Sleeper September/October 2014 - Issue 56

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2014

Ham Yard Hotel

American Trade Hotel

Alan Faena

From Aztec to Africa to Americana at Firmdale’s new London landmark

Atelier Ace makes its Panama debut in revitalised Casco Viejo

The man in the white suit reveals his plans for Miami Beach

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Whatever your involvement in hotel design there are plenty of benefits to adding your profile to Innspec. Sign up today on www.innspec.com

DESIGNERS

Inside Sleeper SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2014

56

Hotel Reviews

Features

Cover Story

034 Ham Yard Hotel London

042 Meeting… Alan Faena The Argentinian impresario unveils plans for the first stage of a global expansion, with a mixed-use development in Miami.

One of three private event spaces at Firmdale’s new Ham Yard Hotel, Croc Bowling Alley pays homage to mid-century Americana with 1950s apparatus imported from Texas alongside a collection of retro bowling shoes.

050 American Trade Hotel Panama 060 The Dean Rhode Island 066 SP34 Copenhagen 071

Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park Bornes de Aguiar

076

OD Port Portals Mallorca

080 St. Regis Abu Dhabi 086 Metropolitan By Como Miami

Location Report Amsterdam 091

Introduction

094 Waldorf Astoria 102

Volkshotel

108 Hotel Not Hotel 113

Faralda NDSM Crane Hotel

Departments 018 Check In 020 Drawing Board 128

Business Centre Top Hotel Projects

131

Business Centre Hotel Analyst

155

Company Profile JOI-Design

161

Company Profile Roca

169

Product Profile Bathrooms & Amenities

185

Specifier

210

Check Out

119 Brand Standards Wyndham Hotel Group A delve into the inner workings of the design and development teams at one of the world’s largest hotel groups.

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CONNECT  CONVERSE  CREATE For more information call 020 7225 9166 or visit www.dcch.co.uk Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, Lots Road, London SW10 0XE

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Welcome

I

n my very first piece for this slot some 12 years ago I said I would break the habit of the editorial lifetime and write my leader column before writing the rest of the magazine. And I did, for the first couple of issues at least. As with so many good intentions that soon fell by the wayside.

The reality is that this part of the magazine – possibly the first bit you read – is usually the last we write. So many of my seventy or so leader pieces have been written under similar circumstances to those I am facing right now, up against the deadline clock – on a clunky PC in a hotel business centre in the early days, or nowadays more likely cursing the lack of WiFi in an airport departure lounge.

So it’s not much of a regret to say this will be my last column in this slot. Indeed it’s a great pleasure to be introducing my successor as Editor of Sleeper, Catherine Martin.

Before you crack open the champagne, I hasten to add I’m not leaving Sleeper – merely taking on a more strategic role with the high falutin’ title of Editor-in-Chief. I’m also delighted to announce the appointment of our longest standing contributor Guy Dittrich as Editor-at-Large. Guy will be complementing the editorial team with a roving brief to represent the magazine at the events he attends worldwide – many as moderator or host – sniffing out the most interesting hotels to review and industry personalities to interview along the way. He kicks off with a chat with Argentinian impresario Alan Faena, and a report on Metropolitan by Como both conducted during his visit to LE Miami in June.

These are just small organisational tweaks. The real changes, as we celebrate the tenth anniversary of the magazine in its current format, are to the product itself. A new logo and strapline. A new look magazine (more from Catherine on that overleaf). A new online platform www.innspec.com and a redesigned website at www.sleepermagazine.com. New events are also in the pipeline – including Sleepover Istanbul (26-27 April 2015) following our previous adventures in Berlin, Amsterdam and Copenhagen; and the Asia Hotel Design Awards (in Singapore on 12 March 2015), building on the success of our existing European Hotel Design Awards. We hope these developments will position us well for another ten years and beyond as the leading magazine for global hotel design.

I’ll still be writing hotel reviews and the like for the new look Sleeper so don’t strike me off your invitation lists just yet, but it will be Catherine who oversees the day-to-day editorial running of the magazine. As I’m sure you’ll agree from this first, revamped issue, it’s in capable hands.

Matt Turner | Editor-in-Chief

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A new look Sleeper

M

y first task in this new role as Editor of Sleeper has been to create a new identity for the magazine as part of the ongoing evolution of our brand.

Much like a hotel, they say that the lifespan of a magazine’s design is 5-7 years. So, ten years after our 2004 relaunch – with a soft refurb in 2009 – we thought it was about time for a full renovation.

The resulting magazine offers a much cleaner aesthetic. We’ve de-cluttered our pages, introduced new fonts, and opted for a fresh, neutral colour palette that will serve the test of time. There is also a renewed focus on the photography of the stunning projects that you, the reader, help to create. Underpinning all this, there is a new grid. Without wanting to get too technical, just as its often the architectural bones of a building that shape the success, or otherwise, of its décor, a lot of work from our design team has gone into strengthening the underlying structure of the magazine, even if the results are not visible on the surface.

To stretch the analogy even further, the sign above the door of Hotel Sleeper has been modernised with a new typeface, bringing it in line with our growing portfolio of brands. And we have a new strapline – Global Hotel Design – to convey the truly international reach of this publication.

In terms of new features, we’ve partnered with Top Hotel Projects to present the latest construction pipelines from around the world. You will also notice a stronger link with Innspec, the online platform for hotel and design specification, brought to you by Sleeper. At the end of each review – and in a project directory towards the back of the magazine – you can find a representative sample of the designers, suppliers and consultants involved in a selection of projects featured in this issue, full details of which can be accessed at www.innspec.com.

Furthermore, our own website, www.sleepermagazine.com, has been redesigned to better reflect the look and feel of the magazine.

Despite such a radical new look, not everything has changed. Our core elements, the brand standards you might say, remain intact. You will still find interviews with leading industry figures; renderings of the most exciting new hotels breaking ground; and a section dedicated to companies who supply products and provide services. And finally, our promise to bring you reviews of more hotel projects worldwide than any other publication remains at the heart of what we do, upholding our reputation as the leading magazine for hotel design, development and architecture.

As always, we welcome your feedback on this new look Sleeper, but in the meantime, I hope you enjoy your stay.

Catherine Martin | Editor

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Front Desk

EDITORIAL

ADVERTISING

DESIGN

Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner m.turner@mondiale.co.uk

Commercial Director Becky Thomas r.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

Design David Bell d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

Editor Catherine Martin c.martin@mondiale.co.uk

Advertising Manager Rob Hart r.hart@mondiale.co.uk

Production Dan Seaton d.seaton@mondiale.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Molly Dolan m.dolan@mondiale.co.uk

Advertising Sales Bernadette Humphrey b.humphrey@mondiale.co.uk

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Guest Book

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© Francois Halard

KIT KEMP

COMMUNE DESIGN

ARI HECKMAN

KARIM NIELSEN

Not so much a hotel as an ‘urban village’, says Kit Kemp of Firmdale’s latest venture.

