The International Yacht & Aviation Awards Winners' Issue 2021

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THE INTERNATIONAL YACHT & AVIATION AWARDS 2021 WINNERS We take a look at some of the winning projects you voted for...

CONTENTS 5

EDITORIAL

6 LUXURIOUS UNCOMPRESSED SPACE Spritz 102 by Alpha Custom Yacht

16 SLEEK, SPORTY & SMOOTH The Gulfstream G500 by Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.

26 COSY CONVERTIBLE SPACE Feadship 47M Yacht Concept by Luxury Projects

STAFF

PUBLISHER Joanne Beedles DIGITAL PUBLISHER Richard Stockton SENIOR PUBLISHING MANAGER Caroline O’Gorman DESIGN AWARDS MANAGER Glenn Hughes EDITORIAL MANAGER Natalie Cowley SENIOR EDITORIAL RESEARCHER Isobella Lichfield SENIOR CLIENT ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Fleet SENIOR CLIENT ACCOUNT MANAGER William Sherry MANAGER OF THE INTERNATIONAL YACHT & AVIATION AWARDS Laura Curtis MANAGER OF THE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL & PROPERTY AWARDS Harriet Law SENIOR AWARDS COORDINATOR Nicola Bowyer AWARDS COORDINATOR Victoria Baker AWARDS COORDINATOR Megan Fisher AWARDS COORDINATOR Alexander Stephens AWARDS COORDINATOR Jonathan Thomas GRAPHIC DESIGN Christian Thomas ACCOUNTS Anthony Taylor, Paul Jones PR CONSULTANT Catherine Lyne FOR ALL ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL: +44(0)1244 346 347 OR EMAIL special.publications@design-et-al.com design et al, Watergate House, Chester CH1 2LF Annual subscriptions vary by location, please contact subscriptions@design-et-al.com stating your full address for a subscription quote. ISSN 1750-8851

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2021

Patchwork Mirror Series

info@lushbaytor.com / lushbaytor.com

We were delighted to be able to host The International Yacht & Aviation Awards back in August, in a safe and covid secure way at the incredible Hotel Cipriani in Venice. Many designers travelled great distances across the world to be there, taking covid tests in many cases both prior to flying and on return. Others, who were not able to travel due to restrictions, sent representation from Europe.

We were very proud to be able to host what was a fantastic and much appreciated evening for a group of the world’s leading designers in this field, who are keen to show the world they are still working, growing, thriving in fact. This issue as always allows you to step into some of

the projects you voted for this year. Over the coming 12 months we will bring you some more of those winning schemes. This year, rather than have a regular editorial page, we wanted to share with you images of the Awards Ceremony. It was a unique and poignant year and a time when we really stood in solidarity as an industry.

We will be back in Venice at the end of May 2022 for the International Yacht & Aviation Awards. There are exciting times ahead.

Joanne

LUXURIOUS UNCOMPRESSED SPACE SPRITZ 102 BY ALPHA CUSTOM YACHTS

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“The design puts priority on comfort with no compromise in terms of personal spaces.”

The first Spritz 102, the current flagship of Alpha Custom Yachts, is their family yacht. They worked with Italian superyacht designer Giorgio Cassetta and naval architects Laurent Giles to create a platform for family fun; elegant and crafted with care. According to Cassetta, the yacht has the feel of a Miami villa combined with great functionality.

To design the 102, the designers had to mute their instincts and approach the paper sheets with a rediscovered ingenuousness, that which is crucial to truly innovate. Challenging every notion previously acquired in their experience with exterior styling and laid out lines and masses previously unseen, all while abiding to the core request from the brand which was “make everything comfortable, make everything right”.

The Spritz 102 is not comparable to any other yacht in her size range, because the whole design approach was to ignore all the compromises that are usually accepted to make yachts either costeffective or unnecessarily conservative in style or layout. From the 8+ meter beam to the size of the guest cabins windows, from the width of the mattresses to the massive plunge pool, all areas on board exude the same luxurious feeling of uncompressed space, a thing rare to be found on anything that floats.

The design puts priority on comfort with no compromise in terms of personal spaces. Eighty-five centimetres is the minimum net width of each staircase onboard the Spritz 102, and that is only one of many outstanding figures on this pocket superyacht. The lower deck’s five cabins and bathrooms are generous in size. The width of beds in the twin cabins are a full one-metre wide whilst in the VIP cabins, the beds are king size with plenty of room to move around. This is made

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possible by an exceptionally wide beam – the moulded beam is a rare 8.1 metres on a yacht of this length. For comparison, the beam of yachts of comparable length is often at least one metre less. Aside from the obvious implication it has on volume, the hull design (combined with light weight composite construction) has also resulted in a draft of around 1.9 metres on average, which is desirable for cruising in the owners’ favourite areas, from the Bahamas to the Sea of Cortez in Mexico.

