Hotel Designs

NEWS AND ANALYSIS FOR HOTELIERS, DESIGNERS AND INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS
Louvre Hotels to open properties in Middle East and Africa

Louvre Hotels Group opening 40 economy hotels in MENA region

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Louvre Hotels Group has strengthened its position in the Middle East and North Africa by announcing the opening of 40 economy hotels over the next five years.

A seasoned player in the Middle East region with 60 hotels and over 8,000 rooms, Louvre Hotels Group brings its experience into play to meet the market dynamic. With the support of its shareholder Jin Jiang International, the hotel group continues its development strategy on the low-end and mid-range segments by privileging its Première Classe and Campanile brands, operating a network of over 650 hotels worldwide. The Group’s next step is to open 40 new hotels in the region within the next 5 years.

Since it was launched in 1989, Première Classe has renewed the super-budget hotel sector by adopting a veritable strategy combining low-cost and comfort. The brand delivers the promise of a unique experience: essential comfort, all-you-can-eat breakfast and modern and functional rooms with WiFi access. Today, Première Classe counts 264 hotels in 6 countries.

Campanile, the historic French brand founded in 1976, counts 375 hotels in 8 European countries and is the fourth largest restaurant network in France. To create the right design match for its brand image, authentic and welcoming, the brand called on French designer Patrick Jouin, while Michelin-starred chef Philippe Renard worked on its restaurant menu. 2016 will be an important year in Campanile’s globalisation strategy; in addition to moving into the Middle East, it will open its first hotel in Shanghai, China in the summer this year.

“By developing Première Classe and Campanile on the Middle East and North African markets where our 4- and 5-star brands are already established, we are meeting a real local need for economy hotels by offering clients uncompromising service quality,” explains Pierre-Frédéric Roulot, President and CEO of Louvre Hotels Group.

The first Première Classe hotel will open its doors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 2018, while the first Campanile hotel locations will be announced in the coming months. These new opportunities dovetail into the Group’s international development strategy, while meeting needs identified by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

According to the UNWTO, the number of international tourists in the Middle East grew by 3% in 2015 to reach a total of 54 million, consolidating a recovery begun in 2014.

Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square

Details of Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square London revealed

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Four Seasons has announced the details of its second hotel in London at the Grade II-listed Ten Trinity Square.

Intimate at only 100 accommodations including ten signature suites, no expense is being spared in creating a truly luxurious experience including two destination restaurants plus a vibrant bar and lounge in a beautiful rotunda. For relaxation, there’s the most lavish spa sanctuary in the City of London. The gracious meeting rooms are highlighted by the historic UN Ballroom.

The hotel will join sister property Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, as well as the brand’s country estate at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire.

Ten Trinity Square is within a 20-minute drive of London City Airport, and is also just 20 minutes from both the West End and London’s second financial district of Canary Wharf.

The anticipated opening is in late 2016.

Pergo Environment

Guest Blog – Pergo: ‘Meeting demands of the environmentally conscious…’

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Eco-consciousness and sustainability is having more and more of an impact on how hotels are designed and built – not to mention how they are decorated inside. Guests are becoming savvy and expect hotel groups to offer a product that meets their standards of environmental responsibility; much the same way as they do with their food products or their cars.

Guest bloggers and Hotel Designs Directory members Pergo talk below about how their products are being used by ecologically-minded hoteliers and designers…

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RELATED: Technology, sustainability demands impacting hotel design
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Environmental issues press more and more heavily on us all as the realisation of the fragility of our planet begins to dawn on us. Who can honestly say these days that they don’t look at the provenance and number of artificial additives in their products or the overall ecological promises of a brand?

Hotel guests are equally insistent. What are the corporate and socially responsibility ambitions of the hotel operator? The travel managers of large corporates do not allow bookings at hotels that do not meet their own minimum standards for recycling and waste management, re-use, local sourcing, the environmental-suitability of cleaning products and similar criteria.

Pergo Environment

These factors are used to judge whether or not your hotel makes it on the preferred supplier list of companies who need thousands of room nights every year. At a more personal level, checks on the availability of hypoallergenic pillows and whether or not the hotel has got carpets or wood floors are becoming more commonplace from health-conscious guests.

And surely the most environmentally-sound products are those that last forever. Stone is a good example. Take a marble bath surround that never has to be replaced then. Putting aside the environmental costs of procurement and installation, it is truly sustainable.

Similarly Pergo’s commitment to quality means that they can offer lifetime warranties on most of their products. Not only does this express supreme confidence it also shows a commitment to a sustainable future. Another commitment by Pergo is to only use wood sourced from sustainable forests having either the FSC or PEFC certification. Every tree used is replaced and therefore CO2 emissions are naturally stored in the wood flooring. How neat is that!?

For more information on Pergo’s sustainability commitment and their products, visit pro.pergo.co.uk
T: +447584459226
M: +447584459226
E: laura.sandles@unilin.co.uk

St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

Starwood Hotels debuts St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

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St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, announced this week the debut of the brand’s 38th hotel with the opening of The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur.

The hotel combines both, modern-day glamour with old-world elegance, encompassing thoughtful design elements for convenience, privacy and security; offering an unrivalled dimension of luxury, sophistication and bespoke service. The hotel is located in the prestigious Kuala Lumpur Sentral Precinct (KL Sentral). Following this highly anticipated opening, St. Regis will add three additional locations to its coveted portfolio in 2016, including the Maldives, Changsha, and Cairo.

“The St. Regis brand is growing in the most vibrant and sought-after destinations around the globe and the debut in Kuala Lumpur, in partnership with ONE IFC Sdn Bhd, truly marks an incredible milestone for our company,” said Jim Petrus, Global Brand Leader, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur’s strategic location, tech-forward facilities, and sophisticated services will offer the finest guest experiences imaginable, crafted for today’s luminaries who make our hotels their home away from home.”

St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
Inspired by a luxurious Manhattan apartment, with interiors and architecture by G.A. Design, the hotel features a timeless design scheme created with historical context and a sense of opulence. The exquisite art collection includes masterpieces such as a monumental 3.5-metres horse sculpture by Fernando Botero; Grace Thunders, a specially commissioned diptych of two 4.9-metres hand-etched leather murals by Mark Evans depicting a powerful polo charge; and a three-dimensional Birds and Butterflies artwork by Barnaby Hosking.

St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur houses 208 gracefully appointed accommodations, each with a walk-in wardrobe. Starting at 63-square metres, the guestrooms are the largest in the city, and suites, starting from 138-square metres, are also unmatched in size. The Royal Suite, spanning 353-square metres, offers private elevator access, an outdoor terrace with panoramic skyline views, a show kitchen, separate his-and-hers walk-in wardrobes as well as an en-suite massage room and gym.

St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
Other facilities include a supersized lift that can transport cars and other sizable exhibits into the ballroom, and The Salon, which is specially designed for weddings and VIP events. The room has a lounge and dressing room for the bride or personalities to change or refresh; and offers a live video feed from the Grand Ballroom so they can stay connected to the main event. In addition, The Exchange Rooms, equipped with teleconferencing facilities, make ideal boardroom meeting venues whilst the Screening Room is perfect for media and product launches.

Ikos Olivia

Brand new beach-front suites at Halkidiki hotel Ikos Olivia

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Ikos Olivia, a contemporary and stylishly designed hotel on Greece’s Halkidiki coast, is set to open four new, two-bedroom beach-front bungalow suites this year.

Each suite has a private garden and offers views of the Aegean Sea, while also offering the perfect accompaniment to the nearby Aristotle Walking Trail.

The brand new ultra-spacious suites are ideal for the larger family, featuring two stylishly elegant bedrooms and separate lounge for extra privacy in contemporary and luxurious style, combined with a bathroom with tropical shower complete with Anne Semonin bathroom amenities. These beachfront suites come with a furnished balcony or a private garden complete with sun-loungers and just in front of the hotel’s beach.

These suites are set to complement the existing 142 bedrooms and junior suites, as well as the 145 private bungalow suites.

Montpellier Chapter Cheltenham

Montpellier Chapter Cheltenham to become a Malmaison

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Malmaison, the iconic boutique hotel and lifestyle brand, announces that the recently acquired Montpellier Chapter Cheltenham is set to become part of the stylish Malmaison brand.

Guests will be able to enjoy the Malmaison experience from arrival, from the service culture to incorporating the iconic Mal touches to the stunning bedrooms. As well as an introduction to the brasserie and bar of the Malmaison signature drinks, cocktails including the Thank Mal It’s Friday concept, and outstanding food with the full a la carte, Prix Fixe and Sunday lunch unlimited menus.

Scott Harper, COO Malmaison said, “The Montpellier Chapter is full of character, and we are extremely excited to be bringing the Malmaison brand to this iconic hotel. Cheltenham is a beautiful and atmospheric city in the West Country. The perfect location to introduce the Malmaison brand.”

Little Roman Blind Shop - interiors trends 2016

Guest Blog – Little Roman Blind Shop: Hotel interiors trends 2016

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Deciding on the interior of your hotel rooms can be a tricky decision. You need something on trend, but something that also has lasting power for cost efficiency.

Finding trends that work through the seasons and reflect your brand identity doesn’t have to take months of forecasting. As part of this week’s guest blog, the Little Roman Blind Shop has released their trend guide for 2016, which features a selection of gorgeous trends for you to work with and a preview of which can be viewed below…

Marble majesty
When you think of marble, it’s hard not to imagine a grandiose five star hotel reception area. Traditionally, marble flooring and furnishings have been a symbol of luxury. However in small doses, marble can be used in more modern interiors to combine minimalist looks with a slight twist of opulence. Light and airy, marble adds a well needed touch of texture to chic monochrome rooms. A great way to break up the interior in your hotel, marble pattern instantly catches the eye. It’s not just the natural material that can liven up your interior, try finding bedding, blinds and furnishings that simply use the same colours or are printed with the distinct marble effect pattern.

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RELATED: CARPET FOCUS: 2016 TRENDS TO MAKE AN IMPACT
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Living terrarium
Forget the outdoor/indoor trend. Instead of taking inspiration from the exotic tropics, take a small snap shot of the outdoors with tiny terrariums. To use this trend you’ll have to swerve the typical floral patterns that perk up throughout the summer season. Use green elements and blend a variety of shades to add depth and focus on the structure of plants, rather than their blooms.

Little Roman Blind Shop - interiors trends 2016

Go for a combination of ditsy patterns and large scale motifs, just like the changing scales you’d see in an actual terrarium. A little landscape of prickly cactus and succulents, your rooms can take inspiration from the small world captured in a terrarium. For an extra nod to the trend, experiment with clashing textures that reflect the little life you find in your terrarium. With silky soft sheets, try chunky knitted cushions or embellished throw cushions that spark textural conflict.

Copper calling
In comparison to the first trend, copper may not seem as majestic. However, copper has become the go-to metallic for trend-setters this season. Understated and less opulent than its gold and silver siblings, copper offers a more downplayed sense of glamour. It doesn’t shout, it shimmers and dances in the light to offer a warm hue to your hotel bedrooms.

Little Roman Blind Shop - interiors trends 2016

These three trends are perfect for all year round wonder. They liven up hotel interior and bring it into the new season, with a few traditional touches thrown in for good measure! Use these trends sparingly to add a subtle twist to your current interior, or go all out for a new look that guests are sure to love.

www.littleromanblindshop.co.uk

Shaun Clarkson to open fourth 'home-tel'

Interior Designer Shaun Clarkson to open fourth ‘home-tel’ property

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Interior designer, Shaun Clarkson has announced he will be adding a new property to his collection of ‘home-tels’ with the opening of The House in Hastings this August.

Located on Croft Road, the house is within reach of various attractions and is a five-minute walk from Hastings Beach.

With a square footage of 4500, sleeping up to 10 guests, the Grade-II listed Regency property has undergone an extensive refurbishment. Shaun’s instantly recognisable style is evident with a selection of greens and blues and an eclectic mix of commissioned furniture, hand-picked fixtures, furnishings, modern artwork and vintage pieces.

The House in Hastings has five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The large master suite takes up the entire second floor, complete with en-suite bathroom featuring a roll top bath, chaise longue and walk-in shower. The 453-square-foot suite features a handmade super king size, deep buttoned sleigh bed with a premium Savoir mattress, French 1940’s chandeliers, bespoke rugs and a feature fireplace.

Shaun Clarkson says: “Following on from the success of Carrington House, Cliff Barns and Powers Cottage, I am incredibly excited to add The House at Hastings to our collection of home-tels. Hastings is experiencing a revival and gaining an enviable reputation as a centre for cultural creativity with so many visual and performing artists making their homes here. Add to this a new theatre, a host of bars and restaurants and historical venues and you have a fantastic holiday destination.”

Premier Inn Frankfurt Messe

Germany’s first Premier Inn opens with a twist of British charm

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Frankfurt Messe Premier Inn officially opened to the public last week, marking Whitbread’s first  hotel of the brand in Germany. Adopting European-style open-plan lounge, dining and reception areas, the new hotel remains true to its heritage and carries a distinct British charm.

Ensuring consistency of the look and feel of the hotel brand overseas, Whitbread employed trusted design partner, JSJ Design. Sarah Simpson, Head of Product for Premier Inn said: “JSJ led the entire design process from partner brief to detailed decision-making to final design sign-off. As one of our lead design partners, they played a critical role in ensuring successful delivery of the Frankfurt hotel with a distinctive design tailored to the German market.”

Germany's first Premier Inn opens with a twist of British charm

Designing many of Premier Inn’s latest UK hotel interiors, including the chain’s flagship hotel in Kings Cross and the new strand of tech-driven hub hotels, JSJ has formed a deep understanding of the brand. Tasked with adapting that knowledge to a new market was Jeremy Scarlett, Interior Designer and JSJ Design co-founder. He said: “I’ve worked on various Premier Inn projects over the last ten years and while they’re all unique, Frankfurt Messe is like no other. Setting it apart from the UK hotels, the focus for the entire ground floor was to create a versatile public space, functional through day and night. In achieving this, the brand is moving away from pure function and into a realm where customer experience is key. It will seriously raise traveller expectations of budget hotels.”

JSJ Design collaborated with Hamburg-based designers JOI Design to ensure the quintessentially English brand catered for local tastes. In addition to the open-plan communal areas, points of differentiation can be found in the bedrooms and bathrooms, where showers replace baths and an imaginative new room layout was developed to meet the expectations of the German guest.

Germany's first Premier Inn opens with a twist of British charm

Elsewhere, understated nods to English heritage can be found throughout the hotel, from Chesterfield sofas to the iconic British Bulldog. Scarlett commented: “Building on the subtle but distinct English sense of humour, Frankfurt Messe features an array of strategically placed accessories, typically associated with London and all things British. Embracing our quirks adds bags of character and brings a little cheekiness to the interior.”

Natural wood and dark warm tones are offset by bright shades of turquoise, sunny yellow accents and pink and purple highlights. Statement pendant lighting creates distinct areas and sets the tone for the use of space, from focused and bright in the Work Zone, to warm and cosy in the lounge and dining areas. The result is a contemporary multipurpose space that adapts to meet the changing needs of guests throughout their stay.

Guest Room Image - Trump International Hotel Washington D.C.

Trump International Washington D.C. to open two years ahead of schedule

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Trump International Hotel, Washington, D.C. will open in September 2016 – dramatically ahead of schedule. With its opening, the Nation’s Capital will now be home to an iconic and historic super-luxury hotel rivaling the best of other international capital cities.

“For decades people have looked in wonderment at the magnificence of the Old Post Office building and structure. There is nothing like it and we are so proud to have not only brought this incredible building back to life, but also to a position far greater than it ever was at its previous zenith. It was an honour to have dealt with the professionals at the General Services Administration. It was their total passion and hard work that helped bring this unrivaled project to fruition,” says US presidential hopeful Donald J. Trump.

With its prestigious location right on Pennsylvania Avenue, the US Government has entrusted the Trump Organisation with the complex challenge of transforming this 19th century one-of-a-kind building into one of the greatest luxury hotels in the world.

Cortile Rendering - Trump International Washington D.C.

Painstakingly restoring the intricate stonework, original wood milling and panelling while installing the latest in technology and luxurious comforts expected by today’s sophisticated and discerning travelers, the hotel will introduce to the market 263 exquisitely detailed and spacious guest rooms and suites. The thirty-five suites include the Trump Townhouse with its private entrance on Pennsylvania Avenue. At 6,300-square-feet of interior space, it will be the largest and most luxurious suite in Washington, D.C. and among the largest in the country.

Trump International Washington D.C.

Recognising the need for a luxury ballroom spacious enough to host larger International meetings and opulent enough for prominent city galas, the Trump Organisation designed a complementing addition to the main building. With a private entrance, the 13,200 square foot, column-free Presidential Ballroom will be the largest luxury ballroom in Washington, D.C. and has already been enthusiastically received by wedding and event planners, major associations, and corporations.

“This is my fifth hotel opening and I can say with conviction that I have never seen so much interest and so many early bookings as I have at Trump D.C.; we already have a significant number of events confirmed for 2016 and beyond with many more inquiries being considered,” said Mickael Damelincourt, Managing Director of Trump International Hotel, Washington, D.C. “We are preparing for what is a highly anticipated opening, and one that is unique to Washington, D.C. and the country as a whole.”

Pergo Quiet Floors

Guest Blog – Pergo: ‘Sweet dreams are made of underlay flooring…’

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A good night’s sleep is, without doubt, one of the key selling points and minimum requirements of a hotel. Attention is rightly paid to a whole host of factors to ensure it’s delivered – the bed, the mattress, the pillows, the corridor acoustics. But what about flooring? Limiting noise from above and below a room is just as important to ensuring guests’ ‘beauty sleep’, something Hotel Directory members Pergo know all about and discuss below…

A ‘home-from-home’ might be what you think you want from a hotel experience but the reality is not necessarily the case.

Cosy and comfortable, yes. But if you live in a period home, do you really want its creaks and squeaks repeated on the road? The expansion and contraction of heating pipes, the creaking floorboards and stair treads that almost become endearing little storytellers of your home.

Prime amongst the components of a good night’s sleep is quiet. The life of the traveller is filled with clutter. Especially for those enduring a new or unfamiliar city. There maybe issues of language, food, directions, time zones, internet access, etc. The fewer distractions when trying to recharge and recuperate the better.

Pergo Quiet Floors

Therefore, sound-proofing guestrooms is a no-brainer. Fail to pay attention to this and watch those TripAdvisor ratings crash, noisily, to the floor. All noise is a nuisance. For the sleeper, silence is golden. Problematically this peace can be “attacked’ from all sides. From this side or that.

Rooms need to be sound-proofed from one to the other, from the corridor and externally. There are specific technical ratings for wall and door components plus the room’s glazing that help towards minimising these sources of disruption. From above or below. Whilst the in-room acoustics are largely taken care of by the many absorbing materials such as curtains, blinds, artwork, loose furnishings, rugs and bed linens, the noise transmission between rooms is a major issue.

Hard flooring surfaces may look great, wear well and be extremely hygienic but the writing is on the wall or floor, or even ceiling above you. They can be noisy. The clatter, clump and click of your neighbour’s shoes. The screech and scratch of furniture being moved around. All disturbing your sleep.

Pergo Quiet Floors

For a reduction in noise transmission from both corridors and adjacent rooms Pergo’s underlays have proven qualities. Extensive trials and testing using scenarios with and without underlay in specifically constructed laboratory conditions show performance gains in the reduction of the spread of noise.

Take, for example, vinyl. Pergo’s underlay sees the index for the absorption of impact sounds rise from 4dB to 18dB. A significant improvement in the amount of sound absorbed by the underlay. Sleep tight!

For more information on Pergo’s sound-absorbing underlay and other products in their range, visit http://pro.pergo.co.uk
+447584459226
+447584459226
laura.sandles@unilin.co.uk

CORSHAM Sofa - Gallery Direct

Product Spotlight: New made-to-order pieces by Gallery Direct

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At the forefront of design, Gallery Direct is always looking to the future to provide and develop products that continue to stay ahead of trend. For 2016 they launched over 160 exciting new pieces at the January Furniture Show.