Complete with 91 guestrooms and extensive public spaces that include a bowling alley and a theatre, Ham Yard Hotel is the group’s largest, and most daring, design project to date.

Inspired by the vibrant location, Kemp has absorbed the energy of Soho into spaces that buzz with her distinctive use of colour, pattern and texture.

Founded in 2004 by Roman Alonso, Steven Johanknecht, Pamela Shamshiri and Ramin Shamshiri, Commune Design is a collective of architects, interior designers and graphic designers. Having worked with Ace Hotels on its Palm Springs and Downtown Los Angeles properties, the firm was appointed to transform the rundown American Trade Building into a more luxurious offering for the brand.

Bridging the worlds of interior design and real estate, ASH NYC designs, develops, owns and operates hotels. Having spotted a gap in the market in his native hometown of Providence, the fi rm’s founder and CEO, Ari Heckman, set about creating an intimate and stylish boutique hotel that would match the artistic and academic allure of the Rhode Island capital.

As CEO of Copenhagenbased Brøchner Hotels, Karim Nielsen is responsible for taking the small, family-owned business to the next level. Over the past four years, he has more than doubled the number of guestrooms in the group’s portfolio, and overseen the refurbishment, extension and rebrand of one of its former properties, Hotel Fox, into SP34, a boutique offering for luxury bohemians.

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BANDAS design Patricia Urquiola www.gan-rugs.com

201409_sleeper.indd 1

Interiors from Spain.

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15/07/2014 9:14:33

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Michael Gabellini & Kimberly Sheppard GABELLINI SHEPPARD ASSOCIATES

The founders of New York-based multi-disciplinary studio Gabellini Sheppard Associates travel to the lava fields of Iceland for their fantasy hotel stay.

Where are we?

Iceland, for its volcanoes, pooling waters and natural beauty. Supposedly they have the happiest people with the longest life expectancy: we can’t argue with that.

How did you get here?

We took a short flight to Reykjavík for a long weekend sojourn. From there, we’re off on a helicopter to the tiny coastal town of Stykkishólmur to see Roni Horn’s Library of Water installation – a long awaited treat.

Who’s at the concierge desk?

Peter Sellers as ‘Chauncey Gardiner’ from Being There, of course.

And the owner / manager?

It would have to be Ian Schrager. We loved working with him because of his experimental, ahead of the pulse, experiential hospitality design.

Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room on arrival?

Lots of extra towels, a warm pot of Earl Grey tea, a closed gardenia bud by the bedside and those famous huddle folk (invisible Icelandic elves) at our beck-and-call.

the hotel is a sanctuary made from stone and glass. The modern building volume – long, low and hidden – has one side nestled into the hillside and the other projected as a cantilevered platform offering expansive views of the Blue Lagoon with its hot springs and geysers. Comforting and calming, the interior wall and floor – geothermally heated – are made from the site’s own quarried lava stone.

Above, a rooftop observation terrace with views of the Aurora Borealis allows us to take in this remote undiscovered piece of nature where fire, ice, lava and glaciers merge.

Who designed it?

Richard Neutra meets Alvar Aalto, the ultimate melding of modernist talent and site-sensitive integration of architecture into landscape.

What’s the restaurant / bar like?

The room is filled with interesting travellers from around the world and all are seated at a large communal driftwood table overlooking the Blue Lagoon. An art installation by Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson using channeled curtains of natural steam is another unforgettable detail.

Who are you dining with this evening?

Roni Horn, James Turrell, Ólafur Elíasson, Ann Hamilton and Björk – and her swan.

Who are you sharing your room with?

It’s a family affair with our loved ones, including the kids and even Fred, the office dog.

Who’s manning the stoves?

The huddle folk!

Describe the hotel, your room and the view...

Private, isolated and nestled in the tundra hillside,

And what’s on the menu?

Starter: Icelandic mussels and volcano langoustine

maki roll Main: Creamy mushroom risotto with braised lamb shank from a local farmer, seasoned with Icelandic herbs Dessert: White chocolate rhubarb pie and a side plate of Icelandic mascarpone cheese Digestif: A shot of Brennivín in honour of beautiful Iceland.

Would you like something to drink with that?

Yes! The iciest Reyka handcrafted vodka martini with a sprig of Arctic thyme. Then a full-bodied red with dinner.

And a book at bedtime?

KS: Keep the Aspidistra Flying by George Orwell.

MG: Roni Horn’s Island, a series of books about her meditations of Iceland’s prehistoric environment.

What’s in the mini-bar for a night cap?

More Reyka! There are no hangovers in fantasy vacation land, right?

Early morning alarm call or late check out?

Late check out, because we were up all night watching the Aurora Borealis!

Bath, jacuzzi or power shower?

KS: A Jacuzzi on the terrace to gaze at the stars and a power shower in the room.

MG: A bath in the thermal pool is all I need.

Swimming pool, spa or gym?

There is no need for a spa when you’re in a nature’s outdoor spa and no need for a gym because we are hiking everywhere! But there is a pool that vanishes into the Blue Lagoon.

Name: Michael Gabellini, FAIA, and Kimberly Sheppard, AIA | Position: Design Partners | www.gabellinisheppard.com Notable hotel projects: The Istanbul Edition; Public, Chicago; Row NYC, New York; The Knickerbocker, New York (opening late 2014)

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Lofoten Opera Hotel LOFOTEN

Oslo-based architecture practice Snøhetta has unveiled plans for a new hotel to be built on Norway’s Lofoten archipelago.

Expected to start on site later this year, Lofoten Opera Hotel will be located in the Moskenes municipality, close to the town Sørvagen, Glåpen. The low-rise, sinuous structure is designed to adhere to the topography of the site and offer panoramic views of the surrounding sea and mountains.

Snøhetta’s objective was to find development patterns and shapes that optimise the site’s potential with regard to functionality, architecture, and user experience.

As such, a number of factors have been taken into consideration, including the landscape’s limitations relating to new construction, functional and technical aspects of access, infrastructure, ecology, and sustainability, as well as the connection to outdoor areas and existing buildings. When complete, the 11,000m2 building will include both a hotel and residences, as well as spa facilities and an amphitheatre.

© Snøhetta & MIR

Five-Star Hotel Tower SHENZHEN

Architecture firm Goettsch Partners has been appointed by developer China Resources Land Limited (CR Land) to design a large-scale mixed-use project in Neighbourhood 2 of Shenzhen’s Qianhai district.

façades designed with a textured elegance that differentiates them from the surrounding blue-glass buildings of Shenzhen. A metallicpainted aluminium frame with consistent spacing between verticals prioritises internal planning flexibility for the office towers. The spacing between horizontal frame elements varies from a two-storey to a four-storey rhythm in order to respond more individually to each office building’s height and proportions. The frame’s vertical component is accentuated by means of double fins; this character is countered by an expression of double horizontal fins on the hotel and apartment towers that create a related yet different appearance while affording maximum flexibility for views and natural ventilation.