Outdoor spaces are exceptional, with multiple areas where guests can stretch out in full sun or shade. But even inside guests are never disconnected from the environment. The installation of the windows ensures constant visibility of the water and sky, even from bed. The effect is particularly stunning in the full-beam owner’s cabin where the windows are oversized and less than half a metre over the water.

Key features of the aft section of the deck include a hydraulically operated platform capable of supporting a tender, a 2,000-litre plunge pool that can be covered up with teak to serve as a dance floor, an outdoor lounge overlooking the pool and a vast and well protected dining area large enough for 12 guests. Another great lounge with plenty of seating is found on the foredeck while the 76 square metre flybridge deck boasts an incredible impression of space and panoramic views.

Although they are also the builders, Roberto, Chief Executive of Alpha Custom Yachts, and Jorge Aboumrad approached the project from the standpoint of owning and using the yacht. “Our yachts are built by yachtsmen for yachtsmen,” Roberto says. For Cassetta, who has worked on

production and custom yachts, it was a project that allowed plenty of innovation.

The design period was a favourite aspect of the project for Roberto Aboumrad, “I really enjoyed it because it was a real challenge to create a non-existing product to satisfy the way of living in the Latin world or any other world with good weather.”

The design of everything on board, down to the apparently insignificant details, were not confirmed until the team were happy with certainty that the look, size and – most important – functionality of it was the best achievable, regardless of what would be dictated by “yacht design” standards. Four people spent more than one year in the studio designing what they consider one of their most intriguing projects so far. Along with the outstanding responsiveness from the yard, and the amazing vision from Alpha Custom Yachts, Spritz 102 is a statement of exceptional team work and undoubtfully a project they are extremely proud of.

Alpha Custom Yachts were winners of the Motor Yacht category, claiming the Award at The International Yacht and Aviation Awards 2021 in Venice in August. When commenting on the Awards, Roberto expressed “Because of the reputation of the Awards they will give us a strong pedigree which will become a market recognition for our beautiful product.”

The design team on the Spritz 102 have created a 31-metre yacht that is of the standard expected on a 45 or 50 metre yacht. Everything is home sized, and the interior finishing touches emphasise the fun and relaxed atmosphere of a holiday retreat.

Each Alpha Yacht is custom-built with care by a highly respected team of luxury yachting experts, who are equipped with unsurpassed technical expertise and access to the best resources. Always pushing the limits of shipbuilding, the builders work applying engineering excellence and strict precision. Our search for perfection ends when our yachts reach the sea to take you on your next journey.

Embody your Dream. Experience the Alpha Difference.

www.alphayachts.com

SLEEK, SPORTY & SMOOTH THE GULFSTREAM G500: PERFORMANCE AND POLISH BY GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE CORP.

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“The Gulfstream G500 Performance and Polish interior design conveys the aircraft’s high-speed capabilities and mimics the smooth flight passengers enjoy while flying in the aircraft’s stylish, comfortable cabin.”

This Gulfstream G500 reflects the classleading performance of Gulfstream’s next-generation aircraft through a sporty interior evocative of the aircraft’s high speeds and smooth flights. The passenger experience is achieved through a play on contrasts in colour, content and composition: linear patterns juxtaposed with sweeping movement; plush upholstery balanced with smooth, sleek lines; ebony furniture dancing with ivory upholstery and a carpet that marries the two.

The G500 design begins with a Gulfstream Sport interior, featuring furniture and finishes imagined for aficionados of high-performance automotive vehicles and their enveloping interiors. The seat architecture embraces the passenger by incorporating advanced ergonomics that relieve pressure and enhance comfort. Horizontal linear quilted leather inserts do double duty by providing extra breathability and creating visual impact.

That linear motion continues in the bespoke carpet, created from fine wools and hand woven into a bias stripe pattern that plays off the horizontal seat lines and draws the eye through the cabin and into the next living area. Similar movement is echoed in the custom cabinetry, which features ribbons of grey caleidolegno and ebony veneer, and again, in the diagonal grain of the upper sidewall upholstery.

The varied sizes and pattern orientations create a design that is soothing to the eye and further enhances the serenity of the interior.

