Hotel Designs

The Hotel Show in Dubai (28 – 30th September 2014) celebrates 15 successful years with a number of our directory members showing their products.The MENA region’s number one hospitality event
Celebrating 15 successful years in 2014, The Hotel Show presents a full 360 view of the hotel and hospitality industry from the ground up. The region’s largest dedicated exhibition for hotel and hospitality professionals is the ideal meeting place for serious industry buyers and suppliers of the newest products and global brands.

Bagno

Brintons

Burgess

Distinction Contract

Hamilton Litestat

Hypnos Beds

Laufen

Travelodge has opened the first branded value hotel in the heart of Walthamstow’s town centre. The new 107-room property, which represents a £9 million investment is located at Station Approach and has created 19 new jobs within the community. The new hotel development is part of a £20 million regeneration project to help revitalize Walthamstow Central Station.

The hotel was officially opened by The Worshipful the Mayor of Waltham Forest, Councillor Terry Wheeler and Travelodge’s Revenue Director, Tom Edwards at an opening ceremony.

The opening of Walthamstow Travelodge will boost the Company’s London portfolio of hotels to 61 and nationwide to 513.

Walthamstow Travelodge has been designed in the Company’s new brand style which includes a new luxury king size bed called the Travelodge Dreamer. This type of bed is predominately used by luxury hotel brands worldwide.

Walthamstow Travelodge offers a range of family, double and accessible rooms.

A Travelodge family room in Walthamstow caters for either two adults and two children or three adults. Each room has en-suite facilities with eco-friendly showers, toiletries, a flat screen TV with 18 free digital channels, free tea and coffee making facilities and up to 30 minutes free Wi-Fi. Guests can purchase a 24 hour Wi-Fi service for just £3.00.

The hotel also has an onsite Bar Café which offers a breakfast, dinner and bar service.

Renaissance Hotels is thrilled to welcome the newest gem to its portfolio with the opening of the new Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown Hotel, located in the city’s historic Bartlett Building. Renaissance Hotels is a lifestyle brand within Marriott International’s global portfolio of 18 brands. With its proud motto of Live Life to Discover®, Renaissance Hotels offers today’s lifestyle business traveler a unique guest experience woven through design, service and unique programming.Built in 1901 and designed by famed Chicago architect Daniel Burnham, the 18-story Bartlett Building was once both the city of Cincinnati and the state of Ohio’s tallest building. Also known as the Union Trust Building, the structure is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It had been vacant since 2010 before its restoration to the new hotel.

Following a $50 million renovation, the Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown now features 323 hotel rooms including 40 executive suites complemented by upscale amenities, contemporary styling and stunning views of downtown. The hotel underwent an extensive restoration from its origins as a historic office building to a modern, full service hotel.

d. Burnham’s, a destination restaurant named for the building’s architect, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner headed by award-winning Chef Harvey Germain, featuring modern American cuisine made with the finest natural, fresh, local ingredients prepared in exciting ways.

About The Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown:

• 323 Guest rooms, 40 Suites
• 14,380 square feet of meeting and event space (the ballroom, designed by famed architect David Burnham in 1901, displays a dome shaped tile ceiling)
• d. Burnham’s restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Drinks and a light fare menu available in the R Lounge.
• Within three blocks of more than 65 restaurants and entertainment venues

The new Morgan showroom is an official film screening venue for the Clerkenwell Design Quarter AND Festival. Part of the London Design Festival, this new event is a film festival dedicated to design and architecture, running from Monday 15th – Friday 19th September, in selected venues across Clerkenwell. Visitors to Morgan will be invited to sit back and relax on our latest furniture collections in our Dallington Street showroom and enjoy Logorama, the Oscar winning animated film exploring how we have been seduced and brainwashed by marketing and advertising. It will be screened every evening between 4-6pm (on the hour and half hour).Since opening in May 2014, Morgan’s stunning gallery style showroom, including a mezzanine level with views down onto the main display floor, has already proved to be a great venue for events and networking. From 15-19th September, the Morgan team looks forward to rolling out the red carpet for visitors to experience the space, for five days only, as an inspiring film viewing venue.

Leading UK shower designer and manufacturer, Roman, has once again worked with popular TV show, Cowboy Builders, to help a family in need when their home is left ruined by reckless workmen. The show, which aired in September, uncovered a prolific cowboy builder wreaking havoc in the heart of the Asian community in Oldham. One of the families majorly affected was the Rashid family, who have lived in a mid-terrace property for 17 years and with their two children growing fast, they desperately wanted more living space. Married couple Bushra and Sagrid decided that they wanted a single storey side and rear extension to create a new kitchen and downstairs bathroom.

Sagid had to return to Pakistan to visit his sick mother and his wife Bushra decided to get the building work done while he was away, thinking that she could surprise him with a finished extension on his return. After receiving a leaflet through the door, Bushra contacted a builder who promised to deliver a professional build in 16 weeks.

But after nine months, having spent a fortune, the family had been left without heating, hot water or a kitchen – and with a half-finished, structurally unsafe extension that had to be completely knocked down.

Having helped out a number of times on Cowboy Builders, Roman was very keen to get involved and offered products for the new downstairs bathroom. The new downstairs bathroom was to accommodate Bushra’s disabled mother when she came to visit, so one of the key considerations was inclusivity.

Roman selected a stylish Embrace Wetroom Panel from their exceptional collection of wetroom systems and it was installed straight to floor with their Roman Shield Wetroom System. When installing straight to floor, your floor and walls must be waterproof (tanked). So they used the Roman Shield Wetroom System to tank the space, which presents an all in one wetroom solution. The Roman Shield Wetroom System includes everything you need to tank a room, including complete wetroom kits to make the process easy. The downstairs bathroom presented a small space, which needed to fit a toilet, sink and wetroom, but Roman’s 600mm Wetroom Panel fitted perfectly into the limited room space, giving a luxury and inclusive showering area for the whole family.

The Rashid family were delighted with their bathroom and with the rest of their home.

David Osborne, Managing Director of Roman, commented: “We are always very happy to help programmes such as Cowboy Builders. The cowboy builders have caused such devastation and leave the families with financial difficulty, a ruined home and heartache with no way out. We are always delighted to be able to help with the fixing and finishing of the families homes and help them achieve the stunning bathroom they had hoped for. This bathroom was not only practical for the disabled family member but also presented a real designer look.”

Moxy Hotels has made its debut in Milan, Italy, shaking up the hotel industry with a fresh attitude and modern flair. A boutique hotel concept for the budget savvy traveller, the new Moxy Milan boldly reinvents the traditional economy hotel experience.Designed for travellers looking for something fun, stylish and a bit edgy, Moxy’s buzzy lobby, tech-savvy guest rooms and intuitive service offers a refreshing alternative to traditional and often uninspiring economy hotels.

Moxy Milan sets the stage for the global debut of Moxy Hotels with upcoming locations planned for Munich, Frankfurt and Berlin in Germany; Oslo, Norway; Aberdeen, Scotland and London, United Kingdom.

Welcome #ATTHEMOXY
The Moxy Crew welcomes guests to a bright, airy lobby where they’ll experience a hassle free check-in. The interiors feel boutique hotel inspired, successfully fusing refined and raw materials, organic and linear lines, and public/private spaces. The lobby comfortably blends colors and shapes with modern and contemporary furniture. Guests can relax, pick up a book from the Moxy library, connect and catch up with friends.

Living Room #ATTHEMOXY
Sealed concrete floors, walls lined with intriguing art, ambient lighting and comfortable accents of colour are all part of the Moxy Milan lounge experience. A high energy yet cozy space for gatherings, special events or cocktails, the lounge plays host to eclectic upbeat music that sets just the right mood.

Stay #ATTHEMOXY
The 162 guest rooms are outfitted with sound-reducing walls, 42″ LCD flat screen televisions, free Wi Fi, comfortable bedding and deep-seated armchairs in calming, neutral fabrics. Every room makes a statement with a spirited floor to ceiling art piece. The design is functional and uncluttered with simple, thoughtful touches including glass shelving and open closets. Bathrooms feel luxurious and feature complimentary Rituals toiletries, power showers and large mirrors alongside a spacious vanity area.

24/7 Cafe #ATTHEMOXY
Self-service has never been so appealing or convenient. The Moxy cafe offers plentiful options for food and drink including fresh juices, a coffee bar or a ready-mixed Tails cocktail in its own unique cocktail shaker. Guests may enjoy sandwiches to go or order custom-made salads. For heartier fare, daily options such as chicken tagine or beef rendang will be offered. Cocktails, craft beers and specialty wines will be served in the evening.

With the bathroom being where hotel reputations can be won or lost, raising the comfort levels and exceeding guests’ expectations in terms of luxury and hygiene is all-important. Already very popular in the Far East and Japan, the shower toilet offers guests the chance to experience spa-like cleanliness and with the increase in tourism this is a trend that is catching on around the world. In the UK too, some of London’s 5* hotels are choosing shower toilets to create the perfect atmosphere for wellness. Not only does it offer simple, hygienic cleaning, which is easy to operate and control, but it also eradicates the need for a separate bidet and its compact format ensures it will fit seamlessly into any hotel bathroom. On display at the Independent Hotel Show will be several models from Geberit’s market-leading AquaClean shower toilet range.

With the connections for the water and electricity all integrated into the pan to make them invisible, Geberit AquaClean Sela looks just like a standard WC, enabling it to be seamlessly incorporated into any setting. Cleaning with a gentle, airy water spray at body temperature, Geberit AquaClean Sela is simple to operate via the controls on the side of the WC or with a remote control. The intensity can be adjusted to one of five levels, while the oscillating motion ensures a pleasant cleaning experience.

Geberit AquaClean 8000plus provides a similar washing experience, with many extra pampering functions in addition to the shower, including a dryer and odour extraction.

Visitors to the show will also be among the first to see the Geberit Omega concealed cistern, which can be installed under a windowsill or a sloping roof, making it ideal for compact hotel bathrooms.

See Geberit on Stand 175 at the Independent Hotel Show.

For more details visit www.geberit-aquaclean.co.uk or call 0800 032 9629.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently announced the opening of its first property in Coatzacoalcos – the 120-room Holiday Inn® Coatzacoalcos hotel. This is the ninth IHG®-branded property for the State of Veracruz – current properties include two Crowne Plaza® hotels, four Holiday Inn® hotels, one Holiday Inn Express® hotel and one Hotel Indigo® hotel. IHG’s diverse family of brands continue to grow in Mexico. The Holiday Inn Coatzacoalcos hotel, owned by Hotelera Pedregal, S.A. de C.V. is franchised by an affiliate of IHG and is located at Blvd. John Spark #4, Reserva Territorial Duport Ostion, Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico.

The 120-room Holiday Inn Coatzacoalcos hotel includes two master suites and one presidential suite – all facing beautiful ocean views. The hotel design features a familiar atmosphere that is warm, trend forward and comfortable. Guest beds are made using crisp, white bedding with pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm.” Rooms also include business-focused necessities such as an ergonomic workstation, data ports and complimentary local newspapers. The bathrooms include a multifunctional showerhead, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod, and bath products. Additionally, each room has a comfortable double, queen or king-sized bed, a sitting area with a lounge chair, hairdryer, coffee maker, iron and ironing board.

Other amenities include a swimming pool, a fully-equipped fitness center, and four meeting rooms with a capacity for up to 800 people. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s restaurant Bar Las Ventanas offering various dining options including international cuisine and Mexican regional dishes. Kids 12 and younger eat free at Holiday Inn hotels when ordering from the kids’ menu in the hotel restaurant and accompanied by a dining adult. Room Service Right … On Time™, also a standard at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time.

July Highlights
• July’s profit surge for Budapest and Zurich…
• …As well as for Madrid and Paris!
• Chill July for Moscow

Dixon Turner, a division of Newmor, are pleased to launch their new fabric backed vinyl, Harper. The subtle vertical prints are complimented by an intricate vertical texture which replicates a twisted ribbon effect on the wall. The extensive colour palette ranges from classic cream and ivory to dramatic indigo and antique gold.Eden
This beautifully hand drawn peony print was created in the design studio by one of our own print designers, who researched, sketched and drew all the elements and then put those elements into a repeat. The result is a stunning floral print full of detail and delicacy while retaining a strong commercial practicality. The colour palette features sophisticated dove greys, rich copper and gold metallic highlights and the fashionable silver and denim blue.

For more information, visit www.dixon-turner.co.uk

Newmor, since its inception almost 50 years ago, has grown to one of the largest independent contract wallcovering manufacturers in the UK, and currently operates in over 60 countries worldwide. The company offers global support from its international distribution network and regional sales offices based in Poland, Germany, UAE, Singapore & Hong Kong. With hundreds of designs and millions of colour options within the company’s portfolio, backed up by one of the largest ex-stock collections available, Newmor has a wallcovering suitable for any project or budget.

All of Newmor’s wallcoverings comply with international fire ratings and are produced with an active bio stabiliser to enable them to be installed in any contract environment.

In addition to our large product portfolio, our development program has seen us invest heavily in ‘state of the art’ digital print capabilities that, somewhat unusually in our industry, delivers true, contract quality, large scale digitally printed imagery. Faithfully reproduced onto contract wallcoverings, a variety of films for glass, or indeed most substrates, our imagery is currently in situ in some of the leading financial, hospitality and retail institutions worldwide. Any image, any size, any quantity. Newmor believes that durability is key, which is why the company uses digital printers that encompass a UV cured system. Only UV cured inks can offer true contract quality.

Luxury fabric specialist, Kobe UK, is introducing Aurora, a chic and contemporary collection inspired by urban Nordic lifestyles and suitable for window décor and upholstery.Comprising a range of high satins, sumptuous velvets, intricately patterned jacquards, laser cut fabrics and textile based, the 100% Trevira CS range together with the flame retardant vinyl wall coverings is suitable for contract interiors.

Designed to capture the essence of Nordic light tones, the collection features an extensive colour palette, from pale green to pink and golden tints of yellow to hues of blue and violet.

The line is inspired by Scandinavian interior trends which is a look that is extremely popular with its look of simplicity.

Said David Harris, managing director of Kobe UK: “Kobe has a unique story-telling and concept selling for every collection which we support with concept books, digital imagery and brochures.

“The Aurora collection is very much focused on its light enhancing qualities, reflecting light back into an interior through a combination of colour, tone and texture. We wanted a range that sat with the current vogue for Scandinavian simplicity and Aurora was created to bring a touch of luxury to Nordic inspired interiors.”

Kobe UK, which holds a gold membership with the Trevira CS is part of the Dutch-based Kobefab International company which supplies more than 8,000 customers in over 60 countries with more than 7,000 products from its headquarters in Valkenswaard in Holland. More than 90% of its products are developed in-house and 95% of all sourcing is done in Europe. It has a wide range of 100% Trevira CS fabrics, regarded as the highest quality in FR fabrics and Oekoteks 100 certified. In addition to meeting the CRIB 5 standards, all contract upholstery fabric has undergone a Martindale test.

The UK operation is based in Crowthorne, Berkshire.

Kobe will be introducing the Aurora Collection at:
Independent Hotel Show, 21-22nd October, Olympia. London. Stand IH26
Sleep 2014, Hotel Show, 26-27th November, Business Design Centre, London. Stand M32

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has recently announced the official opening of Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center, formerly Oak Brook Hills Resort, conveniently located just west of downtown Chicago. Nestled in the upscale suburb of Oak Brook, Ill., the peaceful, 150-acre estate is home to Audubon certified 18-hole championship Willow Crest Golf Course and other premier amenities making the resort an ideal destination for getaways, golf trips, family vacations, weddings and business events. Situated just 30 minutes outside of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport, Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center is a multi-faceted retreat for leisure and business travelers alike.The scenic resort is home to 386 guest rooms, including 39 suites that offer a residential feel with breathtaking views of the lush Willow Crest Golf Course, a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary with sprawling willow trees and lakes. Accommodations at Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center are non-smoking, pet-friendly and designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Guest rooms feature contemporary in-room amenities including HDTVs, Wi-Fi, extra-large work areas, ergonomic work chairs, two 2-line speaker phones and in-room coffee makers. For fitness and recreational convenience, guests have access to the golf course, a 24-hour fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools with whirlpools and saunas, billiard tables, game rooms, as well as tennis, volleyball and basketball courts. Guests can also explore nearby attractions including the Brookfield Zoo, Morton Arboretum, Chicagoland Speedway and Oak Brook Shopping Center.

Featuring 36 meeting venues throughout more than 42,500 sq. ft. of exhibition space, Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center offers all the amenities of a resort while providing convenience for business conference needs. From a tiered amphitheater seating 145 attendees to a 13,000 sq. ft. Grand Ballroom holding 1,500 guests, the property is an ideal venue for small and large business meetings, conferences, weddings, retreats, banquets and other social events. The highly trained Team Members at this International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) certified meeting center provide onsite support for the state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, as well as full-service catering customized through the assortment of Food & Beverage packages.

Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center offers dining options catered to travelers of all kinds. From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, guests can savor the resort’s farm-to-table culture at The Grille, serving local meats and cheeses in appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burger, flatbreads and more. During the warmer months, The Grille Patio is open for guests to relish the scenic resort while enjoying the restaurant’s innovative dishes made with only the freshest ingredients. The relaxed Windows Restaurant has something for every appetite, at every time of day, and the Lobby Café offers a variety of snacks and beverages, including Starbucks. Guests looking to enjoy a cocktail can visit the Lobby Bar for signature beverages with fresh squeezed juices and garnishes, all while overlooking the lavish Willow Crest Golf Club. Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center is also pleased to provide guests with a delicious room service menu.

The Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH) portfolio is continuing to expand with a number of particularly notable new hotels openings joining the revered brand this year. From Avant-guard architecture in Miami to a carbon-neutral eco lodge in The Galapagos Islands and a converted 20th century palace in Madrid, this pick of new hotel additions highlights the ever growing diversity of the SLH collection.Vintro Hotel & Kitchen, Miami, USA – Opened July 2014
Vintro Hotel & Kitchen is a sophisticated new addition to SLH boasting 50 rooms and six suites. Located in the heart of the South Beach cultural district, the hotel is situated in an ideal location; close to the nightlife, the Bass Museum of Art, The New World Symphony and just steps away from the ocean. Guests can hire bikes from the hotel to tour the neighbouring areas, or charter the hotel’s ‘Vintro’ yacht with its crew and sail to the Biscayne Bay. Hotel amenities include an alluring interior courtyard leading to an alfresco dining area overlooking Collins Canal, a freshwater pool with a steam room and Jacuzzi, and a luxurious rooftop lounge and bar. The dining experience will be led by Executive Consulting Chef Giorgios Bakatsias who is collaborating with Chef de Cuisine, Keith Suarino; with signature dishes including salt crusted Florida red snapper with citrus and herbs and crispy calamari bruschetta.

Pikaia Lodge, Santa Cruz Island, the Galapagos – Opening September 2014
The new Pikaia Lodge will soon become the first SLH property to open in Ecuador, located in the centre of the Galapagos on Santa Cruz Island. The carbon-neutral lodge represents the next step in the evolution of luxury eco-adventure. With the 14 rooms nestled amongst the slopes of two extinct volcano craters, Pikaia Lodge offers expansive views of the arid savannah of the adjacent Galapagos National Park and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. Taking advantage of its central location, the hotel operates daily land and sea tours on its private yacht, as well as making use of its facilities including its own giant tortoise reserve, a gourmet restaurant, a bar and relaxing spa, and a beautiful pool.

Urso Hotel & Spa, Madrid, Spain – Opening September 2014
Urso Hotel & Spa will open its doors on 1 September 2014, making it Madrid’s first five-star boutique property. The early 20th century palace has been meticulously restored, creating a well-designed contemporary building with 78 rooms and suites. Nestled in between the Chamberi and Chueca neighbourhoods, the hotel is situated only five minutes from the city centre, perfect for exploring all that Madrid has to offer from its shopping, the “golden triangle” featuring the Reina Sofia, the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and its unrivalled nightlife. The 78 sleek and stylish rooms have been decorated with a blend of honey-toned woods, marble floors, fine fabrics and scattered rugs. Hotel amenities include a lap pool, fitness centre, stylish lounge bar and restaurant and Madrid’s first luxury branded spa by Spanish skincare specialist Natura Bissé, winner of Best Luxury Spa Brand in 2012 and 2013.