The surrounding Qianhai district is a special economic zone designated for an ambitious US$45 billion overall development to transform it into the ‘Manhattan of the Pearl River Delta’.

The project covers 6.18 hectares and includes five commercial towers totalling 450,000m2. It is the firm’s largest project to-date in China.

The overall development includes three office towers, a five-star hotel tower, an apartment tower and a shopping mall. Goettsch Partners is responsible for designing all five towers, as well as the hotel and apartment podiums and their affiliated programme spaces. They will collaborate with UK-based design firm Benoy, which developed the masterplan and is designing the shopping mall and retail areas.

The overall design concept is one of a unified complex composed of buildings with related yet individual exterior characteristics and

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Solís Ubud Resort & Spa BALI

Capella Hotel Group has announced the development of the 108-key Solís Ubud Resort & Spa, slated to open in Bali in 2017.

experiences. Solís Ubud will also offer two themed restaurants delivering cuisine rooted in Balinese food culture, as well as a spa with a holistic focus.

The hotel is located to allow guests convenient access to Ubud’s dynamic and authentic attractions and activities, which include remarkable arts and culture related activities, verdant environments and villages and unspoiled ancient sites.

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

Fresh from the debut of its first hotel in China in March – the Han Yue Lou Hotel, Nanjing – this latest announcement signifies the expansion of the Solís brand with further luxury hotels scheduled to open in Guangzhou, China, and Doha, Qatar, both opening in 2015.

The Ubud property will be designed by international architecture firm Denton Corker Marshall.

Set amidst the idyllic rice paddies along the Wos River, the hotel will employ unique and poetic architecture inspired by centuries of colourful Balinese traditional processions and celebrations. The property’s guestrooms, along with its villas and ‘villa-in-the-sky’ residences, will showcase panoramic views and scenic riverfront

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Uzuri Hotel Resort ZANZIBAR

London-based architecture and interior design practice Jestico + Whiles has been appointed to design a new resort for RSJ Private Equity on the island of Zanzibar, located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania.

organisation of spaces and strong references to the island’s heritage and craftsmanship. African design features such as Omani doors and balconies, traditional coconut thatch roofs, coral stone structures and typical local finishes will create a tranquil and elegant atmosphere throughout the resort.

Sustainable features include the use of shade and sea breeze to help create a natural ventilation system, the harvesting of rainwater, and the installation of two wells that will supply clean, fresh water to the whole resort.

Framed views of the beach and sea will be visible from all parts of the site and Jestico + Whiles will design the lush landscaping to include a Spice Garden, where indigenous and rare fragrant spices will be grown and used in the resort’s restaurants as well as to create an exclusive range of cosmetics.

Anticipated to open in early 2016, the village resort comprises 60 individual cabanas and five larger villas, together with restaurants, bars, yoga, meditation spaces and massage rooms. Jestico + Whiles’ proposal is both ecologically and socially responsive, offering highquality accommodation that responds to the local context.

Due to the limited infrastructure on the island and its need for self-sufficiency, Uzuri will be an ‘off-grid’ resort. The design of Uzuri Hotel Resort responds to Zanzibar’s culture, climate and geography through the use of locally available materials, the

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St. Paul’s Hotel & Apartments LONDON

4C Hotel Group, Redefine BDL Hotels and Dexter Moren Associates have unveiled latest designs for St. Paul’s Luxury Hotel & Apartments.

Whilst respecting constraints imposed by St. Paul’s viewing heights in its form, the new building further anchors itself to this key city location through its façade design. Above a traditional Portland stone base, the upper floors combine more contemporary masonry with materials such as metal and glass.

The lower levels of the seven-storey scheme house the hotel’s public spaces. Arriving guests enter into a vast glazed atrium space leading to a riverside bar and restaurant which opens onto the new public walkway affording spectacular views across the river towards Shakespeare’s Globe and South Bank.

Guestrooms predominantly face to the east and west looking to the churches of St. Pauls, St. Mary Somerset and St. James Garlickhythe.

Three of the nine riverside apartments will sit above the hotel bar on the waterfront, with the remainder in the adjoining block to the east.

Located on the north bank of the River Thames, this project sees the historic Queensbridge House site Southeast of St. Paul’s Cathedral redeveloped with a new 224-room hotel and nine luxury apartments.

The project connects the area near St. Paul’s with the Queenhithe dock, the oldest in London, and completes the northern riverbank walkway between the Tower of London and Millennium Bridge as well as adding a connection to the Thames Path National Trail.

St. Paul’s Luxury Hotel & Apartments will replace an incongruent group of tired 1960s office buildings to become one new cohesive piece of architecture. Once complete, the development will open up views from the city towards the river.

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Thompson SEAT TLE

Commune Hotels & Resorts, along with Geolo Capital and Seattlebased real estate firm Touchstone, has announced plans for a groundup, mixed-use development – inclusive of hotel, residential, and retail components – that will operate under the Thompson Hotels flag.

Puget Sound and Olympic Mountain Range and will sit adjacent to the world-famous Pike Place Market. Thompson Seattle’s desirable location will be ideal for both leisure and business travellers, as well as prospective tenants who crave a well-rounded lifestyle experience, with convenient access to the city’s financial centre and recreational activities in nearby Lake Union.

Thompson Seattle will house 159 guestrooms, 97 residences, a signature ground-floor restaurant concept, subterranean parking, and an estimated 1,600ft2 of retail space, along with the city’s premier rooftop deck with 9,500ft2 of indoor/outdoor space.

Commune Hotels & Resorts has also announced that the newest Thompson hotel, Thompson Miami Beach, will open in late 2014 following a multi-million dollar renovation. The 380-room beachfront property is being designed by Martin Brudnizki.

A marker of continued expansion for the lifestyle brand, Thompson Seattle will become Thompson Hotels’ first property in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.

Projected to open in Spring 2016, Thompson Seattle will be conceptualised by architectural teams from Washington-based firms Olson Kundig and Jensen Fey, and interiors firm Munge Leung, under the direction of Commune Hotels’ in-house design team.

Located in the heart of downtown, the new building will stand 12-storeys high offering unobstructed views of the surrounding

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Bow Street Hotel LONDON

EPR Architects has been appointed to lead the sensitive refurbishment and extension to transform the Grade II-listed Bow Street Magistrates Courthouse and Police Station into a luxury boutique hotel and Police Museum for Bow Street Hotel Limited.

introduction of a new mansard roof construction. In the courtyard area, two new guestroom wings will be created as a modern element to complement and unify the existing buildings. The Bow Street Hotel will feature 100 guestrooms including four in the original police cells, as well as a signature restaurant and bar and a fitness suite. The original courtroom will be transformed into the hotel restaurant with an adjacent bar and lounge area. A Bow Street Police Museum will also be created in and around the original police cells on the ground floor, which will be open to the public. The court closed back in 2006 after 267 years in operation, it is set to open again in 2015.