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Woven into that linear movement is the high-contrast palette of grey caleidolegno and black ebony veneers and charcoal carpeting with the softer tones of the upper sidewalls and hand-stitched leather seats. Light Coarse Carrara quartz countertops in the galley reflect light from the panoramic Gulfstream windows and embedded glass racks. The harmony of contrasts is further accentuated with texture by incorporating Ultrasuede seatbacks to enhance softness and warmth. Additional accents include brightly polished white-gold-plated drawer and cabinet hardware that provide subtle pops of chrome-like shine.

Gulfstream’s ‘Performance and Polish’ G500 has garnered a 2021 International Yacht & Aviation Award winning the Interior Design/VIP Completions category. “This is the fifth year in a row we have earned an International Yacht & Aviation Award, and I am proud of our amazing Gulfstream team of designers and artisans that brings creativity and imagination to our ultra-modern aircraft,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Every Gulfstream cabin is the product of collaboration among our interior and industrial design teams and the craftsmanship of the men and women who build the custom cabin elements by hand. Our combined focus on performance, innovation, quality and artistry sets Gulfstream interiors apart.”

The award-winning tall and wide G500 cabin offers interior designers great flexibility. For example, the option for a

forward galley, rear gallery and a rear stateroom. The tall and wide cabin provides lots of space for strolling down the wide aisle. All-new seats have been designed for maximum comfort.

Gulfstream’s Cabin Management System allows passengers to control lighting, temperature, and media right from their seats. The seats are able to be converted to lie-flat beds. Therefore, the G500 is a great space to work, dine and relax. This environment is lit by fourteen signature Gulfstream oval windows offering abundant natural light and sweeping views of the world.

The Gulfstream G500 Performance and Polish interior design conveys the aircraft’s high-speed capabilities and mimics the smooth flight passengers enjoy while flying in the aircraft’s stylish, comfortable cabin. The award-winning design was achieved through a play on contrasts in colour, content and composition: linear patterns juxtaposed with sweeping movement; plush upholstery balanced with smooth, sleek lines; ebony furniture contrasting with ivory upholstery; and a carpet that blends the two. The combination of Gulfstream innovation and artistry is also evident in the award-winning seat design, advanced ergonomics, handcrafted furnishings and hand-tailored finishes.

The Gulfstream G500 Performance and Polish interior design incorporates opposing interior elements so well that the result is a harmony that simultaneously soothes and invigorates.

LIFE STYLED Define luxury in the Gulfstream G700™, where more space means more living.

The most spacious cabin in the industry accommodates up to five living areas for society or solitude. Everywhere you look, your signature style appears.

COSY CONVERTIBLE SPACE FEADSHIP 47M YACHT CONCEPT BY LUXURY PROJECTS

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“The idea was essentially one of a convertible space in which various elements could be moved around to create different scenarios.”

Italian creativity meets Dutch precision in this concept that Laura Pomponi’s Luxury Projects studio designed for a 47-metre Feadship superyacht. The team created a convertible upper deck salon offering a warm, embracing and cosy space.

Laura Pomponi’s company which, in addition to containing her initial letters, also stands for “Luxury Projects”, is based in her native Ancona on Italy’s Adriatic coast, but she works with clients all over the world. Luxury Projects created this interior concept for Feadship shipyard based in The Netherlands. The brief was for a 47-metre superyacht. Feadship’s in-house team took care of the exterior design, while Laura was tasked with creating a concept for the interior. She was asked to come up with schemes for a full-beam upper deck salon for a specific Client, following what is now more than a design trend to have as many convertible spaces on board as possible. In this particular yacht the Bridge Deck Salon is easily convertible into a wide VIP Suite for Guests.

The idea was essentially one of a convertible space in which various elements could be moved around to create different scenarios, also through the use of different types of lighting. Both the atmosphere and the purpose of the space could be changed: from a salon with plenty of natural light, thanks to its large windows, to a VIP cabin. She came

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up with two versions, one which was more luxurious, with a touch of gold and the other that was more contemporary, with a palette of natural colours. These included light brown, taupe and off-whites, which Laura describes as “warm, cosy colours”.

The same adjectives could be used to describe details like the inlaid wood, the carpet and suede leather. The general feeling of warmth is also enhanced by the soft, indirect lighting which is hidden behind the beams in the ceiling. The more contemporary version features a pull-out bed which, like the ceiling lights, is hidden, in this case behind a large work of art on the forward wall. Once the sofa that’s set against the wall has been moved, the mural changes form at the press of a button, opening out to reveal a bed which extends down to the floor.