The new products are featured in Gallery’s Spring/Summer 2016 Lookbook. Alongside this, they have now produced a Design Directory which contains their entire catalogue. Included in this, for the first time, Gallery are offering a made-to-order service on a range of upholstered products. This new service offers clients the opportunity to add a touch of individual style and personality to their furniture; from simple elegance to a bold statement piece, the selection available allows customers to create their own look, offering choices to suit all tastes and styles of interior.

In keeping with all Gallery’s products, their stunning new range of made-to-order furniture focuses on high quality and close attention to detail. The selection of timeless designs is beautifully handcrafted in the UK. As part of this collection of stunning upholstered furniture, Gallery Direct have an extensive range of over 50 luxury fabrics, offering a wide variety of colours, patterns and textures.

With a choice of 11 different products available as part of their made-to-order service, including sofa beds, sofas, chairs and a bed, Gallery Direct has recreated classic furniture and updated it to suit modern day interiors, whilst retaining timeless manufacturing methods in order to produce pieces with long lasting appeal and durability. Featuring an armchair, sofa and sofa bed, the Corsham collection (pictured above), can be combined to give a coordinated overall look to an interior or each piece can stand on its own in simple and understated luxury. These plush furnishings offer comfort and flexibility and, with the wide selection of fabrics to choose from, all the products are highly adaptable to any interior.

The glamourous Piccadilly takes influence from the iconically designed Chesterfield style sofa; featuring elegant scroll arms and fine upholstered button detailing, this truly is a statement piece. The Piccadilly is available as a fixed sofa and as a sofa bed.

PICCADILLY Sofa Bed - Gallery Direct

PICCADILLY Sofa Bed

Designed with both style and comfort in mind, the two sofa beds offer classy yet practical solutions to guest visits. For superior seating comfort they feature bands, whilst high quality slats give a firm sleeping comfort. Couple this with a sumptuous 12cm thick mattress, and the Corsham and Piccadilly truly offer the ultimate in luxury sofa beds. Also part of the made-to-order collection is the Paddington Large Wing Chair, the Bloomsbury Rectangle Footstool and the Southwark Square Footstool. All incorporate fine upholstered button detailing, to offer a sophisticated finish; they complement the Piccadilly beautifully or make stunning stand-alone feature pieces.


For a more understated, yet elegant look, the Pimlico Small Wing Chair offers a classic design that can suit a range of interiors, both contemporary and traditional. This timeless piece can accompany a selection of furniture and with the made-to-order service, individuality can be added by the selection of fabric, making it an extremely adaptable design.
Modern and practical, the Hoxton Tub Chair gives a contemporary take on the classic armchair; with a low profile back and subtle wooden legs, this piece can bring a room to life or add to an existing interior theme. Create a statement piece by selecting a bold fabric or for a subtle approach, select one of the understated yet elegant choices.

The chairs, sofas and sofa beds are all constructed with a high quality timber frame, and the sofa beds feature a heavy duty, two fold easy open and close mechanism, ensuring these pieces are extremely sturdy, long-lasting products. Bold and glamorous, the Strand Bedstead demonstrates the finest craftsmanship and attention to detail; this classic boudoir style bed with luxurious fully upholstered button detail brings together the finest materials to give a striking finish. The eye-catching made-to-order bed is available in three different sizes with high and low foot end versions. The Strand is a truly versatile design to create your own style from boutique hotel to contemporary loft living.


To complement the Strand, Gallery Direct has also introduced a range of high quality mattresses which are handmade in the UK by their team of craftsmen. Adding a touch of individual boldness to today’s contemporary style, Gallery Direct’s stunning new range of made-to-order furniture offers a selection of beautifully designed products that can be personalised to suit different taste and interiors.

Year after year Gallery Direct continually delivers new ideas and on-trend, design led products which combine the best of traditional craftsmanship with new technology and exciting materials. With constant development and introduction of new product lines, it is clear to see why Gallery continue to go from strength to strength. With their huge product offering now including their made-to-order pieces, they truly are the complete home furnishing solution.

www.gallerydirect.co.uk
01795 439159
sales@gallerydirect.co.uk

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra

Kempinski introduces new hotel in Accra, Ghana

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A brand new five-star luxury hotel, Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra, has arrived at the heart of Ghana’s capital. The property features 269 rooms including 22 suites and 2 presidential suites with entry level rooms from an expansive 50sqm: the largest room size in Accra.

Home to the brand new Resense Spa due to open in late 2016, the hotel offers world-class conference facilities and a variety of dining options. Just six hours from London with daily British Airways flights, guests will be immersed in a vibrant Ghanaian revival. European luxury at the heart of an African renaissance, Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City is the centrepiece of a ground breaking ongoing development for the capital; encompassing offices, residential and retail space.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra

Rooms & Suites
Inspired by the heritage and colours of Ghana, each room features hardwood floors, luxuriant textiles, and carefully selected artwork. The rooms and suites are spacious; 142 of which have their own balconies. Deluxe, Executive and Superior rooms draw inspiration from African artistry, featuring comfortable living areas and ergonomic work stations. Executive rooms and suites have the added benefit of overlooking the pool or city of Accra with access to the executive lounge. The Presidential Suites offer panoramic views of Accra and complimentary use of a luxury car chauffeur and 24 hour butler service.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra

Meetings & Conferences
Perfectly located for the corporate traveller, Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City is in close proximity to the State House, Accra International Conference Centre and the National Theatre. The hotel also provides the ideal venue for meetings and events with more than 1750sqm of meeting and banquet space. From elegant affairs in the grand ballroom to productive meetings and special open-air events, the expertly designed conference facilities are world-class. The hotel’s Ballroom is the largest and most luxurious in Ghana. Eight further meeting rooms and break out spaces feature innovative technology, such as touch panels built into the tables.

Gallery 1957
Gallery 1957 is a new gallery in Accra dedicated to contemporary art situated in the hotel. With an initial curatorial focus on contemporary Ghanaian art, the gallery presents a programme of exhibitions, installations and performances by the country’s most significant artists under the Creative Directorship of Nana Oforiatta Ayim. Gallery 1957 works with artists currently bridging the gap between local and international practices, including Serge Attukwei Clottey, Zohra Opoku, Jeremiah Quarshie, Ibrahim Mahama and Yaw Owusu.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra

Spa & Fitness
Opening in late 2016, the Resense Spa at Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City will transport guests to an oasis of sophisticated relaxation with gold mosaic interiors, 10 treatment rooms, and a hammam. Set to be one of the largest spas in West Africa, the spa invites guests across a dramatic threshold into a lounge with the atmosphere of a chic private members’ club. Guests will also be delighted by the spa menu, based on traditional European treatments, including the Resense bathing ‘Kur,’ combining ancient Roman bathing traditions with a holistic approach of natural therapies. For guests who want to enhance their wellbeing, the Health Club also offers a 25-metre outdoor swimming pool, fully fitted state-of-the-art gymnasium, yoga studio, health and beauty salon, tennis court and organic bar.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra Ghana

Restaurants & Bars
At Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, guests will enjoy the flavours of Africa blended with international cuisine, appealing to all tastes and occasions from a family meal to a business lunch. The Papillon Restaurant is a vibrant all day restaurant showcasing Mediterranean flavours and the best in local Ghanaian cuisine. The infinity Papillion Pool Lounge offers views over the greens of the Cedar Terrace and a waterfall running all the way down to the Cedar Garden. Cabana style seating offer daytime relaxation, while moonlights and lanterns set the mood in the evening. Meanwhile, in the Cedar Garden, opening in late 2016, you can dine on Lebanese and Oriental cuisine and partake in a shisha experience. Alternatively, the Gallery Bar is the perfect place for guests to socialise. A short distance away, the Gallery Lounge is a comfortable lounge venue to see and to be seen. A place where the guests come for afternoon tea or a glass of wine, while listening to custom designed lounge music or live piano.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra Ghana

The Galleria Mall
The Galleria mall, set to open in late 2016 will offer 6,000 sq. m of high-end retail and commercial office space. Substantial underground parking and a carefully selected tenant mix of both local favourites and premium international brands such as Hugo Boss, Versace and Roche Bobois opening flagship stores for the first time in Ghana. The Galleria will also house a unique food hall that will combine a traditional market feel with the latest modern interventions. Retail food outlets, dining areas, coffee bars and an outside terrace all combine to create an exciting offering.

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra Ghana

Three Horseshoes Hotel

North East hotel Three Horseshoes being restored to ‘former glory’

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A North East hotel is being restored to its former glory following a £200,000 investment. The Three Horseshoes Hotel at Washington Road, Sunderland, was bought by Tavistock Hospitality Ltd in 2015 and quickly transformed into a brewery tap for the company’s Sonnet 43 Brew House based in Coxhoe, County Durham.

Now, the new owners are embarking on the second stage of their plans to fully restore the once popular hotel, with work already underway to refurbish all seven of its upstairs bedrooms.

The boutique bed and breakfast, being created as part of Tavistock’s overall investment in the site, is expected to be completed by mid-May, with fixtures and fittings paying a subtle tribute to Sunderland’s industrial past.

“The Three Horseshoes is in an enviable position, with fantastic road links making it an ideal base for both leisure and business guests,” said Jonathan Graham, Operations Director of Tavistock Hospitality.

“While we focussed our initial efforts on transforming the downstairs area into a bar and restaurant, we are keen to get the entire site operational as soon as possible.

“We are confident that a combination of tailored design, reasonable rates and the availability of high quality food and drink downstairs, will appeal particularly to the corporate market, including those visiting the Nissan site just over the road.”

The Three Horseshoes Hotel, which is now among more than a dozen hotels, bars and restaurants owned by Tavistock Hospitality across the North East.

Renaissance Hotel Dubai

Marriott reveals details of UAE’s first Renaissance Hotel

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The first Renaissance Hotel in the United Arab Emirates is set to open at the end of the year, according to a statement released by Marriott International. The Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai will be a 298-room luxury property. The firm has also announced it plans to open four additional hotels in the country throughout 2016.

Amongst the 2016 openings is Abu Dhabi’s first Marriott Hotel, the 315-room five-star Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi as well as the 64-suite Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi.

Further strengthening Marriott International’s luxury lifestyle offering, scheduled 2016 openings also include the 86-room La Ville Hotel City Walk Dubai, Autograph Collection, the 68-suite La Ville Apartments City Walk, Dubai and the 500-room Lapita Hotel, Autograph Collection, all set to open by the fourth quarter of this year.

Speaking ahead of this week’s Arabian Travel Market 2016 (ATM), Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East & Africa of Marriott International, said: “The Renaissance Hotel Downtown Dubai will be a truly unique offer within the UAE hospitality sector as it is a highly appealing lifestyle option for both business and leisure travellers. The debut, alongside the opening of our flagship Marriott Hotels brand and two other Autograph Collection properties make for a very attractive luxury lifestyle proposition in the UAE.”

The 5 property openings planned for this year will be amongst nine Marriott International properties, representing over 2000 rooms, scheduled to open in the UAE by 2018. Among the much-anticipated Marriott International openings will be the region’s first EDITION and Bulgari Hotels – both set to open in 2017.

At present, Marriott International operates nearly 150 properties across the Middle East and Africa region, representing 9 brands in 19 countries. By 2020 the hotel company will add a further 93 properties and approximately 19,000 rooms within the region for a total of 240 properties and 40,000 rooms.

Park Regis Robin Ford with Lisa from John Lewis

Park Regis teams up with John Lewis for Birmingham’s biggest presidential suite

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Birmingham’s newest four star hotel – Park Regis – has joined forces with retail giant John Lewis to supply soft furnishings and kitchenware for its presidential suite, the largest of its kind in the city.

Park Regis Birmingham, which opened its doors to guests in March, has purchased designer kitchen products and home furnishings for residents of its presidential suite to enjoy. The exclusive suite has the largest floor-space of any presidential suite in Birmingham, boasting a private kitchen, spacious lounge with scenic views towards Edgbaston, a walk-in wardrobe and dressing room, as well as two junior suites which can be joined to form one large three-bedroom space.

Robin Ford, general manager at Park Regis Birmingham, said: “As the city’s newest luxury hotel, it only seemed right to team up with the city’s newest high-end retailer to find products to supply our presidential suite with. We’ve selected quality cookware including Dualit appliances and Nespresso coffee machines, as well as cosy home furnishings to make our suite as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.”

Lisa Williams, head of branch at John Lewis Birmingham said: “It’s an honour to have been the hotel’s first port of call when looking to kit out its presidential suite. We are two new businesses in the city that have joined together to provide homeware that is luxurious and homely, perfectly suited to the extended stay nature of the hotel’s suites.”

www.parkregisbirmingham.co.uk

Kimpton Morrison House, Alexandra Virginia

Virginia’s ‘top hotel’ – Kimpton Morrison House – reopens after refurb

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Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants recently announced the reopening of its Kimpton Morrison House hotel in Alexandria, Virginia after extensive renovations and the debut of adjacent Ashlar Restaurant and Bar.

With whimsical, literary-inspired design for all its public spaces, hallway corridors and guest rooms and suites, as well as the addition of a new restaurant and ballroom, the 45-room hotel creates an elevated experience for in-the-know travellers. Its unique style and warm, personalised services make Kimpton Morrison House one of northern Virginia’s top hotels.

Words on Water Design
The hotel’s new design, brought to life by David Hill of Los Angeles-based DH Designs, was inspired by beloved American literary masterpieces set on and around water. It’s a modern take on Kimpton Morrison House’s original bookish concept and it incorporates the hotel’s close proximity to the banks of the Potomac River. Guests will be welcomed with progressive designs featuring botanical and water elements and original artwork inspired by beloved literary classics such as “The Great Gatsby” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Nods to local tradition include incorporations of signature tartan plaids — a tribute to Alexandria’s rich Scottish heritage.

Kimpton Morrison House hotel - Alexandria, Virginia

Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by a bright grassy green hue reminiscent of walls found at Carlyle House, a historic former mansion house in Old Town. The entryway has been opened up to allow guests to easily flow from check-in to the cozy parlour room to the bar in one connected, engaging space. The parlour beckons with soft dove gray walls, modern wingback chairs and long banquettes with tabletop checkerboards that encourage conversation, making it especially inviting for Kimpton’s hosted evening wine hour.

A custom central rug is patterned to resemble reflections of trees on a river, and a contemporary art piece featuring a profile of author Mark Twain hangs above the original decorative marble fireplace. Behind the bureau-like reception desk with mismatched antique style drawers in the main hall hangs a stunning signature art piece commissioned for Kimpton Morrison House.

The work, crafted by Ricky Alvarez of Tinto Creative, showcases the hotel’s literary and water theme with a bespoke collage of open books, layered on top of each other, with swirling textured gold leaf painted atop to resemble water flowing down a river. Books used for the piece were meticulously sourced titles from antique book dealers that focus on regional stories and originated from libraries and archives in the Potomac and capital regions.

Guest Rooms & Services
The hotel’s 45 sophisticated guest rooms, including three signature suites, incorporate refined finishes that could be seen in a classic row home, accentuated with friendly pops of colour that inspire. Modern takes on traditional touches include modified four-poster beds, geometric flora and fauna artwork and an orange tartan plaid carpet.

Kimpton2

Rounded armchairs and playful artwork in bright cerulean blues add to the playfulness of an otherwise sophisticated space. Natural light abounds from floor-to-ceiling windows dressed with Roman shades, streaming across large writing desks ideal for delving into a new novel or catching up on the day’s work. All guest rooms have luxe Italian marble bathrooms, some with large glass standing showers, and upgraded room types feature separate sitting rooms, decorative fireplaces and hardwood floors.

RPW Design - Fairmont St. Andrews Restaurant

RPW Design unveils latest 2016 project: Fairmont St Andrews

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RPW Design has announced the extensive refurbishment of the five-star resort, Fairmont St Andrews, which has been designed over the last year. The highly anticipated refurbishment will feature a complete redesign of the Atrium, incorporating a bespoke 60m long ceiling sculpture by award winning artist George Singer, a new restaurant and a refurb of the Kittock’s Bar.

RPW Design will also extend their signature touch to the hotel’s suites and bedrooms, showcasing the deep rooted connection between the history of St Andrews and the exterior landscape, seamlessly relating the interiors to the surroundings. This sophisticated transformation will see all public areas completed by July 2016, while bedrooms and suites will be completed by May 2017.

Reception Lobby
A pair of contemporary velvet wall hangings, inspired by the varying landscape of St Andrews in a painterly manner have been developed and printed by Timorous Beasties, the avant-garde Scottish artistic fabric and textile designers. These have been installed in the double heighted reception space to give a sense of locality and authenticity as soon as guests enter the hotel.

RPW Design - Fairmont St. Andrews Reception

Upholstery fabrics and leathers have been selected from revered Scottish companies such as Andrew Muirhead and Bute Fabrics. Bute, based on the Isle of Bute off west coast of Scotland are providing a number of richly textured fabrics in the scheme influenced by the islands scenery. The company and the island share a unique family history as the 5th Marquess of Bute set up the company in 1947 to provide employment for returning servicemen and servicewomen. The Bute family has been inextricably linked with the island and its development ever since.

The Atrium
George Singer’s outstanding artwork ‘Zephyr’ is an organic, swirling ceiling sculpture sweeping through the atrium, imitating the movement of the water in the North Sea. The sculpture will create a focal point to the room and encourage an intimate atmosphere in this dramatic space.

According to George Singer: “Zephyr is designed to reflect the crashing waves, the flocks of starlings, the long wind-blown grasses, the spring blossom, the shoals of fish, the rolling hills, the clouds and the sheer energy, beauty, and dynamism of the east coast of Scotland.”

RPW Design - Fairmont St. Andrews Atrium

A natural colour palette, layered earthy textures and an eclectic furniture collection will create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere in the lounge as well as linking the interior with the views of the coastal landscape beyond the full height window at the north end of the Atrium.

Following through into the restaurant, dramatic lighting and refined materials with a colour scheme of pine and sage greens and hints of golds create a sense of quality throughout the space. Soft velvet wall drapes and bespoke screens reflecting the ripples in the sand dunes soften the architecture of the space and give a sense of intimacy.

The Bar
“RPW Design has drawn on a rich colour scheme with nautical elements that create a warm atmosphere for drinking and dining. A revised layout opens up the space to the lobby and a new copper coffee counter links the reception to the bar area”, explains Heather McLellan, Senior Designer for the project.

A carpet design based on the markings found in the nearby River Tay estuaries, along with the use of materials such as timber, copper and rope strengthen the connection between the interior design and history of St Andrews and its surrounding old fishing villages.

RPW Design - Fairmont St. Andrews Bar

The theme of Scottish suppliers follows through to the bar area where bespoke pendants from Edinburgh lighting manufacturers, RS Robertson create a feature to the space. Elizabeth Lane, Director of Projects RPW Design, said: “It is a wonderful opportunity to be part of the revival of this hotel property which simply has a breath-taking location which we have made a focal point in the renovation. We are extremely happy to be working with Kennedy Wilson and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts on this project.”

Starwood Middle East 100 hotels by 2020

Starwood targets 100 hotels in Middle East by 2020

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From the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) in Dubai, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced that it is on track to grow its portfolio in the Middle East to 100 hotels by 2020.

This follows five new deal signings that will add over 1,200 rooms in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Starwood will also open five hotels in 2016 across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

“The Middle East continues to be one of Starwood’s fastest growing markets and we are immensely committed to the trust that owners have in our world-class brands,” said Michael Wale, President of Starwood, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “Our long-established presence in the region, and the value we deliver, has set us ahead to further expand our footprint and strengthen our guest loyalty.”

“We continue to strengthen Starwood’s leadership position in the Middle East through an aggressive growth strategy that will increase our footprint by 75% in the next five years,” says Simon Turner, President of Global Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Our flexible development approach, differentiated brands, loyal customer base and proven ability to drive asset value has made Starwood the ideal partner for developers in the region.”

