Rendering of the Wet Deck, one of the hotel's two pools

W Hotels announces second arrival in Bali

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By: Hamish Kilburn

10.04.2019

W Hotels announces second arrival in Bali

W Bali – Ubud is set to bring a new level of W’s bold design to the cultural heart of Bali…

W Hotels Worldwide has announced the signing of W Bali – Ubud, the brand’s newest W Escape, which is being developed in partnership with Indonesia’s Ruang Teknik Group.

The expansion into Ubud marks the second W Hotel in Indonesia, following the opening of W Bali – Seminyak in 2010.

Positioned on a hilltop, deliberately oriented toward the morning sun rising in the east, and southwards over stunning, unobstructed views of the Tanggayuda Valley, W Bali – Ubud is expected to reinvent the dreamy Ubud experience with eclectic, surprising art and design set amongst a versatile vibe that is at once laid back and social.

“Ubud is a hidden destination like no other, where legends and nature intertwine with everyday life to create a magical sense of adventure,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “W Bali – Ubud is an exciting next step for us. We are applying a unique, vibrant sensibility to this hotel, one that has not been seen before on the island. W Bali – Ubud will combine the brand’s boundary-breaking approach to design with the rich cultural, spiritual and artistic influences of Ubud to show off the best of this incredible locale and all we’ve learned in the decade since W debuted in Indonesia.”

The hotel’s design will redefine modern luxury in the destination, taking inspiration from social, historical and physical insights and embedding elements of each into the rooms and public spaces. Upon entering the hotel, guests will be immersed in modern interpretations of traditional Balinese art styles with works from local artists, that lead to breath-taking lounges perfect for soaking in spectacular jungle sunsets as sounds of cool beats drift through the air. The hotel will offer 100 inspired guestrooms, including 10 villas with private swimming pools and an EWOW suite (the brand’s take on the traditional Presidential Suite).

As the brand’s newest W Escape, W Bali – Ubud will bring a bold new take on international cuisine with a Balinese twist to multiple on-site bars and restaurants. Traditional Asian flavors intertwine with international influences at the stylish all-day dining restaurant Morinda. Meanwhile, Synn, a specialty restaurant featuring the finest of Balinese and world cuisines will be an underground sensation, literally. The new restaurant is partially underground, opening towards a jungle cliff.

“Bali’s hotel market continues to see strong growth and it remains a major destination in Marriott International’s footprint,” said Paul Foskey, Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “We look forward to partnering with Ruang Teknik Group in introducing W Bali Ubud, the second W-branded hotel in this market.”

W Bali – Ubud is slated to join the brand’s robust portfolio of more than 50 hotels around the globe, including the recently opened W Dubai – The Palm (February 2019), as well as the soon-to-open W Aspen, W Ibiza and W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island following Marriott announcing that it will add 30 new luxury hotels to its thriving portfolio this year.

Main image credit: Marriott International/W Hotels

BRITISH STYLE: Questioning design like Ilse Crawford

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By: Hamish Kilburn

29.03.2019

BRITISH STYLE: Questioning design like Ilse Crawford

To launch the new chapter of Hotel Designs, Hamish Kilburn investigates how one woman, her editorship and her questions over convention helped to change modern international hotel design by challenging the very foundations it sits on…

Every now and then, the world is introduced to a design icon who, through making their visions into reality, helps to shift attitudes by challenging conventional forms.

For Ilse Crawford, the founding Editor-In-Chief of British Elle Decoration, the design world was somewhat lacking reference of everyday movement when she decided to step into the shoes of her designer readers.

In 1997, a decade on from founding British Elle Decoration, Crawford asked the world to “liberate your senses and change your life” when she published her first book, Sensual Home, which mapped out how the living environment can engage us sensually as well as visually from the perspective of sight, sound, taste, touch and smell. And was, for Crawford, the start of a new journey. “Writing the book was the ‘ah-hah’ moment, because it wasn’t the current understanding of design,” she explained in the Netflix documentary, Abstract: The Art of Design. “The days of being a two-dimensional person were over.”

The defiant leap from narrator to creator came one year later after she signed off as Editor-In-Chief. Having completed her mission to launch a contemporary magazine for a wide audience, Crawford worked for Donna Karan and getting her hands dirty, she became a maker. Crawford’s first hotel interior design brief was presented to her immediately after she left Elle Decoration when she was asked to convert a stately home for Nick Jones of Soho House into what we now know of as Babington House. “Nick originally wanted this place to look and feel like a stately home, but I was very clear that that’s the last thing it should be,” Crawford explained in Abstract: The Art of Design. “My proposal was that it should be a very informal place where you could just treat as if it was your own, like a family house of a friend where the parents had gone away and left the key the drinks cabinet.” Breaking the rules of the time, Crawford’s design stole the headlines and her journey as an interior design began.

“The project saw the transformation of a former industrial building in the Meatpacking district into a 27-key design hotel.”

From the rural British countryside to the bustling scene of Manhattan, Crawford’s skillful and sensitive approach was called upon to create the first outpost of Soho House outside the UK. The project saw the transformation of a former industrial building in the Meatpacking district into a 27-key design hotel, including bars, a restaurant, cinema and rooftop pool. Soho House New York opened to become the definitive third space for the transatlantic media crowd.

Her aim as an interior designer is to put human needs and desires at the centre of all that she does. Working in commercial and residential design, and blurring the lines between both, Crawford has changed many environments for the better of those who use them. Ett Hem Hotel was a conversion project of a former arts and crafts building. The 12-key guesthouse is described by Crawford as “a place to stay for the modern traveller, a home-from-home, where flexibility of space and function is central to the hotel’s operation,” she says. “There is no division between front and back of house – anything can happen anywhere at any time.”

Image caption/credit: Ett Hem Hotel. Interiors by Ilse Crawford

As someone who truly lives and breathes the industry in which she used to curate on the pages of Elle Decoration, Crawford wears many hats as a modern designer. In her own admission to Interior Design magazine, she confessed that “the line between my work and life is thin to non-existent.” Working from her London studio, which is directly below her home, Crawford’s knowledge in interiors has allowed her to extend her portfolio to include product design. The Sinnerlig Collection for IKEA includes 30 pieces of of furniture, lighting and tabletop collection. “They explore natural materials and are simple,” Crawford explains on her website. “They are helpful, background pieces, not showstoppers.” Tactile materials such as cork, ceramic, glass, seagrass and bamboo appealed in the design concept because they felt as good as they looked.

“Maison&Objet awarded Crawford the prestigious title of Designer of the Year 2016.”

The Together Table was another design that challenged existing products on the market. Confronting the design of conventional four-cornered tables, Crawford simply rounded the edges of the table, which as a result naturally invited people to move around it more freely. The Ilse Sofa was the result of a collaboration with British furniture brand George Smith. The height and depth of the product’s arms and back were calculated and tested to ensure that the sofa supports as many sedentary habits of modern life. “We like to think of it as a room within a room,” Crawford explains when describing the tactile experience.

Image caption/credit: The Together Table by Ilse Crawford

Two years after she was awarded an MBE in recognition for her work in design, Maison&Objet awarded Crawford the prestigious title of Designer of the Year 2016. Since then, the modest designer has continued to evolve the hospitality landscape with completing projects such as The Lounge Plaza 66, Cathy Pacific’s iconic airport lounge in Hong Kong and the warm and inviting home-from-home that is Bukowskis.

Crawford’s philosophical visions to challenge the norm leaves a clear path for young designers who aspire, like her, to make a difference through design. As the founder of the department of Man and Wellbeing at the Design Academy Eindhoven, Crawford’s mission as a visionary is explained on her website as “nurturing a new generation of students to always question why and how their work improves the reality of life.” Her philosophy to improve the future through considered design is what makes her the leader she undoubtably is today. Her work – and her working style – is a simple, effortless reflection of the questions she asks of the designs of today and the possibilities that are garnered by second guessing what the future should look and feel like.

Crawford, an ever-evolving icon of British and international design, has metaphorically cut the ribbon to launch Hotel Designs’ new website by being the subject of the first editorial feature of the title’s new era. The newly launched slogan “defining the point of international design” is a pledge from the editorial team to its readers to cut through the noise to publish conversation starters that will filter into many debates on the hotel design scene that we all know and love. That conversation starts here, with a question that Crawford asks herself when confronted with a new project: “How can design strategically make things better?”

Main image credit: Ilse Crawford/StudioIlse

Elivi Skiathos to unveil new rooms and suites

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By: Hamish Kilburn

27.03.2019

Elivi Skiathos to unveil new rooms and suites

Elivi Skiathos has announced that 56 Grace Rooms and Suites, three new restaurants, and a Kid’s Club will be added to the hotel in time for season opening on April 26, 2019…

Opened for the first time last year in June, the father-and-daughter-run luxury hotel is building on the success of its first season by expanding its accommodation offerings.

Elivi Skiathos is comprised of three separate areas, ELIVI Xenia Hotel in the main area of the resort, ELIVI Nest Rooms, Villas and Suites elegantly spread among olive groves, and, as of 2019, 67 secluded ELIVI Grace Rooms & Suites set on the beach.

The Grace area of the hotel will grow from 11 rooms to 67. The elegant, new Double Supreme Deluxe Rooms and Junior Suites will boast either long balconies, hot tubs or private plunge pools.

The hotel, which is perched on a hilltop on the Pounta Peninsula overlooking the Aegean Sea, was developed in collaboration between the family and Vivi Nathanailidi. The property is surrounded by an area of natural beauty beside a wildlife refuge, forest and lagoon – and roaming black swans – which became a large reference in the interior design as well as the branding of the hotel.

“A new beach bar will also take its bar offering up to seven.”

ELIVI Skiathos will also grow its food offering to five restaurants: fine-dining restaurant Leda & The Swan; Hagoromo Sushi Bar and Asian restaurant; the cosy Nest Greek Fish Restaurant serving traditional, fresh Greek seafood and meze; Grace Restaurant serving Mediterranean and Italian cuisine; Nest Breakfast Restaurant reserved exclusive for guests of the Nest area of the hotel. A new beach bar will also take its bar offering up to seven.

With families being a key market for Elivi Skiathos, the hotel is also pleased to introduce a Kid’s Club for 2019 with more details coming soon.

Two outdoor swimming pools on either side of resort stretch into the glistening Aegean Sea below and four of the most picturesque white-sand beaches on Skiathos are all within walking distance, offering mattress thick sunbeds and beach waiter service.

Main image credit: Elivi Skiathos

The need for tip top linen in hotel design

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By: Hamish Kilburn

15.03.2019

Recommended Supplier Tip Top Linen explains the need for quality linen in all hotels. Hotel Designs dives a little deeper to find out more about what the company offers…

The real indication of any hotel is rated on how well its guests’ sleep. As well as considering a decent bed, and comfortable soft furnishings, the overall sleep quality will be factored on the quality of the bed linen. We caught up with recommended supplier Tip Top Linen recently to understand more.

Hotel Designs: What material testing / testing process do you employ to ensure that your linen is of the highest quality for the hotel market?

Tip Top Linen: We have many different style of linen. Selecting which one is suitable for each hotel very much depends on which tier the hotel is. We have 70/30 cotton rich or we have 100 per cent cotton, we have suppliers who serve the likes of The Savoy and have history who have industry knowledge about the quality of the linen products

HD: How long do your linens tend to last in a hotel environment and how often should a hotel replace their linens?

TTL: This question has so many factors from the hotel cleaners and managers to the hotel owner having an input on their own quality, look and feel. linen can be changed on a daily basis which will have an impact on the life span of the product to clients changing weekly basis so one/two washes a week so the product will last longer.

The serviceable lifespan of textiles is not easy to specify as it can depend on a number of factors. The most important being the number and severity of the wash processes along with the degree of abuse by the end user. Stock control also has a significant bearing on the life of the individual product. For example, if the hotel is issued with 50,000 clean sheets in six months and the provider has to purchase 500 sheets to make up for losses, then the average textile life is 50,000/500 = 100 wash and use cycle

HD: What linen colours do you work with and why? And, are some colour fabrics better suited to certain parts of the hotel than others i.e. bedroom vs. restaurant?

We work with only white linen for hotels. And table linen varies on customers choice.

Established in 1988, Tip Top Linen Services Ltd has a track record second to none in meeting the needs of restaurants, hotels, event organisers, catering companies and airlines.

With more than two decades of providing linen of high quality to the hotel and catering industry, meeting the needs of these businesses with particular taste and requirements, Tip Top Laundy & Linen hire has learned that attention to detail is everything, from timely deliveries to ease of ordering.

Tip Top Linen is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

Main image credit: Tip Top Linen

TECHNOLOGY FEATURE: It pays to be social

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By: Hamish Kilburn

15.03.2019

We are living in an era in international hotel design where it pays to be social. To put social media under the spotlight, digital specialists in social media and web design at Arise explain how to use social media platforms effectively…

When it comes to generating sales for your hotel, direct bookings are often much more profitable and valuable in terms of returning customers than bookings made via Online Travel Agents (OTAs) such as Booking.com or Expedia. OTA commission rates seem to creep up each year, with some sites charging as much as 30 per cent in commission.

While third party booking sites have their uses, direct bookings are key for maximising your profits and giving your guests a taste of your establishment before they even arrive. Of course, driving your customers to book directly with you is easier said than done…

One of the most effective, but criminally underutilised tools you can use to drive new customers to your website is social media. We often find that the clients we work with are overwhelmed by the prospect of digital marketing, unaware of its potential or unable to devote the amount of time needed to launching and maintaining effective marketing campaigns.

“We managed to increase the revenue generated via their website by an incredible 823 per cent in just four years.”

To demonstrate just how powerful social media can be when used as a marketing tool for hotels, let’s take a look at Losehill House Hotel & Spa. Four years ago, this luxury hotel and spa located in the beautiful Derbyshire Peak District was not present on social media at all. They did have a website, but it was nowhere near the standard that guests could expect from such a high-end, reputable establishment. After creating a new website for the hotel, and giving them a presence on Twitter and Facebook, we managed to increase the revenue generated via their website by an incredible 823 per cent in just four years.

Social should reflect what makes you unique

Setting up social accounts and including a link to your website in your bio/about section is a first step, but this alone does not make up a social media strategy. Each hotel is different, and as such will need a unique approach to social media which not only reflects the hotel as a brand, but also achieves everything they want to in terms of sales and marketing. In the case of Losehill House, we focused our efforts on showing off the unique aspects of the hotel, spa and award winning restaurant, while trying to connect with customers looking to book imminently, and cultivating an audience of potential guests.

Getting potential guests onto your website can be something of an effort, but it’s one worth putting in. The ultimate aim of social media activity is getting the right people onto your website, and converting them into paying guests. Having high-quality and (most importantly) relevant content on your website is a key asset when piquing an audience’s interest, this content could include:

Exploring the unique aspects of your establishment
Information about the local area
Exclusive offers

You’re adding value to the guest experience, you are developing your brand voice and you are giving people another reason to visit your website.

Advertising features are a powerful aspect of social media

Getting the type of customer you are looking for to click on your content is not easy without being able to manage your different social platforms’ built-in advertising functions. Having a social advertising budget is highly advisable, but depending on the size of your hotel, this doesn’t need to be large at all. Providing you have accurate targeting parameters, it’s not difficult to make the most out of a modest budget. Facebook and Instagram in particular allow for highly tailored adverts, enabling you to reach users with the same demographics as your ideal guests. If, for example, you are a luxury hotel , you can target users that have expressed an interest in specific luxury brands and destination travel, narrowing by age, location and profession. This power to put your hotel right in front of the eyes of the exact people you are looking to connect with should not be underestimated.

A strong social media presence allows you to build an audience, and keep them engaged with your brand. This has obvious benefits for new customers, but also helps you to develop a relationship with existing customers in order to capture repeat bookings. This is especially important for destination hotels or resorts, as guests are more likely to choose a hotel based on your brand, reputation, customer service and unique features. Different social channels allow you to work on all of these factors.

Having a clear strategy

Over the past five years we’ve discovered that in this industry a clearly defined social media strategy, when carried out consistently, pays real dividends. If you’re conspicuously absent from social platforms then it’s not too late to jump on the bandwagon, or if you are already on social then make sure you have confidence in your social media strategy and the resource to put (and keep) it in place – this way you’ll be on the path to freedom from unnecessary OTA commission and able to reap the benefits of an engaged social media audience.

Main image credit: Arise/Shutterstock

HOTEL OPENING: Lincoln Plaza London’s design inspired by London Docklands

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By: Hamish Kilburn

07.03.2019

By taking note of the exciting and vibrant spirit of the London Docklands area, RPW Design was the design firm that sensitively designed the 129-key Lincoln Plaza London…

Based in the heart of Canary Wharf, RPW Design has announced the opening of its most recent project, Lincoln Plaza London. Conveying its location into the hotel, the experienced RPW Design team, led by Nicola Romanelli and Richard Snow, has maintained a unique and luxurious experience through the guestrooms, function and meeting spaces while staying true to the location. RPW Design took Canary Wharf as a treasure trove of inspiration; from the historic shipping and dockland past to the present day, high tech, modern, business, luxury residential living and extraordinary architecture.

When approaching the design for a property in such a vibrant area of the city, RPW Design was inspired by a quote from the design brief for the new Hilton Curio Brand: “Hotels with a special character you can’t duplicate. They’re part of the fabric of their cities: true locals, each embodying the spirit of their home”.

For Richard Snow, Senior Designer at RPW Design, this quote really stood out and inspired the design story for Lincoln Plaza London. “We drew on the rich industrial past of the area using rusty tones and finishes alongside the design of joinery and FF&E pieces with exposed metal framework,” he told Hotel Designs. “At the same time, conscious of the hotel brand and surrounding residential developments, we included quality finishes such as natural stone in the bathrooms and on joinery, as well as statement pieces like the rusty/burnished gold wall covering to the bed head wall.”

Image credit: Main image credit: Lincoln Plaza London/Curio Collection by Hilton

Lincoln Plaza London’s focus on luxurious lifestyle facilities has been seamlessly translated throughout the 129 guest rooms. The layout of the rooms was creatively developed to move away from the standard hotel offering by incorporating the vanity into the main lobby area of the room, creating a sense of space and openness in the room. A decision to remove the traditional hotel room desk was made, and instead RPW designed a multi-use table at the right height for either a work space or dining table whilst seated at the armchair. These changes allow a more residential feel. From the bespoke shelving units made of blackened steel and antique brass, through to the marble rainfall showers, all elements work together harmoniously. The guestroom artwork was carefully curated in collaboration with RPW Design’s Art Consultant, Peter Millard and Partners, in order to show some of the East End’s most famous and unique artists: Gary Hogben; Julian Bray; Kyra Cane; and Tom Clark. Meanwhile, individual sculptural pieces by Simon Bingle, positioned in every floor lift lobby, hark back to the industrial landscape still visible around the hotel. This particular bespoke artwork conveys RPW Design’s attention to details that is inherent in their projects.

Canary Wharf is a more recent business hub for London, and the Hilton Curio offers 465 square metres of event space that is distributed across seven meeting rooms. With sleek design details, RPW Design implemented a blend of “old industrial” and contemporary design. RPW Design has created a popular new space in this centre of commerce and it is a truly unique destination for the Docklands.

Image credit: Main image credit: Lincoln Plaza London/Curio Collection by Hilton

The reflection of the historical and industrial shipping dock is continued throughout the hotel, from the lower-ground meeting and function spaces to the fitness centre. Lincoln Plaza’s fitness centre is designed to be simple and modern, reflecting the location’s industrial heritage with a concrete reception desk formed out of concrete and rusty metal effect laminate in the joinery.

Lincoln Plaza’s meeting areas can be reached by a feature staircase that is formed of shuttered concrete, poured in situ, with an exposed timber imprint remaining on view, contrasted by a polished concrete floor. The rough concrete is offset by a luxurious brushed brass handrail and stair treads, with concealed lighting to add drama. This is diffused into the pre-function space, with a concrete render-effect wall covering and rich, dark timber doors.

Image credit: Main image credit: Lincoln Plaza London/Curio Collection by Hilton

The function areas are versatile spaces that may be configured dependent on the client’s needs and meeting planners’ specifications. The large function room can be divided into thirds when required and the buffet counters housing TV and tea/coffee facilities in the individual meeting rooms can also be concealed, thus enabling various uses from one space. A central area with a communal work table, features iconic pieces of furniture from Poltrona Frau, Walter Knoll and Porada. The cranes, such a familiar sight in the Docklands, are reflected in the pattern of two large metal work screens, dividing the pre-function area. The walls of the function rooms are designed with contrasting finishes, featuring geometric patterned wallpaper and bespoke lighting, continuing the theme.

Andrew Hart, Chairman of interior fit-out contractor Fileturn, commented: “This project was one which used all the skills of the team on site to incorporate the new designs within the existing structural shell. The fit-out areas designed by RPW included public areas, conference and meeting room facilities as well as bedrooms. The end results have produced a striking hotel in keeping with its surroundings and one the team here at Fileturn can deservedly be proud of”.

RPW Design worked alongside Fileturn to make the design become a reality, creating the perfect addition to the Curio Collection by Hilton.

Main image credit: Lincoln Plaza London/Curio Collection by Hilton

MEET UP LONDON: 3 weeks to go

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By: Hamish Kilburn

07.03.2019

Calling all designers, architects, hoteliers and suppliers: Meet Up London takes place on March 28 at Minotti London…

Designers, architects and hoteliers can purchase tickets here.
Suppliers can purchase tickets here.

There are just three weeks to go until the industry will gather together for Hotel Designs’ Q1 networking event, Meet Up London.

Taking place on March 28 at Minotti London, the evening event is designed to bridge the gap between designers, architects, hoteliers and key-industry suppliers.

Meet Up London will be attended by more than 200 hospitality professionals. As well as providing the perfect networking stage for professionals who are working on the hotel design scene, the event will also pay special attention to young designers as it will unveil Hotel Designs’ 30 Under 30 (the shortlist can be accessed here).

The latest names to the guest list include designers, directors and 30 Under 30 shortlisted finalists from the likes of B3 Designers, Yasmine Mahmoudieh Design Studio, Scott Brownrigg and M Studio.

They will join designers and directors from leading studios such as Richmond International, HBA London, Gensler, Jestico + Whiles, Goddard Littlefair, Project Orange and WATG who are among the names that are also confirmed to attend.

Agenda for Meet Up London:

How to attend Meet Up London

If you are an interior designer, architect, operator or hotelier and would like to attend Meet Up London, click here to book your place.

If you are a supplier to the hospitality industry looking to attend the event, contact Zoe Guerrier on 01992 374059 or on z.guerrier@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

For more information about becoming a Hotel Designs Meet Up sponsor, contact Zoe Guerrier on 01992 374059 or email z.guerrier@forumevents.co.uk.

Naumi Hotel Singapore launches Gen-Z design initiative

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By: Hamish Kilburn

06.03.2019

With the aim to work with young designers in order to achieve a fresh perspective design, Naumi Hotel Singapore is partnering with local businesses on a new student design initiative to unveil at Singapore Design Week 2019…

Naumi Hotel has partnered with local design businesses to nurture the next generation of creatives. The project is a satellite programme partner of Singapore Design Week 2019. Inviting students from local design institutions to compete, the Singaporean owned hotel has tasked interior design students to create a brand-new concept for one of their hotel rooms every quarter. Named Project #210, after the room number, the up and coming talents will have a blank canvas to create their vision. Supported by Goodrich Global, XTRA, Guerilla X and Matsushita, the esteemed local businesses will work closely with the students during the process and provide all the materials required for this project. Set to be the next ‘Instagram-worthy’ space in Singapore, the pop-up room will be in addition to the current inventory of four designer-themed rooms available at the hotel.

Speaking about the project Founder and Managing Director, Naumi Hotels, Surya Jhunijhnuwala said “At Naumi Hotels we have always had an ethos of creating unique experiences through art and design so I am delighted to launch this initiative. We are honoured to give the next generation of aspiring designers the opportunity to transform our hotel. Each design will transport us into the imagination of its creator, offering their own fresh take. Education and giving back to the community are key pillars for all of our hotels, and I can’t wait to see this project come to life.”

As the main partner of Project #210, Chief Operating Officer of Goodrich Global, Yasushi Furukawa said: “As Asia’s leading supplier of interior furnishings, we are delighted to be part of this initiative with Naumi Hotels. Our company philosophy is to be positive agents of change whether it’s supporting education programmes or helping the next generation of designers realise their dreams. With this in mind we are proud to partner on such a fantastic project, which hopes to give nurture Singapore’s newest design talents.”

The first team to win the coveted opportunity is Nurul Hanis, Nia Astira, Nuri Khairiyyah and Tracy Lim, who are final-year Retail & Hospitality Design students from Temasek Polytechnic. The opening concept for Project 210, which will launch during Singapore Design Week (March 4 – 17 2019) and is inspired by Tyler The Creator, a creative personality in music, TV and fashion.

The concept hopes to catch the attention of the next generation of travellers with its bold style using colour-blocking, lightings and designer furnishing from Muuto. Much of Tyler The Creator’s work is taken from 1970s street style, hip hop and skate culture, and a result the designers are looking to create a vibrant, and above all, playful space.

Naumi Hotels was founded and established in Singapore by Surya Jhunjhnuwala and to date, still remains a family business and a brand synonymous with modern luxury and prime locality. The hotels’ USP is in design, focusing on a non- cookie cutter style that reflects each vibrant city. Every hotel from Auckland to Singapore features artwork from local and international talents, creating a living gallery for guests within the hotel.

Hotel Designs will also be bridging the age gap in international hotel design by unveiling its 30 Under 30 at Meet Up London on March 28 at Minotti London. There are limited tickets available and can be purchased here.

IHG announces voco arrival in the Netherlands

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By: Hamish Kilburn

05.03.2019

Strong momentum for IHG’s newest upscale brand in Europe continues with signing in The Hague in the Netherlands…

The InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and UBM Development AG have announced the signing of the first voco hotel in the Netherlands which is planned to open in 2020. The signing is the first publicly announced signing in Continental Europe underscoring the strong momentum of the voco brand in the region since its launch in June 2018.

voco – Kneuterdijk 8 will be set in a beautiful building located in the city centre of The Hague that formerly housed a bank. The hotel will be in close proximity to the town’s famous sights, several museums, parks and the shopping mile.

Launched in June 2018, voco — inspired by the meaning ‘to invite’ or to ‘come together’ in Latin — combines the informality and charm of an individual hotel with the quality and reassurance of a global and respected brand. The signing of voco The Hague – Kneuterdijk 8 follows the recent openings of the first three voco hotels in the world — voco Gold Coast in Australia, voco Cardiff and voco Solihull in the UK – and continuing the strong momentum for IHG’s newest upscale brand in Europe.

With a listed façade dating from the 1920s and an expansive atrium, the property is quite an impressive sight to behold – naturally, all historic features will be retained and very carefully renovated. Inside, the hotel will be no less awe-inspiring – containing more than 200 exquisite rooms and suites.

“After its completion in 2020, the new hotel will serve as an exceptional meeting point for all.”

The new voco The Hague combines a very laid-back comfort, a relaxed approach and individual hospitality – which will be evident in both the culinary offerings of the hotel, and in every aspect of the Kneuterdijk 8 location. It will have direct access to the pedestrian area of Noordeinde welcoming tourists and locals alike. After its completion in 2020, the new hotel will serve as an exceptional meeting point for all, becoming a centre for travellers as well as a very accessible gastronomic and life-style hotspot.

Mario Maxeiner, Managing Director Northern Europe, IHG, comments: “The voco Kneuterdijk 8 in The Hague marks the first publicly announced signing of our new brand in Continental Europe. This signing continues the accelerated growth of the voco brand since we first launched it last June and we are looking forward to bringing its upscale offerings to more travellers who seek a reliably different guest experience. We see lots of potential for voco in Europe and are excited to expand its presence further across the region.”

“UBM Development is the leading hotel developer in Europe with more than 50 hotels realised over the past 25 years,” said Rolf Hübner, Managing Director of UBM Hotels Management. “This is our third hotel in the Netherlands as well as a very special project. Our business relationship with IHG started many years ago and has already resulted in the completion of 14 hotels. It is a sign of their trust and a reflection of our previous successful cooperation that they have also decided to cooperate with us on their first voco hotel in the Netherlands. voco is a perfect fit with UBM because it stands for individuality, and we, as a developer, demand the highest quality in terms of guest experience.”

voco is IHG’s newest upscale brand, launched in June 2018. It can be used for new builds, but it is also designed to be particularly suitable for owners to use as a conversion brand. It strengthens IHG’s offer in the $40 billion upscale segment, which is expected to grow by a further $20 billion by 2025. The new brand will drive significant incremental growth for IHG, with an expectation to open more than 200 voco hotels in attractive urban and leisure locations over the next 10 years.

Main image credit: voco/IHG

5 ways to use storytelling to increase hotel revenue

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By: Hamish Kilburn

27.02.2019

As consumers become more and more design savvy when checking in to a hotel, marketing expert Chloe Bennet from UK Services Reviews explores ways in which hotels can increase their profits with the perfect narrative…

Storytelling is an invaluable component of any hotel marketing strategy. Sharing the right narrative is perfect for content marketing as well as creating a bio that allows hotels to connect with their audience. Here are six ways to use storytelling to increase hotel revenue.

People tell stories, and listen to stories, every day without even realising it. “Stories resonate with customers on a deep, human level. In order to succeed in this industry, your marketing efforts must go beyond simply selling hotel rooms at a certain price. You need to connect with your customer base on an emotional level, so that you can make yourself stand out in an overcrowded and competitive market,” suggests Jose Guenther, storyteller at Academized. The digital age has created a ton of opportunities for marketers to use storytelling, which is fortunate because many customers are wary of conventional marketing tactics.

“It’s all about weaving together the different strands to create an interesting and engaging narrative.”

1) Visual storytelling and hotel marketing online

So how do we go about using online storytelling to increase hotel revenue? It’s all about weaving together the different strands to create an interesting and engaging narrative. Guests checking in are a lot less concerned with basic elements such as amenities and information about the room. It’s not that these things aren’t important, it’s just that in the digital age, guests are looking for visuals of what a hotel has to offer. Whenever you can, tell your story through high resolution photographs, combined with riveting narratives. Hotels should focus on interactive storytelling whenever possible, using things like short videos that shows off the hotel’s best features. It’s hard to go wrong with video content, as long as you keep in mind how short attention spans are online.

2) Shaping your digital story

A hotel’s number one job when crafting its story is to create a connection with its audience. Consumers tend to make purchasing decisions based on how they feel, not how they think. If a hotel wants to connect with its audience in this way, it has to get to know its guests first. Target the right segments, learn what they’re looking for, and create content that appeals to them and their needs. Segments and groups will respond differently to different forms of content, so don’t take a shotgun approach that tries to market to everyone at once. A great story told through the wrong kind of content will not be as effective.

3) Make your stories authentic

A hotel’s stories should feel real and have a natural flow to them. If a hotel can include stories from its guests, then that is even better. There’s no reason for a hotel to make stories up, instead hotels should have a wealth of stories and experiences to draw from. Make the story align with the strongest aspects of the hotel, whatever that may be.

4) Storytelling methods

There are a ton of different ways to tell your story, and you’ll probably find there are multiple ones that work for your situation and audience. Will you take advantage of the two-way communication that using social media offers? Maybe you’ll even put the call out to your audience to create some original content. Each hotel’s methods will depend on its audience and its goals. It’s critical that hotels have a goal that can be measured, so they can determine how effective its storytelling is. Data collecting should work to steer the storytelling strategy back on course if it needs correcting or adjustments.

5) Tell better stories by improving your writing skills

To use storytelling to increase your hotel revenue, you’ll need to be writing at a decent level. A lot of people don’t even realise where their writing weaknesses lie. Thanks to the online age, though, there are a number of effective websites out their to help professionals start writing the first chapter:

ViaWriting and MyWritingWay – Use these grammar resources to check over your copy for grammatical errors. Don’t risk leaving in mistakes that can discredit you and make you look like an amateur.
Big Assignments and Assignment Help – Check out these editing tools, they’ve been reviewed positively by Revieweal and can make your life a lot easier.
WritingPopulist and LetsGoandLearn – Read through these writing blogs and improve your knowledge about the writing process. Even if you’re an experienced writer you can find some helpful suggestions and tips here.
OXEssays and AustralianReviewer – These online proofreading tools, recommended at BestBritishEssays, are the perfect solution to leaving typos in your copy. Why risk leaving an error in when there are tools that can help?
SimpleGrad and State Of Writing – Try out these online writing guides. If you’re struggling with storytelling, there’s a good chance it’s because you’re rushing out drafts without following the proper writing process.

Guests have a myriad of options when it comes to hotels, so it’s crucial to get creative. Good storytelling can differentiate a hotel from the crowd and allow it to form an emotional connection with your audience by sharing its unique personality.