Please note: photo credit – Small Luxury Hotels of the World

2014 has so far been a very busy year for Burgess. Not only are we celebrating our 55th anniversary, in May we launched our new showroom in the heart of Dubai Media City which has been warmly welcomed by the hotel and design companies in the region. Burgess has been exporting to the Middle East for 43 years, the showroom is our way of further developing our footprint in the area.Burgess Furniture have always been innovators in the design and manufacture of conference and banqueting furniture. We were the very first European manufacturers of the aluminium stacking banquet chair, and with a manufacturing heritage of nearly 70 years, we are the market leaders for conference and banqueting furniture around the world.

This year at The Hotel Show we will be showcasing our Evosa chair range. The slender chrome plated steel frame together with the option of knitted mesh or upholstered back creates a modern chair of outstanding design and quality.

To this day, our banquet and conference chairs and tables are still designed and manufactured on-site in our factory in South-West London, and sold both in the UK and exported all over the world.

Come along to our stand 6D167 and see for yourself how extensive our range is.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®) has announced the 200th hotel opening for its Staybridge Suites® brand – a milestone met faster than any other brand in the upscale extended stay segment. The opening of the 102-room Staybridge Suites Denver-Stapleton hotel expands the brand’s Denver, Colorado portfolio to five properties and creates 30 new jobs in the community. The Staybridge Suites Denver-Stapleton hotel is owned by Gary Tharaldson and managed by Tharaldson Hospitality Management, and is franchised by an affiliate of IHG. The new all-suite hotel is located a short drive from downtown Denver at 8101 E Northfield Blvd. in Denver, Colo., directly across the street from The Shops at Northfield Stapleton, which offer many shopping and dining venues for guest entertainment. In addition, the hotel is near the National Western Complex, a 600,000 square foot event facility that can accommodate groups from 50 to 10,000 people, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, home of the Colorado Rapids Soccer Team and Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies. The University of Colorado Hospital and Buckley Air Force Base are also both located nearby.

The Staybridge Suites Denver-Stapleton hotel features three well-designed spacious suite types (studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom/two-bath). The new property offers exceptional home-like surroundings including complimentary amenities such as Internet connectivity throughout the hotel with Wireless Anywhere, daily hot breakfast, Laundry Room, Fitness Room, Indoor Pool, and a 24-hour Business Center, as well as access to The Pantry, the hotel’s 24-hour convenience store. Guests can relax and mingle in the hotel’s Great Room during The Social evening receptions, held each Tuesday through Thursday, offering complimentary beer and wine and customizable entrées.

Harlequin launched its hotel-chic Momentum range three years ago, and it has rapidly become established as both an iconic brand within the company’s portfolio and a trend-setter within the interiors world.For autumn 2014, the studio has produced two fashion-forward collections of woven fabrics, a dramatic wallpaper collection, an innovative collection of sheers and structures and a range of decorative plains, all of which work together seamlessly to create a harmonious and über-chic effect. Tapping into the ‘look’ of the most sophisticated international boutique hotels, the Harlequin Studio has stretched the boundaries of design and innovation with this inspirational new addition to the Momentum story. Claire Vallis, Design Director, expands: “We felt very strongly that the most interesting interior design trends were being channelled through the newer, cutting-edge hotels and, having studied them, we tried to recreate this mood and feel in the latest Momentum collections. They are targeted at the domestic and contract markets, but they retain an architectural, structural feel.”

Momentum 5 comprises four textured upholstery fabrics, all of which meet contract standards: a rustic tweed, a relaxed stonewashed plain, a lustrous mesh effect velvet and a ribbed fabric with a twine effect running through it.

Momentum 6 encompasses eight eye-catching drapery designs: graphic but with a softened edge, the designs interpret organic and architectural features such as marbled surfaces, overblown florals, repeating mirrored patterns and a new take on an Ikat motif.

Momentum Sheers and Structures 2 follows in the footsteps of the highly successful first collection. The theme has been developed to incorporate more structured and layered effects, from inspiring three dimensional feature designs to relaxed stripes and versatile semi plain textures. Comprising 13 designs, seven of which are wide width, the range is enhanced by its palette of jewel, natural and moody urban shades.

Momentum Accents is a stylish, semi plain satin weave, with a subtle checked linear motif. The cross-colouring of the design creates movement in the fabric’s appearance, cleverly reflecting the light. Presented in 30 sumptuous shades, the collection is suitable for both drapes and upholstery.

Momentum Wallcoverings Volume 3 is a treasure trove of extravagant designs and textures, enhanced by a superb range of effects and shades.

Elegant and sophisticated, the wallpapers create the perfect backdrop to the fabrics, and also make a striking statement in their own right.

The entire 2014 collection benefits from a glorious colour palette that enhances the intrinsic beauty of the designs, incorporating fashion hues, gentle organic tones and warm jewel shades.

The Momentum collection’s latest additions will be launched at Decorex and Focus in September 2014.

ALL IMAGES © HARLEQUIN

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced its world-renowned Sheraton brand will continue to expand its footprint in Thailand with the signing of Sheraton Samui Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket. The agreement with TCC Hotels Group, a member of the TCC Land Group, marks the conversion of the existing 141-room Imperial Samui Beach Resort to a Sheraton, anticipated to take place by December 2014. “We are pleased to be able to continue the partnership and further strengthen our relationship with TCC Hotels Group, one of the leading developers in Thailand, on this conversion in Koh Samui, a popular resort destination,” said Lothar Pehl, Senior Vice President, Operations and Global Initiatives and Regional Vice President, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam; and Japan, Korea and Guam, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Sheraton is a global icon, with a strong reputation in key feeder markets for this location, and the hotel will strengthen our growing presence in Thailand.”

“The expansion and rebranding underscores TCC Hotels Group’s confidence and commitment to the future of Thailand’s tourism industry as it continues to embrace the advent of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015,” highlighted Khun Wallapa Traisorat, President of TCC Hotels Group, a member of the TCC Land Group.

“Starwood has developed a conversion-friendly strategy for existing hotels to meet the demands of owners and guests. With our powerful platforms, we are able to help our partners reposition existing assets in a cost-effective manner. Given that many are well-located but under-branded hotels, they present untapped opportunities for Starwood and is another channel for our growth. Thailand has already seen three conversions in the past few years,” said Rajit Sukumaran, Vice President of Acquisitions & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

July Highlights
• Profits momentum for UK Provinces and North West, but London declined again
• Tour de profit for York
• Swindon on the up-and-up

Hilton Worldwide announced the opening of the newly-built Hilton Panama, a 347-room Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in Panama City, Panama. With a privileged location in the heart of this booming city that offers panoramic ocean views, this newest hotel in Panama City opens its doors just in time to celebrate the Panama Canal’s Centennial.Forming part of a 70-story mixed-use complex with offices, shopping and entertainment, the 16-story Hilton Panama boasts one of the most desired locations in the city on a prominent intersection on the Panama Bay. Just 20 minutes from Tocumen International Airport and minutes from Casco Viejo – the historic city, Hilton Panama is within walking distance of the financial district and many of the city’s finest restaurants, cafés and hotspots. Guests can go for stroll or bicycle ride along the Cinta Costera, along the bay right outside the hotel.

Designed by BA-HAUS / KNF, guests are introduced to a décor inspired by the spectacular views that serve as an effortless backdrop. A pleasant and upscale atmosphere combined with chic furnishings, intricate patterns and local elements create the perfect setting for fast-paced urban executives and global travelers. All aspects of this new hotel were carefully designed to ensure guests enjoy a world-class experience throughout their stay. This includes everything from upscale accommodations and delectable dining to flexible meeting space and the indulgent eforea: Spa at Hilton.

Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, the upscale Hilton Panama features 347 guest rooms, including executive floor rooms and suites all outfitted with the Hilton Serenity CollectionTM of amenities, wireless Internet access and more. Guests staying in an executive room or suite enjoy the added benefit of the hotel’s executive floor service and executive lounge, offering light snacks and beverages.

Dining at Hilton Panama is an experience offering guests six gastronomic options to enjoy an array of culinary creations. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Society Café, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and introduces guests to the talented and award-winning John Gray, executive chef with more than 25 years of experience who takes inspiration from Panamanian cuisine and puts a twist on the traditional. Guests can also choose from Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, serving the finest selection of steaks and dishes; Saquella Restaurant, ideal for enjoying Italian style dining; Saquella Café Barista, offering quality coffee; Blue Bar, a relaxing environment for sipping cocktails with unparalleled views of the Bay of Panama; and the Pool Bar for poolside snacks and beverages. Twenty-four-hour room service is also available.

A great base for events and business travelers, the Hilton hotel in Panama City provides more than 23,000 square feet of flexible meeting space featuring 17 meeting rooms, including a ballroom for nearly 800 guests offering panoramic views of the Panama Bay. The ballroom is not the only room with amazing views as almost all spaces are adorned with natural light. The hotel also offers a business center with cutting edge work spaces and seamlessly integrated technology for maximum efficiency.

For those seeking pampering relaxation after a busy day, Hilton Panama introduces the first eforea: Spa at Hilton in Latin America. Featuring 5,000 square feet, eforea: Spa at Hilton offers an exclusive treatment menu, innovative design features and carefully selected product partners that appeal to today’s global travelers. As the spa experience becomes more important to business and leisure guests, the new eforea: Spa at Hilton located at Hilton Panama enhances the travel experience. A 24-hour, 5,000 square foot fitness center and an outdoor terrace swimming pool complete the facilities.

No Man’s Fort; a man-made island in the middle of the Solent, will open its doors in November after undergoing an extensive renovation. One of three forts owned by AmaZing Venues, the location will be bookable for overnight stays, corporate events and meetings from 10 November 2014.Built between 1867 and 1880 to protect Portsmouth from Napoleon III, No Man’s Fort is the smaller sister venue to Spitbank Fort which has been open since 2012.

The new fort will be able to host larger events; catering for 200 people and have 22 bedrooms. The exciting developments include two helicopter pads, a nightclub, laser tag, games rooms, snooker room, meeting space, rooftop hot-pool, lighthouse, gallery restaurant, wine bar and spa facilities with signature sea salt treatments where the salt is sourced from just five metres away.

Launching in time for the festive season, No Man’s Fort will have a special party night package called Fort Du Soleil which costs £150 per person* and starts with a boat ride out from Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth to fort at 6pm. After a welcome drink surrounded by acrobatic performers, partygoers will enjoy a four-course dinner followed by music and dancing in the Cabaret Bar. Revellers can roam the fort, using the games room, pool room and golf simulators throughout the evening. A special vodka luge and fire pit with rum hot chocolate and marshmallows will be open for guests before a midnight departure back to the mainland.

For those who are looking for more of a relaxed affair, No Man’s Fort will be offering a Sunday lunch experience with a difference. The Rule Britannia Banquet costs just £99 per person and includes collection from Gunwharf Quays at 11:15am and a boat ride to the fort with a welcome glass of bubbly. Delicious canapés will circulate as guests explore their new surroundings and lunch will be served at 2pm. A three-course beef banquet will include patriotic touches and musical accompaniment before the boat will be readied for a 5pm departure back to Portsmouth.

The fort will be accessible by boat, as well as by helicopter and overnight stays can be added to either the Fort Du Soleil or Rule Britannia Banquet packages from £150 per person, based on two sharing, which includes breakfast the following day and a return transfer to Gunwharf Quays by boat.

No Man’s Fort has everything for the ultimate getaway and those looking to stay a little longer on the fort can indulge in fishing, spa treatments and relaxing in the hot pool.

At this year’s 100% Design (17-20 September 2014, Earls Court, London), architectural signs specialist Signbox – stand O260 – will be showcasing a diverse range of workplace signage and graphic solutions that enable interior designers, architects and brand specialists to create inspirational working environments that are both functionary and visually appealing.Visitors will see a range of high quality and innovative signage solutions that can underpin timeless and productivity-inducing office fit-outs that stylishly communicate a brand’s message and values. It includes high quality printed wall graphics, optically-clear glass manifestations. brand/corporate signage, soft signage, bespoke wall fabrication and interactive smart signage.

One popular interactive sign application is StepJockey, a Near Field Communication (NFC) enabled solution that helps businesses to rate their stairs for calorie burning. Launched at last year’s 100% Design, StepJockey has already been installed at over 3000 sites as customers recognise the platform’s capability to create a healthier workplace, with the NFC capability allowing employees to engage with the initiative via their smartphone.

Also on show will be AskCody®, a modular and scalable digital concept for large buildings and campuses where wayfinding and efficiency is important. Bridging the gap between conventional static signage, and dynamic digital wayfinding and information technology, the solution combines smartphone guidance, directory signage, a virtual receptionist, interactive kiosks, dynamic maps, visitor management and meeting room signage with intelligent room booking and facility management to revolutionise the way employees and visitors interact with any site or location.

“Signbox is the go-to company for architects and interior designers in the office sector,” says Mark Bartlett, Managing Director of Signbox. “We understand the multi-faceted nature of the office environment, working closely with our clients in the sector to create bespoke signage solutions for exacting briefs. We look forward to speaking to visitors at 100% Design about how we can help them execute their designs in creative ways.”

From IncentiveWorks in Toronto, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., has recently announced that it will embark on a $90 million renovation of the Sheraton Centre Toronto, resulting in a floor-to-ceiling transformation of the hotel’s 1,371 guest rooms and suites. The revival of the Canadian flagship Sheraton property will begin in early November bringing a fresh look to guest rooms with rich colors, graphic patterns and clean lines inspired by Sheraton’s brand design, and a new energy efficient HVAC system. This comprehensive refurbishment is slated for completion in 2015. “As one of Toronto’s most prominent landmark hotels it is essential for us to provide the best accommodations and experience possible for visitors to the city,” said David Connor, Area Managing Director, Eastern Canada, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “The extensive renovation to our guest rooms and suites will bring a revived energy to our hotel. Our exceptional guest service and superior location in the heart of the city will assert our place as the premier option for those visiting the city.”

The completed renovation will include full guestroom and suite refurbishment, as well as replacement of all floor and wall finishes in public corridors and hallways. As a part of the re-design, the hotel will add two new guest rooms bringing the total room count up to 1,373. After completion of the renovation all guestrooms and suites will feature new case goods, seating, lighting, mirrors and window treatments.

Additional features will include:

• Wall-mounted 50” flat panel televisions in all guest rooms and suites.
• All-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, designed to meet AAA’s Five Diamond Award® criteria.
• Completely renovated bathrooms featuring low-flow toilets, shower heads and faucets reducing water consumption throughout the building. Some of the renovated bathrooms will feature walk-in showers.
• An energy efficient, Variable Refrigerant Flow HVAC system which allows guests to control the thermostat in their room, providing personalized comfort regardless of the season.
• Technologically-enabled guestrooms featuring wired and wireless Internet platform

Earlier this month the hotel completed a $13 million retrofitting of all guest room windows helping to reduce energy consumption and making the hotel more energy efficient overall, further reinforcing the hotel’s commitment and focus on reducing energy consumption by 30 percent and water consumption by 20 percent by the year 2020.

Additionally, the hotel recently completed renovations to its meeting space, refurbishing the meeting rooms on the Mezzanine and 4th floor as well as expanding to more than 130,000 sq. ft. with the addition of the Provincial and Willow Ballrooms.

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is connected to the PATH, a 16-mile underground network of shops, including the renowned Eaton Centre Mall. The hotel offers signature Sheraton brand amenities, including the Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft®, a Sheraton Fitness Centre, Sheraton Social Hour providing travellers with access to premium wines through weekly evening tasting events and the all-white Sweet SleeperTM bed. Guests who book a stay on the Sheraton Club Level can enjoy panoramic views of downtown Toronto from the hotel’s 43rd floor Club Lounge while enjoying complimentary deluxe continental breakfast and a selection of cold canapés in the evening. The hotel features the city’s largest indoor-outdoor swimming pool with expansive sun-drenched terrace.

The new Belgravia exposed shower valve collection from Crosswater faithfully reproduces the style one might find in a luxury Victorian bathroom. The difference is, this one not only combines authentic period detail, but it has all the benefits of modern, hard wearing chrome plating, efficient, responsive and safe thermostatic control, and top quality function that allows water to be turned on and off or diverted between outlets instantly every time.Exposed pipework, elegant capstan headwork with ceramic indices and handsome levers for temperature and flow control between the hand shower and overhead, make this period piece the perfect feature in a classically styled bathroom. Temperature is clearly marked on a handmade ceramic ring at the centre of the shower control, and is simple to select using the smooth lever. The shower valve setup can be teamed with matching taps and accessories from the Belgravia Collection by Crosswater.

Crosswater Chairman David Hance, lead designer of Belgravia, says that the new exposed shower setup combines the best of the old and the new. “The shower is authentic in every detail, but behind the traditional exterior there is the pioneering modern thermostatic technology that Crosswater is proud to be renowned for.”

Every item in the Belgravia collection is shown in Crosswater’s new brochure, which can be viewed online at www.crosswater.co.uk, or via brochure apps available free of charge through iTunes and Google Play.

Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts EMEA, a division of Nikki Beach Worldwide, is proud to launch its latest hotel property Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Porto Heli, which opened to its first guests last month.Situated in Porto Heli, a picturesque, cosmopolitan village in the eastern Peloponnese region of Greece, the new hotel, which is the brand’s 2nd hotel property and 11th permanent location in the world, will epitomise the brand’s philosophy of ‘Stay, Live, and Play’. Just 25 minutes from Athens by helicopter or a scenic 2.5 hour trip by catamaran or car, the new hotel is easily accessible.

Spanning 8,000 square metres, the new Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Porto Heli, includes 66 state-of-the-art hotel rooms and suites, two restaurants, the brand’s world-renowned Beach Club, Nikki Spa, Tone Fitness Center and unique top line amenities. Originally built in the 1970s, the building has been completely transformed into a glamorous, boutique resort and is the area’s only seafront hotel offering unobstructed panoramic views of the glistening Aegean Sea. Based on Jack Penrod’s vision, the property was converted by Gasterelia Design in association with Athens based Arch Group and was renovated using Mediterranean inspired elements fused with high-end design.

In accordance with the hotel brand’s philosophy of energy variations and luxury, the rooms display different lighting moods and signature Nikki Beach in-room concepts. Including: MyBar (Nikki Beach’s unique version of the minibar), unlimited free movies on demand in all rooms that can also be streamed to hotel guest’s devices (viewable throughout the property); and GrooveShark, an exclusive service that enables guests to stream music on their phones or tablets.

Each room is complete with a large balcony and a spacious bathroom with Malin & Goetz products, a deep tub and a spacious walk in shower. Guests are able to indulge in spa treatments and relaxation services at the Nikki Spa and work out at Tone Fitness, a state-of-the-art gym with classes and personal training services available. Pearl, the sprawling rooftop lounge, features an innovative sushi, pan-Asian and cocktail menu and is the perfect setting to watch the gorgeous sunset. The Nikki Beach Restaurant & Beach Club is modeled after the same stylish, contemporary look and feel as all of the brand’s locations around the world and is adorned with plush, all-white sun beds.

Guests are able to spend their days and evenings indulging in refreshing cocktails, champagne and an extensive menu of delectable dishes featuring signature tastes and spices representative of all the countries Nikki Beach is located in. The menu includes delicious salads, creative sushi rolls, original seafood entrees and slow-roasted free-range rotisserie chicken. The seafront beach club and restaurant includes an infinity pool, indoor & outdoor dining options and weekly events.

Attentive and friendly service, lavish themed-events, exceptional dining, music and entertainment and the all-around ambiance and hospitality, will make Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Porto Heli a luxurious haven of choice for the world’s jet-set, VIP and celebrity clientele.

A Shade Above, the bespoke lampshade specialist, is now producing a carrier that makes fitting lampshades easier!

Anyone who has worked with placing new or existing lampshades on lamp bases in hotels knows that getting the right fitting at the right height can be tricky. This adjustable lampshade carrier, available in brass and nickel, is a one-stop carrier that fits on an ES or BC lamp base. Both ‘U.S. finial’ and ‘duplex’ lampshades sit on the carrier and the height can be adjusted to suit. Choose from either a small carrier which extends from 6” to 8” or a large carrier extending from 8.5” to 11”.

The carriers are easy to use and can be adjusted by hand with secure thumbnail grips. They are supplied with converters for use with ES or BC lampbases. A finial knob and nut set can also be supplied to secure your finial lampshade.