Laura describes the warm, embracing atmosphere of the space as being “less minimalist.” In terms of interior yacht design, she feels that “minimalism enjoyed something of a boom a few years ago, but now people want warmth, rather than cold surfaces. After all, the owners and their families need to live in these spaces”. Although Laura had previously completed Feadship yacht refits, this was her first new build project for the shipyard. As with other Dutch shipyards she has worked with, she enjoyed the experience, “When Italian designers are asked to create a concept they like to produce something that looks wonderful,

whereas the Dutch tend to be strict and precise, even in the case of a concept: everything has to be feasible and meet budget estimates. There’s no room for mistakes”. Nevertheless “They basically gave me net box and asked me to fill it with my creativity.”

Laura’s creativity and inspiring design of this Feadship 47M Yacht Concept saw Luxury Projects receive the Award for Interior Design Concept Yacht at The International Yacht and Aviation Awards 2021 held at The Belmond Cipriani, Venice in August. Laura Pomponi was also Awarded with the accolade of the evening, The Design Society International Designer of 2021 Award.

The design works so well because of the bespoke designed furniture and the design details which are harmonious with each other, as well as the lighting design which perfectly accentuates the interiors.

The key aspects of this scheme for Luxury Projects were firstly the high quality of the 3D CGI and secondly the warm and sophisticated atmosphere of the interiors.

The interiors of this yacht are modern and contemporary, with the aim of introducing elements of surprise. Special luxury finishes and materials were added to create a warm living-in atmosphere, with expertly designed lighting behind the whole concept.

Ya c h t s | P r i v a t e J e t s | H o t e l s | S P A s | L u x u r y V i l l a s | P e n t h o u s e s | L i f e S t y l e

We translate emotions and desires into physical beauty, as you think them, as you want them.

www.luxury-projects.com

HOTEL ET AL

We take a look at some of the winning projects you voted for...

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THE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL & PROPERTY AWARDS 2021 WINNERS

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CONTENTS 5

EDITORIAL

6 REVOLUTIONARY REVIVAL The Grand Hotel Birmingham by Robert Angell Design International

16 STYLISH CREATIVITY SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences by Bishop Design by Paul Bishop

26 ESCAPE TO LUXURY Gilpin Hotel Spa Suites by Nielsen House

36 EMPOWERMENT AND UNITY Hotel Zena by Dawson Design Associates

STAFF

PUBLISHER Joanne Beedles DIGITAL PUBLISHER Richard Stockton SENIOR PUBLISHING MANAGER Caroline O’Gorman DESIGN AWARDS MANAGER Glenn Hughes EDITORIAL MANAGER Natalie Cowley SENIOR EDITORIAL RESEARCHER Isobella Lichfield SENIOR CLIENT ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Fleet SENIOR CLIENT ACCOUNT MANAGER William Sherry MANAGER OF THE INTERNATIONAL YACHT & AVIATION AWARDS Laura Curtis MANAGER OF THE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL & PROPERTY AWARDS Harriet Law SENIOR AWARDS COORDINATOR Nicola Bowyer AWARDS COORDINATOR Victoria Baker AWARDS COORDINATOR Megan Fisher AWARDS COORDINATOR Alexander Stephens AWARDS COORDINATOR Jonathan Thomas GRAPHIC DESIGN Christian Thomas ACCOUNTS Anthony Taylor, Paul Jones PR CONSULTANT Catherine Lyne FOR ALL ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL: +44(0)1244 346 347 OR EMAIL special.publications@design-et-al.com design et al, Watergate House, Chester CH1 2LF Annual subscriptions vary by location, please contact subscriptions@design-et-al.com stating your full address for a subscription quote. ISSN 1750-8851

JULIAN CHICHESTER

J U LIANCHICHESTER.COM london

| new york | atlanta

We were delighted to be able to host The International Hotel & Property Awards back in September, in a safe and covid secure way at the incredible Quisisana Hotel in Capri. Many designers travelled great distances across the world to be there, taking covid tests in many cases both prior to flying and on return. Others, who were not able to travel due to restrictions, sent representation from Europe.

We were very proud to be able to host what was a fantastic and much appreciated evening for a group of the world’s leading designers in this field, who are keen to show the world they are still working, growing, thriving in fact. This issue as always allows you to step into some of

the projects you voted for this year. Over the coming 12 months we will bring you some more of those winning schemes. This year, rather than have a regular editorial page, we wanted to share with you images of the Awards Ceremony. It was a unique and poignant year and a time when we really stood in solidarity as an industry.

We will be back in Capri at the end of June 2022 for the 10th Anniversary Hotel & Property Awards. There are exciting tmes ahead.