Main image credit: Pexels

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi adds new tented jungle villas

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By: Hamish Kilburn

21.02.2019

The hotel’s safari-style Tented Jungle Villas, designed by Bushtec Safari are a unique alternative to over-water accommodation…

With the trend for experiential travel continuing to evolve, luxury travellers are adapting a ‘carpe diem’ mindset, pursuing adventures that allow them to traverse the world in style. Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi has announced the launch of its safari-style Tented Jungle Villas, offering an authentic alfresco experience in the heart of the resort’s inland jungle, to unleash the explorer in every traveller. The Tented Jungle Villas, designed by South African luxury tent specialists, Bushtec Safari, house an outdoor rain shower, roll-top tub and locally sourced, rustic interiors throughout.

Image credit: Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi

Set in their own private wonderland of wilderness, the Tented Jungle Villas are built to mirror the beauty and diversity of the island’s verdant flora and fauna. Built with wooden frames, amber-toned interiors and walls swathed in white canvas, travellers have the opportunity to get closer to nature. A harmonious balance of space and seclusion, the Tented Jungle Villas house a master suite with Californian king-sized bed and en-suite bathroom, a spacious alfresco lounge, complete with handmade wooden furnishings, and a Sala for communal dining that overlooks the private pool and outdoor bath tub.

For film aficionados, private pop-up cinema screenings can be organised in the Tented Jungle Villas, showcasing cult classics and blockbusters under the stars, while adventurers can set sail to a nearby deserted island for a castaway picnic. Gourmands can head out to sea for a sunrise fishing trip and learn the art of Maldivian line fishing, before heading back to their jungle abode for a private BBQ where they can see how fresh seafood and traditional Maldivian dishes are prepared on the private decking area. Relaxation-seekers can luxuriate in a spa treatment in the privacy of the villa, or simply bask under the swaying palms and sounds of the canopy by the beach.

Opened in May 2018, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is the only resort on the pristine atoll offering 112 luxury villas, each with their own private pool. In addition to the luxury Tented Jungle Villas, the Beach and Water Villas are bohemian inspired, with rustic chic interiors, copper bathroom fittings and carved wood detailing.

Main image credit: Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal incoming this spring

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By: Hamish Kilburn

18.02.2019

Architects Lemay and Sid Lee Architecture and interior design firms Gilles & Boissier and Atelier Zébulon Perron will complete Four Seasons Hotel Montreal this spring…

Heralding the city’s world renowned festival season and the biggest sporting event in Canada, the all-new Four Seasons Hotel Montreal has announced that it is confirming reservations for arrivals beginning June 1, 2019.

“We are so excited to join with our community in welcoming Formula One fans from around the world for the 2019 Montreal Grand Prix taking place June 7 to 9. The event virtually takes over the city, and we’ll be right there in the middle of it,” says Four Seasons General Manager Gonçalo Monteiro. “And that’s just the beginning of what promises to be a summer to remember in Montreal.”

Image credit: Four Seasons Hotels

The design-led hotel is the result of a collaboration between architects Lemay and Sid Lee Architecture and interior design firms Gilles & Boissier and Atelier Zébulon Perron. The 169-key luxury Four Seasons Hotel Montreal is located downtown in the city’s Golden Mile Square, connected to Holt Renfrew Ogilvy. Just ten minutes by foot from the city’s Bell Centre, the hotel is ideally located for international visitors, regional weekenders and business travellers. In addition to MARCUS restaurant and bar, the hotel will offer an intimate spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre, a skylit indoor pool and a stunning fifth floor ballroom with outdoor terrace.

The guestrooms and suites will feature avant-garde opulence complete with chaise lounges, floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized beds and boldly designed bathrooms. The pièce de résistance is the two-bedroom presidential suite, which is positioned on the top floor.

The new Four Seasons hotel is one of nine luxury statements that the hotel group plans to open this year, including hotels in Bangkok, Athens and Costa Palmas.

The hotel group currently has 111 hotels and resorts in 47 countries – including recent openings in Desroches Island, Seychelles; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and São Paulo, Brazil.

Main image credit: Four Seasons Hotels

FIRST LOOK: Savoy Palace unveils design concept

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By: Hamish Kilburn

18.02.2019

Ahead of its highly anticipated opening this summer, Savoy Palace in Funchal has unveiled the first glimpse of its interior design concept…

Savoy Palace, Funchal, which will be refurbished and redesigned paying tribute to the island’s traditional art and culture, has unveiled the first glimpse of the new hotel. Refurbished in homage to Madeira’s traditional art and culture through its noble and eloquent interiors, the hotel will open its 352 luxury guestrooms and suites.

The new property will retain a classic style adapted for contemporary tastes with elegant, rich decorative interiors. The quality of the materials, the soft textures, along with the perfect finish will certify the hotel’s luxury feel.

The bold, curved structure is designed by the award-winning team RH+ and Nini Andrade Silva, one of Portugal’s most famous interior designers, whose work includes the new W São Paulo and Nini Design Centre Funchal.

The design is influenced by the Belle Epoque period, which is in harmony with the island’s rich resources; a dynamic blend of natural and cultural heritage. Entering the hotel will be like exploring a poetic world, where colours, textures and iconic ornaments and objects are all important.

Image credit: Savoy Palace

The aesthetic brings together several elements: the exuberant surrounding volcanic landscape, the unique man-made environment with ancient levadas (irrigation channels) and tunnels, the excellence and mastery of Madeiran embroidery, the centuries-old art of wickerwork, and the expertise involved in the productions of one of the best fortified wines in the world, Madeira wine.

The resort’s common areas are bold and inspirational with the emphasis on colour, sinuous curves suggesting plant forms, animals and women, as well as ornaments based on Art Nouveau.

The opening of the hotel will indicate that the history of Savoy Hotels & Resorts is being reinvented but the goals remain the same: consolidating and projecting the centuries-old tradition and excellence of the Savoy brand at an international level.

Make hotels more instagrammable with UNILIN

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By: Hamish Kilburn

15.02.2019

A recent British survey suggests that more than 40 per cent of millennials choose their holiday destination based on its Instragammability, so what can you do to make hotel interiors more instagrammable? UNILIN explains…

To find out, UNILIN, division panels, makers of Evola decorative panels have turned to Kel Wouters of So Buzzy, a social media marketing agency that counts Crowne Plaza Antwerp and Hotel BLOOM, among its clients.

“Instagram can give your hotel additional awareness and reach, and often just a small investment can have a major impact,” begins Wouters. “Hotels that are shared frequently are ‘top of mind’ and people will want to stay there and populate their own feed from the same place. It’s a positive circle for any hotel that can crack Instagram.”

Starting small can often reap surprising rewards. A simple yet amusing slogan on the wall of the entrance to washrooms at The Hotel’s (Brussels) restaurant reading ‘men to the left because women are always right’, became one of its most Instagrammed spots. Designers can use UNILIN Evola panels to such effect, choosing from 168 designs as the perfect backdrop to a ‘grammable’ slogan, or even creating a unique ‘selfie spot’ with custom digital print technology available on UNILIN’s HPL, melamine and edging tape.

Wouters continues: “Check what your audience is sharing and looking at on Instagram and respond to that when designing your spot. Think about light in the area and test it out beforehand. Ensure there’s an obvious link to your hotel. If guests are sharing your selfie spot but no one knows that it’s in your hotel, then it’s a wasted opportunity; share your account at the location and encourage people to use a hashtag.”

UNILIN can offer office space designers a flexible way to approach the entire fabric of their Instagram spot – walls, partitions, furniture and surface treatment – with different looks that all possess the same low-maintenance, splash-proof, scratch-resistant, fade-resistant and durable finish. perfect for giving any selfie spot a ‘loveable’ look and joining Evola in 106 matching decors, ClicWall is UNILIN’s instantly transformative wall panel system.

“Interior designers also need to look at what’s currently popular on Instagram, although they need to be careful with temporary trends. Replaceable accessories are the key. The ball chairs at Hotel BLOOM! regularly get new cushions in different colours to create a whole new vibe, and arty objects throughout the hotel are replaced at regular intervals,” concludes Wouters.

UNILIN Evola and ClicWall panels can be used as the perfect, lasting backdrop for any hotel looking to make itself more Instragammable.

UNILIN is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

FINAL CALL FOR ENTRIES: 30 Under 30

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By: Hamish Kilburn

14.02.2019

The deadline for entries for Hotel Designs’ 30 Under 30 initiative is tomorrow…

Time is running out for interior designers, architects and hoteliers to submit their entries for the 30 Under 30 list that will be unveiled at Meet Up London: 30 Under 30.

Styled by Minotti London and hosted at the luxury furniture company’s luxury showroom, the event has launched the list with the aim is to bridge the age gap between interior designers, architects, hoteliers and key-industry suppliers.

How to apply for the 30 Under 30 list

If you are/or know of a deserving designer, architect or hotelier who is 30 years old or younger, please send in your application/nomination to: h.kilburn@forumevents.co.uk with the following:

200-400 word bio, which acknowledges achievements to date and why you/he/she deserves to be recognised
Name of company you/he/she currently works for
Profile image

Deadline: February 15, 2019

The final 30 will be confirmed to attend the event on March 28 with Hotel Designs‘ compliments and the winners will be notified in due course ahead of the networking evening.

How to attend Meet Up London: 30 Under 30

If you are a supplier to the hospitality industry looking to attend the event, contact Zoe Guerrier on 01992 374059 or on z.guerrier@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

If you are an interior designer or architect and would like to attend the Hotel Designs Meet Up London: 30 Under 30, click here to confirm your attendance.

Exclusive style partner: Minotti London

Exclusive headline partner: Hamilton Litestat

Final call for entries: Shaw Contract Design Awards 2019

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By: Hamish Kilburn

13.02.2019

The deadline for entries is March 1, 2019…

A global programme, the Shaw Contract Design Awards recognise the creative vision of the architects and designers who inspire new ways of living, working, learning and healing. The Awards place a spotlight on a diverse range of talents from across the globe, celebrating design in action and purposefully rewarding the innovative and truly inspiring work being done by the architecture and design community.

The Shaw Contract Design Awards programme is open to all professional interior design firms, architecture firms and end users. Projects must feature a Shaw Contract product as the predominant flooring in the space and must have been completed between February 2017 and February 2019. There is no cost to enter you just need to submit your design story by March 1, 2019.

Supporting a cause

In its 14 years, the Shaw Contract Design Awards Programme has given nearly $200,000 to non-profit and charitable organisations around the world. Each year, the final winners and People’s Choice Award winner select a charity of their choice to donate $2000 USD as part of their prize winnings. This allows designers the opportunity to make an impact beyond the built environment.

Fokkema & Partners Architecten Bv, the Netherlands-based firm whose work drew the judges’ attention for a win in the Small Office category, chose a cause that was near and dear to their firm. A former colleague oversees the construction of schools in Tanzania, and the firm chose to support her work with their winnings.

RossTarrant Architects, the People’s Choice Award winner, designed Western Kentucky University, USA and chose to give back to the Institution’s science and experimentation programmes.

For a chance to win the 2019 Design Awards and support the cause that matters most to your practice or company, please enter here.

From Concept to Completion: Restoring a 19th-century house to create Plaza 18 (part two)

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By: Hamish Kilburn

12.02.2019

In the second article in the series, From Concept to Completion, we delve deeper into the design story of Plaza 18. Interior designer Nicky Dobree speaks to editor Hamish Kilburn on the final stages of the journey to complete her first hotel…

In part two of our From Concept to Completion series, where we are closely following the design story of Plaza 18, Dobree’s first hotel project is beginning to take form. The building’s design is approaching the final stages before the grand reveal this Easter. Meanwhile, interior designer Nicky Dobree is able to step away from the project for five minutes – something I believe the designer is not accustomed to – in order to explain more about her relationship with the soon-to-be hotel.

With just a couple of months until the scheduled opening, the bulk of challenges have been rectified and Dobree’s original sketches are taking shape. However, like with many of these projects, the journey hasn’t been a simple one. “The property was a listed building and we had to apply for a change of use too,” Dobree explains. “The combination of both these requirements made it a particularly difficult process and we had to sell our vision. The process has taken a frustratingly long five years. We had a clear view of what we wanted to achieve and have managed to open up the space to work as a hotel and avoid poky corridors and dark corners,” she adds.

Through the painful months which turned to years, Dobree was able to use the time as an opportunity to connect with the project, which leads me to ask the question all designers arguably fear the most. “My favourite area of the hotel,” she considers scanning the site. “I think it is probably the patio with its sweeping staircase and communal area at the heart of the building breathing air, light and vitality into the hotel. “It invites you to rest, take a breath, look up and around to absorb the structure of the building. Another favourite area is the roof top with its incredible views across towards Morocco.”

Considering the hotel’s location, with its strong sense-of-place local architecture and colours, blending design and functionality has been the starting point of every design decision when creating Plaza 18. “We have worked with the building and the spaces that it provides, accentuating its best features and incorporating the needs of modern living,” Dobree unveils. “The overall aesthetic is pure, elegant and comfortable,” which is a description I totally conquer with.”

In part one of the series, in a quickfire round, Dobree admitted that her biggest bugbear was non-surprisingly bad lighting. Therefore, I am eager to understand the lighting direction of Plaza 18 and how she has natural and artificial elements to highlight the hotel’s unmistakable personality. “We are lucky to be in a spacious and bright building, so daytime light plays its ways through the space as the sun moves through the day,” she explains. “The large central sky light in the patio lets the light pour in. There are windows on both the north and the south of the building too so nowhere is it dark and poky. To provide a soft evening light, we have used lamps and wall lights.”

“The overall aesthetic is pure, elegant and comfortable.” – Nicky Dobree

One of the most interesting elements about Plaza 18 is the fact that it will shelter just six bedrooms. “They are not six individual personalities per se but each room has been individually designed so that they each have their own personality,” explains Dobree. “The bedrooms are not, as in so many hotels, just a repeat of the room next door.”

Lifting the lid on the suppliers that she has used for her first hotel, Dobree explains: “Combined with marble and Spanish ceramics, we have used Lefroy Brooks in the bathrooms. We have kept the reclaimed tiles in the patio and laid timber floors elsewhere. Regarding the fabrics, we have turned to Pierre Frey, Ralph Lauren, and many of our other favourite suppliers. In the bedroom, there is exquisite bed linen from Italy in which to sink into at the end of each day. The furniture, meanwhile, is a mix of vintage finds and more contemporary pieces.”

As Dobree continues to design Plaza 18 ahead of its highly anticipated opening, I am beginning to realise the personal connection Dobree has on all projects that she sensitively touches.

Technology expert Jason Bradbury reviews Eccleston Square Hotel in the future

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By: Hamish Kilburn

05.02.2019

HD

Technology expert Jason Bradbury reviews Eccleston Square Hotel in the future

We’re living back to front. As technology marches inexorably forward, gaining speed at an exponential rate, it seems that the simple and the authentic have more value than ever before.

The resurgence of vinyl is a great example of this, independent coffee shops and organic grocers too – and so is a certain type of boutique hotel. In order to understand what a night in the hotel room of the future might be like, it’s necessary to appreciate why many of the standout disruptors in the current market are looking backwards, hiding their high-tech flaunts and instead focussing on experiences and simply good service.

Eccleston Square Hotel in London was the setting for my experiment in hotel room time travel. It’s a fine example of how well integrated smart technology can enhance a stay. Notable in-room features include LED clear-to-opaque glass in the bathroom, gestural lighting controls, a massaging bed and an improbably positioned outside/inside courtyard. All of these elements are design decisions that will have echoes in the rooms we will choose to book in the year 2049 (although few will have the Eccleston’s claim of being mere steps away from Winston Churchill’s front door).

Image of in-room ipad next to lighting controls

Image credit: Ecclestone Hotel London

“The hotel room of the future will still rely heavily on technology, but it will be engineered for invisibility.”

30 years from now, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) that is currently the subject of deep moral conjecture will be commonplace. All retail, education, medicine, travel and data-centric areas of our lives will be handled by our personal Block-Chain driven A.Is. Much of our entertainment will be virtual visualisations; what we now call Augmented and Virtual Reality, immersive movies and games so convincing they’ll be indistinguishable from reality. It’s logical, therefore, to assume that when the mundane in life is handled by our personal A.I assistant and our persistent screen experience digital, we’ll seek out authenticity as an escape.

The hotel room of the future will still rely heavily on technology, but it will be engineered for invisibility. The down-lighters and wall switches that are currently in hotels will be replaced by neuro and mood interpreting imaging, ambient and natural light emulation, aimed at inducing calm and/or focus. Glass wall room dividers won’t just switch to opaque, they’ll transform into shimmering living jungle walls or expansive movie screens or personalised news feeds created by holographic projection. Think Minority Report, but without the need for gloves.

Image credit: Eccleston Square Hotel, London

In order to get a handle on all this future gazing, it’s sometimes helpful to have tangible examples to hand. The recently launched Magic Leap mixed reality headset offers insight into how a futuristic hotel room could be brought or augmented with ultra-high definition virtual assets. By 2049, several exponential leaps up the curve, the headset might be unnecessary, imaging handled by a projector and a glass room divider infused with highly refractive silver particles.

That’s entertainment, but what about the health and wellness opportunities offered by the hotel room of the next decade?

“Beyond just heating, far infrared light offers all manner of health benefits including immune system support, helping to alleviate stress, psoriasis and relieving joint and muscle pain.”

Astectherm is an example of an advanced technology that predicts the kind of hybrid between practical and health orientated benefits that might find itself in the guestroom in 10 years from now. I was able to install a working sample of this thin, flexible infrared thermal heating fabric between the electrically operated curtains during my Eccleston Square Hotel stay. More usually, lengths of Astectherm would be installed in walls or under floor and ceilings. Beyond just heating, far infrared light offers all manner of health benefits including immune system support, helping to alleviate stress, psoriasis and relieving joint and muscle pain. This system is an excellent example of an invisible technology that could offer in-room, spa-like health and wellness advantages for the future hotel room user checking in.

Hyper-personalisation will drive much high-end retail and leisure experiences in the future. The 3D printers that are still mainly the preserve of industry today will perhaps print bespoke, nutritionally focused meals in the kitchens of tomorrow. In order to compete, a morning in an Eccelston Square Hotel room circa 2049 will, for example, have to offer a high-end personalised breakfast and coffee experience. To give a sense of where our future caffeine fixes might come from, I tested the Ikawa Personal Coffee roaster in my room. As well as infusing the suite with a gorgeous aroma of freshly roasted green coffee beans, the tiny app-controlled machine offers concrete insight into the quick, delicious and bespoke snacks and meals we will come to expect in the near-future. In future in-room coffee machines, the ingredients will be determined by a stool and urine analysing toilet and other health monitoring wearables. If your morning bathroom routine flags a rise in your inflammatory markers, you might find turmeric in your freshly-roasted, non-dairy latte.

Image caption: Ikawa Personal Coffee Roaster – thanks to coffee gurus @Steampunkcoffeemachine & @Anyalou and Ben from imperialteas.co.uk

While we currently have the Apple Watch, in the future we’ll see far more discrete wearables, which will offer a much deeper insight into our general wellness. Take sleep for example, a critical part of any hotel room experience. At the moment, Some hotels offer a vague ‘good night guarantee’ based on little more than firm pillows. Eccleston Square Hotel already takes its bedtime more seriously than most, but as well as a mood lighting and an electronically adjustable bed, in 10 years time its beds might map guests’ REM and movement signatures. They high-tech beds might compare them to a block-chain powered pattern from thousands of my previous nights’ sleep, cross-referenced with a range of biological and psychological markers, blood sugar readings from bathroom analysis and wearables and even neurological data. And if this is all sounding a little too Sci-Fi, I took the liberty of installing a Nokia Smart Sleep sensor in my Eccleston Square hotel bed.

“The app data showed a high ‘Sleep Quality’ score of 90 per cent, only twenty seconds of snoring and a longer period of ‘deep sleep’ than on previous nights at home testing it.”

Perhaps it was exhaustion from setting up all the gadgets- or the massage – but the app data showed a high ‘Sleep Quality’ score of 90 per cent, only twenty seconds of snoring and a longer period of ‘deep sleep’ than on previous nights at home testing it. This level of detail, while insightful today will seem laughably trivial in ten years, but again, Nokia’s gadget is a fine example of where we’re heading.

Image Caption: Nokia Sleep Sensor. 2. Bed’s Massage Remote Control

The Eccleston Square Hotel has several rooms with distinctive private outdoor spaces. It achieves this by cleverly slicing up what would be larger areas and then giving each outdoor triangle the perception of space with large mirrored walls. This is another precursor to a future trend; the use of spacial sensory imaging, both auditory and visual, to create outdoor experiences, but on a considerably smaller scale. Looking beyond 2049 and it’s not implausible to imagine something like a Star Trek holodeck that transforms a tiny 24m² courtyard into an infinite forest in which you can jog by virtue of a 360° treadmill.

Image caption: Courtyard in Eccleston Square Hotel Room showing outside mirrored wall

It’s a contradiction for sure, but technology will deliver what the hotel guest of the future will desire most, authenticity. The design ethos, eco and energy awareness, food and customer service expectations of the discerning hotel guest a decade hence will still be central to their choice. What will change is the availability of bespoke, luxury personalised services, many of which will have echoes of a bygone age, a time when the gadgets that distract us today hadn’t been invented. Of course there will be no obvious gadgets in the hotel room of the future, just ‘real’ services and experiences. And when reality can’t be delivered, we’ll be happy to accept the perception of it.

Jason Bradbury can booked for futurology talks at jla.co.uk and found on YouTube & Instagram. Thanks also to the lovely staff at Eccleston Square Hotel.

Main image credit: Twitter @JasonBradbury/Eccleston Square Hotel London

Editor checks in: January ’19

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By: Hamish Kilburn

31.01.2019

When two trendy worlds collide in January…

Excitement and optimism are both thick in the January air. My train carriage on the Eurostar is full to the brim of creative people. Half the passengers on board are interior designers on their way, like me, to Maison&Objet. The other half are fashionistas, bloggers and journalists preparing to arrive at Men’s Paris Fashion Week. Two worlds collide to converge in conversations around this season’s must-see designers and emerging trends to keep an eye on. It reminds me of yesterday when I published my exclusive interview with lighting designer to the stars, Moritz Waldemeyer. In 2007, the young, enthusiastic Waldemeyer found himself in the same unfamiliar setting when fashion legend Hussein Chayalan asked him to create a lighting installation unlike any other for one of the shows.

11 years on from Waldemeyer’s first dip into high fashion and, while trends have shifted, the core of our creative business remains concrete; we are never afraid to knock on doors to chase inspirational ideas.

Ever since 1995, when the show first launched, Maison&Objet has powerfully set the industry up for the year. Yes, recently have witnessed somewhat more of an upsurge in attendees compared to early years, but the show has always given apt context to many of the discussions that ripple through the rest of the 11 months as things undoubtedly develop from the ‘trends’ that ping through to our inboxes on January 1.

“Investigating three separate luxury travel markets over three weeks (aviation, rail and cruise ships), we launched the series Hotels At New Heights.”

Altering course for a moment in order to explore which other worlds are in fact colliding, the cruise industry in recent years has been reaching out to more and more hotel designers to imagine the interiors of future fleets. Investigating three separate luxury travel markets over three weeks (aviation, rail and cruise ships), we launched the series Hotels At New Heights with the aim to understand how our industry can benefit from coming together with other markets.

At the core of all of these topics, bringing the loose strands of ideas together through conversation, is networking. Following the success of Meet Up North and The Brit List 2018, I am proud to announce that our Meet Up London: 30 Under 30 event will take place in Fitzrovia’s trendy neighbourhood on March 28 at Minotti London’s stylish showroom. The deadline for suppliers, designers, hoteliers and architects to claim their early bird tickets is fast approaching (February 7), so click here to purchase your tickets.

I look forward to continuing this adventurous journey with you as Hotel Designs itself prepares to enter a new chapter.

Editor, Hotel Designs

Nine Hotel Group opens DoubleTree by Hilton in 19th Century Mill House

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By: Hamish Kilburn

28.01.2019

With more and more hotels opening in heritage shells, Nine Hotel Group announces the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton hotel Reading M4 J10 in a 19th century mill house…

Vivek Chadha – of Nine Hotel Group – purchased the Best Western Grade II listed mill house in 2017 and has spent £4 million on the redevelopment, rebranding the hotel to a DoubleTree by Hilton and expanding its facilities.

Now open to the public, the 129-key hotel is conveniently situated on the edge of Reading Town Centre, Providing the ideal base for both business and leisure travellers, the hotel is predicted to bring an influx of people to the area as well as providing luxurious amenities for the local community.

Included in the development is the construction of a 300-person capacity ballroom complete with a large banqueting facility for weddings, giving the hotel a total of five function rooms for groups looking to host events or business meetings.

Inside the historic mill, the bedrooms boast traditional characteristics such as classic wooden beams, and the Godfather & Co Restaurant – part of the original mill – has the River Loddon flowing beneath.

The renovation of this hotel has kept the traditional and distinctive character all of which is set on 10.5 acres of natural landscape, while boasting modern amenities such as a 24-hour fitness centre.

Those looking for a local country pub can visit the onsite Poachers Pub to sample real ales in a cosy atmosphere, complete with real log fires. The Godfather & Co Restaurant proudly sources local produce, and you can also pay a visit to the Whisky Charlie Lounge where you can enjoy the hotel’s very own local cocktail, The Lion of Sindlesham.

Speaking about the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading M4 J10 refurbishment, Vivek Chadha, Managing Director and founder of Nine Hotel Group, said: “I’m proud to bring the unique Nine Group ethos to the area and I look forward to seeing the hotel prosper. The property was selected for redevelopment as it is part of local history, rich in character and period features. It now boasts premium facilities for the discerning guest whether they are visiting for business or pleasure.”

The latest addition to DoubleTree by Hilton, one of Hilton’s 15 market-leading brands, marks the first DoubleTree property in Reading and joins an existing 50 DoubleTree by Hilton hotels in the United Kingdom.

Main image credit: Hilton Hotels/Nine Hotel Group

Hotel lighting in the cruise vessels of the future

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By: Hamish Kilburn

28.01.2019

In response to the final article in the series, Hotels at New Heights, Chelsom Lighting shares its expertise on how it has helped to light the cruise vessels of the future…

Sailing the world’s oceans on one of today’s state of the art cruise ships is just as luxurious and flamboyant as it was on one of the great liners from a hundred years ago. The boundaries of marine interior design, like international hotel design, are constantly being expanded by the world’s top design practices and the scope of things to do on board. The result is that many ships are beginning to surpasses many land based hotels and resorts. It’s no wonder the whole cruise industry is booming with millions of satisfied passengers returning year after year. However, in terms of decorative products which contribute to such amazing interiors, there could hardly be a harsher environment with its pitching seas, salt air and constant motion. It takes a certain kind of design, a certain range of skills, an amount of specialist technical knowledge and a lot of commitment to successfully service such a demanding industry.

Light and airy interiors in the cruise ship

Image credit: Crystal Cruise

Product design

The interior designers who create the spectacular interiors of today’s ships are real specialists in their field. They have an overall brief to be extravagant, breath taking, original and awe inspiring and in the case of public areas they can work on a massive scale within the huge spaces which can sometimes transcend three or four decks. Subtle and understated are rarely the design watchwords so there is often the need for sparkle, drama and statement. The product designer must embrace these interior concepts and interpret them so that they function perfectly within the marine environment. Nothing must be allowed to sway about in rough seas, components must not vibrate, everything must be bolted down so it never falls over, weight restrictions must be considered and installation or maintenance must be as simple as possible. For cabins, space is often a driving feature so scaling down individual components whilst still maintaining perfect ambient light levels is important. Switching and dimming options are also usually essential.

Team work

As a specialist marine lighting supplier, we respect our role as just one of the huge teams of contractors ensuring that a cruise ship has stunning interiors with product that functions perfectly over a long period in a challenging environment. Our team work extends to collaborating with interior designers, lighting designers, shipyards, outfitters and cruise operators all around the world. Whereas a hotel stays where it is, there is a date on which a ship sails away and everybody in the team focusses 100 per cent on that date which is final!

Image credit: Regent Seven Seas

Technical

Some of the manufacturing and structural technicalities of marine lighting are testing to say the least but lighting technology itself plays an ever increasing role in cruise interiors. Energy saving light sources are of course mandatory but colour rendering, colour changing, easily controlled dimming and remote switching are all increasingly important and indeed successful. Mostly it’s about creating the most luxurious and inviting ambience but it’s also about ease of lighting control and ease of maintenance. We work as part of the team of marine experts to bring all the lighting requirements to fruition.

Installation

There can be literally thousands of contractors on a ship at any one time when it is in build. Every one of them is working diligently to complete their own task whilst cooperating with all those around them so nothing gets in the way or delays some other part of the process. We have our own specialist and qualified marine installation team who will be on board at the right time to take delivery of our lighting products, assemble on site, install and commission. This on board presence not only allows successful installation but also allows any last minute adjustment or changes which can occur due to the sheer scale and complexity of the working environment.

Chelsom is a 70 year old company with vast experience in the cruise ship sector. Its knowledge of and close relationship with the industry’s specialist interior design practices, shipyards and operators gives us the closest possible understanding of what the industry needs. The company’s own in-house marine specialists in product design, manufacture and installation ensure that it meets those needs. Chelsom is proud to be one of the world’s leading manufacturers of marine lighting today.

Chelsom are one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. If you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

Main image credit: Chelsom/Harmony of the Seas

Round Wood Of Mayfield launches ÖÖD house in the UK

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By: Hamish Kilburn

25.01.2019

The state-of-the-art mirrored building, ÖÖD house, offers the chance to instantly create or enhance a hotel or Airbnb business…

The ÖÖD house – a stunning, 18 sq/m mini home clad in mirrored glass which blends to its natural surroundings – has been added to Round Wood of Mayfield’s collection of high end outdoor structures.

Originally envisaged as a “pop up” hotel guest room or Airbnb pad by Estonian company ÖÖD, it is now exclusively distributed and assembled by the timber and landscape specialists across the UK.

The stand-alone living space for both commercial and domestic clients, which also make ideal office spaces, guest accommodation or even yoga studios, blends beautifully into any setting courtesy of the striking insulated glazing that covers the front and sides.

surfer reflecting off the surface of the OOD House

Image credit: Round Wood of Mayfield

Other highlights include eco-friendly thermo treated ash cladding to the rear of the structure, which cleverly conceals a service void, and a beautifully finished interior which offers a studio layout with kitchenette and bathroom as well as air conditioning and LED lighting.

A smaller structure – the ÖÖD room is also available exclusively from Round Wood of Mayfield and offers stand-alone recreational spaces without the cost of shower, kitchen and sleeping facilities.

Round Wood of Mayfield officially launched the ÖÖD house at The Landscape Show last September at London’s Battersea Park, with an example now in situ at Lime Cross Nursery in East Sussex which potential customers can view, or even stay in, before purchasing.

Image credit: Round Wood of Mayfield

The ÖÖD company explains that“ÖÖD allows anyone to jump-start their hospitality business. It quickly enables people to create a living space or start an accommodation business. The outstanding design of our house supports the productivity of your investment.”

“We are really excited to add ÖÖD Houses to our collection as their only UK distributor,” Zac Soudain, director of Round Wood. “It was clear at the launch that these glass-fronted houses really have the wow factor and could be used for many purposes including guest accommodation to garden rooms to offices… they have been generating a lot of excitement.

“Where they really come into their own is in a rural or natural landscape such as where our example ÖÖD house can be viewed at Lime Cross Nursery – it has been kept there since the launch so potential customers can try before they buy.

“For anyone in the hotel and hospitality industry, these ÖÖD houses can provide some very luxurious and novel guest rooms with a fantastic view of the landscape.”

The ÖÖD house, which is available to purchase from £55,000, is easy to install and can be delivered on a lorry before being craned into place, or built on site if access is an issue.

The ÖÖD room is available from £45,000 and comes with air conditioning and standard LED lighting.

For more information please contact Round Wood of Mayfield on 01435 860260 or visit our website www.roundwood.com

Round Wood of Mayfield is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

Main image credit: Round Wood of Mayfield

Hotels at New Heights: suites on the high seas

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By: Hamish Kilburn

24.01.2019

To conclude our series, Hotels at New Heights, Hamish Kilburn investigates why more and more hotel designers are taking to the seas to design the luxury cruise vessels’ suites of the future…

Somewhere between Myanmar and Phuket, in the Andaman Sea, my perception of luxury cruises shifted from that of a cliché to feeling very much part of an exclusive club. In what felt like a blink of an eye on board Seabourn Sojourn, while watching an unpolluted starry sky meet the horizon, I realised that I was in my own little ‘one-off experience’ moment, which was totally unmatched by any hotel on the planet – no matter how luxurious.

In just a handful of days, our short voyage took us to four countries until we eventually arrived in the bright lights of Singapore. We docked just in time to attend the naming ceremony of Seabourn’s latest ship, the Encore. With interiors imagined by award-winning designer Adam Tihany, who is best known for working on hotel projects such as The Beverly hills Hotel, Mandarin Oriental London and Four Seasons Dubai Financial Centre, it was clear that the luxury cruise liner was daring to be different in order to cater to the growing demand for luxury travel.