Prices are £12 for 1-9 units and £10 for 10+ shade carrier units. Please contact A Shade Above on 01273 881130 or design@ashadeabove.co.uk for more information or visit www.ashadeabove.co.uk

A Shade Above is nearly 30 years old and specialises in exquisite handmade bespoke lampshades for the interior design and lighting industries.

Vienna International Hotelmanagement AG (VI), the biggest Austrian hotel operator, will act as management partner for the 5-star Marriott Hotel Minsk. The opening of the high-end property is planned for the beginning of 2015. After expanding in Germany, the Austrian hotel group, Vienna International Hotelmanagement AG, is taking over a management contract for the international Marriott Hotel brand in Minsk, Republic of Belarus. The 220-room high-end property is owned by Falcon Investment Company LLS. Consulting activities during the preopening period and operation of the property after its opening are incorporated in the management contract.

Dr. Andreas Karsten, CEO of VI Hotels, sees big potential in the take-over of the hotel management: “Our core business is the successful management of hotels. Now we are strategically positioning ourselves as franchisee for an international brand for the Marriott Hotel Minsk. We see a new market for VI as well as additional potential for the future.”

Dr. Thani Al Kuwari, the director of Falcon Investment Company LLS, sees a great opportunity for a constructive collaboration: “We expect this hotel project to be very successful and to become the place to stay in the 5-star segment in Minsk. The high service standards and reputation of Marriott and VI, as well as the perfect location and unsaturated market, have a grand promise for a successful investment.”

“The hotel is due to open under the brand name Marriott System Hotel. We are happy to have VI Hotels & Resorts as a partner who has been active for 25 years on the Eastern European markets and in the high-end hotel industry,” says Mohammed Dawood Salman Al-Qaes, Managing Partner of PD Vivat Project Development, the company managing the project on behalf of the investor. Martin Lachout, Chief Project Developer at VI, points out the group’s strengths in this deal: “Due to our long-term experience in Eastern European countries, the VI group is known for its competent market know-how in terms of development and tailor-made management solutions on an international high-quality service level.”

One of the centre-pieces of the design-led Kartell by Laufen collection has been shortlisted in the Residential Product category of this year’s SBID International Design Awards.The Kartell by Laufen mirrors have been selected as one of the qualifying projects by a technical panel of judges in the first stage of the process.

Epitomising the philosophy of the entire collection of creating open, flexible spaces designed to work more like a living room, the mirrors fit seamlessly into the contemporary or classically styled bathroom and turn the entire washbasin area into a striking focal point.

Measuring 780mm in diameter, the circular mirrors feature a distinctive pleated frame, which can be chosen in a colour to create different moods or as a match for the furniture in the Kartell by Laufen collection – from gold for an opulent finish, orange for a bold, bright look or transparent for the last word in modern minimalism.

The public are now invited to cast their votes for their favourite entries at www.sbidawards.com, with votes counting towards the overall results. Public voting will close at 5.30pm on Friday 5 September, with the winners announced at the SBID International Design Awards Ceremony, held at The Dorchester hotel in London on Friday, 14 November.

The full line-up of judges for this year’s awards will include:
• Kevin Mau, Senior Creative Director at The Boeing Company
• Ben McOwen Wilson, Director of Content Partnerships at YouTube
• Jane Preston, Facilities Manager UK, Real Estate & Workplace Services at Google
• David Lewis, Managing Director of Sunseeker London
• Christopher Jenner, Creative Director at Eurostar
• John Mathers, CEO of the Design Council
• Mathew Dalby, Design Director at yoo
• Carolina Calzada, Managing Director at Global Color Research
• Patrick Taylor, Managing Director of Taylist Media
• Katharine Pooley, Founder & Managing Director of Katharine Pooley Ltd
• Theresa Dowling, Editor and Group Editorial Director for Progressive Market Intelligence design titles (FX, Blueprint).

On 21st and 22nd October, at Olympia West Hall in London, Hansgrohe will make its debut at the specialist Independent Hotel Show. In addition to exhibiting at Sleep in November, the decision to sign-up for IHS is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to the hospitality sector.It also recognises the needs of smaller boutique hotels; to provide outstanding quality, attentive service, comfortable luxury and an overall unique experience that makes them standout from the competition but, crucially, must also be profitable.

Hansgrohe understands these needs and demonstrates on Stand 187 how the necessity of a bathroom can be transformed into a highlight for the hotel guest. Visitors can experience first-hand Hansgrohe’s innovative Select technology which offers user-friendly push-button controls. With all the simplicity and pleasure of a digital shower experience, Select has the added advantage of a reliable mechanical operation that is also easy to install.

Hansgrohe EcoSmart products deliver savings on water and energy bills while still providing a refreshing experience for guests with no compromise. Examples will be demonstrated on the stand, along with some project examples of boutique hotel installations including the Sands Hotel in Margate and the Belgraves London.

From the Axor designer brand, the Axor LampShower will demonstrate the magic of light and water fusing together to create a dramatic highlight in the hotel bathroom. For hotels preferring a classic look, there is Axor Montreux and Talis Classic or for more avante garde PuraVida or Axor Starck Organic.

Jay Phillips, National Sales Manager – Projects, comments, ‘This year is our first year of exhibiting at the ‘Independent hotel show’, so we’re really excited to be able to promote and share our award winning shower and brassware products. Over the years, Hansgrohe have supplied many boutique hotels who see the value in specifying our products that are at the forefront of Design, Innovation, and Sustainability. The show provides a perfect opportunity to showcase our Axor Manufaktur special finishes service that offers a real differential to any bathroom, along with new products, and I Specify our new specification tool, that supports everyone associated with bathrooms in the hospitality sector’.

Decorex International is an exquisite interior design event at the heart of the London design community.

This year is returns to its original venue at Syon Park.
Companies from our Directory of suppliers that will be exhibiting at Decorex include:

Altfield (G45)

Encompass J62

Hamilton Litestat H37a

Mille Couleurs A72

Zoffany (A50 A54 A56)

Wandsworth Group F36

Patrick Goff and Christine Brett are attending Decorex this year on the Sunday; so if you’d like to make an appointment to speak to them, please contact Patrick Goff on: patrick.goff@hoteldesigns.net.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®), one of the world’s largest hotel companies, has announced the signing of Holiday Inn® Kayseri – Düvenönü (Turkey). Operating under a franchise agreement with Ali Sert Otel Tur. Ins. San. Tic. LTD, the new build hotel is due to open in early 2016.The 161-room hotel will feature six meeting rooms, a gym and three treatment rooms, a rooftop bar and lounge offering panoramic views, as well as Holiday Inn’s signature Open Lobby.

The Holiday Inn Open Lobby takes a unique approach to the in-hotel experience for guests, which has transformed the traditional hotel lobby format by combining the front desk, lobby, restaurant, bar, lounge area and business centre into one open, cohesive space, while refreshing the design to give it a more contemporary feel. The Open Lobby has been established by understanding how people use space at home in order to give guests the most flexibility, whether they’re looking to eat, relax, work, or have fun in one integrated space.

Occupying a prime location in Kayseri’s city centre, Holiday Inn Kayseri – Düvenönü is just a short distance from the city’s cultural and historical attractions including Gevher Nesibe Hastahanesi and the Archaeological Museum, as well as the trading centre. A large number of offices are within walking distance from the hotel and it is also well connected by train.

Yalin Yaltiraki, Director of Development, Turkey, IHG commented: “Kayseri is a growing city and Holiday Inn Kayseri – Düvenönü is well positioned to offer quality accommodation at a reasonable price to business clientele and tourists here. This hotel is going to be an excellent representation of the brand and we’re very much looking forward to working with Ali Sert and his team.”

Ali Sert, Owner of Ali Sert Otel Tur. Ins. San. Tic. LTD commented: “We’re very excited to be developing our first hotel with IHG. The Holiday Inn brand has a great reputation in the industry and this hotel will offer guests a comfortable night’s stay in modern surroundings in Kayseri.”

The Stockport Plaza Super Cinema and Variety Theatre was built in the early 1930s in Greater Manchester, England. Architect, W Thornley designed the property in 1929, and it was completed in 1932. In 1967, the Plaza was converted in to a bingo hall and operated until 1998, when Mecca closed it and put the building up for sale. The Cinema Theatre Association and English Heritage had been successful in getting the Plaza Grade 2 listed in 1997 just before it’s closure. It is currently run by the Stockport Plaza Trust, the local authority having loaned the money for its acquisition. A programme of repairs and full restoration to its 1932 glory has been on-going since 2009.

The entire external façade has been completely restored to its original cream ensemble and sports a new name sign as well as red and green side panels, all constructed with neon lighting.

The interior of the building is Egyptian-themed and is said to have been inspired by the Paris Exhibition of 1925, with gold ceilings and bas-relief murals of nymphs. The auditorium has the same style, and features ornamental grilles, niches, cornices and decorative lights, topped by a large dome. A Compton organ was installed at the centre of the orchestra pit, against a square, decorative proscenium.

In 2009, Architect Liz Mather of Brock Carmichael Architects, specialists in conversation work approached Brintons as she wanted to recreate the original art deco carpets, they had black and white photos of the interiors which showed the design details but not the colour used. The restoration team removed layers of paint which had been applied to the doorframes and ceilings and analysed the date of the paint to see what colours were used in the period the property was built. The restoration team also visited Brintons archive to view hand painted art deco design papers to identify what colours where used in carpet design during the period.

Brintons Designer Jane Bradley-Bain recreated the carpet designs using the original photos and design papers from Brintons archive. Brintons supplied a purple geometric carpet for the basement, stairs, foyer and auditorium and a green carpet with an angular motif for the Cafe.

In August 2014 Brintons supplied further carpet for the circle and balcony areas using the design, which was used in auditorium, supplying over 2,431 sqm2 of Custom Axminster carpet in total.

During this part of the refurbishment the Plaza also installed replica seating which is an exact match of those in situ on opening night – October 7th 1932.

Gary Trinder, Vice-Chairman & Technical Director, Stockport Plaza Trust said,

“Brintons have supplied custom designed carpet for the Plaza Super Cinema & Variety Theatre Stockport which replicates the 1932 original. Their attention to detail and customer service has been exemplary. With expert fitting by Newards of Manchester the finished results are stunning. A job thoroughly well done!”

Leading British shower designer and manufacturer Roman are extending their range of products to Ireland. This week they have officially launched ‘Roman Ireland’ which is an extension of the Roman Brand across every County in Ireland. Roman Ireland is located in Naas, County Kildare and will be focussed on Roman’s Decem, Lumin8, Embrace and Haven collections. There will be deep stock available of these 10, 8 and 6mm ranges, including Shower Enclosures, Bath Screens, Wetrooms and Shower Trays. A rapid national delivery service is part of Roman Ireland’s service to deliver the highest quality of products.

Roman Ireland is an extension of Roman but based in Ireland – all aspects and benefits of Roman Ireland remain the same as the leading UK shower designer and manufacturer. Roman is a reputable and well established British brand – just about to celebrate 30 years supplying showering products all over the World. The company’s foundations are strongly rooted in; innovative design, manufacture, quality and customer service. Their products are used in some of the finest hotels Worldwide. Roman’s current customer support network will support Roman Ireland at each stage, from initial enquiry through to after sales care and advice. Roman employs over 20 full time members of staff in their Customer Support Centre, who all receive comprehensive training on the manufacture and installation of Roman’s collection of products.

Roman Ireland will provide a complete display and installation service with their highly trained and experienced Roman fitters. Roman has established an experienced and talented team for Roman Ireland and the sales team is headed up by Peter Nolan.

Roman’s entire range of products are now available on Virtual Worlds software, nationwide retailers are now able to design specifying from the complete Roman range. The company’s ongoing programme with Virtual Worlds ensures that their CAD catalogues will always be current and comprehensive.

David Osborne, Managing Director of Roman, commented: “We are very excited to be launching our key ranges into Ireland, extending the Roman Brand, whilst ensuring our products and services remain of the highest of quality. Historically we have always done well in Ireland and the time is now right to launch with a clear focus in Ireland – and offer product and service benefits for the retail and contract market in the whole of Ireland.”

Marriott International, Inc. continues to grow its world-class luxury JW Marriott hotel brand with the opening of the 150-room JW Marriott Santo Domingo. The much anticipated hotel is located in the upscale Piantini financial district and located inside the luxurious Blue Mall which that features several fine dining restaurants and high end shops such as Cartier, Carolina Herrera and Louis Vuitton.

Sure to be the city’s newest hotspot, the stunning VERTYGO 101 lounge, the Dominican Republic’s first “floating” restaurant and bar, features a glass floor terrace rising 101 feet above the bustling city street below and offers a full menu of crafted cocktails and innovative food items.

Along with VERTYGO 101, the JW Marriott Santo Domingo also houses the exclusive Winston Grill & Patio, a sophisticated fine dining restaurant overseen by the talented Chef Sergio Delfino that features Latin-American specialties with an Asian influence as well as an extensive international wine and cocktail menu.

The modern and sophisticated 150 rooms and suites will all include the highest speed wireless internet on the market, LCD TV’S, apple TV in every room, embedded TVs in the bathroom mirrors, alarm clocks with iPhone 5 and iPad docking station, Nespresso coffee machine and the signature JW Marriott brand Aromatherapy bathroom amenities. The presidential suite will feature some of the most high-end details in the Caribbean, including an $8,000 Kholer bath tub with light therapy, massage and hydrotherapy to reach the highest level of relaxation after a long day in Santo Domingo.

The stunning hotel also offers 9 event spaces, totaling over 2,938 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including the 1,158 square foot ballroom. The excellent location along with the luxurious accommodations and outstanding service offered at the JW Marriott Santo Domingo is sure to make this hotel the number one choice to host social and business events in the city.

Rockcliffe Hall is the only 5 Red Star resort in the North of England, and the current home of the English Senior Golf Open. Located on the banks of the River Tees outside the village of Hurworth, in the picturesque County Durham countryside.Cubbins has worked with Rockcliffe Hall in creating a range of bespoke bedroom and bathroom accessories.

Cubbins were asked by Rockliffe Hall to create a range of waste paper bins, laundry bins and tissue boxes for their elegant luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms. Along with magazine holders and umbrella stands for their relaxing lounge and impressive entrance hall.

Rockcliffe chose to commission Cubbins to design their accessories due to their high quality of manufacturing and their ability to design totally bespoke products to fit in with their individually designed interiors. It was also appealing to have all their products designed and manufactured not only in the UK but in the North East of England.

Emma Middleton, Director of Cubbins said ‘it has been a long time since we have been involved in a project in the North East, but as customers expect more from their accommodation, we hope to see many more North East hotels improving their interiors and giving customers all they need for a home from home experience. We were delighted to work with Rockcliffe Hall, the staff were very friendly and passionate about their unique hotel.’

Once again 100% Design comes to Earls Court 2 in London.
This year make sure you see the stands from our Directory members.

Boss Design O210
Focus SB E222
Signbox Ltd O260

Earls Court Exhibition Centre 2
Warwick Road
London
SW5 9TA

OPENING TIMES

Wednesday 17th September: 10.00 – 18.00
Thursday 18th September: 10.00 – 21.00
Friday 19th September: 10.00 – 18.00
Saturday 20th September: 10.00 – 18.00 (Public permitted to attend)

PRICING

Trade FREE (£15 on door)
Press FREE
Student £10 Pre-reg (£15 on door)
Public £15

This is a trade event please note that children will not be permitted access into the venue.

Further to the successful refurbishment programme of a trio of Movenpick hotels in the Netherlands in 2013, Chelsom were commissioned to supply the lighting for the extensive refurbishment of the superior four-star Movenpick Hotel Paris Neuilly ideally located in the heart of the city with views of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. During the renovation of the 281 guestrooms and suites, Chelsom worked in collaboration with the teams at ARA Design and Chandler KBS, who project managed the complex roll out plan, to ensure that the exacting design requirements were met and that the stringent French regulations were adhered to.

Working closely with ARA Design, Chelsom devised a lighting solution which delivered the utmost in terms of style and functionality and was in keeping with the wider interior scheme which effortlessly balanced contemporary design with the elegant atmosphere of Parisian chic. The scheme incorporated a mixture of existing fittings, standard product from Chelsom’s collection and custom- designed pieces at the specification of the team at ARA Design with clean, contemporary lines and neutral tones at the forefront.

Custom-designed pendants featuring striking French Drum shades in off-white silk with black trim where commissioned for the bedside lighting, suspended from the ceiling and supported from the wall giving the illusion they hover above the bedside tables. LED reading lights in Polished Chrome with bullet heads were also specified along with inverted wall lights, providing the perfect balance of functionality and design for the bedside lighting requirements. Stylish cone shaped shade fittings were chosen for the wall lighting while standard Chelsom floor and table lamps from the ‘Swing’ range were customised to give a much more elegant look in keeping with the interior scheme and were teamed with colour matching shades in off white to compliment the colour palette of the guestrooms whilst offering ambient lighting to enhance the guest experience.

Hilton Worldwide announced the opening of Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park, a 299-room newly-built Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in the prestigious master planned community of Granite Park in Plano, Texas located just north of Dallas.The opening of Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park signals the latest addition to the 90-acre mixed-used development. Located at the Sam Rayburn Tollway and the Dallas North Tollway, it is just 25 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and 20 minutes from Dallas Love Field Airport.

Designed by BOKA Powell, a nationally recognized architectural design, planning and interior design firm, the hotel is an integral part of privately-held Granite Properties commercial real estate holdings in Dallas.

Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park hotel features amenities designed to appeal to the modern business and leisure guest offering a corporate living room environment and coffee bar style lounge area with a combination of community tables and den seating to encourage public gathering and collaboration. The lobby includes a spacious media bar with 12 large flat screen televisions and a unique multi-purpose technology lounge. The hotel’s interior design melds the region’s agrarian history with modern amenities, furnishings and lighting. Guest rooms incorporate a modern palate of upscale finishes with stone countertops, custom sinks, lighted mirrors and a mosaic back-lit tile. Each room features an ergonomic desk and 47-inch flat screen TV, mini- refrigerator and Hilton serenity bed.

At the heart of the hotel is Carso Mediterranean Grill offering a wide variety of cuisine featuring fresh ingredients from the region inspired by locally renowned Executive Chef Anthony Bombaci. Other hotel amenities include a Precor fitness center and an outdoor pool with fire pit with plush resort seating. A pedestrian waterfront boardwalk connects the hotel to the 30,000 square foot conference center which boasts flexible meeting space, an expansive pre-function area and two ballrooms, a complimentary 24-hour business center and state-of-the-art A/V technology.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the opening of Element Harrison – Newark, the brand’s second hotel in New Jersey. Featuring 138 stylish, sustainable rooms and a light-filled atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance and on the move, the new Element will quickly emerge as the social hub of Harrison’s burgeoning urban lifestyle scene where business and leisure travelers, professional sports fans and locals will intersect in a fun, stimulating setting. The hotel is owned by Harrison Hotel 1, an entity of Ironstate Holdings, LLC and The Pegasus Group, and managed by Crescent Hotels & Resorts. Minutes from Manhattan, Jersey City and Newark via the adjacent PATH Station and five miles from Newark International Airport, Element Harrison – Newark offers easy access to the area’s myriad cultural, recreational, dining and entertainment pursuits. When not socializing in the hotel’s welcoming lobby or outdoor patio, guests can walk to a variety of new shops and restaurants and are within proximity of Newark’s downtown business district. Sports and entertainment can be found at Harrison’s 25,000-seat soccer stadium for the NY Red Bulls professional soccer team, and the Prudential Center in Newark, which is home to the New Jersey Devils hockey team, college basketball and concerts throughout the year.

Designed by progressive New York architectural firm HWKN, the new hotel features a distinctive façade that tips its hat to the innovative thinking of the Element by Westin brand. By creating a trompe l’oeil effect (trick of the eye), HWKN toyed with the building’s form – creating the playful illusion that each window is three dimensional. The highly cost effective yet eye catching design response mirrors the Element’s offering to extended stay visitors.