Starwood’s newest hotel signings in the region include a Luxury Collection Hotel and Le Méridien in Lusail, Qatar; Four Points by Sheraton Jeddah Tahlia, Saudi Arabia; Four Points by Sheraton Unaizah, Saudi Arabia and Four Points by Sheraton Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.

InterCityHotel

First InterCityHotel outside Europe to open in July 2016

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Steigenberger is continuing its programme of expansion in the Middle East – the first InterCityHotel outside Europe is scheduled to open in July 2016 in Salalah, the second largest metropolitan area in Oman located 1,000 kilometres to the South-West of the capital Muscat.

This will be the first international mid-market hotel in the city.

The new hotel will extend over eight storeys and will offer 70 rooms as well as a restaurant and gym, and a roof-top swimming pool with fabulous views.
As usual, the InterCityHotel Salalah is being developed in a central location at the heart of the business district and within the immediate vicinity of various ministries. The airport is also only four kilometres away. Salalah is particularly popular because of its all-year round mild climate and its impressive natural environment.

Puneet Chhatwal, CEO of Steigenberger Hotels AG, commented: “Following our Steigenberger début in Dubai in November last year, we are now bringing our InterCityHotel brand to the Middle East for the first time. This represents a further important milestone for us.”

The Steigenberger Hotel Dubai Business Bay has been receiving guests since November 2015 and has recently won the accolade of being named a “leading new hotel” in the 2016 Hospitality Awards.

The InterCityHotel Dubai Culture Village and the Steigenberger Hotel Doha Airport Road in Qatar are scheduled for completion in 2017 and 2018 respectively.

Zhejiang Taizhou Marriott Hotel

Marriott announces latest property in China – Zhejiang Taizhou Marriott

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Marriott International has announced the opening of its newest property in China – the Zhejiang Taizhou Marriott Hotel.

The hotel has 351 elegant and spacious rooms featuring gorgeous views of the city skyline. Each room is equipped with the state-of-the-art facilities and amenities ranging from high-speed internet, luxurious bedding with down comforters and cotton-rich linens to spacious marble bathrooms and 48” flat-panel TV.

Zhejiang Taizhou Marriott Hotel offers a total of 2,400 square meters of meeting space with an elegant pillar-less 1,000 square meters Grand Ballroom, the largest ballroom in town, as well as 14 meeting rooms that can be scaled for various functions and sizes.

“Local demand for Marriott Hotel’s brand is surging, driven by the region’s robust economic growth and rapid infrastructure development, and our hotel is well poised to serve increasingly refined hospitality needs in Taizhou,” said Mr. Mark Chan, General Manager of Zhejiang Taizhou Marriott Hotel.

Linthwaite House - now part of Leeu Collection

South African boutique firm Leeu Collection acquires UK property

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Leeu Collection has acquired its first UK property, the acclaimed Lake District hotel, Linthwaite House.

It is Leeu Collection’s first property outside of South Africa, where the group currently operates two hotels (Leeu House and Le Quartier Francais), with a third – Leeu Estates – due to open in June 2016.

Linthwaite House is a celebrated, four-AA Red Star Hotel located in the South Lake District (South Lakes). Originally built as a country house in 1901, this boutique hotel has been independently owned for 25 years. Situated in 14 acres of landscaped gardens, the property offers complete privacy and spectacular panoramic views across Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. Accommodation is offered in 30 en-suite bedrooms and the hotel also has a 3 AA Rosette restaurant.

Renowned for its homely comforts and for being a haven of tranquillity, Linthwaite House personifies the best of traditional British hospitality. Garnering a Best Service honour from Conde Nast Johansens 2016 UK & Ireland Awards for Excellence, as well as the Good Hotel Guide’s, Editor’s Choice 2016 award in the Romantic Hotel category, this acquisition echoes Leeu Collection’s founder, Indian industrialist Analjit Singh’s vision of creating unrivalled escapes and offering visitors extraordinary experiences.

Leeu Collection comprises four properties, three in South Africa and now one in Britain. Leeu is the Afrikaans word for lion, as is Singh in Sanskrit.

All three of the Leeu Collection’s South Africa properties are located in the Western Cape’s wineland town of Franschhoek just under an hour’s drive from Cape Town and its International Airport.

Edinburgh Market Street

Work begins on new boutique hotel in Edinburgh’s Old Town

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Work has begun on a new boutique, four-star hotel in Edinburgh’s Old Town at a cost of £20 million, which is set to open in 2018.

The eight-storey hotel on Market Street will have 98 bedrooms, as well as two roof terraces that will give guests, “spectacular panoramic views” over the heart of the city.

Once complete, the hotel will fill the last gap remaining on the northern boundary of the Old Town between Edinburgh Castle and North Bridge. The hotel has been designed by JM Architects and interior design company FG Stijl.

Alfred Bree, Managing Director of Carlton Hotel Collection, said: “We are proud to open the luxurious lifestyle hotel at this magnificent location in Edinburgh. The group’s long term strategy is to grow our portfolio of unique hotels in key cities, and Edinburgh has been on our wish list for a long time. Together with our international awarded interior designers we will create a new hotspot for the modern conscious traveller, inspired by the city’s cultural and historical elements”.

He added: “The interior design of this hotel will reflect the heritage of the location and will meet all demands of the international modern traveller. All at Carlton Hotel Collection are looking forward to the successful development of this historic site and to welcoming all in spring 2018.”

Pergo Flooring example in Beijing

Q&A: Pergo’s Design Director, Oke Nollet

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An enormous amount of strain is put on a hotel’s flooring, especially in the public areas. It stands to reason that it needs to be able to withstand a high level of wear-and-tear. Functionality is key. The difficult part, however, for manufacturers is creating a product that fits the bill from a designer’s perspective as well.

With more than 35 years experience in the flooring industry, Hotel Designs Directory members Pergo has been at the forefront of successfully doing just that. Recently, the firm’s Design Director Oke Nollet shared her thoughts on getting design just right…

Pergo Design Director Oke NolletQ. How do you see the market today in terms of consumer desires?
A. We see two broad consumer trends. The nostalgic group who appreciate artisanship, authenticity, real woods and stone. Then there is the Past Forward to the Future set. They accept imitation. In fact they think imitation is fantastic. There is a desire for traditional materials but they want the superior performance of technically advanced products. I call it ‘faux bois’. An extension of the idea of ‘faux fur’ in fashion.

Q. What are the main interior trends you are seeing currently?
A. The main trend is ‘perfection vs imperfection’. You see it everywhere, from fashion to architecture to interior design. These days, perfection conveys a certain sobriety that nevertheless exudes style and elegance. This is why Scandinavian design is back. Next to that we embrace imperfections; wooden floors are therefore allowed to exhibit cracks and deviations. These natural deviations add a touch of warmth and nonchalance to an interior In terms of colours, fashion is the pioneer.

We will see warmer oranges and browns coming through, to offset all the black furniture that is around. Nevertheless, grey floors will be everywhere and combine perfectly with trendy styles such as the new Memphis. In term of materials, as our lives are accelerating, we want to stay in touch with nature so there is a development towards more floral and plant-influenced design using botanical prints and lots of plants in our interiors.

Pergo Sensation laminate flooring

Q. And how are these trends interpreted at Pergo?
A. We have a dedicated in-house design team looking at general design trends and how they can be implemented across different sectors such as hospitality, retail and healthcare. We are able to react pretty quickly to what is happening so we look about 12 months ahead.

For example, we wanted to use pinewood to give us that Scandinavian-look but the softness of pine makes it unsuitable for the demands of flooring. Imagine the impact of each and every high heel on a pine floor! So we have used patterns directly from Norwegian pine boards to create a super tough laminate alternative. This is the perfect, natural-looking brushed white pine in our new Sensations range.

http://pro.pergo.co.uk

Pergo (unilin bvba – division flooring)
Ooigemstraat 3
8710 Wielsbeke
Belgium

T: +447584459226

Product Spotlight: Geberit Duofix Sigma framing system

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Geberit Duofix Sigma 8cmEnabling architects to create sustainable, environmentally-friendly bathroom and washroom spaces, the market-leading Geberit Duofix Sigma 8cm framing system has been re-launched with a number of modifications.

With regulations regarding energy and water usage in building design becoming ever-more stringent, the new Geberit Duofix Sigma 8cm achieves an A*** on the WELL label, enabling it to meet environmental standards on many projects.

Helping to save water on commercial and domestic projects alike, the integrated cistern in the re-designed framing system has an adjustable flushing volume. Factory set at a flush of 6 and 3 litres, the cistern can be adjusted to lower flush volumes of 4 and 3 litres, without compromising on its performance.

A more versatile design option than ever before, the Geberit Duofix Sigma8cm is now narrower at 50cm wide and is suitable for a diverse range of applications as it can be used with all styles of ceramic, from shallow pans, to long projection WCs. Also, compatible with the Geberit AquaClean shower toilet range, the new frame can be used to introduce the very latest toilet technology into bathroom designs.

The Sigma8cm 2016 is now compatible with all Sigma flush plates and pneumatic flush buttons (except Sigma40) for creativity of design in the modern bathroom.

01926 516800 // www.geberit.co.uk

Kobe UK

Kobe UK Irish Interiors Showcase preview

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Luxury fabric specialist, Kobe UK, will showcase a number of contemporary and premium fabric collections at the Irish Interiors Showcase in May.

Kobe’s Elements, which was awarded ‘Top Product’ by Design Insider at the Independent Hotel Show in London, is a range of 100% flame retardant fabrics for both domestic and contract window décor and soft furnishings.

A palette of rich and neutral tones complements the sophisticated collection of luxurious easy-to-care-for, washable fabrics. Their cool linen, soft satin and subtle metallic look is a perfect match for the geometric, herringbone and medallion designs.

Kobe’s new, Art Deco inspired Elegance collection, features statement pieces combined with timeless plains and semi plains in sumptuous velvet, woven jacquard, cool linen and soft silk feel fabrics. Metallic tones to gentle graceful hues, complement the intricate geometric, floral, medallion and trellis patterns,

The Kobe UK sales office and studio are based in Crowthorne, Berkshire.

For further information visit www.en.kobe.eu

DoubleTree by Hilton - Tyumen

Fifth DoubleTree by Hilton property opens in Russia

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A fifth DoubleTree by Hilton hotel has opened in Russia with the opening of a property in Tyumen.

Since 2014, DoubleTree by Hilton‘s presence has doubled in the country, showing the brand’s rise in popularity and demand for its hotels.

DoubleTree by Hilton Tyumen offers 195 comfortable and thoughtfully designed guest rooms, including 23 suites and an executive floor with a private lounge for those wanting to work with little interruption.

The hotel’s corporate facilities make it a great option for hosting meetings. The Diamond Hall Ballroom, along with a further six meeting rooms cater for up to 220 people, making it one of the largest meeting spaces in the city.

The pillar-free ballroom of 250 square metres, also has access to a dedicated pre-function area, ideal for business events and conferences.

Console table in Detroit furniture range - Gallery Direct

Product Spotlight: Detroit furniture range by Gallery Direct

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The Detroit furniture range from Gallery Direct’s Hudson Living furniture collection offers a cool and contemporary finish to any interior.

This striking range of occasional pieces features solid European Oak with a brushed, dry oiled finished, combined with tops that are manufactured using a faux concrete resin floated on by hand as a screen to achieve the natural undulating characteristics of freshly laid concrete.

The Detroit furniture range consists of a selection of different table styles, so whether you want a stand alone console table or a nest of two tables, this collection will add an understated modern industrial touch to a room.

www.gallerydirect.co.uk
01795 439159
sales@gallerydirect.co.uk

Cary Arms - New Beach Huts

Devon’s Cary Arms close to unveiling new Beach Huts

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Cary Arms, the five-star hotel in Devon, is mere months away from revealing its new beach huts — part of a £1.5 million investment. As well as the huts, the hotel — owned by the de Savary family — will be unveiling two beach suites and a luxury spa.

According to the owners, the huts are being partnered with bold-print fabrics and contemporary furnishings, reflecting the fluid lines and colours of the coast. Top international designs and art-work have been hand-picked from Italy and France.

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RELATED: Patrick Goff’s review of the Cary Arms
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Speaking about the project to local media last year, Peter de Savary said: “The beach huts and suites will be very spectacular. We are confident in the Cary Arms, in Babbacombe, in Torquay and Devon and we feel there is a demand for it.”

The new Cary Spa will include a pool and sunbathing deck, treatment rooms, sauna and steam and a mini gym.

Renderings of the project by Archilime Visualisations can be viewed below:Cary Arms, Devon

Cary Arms, Devon

Cary Arms, Devon

 

Mandalay Bay Resort remodelling of guest rooms and suites

Mandalay Bay Resort completes guest room, suite remodelling

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Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino has completed the final phase of its resort-wide remodel of more than 3,000 guest rooms and suites.

Created by the MGM Resorts International Design Group, the redesigned rooms and suites feature refreshing colour palettes and modern designs in three distinct collections. The Resort Collection welcomes guests with three colour combinations.

Mandalay Bay Resort remodelling of guest rooms and suites
The Resort King features a cobalt and white colour scheme, while the Resort Queen offers a ruby and latte room or rich lavender and mocha. Bold furnishings throughout the collection include a mural onyx-inspired wall that surrounds the bed in each room. Other details include a spacious glass desk, modern seating, task lighting and easy bedside and tableside recharging.

The Suite Collection offers one and two-bedroom suites accented by rich jewel tone fabrics, natural wood and stone. Featuring multiple seating and dining areas, as well as a large table in the media and living area, these suites are ideal spaces whether hosting for business or pleasure.

Mandalay Bay Resort remodelling of guest rooms and suites
For guests seeking an elevated experience, the Luxury Collection offers spectacular one- to four- bedroom suites. New, vibrant décor accompanies floor-to-ceiling windows and elegant dining and bar areas to provide the ultimate accommodations.

This marks the conclusion of a near $100 million remodel that began in 2015.

One&Only Portonovi ceremony Montenegro

Foundations laid for One&Only Portonovi

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The first foundations have been laid for One&Only Portonovi – an integral part of the new luxury lifestyle development being built in Montenegro.

In a ceremony attended by the Prime Minister of Montenegro, other senior government ministers, and senior executives from One&Only Resorts and Portonovi parent company Azmont Investments, construction commenced on Europe’s first One&Only resort.

The luxury resort will be an integral part of Portonovi – a new 60 acre luxury lifestyle development being built on the picturesque shores of the Bay of Boka Kotorska in Montenegro. The first phase of the development is due to be completed in 2017 with One&Only Portonovi planned for opening in 2018. Jean-Michel Gathy and the team from Denniston International Architects are responsible for the architecture and interiors, as well as the design of the exterior spaces surrounding the resort.

One&Only has worked with Jean-Michel Gathy on many projects, most recently One&Only Reethi Rah where he was tasked with keeping three words in mind – luxury, space and privacy to ensure ultimate luxury is provided to guests, and the same will apply for One&Only in Montenegro.

One&Only Portonovi will boast nearly 120 luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas, dining and retail options, and a wellness and vitality centre in partnership with world-renowned wellness brand, Espace Chenot Health Wellness Spa, which will provide guests with an unrivalled destination wellness experience. Redefining luxury in the region, One&Only Portonovi will set a new level of guest experience through the impeccable service and offering, and will showcase the beauty of Montenegro’s natural elements.

 

Modulex - Bath Spa

Award-winning Bath spa works with Modulex’s signage

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With a restrained and elegant range of environmental graphics Modulex complement the scheme created by New York based Champalimaud Design in collaboration with EPR Architects for the luxurious Gainsborough Bath Spa in Bath which opened last year and has since gone on to be awarded the prestigious Tatler Spa Awards 2016.

The period details of the elegant Georgian architecture in Bath have been subtly incorporated into the designs whilst adhering to the international brand concept created by Malaysian YTL Hotels for their first venture in the UK.

Although in classic Georgian and Victorian buildings the inspiration behind the overall scheme also come from its site on a former Roman Bath House and continues its original purpose with eleven treatment rooms, sauna, steam room, ice chamber, natural thermal water pools and a new double-height glass atrium roof enclosing the pool.

Working in collaboration with Champalimaud Design, Modulex have utilised their print technology to create subtle effects by printing to the rear of their standard Infinity Glass product and then applying a protective laminate in order that they maintain their appearance for many years complementing the harmonious architecture of this 5 star luxury hotel.

To contact the Projects Team email: info@modulex.com

Hilton Garden Inn - Indonesia

Indonesia welcomes first Hilton Garden Inn property

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Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Worldwide’s upscale global brand of hotels, has announced its entry into Indonesia with the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Bali – Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali.

All 291 guest rooms boast the brand’s signature bedding featuring fresh, white duvets and crisp linens; a spacious and clutter-free work desk with an ergonomic desk chair; and an in-room “hospitality centre” with a mini fridge and coffee/tea maker.

“Marking our fourth brand in Indonesia, the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Bali – Ngurah Rai Airport perfectly complements our existing portfolio in the country,” said William Costley, vice president, Southeast Asia and India, Hilton Worldwide. “I am excited that the brand has made its debut in this world renowned destination and am confident that the hotel will offer visitors to this vibrant island a peaceful and energizing stay experience.”

Hilton Budapest revamp featuring Goddard Littlefair

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The first, award-winning major revamp since the the Hilton Budapest originally opened in 1977 has been revealed; maintaining its strong appeal to conference and tour party guests, but also targeting the area’s growing leisure tourist demographic.

New public spaces by Goddard Littlefair are light and elegant with a contemporary classic positioning and a luxury, layered treatment, with stunning art installations from local artists ensuring a uniquely Budapest feel.

The project’s first phase won the Gold Award for Hospitality at the London Design Awards 2015. Photography by Gareth Gardner…

 

BHA

BHA calls for immediate CMA inquiry into online travel agents

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Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive of the British Hospitality Association (BHA) welcomed the House of Lords Select Committee on the European Union Report calling for an urgent review of online travel agents.

She said: “The BHA welcomes the House of Lords Report which recommends greater accountability and transparency of online travel agents. These OTAs wield vast power and hold our industry hostage by commanding punitive rates of commission. We are pleased that this influential committee is proposing Europe wide steps to enable our industry to challenge anti-competitive online practices when they arise. The BHA calls upon on the government and policy makers in the European Commission to support our lobbing in this area and get engaged – this is a significant step forward for our industry and we want to see the momentum continue.”

Background

The Report by the House of Lords Select Committee is called Online Platforms and the Digital Single Market. It is a response to the EU Commission consultation on how the largest online platforms use their market power and whether current regulation and competition law is effective in the digital economy.

The British Hospitality Association has called for:

  • an outright ban on rate parity clauses – which prevent hotels from offering lower rates than those on the online booking sites where they are listed. This practice impacts directly on consumers since it means less competitive pricing with similar room rates offered by online travel agencies and hospitality venues across the board. Rate parity clauses are already illegal in France and were found to be anti- competitive in cases brought against Booking.com and HRS in Germany;
  • more effective and speedier methods for resolving competition and consumer protection issues and codes of practice for online platforms;
  • transparency for consumers in rankings, ratings, reviews.

The Report recommends:

  • critical scrutiny by competition authorities of parity clauses and recommends that the Competition and Markets Authority urgently order a market investigation into the online travel sector;
  • a speedier process for resolving competition law questions, proposing interim measures be used to stop anti – competitive practices, time limits be applied to negotiations and the development of sector based codes of practice;
  • recommends the European Commission amend the Unfair Consumer Practices Directive so that platforms are required to provide the criteria on which they provide ratings and search results and their policies for handling negative reviews, as well as clearly distinguishing between user reviews and paid promotions.

The British Hospitality Association has worked on behalf of the industry to persuade government to take a long, hard look at anti-competitive behaviour in the digital travel sector.

The next step is for the Competition and Markets Authority to adopt the Report’s recommendations to make sure that the travel and hospitality sector is a truly competitive marketplace, which is, after all, in the best interests of the consumer.

