so it’s our job as lighting specialists to work with the designers and hoteliers to light guestrooms and public areas successfully. A hotel room is no longer just a room to sleep in, it has become multifunctional and guests want it to feel like a luxurious home away from home, a place to eat, sleep, work and relax and the lighting scheme needs to reflect the variety of uses. Generating the correct light levels to meet all these functions is critical as is designing lighting controls that guests can understand without having to call for help. For example most guests have dimming functionality at home and expect it in hotels, but they want it to be clearly visible on the product and most of all usable. I have lost count of the number of times I have heard stories of the concierge being called up to the room to explain how to dim the lights, illustrating there needs to be a distinct blend between design and functionality.

As a company we enjoy balancing all those demands and finding the middle ground to ensure all the different parties are satisfied and that the guest has a great hotel experience which makes them want to return.

February Highlights
• UK Provinces continue to overshadow
• RevPAR rises, profits drop in Heathrow hotels
• Manchester performs

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the signing of a 251-room Crowne Plaza® hotel in the heart of New York City. The property is scheduled to open in 2017, and IHG will manage on behalf of the owner, LRR Holdings, LLC. Lance Steinberg and Frank Chan are the majority shareholders of LRR Holdings, LLC. They also own two EVEN® Hotel properties – IHG’s new wellness-focused brand – that are currently under construction in New York with the first to open this year on 35th Street.

Joel Eisemann, Chief Development Officer, The Americas, IHG said: “We are enthused to be adding a new Crowne Plaza hotel to our New York City portfolio. This is a thriving market for hotel development and among the top destinations in the world for business and leisure travellers. We are pleased to expand our relationship with LRR Holdings, LLC, to grow the presence of our new and well-established brands in a priority market, creating even more opportunity for us to meet the needs of travellers now and into the future.”

Lance Steinberg, managing partner, LRR Holdings, LLC said: “Over the course of 20 years, our company has created a 500,000 square-foot collection of owned and managed multi-tenant commercial space, and we are excited to build our hotel portfolio with IHG.”

Autograph Collection Hotels has recently announced the addition of the new and stunning 391-room Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino in Panama City, Panama. This marks the second hotel for Autograph Collection Hotels in Central America following the 2014 addition of Hotel Punta Islita in Costa Rica. The Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino combines a striking, ultra-modern architecture with hand selected high-end amenities and vibrant experiences for travellers and Panamanians alike. Each of the 391 rooms and suites feature luxury bedding, sofa beds, aromatherapy amenities, Nespresso coffee machines, 46” Full HD LED Samsung TV and the fastest performing WiFi in the city.

Owned and operated by Hartin Trading S.A., this stunning new hotel includes 10 dining options from the ultra-chic, fine dining Manabi restaurant and rum bar to the bustling Score sports bar serving Panamanian and Asian favourites.

The Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino is home to the largest and most modern Casino in Panama City with an exclusive VIP Player’s Club. The property also contains a private shopping area with 30 stores at the Mezzanine floor as well as exclusive gastronomy venues and a Play Centre.

The hotel’s luxurious 38 thousand square foot luxurious spa offers a full menu of indulging signature facials, holistic body treatments and a full service salon that brings indulgence to the next level, luminously tiled baths, sauna/steam room, tropical showers, vitality pool and relaxation room.

Casa de Campo, the 7,000-acre luxury resort and golf destination in La Romana, Dominican Republic, has been accepted into membership of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection.

This prestigious portfolio of exceptional properties in some of the world’s most remarkable destinations, are famed for their global sophistication and cultural finesse. The carefully selected properties feature exquisite accommodation, bespoke and intuitive personal service, renowned dining and exceptional spas, setting the stage for the most unforgettable experiences.An exclusive escape situated on the South Eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Casa de Campo offers privacy and seclusion along with spacious hotel accommodation and luxurious villa homes. Guests will experience “The Sporting Life” with classic sports including five Pete Dye-designed golf courses (one of which is the famed Teeth of the Dog), 370-slip Marina & Yacht Club, Polo & Equestrian Club, La Terrazza Tennis Center and skeet/trap shooting at the 245-acre Shooting Club. Additional luxuries include The Casa de Campo Spa, Minitas Beach, Catalina Island, The Beach Club by Le Cirque dining and cultural immersion at Altos de Chavon – an artisan’s village modeled after a 16th-century Mediterranean town.

All guests of Casa de Campo are eligible to enroll in the iPrefer guest loyalty program, which extends points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates. Members will also enjoy elite status and special benefits such as complimentary Internet throughout every stay at more than 550 participating Preferred Hotels & Resorts locations worldwide.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts brings strategic advantage to hotel owners, operators, and management companies through brand prestige and global operating scale as well as supporting the goals of its member hotels. Preferred Hotels & Resorts also provide strategic group, corporate, and leisure sales, integrated marketing solutions, comprehensive revenue management, global connectivity through reservations services, progressive distribution technology, and individualised guest support. Every property within the portfolio is required to maintain the high quality standards and unparalleled service levels required by the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Integrated Quality Assurance Program. Through its five global collections – Legend, LVX, Lifestyle, Connect, and Preferred Residences – Preferred Hotels & Resorts connects discerning travellers to the singular luxury hospitality experience that meets their needs and lifestyle preferences for each occasion.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the opening of the Holiday Inn Express® Cartagena Bocagrande hotel in Cartagena, Colombia. The new-build, 200-room hotel is the second IHG property in the city of Cartagena and the 12th property in Colombia. The Holiday Inn® Cartagena Morros hotel is currently open, and the InterContinental® Cartagena de Indias hotel will open later this year. The new Holiday Inn Express hotel is conveniently located in Bocagrande, the most modern area of Cartagena, which is home to numerous leisure attractions such as hotels, shops, restaurants, nightclubs and art galleries. The hotel is also near the city’s most famous tourist activities, which include the Old City, The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Rosario Islands and Cerro de La Popa.Spanning 14 floors, the property is proud to be an IHG Green Engage™ hotel. The hotel offers guests a comfortable, yet affordable stay with innovative, preferred guest upgrades to ensure a pleasurable experience with amenities that include a 24-hour fitness centre with views of the Old City, two outdoor swimming pools, complimentary high-speed Internet access, a business centre, meeting spaces and complimentary parking. The complimentary Express Start™ breakfast bar features a full range of breakfast items, including regional and local dishes, a rotation of egg and meat selections, breads, yogurt, juices, fruit, pastries, cereals and coffee.