The stylish, sustainable rooms and suites at Element Harrison – Newark feature a fluid design of modular furniture, flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving, custom-designed closets and original artwork from local artists. Rooms will also offer fully-equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms will feature an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet. Other brand signatures include a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, and a 1,500 square-foot meeting room with modular furnishings, a flexible layout and state-of-the-art technology that can be customized to meet any business or social needs. Guests can stay on the move with Element’s complimentary bikes to borrow and enjoy fun and free extras including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, the signature RISE breakfast, RELAX evening reception, and salon bar carts stocked with premium wines and beers, soft drinks and snacks, available after hours.

Element Harrison – Newark was developed by Ironstate Holdings, LLC and The Pegasus Group as part of the Partnership’s larger, mixed-use development that will ultimately comprise 2,600 luxury residential residences and 80,000 square feet of street-level retail space, the first phase of which has already been completed. A hotbed of activity and investment, Harrison is also benefitting from a $256 million upgrade of the PATH Station by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Security Essen, the world’s largest fire and security show, being held in Germany from 23rd to 26th September, is the latest trade show to feature new aspiration detection technologies from Honeywell.

The FAAST portfolio, including a preview of the new high sensitivity four-inlet XT device, will be showcased at the Honeywell Booth 211 in Hall 3. Amongst the activities will be live demonstrations of FAAST achieving false alarm immunity in industrial conditions and hands-on FAAST LT and Pipe IQ design sessions.Frank Dam, Honeywell Sales Manager, has been announced as one of the keynote speakers in the Security Forum on 25 September in Hall 7 from 14:00. He will outline the importance of next generation detection in challenging environments.

Frank Dam said, “FAAST offers class-leading leading levels of false alarm immunity, extensive coverage and integrated communications and is being specified in an increasingly wide range of applications. Security Essen provides a great opportunity to communicate new product developments and to outline how the latest technologies can overcome some of the most challenging environmental conditions and provide increased levels of protection.”

Gintare Budriunaite, Honeywell’s Marketing Manager for speciality fire detection products, added, “The market for aspiration detection is changing. Once the remit of clean rooms and data centres, it is now becoming the technology of choice for industrial locations, airports, warehouses, shopping developments and even power generation and nuclear facilities. This is thanks to sophisticated filtration and optics technologies which deliver high sensitivity detection with the highest levels of false alarm immunity, opening the door to many other applications where smoke detection was difficult or impossible. We are looking forward to showcasing the extended FAAST portfolio at the largest trade show in the fire and security calendar.”

FAAST is part of the Honeywell booth which will be featuring the latest innovations in fire alarm, management and notification systems as well as access control, intruder detection, video surveillance and integrated security solutions on more than 1,200 m².

For more details and to register for the show go to the Security Essen website.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently announced the opening of the Holiday Inn Express® Culiacan hotel in the northern state of Sinaloa, Mexico. The seven-story hotel features 174 spacious guestrooms including two beautiful suites and is the first Holiday Inn Express® hotel for the city. “The Holiday Inn Express Culiacan hotel is perfect for both business and leisure travelers seeking contemporary accommodations in the Tres Rios Culiacan area” said Gerardo Murray, regional vice president, Distribution and Commercial Marketing, Mexico, Latin America & Caribbean, IHG. “We are really excited to welcome this new property as it continues to demonstrate IHG’s strong growth in Mexico.”

The Holiday Inn Express Culiacan hotel is owned and managed by Inmobiliaria Pueblo Yaqui, S.A. de C.V., and is franchised by an affiliate of IHG. Conveniently located right off Jesus Sarabia and Pedro Infante Ave., the hotel is minutes away from a variety of shopping areas, restaurants and entertainment venues. Additionally, the hotel has three flexible meeting rooms with a total capacity up to 60 guests.

The hotel offers guests a comfortable, affordable stay with innovative, preferred-guest upgrades to ensure a pleasurable experience with amenities that include a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary high-speed Internet access and a business center. The complimentary Desayuno Express bar features a full range of breakfast items, including a rotation of egg and meat selections, pastries, yogurt, fruit, juices, regional dishes, and coffee. Guest rooms will feature contemporary styling, comfortable queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, includes 32” HD TVs and an in-room coffee machine featuring complimentary coffee. The SimplySmart™ shower incorporates a proprietary Stay Smart™ Kohler showerhead, signature shower curtain with curved rod. Upgraded 100 percent cotton terry towels and bath products are also included. Guests will enjoy the SimplySmart™ bedding collection, where they will find crisp, fresh bedding that features an attractive decorative throw, a medium-weight duvet blanket, soft, 200 thread-count sheets and pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm”.

A stunning infinity Skypool is now open 52 floors above ground level in the sleek Gŏng bar at the Shangri La Hotel, at The Shard – making it the highest pool in Western Europe.Far above the noise and heat of the City, the Skypool offers a tranquil escape for hotel guests by day, before the separation screens are drawn back as the sun sets and it becomes a unique addition to London’s highest bar, Gŏng.

Facing west across the City, the 11x4m heated pool features stunning views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and Westminster, providing the perfect spot to enjoy the iconic vistas.

Feeling on top of the world, from 8.30pm onwards Gŏng guests can enjoy a spot of sophisticated poolside glamour while they sip on signature creations from the dedicated cocktail bar such as the Bermondsey Bubbles – Jensen’s Dry Bermondsey Gin, Rose liqueur, creole bitters and champagne; or the award-winning Black and Blue Swizzle – Talisker, honey, lime, PX sherry and blue cheese.

Champagne lovers can enjoy a wide selection from the champagne bar from rare grower varieties up to the ultimate Grand Marques, and indulge in luxury bar snacks such as Cornish crab, foie gras, and a selection of the finest caviar. The 30-cover poolside area can also be hired exclusively for the most spectacular sky-high party.

Designed by Andre Fu of AFSO, Gŏng is inspired by the mythical aspect of ‘dou-gong’ – a series of interlocking brackets that are used extensively in historical Chinese architecture. The Skypool fits seamlessly with the traditional Eastern design combined with modern Western glamour and an oversized ‘paint scroll’, measuring a length of 15m, appears to float overhead.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), announces the opening of the new-build, 108-room Holiday Inn Express® hotel in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The hotel is located in the heart of the Tegucigalpa’s new financial and commercial district of Plaza San Rafael, and near the country’s major financial institutions, including BAC Honduras, Banco Davivienda and BCIE (Central American Bank for Economic Integration). The Holiday Inn Express Tegucigalpa hotel is also connected to some of the main city thoroughfares such as Boulevard Morazan and is conveniently accessible to a variety of restaurants. Owned and managed by Latin American Hospitality Management S.A., a subsidiary of Grupo AGRISAL, the hotel is franchised by an affiliate of IHG and is IHG’s fifth property in Honduras. Additionally, the property is the second IHG®-branded hotel in Tegucigalpa, joining the Real InterContinental® Tegucigalpa hotel and the second Holiday Inn Express property for Honduras, joining the Holiday Inn Express San Pedro Sula.

Baulmann Leuchten is going to present their latest product developments in New York City on the SDA showcase from September 15th to 17th in the Metrolpolitan Pavilion Manhattan. For over 50 years Stand Deutsch Associates (SDA) has represented the best in lighting products to New York’s design community. Every other year, their manufacturer showcase is giving the NY design community a chance to get up close and personal with the latest product developments.

Together with their local partner in the USA, Solavanti Lighting from Dallas Texas, Baulmann Leuchten will make their range also available now for the US designers and clients.

All pictures are copyright by Baulmann Leuchten.

Variety is the name of the game when it comes to offering the perfect tap for everyone. Each household has unique requirements that need to be fulfilled, from easy operation for older people to easy accessibility in households with children. From filling tall pots and vases to a quick hair wash at the washbasin – taps need to be flexible enough for a wide variety of uses. That is why the extensive range of GROHE taps and fittings now includes size variants from XS to XL as well as a broad choice of different designs to coordinate with all bathroom decors. With the new medium-height taps, and vessel spouts for freestanding washbasins GROHE now completes its offer. The result is a range of taps that leaves no wish unfulfilled.

Medium-height spouts in modern designs

Wash basins come in all shapes, sizes and heights but with GROHE you can always find the right tap to fit. The new medium-height variants added to Quadra, Lineare, Eurocube, Eurodisc Cosmopolitan and Concetto offer even greater comfort by giving users more free space to wash their hands. Moreover, the optimised size ratios allow for more comfortable access to the lever and a more ergonomic lever action.

Elegant taps for freestanding wash basins

The Allure, Quadra, Lineare, Eurocube and Eurodisc Cosmopolitan lines now include newly designed single-lever mixers for freestanding washbasins. The height and reach of the taps has been specially adapted to these styles of basins. The longer spouts leave more room for users’ hands, ensuring optimum use of available space.

Different spout lengths for a perfect fit

Versatility is the hallmark of the new wall-mounted two-hole basin combinations. They are suitable both for conventional wash stands and for freestanding basins. The Quadra, Lineare, Eurocube, Eurodisc Cosmopolitan and Essence lines from GROHE all include variants with two different spout lengths. This allows users to select a tap that is optimally matched to the wash basin and their specific needs.

Innovative technologies for carefree enjoyment

Apart from their stylish looks and superior functionality, the new product variants also score big points on user safety and economy. The taps incorporating the GROHE SilkMove® 28 mm cartridge benefit from an integrated temperature limiter, which not only offers reliable protection against scalding but also help users manage their energy consumption. In addition, the GROHE EcoJoy® water saving technology reduces water consumption to 5.7 litres per minute without detracting from the water experience. The GROHE StarLight® finish safeguards the brilliant sheen of these taps and makes them soil repellent and scratch resistant, ensuring good-as-new looks for years of heavy use.

The new tap offering from GROHE delivers an unprecedented range of spout heights and designs for improved user choice and convenience.

The legendary Sunset Marquis Hotel is proud to announce the completion of its 100 remodeled suites. These junior and one-bedroom suites offer oversized bathrooms, in-room dining/work area and custom furniture in vibrant and inviting colors. With an average of 529 Sq. Ft. in the suites, most rooms have balconies or roomy patios. Interior designer Oliva Villaluz has been involved in the renovations of the Sunset Marquis for 10 years, working alongside Sunset Marquis’ Owner Mark Rosenthal, to develop a new look for this celebrated property.Originally a set designer, Oliva’s vision was to take the 1960’s look back to a more classic style with a little twist. Villaluz brings her singular vision of modernity, casual elegance and zen infusion to an eclectic array of Hollywood’s most prestigious properties.

Villaluz’s goal was to create a “home away from home” for Hollywood’s elite. With rich textures and colors, the vibe of the hotel is a bit more masculine and comfortable. “I traveled for inspiration,” Oliva said, going as far as Shanghai & Beijing to source out textiles, metals and furnishings. The charismatic, petite powerhouse is driving projects, which include not only The Sunset Marquis Hotel, but also Raleigh Studios, Fess Parker Winery, Crescent Hotel Beverly Hills, and dozens of high end private residences.

Cavatina, located at the Sunset Marquis, sits in the center of the property’s lush oasis landscape. Owners George and Mark Rosenthal collaborated on the restaurant’s interior and wanted the overall feel to be more inviting and relaxed. This “hidden” gem not only offers a cozy upgraded patio for al fresco dining, but also new lounge areas for casual dining and drinking. Inside Cavatina, celebrity photographs taken by renowned photographer and longtime hotel guest, Timothy White, line the walls. “We are excited to unveil this completed remodel of Sunset Marquis, which has undergone many changes since its inception in 1963. This new remodel will offer our guests an even more superior experience,” said Rod Gruendyke, General Manager of Sunset Marquis.

About the hotel
Centrally located between Beverly Hills, Hollywood, downtown Los Angeles and the beaches, and mere steps from the world famous Sunset Strip, Sunset Marquis Hotel in West Hollywood, CA offers 152 luxurious suites and villas intertwined within a 3.5-acre oasis of gardens and private retreats. Since opening its doors in 1963, the hotel has served as a home-away-from-home to rock legends, filmmakers, writers, actors and discerning guests from around the world. The hotel features indoor and al fresco dining in its world-class restaurant, Cavatina, two outdoor heated pools, the iconic BAR 1200, and a full-service spa that’s open to locals as well as hotel guests. Additional guest amenities include Nightbird Recording Studios, home to numerous Grammy winning artists, and Morrison Hotel Gallery, featuring a collection of some of the most renowned celebrity photography, of which more than $1 million worth lines the walls and corridors of Sunset Marquis.

Donald J. Trump, renowned American businessman and public figure, creator of iconic developments across the greatest cities of the world, has recently unveiled Trump Tower Mumbai – the first and only Trump project in the city, in collaboration with the Lodha Group, India’s No. 1 luxury real estate developer.“It has been my desire for many years to be involved in a great project in Mumbai, and it is my honour to bring the Trump lifestyles to the citizens of this truly global metrolpolis with the launch of Trump Tower Mumbai. We are thrilled to be working with the Lodha Group, a truly fantastic team of professionals.” said Donald J. Trump, Chairman and President – The Trump Organization.

Seconding his views, Donald Trump Jr., Executive Vice President – the Trump Organization remarked “Every aspect of Trump Tower Mumbai bears the distinct touch of the Trump brand – cutting edge design, incredible attention to detail and an obsession with perfection; creating a unique, luxurious property we are incredibly proud of.”

Recognized worldwide, the Trump brand is synonymous with the highest levels of luxury, the finest locations and the most prestigious real estate. Trump Towers are among the most successful residences worldwide, creating exclusive value that commands significant premium over all others. Trump is very selective in choosing its projects, and Mumbai is one among chosen international cities like Vancouver, Istanbul, Panama and Manila.

Speaking at the launch, Abhishek Lodha – MD, Lodha Group, said: “Mumbai is today a global megapolis and centre for capital, talent and industry. It is only fitting that we bring one of the biggest name in luxury living to our home market with Trump Tower Mumbai.”

“Our collaboration on Trump Tower Mumbai not only raises the bar in every sense for luxury and services, but sets a new benchmark for luxury living in India – creating a tower that redefines the Mumbai skyline.”

Trump Tower Mumbai brings the finest in luxury in a branded residence to India, and offers residents a host of exclusive lifestyle privileges, including a 24-hour Resident Manager and white-glove services, access to global Trump luxury properties and for the first time in India – a fractional membership to private jet service exclusively for Trump residents.

The Tower, with its crystal glass inspired architecture, will feature uber-luxe 3 and 4 bedroom residences with dazzling interiors designed by HBA Singapore – the world leading hospitality design firm. It also includes German Poggenpohl kitchens, five-fixture master bathrooms, indoor Jacuzzis, built-in TV’s, elite seven-level security and the very best in every aspect of interior design.

Centara Hotels & Resorts of Thailand will be opening its third property in Bali, Centara Crystal On The Bay Nusa Dua, early in 2015.The new resort will be operated under a management contract signed with owning company PT Crystal Development on 4 July 2014.

Located on the bayfront on the southern peninsula of Nusa Dua, one of Bali’s prime tourism destinations, the resort is set amongst lush green mangroves and has immediate access to the ocean.

“We are very proud to be announcing the opening of Centara Crystal On The Bay Nusa Dua, a new property featuring an innovative architectural design that will become a landmark on the bayfront at Nusa Dua,” says Thirayuth Chirathivat, chief executive officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

“Bali is a destination that is of great strategic importance to us, and we are honoured that PT Crystal Development has the confidence in Centara’s international skills and profile to manage this very fine property.”

Centara’s existing properties in Bali are Centara Grand Nusa Dua Villas, and Centra Taum Seminyak Bali.

“Centara Crystal On The Bay Nusa Dua is a great creative concept and is ideally located on the Nusa Dua coast,” says Chris Bailey, senior vice president for sales and marketing at Centara Hotels & Resorts.

“This beautiful property will allow us to offer yet another type of Balinese experience to our guests, and will further raise our international profile in the very important Bali market.”

The newly built resort is a six-storey structure that faces the bay of Nusa Dua, with Nusa Dua Beach easily accessible within a 20 minute scenic boat ride or 10 minutes by car.

The resort will have 210 rooms, with options including Deluxe, Suites, Pool Suites, and Jacuzzi Suites, with a choice of rooms suitable for families.

Each room has its own private balcony, with room sizes ranging from 37.7 square metres to 147.5 square metres.

The rooftop will feature an infinity pool and terrace, along with a rooftop restaurant and bar that with the dramatic bay views will be an attractive feature for both hotel guests and outside visitors.

The resort will feature a Spa Cenvaree, two swimming pools, a pool bar, an all-day dining restaurant, meetings facilities, and a Kids’ Club that features a zone for the youngsters and an E-Zone for the teens.

A wedding chapel will also be sited on the rooftop, where the terrace will provide a catered reception area against a picture perfect background.

Nearby attractions accessible by boat include Pulau Penyu and Tanjung Benoa, both only 10 minutes away, while Serangan is 20 minutes by boat.

Access to the airport via the tollway takes only 20 minutes.

As the conference season approaches, award-winning etc.venues is to open a fifteenth meeting and training facility at 8 Eastcheap, Monument, London. Forbes Group is delighted that etc.venues’ Central Operations and Projects Manager, Franck Rosello, who has designed the latest interiors, has specified its Buffet-Rite table tops and Silcra Stretch covers.Having tried the stretch covers over tables at other etc.venues, Rosello likes the way that, used on the registration tables, the sculpted finish of the covers makes a natural focus, drawing delegates to it for signing in. The sleek finish also intones with the group’s contemporary streamlined interiors, and modern, energetic vibe.

The Buffet-Rite top Rosello likes for buffet set-ups. Its wipe-clean surface means that you can keep the display looking neat throughout the service. It might be more expensive than banquet roll in initial layout, but for the long-term Rosello describes the Buffet-Rite as a ‘no-brainer ’.

Forbes is also delighted that Rosello has specified its conference cloth at many etc.venues. Over 250 drop covers have been supplied over the years, usually in black. “They add value both operationally and to the client experience,” observes Rosello. Besides muffling sound and giving a premium environment to delegates, the cloths’ colour hides marks and being made to the shape of the etc.venues tables (including bespoke half-moon shapes), they simply drop over the tables, so are quick to set-up, saving valuable staff time.

Then, when the drop covers need freshening up, they are machine-washable, time and time again. “Bullet-proof” is how Rosello describes them.

Forbes Group wishes etc.venues every success with etc.venues Monument. For further details on any of these products, please contact Forbes Group on 01568 616638 or send us an e-mail to info@forbesgroup.eu

Motel One, the European budget hotel chain, has just opened its second hotel in the German city of Leipzig. Following its tried and tested “great design for little money” Motel One Leipzig-Augustusplatz opened its doors on 11th August with room nights starting from just 69€ a night.The brand new 180 room hotel is in a prime location on Augustusplatz, one of Germany’s largest squares. Located next to St. Nicholai Church (one of Leipzig’s most famous) and within striking distance of the Leipzig Opera House and Leipzig University there is plenty for visitors to explore.

The “One Bar” located on the ground floor of the hotel provides a stylish hangout for guests and the public to sit back and enjoy their surroundings. Like all their hotels, Motel One Leipzig-Augustusplatz stays true to its local surroundings and history with its interior design and detailing. A portrait of J.S. Bach, who spent most of his life playing music at the neighbouring St. Nikolai Church, can be admired from the comfort of the bar.

On the first floor, the One Lounge welcomes guests to experience panoramic views of St. Nikolai Church, while resting on a selection of stylish lounge furniture, or enjoying the hotels own library. In the morning a full continental breakfast is served for everyone to tuck in and enjoy together around a large dining room table. Bedrooms are fresh, functional and comfortable following the successful Motel One concept. Free WiFi is available for all guests and air conditioning can be found in all rooms.

This latest edition to the group comes just days after the chain announced a successful financial first half of 2014. Currently Motel One has 51 hotels with over 11,720 rooms across Belgium, Germany, UK and Austria. By 2017 the hotel chain aims to grow to 73 hotels with close to 18,400 rooms.

Marriott International’s signature business and leisure brand, Marriott Hotels, continues to grow in popularity across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. The brand has just announced the opening of a new property in Doha’s West Bay district, where three hotels currently known as the Renaissance Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Executive Apartments Doha City Center become one as a new Marriott Hotel opens.The Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel is in line with Marriott Hotels’ new brand strategy. “Marquis” is a brand extension of the Marriott Hotels and JW Marriott Hotels brands. It is given to select properties that are distinguished by their exceptional offerings and iconic locations, including expansive meeting facilities, multiple restaurants, and grand public spaces. The Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel with its 580 guest rooms, 1,200 square metres of flexible meeting space, and breath-taking views of the Doha skyline and Arabian Gulf is no exception.

The Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel will be the first Marriott Marquis in the Middle East, and the first property located outside of the US, as the other Marriott Marquis properties are located between New York, Atlanta, San Francisco, San Diego, Houston and Washington DC.

The shortlist for Outstanding New Hotel of the Year Award and the Independent Hotelier of the Year Award 2014 has been announced.The Outstanding New Hotel of the Year award, introduced last year, is designed to improve the scope of recognition of all independent, luxury and boutique hotels that have been operating for three years or less.

The focus is on proven success and overall excellence but judges also look for hotels who have demonstrated risk taking and seized opportunities to drive their business and support the industry.

The shortlist for Outstanding New Hotel of the Year:
• Chiltern Firehouse, London
• Ham Yard, London
• The Lord Crewe Arms, Blanchland, Durham
• No 131, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
• The Pig on the Beach, Studland, Dorset
• The Wild Rabbit, Kingham, Oxfordshire

The Independent Hotelier of the Year award gives recognition to an individual who has consistently helped change the landscape of the independent, luxury and boutique hotel sector; a pioneer with a reputation for pushing boundaries. Above all the winner will be someone committed to the development of their team, the success of their establishment and the industry at large.

The shortlist for Independent Hotelier of the Year:
• Craig Bancroft and Nigel Haworth (Northcote Manor, Blackburn, Lancashire)
• Kit and Tim Kemp (Firmdale Hotels)
• Mark Sainsbury, Michael Benyan and Jason Catifeoglou (The Zetter Townhouse, London)
• David Levin (The Capital Hotel, London)
• Tim Hart (Hambleton Hall, Oakham, Rutland)
• Ian Schrager (Ian Schrager Company)
The nominations committee for the award consists of renowned industry experts, reflecting the cream of hospitality:
• Ciaran Fahy, Chief Executive, Ellerman Group
• Roberto Pajares, Opening General Manager, Ampersand Hotel
• Peter Hancock, Chief Executive, Pride of Britain Hotels
• James Lohan, CEO, Mr and Mrs Smith
• Chris Penn, Managing Director, Ace Hotel London
• Fiona Duncan, Hotel Critic and Travel Writer, Sunday Telegraph
• Robert Nadler, CEO, Nadler Hotels
• Mark Fuller, Owner, Concept Venues Ltd
• Henrietta Green, Consultancy Director and Events Specialist, Henrietta Green Associates
• Tim Etchells, Managing Director, The Independent Hotel Show
• Rafi Bejerano, Owner, The Arch London

For each category, six nominees have been shortlisted and voting is now live. The industry is invited to vote for their winner by visiting the website. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony immediately following the first day of the Independent Hotel show on 21st October 2014.

Editors comment: These appear to be only for UK hotels.

Jameson Seating were appointed by Link Design to recreate the Mitchells & Butler pub, The Bathampton Mill after an unfortunate flood.Supplying both internal & external furniture plus the installation fixed seating & curtains.

Jameson used a mix of standard and bespoke products to create a full range of furniture with special finishes & fabrics for a unique look.

Time was of the essence and the whole project was turned around in less than 4 weeks ready for the site to re-open with a roaring trade.

The river has been known to rise above the lawns at the back of the hotel. Define back? The approach up a driveway off the main road leads past paddocks, with a few horses and a family of blue cranes grazing in them, to the house and its extension housing the five superb bedrooms. But is this the front or the back? I think the presentation is such that perhaps I should call the riverside the front. It is certainly the focus of the buildings, with the ‘back’ being a double row of shading trees protecting the car parking.Yes, it isn’t an hotel, it is a B&B, albeit a winner of awards as South Africa’s best B&B. As such it shames many hotels by the quality and design, perhaps because one side of the owners is Paul Scheepers who is an architect. His experience includes a spell working for the City Corporation in London so he has seen plenty of the good bad and the ugly in our great city. Here he has built a sensitive interpretation of the South African vernacular as an extension to the home he shares with Sue, responsible for much of the interiors and certainly for the operation of the five delightful bedrooms he created.

Sue Scheepers says “When designing Bitou River Lodge, Paul wanted the buildings to be sympathetic to the local surroundings (farms), so he used a single-storey stylised Cape Dutch farmhouse design. For example, there are pediments, but they’re simplified, made more modern. The main buildings had to capitalise on the river view & are South-facing as a result. Each guest-room has a high parapet window which lets in light & sunshine from the North to compensate for this. This is also the reason for the exposed trusses in all the rooms – a contemporary detail, they give a feeling of light & airiness to the rooms”.

200 corporate CEOs from the U.S. and Africa and over 45 African heads of state joined U.S. President Barack Obama at the US-Africa Business Forum earlier this month, and Marriott International, Inc. President and CEO Arne Sorenson was there to share the company’s plans to reach over 150 hotels across 16 African countries, resulting in more than 25,000 jobs, between 2014-2020.This growth comes on a base of 14 hotels and 10,000 employees prior to the company’s acquisition of South Africa’s Protea Hotel Group in April. The Protea investment lifted Marriott into position as the largest hotel company in Africa, with the addition of 116 managed and franchised hotels, approximately 10,000 rooms and 15,000 employees across seven countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Protea interior guest roomIn addition to its recent Protea acquisition, Marriott International has plans to open nearly 40 additional hotels with more than 6,000 rooms, adding more than 10,000 employees, at both its managed and franchised hotels in the following 13 African countries by 2020: Algeria, Benin, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Gabon, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tunisia, and Zambia.

Sorenson discussed Marriott’s commitment to Africa and support of the growing travel industry by easing travel to and within the continent: “It’s a great time to do business in Africa and Marriott is at the table helping to lead the discussion on trade and investment across the continent. African leaders are looking at ways to spur economic growth by lowering barriers, such as onerous visa regimes. Travel is trade and the more Africa embraces Smart Travel policies that encourage the free flow of people, the quicker growth will come,” says Sorenson.

In Rwanda, Marriott has partnered with a vocational school, Akilah Institute for Women, to bring 41 women from the school to work and train in Marriott hotels in Dubai. The women are getting on-the-job skills, leadership training, and will be prepared after 18 months to return, as part of the management team, in 2016 to open the company’s first new-build Sub-Saharan Africa hotel – the Kigali Marriott Hotel.

“Africa is going through an economic transformation,” says Sorenson. “Coupled with that transformation is a mutual promise for opportunity that Africa holds—for us as a business and for the people who are hired, trained and work in hotels across our portfolio. For them, it is like hitting the lottery and shows what a powerfully good force travel can be in the world.”

Two new faces have joined the specification team at the Roca Group, with the appointment of Jon Bond and Danny Hogan as Specification Managers for London.Jon’s role will focus on working with the company’s architect and designer clients. Bringing a wealth of experience to the company, Jon’s background is in the flooring industry, joining from Brintons where he held a hospitality specification role for two and a half years. Prior to this he was with Ulster Carpets.

The other newcomer to the specification team, Danny Hogan, joins the bathroom manufacturer from Johnson Tiles, where he held specification management roles looking after residential and commercial clients for a total of nine years.

During this time he gained tiling specifications for projects as diverse as Twickenham Rugby Stadium and Radisson Edwardian Hotels, as well as being responsible for key account management for luxury housing developers. Danny’s role at the Roca Group will focus on residential projects in London, particularly at the luxury end of the market. Both Danny and Jon will be regular faces at Roca London Gallery, a design hub and important resource for architects and designers based in London and the surrounding areas.

“London is a busy market for Roca and Laufen both residentially and commercially, with a diverse range of clients and projects that are in need of quality bathroom solutions,” comments International Specification Manager Mark Poulain. “I am delighted to be welcoming Jon and Danny to the team and am very confident that, with their abundance of experience and knowledge, they will be huge assets.”

Nigeria’s new 117-room Protea Hotel Select Ikeja opens its doors this week in the upmarket Lagos suburb of Ikeja.The internationally competitive hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Ikeja City Mall & Lagos State Secretariat, and a mere 5.2km away from Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

Accommodation at Protea Hotel Select Ikeja caters for corporate travellers with a variety of room types to suit GUESTS’ needs, as well as a comfortable restaurant, bar and conference facilities for close to 60 people.

Protea Hotel Select Ikeja guest roomThe hotel accommodation comprises 75 classic rooms, 8 inter-leading twin bedrooms, 24 deluxe rooms, 8 suites which feature open plan lounge and dining rooms separate from the bedrooms, and 2 universal accessible rooms. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, mini-bar fridges, satellite TV, work stations and tea/coffee making facilities.

Conference facilities consist of one conference room seating a maximum of 50 delegates depending on the seating arrangements and one small private boardroom seating a maximum of 6 delegates.

The hotel’s restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a strong focus on local and continental cuisine. The bar is open 24 hours a day, though, offering a Poolside menu, and room service is also available around the clock.

Other hotel facilities include a shuttle service, secure open parking, and laundry service as well as free Wi-Fi access.

Protea Hotels Director of Sales, Marketing and Revenue, Danny Bryer, says Nigeria’s rapidly growing economy is prompting the need for more hotels.

The sleek, modern lines of the public areas’ earthy-toned décor is mirrored in the bedrooms, which are decorated in a neutral palate with splashes of warm colour to bring life to the rooms.

As well as the Protea Hotel Select Ikeja the group has five more hotels in the pipeline for Nigeria, these are:

– A 155-room African Pride Avalon Hotel & Spa (2015)
– A 150-room Lagos Marriott Hotel, Victoria Island (2016)
– A 250-room Courtyard by Marriott Abuja (2018)
– A 100-unit Marriott Executive Apartments Abuja (2018)
– A 250-room Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja GRA (2018)

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the opening of a new 79-room Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites Northwest Houston Brookhollow near Houston’s famed Energy Corridor – home to some of the world’s foremost oil and gas corporations – and just a few miles from the Galleria Mall. Located on Federal Plaza Drive and conveniently accessible to Interstate 45 as well as US Highways 290 and 249, the newest addition to IHG’s Houston hotels is also a short drive from downtown Houston and key businesses such as Baker Hughes®, BP® and Caterpillar Inc®. All rooms include a refrigerator, microwave and 42” HD televisions with an expanded cable line up. The hotel offers guests a comfortable, affordable stay with innovative, preferred-guest upgrades to ensure a pleasurable experience with amenities that include a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary high-speed Internet access, guest laundry area, Sundries Shop and a business center. Business travelers will find large desks with ergonomic chairs, free local phone and toll free phones with private voicemail, and complimentary copies of USA Today® newspapers. Additionally, guests can enjoy an outdoor saltwater pool, relax by the lobby’s indoor waterfall feature and make use of the meeting space that can accommodate up to 60 people.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Northwest Houston Brookhollow owned by Brookhollow Hospitality Management, LLC and operated by IHS Management Group, is franchised by an affiliate of IHG.

London based Asset Management firm Dominvs Group, today proudly announced the completion of its refurbishment project converting its Aston Hotel Sheffield into the Mercure Sheffield Parkway. The transformation of their 78-bedroom Sheffield hotel involved redesigning the traditional hotel lobby by combining the front desk, restaurant, bar, lounge area and business centre to ensure that customer happiness is always top of mind.

The professional team included RSD interiors as Interior Designers, Jaymar interiors as appointed build contractors with the hotel being operator by Dominvs Hospitality under a franchise agreement with Accor’s renowned Mercure brand.

The idea to convert and rebrand the hotel was initially devised by Dominvs Group three months earlier following the great success of previous rebrand projects taken place at their Darlington and Dumfries hotels.

The Mercure Sheffield Parkway hotel is located just four miles from Sheffield City centre and is only a stones’ throw from Meadow Hall Shopping Centre, making it the perfect place to rest your head after a weekend of indulgence or cultural discovery. The hotel offers guests a range of accommodation including classic, deluxe and privilege rooms and is well equipped with event and meeting facilities catering up to 150 guests. There is secure free parking and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced the opening of Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center, a Rockbridge Portfolio property, following a $25 million transformation. Managed by Wischermann Partners Inc., Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center provides a new lens on Western Chicago’s sophisticated Oak Brook area, home to a multitude of upscale shopping and dining options as well as Fortune 500 business headquarters. Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center features 172 guestrooms and suites, including an extraordinary Presidential Suite and six spacious Executive Suites all featuring contemporary and mid-century inspired furnishings. The hotel also boasts 3,500 square feet of expansive event space, two contemporary Spa Suites and a sleek Spanish restaurant, El Tapeo, offering contemporary tapas style dishes and handcrafted cocktails.

Guests will be immediately enthralled by the new modern façade, which opens into the hotel’s signature and award-winning arrival experience, Le Méridien Hub™. Le Méridien arrival consists of four unique elements: large-scale artwork in high impact areas; the sensory experience, illustrated through Le Méridien signature scent, sound and use of light; UNLOCK ART™ programme, featuring artist designed key card collections that offer access to the acclaimed Elmhurst Art Museum; and a 24-hour curated soundtrack by French Bossa Nova band Nouvelle Vague. The Hub also features the signature Master Barista, a recently launched initiative to meet the growing demands of coffee lovers at every Le Méridien hotel worldwide. The Master Baristas lead coffee-related initiatives at each hotel, serve as a coffee cultural ambassador, and maintain knowledge of current coffee trends within the destination.

Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center brings a new lens on Oak Brook through the work of local Chicago artists and abstract installations representing notable Chicago symbols, such as bicycles and the Ferris wheel, which debuted at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Upon arrival, guests will experience a large-scale, one-of-a-kind mural depicting the architecture of the city by contemporary artist Justus Roe of the Chicago Artists Coalition. The Hub also features an installation of a deconstructed bicycle, a nod to Oak Brook’s many biking trails, with the bike chain in the shape of Illinois and the headlight representing Chicago. Each floor of the hotel’s elevator lobbies showcases images taken from Chicago’s signature “L” train, including the mileage and direction from the hotel in relation to where each particular shot was taken. The Executive Club Lounge features eight stunning photographs by Chicago native Satoki Nagata portraying Chicagoland locals caught in the rain. Custom graphic patterns throughout the hotel, created by Starwood’s award-winning design team, are abstract designs of local contextual nuances, including original Daniel Burnham city plans for Chicago and maps of the public spaces of the Windy City.

The ninth floor of Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center boasts a 3,000 square foot Grand Salon Ballroom and Executive Club Lounge as well as the hotel’s new restaurant concept, El Tapeo, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking views of the city. The 58-seat restaurant offers authentic Spanish cuisine, created by culinary artist and Chicago native, Chef Franco Diaz. In the hotel’s 25-seat lounge and 12-seat bar, guests are also served freshly made, handcrafted cocktails and light tapas style appetizers.

Le Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center also features two modern Spa Suites, featuring custom stone and marble décor, a stone-tiled rain shower steam room with a 32” heated mosaic tile bed amidst ten body sprayers, a luxurious soaking tub and a large relaxation lounge. The lounge is designed with seamless flexibility to allow guests to revitalize their mind, body, and spirit, as they relax in the plush comfort of an oversized sofa, or engage in an array of curated spa treatment services in partnership with ESPA.

Hotel des Dromonts, in the French ski resort of Avoriaz, will re-open after a complete redesign after becoming part of the luxury Maisons & Hotels Sibuet brand. Fifty years after first opening, the boutique 34-room hotel has been radically re-configured to incorporate state-of-the art facilities and will be decorated in signature Sibuet style. The hotel will also feature three very different restaurants and a signature Spa Pure Altitude with indoor pool.Perfectly positioned at an altitude of 1800m for guests who want to take advantage of early and late season snow. The four-star Hotel des Dromonts, offers a stress free ski in/out access making it the perfect choice for keen skiers who want to maximize their time on the slopes and cover as much of the world-famous Portes du Soleil ski area as possible. With over 296 ski runs, 11 snowparks and 11 boardercross runs right on the doorstep it is one of the most impressive ski areas to explore in the world.

Inspired by 60’s Mod style, with 29 spacious rooms and 6 suites, designed in ‘ski chamber chic’, the interiors will feature cosy fabrics, plush carpets and bright pops of colour to create a warm and comfortable atmosphere that revisits the retro style of the sixties. Hotel des Dromonts will have a dedicated children’s play area within the hotel to reflect Avoriaz’s popularity as a ski destination with families. The striking façade of Hotel de Dromonts will remain – a contemporary architectural landmark in itself, the multi-layered surface is covered in cedar shingles that is typical of Savoyard roofs. A new outdoor terrace will be added onto the exterior offering aprés-ski refreshment and spectacular panoramic views over the Alps.

Hotel des Drumonts’ Pure Altitude Spa will become the go-to destination in Avoriaz for relaxation and rejuvenation. Signature Pure Altitude treatments such as the ‘Bol d’Air Pur’ facial and the ‘Energetic of the Alps’ massage use high-performing Pure Altitude products that harness the active ingredients in Edelweiss and other mountain minerals to soothe tired muscles after a hard day on the slopes. The state-of-the-art Pure Altitude Spa will consist of 3 treatments rooms, a calming relaxation room decorated in locally quarried slate, an indoor swimming pool, a contemporary hammam, a sauna and a terrace with a jacuzzi where guests can relax and take in the mountain views.

In the evenings guests will be able to sample some Savoyard specialties in three of the hotel’s superb new restaurants that cater to every mood. Following on from the success of Les Enfants Terribles in Mégeve and Val-Thorens, the popular bistro will arrive in Avoriaz serving delicious haute-cuisine and the house favourite, ‘steak au poivre’. For those who wish to continue the aprés-ski spirit, Les Enfants Terribles DOWN, will offer a more lively dining experience bringing guests together round the famous bar for cocktails and serving small sharing plates of delicacies such as Ramon Pena sardines and freshly sliced Iberian ham. Finally, for a truly traditional Savoyard experience, The Table du Fromage, will be the perfect spot to enjoy classic alpine fare of fondue, tartiflette and raclette. The intimate restaurant space will have a resident master of cheese, Monsieur Bojon, who will be on hand to curate a menu to showcase the best cheeses from the local area.

Located above the French resort of Morzine, Avoriaz is linked with 12 other resorts either side of the Swiss-French border and is only an hour from Geneva. The resort was created by the Olympic ski champion Jean Vuarnet and Gerard Bremont in the 1960s and Hotel des Dromonts was the first major work of renowned architect Jacques Labro. Jean’s original vision was to create an avant-garde resort that transported guests away from everyday life with innovative but integrated architecture and for the roads to serve as ski runs. His unique vision is still very much alive today as guests can either ski or travel by horse and cart around the resort and the contemporary architecture compliments the natural environment to create a magical atmosphere.

Reconstruction and refurbishment is in full swing at andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge as part of a planned investment of ZAR 230 million in a number of safari camps and lodges owned by leading experiential travel company andBeyond. Reopening in September, andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge will be completely remodelled, with design and modernism carefully integrated with nature at its very core.
London, June 2014: Reconstruction and refurbishment is in full swing at andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge as part of a planned investment of ZAR 230 million in a number of safari camps and lodges owned by leading experiential travel company andBeyond. Reopening in September, andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge will be completely remodelled, with design and modernism carefully integrated with nature at its very core.

Twelve new suites will include one ‘family unit’ made up of two interconnecting suites, which will cater for families and small groups. The addition of three more suites is planned thereafter, completing the entire rebuild and making Sandibe one of the most architecturally impressive lodges in the Delta.

andBeyond Sandibe’s brand new look is inspired directly by nature. The weaver-bird’s nest building habits and the pangolin’s body armour of folded plates or scales have been the inspiration for the new building structure. Using organic materials such as wood to execute the structural design and installing the latest in alternative energy sources, the building work continues in line with andBeyond’s core ethos of Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, Care of the People.

Joss Kent, andBeyond CEO states, ‘The innovative design of andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is driven by nature and reflects the sustainable footprint of the lodge while remaining warm and intimate’.

The new suites, serene and organic, will be raised among the trees elevated above their surroundings, gazing out onto the winding channels and lush floodplains of the Delta. Boasting private plunge pool, the nest-like suites will be uncluttered and elegant, becoming private cocoons at night with fireplaces providing warmth and light in the winter. The interiors will celebrate the very best of Botswana craft, with natural rusty tones, copper-clad mekoro, sculpted wooden tables and intricate baskets.

