HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN
IZZA – MARRAKECH • ARASH AZARBARZIN • REGINA EXPERIMENTAL – BIARRITZ
Innovation meets timeless design in our new collection of contemporary lighting concepts for hospitality, residential, and commercial spaces Lighting designed to stand the test of time follow @astrolighting | astrolighting.com
CONTENTS ISSUE 111 068
HOTEL REVIEWS
111
Regina Experimental
068
Regent
077
Pnoé Breathing Life
084
Izza
092
Pieve Aldina
099
Pan Pacific Orchard
104
Domes Noruz
111
Stay
117
Mondrian Duxton
122
The Municipal
128
Biarritz
© Fampiano Kraniotis
Hong Kong Crete
Marrakech 084
Tuscany
Singapore
© Mr Tripper
© Olia Paspalaki
Mykonos Camden
Singapore
122
Liverpool
FEATURES Meeting... Arash Azarbarzin 048 As Highgate looks to expand its luxury lifestyle portfolio, the group’s Principal and CEO talks of the people, products and places that will help deliver dynamic hospitality experiences.
The Heritage of the Future
054
As building usage evolves, the Head of Hospitality at Purcell discusses the potential presented by heritage sites. © Studio Periphery 003
CONTENTS ISSUE 111 099
FEATURES 21 Years of Tara Bernerd
056
Healing Hospitality
138
Creativity Meets Commerciality
146
Mind, Body and Spurs
180
Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary of her eponymous studio, Tara Bernerd discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design. Following the opening of a new Lanserhof in Germany, architect Christoph Ingenhoven discusses the development of the medi-resort concept, outlining the positive impact of design on guest wellbeing. In a world that oscillates between the creative and the commercial, the founder of AboundStudio reveals why this doesn’t happen by chance, but by design.
117
092
As Tottenham Hotspur ramps up its player recovery programme, the football club’s Head of Medicine & Sports Science explains the importance of its partnership with DUX.
REGULARS
© Beth Davis
138
183
© HGEsch
004
Check-In
030
Drawing Board
032
The Lobby
061
Design Details
136
Business Centre
152
Events
163
Fabrics, Wallcoverings & Surfaces
183
Beds, Bedding & Mattresses
194
Specifier
197
Check-Out
218
B AT H R O O M
ACCESSORIES
SERIES
MIRRORS
LIGHTS
H I X E V E N T 2 023 . LO N D O N 16 -17 N OV E M B R E 2 023
W W W. D E C O R - WA LT H E R .C O M
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INTERCONTINENTAL LYON – HOTEL DIEU. FRANCE Studio Jean Philippe Nuel.
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WELCOME
ON THE COVER Izza, Marrakech
A Moment of Quiet
T
here’s always plenty of talk in the hospitality industry
of Hilton London Bankside, where guests – and staff too – are
about the vibrancy of social spaces in a hotel, with
encouraged to take time for themselves and disconnect from
the measure of success often based on the energy of
daily life.
the bar or popularity of the restaurant. No longer relying on
You only have to look at the number of off-grid cabins and
overnight guests, most hoteliers consider their appeal to the
camps popping up in the wilderness to realise that there’s
local community to be the holy grail, the goal being to get
demand for this type of experience; to completely switch
people through the door, whatever the occasion or time of
off and give minds and bodies a chance to rest. Even silent
day. But what of those who seek the opposite?
retreats are reportedly seeing a resurgence since the pandemic,
A recent stay at Lanserhof – a medical-centre-meetswellness-resort on the island of Sylt – demonstrated the
with FOMO turning to JOMO (joy of missing out) in favour of alone time.
restorative effects of tranquillity, where the noise of the
In a different vein, moments of quiet are making their way
outside world is silenced by the sounds of nature. Here, there’s
into design schemes too. At Regent Hong Kong, also featured
no desire to have locals calling in for a bite to eat or a dip in
in this issue, Chi Wing Lo describes the sense of serenity
the pool; the sprawling resort is reserved for guests only. In a
created in the guestrooms, using fine fabrics and subtle
bid to halt the bombardment of information from the always-
embellishments to achieve what he refers to as quiet luxury.
connected online world, the use of laptops and mobile phones
The designer believes that a space for contemplation cannot
is strongly discouraged. And under doctor’s orders, chit-chat
be loud or demand attention; a move that goes against the
at the dinner table is frowned upon, enabling the body to
marketing mantra of visual brand awareness.
effectively and efficiently digest every mouthful. Christoph
So whether it’s quiet luxury or the luxury of quiet, the
Ingenhoven’s design is intentionally quiet too; furniture is
appeal is growing amongst hoteliers, designers and guests.
primarily oriented towards the view rather than a TV screen,
Of course, there will always be a time and place to jostle over
and there’s no art on the walls or bold pops of colour, only a
a spot at the bar or soak up the atmosphere of the hottest new
calming palette of natural materials in neutral colourways.
hotel opening, but for now, a moment of quiet.
Even in urban destinations, where the hubbub of the city is the main attraction, a handful of operators are introducing moments of quiet for their guests. The Londoner for example, has given a large proportion of its floorplan over to guest-only spaces, creating a relaxed ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of Leicester Square. And in this issue of Sleeper, we feature the meditation pods that were installed in the lobby
Catherine Martin • Managing Editor
025
STYLING STUDIO SALARIS - PH. MATTEO IMBRIANI
2 0 2 3 Te x t i l e s C o l l e c t i o n : Fr a m m e n t i Ve n e z i a n i - r u b e l l i . c o m
GUEST BOOK
122
138
068
© Jim Rakete
146
© Karel Baras
© Studio Periphery
122 Chum
138 Christoph Ingenhoven
146 James Huntly
068 Dorothée Meilichzon
New York-based artist Kaws – aka Brian Donnelly – is known for his reinterpretation of seminal characters from popular culture, with featureless figure Chum one of his most famous creations. So when The Artling secured one for Mondrian Duxton Singapore, they knew it would make a statement. Standing 6m tall at the entrance to the hotel, the piece – entitled What Party – represents the eclecticism of Duxton’s street culture, standing side by side with historic shophouses while looking ahead to a new era for the city.
“The idea is to create a particularly sustainable and healthy building complex in which guests can recuperate and reenergise in harmony with nature,” says Christoph Ingenhoven on the planning and design of three medi-resorts for Lanserhof Group. Under his eponymous studio, Ingenhoven is a pioneer in sustainable architecture, designing in accordance with the highest green building standards. His latest project, Lanserhof Sylt, demonstrates this through the elimination of toxic materials.
Having built a reputation for his work at several design agencies and hospitality brands over the years, James Huntly moved to Australia in 2019 to launch AboundStudio, a branding firm he describes as an “ecosystem of creative and commercial minds”. Now based between Perth and London, Huntly is working with the likes of IHG and Edyn to help to craft memorable, meaningful brands that enrich the cultural landscape as well as the lives of those who encounter them, in turn driving growth for the operator.
Since founding her studio in Paris in 2009, Dorothée Meilichzon has built a portfolio of hospitality projects across Europe, ranging from restaurants and bars to airport lounges and hotels. A longstanding relationship with Experimental Group has seen her design interiors for Henrietta Hotel in London, Il Palazzo in Venice and Montesol in Ibiza, as well as the newly opened Regina Experimental in Biarritz, where her signature sense of style can be seen throughout the Basqueinspired property.
027
@SleeperMagazine
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DESIGN
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Business Development Rob Hart r.hart@mondiale.co.uk
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Managing Editor Catherine Martin c.martin@mondiale.co.uk
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CHECK-IN
Benjamin El Doghaili The Head of Design at Mama Shelter swaps Paris for Beirut, taking a fantasy break to a Gio Ponti-designed bolthole brimming with European eclecticism.
Where are you?
And who’s at the concierge desk?
has collaborated with Italian designer Gio Ponti,
I’m in Beirut at the very height of summer,
Jean Claude Elgaire, the famous clef d’or known
whose European eclecticism and coherency of
sitting on a white-and-turquoise mosaic pool
for attending to the fantasies of guests at Plaza
the Mediterranean world complements Morris’
deck patterned by Gio Ponti. Beside me on a fine
Athénée. He was once requested by a sheikh to
assumed character.
white metal table is a glass of fresh arak, a small
organise a parade of one-hundred camels along
cup of cardamom-flavoured coffee and a glass
Avenue Montaigne in Paris.
What’s the restaurant and bar like? In the basement, a hidden bar with a resin
of rose syrup water. The views of the seafront offer all that I expect from the Mediterranean;
Who are you sharing your room with?
counter rotates around the base of the pool,
Elipson speakers playing never-ending Fairuz
My friends – I love being around them during
with rounded submarine-like windows looking
songs hang on white-painted concrete pillars
my travels. I like the chaos of opened suitcases
directly onto the water. We are seated on
and I can hear the sound of the local youth
and the clutter of clothing everywhere, as well
armchairs sculpted by Italian designer Gaetano
jumping in the bay and joking around in Arabic.
as the comforting smell of different perfumes.
Pesce in the shape of fish, and from the ceiling hangs an art installation that makes us feel as
This is a happy feeling. Is there anything you would like waiting for
if we are immersed in a fantastical seascape.
How did you get there?
you in your room?
It was a true journey. I left Paris from Gare de
A letter from the General Manager promising
Who are you dining with this evening?
l’Est and spent four days on board The Orient
me full attention, and a glass of arak with plenty
The artists that worked on the project, as well
Express. From Belgrade, the eastern world
of ice, served on the terrace.
as Morris and Gio. David Hockney is busy sketching, and Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum
opened its arms until the city of Constantinople. It was then a road trip through Antioch in Syria
Describe the hotel, your room and the view...
to finally arrive in Beirut, capital of Phoenicia.
It is a typical mid-1960s building by the sea with
is joining us later.
a raw concrete façade. The top floor is home
And what’s on the menu?
Who is there to greet you on arrival?
to the restaurant, which frames the landscape
Chef Pierre Gagnaire has crafted a special menu
My friend David Hockney, who is wearing a
through large circular windows. The interiors
with musician Flavien Berger. Our first dish is
red velvet suit with sarwal trousers and his
feature oriental patterns across the carpets,
a Lebanese man’ouché with steamed spinach
legendary giant round glasses. Hiding by the
walls and upholstery, and there’s a smoky yet
coated in lemon gloss and sumac, and we finish
entrance, he surprises me with a spray of orange
sweet smell radiating from the narghiles. On
with a pomegranate sorbet topped with sheep
blossom water!
the ground floor, the lobby is a prolongation of
milk snow.
the pool, while a majestic spiral staircase to the
NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Mama Shelter Roma; Mama Shelter Lisboa; Mama Shelter Rennes; Mama Shelter Dijon www.benjamineldoghaili.com
upper-level lounge is the perfect runway; guests
Would you like something to drink with that?
elegantly climb the stairs wearing beautifully-
An intelligent water able to turn itself sweet or
detailled tunics and extravagant hats.
salty in contact with the dishes.
Who designed it?
What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?
American architect Morris Lapidus – his love for
My notebook and a Micron 04 pen to sketch the
the Mediterranean shines through. Inside, he
designs I imagine in my dreams.
031
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Anantara Trojena SAUDI ARABIA Minor Hotels has announced plans to expand Anantara’s
of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International. “We
presence in Saudi Arabia, with a newbuild resort at Trojena –
look forward to working with the team at Neom to bring
the year-round mountain destination forming part of Neom.
the resort to fruition within this aspirational destination.”
Powered by renewable energy, the 270-key resort will
Philip Gullett, Executive Director and Region Head at
feature a variety of guestrooms and suites, some with private
Trojena, comments: “Trojena redefines the understanding of
pools, and all offering panoramic lake or mountain views.
year-round, ultra-luxury hospitality and mountain tourism.
On the menu are two specialty restaurants, an all-day dining
With the addition of Anantara in our iconic Water Village,
venue with a show kitchen, a café and high-tea lounge, and
we will be elevating the travel experience for discerning
a rooftop majlis. Additional facilities include an Anantara
guests. Anantara will serve as a luxurious sanctuary along
Spa with separate male and female wet areas, plus a fitness
the edge of Trojena’s new lake, situated in a region that will
centre, multiple hammams and an infinity pool.
offer the Gulf’s first outdoor ski resort and where world-
Elsewhere, a stargazing deck, outdoor cinema and sports pavilion will bolster the recreational offering, and the resort will also incorporate various events spaces. “We are thrilled that this property will soon be under development at Trojena, which is the perfect location for Anantara to bring its heartfelt hospitality and trademark take on authentic, indigenous luxury,” says Dillip Rajakarier, CEO
class sporting events, art exhibitions, concerts and cultural festivals will be staged.”
DRAWING BOARD
Four Seasons Resort & Residences at Tropicalia DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Cisneros Real Estate Operator: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Architecture: Gensler Interior Design: Isay Weinfeld Landscaping: EDSA www.fourseasons.com
034
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts has announced
which have private terraces and gardens. The
plans for Four Seasons Resort & Residences
buildings integrate with the landscape to give
Dominican Republic at Tropicalia, a sustainable
the sense of being immersed in nature, while
destination along the beachfront of Playa
designs are low impact, drawing on the island’s
Esmerelda. The project is being developed in
colonial-era towns through the use of Coralina
partnership with Cisneros Real Estate and is
limestone, brick and stucco.
slated for completion in early 2026.
On completion, the resort will house a spa,
Located on the southern shores of Samaná
fitness centre and yoga pavilion, along with
Bay, the resort marks the first phase of
culinary venues ranging from a specialty
development at Tropicalia, where a diverse
restaurant and beachside grill to a ceviche bar,
ecosystem of beaches, forests and lagoons
marketplace, a coffee shop and rum bar.
sits alongside a working coconut plantation
“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio in the
and organic farm. Responsible for creating
Dominican Republic, a market that we have long
a scheme that harmonsises with the natural
been focused on as a luxury travel destination,”
beauty of the site, Gensler has been appointed
says Alejandro Reynal, President and CEO of
executive architect, while Brazilian architect
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. “We are proud
Isay Weinfeld is leading interior design and
to bring this project to life with our partners at
EDSA on masterplanning and landscaping.
Cisneros, who share our values of supporting
Together, they have adopted a Tropical
the environments and communities in which
Modernist aesthetic across the hotel’s 95
we operate, and who we deeply admire for their
guestrooms and 25 private residences, many of
work with Fundación Tropicalia.”
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Soho House
Soho House is set to open its first property in
large central bar and DJ booth, while the main
the north of England in Spring 2024, with a 133-
members’ club a level above comprises a casual
MANCHESTER
room house in Manchester’s St John’s area.
bar and lounge area. A more formal dining space
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Allied Manchester Operator: Soho House Interior Design: Soho House Design Main Contractor: ARJ Construction www.sohohouse.com
036
Spread across five floors of the former
is set to be run by Head Chef James Lord, who
Granada Studios – a building with a rich history
is returning home to Manchester after a stint at
in broadcasting, having hosted The Beatles’
76 Dean Street in London.
first-ever televised performance – the site will
The property’s east-facing wall will boast a
draw inspiration from the 1950s and ‘60s, with
retractable roof, with an awning that opens in
an eclectic collection of bespoke and vintage
the warmer months to maximise views across
furniture pieces referencing its golden era.
the city. There’s an outdoor rooftop pool –
In keeping with the theme, feature fabrics
complete with sunbeds and a terrace bar – while
used on headboards in the guestrooms and
a spiral staircase leads to the ninth floor, home
hanging tapestries in the club space have been
to a late-night bar and live music venue.
developed in partnership with Print Pattern
“Bringing Soho House to other cities in the UK
Archive, paying homage to Manchester-based
has always been something that we’ve wanted
artists and giving a second life to local prints.
to do and, as a Mancunian, I’m particularly
The development will include a Mollie’s
proud to be coming to Manchester,” says
Motel, Bar & Diner at street level, while a gym,
Andrew Carnie, CEO of Soho House. “Nick and
studio and sauna on the first floor will open to a
the design team have worked hard to create
balcony with relaxed seating. The seventh floor
a space for our members that preserves the
will be used as a flexible events space with a
heritage of the Granada Studios building.”
EDITION 28
New Lighting Collection
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Hotel Daphne
Bunkhouse – the Austin-based hospitality
“We are excited to be expanding our presence
company founded on the pillars of design,
in Houston with Hotel Daphne, our second
HOUSTON
music and community-driven experiences – has
project in the works in the city,” says Amar
revealed plans for Hotel Daphne, due to open in
Lalvani, Executive Chairman at Bunkhouse
Houston in early 2025. The launch will follow
Hotels. “The property will be a sophisticated
the debut of Hotel Saint Augustine in the same
yet relaxing gathering place for both staying
city in autumn 2024.
guests and the local community alike, in a
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Bob and Ben Ackerley Developer: RGA Ventures Operator: Bunkhouse Architecture: Blanchard A+D, Darwin Architecture Interior Design: Bunkhouse in-house design team www.bunkhousehotels.com
038
Designed by Blanchard A+D and Darwin
neighbourhood that we adore – the exact type
Architecture, the five-storey newbuild is
of place Bunkhouse is renowned for creating
inspired by the architecture of Houston Heights
and one that is reflective of Houston’s diversity,
and features painted brickwork, stepped
history and culture.”
parapets and steel windows, harmonising with
Ben Ackerley, co-owner of the hotel, adds:
the neighborhood’s recycled industrial style.
“Bunkhouse wrote the book on creating trendy
The interior design is being led by Bunkhouse’s
boutique hotels in Texas; and ever since I
in-house team and melds elements of the Arts &
stayed at Hotel San Jose many years ago, I
Crafts movement with a Folk Victorian aesthetic.
have dreamed of helping bring Bunkhouse to
In all, Hotel Daphne will comprise 47
Houston. Hotel Daphne will be the first of its
guestrooms and suites, an all-day restaurant,
kind in the Heights and is only going to add to
ground-floor bar and lounge, as well as a
the momentum that the neighbourhood already
courtyard, outdoor pool and lobby retail outlet
has going as it grows into one of the premiere
– a signature of the Bunkhouse brand.
destinations in the city.”
O U T- F I T B Y S T U D I O A D O L I N I
PH BERNARD TOUILLON
ETHIMO.COM
SHOWROOM
L O N D O N / M I L A N / PA R I S
ROME / CANNES
DRAWING BOARD
Six Senses Amaala
As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia undergoes
salt rooms, a Watsu pool, yoga platform, sound
major tourism transformation as part of Vision
dome and multi-sensory relaxation areas.
SAUDI ARABIA
2030, Six Senses has announced it will open at Red Sea Global’s Amaala development. With architecture by U+A and interiors
tea house, while prayer rooms and communal
by Studio Carter, the hotel comprises 64
lounges will also be open to guests. Additional
guestrooms, six suites and 30 villas, all inspired
food and beverage offerings will range from
by the region’s traditional coastal villages. 25
all-day dining venues with Middle Eastern
private residences will also form part of the
and Mediterranean influences, to a signature
development, connected by shared courtyards.
Southeast Asian restaurant, a juice bar and
The accommodations will seamlessly integrate
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Red Sea Global Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: U+A Interior Design: Studio Carter www.sixsenses.com
040
Other amenities across the resort include a coffee roastery, bakery, water bar and shisha
fermentation rooms.
with the naturally-occurring topography, while
Aligning with the Six Senses brand ethos,
a key feature is the Mesa, a flat-topped hill
sustainability is at the core of the resort’s
where fossilised corals and mollusks stand
building and operation, with a dedicated
testimony to the ancient history of the land.
desalination plant that has zero impact on nearby
The site opens up to the beaches of Hijaz Cove
coral reefs and a ban on single-use plastics.
to the north and natural rock pools and a pocket
Additionally, all wastewater and organic waste
beach to the south. A mangrove boardwalk leads
will be used for agriculture and on the site’s
to the spa, which is set up within a private
organic farm, while energy requirements will be
cove; facilities include a cryotherapy chamber,
met using renewable sources, in line with the
infrared saunas, herbal steam rooms, ice baths,
development’s zero carbon footprint.
STONE
design by DT Studio
ilfanale.com
DRAWING BOARD
The Río Arts District
SB Architects has been appointed to design
flow, but the materiality is what provides
The Río Arts District, a mixed-use community
differentiation. Vertical metal panels add a
RIONEGRO
space in Rionegro, Colombia. A celebration of
touch of elegance, while also reflecting the
art, nature and Colombian culture, the 27,568m2
surrounding environment.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Julián Pérez Architecture: SB Architects www.sb-architects.com
042
development comprises exhibition spaces,
Campo continues: “The hotel has walkable
music studios, boutiques, signature restaurants
roof gardens that connect guests to the ethos
and an experiential hotel.
of the destination, while windows offer views
The district is made up of five buildings linked
across the bustling district. It is also unique in
by open-air pathways that encircle the site;
how it embraces the surrounding community;
in orienting the buildings, SB Architects was
as guests step out of the lobby, they are greeted
guided by how water moves over rocks, boulders
by the energy of the district, and a sense that
and natural bridges. “Our design concept
they are a part of something bigger. The
imagines the structures as rock formations, and
experience of staying here is immersive and
the people visiting the district as water moving
transformative, allowing visitors to leave with
through it,” explains Miguel Campo, Vice
a deeper understanding of Colombia.”
President of SB Architects. “The architecture
Though a hotel operator is yet to be
and the expression of the hotel stand out
announced, it is hoped that The Río Arts District
from the rest of the district, with a sleek and
will contribute to the area’s growth and attract a
modern design that incorporates traditional
diverse mix of residents and travellers, all while
Colombian materials in a contemporary way.
serving as a cultural platform for established
All five buildings are organic with a curvilinear
and emerging artists across various disciplines.
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4-6 Bedford Place
Studio Moren has received planning permission
“We are mindful of preserving history while
to turn the Grade II-listed 4–6 Bedford Place
creating a space that fits seamlessly into the
LONDON
into a 43-room townhouse hotel, backed by
modern world,” explains Rachael Reid, Senior
investor and developer SAV Group. Located
Interior Designer at the firm. “Guests will feel
between Russell Square and Bloomsbury Square
as though they are peering through a looking
Gardens, the hotel will make use of the area’s
glass at a piece of the past.”
rich historical and architectural character to shape the guest experience. The site currently comprises a row of
dense, built-up city like London to be able to
converted Georgian terrace houses that will be
re-use buildings and bring an area back to life.
retained and restored, while three newbuild
In planning to revitalise the property, we first
wings to the rear will extend the hotel’s
assessed what was important, before arranging
accommodation offering. Once complete, the
to remove what was not, while protecting and
property will feature a compact reception space,
replacing historic features.
bar and lounge, alongside a variety of standard, suite and accessible guestrooms.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: SAV Group Architecture and Interior Design: Studio Moren www.studiomoren.co.uk
044
Angela Franco, Architect Project Lead at Studio Moren, adds: “It is so important in a
“Functional elements fundamental to the workings of a modern hotel, such as en suite
The project’s architecture and interiors are
bathrooms, will then be added in a juxtaposing
entirely under the direction of Studio Moren,
yet lightweight and reversible design style, with
with the design team drawing on its skill
the intention not to clash or detract from the
for storytelling to pay homage to the former
original authenticity of the building, but to play
residents who lived here in the 1900s.
with it and create something modern.”
V I T R IUM C O L O UR S DE S I GN B Y C HR I S T I A N W E R NE R
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C O L O U R U P Y O U R E V E R Y D AY The series which offers statement pieces for the bathroom. w w w.dur av it.c o.uk
13.10.23 11:52
DRAWING BOARD
Sandals
Sandals Resorts International has revealed that
first communal-style restaurant, will plate up
its ninth Caribbean outpost will make its debut
seasonal platters from an open kitchen, while
SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
in March 2024, joining a portfolio of beachfront
grab-and-go concept Imoro – named after the
properties in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia,
local indigenous word for green – will offer an
Barbados and The Bahamas.
array of healthy bowls. Three Jewels, whose
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Sandals Resorts International Interior Design and Procurement: Hospitality Purveyors www.sandals.com
046
Set on a 50-acre site to the backdrop of
name is inspired by the flag of Saint Vincent
mountains and rainforest, Sandals Saint Vincent
and The Grenadines, will spotlight Eastern
and The Grenadines comprises 301 guestrooms
Caribbean rums to the sounds of Caribbean vinyl
and suites – the group’s most expansive to-
classics, and Parisol is an open-air beach club.
date – with the Two-Bedroom Butler Villas also
Further facilities include the Red Lane Spa, a
being a Sandals first. Other options include a
double-crescent infinity-edge pool, and a 300ft
two-storey overwater villa with its own rooftop
linear pool with swim-up bar.
lounge, plus select accommodations have been
“The resort is a dream more than two decades
enhanced with private fitness rooms and a
in the making,” says Adam Stewart, Executive
dedicated space for movie nights. Interiors
Chairman of Sandals Resorts International.
throughout feature biophilic elements that
“From the moment we laid eyes on Vincy, as
lean into the surrounding landscape, with local
the locals lovingly call her, we felt this sense of
volcanic materials used alongside views that
magic, wonder and awe so palpable you could
frame the area’s flora.
almost touch it. A true diamond of a place, she
The resort will be home to 16 F&B concepts serving a range of cuisines; Buccan, the brand’s
meets every possibility to deliver an exceptional experience worthy of her very site.”
The Municipal Hotel Liverpool - MGallery // © Gunner Gu // northern-lights.co.uk
Meeting… Arash Azarbarzin As Highgate looks to expand its luxury lifestyle portfolio, the group’s Principal and CEO talks of the people, products and places that will help deliver dynamic hospitality experiences. Words: Ben Thomas • Portrait Photography: © Andrew Werner
I
’ve always respected Highgate’s business perspective and
partners through a platform designed to optimise operational
its reputation as a value-adding partner,” says Arash
efficiencies, distribution and hotel concept development.
Azarbarzin, Principal and CEO at Highgate, which has been
The ambition, in Azarbarzin’s mind, is to become the best
a trusted investment and operating partner of hospitality
hotel operator globally. “We treat each asset as if we own
assets for more than 30 years. “The company was built
it, with the same level of detail and scrutiny to maximise
on the same core principles that I conduct my business
its potential,” he explains. “As we expand, we will continue
– unparalleled work ethic, creativity and a commitment to
pursuing opportunities by adhering to the key principles
putting people first.”
that have contributed to Highgate’s historical success.” Said
Despite his longstanding admiration for the New York-
principles include fostering high-fidelity relationships with
based owner-operator, Azarbarzin felt that he could add
partners and institutions, innovating around operational,
further value to the portfolio. So, when the opportunity
distribution and hotel positioning capabilities, as well as
arose to become the company’s first-ever CEO in September
becoming a collaborative counterparty on transactions.
2021, he knew it was an offer he could not turn down. “The
A key component to this expansion will be the growth
same ethos and hustle that Highgate started out with still
of the company’s luxury lifestyle portfolio, with Azarbarzin
exists today,” he explains. “Even since my arrival, we have
noting that Highgate has recently bolstered its team with
experienced a number of significant and defining moments,
several hospitality leaders. “Luxury and lifestyle hospitality
from expanding our F&B division – TableOne Hospitality
allows us to deliver a product and service culture that is
– with Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina and renowned
expressive of today’s dynamic and innovative environment,”
restaurateur Patric Yumul, to introducing new mentorship
he states. “Our assets are shaped by the people and places
approaches, developing organisational talent and increasing
that surround them, and deliver distinctive, memorable
our focus on ESG.”
experiences that create an emotional connection for guests.”