Joanne

REVOLUTIONARY REVIVAL THE GRAND HOTEL BIRMINGHAM BY ROBERT ANGELL DESIGN INTERNATIONAL

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“Original, listed features have been lovingly restored and the interiors have been reimagined... bringing comfort and glamour in equal measure.”

An inspiring mix of old and new, The Grand Hotel Birmingham combines original Victorian architecture with striking modern features. Located in a very prominent position in the city centre, it has hosted many famous guests and is steeped in history. This iconic sleeping beauty has been brought back to life to create a luxury hotel for Birmingham in the 21st century. Original, listed features have been lovingly restored; and the interiors have been reimagined by Robert Angell International, bringing comfort and glamour in equal measure.

The Grand Hotel Birmingham is a Grade II Listed building, originally completed in 1879. It had fallen into a state of disrepair and Robert Angell Design International were appointed to redesign this heritage building from neglected offices back to its original purpose as a Luxury Hotel. The brief was to create a new luxury hotel with 180 Bedrooms including a new reception, Bar, Lounge and Restaurant, Grand Ballroom and Terrace Bar. Robert Angell Design International wanted to encapsulate the identity of both Birmingham and the architecture of the building in a never-before-seen concept that speaks to the discerning customers of today and sits effortlessly within contemporary culture, a truly unique, timeless interior.

The industrial revolution was a defining factor in Birmingham’s history and the designers wanted to harness that sense of strength and excitement by creating elements of machine-like rhythm and powerful engineering. Conflicting this though, is the unmissable presence of nature and the cities respect for the natural world Itself. These elements run subtly throughout and are reflected in The Grand Hotel itself; the hotel is both

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vast and powerful, a beautiful piece of engineering and architecture yet it is also delicate and intricate in its renaissance style, teeming with botanical detail.

Industry and invention is and has always been prevalent from whichever angle you look at the city, from its revolutionary history and pioneering future. Innovation is the powerful bond that glues this concept together and runs seamlessly throughout like the intricate canal networks flowing through the city. The art in the hotel references the history of Birmingham and its inventions and culture and people.

The design works well because it feels like a Grand Hotel yet it’s all brand new.

The designers took what was left of bits of mouldings or panels and created a totally new series of interiors that don’t detract from its Listed Heritage status but celebrate it and also bring about a kind of warmth, enveloping and magical feel.

Specialists and artisans were used throughout the project from recreating plaster moulded ceilings and walls to creating a stained glass ceiling and back drop to the reception as a nod to one of the many inventions that were born out of Birmingham. Much of the furniture was custom designed and saddled stitched leather was used on the Lounge bar in a layered design. The Bedrooms are unique as blackened steel headboards and bedside tables were designed as a nod to the industrial heritage yet detailed in an elegant and cool way that evokes a worn in luxury. Some of the ceilings in the bedrooms have exposed beams that were specifically created to add interest and make some suites really dynamic.

A favourite aspect of the project for the Robert Angell Design International team was seeing this amazing building regain

its status as a Grand Hotel, but in the modern sense of being more relaxed approachable and cool. The Lounge Bar is perhaps one of the best places to take in the vibe of the hotel, with its rediscovered floral mosaics around the windows and refurbished moulded ceilings. This room, as with much of the hotel, was completely gutted apart from some ceiling and window details and the Grand Stairs and Ballroom as it had gone too far into a state of disrepair over the last decade that it had stood empty.

At The International Hotel and Property Awards 2021 held in Capri in September, Robert Angell Design International were winners of the Bar/Club/Lounge – Europe category receiving the Award for this magnificent design. Robert Angell, CEO and Founder of Robert Angell Design International said that they Awards are “really important as they represent the best in Global design. It’s an amazing showcase for designers to present their most prestigious projects in a collective that really understands great design and wants to share it on a global platform in an arena specifically created and tailored to do this”. Robert was selected as the Hospitality Designer of the Decade by design et al.

Robert Angell Design International set out to create a glamorous and unique hotel that will serve as a hub for the successful, creative and new age clientele. They have achieved just that having listened to the existing architecture of the building, recapturing and celebrating its beauty with acute attention to detail, embracing the unique city of Birmingham and its powerful Heritage.

One Aldwych London, UK

14 Hills, London, UK

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STYLISH CREATIVITY SLS DUBAI HOTEL & RESIDENCES

BY BISHOP DESIGN BY PAUL BISHOP

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“The driving sentiments and design ideology around creating this Middle Eastern evolution for the brand called out for a fusion of Dubai’s naturally intoxicating character coupled with the undeniable style of the eminent SLS label.”

Located in the Downtown district and offering spectacular, unobstructed views of the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa, as well as Dubai Creek, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences contemporary - classic design is a perfect example of why it’s best in class.