Situated on a private concession, andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge has exclusive traversing rights over 22,500 hectares of wildlife land situated in one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. andBeyond Sandibe provides one of the best wildlife experiences in the Delta, offering day and night safaris, bush walks and drives to view iconic species including the giant horned kudu, secretary birds, cheetah, wild dog, elephant, antelope, hippo and giraffe.

A maze of sparkling lagoons, meandering channels and overgrown islands teeming with wildlife, Botswana’s Okavango Delta lies at the heart of the Kalahari Desert, and now andBeyond Sandibe stands as its jewel.

During the refurbishment programme of Pullmantur Monarch, Chelsom worked closely with designers, EM Studio and outfitters, Blu Marine to transform the suites of this luxurious ship.Glass art table lamps from the ‘Flask’ range teamed with ivory cone shades were supplied for the Suites, featuring mouth blown opal glass and polished chrome metalwork with a customised base to accommodate marine fixing requirements. The adapted table lamp is an excellent example of cruise ship lighting addressing the functional requirements of yacht and cruise lighting whilst also offering an aesthetically pleasing lamp to enhance the interior scheme.

Amethyst table lamps from the same range were supplied for the Royal Suites, finished with tapered oval shades in ivory with a contrasting grey trim. Wall lights from the ‘Suite’ range were also selected for the lighting scheme featuring notched polished chrome curving crossovers giving the illusion of one passing through the other while cream oblong shades are a clean and sophisticated addition.

The 2014 edition of the “red dot award: product design 2014” once again saw GROHE prove its prowess as a leading manufacturer of design taps and water fittings. Apart from picking up awards for its Thermostat Grohtherm 2000, its GROHE Rainshower® Flower Collection and its Eurodisc Joystick line of taps, GROHE also won the “red dot: Best of the Best” award for its Minta Touch kitchen tap. This marked the fifth time in seven years that GROHE was able to secure what is arguably the design community’s most coveted accolade. Its elegant silhouette has already made this kitchen tap a design classic, which continues to win favour among discerning consumers worldwide. Created in the GROHE Design Studio and now incorporating the innovative EasyTouch technology, GROHE Minta Touch is not only an eye-catcher but also scores big points in terms of engineering. Specifically, Minta Touch is a hybrid tap offering two modes of operation. In addition to conventional lever operation, the flow of water can be triggered by skin contact with any part of the spout. This means whenever the fingers are dirty from preparing food, a simply touch with the back of the hand or the lower arm will start the flow of cool and cleansing water. By developing this unique touch sensor technology, GROHE has reinvented the kitchen tap and repositioned it as a modern product that is fit for the 21st century.

Paul Flowers, Senior Vice President of Design at Grohe AG, said: “When we set out to create GROHE Minta Touch, we started by exploring the boundaries of modern technology in cooperation with our colleagues in R&D. This is why we take pride not only in the tap’s technical and visual features but also in the cooperative spirit, which made it possible in the first place. Winning the “red dot: Best of the Best” is clearly the result of a team effort and we appreciate this award as a very special accolade. “

Minta Touch faced some tough competition in this year’s “red dot award: product design”. A panel of 40 judges scrutinised and tested a total of 4,815 entries submitted by 1,816 manufacturers, designers and architects from 53 countries. The awards were presented at the red dot gala event held in the Aalto Theater in Essen, Germany, on July 7.

Room occupancy at Liverpool’s most prestigious address has surpassed the rest of the city according to the latest figures.Hotels on Liverpool’s Waterfront averaged 82 per cent occupancy against the city average of 78 per cent between April and June.

Of the 350,000 rooms sold in Liverpool during Q2, one in five (22 per cent) were sold at the six hotels on Liverpool Waterfront.

The average room rate at hotels on Liverpool’s Waterfront was 11 per cent higher, at £75.47, than the £67.97 average room rate for the rest of the city.

In addition, Revenue Per Average Room (RevPAR) – an industry standard used to recognise yield per available room – was £61.80 at the waterfront, compared to the city-wide average of £52.83.

Sue Grindrod, director and chair of Liverpool Waterfront Business Partnership said: “Liverpool Waterfront is a great place to do business and the figures from spring and early summer show that business was booming even before this year’s major events in the city.

“The success of the hotels at Liverpool Waterfront is a reflection of the wider global trend as many of the world’s major cities like Copenhagen, Shanghai and New York have recognised the value of being by the water.

“Liverpool is continuing to build its profile as a global player and it’s great to see businesses at the waterfront being a significant part of the city’s success.

The six hotels surveyed on Liverpool Waterfront were: Malmaison, Crowne Plaza, Express by Holiday Inn, Premier Inn Albert Dock, Jury’s Inn and Staybridge Suites.

Stephen Robert, general manager at The Crowne Plaza at Princes Dock, said: “Compared to recent years, The Crowne Plaza has enjoyed improved business levels during Q2 compared to the norm for this time of year.

“This has been driven in the main by events such as the Grand National in April and the IFB in June which was a first for the city. The location of the business hub at Mann Island ensured that the city’s waterfront was the destination of choice for many of the business delegates during this time.

“It was great to see the quarter doing so well during this period and we’re looking forward to the return of events like these in 2016.”

Liverpool Waterfront is home to a thriving business community and offers a range of commercial space by the docks and in the dramatic recent development, Mann Island.

Figures were provided by the Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership.

The gem in question is probably one in a million however, when the 60 carat heavy-weight Mozambican aquamarine worth £40,000* is raffled by prison charity Fine Cell Work on 20 November 2014, ticket holders will have a one in a thousand chance to win it.Gem hunter and merchant, Guy Clutterbuck has generously donated an exquisite, multi-faceted, unheated, cushion-cut aquamarine to Fine Cell Work to raise funds for its invaluable work that helps prisoners in the UK to turn their lives around. To augment Guy’s generosity, the renowned jewellery designer Georgina Skan, former Head of Design at Garrard and Asprey, has offered to design an exquisite setting and Fine Cell Work will donate £1500 towards the materials. This is an extraordinary fund raising initiative that will result in a remarkable piece of jewellery to treasure.

Raffle tickets cost £50 and are available from Fine Cell Work – www.finecellwork.co.uk/raffle and all the proceeds go directly to the work of the charity. The raffle will be drawn at an exclusive party at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office on 20 November 2014. The prize draw aims to raise £50,000.

Fine Cell Work is a social enterprise that trains prisoners in paid, skilled, creative needlework — undertaken in the long hours spent in their cells — to foster hope, discipline and self esteem. This helps them to connect to society and to leave prison with the confidence and financial means to stop offending. Prison stitchers spend an average of 20 hours per week doing embroidery in their cells: the highest earners stitch for as long as 40 hours. It builds self- discipline and skills that enables them to serve their time with purpose and dignity. Their modest earnings from stitching nurtures a work ethic and a sense of independence. Fine Cell Work is done in 24 prisons with 450 prisoners each year and 97% of the stitchers are men.

Baulmann Leuchten has recently introduced a new range of LED luminaires. This new range consists of tablelamps, floorlamps, pendants and wall-mounted luminaires.These products are part of the new Baulmann Vintage range of revived product lines from the 50s and 60s. Outstanding features from the old models were reinterpreted and merged with modern elements to create a completely new futuristic-classical design with state-of-the-art LED technology. All these items are equipped with the latest LED technology with an excellent colour rendering and a warmwhite colour temperature.

As usual, all these products can also be customized to meet the requirements of different projects.

All pictures are copyright by Baulmann Leuchten.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has recently announced a new 123-room Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood and a 139-room Holiday Inn Express® Atlanta NW – Galleria Area hotel. The newest additions to IHG’s hometown portfolio brings IHG’s hotels in the metro Atlanta area to over 40, with more than 20 additional hotels in the pipeline for the state of Georgia. The Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Buckhead hotel is a short drive from the World of Coca-Cola®, the CNN® Center and the Georgia Aquarium, conveniently close to numerous corporate offices and shopping venues such as Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza and home to 20 two-room king suites with some featuring two bathrooms, a wet bar and a conference table. Guests can enjoy the two-story combined bookcase and fireplace in the hotel lobby, large outdoor pool and a beautifully landscaped courtyard. The hotel also provides 1,100 sq.ft of meeting space that can accommodate over 45 guests.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – Atlanta Buckhead, owned by Georgia Hotel Group, LCC and operated by Summit Management Corporation, and the Holiday Inn Express Atlanta NW – Galleria Area hotel, owned by Mogar Farms Funding, LLC, and operated by Buckhead America Hospitality are both franchised by an affiliate of IHG.

The new KENSINGTON printed range from Sekers is the natural progression from the very successful LARISSA range and is available in the same base cloths: Panama, Plain, Satin and Blackout with the addition of a waterproof upholstery option.The range comprises two floral designs called Poppy and Elder; a contemporary vertical stripe, Oakley; and a co-ordinating design, Newbury. Available in fresh and uplifting colourways from Aquamarine, French Blue, Cherry, Palm and Grape, it’s the perfect solution to furnish residential care homes, healthcare projects, hospitality and marine markets.

For a pattern book, samples or further information, please contact us sales@sekers.co.uk or visit our web site www.sekersfabrics.co.uk

These exquisite Rocks and Pebbles are constructed of virgin wool yarn coaxed into organic shapes and made waterproof with sap from the Lacquer tree.Rocks and Pebbles are a Fair Trade product, made in Johannesburg by the lovely ladies of the
West Rands Community.

Available in sizes 90x85x55cm, 75x70x45cm, 50x50x30cm 40x30x20cm

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (IHG) has announced that it has received a binding offer from Constellation Hotels Holding Limited (“Constellation”) to acquire InterContinental Paris – Le Grand (the “Hotel”). The proposed purchase price is €330 million ($442 million1), payable in cash at completion. Constellation has made a further commitment to invest over time an estimated €60 million in future hotel renovations. The terms of the offer are such that IHG would retain a 30 year management contract on the Hotel, with three 10 year extension rights at IHG’s discretion, giving an expected contract length of 60 years. Management fees are expected to be approximately €4m ($5m1) per annum.

The Hotel, which is located in the heart of Paris overlooking the Opera House, has 470 guest rooms, including 70 suites. It first opened in 1862 and has operated under the InterContinental brand since 1982. In 2013, the Hotel generated revenues of $118m and EBIT of $22m, and as at 30 June 2014, had a net book value of $342m. Cash taxes payable on the potential transaction are not expected to exceed $5m.

Following receipt of the offer, IHG has agreed to a period of exclusivity with Constellation, and, in line with applicable French legal requirements, IHG will enter into an information and consultation period with the relevant employees’ representatives.

A further announcement will be made in due course.

Richard Solomons, Chief Executive Officer of IHG commented:

“The InterContinental Paris – Le Grand is an exceptional property and is an iconic hotel in our portfolio. This announcement demonstrates the continued successful implementation of our asset-light strategy and the strength of our relationship with Constellation, following its recent purchase of InterContinental London Park Lane and its majority investment in InterContinental New York Barclay. This potential transaction is yet another example of the enduring appeal of InterContinental as one of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands.”

Notes

1 $ equivalents have been converted at current exchange rates with final $ amounts dependent on the exchange rate on the date of completion.

Solís by Capella Hotel Group recently announced the development and opening of the Solís Ubud Resort & Spa in 2017. Fresh from the debut of its first hotel in China in March (the Han Yue Lou Hotel Nanjing), this latest announcement signifies the exciting expansion of the Solís brand with further luxury hotels scheduled to open in Guangzhou, China, and Doha, Qatar (both opening in 2015). The Ubud property will be designed by Denton Corker Marshall, an award-winning international practice that has produced innovative, memorable architecture and urban design such as The Melbourne Museum and The Stonehenge Visitor Center which is located near the important World Heritage Site.“Enjoying the serenity of Ubud, the heart of Bali, with all its beautiful nature and amazing local culture is an unforgettable experience. We believe that with what this brand can offer, not to mention its famous Auriga spa, is the perfect choice to provide such memorable journey for the guests,” said Indira Hartarto, Owner, PT Mustika Adiperkasa.

“Solís Ubud has been designed to blend in seamlessly with the area’s beautiful natural surroundings,” said Horst Schulze, Chairman and CEO, Capella Hotel Group. “The focus of this property, like other Solís hotels, is to be ingrained deeply in the Balinese way of life – visitors to Ubud will be able to fully immerse themselves in such a unique experience and interact with the warm and welcoming people of Bali.”

Solís Ubud is located in the heart of the cultural center of Bali. Set amidst the idyllic rice paddy fields along the Wos River, this 108-key hotel employs a unique and poetic architecture inspired by the centuries of colorful Balinese traditional processions and celebrations. The property’s guest rooms, along with its luxurious villas and “villa-in-the-sky” residences, will showcase panoramic views and scenic riverfront experiences. Solís Ubud will also offer two uniquely-themed restaurants delivering cuisine deeply rooted in Balinese food culture and a luxurious “royal bath” spa with a holistic focus. The hotel will offer guests convenient access to Ubud’s dynamic and authentic attractions and activities which include remarkable arts and culture related activities, verdant environments and villages and unspoiled ancient sites.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced plans to introduce its trailblazing Element brand to Basalt, Colorado. Set to open in August 2015, Element Basalt Aspen Valley is ideally situated near two of the nation’s most prestigious ski and mountain towns: Aspen and Snowmass Village. Owned by a joint venture between Silverwest Hotel Partners and Mariner Real Estate Management, the newly constructed Element hotel will offer a fresh, new option for travelers with 113 stylish, sustainable rooms and a light-filled atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance and on the move. It will join Element Denver as the brand’s second property in Colorado. Less than 30 minutes to both Aspen and Snowmass Village, Element Basalt Aspen Valley will be located within the new Willis Town Center, the only sustainable mixed-use community in the Roaring Fork Valley. Guests will be within walking distance of the community’s shops, restaurants, residences, offices and Whole Foods Market. Situated at the gateway of the White River National Forest, the hotel will offer easy access to the area’s outdoor recreation including numerous hiking and biking trails, fly-fishing in the waters of the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan Rivers and a choice of premium golf courses.

Element Basalt Aspen Valley will boast light-filled studios as well as one bedroom suites featuring a fluid design of modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms will also offer fully equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms will feature an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet. Other brand signatures will include a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, pool and outdoor hot tub, and 626 square-foot meeting room with modular furnishings, a flexible layout and state-of-the-art technology that can be customized to meet any business or social needs. Guests can stay on the move with Element’s complimentary bikes to borrow and enjoy fun and free extras including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, the signature RISE breakfast, RELAX evening reception, and salon bar carts stocked with premium wines and beers, soft drinks and snacks, available after hours.

Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel has opened its new and exclusive Executive Lounge following a £1.4million investment.The refurbishment has moved the Lounge from the seventh floor to the ground floor of the hotel and is three times larger in size at over 340 square metres.

Stuart Bowery, General Manager says, “The Executive Lounge is expertly designed for our accomplished business and leisure travellers, available exclusively for Executive and Suite guests, as well as our eligible, valued Marriott Rewards Members. The Lounge forms part of a £7m investment this year, with the first set of newly refurbished Suites returning to inventory next month and further suites, plus two Royal Suites, opening in October.”

A flexible space with a variety of zones, a striking media wall is visible on entry to the Lounge, bringing nearby Hyde Park to life inside. Elegant and sophisticated in style, the Lounge is a space that is both relaxing and engaging, with the design (from GA Design International), inspired by the heritage of Grosvenor House and the proximity of Hyde Park.

Open daily from 06:00 – 00:00, the Lounge is operated by a dedicated Guest Relations team who will provide the highest levels of service for guests. Check in and check out is available in the Lounge as well as private shower and changing facilities to refresh. Additional services including high speed Wi-Fi, iPads, wireless printing and luggage storage.

An open plan kitchen with home-style food and beverage options is open to guests from breakfast through to Afternoon Tea and evening canapés. Snacks and refreshments are available throughout the day and a ‘Grab-and-Go’ station is on hand for those guests without time to spare.

Claridge’s is recognised as the finest art deco hotel in London. Having started life as a magnificent private house, it was established as a hotel in 1898 and quickly became a favourite of European royalty and heads of state. Much of the art deco design and features added through the 1920’s and 1930’s remains in place and has been enhanced over the years. Just before the end of the 20th century an ongoing project commenced to embark on a major design restoration that would see art deco styling increasingly evidenced throughout the hotels’ public areas and rooms. Bespoke lighting manufacturer Dernier & Hamlyn, working with interior designers Oliver Laws, has been involved in much of the work bringing in various aspects of the experience and skills they have assimilated over the company’s 126 year history to recreate light fittings that are beautiful, practical and historically accurate.

Designer Guy Oliver recently produced designs to update one of the hotel’s private dining rooms and called on Dernier & Hamlyn to use its extensive lighting archive to research appropriate styling that would be both visually stunning and complement the architectural integrity.

The lighting archive comprises thousands of drawings, photographs, patterns and products built up since the company was formed in London in 1888. It’s a fascinating insight into lighting over the years and is used to inform the manufacture, replication and repair of all sorts of lights. It even contains watercolours that were the CAD renders of their time. Beautiful to look at, they are a reminder of the painstaking way in which images had to be repeatedly drawn and redrawn until clients’ requirements were met before the advent of computers in the design process. A thorough trawl through materials from the 1930’s by Dernier & Hamlyn’s Jeremy Quantrill unearthed this gorgeous pendant priced at the princely sum of £44 in 1935.

Guy Oliver was thrilled by this unique find and specified that the new pendants which this photograph inspired should be cast in solid brass, hand finished in bronze and completed with white opal glass. Additional flourishes and geometric layers were added to emphasise the styling of the period and the final flourish was the use of antique metal chains to fix it to the ceiling, which were reclaimed from a shipyard to give added authenticity.

The results are wonderful with tungsten lamps softly spreading light from inside the fitting and halogen downlighters providing practical light levels beneath.

Inspired by the newel posts spotted on the magnificent staircases at another 1930’s inspired site, Guy Oliver also recently designed these pedestal lamps that sit atop the marble bars in Claridge’s bar. They feature strong, streamlined shapes, typical of this glamorous epoch including chevrons finished in polished nickel to emulate the desire for shiny materials akin to chrome a brand new material of the time.

Guy Oliver says: “My relationship with Claridge’s goes back over 20 years and I never tire of wandering its private rooms and public areas, considering what could have occurred there in the past and how I can help to recreate that mystery and ambience with appropriate contemporary historically inspired additions.”

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the continued expansion of its Hotel Indigo® brand in top-tier markets across the United States, with nine signings in the first seven months of 2014. The hotels will be located from the East Coast to the West Coast in cities known for having unique neighborhoods with an interesting story to tell that fit with the Hotel Indigo boutique offering: Seattle; Baltimore; Austin and El Paso, Texas; Orange Beach and Tuscaloosa, Ala.; Gainesville, Fla., and two hotels in Atlanta, where the brand was founded. These signings are in addition to recent agreements signed in late 2013 for hotels in New York City, Miami and Philadelphia. The Hotel Indigo global pipeline now stands at 56 hotels, with 28 of those hotels in the Americas, following the latest addition to the portfolio, the Hotel Indigo Cleveland-Beachwood hotel, which opened in July. The hotels signed this year are expected to open in 2015 and 2016 and are a mixture of new builds and conversions. Because there is no prototypical design for the Hotel Indigo brand, the concept works well for conversions, adaptive re-use projects, mixed-use developments and new-build hotels. This flexibility is attractive to owners and developers, particularly those who want to diversify their hotel portfolio or enter the hotel industry for the first time.

“We were first to market with a branded boutique hotel brand when we launched Hotel Indigo here in the U.S. ten years ago. Our flexible approach to development has greatly contributed to the successful growth of the brand, and we now have 58 hotels open around the world,” said Kirk Kinsell, president, the Americas, IHG. “Because we don’t have a standard design, many owners look at the Hotel Indigo brand as a creative option for their real estate assets. In fact, these new signings include the conversions of an office building in Atlanta and the historic Blue Horizon boxing venue in Philadelphia, as well as a dual-branded development with IHG’s Holiday Inn Express brand in Austin, Texas.”

Every Hotel Indigo hotel is uniquely designed to reflect the culture, character and history of the surrounding neighborhood. No two hotels are the same. Each hotel’s neighborhood story is woven throughout the guest experience, from the locally sourced food and drinks served in the restaurant and bar, to the art, photography and architecture incorporated into the hotel’s design.