Micro Hotel

‘Micro hotel’ on its way for Dublin visitors

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Andrew’s Lane Theatre is set to become a ‘micro hotel’ after investors revealed plans to build a seven-storey development containing 115 pod rooms of between 10sqm and 12sqm – in a style similar to Japanese pod-hotels.

According to the Irish Times, Ireland has generally been slow to embrace the concept of so-called ‘micro hotels’ that offer tiny rooms at tiny prices, but the concept is well-developed elsewhere.

Japan has led the way with its capsule hotels; the first capsule hotel opened in Osaka in 1979 and has spawned a large number of imitators, both in its home market and elsewhere, with the first European version opening in Antwerp, Belgium in 2014. While they might be small, with prices as low as £15 a night, they are popular with those travelling on a budget.

Ireland isn’t immune to micro hotels altogether. The Dean Hotel in Dublin for instance, offers so-called ‘mod pods’ and ‘punk bunks’ that measure 12.6 sq m (135 st ft).

StrandUpholstered Bed - Gallery Direct

Product Spotlight: Stunning new beds from Gallery Direct

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Gallery Direct are renowned for their constant development and success within the home furnishing industry. With their continual introductions of new product lines, it is clear that there is never a quiet moment for the Gallery team.

As part of their 2016 product launch, Gallery Direct have developed a range of new beds that are design led, personality pieces that combine the best of traditional craftsmanship with up-to-date technology and exciting materials. Three of these beds are part of on-trend furniture collections that take influence from Nordic and Scandinavian style.

The Wycombe, Marlow and Kielder ranges demonstrate the attention to detail and innovation of these aspiring products. Each range shows individuality yet comes together to bring a touch of Scandinavian style to a home, whilst offering practicality and iconic design. James Hudson, Business Development Director – Furniture, commented, “Our Kielder, Wycombe and Marlow ranges offer coordinated looks for both upstairs and downstairs living. With their quality materials and craftsmanship, competitive pricing and universal appeal across different generations, they provide really commercial designs.”

Gallery Direct - Marlow Collection

Gallery Direct – Marlow Collection

Kielder Bed and Bedside Table - Gallery Direct

Kielder Bed and Bedside Table – Gallery Direct

The beautifully crafted and simply elegant Heligan Bedstead is made using the traditional Lloyd Loom method. With a reputation for strength and longevity, this modern and sophisticated design offers the perfect finish to the most stylish of bedrooms. Available to fit standard double and king mattress sizes, Heligan comes in a delicate light grey with a soft, satin finish and solid mindy ash legs, bringing a touch of cool and unprecedented calm. This charming and timeless bed can be complimented by Gallery Direct’s extensive range of Lloyd Loom occasional furniture from their Hudson Living range.

Heligan Bedstead - Gallery Direct

Heligan Bedstead – Gallery Direct

Bold and glamorous, the Strand Bedstead from Gallery demonstrates the finest craftsmanship and attention to detail; this classic boudoir style bed with luxurious fully upholstered button detail brings together the finest materials to give a striking finish. The stunning made-to-order bed is available in three different sizes with high and low foot end versions. The Strand is available in over 50 new fabrics, making it a truly versatile design to create your own style from boutique hotel to contemporary loft living.

Strand Low Foot End Upholstered Bed - Gallery Direct

Strand Low Foot End Upholstered Bed – Gallery Direct

Alongside their exciting new bed collection, Gallery now offer a range of mattresses that are handmade in the UK. The new mattress collection consists of two high quality mattress types. The Comfort Range of no-turn mattresses has a contemporary style with a quilted top and pocket springs. Made using memory foam with silk, cashmere and latex fillings, the mattress focuses on comfort and high quality that is expected from all Frank Hudson products. The Luxury Mattress Collection is a turnable mattress range using hand stitched sides, pocket springs and luxury fillings such as pashmina, cashmere and alpaca. Both mattresses compliment the wide collection of beds, and are the perfect finish to any bedroom. Gallery Direct is truly a one-stop shop.

Marlow bed + Kielder - Gallery Direct

Marlow bed + Kielder – Gallery Direct

At the forefront of design, Gallery are always looking to the future to provide and develop products that continue to stay ahead of trend. Along with the Strand Bedstead, they have introduced a range of made-to-order upholstered furniture pieces. All are beautifully handmade in the UK and are available in the choice of 50 fabrics, to offer clients the opportunity to add a touch of individual style and personality to their furniture. It is clear to see why year after year they continue to go from strength to strength.

www.gallerydirect.co.uk
T 01795 439159
E sales@gallerydirect.co.uk

Quietroom

Quietroom: “Construction errors costing hotels millions”

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The property sector is short-changing itself in the development and construction of hotels. Owners, developers and investors should look beyond traditional procedures.

If you want to build good hotels which will achieve high profitability, you have to provide comfort and quiet hotel rooms. That is the opinion of the Quietroom Foundation.

President Lucas Keizer of the Foundation: “In the coming years, more and more vacant office buildings will be converted into hotels. In Amsterdam alone there is room for more than 100 hotels. But please make sure they are good hotels and take insulation and sound proofing standards into account when you convert a building into a hotel. At present, this is often overlooked.

The Quietroom Foundation stimulates the world wide development of quieter hotel rooms and has created the Quietroom label. Experience tells us that hotel guests who book a room which is really quiet will give the hotel a higher rating. Which obviously is important for the hotel’s reputation and performance in the long run. The recently opened Ramada Hotel in Amsterdam is a good example of this. It used to be an old office building which has been re-developed into a hotel and 434 of its rooms have qualified for the Quietroom label. The owners have consciously chosen to invest in quality and expect to fully recover their investment.”

Amsterdam has 10 hotels which have really quiet rooms. The number for the whole of Europe is 140.

Hilton Belgrade

Hilton expands European presence with entrance into Belgrade, Serbia

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Hilton has begun proceedings to enter the Serbian market after signing an agreement with local developers to open a Hilton-branded hotel in the capital city Belgrade’s ‘Old Town’ district.

The new-build, seven-storey Hilton Belgrade will be located in close proximity to major sights such as Square Slavija, St. Mark’s Church, the National Museum, Republic Square (Trg Republike) and the National Theatre. Also within easy reach will be government offices, financial institutions and major corporate offices.

“Growing our presence in city destinations in Southeastern Europe has formed a significant part of our regional growth strategy, as Hilton Belgrade joins Hilton Worldwide hotels trading or in development in approximately 30 European capitals,” said Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president of development, EMEA.

For those looking for upscale accommodation, Hilton Belgrade will offer travellers comfortable and stylish surroundings, with a restaurant and bar on the ground floor and a rooftop drinking and dining space which will be one of the only rooftop spaces of its kind in the city. Guests will also be able to use and enjoy the hotel’s fitness club, thermal facilities and executive lounge, along with retail space within the building.

Conferences and events facilities will include almost 1,000 square metres of meeting space, including pre-function facilities, a ballroom and several large function rooms – flexible space for both business and social events.

Hilton Hotels' property in Swindon

Six regional UK Hilton hotels sold off £40 million guide price

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Specialist property adviser Christie & Co has announced the final sale of a collection of six regional, managed Hilton hotels.

The six properties across the UK had a total asking price of £40 million, and have all been purchased by individual buyers. With the exception of Swindon, they have all been acquired free and clear of the current Hilton branding and management after the conclusion of their agreed notice periods. The hotels are:

Basingstoke (141 rooms)
Bromsgrove (146 rooms)
Dunkeld (98 rooms)
Newbury (109 rooms)
Newport (148 rooms)
Swindon (171 rooms)

Jeremy Jones, Head of Hotels Brokerage at Christie & Co, said: “The properties were offered on a whole, sub-group or individual sale basis and we were able to leverage our knowledge of the sector and the players within it to run a competitive sales process, culminating in all sites selling on an individual basis.

“All of the buyers have recognised the individual opportunities on offer which illustrates the shift in focus to single asset sales,” he added.

Statuario Maxima - Caesarstone

Product Spotlight: ‘Ultra-Natural’ Statuario Maximus by Caesarstone

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Caesarstone has extended its premium Ultra-Natural range of quality quartz worktops with the launch of Statuario Maximus, which has the appearance of natural stone.

A marble-inspired design, Statuario Maximus is a bold new surface, featuring intricate warm grey veins which sweep across a soft white base, enriched by delicate background veins. Caesarstone is a beautiful engineered quartz stone, ideal for virtually any interior surface including kitchens and bathrooms.

The company’s countertops are durable and hard-wearing, making them suitable for practically any setting. With four times the flexural strength of granite, Statuario Maximus by Caesarstone is non porous, scratch and stain resistant.

Statuario Maxima - Caesarstone

A versatile option for the contemporary or traditional setting, Statuario Maximus’s natural appearance combines beautifully with other materials in the kitchen and bathroom, including stainless steel, timber and ceramic. Statuario Maximus is available in thicknesses of 20mm and 30mm and is guaranteed for 15 years.

For more details call 01706 863 600 or visit www.caesarstone.co.uk

Sir Winston Churchill Suite - Generous size dining room for 12 persons

St. Regis Dubai unveils Sir Winston Churchill Suite

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The St. Regis Dubai at Al Habtoor City in Dubai has announced the official launch of the hotel’s Sir Winston Churchill Suite. The spacious two-storey suite was formally debuted in the presence of Mr. Randolph Churchill, the great grandson of the inspirational statesman, writer, orator and Prime Minister who led Britain to victory in the Second World War and Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Chairman of Al Habtoor Group.

Fittingly designed to meet the discerning eye of Sir Winston Churchill, the three-bedroom suite holds a meticulous attention to quality and detail, housing a collection of 15 paintings and art pieces from the Churchill archives that include portraits and photographs of the legendary statesman, paintings he mastered himself, and a well-maintained Cuban cigar that once belonged to him from the private collection of Chairman Khalaf Al Habtoor.

Sir Winston Churchill Suite - Reception room Majlis

Spread across 913-square-metres, the sprawling suite is the largest of the hotel’s 52 luxurious suites and even bigger than the 800-square-metre Astor Ballroom. The suite features a vast living room, a formal 12-seater dining room, elegant study, relaxing lounge area and a spacious majlis that is ideal for meetings.

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RELATED: PICTURES – St. Regis’ Langkawi Resort – rainforest meets the riviera
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The Sir Winston Churchill Suite includes a master bedroom connected to a generously sized bathroom with an exquisite free-standing bathtub in the centre and adjoining separate male and female walk-in dressing rooms. Two additional bedrooms – one king bed and one twin bed – feature their own double vanity bathrooms. The suite’s pièce de résistance is a majestic in-room spiral staircase that leads into the central dome of the hotel, where a rooftop plunge pool reveal panoramic views of the landscaped gardens and surrounds.

Sir Winston Churchill Sculpture located in hallway.

The suite also exhibits a La Corona Cubano cigar, dated April 1949, personally donated from the private collection of Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Chairman of UAE conglomerate Al Habtoor Group and creator of Al Habtoor City. Once owned by Churchill, Al Habtoor acquired the priceless piece late last year. The cigar, housed in a La Espana box, has a Colorado claro wrapper with a special label bearing Churchill’s name.

Winston S. Churchill View of Chartwell. Oil on canvas C. 1938. Reproduced by permission of Churchill Heritage Ltd. Located above fireplace in sitting room on right of staircase

The Al Habtoor Group Chairman said: “I have always been a great admirer of Sir Winston Churchill. He was known as the greatest statesman of the 20th century. He was a great and effective leader with a strong personality.” He added: “I purchased one of Sir Winston Churchill’s cigars for my private collection last year. He was very rarely seen without a cigar in his hand. It was his signature piece. Once the decision was taken to name this spectacular suite after the wartime prime minister then it seemed fitting to share this piece of history with the future guests of the Sir Winston Churchill Suite.”

Sir Winston Churchill Suite - Large Master Bedroom

Sir Winston Churchill Suite - Rooftop Plunge Pool
Churchill was an accomplished artist who produced more than 500 canvases across 50 years despite being 40 years old when he discovered the pleasure of painting. His art quickly became his greatest hobby, and he even, exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Holding a strong connection with the Middle East, Sir Winston Churchill was responsible for the creation of a Middle East Department at the Foreign Office. It was also while he was in Cairo, that he rode a camel to the pyramids to paint them in the sunset.
Sir Winston Churchill Suite - Majestic In-Room Grand Staircase
Ignace Bauwens, General Manager of The St. Regis Dubai, said: “The St. Regis Dubai is honoured to display this collection of Sir Winston Churchill’s work and name our signature suite after him. We are proud to present our guests with this rare and refined opportunity to enjoy his art.”

www.stregisdubai.com

Radisson RED opens first property in Brussels, Belgium

World’s first Radisson RED Hotel opens in Brussels, Belgium

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Rezidor announced this week the opening of the world’s very first Radisson RED hotel in Brussels, Belgium.

Radisson RED is a new hotel philosophy and lifestyle brand that aims to reflect the millennial mindset. Inspired by art, music and fashion, the brand incorporates bold design and breaks the traditional model of hotels. Radisson RED recognises that today’s guests seek a DIY, customisable experience driven by technology. The hotel is operated by The Rezidor Hotel Group which is also headquartered in Brussels. The brand currently has 14 additional hotels under development worldwide.

“Radisson RED is Carlson Rezidor‘s new lifestyle select brand inspired by the ageless millennial mindset. It boasts a forward-thinking design and offers a new guest experience fueled by personal interaction and personal choice. It is a true recognition of the increasingly important role that technology plays in facilitating the best of everyday life – home or away,” said Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of the Rezidor Hotel Group.

“Today is a great day for us. We are tremendously proud to open the very first Radisson RED hotel in Brussels, Belgium. It is a clear statement of our trust and commitment to the European capital, whose love for fashion, music and art has inspired us to create a stunning addition to this great city. The entire Radisson RED cast is thrilled and all set to showcase a whole new hotel experience to the world,” said Eric De Neef, Chief Commercial Officer of The Rezidor Group.

The new hotel brand appeals to tech-savvy guests by offering a non-traditional experience. Radisson RED is created for millennial travelers, who are thrill-seekers and have an outspoken desire for immediate gratification. They simply don’t understand why some hotels charge extra for high-speed internet, they love small surprises that leave big impressions, they are all about creating connections and sharing experiences, they live and breathe internet and mobile, they love flexibility and expect a cheerful personal touch. Radisson RED aims to deliver on all these expectations.

Radisson RED Blog
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137 Pillars House Chiang Mai

Thai boutique hotel operator 137 Pillars plans rapid expansion across Asia

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The owners of luxurious, heritage hotel 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai have launched a boutique hotel operation, which will take its name from this first hotel in the group.

The Wongphanlert family is now planning a series of new properties in Bangkok, Phuket and further afield for the 137 Pillars Hotels and Resorts.

The group will be headed up by Christopher Stafford, who now becomes 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts’ chief operating officer. Stafford will be tasked with overseeing the launch of the company’s second property, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok, which is scheduled to open in late 2016.

Set on the 23rd to 30th floors of a new tower, the hotel will offer 34 suites, all featuring large balconies with rocking chairs and two-person daybeds. The Bangkok hotel will also offer almost 180 one and two-bedroom private residences.

Facilities will include a 32nd floor sky bar and rooftop infinity pool, plus a spa. The 26th floor will also feature “pods” for late-leaving and early-arriving guests whose rooms aren’t available, with separate shower facilities. A third hotel, 137 Pillars Estate Phuket, is then scheduled to open in early 2019 on the north peninsula of Kata Beach. It will feature 16 villas and 46 suites, all with private pools.

The original 137 Pillars House in Chiang Mai dates back to the late 1800s and was the former headquarters of the East Borneo Company.

The company’s website, 137pillarshotels.com, went live last weekend. . .

New hotel on North Beach, Miami to open

Spider Investments to open hotel in North Beach, Miami

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Miami-based investment company Spider will develop a 44-key hotel on land it acquired last year in North Beach.

In July, Harding Excalibur LLC, an entity controlled by Spider principal Andres Goldenberg, paid $5 million for the 22,000-square-foot plot at 8011, 8017, 8021 and 8035 Harding Avenue. Now, the company plans to develop “a modern, five-storey boutique hotel aimed at millennials” to the North Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach.

Behar Font & Partners designed the 27,500-square-foot project, which will include an open lobby with multifunctional spaces, a breakfast area, and a rooftop sun deck with a pool.

“We only see very high-end or low budget hotels with very standard proposals in the area,” said Goldenberg.

Artist Residence London

Grade I-listed Bristol square to benefit from Artist Residence boutique hotel

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Bristol’s Grade I-listed Portland Square is set for a remarkable turnaround in fortunes in 2016 and beyond – and part of that will be the development of a 36-room boutique hotel to be operated by Artist Residence, according to reports.

Artist Residence London

Artist Residence London

The bohemian brand has lodged planning application with the city’s council to transform one of the buildings on the square into its latest hotel venture. The building was originally built as a single-use home when Portland Square was first constructed around at the turn of the nineteenth century, but has been since occupied by ‘militant squatters’, who, according to the hotel’s planning application, have vandalised the building’s original features.

Artist Residence Cornwall

Artist Residence Cornwall

The application said: “The opportunity to bring these vacant buildings back into use, given their significant heritage importance will facilitate a substantial improvement to the area’s built urban form.”

Artist Residence already runs three hotels – in Pimlico, London, Brighton and Penzance, Cornwall – and is known for its quirky take on design and guest experience.

Artist Residence Brighton

Artist Residence Brighton

Photos: www.artistresidence.co.uk

Wynn Resorts Las Vegas expansion

Wynn Resorts announces plans for Las Vegas expansion

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Steve Wynn and Wynn Resorts have discussed plans at a recent investor conference for a new entertainment destination built around a first-ever recreational lake concept. The development is subject to approval by the company’s Board of Directors and will include a 38 acre lagoon, surrounded by a meetings and convention space, a 1,000-room hotel tower, a small casino and extensive dining and nightlife. The elaborate water attraction will include both daytime and night-time entertainment elements.

Tentatively called Wynn Paradise Park, the expansion will be constructed on approximately 130 acres of real estate which currently houses the Wynn Golf Club. The proposed lagoon will be lined by a pristine white sand beach and boardwalk and feature an array of daytime activities including water skiing, paddle boarding and parasailing. At night, the space will transform with an elaborate fireworks display that is launched from the 120-ft centre island and surrounding areas.

“We have a chance to reinvent Las Vegas and make the whole venue an entertainment attraction…an idyllic beach paradise surrounded by white sand beaches,” said Steve Wynn chairman and CEO of Wynn Resorts. “People come to Las Vegas from all over the world to live large and have a good time and we can dish up an irresistible entertainment attraction.”

Wynn Paradise Park will add 260,000 square feet of premium meetings space with unobstructed views of the waterfront, spacious guest rooms with a separate bedroom, living room and balcony, and a variety of restaurants, including an expansion of the current Country Club restaurant.

Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland

Gleneagles to undergo multi-million pound upgrade programme

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Five-star, 232-bedroom hotel Gleneagles in Perthshire, Scotland has announced it will begin carrying out a multi-million pound upgrade programme (artist’s impressions above).

New owners Ennismore took over Gleneagles last year and will be working with renowned designers including the David Collins Studio and Timorous Beasties on the project, which includes enhancements to bedrooms, the Dormy Clubhouse and the main bar.

Ennismore founder and CEO Sharan Pasricha said: “The Gleneagles Hotel is an incredible property and beloved brand. It is known the world over for its golf, but with 850 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside, there is the potential to do so much more with the hotel.

“It’s an organic progression – evolution, not revolution – and will ensure the iconic Gleneagles brand remains synonymous with luxury, and the hotel maintains its position among the leading hotels of the world,” he added.

The famous property opened its doors as a hotel in 1924 and now boasts three championship golf courses, a spa and four restaurants – one being the two Michelin-starred, eponymous eatery headed up by Andrew Fairlie.

Ennismore, which owns the London-based, design boutique brand Hoxton, bought Gleneagles in July last year from Diageo for a reported sum of £200 million.