Born out of Los Angeles and Miami respectively, SLS Hotels announced a much-anticipated debut in one of the most desirable global destinations. The driving sentiments and design ideology around creating this Middle Eastern evolution for the brand called out for a fusion of Dubai’s naturally intoxicating character coupled with the undeniable style of the eminent SLS label. Rooms, suites, and public areas within this new hotel were to hold their own distinctive character yet remain visually connected in the creation of an entity that exudes ultimate luxury and class whilst always respectful of functional aspirations.

From the onset a strong philosophy became clear between Bishop Design by Paul Bishop and the brand, to create a playful, tongue-in-cheek and somewhat provocative design that held all the sentiments of SLS Hotels, combined with our own individual impulses. A magnificent connection transpired, through shared strong design values, where both entities possess a constant craving to enhance the overall guest experience to depths others may be afraid to explore. It is a combination of these elements that instilled confidence in SLS to allow Bishop Design by Paul Bishop free reigns to design.

As an established international brand, SLS Hotels invite their guests to enjoy an irresistible combination of style, luxury, service, creativity and community.

The sheer personality of SLS is one of playful mischief, witty surprise and touches of sophisticated sexiness which create unrivalled experiences across the globe. It was paramount that Bishop Design by Paul Bishop respected the brands philosophies whilst evolving its characteristics to satisfy the needs and requirements of Dubai’s hospitality market.

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portfolio. Entertaining an absolutely unrivalled view, this naturally became an inherent part of the design. Respective of their roots from Bahamas, Los Angeles, Las Vegas & Miami, Bishop Design by Paul Bishop maintained loyalty to brand DNA, yet have explored their own curiosities in creating an image evolved for Dubai. What has been created is an illusion of luxury overdose; beautifully appropriate for the SLS brand and the demographic of Dubai.

This ideology of extravagance is then manipulated against urban conditions which appear to be somewhat unfinished, creating a hybrid of two conflicting styles. Combining ornate classical details against raw finishes and surfaces enforces an unconventional perception of luxury for the sophisticated Clientele of SLS; a unique tongue-in-cheek interior approach which is perfectly fitting for the SLS entity.

The perfect example of luxury, SLS Dubai is a 75-storey tower with 371 residential units, 254 expertly designed hotel rooms, 321 hotel apartments, and a culinary experience with signature concept restaurants Fi’lia and Carna, sbe’s mixology lounge and a nightlife venue, Privilege.

Along with the hotel suites, Bishop Design by Paul Bishop were tasked with designing the hotel’s steakhouse.

The brief for Carna was simple, yet the result is breath-taking. Discovered on the 74th floor, Carna was to be a contemporary steakhouse and immersive meat experience. Bishop Design by Paul Bishop were given the freedom to explore their own interpretations of what this space should be, from the navigation and functionality through to the very finite details.

Meat is art, from the preparation through to the first taste, and it is this story Bishop Design by Paul Bishop aimed to capture through the interior. On entering the restaurant grandeur and opulence take centre stage. A vast environment with its open ceilings decorated with leather knife sharpening belts in geometric seamless patterns contribute to the infinite depth of space.

On the left resides a theatrical bar where seductive red provides a colour bomb

to an architectural wardrobe otherwise dressed in shades of green and brown.

It is here where guests are invited to indulge in a pre-dinner cocktail crafted by the finest of mixologists. The drinks may well be Old Fashioned, but the interiors are very much contemporary. Hand cut green tiles provide the backdrop to a magnificent showcase of rustic brass finishes which elegantly display the bars liquor sensations.

This venue brings something utterly unprecedented to Dubai, with no other steakhouse competing in this calibre. The dedication and emphasis Bishop Design

by Paul Bishop have placed on the core element, meat, is ironically what other regional concepts are missing. Conjuring up memories of food markets, where the style is inherently very NYC, the space is almost instantly familiar and has an innate sense of authenticity.

Both the hotel suites and restaurant saw Bishop Design by Paul Bishop shortlisted in several categories in The International Hotel & Property Awards 2021. At the ceremony in Capri in September, the design firm were winners of two Awards; Hotel Design – Middle East & Africas and Restaurant – Middle East & Africas.

Paul Bishop, Owner and Founder of Bishop Design by Paul Bishop told design et al “It is a great privilege to receive recognition from The International Hotel & Property Awards as they remain as the purest epitome of excellence within the interior design industry. The awards are an integral driving force behind our motivation to complete revolutionary projects, and to have the opportunity to share a selection of our finest work for the third consecutive year is a true honour”.