It has also been revealed that EPR Architects is working with Sydell Group on the development of a 252-room hotel in collaboration with Soho House. The London hotel will be located at 27 Poultry in a Grade I-listed building designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.

EPR Architects will be acting as architect and lead designer to develop and implement the concept design by Shanghai-based practice Neri & Hu Design and Research Office.

Located in the heart of Covent Garden, Bow Street Magistrates was historically the most famous court in England. The police station was home to London’s first professional police force, the Bow Street Runners, and both the courthouse and holding cells housed many famous defendants such as the Kray Twins and Oscar Wilde.

The existing building will be largely retained and restored with the

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Ham Yard Hotel LONDON

Mixing influences from Aztec prints to vintage Americana, Kit Kemp’s designs for Firmdale’s latest project are on a far larger scale than the company’s previous hotels.

Words: Matt Turner | Photography: © Simon Brown

F

irmdale Hotels is unique in the London hotel scene. Privately owned by husband and wife Tim and Kit Kemp, the company has gone about its business for the past thirty years, launching new properties at a steady pace. They have never pursued expansion for expansion’s sake. Not that they’re lacking in ambition. Some industry observers were sceptical when they announced plans to bring their resolutely English style of boutique hotel to New York, but Crosby Street Hotel has proven a resounding success – to the extent that another New York property is currently under development.

The autonomy that private ownership allows has given Tim and Kit a control over their hotels that few, if any, competitors enjoy.

They continually reinvest in their existing hotels – maintaining, updating and tweaking the design details that matter most to their guests. As a result, they enjoy occupancy levels that are amongst the most resilient in London.

Nor have they been tempted to separate bricks-and-mortar from brand or brains as others have, though they have done deals when necessary – notably the sale and leaseback of The Knightsbridge and Number Sixteen to help fund the launch of The Soho Hotel in London; and more recently the sale of The Pelham to finance Crosby Street.

Yet Ham Yard is a far bigger undertaking than any of Firmdale’s previous ventures – one which required £188m in funding from their longstanding financial partner Barclays Corporate to complete. As

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Above and Opposite: Kit Kemp has carefully balanced clashing textures and patterns, using many of her own designs, including fabrics such as Willow, Bookends, Rick Rack, Royal Snail and Ozone, created in collaboration with Christopher Farr

the Kemps put it, this is their largest, and most daring, design project to date – not so much a hotel as an ‘urban village’.

It is located in the heart of Soho, on a three-quarter acre plot which had sat as one of central London’s largest undeveloped sites for decades following its bombing by the Luftwaffe in 1940, and a brief revival as the home of The Scene nightclub, heartland of the mod movement in 1960s London.

Architect Woods Bagot’s new plan for the site centres around a tree filled pedestrian thoroughfare that establishes a new public route between Great Windmill Street and Denman Street.

“The design approach to Ham Yard Hotel seeks to encapsulate the distinctive architectural landscape of Soho by delivering a building which is complementary to the scale, massing and materials of the area, while providing a contemporary addition to one of London’s key leisure and tourist districts,” explains Jonathan Leah of Woods Bagot. “It is close to the Crown Estate redevelopment of Quadrant 3 building and David Chipperfield’s refurbished Café Royal, all of which are contributing to the rejuvenation of this south-west corner of Soho. Ham Yard Hotel helps specifically to repair the urban fabric of its site while engaging the wider neighbourhood within which it is located.”

The centrepiece of the courtyard is a specially commissioned bronze sculpture by Tony Cragg. “There are a lot of historical statues and monuments in London, yet very little public contemporary sculpture,” says Kit Kemp. “We wanted to celebrate a British artist, and to us Tony Cragg is the ultimate Renaissance man. He is an artist, engineer, teacher, innovator. We hope that long after we have gone, Tony’s sculpture will still be here.”

It seems symbolic that this sculpture is much bigger than the one commissioned for the lobby of Firmdale’s Haymarket Hotel back in 2008. “Everything is on a much larger scale,” says Kemp. The hotel incorporates not only 91 bedrooms and suites, but also extensive public spaces including indoor and alfresco dining, two bars, a fourlane bowling alley, a 188-seat theatre, plus gym, spa, rooftop terrace, sunken orangery, drawing room and curated private library. Then there are the 24 residential apartments across the courtyard, with an arcade of 13 specialist retail units at street level.

Yet there is no sign that any shortcuts have been taken with the interiors, which display all of Kit Kemp’s trademark attention to detail and individuality. Inspired by the hotel’s vibrant location, she has absorbed the energy of the surrounding streets into spaces that buzz with her distinctive use of colour pattern, and texture. The

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Above: Guestrooms feature Frette linens, Savoir beds with large upholstered headboards, and marble bathrooms with classically styled fittings by Lefroy Brooks

interiors maybe richly detailed but it is testament to Kemp’s skill as a designer that they never feel busy, chaotic or confused. The atmosphere they create is that of an elegant, relaxed urban sanctuary.

Handcrafted features abound: ribbed glass and alabaster chandeliers – both custom made in India – in the restaurant, library and some bedrooms; a neon silk thread installation hanging above the reception desk by recent RCA graduate Hermione Skye O’Hea; bespoke rugs by Christina van der Hurd; and framed fabrics designed by young Australian artist Shilo Engelbrecht in the bedrooms.

In the lobby, a bespoke light by Gareth Devonald Smith is in the form of an ever-moving clock that creates hypnotic patterns before centering itself to tell the exact time every minute.

Kemp has also used many of her own signature designs, including fabrics created in collaboration with Christopher Farr and Chelsea Textiles; and her own range of wallpapers inspired by French 1950s botanical posters.

Bedrooms will be familiar to anyone who has stayed in another Firmdale hotel, yet each has its own identity. Large, elegant headboards in exciting prints contrast with beds dressed in crisp white Frette linen. Full-length curtains, shutters, sofas, chairs and rugs offer a mélange of colour and pattern. Walls are fabric-covered to create another layer of warmth and tactility.

On a practical level, they are flawless. The floor-to-ceiling Crittall windows, another Firmdale trademark, are fully soundproof. Water pressure is powerful. The control panels are simple and intuitive.

“I always try to make it comfortable to watch the television from the bed or chair, there is always a good reading light by a comfortable chair, a desk that you can work at and plug in what you need to, and an end-of-bed footstool to put on your shoes. I want people to feel good when they stay with us,” says Kemp.

There are eye-catching details at every turn, many of which have been collected on Kit Kemp’s travels. “I saw the driftwood crocodiles, now hanging on the ‘discotheque’ wall downstairs, and I just knew we had to find somewhere to use them. They were completely bonkers, but perfect because many years ago I used to go to a place called The Croc, so I thought ‘fantastic, we’re going to create a new Croc Bar’.”