Luxury Hotels Group

Luxury Hotels Group planning 200 properties in India for 2016

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UK-based hospitality developers Luxury Hotels Group plan to open 200 hotels in India during 2016.

The group currently has 150 properties ranging from 3-star to 5-star under its umbrella across the country.

Cities that will include a property are Chandigarh, Amritsar and Delhi/NCR in the north; Pune, Bhopal, Aurangabad, Indore and Bhopal in the west; Cochin and locations in Kerala in the south and in the east it will be Kolkata and north-eastern states.

Managing director Rahul Arora said: “”We plan to add 200 more hotels as our members across India during the current fiscal year. These will be mainly smaller chains based out of India and independent hotels. Our focus is on the marketing, branding, strategy and revenue management for member hotels.”

When asked about the company’s business model, Arora added: “We either work as a fixed retainer or take a percentage of the revenues we generate.”

India accounts for around 30 per cent of the group’s revenues and membership, Arora said.

Conrad Doha

Hilton announces development of Conrad Doha

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In an agreement with Assets Real Estate Development Company, Hilton has announced the development of the Conrad Doha as part of its luxury branch’s ongoing expansion. Hilton is one of many chains to begin expansion in the Middle Eastern country; already operating two properties in Qatar and seven others in the pipeline.

Located in the heart of Doha’s financial district, the hotel provides easy access to the city’s downtown and the new Hamad International Airport.

The 325-guestroom property will include 30 suites and approximately 10,700 square feet of event space, including the Grand Ballroom. A spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool will also make their debut along with seven onsite restaurants and bars.

“Momentum for growth in Qatar’s hospitality offering continues at a strong rate, owing to the significant focus being put on the country’s future as a truly international destination, in line with Qatar’s 2030 Vision,” says Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s vice president of development for the Middle East and North Africa. We are delighted to have confirmed our latest Conrad hotel for the region, which joins a selection of prestigious properties in outstanding destinations worldwide.”

The Conrad Doha is slated to open in early 2019. Conrad Hotels & Resorts’ has a presence in numerous major cities around the world, including Dubai, Hong Kong, London, and New York. Eight new Conrad hotels will open in 2016 (including Conrad Makkah, slated to open this summer) and a further 23 hotels under development.

Tewkesbury Park

Tewkesbury Park completes second phase of extensive renovations

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The second phase of a two-year renovation at Tewkesbury Park has been completed at a cost of £4 million, with the addition of nine luxury suites, two meeting rooms, an Orangery and a cocktail lounge.

Cleverly utilising the property’s historic features, by employing the original structures and grand fireplaces, the décor is regal, yet contemporary, without pretentiousness. Besides the generous bedrooms where king-size and twin beds await, bathrooms are palatial, with the addition of opulent slipper bathtubs taking pride of place in the bathrooms of King Richard III and King Edward IV Suites.

Luxuriously appointed by reputed interior designer, ADS-Design, who have skilfully drawn upon the historical legacy of Tewkesbury Park by working to subtly weave in the area’s story. All suites, along with the new meeting rooms take their namesakes from key characters who fought in the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury. Besides the famous historical link, HD Directory members Zoffany – alongside Osbourne & Little – fabrics and soft furnishings reflect the Tewkesbury surroundings; warm soft country tones complement carefully sourced contemporary fixtures and fittings, conveying a rich and distinguished countryside ambience.

Further new additions include the sumptuous Orangery and Cocktail Lounge, along with the Duke of Gloucester and Earl of Warwick meeting rooms, which have dramatically been transformed by celebrated interior designer, Jane Clayton & Company.

Photography at Tewkesbury Park, Spring 2016

Photography at Tewkesbury Park Hotel, Spring 2016

Besides the multi-million pound new additions, the first phase saw all 85 guestrooms receive a complete refurbishment with plush new interiors, new beds from HD Directory members Hypnos and 40″ inch flat screen TVs. Executive doubles and twins are ideal for corporate guests, while family and interconnecting rooms are perfect for leisure guests. Conference and banqueting suites accommodate up to 200 guests. Work to the main foyer and reception is still being carried out and is scheduled for completion in late spring. Two brand new spa rooms will be completed early summer.

Commenting; Patrick Jones, the new general manager, said: “We are thrilled with the results so far, the hotel is undergoing a complete renaissance and deserves to be brought back to the magnificent property it once was. The McIntosh Family who bought the hotel in 2014, are to be congratulated for having the vision and belief in its potential and staff. Not only are we a great leisure hotel, with our 18-hole golf course and leisure club, but with the investment that has been poured into our meeting facilities, coupled with our superb location, logistically we are perfect for the corporate user.”

www.tewkesburypark.co.uk
Click here to contact Zoffany in the Directory
Click here to contact Hypnos in the Directory

Hotel Collection - Majestic, Harrogate

Hotel Collection ready to sell 10 properties for £130 million

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As predicted earlier in the year, the Hotel Collection has brought ten properties to market for a combined value of £130 million to be handled by Savills.

The hotels include some of the most well-known properties in their respective regions, and account for more than 1,400 bedrooms, 100 meeting rooms as well as several restaurants, gyms and spas, which produced a combined total revenue of £48 million in 2015.

Properties in England
The Majestic Hotel, Harrogate
The Old Ship Hotel, Brighton
The Redworth Hall Hotel, County Durham
The Imperial Hotel, Torquay
The Billesley Manor Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon
The Imperial Hotel, Blackpool
The Shrigley Hall Hotel, Golf and Country Club, Macclesfield.

Hotel Collection sale

In Scotland and Wales
The Stirling Highland Hotel, Stirling
The Aberdeen Altens Hotel, Aberdeen
The Angel Hotel, Cardiff.

Martin Rogers, head of UK hotel transactions at Savills said: “We are pleased to be bringing this significant collection of hotels to market. The distinctive heritage and character of each property has been maintained while generating a robust collective income. The Hotel Collection portfolio also offers numerous value-add and asset management opportunities to further enhance the long term revenue.”

Angel Hotel Cardiff - Hotel Collection

Having been known as Puma Hotels, the portfolio was made up of more than 20 hotels at the time the group was acquired by Lone Star Funds in June 2014. Just 12 months later, Lone Star announced the creation of Amaris Hospitality – a company focused on properties operating under various international brands such as Hilton, Mercure and MGallery from AccorHotels – which meant it was likely to dispose of the individual properties that made up the Hotel Collection.

Hotel Collection

Cheltenham Park, Basingstoke Country, Palace hotel, Buxton and the Marine hotel in Troon have already been sold. Earlier this year, Lygon Arms in Broadway was sold to billionaires Ian and Richard Livingstone, who have added the hotel to sister hotels, Chewton Glen in Hampshire and Cliveden in Berkshire.

Hotel Indigo Durham

Development to begin on Hotel Indigo Durham, Marco Pierre White restaurant

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Property developer Maven has completed a £15 million transaction for the purchase and refurbishment of the Grade II listed Shire Hall in Durham, to convert it into an 81-room 4-star boutique Hotel Indigo Durham.

Some 60 jobs are set to be created when the hotel opens in autumn 2017 and will also feature a 150-cover Marco Pierre White steakhouse grill restaurant.

A classic example of late Victorian architecture, the building boasts a number of period features such as the grand tiled marble staircases, wood panelling and stained glass windows- all of which will be retained for the hotel. The circular debating chamber and lobby room will also be retained, providing an iconic setting for a cocktail bar and the restaurant.

Kevin Brown, who purchased the property in 2014 while securing planning permission for its redevelopment into Hotel Indigo Durham, will work alongside Shaun Crawley through their joint venture Elvet Developments Ltd (EDL) on behalf of Maven Capital Partners. Brown said: It’s taken just over a year to find the right buyer and broker the deal. From the outset it has been vital to find the right partners to produce an outstanding hotel for the city and equally as important, to secure Shire Hall’s future and prevent any further deterioration and damage to the building.”

Nick Taplin, Chief Executive at Black & White Hospitality, who own the franchise rights to MPW Steakhouse Bar & Grill, said: “This is our third development with Maven Capital after Glasgow and Cardiff and we’re delighted to be continuing a very strong business relationship together.”

Master Builder’s at Buckler’s Hard Hotel

New Forest’s Master Builder’s at Buckler’s Hard Hotel completes refurbishment

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The Master Builder’s at Buckler’s Hard Hotel in the New Forest has revealed the results of its major renovation works completed earlier this month.

Part of the Hillbrooke Hotels luxury group, Master Builder’s at Buckler’s Hard Hotel has seen nine of the bedrooms in its ‘Henry Adams’ wing — the ‘Master Builder’ namesake of the hotel – undergo a coastal-inspired refurbishment since January.

The hotel’s restaurant – the Yachtsman’s Bar & Garden – also received a significant makeover, with the new space offering dedicated table service. In addition to this, the garden, which overlooks the Beaulieu River, has been re-landscaped.

Master Builder’s at Buckler’s Head Hotel

Group director Paul Brown comments: “Planned works started in January 2016, we’ve invested considerably concentrating on a much needed redesign of the rooms in our Henry Adams wing, taking them beyond the standard you’d expect when staying in AA three-star accommodation.

“We’ve totally redesigned each room giving them an entire new look and feel, clean, crisp and well-designed for everyday needs. The newly refurbished Yachtsman’s Bar and Garden is something we’ve wanted to invest in for some time, linked to our customer’s needs. All areas have been redecorated and we now offer a dedicated table service. This new system, along with an entirely new food offering, will ensure visitors won’t have to queue to order, they can instead take a seat, eat, drink, relax and enjoy the views from their tables. With lots of boats mooring on the river we’ve also introduced a takeaway service to cater for those who may want this as an option too.”

Wyboston Lakes Hotel completes bedroom refurbishment

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The final phase of the £1million bedroom refurbishment project at Wyboston Lakes hotel is now complete and guests will be occupying the brand new Deluxe Oceania bedrooms from April 2016.

“The final phase of bedroom refurbishment has been especially exciting as the Deluxe Oceania rooms will offer an added level of luxury with the new amenities and mini bars. It was important to us that these rooms continued to compliment the overall leisure and spa experiences available to guests whilst delivering an indulgent and unique feel. We have continued to work with the best designers and contractors on this project and feel the results we’ve achieved will continue to improve the guest experience” – Mark Haynes, Director of Property.
Wyboston Lakes bedroom refurbishment
Continuing the already successful partnership with Butterscotch Designs, the new Oceania rooms offer a luxurious and stylish space for guests to relax. These include super king size beds with Hungarian down-topped mattresses, a new pillow menu, 50inch smart flat screen televisions, Espresso coffee machine and Canton tea stations and in-room mini bars with fresh milk and various alcoholic and soft drinks. The en-suite shower rooms feature LED rainfall showers, luxury toiletries and illuminated make-up stations.

Guests staying in the new Deluxe Oceania rooms will also benefit from evening turn down service and complimentary hire of GHD hair straighteners, Xbox game stations and DVD players on request.

Wyboston Lakes bedroom refurbishment

The new bedroom designs stem from 138 guest reviews on a number of sample bedrooms created in 2015. From this essential feedback, Wyboston Lakes has once again worked to ensure guests will continue to receive the best experience when staying at the hotel. Wyboston Lakes takes pride in being an independent eco-friendly company, donating much of the existing soft furnishings and loose furniture to the Emmaus Cambridge Charity as part of the refurbishment programme.

The exceptionally popular in-room technology and guest services platform, Crave, will continue to be available in all hotel rooms via tablets with software created exclusively for Wyboston Lakes. Guests can view menus, order room service, book spa treatments and access local information from the comfort of their own rooms.

Signbox - Outdoor signage solutions

Company Spotlight: Signbox – time to consider outdoor signage…

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Exterior signage will often be the first contact that a visitor has with a property. Signbox knows this. Signage schemes should welcome, inform, direct and protect, but that vital first impression also speaks volumes about what a hotel stands for and what it represents.

External signage solutions demand a holistic, harmonised approach that addresses issues from aesthetics, navigation to corporate branding, so Signbox takes time to analyse what the organisation and its environment calls for before creating an architectural signage scheme that will look and feel right.

Signbox - Outdoor signage solutions

Can your signs weather the perfect storm?
With the aftermath of Storm Katy still in the headlines, now is the perfect time to audit your external signage. Out of sight and out of mind is no reason not to check your brand is illuminating 24|7 and a quick visual inspection could avoid any structural weakness becoming a problem. High quality architectural signage is a wise investment and Signbox provides a range of solutions to ensure your sign is not ‘Gone with the Wind’!

A single point resource
Signbox invests without compromise; every signage and way-finding solution created has been designed and manufactured in-house using the smartest, most sustainable materials possible and some of the industry’s most cutting-edge technologies including revolutionary, large format print using the latest Greenguard certified inks – confirming its commitment to the environment.

www.signbox.co.uk
T: +44 (0) 1784 438688

Four Seasons Bogota

Four Seasons opens second hotel in Colombian capital

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The land of emeralds has a new gem in the luxuriously intimate Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá, where every design detail is handcrafted, and every guest experience is completely personalised. The second Four Seasons in the city spills onto the vibrant street scene, while providing a warm haven of customised service and sophisticated style for its guests.

Inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains, Rottet Studio created a design aesthetic for Four Seasons Hotel Bogota combining pattern, texture, colour and craftsmanship that is epitomised in the bright new lobby. Here, wooden screens form airy “walls” that climb up across the ceiling, enveloping guests in warmth accentuated with touches of rich green evoking Colombia’s famous emeralds.

Four Seasons Bogota
An oasis of quiet glamour awaits guests who stay in one of 64 rooms and suites, with custom-made beds framed by dark leather headboards and panelling, and pale floors of locally-sourced hardwood. Throughout the Hotel, nearly all materials are Colombian, with furnishings, finishes and artwork all handcrafted by the country’s artisans and artists. Featured artworks include pieces by Pablo Tomayo, Alicia Garavito and José Antonio Suárez Londoño, and a custom-designed, hand-beaded installation made in traditional style and spanning 40-plus-feet (almost 15 metres) is the backdrop for dining at Biblioteca restaurant.

Luis Argote, who grew up in the city and is now General Manager of both Four Seasons Hotel Bogota and Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá, said: “If you thought you knew Bogota, you’re in for a surprise, and if you’ve never been here before, I promise you’ll be back.”

 

Tempesta-F trigger spray by GROHE

Product Spotlight: Tempesta-F 30 trigger spray by GROHE

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Offering powerful precision in a beautiful minimalist design, combined with high-quality features and precise water distribution, the new Tempesta-F 30 trigger spray by GROHE is the new synonym for hygiene in the bathroom.

It is designed by the firm’s award-winning in-house design team and manufactured in its plant in Lahr-Black Forest, Germany. As the latest addition to the GROHE New Tempesta shower family, it continues the tradition of combining modern timeless aesthetics with highest functionality.

Tempesta-F trigger spray by GROHEFrom injection moulding and galvanising of plastic components to assembly, quality inspection and packing — proven expertise and diligent work at every stage of the process are key to the high quality of GROHE showers — for the benefit of consumers around the world. For an even sturdier solution, the new range of GROHE Sena 35 trigger sprays, which feature a strong metal body and a new valve for extra safety are on point.

The all-in-one valve automatically closes the water supply when you replace the spray, therefore averting the risk of accidental flooding. The Sena valve is also available in combination with our new Tempesta-F 30 trigger sprays.

www.grohe.com
T: +44 (0) 87 12 00 34 14

Anantara Residences Phuket Layan

Anantara launches The Residences in Phuket Layan

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The Residences by Anantara Phuket Layan, a new luxury residential villa development overlooking breathtaking Layan Beach, were designed by the late Jaya Ibrahim of Jaya International.

In one of the final projects designed by Jaya himself, the designer curated a modern interpretation of the classic Asian space, bridging the culturally rich and flavorful world of Thailand with today’s modern luxury standards. The design reflects the tranquility and beauty of the region.

Anantara Residences Phuket Layan
The Residences by Anantara Phuket Layan are the first branded residences for the award-wining luxury hospitality brand. Located on the Layan Beach, on the northwest coast of Phuket, renowned for its lush tranquil and stunning environs, the 15 impressive villas range in size from three to seven bedrooms, each with a 21-metre infinity pool and providing an unobstructed 180-degree view overlooking the Andaman Sea. The spectacular expansive residences range in size from 1,695 to 3,220 square metres, providing the space to get away from it all, or to share the luxurious destination with friends and family.

Anantara Residences Phuket Layan
Inspired by the locality of Phuket Layan, Jaya’s design draws on the cultural and ecological context of the natural terrain. The resort is situated in the canopy of the surrounding rainforest, perched on hilly terrain above a quiet beach. To blend the buildings with its surroundings, indigenous and natural materials were used, such as Thai travertine, locally-sourced wood and Terrazzo flooring. The residences feature two-tiered flat roofs with indented corners, a modern twist on the traditional Thai design element that also serves to enhance views. Ranging from three to nine bedrooms, each villa offers a mixture of covered and outdoor spaces.

Anantara Residences Phuket Layan
While the architecture is reflective of the landscape and its contours, the interiors are a seamless response to the architecture. The interiors are calm and comfortable, allowing the transition from a busy, urban life to peace and quiet. Features and doors are aligned to emanate a sense of balance and security, and the furniture layouts in each room are focused on the view outside. The sense of place is subtly enhanced with the choice of materials, like wood and stone with natural instead of highly glossed finishes. The Thai culture is reflected through distinct design elements, such as the intricately carved ceiling lattice, the carpet pattern and the curves of the furniture.

Anantara Residences Phuket Layan
All of the décor elements were specifically designed or handpicked by Jaya himself as a complement to the cultural richness of the location. The interior is warm, welcoming and luxurious, and emanates a distinctly authentic aura. A rustic bronze lamp stand with three tiers and indented corners is an inverse reflection of the building itself. Colourful hand woven rugs were created using a combination of silk and wool. Additional artifacts and antiques found throughout the residences were curated personally by Jaya to embellish the surroundings.

BIID launches client's guide to working with interior designers

BIID launches new Client’s Guide to working with interior designers

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The British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) has launched its new Client’s Guide to Working with An Interior Designer. The practical guide is designed to highlight the advantages of working with an interior designer and to outline the process of appointing one.

The guide explains the process of collaborating with an interior designer and offers a step-by-step guide for clients which covers:
• How to appoint an interior designer
• What do interior designers do?
• How does the relationship work between designer and client?
• Getting started — where to find an interior designer
• Fees
• The project process – from start to finish

Susie Rumbold - BIID

Susie Rumbold (pictured), BIID President Elect, who co-authored the guide comments: “As the professional institute for interior designers in the UK, the BIID has created this user-friendly guide to help both clients and the designers they work with.

“As a practising interior designer, I often find that prospective clients are unsure where to start researching a potential designer and are uncertain of the process of hiring a designer to help transform their initial ideas into reality. This new guide aims to demystify this process and help clients consider what they want to achieve when setting out on a design project.

“The key to a successful project lies in finding an interior designer or design practice that you feel has the appropriate experience, competence, sympathy with your vision and rigorous working practices to suit you and your aspirations. We hope this guide will help to set clients on the right path to achieving this.”

The BIID Client’s Guide offers practical advice on what qualifications and experience clients should look for when hiring a designer, such as ensuring that they are a BIID Registered Interior Designer. This new title is a way to help identify interior designers who have met the BIID’s rigorous professional standard and offers the reassurance that the designer is properly qualified and meets the BIID’s high standards of professional practice.

To download a free copy of the new BIID Client’s Guide, click here. . .

To find out more about the new BIID Registered Interior Designer title go to here. . .

Hotel Jen UK launch

Hotel Jen UK launch – what’s new for 2016?

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Ten Hotel Jen hotels across Asia Pacific have exciting developments and renovations taking place throughout 2016. From Hello Kitty-themed rooms in Johor to a 19th-floor lounge with incredible views in Manila, the new developments are transforming the brand’s hotels into the most stylish business and leisure spaces in their destinations.