Bishop Design by Paul Bishop have expertly delivered a design that is true to the SLS brand. The deluxe spaces are dripping in contemporary art and sleek accents that are so characteristic of the brand’s DNA. SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences is a unique cabinet of curiosities that never ceases to delight.

Suite 112, Pinnacle Building, Al Barsha 1, PO Box: 29422, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 399 0271 info@wearebishopdesign.com

www.wearebishopdesign.com

ESCAPE TO LUXURY GILPIN HOTEL SPA SUITES BY NIELSEN HOUSE

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“Through their use of natural materials, the ability to connect their designs with nature to bring the outdoors in and to produce exceptionally unexpected and unique finishes Nielsen House have created five individual, private retreats which raise the bar for luxury spa suites.”

Taking wellness to new heights in The Lake District, Cumbria, these five luxury suites designed as the ultimate spa sanctuary for two are the epitome of bringing the outdoors in.

Gilpin Hotel Spa Suites were recognised at The International Hotel & Property Awards 2021 in June, when Nielsen House claimed the Hotel Suite Europe Award for their inspirational design. The accolade for Nielsen House and its interior scheme for the luxury spa pods recognises the studio’s creativity and adaptability to purpose.

The brief was to create a biophilic space using the Lakeland surroundings to inspire the design. The Hotel, who are renowned for their distinct rooms, required an underlying consistency across the suites but for each suite to retain its own identity. They each have their own names, taken from the fells and mountains around them, with soft furnishings that tell a different story across each suite. Gilpin are committed to providing their guests with an elegant, relaxing escape to luxury and the designers were required to use their creativity to help them produce something exceptionally unexpected and unique.

“Our brief was to extend the beauty and serenity of the lakes to all who visit,” said Sarah Jane Nielsen, founder of Nielsen House. “The experience had to be completely Gilpin, completely Lakeland, but with our Scandinavian style. We pride ourselves on sustainable design and the interplay between indoors and outdoors.

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creating a healthier and more natural environment with all the warmth and comfort of home.”

Each suite, which aptly captures the unique sense of place of the hotel by bringing the outdoors in within the interior design scheme, features 100 square metres of private built-in facilities. The lodges are single storey timber pods with mountain views to the west, and tranquil woodlands with a stream to the east, each nestling into the surrounding area with delightful planting behind a beautiful, curved Lakeland stone wall. Every suite has floor to ceiling windows and patio doors opening out onto a beautiful decked garden with fountain water features, living wall of ferns, and a stunning hydrotherapy stone-built hot tub, all alongside a huge plunge pond.

Nature has been carefully injected into all touchpoints of the suites. The main living space is made up of two areas: to the right, a lounge and dining area with a hanging fireplace in the corner window, a fully equipped cocktail bar and wine fridge, and to the left, a beautiful huge circular stone bath, a stunning cedar wood double walk-in rain shower, and a standout double vanity area with inlaid ferns held up by tree trunks. At the western end of each suite, the private bedroom ‘floats’ over the pond with views to the mountains, whilst at the eastern end the spa room has a steam room, sauna, infrared lounge bed, and a stateof-the-art automated massage chair.

This design integrates well into the surroundings owing to the proximity to

nature of which it is inspired. Tree lined roads lead to the lodges with a dramatic view of fells as a backdrop and on entering the suite itself the sense of the outdoors greets guests. The designers also used local suppliers where possible to limit the environmental impact.

Nielsen House explained that exceptional skills were needed to execute this design and expressed their gratitude to the specialists who assisted in turning their visionary designs in to a reality. The tables were designed collaboratively with local designers to incorporate unique touches for each suite, even down to the door handles which were made by a local blacksmith. The wall coverings were all hung by a local company with a keen eye for detail and became a favourite aspect of the design for the team as they truly brought the outdoors in. By using natural materials such as bark, silver birch, stone veneers, cork and even concrete, these textures help to create a fun and unique finish to the space.

The design works well as the designers were able to meet the client’s brief fully; the creativity that they were granted by the Gilpin’s owners, the Cunliffe family, from the relationship that they have built over 20 years allowed them to produce these breath-taking designs.

Through their use of natural materials, the ability to connect their designs with nature to bring the outdoors in and to produce exceptionally unexpected and unique finishes Nielsen House have created five individual, private retreats which raise the bar for luxury spa suites.

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EMPOWERMENT AND UNITY HOTEL ZENA BY DAWSON DESIGN ASSOCIATES

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“From street art to fine art, the curated collection of fluid, fearless, powerful, and inclusive art adorns the property, telling the story of female empowerment with a fresh perspective.”