The resulting Dive Bar and Croc Bowling Alley are Kemp’s homage to mid-century Americana. A neon sign of a diving Jantzen swimmer adorns one wall. The word ‘HOTEL’ is writ large in lightbulbs behind the bar. Oversized Rick Rack wallpaper, handpainted by de Gournay, creates a ripple-like effect down the wall. A specially commissioned 30ft tall orange squeezer stretches from the mezzanine to the ground floor, where 1950s bowling apparatus imported from Texas sits alongside a collection of retro bowling shoes, sourced from around

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Above: An eclectic cluster of pendant lights illuminates the Orangery area of the bar

the world. Zinc-topped bars, chairs covered in brightly coloured Hainsworth wools, and a baby grand piano complete the space.

In the restaurant, painted organ pipes or hung fabrics help to discreetly divide the eating and drinking spaces. “All these things to me make such a difference in such a big space,” says Kemp. Notable design features include a wall of illuminated pots by Martha Freud and lights from South America. A sunken orangery at the back, provides a relaxed spot for pre-dinner drinks or afternoon tea.

At the opposite end of the ground floor is the guest library, more traditionally styled with Kit Kemp’s large Suzani embroidered fabric used as curtains and her Ozone fabric for Christopher Farr on the walls. A specially curated collection of books covers subjects as diverse as biography, history, travel and cookery. At the other end, a more sumptuous, folk art mood occupies the guest drawing room, where hand painted and inlaid cabinets are juxtaposed with crewelwork covered sofas, Breon O’Casey rugs and framed Robina Jack painted ceramic plates.

The work of lighting designers Lighting Design International has also played an important role: “We worked with Firmdale to create a combination of concealed lighting effects that complement the decorative lighting without dominating the spaces,” says Susan Thorely, Senior Designer. “The architectural lighting is discreetly integrated into coffers ceiling slots and joinery where possible to allow the feature chandeliers and quirky neon light art to make their statement on the design as a whole. This approach adds depth to the spaces complementing the vibrant colourful interior finishes.”

“No room is perfect,” concludes Kemp. “If you had a perfect room you’d just paint it white and leave it, but being in the centre of London and being so close to other buildings, it is always important to let in as much light as possible and to deceive the eye when there are trickier proportions,” she says.

And her ultimate aim when designing a hotel? “It should bring the child out in everyone, piquing their curiosity so that it makes them want to slide on all the floors and go exploring.”

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 91 guestrooms | 1 restaurant | 1 bar | Spa: 3 treatment rooms | Event Spaces: 3 | www.firmdalehotels.com Owner/Operator : Firmdale Hotels | Architecture: Woods Bagot | Interior Design: Kit Kemp For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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MEETING

Alan Faena For the first phase of Faena Group’s global expansion, its founder has brought together a number of creative minds in a fusion of art, architecture, nature and technologly.

Words: Guy Dittrich | Photography: Courtesy of Faena Group unless otherwise stated

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fatigue the softly spoken Faena responds in a considered, if sometimes oblique, manner.

When asked to comment on the theme of the Ministry of Ideas – the collision of luxury and lifestyle he comments: “I don’t personally believe in luxury – I believe in a way of life. To get through to more people, we need to take out the word ‘luxury’.”

Nevertheless both the projects in Buenos Aires and Miami are aimed at the top end of the market with the former reportedly trading at the highest rate in the city. The penthouse apartment in the first Miami residential tower was sold off-plan at the highest ever per-squarefoot price for the city.

“We feel different because we work from our heart,” explains Faena, his passion clear to see.

“We believe in the power of ideas, of creating utopias.”

Faena’s vision is truly extraordinary and he has already created a utopia of sorts. The Puerto Madero neighbourhood of Buenos Aires has been transformed from a broken backwater to the most valuable real estate in the Argentine capital. It is worth exploring how Faena got there.

The eldest son of a textile manufacturing family he founded the Via Vai fashion label in 1985. Its success saw Faena in the limelight hosting lavish launch events and fashion shows. Just over a decade later he sold the business fortuitously before one of Argentina’s numerous financial crises.

Moving to José Igancio, the alternative to the paparazzi-central

ven the gates to the numerous building sites that make up the Faena Miami Beach complex have design credibility. Heavy gauge-wire entrances by Studio Job reflect the unicorns, forks of lightning and other heraldic symbols found in the coat of arms of founder Alan Faena.

Faena, the Argentinean impresario who orchestrated a similarly cultural-based ‘universe’ in Buenos Aires, is trying to work the same magic in Miami within a mixed-use development that includes a hotel, residences, arts centre and retail.

I had the chance to catch up with Alan Faena in the run-up to our on-stage interview, the headline act for Ministry of Ideas, a thought provoking afternoon of creativity, energy and entertainment that serves as the prelude to LE Miami. Now in its second year, this is a threeday meetings forum that sees the suppliers of the best in luxury hospitality doing business with the elite and bespoke travel trade.

Dressed in his trademark all white suit, complete with matching fedora, Faena is poised languidly on stage. With his name all over the product and attention-demanding attire, it could be expected that the character within is similarly self-assured.

While he is clearly brave and confident, Faena comes across as a thoughtful and respectful man. He has just returned from a short trip to attend the opening of the 14th Venice Biennale of Architecture to support the event’s curator Rem Koolhaas, who is just one of the big-hitting names involved in the Miami project. Showing no signs of

“I don’t personally believe in luxury – I believe in a way of life. To get through to more people, we need to take out the word ‘luxury’.”

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Above: The colour of Faena’s rose features prominently in El Mercado, the rustic Argentinian restaurant of Faena Bueno Aires

of Punte del Este across the Río de la Plata from his home city of Buenos Aires, Faena literally went on gardening leave cultivating the gardens of his estate with a deep-red rose. “I decided to stop and listen to what was coming from nature. It was a time to learn a different perspective,” Faena explains. “The best way to do this was to take buildings and develop neighbourhoods that change people’s reality and build communities.”

Acting contrary to popular sentiment Faena, along with designer Philippe Starck and New York-based businessman, Len Blavatnik, made the investment in Puerto Madero. “We were going to create a mini-city bringing together the best of my neighbourhood with world-class art and culture, creating a district from nothing,” he says of the decade-long project that has led the gentrification of this former ‘no go’ area of the city.

The touchstone for the development was the Starck-designed Faena Hotel Buenos Aires that opened in 2004. The Faena Hotel + Universe as it was first called was typical of Starck’s work at the time – provocative, excessive and much talked about. The colour of Faena’s rose features in the guestrooms and becomes increasingly dominant in the larger rooms. It is a hotel immediately recognisable from the

heads of white unicorns that adorn the walls of the restaurant.