Located on the northern coast of Colombia, Cartagena, one of the oldest cities in the Americas, was founded by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia in 1533. It is Colombia’s fifth-largest urban area with a population of more than 1.2 million, and a key financial hub and tourist destination. Cartagena’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site – a maze of cobbled alleys, balconies covered in bougainvillea and massive churches. Its unique old world charm and modern infrastructure centre has made Cartagena one of Colombia’s most successful cities.

The Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Bocagrande hotel is owned by Grupo Contempo S.A. and is IHG’s fifth project with the company in Colombia.

February Highlights
• Budapest and Warsaw hotels soar
• Challenging month for Dusseldorf and Istanbul
• Baffling indicators in Frankfurt

World-renowned carpet manufacturer Brintons is to launch its brand new collection ‘Brintons Inspirations’ available exclusively, which will be unveiled at a special showcase at Clerkenwell Design Week (19th – 21st May). The designs have been based on three themes, including tropical, geometric and architectural, and a team of global designers worked to develop a range of mood boards to help feed into the final 12 piece collection.

Sarah Draper, Commercial Marketing Manager, said: “Our new Brintons Inspirations collection has been inspired by the latest in colour and fashion from the catwalk, interior design and architecture. Our designers have created a range that showcases their creativity and identifies their inspirational design direction.

“The collection was put together by a team of in-house designers who are at the forefront of carpet design, so that makes Clerkenwell the ideal place to showcase the Brintons Inspirations range as the week marks the very best in design from the UK and across the world.”

The collection will be available to view online as a digital PDF for clients to download and designs will also be uploaded to Brintons’ interactive Design Studio Online, which is a tool for designers and customers to instantly access and search designs.

For more information on Brintons and its range of products and services for the commercial sector, visit www.brintons.net or call 01562 635665.

Marriott International has recently announced the opening of the first stage of the 142-room Fairfield Inn & Suites Saltillo, expanding the brand’s roster of Mexico properties to three. A second tower of the hotel with an additional 41 rooms is currently under construction and slated to open in 2015. The stunning hotel in Saltillo, the largest city in the state of Coahuila, will be operated by Marriott International and is located conveniently close to the General Motors Factory and 2.5 miles from the Saltillo Plan de Guadalupe International Airport.“From the open business lobbies to our modern guest rooms, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Saltillo offer business and leisure guests excellent space and flexibility to optimize their stay,” said Tlaloc Monsivais, General Manager of the Fairfield Inn & Suites Saltillo.

The stunning hotel is entirely smoke-free and features a spacious, contemporary lobby concept that provides travellers with free Wi-Fi and spaces to work or relax with a variety of flexible seating options. The hotel offers modern, comfortable suites with contemporary workspaces, safe deposit boxes, LCD televisions and deluxe bedding. The hotel’s restaurant offers breakfast and other food and beverage services for the discerning traveller. Complimentary high-speed Internet is provided in all guest rooms, meeting rooms and business centres, and the property’s state-of-the-art fitness centres.

“Mexico’s growing middle class and booming economy have generated tremendous demand for mid-priced hotel properties,” said Kevin Schwab, Area Vice President of the Mexico at Marriott International. “We are fortunate to have such an excellent partnership in Mexico with FibraHotel, with whom we look forward to continue to grow many successful hotels within the country.”

“The Fairfield Inn & Suites Saltillo hotel represents our first full conversion with Marriott International, our second hotel in operation, and together with our pipeline, a total of 10 Marriott hotels announced. This opening represents our second hotel in Saltillo, an industrial city in northern Mexico with a very strong automotive industry” said Eduardo Lopez, Managing Director at FibraHotel.

Other Mexican Fairfield Inn & Suites properties include the 128-room Fairfield Inn Los Cabos and the 206-room Fairfield Inn Monterrey Airport. Additionally, FibraHotel is currently developing 3 Farifield Inn & Suites properties, in Villahermosa, Mexico City Vallejo and Juriquilla Queretaro.

The design-led Kartell by Laufen collection has been extended to increase its versatility even further, with the launch of a new floorstanding cistern and WC. Suitable for installation in virtually any bathroom setting thanks to its elegant design, the Kartell by Laufen floorstanding cistern creates a minimal, streamlined finish, Available in a choice of polished or matt white, the WC and cistern can also be treated with Laufen Clean Coat (LCC) to maximise on hygiene while making cleaning easier.

Simple to connect to existing or new plumbing work which is neatly hidden away, the cistern is dual-flush, enabling homeowners to reduce water wastage without compromising on performance. The Kartell by Laufen WC has an equally powerful flush whether at 6/3 litres of 4.5/3 litres.

Made from the highest quality vitreous china, the floorstanding WC features an elegant rounded shape, making it a stylish addition to the contemporary Kartell by Laufen collection.

The floorstanding cistern measures 400mm high x 140mm deep x 980mm high, while the floorstanding WC measures 370mm high x 560mm deep and 430mm high.

As the leading bathroom brand in the Brazilian market, Roca has unveiled a new brassware factory in the north east of the country. Spanning 50,000 square metres, the plant includes production and warehousing facilities for Roca brassware which is manufactured specifically to meet the demands of the Brazilian people in terms of functionality and design. Located in the town of Vitória de Santo Antão, the facility is one of the industry’s most advanced factories in the world, both technically and in terms of the environment and sustainability. The new facility represents a £10million investment for Roca, and has the capacity to produce 1.5 million pieces per year.

Brassware sales in Brazil have increased from 50,000 to 400,000 in just four years, with Roca investing close to £50million in this market over the past five years, employing 3,800 people across its various factories.

With the opening of its new factory, Roca is looking to meet the increasing home demand in Brazil, where the country’s growing middle class has improved the standard of living, developed different preferences and become much more demanding in terms of the quality of the products they choose for their homes.

By locating the manufacturing plant close to the end user in the north east of the country, Roca is able to adapt its products in line with the population’s technical and cultural requirements. Not only is the brassware produced at the new facility designed to meet Brazilians’ styles and tastes, it also meets the country’s water pressure requirements in order to ensure a top performance.

INNSIDE by Meliá, a pioneer of the design-led business hotel movement, is moving to the UK with a Manchester launch this year. INNSIDE seeks to blur the boundaries between business and lifestyle hotels and is Meliá Hotels International’s most successful city brand. The 208 room hotel will be located in the heart of Manchester in the centre of the vibrant First Street development. It will overlook the city’s international centre for contemporary visual art, theatre and film, HOME, with its two theatres, five cinemas and art gallery.

Located minutes away from Manchester’s museum and shopping districts and with easy access to both Manchester’s train stations and Manchester Airport, the hotel is geared towards both business and leisure travellers.