“The Hotel Indigo growth strategy is focused on opening hotels in neighborhoods that have an undiscovered story to tell,” said Mary Winslow, director, Americas Brand Management, Hotel Indigo. “From the underground cultural clubs of 19th-century Baltimore to the modern mosaic of characters and culture in Miami, our hotels will connect guests to these vibrant and unique neighborhoods in a way that no other boutique hotel brand does.”

The Hotel Indigo brand provides a refreshingly local experience for guests who want to experience something unique and different when they travel. Guestrooms at Hotel Indigo hotels feature plush bedding, hard-surface flooring with area rugs, and spa-inspired bathrooms. Guests and locals enjoy a great neighborhood bar with seasonal and locally sourced food in a stylish environment, and relationships with local vendors like coffee roasters and breweries bring a taste of the neighborhood into the hotel for guests.

The new hotels will feature the brand’s Neighborhood Guide, an innovative touchscreen display that connects guests to each other, the local neighborhood and to Hotel Indigo locations around the world. Hotel team members, many of whom are locals themselves, will share their favorite hidden gems with guests looking to explore and discover the neighborhood.

The Hotel Indigo brand is also experiencing strong global growth, with recent openings in three major European cities, Hotel Indigo St. Petersburg Tchaikovskogo, Hotel Indigo Madrid Gran Via and Hotel Indigo Rome St. George, and additional openings in Paris and Bangkok expected by the end of 2014.

Leading activity holiday specialist, Neilson, has announced the addition of the Neilson Hotel Del Clos in El Tarter, Andorra to its winter 2014/2015 ski portfolio. Exclusive to Neilson, the hotel is now on sale and opens its doors to the first guests on 21 December 2014. The property – which is to be managed and operated by the Neilson hospitality team – sits just 300m from the resort centre and main ski lifts. Prices start from as little as £588 per person per week, including flights, transfers and half board accommodation. Its fabulous location in the small village of El Tarter, a mile from Soldeu, provides a gateway to the Grandvalira ski area with an impressive 210km of well-groomed and varied slopes to explore. The spacious twin, triple and four-bedded rooms – most with spectacular mountain views – ensure the ideal base for families, groups of friends or couples looking for a sociable ski experience.

Boasting superb children’s facilities including three Neilson-run children’s clubs, a games and TV room and a snow garden at the hotel itself, plus use of a slopeside kids’ chalet with plenty of space for indoor and outdoor snow fun, the new Neilson hotel is set to become a firm favourite with families.

In addition to the fantastic facilities for families, the Neilson Hotel Del Clos also offers a snug lounge with comfy seating and a large log fire plus a large south-facing sun terrace outside après bar offering breathtaking views over El Tarter’s valleys. After a day on the piste, guests can also book in for a sports massage at the hotel’s treatment room, or enjoy complimentary use of the indoor pool, hot tub and steam room at the nearby Hotel Nordic.

Pete Tyler, managing director at Neilson commented: “We are delighted to introduce the Neilson Hotel Del Clos to our ski portfolio this winter and are particularly pleased to be expanding in Andorra. We are currently the biggest UK operator in the resort and so really feel that our guests can immerse themselves in a true Neilson holiday experience, complete with top-class accommodation and our renowned service.”

“The Neilson Hotel Del Clos is a great property for beginners and families and we particularly look forward to welcoming guests who already enjoy our summer Beachclub offering and are looking for a similar product in the mountains.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced it has expanded its resorts portfolio with the opening of Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji. Owned by local Fijian proprietary company, Ritam Investments Ltd, part of the P Meghji Group, the previously independent resort underwent an extensive $18.5 million renovation and conversion project prior to raising the Sheraton flag. The debut of Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji, marks the Sheraton brand’s eighth property in the Pacific region and Starwood’s fourth operating property in Fiji, joining Sheraton Fiji Resort, Sheraton Denarau Villas and The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa. Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji, is situated on a 35-acre beachfront property in the south-western corner of Tokoriki Island, the northernmost island within Fiji’s idyllic Mamanuca group. Guests can reach the island via a 12-minute helicopter flight from Nadi or a one-hour boat ride. Fiji is the most easily accessible Pacific island nation and serviced by a number of carriers including Fiji Airways, with direct flights to Nadi out of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane Auckland, Los Angeles, Seoul and Hong Kong.

As one of Fiji’s largest high-caliber island resorts, Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji, will feature a total of 101 guestrooms and suites, including 30 Tokoriki Retreats with private plunge pools. Additionally, the resort will offer 14 Beachfront Rooms, 14 Ocean Breeze Rooms, 18 Ocean View Rooms, seven Family Suites and 18 Island Breeze rooms. All guestrooms have been fully renovated and outfitted with the brand’s renowned Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, high-speed internet and 40-inch flat panel televisions.

The refurbished lobby features the signature “Link@Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft®” – a relaxed space with complimentary wireless broadband where guests can socialize and connect with friends, both old and new. On-site recreational facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, tennis courts, kids club, two boutiques, a theater accommodating up to 50 guests, and a contemporary spa with four serene treatment rooms and a wide range of relaxation packages.

Award-winning chef and restaurateur, Peter Kuruvita brings his signature brand, Flying Fish, to Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki Island, Fiji. Head Chef Kim Brennan has leveraged his culinary expertise to create an enticing menu of fresh, sumptuous Fijian seafood enhanced by fresh, local produce. The Flying Fish Tokoriki will appeal to both guests and locals with its inviting ambiance and breathtaking views of the South Pacific.

An ideal choice for meetings, weddings and functions, Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji, offers state-of-the-art conference, business and meeting facilities. The resort’s redeveloped function area and beachfront landscape provides a relaxing and scenic venue for a world-class meeting or event for up to 140 guests.

June Highlights
• Abu Dhabi hotel profits rise 11.8% in the first half of 2014
• Corporate and conference demand drives TRevPAR growth in Jeddah
• Doha hotels record a 20.8% surge in RevPAR in June
• Sharm El Sheikh hotels see profits fall 49.2% during the 6 months to June
• Cairo hotels show signs of recovery as average room rates rise in June

Carlson Rezidor, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel companies worldwide, announces two new hotels in Poland: The Radisson Blu Resort, Świnoujscie (340 rooms) and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences, Zakopane (158 rooms & 68 apartments) are scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2016. With these signings, Carlson Rezidor grow their total portfolio in Poland to ten hotels with almost 2,400 rooms in operation and under development.”Radisson Blu is Europe’s largest upper upscale brand, and we are delighted to further strengthen its presence in Poland together with established national partners”, said Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of Rezidor. ”Both new hotels will be great additions to our growing portfolio of stylish and contemporary Radisson Blu resorts in Europe, the Middle East and Africa”, added Neumann.

The Radisson Blu Resort, Świnoujscie will enjoy a prime location along the seaside of Świnoujscie, a popular Baltic Sea tourist destination bordering Germany and featuring Poland’s widest beach. The 5 star flagship hotel will get its own promenade and be the most prominent resort development in the area (benefitting from EU funding through the initiative JESSICA, Joint European Support for Sustainable Investment in City Areas). Almost all 340 guest rooms and suites will offer sea views and own balconies, and all will comprise Radisson Blu signature services such as free high speed internet access.

Besides an all day dining restaurant, the property will also offer a fine dining venue, a panoramic café on the 14th floor, and a lobby bar. The inifnity edge pool and a bar with terrace on the rooftop will be an extraordinary attraction. Leisure facilities will include a gym, fitness area and a club with bowling. Guests will also be able to use external offers such as a Water Park, further sauna, bath and wellness areas, a climbing wall, kids playroom area and retail outlets & shops. All facilities will be located within the famous Baltic Park Molo complex. For business travellers, the Radisson Blu Resort, Świnoujscie will have a ballroom of 1,000 sqm – dividable into smaller conference rooms.

”We already have six independent premium hotels on the Polish coast and in the mountains, but we are sure that the Radisson Blu Resort, Świnoujście will be our best offer due to its modern design and the brand’s expertise”, said Jan Wróblewski, Board Member of the hotel’s owner and developer Zdrojowa Invest.

The Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences Zakopane will be located in the well-known Polish resort Zakopane in the Carpathian mountains, 100 km away from Krakow. The region attracts guests in winter and summer for skiing, hiking, mountain biking and wellness holidays. Besides 158 guest rooms, the hotel will offer 68 apartments in a separate part of the complex; linked via a fully integrated walkway.

All guests will enjoy an all day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and three bars. After an exciting day outdoors, the hotel’s large wellness & spa centre on two storeys and with a total surface of 1,200 sqm will pamper body & soul. It will include a 20 m indoor pool, saunas, steam baths and a Medi-Spa skin care center. With a state-of-the-art meeting & events concept, the hotel will also attract business travellers and offer a conference area with more than 350m² and a 375 sqm ballroom.

Avenue Sales and Marketing are pleased to announce an exciting new addition to their portfolio.Buddha–Bar, Budapest, Hungary is an historical building originally built in 1899.

Klotild Palace is located on the walking street of central Budapest just a short stroll from the River Danube on the Pest side.

BAGNODESIGN, the home of creative bathroom solutions, will soon complete supply on a one-of-a-kind project located in Cultural Village, Dubai Creek. Palazzo Versace, one of Dubai’s fashion-branded hotels, reflects the vision and creativity of Gianni Versace S.p.A. along with a commitment to excellence in design and fine workmanship – a commitment that is shared by BAGNODESIGN. Situated in a spectacular waterfront setting, the Palazzo Versace project comprises of luxury condominiums on one side with the lavishly designed hotel on the other. BAGNODESIGN, together with a number of its reputable global partners, was responsible for supplying all the bathroom spaces and worked closely with the designers from the project’s inception.

The bedrooms and suites in this most luxurious of hotels are described as ‘a personal lifestyle experience enhanced with luxury and technology’, featuring open plan bathrooms with couple sized spa bath and Palazzo Versace amenities to spoil guests.

From sanitaryware and mixers to showers, baths and accessories, BAGNODESIGN’s quality range of bathroom products offered the perfect fit for the property – an exuberant building of classical proportions. The overall sanitaryware package is a reflection of design and quality worthy of this prestigious development, which is surely destined to become a Dubai design icon.

After much anticipation, the finalists of the European Hotel Design Awards have been announced, revealing an exciting diversity of talent across all hotel sectors. They are as follows:European Hotel Design Awards 2014: Finalists

Architecture – Adaptive Re-use
25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, Germany, by Hild und K Architekten
Fontevraud L’Hôtel, France, by Gabor Mester de Parajd
Qbic Hotel London City, UK, by March & White
The Inn at John O’Groats, UK, by GLM
Waldorf Astoria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, by OeverZaaijer Architecture & Urbanism

Architecture – Newbuild
Hotel The Passage, Basel, Switzerland, by Lorenz Wyss
Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, UK, by Ica
Lanserhof Tegernsee, Marienstein, Germany, by Ingenhoven Architects
Seehotel Enzian, Weissensee, Austria, by XLGD Architectures
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland, by Denniston

Architecture – Renovation
Ace Hotel London, UK, by EPR Architects
Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy, by Denniston
Parkhotel Holzner, Oberboson, Italy, by Bergmeisterwolf Architekten / Künstler Manfred Alois Mayr
Rosewood London, UK by EPR, Architects
The Hotel Brussels, Belgium, by GCA Arquitectos

Interior Design – Bar
Carve Bar at W Verbier, Switzerland, by concrete
Ham Yard Hotel London, UK, by Kit Kemp
L’iBar at Fontevraud L’Hôtel, France, by Jouin Manku
Monkey Bar at 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, Germany by Studio Aisslinger
Scarfes Bar at Rosewood London, UK, by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio

Interior Design – Bedrooms & Bathrooms
Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy, by Denniston
Ham Yard Hotel, London, UK, by Kit Kemp
Rosewood London, UK, by Tony Chi & Associates
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland, by Denniston
The Guest House Vienna, Austria, by Conran & Partners

Interior Design – Cafe Bar or All Day Dining
Capricorn at InterContinental Davos, Switzerland, by Living Design
Clarion Hotel The Edge, Tromsø, Norway, by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects
The Globe at Hilton Istanbul Bomonti, Turkey, by GA Design International
The Rosebery at Mandarin Oriental London, UK by GA Design International
Urban Meadow at Doubletree by Hilton Hyde Park, London, UK by Blacksheep

Interior Design – Lobby, Lounge & Public Areas
Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy, by Denniston
Generator Barcelona, Spain, by DesignAgency
Generator Venice, Italy, by DesignAgency
Palazzo Parigi, Milan, Italy, by Pierre-Yves Rochon
The London EDITION, UK, by Yabu Pushelberg in collaboration with I.S.C Design Studio

Interior Design – Restaurant
Berners Tavern and Punch Room at The London EDITION, UK, by Yabu Pushelberg in collaboration with I.S.C Design Studio
Gotthard’s Restaurant at Stora Hotellet, Umeâ, Sweden, by Stylt Trampoli
Ham Yard Hotel, London, UK, by Kit Kemp
Brasserie Les Haras at Hotel Les Haras, Strasbourg, France, by Jouin Manku
NENI at 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, Germany, by Studio Aisslinger

Interior Design – Spa & Wellness
AWAY spa at W Verbier, Switzerland, by concrete
Eforea Spa at Hilton Istanbul Bomonti, Turkey, by GA Design International
House Spa at Dormy House Hotel, Worcestershire, UK, by Sparcstudio
Lanserhof Tegernsee Marienstein, Germany, by Ingenhoven Architects
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland, by Denniston

Interior Design – Suite
The Barcelona Suite at The Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, Spain, by Patricia Urquiola
The Manor House Suite at Rosewood, London, UK, by Tony Chi & Associates
The Palais Royal Suite at Grand Hotel du Palais Royal, Paris, France, by Pierre-Yves Rochon
The Suites at Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy, by Denniston
The Suites InterContinental Davos, Switzerland, by Living Design

The winners will be announced on 25 November during a dinner at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London, expected to be Europe’s largest single gathering of the sector’s celebrities and influencers.

Internationally acclaimed as the leading pan-European competition to focus on excellence in hotel architecture and design, the European Hotel Design Awards are organised by Sleeper Magazine and attract the hospitality industry’s brightest stars competing in a variety of categories.

“The overall quality of entries for this year’s European Hotel Design Awards was the highest I have seen in ten years on the judging panel,” says Matt Turner, Editor-in-Chief of Sleeper Magazine. “The voting to select the final five in each category was very close and the shortlisted entries can all be proud to have made it this far. The shortlist demonstrates the diversity of today’s hotel industry and the talent of the designers and architects who play such an important role in enhancing the guest experience for their clients. And for design practices that didn’t make the shortlist, there is still the chance to win a European Hotel Design Award by entering this year’s Tomorrow’s Hotel competition, which is now open for entries.”

For more information visit: www.europeanhoteldesignawards.com

Protea have long had an hotel in a converted prison in the heart of Cape Town’s waterfront. Sharing it in part with Cape Town’s internationally reputable Business School has given a steady flow of business customers, but the recent refurbishment has seen this hotel redeveloped into a stunning destination hotel for families, with some sensitive additions that are already showing signs of increasing its popularity.Hidden behind high walls the former prison is a strange mix of buildings but it is mainly focussed around the old cell blocks. Ample parking and space within the walls create a green and relatively quiet area on the busy edge of the V&A waterfront development. Entrance into the hotel belies the size of the property.

Tardis like, the small reception space flows through to a series of buildings ranging from cell blocks and punishment areas marked with nineteenth century graffiti to modern bedroom blocks. Unique amongst hotels I have visited is not the use of the cells as small meeting rooms and study areas, but the inclusion of the punishment block and its treadmill – not used, despite my mischievous suggestion, to punish misbehaving guests.

Although not actually in the Waterfront itself, its position is a flight of steps and a road away. This insulates it from the noise of the tourists, buskers, hawkers and the rest of the hubbub that makes the boisterous Waterfront atmosphere.

Marriott Hotels has opened its first hotel in Kazakhstan. Located next to the iconic Bayterek monument in the city’s vibrant business, shopping and entertainment district, the 271-room Astana Marriott Hotel is a contemporary retreat for travellers to Astana. The hotel represents the fifth Marriott International property in Kazakhstan and is managed by an affiliate of U.S. based Interstate Hotels & Resorts.The five-star hotel features distinctive and contemporary interior design marrying neutral colours, clean lines and luxurious marble with traditional Kazakhstan artwork. The sense of place continues throughout the guestrooms with headboard designs featuring a traditional Kazakhstan motif that reflects the country’s love of pattern. The bathroom artwork is of brightly coloured silks, a reference to Kazakhstan’s historical links to the ancient trading Silk Route.

The hotel offers three diverse dining options: Vista Bar & Lounge, Aroma restaurant and the Lobby Bar. A destination in its own right, the chic Vista Bar & Lounge located on the 27th floor is a place for guests and locals to enjoy sharing plates of fusion European and Asian cuisine while taking in uninterrupted views of Astana. Aroma restaurant specialises in seasonal dishes of grilled meat and fish and a selection of French and Kazakh specialties created by Benoit Letellier, Executive Chef of the hotel. The Lobby Bar is the focal point of the hotel and open throughout the day for meeting, socialising or working and offering drinks and light bites.

For meetings and events, the hotel has three meeting rooms and a Grand Ballroom divisible by three which can accommodate 230 people. Meeting planners can take advantage of two digital services from Marriott Hotels to enhance their meeting or event experience: Meetings Imagined, a digital platform allowing users to design the entire look and feel of an event from a desktop, tablet or mobile device, and Red Coat Direct, which enables meeting requests to be edited with a touch of a button without leaving the meeting room.

The hotel also offers mobile check-in, enabling Marriott Rewards guests to check in quickly and conveniently via their smartphones. Additional hotel facilities include a business centre, free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and a health club with well-equipped gym, indoor pool, sauna, and steam rooms.

Guests at Astana Marriott Hotel can earn points for their stay towards free holidays, flights, room nights and more through Marriott Rewards, an award-winning frequent traveller programme with over 45 million members worldwide offering exclusive membership privileges across 16 brands, 3,800 destinations and 72 countries.

This stylishly smooth dolly switch is the latest addition to Focus SB’s Morpheus range of screwless switches and sockets, adding a sleek and minimal touch to your projects.Available in one, two, three and four gang switch plates and in all of our stunning finishes.

Matching sockets and Bespoke plates are also available. Visit our website or call us today on +44 (0) 1424 858060 for further details on any of our ranges or services.

See us at 100% Design 17 – 20th September, Earls Court, London; stand E222.

Helping to maximise hygiene levels in the bathroom or washroom, Roca has introduced a wall-hung version of its innovative CleanRim The Gap WC. With a close-coupled WC already available, this new model means that not only is the pan itself simple to clean thanks to its rimless design, but the floor beneath and area surrounding the WC can also be wiped clean with ease. With the CleanRim The Gap wall-hung WC there is simply nowhere for germs or bacteria to gather, while the WC’s hidden fixations create an uncluttered, streamlined finish in any bathroom setting.

Designed by Antonio Bullo, CleanRim The Gap WC from Roca features modern and stylish lines, and is the latest product in the popular collection of basins, WCs, furniture and baths.

This latest addition to The Gap collection from Roca is not only a hygienic option for domestic and commercial situations, but it also helps reduce water wastage too, as the wall-hung version can be combined with dual-flush cisterns that flush at 4.5 and 3 litres of water, including Roca’s Duplo-N concealed cisterns.

While less water is used than with a standard single or dual-flush WC, CleanRim The Gap always produces a powerful flushing performance thanks to innovative technology neatly hidden behind the scenes. With CleanRim The Gap, water is delivered via a distributor at the back of the pan, rather than through the holes like on a standard toilet. This enables the flushing volume to be reduced while always producing outstanding flushing results.

With a sleek design on the outside and the latest innovations maximising hygiene levels on the inside, Roca’s CleanRim The Gap wall-hung WC is the ideal solution for commercial and domestic situations.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) today announced that its trailblazing Element brand is headed to Syracuse, New York. Element Syracuse Inner Harbor will open in early 2018 as part of a massive waterfront redevelopment project along the former Barge Canal. Element Syracuse Inner Harbor will be located adjacent to Aloft Syracuse Inner Harbor, which is set to open in 2015. Both hotels are owned and developed by COR Development Company, LLC, and will be managed by Real Hospitality Group. The hotel will be a short walk to Destiny USA Center, a major shopping and entertainment destination with more than 1.3 million square feet of outlets, restaurants and retail stores. Guests will enjoy easy access to nearby attractions including Armory Square – a historic and refurbished area of the city containing shops and restaurants, the Everson Museum of Art, the Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology and Washington Square Park. The hotel will be just over one mile from downtown Syracuse, approximately two miles from both Syracuse University and SUNY Upstate Medical University, and close to the offices of Lockheed Martin and AXA Financial.