Faena also drew on the services of Foster + Partners, who created their first project in Latin America. The Aleph complex comprises 83 apartments fronted with verandas covered with gleaming bronzed screening. The landscaped surroundings, along with other residential blocks, are part of a waterside development that was joined in 2011 by the Faena Art Centre. This is housed in the Los Molinos, a former grain silo that provides vast volumes for world-class exhibitions curated by Creative Director Ximena Caminos.

In Miami, Faena has looked again to the collaborative synergies of a mixed-use development. “I was looking to create a cultural centre in general. Some people think it is not professional or do’able – but in my experience, doing things in a different way always creates a difference between me and the rest of the world,” he explains. “We had the vision and we were lucky enough to get the property. This is the most magical place in Miami.”

Arguably the Miami project, some four blocks north of the W Hotel along Collins Avenue, is in a much more developed and mature market. Miami already has museums, galleries, a worldwide art reputation led by Art Basel, great new architecture led by Zaha

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Right: In Puerto Madero, Faena, along with designer Philippe Starck and New York-based businessman, Len Blavatnik, created a “mini-city” with world-class art and culture. The hotel is just one element of the development

Hadid, Herzog & de Meuron and the Bjarke Ingels Group. What can Faena bring? “We bring our truth. We bring our way of doing things. We are lucky enough to take on a lot of responsibility. We have a new, different way of living, being, understanding. A new concept that never existed at this level, which is creating a community between the theatre, the suites, the restaurant – together there are fantastic buildings with the best minds of the world, plus amazing design minds, plus fantastic parties.”

And the community has already started with the establishment of the Collaboratory, a temporary sales office covered in a mural depicting a magical kingdom by Argentine artist Juan Gatti. Reached across springy grass, shaded by palms, never has a portable container office looked so enchanting. Inside are full-sized kitchens, apartment interiors and scale models of the project. Everything is immaculately clean, ordered and very white.

The construction sites offer a glimpse of what can be expected from the star-studded list of design talents involved.

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Above: Interiors of Faena Hotel Miami Beach are created byDirector Baz Luhrmann and his costume and set-designer wife Catherine Martin

Behind those elaborate Studio Job gates Job, a stunning wraparound alero-terrace design by Foster + Partners is already taking shape at Faena House, a residential unit that will be the first building to open in autumn 2014.

Rem Koolhaas and his practice OMA are responsible for the Faena Arts Centre and Artists Residences, as well as the “curated retail space” of the Faena Bazaar. The arts centre will have something of a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Guggenheim museum feel to it with a spiral walkway within a lattice-covered rotunda.

Currently, for heritage reasons, huge steel beams support a non-descript façade that will be re-used for a section of this part of the project. Behind, water is being pumped out for the foundations. The water table is indicated by the neighbouring Indian Creek where a marina will be constructed. OMA’s work also includes the entrance to a liftoperated underground car parking area that will stretch beneath the street between blocks. Opposite, Thomas Heatherwick will be remodelling the Versailles Hotel into apartments, removing an unremarkable addition to regain some of the area’s architectural impact.

This is all ambitious stuff and it continues with some daring in the hotel element. The former Saxony Hotel designed by Roy France, opened in 1948 and was a leader in luxury and the first hotel in Miami to have air-conditioning. The heritage-protected building will have totally remodeled interiors by a famous cinematic duo.

Director Baz Luhrmann and his costume and set-designer wife Catherine Martin will bring some of the glamour and razzmatazz of their movies Moulin Rouge! and The Great Gatsby to play in lavish

interiors and dramatic uniforms. “I think that our collaboration is spectacular,” enthuses Faena. “What they do in movies, we do in real life. They brought the same intensity, intelligence and passion that they bring to the big screen to the project.”

Behind its modernist façade the 169 all-suite Faena Hotel Miami Beach will have a private screening room and the Tierra Santa Spa, complete with an ocean-front couples suite. Numerous food and beverage outlets will include a restaurant within a dome-shaped addition to the hotel overlooking the ocean, a 250-seat Cabaret where Argentinean tango will be performed, a bar on the street corner and other outlets within gardens, by landscape architect Raymond Jungles, that run to the ocean.

If a criticism can be laid at the door of such a visionary and expensive venture it’s the pricing out of the young and less well-off creative classes who would likely buy into such an offer. However Faena has addressed this concern by giving an artist-inresidency functionality to the Arts Centre, and obtaining the nearby Casa Claridges, a modest Hispanic-type guest house that will offer a more affordable accommodation choice together with full access to the other facilities.

Alan Faena brings a powerful message of creativity to Miami’s cultural mix. His Arts Centre will be the obvious realisation of this.

However his impact is more about the collaboration of some of the world’s most respected creative talents to create his second ‘universe’.

He challenges them to step beyond their normal way of thinking to create a project that promises to be spectacular.

“What they do in movies, we do in real life. They brought the same intensity, intelligence and passion that they bring to the big screen to the project”

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Left: The former Saxony Hotel designed by Roy France will house the 169 all-suite Faena Hotel Miami Beach Below: Faena House, a residential unit designed by Foster + Partners will be the first building to open in autumn 2014 Bottom: Rem Koolhaas and his practice OMA are responsible for the Faena Arts Centre and Artists Residences

Š Hayes Davidson

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American Trade Hotel PANAMA CITY

Ace Hotel Group makes its luxury debut in the former American Trade Building, the cornerstone of a neighbourhood revitalisation project by local real estate developer Conservatorio.

Words: Catherine Martin | Photography: Courtesy of American Trade Hotel, by Spencer Lowell

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ccupying a neo-classical landmark in the heart of Casco Viejo, American Trade Hotel is a property steeped in heritage and culture. Built in 1917, it made headlines as the country’s first ‘skyscraper’, and it was the first building to be constructed from reinforced concrete, a technique perfected in the construction of the Panama Canal.

Having undergone various incarnations over the years, from its origins as luxury apartments with a bank and department store, to its more recent use as the stronghold of a local gang, the American Trade Building has now been restored to its former glory.

The new venture is the result of a joint undertaking between Ace Hotel Group and Conservatorio, and marks a move into the luxury segment for the operator. It also marks the culmination of a six-year project for Conservatorio, the locally-based development company that is dedicated to revitalising this small corner of Panama City.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Casco Viejo is the old quarter of the city. Many of the architectural gems that lie within its walls are crumbling, having fallen into disrepair and left to ruin. But it is a neighbourhood in transition. It has spirit, a palpable energy, and an immersive cultural experience unlike any in the Americas. Perhaps it was this spirit then that inspired New York lawyer K.C. Hardin to give up the day job and relocate. Over the past decade, Hardin and his partner, whose great-grandfather actually built the American Trade Building, have restored historic houses, apartment buildings, stores and hotels with a vision to see Casco Viejo become the region’s most aesthetically, economically and culturally exciting historic district, while maintaining its architectural heritage and social diversity.