General Manager, Adam Munday, comments: “We’re very much looking forward to the launch of INNSIDE Manchester later this year. The site is looking great and all is on track for its opening in early May. The First Street Development is the perfect location for the brand’s first UK hotel and we’re looking forward to working alongside HOME to create memorable experiences for our guests.”

INNSIDE Manchester’s 208 rooms, including eight studio suites, will continue to follow the INNSIDE brand’s inherent design ethos for stylish, functional and contemporary rooms, with sleek ensuite bathrooms.

The new hotel will also be home to “Street on First”, a restaurant and bar offering an international menu of both traditional and contemporary sharing dishes, inspired by street food around the world. The restaurant, whose aim will be to create ‘food for a social mood’ will be open to both hotel guests and the general public.

The property will also offer a selection of versatile meetings and events spaces with natural daylight spanning 300m² as well as a complete fitness suite, parking and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Meliá Hotels International’s chief executive and vice-chairman, Gabriel Escarrer, said: “The new cultural outlook for Manchester is an ideal framework for the growth of INNSIDE by Meliá, a brand which originated in Germany and which enjoys a fantastic reputation among our customers. We aim to bring INNSIDE to a number of key cities in Europe and across the world in the next few years.”

Located close to Heathrow International Airport, Mercure London Heathrow Hotel has flown to the rescue for guests looking to start their leisure and business travel the right way. The hotel is opening under a franchise agreement with Crimson Hotels Ltd.Contemporary, modern and smart, the new multi-million pound fully refurbished 184 room hotel continues to put the customer welcome at it’s heart by combining the front desk, restaurant, bar, lounge area and business centre. Staying true to its locally inspired roots, the hotel also displays a brand wall made of different leather from various luggage in order to pay homage to the hotel’s vicinity to Heathrow. Guests will be able to enjoy spotting other individualised local touches, which can be found in the design elements that decorate the hotels interior.

Starting from £60 a night, the Mercure London Heathrow Hotel is located less than two miles from London Heathrow Airport and provides easy access to Central London and the M4 / M25 motorways.

Guests can indulge in some fantastic amenities including Borders Restaurant and Bar, Costa coffee, dry gym, extensive meeting facilities and a Hoppa shuttle service (chargeable), that runs guests to the airport from 4am – 11pm. There is something for both leisure and business guests at Mercure London Heathrow Hotel. The hotel offers guests a range of accommodation including standard, superior, privilege rooms and suites. All rooms offer air-conditioning, flat screen television, hairdryer, ironing facilities, complimentary tea tray, mini fridge and laptop bedroom safes as standard. Secure parking and free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.

Jonathan Sheard, SVP Operations Luxury, Upscale & Midscale Hotels, Accor UK & Ireland said, “We are delighted at being able to welcome Mercure London Heathrow Hotel to the network of Mercure Hotels in the UK. Like all of our hotels, it offers fantastic services for both business and leisure guests. All of our hotels are designed to provide a quality experience for our guests from the moment they walk in and our newest hotel is no exception. The hotel’s new look reflects our commitment to providing excellent facilities in each hotel across the country.”

Bed Manufacturer of the Year and Royal Warrant holder, Hypnos has been crowned winner of The Furniture Makers Guild Sustainability Award 2015. This prestigious accolade has been awarded to Hypnos by a panel of renowned experts in the field of furniture making including, Paul von der Heyde, the Master of the Furniture Makers Guild and Phil Reynolds of FIRA. This award is recognition for Hypnos’ dedicated commitment to manufacturing and sustainability and is a symbol of excellence in waste and energy management and signals Hypnos’ commitment to corporate and social responsibility and its continuing ethical development as leaders in the furniture industry.

It is Hypnos’ strong ethical & environmentally friendly values that have helped the business scoop the honour. Every bed is created from the finest, natural materials including FSC or PEFC certified timbers that have been sourced from managed forests which means that all beds are 100% recyclable at the end of their life. Hypnos’ wider responsible approach is emphasised by becoming the first carbon neutral bed maker in the country and by passing the Sedex Ethical Trading Audit.

With ethical bed production at the core of the company’s values, its sustainable credentials also extend to aftercare. The business offers retailers a full disposal service for old beds, with Hypnos’ sister company, The Furniture Recycling Company, deconstructing beds to create recycled raw materials for re-use in other industries. This responsible approach results in 100% landfill avoidance and offers a green and responsible way of disposing of old mattresses and bedding.

It is this responsible philosophy and focus on sustainable design that has enabled Hypnos to scoop this award.

Hypnos’ Group Managing Director, Stephen Ward explains: “We are absolutely delighted to win this award. The fact that it is judged by peers and experts from within the Furniture Industry makes it even more special.

“We are now the current holders of two prestigious Industry Awards, as this win follows the NBF Bed Manufacturer of the Year award in September, which shows that our strategy and performance is now being recognised by the Industry. This is all very encouraging for our team, and will keep us energised and dedicated to driving innovation and sustainability with in the industry for even more years to come.”

Paul Von Der Heyde, Master of the Furniture Makers Guild comments: “Hypnos is highly deserving of this distinction as it was impressive in every category. Highly commended in last year’s awards the company took on the challenge to raise its standards even further to succeed in 2015.”

Jumeirah Group has signed a management agreement with Targets Investment Turizm Isletmeleri AS to operate a luxury hotel in Bodrum on Turkey’s Aegean coast.Following the signing of the agreement, the hotel formerly known as the Golden Savoy will be operated under the Jumeirah brand as Jumeirah Bodrum Palace Hotel, Turkey with an official opening scheduled for 1st May 2015.

The hotel is situated approximately 10 minutes from Bodrum city centre, nestled in the natural beauty of Zeytinlikahve Cove, and 20 minutes from Bodrum International Airport. It is an extravagantly designed luxury hotel consisting of 135 rooms made up of generous suites, luxuriously appointed villas and a six-bedroom Palace. The property covers 110,000m2 and includes a wide range of restaurants, lounges and bars, a Talise Spa with 12 treatment rooms, a number of high-end shops and 57 swimming pools with the majority assigned to the private villas. Every suite and villa offers commanding views over the Aegean Sea.

One of the highlights of Jumeirah Bodrum Palace Hotel is ‘The Palace’, a 2000 m2 palatial residence with uninterrupted sea views, consisting of six deluxe master bedrooms, each with an ensuite and Jacuzzi, a private indoor and outdoor pool with sea water facility, a finely crafted traditional Turkish hammam and sauna, its own exclusive pier and private beach with cabanas. The Palace also has a royal living room and dining room, an entertainment patio and sundeck. Guests have twenty-four hour access to a dedicated butler service.