Looking ahead over the next three years Hotel Jen has a second phase of expansion planned with two new hotels set to open in Borneo and Kuala Lumpur…

HOTEL NEWS

Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore
New to the Hotel Jen brand. The former Traders Hotel re-opened in December 2015 following a £22-million makeover that sets the style standard for the Hotel Jen group. The hotel re-opened with 565 refurbished rooms, a lobby, public areas and all-day-dining restaurant. The hotel has a modern functional design concept and allows travellers to blend boundaries between business and leisure.

Hotel Jen - Tanglin, Singapore
Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour, Johor, Malaysia
New Hello Kitty-themed rooms by the end of 2016. Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour is widening its appeal to the family market with 12 Hello Kitty-themed rooms to be completed before the end of 2016. The hotel is located near Hello Kitty Town as well as LEGOLAND.

Hotel Jen Brisbane, Australia
Six new meeting rooms for May 2016. The hotel will renovate its six meeting rooms in May 2016, offering stylish and multipurpose NEXTJen Meeting spaces. The rooms will have flexible layouts that will meet the needs of both corporate and social events in the city.

Hotel Jen Manila, Philippines
New 19th floor lounge with incredible views. Windows by the Bay has recently opened; a lounge on the 19th floor offering breath-taking night views of Manila Bay. Guests at the hotel can enjoy private access to the lounge, live music, complimentary welcome food platters and a choice of selected wines and beverages from around the world.

Hotel Jen - Manila

Hotel Jen Shenyang, northeast China
Five guestroom floors to be renovated. Five guestroom floors will be renovated, converting them into new serviced apartments with Jen’s signature design. They will be equipped for long-stay guests to experience the residential feel of being in a home. The extraordinary storage space, state-of-the-art kitchen equipment and the latest technology in room fittings, demonstrates the brand’s concept of creating a place where guests feel like they are staying at a home from home.

Hotel Jen Hong Kong
Refurbished Sky Lounge. Hotel Jen Hong Kong will refurbish its Sky Lounge towards the end of 2016. The new version of the lounge will have sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and homely residential-style décor. The bar will offer small bites and Jen’s signature cocktails and spirits. The aim is for the Sky Lounge to become the venue for pre- or post- dinner gatherings.

Hotel Jen Upper East Beijing
New glass façade, Jen’s Space. Hotel Jen’s first rebranded hotel in China, recently completed a £100k renovation, unveiling a glass façade, a 430-square-metre event space with an eight-metre-high ceiling and a new ballroom. Jen’s Space, as it’s been named, looks onto tropical landscaped gardens with water features and is designed to host local weddings, social events or corporate incentive programmes.

Hotel Jen - Beijing

Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore
New Baywatch@Jen rooftop pool bar with city views. The hotel, which launched the brand in September 2014, has just opened a rooftop pool bar called Baywatch@Jen. It now offers full views of Singapore and provides a venue for product launches, fashion shows and other social events.

Hotel Jen Penang, Malaysia
Renovation of all public rooms in July 2016. Hotel Jen Penang will start its renovation of all public rooms and the lobby in July 2016, with the first renovated guest rooms scheduled to open in October 2016 and refurbishment to be completed by June 2017.

Hotel Jen Malé, Maldives
New state-of-the-art gym. The hotel has a newly equipped gym with state-of-the-art fitness equipment including treadmills, cross trainers and bicycles with their own TVs.

Hotel Jen - Maldives

NEW HOTELS
Hotel Jen’s second phase of expansion is underway with two new hotels in the pipeline. Hotel Jen Kota Kinabalu, Borneo is scheduled to open in 2018 and will form part of PacifiCity, a new shopping and entertainment complex located along the coastal highway.

The third hotel in the expansion is Hotel Jen Kuala Lumpur which is set to open in 2019. The 200 room property will be 36 stories tall, feature a rooftop sky bar with ‘infinity’ pool as well as club lounge with privileges including express check-in and complimentary breakfast. The hotel will be located in the centre of the city, 800 metres from Kuala Lumpur’s landmark Petronas Twin Towers and 300 metres from the KL Tower. For business guests, the hotel will be ideally located close to the central business district and Kuala Lumpur City Centre.

For more information visit the Hotel Jen website at www.hoteljen.com

Ritz-Carlton Budapest

Ritz-Carlton Company reveals first hotel in Hungary

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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has revealed its first hotel in Hungary this week.

The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest, is housed within a protected historic building, located on Elizabeth Square, with views over St Stephens Basilica. Constructed in 1914 as the headquarters for an Italian insurance company, the building has seen many incarnations, but today it opens as a luxury property with 170 elegantly appointed rooms and 30 suites. Whilst many of the building’s original architectural details have been retained, including elegant statues on the exterior walls, the interiors offer guests a spacious and relaxed contemporary environment, inspired by the cool colours and swirling water of the Danube River.

1-Budapest-release

The Kupola Lounge, situated beneath the building’s iconic stained glass cupula and grand crystal chandelier, is ideally placed for a leisurely farmer’s market breakfast or light lunch overlooking the hotel lobby. The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest, also houses a fresh, contemporary bar. Combining sleek finishes with the building’s uncovered original architectural columns, the Kupula Bar focuses on serving innovative cocktails in a metropolitan, sophisticated ambience.

The property’s facilities are completed with the ballroom, situated on the lower ground floor. Seating 180 people and the perfect new Budapest location for milestone celebrations, it is adjacent to five flexible meeting rooms, which combine contemporary interiors with state of the art technology.

“The Ritz-Carlton service standards are globally recognised and we’re delighted to bring them to a new market. Budapest is an extraordinary city and perfectly placed to welcome the newest property in our portfolio,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operations Officer.

11 Howard

New York’s hippest new hotel 11 Howard opens in Soho

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New York’s hippest new hotel – 11 Howard – has opened in SoHo and has all the markings of its owner’s style. However, in an uncharacteristic move, Aby Rosen has also pledged to donate a percentage of the hotel’s room revenue to the Global Poverty Project.

In a similar vein to his other properties, Paramount Hotel or Gramercy Park Hotel, Rosen’s new $180 million hotel is aimed at a ‘fashionable clientele’, featuring Scandinavian design and tablets in every room for ordering food or drink.

Three designers joined forces on the 221-room project – Anda Andrei with SPACE Copenhagen’s Signe Bindslev Henriksen and Peter Bundgaard Rützou – who were tasked in implementing the self-confessed ‘conscious hospitality’ ethos of the hotel into its design.

Wooden floors, unique rugs as well as custom furniture and lighting exclusively designed for the hotel by Henriksen and Rützou are the order of the day. Custom artwork specifically chosen by Rosen and Andrei dots the walls which also feature 11-foot-high ceilings and oversized windows, allowing for abundant natural light—unique in this area of the city. Bathrooms are finished in marble and brass, with specially procured products made from organic botanical ingredients.

HRH Duke of York opening Hypnos contract factory

HRH Duke of York opens new Hypnos contract factory

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Luxury bed manufacturer Hypnos welcomed HRH Duke of York on Wednesday, to officially open its new contract factory in Castle Donington.

The state-of-the-art premises on Station Road houses the contract arm of the business which produces beds and mattresses for the hospitality market, including some of the world’s leading hotel chains, such as the Marriott, Corinthia, InterContinental Hotels Group and Premier Inn. It also caters to the independent boutique hotel market, making a range of products which meet the diverse and bespoke needs of this sector.

With environmentally friendly technology, showrooms, design studios and training facilities, the premises has received an investment of over £750,000 to help Hypnos meet growing demand for its beds in Europe and around the world, as well as fast growing UK market segments, such as the serviced apartment sector.

Hypnos has held a Royal Warrant since 1929. The founders – the Keen Family – were honoured to show Prince Andrew around the newly acquired site. A prestigious gathering of local dignitaries, staff and key Hypnos family business members greeted HRH Duke of York. He was taken on an informative and educational tour of the factory, gaining an understanding of bed making and the importance of sleep, before he unveiled a commemorative plaque and officially opened the site.

HRH Duke of York opening Hypnos contract factory
Hypnos moved to the new 39,000-sq-ft premises at Castle Donington following substantial business growth, and currently 162 people are based there. Acting as the new facility for Hypnos’ global operations, overseeing and directing activity for a network of 19 manufacturing partners, the site is key in enabling the business to meet international demand and supply hospitality sleep solutions to customers around the world.

Group Managing Director, Stephen Ward said; “We are extremely honoured to have HRH officially open our new factory. We are very proud that we have been able to take Prince Andrew around our new premises and show him how our beds are made. He met some of our staff and saw the intricate lengths we go to, to create high quality beds and mattresses. It was a very exciting day and a landmark in our business growth.”

Whilst growing and expanding, Hypnos has been careful not to lose its focus on CSR and sustainability which has always been extremely important to the business. The Castle Donington factory runs on a biomass heating system which was installed as part of the company’s ethos and commitment to protecting the environment. This renewable heating source runs on wood pellets meaning no fossil fuels are used. Hypnos aims to save 74 tonnes of carbon a year through this system.

For more information about Hypnos, visit www.hypnoscontractbeds.co.uk

New Caledonia

Hilton Worldwide announces second New Caledonia hotel

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Hilton Worldwide has announced its second hotel in New Caledonia with the signing of Hilton Lifou Wadra Bay Resort. The 50-room resort is due to open in 2019.

Lifou Island is one of the three Loyalty Islands located off the east coast of the mainland of New Caledonia. This will be the first hotel of this standard on the island which is largely undiscovered and features a combination of Melanesian culture, unique nature, and magnificent beaches. Lifou Island is accessible by air or by boat leaving from Noumea, the capital city of New Caledonia.

Robert Scullin, vice president, Development, Australasia, Hilton Worldwide, said: “What a terrific place to continue our New Caledonia story. This beautiful country surrounded by the Pacific Ocean has a deep, rich cultural heritage. Global travellers trust the Hilton brand and together with our partners we look forward to making this destination more accessible to global travellers.”

The resort will include 50 villas all located on or close to the beachfront and will boast an inland lagoon with local fish, rays and turtles following an agreement with the Noumea Aquarium. Two restaurants, a health club, spa, outdoor pool and event spaces complete the resort facilities.

Derry's Department Store Plymouth

Permission granted for 100-room hotel as part of Plymouth building redevelopment

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Plymouth City Council has resolved to grant planning permission to Thames Bank Property, advised by planning and development consultant Iceni Projects, for the £50 million redevelopment of the former Derry’s Department Store in Plymouth.

The 300,000 sq ft mixed-use scheme is set to rejuvenate the western edge of Plymouth and support the ongoing regenerative vision of the council. The redevelopment will include the delivery of 500 student accommodation beds (in a mix of clusters and studios), a 100-bed hotel, which will help accommodate the ever-growing tourist numbers in the city along with some 60,000-sq-ft of commercial space that is primarily aimed at food and beverage providers.

Colin Morris at Thames Bank Property, said: “The redevelopment of the former department store presents a significant opportunity to develop a high-quality scheme that will not only ensure long-term sustainable use, but will also provide a welcome and enhanced night-time economy to the western end of the city centre. This is an exciting time for Plymouth and we look forward to delivering this project over the coming years.”

Ian Mayhead, Associate at Iceni Projects, added: “Iceni has demonstrated successful multi-discipline working by helping secure planning permission for the redevelopment of the former Derry’s Department Store. Our planning and engagement consultants have worked alongside each other to great advantage, and we are thrilled to have aided in the approval of a scheme which will transform this underutilised, landmark building.”

The project is due to start on site in early 2017 and is estimated to complete in August 2018.

Dubai mega-tower

Hotel slated to be included in new Dubai mega-tower

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A Spanish-Swiss architectural firm has come out on top to design a new mega-tower in Dubai – which will surpass the world’s current tallest building Burj Khalifa in height – after the emirate’s ruler chose its design from a field of international suitors.

Architect Santiago Calatrava will join forces with Emaar – the firm behind the Burj Khalifa – to create what they say will become ‘an icon of a nation’ in a similar vein to the Eiffel Tower.

Speaking at the weekend, Calatrava said: “There’s no doubt that the Eiffel Tower has inspired over 100 years, it represents a city, a whole nation. It is still today a monument. I feel so proud to be part of a team that aims to obtain a similar achievement.”

While the building in Dubai Creek will serve more as an architectural achievement than a working building, there will be floors dedicated to a hotel, restaurant, meeting space, an interior garden and an observation deck.

Both this new Dubai mega-tower and the Burj Khalifa will be surpassed by the 3,280 ft-high Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia, which is also slated for completion in 2020.

Rendering courtesy of emaar.com

Hansgrohe achieves record turnover in 2015

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The Hansgrohe Group concluded its 2015 financial year once again with record sales and earnings. Thorsten Klapproth, Chairman of the Executive Board at Hansgrohe SE and Udo Kraus, Vice President Controlling and Finance, announced the results at the company’s annual press conference held on 15th March in Frankfurt.

The globally-operating company generated a total of €964 million in sales compared to €874.1 million in the previous year. This corresponds to an increase of 10.3 percent over the previous year. EBITDA rose by €6 million to €187.5 million (€181.5 million in 2014), which means that results also hit an all-time high.

“In 2015, more than 3,800 hugely dedicated and committed people contributed to carrying forward our company’s story of success. Hansgrohe’s employees can be proud of themselves,” Thorsten Klapproth summarised the past year.

Worldwide Growth
“Generally speaking, we grew in nearly all market regions in 2015, thus contributing to a positive sales trend around the world,” said Thorsten Klapproth. For several years, Hansgrohe has been steadily generating nearly 80 percent of its overall revenue outside Germany. At 77.3 percent, the proportion of international sales remained nearly unchanged over the previous year (77.2 percent in 2014). This makes the Hansgrohe Group one of the few global players in the sanitation industry, supplying products to more than 140 countries worldwide.

About half of the company’s sales are generated in Europe and the other half in the rest of the world. This distribution guarantees profitable growth as it enables Hansgrohe to benefit both from large growth regions, such as China, and from regions with strong performance in parts of Europe. The decisive factors contributing to this profitable growth are in particular the innovative products from the Axor and Hansgrohe brands, offering every customer greater value through design, comfort and functionality. In addition, customers enjoy efficient and personalised service.
Hansgrohe
Creating Employment
A key element in the steady and successful growth rate of the Hansgrohe Group is its staff. The number of employees around the world rose in 2015 to 3,805 (2,255 of them in Germany) strengthening the Hansgrohe workforce by 155 people over the previous year (3,650 employees in 2014). Last year, 42 young talents began their training at Hansgrohe. A total of 147 trainees brought the company’s trainee quota to 6.5 percent.

Strategic Investments in the Future
Investments in future growth are another key element in the success of the company. In 2015, the Hansgrohe Group invested some €55 million, more than ever before in the 115-year history of the company. Of this amount, about €47 million, or 85 percent, were invested in Germany. Hansgrohe built a new lab for research and development at its company headquarters in Schiltach. It also invested €1.6 million in a new plastics technology centre built on the premises of its Offenburg plant.

Hansgrohe’s largest investment is the expansion of its logistics centre at its Offenburg site. The centre is currently undergoing expansion at the cost of about €30 million to enable the company to supply its customers around the world even more rapidly. The extension is expected to go into operation later this year.

Hansgrohe
Ambitious Targets
“We achieved a record high in 2015 by increasing turnover by more than 10 percent to €964 million,” said Thorsten Klapproth. “But we will not rest on our laurels. We have set ourselves ambitious targets because profitable growth guarantees that Hansgrohe will maintain its competitive edge.” Another top result shows that the company is on track to success. Hansgrohe was just recently ranked as one of the ten best companies in the world in the area of design. Hansgrohe now holds a place among the Top 10 in the international iF ranking, taking the lead over some 2,000 listed companies, including brands such as Apple, Daimler and Nike.

T: +44 (0) 13 72 47 20 30
F: +44 (0) 13 72 47 06 70
E: enquiries@hansgrohe.co.uk

The Culpeper, Spitalfields

Spitalfields’ The Culpeper adds five new bohemian-chic bedrooms

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The Culpeper Pub in Spitalfields, London is on the verge of opening five new rooms to add to its already-successful food and drink offering.

Five new rooms will mark the pub and restaurant’s first accommodation facilities, which open in addition to the east London property’s dining and function spaces.

Each bedroom at the Culpeper has been designed with interiors to match the current aesthetics of the building, and fits the bohemian-chic vibe prevalent throughout the Spitalfields area – each having been furnished using local craftspeople and will operate on a B&B basis. Beds have been provided by Hotel Designs Directory members Hypnos.

The rooftop greenhouse houses many of the plants used in the kitchen below, but it also serves as a bookable space for up to 12 people during the winter months.

Photo from www.culpeper.com

Marriott's two new properties in San Diego

Bayfront SpringHill Suites & Residence Inn by Marriott open in Downtown San Diego

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Marriott International is celebrating the grand opening of the highly anticipated SpringHill Suites & Residence Inn San Diego Downtown Bayfront at BRIC. Adding to the expanding portfolio, the SpringHill Suites marked the 3,000th Select Service property for the Marriott Global Portfolio.

Marriott International’s end-to-end hotel management solution – Managed by Marriott (MxM) – will operate this new hotel. The John Portman & Associates designed hotels deliver an integrated guest experience for both of these Marriott brands within one shared footprint.

The hotel offers cutting-edge design with its striking yellow wall, spectacular bay and city skyline views, fifth-floor outdoor swimming pool, bay-front patio area and state of the art fitness centre.

Marriott's two new properties in San Diego
“The hotels in the first phase of BRIC are unlike any hotel property that has been built on the waterfront in San Diego’s recent history,” said Ambrish Baisiwala, CEO of Portman Holdings. “We, along with our partners at Lankford & Associates and Hensel Phelps, are so pleased we were able to work with Marriott to bring the vision to life on the San Diego Bay.”

This hotel encompasses not only lifestyle amenities with the SpringHill Suites, but also helps guests thrive on long trips with the leader in extended-stays, Residence Inn. The properties’ 11,000 square feet of meeting space can accommodate up to 225 people. This space includes the Ted Williams Room and Bayview Terrace and overlooks the USS Midway, while also presenting panoramic views of San Diego Bay from the Coronado Bridge to Point Loma.

GROHE at Milan Design Week

Join GROHE for exclusive dinner at Milan Design Week

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April will see representatives of the world’s fashion and design industry converge on Milan, where the 55th Milan Design Week will be held from 12 to 17 April 2016. GROHE is delighted to host an exclusive dinner on 14 April, called “A View on Innovation” which will provide architects, business partners and media representatives exciting insights into the industry.

In addition, the Milan GROHE Showroom, which can normally only be visited by special invitation, will be open to the public for the whole of the Milan Design Week.

GROHE’s products will also be displayed at the exhibition “different suites X different people” by renowned architect, Simone Micheli.

For more information on GROHE’s involvement at Milan Design Week 2016, please visit GROHE’s website here.

Hilton London Paddington Lobby

Hilton London Paddington completes £350,000 refurbishment

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Hilton London Paddington has completed a £350,000 refurbishment to its flexible conference and events space, and public areas.

New carpets and furniture including multi-functional tables and ergonomic chairs have been part of the makeover. The investment also included new carpet in all public areas including the imposing staircase, the sunlight atrium, lobby staircase and all meeting rooms.

Further improvements have also been made to ensure the best facilities for delegates, both in terms of comfort and practical requirements. The new meeting tables include power sockets and the ability to have network enabled internet so delegates can be connected at all times.

Hilton London Paddington Meeting Room
With a 15 minute connection with Heathrow Airport via Heathrow Express; access to South Wales, the West Country, the Cotswolds, and large parts of Southern England with GWR rail services, and with four London Underground lines on its doorstep the Hilton London Paddington is one of London’s best connected venues and is a leader in the Conference and Events industry.

Among other accolades the hotel was recently recognised by Cvent, a leading events management platform, as one of the top 50 European meeting properties. This makes the hotel one of the top 10 choices when it comes to convenience and flexible meeting space in London. The dedicated team understands the intricate needs of customers and the importance of an easy location, flexible meeting space, modern amenities and high quality service and strives to exceed guests’ expectations.