Seabourn Encore/Ovation

From impeccable finishes and bespoke fittings to the hand-picked art, the Encore was the beginning of a new design direction for the Seabourn brand with a few elements remaining the same, such as the iconic hot tub positioned on the bow. Tihany’s sharp vision provided comfort and familiarity of an on-board living room. The atrium included an elliptical double-helix staircase that connects seven floors and was complete with a six-storey art installation that, again, reiterated the design inspiration of Seabourn’s effortless luxury style.

Public areas that are large with a mix of furniture

Image credit: Seabourn Ovation/Adam Tihany Studio

Ever since then, the industry has evolved and expanded as a result of travellers being prepared to go further to explore beyond just one beach, city or a destination. In 2017, a total of 25.8 million passengers boarded cruise ships to travel, which is 4.9 million more passengers than in 2012. With this great demand comes great responsibility. The leading luxury cruise liners as we knew it had to, with a splash of irony, charter themselves into new waters in order to seek inspirational interior designers to work on creating their up-market future fleet of ships.

“‘Experience’ has become the buzzword for the hospitality industry. Guests are no longer focused on traditional expectations but are looking for interior spaces that have been tailored to their own unique interests and aspirations,” explained Tihany when discussing how the latest design-led cruises are changing the hospitality arena. “Whether it be within the comfort of a suite or through a transformative dining experience, the changes within the cruise world bring to light a current momentum I call the Age of Design, which continues to move the dial in all areas of hospitality.”

Suite on board Seabourn Ovation with large bed and calming interiors

Image credit: Seabourn Ovation/Adam Tihany Studio

While Tihany continued to wave his interior designer wand on Seabourn’s luxurious fleet, with the launch of Ovation last year, other celebrated hotel designers were also receiving ambitious briefs in order to take luxury cruise ship design to new heights.

P&O Britannia / P&O Iona

Richmond International became the first interior design firm to be selected to help reimagine the interiors for P&O Cruises directly because of its impressive luxury hotel portfolio. Director Terry McGillicuddy was given the somewhat unusual task to design the entire interiors for the P&O Britannia vessel, which took its maiden voyage in 2015. “This opened up opportunities for a whole-ship holistic integrated design approach,” he explained. “And allowed us to integrate a consistent design thread whilst maintaining the individuality and integrity of each space.”

“Richmond loved this challenge after decades in land based hospitality design; this has become a huge part of our business.” – Terry McGillicuddy, Director, Richmond International.

Despite the firm having led interior design projects such as The Beaumont, Langham London and Sandy Lane in Barbados, the team were required to adapt their design processes in order to comply with certain marine regulations, as McGillicuddy explains: “We needed to learn the specifics to Marine Works Regulations and certifications, respecting International Safety of Life at Seas (SOLAS) rules, and a whole new ‘ship’ language.

Image caption/credit: Render from Richmond International of Balcony Cabin on board P&O Iona

“It was also crucial to understand the differences between the interior fit out process of the ship, which is a metal construction ‘panel’ based system throughout. We had to appreciate the limitations in terms of space constrictions and minimal ceiling heights, and design the interior around these issues.

“Due to restrictions on weight and different fire regulations, material specification was also a challenge. We looked at new suppliers and manufacturing processes, which have the approved IMO certification for marine use.

“All of these new parameters were exciting to learn whilst respecting the very tight turnaround times in the build program. Richmond loved this challenge after decades in land based hospitality design; this has become a huge part of our business.”

Following the success of P&O Britannia, Richmond International, together with interior design and architecture firm Jestico + Whiles, were awarded the opportunity to design the interiors for the new ship, Iona. Expected to launch in 2020, with the distinct aim to “bring the outside in,” Iona is expected to feel more like a large resort than a conventional cruise ship. With a glass dome roof and spacious layout throughout, the vessel will be flooded with natural light. “Guests are now expecting more state-of-the-art vessels, exclusive destinations and authentic ‘memorable’ experiences; interior design must respond to and support these demands,” said McGillicuddy. “This can result in cruise ships evolving to a more ‘resort’ like experience and the design more focused on the deployment markets or passenger origins. This can bring in local and cultural design requirements which we can leverage from our hotel heritage.”

Straddling both interior design and architecture, Jestico + Whiles, unveiled its design for a new atrium concept on board P&O Cruises’ next generation of ship, Iona. The design of the soaring triple-height Grand Atrium is described as the heart of the vessel, complete with panoramic views across ever-changing waters. “The sea becomes the focus of the triple-height space; the sinuous curves are shaped around it, framing and complementing the views to the outside, said James Dilley, Director of Jestico + Whiles. “Despite the challenge of such a large space, we have worked closely with P&O Cruises to make the Grand Atrium harmonious with the separate venues, making the space both open and intimate.”

Image caption: Render courtesy of Jestico + Whiles showing the large atrium inside P&O Cruises’ Iona

An elegant, arcing staircase of Italian marble with a polished, filigree silver balustrade serves as the centrepiece to the space, evoking the glamour of the iconic cruise ships of the 20th century. Designed as a piece of sculptural architecture, its curving form guides guests on a journey through the decks offering changing views and perspectives of the sea and activity within, encouraging everyone to explore the variety of destinations on board.

Celebrity Edge

Following its maiden voyage on December 9 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, all eyes seem to be focused on the Celebrity Edge cruise ship. The 1,467 staterooms, including 176 suites, on board have been designed by the award-winning luxury interior designer Kelly Hoppen. In addition to the laid-back luxurious accommodation, Hoppen also designed the Retreat Sundeck and The Retreat Lounge and Luminae, which is the suite-class restaurant.

“Celebrity Edge is definitely a ship of the future – nothing like this has ever been done in this industry before. I was so honoured to be part of something this groundbreaking and it was a challenge for me to do something that no one had ever done before,” explained Hoppen. “The craftsmanship and quality that Celebrity Cruises follows is second to none and their reputation for innovations in the industry is already renowned so it was an incredibly exciting project to work on.”

Hoppen’s stylish interiors proved so popular that they are now being rolled out across the fleet as part of a $500 million investment called the Celebrity Revolution.

Image caption: Iconic Suite Cat IC – Master Bedroom – Room #12100 Deck 12 Forward Starboard
Celebrity EDGE – Celebrity Cruises

The architect on the project, Tom Wright, whose impressive portfolio includes projects as grand as the Burj Al Arab, pushed design boundaries by unveiling the world’s first cantilevered deck on the vessel. The elevating deck, or Magic Carpet as it is being called, can move up and down the ship’s exterior with the ability to dock at four separate levels. The concept of its interiors, designed by Hoppen, transforms into many settings. When it is positioned at Deck two, for example, it becomes a luxury entrance foyer. However, when it moves to Deck 16, it becomes a high-dining experience.

Image credit: Designed by architect Tom Wright, the Magic Carpet is the world’s first cantilevered deck

Design studio Jouin Manku also worked on the interior spaces inside Celebrity Edge. On board, the studio imagined The Grand Plaza, which is the Main Dining Atrium as well as the connecting circulation spaces. Designers Sanjit Manku and Patrick Jouin came to the Celebrity Edge project with a sense of excitement and wonder, and the desire to capture the magic of travelling by sea. Inspired by the glamour and adventure of the pre-war era of travel, they sought to transform this experience for the 21st century.

Meanwhile, the three-storey Eden bar and restaurant stretches across the stern of the vessel and is complete with striking spaces of dark greens, brass and palms.

Aside from the water slides, zip-wires and other sensational headline-grabbing features on board the giants of the seas, there is a larger picture. With the cruise industry now leaning on leading hotel designers to imagine their future fleets, the lanes between luxury hotel design and luxury cruise ship design are coming together. In August of last year, the cruise industry hit new records, reporting a total of 113 ships on the orderbook to be introduced between now and 2027, with Seabourn, Princess, TUI and Lindblad among them. With the demand for cruise ships at an all time high, more and more award-winning hotel designers are seeing this market as one of ample opportunity, taking international hotel design on its maiden voyage for an unforgettable journey.

Throughout this series, Hotels at New Heights, we have investigated how other luxury markets are working to design their future territories. The aim of this series has been to understand how hotel designers and architects can continue to challenge conventional design in order to help lead the hospitality market with clear innovation and thinking outside the box.

To read article one, Hotels at New Heights: Suites in the Sky, click here. To read article two, Hotels at New Heights: Rooms on rails, click here.

If you would like to collaborate on future series’ and articles that are similar to these, please tweet us @HotelDesigns

Main image credit: Celebrity Edge/Kelly Hoppen

BISQUE debuts its first ever traditional line of radiators

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By: Hamish Kilburn

14.01.2019

Taking a turn for tradition, Hotel Designs’ Recommended Supplier BISQUE launches timeless radiators…

Pioneering designer radiator brand Bisque has, for the last four decades, represented the pinnacle of cutting-edge, contemporary design; however, for the first time, the luxury firm has announced its inaugural range of traditional towel radiators for use in classic bathroom designs.

The collection – comprising the Buckingham, Osbourne and Balmoral models – has been carefully designed with a timeless aesthetic in mind, without compromising on performance or output.

black and white room with traditional radiator

Image caption: Buckingham Range by BISQUE

To start, the Buckingham (pictured above) is a transitional wall-mounted design, as suitable for modern bathrooms as it is traditional rooms. It is made from chromed brass, and can be used on both central heating and hot water systems, further adding to its flexibility. Customers will recognise the customary ball joints, more commonly found on older radiators, but this time benefitting from Bisque’s class-leading heating technology. Customers can also choose from three deluxe finishes – bright nickel, brass and antique bronze – alongside a further six finishes in Bisque’s repertoire.

Next up, the Osbourne is a floor-mounted model, similar in style to its sister radiator, the Balmoral. Offering plenty of space for luxurious towels, it is an equally stylish option for industrial-style homes and loft bathrooms thanks to its antique look.

Image caption: Osbourne range by BISQUE

Finally, the Victorian-style Balmoral is best suited for vintage-inspired interiors. It not only heats the space, but keeps towels crisp and dry thanks to a large, roomy hanging rail to store even the plumpest of linens. Once again, the Balmoral features recognisable ball joints and is available in Bisque’s gorgeous selection of colourways.

The three new designs mark a real turning point for the brand and present customers with a luxury towel radiator which matches style for substance. Being Bisque, innovation and performance is at the forefront of the new collection; while the new designs may look ‘traditional’, there’s nothing old-fashioned about their performance. Bisque uses only the very best materials available to ensure all three designs offer customers an impressive output, and a radiator that will stand the test of time. Meanwhile, Bisque continues to offer the widest selection of designer radiators on the market, from school-style models to eco-friendly options, not to mention its made-to-measure or colour-matching service.

BISQUE is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

From Concept to Completion: Restoring a 19th-century house to create Plaza 18 (part one)

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By: Hamish Kilburn

08.01.2019

Hotel Designs has vowed to follow interior designer Nicky Dobree as she works towards opening the soulfully restored doors of Plaza 18. In the first article in the series, Hamish Kilburn exclusively catches up with Dobree to establish the plans for her first hotel project…

Up until now, Nicky Dobree has been known and celebrated for her talent in restoring luxury ski chalets, villas and contemporary residential interiors. In 2003, her first chalet conversion, a 300 year old alpine farmhouse, was followed by Grand Designs Abroad and described by presenter Kevin McCloud as the “ultimate James Bond pad” and in so doing set a new benchmark for chalet design. Moving on from 007’s ideal alpine bachelor estate, Dobree has recently turned her attention to the luxury hotel design scene – in particular to one building in Andalucía.

Inspired by the classicism of a heritage building and the surrounding Spanish region of Andalucía, Plaza 18 has become one of the most anticipated openings this year. Set in the historic white town of Vejer de la Frontera (Vejer), featured on forbes.com, the hotel which will shelter just six luxurious, individually designed bedrooms is the conversion of a listed 19^th Century merchant’s house. The project, a collaboration between Dobree and Vejer’s principal hotel La Casa del Califa, is expected to turn one of Vejer’s landmark properties into one of the finest boutique hotels in Andalucía.

“There will be comfort and elegance through every door.”

The building, which dates from 1896 and stands on the foundations of an ancient 13^thC Arab house, is being restored using entirely organic building materials including traditional lime-based mortars, wooden floors and natural stone and marble. “There will be comfort and elegance through every door, a place to feel at home, a place to re-connect and re-discover,” says Dobree who describes her first hotel project as a home hotel’. “There is no one dominant material,” adds Dobree. “I have retained the existing black and white Andalucian tiles and mixed them with timber and stone. Large black doors with bespoke feature brass handles open onto the six individual bedroom suites, each of which has been personally curated.”

“There are many challenges, but over and above the planning constraints, the space is disproportionate.”

With the design world watching, and with just six bedrooms to play with, this project has been quite something, “There are many challenges, but over and above the planning constraints, the space is disproportionate,” explains Dobree. “It has a huge central patio and elegant sweeping staircase leading to an amazing roof terrace that overlooks the castle with views across to Morocco. It has meant that we have had to be creative with planning the space for the individual guest suites.”

I have come to the conclusion that hotels are only at the edge of the curve when they bravely break the mould of what is considered, at the time, as being conventional. It is therefore a relief to hear that Dobree is planning on ‘Breaking the rules’ – her words not mine – in order to create this timeless, luxury hotel. “I want to add layers of soft furnishings to create a home,” she explains. “But above all, I want the hotel to be true to its heritage and I want it to retain its soul.” To do this, Dobree has worked to retain and repair original features using local craftsmen to restore the glass ceiling, stairs, balustrade and even the wrought iron gate. “I see myself very much as a curator of the building whilst making it comfortable for living in today,” she adds.

Quick-fire round

Hamish Kilburn: What’s your favourite colour this season?
Nicky Dobree: Burgundy

HK: Where’s next on your travel bucket list?
ND: Lebanon

HK: What’s worse, bad lighting or bad wallpaper?
ND: Bad lighting

HK: What is one item you cannot travel without?
ND: An Adaptor

HK: Can you give us one easy way to brighten up your interiors?
ND: With cushions

HK: What’s the largest misconception about you?
NB: That I am an extrovert

“As with everything, it is all about timing,” Dobree says when I question her as to why she has waited until now to commit herself to the venture and step into hotel design. “I have wanted to design a boutique hotel for a while and was fortunate when this opportunity arose that we were able to embrace it.”

As I learn more about the awaited Andalucían jewel, I can’t help but wonder how similar this hotel will be from some of Dobree’s previous projects. “There are similarities, Plaza 18 is all about elegance and comfort, using the local vernacular in the design and celebrating the local culture,” Dobree explains. “It is what I endeavour to achieve in all my projects.”

And with that, Dobree’s task continues as she prepares to enter a new design chapter in her already celebrated career.

The Maldives’ first immersive art resort opens

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By: Hamish Kilburn

02.01.2019

Joali in The Maldives has unveiled a full immersive array of ec0-inspired artworks and high-concept sustainable design throughout…

Conceived as an immersive island retreat, Joali Maldives has opened with an array of original, experiential works of art and dynamic design, reflecting the beauty of nature, and with sustainability at their core. Situated on the idyllic isle of Muravandhoo in the remote Raa Atoll, just 45 minutes by seaplane from Male, the unspoilt island celebrates the creativity of world-class talent.

Dotted around the resort, adorning villas and hidden beneath the waves are a collection of extraordinary works by 13 international artists, hand-picked by curators and concept developers of No LaB; Ala Onur and Zeynep Ercan. From sculptures to design and experiential pieces, No LaB has chosen pieces which capture and conserve nature both visually and materially. Each artwork is thoughtfully integrated into their natural surroundings: some pieces were created by artists on-site, other creative concepts were adapted for Joali’s tropical climate. Joali will continue to curate surprising interactive art experiences, with new pieces added throughout the year. An annual art calendar will host a roster of workshops and residencies with visiting artists, designed to inspire, inform and enchant.

Image caption: Three-bedroom ocean residence with two Pools

Joali’s impressive roster of artworks are integrated with impeccable design and architectural skill by acclaimed Istanbul-based Autoban, whose other projects include House Hotels Istanbul and London’s Duck and Rice. The firm used custom-made furnishings, hand-carved wooden panels, local wood, bamboo and terrazzo flooring to create the ultimate sense of jungle chic. In designing the resort, Autoban worked to preserve the natural flora of the island as much as possible, saving more than 1,000 palm trees in the process. On arrival, guests are wowed by an impressive Manta Ray-shaped welcome jetty complete with undulating Maldivian thatched roof crafted by Istanbul’s Atölye4n, while Tokyo-based Studio Glitt are behind standout Japanese restaurant SAOKE, with its majestic pyramid roof made up of timber blocks like origami, with clean lines and soft lighting reflecting Japanese aesthetics.

Heron Chair & Manta Ray Treehouse – Porky Hefer, Cape Town

A beak-like seat hangs on the beach/bar area of the hotel

Image caption: Porky Hefer_ Grey Herron Head found in the Mura Bar area

Vernacular architect Porky Hefer, who recently partnered with the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation at Art Basel, displays his signature passion for local wildlife and endangered species, with his hanging ‘Heron’ chairs, which overlook the beach. The grey heron is the national bird of the Maldives and Joali’s signature, spirit animal. Hefer’s astonishing Manta Ray hideaway, woven in-situ from natural materials (WHAT) is suspended in the trees, experiential dinners in the treetops. His imaginative, nature-inspired works are designed for functionality as well as style, and have a message of conservation.

Club Tropicana Table & Underwater Coral Sculpture Garden – Misha Kahn, New York

Renowned for his sculptures which use unconventional materials, including recycled rubbish, bronze and glue, at Joali, Kahn has created an underwater sculpture garden using a combination of vibrant-coloured and pale mosaic tiles to reflect the coral bleaching occurring in the Indian Ocean. Visitors to the island will be able to snorkel or dive to interact with this piece, and coral itself will gradually attach as part of the regeneration of the reef. Above land, Kahn’s Gaudi-esque communal table, which echos the shapes of the underwater pieces, is the perfect spot for sunset drinks and experiential dining experiences overlooking the beach.

Evolution Chair – Nacho Carbonell, Spain

Image caption: Nacho Carbonell_Vandhoo, The Art Bench

Recreated especially for Joali with materials like sand and tree sap, Nacho Carbonell’s iconic Evolution chair has been adapted for the tropical climate. The cocoon-like chair offers a private moment of quiet introspection to anyone seated inside its depths.

‘PEARL’ wall art – Seckin Pirim, Istanbul

A dark room, lit by an eye-catching clam-like centrepiece by Seckin Pirim have a ripple shape reminiscent of the aquamarine waters surrounding the island

Image caption: The water villa features an eye-catching clam-like centrepiece by Seckin Pirim have a ripple shape reminiscent of the aquamarine waters surrounding the island

On the wall of each villa, an eye-catching clam-like centrepiece by Seckin Pirim have a ripple shape reminiscent of the aquamarine waters surrounding the island. Pirim’s installations are a reflection on his childhood memories and pick up on the varied tones of brilliant sea blue around Joali.

Maldives Vibes – Zemer Peled, Israel

Inspired by the Maldives’ rich underwater world and appearing in Joali Spa, this dramatic sculpture comments on the issue of coral bleaching affecting the region, with striking bursts of colour against a stark white backing reflecting a hope for future regeneration.

The hotel, which opened in December 2018 on the island of Muravandhoo, embodies the joys of life in its focus on art, wellbeing and sustainable luxury, with a boutique feel to its 73 beach and over water villas.

Holistic hotel design: creating a space to accommodate your guests & Staff

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By: Hamish Kilburn

02.01.2019

In the constantly evolving landscape of international hotel design, staying relevant and on-trend is somewhat a daily challenge. Simon Mitchell from Action Storage details three key areas where hotels can create timeless look and feel that is flexible to all guests checking in…

In your hotel, when it comes to creating an atmosphere that makes your guests comfortable and the prospect of them returning probable, it’s vital that you invest time and resource in ensuring that those providing them with the service are equally as happy and comfortable in their workspace. Therefore, when designing a hotel that encourages a cohesive and productive environment, building a space for your staff as well as your guests should be at the top of your priority list.

Whether you start off by focusing on one particular area like your hotel’s busy lobby, or you choose to optimise the practicality of the additional facilities in your accommodation first, giving your hotel a functional design overhaul will help highlight all that’s wonderful in your facility.

The lobby

A universal issue for guests and hoteliers alike is check-in and check-out times that don’t align with scattered schedules. For reception desks that aren’t able to stay open 24/7, providing your guests with the option to leave their important possessions in a secure place within the hotel’s premises is a practical solution that ensures security while encouraging an accommodating atmosphere.

By providing durable and secure locker units within a sensible distance from the central reception desk, your guests’ luggage will be easily and efficiently organised in one area. Not only are storage units great for keeping your visitors’ possessions secure, but they can also provide a space for your staff members to keep their own belongings stored safely away.

The additional facilities

For hotels that provide a restaurant, bar or spa experience within their facility, creating a logical layout in a surrounding that, for many, will be unfamiliar to them is crucial if you want the space to be used effectively. Make it easy for your members of staff to provide a fluent and hassle-free service by picking non-slip flooring solutions that make rushing around easy. Additionally, while extravagant ornaments may be beautiful to look at, forcing both your guests and staff to manoeuvre around them not only creates a health and safety risk, but can make your space look small and cluttered as a result.

Next up, you’ll want to keep your customer in mind when it comes to designing the function of your room. Pick warm amber colours and place glistening spotlights above your luxury swimming pool to invite guests into your idyllic spa atmosphere. Not only will these small touches make your guests fall in love with your hotel, but will make your members of staff proud and happy to work where they do.

Image credit: Pexels

The guestrooms

When designing a stylish yet functional hotel room, it’s important to tailor the area your guests are likely to spend most of their time in – the bedroom – to their specific needs. Optimise the room with plenty of built-in storage features so that whether guests are stopping by on a one night business trip or a week-long holiday, they have the options they need to create a home-from-home atmosphere.

While the aesthetic of a space is important, so too is its functionality – so make sure that door frames and the space surrounding the bed are clear enough to allow a cleaning trolley to make its way around. Whether this means rearranging furniture, picking ‘invisible’ storage or knocking down walls to create an open-plan space, a tidy and practical room will make for a happy guest and employee!

As with any business, preparation is key. By planning ahead for 2019’s busy summer season and streamlining your hotel accordingly for both your guests and crucial members of the team, stress will be relieved and an enjoyable hotel atmosphere created. Whether it’s through back-of-house storage techniques or up-to-date hotel rooms, optimising your accommodation for a positive guest experience through various interior adaptations is sure to make a noticeable difference to the way your hotel operates.

Main image credit: Pexels

7 hotels that are great for writers

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By: Hamish Kilburn

27.12.2018

In the hunt for inspiration, writer Harry Southworth and editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn scour the globe to find the best hotels and suites for writers…

To theme or not to theme, that is the question. From New York to Paris, London to Costa Rica, there are many hotels around the world that have balanced their chosen theme perfectly within the interiors. Following the news that business travel spending is expected to reach a whopping $1.7 trillion by 2022, as reported by Business Traveller, the decision to create experiences over simple hotel rooms is arguably at its highest. To help get those creative juices flowing, here are seven of our favourite hotels from around the world that are great for writers.

1) Belleclaire Hotel, New York

Image credit: Belleclaire Hotel, New York

Hotel Belleclaire in New York is mentioned in several sources as one of the most premium hotels for writers. Its cosy home-from-home rooms with Broadway-facing windows are alone enough to inspire anyone to write; it’s an American classic that never fades. Inspired by America’s most famous and witty authors, once a guest of the hotel itself, the spacious suite includes a plush and relaxed living scene that will inspire the next chapter of your novel.

2) The Writer’s Penthouse, The Corinthia

The Writer's Penthouse bedroom at Corinthia London, adorned in dark hues

Image credit: Corinthia London

The next chapter. A postcard home. In all its guises, the written word is celebrated at The Writer’s Penthouse at the esteemed Corinthia London. Anyone who can write… anything… will be inspired by its comfortable and plush charm.

Not surprisingly, the desk occupies a premier position within the library-like lounge. Custom-designed and crafted from dark walnut, the two-metre-long writing table features nickel metalwork details to the underside and high-quality leather inlay to the desktop. Around the walls, over a thousand books add to the literary ambiance, complemented by artwork featuring handwritten letters.

Notwithstanding the wordy allusions, this penthouse suite is not a mere writer’s den but a stylish, sophisticated London residence. Any discerning guest will warm to its discreet luxury and easy-going opulence, as evidenced by the bespoke Makassar ebony cocktail cabinet. A triumph of understated urbanity, it features mirrored pullout trays, leather-lined drawers and a fold-down cocktail-making area. Other elegant touches include a limestone fireplace, antique writing bureau and unique side table with a mirror-like cast resin top. Upstairs, linked by a private internal lift, the king-size bed, bespoke bedside cabinets and bathroom of Fior di Bosco marble extend the theme of quiet, sumptuous comfort.

3) The Betsy, South Beach Miami

Light, bright and fresh interiors. Cream sofa and statement bookcase

Image credit: The Betsy, South Beach, Miami

Considering that it is owned by Jonathan Plutzik, son of a wartime poet Hyam Plutzik, it’s no surprise that The Betsy features on our list of great hotels for writers. The location alone, Miami Beach, Florida, can help fulfill dreams of any writer seeking inspiration. The hotel provides special rooms for writers, but even the working studio in the public areas offer ample space for business travellers.

4) Hermitage Plantation Inn, Nevis

Exterior shot of Hermitage Plantation Inn in Nevis, framed by large palm trees

Image credit: Hermitage Plantation Inn, Nevis

With regulations stating that no tree on the island is allowed to be taller than a palm tree, Nevis in the Caribbean is one of the world’s most naturally tranquil destinations. Furthermore, with a population of less than 12,000 – it arguably has more green vervet monkeys than people – every guest on the island is made to feel welcome and is treated more like a neighbour rather than a tourist. The far-flung destination in the West Indies may well be small in size, but what it lacks in land mass it certainly makes up for in personality along with its unmatched luxury offerings. Hermitage Plantation Inn is just one of the hotels that adorns this understated luxury in its interiors and facilities. It was here where June Goodfield wrote the tale Rivers of Time: Why is everyone talking about Philippa?, which is a novel that explores the story of one of the first women who stepped foot on Nevis, after Goodfield discovered her tombstone when she first visited the naturally striking island in 1985.

5) The Standard, East Village, New York

This hotel is unique because, each year, writers can raffle a residency for a period of three weeks in one of its suites. The Standard East Village offers this lottery in partnership with the Paris Review. Offering maximum comfort for writers, from notebooks in the lobby to unlimited cups of coffee to refill you when working during the whole stay, the is a favourite for award-winning poet, Ansel Elkins.

6) Le Pavillon des Lettres, Paris

Cosy guestroom with clear words written above the bed on the grey headboard. The room is modern and designed specifically for writing lovers

Image credit: Le Pavillon des Lettres

Designed with bookworms in mind, this hotel has a room (and writer) for every letter of the alphabet. Located in Paris’s chic 8th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and the River Seine, the four-star luxury boutique hotel’s room reflect the personalities of famous writers. Le Pavillon des Lettres is privately owned and operated by the Chevalier family, who own two other Parisian hotels: Le Pavillon de la Reine in the Place des Vosges, and Hôtel du Petit Moulin on the Rue du Poitou.

7) Hotel X, Toronto, Canada

A sharp, dynamic library in Hotel X. The space features monochrome tiles and colourful bookshelf

Image credit: Hotel X, Toronto

With its totally out-of-this-world vistas over the city below, Hotel X arrived in Toronto in May of this year and, as well as unveiling stunning suites that feature floor-to-ceiling windows, opened its doors to a sedate and laid-back library in the public areas.

Main image credit: The Corinthia London

Design-led NHow Hotel to arrive in London in Summer 2019

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By: Hamish Kilburn

14.12.2018

nhow London will be a disruptive twist on traditional British icons…

Designed by Project Orange, the 190-key nhow London will arrive in the British capital in summer 2019. Located between Islington and Shoreditch within the ‘250 City Road’ development designed by acclaimed architectural firm Foster + Partners, the four-star hotel will be NH Hotel Group’s second property in the UK.

Under the theme ‘London Reloaded’, the design will combine traditional British icons with unconventional contemporary elements.

Image credit: Project Orange

Traditional icons meet street art

A ‘Big Ben’ rocket sculpture will be one of the lobby’s most striking elements. Eclectic ensembles of colourful furniture on ‘pixelated’ carpets will invite guests to unwind, while an installation made from wooden boards around an LED fireplace creates a relaxing atmosphere.

“Visitors will find themselves immersed in a world of art and design that tells a story and engages the senses.”

The restaurant, The Bell, will be an avant-garde version of a traditional British pub, with green leather seating coiling through the room and tables featuring cockney rhyming slang. Huge gold bell lights, a reminder of the city’s famous church bells, will softly light the space. In contrast, the central pillar will feature a pixelated LED grid generating ever-changing moving images.

“As a vibrant, international metropolis, London is the perfect location for a nhow hotel,” said Maarten Markus, Managing Director Northern Europe of NH Hotel Group. “Cosmopolitan cities are inherently dynamic, ceaselessly producing new cultural, social and artistic trends. Our nhow hotels are an expression and measure of this dynamic. nhow London will reflect both the industrial past and technological future of its location and will become a creative hub for the neighbourhood.”

Expect the unexpected

In keeping with the other hotels under the nhow brand, guests will enjoy surprising and unconventional details and services. Architect James Soane from Project Orange explains: “nhow London will have a unique interior concept, perfectly tailored to its location. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a world of art and design that tells a story and engages the senses; a dynamic melting pot created to surprise and inspire the guests.”

image credit: Project Orange

Colourful textures will confront contemporary art in the rooms, creating an unforgettable version of London. Punk will meet high tech style, while graffiti will appear alongside unconventional images of past monarchs.

NH Hotel Group is breaking new ground with its nhow hotels, combining the contemporary architecture and designs of renowned trendsetters such as Matteo Thun (nhow Milano), Rem Koolhaas (nhow Rotterdam/nhow Amsterdam RAI), Karim Rashid (nhow Berlin) and Teresa Sapey (nhow Marseille) with urban trends. nhow hotels shape their surroundings with their striking designs, becoming hotspots and destinations for travellers and locals alike.

In devising the design concept for each nhow hotel, NH Hotel Group works with Enrique Tellechea, founder of the branding consultancy The Null, who is working top-down on the brand’s construction. Nothing at a nhow hotel is preordained. Everything is unexpected, iconic, inspirational and surprising, from the lobby to the rooms, the restaurants, the corridors, the meeting rooms and the creative spaces. The nhow experience is unique for each guest but has the ‘wow’ factor in common. Located in key urban areas undergoing a transformation, nhow hotels quickly become landmarks for self-discovery, experimentation and creativity.

Great Hotels of the World sees increased investment over next two years

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By: Hamish Kilburn

12.12.2018

The increased investment comes after Great Hotels of the World was recently acquired by GuestCentric…

Great Hotels of the World (GHOTW), which includes in its collection properties such as Atlantis The Palm Dubai and Altis Belém Hotel & Spa, will receive more than €3,000,000 investment over the next two years.

GHOTW is a well-established sales and marketing hotel representation company for upscale independent hotels, specialising in the business travel and MICE market. Following GuestCentric’s full acquisition of the brand, GHOTW now provides unparalleled access to technology, and high-tech, high-touch experiences to its member hotels across the world.

GuestCentric’s investment will be focused in enhancing GHOTW’s presence in the bleisure market. The GHOTW portfolio includes 60 hotels in prime locations, with an average of 150+ bedrooms, and always with superb business and meeting facilities. Crucially, each hotel also has exceptional leisure and spa facilities, meaning they are perfectly positioned to target bleisure travellers.

Image credit: GHOTW

Since its founding in 2004, GHOTW has offered buyers the utmost in MICE offerings via its venue-searching services in particular, and member hotels have had the benefits of belonging to a larger soft-brand group while retaining individuality and autonomy. Now, members will have access to even more cutting-edge technology and services, following GuestCentric’s investment.

Of the investment, President & CEO of GHOTW, Pedro Colaco, commented: “Following the full acquisition of GHOTW under GuestCentric, we are excited to be bringing together two likeminded brands who put technology and service at the forefront of business and bleisure travel. This renewed investment feels particularly relevant given the bleisure market now affects between half and two thirds of all business trips in the world’s main outbound markets; to stay at the forefront of this sector, we must continue our investment and grow the services as far as we can.”

GHOTW has been providing its members with a globally recognised brand, best-in-class MICE Sales & Lead Generation and Corporate Sales & GDS Connectivity, for many years. Now, hotel members also have access to a cutting-edge digital suite that includes integrated Web Design, Booking Engine and Channel Manager. These services are offered in flexible and modular packages, so that members can commit only to the services relevant to their individual property.