Jumeirah Group has appointed Mete Atakuman as General Manager of the hotel. An Australian-Turkish citizen, Mete was previously General Manager of Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan, before which he worked for a number of international brands including Hyatt, Starwood and Hilton.

Tourist arrivals in Turkey during 2014 exceeded 40 million, of which 4.3 million visited Bodrum. Jumeirah Group already has a presence in Turkey, having successfully operated the historic Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah in Istanbul since 2011.

Commenting on the management agreement, Targets Investment Turizm Isletmeleri AS Chairman , Mr. Vedat Dalkiran said: “Having opened as the Golden Savoy in 2014 and enjoyed a successful first season, we are delighted to welcome Jumeirah Group as the new operators. The company’s brand reputation, commercial prowess and understanding of luxury hospitality will lift the hotel to the next level of performance and bring a new wave of discerning luxury travelers to this magnificent hotel.”

Gerald Lawless, President and Group CEO of Jumeirah Group, said: “To have the opportunity of extending our brand presence in Turkey is a key strategic development for Jumeirah. To be doing so with such a magnificent hotel on the Turkish Riviera gives us every confidence that our loyal Jumeirah guests will find the same quality of experience that they have come to associate with our hotels around the world. We are grateful to Targets for giving us the opportunity to operate their beautiful hotel in this outstanding destination.”

February Highlights
• Riyadh hotel performance grows but Jeddah witnesses a slow down
• Mixed results for Manama and Sharm El Sheikh hotels in February
• Average room rates surge in Abu Dhabi

The new chesterfield-style Sarina Sofa from GALLERY DIRECT offers a new twist on an old favourite. This sumptuous, dark grey velvet sofa, featuring elegant scroll arms and deep button detailing, is a real luxury statement piece for modern living. The Sarina is just one of the 350 new products launched by Gallery at the January Furniture Show.

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

Editor’s Note: HotelDesigns has a peripatetic reporter in Australia at the moment. He is putting some years of experience designing hotels into practice as a critic, looking at Australian hotels for our magazine. Recently he took a brief trip for a family wedding to Queenstown in Tasmania the Aussie state almost 20% of which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. He writes:I was able to take my 4×4, a mandatory mode of transport around these parts, on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. The ferry departs from the heart of Melbourne and arrives 9 hours later, in Devon Port.

After spending Christmas in the north of the island state, I travelled south to Strahan for New Year. On New Year’s Day I trundled into Queenstown, a mining town in Tasmania’s south-western wilderness. It is perhaps best known for the “moonscape” surrounding the town. Logging to supply the local smelters has allowed the topsoil to be washed away from the surrounding mountains. This has revealed the rock beneath and leaving a stark landscape vista into which trees are only slowly growing back.

My visit was meant to be brief, to look at the town and browse the gift shop at the heritage steam Wilderness Railway there. However, as I was leaving the town, travelling at no more than 15kph (less than 10mph), there was a loud bang and one of the front wheels fell off my vehicle. This resulted in my being stranded in Queenstown for a further week and becoming something of a celebrity in the town.

This also gave me the enforced opportunity to stay at the Empire Hotel, in the centre of town. This historic hotel, built in 1901, is directly across the road from the railway station. The railway is now a tourist attraction, with its steam locomotives converted to run on old engine oil, but it was once the only way to transport minerals from Queenstown to the harbour town of Strahan, to be exported by boat.

The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, a famous London landmark, has been entertaining the masses since the 17th Century. The current building dating from the 19th Century has recently been refurbished, with Wilton Carpets Commercial providing 750 square metres of high quality bespoke carpet.Restoring the theatre to its former glory, the entrance, landing, stairways and the Grand Saloon have been fitted with woven carpet that reflects the theatre’s period interior.

Working alongside interiors expert Edward Bulmer, David Bamford of D&S Bamford (Makers) Ltd was tasked with sourcing a manufacturer capable of producing a carpet that would be a fitting tribute to the venue’s heritage, reflecting the grandeur and magnificence expected of one of London’s most famous theatres. With Wilton Carpets Commercial’s renowned bespoke service, David commissioned the Wiltshire based company to produce an 11-row woven axminster construction to deliver the perfect solution with exceptional clarity in design and one that would retain its good looks despite heavy footfall.

Taking inspiration from a design by the theatre’s original architect, B D Wyatt, for Tatton Park in Cheshire, Edward used his wealth of experience to create bespoke designs using Wilton’s versatile selection of stock colours in perfect combination.

Edward was most enthused by the Grand Saloon, explaining, “The original plan was to install wood flooring in this most beautiful of rooms, as had been the case for many centuries before. However, we were always concerned about the acoustics of the room so sought an answer that would ensure the room remained in keeping with its history as well as meeting modern day concerns. Therefore, instead of choosing a wall-to-wall carpet, we opted for a carpet that left the wood floor exposed around the edges of the room. In effect, the timber floor acts as a frame to a beautiful piece of artwork; the design comprises blues, greens, reds and a striking gold that offset the recreated Wyatt colour scheme with green marble and architectural gilding.”

Along with the more subtle beige design used in the entrance, landing and stairway, the Grand Saloon carpet was installed by Bollin Valley Flooring of Macclesfield. The carpet has received acclaim from visitors and staff alike, who have marvelled at the stunning design created by Edward, the team at D&S Bamford, and Wilton Carpets Commercial, and the whole scheme has been awarded Best Restoration of a Georgian Interior by the Georgian Group.

“Working with Wilton Carpets Commercial was a smooth process, offering a service that was exactly as bespoke as we needed it to be,” explains Edward. “For instance, the stair runner was added at a late stage of the project, demonstrating the company’s flexibility as well as its impressive attention to detail.”

For further information contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com

From checks to herringbones, The Wool Collection from Création Baumann has it covered.The Wool Collection consists of 4 classic woven designs, one multi coloured print fabric and 2 cushions.

These quality upholstery fabrics woven from 80% Wool and 20% Nylon come in a colour palette inspired by nature: Soft powder tones, shades of stone to earthy masculine greys.