Driving growth is something Azarbarzin is adept at, having
Across the United States, recent projects such as The
built successful teams and cultures during stints for the
Joseph in Nashville, The Elser in Miami and The Bellevue
likes of SBE Entertainment, Proper Hospitality and most
in Philadelphia demonstrate Highgate’s growth ambitions,
recently, SH Hotels & Resorts, where he was instrumental
while The Newbury in Boston saw the group unite a stellar
in the development of 1 Hotels, Treehouse and Baccarat.
cast of Jeffrey Beers, Alexandra Champalimaud and Mario
Implementing this expertise at Highgate, Azarbarzin’s
Carbone to restore the city’s grand dame to its former glory.
primary mission is to enhance the offering of its hospitality
And then there’s Park Lane in New York, winner of the Hotel
049
MEETING…
“Luxury and lifestyle hospitality allows us to deliver a product and service culture that is expressive of today’s dynamic and innovative environment.”
At The Newbury in Boston, Highgate brought together a stellar cast of Jeffrey Beers, Alexandra Champalimaud and Mario Carbone to restore the city’s grand dame to its former glory
Renovation category at AHEAD Americas 2022,
Within Highgate’s resort division, the
where Highgate entrusted acclaimed hospitality
forthcoming Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences
designers Yabu Pushelberg with scripting a new
– a 155-key development on Palm Beach’s
tale for Leona Helmsley’s beloved property on
Singer Island – is being designed and developed
Central Park South, creating a space that shuns
to provide an immersive wellness experience,
the exclusivity of a traditional uptown hotel.
fusing Eastern principles with Western luxury.
The domestic pipeline remains strong
A member of Preferred Hotels, the twin-tower
throughout the States, with Azarbarzin
property has been envisioned by S & E Architects
confirming that the company has plans to
and Bilkey Llinas Design as an oceanfront
expand its presence in major gateway cities
refuge, combining a serene design scheme with
such as New York, Dallas, Chicago and Boston.
mind and body therapies.
“Romer Hell’s Kitchen, as an example, is a
While Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences is
neighbourhood hotel rooted in local culture,”
a newbuild, Azarbarzin reveals that given the
he explains. “We’ve designed, programmed
state of capital markets, Highgate sees more
and activated the property so that it not only
short-term opportunities in adaptive re-use
delivers the brand promise within the hotel
and more long-term prospects in ground-
itself, but serves as an extension to explore
up development. “Our in-house design and
the surrounding cocktail bars, art galleries,
construction studio, Lucid, oversees projects
boutiques and other nearby businesses.” This
ranging from major luxury repositionings to
neighbourhood-inspired approach has been
select-service developments. Currently, the
taken for Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador in
department is managing more than 100 active
Hawaii too, where the design personifies the
projects in 35 US states, as well as looking after
local landscape and captures the city’s spirit.
several hospitality developments abroad.”
© Nikolas Koenig
050
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MEETING…
© Read McKendree
Designed by Goodrich and Islyn Studio, Romer Hell’s Kitchen is a neighbourhood hotel rooted in local culture, with artworks showcased throughout
052
On the subject of international expansion,
In 2021, the group reduced its total greenhouse
Highgate has ambitious plans for Europe
gas emissions by 21.8% based on 2019 figures
according to Azarbarzin, with major cities a
and cut its energy use by more than 170,000
target for the group, as well as Portugal and
megawatt hours. For Azarbarzin, these figures
the UK in particular.
represent the company’s desire to lead the way.
But across all of its new ventures, as well
“We are proud to be a leader on this front by
as the 87,500 hotel rooms currently under
presenting analysis that can serve as a roadmap
its management, the company is striving to
to help drive hospitality management towards a
reduce its environmental impact by conducting
net-zero future without compromising on the
comprehensive analyses of its sustainability
guest experience.”
performance. “In 2023, we published our first-
The same goes on the social front, with the
ever Environmental, Social and Governance
group’s people-first approach to leadership
Report,” Azarbarzin confirms. “We have group-
fostering an optimal working environment
wide goals to expand on numerous initiatives
for all its associates and partners – one that
highlighted in the report, including increasing
prioritises equality and inclusion at every level.
the number of carbon neutral hotels, on-site
The ultimate aim, as Azarbarzin puts it, is to
solar systems, biodiversity projects, third-
“provide an ecosystem of programmes that
party eco-certified hotels and electric vehicle
support our people during every stage of their
charging stations.”
journey”, from joining the team to working
For an owner-operator like Highgate, tracking
their way through the ranks. Given Azarbarzin’s
and reporting carbon, energy, water and waste
success in the past, it’s no surpise that he’s
data is becoming a critical component in
on course to create a forward-thinking,
helping to become an eco-conscious business.
entrepreneurial culture at Highgate too.
DESIGN TO LOVE. PRICES TO LIKE
BABETTE LOUNGE CHAIR Design to love. Prices to like. Call it our mantra, to us it’s the very core of what we do. At SOFACOMPANY we always offer you high-quality Danish design and value for money. The way we do business is slightly different from others. Simply because we manage everything ourselves allowing us to skip price-raising intermediaries. Moreover, we offer you full flexibility from choosing fabrics and colours to developing designs from scratch in cooperation with our talented inhouse design team. So, tell us about your project and we’ll take it anywhere you like. Always aiming for spectacular.
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23/10/2023 13.43
The Heritage of the Future
© Agnese Sanvito
NICK DE KLERK ASSOCIATE PARTNER AND HEAD OF HOSPITALITY PURCELL
B
uildings, despite assumptions to the contrary,
heritage properties. For operators meanwhile,
are not static,” says Nick de Klerk, Associate
historic sites offer authenticity in spades, as well as
Partner and Head of Hospitality at British
the opportunity to reduce waste, design circularity
architecture practice Purcell, which through
in and toxicity out, and explore on-site energy
decades of work on heritage sites across the UK,
generation and fabric-first improvements to reduce
has developed a craft and knowledge-based design
energy demand at source.
approach that can be sensitive or radical, depending on the project demands.
As building usage evolves, the Head of Hospitality at Purcell discusses the opportunities presented by heritage properties. Words: Ben Thomas
For de Klerk, one of the pleasures of working on
years of experience in hospitality, retail, residential
existing buildings is the sheer variety, as no two are
and workplace design, de Klerk is continuing to
ever alike. “We have a complex mix on the boards
drive home the firm’s heritage-friendly philosophy
in our UK studios,” he explains, citing large-scale
thanks to his own interest in historic structures.
adaptive re-use and conversion projects in London
The architect believes improving their performance
and Manchester, as well as the development of a
and efficiency, as well as carefully modernising
new country house hotel, all of which are completely
them through refurbishment or adaptive re-use, is
unique. “Our hospitality expertise runs the gamut,
important work in the context of both conserving
from envisioning new concepts based on the
built heritage and addressing the climate crisis.
principles of independent operators, to introducing
“Through use and adaption, buildings develop a
project stakeholders and developing a vision
unique character that reflects the time and place in
for landmark sites, to the design and delivery of
which they exist,” he explains. “People also develop
London’s largest luxury hotels.”
attachments to and affection for them; they have
Across its entire portfolio, a key objective for
memories of events and experiences that have taken
Purcell is not just changing buildings from one
place, which are an intrinsic part of their value.”
use to another, but offering potential for future
AN OPPORTUNISTIC OUTLOOK
adaptation. In some cases, this means considering design for disassembly, material passporting and
As building usage evolves – significant reductions
the ability to reuse components and materials,
in workspace requirements, for instance – and
reducing waste when fit-outs inevitably have to
full-scale demolition faces increased criticism, de
change. In others, it means providing the occupier
Klerk claims there will be greater opportunities to
with a degree of flexibility in how the building is
convert existing structures into hotels: “Increased
operated. While challenging to get right, de Klerk
institutional investment in the hospitality sector
believes it is possible to achieve, noting that some
brings with it a requirement for more rigorous
of Purcell’s projects have previously been homes,
reporting on sustainability and carbon mitigation
schools, military barracks and hospitals, and will
measures, and existing buildings, with their
soon begin a new phase of their history as a hotel.
significant banks of embodied carbon, can be relatively straightforward wins for new hotels.”
054
AN ADAPTABLE APPROACH
Having joined Purcell in 2023, bringing over 20
“As an architect, it’s a privilege to craft or weave another layer of history onto already rich
For owners and developers, two key benefits of
and fascinating structures and become part of the
hotel conversions are cost and time to market, both
evolution of a building’s story,” de Klerk concludes.
of which are significantly reduced in comparison to
“Purcell’s deep knowledge of heritage landmarks
a newbuild. Naturally, it depends on the segment
has given us a particular insight into what makes
and condition of the structure, but according to de
buildings memorable, as well as an ability to design
Klerk, many of Purcell’s luxury hotel projects occupy
what will be considered the heritage of the future.”
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21 Years Of Tara Bernerd & Partners Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary of her eponymous studio, Tara Bernerd discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.
S KEY HOTEL PROJECTS
ince Tara Bernerd founded her eponymous
Group, who gave me a huge opportunity to work on a
design practice in 2002, her signature
residential development. This taught me a great amount
‘approachable luxury’ aesthetic has made its
– if you can do 100 apartments, you can cope with 100
mark on hotels across the globe. Based in London’s
guestrooms in a hotel. Essentially, it grew from there.
Belgravia, the studio has worked with the likes of
Each successful project led to us being on the radar of
Four Seasons, Rosewood and Belmond, championing
other developers, and because we were comfortable with
an approach that fosters meaningful connections
the business-to-business system of working, we were
and creates a distinct sense of place. Now, as Tara
able to then start meeting hotel owners and operators.
Bernerd & Partners celebrates 21 years of design, its founder reflects on the journey so far – from milestone
ON EVOLUTION
projects to recent openings and proudest moments –
I don’t think our approach has changed, but 21 years
Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya (2023)
and muses on what might be next.
of experience has enriched us with a greater depth of
Conrad Los Angeles (2022)
ON THE INITIAL VISION
Four Seasons Hotel, Fort Lauderdale (2022)
When I set the business up 21 years ago, it was
years – I’m learning all the time. Increasingly, our work
essentially about trying to make one’s goals a reality
in the hotel sector is opening up opportunities with
The Hari, Hong Kong (2020)
and that meant winning the work. I always had a vision
individual spas and restaurants. Last year we delivered
that we would provide a design service on a business-
two restaurants for José Andrés at Conrad Los Angeles,
to-business basis, which of course includes hotels,
and now we’re working with Costas Spiliadis on a new
where we’re predominantly working today. But in order
Milos restaurant, this time a standalone.
Rosewood, Munich (2023)
Kimpton Fitzroy, London (2018) Sixty Soho, New York (2014) Thompson, Chicago (2013)
to have the great privilege and responsibility to design
understanding. We have stayed true to the original ethos of the studio and added layers of knowledge over the
these incredible hotels, we needed experience. One of
ON CHANGES IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN
my first clients was Tony Pidgley, founder of Berkeley
The more hotels we design, the greater our understanding of space, because so much of what we design is moulded into the operational requirements of a project. It’s not just about style, we have to consider how people use spaces within hotels and that has changed over the years. We have also seen a rise in demand for sustainable design solutions; developers and operators that we’re working with are far more focused on sustainability than ever before. I’m still educating myself but it’s a very important part of our work and something we’re now constantly conscious of.
056
MEETING…
“So much of what we design is moulded into the operational requirements of a project. It’s not just about style, we have to consider how people use spaces within hotels and that has changed over the years.”
ON MILESTONE HOTEL PROJECTS In a sense, every project is a milestone. You work so hard to win the pitch, particularly when you fall in love with the site and have such respect for the owner or operator. If the stars align and you get appointed, from that moment on – whether the project duration is 12 months or ten years – everything is about overcoming challenges. One of the most exciting times for us as a studio came when we were appointed to design Four Seasons Hotel & Residences in Fort Lauderdale, which was a newbuild project with Kobi Karp. For me, Four Seasons is one of the top-tier operators, so just to be on their radar was incredible. Delivering that project and watching it come to life was a tremendous milestone. And equally, I feel moved by our recent work with Belmond on Maroma in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. To create a new resort from an existing property that we were adding to architecturally and refining in terms of spatial layouts was a huge undertaking, but also an extraordinary privilege. It’s a very different style that people might not associate with our studio, because once you dive into a beachfront property that is a juxtaposition between the jungle and the beach in the heart of Mexico, you’re able to play more with colour and pattern. It took such a combination of skills, from architecture to interiors to graphics. We designed all the furniture too and had it made by local artisans – that was a milestone to deliver something so bespoke. And of course, sustainability was a huge part of the project; we did a deep dive to ensure that every material – whether the stone, tiles or wood – was considered. The entire project has been an incredible journey.
ON PROUD MOMENTS There are so many elements to a project that, for me, the proudest moments are often the smaller things. It could be
At Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Tara Bernerd & Partners worked with local artisans to deliver a design rooted in the locale
057
MEETING…
“I don’t think our approach has changed, but 21 years of experience has enriched us with a greater depth of understanding.” © Rich Stapleton
that a concept presentation for one area of the hotel has been well received by the client, or a successful day on site. It’s not always about the grand finale. There are many touching moments throughout the course of a project and that’s what keeps me motivated.
ON NEW OPENINGS We have just opened Rosewood Munich, which is a key © Philip Vile
moment for us as it’s our first project with the group. We’re now working with other brands that are new to us; we’ve been appointed on a luxury hotel in Italy, and we’re talking to a boutique operator for a property in Japan. It’s a good mix. We never cut-and-paste our designs – I think that’s something that makes the whole business stand out; each new project is like a new member of the family and is treated as such.
ON THE NEXT 21 YEARS In 21 years’ time, I would like to think we’re still considered a studio that hoteliers want to talk to. I hope that people will continue to come to us for the same calibre of projects we’re working on today – that would be a pretty great place to be.
ON HOTEL DESIGN IN 2100 In order to consider the future, I would look back in time as I’m fascinated by social history. As much as hotels have © Davide Lovatti
Milestone projects for the studio include (top to bottom) Four Seasons Hotel & Residences Fort Lauderdale; two restaurants for José Andrés at Conrad Los Angeles; and the recently-opened Rosewood Munich, its first project for the hotel group
058
advanced over the years, when we consider at the grand dames of the past, people always liked to be with people. So I can’t tell you the form of the seating or selection of materials in 2100, but I think guests will still want connectivity, places to meet and an experience. I consider hotels to be the lifestyle palaces of our world today – places where you can cross a threshold and be immersed in the interiors; I believe this will continue, but they might be lifestyle spaceships rather than lifestyle palaces!
LOBBY INSET RUG, THE PEARLE HOTEL, BURLINGTON, ON, CANADA. W I T H S T U D I O M U N G E . 8 0% W O O L , 20% N Y L O N , H A N D A X M I N S T E R . MADE IN CHINA. CREATIVE MATTERS DESIGNER KAYLA BORTOLOTTO. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON TANENBAUM. W W W.C R E A T I V E M A T T E R S I N C.C O M L A B E L S T E P P A R T N E R – I M P R O V I N G T H E W O R K I N G A N D L I V I N G C O N D I T I O N S O F C A R P E T W E A V E R S, A S W E L L A S P R O M O T I N G E N V I R O N M E N T A L L Y F R I E N D L Y M E T H O D S O F P R O D U C T I O N.
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THE LOBBY
Mythtopia Legends As the worlds of hospitality and augmented reality
trees, taking part in mystical missions as they explore.
continue to collide, operators are increasingly seeking
For the less adventurous, there’s plenty of other activities
new ways to immerse guests in the digital universe.
to enjoy the natural world, and by visiting Mythtopia,
The latest innovation due to make its debut in 2024 is
eco-tourists can help to rewild the forest and restore the
Mythtopia, an augmented reality, eco-glamping resort
natural environment; simply buying an NFT will support
set amongst 200 acres of greenery just outside Edinburgh.
Mythtopia on its mission to plant over 120,000 trees.
Thought to be the UK’s first holiday destination exclusive
“Through Mythtopia, we are aiming to create a Scottish
to NFT holders, it comprises 150 low-carbon geometric
getaway with a difference in this new digital landscape,”
domes and lodges alongside a restaurant, clubhouse, bar
says founder Oliver Pyle-Santini. “Something like this
and spa.
has never really been done before, and by blending
Mythtopia’s USP however is a geofenced augmented
together eco-tourism, gaming and the cryptosphere,
reality playground dubbed ‘Mythtopia Legends’, where
we’re hoping to create a new era for travel and tourism.
guests can explore the woodland through an AR story
We have been careful to maintain the cultural heritage of
filled with mythical creatures. They can develop their own
the land the site sits on by entwining Celtic stories into
AR character, befriend dwarves and interact with talking
the experience for all ages to enjoy.”
THE LOBBY
The Built Environment “I didn’t want to make a book,” says Piero Lissoni, whose recently launched tome details his creative journey at the helm of Lissoni & Partners. “I tried to describe what we are. We are not architects, we are not designers, we are not graphic designers – we are a strange mix lying between humanism and maybe a dash of science.” Entitled Environments and published by Rizzoli, the book traces 100 architecture and interior design projects from a career spanning four decades. The look and feel of the book was also designed by Lissoni & Partners and reflects the studio’s signature style, from the choice of packaging to the paper that differentiates the two inserts: one on product design embellished with illustrations by Guido Scarabottolo, and another on graphic design. Stefano Casciani, the book’s editor, reveals: “Writing and editing this book has been a long journey in the spacetime continuum of Piero Lissoni’s work. And if, as the science argues, spacetime is curved or circular, then by moving attentively through this construction of cherished pages, in the end we should find ourselves returning to its origins: an idea of space, an environment which can be architecture, object, graphics, photography or words.”
Meditation Moments without feeling too enclosed. Inside, earthy tones
down for the night, it’s a chance to step away
promote a sense of calm, while a plush lounge
from the stresses of everyday life, even just for a
chair and ottoman are an inviting spot to recline
few days. And yet, a recent poll by Hilton found
in comfort.
that 47% of travellers find it difficult to fully
The pod is equipped with everything a guest
switch off, even when holidaying, preoccupied
needs to complete their relaxation experience,
with thoughts of what awaits back home.
including a set of noise-cancelling headphones,
In a bid to bring a moment of calm to busy
facilitating total disconnection from the outside
lives, Hilton London Bankside has installed a
world. Courtesy of Inhere, there are also a
relaxation pod in its lobby, encouraging guests
range of guided meditation tracks, combining
to take time for themselves and prioritise their
mindfulness, visualisation techniques and
mental health.
sounds of nature to escape the hubbub of London.
Designed in collaboration with a meditation
The Inhere Meditation Pod is available for use
teacher, the Inhere Meditation Pod is circular in
by those staying at Hilton London Bankside or
form – a shape that signifies unity, balance and
dining in one of the hotel’s restaurants. Staff
grounding – and framed by vertical slats crafted
members at the property are also encouraged
from dark Sapele timber. Accessed via a flowing
to make use of the space – a move intended
string curtain, it allows light to softly filter
to promote a positive and supportive work
through, offering just enough privacy to soothe
environment for the team.
© Francesco Caredda
062
For many, a stay in a hotel isn’t just about bedding
NEW SHOWROOM DESIGN CENTRE EAST CHELSEA HARBOUR LONDON
LIGHTING FOR LIFE
T
he word community is bandied around by
rooms, six are for co-working and the rooftop
the hotel industry, often without defining
houses a restaurant and bar. As a hotelier 20
what it means across different sectors
years ago, you never would have thought about
and markets. So what asset classes are best for
using half the building as co-working space,
local communities? How can hotels meet the
but it’s a great way of diversifying revenues and
needs of locals, paying guests and passers by?
generating a captured audience in-house.”
And is the hotelisation of real estate here to
Lassman followed his point by highlighting
stay? Those were the questions posed to three
that it’s often an educational piece for investors,
hospitality experts during the 20th edition of
with insight presented on additional revenue
the Annual Hotel Conference in Manchester,
streams and how brands can differentiate
where an overarching theme of Adapt to Thrive
themselves in a fast-paced market with plenty
reverberated throughout the programme.
of competition. “Traditionally, 80-85% of hotel
In a session aptly named Live, Work, Play,
revenues came from rooms, so understanding a
Louise Burney, Operational Real Estate Sector
model outside of that is naturally a challenge.”
Lead at Legal & General Investment Management,
Away from more urban environments, Ben
kicked things off by explaining that a large
Harper, CEO of Watergate Bay, Another Place
Live, Work, Play During the 20th Annual Hotel Conference in Manchester, hospitality experts delve into the essence of community. Words: Ben Thomas
064
proportion of the population are seeking a
and Beach Retreats, stressed that fostering
fluid environment rather than something more
a sense of community is at the heart of each
traditional and rigid. She notes: “From an
brand, with three key considerations. “First is
investment perspective, it’s about putting people
the responsibility we have for our locals, as we
and places first. With our existing assets, we are
are custodians of the beaches and lakes they
working with occupiers and their customers to
want to use,” Harper revealed. “The second is
engage with local businesses; with regeneration
the community that interacts with our businesses
and repurposing projects, we are looking to
directly, whether they eat, surf, swim or stay
develop vibrant, inclusive local economies.”
with us. And the third element is our team and
The same sentiment was shared by Philip
our partners, who we connect with in a way that
Lassman, Vice President of Development for
makes them feel part of a something bigger.”
Northern Europe at Accor, who revealed that
This philosophy is set to inform the group’s
through its AccorLocal and Accor One Living
latest venture too, with Harper tapping into
platforms, the group is hoping to create vibrant
his aparthotel expertise to create a brand-new
hubs that are central to the surrounding
lifestyle brand for non-urban, leisure-focused
community. “Guests want to be in and amongst
environments. “The vision is to take the best
the locals, so if our lobbies, restaurants and
of lifestyle hotels like Watergate Bay and blend
bars are full, then ultimately we’ll attract more
these elements with an authentic self-catering
travellers,” he stated, citing how Accor is taking
model,” he explains. As with all community-
learnings from Ennismore following its merger.
focused hotel projects, the purpose is to create
“Take The Hoxton Southwark for instance, a
an ecosystem of experiences that guests, locals
13-storey building of which six floors are hotel
and everyone in between can truly connect with.
D
uring the pandemic, there were fears the
with collaboration and creativity in mind, the
MICE market may struggle to recover
spaces feature an interconnecting pottery studio,
following the collapse of international
bedouin-style phone tents and even a sandpit
business travel. But three years on and the
for those who want a quick game of pétanque
workforce has largely returned to in-person
between sessions.
events, with attendance expected to rise far beyond 2019 levels in the years to come.
Whatever the chosen design, envisioning environments that boost engagement, spark
© Ingrid Rasmussen
While the sector continues on an upward
new ideas and forge meaningful connections
trajectory, the way that events are booked,
will be essential in attracting a new generation
planned
undergone
of business travellers. “As organisers, we must
fundamental change, with human connection
consider optimising networking, collaboration
and a sense of belonging now more important
and connection through events spaces,” explains
than ever, according to a new report by Accor.
Johan Vakidis, Chief Creative Officer at C2, a
and
executed
has
Titled Meeting Expectations: The Future
Montréal-based studio that is working with
of Meetings & Events, the report addresses
Accor’s Pullman brand to design spaces for the
five key trends the group expects to shape the
customer of tomorrow. “By creating experiences
Meeting Expectations Accor releases a new report exploring the future of meetings and events, revealing the value of human connection and memorable experiences. Words: Ben Thomas
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growth of the industry going forward, from
rather than simply facilitating meeting rooms,
designing experiences to balancing purpose and
the hospitality industry can help to embed
productivity. “The global business landscape is
ideas, memories and new ways of thinking,
undergoing a profound transformation,” says
resulting in meetings that are fun and uplifting
Sophie Hulgard, Chief Sales Officer at Accor.
for participants but also, crucially, meet the
“The way that we live, work and interact has
expectations of those who are footing the bill.”
been reshaped over the last few years, and the
Developing memorable experiences means
ripple effects of these changes have created new
gaining a deeper understanding of the people
opportunities for those in the events sector.”
present at meetings, which in turn allows
From a design perspective, lounge-like
for greater personalisation. According to C2,
lifestyle spaces are proving far more appealing
71% of event attendees expect some form of
to the modern business traveller than bland,
personalisation, while 76% would have a negative
corporate areas offering little signs of creativity.
view of an event that is not personalised. As
Winners of the Events category at AHEAD – the
such, Pullman and C2 are looking to push the
Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design –
boundaries, with Pullman Paris Montparnasse
showcase how meetings and events spaces can
– whose 16,000ft 2 Immersive Floor hosts
be elevated in line with a hotel’s wider design
everything from fashion shows to car launches
scheme. Take 25hours Dubai One Central for
– serving as a blueprint for future projects.
instance, winner at AHEAD MEA 2022, whose
Hulgard concludes: “The global meetings
MICE offering includes lofty industrial spaces
industry is forecast to be worth US$1.78billion by
that feed into a locally inspired theme crafted by
2030. That’s because being in a room with people
Christoph Hoffmann and Woods Bagot. Designed
matters – it’s powerful and valuable.”
M A G I S T R AT E S ’ B A L L R O O M B A R AT T H E N O M A D
SCAN ME! Working in close collaboration with the professional team, BECK are delighted to be the main contractor on The NoMad. To find out more, please contact Vanessa Budd: vbudd@beckinteriors.com
Regina Experimental BIARRITZ Experimental Group and Dorothée Meilichzon reunite to create a coastal hideaway that embodies the spirit of French Basque. Words: Cara Rogers Photography: © Mr Tripper (unless otherwise stated)
M
ention the south of France and it’s likely the lavender fields of Provence or the glitz and glamour of Cannes that come to mind. But on the west coast, just above
the Spanish border, sits the lesser-known town of Biarritz, a quaint seaside resort in French Basque. It’s here that Experimental Group has opened its latest hotel. A popular destination for European royalty in the 1800s and a socialite hotspot throughout the Roaring Twenties, the town is now known for its sand and surf. With its traditional charm and understated style, it’s easy to see why the group chose to plant its flag here. “We had been looking to open in the area for years,” says Olivier Bon, co-founder of Experimental Group. “We were waiting for the right address, where we could create our signature style of hospitality and welcome our regular Experimental guests, many of whom are frequent visitors to the town.” The hotel occupies a Belle Époque building, perched on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Biscay. Built in 1907 by architect and landscape designer Henry Martinet, it is steeped in history, having been occupied and destroyed by German forces in World War II, and later partially turned into private apartments in a bid to fund a full restoration. Now under the ownership of Experimental Group, the brand-new hotel comprises 72 guestrooms alongside a restaurant and bar, vast orangery and a spa with an outdoor
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‘Le petit palais Biarrot’ is a serene haven that pays homage to the building’s Art Deco origins and Basque traditions
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pool. Redesigned by longstanding Experimental
while curated photography books document
collaborator Dorothée Meilichzon, ‘le petit
Biarritz’s surfing culture and raw materials like
palais Biarrot’ – to give it its nickname – is a
straw and rope blend with marine stripes and
serene haven that pays homage to the building’s
seashell motifs.
Art Deco origins and Basque traditions, with a
In creating a sense of place, Meilichzon looked
healthy dose of the designer’s signature style.
to craftspeople from across the region. “A lot of
Nowhere are these influences more clear
the hotel’s design elements were locally made,”
than in the vast 15m-high atrium at the heart
she points out, adding that “the carpentry,
of the hotel, complete with an Eiffel-style
plaster frescoes and the atrium’s towering
glass roof from the 1920s. Previously a winter
columns made from straw were created in the
garden, the space – which Meilichzon confesses
Basque Country”.
is her favourite of the hotel – has been filled
Wrapped around the atrium are four floors
with all manner of delightful design details.
of corridors leading into guestrooms, crowned
“We wanted to pay tribute to Biarritz and the
on the upper levels by sweeping archways that
Basque country,” says the designer. “So we
establish the design language for the rest of the
drew inspiration from the region’s Neo-Basque
hotel and give the space a striking symmetry.
architecture, as well as the Atlantic.”