Hyatt Place Shenzhen Airport

Hyatt Place and Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport celebrate official opening

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Hyatt Place Shenzhen Airport and Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport opened this week in southern China’s Guangdong province. The opening of Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport marks the first Hyatt House hotel and the first combined Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels in the Asia Pacific region. Find out more about the properties below…

Hyatt Place Shenzhen Airport offers:
• 167 spacious guestrooms and suites with separate spaces to sleep, work and relax, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper
• Free Wi-Fi everywhere
• Meetings Places with more than 3,200 square feet (300 square meters) of flexible and multi-functioning spaces equipped with the latest audio-visual technology and supported by the hotel’s expert Gallery Host team. Ranging from 650 square feet (61 square meters) to 750 square feet (70 square meters), the five meeting rooms are perfect for business gatherings, interviews and training events
• 24-hour gym featuring cardio equipment with LCD touch screens and free ear buds

Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport offers:
• 112 Suites, ranging from spacious studios to one-bedroom Kitchen Suites with fully-equipped kitchens. Each Kitchen Suite features a full-sized refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and other small appliances and utensils, as well as a separate living space, bedroom and work area with a flat screen high definition television
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and guestrooms
• Gathering Rooms with more than 1,900 square feet (180 square meters) of flexible meeting spaces, Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport features three Gathering Rooms ranging from 645 square feet (60 square meters) to 688 square feet (64 square meters that can accommodate up to 50 people in a variety of meeting formats. With all-inclusive packages available, each meeting room comes fully serviced with extensive menu options, comprehensive event planning support and audio-visual equipment
• A 24-hour Workout Room to keep fitness routines going

Hyatt House Shenzhen Airport

Generator Hostels Amsterdam

Design-led hostel brand Generator opens Amsterdam property

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Design-led boutique hostel brand Generator Hostels has launched its latest project in Amsterdam.

Generator Amsterdam is located in the up-and-coming eastern side of the city overlooking Oosterpark. This former zoological university building can accommodate 564 guests in 168 twin and quadruple rooms with en-suite bathrooms. There is also a luxury apartment for six people with views of the park and a self-catered kitchen.

Priding itself on building a community spirit, it has flexible and spacious social areas, filled with creative design touches like glass-fronted elevators, a raised café and an outdoor terrace. The designers have turned the former lecture hall into an impressive chill-out lounge and bar, while the old library is now a relaxation and private events room.

Generator Hostels Amsterdam
The basement and café are now dining destinations and the original boiler room has become a secret late night bar.

This opening marks a series of three new launches from Generator this in 2016, with Rome and Stockholm scheduled to open in the next few months.

Touch of Timber - Interface

Product Spotlight: Interface teams up with Aquafil to create Touch of Timber flooring

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Global modular flooring manufacturer and Hotel Designs Directory members, Interface, has launched its new collection, Touch of Timber, a hybrid textile floor which resembles timber.

Co-developed with leading yarn supplier, Aquafil, the innovative product is a first for the carpet tile industry and showcases the benefits of advanced contrast and colour twist technologies, combined with Interface Microtuft yarn construction.

Developed over an 18 month period, Touch of Timber delivers a wooden floor in appearance, with all the benefits of a low impact carpet tile.

Touch of Timber - Interface
The collection is made with 100 per cent recycled yarn as standard and is one of the first to feature Interface’s recycled PVB precoat, which has a carbon footprint 80 per cent less than traditional SBR latex precoat. The new range also comes with biobased formaldehyde-free glass fleece as standard in the backing.

Mandy Leeming, Design and Development Manager for Interface EMEA, explained: “Touch of TimberTM is a first for Interface, Aquafil and the carpet tile industry. Customers want the look of a natural floor, but the hard materials used are not a practical solution for many commercial spaces given the transfer of noise, so this is the perfect solution offering a distinctive aesthetic, great underfoot comfort, slip resistance and acoustic benefits.”

Touch of Timber Herringbone - Interface

Touch of Timber Herringbone – Interface

Luca Bertamini, Head of Customer Technical Service at Aquafil, added: “Aquafil is thrilled with the collaboration between our Research and Development team and the Interface design team to create these unique-look collections using ECONYL yarn. By merging Aquafil’s technical ingenuity and expertise with Interface’s creativity, we have developed a product unlike any other in the industry.”

Touch of Timber is now available in 25cm x 100cm skinny planks, allowing for easy installation, and 12 colourways.
www.interface.com
T: +44 (0) 12 74 69 06 90
E: Interface.uk@interface.com

 

Technology, sustainability making impact in hotel design

Technology, sustainability demands having impact on hotel design

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The traditional get-away-from-it-all break is fast becoming the stay-connected-to-everything trip, with travellers expecting hotels to provide smart technology, charging points and free internet access.

A survey by E.ON of 2,000 people – both leisure and business customers – found hotel guests’ expectations have changed significantly, especially in the last five years. Travellers now take 40% more gadgets away with them than they did at the turn of the decade and expect convenient connections rather than the traditional features of a hotel. The use of e-readers has increased three-fold, wearable tech such as smart watches has doubled, and two in five people (44%) now take a tablet on holiday compared to only one-in-20 people (6%) five years ago. These rapidly shifting demands have important implications for owners and designers of hotels.

Guests are now becoming savvy to tricks designers have been pioneering for years; namely half of consumers surveyed said they would like hotels to provide universal chargers and to locate plug sockets next to the bed for convenience, 40% expect USB charging sockets in their rooms, and a fifth (22%) demand wireless charging points. Expectations around more traditional hotel features have also changed. Three quarters (76%) of travellers want their hotels to provide free Wi-Fi, with 20% of people saying this is more important than a complimentary breakfast. 40% would happily forgo that stalwart of hotel rooms, a landline telephone in their room.

Guests don’t just expect hotels to help power the gadgets they bring with them, but are increasingly demanding that the latest smart technology is provided. A third of travellers would like a smart television, while 18% want smart appliances like automatic coffee makers for when they wake up.

Technology, sustainability making impact in hotel design
Almost a quarter (24%) would like to be able to control things like air-conditioning or the entertainment system remotely using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, and in a rather space-age twist, 5% said they would even like to have a robot butler to serve them in their rooms. The provision of smart technology is now a deciding factor in whether some guests stay at a hotel, with one in 10 saying they would choose a hotel based on whether it had the latest technology.

The increasingly technological demands of hotel guests will have implications for their energy use during their stay. What’s more, a third of people surveyed admitted to using more energy than they would at home. At the same time, half of travellers say that the sustainability and energy use of a hotel is important to them. The same number would be willing to be an ‘eco-customer’ if they got a 10% discount for adopting environmentally friendly behaviours such as using one towel throughout their visit, having their lights and electricity on stand-by, and using a limited supply for hot water.

Technology, sustainability making impact on hotel design

Almost a third of guests go so far as to say that hotels should be judged on how sustainable they are, with an accreditation system to rank their sustainability.

Phil Gilbert, Head of Business Energy Solutions at E.ON, said: “Consumers are demanding more and more from their hotels who are in turn having to use more energy to accommodate for the rising use of technology. It is therefore more important than ever that hotels stay on top of their energy use and monitor growing consumption.

“The changes in travelling habits and the demands of guests will have a significant impact on hotels both small and large – not just from their impact on energy consumption, it’s also something to bear in mind when renovating your accommodation,” he added.

Most hotels refurbish every 7–10 years and this provides a significant opportunity to implement these changing guest preferences as well as adapting for energy savings. According to the Carbon Trust, some hospitality businesses have seen energy costs reduce by as much as 40% if energy efficiency opportunities are maximised during refurbishment.

E.ON has developed an online Energy Toolkit which helps businesses of all sizes track and adapt their energy use through reports and alerts.

Ibiza Hotel - Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza to join Curio portfolio

Hilton Worldwide adds historic Ibiza hotel to Curio portfolio

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Hilton Worldwide has reached a franchise agreement with Grupo Avintia to bring Curio – A Collection by Hilton to Ibiza’s historic town centre. The 33-guestroom Gran Montesol Ibiza hotel will welcome guests all-year-round and is set to open this summer, marking Hilton’s debut on The White Isle.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, EMEA, Hilton Worldwide said, “Ibiza is the perfect location to welcome Spain’s first Curio. The island has a considerable reputation as an upscale summer destination and is world renowned as one of Spain’s most frequented and vibrant destinations. Gran Hotel Montesol will be one of the few internationally branded hotels on Ibiza, and as a part of the Curio collection it will benefit from Hilton’s prime commercial engine while maintaining all of its unique character and charm.”

Established in 1933, the hotel was the first purpose-built hotel established on Ibiza and was used as a military barracks during the Spanish Civil War. The building is recognised as a site of heritage and cultural interest by the Spanish Ministry of Culture and many of the hotel’s historic features, such as its characteristic neoclassical white and yellow façade will be retained as part of the new designs.

Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza will have a restaurant on the ground floor as well as a rooftop terrace that can be used as an exclusive meeting space for business travellers. Part of the restoration and the interior of the hotel will be designed by prestigious Spanish designer Lazaro Rosa Violan.

Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president and global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton, said: “With its fascinating history and elegant look-and-feel this landmark hotel is a sought-after addition to the Curio collection. The well-balanced synergy of the island’s legendary nightlife and its long history make Ibiza the perfect location for a Curio hotel.”

Pier Range - Simpson's

Bathroom Accessory Focus: Pier range by Simpsons

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Bathroom furniture allows designers to add additional storage space while also completing a room’s finish. Often, dead space under sinks is a difficult spot to fill successfully – with plumbing and piping to cover up – so using units is a brilliant way of solving this problem; and at the same time adding a cleaner finish to the look of the room.

The units within the Pier range by Simpsons are a perfect example of stylish units to complete bathroom furnishings. With a range of mobile and fixed units – with cast mineral marble basins included – the Pier furniture selection offers finishes to fit numerous overall styles, being both aesthetically appealing and practical. The three finishes of Anthracite, Steel and Ebony will especially complement hotel designers going for colourless bathrooms.

Likewise, for designers dealing with spaces too small to install a bath, choosing a small shower enclosure with a hinged or sliding door is the most practical option; both of which are included in the Pier range.

DOWNLOAD THE SIMPSONS BROCHURE HERE

Pier range - fixed and mobile storage units

Get in touch with Simpsons for contract information in our Directory, by visiting crosswater-contracts.co.uk, downloading the brochure , emailing or by calling 01322 422 743

Conrad Hotels - Pune, India

Conrad Hotels debuts in India with Pune property

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Conrad Hotels & Resorts has made its debut in India with the opening of Conrad Pune. Located in the heart of the central business district, the hotel is managed by Hilton Worldwide and owned by Palm Grove Beach Hotels.

The new property is located near Koregaon Park, the city’s commercial, residential and entertainment districts. It is accessible to the city’s IT and business hubs as well as the airport.

“The introduction of the Conrad brand in India marks a significant milestone for the brand’s expansion in South Asia, and Pune enjoys a robust demand for high-end hospitality from affluent travelers from around the globe,” said Amit Midha, general manager, Conrad Pune. The hotel includes 310 guestrooms, starting at 450-sq-ft, including 20 suites, featuring up-to-date in-room technology and five-fixture marble bathrooms with walk-in rain showers and soak tubs.

The dining options at the hotel include three restaurants, a bar, a poolside cafe, delicatessen and a lobby lounge. According to the company, the hotel features a dedicated rejuvenation floor with the city’s first outdoor temperature-controlled pool, a kids’ pool, whirlpool, a 24-hour fitness center, a full-service Conrad Spa and a salon. The 20,000-sq-ft of meeting and event space at the hotel features a grand ballroom, meeting rooms, seven boardrooms, indoor automotive lift and state-of-the-art audio visual technology.

Sheraton Hotel, Addis Ababa - Hotel Development in Africa

Hotel development in Africa jumps 30% to 64,000 rooms

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The number of planned hotel rooms in Africa has soared to 64,000 in 365 hotels, up almost 30% on the previous year, according to new figures from the annual W Hospitality Group Hotel Chain Development Pipeline Survey.

The increase is largely down to strong growth in sub-Saharan Africa, which is up 42.1% on 2015 and is significantly outstripping North Africa which achieved only a modest 7.5% pipeline increase this year.

A major shake-up in the rankings by country saw Angola, never before listed among the top 10, push Egypt out of second place, due to a major deal there signed by AccorHotels.

The W Hospitality Group survey is published ahead of the African Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) (www.Africa-Conference.com), which is organised by Bench Events. The conference attracts all the major international hotel investors in Africa and is being held for the first time in Lomé on 21-22 June. A second AHIF will also take place in Kigali, Rwanda on 4-6 October.

Trevor Ward, W Hospitality Group managing director, said: “The evidence from our survey is clear – investors remain confident about the future of the hospitality industry on the continent. Even when pummelled daily by low commodity prices, exchange rate problems, political challenges and poor infrastructure, Africa remains resilient.”

Hotel Development in Africa 2016The IMF forecast for economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa is for an increase of 4% this year and 4.7% in 2017, up from 3.5% in 2015. Overall this is down on the 5-6% increase enjoyed over the past decade, but it’s still double or more the forecast for the world’s advanced economies, such as Europe, the USA and Japan.

Matthew Weihs, managing director of Bench Events, said: “Africa is still on the up. For business, trade and capital investment, the continent remains an attractive proposition, leading to continuing demand for accommodation and other hospitality services.”

Baulmann Leuchten provides lighting for Boulevard Hotel Baku

Baulmann Leuchten contracted to manufacture lighting for Boulevard Hotel Baku

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Baulmann Leuchten were asked to collaborate on the manufacture of guestroom and public area lighting for the Boulevard Hotel Baku.

Located in the heart of Baku’s White City district, and set right on Baku Bay, the Boulevard Hotel, Baku has joined the collection of independent hotels under the Marriott Autograph Collection.

This stunning hotel offers 818 guest rooms, three restaurants and conference and event facilities, currently the largest in Azerbaijan. All the guestroom and public area lighting manufactured by Baulmann including, floor lights, wall lights and LED reading lights, as well as large public area lighting was conceived and designed by talented UK interior designers from Robert Angell Design International and MKV Design.
Boulevard Hotel Baku
Boulevard Hotel Baku
Each creation was then custom engineered to the meet the extremely high standards of quality of finish demanded by the clients, Marriott and the Autograph concept. Due to the speed in construction, delivery of all the lighting was time sensitive, and everyone involved was working to very strict schedules.

The lighting provided for this project was delivered on-time and on budget.

To contact Baulmann Leuchten visit baulmann.com or call +49 29338 47251

Marriott-Starwood merger

Marriott-Starwood stockholders approve merger

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Marriott International and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide have announced that at separate special stockholder meetings today the stockholders of both companies approved proposals relating to Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood, which will create the world’s largest hotel company.

Holders of over 97 percent of Marriott shares present and voting at the meeting, representing over 79 percent of outstanding shares, voted in favor of a proposal to issue shares of Marriott common stock in connection with the transaction, and holders of over 95 percent of Starwood shares present and voting at the meeting, representing over 63 percent of outstanding shares, voted in favor of a proposal to approve the transaction.

“With today’s successful stockholder approval milestone, we are that much closer to completing our transaction,” says Arne Sorenson, Marriott’s president and chief executive officer. “Our teams continue to plan the integration of our two companies, and we are committed to a timely and smooth transition. We appreciate the stockholders’ vote of confidence in our ability to drive long-term value and opportunity as a combined company.”

“Today’s vote is a significant step toward closing, and we are grateful for the continued enthusiasm and support for this merger,” adds Thomas B. Mangas, Starwood’s chief executive officer. “There is no doubt that this transaction puts our company on the best path forward and we remain excited about the opportunity this combination will create for our stockholders, associates, owners and guests.”

At closing Starwood stockholders will receive 0.8 shares of Marriott common stock plus $21.00 in cash for each share of Starwood common stock.

As previously announced, the parties have cleared the pre-merger antitrust review in the United States and Canada and multiple other jurisdictions. The transaction remains on track to close mid-2016 pending completion of Starwood’s planned divestiture of its timeshare business expected on or around April 30, 2016, obtaining remaining regulatory approvals, including in the European Union and China, and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

Four Seasons Los Cabos, Mexico

Four Seasons opening luxury resort in Los Cabos, Mexico

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Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Irongate announced plans recently for a luxury resort and private residences on the pristine beaches of Baja’s eastern shore.

With planning in place for a 2018 opening, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas will be part of the exclusive Costa Palmas resort community, which will also feature a private marina and members-only beach and yacht club, all set along a two-mile (3.2 kilometre) stretch of immaculate white-sand beach.

FSH_1992_aspect16x9
The 145-key resort will feature a low-density layout spread across multiple buildings, and a collection of whole-ownership oceanfront, marina-side and golf-side private residences, as well as an intimate collection of custom single-family beachfront private residence villas. Alongside multiple pools, extensive indoor and outdoor event and wedding facilities, and five unique dining outlets, the resort will also feature a Robert Trent Jones II signature 18-hole golf course, full-service spa and progressive fitness facilities.

Four Seasons Los Cabos, Mexico
The extensive grounds of the Resort will be connected to an adjacent yachting marina that will feature up to two hundred slips to accommodate yachts up to 250 feet (76 metres) and its own ocean-side marina village, complete with artisanal boutiques, additional dining options and locally-curated music and art.

“We created Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos for families and groups of friends who appreciate a fresh and mindful approach to resort design and lifestyle. The Resort is a place for those of all ages who seek both a spirited adventure and impeccable service,” says Jason Grosfeld, founder of Irongate. “Positioned on Costa Palmas’ unprecedented two-mile stretch of coastline with a safe, swimmable beach and an international marina, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos is set to become the preeminent place for family and friends to reconnect year after year.”

Harris Wilton

Wilton Carpets’ new classic – Harris – creates boutique style

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Just launched, Harris, the new wool-rich tufted range from Wilton Carpets Commercial, is causing quite a stir amongst interior designers and hotel owners, with its timeless herringbone design and smart boutique look. Such has been the response to the design, the carpet is being sold with immediate availability for all five classic colours.

Bringing a tailored look to the floors of boutique hotels and hospitality spaces, this elegant take on timeless design creates a bespoke feel that leaves a lasting impression. Available as part of Wilton Carpets Commercial’s stock tufted collection – it has an 80% wool and 20% nylon construction to cope with the demands of a busy hotel.

Harris by Wilton Carpets
“The latest addition to our in-stock carpet collection, Harris is already generating interest from interior designers and hoteliers keen to bring a sense of occasion to their space,” comments Alan Whittle, sales director. “The carpet effortlessly transforms with little fuss, is stylistically on-point and blends value and quality perfectly.”

In five colourways covering rich tweed browns, charcoal, wheat and sand hues, the neutral overtone of Harris comes in a four-metre width that is eminently versatile. This new collection from one of Britain’s most loved boutique carpet manufacturers is ready today.

For a brochure or samples, contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com

US Embassy hotel project (Photo: qataridiar.com)

US embassy in Mayfair, London to become 5-star hotel

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According to sources, the building housing the US embassy in London is set to be redeveloped into a five-star hotel as part of a £1 billion renovation project.

With American diplomats moving to new premises in Nine Elms, the Grade II-listed building in Mayfair will be converted into a 137-bedroom, Qatari-owned hotel. As part of the redevelopment project there will also be six shops as well as five restaurants.

The plans for the whole project are set to be submitted to Westminster Council in May by building owners Qatari Diar who have touted British architect Sir David Chipperfield as the person they want to design the project.

The developers wish to keep the iconic square, stone frames on the building as well as the aluminum eagle which sits atop the building.

Diplomats will be moving to the new site in 2017, when work can commence on the hotel project.