Element Syracuse Inner Harbor will boast 123 stylish, sustainable rooms and suites featuring a fluid design of modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms will also offer fully equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms will feature an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet. Other brand signatures will include a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool, and 750 square-foot meeting room with modular furnishings, a flexible layout and state-of-the-art technology that can be customized to meet any business or social needs. Guests can stay on the move with Element’s complimentary bikes to borrow and enjoy fun and free extras including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, the signature RISE breakfast, RELAX evening reception, and salon bar carts stocked with premium wines and beers, soft drinks and snacks, available after hours.

Kempinski began its management contract for Kempinski Hotel Fleuve Congo on August 1, 2014 following the signing of an eleven-year management agreement in Geneva in January. Named after Africa’s largest river, the hotel is located near its banks in the heart of the embassy district in the Commune of Gombe. The hotel’s 22 floors offer elevated views over the Congo River, and the capital cities of Kinshasa and neighbouring Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, which sit on opposite sides of the river. The tallest building in the Gombe area, the property was originally designed for offices and was beautifully transformed into a luxury hotel in 2012.

The hotel’s 237 contemporary rooms – including 42 suites, are now available for booking on Kempinski.com. Three speciality restaurants, four bars, and five meeting and events spaces, including an auditorium with seating for 250 attendees, provide ample space for entertaining large groups and conferences. Guests have access to three boutiques and a florist conveniently located in the lobby. Leisure facilities include two floodlit outdoor tennis courts, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and billiard and snooker rooms. The extensive landscaped grounds provide a welcome respite from the busy city life of Africa’s third-largest city, and a full-service spa is being designed for the hotel.

The hotel is ideal for business travellers and groups looking for five-star luxury in close proximity to the country’s principal governing bodies, diplomatic and media organizations, and international corporations located in the Gombe area. With a full range of leisure facilities available at the hotel and Kinshasa’s 18-hole golf course a mere five minutes away, Kempinski Hotel Fleuve Congo is also ideal for visitors and Kinshasa residents looking for a place to relax and enjoy five-star luxury.

Kempinski Hotels currently operates 74 hotels in 31 countries and has 40 hotels under development worldwide. President and CEO of Kempinski Hotels, Mr. Reto Wittwer said that following the company’s successful expansion into the Middle East and China over the past twenty years, Kempinski expects its growing portfolio across the African continent to become a major source of revenue for the company, as well as provide new sources of talent and for further talent development across the company.

Speaking about the new management agreement Mr. Wittwer stated, “Signing the agreement for Kempinski Hotel Fleuve Congo was part of our plan for expansion in Africa over the next few years. By partnering with key players on the continent to secure the best locations for our luxury properties we will continue to be the pioneer of luxury hospitality in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our distinct brand of European luxury and operational know-how makes us a leader in all the markets we operate in, and we expect that our new property here in Kinshasa will be no different.”

On selecting Kempinski as the management company for his hotel, owner Mr. Mao Huai Cong said, “I chose to invest in Kinshasa because of the growth and economic potential I see in the country. I chose Kempinski Hotels to manage my hotel because of their reputation as leaders in the luxury hospitality sector. I expect Kempinski to put its management knowledge to work so that I can get a good return on my investment and to ensure that Kempinski Hotel Fleuve Congo is the top hotel in the DRC and known for its impeccable service.”

New for August 2014, what could be more relaxing than showering under an invigorating spray of sparkling water with light dancing off the drops as they fall? Crosswater has made the dream come true with Dynamo, an innovative new shower head that incorporates LED lighting to illuminate your shower.The head is a polished 300mm half dome with LED lights around the edge. The LEDs are powered purely by the force of the water so there is no need for connection to the mains, avoiding the need for compliance with the IP regulations. It is designed for wall or ceiling mounting and can be combined with any Crosswater concealed high pressure shower valve.

“Introducing lights to a showerhead adds a real dynamic,” says Crosswater Chairman David Hance. “The technology used to create the Dynamo head makes achieving the effect safe and simple – and reduces the cost of installation as there is no need to employ a Part P compliant electrician to do the job. Dynamo is a stunning feature in any walk in shower or enclosure.”

UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, and the French Minister of State in charge of Tourism, Fleur Pellerin, met to discuss the new tourism strategy of France as well as how to further strengthen the collaboration with UNWTO. Issues on the agenda included visa facilitation, taxation and the World Committee on Tourism Ethics (Paris, 30 June 2014).Mr. Rifai commended the decision of France to place tourism as a national ‘cause’ and welcomed the 30 measures recently announced by the Government to promote the competitiveness of the sector, in particular the visa facilitation measures. These include, among other, the extension of the ‘visas in 48 hours’ initiative, launched in China in early 2014, to several Gulf countries, South Africa and India. Ms. Pellerin explained that the measure had translated into an exponential growth in the number of visas issued in the Chinese market from 30 to 250%.

“The call by President Hollande to place tourism as a national cause clearly shows the value that is awarded to the sector in France as a means to create jobs and improve the balance of payments”, said Mr Rifai. “France is a tourism leader, the most visited destination in the world, and is aware that keeping such position in today’s competitive market requires strong cross-cutting policies that support the sector. At UNWTO we particularly welcome the measures adopted by France to promote visa facilitation, one of our priorities, as we trust that, as our research shows, these measures yield significant return in terms of economic growth and job creation”, he added.

Further issues on the agenda included tourism taxation and the integration of tourism under the portfolio of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development, a decision welcomed by UNWTO as it provides an opportunity to advance key issues such as travel facilitation and the inclusion of tourism in the international trade agenda. On the issue of taxation, Mr Rifai recalled UNWTO position on the importance of evaluating the global impact on the economy of any changes in tourism taxation and welcomed the fact that a possible raise of tourism taxes in France currently under discussion is being seriously debated considering such impact.

On the occasion of his visit to France, Mr Rifai addressed the 3rd Parliamentarian Meeting on Tourism (3e Rencontres Parlementaires sur le Tourisme: Et si le redressement passait par le tourisme?) highlighting the role of the sector in accelerating the economic recovery in Europe.

Useful links:
Full speech by UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai (in English)

The brand is rolling out a large-scale international communication campaign with an all-new angle on the hospitality experience.As you will probably remember, Pullman announced its global repositioning strategy a year ago, and one of the big breakthroughs back then was an advertising campaign featuring the brand hotel and resort spirit and design, which we created with the DDB Group.

Then, artwork by British photographer Nick Meek and a new tagline – Design Your Journey – enhanced this project’s distinctive identity.

Design Your Journey, all around the world
Today, Pullman is unveiling its new identity worldwide. The advertising campaign is rolling out in top-tier newspapers and upscale magazines across Europe today. The brand is also keen on reaching out to frequent travelers, and therefore stretching its communication into leading inflight magazines including Air France Magazine and Lufthansa Magazine, as well as billboards in the main international airports including Dubai, Frankfurt, Jakarta, London, New Delhi, Paris, Riyadh and Sydney.

Essential Asia-Pacific
Asia Pacific encompasses several key feeder markets for Pullman hotels and resorts around the world, explaining why the largest share of the billboard campaign was allocated to this region in general and Asian megalopolises such as Shanghai, Singapore and Bangkok in particular. This campaign also reached trendsetting business publications such as The Wall Street Journal Asia and the Asia-Pacific Business Traveler magazine this July.

But the brand is not stopping there: in August and September, it will be presenting Pullman’s new identity in Brazilian lifestyle media. At the same time, the Pullman Sao Paulo Ibirapuera will be one of the official partners of the Design Week-end Project, which will take place in Sao Paulo from August 14th to 17th.

Light up your life after dark with these beautiful torches and lanterns from Tribu. These pieces are made using heartwood teak with toughened glass and stainless steel.Phoro torches come in three sizes – 70, 90 or 110cm (h) and use bio-oil.

Furniture featured from Tribu’s Mood range

The Rezidor Hotel Group has signed 11 new projects with almost 2,200 rooms in the second quarter of 2014. All new rooms were under fee-based contracts – supporting Rezidor’s asset-light, profitable and sustainable growth strategy in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Five signings represented upcoming hotels in Saudi Arabia, and two signings were related to Turkey – both key focus countries for Rezidor. “Due to its fast economic growth and ambitious public spending initiatives, Saudi Arabia is a powerhouse in the Middle East. We have accelerated our development in the Kingdom together with strong regional partners, and are actively seeking further growth opportunities”, commented Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of Rezidor. “In Turkey, a hub between Europe and Asia, our network is equally expanding. In the mega-market Istanbul, Radisson Blu is now featuring seven hotels and 1,500 rooms and is the largest upper-upscale brand in town”, added Neumann.

In the second quarter of 2014 Rezidor opened five hotels with almost 800 rooms – among them one of Norway’s first dual-branded properties, the Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Oslo Alna. The other openings were the Radisson Blu Hotel Dhahran, Saudi Arabia; the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel Freetown, Sierra Leone; and the Radisson Resort & Spa Zavidovo, Russia. “Also our openings underline our focus on selected key countries and the emerging markets of Africa and Russia/CIS where huge natural resources, improving infrastructure, changing demographics and increasing demand offer considerable growth potential”, said Elie Younes, Senior Vice President & Head of Group Development of Rezidor.

In the mature markets of Western Europe and the Nordics, Rezidor continued its accelerated asset management and concluded three deals in Q2 2014. The lease agreement for a key hotel in Western Europe was restructured and will result in a € 300,000 increase of Rezidor’s annual EBITDA. In Norway, the group negotiated a 20 years extension of the management agreement for the 676 rooms flagship Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo – one of the highest fee generating properties in Rezidor’s portfolio. Also the lease contract for the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ålesund was extended by 20 years.

“Such results show our continued success in upgrading our leased hotels and improving their financial performance – a core element of our Route 2015 turnaround programme”, said Wolfgang M. Neumann. Through Route 2015, Rezidor aims to reach an EBITDA margin increase of 6-8% by the year 2015. In 2013, the EBITDA margin grew by 3.3 percentage points to 8.8% and was above target. Besides dedicated asset management projects, Route 2015 comprises Revenue Generation activities, a focus on fee based growth, and cost savings.

Leading UK shower designer and manufacturer, Roman has launched hotel inspired Concealed Fix Bath Screens into their new Showroom Guide brochure. Roman has introduced some new designs to their already extensive collection of Bath Screens. These new Bath Screens have been inspired by hotel design with their practicality and style. Bath Screens used in hotels must feature intelligent opening panels to cater for the existing bathroom fixtures and fittings and provide easy access for cleaning the bath, without stepping into the bath.

The first of the new Bath Screens is the Orbital Concealed Fix Outward Opening Bath Screen, presenting a truly minimalist design with its concealed wall profile. The Concealed Bath Screen may be minimalist but it offers true water integrity with its reliable integrated ‘bath top’ seal. It incorporates one fixed panel and one outward opening panel. The clever outward opening panel stops at 90 degrees to allow for other bathroom furniture such as a sink, which is usually the case in hotel rooms. The outward opening panel also ensures easy access cleaning to the bath, bath taps and shower. Included with the Bath Screen is an optional bracing bar, which can be used to add extra support to the product.

The other new addition to Roman’s Bath Screen collection is the Orbital Concealed Fix Inward Opening Bath Screen. This inward opening Bath Screen also presents a minimal design eliminating framing, leaving a concealed fitting to the wall. It combines a fixed panel and an opening panel, the moving panel only pivots inwards, completely avoiding all other existing bathroom furniture. The inward pivoting panel again allows effortless access for cleaning the bath without being in the bath to clean it.

Both of these new Bath Screens feature 8mm thick glass, reach a height of 1500mm and are power shower approved to deliver an indulgent showering experience. Maximum water integrity is provided with these minimalist Bath Screens, with horizontal PVC seals and vertical magnetic seals and a unique ‘bath top’ aluminium seal for added water integrity included on both.
These new Orbital Bath Screens include Roman’s Ultra Care pre-coated glass protection as standard, for easier cleaning and to encourage the longer lasting sparkle and clarity of the glass. They carry Roman’s service backed Truelife Lifetime guarantee to offer complete peace of mind when purchasing a Roman product.

David Osborne, Managing Director of Roman, commented: “We are pleased to be launching our new Showroom Guide brochure including exciting new products, such as these two Concealed Fix Bath Screens. These Bath Screens are perfect for the hotel market along with smaller bathrooms that are limited by existing fixtures and fittings. The new additions to our unrivaled range of Bath Screens are minimalist and designer led, whilst also presenting an extremely competitive price.”

For those who dream of spending the night in a fairytale Castle fit for Royalty, Warwick Castle has unveiled two magnificent Tower Suites appointed with bespoke furniture and fittings in the 14th century Caesar’s Tower, rooms familiar to generations of kings, queen and noblemen. Evoking the opulence of the Victorian era, the apartments – The Peacock Suite and The Rose Suite – offer guests the first opportunity in living memory to spend the night resplendent in their own private chamber at the Castle which enjoys a wealth of Royal connections.Each Suite is located on its own private floor of the 14th century Caesar’s Tower and comprises of an opulent bed chamber replete with four-poster bed in addition to contemporary en-suite facilities. All aspects of the accommodation, including the furniture and fabrics, have been designed and created specifically for this exceptional location and to compliment the mediaeval architecture which includes vaulted ceilings.

Geoff Spooner, General Manager at Warwick Castle, said: “Awakening in a hand-carved four-poster bed in a private Tower Suite is no longer a fairytale: we’re making our guests’ dreams come true whilst remaining faithful to the heritage of the Castle by ensuring the Suites are furnished with bespoke crafted items that resonate with their fully-restored surroundings. Spending the night in a Tower Suite will be a magical experience, memorable for years to come.”

Warwick Castle has provided generations of aristocracy and Royalty – including Anne Neville, the wife of Richard III, and the Earls of Warwick – with a comfortable home, while other notable guests over the centuries include Henry V, Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria. The rooms that have been restored to become the Tower Suites housed Edward IV during his enforced stay at the Castle in 1469, part of a plot by Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick to rule England. Most recently HRH The Prince of Wales visited the Castle in June 2014 to mark its 1,100th anniversary and enjoy Afternoon Tea in The State Dining Room.

The Castle, commanding an enviable position on the banks of the River Avon, is located at the heart of historic Warwick, a county town renowned for its mediaeval architecture and proximity to the birthplace of William Shakespeare at Stratford-upon-Avon.

Marriott International, Inc. announces the opening of the second Courtyard branded property in the Island of the Gods, Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak. Located in the heart of bustling Seminyak, the 290-room hotel is an exciting addition to the Courtyard brand – making it the 31st Courtyard hotel in Asia.Located only a stones throw away from famous Seminyak Beach and the Oberoi dining scene, the stylish rooms and suites come complete with their own private balcony or garden terrace, a 42” smart TV, comfortable working desk with chair, iPod dock, and modern amenities. Suites offer extra space with their own living room and dining area, along with the convenience of having connecting doors to another deluxe room, perfect for family holidays.

This urban resort offers a little oasis in the middle of busy Seminyak with facilities including an expansive lagoon pool, Kids Club, a 24-hour fitness centre, Zanti – The Retreat, and state of the art meeting and breakout spaces catering up to 350 people – ideal for business meetings, private functions and intimate weddings. Guests will have privilege to valet service, shuttles to and from the resort to the beach and Oberoi Eat Street and high-speed internet access throughout the hotel.

Courtyard understands business and leisure travelers, and through continuous research the brand constantly evolves to meet guests’ changing needs to make the most of their time on the road. Combining innovative technology with style and comfort, the hotel lobby features Courtyard’s signature Go Board complete with information including hotel facilities, flight schedules, nearby attractions, local map, along with current news.

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has announced the completion of an extensive multi-million dollar renovation of the Sheraton Boston Hotel. The hotel now showcases a transformed 450 deluxe guest rooms in addition to enhancements to the public areas of the hotel, most notably a new look for the hotel restaurant – Café Apropos and a new spa Green Tangerine.Located in the heart of downtown, the Sheraton Boston offers easy access to the nearby boutiques of Newbury Street and is focused on providing guests with a comfortable, dynamic and enjoyable stay. With this in mind, the deluxe guestrooms feature new lighting, window treatments, artwork and wall coverings that offer a relaxing and refined ambiance. Renovations also include a refreshed lobby with new comfortable inviting furniture in two seating areas. On June 16th the hotel is opening Green Tangerine Spa, a 5,500 square foot full service spa. Once open, the Sheraton Boston will be the only Starwood Convention Collection Hotel in the U.S. to offer this service.

One of the most impactful changes is the opening of the newly renovated Café Apropos. This stylish downtown restaurant presents American cuisine in a transformed and energetic atmosphere. The culinary team, led by Executive Chef Chad Kennedy, provide an extraordinary dining experience for guests in this new space that features an interactive Chef’s Kitchen.

At the heart of the transformed lobby, guests will enjoy the signature Link@Sheraton(R) experienced with Microsoft®” – a relaxed space with complimentary wireless broadband where guests can socialize and connect with friends, both old and new. All guest rooms offer the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, designed to meet AAA’s Five Diamond Award® criteria, an oversized work desk, ergonomic chair, high-speed Internet and 42-inch flat panel television. Sheraton Club guests enjoy upgraded amenities, as well as complimentary breakfast, beverages and evening hors d’oeuvres in the Sheraton Club Lounge.

An ideal choice for business meetings, weddings and social functions, Sheraton Boston Hotel features 70,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and function space.

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts today expanded its luxury portfolio in China with the unveiling of the highly anticipated 416-room JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou in Henan Province. Marriott International manages this landmark hotel under a long-term agreement with the owner partners, Greenland Group.This new hotel is located on the top floors of the Millennium Royal Plaza, which is in the CBD of Zhengzhou, the capital city of Henan Province as well as an important transportation hub in China. The 60-floor Millennium Royal Plaza stands at 280 meters and is the tallest building in Central China. The JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou is the first Marriott property in Henan as well as the seventh JW Marriott hotel in the Greater China region.

The design of Millennium Royal Plaza was inspired by the Songyue Pagoda, a renowned cultural relic that was built approximately 1,500 years ago. The aluminium exterior’s sunscreens give the structure its distinctive pagoda-shape. The sunscreens also maximize the amount of daylight entering the building while reducing glare and solar heat gain. The hotel’s interior design reflects the hotel’s location with subtle brown metal celebrating the historic importance of bronze, and pale greens representing high quality jade artefacts that were produced in the region throughout the dynasties.

Zhengzhou is an important transportation hub within China and Henan has a rich 5,000-year history. The city boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the world famous Shaolin Temple. The new hotel is ideally located in the heart of Zhengdong New District – the new centre of Zhengzhou – and is positioned between the Zhengzhou International Convention & Exhibition Centre and Henan Art Centre. Due to its impressive location, the JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou is well poised to service both the upscale business and leisure travellers.

The new property features a total 416 of spacious guestrooms and suites located from the 41st to the 55th floor, each offering floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of the city. All guestrooms feature luxurious JW Marriott bedding designed in collaboration with Todd-Avery Lenahan and ergonomic work spaces that foster convenience and productivity.

The hotel’s dining experiences on the 38th and 39th floors include The Grill,specializing in both Chinese and Western dishes made from the freshest seafood and finest cuts of beef; Man Ho, headed up by Executive Chef Wong from Hong Kong and featuring Cantonese classics as well as Henan and Sichuan delicacies; and Zhengzhou Kitchen, the best buffet in town boasting dedicated Western, Chinese and Japanese live-cooking sections. The Lounge – borrowing inspiration from the building’s height – features the “tallest tea” in the city, a four-tier stand filled with delectable treats.

The JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou offers more than 2,500 square meters of stunning function and event space, including the 1,000 square meter JW Grand Ballroom with an LED wall panel, six meeting rooms – each with natural daylight – and a spacious pre-function ballroom foyer.