It’s a setting of impressive scale yet, despite
Looking around the atrium, the Basque
the volume, it doesn’t feel cavernous, with
influences are evident, from the oxblood red
low-hanging paper lamps by Ingo Maurer and
tones that mimic the painted timber houses
Anthony Dickens working to create interiors that
typical of the region, to furniture shaped like the
cocoon, rather than overwhelm. The atrium’s
Itsasoan footbridge in nearby Guétary. Shades
furniture meanwhile – all of which is bespoke
of blue and green nod to the Atlantic Ocean,
– is arranged in cosy clusters, equally suited to
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a focused laptop session as to evening drinks. Sofas and tables use curved shapes and rounded edges that mirror the archways up above – forms that are also replicated in Regina’s restaurant, and on headboards in guestrooms. At the foot of the atrium is the bar, set within a 1920s-inspired structure, from which a selection of classic and signature Experimental cocktails are served. Here, a long counter pays homage to the Cote D’Azur Modernist home of architect Eileen Gray, and a centrepiece piano provides the soundtrack for guests as they sip. The hotel’s second food and beverage venue is Frenchie – an Experimental signature that also finds home in Verbier and Pigalle. A nauticalinspired restaurant helmed by Chef Gregory Marchand, Frenchie Biarritz sees navy and white-striped upholstery and seashell-shaped lighting – a hallmark design motif of the hotel – provide the backdrop for a menu that takes inspiration from local Basque cuisine. Naturally, the restaurant’s layout also takes advantage of Regina’s coastside location, with a relaxed
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terrace looking out over the Atlantic Ocean,
vanities, representing the sun, as well as the
serving as the ideal sunset spot for diners.
pride in the locale that is so central to Regina
It’s inside the hotel’s rooms, though, that
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Experimental’s design.
guests will find the most striking views of the
Guestrooms are stylish yet charming, and
Atlantic and the Pyrénées. Despite that, far from
there are plenty of nostalgic touches that allude
relying on the view, Regina Experimental’s 72
to the property’s long and storied history, like
guestrooms are picture-perfect in their own
a vintage-style dial phone and tasselled leather
right, inspired by the design of classic coastal
room keys reminiscent of old-world hotels.
Atlantic holiday homes. Doors embellished with
And yet Meilichzon has created interiors that
a shell-shaped knocker – bespoke ironmongery
are far from dated, rather contemporary and
is Meilichzon’s signature touch – lead into
fresh. “When guests spend time in these spaces,
guestrooms that are equal part sophisticated
I want them to feel that they are in the Basque
and relaxing.
Country,” she says. “But in 2023!”
Drawing the eye upon entering is the
While Experimental Group has successfully
headboard, unique in each room but always
pulled off the opening of another design-
designed in the same Neo-Basque style, with
forward hotel, the group’s wanderlust is by no
curved forms and long horizontal lines that
means satiated. Thanks to fresh investment in
allude to the region’s traditional architecture.
2022, Experimental is continuing its expansion
Guestrooms bring together materials like straw
across Europe and the US – hotels in Rome and
and rope, combined with marine stripes and the
Paris are in the works, and Sleeper was lucky
same red and blue tones found in the atrium.
enough to get a first glimpse at the group’s
In the bathrooms, the symbol of the Basque
debut in Val-d’Isère, currently slated for
Country – a curvilinear helix – is printed on
December 2024.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Experimental Group Interior Design: Dorothée Meilichzon www.experimentalgroup.com
View the full gallery on
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17.03.22 17:50
Regent HONG KONG A legendary hotel on the Kowloon harbourfront is reborn, reinstating its position as a brand flagship. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of IHG (unless otherwise stated)
W
ith arguably the most prestigious
representation, and the city already had a strong
address on Victoria Harbour, at the
connection with the Regent name.”
southernmost tip of the Kowloon
Chertouh, a seasoned hotelier who led the
Peninsula, Regent Hong Kong shines once again
relaunch, admits he’s been overwhelmed by the
as a beacon of the city’s hospitality scene.
response from locals and their affection for the
Having operated as an InterContinental for
hotel. “Wherever you go, whoever you speak
the past 20 years, the property in fact began
to, people have a memory in this property,” he
life as a Regent, opening in 1980 as a flagship
explains. “Dinner with their grandparents, a
for the luxury brand. In its heyday it starred
gala in the ballroom or just posing for pictures
in films, hosted dignitaries and served as the
on the marble staircase – these memories are
setting for many a family celebration, as well
part of the Hong Kong community.”
as consistently being named amongst the best
With that in mind, the pressure was on to
hotels in the world. The success continued
appoint a designer who understood the legacy
under IHG, and in 2015 as part of its asset-light
of the property, could elevate the interiors to the
drive, the group sold the property to Supreme
standards of Regent and bring something new
Key, retaining the management contract as the
to the market. “Our aim was to create a unique
new owners committed to a comprehensive
experience using design as a differentiator,”
refurbishment. At around the same time,
Chertouh continues. “We’re not trying to
IHG acquired a 51% stake in Regent Hotels &
impress with marble and the shiny surfaces that
Resorts, and the stars aligned for a rebrand. “It
represented luxury in the past; we wanted to
just made sense,” explains Michel Chertouh,
bring a serenity, a quiet luxury through simple,
Managing Director of Regent Hong Kong. “IHG
natural materials and soft tones.”
wanted to grow the brand as it didn’t have much
Mastering this sense of quiet luxury, Chi Wing
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The bathroom is designed as a sanctuary, where bathing with a view takes centre stage
Lo was enlisted to envision the guestrooms and lobby lounge,
old and new, particularly in the public areas of the hotel,” Lo
marking a homecoming of sorts for the Hong Kong-born,
explains. “By recalling the past in the context of the present,
Milan-based designer. “Chi Wing left Hong Kong 40 years
the history of Regent finds its continuity and the legend
ago, when this hotel was first being developed, and has been
lives on.”
working in the West as an artist and furniture designer so he
The staircases also demonstrate the beauty of contrast.
has a balanced approach,” says Chertouh. “He’s not a hotel
“The existing grand white stair of rare Calacatta marble has
designer, meaning he doesn’t get caught up in the paradigms
been conserved and articulated with a chiaroscuro tonality,
of what luxury should be.”
while a new perforated metal spiral stair in the form of a
For Lo, the prestige of designing a Regent was too great
lantern tower links to the lower level,” Lo points out. And
to turn down, and despite the scale of the project, he opted
the contrasts continue with the transition from the low-
to continue his typical practice of working solo, meaning
ceilinged check-in area to the double-height lobby lounge,
direct involvement at every stage. “I have been running a
flooded with natural daylight through floor-to-ceiling
solo practice from the beginning of my career and clients
glazing. It is here that the hotel plays its trump card: the
come to appreciate that their project is truly taken care of
view. A prime spot to take in the panorama of Victoria
by the designer they have chosen; there’s no better way to
Harbour and the Hong Kong Island beyond, the interiors
convey my ideas,” he explains. “My vision was to provide
are deliberately pared back with a neutral palette of beige,
a sanctuary rather than simply a place to stay; I wanted to
taupe and tan. Low-level lighting ensures the skyline can be
embody the spirit of Regent and provide a sense of peace,
seen by night, and a tiered floorplan means there’s no bad
serenity and balance amidst the bustling metropolis.”
seat. Lo’s experience in furniture design also comes to the
That sense of serenity is immediately palpable on
fore, with the designer explaining: “To ensure that every
setting foot in the lobby. Guests are greeted by the Golden
guest can enjoy this vista from every position, all armchairs
Illusion passageway – a row of vertical screens developed
are installed with a hidden revolving mechanism to orient
in collaboration with Lasvit, which appear as floor-to-
the sitting direction as desired.”
ceiling chandeliers; inspired by ancient Liuli crystal art, the
Up in the guestrooms, the view is also the focal point,
shimmering screens are made from glass bricks and lit from
perfectly framed in an oak casement and fronted by a lengthy
within, resulting in what Lo calls “restrained opulence”.
daybed. “A beautiful view without a special vantage is merely
Lo masterfully plays with light and reflection to dazzling
a postcard anyone can buy,” Lo says of the setting, adding
effect; a softly-lit translucent onyx counter atop a dark granite
that his philosophy centred around creating a “personal
floor gives the impression it is floating, for instance, while
haven” for the guest. The calming palette is made up of
a cinematic artwork by Hunk Keung plays on the 15m-long
timber, stone, glass and leather, sitting beneath a rhythmic
LED screen. This new media form of art sits alongside more
vaulted ceiling that mimics the gentle waves of the water
traditional pieces that honour the past, nodding to Regent’s
outside. There’s no art in the rooms – “the view is the art”
signature ‘beauty of contrasts’. One of the most symbolic is a
quips Lo – and nothing jarring or out of place. “A guestroom
retrospective montage of artworks from the original Regent,
that evokes contemplation cannot be loud, nor should its
now digitised and presented in a new way, printed on a
finishes, colour or elements be fighting for dominance
translucent scroll. “There are deliberated juxtapositions of
among themselves,” he explains. “The sound of tranquillity
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© Edmon Leong
Designed by Bar Studio, Harbourside takes its cue from the indoor trees that anchor the space, setting the tone for a verdant garden feel
is a symphony of silence played by the soft-
to Lo’s design – where bathers can recline in
tone carpet, the harmonic furniture and a few
comfort while taking in the views. A monolithic
melodic yet restrained notes from the detail
stone spout from which the water cascades like
of the bed, the handle of the wardrobe or the
a waterfall adds to the experience.
button on the cushion.”
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Back on the lower levels, Regent Hong Kong’s
Lo’s passions are reflected in his handcrafted
dining and imbibing destinations have also been
furniture, in which he draws inspiration from
refurbished, with Bar Studio responsible for
the two fundamentals of geometry – the circle,
three of the venues. At Harbourside, a market-
representing the quest for perfection, and the
style buffet with live cooking stations, the brief
square, symbolising the earth and sky in Chinese
was to retain the spirit of the much-loved eatery,
tradition. Every element has been thoughtfully
while also modernising it in line with the new
designed for harmony: the cocooning headboard;
era. “The venue takes its cue from an existing
the spherical reading light that emits a warming
focal element – the two indoor trees that anchor
glow; even the waste bin has been considered,
the space – setting the tone for a verdant garden
designed to slot neatly within the cabinet so as
feel,” explains Rowena Hockin, Curatorial
not to detract from the orderliness.
Director at Bar Studio. “The triple-height space
The bathroom too is a sanctuary, with brushed
captures plenty of light and we aimed to harness
granite, natural oak and honed Calacatta used
that further with the introduction of mirrors
across surfaces and vanities, accompanied by
that reflect the spectacular views.”
faucets in Grohe’s Warm Sunset finish. There’s
An earthy colour palette and green creeper
an extra-large basin and spacious shower
panels continue the light and airy garden feel,
cubicle, though the highlight has to be the
while timber parquet flooring in the main
freestanding bathtub – produced by Claybrook
dining room fosters a connection to nature.
© Edmon Leong
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In reference to its harbourside location, the
along with custom wall sconces designed as a
restaurant also features an art installation
modern take on the Chinese lantern.
entitled Reflections of the Sea, comprising
Bar Studio are also working on a third venue,
shimmering metallic discs, intricately decorated
a destination bar set to launch later this year,
by Rebecca Gouldson in a dot matrix technique
while the refurbished Nobu has just made its
to depict seafaring imagery.
debut along with Regent Club. Elsewhere in the
The Steakhouse meanwhile moves into richer
hotel, two-Michelin-starred Yan Toh Heen,
and moodier tones inspired by the cuisine. An
which remained open during the refurbishment,
entrance framed by charred panels, styled on the
has returned to its original name of Lai Ching
traditional Japanese wood-burning technique of
Heen; the events spaces have seen an upgrade;
shou sugi ban, greets guests on arrival, leading
and the pool has been furnished with new
to a dining room and wine cellar. “Naturally,
daybeds to accompany parasols from Tuuci.
the famous charcoal grill takes centre stage,
Three years in-the-making, Regent Hong
with the dining spaces designed to take in the
Kong has made its return with sophistication
action of the show kitchen,” Hockin points out,
and refinement, reinstating its position as a
adding that “an opulent palette of burgundy and
brand flagship. “We knew expectations were
charcoal, with highlights of bronze, copper and
high, so we wanted to play to the strengths
gold, speaks of contemporary luxury”.
of the location,” concludes Chertouh. “Guests
Display cabinets housing fresh cuts of meat
will remember this property, not only for its
and a vast wine collection add to the drama, as
location, but for its design details and distinct
do the angled mirrors by the window, reflecting
feeling of quiet luxury. It has a unique position
the harbour lights in all directions. Tactile
and will bring new memories for the city as we
leather and suede upholstery complete the look
move forward.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Supreme Key Operator: IHG Interior Design: Chi Wing Lo, Bar Studio www.hongkong.regenthotels.com
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IMAGINE. DREAM. CREATE. D I S C O V E R U N L I M I T E D S H A D E C U S T O M I Z AT I O N .
S TA R T D E S I G N I N G T O D AY AT T U U C I . C O M / S H A D E S T U D I O
Tuuci_creative_Sleeper_May_2023.indd 1
3-5-2023 10:44:49
Pnoé Breathing Life CRETE MK Hotel Collection continues its partnership with Cube Concept to create an earthy wellness resort that honours the locale. Words: Claudia Baillie • Photography: © Olia Paspalaki
T
hink of Greek island architecture and one would be forgiven for imagining the dazzling white walls and cerulean domes that dot the landscapes of the Cyclades.
But this is Crete, whose roots are wound deeply through ancient Minoan civilisation and as a result, it is rugged stone, wood and other earthy materials that have for centuries been used to construct the island’s historic buildings. These traditional elements have had more than a passing influence on the aesthetic of Pnoé – which translates simply as breath – the newest wellness resort at Karteros Beach on the northern coast of Greece’s largest island. The property is the brainchild of Marita Karatzi, Group CEO of MK Hotel Collection, while the design and construction of the refined build is the work of Cube Concept, a practice based in nearby Heraklion. So impressed was Karatzi with a residential project the studio completed for her brother in 2018, that when it came to developing Unique Blue, her first resort on the island, Cube Concept were top of her wish-list. Since then, they have also collaborated on Cicada Suites and Cicada Beach Club, with Pnoé being the latest five-star opening. Karatzi’s brief was to create a retreat that is in harmony with the craggy landscape while at once being calm and luxurious, but there was a catch. Instead of starting from
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Sandy coloured plaster blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, while slatted timber openings cast delicate shadows over airy courtyards
086
scratch, the team at Cube Concept had to work
cool stone flooring runs from the interior to the
around an existing structure – the skeleton of a
terrace beyond.
bungalow-style hotel built in 1968. A challenge
Across the site, rough-hewn walls are
indeed, but nonetheless the design process took
constructed from a handsome, chocolate brown
just a year and it was a staggeringly short ten
stone sourced locally in the village of Milatos,
months before the entire project was complete.
while slatted timber screens cast delicate
The original floorplate included residential
shadows and sandy-toned plaster blends
blocks arranged around a central courtyard and
seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
swimming pool, as well a small reception area
“We wanted to link the building to its locality,
that was removed completely. “Instead, we
and for it to sit comfortably within the Cretan
opened up the entrance and added a pergola
landscape,” Lironi explains.
that creates wonderful shadow-play,” says
Simplified to a gently curving teardrop, the
Aria Lironi, co-founder and Design Director
swimming pool is edged by chic macrame
at Cube Concept. “The weather in Greece is
parasols and home to Aeri, a cabin-style bar
excellent during the summer months, so this
serving juices, cocktails and light snacks, while
transitional space means that when guests
a series of smaller decorative pools are peppered
arrive, they can immediately see the courtyard
across the resort. A second level and rooftop
but they’re not completely exposed. It’s also
terrace have also been added to the existing
a reference to the layout of traditional Cretan
single-storey building to form Thymises, a fine
homes, which often have an entryway designed
dining Cretan restaurant, and Uranos, a chic,
to protect from the sun.” The team used this
contemporary bar.
indoor-outdoor concept throughout, including
Evoking the atmosphere of classic Cretan
in the monastically calm reception, where the
tavernas, Thymises features a dark timber slatted
ceiling, textural plaster walls and handsome leather furniture as well as a menu conceived in collaboration with Peskesi, a much-celebrated restaurant in Heraklion, where seasonal, fresh produce is sourced from an organic, biodynamic farm in the foothills of the nearby mountains. In contrast, Uranos is a light-filled space boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the fiery Grecian sunsets, which rarely disappoint. Aspects of the original building also played a part in the design of Anása, an international restaurant where guests can enjoy breakfast and an à la carte menu later in the day. “It was constructed in the style of the Modernist era, so we wanted to reference architects such as Ludwig Mies Van De Rohe,” says Lironi. As such, the team incorporated terrazzo flooring, a cube-like, metal lighting structure and slender columns to support the roof. The brief also specified an open kitchen, while the generous ceiling height is maximised with a custommade light installation inspired by the breeze that sweeps through the space.
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Tubs Modular by Nahtrang Studio
New Decorative Collection
Sixty rooms, all with their own private pool,
wood fired sauna, steam room and hot and cold
fan out around the courtyard and are in keeping
spray tunnel. Also available are a multitude of
with the theme of air. Each is based on an open-
treatments, yoga classes, personal training and
plan layout, from the Breeze Suites to the Breath
breathwork therapy, as well as a gym. What
Suites, which also include a living area, walk-
sets the spa apart however is next-generation
in closet, bathtub and Jacuzzi. At the top of
facilities such as a hyperbaric oxygen chamber –
the range, three impressive Signature Suites
a favourite among sportspeople and celebrities
measure up at an ample 51m2 and benefit from a
– which infuses the body with oxygen to speed
large private pool, an external sauna and steam
up healing and reverse ageing, and Zerobody,
cabin and in-room fitness equipment.
a dry float system designed to relieve stress,
Inside the residences, a dark palette is
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muscle and joint pain, and aid sleep.
combined with rich timber joinery handcrafted
The success of the resort and indeed the
by Cretan artisans, as well as grey terrazzo
ongoing relationship between Karatzi and
flooring that keeps the rooms cool during the
Cube Concept means that Elios, a more family-
warmer months. Bespoke lighting and curving,
friendly opening is slated for completion on
grid-like screens are another nod to the
the island next year. “What we love about
Modernist-style building.
working with Marita is that she’s the best kind
Key to Pnoé’s focus on physical, emotional
of collaborator,” Lironi reveals. “She’s involved
and mental wellbeing is the spa, where a
in the entire process, listens to a professional
walkway of stepping stones over water lead
opinion and never wants to do things that
into the cavernous space. Inside is a relaxation
have been done before. That pushes us to go
area complete with a Himalayan salt stone wall,
further, and to always create something that’s
hydromassage pool, striking waterfall feature,
completely unique.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: CIG Hellas Operator: MK Hotel Collection Architecture and Interior Design: Cube Concepts Lighting Design: Ioannis Tsakirelis Art Consultant: Ileana Kolivaki Project Manager: Nikos Grilos www.pnoe-breathinglife.com
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Izza MARRAKECH Set among the maze-like medina of the Red City, a new art-filled escape channels the eclectic style of the late, great Bill Willis. Words: Abigail Lowe • Photography: Courtesy of Izza Marrakech
S
tanding with shirt hanging loosely open, hands on hips and drenched in a golden glow, Bill Willis squints into the camera. There’s a swagger to his stance, a teasing
coquettishness of the kind that came to define his colourful approach to both work and life. Willis died in 2010, but his contribution to Moroccan design left him crowned the North African country’s greatest aesthete, and that’s why this photo – rescued from the personal collection at his former home, Dar Noujoum, in Marrakech – now hangs in tribute at Izza, where Willis’ influence and outlook can be felt in every ornate nook and cranny. Born in Tennessee and schooled at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Willis was among a whirlwind of free-spirited, open-minded creatives who landed on the sun-baked soil of Morocco in the mid-1960s. A character famed for his straight-talking sensibilities, offbeat mindset and extraordinary talent, Willis’ oeuvre took the textures, shapes and colours intrinsic to Morocco – derived from amalgamations of Islamic, Middle Eastern and Moorish design – and reimagined them with a Western eye, kickstarting trends and bringing traditional techniques to life for new audiences. “Bill Willis was the leading light of Moroccan interior design and he’s a source of endless inspiration at Izza,”
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Every corner at Izza is a visual feast, with a gallery of digital and contemporary works from established and emerging artists
094
says the hotel’s interior design assistant, Aicha
discovery. The carefully curated aesthetic helps
Benazzouz. “His distinctive style and eclectic
guests relax while appreciating the artistic
designs are evident throughout, alongside a
riches that surround them.”
plethora of photos showcasing his life among
It’s true – every corner at Izza is a visual
stars like Grace Jones, Mick Jagger and Yves
feast and that’s before you’ve even laid eyes on
Saint Laurent.” Willis’ innate ability to tap into
the hotel’s gallery of digital and contemporary
a creative life-force is also the soulful basis of
art, valued at over £5 million. The Museum
Izza’s ‘House of Friends’ ethos, which aims to
in the Medina, as it’s known, features works
provide an inspirational hub for the world’s
from established artists like Sebastião Salgado
globetrotting visionaries while connecting them
– whose Amazônia collection was declared
with the surrounding culture of the city.
‘the most significant NFT collection from
Set among Marrakech’s electrifying, maze-
a living photographer’ by Sotheby’s – and
like medina, Izza is an elegantly finished,
AI artist Refik Anadol, whose work has been
14-key boutique hotel, so tranquil compared
showcased at MoMA. Adding credence to
to the tumult outside that it’s akin to finding
Morocco’s burgeoning reputation as a hub for
shelter during a storm. Like all riads, its
the arts, the collection also includes arresting
unassuming façade belies what awaits within,
coal and candle wax pieces of rising local talent
so stepping over the threshold is the equivalent
Mouhcine Rahaoui.
of entering Narnia, where a whole new world
“A creative community can serve as a bridge
unfolds. “The combination of Moroccan design
for cross-cultural exchange,” says Benazzouz.
alongside vintage elements allows for in-depth
“And that promotes international dialogue
storytelling,” Benazzouz explains. “And that
and understanding. We want to encourage
engages our guests in a captivating journey of
collaboration and creativity among our guests,
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and to help launch careers for emerging artists.” As a reinvigorator of other cultures, it’s a sentiment that Willis would surely have supported, so it’s fitting that the artworks sit harmoniously alongside the ancient architecture and traditional craftsmanship that he himself once reimagined, eventually becoming the central pillars of his work. Willis was a master of the centuriesold technique of zellige, in which typically Moroccan-made tiles of vivid colours and varying shapes are placed in intricate patterns. He was also single-handedly responsible for a resurgence in the popularity of tadelakt, a type of elegant, elaborate plasterwork sculpted in place and seen framing fireplaces, ceilings and doorways. These details crop up in eye-pleasing pockets all over Izza, acting as nods to Willis’ genius and ensuring thematic continuity in both private and communal spaces. “It’s reflective of Moroccan heritage, blending past and present,” explains Benazzouz. Alongside architect Amine Kabbaj and
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Sustainability report
11.10.23 14:21
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designer Roman Piotrowski, Benazzouz paid
of Pierre Frey, while luxurious, natural wool
particular attention to this juxtaposition of
rugs – which feel like heaven underfoot – were
old and new when furnishing the hotel, a
custom-made by artisans high in the Atlas
painstaking process that took 18 months to
Mountains and sourced through Tribaliste. “I
complete. “We wanted to explore the captivating
loved spending hours finding a rare gem, giving
story of personalities like Bill while staying true
a second life to a piece of furniture or honouring
to authentic Moroccan hospitality,” she reveals.
the designs of the past,” Benazzouz reveals.
“After that, it was about considering each room’s
In future, Izza will host exhibitions,
volume, because every one was different.” Trips
workshops and performances by local and
to Marrakech’s best vintage suppliers followed,
international artists in celebration of Morocco’s
along with conversations with the country’s
unique creative identity. And guests will be
most talented artisans. “Little by little we
woven into that narrative as both observer and
made our selections, combining them to create
participant in its story. “The freedom-seekers
a comfortable yet unique atmosphere.”
of the past came here to find something and
The result is a beguiling patchwork of
what they discovered changed their lives,”
Mid-Century furniture including armchairs,
Benazzouz concludes. “We hope this place will
bedside tables and desks, all resized, freshly
do the same for our guests.”
upholstered or repurposed to suit the character
Sat by the crackling fire in the hotel’s well-
of each room. Decked out in warm, earthy tones
stocked library, where the history of Morocco
alongside calming shades of taupe and ivory,
comes alive on the page, the spirit of Bill Willis
every space also features statement lighting or
and the legacy of his distinctive leitmotif is
bespoke Murano glass chandeliers handcrafted
palpable. It’s fair to assume that he would have
by local glassblowers. Fabrics come courtesy
liked it here.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Neon Architecture: Amine Kabbaj Interior Design: Roman Piotrowski, Aicha Benazzouz www.izza.com
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BURJ AL ARAB JUMEIRAH Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Pieve Aldina TUSCANY French hoteliers Guillaume Foucher and Frédéric Biousse make their first foray in Italy with the conversion of a charming Tuscan farmhouse. Words: Kasia Dietz Photography: Courtesy of Pieve Aldina
T
asteful elegance is what defines luxury for
would prove a perfect fit for Fontenille. It’s
French hoteliers Guillaume Foucher and
the property’s history and clandestine position
Frédéric Biousse, setting the tone for each
that most captivated the worldly duo. Foucher
of their 11 hotels. The founders of Les Domaines
shares: “It’s a special house steeped in history
de Fontenille take an authentic approach to
and the proximity to the church gives it a
hospitality, paying tribute to a property’s roots,
feeling of spirituality. The spaces are large and
cultivating the soul of the estate, and creating
uncluttered, while the building’s position on top
singular experiences for their guests. Their
of the hill immerses guests in the sky.”
carefully curated collection includes a hotel
Now a national monument, the well-
in Marseille overlooking the Mediterranean,
preserved episcopal complex of three stone
an 18th-century château outside of Paris, a
buildings – comprising a 16th- and 17th-century
Provençal villa in the Luberon, and a former
residence – is where the bishops of Siena once
17th-century palace in Menorca.
summered. Guests are offered the key to enter
In June 2023, the pair made their first foray
the church of Santa Maria Novella dating back
in Italy, deep within the Chianti region between
to the 10th century. Referred to as la Pieve, the
Florence and Siena. According to Foucher, it was
historic site – a prime example of Romanesque
“the light, the landscapes, the cuisine and the
architecture in Tuscany – has been declared
relationship with art” in Tuscany that led them
a listed building by the Superintendency of
to the opening of Pieve Aldina, now a member
Archaeology, Fine Arts & Landscape.
of Relais & Châteaux.
A long amble through the 40 hectares of
Upon discovering these rolling hills dotted
olive groves, with the chapel punctuating the
with slender cypress trees and wild olive
horizon, recalls the property’s hallowed history.
groves, Foucher and Biousse knew this domain
It goes as far back as 1043, when the Count of
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Piancaldoli offered the estate as a gift to his wife Aldina Ubaldini, for whom the hotel is named. In his signature style, Foucher worked closely with Italian design team Pierattelli Architetture in dictating every detail. He went as far as living on the land, spending several nights in each of the 22 rooms and suites, to better feel the space. Characteristic of Les Domaines de Fontenille, every chamber is uniquely outfitted with pastelcoloured couches and beds by Gervasoni. Within the buildings of the Studiolo and Conventino, restored Neoclassical frescoes decorate the walls. Discreet religious icons share the space with Parisian artist Dune Varela who printed on slabs of Carrara marble, while artist Stéphanie Montaigu pasted images of flowers and ancient sculptures onto the yellowed pages of aged books. Wooden beams compose the high and sometimes sloping ceilings, while terracotta tiles are complemented by contemporary furnishings in earthy hues of beige, brown and green, with Italian art books adorning the marble tablestops.