The building was originally designed by Leonardo Villanueva Mayer, a leading Panamanian architect known for founding the Bellavistina style, many elements of which are still intact. Conservatorio bought the building in 2007 and set about transforming it to bring life back to the area around Plaza Herrera. “It is a building that was iconic in its design, but notorious in its reputation,” explains Hardin. “It had a big impact on everything around it and so the neighbourhood was never going to go far until that building was restored.”

Panama-based architectural practice Hache Uve was brought in to restore the property in accordance with Panamanian historical preservation laws and UNESCO World Heritage protection and conservation guidelines. Having transformed a number of historic buildings in the old town, including the studio of Carlos Endara, whose photographic works can be seen in the hotel’s guestrooms, Hache Uve’s co-founder Hildegard Vasquez was a natural choice.

The building had to be completely gutted with little of the interiors salvaged other than graffiti-covered walls which tell some of the storied history. “There was a gang living in the building it just before we bought it,” tells Hardin. “Their life was there on the walls, that’s how they lived.” These works were photographed and turned into wallpaper to line the hotel’s central stairwell. In addition to it being a novel way of bringing the local essence of the area into the hotel, the concept is part of a larger programme to reintegrate the former gang members back into the neighbourhood. “We brought the guys back to see the building recently and it was very emotional,” explains Hardin.

“They felt like the building represented their trajectory, it used to be the worst and now it’s the best. They can do the same with their lives.”

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Above: In the lobby, tropical plant life and an eclectic mix of armchairs and recliners sit atop a striking tiled floor

It wasn’t until 2012 that Ace came on board after discussions with a number of hotel groups. “We manage a couple of other hotels in the neighbourhood but felt that this was a big step,” states Hardin.

“We started looking for a company to manage it for us and we kept running into groups that were very competent, but very formulaic, and we could never get far into the discussion of how to bring the neighbourhood in.”

Enter Alex Calderwood, the late founder and self-styled Cultural Engineer of Ace Hotel Group. “When we met Alex, he just got it,” confirms Hardin, and it’s easy to see why. Ace’s objective to ‘re-envision the traditional hotel model, enhancing the value of properties through an innovative and locally-inspired approach to design and development’ was perfectly aligned with Conservatorio’s belief that that ‘successful urban revitalisation stories are about creating synergies between social, cultural and commercial interests through passion, thoughtfulness and entrepreneurship’.

It was also a mantra that struck a chord with Ace President Brad Wilson. “Casco Viejo has such a colourful history, and developing with that culture as a touchstone seemed like an interesting and important opportunity for us,” he explains. “Panama City is

synonymous with transit, trade and people throughout the Americas, something that always interests us.”

Despite not actively looking to develop in Panama City, it seemed American Trade Hotel was too good an opportunity to miss. “There was a real connection that we were ultimately able to explore,” continues Wilson. However the offering is not your typical Ace Hotel.

“American Trade Hotel is more elevated, more quiet than your typical Ace Hotel, so its target is a leading-edge, luxury clientele – people who value unique, authentic experience alongside extraordinary comfort and service,” he continues.

Although Ace came in in the latter stages of the project, when many elements were already in place, Calderwood had a significant involved in the design of the property. “Alex was a very designoriented person, he really loved that part of the project and he was really good at it,” continues Hardin. “And I think that’s why Alex and I got along. We always said it’s got to be tropical, it’s got to be elegant, it’s got to have a sense of nostalgia that is this place, and that’s exactly what came out.

“I think part of the reason Alex was attracted to it was because he always wanted to do this collection of upmarket hotels, so this was

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an opportunity to do it,” adds Hardin.

Calderwood also brought in Los Angelesbased collective Commune Design, having worked with them on a number of its properties, including Ace Hotel Palm Springs and Ace Hotel Downtown LA. Working alongside Atelier Ace, the in-house creative services firm providing interior, graphic and product design, as well as cultural engineering, Commune were well versed on Ace’s style.

“Alex wanted it to be like one of those old hotels in a Humphrey Bogart movie where expats and correspondents and spies mingle – a place full of mystery and intrigue,” explains Roman Alonso, co-founder of Commune Design. As such, the firm has borrowed from a number of styles. “It is a sophisticated mix of Spanish colonial, hacienda-style and Sixties Mexico… with a touch of the tropical mixed in,” he continues. “Our inspiration came from the building itself and the idea that all different cultures mixed not only in the building at one point or another, but also in Panama.”

The interior design is rooted in the history of Casco Viejo, reflecting its diverse mix of cultural and design influences. In the lobby, a panelled check in desk, tropical plant life, armchairs and recliners sit atop a striking tiled floor. As inspiration, Alonso and his team looked to the work of Cuban designer Clara

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Above: In the guestrooms, panelled walls combine with classic ceiling fans and retro light fittings against an intensely cream backdrop

Porset, whose influence is evident in the eclectic mix of furniture found throughout the property. “90% of the furniture was custom designed for the hotel,” explains Alonso. “Most was handcrafted from local hard woods in Nicaragua, the metal pieces and lighting were fabricated in Los Angeles, colonial antiques were sourced in Mexico and all the concrete pots were manufactured locally from mid-century designs.”

Sustainable practices were also incorporated throughout the development and design process, from guestroom furniture manufactured with hardwood reclaimed from Hurricane Felix in Nicaragua, to flooring made from certified local hardwoods reclaimed by underwater logging in the Panama Canal basin.

The 50 guestrooms evoke their tropical colonial roots, with the warmth, character and high ceilings found only in properties of this era. Panelled walls combine with classic ceiling fans and retro light fittings against an intensely cream backdrop. A proportion of rooms have private balconies and all offer noteworthy views of Casco’s plazas and churches.

The tropical theme is also prevalent in The Dining Room,

where wood dominates alongside palm-like upholstery, as well as in the hotel’s interior courtyard and pool. Here, a mix of French modern industrial, colonial and ranch-style furniture is set in a lush tropical environment, complemented by a graphic cement tile design.

The hotel’s private event spaces are housed in the adjacent American Trade Hall, a distinctive Art Deco building designed by New York architecture firm Walker & Gillette and completed in 1928. It was originally built as a branch of the National City Bank of New York, financier of the Panama Canal. The design was modeled after the Manhattan branch and maintains a wealth of architectural details including its ornate columns, bronze gates, marble clock and even the bank’s signature crest above the entrance. Inside, the Grand Ballroom, used for various events in Ace’s calendar, features 30foot ceilings, windows of epic proportions, and a herringbone floor laid with reclaimed timber acquired through underwater logging in the Panama Canal. Four flexible conference rooms, a beautifully appointed boardroom and a rooftop terrace – the largest in the city – complete the offer.

Much like Ace’s other properties, American Trade Hotel has forged

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Above: The hotel’s interior courtyard and pool features a mix of French modern industrial, colonial and ranch-style furniture complemented by a graphic cement tile design

partnerships with local names to support the community in which it sits. The Coffee Shop, a sociable meeting point for guests and locals, offers coffee from Panama’s Café de Eleta, while Danilo’s Jazz Club aims to support young talent and promote music education.