Having welcomed a new hotel to the brand in the very first week of the new year, SLH is not taking any breaks in 2015, which promises to be the best year yet. According to Paul Kerr, CEO for SLH “this is our 25 anniversary year and we hope to welcome many new hotels to the brand from across the globe, especially in cities and destinations we don’t currently have a presence. We are thrilled to welcome the following three new hotels who all joined at the end of 2014.”The Laslett Notting Hill, London – OPENING SUMMER 2015

The Laslett Notting Hill will host 51 well-appointed bedrooms and suites, spread across five listed Victorian townhouses on Pembridge Gardens, London. It is named after well-loved community activist, Rhaune Laslett, who organised the first Notting Hill Festival. Made famous by the film, Notting Hill is also known for Portobello Road Market, the world’s largest for antiques, as well as for its fashionable restaurants and bars. Inspired by this vibrant local scene, the look and feel of The Laslett will evoke the sense of walking into a friend’s stylish home. The interior design is the work of architects and designers from Waldo Works, who are widely known for their contemporary British flair. Pieces from British designers such as Simon Day, Pinch and Earnest Race complement this design, whilst art and photography from celebrated local names adorn the walls.

The public space downstairs is part coffee shop, part bar-kitchen, part gallery and part concept store, with regular art exhibitions and a locally sourced food and drink selection that will evolve throughout the day. Offering in-room spa treatments and pop-up dining opportunities, The Laslett promises to be a firm favourite for visitors and locals alike in the heart of Notting Hill.

Lijiang’s Patio, Lijiang, China – OPENED FEBRUARY 2015

Lijiang is one of China’s hidden gems – combined with beautiful natural sceneries such as Lugu Lake, Tiger Leaping Gorge and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the ancient UNESCO town – Dayan Town – it’s the perfect escape from everyday life. Lijiang’s Patio offers 22 private residences at an enviable address in the centre of the city. Guests arrive and take part in the hotel’s traditional tea ceremony before being shown to their private villa.

When guests leave the hotel, they will find themselves transported back in time with historic bridges and cobbled streets running alongside beautiful canals and all against the back drop of the epic Jade Dragon Snow mountain, which can been seen from both the town and privately from the individual villas. Guests can also enjoy the Qin Cambodian Spa after a long day of exploring. In the evenings, wine tasting events are often held at the Wyatt Wine Cellar, while for those who partake, the hotel offers guests the only Cigar Bar in town with some of the world’s finest luxury cigars.

Continued on page two…

Surrounded by glorious Kent countryside, Hever Castle offers luxury Bed and Breakfast accommodation in the Astor Wing of the Castle – an Edwardian annexe created by William Waldorf Astor, designed in Tudor style. This period property boasts a fine collection of 19 stunning ‘five-star gold’ graded suites – overlooking a private garden area. The magnificent accommodation has recently been extended to encompass a new wing. This ambitious project took place in what was once staff accommodation and storage areas, overlooking a historic orchard and the exterior of Hever Castle. Now known as the ‘Anne Boleyn Wing’ the space comprises a series of 9 new suites and a breakfast room, all taking full advantage of the views, with each suite being aptly named after different varieties of English apples.

The Brief: Interior designer Sarah Clark, of ‘Interiors at Nine to Eleven’, was commissioned to create an individual look and feel for each suite. All needed to encompass historical elements, modern comforts and contemporary style. In this new space Sarah was asked to retain the feel of the existing Astor Wing, which she had already refurbished, but this time was asked to ‘spread-her-wings’ and in doing so was given the freedom to introduce a unique personality to each suite. Lighting control and a relaxing and cosy ambiance within each space was a priority too. For Sarah elements of continuity and finishing touches were the point of difference – selecting a suitable lighting control system and the perfect switch plates and sockets were a must.

The Solution: The backdrop of the Castle, the angle of natural light, how the room sat within the space and the need to use some existing pieces of furniture provided Sarah with a unique starting point around which to evolve the design of each room. The theme chosen by Sarah that shone through across the project was rooted in Anne Boleyn’s Royal Court but with a significant Edwardian feel by way of a nod to the Astor family.

Every suite was individually designed with continuity and flow achieved via the bathrooms and fixtures and fittings. Sarah was drawn to the Hamilton Range initially through her research to identify the optimum lighting control system. Hamilton’s Mercury® Lighting Control system fitted the project needs perfectly – simple to install, cleverly designed and easy for hotel staff and guests to use. Once engaged with Hamilton Sarah was delighted to discover the stunning switch plate & socket designs and finishes. This together with the fact that Hamilton offers a bespoke and consultative design and production service along with complete integration of lighting control and traditional circuit lighting, provided the ideal solution. Hamilton delivered a personal service, assessing the project on site and drawing up a tailored specification for each area of the project working with Sarah and her electrical contractor to deliver support at every level. Sarah selected the Hartland CFX® collection in Richmond Bronze for its intensity and depth of colour. Essentially neutral with a deep tone to seamlessly blend with the colours and textures of the fabrics and surfaces in each individually styled room.

Ambiance was enhanced within the suites with lighting control. A bespoke 4 button control plate, featuring different settings – engraved with the words ‘Bright’, ‘Calm’, ‘Cosy’ and ‘Off’, were fitted at the entrance to each suite. The plates were made to Sarah’s exact specifications with input and advice from Hamilton to create a stylish end result. In addition to this the lighting levels were originally factory set but Hamilton walked Sarah and her team through the control settings and the 4 final light levels were adjusted by the client. This bespoke addition was just one of several special tailored solutions fulfilled by Hamilton at the request of the designer.

The Result: The elegance and rich heritage of this project were enhanced by the lighting control and switch plate & socket solution afforded by Hamilton. Essentially, Hamilton’s expertise in integrating smart technology sympathetically and seamlessly within a ‘Heritage’ environment proved to be invaluable throughout this project. An instant cosy ambiance was communicated and delivered via the bespoke engraved switch plates and pre-set lighting levels. Most importantly, from Sarah’s perspective, the Richmond Bronze finish of the plates added a coordinated flow through all the suites, which were otherwise individually styled.

Project interior designer Sarah Clark of Interiors at Nine to Eleven says: “I was initially drawn to Hamilton for its Mercury® Lighting Control system and range of stunning switch plates & sockets which perfectly suited the needs of this project. However I soon came to appreciate and value the fabulous personal service and consultative approach provided by the Hamilton Team. I know we achieved the best system we could for the space. Hamilton was outstanding and a pleasure to work with. Everyone I came in contact with gave huge attention to detail. The price was cost effective too and worked within our budget.”

In summary, it’s not hard to imagine Anne Boleyn, a previous Hever Castle resident, and of course the Astor family being delighted with the end result too! Sarah found and made contact with Hamilton initially at Interiors UK 2014 at the NEC – she says: “The Hamilton team on the exhibition stand were friendly, knowledgeable and in no way pushy. No hard sell just straightforward and informative communication!”