Main image credit: GHOTW

Hotel Indigo arrives in Manchester

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By: Hamish Kilburn

11.12.2018

The 187-key hotel will be situated in the stylish and ever-changing Manchester neighbourhood of the Northern Quarter…

Hotel Indigo® Manchester – Victoria Station has arrived, marking the brand’s debut in one of the UK’s largest cities, which was described earlier this year as a hive for hotel design. Famous for its cotton mills and its role in the industrial revolution, Manchester is a vibrant city that is rapidly expanding and regenerating, complementing its historical setting and its quirky contemporary feel.

The new boutique hotel is located at the gateway to the Northern Quarter, which is described as Manchester’s creative heart. It is adjacent to Exchange Square, the city’s shopping district. Known for its bohemian bars and rustic charm, the Northern Quarter has a lively music scene, and includes bustling independent studios and shops. Guests can enjoy the laidback atmosphere come day and night, with a wide range of places to eat and drink.

Hotel Indigo® Manchester – Victoria Station features 187 stylish guestrooms, with design inspired by Manchester’s rich and colourful history. The exterior of the hotel is a beautifully restored Grade II listed building, featuring an eye-catching contemporary tower, providing fantastic views of the city’s unmatched skyline.

“We are truly proud to launch Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station. The hotel is situated in a prime location for those visiting Manchester and who wish to see and appreciate the city’s artistic side,” said James McDevitt, General Manager of the hotel. “Working with local designers, the interiors reflect the creative personality of the area, whilst reinforcing this first-class hotel we have created.”

“Raw materials feature throughout the hotel, such as bare brick walls in the reception.”

The hotel’s three room designs combine Manchester’s industrial past with modern luxury and style. Raw materials feature throughout the hotel, such as bare brick walls in the reception, complemented by iron pulleys and rope connecting to lights which have bespoke weaved baskets as shades.

“Inspired by the neighbourhood around each property so just as no places are alike, no two Hotel Indigo properties are the same.”

The guestrooms pay homage to Manchester’s cotton mill heritage by using rich, raw cotton on the bed, contrasting with green velvet, which gives the rooms an added sense of luxury. Drawing from Manchester’s literary and printing past, features also include lamps with books as stands and artwork in the form of metal lettering on the walls along with china pattern motifs which reference Manchester’s love of tea.

Image credit: Hotel Indigo, IHG

The hotel features a restaurant and bar, Mamucium, headed by award-winning Mancunian chef Andrew Green. Named after the Roman fort that was the birthplace of modern Manchester, the 120-seat restaurant will serve a menu of classic, locally sourced food, topped off with a Northern spin. The venue’s centrepiece will be a stunning, silestone and brass bar area. There is also a cosy café, M Café, sheltered within the restored building.

Inspired by the neighbourhood around each property so just as no places are alike, no two Hotel Indigo properties are the same. Each Hotel Indigo property features thoughtful design touches and vibrant restaurants and bars connected to the spirit of the local neighbourhood. There are currently 27 Hotel Indigo properties in Europe with another 17 due to open in the next three to five years.

Main image credit: Hotel Indigo, IHG

Scandic Hotels to expands with new design-led hotel in Munich

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By: Hamish Kilburn

10.12.2018

Scandic Hotels has signed a long-term lease agreement with developers Art-Invest Real Estate and Accumulata Real Estate regarding the operation of a new hotel, Scandic Munich Macherei…

The largest hotel; company in the Nordic countries, Scandic Hotels, will operate the Scandic Munich Macherei, which is expected to open in 2021.

The 234-key hotel will be part of the new area “Macherei”, which will undergo a total transformation, from current industry area to an urban and vibrant neighborhood with space for art and culture, modern offices and open meeting and communication zones. Scandic Munich Macherei is being designed by New York architects HWKN Hollwich Kushner and will be inspired by typical former developed industrial areas such as Brooklyn in New York.

“Scandic Hotels currently has four hotels in operation in Germany.”

“Scandic Munich Macherei is in line with Scandic’s strategy to expand in the largest cities in Germany. Munich is a sought-after city for hotel developments and we are proud to be part of this project that will further raise the awareness of Scandic in Germany,” says Even Frydenberg, President & CEO, Scandic Hotels Group.

Scandic Hotels currently has four hotels in operation in Germany – two in Berlin, one in Hamburg and one in Frankfurt and a second Scandic hotel will also open 2021 in Frankfurt.

“We believe that in Scandic we have found a perfect partner for this project. Scandic has a successful track record of operating prestigious hotels in Germany and will bring a new design edge to the city,” says Dr. Peter Ebertz at Art-Invest Real Estate. “We’re very happy to have entered this agreement and are hoping for future projects together.”

Munich is the third largest city in Germany and a popular business location and financial centre.

Scandic Hotels has 16,000 team members and a network of around 280 hotels in operation and under development in more than 130 destinations. Expanding to Munich confirms the company’s German focus and strategy and the new hotel will be an important addition to Scandic’s hotel portfolio.

Marriott Hotels partner with LIFEWTR® in search for art and innovation

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By: Hamish Kilburn

10.12.2018

With a new app, guests checking in to Marriott Hotels will be able to customise their rooms virtually with art and they will be able to share their AR rooms on social media…

LIFEWTR^® and Marriott Hotels have collaborated with the aim to bring more inspiration into the world through art and innovation, via new augmented reality (AR) in-room guest experience. As part of PepsiCo and Marriott International’s recent partnership renewal, LIFEWTR, the premium bottled water that exists to advance and showcase sources of art and creativity, is now the official in-room water for Marriott Hotels nationwide, encouraging guests to explore new worlds of creativity and inspiration within their Marriott Hotels guestroom.

LIFEWTR and Marriott Hotels marry art and technology through a unique experience, where guests are encouraged to browse virtual artwork from LIFEWTR artists and transform the walls of their guest room according to their inspiration. The AR experience will be rolled out for guests in Marriott Hotels in the US throughout 2019.

“LIFEWTR and Marriott Hotels are committed to advancing creativity and finding new and innovative ways to bring art to life,” said Stacy Taffet, Vice President, Water Portfolio, PepsiCo. “The collaboration allows us to take novel steps in a shared vision to provide guests a unique way to experience art and get even more art and innovation into the world via AR. LIFEWTR’s Series 7 bottles, which will be unveiled in early 2019, will further touch on this by supporting emerging creative talent who focus on art through technology.”

“Guests can choose their LIFEWTR artwork and drag the artwork onto the virtual walls, or even color their own artwork to make the images their own.”

“We are always looking for ways to engage and inspire our guests through innovative travel offerings, from the thoughtful design of our guest rooms to the enriching experiences we create with partners like LIFEWTR,” said Matthew Carroll, Vice President, Global Brand Management for Marriott Hotels. “With our latest AR venture, guests can enhance their stay with us by using technology and art to spark new ways of thinking – from there, the opportunities are endless.”

How it works

Guests will receive a dose of inspiration by simply scanning a custom bottle tag on LIFEWTR bottles found in participating Marriott Hotels.
Users will be prompted to open the Facebook in-app camera for the AR experience to begin.
Once the code found on bottle tags is scanned, guests can customise their rooms virtually with an augmented reality art gallery available on their mobile device, featuring artwork from 18 LIFEWTR artists.
Guests can choose their LIFEWTR artwork and drag the artwork onto the virtual walls, or even color their own artwork to make the images their own.
They can then share photos of their unique décor with followers across social media directly within the application.

For more information, please visit www.LIFEWTR.com and follow @LIFEWTR and @MarriottHotels using #UnlockingInspiration to join in on the conversation.

Main image credit: Marriott Hotels

5 hotels taking the festive spirit to new heights this Christmas

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By: Hamish Kilburn

06.12.2018

The Christmas lights are on and the tree is up but not even Hotel Designs can compete with these incredible winter wonderlands that have been unveiled in luxury hotels across the world…

Unlike many industries, the hotel industry is one that gets little rest over the festive period. As soon as December strikes, marketing teams from the world’s most luxurious hotels take centre stage to present their properties in the best possible Christmas-themed light.

From ice kingdoms to designer collaborations, here are our top picks of the hotels that are showcasing the best winter stories this festive period.

1) Claridge’s, London

Image credit: Claridge’s London

Every year Claridges in London, one of the city’s finest and most-talked-about hotels, unveils an incredible take on tradition. With previous themes including a partnership with fashion icon Karl Largerfield, the task to unveil this year’s talk-of-the-town tree was arguably harder than ever.

So this year’s tree, which was unveiled on November 27, has been designed by fashion icon and long-time friend of the hotel, Diane von Furstenberg.

‘The Tree of Love’ is inspired by von Furstenberg passion and strong belief in the power of love, symbolising life and nature, and drawing particularly from the creative influences of the astrological world. The six-metre sculptural tree is coloured with a blue iridescent lustre and shimmer, and is decorated with over 8,000 hand painted silver-leafed leaves, glass spheres and 150 hand-blown glass hearts.

2) Liberty Hotel, Boston

Image credit: Liberty Hotel, Boston

Turning Christmas upside-down, quite literally, six Christmas trees hang from the ceiling of the Liberty’s 27-metre atrium. The eye-catching installation required workers to hang from safety harnesses in order to securely affix the trees which all range in size.

3) Bellagio Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

Image credit: Bellagio Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

If you want to reach the limits of Christmas-themed hotels then look no further than Las Vegas. The Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Garden’s 2018 holiday installation is entitled ‘Majestic Holiday Magic’. It features the return of Queen Bellisima, and takes guests on a journey into her enchanted ice kingdom. The south bed houses the queen’s favorite family of Polar bears, playing and welcoming guests as they walk enter the Conservatory. The north bed features the queen’s castle, guarded by her majestic rotating soldiers. Lastly, the west bed holds the main attraction for this year. The holiday tree is a sight to behold, standing 42 metres in height and 18 metres in diameter, and is adorned with many beautiful ornaments.

4) The Lanesborough, London

The Lanesborough, London

This year’s tree in The Lanesborough has been given the royal nod, which is rather appropriate seeing as the hotel is situated a stones through from Buckingham Palace. The jewellers to the Royal Family, the House of Garrard, have payed homage to its distinguished roots in the 18th century in order to give guests a quintessentially British Christmas experience.

5) The Plaza New York

Considering it is the iconic setting of one of the most festive films ever released, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, The Plaza New York has the power to capture the imaginations of many generations all under one roof. Last year, the hotel partnered with Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the film.

Pre-Home Alone, though, the luxury hotel has set the standard for luxury and high quality service ever since it opened its majestic doors in 1907.

Main image credit: Oetker Collection

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa unveils $20 million renovation

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By: Hamish Kilburn

30.11.2018

Marriott Hotels has announced the completion of a $20 million renovation to Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives…

Designed by boutique multi-disciplinary design practice, Topo Design Studio, the newly transformed Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa now exhibits beautiful Maldivian architecture with a contemporary twist, reflecting the five-star experience guaranteed at the property.

Situated on the private island of Furanafushi in the Republic of Maldives, the five-star resort offers 176 guestrooms designed to blend into the surrounding turquoise waters, pristine beaches and lush greenery. The hotel also boasts a total of seven unique restaurants and bars, the Shine Spa for Sheraton (located on its very own island) and three outdoor tropical fresh water pools.

Topo Design Studio has taken its inspiration from the surrounding environment to ensure that all aspects of the resort emulate a traditional Maldivian feel that is not compromised by the top of the range amenities. As a result, all aspects of the resort have been elegantly renovated, from the restyled landscape gardens around the swimming pools, to the room categories, the events spaces and restaurants, ensuring a completely dovetailed style throughout the island.

“The hotel now boasts 10 different luxury room categories, all spaciously located around the island.”

“We are delighted to have completed the renovation programme which has seen $20 million spent on redesigning Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa”, comments Emilio Fortini, General Manager for Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. “As the third eldest resort in the Maldives, dating back to 1937, it is very important to us that we continue to modernise our property to ensure it goes above and beyond the standards expected of a five-star resort without losing the feel of our surroundings. Subsequently, Sheraton Maldives has been carefully transformed and this is seen in our revamped restaurants with fresh menus, our newly designed bars, our bespoke villa host service and our innovative spa packages which are set to complete in January 2019. We look forward to welcoming both new and returning guests to discover these new enhancements, which I have no doubt will only enrich their experience on our unique tropical paradise.”

The hotel now boasts 10 different luxury room categories, all spaciously located around the island, including the re-styled Deluxe Cottages, Cottage Water Bungalows and Water Bungalows with Pools. These spacious cottages all offer the utmost privacy and provide easy access to the beach and lagoon. As part of the renovation, they now feature an outdoor so guests can truly immerse themselves in their luscious green surroundings. The property has also introduced a new room category, Cottage with Pool, which has been designed with families in mind and boasts a private plunge pool for young children to safely splash around in with direct access to the heavenly white sandy beaches.

Offering seven bars and restaurants in total, the resort ensures that a variety of dining options are available to guests, ranging from a casual al fresco treat to a quintessentially Maldivian feast. The newest addition to the completed renovations includes the centrally located Feast Restaurant which has been uniquely designed to emulate the local culture and now boasts a cadent coconut roofing and a sophisticated white colour scheme. Offering both breakfast and dinner, Feast restaurant comes to life with chefs creating dishes from around the world from live-cooking stations made from cleanly cut marble surfaces. Similarly, the Anchorage Bar has been elegantly renovated with a light and gentle colour palette that does not detract from the panoramic view of the stunning Indian Ocean. This creates a laid back atmosphere and encourages guests to relax on the comfortable day beds, listen to live music from a local band and sip on one of the resort’s signature cocktails.

Creative Director of HBA London confirmed as headline speaker of Interior Design & Architecture Summit

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 27.11.2018 27.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

27.11.2018

Constanina Tsoutsikou, the creative director of HBA London has been confirmed as the headline speaker of Interior Design & Architecture Summit (IDAS) which takes place on April 29 at Hilton London Tower Bridge…

Following her crowd-pleasing Sleep Set that was exhibited at SLEEP + EAT – and being highly commended at The Brit List 2018 in the Interior Designer of the Year category – Constantina Tsoutsikou, the creative Director of HBA London has been confirmed as the headline speaker of IDAS 2019.

The Summit, which will take place on April 29, 2019 at Hilton Tower Bridge is a one-day event, designed to connect senior executives working within the sector with product and service suppliers for face-to-face meetings and business networking.

Tsoutsikou has been asked to speak at the event as she is proving herself to be a leader not only as the creative director of HBA London, but also as a true visionary in the arena of international hotel design. Her latest project to come out of the studio will launch soon and will be sheltered in a beautiful heritage building in Zegreb, Croatia; an area that Hotel Designs is pinpointing as a major design and travel destination in 2019.

Tsoutsikou will take the microphone to talk to delegates about HBA London and how the firm has established itself as a leading international interior design studio, sharing key moments in her career that helped her excel. She will then join the editor of Hotel Designs, Hamish Kilburn for a live on-stage Q&A session.

Speaking about being the confirmed headline speakers, Tsoutsikou said: “it is sometimes hard to carve out time for networking and collaborating opportunities in the day-to-day life of a designer.

“Events such as the Interior Design & Architecture Summit allow for the industry as a whole to get together to not only do business, but also to discuss major topical issues, from one designer or architect to another. It’s also a great place to meet up with and make new friends.

“I am delighted to be invited as the headline speaker of the event – I really look forward to catching up with Hamish on stage while making a great days out of it!”

IDAS aims to support the design and architecture sector with a unique platform to help create long-lasting and mutually beneficial business connections. “I have had the pleasure of watching Tsoutsikou, over four years, grow from the senior designer she was four years ago into one of the world’s most popular Creative Director that she is now today,” said Kilburn. “With her distinct ability to light up any room with knowledge and inspiration, I look forward to hearing Tsoutsikou speak at the event and interviewing her in front of our audience of delegates.”

How to register your interest in attending

If you are a supplier to the hospitality industry looking to meet the top architects and interior designers, contact Victoria Petch on v.petch@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

If you are an architect or interior designer and would like to attend the Summit, please contact Kerry Naumburger on k.naumburger@forumevents.co.uk – or click here to book your place.

For more information on the event, click here.

“There’s no place like home,” or not according to latest survey

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 26.11.2018 26.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

26.11.2018

Gen z (18 – 24-year-old) travellers have visited more places overseas than UK destinations, a recent survey reveals…

Travellers aged 18-24 have visited more overseas destinations in the last five years than they have in the UK, according to a new study by Best Western Great Britain, suggesting that more attention needs to be made into the design direction – and facilities – of hotels in Britain.

The research explored UK travel trends, revealing the holiday habits of the nation and the main influences on their choice of holiday destination.

The study found that people between 18 and 24 years old have seen more destinations abroad than they have in the UK. This generation, on average, has visited four places overseas, while only visiting two locations in their home country.

It’s not all bad for Blighty though. In general, one in four people surveyed (25 per cent) say they have visited three UK destinations in the past five years, whilst a similar amount (24 per cent) said that they haven’t visited any overseas destinations, indicating that UK tourism is still alive and well, despite global travel taking priority among younger travellers.

People aged over 55 years are the most likely to have not visited a destination abroad in the last five years (29 per cent). This decision could be down to the price difference between a UK and international break, with this age group stating price as the main influence that persuades them to visit a UK tourist destination.

The research also explored Brits’ major motivations for choosing their holiday destination. Over half (57 per cent) of those in Yorkshire stated that they are most influenced by price when considering a vacation – just higher than the national average of 54 per cent.

The top 10 influences on booking a UK break are:

Price (54 per cent)
Attractions/landmarks (52 per cent)
Views (49 per cent)
Hotels / accommodation (39 per cent)
Weather (39 per cent)
Food and drink (29 per cent)
Culture (23 per cent)
Accessibility i.e. good transport links (22 per cent)
Proximity to home (19 per cent)
Nostalgia (19 per cent)

Rob Paterson, CEO at Best Western Great Britain, said: “It was fascinating to learn which factors Brits consider the most when choosing where to travel.

“Sometimes we can be guilty of prioritising overseas travel and forgetting about the wonderful places closer to home. Staycations allow you to get away and explore our beautiful country, without the usual high costs and stress of travelling abroad. There is more to explore in Great Britain so for your next holiday, why not consider visiting some of our own brilliant destinations?”

The survey launches after another study concluded that 95 per cent of travellers would, these days, rather spend money on a luxury experience rather than a luxury product.

Main image credit: Pixabay

MOB HOTEL speaks to Hotel Designs about expansion plans in Europe and the US

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By: Hamish Kilburn

16.11.2018

The hotel group, which launched last year with two properties, has announced large plans to expand its lifestyle portfolio in Europe and the US with a Washington hotel in the pipeline. Editor of Hotel Designs, Hamish Kilburn, sat down with the CEO, Cyril Aouizerate, to find out more..

I predict a riot, at least in the hotel scene anyway. Since launching in November of last year, MOB HOTEL has started a revolution, proving that the centre of a city’s action does not have to neccessarily be geographically pinned in the centre of the city. The lifestyle brand has turned up the volume – and thrown in a bit of colour – in the mid-market sector with two quirky hotels; one located in a Paris Flea Market, the other situated riverside in Lyon.

The brainchild of the MOB HOTEL – and its growth – is Cyril Aouizerate, alchemist, founder and CEO. He believes that a great hotel is designed around great people. “My desire to was create movement,” he says. “My objective is to use the hotels in our portfolio to create a new vision in the world that a hotel is more than just a bed for the night. That is why, for me, understanding the culture of each of our hotel’s location is so important.”

“I can see that this movement flows in the design as much as it does around the people.”

With the support of designers and hotel experts such as the former partner of Standard Hotels, Steve Case, and close friend Philippe Stark, it is no wonder why the brand’s quirky look and feel is turning heads in Europe and beyond. In a press release from the brand, it describes the creative team as a family that is united by a movement for progress. Speaking with Aouizerate, I can see that this movement flows in the design as much as it does around the people. “We don’t have a uniformed design concept for MOB HOTEL properties,” explains Aouizerate. “Each hotel is different, because as far as the design is concerned, we ensure that the property is completely relevant to its surrounding neighborhood. Creating a strong sense-of-place is everything!”

Although each property’s design starts as a blank canvas, the guestrooms and suites are imagined in such a way to be minimal, unpretentious and effortlessly stylish. The clutter that would be evident in a more traditional hotel offering has been removed – and the focus of the MOB HOTEL experience seems to be in the public areas, which are enjoyed by both the guests as well as the locals; a vital ingredient to the brand’s success. “We have taken risks with the location of the properties in order to be able to open larger spaces,” admits Aouizerate. “And, having created areas that can be enjoyed by the locals as well as the guests, we are able to harmoniously bridge the gap between the explorational traveller and the people at the heart of the location, which is always so wonderful to watch.”

The friendly, charming and relaxed attitude attached to the brand could very well be a welcome answer to opening up the mid-market sector within hotel development even more. Speaking to Aouizerate, I am reminded of the many conversations I have had recently that service in hotels should be considering as the extension of the design. Aouizerate explains: “You will never see a security man with crossed arms standing outside any of our hotels. Instead, you will find a warm and friendly character welcoming people – guests and locals – inside.

But where next for the brand that is slowly making its mark on the European hotel scene? Crossing oceans and several time zones, Aouizerate believes that his concept has no boundaries, with plans to open properties in Boston, LA, Washington, New York and of course expand in Europe with another HOTEL PARIS Gare de l’EST due to open next year.

The mid-market sector in hotel development is booming, and with the growing demand for affordable luxury, hotels are having to think further and further outside the box in order to stand out, nailing their marketing colours and USPs to the mast. As with all great ideas and launches, however, uncertainty and criticism from outsiders soon follows, and this was no different for the start of MOB HOTEL’s early years. “We had to destroy, slowly, the prejudice. When you are on the fringes of the city centre of Paris, it feels as if you are on the other side of a huge wall,” explains Aouizerate. “This was a difficult at the beginning, but once we won over the locals, the rest follows.”

As the hotel group grows into new territories, becoming infected by many local cultures along the way, I end my meeting with Aouizerate with the strong feeling that this brand is one to keep an eye on. With each opening, it will help travellers explore new places and things while comfortably encouraging bonds between fellow guests and other people in the neighbourhood – all under a quirky shell that can change its colours in a blink of an eye. For this reason, I look forward to this modern family evolving in time.

SLEEP + EAT: One week to go before the event debuts in west London

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 13.11.2018 13.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

13.11.2018

Here’s what to look forward one week before the world of hotel design prepares to descend on London for Sleep + Eat, followed by The Brit List 2018…

Just one week remains before Europe’s globally acclaimed hospitality design event Sleep + Eat opens its doors at London Olympia on November 20-21. With this year’s theme of Recognisable and New, visitors are promised an arrival experience like never before: a walk-through multimedia tunnel, with moments from the event’s history rolling into the reveals of 2018, to a specially curated soundtrack by Music Concierge. Emerging into the hall, visitors will then discover products never before seen at a European show from both new and veteran exhibitors.

The highly anticipated conceptual playground of the perennial Sleep Sets will showcase the work of international design practices who have been tasked with creating a concept guestroom environment. This year’s challenge is to design a space reflecting a well-known non-hotel brand. The participants are HBA London with Ahşap Ürün and Robin’s Design (National History Museum), Yasmine Mahmoudieh with Artisan Collective and JD Interior Solutions (Penguin Books), AB Concept in collaboration with The B.S.C. Group of Companies and Guardian Interiors (Pierre Hermé Paris), and Denton Corker Marshall with Phelan and HW Specialist Joinery (West Ham).

Image caption: Sleep+Eat West Ham visual_edited crest

The Sleep and Eat Conferences will introduce delegates to current trends, the stories behind some of Europe’s latest openings, international perspectives on Europe’s design climate and glimpses into the future for hotels, restaurants and bars. Just a few of the ‘must hear from’ names at the Sleep Conference are Inge Moore and Nathan Hutchins, founders of Muza Lab, Zannier Hotels’ Geraldine Dohogne, chairwoman of The Park Hotels Priya Paul, and Linda Boronkay of Soho House. Sleep + Eat has also just announced two more hosts for its development Roundtables – Elena Sainz de la Peña, Business Development Manager at CBRE Spain, and Max Rodman, Real Estate and Venture investor at Round Hill Capital.

With more than 150 international exhibitors, this year’s showcase will launch over 50 new collections. Alongside such returning brands as Arte, Bang & Olufsen, Curiousa & Curiousa, Contardi, emco Group, ercol, GROHE, Parla Design, and Style Library, newcomers will include BluePrint Ceramics, kymo, Flair Showers, Atlas Concorde, Dedar, DWC Editions, Ceramiche Caesar S.p.A., Ebru, Ena Shaw Contract, and TUUCI.

Sleep + Eat will be open from 10am-8.30pm on November 20 and 10am-6pm on from November 21. Hotel Designs Recommended Supplier GROHE, the event’s founder sponsor, is once again creating the VIP lounge located on the first floor, and the event’s social hub will be the Sleeper Bar, designed this year by Brooklyn-based Jun Aizaki, founder of CRÈME.

Just one day later, on November 22, leading designers, hoteliers and architects will gather at BEAT London for The Brit List 2018, which will conclude this year’s show season in spectacular fashion with this year’s newly launched awards being unveiled on the evening.

Checking in to Hotel Gotham, Manchester’s decadent playground

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/MAR2402-800x534-768x513-1.jpg 768 513 Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 13.11.2018 21.03.2019

By: Hamish Kilburn

13.11.2018

As Manchester continues to turn heads on the hotel design scene, editor of Hotel Designs Hamish Kilburn checked in to check out Hotel Gotham’s bold and decadent interiors – all sheltered within a former bank…

Ever since its bold entrance onto the unapologetically loud Manchester scene in 2015, Hotel Gotham’s alluring charm has tantalised many senses of those who have passed through its spectacularly framed automatic doors. I, for one, am one of them, and I hold my hands up proudly to say that I have formed a lust for decadence and luxury since checking in.

Expect disruptive interiors that are balanced with effortless style and a narrative threaded throughout the whole building that will take you right back to ’20s glamour.

Manchester’s answer to Gothic-chic is often the heart of the action of the city thanks to the vivacious General Manager, Mario Ovsenjak. It’s this action captured within Hotel Gotham, almost on a need-to-know basis, that helped first raise the bar in hotel design in the North in order to compete not only against its London counterparts, but also against luxury hotels around the world. Because Hotel Gotham is, quite frankly, unlike anywhere else around the globe.

“Think Art Deco meets the Batcave.”

The concept was to create timeless luxury with the ability to take guests away from the city centre below they know and love and into a different universe entirely, all while remaining sensitive in restoring moments that capture the hotel how it used to be. Think Art Deco meets the Batcave.

The entrance, under the watchful focus of the building’s gargoyles, is surprisingly understated given its majestic shell. Designed to emphasise a theatrical greeting from magnificently dressed porters, as if themselves are part of wider performance or an extension of the interior styling, the doors to the hotel are more like a curtain to a stage. Look up and all is not what it first seems. The ceiling is made up of numerous upside-down umbrellas – not for the superstitious I must add – painted in black and gold. These elements are special because they didn’t quite work out according to the original plan. These items were supposed to arrive painted gold underneath and black on top, but it wasn’t until the interior designers erected the first one when they realised that they had been designed to be gold on top and black underneath. Today, the subtle reference to Manchester’s inevitable downpour is cleverly injected and hides the secret well.

Checking in on the sixth floor is an unusual experience to say the least, but an experience I have seen work before, at the W Amsterdam for example. Unlike the raucous, wild and fashion-forward W brand, though, Hotel Gotham’s lobby experience is private and provides and secluded and personal welcome. Just a few steps along and guests are greeted into a large and airy Honey Restaurant, with its own personality. The hotel describes this place as “Whatever Honey conjures up for you”, the 2 AA Rosette awarded restaurant offers guests to dine overlooking Manchester from an unmatched perspective.

Downstairs, the guestrooms and suites shelter the true character of Hotel Gotham. Disruptive interiors balance a seductive, playful misé en scene, yet still feel like a home from home – like a modern designer’s sanctuary… The zig-zagged, soft Newhey carpets and the striking pink accents in the furniture and the inside of the drinks cabinet add flair in all the right corners. Meanwhile, the oversized beds, complete with faux fur throws, make lying-in a privilege.

Challenging the convention of traditional luxury hotels, the most premium category rooms at Hotel Gotham do not boast the most premium views of the city – in fact they boast no view at all. Instead, cleverly I believe, the five Inner Sanctum Suites – each named after an iconic Manchester figure and featuring a huge ‘wonderwall’ screen – are vaulted within the core of the building. Windowless and worlds away from anything happening in the city below, the suites’ sharp cinema screen projections onto panelled wallcoverings offer various atmospheres, not just the one that Manchester wants you to see, including the intriguing narrative of Hotel Gotham characters.

The real showstopper is located on the top floor (floor seven), and is reserved for guests and members only. The history of the building is quite literally written on the walls in the bar. The surfaces are lathered in gold, giving more than just a subtle nod to the bank that the building used to shelter. The bar and lounge area naturally over-spills onto four separate terraces that together capture a jaw-dropping view over the city and beyond.

Bespoke Hotels recently announced that it was to open the 191-key The Brooklyn to Manchester, which will pay ‘homage to the Golden Age of New York City’. This follows Top Hotel Projects revealing a rather large development growth of luxury hotels in Manchester, with 18 first-class and luxury hotel projects listed for the city with 2,907 rooms in the pipeline – eight of which are slated to be unveiled in 2019. The Brooklyn, which will become the younger brother – or sister – of Hotel Gotham, is expected to share the same disobedience, and rightly so, as the hotel group arguably continues to lead the way in the city with endless possibilities that help to broaden the ever-changing landscape of hotel design in the North.

Key suppliers list:

Carpets – Newhey Carpet
Lighting – RS Robertsons
Curtains – Robena Contract Furnishings Limited
Furniture (pink seating) – Style Matters
Desk – PTT design
Bathroom toilet, basin and shower – Marflow

Image credits: ACT Studios

With Brexit looming, the UK hospitality industry must invest to retain talent, study suggests

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 12.11.2018 12.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

12.11.2018

With two-thirds of hospitality works planning on quitting their jobs in the near-future, but what can be done ahead of Brexit to retain employees?

Invest in your staff in order to retain them is the clear message to employers in the hospitality industry in light of new research from Caterer.com. A survey of 21,000 global hospitality workers released today reveals that two thirds (65 per cent) of hospitality workers plan on quitting their jobs in the near future. Worryingly, over half of those workers (59 per cent) plan on moving in the next six months.

The research explored the key attributes which tempt hospitality workers to explore new pastures. Findings demonstrate that career progression is the most important factor (16 per cent) showing employees want long term prospects within a company. Surprisingly, salary (14 per cent) came in second, followed closely by training & development (13 per cent) – showing staff want to feel invested in by their employers.

“The industry is facing increased staffing and recruitment pressures due in part to uncertainty ahead of Brexit.”

The hospitality sector is big business and the UK’s third biggest employer[1], providing jobs to 2.9 million people (7 per cent of the working population). The industry is facing increased staffing and recruitment pressures due in part to uncertainty ahead of Brexit.

Highlighting the importance of the survey’s findings, Neil Pattison, Director from Caterer.com said, “The hospitality employers who show career progression opportunities will find it easier to attract new employees and retain current staff. With hospitality looking to be one of the hardest sectors hit post-Brexit, it’s fascinating to reflect on the clear call from workers for investment in their future. With 65 per cent of respondents saying that they plan to quit their job in the near future and high competition among employers, investing in your staff will help to alleviate the lure of a role from elsewhere.”

The survey of over 21,000 hospitality workers from across the globe highlights the importance of employment progression for retaining staff in what can often feel like a seasonal or transient industry.

The fast-paced nature of hospitality is a key draw for 12 per cent of workers, while teamwork ranked highly for 14 per cent of those surveyed.

The sector has seen a reduction in apprenticeships since the Apprenticeship Levy was introduced in 2017 with a low uptake from small businesses and in turn, less opportunities have been available for young people to enter the industry. The Autumn Statement saw the chancellor announce that the Government will half the amount small businesses have to contribute from 10 per cent to 5 per cent when taking on apprentices. – a move hoped to increase industry apprenticeships and on the job training.

Hotel Designs would like to know how your practice is preparing for Brexit. Please Tweet us @HotelDesigns

References available upon request

Main image credit: Pixabay

THE BRIT LIST 2018: Just two weeks to go

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 08.11.2018 08.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

08.11.2018

In just two weeks, the leading interior designers, hoteliers, architects and key-industry suppliers will gather at The Brit List 2018…

There are still limited tickets available to attend The Brit List 2018 on November 2018 at BEAT London. The evening will welcome Britain’s leading interior designers, hoteliers, architects and suppliers to celebrate Britain as an international design hub in hotel design. As well as unveiling the 75 most influential designers, hoteliers and architects who deserve their place in The Brit List 2018, Hotel Designs will also announce the winners of the six newly launched awards. These include:

Inspiration in Design – Innovative use of Technology (Sponsored by DLAppTap)
Inspiration in Design – Hotelier of the Year
Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year (Sponsored by Tarkett)
Inspiration in Design – Architect of the Year
The Eco Award
Outstanding Contribution to the Hotel Industry

Managing Director of RPW Design Ariane Steinbeck, Managing Director of WATG (London) Martin Peace, Director of Goddard Littlefair Jo Littlefair and Chairman of Bespoke Hotels Robin Sheppard are all among the names confirmed to attend The Brit List 2018.