Hotel Zena, a new Viceroy Urban Retreat, is where art, music and design thrive. Part hotel and part art gallery that features work that celebrates the contributions and courage of women, it is located at the nexus of downtown DC and the 14th Street Corridor, close to DC’s most notable landmarks and museums. Its 191 guestrooms and suites are soothing spaces with artful touches.

The hotel, with interiors by Dawson Design Associates, offers an interactive exploration of American history through female change-makers. To create a harmonious atmosphere, DDA and Hotel Zena’s management meticulously selected each material and art installation throughout the 12-story building. Hotel Zena is a stand out, not only for her epic seven-story tall painting of two female warriors on the building’s exterior. Sixty original works of art celebrate female empowerment and gender equality in a collection curated to inspire and ignite conversation. The message is artfully woven throughout every aspect of the hotel’s design from the Greek goddess images in guestrooms to the “Wall of Honour” featuring 221 sketches of feminist heroes and iconoclasts spanning 2,000+ years. The hotel lobby is host to a stunning portrait gallery honouring eleven women who’ve fought for gender equality including a wall-sized image of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg – made entirely of 20,000 painted tampons. A 20’ long curved wall in the restaurant adorned with 12,000 protest buttons commemorates the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote. Colourful upcycled single-sole high heels decorate the reception desk. A dramatic hanging installation of painted folding chairs honours Representative Shirley Chisholm’s advice as the first Black woman elected to Congress, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair”.

From street art to fine art, the curated collection of fluid, fearless, powerful, and

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inclusive art adorns the property, telling the story of female empowerment with a fresh perspective. Zena’s art is power— it shifts points of view, it serves as a point of connection, and it’s iconic in its placemaking. Andrea Dawson Sheehan, CEO of Dawson Design Associates, travelled the world finding artists that were feminist, both male and female, that supported power and strength. Andrea explained “It was important to me that it wasn’t propaganda, that it wasn’t angry. I wanted it to be good, intense storytelling,” continuing she said “Every piece of art in Hotel Zena was commissioned to send a message of empowerment and unity”.

interior design and curating the 60-piece art collection and the three major art installations. A personal and intimate celebration of a woman in the most female of mediums, the essence of childbirth. A tribute to the tiny woman who paved the way legally for other women in the United States to succeed.

Back in 2018, Andrea had an idea for a new kind of hotel: an interactive, emotionally impactful space dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of women. She brought the idea to her client, Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, which invests in upscale properties around the world. “I had a PowerPoint presentation that started with the ancient warriors, then the Egyptians, the Greeks and all the women through history speaking out, fighting for change,” said Andrea. Then she showed them the new generation and said, “I want to create a hotel that’s stylish and cool, but at the same time, powerful and female. And I want to have the warriors be the art”. Right in the middle of her presentation, Andrea recalls Pebblebrook’s CEO, Jon Bortz, telling her to hold whilst he gathered all of his asset managers and officers and asked her to start over again. “When I got to my concept for a portrait of Ruth Bader Ginsburg made out of hand-painted tampons, everybody in this corporate boardroom leaned back in their chairs and gasped,” Andrea remembered. However, the result was overwhelmingly positive and Andrea was given full artistic license moving forward.

Talking about the project Andrea stated that “as an artist and a woman, it was a pleasure being given the freedom and funding to experiment in creating a space that captures the characteristics and elements that make powerful females unique; soft and nurturing, fierce and protective yet engaging and social”, she continued “Key to the design was the experience of building a world class art collection that shares so many other’s peoples own point of view and struggles as expressed in their art”. The arts powerful and compelling message of unity fills the spaces with an amazing energy.

Stylish, inviting and interactive but with a deeper meaning and presence in layers that go deeper than the superficial.

Hotel Zena is an experimental fusion between interactive art gallery, neighbourhood hub and stylish Lifestyle hotel. DDA conceptualised the experience by designing all the interior architecture,

Dawson Design Associates were recognised at The International Hotel & Property Awards 2021, held in Capri in September with this impactful and distinctive project, claiming the Award in the Hotel Under 200 Rooms Americas & Caribbean category.

Hotel Zena celebrates female empowerment and accomplishments through provocative art and design. For the public spaces of this hotel Dawson Design Associates (DDA) designed a salon style environment that is both social and provocative with every curving line leading to another moment of discovery. The goal was to create a haven for the liberated forward thinker where an atmosphere of strength and femininity live in harmony.

Guests are immersed in a vibrant visual language told through a collection of original art, lighting, and architecture visible from every angle.