Global Hotel Alliance (“GHA”) recently announced Viceroy as its latest member brand, expanding the Alliance’s presence in North America, the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and the Middle East, with some of the hospitality brand’s most luxurious properties being incorporated into the Ultratravel Collection, in addition to Viceroy’s Urban Retreat properties in San Francisco and New York City also joining.Positioned as a full-service modern luxury hotel brand, Viceroy is the flagship brand of Viceroy Hotel Group, delivering an exciting array of 5 star hotels and resorts located across the world. With hotels in five locations globally: Mexico, US, Caribbean, Maldives and UAE and future properties located in the Middle East, Portugal and Colombia, Viceroy offers a stunning collection of hotels and resorts to choose from, further enhancing GHA’s current portfolio.

Chris Hartley, GHA’s CEO, is thrilled to welcome the contemporary lifestyle brand to the GHA family: “Viceroy Hotel Group joins us at an exciting time, not only as we continue to strengthen our presence in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations, but also just as we re-launch our DISCOVERY loyalty programme, with a stronger emphasis on the individuality of our member brands. We feel privileged to have Viceroy’s prestigious properties included within our portfolio, both under GHA as well as Ultratravel Collection; and we are now able to offer our 5.4 million DISCOVERY members an even larger variety of hotels to choose from.”

Bill Walshe, Viceroy Hotel Group CEO, is excited about the opportunity of the company’s properties joining both GHA and Ultratravel Collection: “GHA is a unique proposition, co- created with real travelers seeking timely and authentic recognition. As a leader in modern luxury hospitality, it is Viceroy’s privilege to join a movement that believes in the personal currency of ‘life long memories’ as the ultimate expression of loyalty. We are proud to join such an extraordinary collection of hotel brands, and we look forward to collaborating with them to deliver amazing experiences to guests from across the globe.”

The integration of Viceroy Hotels & Resorts into GHA and Ultratravel Collection will be completed by the beginning of April 2015, bringing GHA’s network to over 550 hotels and 31 independent brands.

This Spring, Thanos Hotels unveiled Anassa’s newly renovated rooms and launched the hotel’s standalone fashion store – Kult Boutique. Reopened on the 16th March for the season, Anassa revealed the refreshed suites including the upgraded garden studio suites, junior suites and villas, which unifies tradition and modernity and effortlessly enhances Anassa’s understated at-home design.With a combination of custom-made oak furniture and furnishings, luxurious silks and linens in nautical blues and understated taupes, Anassa’s new look exudes a refined and elegant, yet contemporary Mediterranean feel. These new suites offers guests a beach-chic apartment vibe and an atmosphere of cool comfort and welcoming warmth. The renovation was conceived by legendary Parisian interior designer Joelle Pleot and brought to life by local artisans, Andreas Charalambous Konteatis and brothers Costas and Aggelos Charalambous who, having worked with the owners for 20 and 30 years respectively understand and appreciate the ethos of Thanos Hotels.

Speaking about the renovation, Managing Director Thanos Michaelides said, “Anassa is an institution in her own right. We are blessed to have been working with the same artisans and designers since she opened, all of whom truly understand what she represents. The renovations really elevate Anassa’s elegant allure, while maintaining her distinctive character and uniqueness. The results are truly beautiful.”

The opening of Kult Boutique sets a new precedent. This 300 square-metre retail space has been envisioned by architectural and interior designer, Paolo Giachi – renowned for his work with luxury fashion houses from the Louis Vuitton and Fendi stores in Florence to the Smythson stores in New York and Los Angeles. Kult’s interiors, designed in Giachi’s typical style, feature local stone and hardwood floors paired with dramatic oak and bronze furnishings. Kult offers a shopping haven for men and women with ready-to-wear clothing and accessories from Prada, Miu Miu, Bottega Veneta, Stella McCartney, Saint Laurent, Jimmy Choo, and Aqua Di Parma.

Anassa’s sister property Annabelle also sees in the new season with renovated sea-view rooms. True to the hotel’s classic colonial style these new rooms feature updated wooden furnishings, a modern and fresh colour scheme and traditional shutter doors. This update sees the final phase of the property’s upgrade being complete.

With an unrivalled aesthetic and technical reputation, this unique material’s construction is still a highly guarded secret. This means Alcantara cannot be pigeon-holed into any product category, it is a category in its own right!Made by a sophisticated industrial process, Alcantara’s strength is that it is extraordinarily versatile. It can be moulded into endless possibilities and used to cover any shape or surface whilst still maintaining the highest industry standards.

In a nutshell, Alcantara is;
Beauty – elegant and sophisticated
Textural – soft and comfortable
Reliable – light, strong and durable
Eco-friendly – 100% Carbon Neutral
Colour – with a virtually limitless palette
Thickness – minimum 0.4 mm to maximum 1.2 mm
Technical properties – water repellent, cleanable, breathable and many more; passes IMO 652 & Crib 5
Surface options – printing, embossing, embroidery, electro-welding and many others

Alcantara’s S/S 2015 collection, Acqua, is an exploration into the endless design possibilities of this unique product, using numerous decorative techniques – plaiting and knitting, laser-cut motifs, beautiful laminas and prints combined with embroidery – to create articles which interpret the unfathomable transience of water, drawing inspiration from mythological figures or water related elements. The colour palette ranges from the soft tones of ivory and sand to blues and surprises us with unexpected touches of turquoise.

Altfield is proud to be the new home for this one of a kind product.

Working in collaboration with Richmond International, Chelsom created a series of custom designed pieces as part of the lighting scheme for the stunning 5* boutique hotel, The Beaumont, the first hotel by iconic restauranteurs Jeremy King and Chris Corbin which opened in the heart of London’s Mayfair in the autumn to international acclaim.Originally built as a car garage in 1926, the Grade-II Listed building by famed 20’s architects Wimperis & Simpson offers a pure Art Deco style, the interior of which has been impeccably designed by Richmond International to take the hotel back to its roots and in doing so encapsulating the classic glamour of pre-war Mayfair.

The interior combines a rich palette of colours and materials with elegant, timeless pieces selected to emphasise the exuberance of this visual and influential period.

Designed to enhance the exquisite interior scheme, all fittings created by Chelsom for the guestrooms and public areas were heavily influenced by the Art Deco era.

The timeless Hub Cap desk lamp with its elegant design featuring a beautifully curved shallow canopy and sweeping arm was chosen for all of the guestrooms and suites throughout the hotel, specified in a bespoke brass finish specially created for the project.