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The country charm of each room and suite
which guests can taste every ingredient” –
is enhanced by flowing drapes, wood fixtures,
including ancient forgotten fruits, foraged herbs
painted skirting boards and cosy bedspreads.
and wild fish – is best savoured at Le Rondini,
The minimalist, white-walled bathrooms
a restaurant set in what were once outhouses.
meanwhile feature walk-in showers or deep
It seems fitting that the place where farming
ceramic bathtubs, with natural amenities by
tools and olives were kept before pressing has
Susanne Kaufmann.
been transformed into a dining room, featuring
Adjacent to the stone staircase on the ground
modest wooden tables and thoughtful artwork
floor, guests are warmly greeted at reception by
beneath a vaulted ceiling in iron and terracotta.
General Manager Fabio Serafino and a larger-
Guests can peek through to the open kitchen at
than-life Roman statue. In true Fontenille
the chefs concocting regional specialties before
fashion, art references are omnipresent.
dining in the courtyard, where a grand wisteria,
A series of salons set a culinary scene with
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stone fountain and tealights set the mood.
cured meats hanging from the ceiling and
When guests aren’t lounging by the pool,
plentiful bottles of wine lining the shelves,
or enjoying an aperitivo on one of the outdoor
including those from the owners’ vineyards in
terraces overlooking the domain and the lush
France. The rustic kitchen, where the making
countryside, the secluded spa – equipped with
of pasta is an art form, appears ready to invite
two massage rooms, a sauna and a Turkish bath
guests to a meal – one that they will learn to
– provides an extra dose of serenity. Just leave
cook themselves at the expert hands of chef
time to explore the surrounding woods and olive
Flavio Faedi. Formerly Executive Chef at Castello
groves, inhale the fragrant wild roses and lemon
di Reschio in Umbria, Faedi’s skill at creating
trees and discover the pleasure of a slower pace
haute cuisine dishes comprising “plates in
of life, Tuscan-style.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner/Operator: Les Domaines de Fontenille Affiliation: Relais & Châteaux Architecture and Interior Design: Pierattelli Architetture lesdomainesdefontenille.com
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DE
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tora esign, res d , e r tu c manufa Lighting llation and insta
tion
Pan Pacific Orchard SINGAPORE WOHA continues its quest to develop sustainable solutions for tropical high-rise hotels, envisioning an architectural masterpiece that rises above the trees in Garden City. Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Studio Periphery (unless otherwise stated)
decade after collaborating with Pan Pacific Hotels
A
Starting with humans and nature at macro level are the
Group on ParkRoyal Collection Pickering, envisioning
Sky Terraces. Verdant and vertically arranged, they provide
terraced gardens nestled between glass towers,
a diverse outdoor space with different planting themes. The
Singapore-based architecture practice WOHA has joined
lowest Forest Terrace features jungle planting of fern and
forces with the owner-operator once more to develop
fig, while the Beach Terrace leans towards littoral palms,
another sustainability-focused, tropical high-rise hotel.
pandanus and broadleaf plants. The Garden Terrace includes
The open-air architecture and lush greenery of Pan
jasmine and tea trees, and the topmost Cloud Terrace is lined
Pacific Orchard are striking; the 3D matrix is set within a
with Alpine plants. The interior and exterior design elements
monumental, hollowed-out structure supported by imposing
of each guestroom stack, as well as their colour, texture and
corner columns – all blooming with plant life. The hotel is
materials, are equally varied to create separate atmospheres.
stratified by four of WOHA’s Sky Terraces. “Two sides of each
Each level’s circular corner columns are structural shafts
are occupied by a five-floor stack of guestrooms organised
that seemingly disappear, their living green livery acting as
in an L-layout, with full-height openings of 26m on the
camouflage. Clad in a perforated aluminium skin, backed
opposite two elevations,” clarifies Hong Wei Phua, Director
with a soil-based planting medium, the columns are drip-
at WOHA. The layouts flip through 180 degrees between each
fed with grey water harvested from the almost daily tropical
of the horizontal layers, creating a zigzag of openings.
rains. This is collected from the roof above the Cloud Terrace,
Built on the site of a previous hotel, the 347-key property occupies a rectangular plot sloping down towards Orchard
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which features a perforated screen above glass panels that keeps the rain out, to be harvested, and lets the light in.
Road, a key retail location whose name derives from the
On top are photovoltaics used to power the hotel. The
spice plantations and fruit orchards established here in
topmost plants of the columns receive the least sunlight as
the 19th century. Singapore planning agency, The Urban
they are shaded by the terrace; their special nightly top-up
Redevelopment Authority, is promoting Orchard Road as an
comes via a light treatment that produces an elegant halo
urban green corridor, of which Pan Pacific Orchard is a key
around the top of each tower. Together, the planting amounts
part. Having published a book – Garden City Mega City – on
to a colossal 300% of the plot coverage. This over-planting
urban redevelopment in 2016, which proposed solutions to
helps towards passive cooling, reduced CO2, environmental
make Asian megacities more liveable, WOHA saw the hotel
diversity and the positive effect of biophilia.
as an opportunity to demonstrate some of its ideas. These
The massing of these deep levels also provides shading
include the reconciliation between humans and the planet,
essential in the city. The tall volume of the voids are WOHA’s
the humanisation of urban life and the reduction in the
Breezeway Atriums, which allow for cross-ventilation and
demarcation between public and private spaces.
funnelling of wind over plants and water bodies to reduce
© Darren Soh
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Guestrooms feature furnishings from Minotti and Pedrali, carpets by Weavepact, bathroom fittings from Hansgrohe and neatly practical washlets by Roca
temperatures. At the ground floor Forest Terrace, this
The same wall treatment is found on some walls
is more difficult to achieve, so large ceiling fans –
of the guestrooms. Rooms are generous in their
appropriately enough from Big Ass Fans – keep the
detailing and feature furnishings from Minotti and
air in motion.
Pedrali, carpets by Weavepact, bathroom fittings from
Plants help with human comprehension of the
Hansgrohe and neatly practical washlets by Roca.
space too. This and other elements of scale have been
The luxury offering continues with creative space
added by WOHA to humanise the volumes. The open-
planning – drawers within drawers and clever corner-
latticed shelving of the lobby’s high walls incorporates
combination sliding doors. Small trays for amenities,
lanterns, birds and other objects. As the sun moves
designed by WOHA, are another thoughtful detail.
across the space, a fleeting show of light and shadow
More obvious are private balconies where light and
comes from the known objects of this composition.
motion sensors on blinds and sliding doors keep the
Similarly, the guestroom corridors are gently
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air cool.
illuminated by lights hidden behind curved ceiling
The storeys above and below each Sky Terrace
coving. The monotony of the corridors is disrupted
boast higher ceilings. Those above allow for the F&B
by niches and vestibules, nearly all with daylight.
amenities, lounges and function rooms. On the Beach
Walls are lined with a vertical abstraction of solid
Terrace, guestrooms become double-height loft rooms,
tropical timber batons with a triangular profile that is
which also have private access to their own peninsula
interspersed with columns of mirrors. Two elements
terrace in the pool. The floor immediately below each
within this finish make it more personable. Firstly,
terrace is taller in height too, meaning the views out
there is a randomness to the order and number of
from the rooms and balconies open up vertically. The
timber batons and mirrors, and secondly, where the
view from a single storey would have been compressed
lengths of timber started or ended, they are chamfered
by the deep ceiling of the terrace immediately above.
to create a beak shape.
So, to avoid any sense of claustrophobia, a mirror
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finish of the underside of the terrace has been added to reflects what’s below.
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Public access excludes the Beach Terrace, which comprises the pool, gym and Pan Pacific’s signature
WOHA sees hotels as means of making cities more
St Gregory spa. This level features a sandy palette best
liveable. At Pan Pacific Orchard, this is perhaps most
seen in the sloping floor of the large, organically-
obvious in the entrance area, where a tumbling
shaped pool, connected under a sandcastle bridge to
waterfall rushes amidst the jungle planting, down
a slim lap-pool that itself washes up to the Aqua Bar.
terraces adjacent to the lobby, Pacific Breeze bar and
Mosella is yet another vast space, its high ceilings
onto the patio of the hotel’s Mosella restaurant. On the
being a representation of traditional Asian longhouses
other side of the space is a public access way. “The
anchored by a glass mosaic drum, the cover to the
cascading water has a calming effect and masks the
supporting corner tower, which becomes “a lantern
noise of the city,” says Phua.
in the forest” as per Phua. The open kitchen serves
Each Sky Terrace is viewed as a communal area where
Mediterranean cuisine with a Peruvian slant – the
Phua sees public amenities unpacked. The Florette Bar
melting pot of Peru’s food culture served family-style
on the Forest Terrace captures a winter-garden effect
in the Asian manner.
through a metal framework, with a delicate array of
Hotels can be leaders in sustainability, especially
petal-like LED paddles twinkling beneath a curving,
those conceived by leaders in sustainable architecture,
mirrored ceiling. The bar extends out to the lawn and
like WOHA. Pan Pacific Orchard demonstrates how
pond feature of the terrace. The Cloud Terrace is home
humans and nature can be reconciled; the hotel
to inside and outside breakout areas for the hotel’s
respectfully bows to the city, asking to be understood,
events spaces, which include flexible meeting rooms
adopted and copied. As General Manager Marcel
and the large Claymore ballroom. Its tapered ceiling,
Holman notes of the eight-year project: “The shared
described by Phua as “an abstraction of billowing
concept of sustainability between WOHA and UOL
clouds” sits above an impressive LCD screen.
Group is truly visionary.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: UOL Group Operator: Pan Pacific Hotels Group Architecture, Interior Design and Landscaping: WOHA Landscape Contractor: Plantwerkz Main Contractor: Shimizu Corporation www.panpacific.com
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LE AVE THE REST TO US
Domes Noruz MYKONOS With new investment, Domes Resorts continues expansion across Greece, introducing its design-led lifestyle brand to Mykonos. Words: Catherine Martin Photography: © Anima Vision
O
n an island that has become known
from Bain Capital, enabling the acquisition of
for its vibrant nightlife and throngs of
an existing hotel and its redevelopment and
day-trippers stepping off the visiting
renovation to meet the standards that Domes
cruise ships, moments of quiet are difficult
guests have come to expect.
to come by. But away from the labyrinth of
Taking the lead on architecture and interior
narrow streets that form the main town – where
design, Greek studio Urban Soul Project was
purple bougainvillea pose prettily against the
tasked with creating an authentic retreat
whitewashed Cycladic houses – Domes Resorts
that has a sense of place, combining Cycladic
has found a serene spot to set up camp.
style with elegant luxury. Arriving through a
Perched on a clifftop along the coast, just a
tranquil walled courtyard that sets the scene
short drive from the heart of Mykonos, Domes
for within, the resort unfolds across five
Noruz is the latest addition to Domes Resorts’
interwoven buildings collectively housing a
rapidly-expanding portfolio following recent
restaurant, bar, spa and leisure spaces as well
openings in Halkidiki and Milos. Having made
as 38 guestrooms and suites. The architecture
its name with family-friendly Domes of Elounda
is immediately of the location, with soft-edged
in Crete, the group now has multiple brands,
asymmetric cubes that play with volume and
including Originals, Reserves and the foodie-
scale, set across multiple levels linked by open-
focused Aulus. In Mykonos, it’s Noruz – the
air stone staircases. Arched niches do double-
design-led, adults-only lifestyle brand – that
duty in creating semi-enclosed terraces that
was deemed the best fit for the market, making
protect from the island’s strong winds, while
it the third property to carry the appellation after
the façades are punctuated by decorative
ventures in Chania and Kassandra. The project
triangular cut-outs – also seen on K-Studio’s
has been made possible thanks to investment
designs for the airport terminal – inspired by
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The resort is a sanctuary of indooroutdoor living with guestrooms and public spaces opening out to terraces and balconies
the artistic pigeon houses of the 18th and 19th
feature their own pool neatly enclosed in a
centuries found across the Cyclades. Where
semi-circular framework for added privacy.
the resort does differ is in its colour palette;
All are immediately calming, appearing as if
rather than the whitewashed walls typical of the
they are carved into the cliff-face owing to
island, Urban Soul Project instead opted for a
the rounded corners between wall and ceiling.
more earthy aesthetic that harmonises with the
They showcase the same carefully considered
surrounding sandy landscape. “Domes Noruz
selection of materials and finishes, with warm
Mykonos draws its inspiration from the beauty
timber and smooth Karnis marble alongside
of nature and Cycladic minimalism,” explains
tactile linen and rattan, together exuding a quiet
Polina Liarostathi, Head of Hotels at Urban
luxury that is quintessentially Greek.
Soul Project. “With a strong focus on Aegean
The top-tier Haven room, spanning 47m2, is
vistas, the use of natural materials such as
a sanctuary of indoor-outdoor living with an
timber, stone, marble and textured plasters
open-plan bedroom and lounge leading out to a
is combined with an approach that supports
spacious semi-enclosed terrace that is perfectly
both international and local suppliers and
oriented for sunset views. There’s plenty of
manufacturers, ultimately bringing to life the
spots to kick back and relax, whether on the
hotel’s vision of understated luxury.”
sprawling corner sofa upholstered in linen, or
Spread across multiple buildings and accessed
the giant beanbag chair out on the terrace. The
via winding passageways borrowed from
suite also comes with a private sundeck and
nearby Cycladic villages, the accommodations
pool, though the resort’s main infinity pool
are classified as Retreats, Suites or Havens,
isn’t to be missed either, thanks to its ‘floating’
many with secluded pools or hot tubs. Some
daybeds at the water’s edge.
offer sea views from the balcony while others
112
The F&B venues also honour the Greek way
113
114
of life, not only in the delectable dishes and
where the drinks list is inspired by ancient Greek
local wines, but in their design too. Topos, the
rituals and makes use of local ingredients.
signature restaurant found across a number of
Rounding out the offer at Domes Noruz
Domes properties, occupies a poolside building
Mykonos are a spa, retail zone and outdoor
that benefits from folding glass doors that can
gym, plus there’s plans for a yoga terrace once
be fully opened for another taste of indoor-
further windproofing is in place. And that’s not
outdoor living. The dining room follows the
all. Across the wider group, there are plans to
same aesthetic as the guestrooms with a simple
continue the upward growth trajectory in new
palette of timber and stone, dressed with a
ways. In addition to the three hotels that made
collection of urns and woven baskets – much
their debut this year, Domes Resorts has opened
like those found in the homes of locals. Outside,
Sora Lifestyle Beach Club on Corfu, as well as
a mature tamarisk tree sits at the centre of the
its first standalone fine-dining restaurant,
terrace, with dining tables positioned around
Makris by Domes, in central Athens. Both
the perimeter beneath the shade of the pergola,
are indicators of an intention to become an
a natural timber structure that filters the
authentic Greek lifestyle group that goes beyond
sunlight to artistic effect.
accommodation. As CEO George Spanos notes:
Helmed by Executive Chef Dionysios
“Iconic works of architecture, handpicked
Pliatsikas, Topos serves Neo-Greek cuisine
locations and affection for the people that
influenced by seasonal flavours, while Raw
work and live here, while remaining focused on
Gastro Bar specialises in raw dishes such as
rebirth and transformation, are all ingredients
cured cod ceviche and seabass tartare. After
that allow us to deliver groundbreaking products
sunset, the lights go down and the lobbyside N
to our guests as we continue to grow, connect
Bar transforms into a seductive cocktail lounge,
and make memories together.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Domes Resorts Investor: Bain Capital Architecture and Interior Design: Urban Soul Project Lighting Design: ADLight Art Consultant: PrintSin Main Contractor: Ergoline Project Manager: Focal www.domesresorts.com
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Stay CAMDEN Stay taps into the science of sleep with its chic long-stay apartments in the heart of Camden. Words: Cara Rogers Photography: © Beth Davis (unless otherwise stated)
W
hen Sleeper arrives at Stay Camden,
comprise a living area and fully-fitted kitchen
there’s a palpable buzz in the air.
as well as a dedicated workspace and private
It’s Friday afternoon and people
balcony. Once inside, the bustle of the lobby
are scuttling about the lobby, some hunting
and nearby hubbub of Camden Market becomes
for a spot to set up their laptop for the day,
a distant memory. It’s a tranquil, minimalist
others unloading TV cameras. “We get a lot of
space that guests can make their own, whether
production crews staying here, and actors too,”
on video calls or enjoying a leisurely glass of
explains our tour guide, as we hitch a lift up to
wine come nightfall.
the apartments.
Interiors have been brought to life by Yaara
Superstar cameos aside, it’s no surprise
Gooner, Head of Architecture & Design at Stay,
that aparthotels like this one have become
with the aesthetic built on Scandinavian design
increasingly popular, particularly amongst
principles that facilitate a sense of calm. Natural
travellers looking for long-stay lodgings that
colours and textures – all considered conducive
offer more freedom than a typical hotel. Chic and
to relaxation – make up the foundations of the
stylish yet fully-equipped and practical, Stay
palette, while exposed brickwork, Crittall-style
Camden is a convenient setting for work, rest
windows and brushed steel fixtures reference
and play. Most residents are corporate, though
Camden’s industrial past.
families moving house also find their way here,
With most guests staying a minimum of
thanks to a partnership with relocation agents
seven nights, facilitating a good night’s sleep
that makes transitions as smooth as possible.
is of utmost importance – the health benefits of
Stay Camden’s 169 apartments are spread
which include improved focus and productivity.
across three blocks located along the banks
As such, Gooner has enlisted independent sleep
of the lock. Ranging from 55-130m 2, they
expert Dr Neil Stanley to ensure the design of
117
© Andrew Twort
A feature wall in the bedroom is lined with blonde timber that sets the Scandinavian tone
the property is conducive to shut-eye. “33% of
needs a different environment to be able to
your life is spent in the bedroom, so investing
fall asleep,” she explains. “What we can do is
in making it a sleep-optimised environment is
provide a platform for guests to customise their
key. With so many things to busy our brains
environment so they feel safe, can relax, and
– from social media scrolling, to the cost of
which reminds them of home.”
living crisis, to climate change – creating an
Gooner points out that every detail is
environment that is calm and conducive to
important when creating a space that is both
dropping off is crucial,” explains Dr Stanley.
relaxing and customisable, from navigable
“In a hotel room, one might experience curtains
light switches to easily-adjustable temperature
that don’t meet in the middle, the whir of the
– Stay Camden’s apartments offer underfloor
mini-bar fridge or noisy air conditioning set at
heating, a luxury for those who prefer their
a higher than optimal temperature for sleep.”
living quarters on the warmer side.
According to the expert, consideration of the
The textures featured across the space have
science of sleep through the design process
also been carefully considered, since natural
can also have a clear commercial benefit: “You
materials like timber and stone are foster a
might not like the restaurant, the gym or the
calmness. With this in mind, a feature wall in
swimming pool in your hotel, but if you go
the bedroom is lined with blonde timber that
somewhere and cannot sleep, I guarantee you
sets the Scandinavian tone, while a sumptuous
will never go back to that property.”
velvet bucket chair, woollen bed throw and
To craft interiors that would send even the
118
circular mirrors add a softness.
most restless guest to sleep, Gooner adopted a
“In many hotels, the design is so busy that
“human-centric” design philosophy. “Sleeping
you don’t feel relaxed enough to sleep,” says
is something that is very subjective; everyone
Gooner. “Our bedrooms are simple, minimal
DESIGN TO LOVE. PRICES TO LIKE
PAULA 3-SEATER SOFA Design to love. Prices to like. Call it our mantra, to us it’s the very core of what we do. At SOFACOMPANY we always offer you high-quality Danish design and value for money. The way we do business is slightly different from others. Simply because we manage everything ourselves allowing us to skip price-raising intermediaries. Moreover, we offer you full flexibility from choosing fabrics and colours to developing designs from scratch in cooperation with our talented inhouse design team. So, tell us about your project and we’ll take it anywhere you like. Always aiming for spectacular.
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23/10/2023 13.43
and clean in terms of aesthetic. To get a good
a six-foot-long desk in the property’s reception
night’s sleep, you need to be able to relax,
– a striking piece whose diverse origins reflects
so I picked out calming, earthy tones for the
the melting pot that is Camden.
interiors at Stay.”
hamper offered in the apartments on arrival,
the open-plan living space – complete with
with sweet and savoury treats selected for
cosy living room, a dining area and kitchen –
their biodegradable packaging, and in place of
accented with darker notes like an olive-toned
plastic bottles, glass carafes that can be refilled
sofa and the occasional burst of greenery. With
at water stations.
lighting another key consideration, the designer
Back downstairs, Stay Camden offers a stellar
has ensured that natural daylight floods in
selection of additional amenities. There’s a gym,
through expansive windows, while spherical
as well as a laidback café next door to satisfy any
light fixtures emit a warm glow after dark.
cravings for baked goods. Continuing to cater to
Naturally, given Stay’s corporate guest
the mobile workforce, Stay’s sister brand, Labs,
demographic, the apartments are also suitably
holds court across multiple floors, providing an
tech-savvy, equipped with a virtual concierge
expansive co-working space – also designed by
service that allows for a number of services and
Gooner – with meeting rooms, an auditorium
customisation options to be reached at the touch
and individual phone booths.
of a button.
120
The same philosophy extends to the welcome
A similar soft aesthetic is woven through
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Ground Gilbey Investors: LabTech London, Stanley Sidings Operator: Stay Interior Design: Yaara Gooner Main Contractor: Mace www.stay.com
For those who frequent properties like these,
Many of the materials and surfaces across the
Stay Camden is a handy spot for a long-term city
property have eco-friendly credentials too; rugs
stint away from home – designed to facilitate
in living rooms are made from recycled bottles,
hard work, hibernation and the occasional
while offcuts of marble have been used to create
Hollywood film crew.
View the full gallery on
Mondrian Duxton SINGAPORE Mondrian’s entry into Southeast Asia sees DP Architects and Studio Carter deconstruct the traditional Singaporean aesthetic to create the contemporary. Words: Luo Jingmei • Photography: © Studio Periphery
I
n the 19th century, Singapore’s Duxton Hill
“The design of the hotel fosters a spirit of
was a 13-hectare nutmeg plantation, thought
community by creating a through-block link
to house some 1,800 trees, while its current
of interesting multi-level spaces, strategically
landscape of ornate shophouses – now conserved
leveraging every available space to create
by the Urban Redevelopment Authority – can be
opportunities for people to connect and
traced back to the 1900s. Today, many of these
interact,” says Suneeth Changaroth, Project
quaint buildings contain boutique offices, cafés
Director at DP Architects.
and bars, and this is the setting that forms a
The arched garden portals, which take on a
backdrop for the new Mondrian Singapore
different character at night courtesy of coloured
Duxton, opened by Ennismore in June 2023.
lights that make for an Instagram-worthy foil,
Prior to the hotel’s existence, the building on
are part of a motif seen through the entire
site was a nondescript structure containing a
development. Viewed as a link between the
hodgepodge of businesses. The architecture by
past and present, the design was inspired by
DP Architects not only creates a new icon in
the architectural vocabulary of the shophouse
the vicinity, but also improves the urbanscape
typology. Mark Wong, Project Architect at DP
by cutting a pedestrian walkway through the
Architects, explains: “The scheme continues the
structure, connecting the laid-back Duxton Hill
traditional shophouse design language in the
with the bustling intersection of Neil Road and
F&B-and-retail wing, while the hotel tower’s
Craig Road lower down the slopes.
design takes on an elegant Modernist language
The overall massing features a tower facing Duxton Hill and a lower block fronting Neil
122
with visual cues and inspiration coming from the traditional shophouse.”
Road. In between is a lushly-planted garden,
The lobby level at Duxton Hill takes guests
integrated with reflective pools and an arching
to the third storey, where Italian steakhouse
greenery-laced portal. This respite is a
Bottega di Carna, opened by celebrated chef
delightful pause in the built-up area, providing
Dario Cecchini, provides a warm welcome. This
picturesque views as one traverses between the
is the heart of the hotel – both symbolically
different parts of the hotel.
and structurally. “In response to the operator’s
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On the hotel’s third level, Italian steakhouse Bottega di Carna introduces an abundance of greenery inspired by the city
124
desire to break free from the typical arrival
As part of the brand identity, a custom graphic
experience, we planned the lobby to be a bustling
of large swirls covers ceilings in the restaurant
restaurant,” says Robbyn Carter, founder of
and corridors to the guestrooms. “Using Chinese
Studio Carter, who worked on the interior
black ink as the medium for creating the brush
design except for Christina’s – a café turned
strokes of varied lines brings a touch of cultural
cocktail bar with interiors by GreyMatters.
significance and artistic expression,” says Carter
The vibrant design at Bottega di Carna
on the design, which weaves in narratives of
mirrors Cecchini’s charismatic personality.
Singapore’s flora, fauna and cultural elements
“Open show kitchens allow guests to witness
from various ethnic groups in the city.
the enigmatic skills of the chef and his team,
Another place to survey the surroundings
adding an element of entertainment to the
is the Canyon Club rooftop bar and poolside
dining experience,” Carter highlights.
cabanas, influenced by 1970s Hollywood
The designer was inspired by the city-state’s
glamour. The development also integrates
greenery for the design too. “We introduced
several independent F&B establishments,
plants and green stone accents, creating a
such as the Kengo Kuma-designed omakase
sense of natural serenity and freshness,” she
restaurant Suzuki and Mediterranean eatery
describes. “One of the standout features is the
Noa, helmed by chef Alain Devahive.
atrium ceiling, where lush plants spill down the
Throughout the hotel, bespoke furniture,
sides into the space, adding a touch of verdant
joinery and furnishing reflect Carter’s passion for
charm to the hotel’s interior.” Columns clad in
craft while paying homage to the region’s history
rippled mirror augment the greenery and sense
as a trading hub for goods and commodities that
of space, while paying homage to the waters
propagated “shared experiences, ideas, artistry
surrounding the island.
and cultural exchange”. The reception desk
B E AU T Y I S F U N DA M E N TA L
LONDON
N E W YO R K
DUBAI
H O N G KO N G
We are makers of hand-painted, embroidered and printed wallcoverings. Folly in Lettuce, photographed by Studio Rochowski at The Goring Hotel
for instance, is crafted from reclaimed railroad
room meetings and events, while the fifth is a
tracks and painted black.
one-bedroom suite with a gable roof and use of
Within the tower block’s 302 guestrooms
In the guestrooms, residents are offered
a jewel-like glass cases that reflect the cityscape
an insight into Singaporean artist André
outside the windows, while arched portals
Wee’s creative process through a special
continue the shophouse reference.
augmented reality filter – just one example
That Carter herself spent six years living
of the thoughtful curation and placement of
in a Singapore shophouse before returning to
artworks by design consultancy The Artling.
Los Angeles underpins the authenticity of the
Cocktail bar Jungle Ballroom’s botanical theme
scheme. This marries with her original creative
is underscored by the artwork of Emma Anna,
endeavours as a sculptor. “The sculptural
while the most striking piece of the collection
influence is evident in the choice of materials,
is a 6m-high bronze sculpture by New York-
the arrangement of elements and the spatial
based artist Kaws, which stands sentry at the
composition of our design,” she elaborates. In
hotel’s entrance.
the guestrooms, cloud-like mini-bars echo the movements of nomadic travellers.