Photo: Artist’s impression – qataridiar.com

Hotel Jen Kuala Lumpur

Shangri-La announces new Hotel Jen in Kuala Lumpur

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Shangri-La has announced the development of the first Hotel Jen in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Opening in 2019, Hotel Jen Kuala Lumpur is the second Hotel Jen project under development in Malaysia, following the signing of Hotel Jen Kota Kinabalu in Borneo in September 2015.

The announcement was made at a signing ceremony held in Hong Kong to finalise a management agreement between Concorde Arch and Hotel Jen.

Concorde Arch initially acquired the land for building the corporate office; however, the opportunity of venturing towards hospitality became apparent with the advent of millennial travellers seeking more curated lifestyle and leisure accommodation inspired by this growing target market.

The hotel is strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur at the intersection of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan P Ramlee, just 800 metres from the city’s landmark Petronas Twin Towers and 300 metres from the KL Tower.

The property will cater to both business and leisure travellers, being in close proximity to the central business district and Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), as well as having easy access to some of South East Asia’s largest shopping malls, street markets and a wide range of restaurants and entertainment.

Greg Dogan, president and CEO of Shangri-La, said: “The announcement of Hotel Jen Kuala Lumpur reinforces our interest and expansion in Malaysia, in the country’s capital city, where we will now increase the group’s presence with our third hotel and newest brand Hotel Jen”.

Fresh, friendly and fuss-free, the new brand launched a year ago to cater to a new “Jeneration” of independently minded business and leisure travellers. The brand launched quickly with the first ten Hotel Jen properties opening in major cities in Asia Pacific in under one year, followed by two new developments soon after Hotel Jen’s first anniversary. Shangri-La is targeting fast-track growth of the brand in key cities in Asia.

Holiday Inn Express Redditch

Two Holiday Inn Express properties added to Redefine|BDL portfolio

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Redefine|BDL Hotels has announced that Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 Jct 7 and Holiday Inn Express Redditch have joined the management company’s extensive portfolio of hotels.

The properties, which boast excellent facilities and transport links, bring the number of hotels managed by the company up to 65. Redefine|BDL Hotels, the UK’s largest hotel management company, took over operation of the hotels on Tuesday (5th April).

Marking its expansion into two new localities, the Southampton M27 Jct 7 boasts 176 rooms and Redditch offers 100 rooms.

Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27
Now, with 19 Holiday Inn Express properties in its portfolio, these acquisitions further strengthens Redefine|BDL Hotels’ relationship with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and cements the operator’s position as the largest IHG franchisee operator in Europe.

John Stuart, Redefine|BDL Hotels’ Chief Operating Officer, said: “We’re very excited about these two fantastic hotels joining the Redefine|BDL Hotels portfolio. The hotels both sit in prime locations for both business and leisure travellers, with great access to local attractions and major transport hubs.

“We will bring our wealth of experience in running 19 Holiday Inn Express hotels across the length and breadth of the country, ensuring all guests have a fantastic experience.”

Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Westin makes debut in Qatar with Doha Hotel & Spa

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Starwood Hotels & Resorts has opened The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, in partnership with Ghanem Al Thani Holdings, in the heart of Qatar’s rapidly growing capital.

The opening marks Westin’s debut in the country, reinforcing the brand’s growth in the region, with hotels opening in the UAE, Jordan, Oman and Saudi Arabia within the next three years, which will double its presence in the Middle East.

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa features 365 thoughtfully-designed guestrooms and suites, including five expansive pool villas and an impressive presidential suite.

Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Photos: starwoodhotels.com

The nine-story hotel’s crisp limestone and glass façade floods the space with natural light, while a custom art installation anchors the atrium-like foyer to create a modern sense of arrival.

Featured throughout the hotel, meandering paths and lush botanicals reinforce Westin’s biophilic design principles, which suggest a connection to nature enhances wellbeing.

Hotel Indigo Atlanta

Architect John Portman converting offices for Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown

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Architect and developer John C. Portman has converted an office block he once designed in Atlanta into a multi-use building which houses Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown as well as his fine-dining restaurant JP Atlanta.

“It is a unique experience to be able to revisit a building designed at the beginning of one’s career,” says architect and developer John C. Portman, Jr: “I feel quite fortunate to once again be able to contribute to the evolution of downtown Atlanta. This building with its revitalised plaza and one-of-a-kind connection to AmericasMart will serve so many people coming into the heart of our city.”

The Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown lobby welcomes guests with a spiral glass staircase accented with sleek, steel railings. The Portman style is incorporated into each element of the guestroom aesthetic, while area rugs are custom made from digitised images of Portman’s designs and murals depict the unique shape and structure of the overall building (230 Peachtree). The rooms are painted in a rich, clean Portman White hue.

Guest rooms feature plush bedding with contrasting hard-surface flooring and area rugs, whilst incorporating spa-inspired bathrooms. The hotel also offers two spacious suites. Guests have access to a 24-hour health club facility featuring state of the art equipment and 1,750ft² of meeting space.

The Atlanta hotel features the brand’s Neighbourhood Guide, an innovative touchscreen display that connects guests to each other, the locale and to Hotel Indigo locations around the world. Hotel team members, many of whom are locals themselves, will share recommendations with guests looking to explore and discover the neighbourhood.

230 Peachtree is connected to AmericasMart’s 7.1million ft² campus by a skylight corridor and adjacent to the Peachtree Center MARTA Station. It is the latest in the aesthetic continuum from Portman, who also designed and built Hyatt Regency Atlanta, the Westin Peachtree Plaza and the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, over a 48-year span.

Chelsom to exhibit at HD Expo 2016 in Las Vegas

Chelsom to exhibit once again at HD Expo 2016 in Las Vegas

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Chelsom are delighted to once again be exhibiting at HD Expo 2016 which takes place at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas on 4th-6th 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 5th consecutive year exhibiting at the event and this year will mark the international launch of their exciting new lighting collections, Edition 25.

Designed by Robert and Will Chelsom, the collections harness and refine the latest trends in finishes and materials and have been created with the requirements of the international hospitality marketplace at their core. The Edition 25 collections are the company’s most distinctive to date both in terms of design and technology with nearly all pieces having an integral LED light source or available with a LED option.

Chelsom to exhibit at the HD Expo 2016 in Las Vegas
“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 launching 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 the last 18months including The Beekman and Grace Hotel in New York, a trio of central London Morgans Hotel Group projects including Mondrian at Sea Containers, The Sanderson and St. Martin’s Lane, Four Seasons Bahrain and Six Senses Douro Valley. 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 12100. For more information on HD Expo and to register to attend please click here. . .

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort reopens following refurbishment

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Secluded on a pristine private island in the Quirimbas Archipelago off the northern coast of Mozambique, Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort has reopened following an extensive refurbishment.

The 12-villa, adults-only African island hideaway now features refreshed décor, luxury villa upgrades and new signature experiences, including a Robinson Crusoe-style star bed for the ultimate romantic escape.

Now, with a host of enhancements, the resort has reopened to offer more unique signature experiences and natural attractions and will soon be the only African island resort to use 100% solar energy.

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort
Refreshed décor gives Anantara Medjumbe a distinctive African island identity. The resort has been extensively restyled using colourful patterns to depict the vibrancy of local culture. Shades of blue and aqua reflect the evolving hues of the Indian Ocean. All of the 12 thatched Beach Pool Villas, which open onto soft powdery sands, exude a sense of natural luxury, including newly designed private splash pools with an aqua mosaic finish, and a built-in Champagne step to sip bubbles while admiring the Indian Ocean view.

In the guest villas and public areas, the majority of furniture and lighting was custom designed by interior designers, Savile Row, and produced in Indonesia and South Africa with incredible attention to detail. Various accessories were sourced from around the African continent and framed artworks were created using traditional wax printed capulana fabrics that were sourced from local markets.

Photos: anantara.com
The Liberty Boston

Iconic Boston hotel The Liberty completes multi-million dollar renovation

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The Liberty, an icon of the Boston hospitality scene, has completed its $11 million (£7.8 million) guest room renovation. The former jail and now architectural gem features 298 newly-designed accommodations, reimagined by acclaimed interior designer Bill Rooney.

Rooted in history and fortified with contemporary design, the completely transformed guestrooms evoke a quintessential Boston atmosphere. Custom furniture and fixtures, tailor-made accents and artwork, herringbone wall coverings, wide-plank hardwood floors, library-style club chairs, and leather headboards create a warm and luxurious New England feel. Bathrooms offer four-fixture floating granite vanities, sleek glass showers and large soaking tubs. Many of the newly-appointed guestrooms offer spectacular views of Beacon Hill and the sailboat strewn waters of the Charles River.

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In addition to the refurbished guestrooms, The Liberty’s renovation project included the redesign of some of Boston’s top suites, including the Ebersol Suite and the Charles River Suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap the 2,220 square-foot Ebersol Suite, which includes an expansive living room, dining room and butler pantry, library, master bedroom and bathroom, and a 300 square-foot outdoor patio. The Charles River Suites also boast floor-to-ceiling windows, featuring sweeping views of the Boston skyline.

“The Liberty’s renovation project is a cornerstone in The Luxury Collection brand’s $300 million dollar investment effort to renovate and reopen some of the most iconic hotels in North America,” stated Hoyt H. Harper II, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts. “We are thrilled to deliver enhanced accommodations while still allowing guests to experience the authenticity of one of Boston’s most notable landmarks.”

Photos: libertyhotel.com

Hotel Seattle Brighton

Hotel Seattle Brighton to become a Malmaison

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Malmaison has announced that its recently acquired Hotel Seattle Brighton will be transformed into a Malmaison hotel – taking the total number of Malmaison hotels in the UK to 14.

The Hotel Seattle was acquired in November 2015, as part of a larger acquisition by the Malmaison Hotel du Vin Group of a portfolio of four hotels in the UK. The fast-growing and ever-popular Malmaison and Hotel du Vin Group portfolio now comprises of 33 leading boutique lifestyle hotels across the UK.

With improvements being made to the day to day booking activities for rooms and dining through Malmaison.com, a focus on improving the already high levels of service, guests of Malmaison Brighton will soon see the emergence of the iconic Malmaison signature touches as works starts at the hotel immediately.

Scott Harper, COO Malmaison, said, ‘We are delighted to reveal that the Seattle Hotel Brighton will re-brand as a Malmaison. The vibrant setting of Brighton’s marina and wider Brighton and Hove area community is an ideal fit for our famous lifestyle brand. We can’t wait to get started.”

Renaissance New York Midtown

Miniview: Jeffrey Beers’ ‘Fearlessly Chic’ design at Renaissance New York Midtown

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Renaissance Hotels’ new US flagship property, the Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel, which opened in Manhattan on March 21, 2016, is leading the way for the brand in its ‘Fearlessly Chic’ global design philosophy and ‘Business Unusual’ outlook.

Award-winning design studio Jeffrey Beers International (JBI) has captured the authenticity and glamour of the city through innovative technology never before showcased in a New York hotel.

To bring the design to life, Beers himself collaborated with Roger Parent of interdisciplinary technology firm Réalisations Inc. The city’s first ‘living’ hotel is comprised of sensational, ever-changing digital experiences inspired by the fashion and artistic industries in the neighbourhood which are an integral and informative element of the design.

Renaissance New York Midtown
Specifically designed to interact with visitors from the moment they enter the hotel, the property features ambient intelligent corridors that respond to human movement, digitally enhanced elevator banks, and a never-before-seen Discovery Portal Powered by Time Out that showcases neighbourhood guides on a user-friendly digital alcove to be accessed with the point of a finger or tap of a toe. A four-story LED digital clock at the top of the building will also bring the hotel to life and will add a beacon of light to the city’s skyline for all to enjoy.
Renaissance New York Midtown
Using New York City as his muse, Beers’ vision was to capture the energy of the locale by juxtaposing high-low design components, such as smooth millwork and polished marble against the rough texture of exposed concrete walls, to create elegant yet edgy public spaces and guest rooms. The purposeful disparity of materials was new to Beers, known for his work at properties around the world including Miami’s Fontainebleau, Daniel Boulud’s db Bistro Moderne in New York and Singapore, and the One&Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas, making the Renaissance New York Midtown unlike any project he has worked on.
Renaissance New York Midtown
“Having grown up in New York, I thrive on the fast-paced rhythm of the lifestyle here. I wanted the design of this hotel to capture the vibrancy and creative energy of the city; to immerse visitors in the real New York,” said Beers. “There are a number of elements throughout the design that are meant to provide an unexpected moment of enjoyment and playfulness — inspired by Renaissance’s ‘look and look again’ philosophy. The artwork, for example, might appear to be a two-dimensional painting from afar, but as visitors get closer they will see that it is actually composed of pins or pencils.”
Renaissance New York Midtown
Surprising design elements are found throughout the hotel, from flirtatious graphics at the back of each guestroom closet, to inspiring quotes in the bathrooms. Life-size images are etched on the back walls of the elevator cabs and each time the elevator doors open on the ground floor, guests will be treated to specially-curated digital imagery showcasing local artists and neighbourhood experiences. Timed to mirror the opening and closing of the elevators, the projected digital displays will always be evolving and the hotel will be visually different on each and every visit.

Renaissance New York Midtown
Located on 35th Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, the hotel boasts 348 guest rooms, including seven Executive Suites and one Empire Suite. Each guest room offers a sophisticated neutral palette with pops of purple or grey throughout the bedding and upholstery. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the spacious rooms use pale finishes, maximise natural light, and adhere to an uncluttered aesthetic. A gradient frosted-glass shower wall separates the all-white Italian marble en-suite bathroom from the sleeping area.
Renaissance New York Midtown
On the sixth floor guests will find a sleek Lobby Bar, Library Lounge, a clandestine DJ booth and Club Lounge for Elite Marriott Rewards members and preferred guests. The hotel offers 4,500 square-feet of meeting space which can be separated into smaller conference rooms with glass air walls. Floor-to-ceiling windows will offer magnificent views of the city, while stylised inspirational quotes from fashion greats such as Coco Chanel and Oscar de la Renta painted onto the raw concrete back wall, pay homage to the surroundings.

Photos: newyorkrenaissance.com

Minor Hotel Group - Jebel Dhanna project

Minor Hotel Group continues expansion in the UAE

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Minor Hotel Groups has announced it will be adding to its 145-property portfolio with the addition of two new hotels in the UAE; Anantara Jebel Dhanna and AVANI Jebel Dhanna in Abu Dhbai. Development is set to begin shortly and both are scheduled to open in 2018. Aecom has been appointed as the lead architecture and interior design consultant for the project.

Jebel Dhanna is located along the coastal area of the Al Gharbia region in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, close to the ferry departure point for Sir Bani Yas Island. Anantara Jebel Dhanna Villas will have a total of 60 keys across three villa types: 20 One-Bedroom Villas, 38 Two-Bedroom Villas and two impressive Three-Bedroom Villas. The new Anantara will offer two restaurants and a pool bar, a gym, a swimming pool and an Anantara Spa.

The neighbouring AVANI Jebel Dhanna Hotel will have 230 keys across two different room types: 170 Deluxe Rooms and 60 Superior Rooms including a kitchenette. Facilities at the AVANI will include multiple dining options, a gym and a swimming pool. Shared facilities will include flexible meeting and banqueting space, a kid’s club and outdoor recreation areas.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO Minor Hotel Group, commented, “Minor Hotel Group is already well established in Abu Dhabi through our existing Anantara portfolio in the city, desert and on Sir Bani Yas Island and we are excited to today announce the first AVANI in Abu Dhabi, to be developed alongside what will be our sixth Anantara. We are looking forward to partnering with Dhabi Contracting in this exciting new project.”

Bathroom Lighting

Bathroom Accessory Focus: Lighting fixtures

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Pitching the lighting of various spaces within a hotel is a challenging but rewarding experience for designers. The impact a well-appointed fixture can bring to a space or the mood created by just the right light levels can make or break a guest’s experience of a room.

Yet, one of the hardest and probably the least-considered rooms is the bathroom. Owners on a budget will often divert money for lighting to areas deemed more important – the lobby, the restaurant, the corridors. But the bathroom is one of the key areas to concentrate on as a designer. Aside from the bedroom, the bathroom is going to be one of the most-scrutinised rooms by a guest; especially as they will most likely begin and end their days in this room.

From positioning vanity lighting correctly to pitching the right mood for ambient lighting, there are various facets to consider. Choosing the right fixture is one such consideration; and Hotel Designs Directory members Vaughan has a wide array of bathroom light fixtures for both the EU and American markets – such as the Arras Bathroom Wall Light (pictured below).

The Arras bathroom wall light is available in chrome and nickel, has a special bulb fitting to ensure the light is IP44 rated while retaining a lampshade which can be made up in any colour or fabric to add a decorative touch to the fitting.

For more information on this and other products within the Vaughan range, please click here. . .
Main Photo: pope24 on Flickr

Manchester's Hotel Football

Manchester’s Hotel Football ‘top of the league’ with business guests

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Despite its name, it appears Manchester’s Hotel Football is not just for avid football fans – it is celebrating a hat-trick of awards this week as Laterooms.com declared Hotel Football as the ‘Best Hotel for Business’ in its Simply the Guest awards. This follows its ‘Guest Review Award’ from Booking.com and the hotel securing a ‘Stellar Stay’ award win from HotelsCombined.

Open for just over a year, these latest accolades add to the hotel’s national and regional hospitality credentials, following nine consecutive months at the #1 spot of ‘Manchester Hotels’ on TripAdvisor.

The Laterooms.com ‘Best Hotel for Business’ award saw Hotel Football top the table for business travellers. The awards, which recognise excellent service, are decided solely on customer reviews over the past 12 months. While the ‘Guest Review Award’ from Booking.com and ‘Stellar Stay’ award win recognises the hotel’s ongoing delivery of outstanding hospitality experiences for consumer guests.

Manchester's Hotel Football

Paul Walsh, general manager at Hotel Football, said: “The recent award wins are testament to the hard work from our team and the passion they have for offering world class customer service for guests, whether visiting for business or leisure.

“Since opening, we have strived to create a hotel that appeals to everyone, not just football fans. It’s a completely unique experience and it’s great to see our guests coming back for repeat visits, whatever the event.”

Located opposite Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium, the four-star 133 bedroom hotel, event and conference facility boasts a number of unique features making it the go-to destination for fans, families, business users and tourists.

Harbour Hotel Guildford

Guildford hotel converts from Radisson Blu Edwardian to Harbour hotel

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Harbour Hotels has announced that from Monday 4th April, The Radisson Blu Edwardian Guildford Hotel will convert to the Guildford Harbour Hotel.

The hotel has been managed by Edwardian Hotels London on behalf of the owners for the past four years, who have mutually worked together to successfully establish the deluxe four-star hotel within Guildford and the surrounding area, winning a number of prestigious awards.

Harbour Hotel Guildford
With a prime position in the heart of Guildford, this 183-bedroom hotel features a stylish restaurant, vibrant bar and alfresco dining terrace, as well as an accompanying spa. The Harbour Hotels Group will now expand on its offerings; introducing its award-winning concepts to the hotel and town.

Mike Warren, Managing Director Harbour Hotels, said: “We are very excited to be taking the Harbour Hotels brand to Guildford; with a principal position in the heart of the town, we plan to maximise on this popular location with a full refurbishment programme – to include our award-winning restaurant and bar concepts.”

Standard Hotel at old Camden Town Hall

Work to begin on André Balazs’ first Standard Hotel outside USA

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Charismatic hotelier André Balazs’ plans for a first Standard Hotel outside of the US are well and truly under way as work has begun on converting the 150,000-square-foot Camden Town Hall annexe (pictured) into a 250-bedroom hotel.

Balazs, who has built his reputation with iconic hotels across the United States and the Chartered Firehouse in London, entered into an agreement with Crosstree Real Estate Partners.

The site is perfectly located on the Euston Road, in the up-and-coming district of King’s Cross where property prices have rocketed in the last five years. Plans for the site include a lobby on the ground floor with 10 floors above. It will include a rooftop bar and restaurant with a terrace.

Balazs is hoping to repeat the success he has had with the properties in Miami, Los Angeles and New York.

Photo: Camden Photos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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