How to attend

To register you’re interested in purchasing tickets, would like to talk about sponsorship opportunities, or to request the latest attendee list, please contact Katy Phillips on 01992 374050 or via email by clicking here.

If you are an interior designer, hotelier or architect you can book tickets for £20+vat per person here

If you are a supplier to the hotel industry you can book tickets for £175+vat per person here

Event timings: 6.30 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

6.30 p.m. Welcome drinks are served
7.00 p.m. Welcome speech from Hotel Designs Editor, Hamish Kilburn, to include unveiling of The Brit List 2018 winners
7.15 p.m. Canapés are served
7.15 p.m. Headline speaker, Charles Leon, Leon Black Interior Architecture addresses the Brit List 2018 – Britain’s position in international hotel design and hospitality post-Brexit
7.30 p.m. Awards presentation commences
8.00 p.m. Headline speaker, Moritz Waldemeyer, Studio Moritz Waldemeyer addresses The Brit List 2018 – Hotel lighting; how it has changed in recent times and how is lighting technology allowing for more creative interiors
8.15 p.m. Celebrations and networking

BRIT LIST 2018 Industry Partner: British Institute of Interior Design

BRIT LIST 2018 Event Sponsor: Hamilton Litestat

BRIT LIST 2018 Supporting Partner: Studio Moritz Waldemeyer

BRIT LIST 2018 Award Sponsor: Inspiration in Design – Interior Designer of the Year: Tarkett

The Brit List 2018 Innovation In Technology Award sponsor: DLAppTap

Amsterdam named top city for hotel investment for third year in a row

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 06.11.2018 06.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

06.11.2018

Deloitte’s European Hotel Investment Survey 2018 reveals that Amsterdam is the number-one hot spot hotel investment, as London climbs to second…

Investors have named Amsterdam as the most attractive European city for hotel investment for the third year in a row, according to the 2018 European Hotel Investment Survey from Deloitte. The findings, based on responses from 122 senior hospitality figures from across the world, are revealed ahead of the 30^th annual European Hotel Investment Conference taking place in London this week.

The news comes in after Independent Hotel Show announces its 2019 Amsterdam arrival. The European design hub continues to be seen as the most attractive hotel investment destination in Europe, with more than a third of respondents (34 per cent) ranking the Dutch capital top. London (24 per cent) has climbed back to second place from fourth in 2017, ahead of Paris (22 per cent) and Madrid (19 per cent). Dublin (18 per cent) and Barcelona (16 per cent), which featured in the top three last year, have slipped to fifth and sixth, respectively.

London’s rise comes despite 70 per cent of respondents saying that the UK is at a ‘peak’ or ‘downturn’ in its investment cycle. By contrast, investors identified France (50 per cent), Greece (48 per cent) and Spain (46 per cent) as the European markets that are currently on the ‘upturn’.

Andreas Scriven, head of hospitality and leisure at Deloitte, comments: “When it comes to hotel investment, Amsterdam is head and shoulders above the rest of Europe. It remains a standout destination for business and leisure, and is strategically placed as a gateway city. Given the investor appetite and lack of supply in the Dutch capital, we expect to see further inbound investment in 2019.

“It is reassuring to see London climb back up the rankings, and somewhat curious considering the uncertainty around the manner in which the UK will exit the EU in less than five months’ time. For London to continue to remain attractive to hotel investors, it will need to address concerns around over-supply and high pricing. Investors will be keeping a close eye on currency markets in the coming months, as sterling’s weakness is likely to be a key driver of inbound investment into the UK capital.”

Investors still expect top-line growth in the Regional UK hotel market

Respondents were also asked about their investment appetite towards the UK regional hotel landscape. For the fifth year in a row, Edinburgh has been named the most attractive UK regional city for hotel investments in the next 12 months, according to 39 per cent of respondents. Second-place sees Cambridge (30 per cent) overtaking Manchester (28 per cent). All three cities are also expected to see the highest growth in RevPAR (revenue per available room) in 2019.

The majority of hotel investors are optimistic about 2019 growth prospects in the Regional UK hotel market, with 52% of respondents expecting RevPAR growth to be between one – three per cent across the UK, although this is down from 70 per cent last year. Hotel investors were less confident when asked about 2019 expectations for gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR), however. One in four respondents (25 per cent) expect GOPPAR to enter negative territory in London over the next 12 months, while 21 per cent expect negative GOPPAR in the Regional UK.

The research also revealed growing concern around pricing multiples, with expectations on EBITDA multiples for both London and Regional UK falling year-on-year. Despite the majority (53 per cent) expecting multiples of 11-14x in 2019, one in four respondents (25 per cent) expect less than 10x multiples across Regional UK, up from 11 per cent last year. Around a third (32 per cent), however, still expect to see EBITDA multiples of over 16x in London, falling slightly from 36 per cent in 2017.

Two-fifths (41 per cent) of respondents expect the primary source of investment into the Regional UK market to come domestically. More than a third (36 per cent) of hospitality leaders expect to see inbound investment coming from Asia Pacific (excluding China and India), increasing from 26 per cent last year. The perceived importance of North America and China as a source of investment has continued to decline, falling by five and ten percentage points respectively year-on-year.

Nikola Reid, director and head of UK hospitality at Deloitte comments: “The majority of hotel investors anticipate continued RevPAR growth in the Regional UK in 2019. However, one only has to scratch away at this surface to reveal clear concerns and intensity in operational cost pressures caused by inflation, staffing challenges and Brexit uncertainties. With significant headwinds to profitability, UK hotel owners and operators will need to continue to be more innovative with efficiency and productivity to preserve the bottom line whilst having to adapt to ever changing consumer habits and value expectations.

“Despite this, we’ve seen no shortage of capital chasing the exceptional level of portfolio activity this year fuelled by a number of new players in town and ensuing aggressive pricing. With a number of portfolios and large single assets still expected to come to market next year, and, as we move closer to a resolution on the Brexit negotiations, the strength of the transaction market may be tested.”

Economic backdrop fuelling concerns around talent retention

According to the research, 38 per cent of respondents identified ‘lack of economic growth’ as the number one strategic risk facing the European hotel industry over the next five years. Terrorism, which was last year’s number one risk after a series of high-profile attacks across Europe in 2017, has slipped to second place (34 per cent, down from 67 per cent).

In order to address the staffing issue prevalent in the European hospitality sector, three-fifths of hotel investors believe increasing pay would help attract the top talent over the next three years. Ensuring a faster career progression (48 per cent) and improving employee benefits (43 per cent) would also help attract and retain employees, according to respondents.

Scriven added: “Hotel investors are understandably concerned about the macroeconomic environment, which has exacerbated fears about attracting and retaining talent. Understandably, hospitality leaders are thinking about how they can keep hold of their staff. This is why we are seeing evidence of the need to increase pay and improve benefits packages, in order to mitigate factors out of their control.”

Main image credit: Pexels

This hotel aims to redefine the Greek luxury hotel resort

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 02.11.2018 02.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

02.11.2018

Elegant, relaxed and future-proofed, Gennadi Grand Resort is a fresh breath of Greek Aegean air and is a shining example in the sun of positive environmental and social impact…

Gennadi Grand Resort on the Greek island of Rhodes opened earlier this year as a place of pure inspiration where exceptional design, beauty and architecture blend together seamlessly. Lovingly landscaped by eco-minded architects, Dimitris Melenos & Partners, the resort echoes the relaxed feel of this less-explored corner of the largest Dodecanese island. Connected to nature, the resort lies within a small fishing village off the tourist trail on Rhodes’ longest and most beautiful beach, set snugly between mountain and sea.

A synthesis of form, function and perfectly scaled structures in a nature-showcasing landscape, the resort operates under a BMS (Building Management System) comprising of leading innovative energy management technology. Slanted roofs simultaneously minimise sunlight reflection and optimise the microclimate conditions whilst forward-thinking recycling practices are in place throughout the resort.

Blending the exterior and interior spaces, the hotel features a natural choices for every type of guest: floor-to-ceiling windows letting the natural light flood in, and sleek custom-made furnishings. The 288 rooms include spacious suites, two-bedroom suites and junior suites with private pools.

Guestrooms and suites

Modern elegance and comfort meet in the various guestrooms and suites. The Gennadi Grand Suites with Sea View comprise of two separate stylish rooms, complete with a bedroom and a sitting area and a modern open plan bathroom.

Elevating the luxury-resort experience, Gennadi Grand Resort is a rare blend of considered contemporary architecture, combined with old-fashioned heartfelt hospitality. It’s story is the sum of all its parts — the passion of the chefs, the independent farm workers who proudly bring their organic produce, the gardeners and of course the management team who have nurtured the feeling of everyone being a part of its extended family.

First look at Liverpool’s latest design hotel

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 01.11.2018 01.11.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

01.11.2018

Seel Street Hotel by EPIC is slated to open its dynamic interiors and design in December 2018…

New design renders have been released showcasing Liverpool’s latest design hotel, Seel Street Hotel by EPIC, which is scheduled to open to the public in early December 2018.

The exclusive visuals of the 128-key hotel, developed by Elliot Group and designed by Liverpool-based Falconer Chester Hall, throw the spotlight on the property’s flagship ‘WOW! Suite’ – a striking corner suite with external space providing sensational city views and set to raise the bar in the city’s expanding hotel sector. With scaled-back interiors, completed with industrial-like exposed wardrobes and a palette of warm blues and browns, the rooms are cosy, inviting and modern.

Also revealed is the hotel’s spacious Super Luxe suites with outside terraces and skyline vistas, and the ultra-contemporary Cinema Room, offering what is said to be the ultimate guest experience without having to leave the room.

“We are thrilled to be able to give this first look of our new Seel Street Hotel by EPIC. We are very proud of what we have envisioned for the property, and we are confident our guests will fall in love with it from the moment they step inside,” said Managing Director of EPIC Simon Beer. “This is a game-changer in the city and offers a high-end hotel experience befitting of Liverpool’s status as a world-class place to visit. It’s a first-class hotel for a first-class city.”

EPIC have been setting the standard in the apart-hotel sector over a number of years, with successful properties already on Liverpool’s Duke Street, Seel Street and Campbell Street.

Seel Street Hotel by EPIC, which opens as part of its wider transformation of Wolstenholme Square, is said to bring a dynamic character to the guest experience that matches its vibrant, urban setting.

All image credits: EPIC Hotels

UK Trade associations react to the Autumn Budget Statement 2018

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 31.10.2018 31.10.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

31.10.2018

UKinbound, Hotel Booking Agents Association and the British Property Federation comment on The Budget 2018…

Following Philip Hammond’s delivery of his third Budget as chancellor, UKinbound, Hotel Booking Agents Association (HBAA) and the British Property Federation have commented on the key points that will affect building infrastructure and tourism in the UK.

UKinbound

UKinbound – the trade association that represents nearly 400 of the UK’s top tourism businesses – has cautiously welcomed some of the new policies and initiatives outlined in the chancellor’s 2018 Budget but urges the Government to re-consider its decision not to change VAT or APD regimes, particularly in Northern Ireland.

New policies that will have a positive effect on the UK’s tourism industry include:

The opening of e-passport gates to citizens from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan which will help to reduce queues and waiting times for these visitors.
Funding to help restore historic high streets and for Coventry to help it prepare for hosting the UK City of Culture in 2021.
The roll out of full fibre broadband for rural areas, which will help tourism businesses to connect and market their businesses more effectively to visitors.
Funding to repair and improve roads and extension of the Transforming Cities Fund, which will help to improve connectivity and transport links in cities. This will help to encourage tourists to visit and further explore the UK’s cities, likely resulting in increased economic benefit across the whole of the UK from enhanced visitor spend.

“We are pleased that the Budget includes several policies that will have a positive impact on the UK’s tourism industry,” said Chairman Mark McVay. “These include the welcome introduction of e-gates for more of our international visitors, improvement of transport links in our cities and digital connectivity in rural areas and funding to help restore and sustain our historic high streets.

“However, it is disappointing that there will be no change to APD and VAT regimes at this point, even though there is strong evidence that cutting these taxes will in fact generate more revenue for the Government in the long term.”

HBAA

Louise Goalen, HBAA Chair, comments on on the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget Statement: “While we welcome many of the Chancellor’s initiatives and the benefits they will bring to the UK hospitality and events industry, there is not enough to address the major talent gap we are facing.

“On a more positive note, it’s good to see a reduction in business rates for smaller companies.”

“The changes in the apprenticeship levy are good news and we hope that venues and agencies whose levy has been reduced to 5% will take advantage of this, and take on more trainees under this scheme.”

“UK business events will ultimately benefit from the £30 billion spend on roads and the freeze on fuel duty. However, when it comes to overseas events, a rise in long haul APD is definitely unwelcome, as this will impact the incentive market. On a more positive note, it’s good to see a reduction in business rates for smaller companies as this will help reduce the overheads of some HBAA agency members.

“Let’s hope there is good news in the Chancellor’s ‘red books’ – the important small print that goes with these headline statements.”

The British Property Federation

Melanie Leech, Chief Executive, British Property Federation comments:

Business Rates

It is good to see the Chancellor acknowledge that many small retailers are struggling against powerful headwinds and provide additional relief from business rates. However, Monday’s announcement does not change the fact that at almost 50 per cent, the rate of business rates is simply too high for occupiers of all sorts. It is time to recognise that business rates are unsustainable in their current form and causing untold damage to our economy; time for a fundamental review.

Digital Tax

As the UK economy evolves, so must the tax system – and we welcome that the Government is taking steps to respond to this. However, this is not an alternative to much-needed support for our high streets, which still require urgent support in the form of fundamental business rates reform. They will also require local plans that can drive adaptation, incentives to encourage town centre investment and more flexibility around change of use and we are pleased that the Chancellor recognised this.

“A new tax relief for commercial property owners is a real surprise.”

Structures and Buildings Allowance:

A new tax relief for commercial property owners is a real surprise. This move brings the UK more closely in line with the many other countries that already provide tax relief for the cost of building commercial property, making the UK more attractive to invest in. It makes investing in new and refurbished buildings cheaper from a tax perspective, and is a welcome move.

Town centres and high streets

The announcement of additional investment into a Future High Streets Fund is welcome, and when combining with the proposed planning reform and a High Streets Task Force has real potential to be a game changer for urban centres facing a change in the way that people shop, how they spend their leisure time, and where they want to live.

However, it’s crucial not to forget some of the other knotty issues that property owners have to grapple with. We support the proper use of CVAs to help businesses in genuine distress and are keen that CVAs continue to achieve these objectives. There is, however, increasing frustration about the practice of some recent CVAs. The BPF has called on Government to conduct an independent urgent review of CVAs.

Land value uplift

We welcome the Government’s sensible, measured approach to land value uplift. In a noisy environment with multiple views on land value capture being aired, it is pleasing to see such a considered response providing more certainty for developers and local authorities, and enabling more infrastructure provision for local communities.

The Letwin Review

We welcome Sir Oliver Letwin’s recommendations, and in particular, his focus on the need for a more diverse, multi-tenure approach to large sites. The benefits will be three-fold, both helping to address market absorption rates and deliver properties quicker and help to create more sustainable places home to different demographics, socio-economic backgrounds, fostering a greater sense of community. In addition, adding a tenure such as build to rent to a development site brings with it an investor with a long term interest.

The Review also recognised the skills crisis in which we find ourselves. Time is of the essence, and whilst we applaud the Government’s intention to take a few months to consider the response to the wider Review, this is an area in which we need urgent action to sure that we can hit the 300,000 target.

Main image credit: Pixabay

Independent Hotel Show 2018 exceeds expectations

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 30.10.2018 30.10.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

30.10.2018

Hotel Designs was proud to be a media partner of Independent Hotel Show 2018, which proved to be a huge success ahead of the show’s arrival in Amsterdam next year…

Flawlessly bringing together the UK’s best independent hoteliers with premium and innovative suppliers, delivering insightful seminars and creating a myriad of opportunities to network, the seventh Independent Hotel Show, presented by James Hallam Insurance Brokers, has been heralded a great success.

“We were delighted to see the first-class and visionary quality of the show exceeding all expectations once again,” said Event Director Miranda Martin. “The UK’s most talented hoteliers, industry stalwarts, innovative entrepreneurs and influential media attended in droves, whilst an impressive number of exhibitors rebooked for next year (15 &16 October) on the spot. The feedback about the design features has been amazing and comments from visitors about their experience are evidence of yet another great show for the sector.”

Inspiring new features were found in every corner of the show at Olympia London on 16 and 17 October, including live installation ‘The Hotel Room of the Future’ created by Two’s Company Interiors.

Providing a glimpse into the near future, the Hotel Room of the Future buzzed with excitement and conversation over the two days. The room offered intuitive tech to enhance the guest experience, rather than to taint it with confusing switches and screens, the bed incorporated tech, scent and science for a night of deep sleep, while the futuristic design of the bathroom provided the essential instagrammable feature.

Many hoteliers headed for The Dyson Meeting Space designed by Galapagos to take part in facilitated speed networking sessions. Offering a ‘conversational menu’ as a prompt for peers to share views and experiences on various themes and topics such as ‘The Future is Female’, ‘Multiple Site Operators’ and ‘Future Leaders’, this new feature at the show was a success for encouraging interaction and making new contacts.

Conducive to further networking was The Lobby, designed by Capellini. Located at the heart of the show with a range of seating options and tables, warm lighting and vibrant green foliage, it provided a calm space for conversation.

Over the two days, thought leaders from across the industry discussed a range of hot topics – from service and staffing to technology, design, loyalty, marketing and wellness – in front of packed audiences at the Business Theatre, in partnership with Sky and designed by sofa.com and the Innovation Stage, in partnership with eviivo, designed by Elli Popp.

Over in the Business Theatre, Hotel Designs’ editor Hamish Kilburn moderating an engaging panel with leading figures such as Emma King (Head of interior design at IHG, europe), Chris Hill (Hotels Operations Director, House of Daniel Thwaites), Anant Sharma (CEO, Matters of Form) and Jonathon Slater (Owner, Oddfellows Management).

Panelists in The Great Service Debate 2018, led by EP Business in Hospitality and Penshee, delved deep into the subject of service – attributing good service to five key pillars – low effort (installing systems to allow staff to attend to guests), personality, adaptability, empathy and authenticity.

Recruitment was hot topic at the Business Theatre with HR consultant Claire Elston joined by Adam Rowledge of Georgian House, Sarah Powell of Soho Farmhouse and Babington House and Dee Smith of Springboard, who gave invaluable advice on how to inspire and engage the workforce.

On the Innovation Stage, ‘The Hotel Room of the Future’ was discussed by Gilly Craft, BIID President and Partner & Designer at Two’s Company Interior Design and Rodney Hoinkes, Chief Insight and Innovation Officer, Fresh Montgomery, who talked through the journey of the room, from research to reveal.

“The talks, panel discussion and power breakfast gave us lots to think about and actions to put in place back at our hotel” – Hoteliers Julia and Nick Davies, Owners of The Cottage in the Wood.

UK Hospitality’s CEO Kate Nicholls gave an overview of UK Hospitality and talked about strategies to address the industry’s labour shortage by making it an appealing place to work. Nicholls said work was underway to convince the Government that the sector is not a low-skilled one, but a semi and soft-skilled one and to promote the sector as an attractive and viable place to build a career.

Other events at the show included a rare chance to hear former Waterside Inn Maître D’ Diego Masciaga reveal what it was like to front the three Michelin-starred restaurant for 30 years. Diego shared his service tips in a keynote interview with Peter Hancock, Chief Executive of Pride of Britain Hotels.

Throughout the show, esteemed speakers, VIP hoteliers, show partners and their guests were invited to visit The Suite designed by Valdivian. Bold colours, striking patterns and beautiful furniture set the scene for networking, meetings or simply catching up.

Consistent with every year of the Independent Hotel Show, hoteliers, returning and new exhibitors alike were impressed with the high standards and calibre of opportunities and leads.

“We loved the Independent Hotel Show,” said hoteliers Julia and Nick Davies, Owners of The Cottage in the Wood. “The talks, panel discussion and power breakfast gave us lots to think about and actions to put in place back at our hotel. We met with key suppliers that we were looking for as well as new ones too. The Hotel Room of the Future was fascinating and gave us lots of ideas for our upcoming rooms refurbishment.

Barry Stuart, UK Sales Director Key Accounts, ADA International, whose company also fragranced the show, said: “The Independent Hotel Show 2018 has been one of the best exhibitions I’ve been to in a decade. Our stand was at its best and the footfall has been brilliant with the quality of attendees high.”

Thibault Gence, Co-Founder of tech provider Hotelhero: “This year was our first time exhibiting at the Independent Hotel Show and I have been impressed by the design of the Show and quality of stands. It’s more personal and on-point than other trade shows I’ve been to and is the best one for independent hotels – it’s not just about business, or branding, but about everything relevant to hoteliers.”

Nina Tarnowski, Director and Designer, Woodchip & Magnolia, the Show’s wallpaper partner, said: “Our business has only been going for 18 months, so being at the Show has been about brand recognition as well as connecting with hoteliers. Previously, we’ve only exhibited at design shows. The response we had to our mural in the foyer was amazing, so we’re thrilled to have been able to show our work in key places as well as have a stand.”

The Independent Hotel Show Awards for Independent Hotelier and Outstanding New Hotel were given to Adam Rowledge, general manager of Georgian House, and Another Place, The Lake.

The Independent Hotel Show will be back for its eighth year on 15 & 16 October 2019.

Design-led sign and display specialist, Signbox, launches new eshop

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/signbox-shop-1170x624-1-1024x546.jpg 1024 546 Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 29.10.2018 29.03.2019

By: Hamish Kilburn

29.10.2018

Recommended Supplier Signbox launches new eshop with a large range of stocked sign products available for hotels…

Offering intelligently designed, off-the-shelf sign and display solutions, from Fire Exit signs, to NFC Smart Stickers to LED-illuminated restroom signs and everything in between, Signbox’s new eshop is easy to browse and offers rapid delivery on a huge range of stocked products.

UK-based Signbox is a leading signage specialist with over 33 years’ industry experience. With intelligent design and application, the company consistently delivers award-winning visual communication strategies via traditional and pioneering signage methods across a number of market sectors, including corporate, education, healthcare, retail, hotel and leisure.

“We’re known for our bespoke, high-end graphic interior and external signage solutions,” says Managing Director Mark Bartlett. “But we also supply simple off-the-shelf signage for a variety of business sectors and we have been working for some time on a solution to streamline that offering and make it as accessible and efficient as possible. Our new eshop is SEO friendly, easy to navigate and we’re confident that the significant investment we’ve made in getting it up and running will be well worth it.”

“With a proven formula based on contemporary design, technical innovation and engineering excellence, Signbox’s holistic approach continues to put the company at the forefront of architectural signage.”

As any business owner knows – the two great challenges with getting a project like this off the ground are time and money. Finding the time to put into it amid all the day-to-day pressures and deadlines is never easy, and getting a project like this right requires a substantial financial investment as well. Key to finding the finances for the project was an R&D tax credit incentive scheme that we were made aware of through our association with FESPA. There is an explicit regulation within UK company tax law designed to ease the tax burden on businesses who are investing heavily in R&D, and two years ago we decided to explore this as an avenue to find the necessary funds to grow and adapt our business. Like any tax regulation it is a highly complex process, so we were grateful for the assistance of Kene Partners whose services we employed to walk us through this regulatory minefield and help us to maximise our business growth opportunities.

“With Adam Kene and his teams’ help, over the course of the last two years, we’ve managed to save a six-figure sum off our corporation tax bill which we have been able to invest back into the business: training and up-skilling staff, purchasing a new Zund precision cutting device to automate production, a new Trotec laser and of course investing in the digital infrastructure which has made our attractive fresh, user-friendly eshop a reality. We’d encourage any business looking for growth opportunities to explore this as an option,” Bartlett concludes. “As investing in the future benefits consumers and the wider economy as well as helping individual companies to grow.”

With a proven formula based on contemporary design, technical innovation and engineering excellence, Signbox’s holistic approach continues to put the company at the forefront of architectural signage. Sourcing and implementing cutting edge technologies and high quality sustainable materials, the company is renowned for delivering powerful interior and exterior signage projects for a diverse range of global brands in the UK, Europe, the Americas and the Far East – all of which are compliant, future-proof and visually arresting.

To view the Signbox eshop and take advantage of opening month special offers, please visit: www.shop.signbox.co.uk

Click here to read Navigating around Signbox’s HQ to understand more about how the leading company manufacturers its bespoke products.

Signbox are one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

Room Mate Hotels personalises the user experience with Amazon Pay

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Part-12.jpg 355 250 Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 23.10.2018 23.10.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

23.10.2018

By implementing this service, Room Mate believes guests will be able to enjoy a more unique, personalised experience before and after their stay…

Room Mate Hotels has improved its user experience and reinforced its position as a Visionary Brand with the introduction of Amazon Pay inside all of its hotels.

From today, guests will be able to quickly and easily book their stay in any of the hotels the international hotel chain operates around the world by using their Amazon log in information.

By implementing this service, Room Mate believes guests will be able to enjoy a more unique, personalised experience before and after their stay.

“At Room Mate we love breaking the mould, being different and surprising. We always rethink everything and this has made us a Visionary Brand,” said Victor Fernández, CEO of Room Mate Hotels.

“The introduction of Amazon Pay is a natural step in Room Mate Hotels’ growth, a fusion of technology and innovation created to make the experience of everyone that chooses us easier and adapted and so that we continue being visionary within the sector. We are very happy to be working with Amazon.”

This latest news adds to Room Mate Hotels’ ambitious expansion plans, with new destinations to be reached including Rome, Paris, Naples, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Mallorca and Lisbon.

At present the chain boasts 24 hotels and the new locations will see the size of the company double, going from having 1,522 rooms to having a total of more than 3,052 rooms in its portfolio.

Edouard Chabrol, head of Amazon Pay for France, Spain and Italy, added: “Amazon and Room Mate share a customer focus, management based on data and the capacity to innovate. We work to improve customers’ experience from the moment they make a booking.

“By integrating Amazon Pay, Room Mate enables its customers to make bookings in a more agile, convenient way, improving the conversion of its online channel.”

WATG unveils five-star Ayana Komodo Resort in Asia

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 23.10.2018 23.10.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

23.10.2018

Set across a 1.4-hectare site, the hotel resort is surrounded by a lagoon and its marine life, where guests can soak up the 180-degree views of the Flores Sea…

Design firm WATG has opened the doors to its brand-new contemporary hotel in Indonesia, The Ayana Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach, marking the third Ayana property across Asia. Located in Labuan Bajo, on Flores Island, the hotel is the latest five-star offering in the Indonesian Archipelago, boasting 192 rooms and 13 suites.

Set across a 1.4-hectare site, the hotel is surrounded by a lagoon and its marine life, where guests can soak up the 180-degree views of the Flores Sea. “The site’s amazing location on the edge of the sea forms a destination and gateway to the Sunda Islands archipelago,” said Bill Reed, Vice President of architecture at WATG. “This is the first world-class destination in the area and it will serve as a benchmark for future development. We designed the Ayana Komodo Resort to reflect the relaxed aesthetic of the Komodo Islands, with a feeling of spontaneity and subtle sophistication.”

The area’s cultural and ecological landscape has shaped WATG’s design for the resort; named after the Komodo dragon the resort’s guest wing has a curving shape and rough textured roof that emulates the form of the reptile.

Meanwhile, the architecture also draws inspiration from the Manggarai Mountain range, and a collection of local materials and traditional Batik patterns to create an informed identity for the hotel.

On site, guests can also take advantage of the two large pools, six restaurants and bars, and a 420 square-meter spa.

7 ways to promote your hotel on social media

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Surfaces--1024x480.jpg 1024 480 Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 22.10.2018 22.10.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

22.10.2018

The world of social media is constantly evolving, making it crutial for hotels to stay ahead in the market. Serena Dorf, a content writer from Los Angeles, shares her top tops to help htoels remain competitive in the digital sphere…

In today’s digital era, every business is forced to survive and adapt to the ever-changing marketplace shifts. If ten years ago traditional marketing was king, nowadays, the digital marketing medium seems to be the most pronounced. As a hotel owner, you’ll have to adapt to the current effective marketing practices that can bring you exposure and eventually more bookings.

Social media networks are currently the trendiest way to promote a business online, mostly because it allows brands and customers to communicate directly and to build purposeful relationships that’ll serve both parties for an undefined period of time.

It’s the 21st century – most people regularly use a phone with internet on it and with at least one social media network installed. Some phones even have social networks installed by default, so it’s quite probable that your target audience is present on at least one big social media network.

Doing the simple math, we come to realise that social networks are the best platforms that can be used for hotel promotion. For that reason, we’ll discuss seven simple tips and guidelines that’ll help you effectively promote your hotel on social media.

1. Keep your brand’s voice consistent on social media
Every brand needs to differentiate itself from the rest in one way or another, in fact, that’s what branding means. By developing social media profiles and sharing consistent quality content, you’ll begin shaping your brand’s voice.

For example, Nike is using a motivational voice to inspire athletes, while Dove uses an inspirational approach to help women improve self-esteem. They use social networks to implement this strategy, and they reap amazing benefits in terms of engagement and customers’ loyalty.

As a hotel, you can develop a brand voice (cozy, luxury, affordable, etc) and keep it consistent throughout time. When you share new updates, make sure your visual content and the description of the post are consistent with your hotel’s culture.

2. Arrange contests on various social platforms
You can gain a lot of new customers by encouraging them to enrol in different contests. You can start a user-generated campaign and offer prizes to the most creative submissions. For example, as a hotel, you can encourage all your hosts to take pictures and list the three biggest benefits of staying at your hotel. The best three reviews can win a free week during the holiday season.

Share this contest on your social channels and track your engagement. Learn from the results and replicate the process once you find it suited.

“Hotels can emphasise visual components (beautiful surroundings), their food specialties (a video of a super delicious dish, served professionally at your hotel), or perhaps something else, something original that is worth sharing.”

3. Create viral and shareable content on Facebook and Twitter
When brands go viral, their entire fate changes overnight. Hundreds of thousands if not millions of people will become aware of their existence, so they’ll be reaping traffic benefits for a long time.

Becoming viral is an art. You need to get into the mind of your audience, dig deep and seek their inner desires, and test different approaches until the results are satisfying.

When people share a social media post, they do it because they found it remarkable (worth-of-remark/share). Hotels can emphasise visual components (beautiful surroundings), their food specialties (a video of a super delicious dish, served professionally at your hotel), or perhaps something else, something original that is worth sharing.

The biggest social media networks (and the ones that encourage virality the most) are Facebook and Twitter. Therefore, if you ever were to use paid advertising to increase your odds of getting viral, these should be your first two choices.

4. Offer exclusive content and deals to followers and email subscribers
If your social media followers engage with your page or subscribe to your email list, you can offer exclusive content and discounts to reward the loyalty. By taking this approach, your prospects will be eager to choose your hotel instead of the competitors’ because they’re reaping additional benefits besides the normal booking option.

5. Manage and optimise your social pages consistently
“Social media marketing isn’t a quick result that must be achieved. In fact, it is a journey that keeps going until social networks stop being used (never) or until you have so many bookings that you absolutely need to close your social pages (never). Therefore, your social image remains a constant responsibility,” said the marketing manager at EssayOnTime.

You’ll need to share new updates, answer prospects’ inquiries, respond to positive/negative reviews, and so on. All in all, you’ll need to give the impression that your hotel is active, committed and easily reachable.

6. Leverage Pinterest and Instagram’s benefits by sharing visual content
Hotel marketing is always better if visual content is present. Before a person books, he or she will want to ‘get a feel’ of the place. The best way to help your potential client choose you instead of your competitors is to offer high-quality visual content.

Pinterest and Instagram are two of the biggest ‘visual’ social networks; places that people use mostly for their visual benefits. Great pictures, funny gifs, and short videos are some of the most popular formats that hotels frequently use to improve their reach and followers’ base.

7. Use influencers to spread awareness
Social media influencers are not TV stars; they’re not famous celebrities that offer incredibly pricey advertising options. In fact, an 18-year-old teenager with 10.000 engaged fans on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or any other social network becomes a micro-influencer that can potentially boost your hotel’s bookings.

Reach the people that have a target audience that is very close to yours – establish your standards (big influencers obviously cost more) and start negotiating a price for their promotion services.

Promoting your hotel on social media is not rocket science. By using our insightful guidelines, you can tap into the power of social media networks, the same power that’s leveraged by the biggest hotels in the world. Some of them reached the peak by mastering the art of social media marketing, while others have enhanced their reputation and brand image over time.