126
green marble to emulate the city’s landscape.
and suites meanwhile, showers are encased in
The understated atmosphere of the reception area is juxtaposed with the psychedelic shades
Unique to the property are five shophouse-
of Ian Davenport’s Deep Magenta mirrored
inspired suites, where sloped ceilings and
artwork and Singaporean artist Daniel Ng’s
shutter windows evoke their namesake, and
Waterfall IV video art. Together, these pieces
contemporary twists in the design details
add another layer of richness to the hotel’s
eschew pastiche. Four suites feature Murphy
melding of narrative with form, telling stories
beds that can be packed up to accommodate in-
of place and time.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Craig Road Property Holdings Operator: Ennismore Architecture: DP Architects Interior Design: Studio Carter, GreyMatters Lighting Design: Lighting Planners Associates Art Consultant: The Artling Landscaping: Shma Company Main Contractor: Sim Lian Construction www.mondriansingapore.com
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128
The Municipal LIVERPOOL Retaining its historic charm, a city landmark is sensitively converted to a hotel, where the magnificent Palm Court takes centre stage. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of The Municipal
I
f the number of entries in the Conversion
columns flanking the entrance and no less than
category of this year’s AHEAD awards is
18 sandstone statues representing the arts,
anything to go by, the hotel industry is making
sciences and industries of Liverpool.
full use of existing buildings across Europe,
Completed in 1868, the quadrangular
transforming unoccupied or underutilised
structure was designed by Corporation architect
spaces into vibrant hospitality hubs that
John Weightman, who was influenced by both
help reinvigorate an area. Vacant offices
French and Italian Renaissance styles to combine
and shuttered shops – many victims of the
ornate stonework and ornamental ironmongery,
pandemic – are seeing new life as hotels, but
with pavilions at each corner topped by convex-
it’s arguably heritage buildings that spark the
hipped mansard roofs. Having been purpose-
most interest, their rich past often making an
built for the city council, it housed everyone
authentic narrative for the design scheme.
from the medical officer to the mayor over a
In Liverpool – the fifth largest city in the UK, boasting a varied mix of arts and culture,
150-year period, before being deemed surplus to requirements and too costly to maintain.
sporting events and shopping – there’s no
The sale to Fragrance Group came in 2016,
shortage of heritage buildings, having once
marking a new addition to the Singapore-
been a major trading port and playing a key
based developer’s UK portfolio of hotels, many
role in the Industrial Revolution. And while
of which are set within historic buildings. In
the Liver Building is the star attraction on the
its Liverpool acquisition, the group took on not
waterfront, a short stroll away on Dale Street
only a historic building, but one with Grade
flaunts façade after façade of listed buildings.
II*-listed status, the star signifying it to be of
At its centre, the Municipal Building stands out
particular national importance. It is this rich
for its landmark clocktower, rising 64m tall
history that makes the property a good fit for
and visible from across the city. The frontage
Accor’s MGallery collection, which prides itself
too is of epic proportions, featuring gargantuan
on the art of storytelling.
129
The lighting scheme throughout the hotel – developed in collaboration with Artin Light – features fitings by Northern Lights and Chelsom
130
The mammoth task of renovating and restoring the building was entrusted to architects Falconer Chester
systems without detracting from the ornate detailing and character of the spaces.”
Hall, while interiors are by Koncept ID and Grayland
Indeed, the likes of plumbing and ventilation
Interior Design. For Falconer Chester Hall, the remit
required a considered approach, with architect,
of work included both conversion and newbuild
designer and contractor coming together to find the
elements, the latter being a four-storey, bronze-clad
best solution. In the public spaces for example, where
extension to the rear to house the spa and additional
access through the finely-decorated ceiling just wasn’t
guestrooms. The bulk of the project however involved
possible, air conditioning is built into the banquette
the heritage building, working closely with Historic
seating, concealed behind grilles at their base.
England and Liverpool City Council’s planning and
Taking the lead on the interiors, Simon Scott and
heritage team. “Restoration of the exterior of the
Jenny Denton of Koncept ID were appointed to develop
building involved months of detailed assessments
the design scheme, while fit-out, selection of loose
and traditional craftsmanship, painstakingly cleaning,
FF&E and branding were undertaken by Grayland, a
mending, preserving and enhancing the ornate
new studio founded by Denton in 2019.
stonework,” explains Alastair Shepherd, Director at
On a tour of the property, Denton explains how
Falconer Chester Hall. Inside, the project became
the design had to be a sensitive balance between
ever more complex. “Firstly, the design team had
old and new, with the majority of original surfaces
to understand the existing structure, stripping back
retained and restored in line with the requirements
layers of incongruous modern interventions to allow
of various heritage bodies. “Because of the building’s
the beauty of the original building to take centre
importance, there were limits to what could be done,”
stage,” he continues. Then came planning the spaces
she reveals. “Naturally, the council wanted ensure that
and insertion of the usual mod cons. “The biggest
key details were preserved and so our concept is very
challenge was introducing mechanical and electrical
much based on the different services that have been
All Roman products are designed and created in Britain. Roman’s collection includes shower enclosures; bath screens; wetroom systems; anti-slip shower trays; and solid surface fabrication of basins, vanity units and bathroom structures; with case goods and furniture integrated into its designs. 2022
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Guestrooms in the existing building feature high ceilings and tall arced windows for plenty of natural daylight
132
housed here over the years – it all nods back to the
client’s desire, was destined to be the Palm Court. At
building and its history.”
its centre, the bar is the focal point, accentuated by
This is most evident in the artwork and curios on display throughout the hotel, referencing agriculture,
British racing green tiles, a marble countertop and an elegant brass frame to house the glassware.
manufacturing and trade, as well as engineering,
By day, Palm Court is a charming spot for a leisurely
electricity and medicine, all tied in with the history of
coffee or casual lunch, and by night, it transforms into
the city. There’s entomology exhibits and a ceramic
an atmospheric bar, with clusters of seating that help
phrenology head; an ode to the Liverpool-born
to break down the space into cosy niches. According to
inventor of the crossword and abstract takes on the
Denton, the lighting was key to defining the different
city skyline; a well-worn leather boot found during
uses according to time of day, so the studio worked
construction and starched white collars in frames. In
with Artin Light and Northern Lights to develop a
line with the MGallery brand, all have a story to tell.
lighting scheme, most notably with the decagonal
On arrival, a large-scale artwork of the Liverpool
chandeliers up above, each comprising laser-cut
waterfront hangs behind the reception desk, setting
antique fretwork and matte opal panels that diffuse
the tone with its muted palette that harmonises with
a warming glow.
the rich timber panelling. “The lobby is intentionally
Tucked away to the side, the library is a quieter
dark and moody, before opening up to Palm Court,”
space to settle into an armchair by the fireplace, and to
says Denton, as the voluminous, light-filled space is
the rear, British brasserie Seaforth has its own distinct
revealed in all its glory. Undoubtedly the crown jewel
identity, yet still benefits from the ambiance of Palm
of the property, it’s a magnificent sight, set beneath
Court. The hotel also caters to afternoon tea lovers
newly-glazed skylights and lined with parallel rows
thanks to The Botanic Tea Room, which occupies a
of palm trees. The internal quadrangle previously
corner pavilion at the front of the building. Here,
served as the Treasurer’s Public Office, but as per the
Koncept and Grayland have opted for a more feminine
paolomoschino.com
134
look, with semi-circular booths and floral
the facilities, the spa in the newbuild extension
dining chairs set around a central blossom tree.
is more contemporary in style.
On the upper floors, the 179 guestrooms and
Responsible for delivering the scheme on
suites – almost all unique owing to the existing
site, main contractor Russell WBHO worked
floorplate – line the perimeter of the building.
closely with Falconer Chester Hall and Grayland
In the newbuild portion, floor-to-ceiling
Interior Design to ensure the standards of the
windows mean plenty of natural daylight,
owner, operator and heritage bodies were met.
while those in the existing building feature
“This was a highly complex project with the
high ceilings and tall arced windows. All follow
change of use from office to hotel, and the
the same design scheme and feature a botanic
addition of a modern extension to a Grade
patterned headboard as the centrepiece, framed
II*-listed building,” concludes Gareth Russell,
by wall panelling that neatly houses a built-in
Managing Director of Russell WBHO. “The client
reading lighting by Chelsom in golden bronze.
had a very clear vision of what this building
Upholstery and soft furnishings in ochre and
could become and we hope that hotel guests and
regal blue accompany casegoods by O’Donnell,
the people of Liverpool can now enjoy it and be
designed in a range of combinations to fit
proud of what we have all achieved.”
the varying floorplates, while carpet designs
That the hotel was packed with diners,
reference the architectural detailing. The top-
overnight guests and events attendees during
level Presidential Suite – previously the mayor’s
Sleeper’s stay is a sure sign of success for the
office – also comes with a freestanding copper
operator, though for the design teams involved,
bathtub in the surrounds of heritage-listed wall
proof must surely come in making the AHEAD
panelling. The same panelling can be seen in the
Europe shortlist, beating off stiff competition to
Weightman meeting room, while rounding out
be in the running for best conversion in Europe.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Fragrance Group Operator: RBH Hospitality, Accor Architecture: Falconer Chester Hall Interior Design: Koncept ID, Grayland Interior Design Lighting Design: Artin Lighting Branding: Paragon DCX Art Consultant: Studio2C F&B Consultant: PSC Hospitality Procurement: Astore Procurement Main Contractor: Russell WBHO www.municipalhotelliverpool.com
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Where furniture making is more than just a job, it is a passion.
LUXURY
BESPOKE
LIFESTYLE
HERITAGE
CONTEMPORARY
The Municipal Hotel Liverpool, MGallery
Where nostalgia meets innovation. Following a £40m refurbishment, the expertise of hotel furniture manufacturer’s, O’Donnell Furniture Makers, was called upon to bring a touch of modernity, with a hint of quintessential style, to the 179 guestrooms of this magnificent hotel. The rooms range from double beds to suites, and all showcase warm and earthy colour palettes. The hotel renovation included all guestrooms and suites, some with private courtyard gardens, and bespoke furniture all designed in collaboration with O’Donnell Furniture Makers, a family owned business, based in West Cork, Ireland, and now in its fourth generation of expertise.
O’Donnell Furniture Makers Head Office Baltimore Road, Skibbereen, West Cork, Ireland +353 (0) 28 22274 odonnellfurniture.com
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DESIGN DETAILS
LOBBY & PUBLIC SPACES
Marriott Casablanca It’s often remarked that history repeats itself, and the same can be said for design, with Brutalism returning to popularity having once been branded ugly, intimidating and bland. For Atelier Pod, the movement is one of beauty, with the design studio opting to embrace the features of a Jean-François Zevaco masterpiece in its creation of a new lobby at Marriott Casablanca. Built in 1985 and previously operated as a Sheraton, the city landmark is a sturdy concrete mass featuring a corner section cut-out which, from within, is viewed as an architectural canopy of right-angled layers. Following on from Zevaco’s work, Atelier Pod has accentuated the volume through the use of towering stone columns and pendant lighting suspended from high above, while a pared back palette of natural materials such as walnut adds warmth. The scheme allows for multiple lounges and pockets of seating that cater to a variety of guest needs which, according to Atelier Pod, “gives the Brutalist structure an architectural response that brings it into its own future”.
Healing Hospitality Following the opening of a new Lanserhof in Germany, architect Christoph Ingenhoven discusses the development of the medi-resort concept, outlining the positive impact of design on guest wellbeing. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Alexander Haiden (unless otherwise stated)
I
t was a new invention in a way,” says
extensive research in the fields of naturopathy,
Christoph Ingenhoven on the planning and
psychoneuroimmunology and cutting-edge
design of Lanserhof Tegernsee, the first
modern medicine, amongst others, the approach
newbuild development from medi-resort
involves a combination of methods that promote
specialists Lanserhof Group. “At the time
health and regeneration. At the heart of the
there was nothing else like it, we had to start
concept is the Lanserhof Cure, which begins
from scratch.”
with sensitive detoxification, purification and
Indeed, in 2014, medical tourism was
deacidification through fasting, nutrition and
in its infancy, but over the past decade,
intestinal cleansing. Detailed physical and
consumer spend on such services has grown
anamnestic examinations on arrival at the
exponentially, giving rise to a new niche for
resort determine the exact programme for
the hospitality industry – one that combines
each individual guest, with everything from
the facilities of a clinic with the luxury of a
acupuncture, oxygen therapy and lymphatic
hotel. However the Lanserhof Group’s history
drainage to musculoskeletal ultrasound, heart
dates back further, to a small, family-run hotel
rate variability and cryotherapy on offer. This
in Austria’s Tyrolean mountains, where Dr
is supported by exercise, relaxation techniques
Christian Harisch – descending from a long line
and massage as well as infusions and dietary
of hoteliers – developed a health concept that
supplements. Far from a spa break, it’s a
aims to regenerate and revitalise. Forty years
thorough MOT of the body and mind. All this,
on, and that property still stands, operating
say Lanserhof, “in the midst of powerful nature
as Lanserhof Lans, making the group a true
and in combination with architecture that
innovator in the sector.
supports regeneration”.
THE CONCEPT
BUILDING BLOCKS
‘Live better for longer’ is the primary goal of the
Taking the lead on creating such architecture
Lanserhof concept and the desired outcome of
is Christoph Ingenhoven, who founded his
every stay at one of the three resorts. Based on
studio in 1985. Best known for buildings such
© HGEsch
At Lanserhof Sylt, a spiral staircase dazzles beneath gently curving timber beams that follow the profile of the free-form thatched roof
as the Lufthansa Aviation Center at Frankfurt Airport and the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg, Ingenhoven’s involvement with Lanserhof began in 2011, when Harisch called out-of-the-blue and asked him to look at a project at Lake Tegernsee in southern Germany. “We had no experience in designing medical centres or spas, and we weren’t known for hotels,” the architect points out. Ingenhoven was, however, an experienced guest, having stayed at the original Lans property some years earlier. “For me, this is a much better
“The idea is to create a particularly sustainable and healthy building complex in which guests can recuperate and reenergise in harmony with nature.”
The architect was also keen to maximise the relationship between the natural world and the built environment, stating: “The buildings here act as if they are sand dunes; they have short vertical façades and an overhanging roof that in some cases is just a metre from the dune. We wanted to follow this idea.” Having scrutinised every element of the traditional design aesthetic, Ingenhoven explored different forms and applications, guided by his own desire to produce a modern interpretation. The result is a meandering, low-
motivation,” he continues. “We were new in
rise structure with a free-flowing thatched roof
the field, but very keen.”
– the largest in Europe, measuring 7,100m2 –
Less than two years later, Lanserhof
that follows the contours of the dunes. Instead
Tegernsee made its debut in the Bavarian Alps;
of the red brick of nearby houses, the façades
the hotel guestrooms and state-of-the-art
are transparent, glazed from floor to ceiling and
medical centre occupying a timber building
around curving corners too. And the windows
that sits in harmony with the landscape. The
protruding from the roof have been reimagined,
façades were constructed primarily from natural
now inverted to create outdoor terraces for
materials, such as larch from renewable sources
every guestroom. According to Ingenhoven,
and integrated planting, while guestrooms are
natural materials and a harmonious design
designed as places of retreat.
are the building blocks of health-promoting
Then came the refurbishment and extension
architecture, but there’s more to it than meets
of Lanserhof Lans, an altogether different offer
the eye.
given the location and heritage of the property.
is a pioneer in sustainable architecture, always
The existing guesthouse was fully modernised
designing in accordance with the highest green
BUILDING BIOLOGY
and a new, elliptical structure added to house
building standards. Key to the schemes at all
The building biology at Lanserhof goes far
a saltwater swimming pool, spa and treatment
three Lanserhof resorts is the integration of the
deeper than aesthetics. With the health and
rooms, with suites on the upper floors. This
architecture with the surroundings, whether
wellbeing of guests the priority, every material
time, red cedar was the material of choice,
alpine or coastal. In Sylt, it’s the sand dunes
within the resorts has been carefully considered,
with a planted roof garden and private terraces
that are the defining feature of the landscape,
taking into account lifecycle and environmental
fostering a connection to the outdoors.
while a distinct style of architecture makes up
performance. In line with building biology
The most recent opening in the Lanserhof
the built environment. “We look very closely at
principles, there’s no synthetic finishes, and
portfolio is on Sylt, an island in northern
the vernacular – the history, building materials
paints and varnishes have been tested under
Germany known for its endless beaches. Built on
and traditional architecture of a region – to
ecological and health criteria. “The idea is to
the site of a former military base, in proximity
identify the essentials, then we create a modern
create a particularly sustainable and healthy
to Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National
interpretation,” explains Ingenhoven. “I had
building complex in which guests can recuperate
Park, the resort was eight years in-the-making,
been to Sylt as a child, and as a young adult
and reenergise in harmony with nature,”
a process that involved back-and-forth with
with my own children, so already had an idea
Ingenhoven explains. “It really helps to have
heritage bodies, government officials and locals
of its characteristics.”
a building biologist who checks every material
to convince them that the scheme would in no
Referencing the island’s traditional Frisian
and every treatment. In the building industry,
way damage the protected sand dunes nor its
houses capped with quaint thatched roofs, he
there are still a lot of chemical treatments
population of birdlife.
continues: “I love the use of reed; it’s a beautiful
that are harmful so we have to be very careful;
For Ingenhoven, a founding member of the
material and there’s an underestimation of what
at Lanserhof we make sure that there are no
German Sustainable Building Council, protecting
you can do with it, so I was very much in favour
emissions, and nothing toxic or poisoning.”
the environment was only natural; the practice
of incorporating it into the design.”
The architect reiterates that designing
141
142
“I wouldn’t say architecture alone is healing but I do think it can support healing processes by providing the right environment.”
buildings that are green in terms of low
the “disorientation of corridor after corridor
are scheduled and the relevant doctor calls
consumption and high efficiency has always
often found in hotels”.
for patients to be seen, but that’s where the
been part of the studio’s DNA, however building
The guestrooms are designed as places of
similarities end; in terms of design and fit-out,
biology – defined as a holistic study of the
retreat and, despite the high level of single
it’s far superior to a typical clinic, with quality
interrelationships between humans and their
occupancy, all are generous in size with an
finishes and state-of-the-art equipment.
manmade environment – is a growing trend.
open-plan living space. The larger suites,
In planning the facility, Ingengoven
“Since we started working with Lanserhof, we
spread across two floors and measuring up to
consulted with Lanserhof’s council of doctors
have noticed an increased desire for healthy
78m2, feature a lounge on the lower level and
to ensure their needs would be met, both as a
buildings, particularly when it comes to how
cosy sleeping area beneath the thatched roof
working environment and to deliver the wide
that building could help people stay healthy,”
up above. Bathrooms are also generous with
range of services on offer. “It’s a balancing
confirms Ingenhoven. “This is the direction I
a spacious shower cubicle and freestanding
act,” comments Ingenhoven. “The facility
see wellness going.”
bathtub, the latter by Bette and made from
has to fulfil clinical requirements to a high
a glazed titanium steel that is extremely
standard, but it shouldn’t look like a hospital.
durable and fully recyclable – another nod to
Because of the mix of health, wellbeing and
The interior design of each resort is also based
lifecycle and environmental performance. And
beauty treatments, we designed a space that is
on guest wellbeing, with Ingenhoven opting
amenities are neatly tucked away behind the
somewhere between the three. When a guest
for a calming palette of natural materials
slimline mirrored cabinets, again so there’s no
is having a manicure, they don’t want to feel
and neutral tones. “There’s a tranquillity and
distraction from the sense of serenity.
as if they’re in a laboratory, and equally, when
A SENSE OF SERENITY
receiving test results, they shouldn’t feel like
simplicity to the spaces,” he explains. “People
All rooms have a private balcony or terrace
get distracted with mobile phones and laptops;
furnished by Kettal, where guests are invited to
everything is bigger, brighter, more direct, more
recline and take in the surroundings. “The main
On arrival, the waiting room features a
hectic. We wanted to take that all away so that
aim of the guest experience is to encourage a
curving blue sofa – the meeting point for all
guests can concentrate on themselves.”
they’re in a beauty salon.”
connection with nature,” Ingenhoven explains.
appointments – and a row of semi-private
There’s no art on the walls, for example, or
“While I can’t forbid guests from getting
booths serviced by a front-of-house team
bold pops of colour. And furniture is primarily
distracted by their own devices, I can offer
garbed in healthcare-style uniforms to
oriented towards the view rather than a TV
something better in exchange – a place to take
differentiate from hotel staff. Leading off the
screen. Interiors are understated, making use
in the landscape.”
corridor are the consultation and treatment
of timber, stone and glass to the backdrop
The wraparound windows mean the landscape
rooms, all with natural daylight and access
of an earthy palette of beige and soft browns
can be viewed from every space, whether tucking
to fresh air. Lighting is functional, surfaces
– “what’s in the landscape is also in the
in to the nutritional cuisine in the restaurant, or
are hygienic and the colour palette is more
building,” as Ingenhoven puts it. The timber
relaxing by the fire in the lounge, where a row
clinical – subtle yet crucial points of difference
in particular is used to spectacular effect, not
of Eames chairs with matching ottomans offer
from the hotel. “There’s a clear change in the
only in the parquet flooring and vertical screens
the prime spot for an uninterrupted panorama.
attitude of the building,” Ingenhoven confirms.
throughout the hotel, but on ceilings too, taking
“Take the colour white; there’s no white in the
the form of long beams that gently curve
A MEDICAL MARVEL
to the profile of the roof. The most dazzling
When it comes to the medical facilities at
intervention is the staircase, standing at the
Lanserhof Sylt, a decision was made early on
The materials used are however subject to the
intersection of the three wings and spiralling
in the planning process to differentiate from
same rigorous testing as in the hotel, ensuring
from the basement to the guestroom floors.
the hotel component. As such, the consultation
there’s nothing toxic in the environment.
“It’s an architectural attraction that people will
rooms and treatment chambers are all housed
According to Dr Christina Haeggberg, Deputy
remember, whether walking the inner circle or
in one wing of the resort, with its own reception
Medical Director at Lanserhof Sylt, this level
the outer circle,” Ingenhoven explains, adding
and waiting area. The 5,000m2 facility functions
of commitment at the design stage supports
that it also helps with orientation, eliminating
much like a typical clinic in that appointments
the health and wellbeing of guests throughout
guestrooms, it is introduced only in the medical facility, bringing more of a clinical feel.”
143
the course of their stay. “From construction to
seminars. Nordic walking, cycle tours and early
HEALING HOSPITALITY
interiors, all materials have been selected to
morning awakening by the sea are all part of the
The combination of the Lanserhof philosophy
allow ‘clean breathing’, which aids the detox
programme, as are music recitals and cooking
and Ingenhoven’s considered approach makes
process via the lungs,” she explains, adding
classes. For those in favour of relaxation, the
for a compelling product and raises the question
that the access to fresh air from all guestrooms
spa features experience showers and a steam
as to whether architecture can in fact be
and public spaces is important for a healthy
room alongside two large saunas by Klafs and
healing. “I wouldn’t say architecture alone is
respiratory system. She concludes: “The
relaxation beds arrranged around a central fire.
healing, but I do think it can support healing
spaciousness and tranquillity of the resort also
There’s also an indoor-to-outdoor pool, where
processes by providing the right environment,”
supports recuperation and regeneration.”
swimming amongst nature nourishes the soul.
he concludes. “Studies have found that hospital
LONGEVITY AT LANSERHOF
Such facilities don’t come cheap, but having
patients with a view of a tree heal significantly
been an innovator in the sector, Lanserhof
faster than those positioned away from the
Playing a role in the ‘live better for longer’
Group can see longevity in its concept and is
window, so we try to do this at Lanserhof. It
approach at Lanserhof are the hotel facilities,
committed to expanding to new markets. In
costs a lot of façade but it’s beneficial to feel
dealing with everything from nutrition to
addition to the three standalone resorts, The
connected to nature.”
physical and mental health. In the restaurant,
Arts Club in London houses a small facility while
The experience is perhaps best demonstrated
the cuisine served is bespoke to each guest
Hamburg has physio and cardio clinics. And
by Ingenhoven’s favourite spot at Lanserhof
and, for those who aren’t fasting, comprises
according to Ingenhoven, there’s more to come.
Sylt – the infusion room. It’s here, where
nutrient-rich vegetables, organic meat and
The group has recently announced its entry into
rejuvenating therapies are administered
dairy sourced from local suppliers. Meals are
Spain, with a newbuild resort at Marbella’s
intravenously, sitting beneath the thatched roof
also supplemented by a ‘green shot’ of algae oil
Finca Cortesin development, representing a
and looking out to views of the sand dunes and
and freshly-pressed wheatgrass, which brings a
€100 million investment in the wellness sector.
ocean beyond, that medicine, architecture and
whole host of benefits.
Ingenhoven reveals that his design will once
nature come together for a transformative dose
again take in local influences while aiming for
of healing hospitality.
There’s a lounge, library and outdoor terrace, as well as a lecture hall for educational
144
the highest sustainability standards.
Reshape your escape. BetteSuno. Discover BetteSuno: Designed by Barber Osgerby
www.my-bette.com
Creativity Meets Commerciality In a world that oscillates between the creative and the commercial, the founder of AboundStudio reveals why this doesn’t happen by chance, but by design. Words: Ben Thomas
I
t takes more than a clever logo, stylish
all; an ambition to raise the benchmark and
interior or fleeting advertising campaign to
enrich the way we live, work and travel with
create a standout brand in today’s market.
category-defining concepts and experiences.”
Those who push the boundaries understand
Huntly’s first job with The Formation Creative
the power of harnessing design to drive
Consultants opened the door to a career in
growth, which in turn can ignite a brand.
design, providing him with a taste for working
For James Huntly, founder and Creative
with those brave enough to disrupt the status
Director of Perth-based branding firm
quo. “My love affair with hotels started with
AboundStudio, the opportunity lies in
my earliest project, shaping the original Hoxton
recognising the relationship between all layers
hotel in Shoreditch, London,” he reveals,
of a brand. Having sat on both sides of the table
adding that the project taught him the value
– agency and client – Huntly moved to Australia
of looking at brands holistically and designing
to launch his own practice in 2019, joining
around people. “Little did I know where this
forces with his partner in business and in life,
would lead me, let alone how it would go on to
Alison, to create what he calls an “ecosystem
define a sector.”
of creative and commercial minds”. “I’ve been
Fast forward a decade and Huntly had
fortunate to collaborate with an array of iconic
switched from agency to client, taking up
hospitality brands and personalities over the
a position as Brand Innovation Director in-
course of my career,” he explains. “Looking
house at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG),
back, there’s been a mindset that defines them
where he furthered his appreciation for fusing
“There’s an abundance of opportunities to bring brands alive through product, interiors, communication and service design, whether in evocative or subtle ways.”
commerciality and creativity. The highlight
landscape as well as the lives of those who
between the creative and the commercial, this
of Huntly’s time at IHG was taking the Voco
encounter them. According to Huntly, for
doesn’t happen by chance but by design,” states
brand from concept to completion. “Voco has
hospitality brands to resonate with guests
Huntly. “It requires an intimate understanding
become a phenomenal success and IHG’s fastest
on a deeper emotional level, they must have
of people and places, their lifestyles and
growing brand,” he says proudly, pointing to
values and a purpose-led philosophy. One
behaviours.” It also means looking beyond
the 46 hotels opened worldwide.
that transcends design disciplines and weaves
the latest trend or fad – and the one after that
itself across the guest journey to cultivate a
– to craft more meaningful propositions and
connection with surrounding community.
experiences that guests come back to.