Chelsom also supplied a series of bespoke 1920’s inspired geometric wall and ceiling lights made from frosted glass with matt black steel metalwork for the public area spaces including corridors and lift lobby areas whilst decorative semi- circular wall lights with solid glass rods and Polished Chrome metalwork were chosen to add understated glamour to The Lotos Room private dining area.

Amsterdam’s famed Hotel Pulitzer, a historic hotel of 25 canal houses with over 400 years of heritage, is to join the Preferred Hotels & Resorts LVX Collection from 1st April 2015. In addition, the 230 room property is to undergo a phased renovation from late April, bringing back a quintessential Dutch elegance and style to the hotel. Blending modern and traditional influences, the design concept is inspired by a contemporary twist on the elegant gables of Amsterdam’s canal houses, which give the city its unique skyline and architecture.Preferred Hotels & Resorts represents the finest and most diverse global portfolio of independent hotels and independent hotel experiences. The brand’s LVX collection offers guests an exceptional and elegant collection of renowned properties in vibrant cities and resort destinations globally, featuring the finest accommodations accompanied by attentive, engaging, and exclusive personal service.

“We are delighted to welcome the beautiful Hotel Pulitzer as our newest European property. The hotel blends luxury service with a classically Dutch ambience, while evoking the city’s Golden Age of merchant-explorers to our discerning guests,” said Philipp Weghmann, Executive Vice President of Europe for Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “Hotel Pulitzer aligns perfectly with our brand standards of excellence and the distinct offerings required of the LVX collection. We look forward to a long and successful partnership.”

Located in the heart of the city, on the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, Hotel Pulitzer is the perfect location for visitors to discover the charm, culture and quirkiness Amsterdam has to offer. Guests stay in a collection of 25 connecting Golden Age canal houses with intimate rooms, a tranquil inner garden, meeting & events space, as well as a restaurant and bar that showcase local tastes and produce.

Alex Van Gastel, General Manager Hotel Pulitzer, said, ‘Working with Preferred Hotels & Resorts gives us a great platform and a professional partner to connect with our global audience, who have been coming to this hotel for over 45 years. The upcoming renovation will enable us to showcase a truly unique Amsterdam Hotel to our guests and to the city. The hotel is a maze of secrets and surprises, tucked away behind a beautiful, historic façade, which will be revealed in its full glory in 2016.’

The first phase of the renovation will commence from late April, with a complete refurbishment of the bar, restaurant and meeting rooms, as well as the renovation of 80 rooms in one wing (Keizersgracht side). In January 2016 the new look Hotel Pulitzer will be revealed. The second phase will then start, with the next wing (Prinsengracht side) of the hotel being renovated until the Autumn 2016. The hotel’s unique layout means that a phased renovation has minimal impact on the guest experience and the hotel can remain open while the work is carried out.

Guests staying at the Hotel Pulitzer will be eligible to enrol in the iPrefer guest loyalty programme, which extends points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates, elite status, and special benefits such as complimentary Internet to members at more than 550 participating Preferred Hotels & Resorts locations worldwide.

Crowne Plaza Kensington, positioned in the heart of London SW7 has announced a significant refurbishment project working with London-based architects and interior design practice Jestico + Whiles. The Crowne Plaza’s boutique London outpost will unveil a complete refurbishment of all accommodation on the 1st May 2015, offering its guests a chic new look and feel.Kensington’s ultimate neighbourhood hotel housed behind a wonderfully imposing Victorian stucco façade offers an intimate oasis for its guests in a prime London location. The townhouse property has successfully established a home from home ethos, with exceptional and welcoming service, above and beyond the expected.

The hotel’s162 rooms, some of which are amongst the largest in London, include 20 split-level suites providing apartment style living with the luxuries of impeccable hotel service. Its facilities include a destination pan-Asian restaurant, Umami, cocktail bar and club Lounge plus exceptional meeting facilities featuring five high-tech rooms, giving the destination broad appeal. Unique to only a handful of London hotels, The Crowne Plaza is also home to a one-acre garden oasis overlooking the Victorian church of St Stephens.

With its ground floor lobby, bar and library areas refurbished in 2012 to offer a stylish townhouse meeting place for guests and local residents, 2015 will elevate the property’s accommodation to exceed expectations. With the appointment of Jestico + Whiles, its rooms and suites will offer a new design emulating a true London spirit.

In a contemporary twist with heritage London accents, the new look, executed in a clean and contemporary style, will lean heavily on London Regency and Georgian reference points. Incorporating geometric, period-style references throughout the rooms from furniture arrangements to floor patterns.

Significant upgrades to the hotel’s guest rooms will include brand new flooring, echoing references of the iconic black and white Victorian tiling of the borough and textured wall coverings. Brand new furniture, which is functional yet stylish, focuses on British craftsmanship from dense tweed ottomans and easy chairs to hand stitched leather dining chairs. New desks will feature glamorous pop-up vanity units and faux leather and fabric crafted headboards to flank the hotel’s signature Sleep Advantage beds.

The hotel’s 20 split-level suites will echo a similar design yet feature a dedicated lower ground living space complete with living and dining areas including sumptuous sofa beds, making these spaces perfect for families. Upper levels are accessed by fresh white painted wooden staircases to a haven of sumptuous design tailored for the ultimate sleep in the city.

All corridors will be re-styled with a nod to the property’s London townhouse heritage, featuring cool steely grey textured walls combining faux leather stitched panels, slick lighting design and graphic print carpets. Accents of ironmongery will dress guest bedroom doors and elevators also re-dressed to feature a combination of painted wood panels, silver mirrors and faux leather panel surrounds.

As part of the hotel’s next phase the property has recently completed a renovation of its meeting and events facilities. With a total area of 563 square metres, across five meeting rooms, function spaces offer flexible configurations and high tech facilities, supervised by a highly skilled events team. All spaces have been re-painted offering bright white space for guests and delegates, with the addition of magnetic, ‘write on’ movable walls, brand new concealed projector facilities, flat screen TVs staggered throughout the rooms and state of the art AV systems operated via an in-house iPad.

Ideally located within a few minute’s walk from Gloucester Road tube station, Crowne Plaza Kensington offers fast and efficient access to Heathrow, Central London and Earls Court and is within walking distance to some of London’s most coveted museums and shops including The Natural History Museum, V&A and Harrods.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the opening of the new-build 112-room Staybridge Suites® Albany Wolf Road-Colonie Centre hotel located near the Albany International Airport. The hotel is the ninth IHG property in Albany and the first Staybridge Suites in the Capital Region.Robert Radomski, Vice President, Brand Management, Staybridge Suites® and Candlewood Suites® Brands said:“The opening of this property marks our eighth Staybridge Suites hotel in New York state. We are thrilled that we are now able to offer the home-like and community living experience that the Staybridge Suites brand is known for to those who are visiting the Albany area.”