Regardless of your purposes, social media networks are the most suited tools for every hotel owner who doesn’t simply expect clients to randomly drop off at their door. Take our tips into consideration and start promoting your hotel the right way.

Main image credit: Upsplash

New supporting partner announced for The Brit List 2018

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By: Hamish Kilburn

17.10.2018

Hotel Designs welcomes Studio Moritz Waldemeyer as a supporting partner to The Brit List 2018 which takes place on November 22 at BEAT London…

As the industry prepares to celebrate the leading British influencers in hotel design, Hotel Designs is proud to welcome the creative lighting experts Studio Moritz Waldemeyer as a supporting partner of The Brit List 2018.

The company, which is owned by internationally renowned lighting artist Moritz Waldemeyer who recently exhibited an immersive installation at this year’s London Design Festival, occupies a diverse range of creative spaces, from art and product design through to fashion and entertainment. Supporting Hotel Designs’ nationwide search to unveil the best of British interior designers, hoteliers and architects, Waldemeyer himself will speak at the event on hotel lighting and how it has changed in recent times, making room for more creative interiors.

“We are thrilled to be involved in The Brit List 2018 and believe the concept of the event – finding the best designers, hoteliers and architects in Britain today – aligns itself very nicely with our creativity,” he said on becoming a supporting partner. “We set out to define a completely new category of LED lighting that is playful, emotional, atmospheric and elegant, always innovative and always low power and low impact on the environment. We create the perfect balance of beautifully crafted objects with a sprinkling of tech and use inspiration from the past to re-invent the future.”

The news of Studio Moritz Waldemeyer becoming a supporting partner follows the news that the British Institute of Interior Design is this year’s industry partner for the event.

How to attend this year’s Brit List

If you are a supplier to the hospitality industry looking to meet the top hoteliers, interior designers and hoteliers at The Brit List, click here to book your place.

If you are a delegate to the hospitality industry (architect, designer or hotelier) and would like to attend The Brit List 2018, click here to book your place.

To discuss the various sponsorship packages available, please contact Katy Phillips on +44(0)1992 374050

Hotel’s renovation postitions it Edinburgh’s largest independent hotel

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By: Hamish Kilburn

04.10.2018

Following record occupancy numbers, an Edinburgh hotel has significantly expanded to become the largest independent hotel in the city.

Ten Hill Place Hotel, BW Premier Collection, in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, has increased its number of rooms by nearly 70 per cent to take its total offering to 129 rooms, making it now the city’s largest independent hotel.

The hotel is adjacent to buildings owned by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and these neighbouring properties were carefully renovated as part of the development.

The expansion continues the ongoing relationship between the hotel and the college, with all profits made from the venue going back into the training of surgeons. The hotel has grown in popularity year on year and with an 88 per cent occupancy rate, with more people than ever helping to fund the education and assessment of medical students in Scotland.

As part of the expansion, the onsite restaurant and wine bar has also seen an increase in capacity, with 150 diners now able to enjoy the freshly cooked meals. The kitchen was designed and kitted out by former Hotel Chef of the Year Alan Dickson, meaning that both hotel guests and Edinburgh residents are provided with the best possible culinary experience.

The hotel is run by the college’s commercial arm, Surgeons Quarter, and Scott Mitchell, its Commercial Director, said: “Work of this nature is always hugely exciting but it can be equally stressful too, especially in hospitality.

“But credit to our team and our contractors who have helped make it a smooth process, with guests, delegates and visitors benefiting as a result.

“In turn, our expansion will give us a greater platform to generate the profits that go directly towards improving lives for surgical patients all around the world – including those in areas of conflict and extreme poverty.

“We are hopeful that the expansion will enable the hotel to deliver its full potential, furthering what we already currently provide, our food and drinks offering, assisting our charitable aims and boosting tourism and hospitality jobs in Edinburgh.”

Rob Paterson, CEO at Best Western Great Britain, said: “It’s fantastic to see Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection build on its years of continued success to become Edinburgh’s largest independent hotel. The hotel has long provided the Scottish capital with a quality, cosy and convenient place to stay and these new developments mean they’ll be able to provide their excellent service to even more visitors going forward.

“Best Western members are investing for the future and changing for the better and the renovations at Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection are an example of how we are delivering more to our guests.”

Best Western Great Britain’s members have invested over £210m since 2015 improving properties and guest experiences.

To find out more about Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection, or to book a room, visit: https://www.bestwestern.co.uk/hotels/ten-hill-place-hotel-bw-premier-collection-84207

Mapped: The UK’s future hotel supply 2018-2021

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 03.10.2018 03.10.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

03.10.2018

Commercial property specialists Savoy Stewart predicts the rise in UK hotel development between now and 2021…

As the industry gears up to this year’s Brit List, which will recognise and celebrate Britain’s best interior designs, hoteliers and architects, a report by commercial property specialist Savoy Stewart suggests that the UK will remain an international hotel design hub as figures suggest major growth in tier two cities in particular.

Last year, the proportion of new build hotels in the UK rose by 37 per cent, which reflects 2.4 per cent growth in the UK hotel supply.

In 2018, new build hotel growth in Britain has continued its upward trajectory. Per Knight Frank’s report UK Hotel Development Opportunities 2018, projected forecasts proclaim the UK hotel market will grow by 3.3 per cent this year, eclipsing 2017 and equating to over 21,000 new hotel rooms. In fact, more than 5,200 new hotel rooms opened during the first six months of 2018 and a further 15,000 hotel rooms have been in the works since then.

“Belfast has experienced the largest increase in new hotel supply.”

Such extensive growth in new build hotels is, after all, fuelling the pace of hotel development across the UK. To achieve this, Savoy Stewart analysed Knight Frank’s Hotel Development Opportunities report in depth, to pull the facts together and present a picture of what the future hotel supply will look like in the next three years (2018 to 2021.)

Belfast has experienced the largest increase in new hotel supply and hotels under construction (as a % of supply) in 2018 – at 34 per cent. Meanwhile, Glasgow (18 per cent) and Manchester (17 per cent) have experienced healthy growth in new hotel supply and hotels under construction in 2018 too.

“London aside, Manchester holds the next highest total of new rooms in the pipeline.”

Comparatively, Hull has experienced the smallest increase in new hotel supply and hotels under construction (as a % of supply) in 2018 – at 2 per cent. Meanwhile, Newcastle (7 per cent) and Leeds (8 per cent) have experienced similar, slow levels of growth in new hotel supply and hotels under construction in 2018.

Future Hotel Supply 2018-2021

In terms of rooms in the pipeline/under construction (2018-2021), it may come as no surprise that London will see the highest number of new rooms developing in the future – at 14,699. The capital accounts for 40 per cent of the development pipeline of hotels under construction in the UK.

London aside, Manchester holds the next highest total of new rooms in the pipeline, with an impressive 2,895 expected, followed closely by Edinburgh with 2,122. With the successful regeneration, transformation and reshaping of several UK cities, largely through joint public/private initiatives and institutional investment; targeted hotel development in key UK cities has been the driving force behind such growth. Manchester is a prime example.

Tier two cities such as Glasgow (1,431), Birmingham (1,371) and Liverpool (1,161) will follow suit, with considerable numbers of new rooms in the pipeline over the next few years.

At the other end of the scale, with far fewer new rooms forecast 2018-2021 is Bath (225), Southampton (209) and Gloucester with 128. East Yorkshire’s port city, Hull, lands last in the list with just 35 new rooms in the pipeline.

With the aim to celebrate the best British designers, architects and hoteliers, this year’s Brit List will take place on November 22 at BEAT London. Please click here in order to purchase your ticket.

Main image credit: Titanic Hotel, Belfast

Mitre Linen announces shortlist for Room Attendant of the Year

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 27.09.2018 27.09.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

27.09.2018

Recommended Supplier Mitre Linen aims to celebrate the key role room attendants play in any hotel experience…

The shortlist for the UK’s inaugural Room Attendant of the Year Awards was announced today, with six exceptional finalists selected based upon their impeccable room standards and outstanding dedication to work.

“Mitre Linen decided to launch and sponsor the Room Attendant of the Year Awards to give well-deserved recognition to the key role room attendants play in the smooth running and guests’ experience of a hotel,” said Mitre Linen’s general manager Kate Gough. “We received dozens of entries from all over the UK and it was extremely difficult to whittle the list down to just six as there were so many excellent potential finalists. On behalf of the team at Mitre Linen, I’d like to congratulate all of those room attendants who made the shortlist and thank everyone who entered. We now have the very tough task of selecting a winner and runner-up, who will be announced in October. Luckily, we have Mark Lewis, CEO of Hospitality Action on the panel to help and we look forward to reviewing the entries of these amazing six room attendants.”

The Room Attendant of the Year 2018 shortlist:

Anna Lupton – Carr House Farm B&B, York
Erten Azis – Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, Hampshire
Tadeusz Janeczek – Chilston Park Hotel, Kent
Maureen Chapman – Kettering Park Hotel & Spa, Northamptonshire
Carole Kidd – The Woburn Hotel, Bedfordshire
Rhiannon Stephens – Fields Lodge Bed & Breakfast, Pembrokeshire

Established in 1946, Mitre Linen is based in Merthyr Tydfil in beautiful Wales. Having provided the hospitality, leisure, education, healthcare and laundry industries with the best quality bed linen, bedding, towelling and soft furnishings for over 70 years, Mitre Linen is proud to have held HM The Queen’s Royal Warrant since 1955.

Grohe is one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with its news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

SPOTLIGHT ON: Handmade British furniture range launches to add statement

Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 25.09.2018 25.09.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

25.09.2018

AS HOTEL DESIGNS CONTINUES TO FOCUS ITS LENS ON FURNITURE THIS MONTH, ONE COMPANY’S HANDMADE BRITISH PRODUCTS ARE MAKING A STATEMENT IN THE PUBLIC AREAS, GUESTROOMS AND HOTEL CORRIDORS…

Following the recent feature on how to add statement to your boutique hotel, furniture brand Sofas & Stuff has recently launched a new handmade British range of furniture called Occasional Chairs.

Known as the Thistle and Port Isaac Chairs, each have been handmade in Britain and are available in any fabric to complement existing seating, or to create an occasional statement piece in any room.

The classic design of the Port Isaac features elegant button back detailing with a wide plump base, meanwhile the Thistle is more contemporary in its design, making it ideal for accenting an interior scheme.

Both the Thistle and Port Isaac are available in any fabric, and can be fully tailored to any requirements with a choice of sizes, cushion fillings and legs.

The chairs are available to purchase in 12 nationwide and London stores, with a designated team of design experts all on hand to help.

Natural designs, timeless quality and flexibility for modern guests

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Monstera-Wallpaper-on-blush-Woodchip-Magnolia-2.jpg 800 598 Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 25.09.2018 07.03.2019

By: Hamish Kilburn

25.09.2018

Just as it is in hotels itself, design plays an integral part in the Independent Hotel Show. Here we pick up three top design trends as identified by design partners, exhibitors and speakers at #IHS2018.

Back to nature

Over the years nature has played an important part in inspiring interior designers and as we move into the future, this will continue, particularly in the independent, boutique and luxury hotel sector where guests seek calm environments to relax in.

“Any design with a connection to nature will be popular,” says Katja Behre, creative director of Elli Popp, design partner to The Innovation Stage which will feature a pink tropical leaves mural and floral displays from a designer at Kew Gardens.

“People always feel comfortable with designs that connect them to nature – whether that’s plants, flowers, insects or animals,” adds Behre.

Nina Tarnowski, of Woodchip & Magnolia, Wallpaper Partner to the Show says there is a growing trend towards murals and wallpapers which ‘evoke beautiful scenes.’

The exhibitor’s Land of Milk & Honey collection of wall murals and wallpapers is inspired by English Victorian glass houses and is a fresh interpretation of the continuing trend in botanical prints.

“The growing trend towards murals and papers which evoke beautiful scenes, evoke a narrative or transport you to a magical place, lends itself perfectly to hotel interiors,” she says. “After all – what are we after when we stay in a hotel? Escapism!”

VIP hoteliers, speakers, partners at this year’s Show will be able to see the natural escapism look portrayed at The Suite where contract furniture manufacturers Valdivian promise to transport attendees to somewhere ‘between reality and imagination’ with deep purple and green walls accented with floral murals.

Timeless quality

While the pressure may be on to champion the latest interior design trends, conversely, it is the hoteliers who shun the hottest design trends and opt for classic, well-made furnishings who are truly the trend-setters.

“Invest in quality. Guests may not see it, but they will feel it,” says Rebecca at Cappellini, design partner to central networking space The Lobby at the Independent Hotel Show.

“I always try and create timeless designs, which from time to time happen to be in trend,” says Katja Behre of Elli Popp. “Most of our best-selling designs are between one to six years old and still don’t seem to fade out.”

For inspiration, look to companies such as flooring specialist Tarkett – exhibiting at this year’s Independent Hotel Show – with its Desso Carpet Collections. Its Axminster, Desso&Ex and made-to-measure rug collections are perfect for independent hoteliers and designers looking for quality, durability and design.

“The future of hotel interior design will continue to have the luxe factor with opulent fabrics taking centre stage,” says Nick Sunderland of Two’s Company Interior Design, the interior design company responsible for putting together exciting new live installation ‘The Hotel Room of The Future’ at this year’s Show.

“Customers are wanting to experience 6* comfort. Hoteliers tell us that it’s all about the detail for their guests, be it stunning sofas and chairs, beautiful curtains, baby soft towels or sumptuous linen, all these aspects have to be considered.”

Flexibility

The rise of leisure travel, mobile working and more flexible working patterns means that guests will be using hotels in more diverse ways in the future.

Daniel Corney, director at Compact Workspace, an exhibitor at the Independent Hotel Show 2018, says to improve the design of their property a ‘hotelier needs to consider different guests’ wants and needs’ so advocates the selection of flexible furniture so that space can easily be adapted for use at any event – from a conference to a wedding.

For hotels without conference and event space, the same notion of flexibility applies.

“This year we think the mobile working trend will have a big influence on hotel design,” he says. “Business travellers need appropriate places to work. So, rather than letting guests working off their lap or a coffee table in the hotel lobby, hotels should provide furniture that is both practical and comfortable to work from.”

The same flexible approach can also be applied to interior design, says Woodchip & Magnolia’s Nina Tarnowski who sees a big movement towards utilizing the fourth wall – the ceiling.

“It’s been popular for several years in interior decorating, but mostly confined to the use of paint. We’re being asked to create wall murals and papers specifically for high impact statement ceilings from interior designers, and it’s an exciting trend,” she says.

Hotel Designs is a media partner for the Independent Hotel Show 2018. To meet the Hotel Designs teams at the show please visit stand 628. Hotel Designs Editor, Hamish Kilburn, will be hosting a panel discussion entitled ‘Power Hour: Designs For Life’ at the show, for more details please visit here: https://hoteldesigns.net/industry-news/editor-of-hotel-designs-to-host-power-hour-at-independent-hotel-show/

Natural designs, timeless quality and flexibility for modern guests are the top trends to follow in hotel design, reports The Independent Hotel Show 2018

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Monstera-Wallpaper-on-blush-Woodchip-Magnolia.jpg 800 598 Hamish Kilburn Hamish Kilburn https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2edcad40930314dca244a6a9d0589916?s=96&d=mm&r=g 25.09.2018 25.09.2018

By: Hamish Kilburn

25.09.2018

Just as nit is in hotels itself, design plays an integral part in this year’s Independent Hotel Show. Ahead of the show, we have identified three design trends as highlighted by design partners, exhibitors and speakers at #IHS2018…

As the Independent Hotel Show creeps nearer, we have identified three major themes that visitors should expect to see at this year’s event.

Back to nature
Over the years nature has played an important part in inspiring interior designers and as we move into the future, this will continue, particularly in the independent, boutique and luxury hotel sector where guests seek calm environments to relax in.

“People always feel comfortable with designs that connect them to nature – whether that’s plants, flowers, insects or animals,” adds Behre.

Elli Popp-Dusk-The sound of water-Light Blue

Nina Tarnowski, of Woodchip & Magnolia, Wallpaper Partner to the Show says there is a growing trend towards murals and wallpapers which ‘evoke beautiful scenes.’

Timeless quality
While the pressure may be on to champion the latest interior design trends, conversely, it is the hoteliers who shun the hottest design trends and opt for classic, well-made furnishings who are truly the trend-setters.

“Invest in quality. Guests may not see it, but they will feel it,” says Rebecca at Cappellini, design partner to central networking space The Lobby at the Independent Hotel Show.

Corian® used for hotel room desk

Flexibility
The rise of leisure travel, mobile working and more flexible working patterns means that guests will be using hotels in more diverse ways in the future.

For hotels without conference and event space, the same notion of flexibility applies.

The same flexible approach can also be applied to interior design, says Woodchip & Magnolia’s Nina Tarnowski who sees a big movement towards utilizing the fourth wall – the ceiling.

Hotel Designs is a media partner for the Independent Hotel Show 2018. To meet the Hotel Designs teams at the show please visit stand 628. Editor Hamish Kilburn will be hosting a panel discussion entitled ‘Power Hour: Designs For Life’ at the show, for more details please click here.

citizenM opens US flagship hotel this week

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By: Hamish Kilburn

11.09.2018

citizenM launches US flagship hotel, kicking off an ambitious rollout plan across America…

citizenM – the pioneer of affordable luxury hotels – is doing what they do best once again: launching a new hotel and causing further disruption in the traditional hotel industry. The award-winning brand is returning to New York City to throw open the doors of citizenM New York Bowery, a 300-room sister hotel to the citizenM New York Times Square open since 2014.

citizenM New York Bowery continues to build on the brand’s presence in New York, where it opened citizenM Times Square in 2014. Continuing the company’s ambitious rollout, by 2020, the brand will have around 40 properties either open or in development globally – more than doubling its current portfolio. In North America alone, citizenM plans to open a dozen hotels, in major cities that include Seattle, Boston, Washington DC, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Miami.

“Even the art we use will be drawn from the local art scene, as well as international contributors.”

Since its founding in 2008, citizenM has upended the rules of traditional hospitality by introducing the concept of ‘affordable luxury for the people’. This starts with selecting well-connected locations in the world’s most popular cities, so business and leisure guests spend the shortest possible time commuting. Each property offers a streamlined, luxury experience – including high-tech amenities, friendly and efficient service, luxury guest rooms, and spacious and inviting living areas filled with contemporary art and iconic 21st century furniture by the likes of Verner Panton, Hella Jongerius and Jasper Morrison from Swiss manufacturer Vitra – all at an affordable price.

“The hotel is designed by Amsterdam-based firm Concrete, a long-time partner of citizenM.”

“When we were looking for our next New York location, it became clear very quickly that Bowery is an exceptional destination,” said Rattan Chadha, the founder of citizenM. “We don’t want to be just another building; we want to become part of the neighbourhood’s fabric while showing New York’s visitors a different side of the city. Even the art we use will be drawn from the local art scene, as well as international contributors.”

The new location, which is now taking reservations from 12th September, will be the tallest building in the neighbourhood, standing 246 feet high on the oldest thoroughfare in Manhattan, with an expansive cloudM rooftop bar, outdoor terrace, and spectacular 360-degree views of New York. Occupying the entire 21st floor, cloudM features oak cabinets, Vitra chairs and couches, and chandeliers so large, they’ll catch the eye of pedestrians on the street.

The hotel is designed by Amsterdam-based firm Concrete, a long-time partner of citizenM. Their design for the Bowery is – as usual – unmistakably citizenM, without duplicating anything they’ve done before.

As guests enter the hotel through the plaza, they will meet citizenM’s ambassadors, and get their key in just one minute at the self check-in/check-out kiosk. A striking spiral staircase leads towards the living room on the lower ground floor, featuring double-height ceilings, bookshelves, and a 24/7 canteenM bar at the heart of it. Glass walls stream in plenty of daylight and open to a view of the park outside, mirrored inside with benches and picnic tables for the same fresh relaxed vibe as the public plaza.

citizenM’s philosophy of ‘affordable luxury’ is best experienced in the guestrooms. They are smartly furnished with everything modern travellers need, and nothing they don’t. Everything in the room is the very best: the bed is XL king-size wall-to-wall with a superb mattress and luxury bedding. An HD TV features a library of on-demand movies, plus streaming options via free superfast Wi-Fi. A powerful shower with full-size shower gel and shampoo (as well as giant fluffy towels) will soothe all long and short-haul travellers. The room ambiance is fully controlled by an iPad – the blinds, the TV, even the lights with changeable colours (and settings like ‘romance’ and ‘movie’).

The hotel draws inspiration from the local community for the hotel’s interior, which will be filled with an eclectic mix of contemporary art, photography, and objects by local artists. citizenM has commissioned the New Museum, and its incubator NEW INC, to supply art for the guest rooms. Known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant art scene – anchored by the New Museum and emerging art galleries – the Bowery is an ideal home for the new citizenM hotel.

citizenM Bowery will be the company’s 13th property globally, and its second in the US. In addition to citizenM’s established pipeline in the US’s largest cities, the company is eyeing further afield, and will consider venturing into new markets such as Toronto, Chicago, Austin, Silicon Valley, Denver, etc.

Modern interior of a large restaurant with black floors and large windows at evening

From floor-to-wall, fresh Bauhaus-inspired surface solutions

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By: Hamish Kilburn

10.09.2018

Commercial interior surfaces specialist Altro has introduced new high-design surface ranges to its floors, doors and walls package…

Delivering premium aesthetics with outstanding durability, all backed by Altro’s sector-leading support and expertise, Altro Ensemble modular flooring system and Altro Whiterock wall designs wall sheet are ideal for hospitality environments.

New Altro Ensemble modular flooring system is said to be the next generation of luxury vinyl tiles. From colour blocking to geometric patterns, with a range of plank and tile sizes and textures, Altro Ensemble gives design freedom to create luxurious floors for commercial interior spaces. With 57 options to mix and match, the modular flooring system has natural wood and stone designs and bloc colours too. Altro Ensemble is 2.6mm thick with a 0.55mm wear layer, 15dB sound reduction qualities and added comfort underfoot, with minimal residual indentation and excellent durability. A truly exceptional material, it combines these features with unique flexibility and is lightweight, making it easy to transport, cut and handle for installation.

In developing the new Altro Ensemble collection, the design team has taken inspiration from the Bauhaus design school’s philosophy of bridging the gap between form and function to engineer products that meet the customers’ biggest challenges, such as the need for cleanability, sustainability and flexibility. The result is a premium modular flooring system that offers variety and design freedom to create sophisticated, contemporary and striking designs. It also has the benefits of local sustainably sourced raw materials made to Altro’s exacting manufacturing standards, which ensure high quality, excellent durability and high-performance characteristics.

Spa Room featuring Altro Ensemble

Altro Ensemble is the perfect partner to Altro Whiterock wall designs – a new vision in wall decoration with natural wood, stone and linen options plus stunning metallic designs to give elegance to interior walls.

The new ranges are the natural progression of tried and tested products, each harnessing decades of research and expertise in the UK and in Germany, with extensive customer feedback integrated into the development process.

Although new to the UK, Altro Ensemble modular flooring system is the latest generation of a product which has been designed and manufactured in Germany, where it has enjoyed success for many years and is an excellent example of German engineering at its best. A tried and tested product, it has undergone an extensive redesign process which has benefited from the combination of existing technology and new expertise from several sources including the team in Germany, as well as the contribution of award-winning colour consultant Knut Völzke.

Altro Whiterock wall designs are the latest development from Altro’s UK design and development team, building upon decades of experience in wall sheets. The new range makes a show-stopping design statement and is perfect for general circulation areas, receptions and foyers, as well as wet environments such as bathrooms and spas, creating a design focal point. Matching sealants and co-ordinating and contrasting trims are available.

Modern, sleek bathroom with focus on wood

Hotel Designs editor Hamish Kilburn breaks down this week’s international hotel design headlines…

September has kicked-off with a number of exciting news stories that have, quite literally left the industry on a cliff hanger. Firstly, the iconic EDITION brand has expanded its empire with the hotel announcing its arrival in Barcelona. Elsewhere, Hotel Designs recommended supplier Duravit are setting trends in the bathroom, and a Six Senses opening sends ripples through the industry with its jaw-dropping – and totally unmatched – coastal views. Here are our top five stories of the week.

1) The Edition brand lands in Spain as the brand’s luxury empire expands

Ian Schrager’s rising global influence has arrived in Spain, adding another luxury property to the EDITION empire. The Barcelona EDITION combines the personal, intimate, individualised and unique hotel experience that Schrager is known for.

2) Inside Denmark’s first chemical-free hotel

Hotel Herman K, Denmark’s first chemical-free hotel, is a converted station situated in the heart of Copenhagen. We took a sneak peak at the raw architecture within the bespoke hotel…

3) TREND ALERT: Favourite shades of grey in the bathroom

Sharing the same opinion as that of the new Managing Director of WATG London, Martin Pease, bathroom specialist Duravit believes that grey is one of the best-loved colours in architecture and interior design. Evident in Duravit’s recent collection, the colour is used to further creates the clarity and sense of space to emphasise the impact of rooms, interiors, and therefore architecture.

4) Brit List: Less than two weeks in order to claim your early bird tickets

Calling all British interior designers, architects, hoteliers and key-industry suppliers, early bird tickets for this year’s Brit List are only available until September 16.

5) Six Senses continues to rapidly expand with opening of Uluwatu luxury hotel

Our ‘most read’ story of the week is the opening of Six Senses’ 16th property. The opening marks an exciting time for the international hotel brand as it plans to triple its portfolio size in the next five years.

SPOTLIGHT ON: Storytelling in the hotel lobby

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By: Hamish Kilburn

03.09.2018

Hotel Designs editor Hamish Kilburn and Richmond International’s Fiona Thompson together investigate just how the hotel lobby has evolved in recent years and why, perhaps, the modern hotel lobby is having to work harder than it ever has done before…

I believe the best way to describe how a hotel’s design experience to a consumer or guest is to compare it to a novel. The front cover, or the façade of the building, is the first element that a reader or a guest will see. Despite having been taught throughout my childhood to never judge a book by its cover, my argument is why disrupt the inevitable? Guests are going to judge, consciously or subconsciously, what’s on show in- and outside the physical building. Once first impressions have been established, and readers and guests open the book, the real story can begin.

The first element of drama tends to be locked into the first chapter, or in our case, the hotel lobby. Fiona Thompson, the Principal of Richmond International knows all too well the importance of getting this narrative right to not only fit the theme but also slot nicely into the practical requirement in order for it to fulfil its job (and fulfil it well). “The lobby is key, it always has been. It’s the first thing people see so it sets the tone for the whole hotel,” Fiona explains. “The world has changed, as have peoples’ expectations. It [the lobby] is the most important part of the hotel, followed in my opinion by the guestrooms in terms of what the hotel is all about.”

Fiona makes a valid point, one that has become common knowledge in our industry and should not ever be forgotten: the world is changing, and design must continue to be prepared to deal with modern travellers in which ever form they check in as. “Beforehand, it was a lobby and a reception – a very functional space – whereas now it is anything but that really,” she says. “It can be a bar, a nightclub, a restaurant, a meeting space. It fulfils so many different functions. It’s also a valuable space when you consider that all areas of the hotel these days need to work a lot harder. If you think about it, it’s the only place that everyone goes to. Therefore, the lobby – the social hub, the heart, whatever you like to call it – has been designed in order for the hotel to utilise it in a commercial way.”

As someone who has passed through many hotel lobbies around the world, the ones that stand out are those that have a layer of subtle personality and charm to them. The Miami Beach Edition, for example, is a clever yet simple illustration of how to breath natural life into the communal area of the hotel – especially with sustainability being such a hot topic at the moment, with no indications of that changing any time soon. “I think it’s key that the lobby is referenced to its surroundings,” Fiona adds. “The environment and its location is absolutely integral to the design theme. People don’t want a big bland empty space anymore. Instead, it has to work for its location. I believe that W Hotels was the first major brand to really change things in the hotel lobby in terms of putting the bar and the community centre stage.”

Image caption: The Miami Beach Edition lobby/bar

If we were to further explore the metaphor of the hotel lobby being the first chapter in a novel, then, while there are great examples, there are also wrong way to engage your readers and guests. “It’s easy for boutique properties to create a lobby that has a great vibe and that is very interesting,” explains Fiona. “I think it’s much harder to create those vibes in a luxury hotel, because some guests still want the formality to be met by the concierge and having the privacy. The balance is to combine all of those elements, to give guests checking in the opportunity to have those facilities, keep the privacy but still making the lobby an energetic space. Otherwise you can risk alienating half of the people.”

As Fiona is talking, I can’t help but feel as if in my mind she is describing The Beaumont in London. The entrance is grand and for the likes of people like me, dashing into the hotel for a meeting, it naturally opens up to the bar and restaurant so that you never feel as if you are intruding into a guests’ personal area. However, guests checking in to the hotel can veer off to the right to be met by a private check-in desk and concierge. The design in the hotel is as seamless as the guest experience.

Let’s talk about themes of our novel, to explore a sci-fi motif of robots taking over, for example, which a few years ago the robotic arm started to turn the pages of the guest experience. “I think the first time robots were introduced into the hotel it was actually quite interesting because it’s different, I suppose,” confesses Fiona though I can’t help but notice a subtle grin, hinting there is a ‘but’ coming. “But I think that people want to interact with other people. I don’t really want a robot to escort me to my hotel room. The robot thing is impersonal and I don’t generally think that’s what the majority of guests really want.”

The once extensive novel of hotel design is probably best reflected as that of a picture book in the modern world. As we’ve explored recently in our Designing Instagrammable series, hotels that are ‘gems’ have carved out the opportunity for guests to experience striking moments. One way to do that is to bring the outdoors indoors. “If you’re in the right location then fantastic,” says Fiona. “Environmentally, an eco-friendly lobby will make guests feel fresher and cleaner and generally better for you. I will go further to say that the more you can open up the space the better. The natural environment is growing a lot, right through to air conditioning. Wellbeing is another big thing that is already coming through. The younger generation are much more conscious about that.”

As with any good story, we all have our favourites – ones that really connect with the reader and guests, usually as a result of challenging conventions. “For me, 1 Hotel Brooklyn and South Beach are really great examples of a hotel being location-specific,” says Fiona. “They are green, hotels designed with sustainability in mind, but they are very sophisticated. The lobbies are also hip, but not trendy and when you go there you see many different demographics of people and generations experiencing the hotel’s facilities alongside each other, which is a real sign of success in my books.”

And with that, I have my eye on the next book that I want to explore. Someone book me a last-minute flight to Brooklyn!

Richmond International are recognised as a Hotel Designs recommended suppliers.

Main image credit: Nick Ingram
Main image caption: The lobby at The Beaumont Hotel, London designed by Richmond International

Strand Hotel Stockholm completes renovation and lights up as Radisson Collection

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By: Hamish Kilburn

14.08.2018

The completed renovation marks an exciting chapter for Radisson Collection as Swedish architectural studio Wingårdhs’ design vision comes to life…

The Radisson Collection Hotel, Strand Stockholm has completed its high-considered, two-year-long renovation. Marking an exciting, new chapter for one of Stockholm’s most historic buildings – Strand Stockholm’s latest incarnation blends effortless Scandinavian design with an artistic richness, befitting its storied history.

Designed by internationally acclaimed Swedish architectural studio, Wingårdhs, Strand Stockholm joins a unique portfolio of local icons and one-of-a-kinds, as part of Radisson Collection. This new premium lifestyle collection of exceptional hotels have unique locations all over the world.

Originally launched in 1912 for the Olympics, Strand Stockholm quickly established a reputation as a local hotspot beloved of the stars, such as Swedish actors Greta Garbo and Ingrid Bergman. A particular popular part of the hotel was the Sea Salon, today the Sea Salon Suite, which boasts remarkable views of the Royal Dramatic Theatre.

In what has been a project of ambitious vision, the hotel’s 170 guestrooms and suites, meeting spaces, lobby, restaurant and bars have all been refreshed. The result is a striking ode to effortless modern living, inviting both locals and hotel guests to enjoy atmospheric spaces that celebrate Stockholm’s vibrant social scene. The top floor Tower Suite, has access to a personal roof terrace with panoramic views of the city.

Image caption: Deluxe suite

Wingårdhs’ careful selection of furniture from design legends Fritz Hansen, GUBI and Flos channels Scandinavian design at its most elegant – perfectly complementing the historical façade of the building.

“We believe in creating a dynamic experience by amplifying the building’s own character. We wanted the new elements to be a distinctive addition to the original appearance,” says Leila Atlassi, architect at Wingårdhs in Stockholm, explaining how “to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the interior tonality has been set from natural materials like stone, wood, leather, metal, and concrete in their natural colors. A specific tone of grey is noticed on the walls – Strand Grey and constitutes the base in the interior concept.”