Having spearheaded brand development at IHG for almost three years, Huntly decided it was time for a change and took the leap of faith
AboundStudio seeks to help brands achieve
“Looking at brands that have achieved
to launch his very own practice – AboundStudio.
this unified vision, informing how they look,
cult-like status in hospitality, they go far
As well as continuing his work with Voco from
talk and behave. Once defined, it then becomes
beyond offering a bed for the night – they’re
an external perspective, Huntly has shaped a
more natural for brands to justify design choices,
platforms of discovery, with activated spaces
soulful family of brands for Edyn, in Locke
shape service behaviours, curate experiential
that transition throughout the day to drive
and Cove. “With travellers blending work and
programming and even identify like-minded
revenue whilst elevating the experience,” says
leisure with longer stays, the rise of brands
partners. “It’s why I love hospitality brands,”
Huntly, who admits to seeing brand identity as
like Locke couldn’t come at a better time,” he
Huntly explains. “There’s an abundance of
intrinsic to the strategic and sustainable success
explains. “When we started work on the brand,
opportunities to bring brands alive through
of a group. “It’s about exploring new business
it had three properties in the UK. Now it has 12
product, interiors, communication and service
models that are conscious and commercial. Put
across Europe – the growth is quite staggering.
design, whether in evocative or subtle ways.”
simply, without a distinctive proposition that
The Edyn team optimise what we describe as
BALANCING BEAUTY & BUCK
challenging the traditional hotel. We’re proud
While designing eyecatching brands is Huntly’s
and creativity required to build a brand for the
to have played a part in their journey.”
forte, he is quick to stress the importance of
long-term, as well as hospitality’s dependency
adding cultural and commercial value to the
on the culture and community around it.”
PURPOSE-LED PHILOSOPHY
148
guests want and need, there is no business. It
true experience makers, with a brand that’s
world around them. The balance, he says, lies
highlights the delicate dance of commerciality
Across all of AboundStudio’s projects, the
in nurturing a brand that grows organically,
SCALING WITH SOUL
firm’s vision is clear; to work with a rising
becoming part of the cultural fabric before
Building a brand is no mean feat and it takes skill
wave of experience makers to craft memorable,
being woven into the daily lives of people
to scale authentically, with the risk of losing a
meaningful brands that enrich the cultural
and communities. “In a world that oscillates
brand’s founding vision and soul in the process
“More than ever, guests are seeking authentic experiences, so replicating what works in one location isn’t necessarily going to work for another.”
Continuing Huntly’s relationship with IHG, AboundStudio recently inspired a fresh look and feel for the Voco brand across newbuild properties in Europe, Asia and Australasia, including Japan’s Voco Osaka
150
a very real prospect. The answer, in Huntly’s
A NEW ERA OF TRAVEL
mind, is to construct a clearly articulated brand
For Huntly, the future of the hospitality sector
blueprint that becomes the bedrock to support
is bright. “We envision an industry that’s
expansion, guiding growth whilst preserving
regenerative, immersive and one that enriches
the brand’s essence and identity. “More than
the world around us, where opportunities and
ever, guests are seeking authentic experiences,
inspiration abound every day,” he envisages,
so replicating what works in one location isn’t
pointing to one particular project that he and
necessarily going to work for another.”
his wife Alison are working on for an iconic
According to Huntly, when a brand is
hospitality brand. “Whilst it’s currently under
bound by values, shared universal principles
wraps, it would be fair to say that the brand is
or signatures, it can create freedom within a
redefining luxury in all the right ways.”
framework that allows the concept to grow
Beyond that, AboundStudio is exploring other
without compromising on quality, while at the
opportunities in its new homeland and what
same time staying true to the original ethos.
hospitality brands can learn from the country’s
“It’s important to remember that a brand is not
laid-back, down-to-earth way of life: “There’s
a static construct, but rather a fluid concept that
huge potential for Australian hospitality to
requires constant nurturing and recalibration,”
become part of the fabric of life, reflecting
he explains. “By taking a fluid yet structured
the sense of freedom and individuality that
approach, it allows design to adapt authentically
come naturally to us as a nation. As such,
to each location; interpret brand signatures
we’re exploring our own uniquely Aussie hotel
beyond their original imagining, for instance, by
concept, which could inspire a new way to
asking who and what in that locale exemplifies
travel. We believe there’s a world of opportunity
the brand for the right reasons.”
out there and we’re excited to journey into it.”
Curtis_Sleeper_236x275mm_Ad_Final1.indd 1
26/10/2023 11:37
Construction Pipeline Global Hotel Groups Marriott International has the largest hotel construction pipeline in the world as listed in the THP database, with 878 four- and five-star projects currently on the boards, amounting to 190,181 rooms globally. While the US-based group is on course for expansion across all regions, it is placing strong focus on Asia, predominantly through its JW Marriott brand, which is projected to grow its portfolio volume by at least a third over the next few years. Hilton Worldwide remains the second most-active group globally, having signed a quarterly record of more than 36,000 keys in Q2 2023 to boost its pipeline. The cities of Shanghai, Nashville and Nanjing count its greatest number of projects, with developments under the Waldorf Astoria, Tapestry and Conrad brands.
AMERICAS
Projects Rooms
1
2
3
4
5
MARRIOTT 356 63,977
HILTON 306 51,320
HYATT 126 26,511
IHG 93 15,913
ACCOR 50 10,345
1
2
3
4
5
ACCOR 122 19,841
HILTON 100 15,023
IHG 84 12,435
MARRIOTT 80 13,402
RADISSON 57 10,341
1
2
3
4
5
ACCOR 107 25,589
MARRIOTT 106 26,998
HILTON 93 18,932
IHG 64 14,199
RADISSON 61 11,811
1
2
3
4
5
MARRIOTT 347 87,458
IHG 261 57,942
HILTON 238 51,180
ACCOR 225 48,888
HYATT 182 40,467
EUROPE
Projects Rooms
For Accor, Europe and the Middle East & Africa are key regions for new construction, with the group ranking highest in both markets by number of projects. There’s no let up in appetite for assets in Riyadh and Dubai, while in Asia Pacific, Manila and Kuala Lumpur are leading the way.
MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
IHG and Hyatt are growing in Asia Pacific too, with China a key target market; all of Hyatt’s top five cities are located in the country. And for Radisson Hotel Group, 11 new signings in Q1 2023 reinforce its ambitious growth plan for the country.
Projects Rooms
ASIA PACIFIC
THP is a data service to support the design, build, furnishing and operation of hotels worldwide. For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com
152
Projects Rooms
BUSINESS CENTRE
THE GLOBAL PICTURE At a global level, Marriott International has the largest pipeline with 190,181 rooms across 878 projects. This is followed by Hilton with 135,793 rooms (733 projects) and Accor with 103,918 rooms (499 projects). Delving into the most active brands, Hilton Worldwide has the greatest share in the top ten, with its flagship brand making the list as well as extended-stay Home2 Suites.
878 Projects 733 499 Projects 498 Projects 371 Projects
Projects
BRAND
PROJECTS
ROOMS
Hilton Hotels & Resorts
115
29,377
Marriott Hotels & Resorts
109
29,636
Hilton Garden Inn
108
18,241
Hampton by Hilton
96
14,227
Hotel Indigo
95
16,785
Home2 Suites by Hilton
76
10,368
DoubleTree by Hilton
75
15,561
Hyatt Regency
74
20,863
Courtyard by Marriott
73
14,414
Radisson Hotels & Resorts
71
11,807
Data in this report is extracted from the THP database and includes only four- and five-star hotel projects. 153
HISTORIC PRODUCTIONS
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BUSINESS CENTRE
The intelligence source for the hotel investment community
Going all-in
Sea with 1,636 rooms; and more recently added
of new resorts in the Alps, Canada and Japan,”
a site in Abu Dhabi.
commented Club Med President Henri Giscard d’Estaing.
The all-inclusive resort space is getting ever
“The launch of ALLInclusive-Collection.com
busier, as more major groups look to get into
comes at a time when demand for all-inclusive
Club Med has been working on upscaling
an area which, since the pandemic, appears to
stays is stronger than ever,” said Gaurav
and upgrading its resorts, for superior returns
have seen a major uptick in consumer demand.
Bhushan, Co-CEO of Ennismore. “By leveraging
and greater scale economies. Almost all of its
What is becoming clear is that the pandemic
this demand and curating the best resorts from
properties are now in its Premium or Exclusive
helped switch consumer mindsets, with a
leading brands, ALL Inclusive Collection is set
categories. In the next two years, it will open
greater focus on spending time with family,
to be a market leader in the luxury all-inclusive
17 new resorts, and relaunch 10 sites following
and on choosing an environment with less left
business, with a strong pipeline globally.”
extensions or renovations, with the second half
to chance. In addition, those that spotted this
According to LEK Consulting, there are some
of 2023 seeing openings in the Alps and Japan.
trend early, such as Hyatt with its acquisition of
fundamental differences that hotel operators
In China, the group is opening two sites under
Apple Leisure, have shown others that moving
need to get their heads around, when delivering
a new sub-brand, Urban Oasis by Club Med.
into all-inclusive can be highly profitable.
all-inclusive, as “all-inclusive resorts are all
Also pushing into new markets is US waterpark
Despite the additional overheads of an all-
about the bundle. Unlike traditional hotels, the
operator Great Wolf, which is making a start on
inclusive offer, these can to an extent be offset
room is just one element of the all-inclusive
its first sites in the UK. It has secured permission
by scale efficiencies.
package. Leisure programming such as spas,
to build its first site near Bicester, which will
The latest major hotel group to commit
water sports, fitness and entertainment is
represent a GBP200m development. A 498-room
more to all-inclusive is Accor. In September,
usually included or semi-included. Successful
hotel with conferencing will feature alongside
it announced a new dedicated all-inclusive
all-inclusive resorts focus on maximising
an indoor waterpark, adventure park and nature
platform under the wing of its Ennismore
revenue per guest, rather than revenue per room.
trail. The project, which is being built partly on
division. Initially, the offering will start with
This requires a deep understanding of their
the site of the existing Bicester Golf Club, will
over 30 properties under its Rixos, SO/ and
target guests’ wants, needs and behaviours.”
also see the golf facilities reconfigured.
Swissotel brands, and the aim is to grow to
And in an executive report on the growing
Great Wolf is also looking at a second UK site
more than 50 resorts within three years. Along
consumer demand for all-inclusive, LEK
in Basingstoke, where it is working towards
the way, other existing group brands will see
Consulting warns: “Bundles are carefully
winning planning consent. Once more, the
conversions to the all-inclusive offer, including
designed, as the resort bears more risk in an all-
project is being planned on the site of a golf
Hyde, Mondrian, SLS and Fairmont.
inclusive model than in a traditional a la carte
centre, which in Basingstoke is owned by the
model. This has implications for operations,
local council.
The Ennismore offer builds on the group’s experience of operating its Rixos brand, which
revenue management and marketing.”
Currently, Great Wolf has 19 US sites open and
has around 20 years of running all-inclusive
One of the pioneers of the all-inclusive resort,
one in Canada, with a pipeline including three
properties, where not just food and drink, but
Club Med, continues to expand and shift its
more American developments. Great Wolf is
activities and entertainment are all within the
resort offering upmarket. The brand enjoyed a
backed by Blackstone, which took a controlling
booking cost.
record breaking first half of 2023, with revenues
65% stake in the business in 2019.
Rixos launched in 2000, with the Turkish
up to EUR1.06bn, 32% ahead of the previous
group establishing a large scale, all-inclusive
year and 20% ahead of 2019. That performance
HA PERSPECTIVE
offering alongside a portfolio that included
came on customer volume of 766,000, up 28%
By Andrew Sangster: Investors were historically
several city hotels too. Accor acquired a 50%
and 2% respectively.
deterred from the resort sector by the perceived
stake in the business in 2017, rebranding some
“These results are mainly driven by the
higher risk. With urban hotels, there are more
of the properties under other Accor flags and
remarkable performance of our Club Med
alternatives – other potential operators and, if
concentrating on developing Rixos as a resort
Mountain Resorts in Winter 2022, thanks to the
things get really bad, a possible change of use.
brand. Since then it has added a further site in
massive investment in recent years to upgrade
Finding rival resort operators is tough, particularly
Egypt, taking over an existing resort on the Red
the Mountain Resorts portfolio, and the opening
in a market dependent on airlift provided only by
155
tour operators, and there is little opportunity for
Hotel Analyst. In Ireland, Crowley said Dublin
locations include Edinburgh, where we’re Dalata
alternative use.
airport arrivals are ahead of pre-pandemic
is constantly looking, according to Crowley.
But this is the thinking of real estate investors
levels, boosted by a strong volume of American
“All the hotels we added to the portfolio last
rather than investors who are weighing up the
visitors. “London is now starting to see a real
year exceeded our expectations, and contributed
prospects of the business as a whole. You don’t really
return – the city is busy. London still hasn’t
greatly to our first half result,” Crowley added.
invest in the building of a resort hotel as much as the
seen the return of Chinese travellers.”
Two more hotels in London have also come
Dalata reported revenues up 29% to
on stream – with four more properties due to
Does it still make sense for asset-light operators
EUR284m, and just under EUR60m of free cash
open next year in London, Brighton, Liverpool
to be focused on resorts, given this need for a holistic
flow. The group expects like for like RevPAR of
and Manchester. “We continue to look for new
view? I think so, provided that it is understood that it
around EUR140 for July and August, and says
opportunities in Dublin, the UK and continental
is one component of the overall business.
it has already contracted 80% of its energy at
Europe,” revealed Crowley.
overall operation itself.
The big separation between resort operators
Dalata is sitting on cash and undrawn
is those who think that running a resort is just
“Recovery of international travel, including
facilities of over EUR400m, giving it options to
operating rooms with a big buffet and those who are
resurgent UK Airport traffic statistics and record
acquire more properties if opportunities arise.
focused on delivering a proper holiday experience.
numbers at Dublin Airport, provides a positive
And PPHE Hotel Group declared record
There are still more of the former than the latter
backdrop for the markets in which we operate,”
revenues in the first half of 2023, buoyed by
and this is where the opportunity lies. A combination
Crowley explained. “While we continue to
strong demand across its European portfolio.
of winning brands and savvy operators who know
monitor potential slowdowns in demand as a
The figure was up 59% year on year at GBP180m,
how to deliver across the breadth of what is required
result of high inflation levels, we are not seeing
with EBITDA up 165.7% to GBP45.2m. Room
for resort guests.
any such indicators.” The one area Dalata has
rates were up 13.1% year on year, while
Where there is plenty of airlift or other
seen an impact as consumers feel the pinch, has
occupancy continued to improve to 69.1% for
connectivity in a location that has lots of separate
been in regional UK, where F&B sales are softer.
the first half.
tourist attractions, a regular hotel brand may be a
Dalata is keen to grow in major cities across
“This momentum has continued into the
good solution. But for more isolated sites, dedicated
Europe, said Crowley, having opened a first
second half, giving us confidence in our
resort operators are essential.
hotel in Dusseldorf, Germany, and added a
full-year outlook and longer-term growth,”
One of the archetypal resort players is Club Med,
second hotel by picking up the former Hard
explained CEO Boris Ivesha. As a result, the
now owned by China’s Fosun. In the first half of
Rock in Amsterdam. “It’s opportunistic by its
company has also returned to previous levels
2023, operating profit was up 182% year-on-
nature – we want city centre hotels. Germany
of dividend payments – but remains concerned
year. Fosun expects to have 20% more Club Med
is behind where we would expect it to be, but
that its shares languish at 60% discount to
accommodation by 2025 compared to 2022. Club
is ahead due to tight cost control.” The coming
asset value. A campaign of using spare cash to
Med is part of Fosun’s ‘Happiness’ division. It is easy
year should see an improvement as the trade
buy shares, undertaken in the last few months,
to see why from an investor perspective.
fair calendar refills with events. “We’re learning
may be repeated. In the group’s main UK and
a lot from that hotel, and we’re planting seeds
Netherlands markets, PPHE reported strong
across Europe for our next phase of growth.”
international corporate, leisure and meetings
Owner-operators thrive
The Amsterdam deal, revealed in the days
demand. Its Croatian business, Arena, also
following the results announcement, sees
enjoyed a strong start into the summer season.
European hotel groups Dalata and PPHE are both
Dalata taking over the long leasehold of the
In Germany, the company reported a strong
pressing ahead with expansion, as their existing
Hard Rock Hotel in the Dutch capital from Zien
rebound in business at its hotels.
portfolios continue to perform strongly.
Group. The 173-room landmark will be switched
PPHE continued to push its growth programme
to Dalata’s Clayton brand on completion of the
through the pandemic period, with the result
deal, expected in October.
being a strong pipeline over the coming months.
Executives at both companies see no signs of demand weakening, expecting any seasonal
156
fixed rates to the end of 2024.
drop in leisure demand to be offset by further
Crowley is also keen to build further in
It recently opened Art’otel Battersea in London,
growth in business travel demand. And for
London, where the group recently opened two
a hotel it operates under a management
both, the plan is to continue signing additional
properties – a rebranded former Apex hotel,
contract. Further launches in the next year and
properties across key European markets.
and a new property in Finsbury Park, originally
a half include a Radisson Red in Belgrade, due
“Leisure has kept really strong,” confirmed
developed with Premier Inn in mind. “We think
to open before the end of 2023, while it has just
Dalata CEO Dermot Crowley, speaking to
we’re only starting in London.” Other key target
launched Art’otel Zagreb. These will be followed
BUSINESS CENTRE
by Art’otels in Rome and London’s Hoxton, in
PPHE has a buy, build and operate business
And at Accor, new Chief Finance Officer
the first half of 2024. The group has also set
model, and has mostly freehold hotels – 30 freehold,
Martine Gerow commented of growth plans:
up its European Hospitality Real Estate Fund
compared to five long leasehold and six under
“We do see an acceleration, driven by luxury
with investment partner Clal, and aims to use
contracts. And unlike Dalata, PPHE has chosen to
and lifestyle. Where we see particularly strong
this to further grow the portfolio of managed
use a global brand major’s infrastructure, having
pipeline is in the Asia Pacific region and the
properties. Up to EUR250m is ready to be spent
secured additional agreements with Radisson Hotel
Middle East.” While Hilton prefers to build
on acquisitions.
Group in May 2022. PPHE says it has access all
from within, Accor has been keener to purchase
Radisson brands at “favourable terms”.
brands to add to its collection. But, aside from
PPHE can see no market weakness: “Strong trading conditions have been maintained
On the other hand, Dalata is preferring to develop
completing the acquisition of French events
through Q2 and into Q3 across all main market
its own brands. How much Dalata is leaving on the
company Potel & Chabot, to broaden the group’s
segments of leisure, corporate travel and
table by not signing up with a big brand’s distribution
F&B offering, Gerow declared: “We have no
meetings and events.” It expects full year
system is a key question, but no doubt Dalata would
further plans for M&A.”
2023 to deliver revenue of “at least GBP400m”
claim that whatever it might gain on the topline it
Nassetta said there was strong momentum
with EBITDA of more than GBP120m. The four
would most likely lose on the bottom line. Brands
for Spark and the new Project H3 extended
new openings due within the next year will, it
don’t come for free.
stay brand. “Results were further helped by
While Dalata is focused on big cities, avoiding
Spark with approximately 60 hotels signed
global brands is perhaps a viable proposition. As
and another 400 in negotiation just six months
it grows and is tempted to take on opportunities in
since its launch. Nearly all deals are conversions
weaker locations, it may have to revisit this decision.
from third-party brands and half represent new
By Chris Bown: So the pandemic aftermath has
There is also the question about whether owning,
owners to Hilton, with our first Spark opened in
blown through, the inflationary shock has blown
operating and developing brands is spreading
September 2023 and roughly 20 by year-end.”
through – and maybe, just maybe, hotel executives
resources too thinly. Its decentralised management
On Project H3 there was still no official name,
can afford themselves the expectation that, for the
model is excellent for driving performance at the unit
but he reported: “We have received tremendous
coming quarters, business may move into relatively
level in terms of operation, but it is here where most
interest from owners and developers due to the
steady forward progress. There’s certainly little to
similar groups struggle in terms of distribution.
strong market opportunity, cost-efficient build
forecasts, deliver a stabilised addition of at least GBP25m to EBITDA.
HA PERSPECTIVE
scare the likes of PPHE and Dalata, as they look to
Just as PPHE seems to have struck a lucrative
expand more substantially into European markets –
arrangement with Radisson, Dalata is in a great
albeit with slightly different operating models.
place to strike a deal with a global major brand group too.
HA PERSPECTIVE By Andrew Sangster: The most remarkable thing about the Dalata results is that they have delivered a like-for-like portfolio valuation growth of 6% from
and high-margin model, and we currently have more than 300 deals in negotiation.” Regions that were slower to reopen after the pandemic are now playing catch-up. Hilton reported RevPAR up 103% year on year in China,
Looking to luxury
up 79% in Asia Pacific, up 30% in MEA and 26% in Europe, while the US figure was a more modest 6%. “China is growing very strongly,
December 2022 to June 2023. This is in a market
Hilton and Accor both upgraded their full-year
this is to be expected given where they are
where yields are going out and property values are
outlook, as the pair declared strong first-half
in the recovery process,” confirmed Gerow.
going down. Now it is possible you could argue with
figures. And they are looking to luxury and
And she also spoke to Accor’s interest in the
methodology or that apples are being compared to
lifestyle to lead their charge for further growth.
Japanese market, where the group has just
oranges, but this remains quite the achievement.
Hilton, already expanding the brand portfolio
signed to convert 23 hotels to its Mercure brand
And it is in sharp contrast with most Reits, as is the
with the new Spark limited-service conversion
family. “This is an objective we had to grow
share price performance. While LXi, for example,
brand, and the as-yet unnamed long-stay
significantly in Japan. It is a really good market,
is hovering around the lows it hit during Covid
addition, is eyeing more brand launches,
incentive fees in particular are very strong. The
lockdowns, Dalata is looking much healthier.
revealed CEO Chris Nassetta. “We’re doing
other market we are looking at is India, this is a
What both Dalata and PPHE share is a
developmental work in luxury lifestyle. In the
market that has really good growth potential.”
preparedness to take on leases. And taking on leases
next year, we’ll launch something in the luxury
“As we look to the back half of the year, we
right now is a sensible thing to be doing given where
space to add to the three brands we already have
expect continued strength driven by recovery
we most probably are in terms of the market cycle,
in the sector, giving us another shot on goal for
in international markets, business transient
pretty much close to the bottom.
luxury opportunities around the world.”
and group demand,” Nassetta explained. He
157
BUSINESS CENTRE
admitted that the US market will plateau and
colour in her answers, just the bare, safe minimum of
could even soften, but expects international
information. What the two groups have in common,
business to continue to grow. “The consensus
though, are the enjoyment of this strong trading
view last quarter was that the second half of
period, seemingly without apparent end. While the
the year would see more meaningful slowdown.
graphs will start to flatten, right now the senior
The consensus for you right now, broadly is that
teams at the big hotel groups are back to business
it’s going to slow down, but it’s more of a soft
as usual – looking for that next growth opportunity.
landing later in the year and more into 2024. “Next year will be a darn good year, because
HA PERSPECTIVE
there’ll be strength in leisure. Everything is
By Andrew Sangster: A week after Accor delivered
getting reasonably close to a more normalised
what was a compelling set of results above consensus
environment. Prices are higher, but that’s just
expectations, its share price settled just over 1%
a broader reset that’s happened throughout
down. That long hoped-for rerating is not yet here.
the entire economy. Unless we have broad
Bernstein analysts, who rate Accor as “best idea
disinflation, which doesn’t feel like it’s
2H23 in EU hotels”, point out that Accor is the most
happening anytime soon, then pricing will
exposed among its peers to the still recovering APAC
remain sustained.”
– 32% of its rooms – and is skewed towards luxury.
Richard Clarke of Bernstein asked about
The contrast with Hilton is sharp. Hilton has 70%
likely progress on the new brands, noting that
of its rooms in North America, Accor has 5%. Hilton
both Tempo and Motto had failed to gain the
has 2% in the luxury segment and Accor has 10%.
level of traction that had been expected. “We
The strategy looks excellent, but Accor’s challenge
launched them about a day before the pandemic
is convincing its shareholders it can deliver. It has
and the vast majority of those are newbuilds,”
been through a far more extensive set of changes
replied Nassetta. “We got into Covid and there
than its peers and changed direction several times.
was no financing – everything slowed down.
Hilton, by contrast, has been single-minded in its
Those brands will do incredibly well. Spark is a
strategy. It has eschewed M&A, preferring to grow
totally different thing. One, it’s not Covid times.
and develop its own brands. It has also focused
While there are challenges out there, it’s a 100%
on the middle range of the market segments, the
conversion brand. And it’s basically taking
segments that have the broadest appeal. Accor’s
hotels that are in much weaker brands and
market segment penetration is somewhat of a
converting them into our system where there’s
lopsided barbell. As well as being strong in luxury,
huge opportunities for market share gains. It’s
it dominates the economy and midscale segments.
a relatively low ticket for owners to do it, thus,
According to Bernstein analysis, 40% of Accor’s
why we have so much interest. So, the ramp on
rooms are in these chainscale segments. It is less
that will be much faster. We will take Spark to
exposed to upper upscale, upscale and upper midscale
Europe relatively quickly.”
than its peers, the space Hilton almost exclusively occupies – just 2% of its rooms are midscale, 2%
HA PERSPECTIVE
Accor’s push into luxury looks to be a compelling
greater. The effusive, always positive and garrulous
idea. Its approach of having brand houses, like luxury
Nassetta talked brands, taking Spark international,
goods companies, is smart. The idea will, I’d expect,
and – what’s fast becoming his favourite subject –
be emulated by its rivals.
how to tap the growing middle class, globally.
158
luxury and no economy.
By Chris Bown: The contrast could not have been
But unlike say Hyatt, which has a third of its
At Accor, Sebastien Bazin dispatched newly
portfolio in luxury, Accor has yet to demonstrate
appointed CFO Gerow to deliver the Q2 results, and
that its approach to luxury will prevail. If – boosters
face the analysts. She was very careful as this was
would say when – it does prevail, then Accor will
her first such gig – and as a result, we got little real
start enjoying a rerating of its shares.
Hotel Analyst is the news analysis service for those involved with financing hotel property or hotel operating companies. For more information and to subscribe visit: www.hotelanalyst.co.uk
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BUSINESS CENTRE
1.
2.
Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 4.
1. AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam’s hotel industry showed event-driven improvement in monthly performance according to preliminary August 2023 data, with both ADR and RevPAR recording double-digit growth yearover-year. Daily data shows the highest occupancy was on Saturday 26 August (at 93.1%), the night of the Dutch Grand Prix qualifying round.
Lower room rates have stalled Melbourne’s performance growth in September, with the industry reporting a decline in RevPAR of 3.2%. The market’s only other month this year with a RevPAR decline was April. Though demand (+7.3%) is exceeding supply growth (+5.7%), the figures are enough to create contraction in room rates.
August 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 80.0% ( 5.2%) ADR EUR180.45 ( 18.9%) RevPAR EUR144.40 ( 25.0%)
September 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 65.4% ( 1.4%) ADR AUD212.47 ( 4.5%) RevPAR AUD138.85 ( 3.2%)
2. DUBAI
4. SYDNEY
September 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 77.6% ( 10.0%) ADR AED457.21 ( 2.7%) RevPAR AED354.94 ( 13.5%)
August 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 80.7% ( 26.0%) ADR AUD261.83 ( 9.0%) RevPAR AUD211.19 ( 37.3%)
Dubai’s hotel industry posted its highest September occupancy since 2016, remaining above 70.0% for the majority of the month. Daily data shows the highest levels in the last three days of the month – the UAE’s public holiday marking Prophet Muhammad’s birthday – peaking at 93.1% on Friday 29 September.