The new property offers well-designed spacious guestrooms which include a mix of studio and one-and two-bedroom/two-bathroom suites, along with more than 900 square feet of meeting space. Amenities such as a complimentary daily hot breakfast buffet and evening reception, daily housekeeping, guest laundry room, fitness centre, indoor pool, 24-hour business centre and outdoor living room with barbecue and fire pit are available for all guests.

Robert Huber, General Manager said: “We believe the unique offerings of the Staybridge Suites brand are a strong fit for this market. With our convenient location near the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, we anticipate many corporate travellers from the nano technology and computer chip manufacturing fields who will appreciate the home-like amenities that our hotel provides to these long-term guests.”

The hotel, located at 39 Wolf Road, is owned by Turf Colonie LLC and managed by Turf Hotels.

A new five-star boutique hotel is to be built alongside the multi-award-winning Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort on Portugal’s Algarve coast. The Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel – which features 18 rooms and two suites – will open in spring 2016 and will offer stunning 180-degrees views to the Bay of Lagos, with beds facing the windows so guests wake up looking towards the three-mile Meia-Praia beach. The new hotel will adopt the same service ethos as its sister property, the Onyria Marinha Edition Hotel, in Cascais, which was voted the number-one hotel in Europe and number three in the world by users of the award-winning review site TripAdvisor® in 2013. The hotel – the first in the resort – will overlook both the 18th green and the practice area, just a short distance from the beach, and will also provide hospitality services to villa owners at the destination, such as concierge, housekeeping and food and beverage. António Pinto Coelho, the resort’s operations general director, said: “We believe the new hotel will be the finest of its type in Lagos.

The description ‘beach house’ comes from the location and view, and the home comforts of the service level – whether guests are in the privacy of their rooms, in the bar, restaurant or in the swimming pool. “The quality of service will be second-to-none as we maintain the same standards in our hotel as on the golf course, standards which have seen us win a number of prestigious awards and be voted into the top 100 courses of Europe.

“The opening of the hotel will be the final part of the jigsaw at Palmares, after the redesign of the golf course and the real-estate launch, following the traditional Onyria method of development, which has proved so successful elsewhere. “It will be the perfect vacation spot for golfers as, not only does it afford simple, stress-free access to 27 holes of award-winning golf, it also overlooks some of the layout’s links-style holes, described by the course designer, Robert Trent Jones Jr, as a ‘warmer Scotland’.” The boutique hotel follows on the heels of a successful launch of a limited number of villa plots at the distinctive site, with each either overlooking the sea or with views of the renowned Ria de Alvor nature reserve, one of the most important coastal wetlands in southern Portugal.

Construction on the hotel is scheduled to begin in June 2015 with an opening anticipated for spring 2016. The planning license also allows for another 152 hotel rooms to be built in stages. Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort reopened only in 2011 following an extensive, €10m redesign by Trent Jones Jnr, and has been inundated with accolades ever since. The readers of one of Europe’s best-selling golf magazines, Today’s Golfer, voted Palmares joint runner-up in the best Portuguese course category in the publication’s annual travel awards. Palmares became a new entry, at 26th, in Golf World’s poll of the Top 100 European Golf Courses, in 2011, and, last year, jumped a further three places to 23. It was also listed as the third best course in Portugal by Golf Digest, the number one distributed sports title in the USA – a little more than a year after opening – and won Portugal’s ‘national tourism Oscar’, at the Publituris Portugal Travel Awards, for best golf course, for three successive years, 2012-14. The three loops of nine holes – the Alvor, Lagos and Praia courses – enjoy expansive panoramic views across the Bay of Lagos, with each lay-out offering a different kind of golfing challenge in a glorious and natural environment. The multi-award-winning 27-hole set-up is following Onyria’s traditional business model, with a five-star hotel and a selection of plots for villas which have been released on to the property market.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the opening of Sheraton® Samui Resort, underscoring the brand’s expansion in Thailand and building upon 2014’s global growth momentum. Owned by TCC Hotels Group, a member of the TCC Land Group, Sheraton Samui is a conversion hotel that features 141-rooms situated on the beautiful Chaweng Noi Beach on the island of Koh Samui. Sheraton Samui Resort is the newest addition to the area, joining three existing Starwood hotels in Koh Samui while also building upon the current Sheraton portfolio of five dynamic Thai-based properties—Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas, Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort, and Sheraton Pattaya Resort.

Koh Samui, a popular destination for both short and long-haul markets, is easily accessible from several major airline hubs and is a quick fifteen minute drive from Samui International Airport (USM). The property is also conveniently located near excellent nightlife, fashionable shopping districts and popular attractions ranging from the pristine Chaweng Beach to the temple of Wat Kunaram. Adventure seekers can take boat trips to the nearby Angthong National Park and islands of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan for world class diving and snorkelling.

Sheraton Samui Resort boasts 141 well-appointed guest rooms and suites with a stylish blend of modern décor and light pastel colours. Each room features the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper™ Bed, a bathroom with separate shower and bathtub, high speed Internet access, 42″ LCD TV and a private balcony with garden or ocean views.

Upon arrival at the lobby lounge, guests are treated to breathtaking panoramic ocean views through a glass-encased balcony, alongside a lighthouse inspired water feature as part of the “oceanic wave” design concept of the resort. On-site recreational facilities include 24-hour access to Sheraton Fitness®, tennis facilities, and also two salt-water swimming pools. Guests can also pamper themselves at the Glow Spa with seven treatment rooms, offering a range of signature massage and wellness treatments.

Guests will be spoilt for food and beverage choices at the resort’s four bars and restaurants. Coco Spice serves a sumptuous buffet breakfast spread in a contemporary dining experience; and in the evening it serves a menu featuring a fusion of eastern and western cuisines. Long Talay is an all-day beachfront dining restaurant with an open kitchen concept, allowing guests front row views as boldly flavoured Thai and seafood dishes are prepared. Blue Monkey, with its distinctive wave-inspired bamboo roofing, is an open air beach club style bar that offers another social venue for guests on a stunning beach front location. In addition, guests can also visit the resorts’ lobby lounge bar for bite-sized international and Pan-Asian snacks.

Sheraton Samui Resort offers a relaxed and inspiring social venue for corporate events, meetings, weddings and functions. The resort features fully-equipped function and pre-function spaces totalling 156 square meters, including outdoor venues with panoramic ocean views.