Image caption: Light and bright modern bathroom

With an illustrious reputation as a fine dining destination, an exciting new food and bar concept has been crafted, blending local and international influences alike. The hotel’s all-day brasserie, ‘The Strand’, serves distinctly Swedish cuisine and, with stunning views of Nybrokajen Bay, is a striking space sure to enliven Blasieholmen. Meanwhile, the bar is a relaxed, stylish space, the perfect location to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or two, and a buzzing go-to for meeting friends or simply taking-in the local atmosphere.

Image caption: All-day brasserie, The Strand

Located in the city centre, The Strand Stockholm is an ideal base for a stay in the capital. The hotel is just a short walk from Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan, which features an eclectic mix of shopping destinations, bars and restaurants. Some of the city’s most iconic attractions, such as The Modern Museum, Nordiska Kompaniet Department Store and the ABBA museum, are all located a few minutes from the hotel. The Stockholm Arlanda Airport is a quick 20-minute ride away on the Arlanda Express Train.

Inside Elivi Skiathos, Greece’s new take on luxury design

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By: Hamish Kilburn

09.08.2018

Luxury design hotel Elivi Skiathos is the result of a father-and-daughter duo set on the beautiful Greek Island and Skiathos…

Earlier this year, we took a sneak peak into what the next luxury hotel in Greece was going to look like and how it would fit in to the laid-back luxury scene. Well, Elivi Skiathos is now open and Hotel Designs popped its head through the door to see if the design vision became a reality.

The exterior marries together stone, concrete and dark wooden balconies, which subtly blend into the surroundings that have almost a beach-like vibe

Perched on a hilltop on the Pounta Peninsula overlooking the Aegean Sea, the 104-key hotel was developed by father and daughter Elias and Vivi Nathanailidi. The property is surrounded by an area of natural beauty beside a wildlife refuge, forest and lagoon – and roaming black swans – which became a large reference in the interior design as well as the branding of the hotel.

Image credit: Presidential suite pool

Designed by Athens-based Antonis and Vangelis Stylanidis from Stylanidis Architects, the hotel has been created around the stunning island setting. The exterior marries together stone, concrete and dark wooden balconies, which subtly blend into the surroundings that have almost a beach-like vibe. The result is the most high-end five-star hotel on the island, which shelters well-appointed, modern guestrooms, suites and villas with private pools, an ultra-high-end four-bedroom villa, beach service, three restaurants, a spa, gym, tennis court and more.

The guestrooms in Elivi Skiathos have been designed to be simple, airy and sophisticated. Large floor-to-ceiling windows utilise the natural light that floods in throughout the day, while black-and-white contemporary artwork pieces of the wild black swans inject energy and a sense of place into each room.

Despite all rooms adorning a luxe atmosphere, the Swan Villa is by far the most impressive hotel villa on the island. The two-floor, seafront villa accommodates up to eight adults in four en-suite rooms and is equipped with a kitchen, dining area, living room and a spacious private pool.

Image caption: The Swan Villa

Making the most of the sun-drenched location, the resort has two main outdoor pools and numerous private pools, are of which all cleaned by an electrolysis system, omitting the use of chlorine.

Image caption: Nest bar and Restaurant

The Nest Pool restaurant, also reflecting a strong island look and feel, is designed to capture a laid-back luxury vibe, with soft woods being used in the bar, the seating and even in the light shades that cover lights on the end of thick ropes.

Elsewhere, the ELIVI SPA offers three ELEMIS treatment rooms, a hairdressing salon, manicure and pedicure stations, an indoor pool, Oriental Bath (Hammam) and sauna. An indoor and outdoor gym, tennis court, basketball court and football pitch are also available.

Overall, the father-and-daughter team seem to have pulled off a miracle, which is to drastically improve laid-back luxury in the Greece isles without eliminating the natural splendour of the simple stunning landscape.

Bisque introduces rustic finishes to Classic collection

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By: Hamish Kilburn

06.08.2018

Bisque, the UK’s first ever luxury radiator brand, has unveiled two new distinctive finishes for spring 2018, Rustique and Rose Copper. Both styles are produced using an oxidation technique, creating a truly authentic finish. These bespoke designs are made to order and are available exclusively on Bisque’s Classic collection of radiators and from its newly opened showroom in Islington.

The organic Rustique finish is not simply a paint effect but is created by spraying iron metal over a base coat. This is followed by a water-based solution, which produces a rust patina, making the result individual every time – similar to the brand’s much loved Arteplano. The Classic is primed, coated and lacquered throughout the process to ensure you achieve an authentic ‘rust’ finish of paramount quality.

Next up is the Rose Copper finish, which contains genuine copper and is finished with a matt lacquer, to prevent further tarnishing. This ultimately maintains its gorgeous rose colour and beautiful glow.
The Classic is by far Bisque’s most popular design and today offers a variety of models in various and sizes and styles. In addition to thirty-eight stock sizes, Bisque also offers a vast range of bespoke size options and can colour match to popular paint ranges such as Farrow & Ball and Little Greene.

Bisque are one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

IHG to introduce Kimpton Hotels & Restaurant brand to Germany

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By: Hamish Kilburn

25.07.2018

Global boutique luxury brand Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants from IHG to continue European expansion with first hotel in Germany, Kimpton Frankfurt slated to open in 2023…

InterContinental Hotels Group® (IHG®), has announced its rapidly expansion of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants brand by unveiling plans to launch the brand in Germany in 2023 with the opening of Kimpton Frankfurt.

Set in a listed building of Junghofstrasse in Frankfurt’s city centre, the luxury boutique hotel will feature 155 guestrooms, two large meeting rooms and an onsite gym. In addition to the hotel’s signature restaurant, there are also plans for a sky-bar and restaurant on the roof terrace, where guests will be able to enjoy an unrivalled skyline view of the city. The classic ’50s lobby will serve as the main entrance to the hotel.

Kimpton Frankfurt is part of Frankfurt’s most pioneering development project; FOUR Frankfurt

“Being one of Europe’s largest financial hubs, Frankfurt is a key location for us and this signing is a great milestone in Kimpton’s European expansion,” said Kenneth Macpherson, CEO of Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa (EMEAA) at IHG. “We’re proud to partner with Groß & Partner to bring the brand to Germany, where IHG is growing at pace. Guests staying at Kimpton Frankfurt can expect Kimpton’s signature bold and playful design, luxury, personalised service and truly local feel.”

Kimpton Frankfurt is part of Frankfurt’s most pioneering development project; FOUR Frankfurt, which is led by highly-regarded developer Groß & Partner. FOUR Frankfurt is a unique high-rise in the middle of the central banking district which features office, residential and retail space in a prime city centre location. The mixed-use project, which highlights innovative and sustainable design by UNStudio architects, will be home to 5,000 people for both business and residential purposes.

“Frankfurt can look forward to a new, international hotel brand in a class of its own,” said Nikolaus Bieber, Managing Director of Groß & Partner. “With the signing of Kimpton Frankfurt, the FOUR Frankfurt receives another point of attraction that will enrich and upgrade the downtown area. Kimpton Frankfurt in Junghofstraße will be a special experience, not only for hotel guests enjoying the city skyline but also for local restaurant and bar visitors.”

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants was acquired by IHG in 2015. The luxury boutique brand currently operates 66 hotels and 80 restaurants, bars and lounges in the U.S., Caribbean, and Europe[1]. Kimpton De Witt in Amsterdam was the first Kimpton property to open outside of the Americas in May 2017. Continuing the brand’s expansion in key cities across Europe, IHG has announced plans to debut the brand in the UK and open Kimpton Paris in 2020, with more European signings in the pipeline. This announcement continues Kimpton’s international expansion to new global markets in every IHG operating region, with additional hotels underway in Tokyo, Taipei, Bali, Shanghai and Sanya,

Waldolf Astoria Bangkok prepares for ‘Asia’s most anticipated hotel openings this year’

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By: Hamish Kilburn

25.07.2018

The anticipated opening of Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, designed by the award-winning André Fu is said to evolve the hotel landscape in Southeast Asia…

The end of August will see the opening of what is said to be Asia’s most anticipated hotel openings of 2018. The grand Waldorf Astoria in Bangkok, meticulously designed by, André Fu, from AFSO who was named Designer of the Year for Maison & Objet Asia in 2016, captures the brand’s iconic image in the vibrant Thai capital.

All areas of thew hotel will open to reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of Fu and his design studio

In tribute to the owners of the property, Magnolia Finest Corporation Limited, the building, which is perched near the city’s Royal Bangkok Sports Club and Ratchaprasong Intersection, has been designed to give the effect of springing from the ground like a Magnolia flower. Towering above the city, the dazzling sculptural appearance of the property cuts a dramatic profile in the skyline of Bangkok, in the heart of the bustling Ratchaprasong intersection.

Image credit: Waldrof Astoria Bangkok

The hotel will boast 171 spacious guestrooms and suites, which start at 50 square metres, offer more space than the average hotel room size and are designed to as ‘home-from homes’. All areas of thew hotel will open to reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of Fu and his design studio. Globally recognised for high-profile luxury fashion and retail projects, such as his recent work with luxury brand Louis Vuitton, the studio has been involved in curating an holistic hotel experience that brings together the building’s contemporary architecture with Thai artisanal tradition.

The hotel, which stands as a milestone for the Hilton brand as it will be Southeast Asia’s first Waldorf Astoria, is expected to become the new skyline gem of Bangkok, and promises to live up to high expectations of locals and diserning travellers.

Converting Antwerp’s most iconic building into a design hotel

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By: Hamish Kilburn

05.07.2018

Hotel Designs explores how Alex Kravetz Design used comic inspiration to create the interiors of Antwerp’s new design hotel on the block…

There were three major concepts which drove Alex Kravetz Design’s (AKD) vison of the Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel in Antwerp. The architect of the hotel – Michael Graves, the diamond district of Antwerp and lastly the emerging comic movement. These three elements created a strong concept for the hotel’s design language, creating a link with both the hotel’s foundations, the city’s history and the vibrant future of Antwerp.

Graves, who was one of the pioneers of neo-modernism architecture in the US, created the building which later become arguably one of Antwerp’s most iconic buildings. “It is an example of post-modern architecture and therefore the overall concept for the refurbishment was to create spaces which have a strong relationship with the exterior feel of the building,” said Alex Kravetz, Prinicpal at AKD.

The comic concept was explored due to the famous history of Belgian comics, the new Comics Station which has opened in Antwerp and the comic-inspired graffiti seen on buildings in the city featuring Belgian comic characters.

The Lobby Bistro Bar is a dynamic and stylised space which reflects the postmodern architectural influences of Grave’s building. This has been reflected in a number of interesting ways, one example of this can be found in the rugs. “The bright colours used convey the vast number of colours which were available to postmodern architects, referencing back to the bright yellow and blue hues of the Hotel building,” explains Kravetz. “The pattern developed on the other hand also shows a link with Antwerp’s Diamond district, composed with abstract geometric forms like cut diamonds.” The diamond concept continues throughout the hotel in numerous forms, for example in the drapery fabric of the suites, in the carpet designs of the public spaces and the wall sconces at the Rotonde Bar. Guests checking into the hotel will feel a sense of place and belonging.

The Rotonde Bar provides an upscale event space due to the stained maple veneers, brushed bronze and textured metal cladding finishes seen against the parquet floor. The banquettes at the windows allow for both flexible seating and great views overlooking Antwerp’s famous train station.

The lobby lounge area offers a multifunctional space where guests can relax in a warm and inviting environment. The feature fireplace wall has an oversized horizontal opening with an Opty mist flame effect fire and a rich industrial finish in Hammered Bronze metal with displayed rough cut timber logs. The Lobby Bar area hosts an industrial feel, with metal finishes in antique and hammered bronze and exposed rivets and hinges. “These juxtapose with the rich upholstery and the postmodern feature wall panels,” explains Kravetz. “Connections are clear between the spaces, although each space has its unique touch as you move between the public spaces on the ground floor.” The lobby restaurants takes a modern yet timeless feel, achieved by the contemporary furniture selection and banquette detailing, combined with the textured wall panels and feature mirrors.

The reception bar has individual reception pods with an abstract bespoke design. The contrasting materials used here set an eclectic tone leading into the lobby lounge. The striking feature banquette provides a key focal point opposite the main entrance, with a triptych of art above by Jeffery Edwards, adding humour, warmth and character. “The art pieces here have been specifically selected to connect with the Comic Room creating a sense of place and originality,” says Kravetz. “The Comic Room is a fun and inviting area where guests can relax and read a comic in a pop art inspired setting. The throw cushions and the accessories contribute to the overall concept and impression in this space.”

The design of 253 guestrooms offer a stylish and contemporary feel with warm tones that further reference the location. “This project was one of the first to tap into the new Radisson BLU Guestroom concept,” says Kravetz. The rooms may have been developed in line with Radisson Blue’s latest design standards but offers originality in regard to connections with the key concepts outlined and the location of the hotel. Above the headboard there is a feature wallpaper which has been custom developed specifically for the project. “The wallpaper has essentially become a statement artwork itself, showcasing Antwerp’s notable buildings, with the iconic train station in the centre,” says Kravetz. “The defined seating group includes a chair which is custom made for the property, drawing on postmodern architectural elements.” The stitched leather frame and brushed brass detail in the armrests gives a residential feel and the distinctive rug underneath the seating group features the strong, bright colours of postmodern architecture but also offers a luxurious feel to the room.

Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel Antwerp is superbly located on the historic Astrid Square near Antwerp Central Station and has unveiled a completely new look and feel following an extensive programme of refurbishment across the entire hotel, with total investment reaching over €9 million.

First Luxury Collection property to debut in Corfu

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By: Hamish Kilburn

03.07.2018

The Luxury Collection has announced the brand’s first hotel in Corfu with the signing of Domes Miramare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Corfu…

Domes Miramare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Corfu will mark the debut of Luxury Collection Resorts brand in Corfu. The idyllic beachfront retreat has emerged from a renovation restoring the legacy property − originally built for the Onassis family in the late 60’s − alongside new contemporary suites and luxury villas. One of a trio of Domes Resorts luxury properties in Greece, Domes Miramare sits at the heart of Greece’s resurgent luxury hospitality landscape, further cementing the Ionian island’s long-standing appeal to sophisticated global travellers. The hotel will operate under the Domes Resorts brand from July 14 2018 and will be converted to operate under The Luxury Collection brand from August 1 2018.

“The Miramare Hotel has a long history of welcoming the glitterati, and it’s heartening to see this icon reclaiming its rightful place as one of the Mediterranean’s newest and most luxurious resorts,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “The stunning, multi-million Euro transformation will ensure that this very special resort remains the definitive luxury destination for decades to come.”

Image credit: Luxury Collection Resorts

Originally designed by renowned architect Charalambos Sfaellos, Domes Miramare remains faithful to Sfaellos’ characteristic modernist style. The Adult Only resort (minimum age 16 years), will offer 113 guestrooms, suites and villas that have been elegantly reimagined by Kristina Zanic Design Consultants to reflect the richness and colour of the surrounding landscape. Shades of cream and taupe are blended with accents of soft blue and green, alongside modern furnishings and natural materials in patterns inspired by the surrounding landscape. The spacious marble bathrooms with bespoke pastel-tiled washbasins offer a nod to ancient Greek mosaics.

The resort’s collection of luxurious Pavilion Suites, enjoy beachfront locations with private pools and gardens. Ideal for larger groups or even families, the hotel is also home to an exclusive area available for private hire, which includes two expansive villas with pools, along with other amenities. Cherished artwork influenced by the island’s Venetian, French, British and Greek heritage adorns walls and public spaces, while Corfiot influences permeate throughout.

“It is all about Legacy! Legacy is the force that inspires and drives us,” said George P. Spanos, Vice President and CEO, Domes Resorts. “First, the Miramare legacy, which we wish to continue from when the Onassis family first developed the resort; Second, the legacy of Domes Resorts, to continue to open hotels in the most iconic destinations throughout Greece, which combine history and beauty; and finally, the legacy of Corfu being the most aristocratic destination in Greece. Our co-operation with The Luxury Collection brand supports and enhances our vision of developing a resort that will redefine the destination.”

Image credit: Luxury Collection Resorts

Set in shore-hugging grounds, and surrounded by acres of centuries-old olive groves, the resort is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Guests can revitalise with beachfront yoga, motivate with personal training sessions among the lush grounds, or simply unwind with a relaxing wellness treatment. Several common and private sleek pools, set between the resort’s private stretch of coast and the main building, provide the perfect spot for lounging.

Like all Luxury Collection properties, Domes Miramare offers enriching and inspiring experiences, custom-curated by the Concierge team to aid curious travellers in discovering the destination. Whether guests wish to immerse themselves in the UNESCO protected old town of Corfu, explore the island’s lush interior, or get up close to artisans at work, the possibilities are endless.

Domes Miramare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Corfu showcases the brand’s commitment to delivering authentic experiences in the most coveted destinations around the world. With more than 100 hotels in more than 30 countries and territories, The Luxury Collection, with 46 hotels currently in Europe alone, has solidified itself as the brand of choice for Global Explorers.

Competition watchdog puts hotel booking sites under the spotlight

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By: Hamish Kilburn

28.06.2018

Hotel booking sites are being advised by the UK’s competition watchdog to review the way in which they rank and display rooms online…

Some hotel sites have recently been accused of making misleading claims about discounts, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said in a report by the BBC.

The organisation is examining whether or not the sites are giving a false impression of room availability and “rushing” customers into booking decisions, while also looking into the extent to which a hotel’s ranking may be influenced by the size of the commission it pays.

The names of the companies that the CMA is investigating have not yet been released, but leading booking sites include Expedia and Booking.com.

The CMA, which launched its investigation into online booking sites in October, says it has sent warning letters to “a range of sites”, demanding they review their practices to make sure they are fair and comply with consumer protection law.

Its investigation is examining several practices, including:

Search results: how hotels are ranked after a customer has entered their search requirements, for example to what extent search results are influenced by other factors that may be less relevant to the customer’s requirements, such as the amount of commission a hotel pays the site.
Pressure selling: whether claims about how many people are looking at the same room, how many rooms may be left, or how long a price is available, create a false impression of room availability or rush customers into making a booking decision.
Discount claims: whether the discount claims made on sites offer a fair comparison for customers – for example, the claim could be based on a higher price that was only available for a brief period, or not relevant to the customer’s search criteria, for example comparing a higher weekend room rate with the weekday rate for which the customer has searched.
Hidden charges: the extent to which sites include all costs in the price they first show customers or whether people are later faced with unexpected fees, such as taxes or booking fees.

According to the CMA, around 70 per cent of consumers who shop around for accommodation use hotel booking sites.

Speaking to the BBC, Andrea Coscelli, chief executive of the CMA, said: “Booking sites can make it so much easier to choose your holiday, but only if people are able to trust them. We are now demanding that sites think again about how they are presenting information to their customers and make sure they are complying with the law. Our next step is to take any necessary action – including through the courts if needed – to ensure people get a fair deal.”

The watchdog has been in contact with a number of sites asking them to review their practices, and to respond within the next few months.

At the end of the review, the sites can either give a legally-binding commitment to change the way they operate, or argue their case that their practices do not break the law.

If the CMA disagrees with their arguments, it can take the companies to court, where unlimited fines can be levied.

Hospitality sector to generate £100 billion in 2018

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By: Hamish Kilburn

27.06.2018

Data from Adia suggests that the ‘now economy’ has led to the hospitality industry consistently growing at approximately six per cent a year since 2013…

Extensive analysis of ONS data* published across the last five years by hospitality recruitment platform Adia suggests that the total turnover of all businesses providing ‘Accommodation and Food Services Activities’ will reach £100 billion this year. In addition, over the last five years, the total turnover of all companies in the sector has steadily grown at around six per cent a year.

The total turnover of all businesses in the hospitality industry reached £98 billion in 2017, up from £92 billion in 2016 and £86 billion in 2015. Based on this rate of growth, Adia expects this figure to comfortably reach £100 billion in the ONS’ 2018 data, which is expected to be published in the autumn.

Adia’s analysis of government business population estimates has also revealed that the amount of people employed in the sector now exceeds 2.3 million, representing an increase of 21 per cent compared to 2013 – when the total amount of people working in the industry stood at 1.9 million.

Encouragingly, the amount of firms providing accommodation and food services activities in the UK has grown by just under 20 per cent in the last five years, having reached 202,060 – up from 169,235 in 2013.

Adia CEO, Ernesto Lamaina comments: “The hospitality sector makes a significant and important contribution to British economic output, equally, the 202,000 businesses operating in the industry play a valuable role as employers and job creators.

“Our analysis indicates that the amount of people working in the sector has increased by over 409,000 in the last five years, which is testament to the health of the industry. However, as we’re seeing across the entire economy – the way we’re working and employing is changing. Employees expect flexibility and often, employers require it – businesses must respond to that.

“We believe the ‘now economy’ is a system where companies can more efficiently manage staffing costs, and people are free to pursue the roles they want.”

Adia is Adecco’s online recruitment solution that has the technology, scale and expertise to deliver what businesses need to thrive in the now economy, helping to find and manage temporary talent while building better practices for a new way of working.

Launched in Switzerland in 2016, Adia is now available across the UK providing temporary talent to the hospitality industry.

*Business population estimates for the UK and regions provides the only official estimate of the total number of private sector businesses in the UK at the start of each year.

These estimates produced by BEIS cover a wider range of businesses than Office for National Statistics (ONS) outputs, which report on VAT traders and PAYE employers.

Creating the Pimlico Collection from Morgan Furniture

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By: Hamish Kilburn

26.06.2018

This year’s Clerkenwell Design Week saw the expansion of Morgan’s Pimlico collection to include two new sofas, the dramatic 148 high back booth sofa, and low back 147 two seat sofa to accompany the 140 lounge chair.

The Pimlico collection, designed by Morgan Studio, began as a bedroom chair with a small footprint and has developed to include a variety of size options and high-backs.

With smooth curved lines and a unique oval seat pad, the expanded collection offers further possibilities and interior solutions; Creating a cohesive collection suited to both workplace and hospitality interiors.

At Clerkenwell Design Week, Morgan also showcased its recent Valencia collection of modular seating, statement asymmetric daybeds and tables. Launching new additions to the table collection, including variations in size and finish.

To view these new collections please visit the Morgan showroom at 1 Dallington Street, ECV1 0BH.

Morgan Furniture are one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

Meet Up North: One month to go!

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By: Hamish Kilburn

18.06.2018

This time next month, hoteliers, designers, architects and suppliers will gather at Kings Street Townhouse hotel in Manchester for the inaugural Meet Up North…

Taking the successful ‘meet up’ networking concept up North for the first ever, Hotel Designs will next month host Meet Up North, a social event that aims to bridge the gap between designers, architects, hoteliers and suppliers alike.

The venue

Meet Up North will take place in one of Manchester’s finest hotels, Kings Street Townhouse, which The Telegraph recently described as,”the antithesis to a chain hotel,” comparing the experience of staying there similar to “staying with a rich friend who has extremely good taste.” The hotel is situated in an Italian Renaissance-style former bank dating from 1872, on a quiet side street within central Manchester’s historic Upper King Street Conservation Area. AEW Archtiects, whose directors will attend the event, was engaged in the design and transformation of the hotel, and completed the project in February 2016.

The agenda

The evening will commence with an official welcome from the newly appointed editor, Hamish Kilburn, who will briefly talk about the history of Meet Up, it’s purpose and why this year it’s being taken outside of London.

The mic will then be handed over to the award-winning Principal of Richmond International Fiona Thompson. The celebrated visionary designer will speak the the audience about past projects, future predictions and the significance of worthy collaborations. “Only through a thoughtful collaborative process, which acknowledges individual skills, talents and perspectives, can a project be successfully completed,” Fiona said ahead of the event. “Richmond International is extremely excited to take part in Meet Up North, an event which honours the significance of professional collaboration, and in turn reflect on the successful partnerships Richmond International has had the pleasure of being part of over the past 51 years.”

Completing the line-up of speakers will be the headline sponsors of the event, Marca Corona. The Italian ceramic tile specialists will provide the audience with an in-depth industry insight and will be available to answer questions after.

How to get involved

The evening will then continue with all the ingredients for a successful networking recipe. Canapés and complimentary drinks will be served on the balcony of Manchester’s most talked about hotel in 2017 and 2018.

If you are a hotelier, architect, designer or supplier and would like to also benefit from the event, there are very limited available. Please head over to the website where you can secure your place.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection opens reservations to the public

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By: Hamish Kilburn

14.06.2018

Travellers worldwide are invited to book their voyage on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s new custom-made luxury yacht…

Claiming to be the first luxury hotel group to take its service and ambiance of its resorts to the sea, The Ritz-Carlton, L.L.C. has announced the opening of reservations for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

“From the yacht’s design, to programming onboard and ashore, every aspect of the voyage has been carefully created to embody the signature service and casual luxury of a Ritz-Carlton resort,” said Lisa Holladay, Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton. We look forward to officially welcoming guests onboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection as we open reservations.”

Reservations are now open for the inaugural season of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, set to take the seas in February 2020. With several distinct itineraries available in 2020, guests have the option to book back-to-back voyages without repeating ports, allowing them to explore a wider range of destinations and delve into the local culture at each port.

Designed with a yachting lifestyle in mind, the first of three bespoke yachts in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will stop at both signature and iconic destinations.

The specially designed yacht will measure 190-meters, accommodate up to 298 passengers and feature 149 suites, each with its own private terrace. The yacht will also feature two 158 square-meter lavish Owner’s suites, each with its own private whirlpool, modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading design firm Tillberg Design of Sweden. The onboard experience will reflect the sublime comfort and unparalleled level of individualized guest service for which the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand is recognized, with one of the highest staff to guest service ratios in the cruise industry.

“The opening of reservations marks an exciting milestone for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which is set to redefine luxury at sea,” said Doug Prothero, CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “Whether you are looking for culture, adventure, or the chance to go off the beaten path, we are thrilled to be able to invite guests to explore the world with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.”

Customers are also encouraged to visit the newly launched website for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which offers full details of itineraries, pricing, and onboard experiences. Guests can browse for voyages by region, departure date or ports of interest using the “Find a Cruise” feature, view suite and fare information, explore the yacht experience, and more. The website additionally features a downloadable digital brochure for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, with engaging imagery and further itinerary information for the inaugural season.

The news of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection opens reservations follows an increase in hotel design firm’s being signed up to redesign major cruise liners, suggesting that holidays at seas are becoming ever-more popular.

Seven minutes with Fiona Thompson, Principal of Richmond International

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By: Hamish Kilburn

13.06.2018

Hotel Designs editor Hamish Kilburn caught up with Richmond International’s award-winning designer, and this year’s headline speaker at Meet Up North, Fiona Thompson, to find out how technology is influencing modern hotel design…

As we sit down to discuss what’s happened in the last three years, I am reminded of how much travelling is actually required to being the Principal of Richmond International. Fiona and her team are certainly clocking up the air miles, splitting their time mainly between London, LA, Boston and now Melbourne.

I last spoke to Fiona Thompson in 2014, when she and her team had just completed the quintessentially British Sterling Suite and Club Lounge at The Langham London. Having just agreed to be our headline speaker at Meet Up North on July 18, I wanted to know how the industry is shaping up from a leader’s point of view.

Hamish Kilburn: So, Fiona, what’s new?

Fiona Thompson: All sorts really, some of which we are allowed to tell you and some that we can’t just yet. We are scattered all over the world at the moment. For starters, we are working on new projects with Langham Hotel Group in both Boston and Melbourne, which has all come off the back of the work we completed in London and Chicago for the brand. We are also working right now with Rosewood Hotels in California on the Santa Barbra coast, which follows the work we have recently completed at the London West Hollywood. And of course, we are also working at Four Seasons Ten Trinity square, within the beautiful building to create high-end residential apartments.

HK: As Principal, how involved actually are you in the projects?

FT: We very purposefully stay the size that we are as a business because we do want to keep that involvement with the clients. We like to keep below 50 people. Once you go above that, you have to drive a lot of projects through the studio, which quite frankly we don’t want to do. That’s why we haven’t opened offices all over the world, because then the business is only as good as the person running that office. Also, if you take on too much then you can’t possibly stay in touch with all the projects. We run everything out of the studio here in London. The aim is about spending time and being involved in projects. I don’t want to be a business-only person. Could you imagine how dull that would be?!

Light, airy living area with white wooden panels

Image caption: London West Hollywood

HK: Can you quite believe that we last spoke when you completed the Sterling Suite and the Club Lounge in The Langham London, nearly three years ago?

FT: Gosh, I know. It was a really interesting project for us to work on. The idea of personalisation is where everything is going at the moment. People rent it [The Sterling Suite] out in such chunks of time that we never actually been back in properly since we completed the project when we last spoke.

In all seriousness, though, the biggest change since we last spoke, I believe, is personalisation. Guests want their hotel room to be personal and special to them. I think the interest has been a huge driver in changing the way in which we design modern hotels.

Even when I travel and I am looking for a hotel, the first thing I do is look up the area. If I’m there for just a few nights, I am more likely to stay in something that is half recognisable. But I think, after that point, when you have been there for a while, you can find such interesting hotels and there is a lot of information out there online. Put simply, people have more choice in where they stay. This has absolutely made the hotel groups rethink their offering right up to the design of the property.

I think it’s really opened up the industry completely. The big brands are trying to make themselves more bespoke and relevant – and this is right down to the food. For example, no longer is there only a steak and Italian restaurant. From our perspective, everything is a lot more thoughtful.

Image credit: The Sterling Suite, Langham London

HK: Our spotlight this month is technology, which can be a way of differentiating a hotel from the competition. However, high-tech hotels can also be considered as alienating. Where do you believe the balance lies?

FT: Technology is great as long as it is not challenging the way in which consumers behave. Hotels took a lot from high-end residential, which was a lot of more forward than the hotel industry in regards to the level of technology you can put into a home compared to the capacity of hotels. 10 years ago, for example, you could control your house with a laptop. I think at this point there was a desire in our industry where because you could, hotels felt as if they should.

The point is, though, hotel guests don’t want to learn how to open and close their curtains from a tablet device when they are only checked in for a night or two. Now it is much more important to include technology that is easy to use and also relevant. I think the biggest technology shift currently is seen in lighting. You can do so much more with lighting and it can change a space so significantly. That is a huge change that I believe will continue to evolve as it such an important element of the overall design.

HK: Did you ever find it a challenge educating hotel brands on technology?

FT: It is, and some hotel brands are better than others. I think once groups understand the consumer journey they start to understand why certain pieces of technology would not be relevant.

HK: You recently spoke this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week. What are your thoughts on trends in hotel designs?

FT: It’s so difficult. I don’t think hotels spend that much time on trends. Of course, we are influenced by them, but we don’t respond to them the same way as the fashion world does – or even the retail world does. This is because hotels take so long to realise, so you can’t really respond to trends other than shifts in culture. In hotels, you have to respond much more to the location and how society is shifting. The real trick is trying to think about how that’s going to look in the future.

Image credit: Fairmont Barbados

HK: One thing I noticed a few years ago was that feeling of ‘home-from-home’ within hotel design. How has that evolved?

FT: I don’t want a home-from-home. I think people actually want something different. There was that time when we were told that guests want a home from home, and I don’t think people want that at all. I think consumers now want to walk into a hotel room and think ‘wow, that’s really thoughtful’. I believe it’s got to be something that is beyond the Instagramable moment and it has to look and feel more real. However, above all else, the hotel room must be easy to use; it has to be intuitive.

HK: I remember attending a panel discussion of yours on hotel interiors. Out of interest, have your opinions changed on cushions in the guestroom?

FT: Nope, throw them away. What’s that all about? [laughs] I don’t want them on the bed! Cushions in the lobby are fine, but not on the bed. No. Get rid of them! If that’s the only way you can add flair to a room then you have failed.

Image credit: Ritz Carlton Astana

HK: A little birdy tells me that you are working on designing the Interiors of a cruise ship. If location is your first reference when designing a hotel, where do you start in designing interiors of a ship that’s location is constantly changing?

FT: This is so fascinating for me. The new P&O is a big ship and it is all guest-focused – and the interiors very much have to be added around how guests use the space. There is a huge change within cruise ship interior design. The star in the new ship that we are working on is the sea, which as far as I am aware has not been the case with any other ship.

Now, in order to cater to younger demographics, cruise ships are trying to make the sea is a big part of the experience. This means making windows much larger and the relationship between inside and outside becoming more important. Cruise ships are trying to break away from that naff Vegas style, and are turning these ships into places that are more upscale and thought through. It is very different to hotels though. In hotels people leave for starters. Cruise ships really have to capture the attention of every guest as they can be at sea for as long as three months.

The biggest challenge working in cruise ship interior design is the ceiling heights because you are working in large spaces that typically have very low ceilings. Therefore, you have to play all sorts of games as to how to make those spaces feel comfortable and airy. A great way to do that is through lighting.

HK: Has working in cruise ships helped you when designing hotels?

FT: I think it has, and it allows me to think about space in a different way. Although design has not perhaps been as seamless in the cruise ships as it is in hotels, I think it is ahead in other areas. There is a lot of integrated technology in cruise ships and also entertainment is a massive factor. It’s really interesting now seeing hotels thinking about that more.