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3. MELBOURNE
Helped by the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Sydney’s hotel industry recorded its highest monthly performance levels since March 2023, according to preliminary August 2023 data. The highest occupancy (94.8%) was seen on Wednesday 16 August, the day of the Australia v England semi-final match.
3.
STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors. For more information and to subscribe visit: www.str.com
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www.aheadawards.com
000
Asia’s leading hospitality lights unite in Singapore to celebrate AHEAD Asia 2023, with Capella Sydney winning big.
Leading hoteliers, architects, interior designers and industry commentators descended on the Garden City in September, celebrating the highest echelons of hospitality in Asia. After receiving over 130 entries from across 14 countries, AHEAD’s regional judging panel selected winners for 17 categories, which ranged from Guestroom to Lobby, Landscaping to Spa & Wellness. Nominees sat with bated breath as the winners of AHEAD Asia 2023 were announced in a glittering ceremony at Parkroyal Marina Bay Singapore. Throughout the night, guests celebrated some of the most compelling and innovative hotel openings, from a converted residential block in the buzzing heart of Shenzhen to a treetop eco-retreat nestled within the lush Bali rainforest. The first course of the night was the Bar, Club or Lounge award, won by Uncle Ming’s at Accor’s AKI Hong Kong, MGallery. The bar’s “understated and elegant design” by A Work of Substance was described by the judges as “reminiscent of a private club with a refined exclusivity,” and praised for its ability to elevate the two key elements of the venue – the view and the whisky. Later on in the evening, Kiln at Ace Hotel Sydney – designed by Atelier Ace, Bates Smart
and Fiona Lynch Office – took the title of best hotel Restaurant, with interiors commended by the judging panel as “meticulously curated.” Elsewhere, AHEAD’s newest category – Accessibility – saw judges assess new innovations in the field, with Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences handed the trophy. As the world’s first Inclucare-verified resort, the property boasts a range of accessible facilities, as well as training for staff with physical and sensory disabilities. Several projects from China were commended throughout the evening, with the Avalon Collective-designed Andaz Nanjing Hexi bagging multiple awards. The team behind the hotel took home a prize for its Guestrooms – described as showcasing a “nuanced design” – as well as its Event Spaces, which were praised for their “upscale coworking style”. Other celebrated locations across the region included Indonesia, where Balinese jungle paradise Lost Lindenberg – designed collaboratively by Alexis Dornier and Studio Jencquel – was named best Hotel Newbuild by the judges, who described the project as “wholly innovative and unique”. Moving east to Sumba, beach resort and farm Cap Koroso came out on top in the Resort
category, with the panel praising the property for its “Modernist architecture, sensitive landscaping and an inherent sense of place that engages the local community.” This year’s Outstanding Contribution winners meanwhile were Sonu Shivdasani and Eva Malström Shivdasani, founders of Soneva. The duo, who featured in issue 109 of Sleeper, were praised for their impressive sustainable luxury initiatives and ability to create luxury hospitality with purpose. The big winner of the night however was Capella Sydney, which scooped multiple awards including best Lobby, Hotel Conversion and the coveted AHEAD Asia Hotel of the Year title. Cleverly converted from a former Department of Agriculture building to a luxury five-star hotel, the property – designed by Make Architects and Bar Studio – was described as “a reimagined sequence of spaces that delight” with the team commended for developing “expert transitions between new and existing architecture”. Those who took home trophies are now gearing up to participate in AHEAD Global, where projects from all four AHEAD regions will go head-to-head to compete for global titles, including that of the AHEAD Global Hotel of the Year.
AHEAD
© Macro Studios
B A R , C LU B O R LO U N G E
RESORT
Uncle Ming’s at AKI Hong Kong, MGallery – China Accor / Aedas / A Work of Substance
Cap Karoso – Sumba, Indonesia The Frenchman / GFAB Architects / Bitte Design Studio
E V E N T S PA C E S
R E S TA U R A N T
Andaz Nanjing Hexi – China Sun Hung Kai Properties / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Avalon Collective
Kiln at Ace Hotel Sydney – Australia Golden Age Group / Atelier Ace / Bates Smart / Fiona Lynch Office
GUESTROOMS Andaz Nanjing Hexi – China Sun Hung Kai Properties / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Avalon Collective
HOTEL CONVERSION Capella Sydney – Australia Pontiac Land Group / Capella Hotels & Resorts / Make Architects / Bar Studio
S PA & W E L L N E S S Six Senses Spa at Six Senses Fort Barwara – Rajasthan, India Espire Hospitality / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Abhikram / Mitchell & Eades
SUITE Ace Hotel Sydney – Australia Golden Age Group / Atelier Ace / Bates Smart / Flack Studio
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y HOTEL NEWBUILD Lost Lindenberg – Bali, Indonesia Lost Lindenberg Indonesia / Lindenberg Hospitality / May Hotels / Alexis Dornier / Studio Jencquel
Ulaman Eco Retreat – Bali, Indonesia Dino Magnatta / Inspiral / Prima Design / Imaji
ACC E S S I B I L I T Y H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N
Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences – Baa Atoll, Maldives Coastline Investments / The Small Maldives Island Co. / Akin Atelier
Lancemore Milawa – Australia Lancemore Group / The Stella Collective
NEW CONCEPT L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Xitan Hotel Beijing – Relais & Château – China Beijing Tan Zhe Yang Po Yuan Tourism Development Co. / Xitan Hotel Beijing Management Co. / Tofu Inc. / Bond Design Studio / Nikken Sekkei / Nomura Landscape Laboratory
Nantou City Guesthouse – Shenzhen, China Vanke / Neri & Hu Design and Research Office / Bowan Architecture
O U T S TA N D I N G C O N T R I B U T I O N Sonu Shivdasani & Eva Malström Shivdasani
LO B BY Capella Sydney – Australia Pontiac Land Group / Capella Hotels & Resorts / Make Architects / Bar Studio
LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S Ulaman Eco Retreat – Bali, Indonesia Dino Magnatta / Inspiral / Prima Design / Imaji
HOTEL OF THE YEAR Capella Sydney – Australia Pontiac Land Group / Capella Hotels & Resorts / Make Architects / Bar Studio
AHEAD
Clockwise from top left: Uncle Ming’s at AKI Hong Kong, MGallery; Kiln at Ace Hotel Sydney; Lancemore Milawa, Capella Sydney, Andaz Nanjing Hexi, Cap Karoso
Atlantis The Royal scoops three awards as AHEAD MEA celebrates the finest hospitality projects across the Middle East and Africa.
Hot on the heels of AHEAD Asia, hospitality experts from the Middle East and Africa united at W Dubai, The Palm in September to applaud the region’s finest hospitality offerings. Architects, interior designers, sponsors and industry commentators were in attendance as the creators behind inspiring hotel projects took to the stage to receive their awards. With a variety of projects entered from 13 countries, the expert judging panel were tasked with whittling down a shortlist of the region’s crème de la crème across 15 different categories, including Hotel Renovation, Guestroom, Landscaping and New Concept. The winning projects showcase some of the most compelling designs and experiences in the Middle East and Africa, from an otherworldly eco-camp set among the lunar dunes of the Agafay Desert to a converted ice factory in the heart of Sharjah. The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait was commended twice by the judges, taking home the crown for best Guestroom, as well as best Suite. Occupying a series of 1950s merchant residences, The Serai Wing was recently revamped by Anarchitect, now offering a collection of 12 private rooms and suites described by the judges as “simple, refined luxury that sensitively connects to its inherited Emirati architecture”.
Taking home the award for best Resort was Caravan Agafay by Habitas – the group’s debut in Morocco and second opening on the African content. Comprising a camp of sandy-toned, Berber-inspired canvas tents, the resort was praised for its “pared-back, authentic design” that immerses guests in its desert location. Scooping the trophy for best Conversion was The Ned Doha, where David Chipperfield Architects (Berlin) and Soho House Design were celebrated for creating a property that “expertly celebrates Modernist architecture with subtle interventions, whilst breathing new life into the building”. Elsewhere, One&Only Cape Town held off the competition in the Hotel Renovation category. Judges commended what they described as a “beautifully layered design approach” by Muza Lab, whose scheme was lauded as “authentic and locally relevant”. Turning to food and beverage, Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai – designed by LW Design – came out on top in the Bar, Club & Lounge category, with judges praising the space and its Art Deco touches as “truly immersive and cohesive”. Later in the evening, the trophy for best hotel Restaurant in the region was handed to Mei Li at Grand Hyatt Kuwait, where judges were impressed by the venue’s impressive storytelling.
Celebrating all manner of hospitality innovations, andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge was named top of its class in the Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps category, where judges agreed that renovations by Jack Alexander Studio in partnership with Fox Browne Creative were “sensationally executed, beautifully scaled and richly layered, with exquisite attention to detail”. Innovation was the deciding factor in the New Concept category too. Securing the trophy was Kalba Ice Factory, a cultural hub and artists’ residence housed in an abandoned Brutalist ice storage facility in Sharjah, converted by 51-1 Arquitectos. Atlantis The Royal scooped the ultimate accolade on the night, taking home the trophy for Hotel of the Year, alongside those for Hotel Newbuild and Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, Dynamic Engineering Consultants, G.A. Group and SM Designs, the hotel was described by the panel as nothing short of “a modern-day wonder” lauded for its “captivating structure” and “bold and unashamedly epic” design. Those triumphant at AHEAD MEA will join winners from Asia, Europe and the Americas at AHEAD Global, where projects will vie to be named not only the champions of their region, but across the globe.
AHEAD
©Benjamin Exposure
B A R , C LU B O R LO U N G E
LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S
Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem – Dubai, UAE Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts / LW Design
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge – Tanzania andBeyond / Jack Alexander Studio in partnership with Fox Browne Creative / Fox Browne Creative / Abigail Janisch / Stefania Engelbrecht
E V E N T S PA C E S Sol Beach Bar at Address Marassi Golf Resort – El Alamein, Egypt Emaar Misr / Lulie Fisher Design Studio / Capsule Arts
RESORT Caravan Agafay by Habitas – Morocco Habitas
GUESTROOMS The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait – Sharjah, UAE Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (SHUROOQ) / General Hotel Management / Anarchitect
HOTEL CONVERSION The Ned Doha – Qatar The Ned / Soho House & Co. / David Chipperfield Architects (Berlin) / Soho House Design
HOTEL NEWBUILD Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE Investment Corporation of Dubai / Kerzner International / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Dynamic Engineering Consultants / G.A. Group / SM Designs
H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N One&Only Cape Town – South Africa Kerzner International / Muza Lab
L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE Investment Corporation of Dubai / Kerzner International / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Dynamic Engineering Consultants / G.A. Group / SM Designs / SKS Studio / 40 North
LO B BY Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort – Dubai, UAE Meydan / Kerzner International / LW Design
R E S TA U R A N T Mei Li at Grand Hyatt Kuwait Tamdeen Group / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / CallisonRTKL / AB Concept
S PA & W E L L N E S S Hot Spa at Babylonstoren – South Africa Karen Roos / TV3 Architects
SUITE The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait – Sharjah, UAE Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (SHUROOQ) / General Hotel Management / Anarchitect
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge – Kenya Baraka Lodges Africa / Marriott International / Innovative Planning & Design Consultants / Kristina Zanic Consultants
NEW CONCEPT Kalba Ice Factory – Sharjah, UAE Sharjah Art Foundation / 51-1 Arquitectos / Kling Consult International
HOTEL OF THE YEAR Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE Investment Corporation of Dubai / Kerzner International / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Dynamic Engineering Consultants / G.A. Group / SM Designs / SKS Studio / 40 North
AHEAD
Clockwise from top left: andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge; The Ned Doha; Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem; Atlantis The Royal; Hot Spa at Babylonstoren; The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait
20 SEPTEMBER 2023
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EVENTS
Radical Innovation 24 October 2023 NEW YORK
Radical Innovation celebrates groundbreaking new hospitality concepts as it names its 2023 winners.
H
aving searched the globe for cutting-edge
projects comprised hospitality experts from the
hospitality concepts, Radical Innovation
likes of Highgate, WATG, Accor and Hilton, who,
has unveiled its 2023 winners. On 24
through a blind judging process, reviewed all
October, 100 industry architects, designers, real
submissions to create a shortlist.
estate moguls and visionaries convened at New
The two Professional Project finalists
York’s New Museum for the 17th annual Radical
had previously crossed paths on the Radical
Innovation awards ceremony, where new ideas
Innovation stage in 2020, when they were
for the hospitality sector were presented and
also chosen by the jury to compete against
deliberated. Since its launch in 2006, the annual
one another. This year, Populous and Luxury
competition has provided a platform for design
Frontiers were selected from a pool of 60
professionals and students to showcase their
anonymous submissions, vying again to take
groundbreaking visions, with the ultimate aim
home the crown.
being to have a positive impact on the future of hospitality.
PROJECT PRESENTATIONS
As proceedings began, the two design teams presented their entries – both of which explore the notion of mobile hospitality. Mbala-Nkanga showcased Spinhous, which combines the
Following welcome drinks at New Museum’s Sky
comfort of a hotel room with the flexibility of
Room, the finalists in the Professional Project
a vehicle, while Labe spoke about The Turtle
category took to the stage to present their ideas,
Bungalow, an aquatic nomad designed to sail
with Joel Mbala-Nkanga representing Populous
from island to island.
and Graeme Labe speaking on behalf of Luxury
Following the presentations, a question-and-
Frontiers. The jurors assessing this year’s
answer session saw Mbala-Nkanga and Labe
175
EVENTS
Winners of Radical Innovation 2023 include The Turtle Bungalow (opposite) in the Professional Project category; and (clockwise from above) The Rocky Hotel, The Gourd Project, PulpaTronics and H&S Health Spring
The Student Project winner meanwhile was
as well as its feasibility and potential impact.
The Rocky Hotel by Nadia Shumeeva – a student
Finally, the ceremony’s live audience voted
at Kazan State University of Architecture &
In an unprecedented move, two winners
for their favourite, with votes combined with
Engineering – who will be awarded US$5,000
were crowned in the Student Product category:
a record-breaking number of public ballots,
and the opportunity to apply for an assistantship
PulpaTronics by Barna Soma Biro, Chloe So,
totalling over 1,500.
and full scholarship from one of Radical’s
Jingyan Chen and Rui Ma from Imperial College
three university partners. Built into existing
London and The Royal College of Art was named
mountain terrain, The Rocky Hotel is set across
a winner, as was H+S Health Spring by Wen Shin
Five winners were ultimately named across
multiple levels, making use of natural materials
Zeng, Sin- Yu Lin, Yun-Jhen Wu and Yin-Chi Lu
four categories, with The Turtle Bungalow –
and offering direct access to the landscape in a
from Ming Chi University of Technology.
submitted by Graeme Labe, Juan Cloete, Rick
move that results in true immersion into the
Van Heerden and Idalina Silva Grech-Cumbo
surroundings.
PROJECT WINNERS
– scooping the prize for Professional Project.
176
drinking vessel crafted from dried and hollowed
field questions on the creativity of their vision,
gourds, a fleshy fruit with a hard skin.
The entries tapped into varied elements of the hospitality experience, with H+S Health Spring envisioning a relaxing shower
Spread across two levels, the accommodation
PRODUCT WINNERS
concept has ample space for relaxation, with
Moving onto Product winners, The Gourd
and essential oils, and PulpaTronics aiding
an overwater hammock, rooftop bar, lounge
Project was the recipient of the Professional
smart inventory management in hotels via a
and hot tub, as well as a slide offering direct
Product award, with Jun Aizaki from Crème
sustainable radio-frequency identification tag.
access to the water. Developed for minimal
Architecture & Design taking home the trophy.
impact, it also incorporates solar panels, a
A sustainable alternative to disposable plastic
For more information on Radical Innovation,
desalination plant and environmentally-safe
cups, The Gourd Project draws inspiration
which has awarded over US$200,000 to
sewage treatment, ensuring that both luxury
from centuries-old Japanese tradition, taking
progressive architectural and hospitality-
and sustainability work hand-in-hand.
the form of a biodegradable and compostable
minded thinkers, visit radicalinnovation.io
experience through a volcanic stone tank, herbs
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180
SPOTLIGHT
Mind, Body & Spurs As Tottenham Hotspur ramps up its player recovery programme, the football club’s Head of Medicine & Sports Science explains the importance of its partnership with DUX. Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Sumo Crucial
A
good night’s sleep is essential for our
arranged to suit the body’s three comfort
match preparations. 40 guestrooms feature
physical and mental health, but for
zones – shoulders, hips and legs – with each
earthy palettes, soundproofing and lighting that
those competing at the pinnacle of elite
adjustable using a soft, medium, firm or extra-
automatically changes temperature depending
sport, it also plays a vital role in the recovery
firm cassette. “Our aim is always to reduce
on the time of day, while a spacious restaurant
process. It comes as no surprise, then, that
the amount of pressure points on the body in
with floor-to-ceiling windows gives an al
as the fixture list deepens for football clubs
order to generate equal blood flow,” says Scott,
fresco dining feel. At the rear of the restaurant
worldwide, they are investing more time and
adding that consistency is key to quality sleep,
is a large media screen equipped with games
money in optimising the sleep environment.
so the idea was to create a familiar environment
consoles and soft seating for recreation, with
with minimal distractions.
other living areas for more private meetings.
Having completed a state-of-the-art training complex in 2012 and a subsequent player
With consistency in mind, the players have
Part of the original site, Myddelton Farm
accommodation facility in 2018, Tottenham
also been provided with a similar sleep system
has also been carefully redesigned to house
Hotspur has since teamed up with Swedish bed
at home, meaning places they rest regularly are
The Lodge’s informal reception, as well as
and furniture maker DUX to assist its squad in
equipped. “The feedback from the squad has
accommodation for the club’s coaching staff.
maximising their sleep and recovery routine.
been positive,” Scott confirms. “If players sleep
On the upper floor of the farmhouse is the
According to the club’s Head of Sports
well, they are more alert in the morning and can
Myddelton Suite, which is occupied by the
Medicine & Sport Science Geoff Scott, the
concentrate for longer periods throughout the
manager and comprises a bedroom, bathroom
partnership is built on a shared ambition
day. If we’re playing at home or elsewhere in
and living area with a digital tactics board.
to enhance performance. “When The Lodge
London, then the team has that reassurance in
accommodation facility was constructed, we
knowing they’ll sleep well at The Lodge.”
Tactics can be discussed in The Lodge’s multi-purpose theatre room too, which doubles
wanted to ensure that its design and everything
The beds feed into the wider recovery
as a yoga studio or additional gym space,
inside was optimised for player recovery. It soon
programme across the facility, which was
accompanying other recovery spaces such as a
became obvious that the beds, mattresses and
designed by F3 Architects. The building’s
hydrotherapy spa with hot and cold pools. Down
bedding were key to this approach. We needed
intentionally sunken profile means players
in the basement meanwhile, the main gym
a product that the players would look forward
overlook a mini orchard rather than the training
features the same equipment as the adjacent
to using.”
pitches, while its timber-clad crescent shape
training complex, while an altitude chamber,
As such, the DUX 8008 sleep system – along
offers a soothing Scandinavian feel. Even the
massage beds, a strapping area and a doctor’s
with the brand’s down-filled Xleep pillows
communal garden, with a fire pit, bean bags and
surgery round out the facilities.
– has been installed in every room, with the
loungers for team bonding, is bee-pollinated to
innovative Pascal system allowing players to
reduce symptoms for allergy sufferers.
Despite the success of DUX’s sleep systems at The Lodge and the homes of the Tottenham Hotspur squad, Scott believes there is plenty
customise the bed to suit their requirements.
Though not strictly a hotel, the building has
Named after French mathematician and scientist
been equipped with hotel-quality facilities
more to come from the partnership.
Blaise Pascal, the patented system sees springs
that ensure the squad can fine-tune their pre-
www.duxiana.com
181
ALCHEMY COLLECTION WWW.ILIV.CO.UK
SCAN TO ORDER FREE SAMPLES
SPOTLIGHT FABRICS, SURFACES & WALLCOVERINGS From timber to marble, leather to porcelain, here’s our round-up of the products paving the way in the world of fabrics, surfaces and wallcoverings.
Hi-Macs Marble Effect Finishes Hi-Macs has expanded its range of marble-effect colours. The brand has introduced two additions to Gravilla, as well as two new variations to its Aurora and Marmo series. The new Gravilla shades – Snow and Cream – are well-suited to monochrome and neutral-toned interiors, able to be smoothly integrated into classic and contemporary settings. Meanwhile, Hi-Macs’ Aurora and Marmo collections now include Aurora Calacatta Fiore and Aurora Daymoon. Aurora Calacatta Fiore offers a luxurious marble look, with thin yet marked vein detail and a touch of sparkle, while Aurora Daymoon is a subtle grey tone that works in harmony with a variety of design schemes. www.lxhausys.com
SPOTLIGHT
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3.
184
4.
1. Rubelli Kieffer
2. Fromental Folly
3. Cristina Marrone Upholstery Fabrics
4. Arte Les Naturels
Design studio Formafantasma has been tasked with the creative direction of Rubelli. The first collection to be launched under the partnership is Kieffer, reinterpreted in a new light. Linen, mohair wool, hemp, cotton, alpaca and paper are just some of the selected fibres used within the range. Manufactured by Rubelli and other Italian weaving mills located close to Lake Como, the collection is made using natural materials and is available in various colours including pale yellow, lilac and pink. In Kieffer, aesthetic exploration is paired with attention to sustainability, which has long been one of the focal points of Formafantasma’s research process. www.rubelli.com
Fromental recently collaborated with Russell Sage to enhance the charm of The Goring in London. The Folly design was chosen for the hotel, a quintessential British establishment celebrated for its luxury and meticulous attention to detail. Folly was introduced into three refurbished suites in different colour palettes, embellished with silk embroidery. Renowned for its handpainted and embroidered wallcoverings, Fromental also offers durable vinyl alternatives. The same handpainted quality is used to create patterns that can be tailored to any space, with the design team working closely with clients to bring their visions to life. www.fromental.co.uk
Cristina Marrone, part of Covertex – a family-run business started in 1977 – specialises in upholstery fabrics designed or selected by the brand’s namesake. The company produces contract-grade fabrics, with over 3,000 options available to choose from. Cristina Marrone will be launching three new sustainable fabric collections at HIX 2023, all of which have been manufactured with recycled polyester, are FR-treated with the brand’s Green FR, and produced without any harmful chemicals. Covertex is an upholstery fabric wholesaler based in West Essex, which supplies an extensive range of over 2,000 upholstery fabrics to the UK and across Europe. www.covertexltd.co.uk
Les Naturels by Arte is a new collection inspired by natural textures and colours that bring nature indoors and encourage a sense of serenity. Rêverie Tropicale portrays lush green scenery, while La Prairie is a representation of woven grass, available in 12 different colourways. Verdure showcases a handpainted leaf pattern that draws on the design of 16th-century tapestries, transferred onto a luxury fil-à-fil fabric, and Le Raphia Tissé is a true-to-nature representation of open woven raffia against a coloured background. Finally, Le Sisal is a natural interpretation of beautifully woven sisal – widely used in the 19th century – in a warm, calming colour palette. www.arte-international.com
skoposfabrics.com
SPOTLIGHT
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186
3.
4.
1. Madera Timber Design
2. Edmund Bell Sustainable Fabrics
3. Agua Fabrics Bouclé
4. StoneCircle The Carlton Tower Jumeirah
Madera is a design and fabrication firm that uses the medium of timber for creative expression. The brand creates custom flooring, integrated millwork and bespoke furniture that brings the natural beauty of timber into a range of interiors and design styles. Madera’s hands-on approach and design-forward methodology allows the brand to pay close attention to even the finest of details, while celebrating the natural beauty and resilience of timber. The brand’s seamless design process is a holistic collaboration between client, designer and contractor, which aims to ensure a streamlined process in hospitality projects. www.maderasurfaces.com
Edmund Bell’s sustainable fabric collection seeks to minimise environmental impact while ensuring maximum quality. Reset is a decorative blackout fabric woven from 100% recycled yarns, while Duo combines post-consumer recycled polyester and natural fibres. Link and Sway stand out for their use of flame-retardant recycled polyester Repreve yarns, sourced from post-consumer plastic bottles and pre-consumer waste. Link features an elegant, sculptured wide-grid face, while Sway offers a more natural linen appearance. Edmund Bell’s fabrics are prime selections for environmentallyconscious interior design. www.edmundbell.com
Bouclé is the latest textured soft fabric collection from Agua Fabrics, available in 16 shades. With its signature looped, curly yarns, the collection required over a year of testing to perfect. The brand has developed a material that stands up to the rigorous needs of the contract environment, while also performing in line with its other product staples. The fabric’s weave was engineered to resist wear and maintain a soft handle, achieving a 70,000 Martindale rating in the process. In line with Agua’s entire product range, Bouclé is also waterproof, fire-retardant to the highest specification for contract use and antimicrobial, thanks to the brand’s AguaGuard365 treatment. www.aguafabrics.com
Established in 1968, StoneCircle manufactures stone products from its stonemasonry factory in England. Based near London, the brand imports, fabricates and installs natural stone for an array of hotel projects. StoneCircle recently kitted out the spa at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, using marble wall cladding in Botticino Classico in the spa’s showers. Stylish, practical and durable, the cladding can provide a chic finish for wellness spaces, as well as a range of hospitality interiors. The abundance of colours and marble types makes it easy to pick a stone that fits with a design scheme, while slabs can also be vein matched for added impact. www.stone-circle.com
SPOTLIGHT
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2.
3.
188
4.
1. Creative Matters Smoulder
2. Atelier Foglizzo Leather Craftsmanship
3. ILiv Alchemy
4. Mandarin Stone Porcelain Tiles
Smoulder is a design from Creative Matters’ soft wallcovering collection, Tellurian. Soft wallcoverings are well positioned to add dramatic visual interest and intriguing texture to a space, as well as warmth and sound absorption. Ideal for guestrooms and elevator lobbies, the coverings are made via a process of needle-felting, embellished by interlocking fibres, which permit the creation of softer lines associated with watercolour effects and painterly designs. The fibres are punched together with a needle by hand and then finished by machine and, in the Smoulder design, are then layered to create swirling, smoky lines with a translucent quality. www.creativemattersinc.com
Atelier Foglizzo’s primary mission is to develop contemporary interpretations of leather, meeting demand for creations that embody quality, creativity and authenticity. Expertly-crafted leather is more than simply a material, rather it is a process with a long tradition of Italian craftsmanship behind it. As such, each creation from Atelier Foglizzo pays tribute to a deep passion for leather, as well as a keen attention to detail. The brand’s mastery in working with the material leads to products that can add a unique and functional touch to hospitality interiors, with a wide range of finishes ensuring maximised customisation to tailor to clients’ individual needs. www.foglizzo.com
ILiv’s latest fabric collection, Alchemy, is a blend of flowing geometric shapes with captivating organic textures. Inspired by the beauty of natural imperfections, Alchemy embraces the grains, curves and irregular lines that characterise earthy and organic patterns. Well-suited to warm-toned interiors, the series facilitates an organic feel. The collection is available in seven rich colourways, including Maroon, Juniper and Sunset, spotlighting irregular lines, cut velvets, stylish prints and geometrics. Interior fabric brand ILiv offers a varied range that is available worldwide through the company’s extensive network of designers, retailers, distributors and agents. www.iliv.co.uk
Founded over 30 years ago by Alma Small, Mandarin Stone is a family-run business based in the rolling hills of Monmouthshire, Wales. Offering a wide collection of marble, limestone, porcelain, ceramic and patterned tiles, the brand is able to cater to a broad range of hospitality interiors and design schemes. For instance, Mandarin Stone supplies practical, stylish wood-effect porcelain tiles, and recently introduced the option of panelled or slated woodeffect tiles – a new alternative to typical timber panelling. Adding both warmth and texture, the tiles are particularly valuable when creating an organic feel in a contemporary bathroom space. www.mandarinstone.com
Introducing Bouclé, our newest high performance upholstery fabric, purposely designed for hospitality spaces. aguafabrics.com
SPOTLIGHT
Q&A
Atlas Concorde Efrem Grasselli, Global Marketing Director, Atlas Concorde Paolo Zilli, Associate Director, Zaha Hadid Architects Atlas Concorde’s Global Marketing Director discusses the brand’s new Marvel Meraviglia collection, while the Associate Director of Zaha Hadid Architects weighs in on the companies’ recent collaboration. Where did the inspiration come from for the design of Marvel Meraviglia? Grasselli: The collection is named after Calacatta Meraviglia, the iconic marble that inspired it, and is designed to offer a whispered elegance that encapsulates the history and future of marble-inspired aesthetic research. A selection of five highly-prized marbles with warm, enveloping tones become interpreters of extraordinary natural colours. What are the defining features of the new collection?