HK: Where’s next on your travel bucket list for pleasure?

FT: Well I’m going to Norfolk next [laughs]… No in all seriousness, I really want to go to back to Australia, but I need to take a big chunk out which I haven’t managed to do recently. I grew up in Sydney, so I have a lot of fond memories.

The Student Hotel fuels European expansion with five new properties in the pipeline

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By: Hamish Kilburn

12.06.2018

In five years, the hotel brand plans to open properties in Lisbon, Paris, Barcelona, Porto and a third hotel Florence…

The Student Hotel (TSH) has unveiled plans to expand its European portfolio to 65 properties within the next five years. At the grand opening of TSH Florence Lavagnini, its first Italian hotel, the group confirmed five new site acquisitions, which include Lisbon, Paris, Barcelona, Porto, plus a third Florence location.

TSH’s vision for an international Complete Connected Community of co-living and co-working students, leisure and long-stay professional guests, takes a monumental leap forward with Florence Lavagnini, its stunning new flagship, hybrid-hospitality concept.

“Our fully flexible, hybrid model is the first to cater for the needs of hotel guests, students, entrepreneurs, young professionals and locals under one roof,” said Charlie MacGregor, TSH founder and CEO. “In five years we aim to have 65 locations secured across Europe, 26,000 rooms and close to one million square meters of shared space. Our new TSHLIFE app and digital platform will connect nearly a million current and former co-living and co-working guests.

“We will continue to disrupt the industry and offer future generations a hybrid home away from home. We will always listen to them, to evolve and adapt our offering, which will ensure we grow a hospitality company that always has one foot in the future.”

Located in the heart of the Tuscan capital, TSH Lavagnini is a €50 million regeneration of an historic palazzo, nicknamed The Sleepy Palace by locals. Contemporary design, inspired by the Memphis movement, sees classic architecture now boast modern twists, such as a supersized graffiti installation in the central courtyard, a rooftop “The Beach is Boring” pool, a skybar and two terraces with breathtaking vistas of the city, the Duomo, and the Tuscan hills.

TSH Florence Lavagnini will soon be joined by four sister hotels:

TSH Florence Manifattura Tabacchi
Manifattura Tabacchi will be the third TSH project in Florence and its fifth in Italy. This development, part of the largest regeneration site in Tuscany spearheaded by AERMONT Capital and CDP Immobiliare, will create a new urban community outside of the historic city center.

The former tobacco factory, near Piazza Puccini in the northwest of the city, will receive a €200m investment to create a 100,000-sq-meter complex with its own piazza covered by a transparent roof, that features a vibrant mix of food market, artisan shopping, co-working spaces, events and exhibition venues. TSH, along with international fashion and design institute Polimoda, are the first organizations signed-up to the project.

TSH Florence Manifattura Tabacchi will have 318 rooms, communal spaces including lounge and games areas, rooftop pool, outside courtyard, restaurant, gym, study areas and bike rental. The 14,500-sq-meter site is due to open in 2021.

TSH’s first Italian project, Florence Lavagnini, opened on 7 June 2018. The second Florence hotel, Belfiore, will open in 2020 with 652 rooms. Bologna will open with 361 rooms in 2019 and Rome in 2020 with 481 rooms. TSH plans to have more than 10 Italian properties open, in development or secured by 2023.

TSH in Portugal
TSH will land in Portugal with two locations. The group’s first beachside property is located in Carcavelos, opposite the new Nova Business School campus and directly on the seafront of Portugal’s best surf spot at Carcavelos, just 15-minutes from Lisbon.

The area is booming with start-ups and incubators that will soon be home to a large business center and new Google offices. The 435-room hotel will be developed in partnership between TSH and Stone Capital and opens in 2021. It will house a large TSH Collab co-working area, rooftop pools, extensive terraces and open spaces, sport and yoga studios, and a restaurant.

The group has also secured an amazing city center location In Porto where it will open with 300 rooms in 2020.

Expansion of TSH in Paris and Barcelona
TSH is close to securing sites for a second location in Paris, a 300-room hotel within the Peripherique that is expected to open in 2020.

A new location is also planned for Barcelona, a 300-room property with 3,000-sq-meters of Collab co-working space. It will be the second new TSH in Spain (Madrid opens in 2019). They complement two TSH Campus-branded, student-only residences in Barcelona at Marina and Poble Sec.

St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, unveils renovated premium guestrooms

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By: Hamish Kilburn

11.06.2018

Following a nine-month refurbishment, the renovated areas boast a blend of heritage and contemporaneity design…

St James’ Court in Westminster, operated by Taj hotels, has officially launched its newly renovated guestrooms at the Almoners Townhouse, as part of a multi-million pound refurbishment.

In accordance with the hotel’s commitment to ‘reinventing tradition’, the renovation complements the “English Classics, Reinvented” series, which gives literary classics a new lease of life as Taj partners with contemporary British artists to create a selection of limited edition covers for UK’s best loved tales.

The award-winning hospitality and residential architects and interior designers, Dexter Moren Associates, alongside interior design consultant Sue Freeman, are carrying out the entirety of the project, working to create an equilibrium between the historic design features and a fresh contemporary finish.

Embodying the magnetism of the unique location, the new premium guestrooms have been infused with the modern influence of present-day London, yet maintaining comfort and convenience, rooted in the hotel’s legacy, providing guests with a welcoming retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Among the spaces seeing that have recently completed are the guestrooms located in Almoners townhouse. Following a nine-month refurbishment, the renovated areas boast the perfect blend of heritage and contemporaneity; Taj’s historic design features marry with a bold, contemporary finish, reminiscent of a modern townhouse. The use of pale hues accentuates the abundance of natural light, giving the new rooms and suites a bright and airy feel that ultimately creates a light and welcoming environment.

The areas boast ample space and a variety of earthy and soothing colour pallets which draw inspiration from the surrounding meandering cityscape, evident in the decorative bespoke maps that are suspended throughout.

Neutral tones and cleverly-crafted light installations provide the entrance lobby and hall with a sophisticated appeal, resembling an archetypal arcade. Showcasing simple paneling, elegant edges and steady trimmings, these rooms are quintessential gateways to the luxurious offerings synonymous with St. James’ Court.

“Since opening its doors in 1902, St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel has symbolised union between Taj’s Indian heritage and timeless British pedigree,” comments the UK Area Director and General Manager, Digvijay Singh. “Hosting more than a 100,000 travellers every year, the renovation marks an exciting new era for the hotel by boosting its offerings to serve the ever evolving needs of the modern traveller”.

The renovation will also see the opening of new spa facilities in August 2018.

Mandarin Kensington Fire: Hotel issues statement

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By: Hamish Kilburn

07.06.2018

Just one week after completing “the most extensive restoration in its 115-year history”, the Mandarin Oriental London yesterday suffered a devastating blow when a fire broke out on the top floor…

The Mandarin Oriental has made a comment after a fire broke out yesterday afternoon.

“Plumes of smoke were seen rising from the five-star Mandarin Oriental in Knightsbridge just before 16:00 BST,” reported the BBC. Among the guests that were evacuated from the burning building was singer Robbie Williams who described the drama to the BBC: “I went on the balcony and looked up and there was just billows and billows of smoke.

“I came back in from the balcony and said, ‘The hotel’s on fire,’ and then the next thing a knock at the door came and there was a bellboy there and they said, ‘Get out’.”

The fire was believed to have spread across a vertical façade of plants and vegetation and into several floors of the hotel but was quickly extinguished, as reported by FT.

It happens after the hotel last week announced that its recently completed renovation, overseen by internationally renowned designers Joyce Wang and Adam D. Tihany was to confirm this historic hotel’s position as one of the best in the world.

In a recent press release from the hotel brand, the renovation was described to have given all 181 guestrooms and suites a more luxurious and comfortable feel than ever before. The designers took inspiration from art deco and included carefully curated artworks, and custom-designed furniture. The hotel had also installed a green living wall which surrounds the inner courtyard.

Since the fire broke out, the hotel has made a comment: “We would like to express our appreciation to everyone who has conveyed their concern about this sad incident.

“It is too early at the present stage to assess the full extent of the damage. A full investigation is under way and will take time to complete.”

Our thoughts are with the hotel and the Mandarin Oriental brand at this time.

Image credit: Twitter @Watersun555

Renovated bank headquarters in Edinburgh opens as five-star hotel

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By: Hamish Kilburn

06.06.2018

The five-star The Edinburgh Grand opens in the heart of the city’s vibrant St Andrew Square in the former RBS Building…

Two years in the making, The Edinburgh Grand has opened its doors for the first since it was closed 2007, successfully converting the headquarters of a bank into a five-star hotel.

The hotel opens with the aim to redefine luxury accommodation in the area, offering 50 individually designed, fully-equipped apartments as well as a selection of restaurants and bars.

“Every detail has been carefully considered – from the beautiful art deco inspired interiors celebrating the building’s amazing heritage, to the cutting-edge technology in each of the apartments, said general manager of Lateral City Apartments, which will operate The Edinburgh Grand, Gavin MacLennan. “The Edinburgh Grand is the ultimate home from home, and we know it will surpass every expectation.”

The venture is part of Chris Stewart Group’s ambitious Registers development, a regeneration and redevelopment project which is set to transform one corner of the prestigious St Andrew Square. Karen Brown, head of interior design at CSG led the project though the entire renovation.

Luxury apartments cater to needs of modern guests

Old meets new as guests’ needs have been put at the forefront of the distinctive design with original features artfully woven together with contemporary interior design. Authentic features, including original dark wood panelling, fireplaces, brass door handles and decorative cornicing, create a sleek and timeless design.

From the uniquely configured Grand Studios to the city’s most exclusive suite, the three-bedroom, rooftop Penthouse boasts unmatched 360° panoramic views over the cityscape.

Each residence is equipped with smart televisions, Bose sound systems and intelligent heating controls and a fully fitted top of the range kitchen. Bathrooms feature drench showers and oversized baths in addition to luxury amenities.

The Edinburgh Grand is also home to The Register Club, which occupies the west wing of the fourth floor. The champagne and cocktail club run by The Bon Vivant promises to be one of the city’s most elegant and sought-after venues.

Following the opening, in July the award-winning steak restaurant and cocktail bar, Hawksmoor, will open its first Edinburgh offering with 170 covers in the former banking hall on the ground floor. The Bon Vivant team will also launch a continental café and aperitif cocktail bar with a late-night basement hangout tucked into the former banking vaults below. Sitting proudly in its place on St Andrew Square, and showcasing the best of interior design, impeccable service and local food and drink, The Edinburgh Grand is set to become the most sought-after hotel booking and table reservation in the city.

Caribbean: Eden Rock – St Barths on track for December reopening

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By: Hamish Kilburn

04.06.2018

The hotel is undergoing an extensive renovation and restructuring, following the impact of Hurricane Irma in September 2017…

Eden Rock – St Barths, the Caribbean legend in the prestigious Oetker Collection, has announced that it will reopen its doors on 22 December 2018 after an extensive renovation and restructuring following the impact of Hurricane Irma last year.

While the majority of the Caribbean (nearly 70 per cent) was not damaged by Hurricane Irma and Maria, islands such as St Barths unfortunately were. Despite this, St Barths has been announced as ‘open’ since November last year, and the reopening of Eden Rock is a small yet significant milestone to amplify the island as a unique Caribbean hotspot once more.

Owner of Eden Rock – St Barths Jane Matthews has been central within the redesign, working with firms such as Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS) London, Mercure Engineering & Consulting Paris, Architectonik St Barths and Eden Rock Design. The collaborative group has redesigned and refurbished the entire property with a fresh look and feel, while preserving the heritage and incomparable atmosphere for which Eden Rock is loved.

Throughout the rebuilding process, Fabrice Moizan, General Manager demonstrated the work-rate and optimism that have long been associated with Eden Rock: “We sought an opportunity following a disaster,” said Moizan. We took a different perspective on the situation and now Eden Rock – St Barths is coming back stronger and better than before. Both the hotel and the team are completely refreshed, full of energy and ready to rock and roll!”

The design brief was to create an even more laidback Eden Rock style. All rooms, suites and villas have been renovated, and an additional two suites with spacious private pools have been added ahead of a further three brand new suites to be revealed on the very top of the rock in 2019. The hands-on Matthews has also expanded her art collection within the property, and takes pleasure in introducing guests to wonderful new talent via the New York Academy of Art.

MBDS will be redesigning the famous Villa Rockstar, Villa Nina and the resort’s restaurants. The new buildings will retain St Barths character with its relaxed beach style. The Sand Bar, for example, has been transformed to bring the outdoor indoors and remains culinary heart of the hotel.

The new Rémy Room and Bar is named after Eden Rock’s original owner, paying tribute to his pioneering spirit. A casual beach bar has been added, as well as a new sun deck with shaded loungers.

The reopening of Eden Rock – St Barths is another example showing that the Caribbean is very much open for business.

Award-winning Naumi Auckland unveils exclusive art collection

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By: Hamish Kilburn

25.05.2018

In the lobby, a 24-carat gold textured wall represents the feathered nape of the native Tui bird…

Art and design play a central role at Naumi Auckland Airport, which opened in February. Already heralded as the world’s coolest airport hotel, making it into Forbes’ list of “The Best Airport Hotels In The World 2018”, Naumi Auckland Airport is a living gallery as well as a hotel. Its impressive work embellishes the property from the entrance through to each and every guestroom. From up-and-coming artists in New Zealand as well as established names internationally, the multi-sensory pieces reference the native Tui bird, on which the hotel’s design is centred, as well as the beautiful landscapes of the country.

One of the most striking works at Naumi Auckland is found in the lobby. Greeting guests as they arrive is a 24-carat gold textured wall which represents the feathered nape of the Tui bird. Commissioned to the NY Art Department (New Zealand), the 95 gold discs are hand painted with a feather pattern. Next to the wall sits a customized two and half metre bird cage as well as paintings from Australian artist Belynda Henry. Winner of the SNW Wynne prize, Belynda was specially commissioned to capture the natural Auckland landscape and started the process by sitting on the rooftop of the hotel to sketch the view. Her original pieces have been transformed onto rugs in the guest rooms as a playful interpretation of the Tui bird’s native surroundings. The rugs allow guests to engage with the natural landscape through a walkable piece of art.

Among the eclectic mix of handpicked furnishings from the likes of Jonathan Adler and Kartell are works by New Zealand based designer Judi Bagust. Commissioned to work on original pieces for the hotel, the artist chose to capture the lyrical notes of the singing Tui bird. The largest work is found in the Paksa Restaurant as well as prints hanging in the guestrooms, complete with customized brass frames. Seemingly floating in space, Bagust’s brushed ink marks stretch, loop and fold across the paper in one elegant, oscillating movement. Each mark twists and turns to give the effect of a delicate dance of a geological form or musical score.

In keeping with the hotel’s art theme, Naumi Auckland is home to two design suites including the Dotty Suite, inspired by the Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, known for her brightly coloured conceptual pieces. Each piece of furniture, wall and soft furnishing will be inspired by Kusama’s signature dots, making it a one of a kind experience for guests. Naumi was the sponsor for Auckland Art Gallery’s Obliteration Room by Yayoi Kusama Project, that ran earlier this year.

Hotel Summit becomes another sell-out event

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By: Hamish Kilburn

18.05.2018

With less than a month to go until the 20th anniversary of Hotel Summit, we are pleased to announce that it will be another sell-out event…

The Hotel Summit will take place on June 4 to 5, 2018, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, London Stansted.

Headline partner –
Simba Sleep Limited

Gold partners –
Salto Systems, Chroma Flooring, QCR, Wandsworth Group, Centrica Business Solutions, Portable Floormaker, Dyson, B Light Group, Vogue, Pulsar, Anchor Hospitality Logistics, ISS Facility Services, and Project Blinds.

Silver partners –
Crosswater, Birchall Tea, Delabie, James Alexander, Heritage Bathrooms, Tarkett Flooring, ADI Trading, Sue Whimster, Cassellie LTD, Viridor, Simon Jersey, 7 Formation, Dr Cost, Wanzl and Airwave.

Drinks reception partner –
Trviago

Over the course of the two days, attendees can enjoy interactive seminars and networking opportunities, while taking part in one-to-one business meetings.

If you are a hotelier and would like to attend the 20th anniversary of the Hotel Summit there are still limited spaces available on first serve basis.

For more information and what to expect from the two-day event click here

Remote control activating the actuator plate

Bathroom specialist Duravit launches installation frames with matching actuator plates

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By: Hamish Kilburn

16.05.2018

The bathroom should be comfortable, relaxing, and stylish, particularly as it is estimated we spend around three years of our lives in this room.

To make the bathroom as aesthetically appealing as possible, functional components are often invisible. The innovative technology concealed within the assembly units of toilets and washbasins is essential in ensuring the perfect interaction with products installed in front of the wall.

With DuraSystem®, Duravit offers convenient additional features for the bathroom. The new DuraSystem® is available for the toilet, urinal, washbasin, and bidet. In front of the wall, the sophisticated system uses actuator plates that are appealing to both the sense of sight and touch. Behind the wall, it guarantees a simple and perfect installation and solves many technical challenges. Whether for a new build, or a conversion, dry or wet installation, DuraSystem® is suitable for any installation type.

The actuator plates come in an electronic and mechanical version. Both feature the clear geometry that characterizes the stylish design of Duravit products.

The electronic A2 toilet actuator plates, made from white glass, are surface-mounted. Their contemporary, timeless design enriches the bathroom and increases its users’ comfort. An infrared approaching sensor activates the illumination of the symbols when they detect movement close by. The remote control supplied enables the many convenient functions to be set and adjusted as required: integrated hygienic flush, auto flush, nightlight, cleaning function, emergency power supply, and the particularly quiet and effective odour extraction as an extra feature.

The remote control supplied enables the many convenient functions of the A2 actuator plate to be set and adjusted as required
cleaning function, emergency power supply, and the particularly quiet and effective odour extraction as an extra feature.

The mechanical A1 toilet actuator plate is made from white plastic or chrome high gloss and can be flush mounted. It is also available in white glass. The standard toilet frame and toilet frame for wet installation can also be upgraded retrospectively with a hygienic flush function.

With DuraSystem® the installation frames are compatible with Duravit’s new rimless WC’s and SensoWash® shower-toilets. As all components are supplied from a single source, DuraSystem® also ensures a perfect fit with all other Duravit products. In addition, DuraSystem® also offers solutions for the washbasin, urinal and bidet.

Duravit are one of our recommended suppliers. To keep up to date with their news, click here. And, if you are interested in becoming one of our recommended suppliers, click here.

Signbox shares its tips for architectural hotel signage

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By: Daniel Fountain

25.01.2018

Sponsored by Signbox

The hospitality sector is the place where architectural signage truly comes to life. The impression guests receive when they first arrive at your hotel and step inside can make or break their experience and determine the success of your business. Architectural sign company Signbox lists the top ten architectural sign solutions for the hotel industry.

We’ve spent 30 years conceiving remarkable signage solutions that have inspired, motivated and empowered our clients around the world. We put it down to an innate creative energy that our team embraces every day and channels it into iconic, intelligent sign schemes that bring buildings to life.

Welcome to a world of signs to take your breath away.

Top 10 architectural sign solutions for the hotel industry:

1. External brand signs

The sky is the limit when it comes to exterior signage – projecting or post-mounted fabricated letter signs, with various finishes to complement your building and brand, high-elevated letters and LED illumination are just a few of options. Go for a bespoke architectural sign that will create a remarkable first impression.

2. External wayfinding

Powerful exterior wayfinding signage will welcome your guests and direct them within unfamiliar surroundings, informing them that they arrived at the correct destination. Signbox’s full range of exterior signage solutions includes directional signs, directory signs, landmark signs and entrance signs and, whether illuminated or otherwise, all are designed to be low maintenance, durable and complement their environment perfectly.

3. Internal reception signs

Upon arrival your guests first interaction is at reception – an inviting lobby where the guests feel welcomed and a reception sign, designed on brand and manufactured to high standards will convince your guests that they will be well looked after.

4. Internal wayfinding

Use wayfinding signs to help your guests find what they need with ease, feeling safe, informed and engaged. From the elegant and easy to install off-the-shelf Signkit collection of signage components to bespoke architectural signs that are designed to inspire and captivate, Signbox pushes the boundaries of sign design and creativity.

5. Meeting room signs

If you have meeting rooms you need appropriate signage to direct multiple users efficiently – take the signage to the next level and use a sign that shows the occupancy status. Signbox has an eye- catching solution for you – Project Lumos can incorporate an RGB switchable LED from red to green or white to signal that a room is ‘engaged’ or ‘vacant’.

6. Manifestation for glazing

Glass manifestation is one of the best solutions for privacy, safety and branded visual impact. It’s mandatory to avoid accidents, but can also be a great way to enhance the environment using CAD cut designs or digitally printed graphics. If you have a meeting room with large windows, make sure they are part-covered to ensure privacy.

7. Digital wallpaper

Vibrant environmental graphics will exude quality and deliver an amazing guest experience. Digitally printed wallpaper also reveals your style – luxury, modern and contemporary, traditional or boutique hotel.

8. Hotel room signs

The secret of an effective room identification signage scheme invariably lies in its simplicity. Signbox guestroom signs are manufactured using a wide range of materials, including timber, metals and contemporary glass/acrylic. They are designed to be elegant and beautiful, yet robust, tamper proof and low maintenance. Project Lumos signs are another sought after solution because they are attractive, colourful and visible in low lit corridors.

9. Statutory signs

Statutory signs such as safety, fire safety, hazard and warning signs are fundamental to the safety of your guests and employees. They should be located at strategic points and include prohibition, warning, fire action, mandatory and escape signage elements. Signbox designs and manufactures a range of high quality fire and safety signs that comply with all current regulations.

10. Wall art

There is no rule for all when it comes to wall art. Tell us what you want to display and we will translate your 2D vision into a 3D reality. We’ve spent 30 years conceiving remarkable signage solutions that have inspired, motivated and empowered our clients around the world. We put it down to an innate creative energy that our team embraces every day and channels it into iconic, intelligent sign schemes that bring buildings to life. Welcome to a world of signs to take your breath away.

Contact: 01784 438688, signbox.co.uk

Radisson Red Glasgow casting day proves a success

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By: Daniel Fountain

24.01.2018

Radisson Red Glasgow has received a number of applications to attend its casting day earlier this week, with 1,600 showing interest in the positions available.

Scheduled to open in spring 2018, the Radisson Red marks the first Red hotel to open in the UK and is looking to employ around 80 people in total.

The call went out in December last year, inviting anyone looking for a new challenge in 2018 to apply for a place on the casting day held at The Lighthouse on January 22. Alongside their CV, applicants were asked for a video clip, selfie or Instagram link.

Encouraged to be conscious, courageous, captivating and versatile, successful candidates will be able to take the lead, be part of a team and create a spark with everything they do.

“We were blown away with the response to our Casting Day. 1,600 applications is an amazing number. It really reinforced in our minds that Glasgow was the right location for the first Radisson RED hotel in the UK. This city is brimming with creativity, style and ambition, and we can’t wait to be a part of it,” said Michael Weston, curator of the hotel.

“The candidates who attended had a great connection with the brand, and really embraced the spirit of the day and it was great to get to know so many of them.

“We want Red brand ambassadors who connect with the world around them. We want our team of creatives to be socially aware and able to make genuine friendships with our guests. We encourage laughter, playfulness and even a little mischief with guests that will drive them to come back again and again. At Red personality is the most important part – we can show you the rest.”

Bradbury Group shares its top tips for hotel fire safety

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By: Daniel Fountain

22.01.2018

Every hotel must ensure it has a proper fire safety procedure in place, to ensure guests and staff are safe in the event of a fire.

Whether that is having a clear evacuation plan or training staff in preparation of a fire, hotel owners must make sure all aspects are covered.

To help with this, Bradbury Group has listed its four fire safety tips that all hotels should follow. Click here to read on.

How to bring nature-inspired designs into your hotel

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By: Guest Blog

19.01.2018

Duncan Neil, creative director at Earthed by William Clark, shares his expert opinion on how to utilise nature-inspired design to create best results in the hospitality industry.

Creating a welcoming and memorable experience in the hospitality industry is vital and the natural world holds a wonder of unique colours, patterns and materials that can inject life into interior spaces.

Hallways and entrances

A spacious entrance with lots of natural light grabs the guest’s attention as soon as they set foot into the venue. The space should have clean lines and a neutral colour palette to create a fresh feeling no matter what time of day or season. The use of large green plants can also help achieve this. Adding greenery in any form to hotel hallways will maintain an air of freshness around the premises and bring a sense of rejuvenation.

Restaurants

It’s important to create a comfortable restaurant area to promote a relaxed dining experience. Red, yellow and green palettes are the most common colours found within food and naturally complement our eating experience. Eating is a basic primal function, so using earthy natural materials, such as natural woods, cottons and linen, can synchronise experience and our primal needs.

In this busy environment pattern can be used to add character and depth, potentially through furniture, upholstery or soft furnishings. Patterns inspired by nature are ideal for hotels as they create calming environments when soft flowing patterns are used, but can also be perfect to add bursts of excitement and vibrancy when sharp bold designs are used. Our collections utilise a mix of elements found within the natural world, from the soft flow of water to the sharp lines of minerals found in the earth’s surface.

Bedrooms

The guest room is arguably the most important area to get right as this will have an effect on how well a guest rests. A spacious room incorporating neutral tones really helps to create a relaxed and calm atmosphere. However stronger colour schemes are more atmospheric and can make a real statement.

The best colour palettes to experiment with in bedrooms are greens and blues. Greens have clear links with nature, one of the most peaceful influences to bring into the bedroom. While blue tones are traditionally linked to harmony and calm, which will help guests to have a restful sleep. Our debut collection, The Upperlands incorporates these colours and tones, with fabrics that have an earthy, calming effect. Incorporating quality fabrics also enable depth and texture to be added to a room, either by print or structured textiles.

Additionally, it has been proven that headboards aid a better night’s sleep, therefore should always be present – they are also an ideal opportunity to add personality and colour.

There is no rule book when utilising our natural world in interiors, so it’s important to be playful and have some fun experimenting to see what works for your hotel and your guests.

Embassy Suites by Hilton New York celebrates grand opening

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By: Daniel Fountain

18.01.2018

Buccini/Pollin Group (BPG), Hidrock Properties and Hilton Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of the new 310-room Embassy Suites by Hilton New York in Midtown Manhattan.

BPGS Construction oversaw the entitlement and construction of the project, while PM Hotel Group performed technical services during programming, design and construction and manages the hotel.

Campion Platt Interiors was selected to design the hotel’s public areas, while HVS Design was responsible for the guest suite and corridor designs, and PPA provided the architectural plans.

“BPG believes that if we hired a typical commercial hotel designer, we would get a typical commercial hotel design,” said Dave Pollin, co-founder of BPG.

“Many travellers today can’t tell the difference between a hotel located in Cleveland or one in Canberra due to ‘generic hotel aesthetic blur’. We hired Campion Platt to set the tone and lead the design team due to his New York experience and sensibilities; they were apparent at our very first meeting. Campion grasps the city at its DNA level, including a deep historical understanding of the Garment District.”

Based at the crossroads of New York City, the 39-storey building boasts a glass façade and is a quick walk to Times Square, the Empire State Building and 5th Avenue.

Plus, each of the hotel’s studio suites feature Wi-Fi, two 42-inch HDTVs, a spacious work area, mini fridge, microwave and a coffeemaker.

SkyLawn, the hotel’s outdoor venue can host events for up to 300 people, while the Heist Bar & Lounge celebrates the greatest jewel heists in history through inventive cocktails while paying homage to New York’s famed Diamond District.

Jonathan Tuckey Design to plan new floor in Berlin’s Michelberger hotel

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By: Daniel Fountain

15.01.2018

Jonathan Tuckey Design has been appointed to build an extra floor for the Michelberger hotel in Berlin.

The creation of an additional floor provides the opportunity to offer more space to even more guests, plus the new aesthetic ties in with the design approach across the hotel, where every inch is used, creating practical, warm and spatially interesting rooms.

“We are incredibly lucky to have been appointed for our first hotel project by the team at the Michelberger,” said practice director, Jonathan Tuckey.

“This hotel is built around a creative community and so the social experience is paramount. We feel that by taking aspects of the city and building them into the fabric of the interiors we can create a series of spaces that can be enjoyed and shared by the guests, both new and returning customers.”

Jonathan Tuckey Design will celebrate the original features of the building, which dates back to 1903, and will boast open floor plates, large windows and beams traversing the full width of the ceiling.

Meanwhile, communal walkways provide access to the rooms but also act as social spaces where guests might bump into one another, just as they would in the city.

Azar Kazimir, creative director at Michelberger, added: “In researching for this project, Jonathan’s work leapt out at us with his ability to create simple, almost minimalist spaces but ones which are full of warmth, charm and humility.

“That is a rare thing to find! He has a wonderful sensitivity to working with light and natural materials and has great ability in working with existing buildings and adding to them to create something beautifully new.”

Work on the new floor and its rooms is slated to start in early 2018, while the new floor will open in the summer.

W Hotels expands to Osaka

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By: Daniel Fountain

12.01.2018

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, has announced the development of W Osaka in Japan.

Set across 27 floors, the new hotel is expected to open in 2021 and will boast 337 guestrooms and suites, restaurants and cocktail bars.

Under an hour away from Kansai International Airport, W Osaka will be based within the indie boutiques and restaurants of the city.

“In 2020, Japan will capture the global spotlight, welcoming nations from around the world to the country on a grand scale for the 2020 games. This is a great build up to the launch of the first-ever W in Japan,” said Anthony Ingham, global brand leader for W Hotels Worldwide.

“W is always bringing its new/next vision and bold approach to new destinations, especially cities as vibrant and energetic as Osaka. We are confident W Osaka will add even more energy and excitement to this already action-packed year in Japan.”

Inside, guests will also be able to maintain their health and fitness with the Away Spa and fitness centre.

Isami Wada, chairman of Sekisui House, added: “We are excited to add yet another Marriott International property to our portfolio and even more thrilled to be introducing a brand as daring as W to the country.

“It will be an exciting year for Japan, and the W brand will surely offer limitless experiences to those visiting from all corners of the world.”

The new opening joins more than 50 W Hotels currently open globally, including the W Shanghai – The Bund, W Suzhou, W Bellevue and W Goa, as well as the soon-to-open W Panama, W Amman and W Brisbane.

New Novotel hotel opens for Stansted travellers

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By: Daniel Fountain

11.01.2018

Arora Hotels and AccorHotels have revealed the completion of a multi-million pound refurbishment to transition Arora Hotels’ Stansted hotel to the Novotel brand.

The new hotel boasts restaurants, bars, meeting and event spaces, as well as 250 bedrooms for guests to stay in.

“We’re delighted to unveil our newly refurbished hotel and to bring the highly regarded Novotel brand to Stansted,” said Surinder Arora, founder and chairman of the Arora Group.

“Our ongoing investment into the hotel ensures that we continue to offer guests the very best quality facilities.”

The development marks the third partnership between Arora Group and AccorHotels, plus the group also manages and operates Sofitel London Gatwick and Sofitel London Heathrow.

Located within the airport perimeter, the hotel is minutes away from the terminal and 30 minutes from central London via train.

Paul Muscroft, general manager of Novotel London Stansted Airport, added: “The refurbishment includes a fantastic upgrade to our meetings product, which includes eight purpose-built fully equipped meetings rooms with a capacity for up to 250 people, theatre-style.

“In addition, our dedicated team of in-house specialists are on hand to advise, organise, and help you plan your meeting every step of the way.”

Skamania Lodge bolsters tree house offering

https://hoteldesigns.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Skamania-Tree-Houses.jpg 959 640 Daniel Fountain Daniel Fountain https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/28f17893c9d95fdef8d92a5aa8c6423f?s=96&d=mm&r=g 08.01.2018 15.01.2018

By: Daniel Fountain

08.01.2018

The Columbia River Gorge’s iconic Skamania Lodge, A Destination Hotel, has debuted its second pair of tree houses.

Boasting an extra sleeping area and queen bed, the new houses overlook the Gorge and Skamania Lodge’s golf course.

Like the previous two tree houses, these are situated in the Douglas Firs of the Columbia River Gorge and have been placed higher, sitting twice as high at about 30 feet.

“We’re thrilled at the way our first two tree houses turned out,” said Ken Daugherty, general manager at Skamania Lodge. “They became so popular, we wanted to be able to provide our guests with additional options to truly have that quintessential Columbia River Gorge experience.”

Each of the houses also feature an additional nook space with a bed and large windows, meaning couples and families can enjoy the space.

Plus, an outdoor fire pit has been placed in each house, as well as an indoor-outdoor fireplace.

In line with the first two tree houses, design elements were once again inspired from the idea of a creative childhood, with carefree days and playing outdoors.

Guests are also a short walk away from all of the lodge’s offerings, including hiking trails, dining facilities, the Waterleaf Spa and more.

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