Grasselli: With neutral shades drawn from marble, this collection features
unique elements like sleek, sparse veins, soft weaves, white brushstrokes on a dark background and sumptuous blacks. Marvel Meraviglia also uses Velvetech, a new technology with an Italian patent inspired by the effect of sanding on the surface, with silk-like reflections and a velvety soft hand.
Another recent series is Diamond, designed in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects. How did that partnership come about? Grasselli: Following a workshop at the Atlas Concorde Design Centre with Paolo Zilli, we proposed the collaboration to develop a new design for their décor range. Diamond is the result of Atlas Concorde and ZHA’s joint push toward an evolution of decorative design standards. The collaboration builds on the combined history and expertise of Atlas Concorde and ZHA, and is based on our shared values: a strong international focus, leadership in interior design projects, innovation and pursuit of excellence, and attention to environmental sustainability issues. How can Diamond be used in hospitality spaces?
Zilli: Diamond has the ability to focus the attention and provide a focal
point in a space. It might be used in a waiting area, behind a reception desk or to enhance a bar, swimming pool or sauna. I hope designers will find new, unconventional ways to use it, showcasing flexibility in design.
© Zaha Hadid Architects
190
What kind of interiors is Diamond suited to? Zilli: The design is inspired by the Cosmatesque tradition, but the distortion of the geometry and transition from a flat pattern to tridimensional geometry adds a contemporary complexity to the design. The collection is a good fit for luxury environments with a modern twist, but I’m sure designers will surprise us with alternative uses and environments that we haven’t even considered yet! www.atlasconcorde.com
Como New Contract Collection
Introducing Cristina Marrone fabrics by Covertex Ltd. Launching at HIX 2023 Stand U48 with an extensive range of commercial fabrics for the contract market.
www.covertexltd.co.uk +44(0)20 8500 3336
SPOTLIGHT
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192
2.
1. Egger Lacquered Chipboard
2. Skopos Fabrics Chamonix Deuxième and Treehouse
With matte surfaces firmly on trend, Egger’s PerfectSense Lacquered Chipboard finish TM9 is a surface that can be used to create a luxury look with sustainable credentials. Developed in response to growing market demand for more environmentally-sustainable material solutions, TM9 offers an entirely recyclable, carbon-negative chipboard core, and includes recycled content and sawmill by-product in its composition. The smooth, matte finish offers anti-fingerprint surface properties, stylish opacity and an inviting soft feel, combined with a colour palette of muted blues, natural greens and elegant greys. Designed for vertical applications, the single-sided matte version makes it suitable for frontals and end panels on casegoods. The resilient surface properties offer stain-, heat- and moisture-resistance, as well as antibacterial qualities in accordance with ISO 22196. The finish is an ideal vertical surface solution for versatile applications across a range of hospitality spaces, including public areas and guestrooms. PerfectSense Lacquered Chipboard TM9 is available in a palette of ten shades with matching edging from Egger’s UK-wide distribution network. Egger is a global family company founded in 1961 in Tyrol, Austria, from which it produces a wide array of wood-based panel products. www.egger.com
Skopos Fabrics has launched two complementary collections – Chamonix Deuxième and Treehouse. Chamonix Deuxième is a follow-on from the brand’s popular Chamonix collection, bringing 38 new options for contract upholstery to ensure a suitable match for all manner of interior design schemes. Sitting alongside the new range is Treehouse, which comprises three elegant, printed designs, suited for use on curtains, bed throws and upholstery. Treehouse evokes a whimsical, enchanting aesthetic in an uplifting colour palette of brights and elegant neutrals. Twisting and winding through an imaginary forest, the hero design, Eve – a detailed floral – works in tandem with Skopos’ upholstery fabrics and accents to offer versatility to an array of design schemes. Skopos supplies contract fabrics, curtains, bedding and upholstery fabrics for commercial interiors, including hotels, leisure and cruise ship operators. Championing design, expertise and quality service, the brand is also offers bespoke options to hotels seeking to make a statement, with Skopos Fabrics taking care of the design, source and commission of customised weaves and prints to meet customers’ criteria. The fabric house was also awarded Carbon Neutral status in 2023, making it an eco-friendly option. www.skoposfabrics.com
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SPOTLIGHT BEDS, MATTRESSES & LINENS
3. 1.
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194
4.
1. Bellino Amalfi
2. Sleepeezee Hotel Natural Splendour
3. Naturalmat Budleigh
4. Hypnos Contract Beds Hospitality Origins
Amalfi by Bellino is a contemporary and understated bedding option that sees soft, supple sateen made from long staple cotton. A chic, clean line is created through a corded border in place of a flange, available in three accent colours – charcoal grey, coral and navy. The fabric used, like all Bellino products, is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it is hypoallergenic and free from harmful substances. Bellino has been creating luxury linens since 1991, a vertical manufacturer that weaves, finishes and sews under one roof. www.bellinofinelinens.com
Bed and mattress manufacturer Sleepeezee provides reliable and consistent quality across its hospitalityfocused product offerings, including the Hotel Natural Splendour mattress. The pillow top mattress combines a Softech Spring layer and double-layered pocketed springs with 100% natural fillings, including horsehair and British wool blended with cashmere. These materials help to regulate body temperature, while the depth of mattress fillings also provides maximum pressure relief. www.sleepeezee.com
Naturalmat has unveiled Budleigh, a playful bed design with a rounded silhouette that celebrates contemporary curves. Budleigh features a solid beech frame, oversized bun feet crafted from sustainable timber, and is filled with thick layers of recycled denim topped with breathable organic lambswool. The product’s curved headboard and base is generously upholstered both front and back in a characterful, thick bouclé yarn – a material known for its soft, cosy loops and luxurious feel. www.naturalmat.co.uk
Hypnos Contract Beds has introduced a new handmade mattress for hospitality, representing a new era of sustainable sleep solutions. Embodying Hypnos’ commitment to using natural materials, the range features 11 layers of comfort enclosed in naturally FR-rated woven cotton and viscose ticking. The 100% British wool filling is antibacterial and breathable, with all materials sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative. Furthermore, the mattress is designed to be fully recyclable. www.hypnosbeds.com
C O M F O RT W I T H I N T E G R I T Y H O S P I TA L I T Y S L E E P S O L U T I O N S Carbon Neutral, 100% Sustainable and Recyclable +44 (0) 1332 497111
Hypnos - Sleeper - Aug 23.indd 1
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info@hypnoscontractbeds.com
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hypnoscontractbeds.com
15/08/2023 09:39
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Hector Finch Paola The jewel-toned colours of Hector Finch’s Murano Glass collection have caught the eye of the design world, bringing a sense of refined elegance to living spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms and beyond. Mouthblown in one of Murano’s oldest glass factories, the Paola pendant comes in three sizes and five colourways – Grigio, Turchese, Blu Avio, Marrone and Viola – as well as a wall light that can be fitted with the brand’s proprietary Osh lamp to make it bathroom-compliant. The globelike spheres are suspended on a monk’s cap fitting with a small brass stalk, while small bubbles and imperfections in the glass – a result of the artisanal nature of production – make every piece unique. www.hectorfinch.com
Q&A
Parla Jean-Michel Wilmotte French architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte tells all of his new Palm range for Parla, which creates an interplay of light and shadow. What was the inspiration behind the Palm collection? Palm was born from the desire to imagine a family of furniture suitable for both interior and exterior use. I was working on a large-scale hotel project in the South of France, where I wanted to design metal armchairs in keeping with the surrounding nature. Parla emerged as the ideal partner; from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, there was only one step needed to create a collection that has since grown over time. From this meeting, a complete family of furniture was born – a daybed, armchairs, stools, sofas, benches and coffee tables. By its name and details, Palm crosses the border between indoor and outdoor spaces. How does Palm create an interplay between light and shadow? The interplay of light and shadow is expressed through the sober lines of the backrests, which punctuate the surrounding space. The silence of shadows is brought to light and the sleek lines of the chairs give rhythm to the environment they occupy. The light marks the structure and stretches the shadows cast on the ground. What materials have been used to construct the products? Every piece is crafted from a textured metal frame, thus providing a balance between a raw material and maximum comfort. Each series is also available in an indoor and outdoor version, with waterresistant fabric upholstery and armrests either in solid Iroko timber or covered in leather. The cushions are magnetic and removable. How important is the contrast of materials to the collection? Palm perfectly combines tactility and materiality thanks to the contemporary satin finish of the metal structure, which evokes a raw aesthetic contrasted by the velvety appearance of the timber armrests. The soft weaving of the textiles enhances the embossed design of the cushions, while there is a harmony of shades with a selection of deep colours faithful to the work of our agency. What can Palm bring to hospitality environments? Palm’s choice of finishes and materials guarantees specifiers a collection with multiple combinations for tailor-made, unique creations. Set to grow in the near future, the collection is an ideal tool for architects and designers planning both interior and exterior spaces, from guestrooms to cafeterias to outdoor terraces. With its wealth of forms as well as the richness of materials and colours, Palm can be an extension of a hotel’s design scheme. www.parladesign.com
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CASE STUDY
Woodhouse & Law Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath Woodhouse & Law has transformed the lobby, drawing room and guestrooms at Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath. In the lobby, the interior and garden design company offset an Italian Promenade fresco by London-based duo Iksel with a MidCentury desk and orange ottoman featuring brass detailing, as well as architectural lighting that highlights the handsome pediment. The drawing room meanwhile features ornate plasterwork and triple sash windows, while walls are painted in Zoffany Quarter Mushroom and fringed ottomans provide flexibility. Original antique portraits are contrasted with a bold contemporary piece by British artist Debbie Goldsmith, and new upholstery comes in blues, warm neutrals and oranges, layered with colour and pattern from Zinc, Osborne & Little and Casamance. A new lighting scheme also includes a modern pendant by Porta Romana, wall lights by Visual Comfort and table lamps that add gentle warmth. Each of the guestrooms is unique, from grand suites overlooking the Royal Crescent at the front of the hotel to cosy attic rooms with garden views. The latter feature green and blue palettes inspired by the grounds beyond, while in smaller spaces with less natural light, a bolder use of colour adds depth. Woodhouse & Law adopted a playful approach, introducing bright sunshine yellows and a striking Iris Apfel fabric on an oversized headboard, while contemporary furniture and lighting sit alongside restored antique mirrors and bespoke cabinetry by a local maker. www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
ADA Cosmetics Argentum Apothecary ADA Cosmetics’ new amenities collection presents the first hotel cosmetics that harness the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties qualities of silver, introducing the expertise of London-based cosmetic brand Argentum Apothecary to hospitality settings around the world. Each product in the series contains Argentum’s popular silver elixir, proven to help maintain and protect the condition of the skin thanks to its hydrating, restorative and anti-ageing benefits. The plant-based, vegan-friendly formulations are also free of SLES/ SLS, parabens, silicones and mineral oils, and are not tested on animals. The full collection is fragranced with Argentum’s signature scent, Become. Created in Grasse, Provence, the herbaceous citrus wood composition opens with zesty Italian bergamot, accompanied by the delicate essence of rosewood, nutmeg and geranium leaves. A heart of spices and a warming base of sandalwood and patchouli complete the perfume. Presented in monochrome black-and-white packaging, the products are detailed with bespoke illustrations that draw on the symbology of the four elements – fire, earth, air and water. www.ada-cosmetics.com
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EST. 2015
LONDON - BIRMINGHAM
ELEGANCE, ENGINEERED W W W. JA DA M SA N D C O . C O M
SPECIFIER
Pictured: James Hooper
Historic Productions Ltd Historic Productions enhances a hotel’s social and cultural value through in-depth historic research.
“There’s a saying in the heritage world that you start with the future and work backwards into the past, extracting the messages you want to focus on. That’s what we do,” says James Hooper, co-founder of heritage consultancy firm Historic Productions. Hooper, who studied archaeology at university and was formerly UK Director of the Global Heritage Fund, established Historic Productions after a stint working at a solicitors in Holborn. “I was a trainee working through archives in the basement, and I came across documents signed by Queen Victoria,” he explains, lamenting that such documentation often never sees the light of day, despite keen interest from employees, employers and clients. Enter Historic Productions. The company’s role is to provide clients with tailored, referenced research into the social, cultural and economic history of a given property or location – information that can then be used in all manner of ways. “We come in before the process of creating a brand story,” Hooper continues. “We produce research documents that are themed, organised and referenced. The point is to be useful to the people who will later be creating brand stories.” “But these aren’t just about architectural surveys or the logistical considerations that
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Courtesy of Corinthia Rome
face a developer – there’s a social and cultural value in what we do. Our role is about affinity, place-making and helping people fall back in love with a building that may have sadly fallen into disrepair.” In the hotel world, having access to in-depth social and cultural research about a building has the potential to impact design narratives, as well as shape brand identity. Hooper states that such information requires professional historians able to access archives and organise data properly, rather than simply relying on untrustworthy internet searches. At the point of refurbishment, these services can be especially useful. Hooper notes: “We can generate this material long before designers and contractors have been appointed, providing information that serves as a resource at the very beginning of a redevelopment journey.” There’s also benefits for staff and guest, he says; a relationship between the front-of-house team and the hotel in which they work deepens their connection, and crucially, can in turn have a positive impact on the guest experience. “It’s a massively underappreciated form of social impact to make your history properly written and made available to the public,” Hooper adds. The firm doesn’t only work on old buildings,
he stresses: “Every building – whether it’s been built yesterday or 500 years ago – sits within an ecosystem of cultural heritage. While we’re very thorough, we don’t just obsess over architectural history, rather we’re social, cultural and economic historians who provide human stories and context that bring a building to life.” Historic Productions recently finished work on Corinthia Rome, a building with significant social and economic history. “The brief from the client was to position the hotel within the artistic ecosystem of Rome whilst maintaining its own identity. In this case, having the history presented in a way that’s themed, organised and relevant allowed the client and their consultants or subcontractors to make wellinformed design choices.” Ultimately, the team believes that engaging with a site’s cultural, social and economic history encourages hoteliers to take responsible stewardship of a property and its heritage, resulting in a hospitality experience that engages everyone, from owner, to employee, to guest. As Hooper puts it: “This value is too precious to leave up to non-experts: your history deserves the best treatment from best-in-class historians.” www.historicproductions.co.uk
Oliver Hemming
BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS AND ALARM CLOCKS
SPECIFIER
Sofacompany Paulina Danish design brand Sofacompany has launched Paulina, a new sofa bed for the hospitality market. The folding mechanism inside the product has been crafted to ensure comfort, durability and easy housekeeping in the transition from day to night, meaning it can function as a design-led sofa or a small double bed when unfolded. For the upholstery, Sofacompany offers full customisation, meaning the solution works within any interior style too. “With Paulina, we have taken the soft organic design language and comfort from our Paula sofa, and successfully re-designed it into a sleeper sofa with one of the leading folding mechanisms on the market,” says Line Nevers Krabbenhøft, the brand’s Head of Design. Paulina will be displayed at HIX – where hospitality professionals can see the product firsthand and even test out its credentials after a busy day on the exhibition floor. www.sofacompanyprofessional.com
Groupe GM 0% Plastic Accessories Through its Care About Earth programme, sustainable amenities brand Groupe GM has launched a new 0% plastic accessory line developed with bio-based, recyclable and sustainable materials. The line minimises over-packaging and eliminates the use of fossil fuel-based plastics, bleaching and the application of soy ink on its packaging. With this forward-thinking initiative, the French manufacturer continues to play a pivotal role in protecting the planet for future generations, offering responsible solutions for hoteliers who are transitioning to more eco-friendly operations. www.groupegm.com
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PARIS | NYC | LOS ANGELES | MEXICO CITY
Contemporary design inspired by Mexican heritage
Luteca_Sleeper_ad_final.indd 4
Luteca.com @lutecafurniture
24/06/2022 12:04
SPECIFIER
Bette BetteSuno British design studio Barber Osgerby has developed BetteSuno, a fully recyclable bathroom collection for Bette combining visual lightness with the strength and durability of glazed titanium steel. In the floorstanding basin, a round washbasin bowl cantilevers above a narrow, conically shaped pedestal that conceals pipework and has room for a tap. In the bowl washbasin meanwhile, thanks to its precisely crafted underside, the basin sits on the surface almost seamlessly and can be used as a single basin or in a row. Referencing classic bath design, the symmetrical freestanding bath features a vertically running exterior and wide, outwardly projecting rim that can be used as a head and arm rest, shelf and grab rail. www.my-bette.com
Peloton Peloton Bike+ Global lifestyle fitness brand Peloton has launched a new Peloton Bike+ for hotels, bringing a compact solution to guestrooms, spas and wellness facilities. Peloton Bike+ features a larger, rotating screen with 360 degrees of movement, allowing users to alternate between cardio, strength and yoga exercises with ease, while there is also an option for resistance to be automatically adjusted to match instructor callouts. As with the rest of its range, Peloton enables exercisers to join a community of millions worldwide, motivating each other towards a common goal. www.business.onepeloton.co.uk
Elstead Lighting Graham Elstead Lighting has unveiled its master catalogue for 2024, which includes the Graham collection designed by British studio Hinkley. The elegant double-shaded pendant comes in a medium and large size with a choice of lacquered brass, polished nickel and black finishes. Ideal for restaurants, lounges and reception areas in hotels, the series is part of the wider catalogue developed in collaboration with Elstead Lighting’s US partners, with more than 400 pieces from striking chandeliers and pendants to convenient portables. For almost 55 years, manufacturing and design has been the passion that has inspired the brand, which believes there is plenty of opportunity for innovation in today’s market. www.elsteadlighting.com
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Northern Lights Raffles London at The OWO Northern Lights has developed 18 bespoke lighting fixtures for Raffles London at The OWO. The company devised a rich bronze finish that harmonises with the design scheme, while timeless raw materials such as wood and brass are paired with porcelain and off-white palettes for classic contrast. In the Heritage Suites, an obelisk table lamp in wood veneer with high polished wenge and contrasting metalwork trim catches the eye. Suspended from the ceiling meanwhile are three-tier conical steel pendants topped with frosted acrylic that diffuses the light. The steel is finished in a high gloss cream, with contrasting metalwork detailing in bespoke bronze. Throughout the guestrooms, table, floor and pendant lights create soft pools of light, with red leather, glass and blackened steel offering charm and comfort. A star-shaped bowl pendant is fashioned from concrete and finished in a white powder coat, while telescopic wooden floor lamps feature a rich mahogany gloss. www.northern-lights.co.uk
TechnoAlpin SnowSky Italian manufacturer TechnoAlpin is constantly working on new resource-saving snow solutions, with its TechnoAlpin Indoor department looking to create unique sensory experiences indoors too. One of the company’s latest turnkey solutions is SnowSky, which reimagines the cooling experience in spa areas, or can be used as a statement in restaurants and cocktail bars; the elegant simplicity of powdered snow and the beauty of falling snowflakes can serve as a unique selling point for luxury hotels. By incorporating snow as a central design element, hospitality operators can immerse guests in a festive, wintry mood, using snow as more than just a decorative piece but rather a key part of the experience. TechnoAlpin’s SnowRoom for instance is a room maintained at minus-ten degrees, filled with fresh, natural snow generated from water and air. Beyond serving as an aesthetic highlight and a multisensory experience for interior settings, it offers a sophisticated way of cooling down after a sauna session or an intense workout. Spa and fitness guests can enjoy a gradual and soft cooling of their entire bodies, including their internal organs and skin, to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. www.indoor.technoalpin.com
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Chelsom Edition 28 Edition 28 is Chelsom’s most eclectic and versatile collection yet, featuring a broader selection of materials and manufacturing skills than ever before. Within the range, artisanal, mouthblown Veneto glass ceiling, table and wall lights have been crafted to meet a variety of customer demands and interior applications. Working in collaboration with specialist Italian glass factories, the British brand has harnessed generations of glassblowing experience and expertise. Both moulded and free-form blowing techniques have been used to create statement pieces that transcend time and are suitable for both traditional and contemporary design schemes. www.chelsom.co.uk
Sanipex Alpine Alpine from Sanipex Group’s Bagnodesign brand meets the growing desire for personalisation in the bathroom, offering interior designers 19 slab options to choose from. Created with functionality in mind, the basin and shelf collection comprises countertop shelves, plinths and furniture with a selection of freestanding, wall-mounted and countertop styles in several finishes. Featuring a 6mm porcelain slab surface that covers an innovative waterproof foam core, Alpine is completely waterproof, non-porous and resistant to mould and fungus. Installation is simple and efficient too, with tap holes drilled in-house prior to delivery in line with client requirements. For added peace-of-mind, special reinforcements along the joints of each piece serve to enhance its load-bearing properties; the brand’s in-house local bearing test process confirms that just one bracket holds a weight of up to 75kg. Alpine is made to order by skilled artisans and can be combined with Bagnodesign’s Corsair oak furniture. The range is on display at the new Bagnodesign-Sanipex Gallery in Abu Dhabi, where visitors can browse sanitaryware, furniture and brassware. www.sanipexgroup.com
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DESIGN BROUGHT TO LIGHT Request or download the New Elstead 2024 Catalogues today. +44 (0)1420 82377 | enquiries@elsteadlighting.com | www.elsteadlighting.com
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Manutti Sandua Designed by Robin Hapelt, Sandua is an organically-shaped seating and lounge range comprising dining chairs, lounge chairs, daybeds, footrests and a selection of rechargeable remotecontrolled outdoor lighting solutions. Distinctly different from one another yet perfectly in sync, each piece in the series is an ode to true craftsmanship. Using two materials, Hapelt developed the collection’s signature Dicord weave – a new handwoven combination of rope and flat wicker, based on traditional Indonesian weaving techniques. Sandua is available in either a natural teak or teak scuro base with the option of dark anthracite or light pepper finishes. www.manutti.com
Roca Nu Roca has expanded its faucet catalogue with Nu, a vivid collection created by Spanish designer Inma Bermúdez. Unveiled at ISH in Frankfurt, the series comprises three handle options – Pin, Dome and Stripes – and a selection of vibrant notes, shapes and sizes. The collection plays with colour in bold ways and is available in six variations – green, blue, yellow, black, white and chrome – inspired by Roca’s Mediterranean DNA. Intentionally chosen as saturated rather than pastels, the shades are complete with a glossy finish. “Our initial inspiration came from whitewashed Mediterranean houses with their blue, green and red doors,” explains Bermúdez. “And, after discovering Andreu Carulla’s Tura collection for Roca, inspired by the architecture of Barcelona, we thought that this new range could also be a reference to the elegant and multicoloured mosaic floor tiles found in the city’s Modernist apartments.” Nu’s three handles have a 35mm body diameter – marking Roca’s thinnest faucet to-date – and offer distinct characteristics. Dome embraces its round architectural form with a soft-edged profile, while Stripes is based on the grooved dials of old stereos and the elongated handle of Pin assumes a graceful bird-like form. www.roca.com
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Sleeper Media – the leading brand for hospitality experience and design. Visit the store to receive your copy. www.sleeper.media/store
Find your headspace at HIX Registration now open. Expo. Talks. Installations. Social. Be a part of it: www.hixevent.com
HIX 04 Sleeper Ad August 236x275mm.indd 1
The ever-changing design experience that makes hotels incredible
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25/08/2023 16:36
FIND NEW LEADS IN THE GLOBAL HOTEL INDUSTRY
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ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 111
ADA International
073
Fromental
125
Agua Fabrics
189
Gommaire
012-013
Akula
121
Groupe GM
Aliseo
055
Astro
Oliver Hemming
203
Palecek
161
109
Paolo Moschino
133
Hector Finch
063
Parla
029
002
Historic Productions
154
Peloton
065
Beck
067
HIX
214
RAK Ceramics
018-019
Bette
145
Hypnos
195
RH Contract
006-007
Brandstand
177
Il Fanale
041
Roca
071
Chelsom
037
ILIV
182
Roman
131
Coco Wolf
116
J Adams
201
Rubelli
026
Creative Matters
059
Janus et Cie
043
Sanipex
060
Cristina Marrone
191
JC Hospitality
196
Sinoexpo
207
Curtis Furniture
151
Jung
097
Skopos Design
185
Décor Walther
005
Leds C4
089
Sleepeezee
110
Dernier & Hamlyn
103
Lemi Group
174
Sleeper Sessions
216
Duravit
045
LiGHT 23
Dux International
098 / 220
178-179
053 / 119 022-023
Ligne Roset
024
Stellar Works Stonecircle
162
Tece
076
Edmund Bell
193
Luteca
205
EE Smith
173
Madera
020-021
Ege
Sofa Company
014-015
Maison et Objet
209
TechnoAlpin
095
Egger
127
Mandarin Stone
091
THP
215
Elstead
211
Manutti
010-011
Tribu
008-009
EPR
081
Material Bank
016-017
Tuuci
083
Ethimo
039
Monteleone
149
Vincent Sheppard
075
Feuring
159
Nanimarquina
051
Wood Couture
219
Foglizzo
187
Naturalmat
087
Woodhouse & Law
115
Forest Group
107
Northern Lights
047
Freifrau
035
O’Donnells
135
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CHECK-OUT
Subterranean Snoozing
Billed as London’s first underground hotel, the latest outpost from Zedwell submerges guests deep beneath the capital.
London’s skyline continues to rise, but with
based lighting and Hypnos beds topped with
land at a premium, developers are becoming
100% Egyptian cotton sheets reinforce the
ever more resourceful in finding sites for their
emphasis on rest and relaxation, while purified
schemes. Enter Zedwell Tottenham Court Road,
air flows throughout and noise-reducing walls,
billed as the city’s first underground hotel.
flooring and doors help guests to drift off with
Submerged below Great Russell Street just a
ease. Colours and materials play their part too; a
short distance from Tottenham Court Road tube
palette of soothing tones combines with natural
station, the former car park has been transformed
finishes to channel a sense of calm. “Our focus
into a sanctuary for sleep, courtesy of Criterion
on the science of sleep and wellbeing and the
Hospitality. Guests take the elevator down to the
unique challenges posed by an underground
lobby four levels below, where white stalactite-
space informed our design ethos,” says Darija
like rock formations nod to the mineral surfaces
Zivni-Aziz, Head of Interior Design at Criterion
found deep beneath the Earth. From here, dimly
Hospitality. “From the strategic use of stalactite
lit corridors serve as a transitional experience to
and cavernous-like aesthetics to the energy-
the serene guestrooms – or cocoons as Zedwell
efficient advantages of subterranean architecture,
calls them – which are free from all clutter,
every design element serves a specific function
gadgets and windows to limit distractions from
in enhancing the guest’s physical and emotional
the outside world. Ambient circadian rhythm-
wellbeing.” No counting sheep required here.
© Iana Ianakieva
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