The 50-seat club is the realisation of a life-long dream for Grammywinning Panamanian jazz pianist, Danilo Perez, whose legacy is to bring jazz back to Panama. The club provides a platform to connect artists from around the world with the artists and audiences of Casco Viejo – fostering innovation, encouraging creative conversation and supporting the talent of aspiring and established musicians.

Inhabiting what was once part of the Espinoza House, the club incorporates many of the structure’s original elements. Exposed brick walls and a floating staircase in the patio were kept intact in an effort to maintain the heritage of the club’s surroundings, while industrial elements have been added to provide an authentic and intimate atmosphere.

“Our hotels have always been a platform for community and

creative engagement and we find ourselves perfectly aligned with Danilo’s vision to do this with his jazz club on an ongoing basis,” explains Kelly Sawdon, Chief Cultural Engineer of Ace Hotel Group. “Through this special cultural exchange amongst travellers, musicians and students alike, we believe we can positively impact both the community in Casco Viejo and the world at large.”

Speaking of the success of the property as a whole, Wilson adds: “American Trade Hotel has already exceeded our expectations yearto-date and we’re leading the luxury market. The building finds a harmony between the historical complexity of the Casco and its elegant present, and we’re lucky enough to have already carved out a special place for ourselves here in Panama City.”

Looking to the future, Ace has a number of new ventures up its sleeve: “First on the menu is our upcoming Ace Hotel Pittsburgh project, which is planned to open in 2015,” tells Wilson. “Beyond that, we’re keeping ourselves open to new opportunities, including other unique luxury properties in the vein of American Trade Hotel.”

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 50 guestrooms | 1 restaurant | 2 bars | Event spaces: 5 | www.acehotel.com Owner/Investor: Conservatorio | Operator: Ace Hotel Group | Architecture: Hache Uve S.A. | Interior Design: Commune Design For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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The Dean PROVIDENCE - RHODE ISLAND

Real estate development and design firm ASH NYC has enlisted local artisans to transform a dilapidated building into a boutique hotel.

Words: Alia Akkam | Photography: © Christian Harder

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ewport’s ornate mansions have long lured design buffs to Rhode Island, overshadowing the quirky creative scene brewing in grittier Providence. The artistic and academic allure of the tiny state’s capital – the city is home to highly acclaimed Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and Brown University – prompted Providence native, Ari Heckman, to develop the 52-key Dean hotel, an intimate and stylish property that truly reflects the city’s vibrant culture.

Heckman, founder and Chief Executive Officer of New York-based real estate development and design firm, ASH NYC, admits: “The hotel stock just didn’t measure up to the city’s personality.” There were plenty of accommodations flaunting familiar flags, but none with a highly distinct aura forging a community between guests and locals alike. Heckman envisioned something less corporate for the downcity neighbourhood, a conceptual boutique hotel that maximised communal spaces. So, along with several partners and investors, he bought a dilapidated circa-1912 building that once served as a social services hub for the Episcopalian church before it devolved into a brothel and strip club. Local firm Kite Architects was tasked with the ambitious architectural restoration, including the brick façade.

“In some ways it was a pretty building, but it had been destroyed over the years through a number of bastardised renovations,”

Heckman explains. “One of our main motivations was to strip away everything until we got back to an historical palate we could build off of.”

The building’s graceful old bones were most prominently revealed in the lobby, where original mosaic floor tiles were unearthed and preserved. Here, the café – essentially a counter modelled on Italian stand-up espresso bars – is warmed by the presence of mirrors. “When you first walk in and see the café you experience the livelihood of the lobby,” points out Will Cooper, ASH NYC’s Creative Director and a partner in the hotel. It’s a nucleus for socialising, as are the adjacent karaoke lounge, cocktail bar and beer hall.

“Will and I travel constantly to different cities, and see interesting things happening culturally and from a design perspective,” continues Heckman. “We wanted to create something that was historically sensitive, something with a lived-in feeling, but with clean, modern lines. It was also important to build visibility for locals, so they could come hang out in the coffee shop or get a cocktail whenever they felt like getting out of the city.”

One especially eye-catching component of the lobby – along with the Jean Prouvé bench and Jindrich Halabala lounge chairs – is the wall bearing chunky letters that spell out FINE. “We wanted a piece that would be pretty impactful,” says Cooper, and so they responded with a playful installation of matte red, ivory and pink channel-cut

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Above: Furniture and artwork throughout the hotel was was manufactured in Providence by people who are friends and colleagues of ASH NYC

letters inspired by artist Oliver Clegg’s outdoor billboard work in Miami’s Design District.

Despite the inconvenient drop ceilings in place from its more salacious days, the guestrooms have transformed into natural lightfilled spaces aided by the building’s four sides of windows. Seven different styles, from a humble single bunk set up, to a commodious suite, appeal to a wide swath of demographics.

Oriental rugs in each room add a layer of softness to the sleek, dark wood floors and warm white walls, “everything from Persian to Kilim,” Cooper points out. “They are important because they bring elements of texture and colour to a room that is otherwise neutral.”

Blackened, slightly industrial desks are fashioned from steel by local artist Nate Nadeau, as are the frames for the beds, which are outfitted with custom-woven blankets. Side tables shaped as elephants and cast in concrete are the handiwork of local craftsman Will Reeves, juxtaposed with vintage oil portraits bought in Paris. “We liked the idea of an apparition living in every room of the hotel,” says Cooper.

“A lot of what we see today are stark environments with finishes and furniture that look like they were ordered out of a catalogue. We wanted something that wasn’t stale.”

Marking the launch of ASH NYC’s furniture collection are the rooms’ warm light fixtures created by Cooper. With touches of brass and steel, they meld with all the antiques he and Heckman discovered on myriad sojourns throughout Europe and beyond.

The bathrooms further delineate a sparse but fresh aesthetic.

Classic pedestal sinks are accentuated by black subway tiles and round mirrors designed by Heckman and Cooper. To reinforce the hotel’s art and travel inspirations, black and white images shot by RISD students or New York-based photographer pals grace the walls.

“We asked ourselves if we could use local artisans for everything, and it turns out it was actually more affordable to do so,” says Heckman. “All the furniture was manufactured in Providence by people who are friends and colleagues, or new friends and new colleagues. This is a hotel for the modern traveller.”

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 52 guestrooms | 3 restaurants | 2 bars | www.thedeanhotel.com Owner / Operator: ASH NYC | Architecture: Kite Architects | Interior Design: ASH NYC For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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Hotel SP34 COPENHAGEN

Family-owned Brøchner Hotels has reinvented the former Hotel Fox as boutique lodgings for ‘luxury bohemians’.

Words: Catherine Martin | Photography: Courtesy of Hotel SP34

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restaurants and a lively bar scene. It replaces the former Hotel Fox, a concept that launched almost a decade ago in which 21 creatives were commissioned to put their stamp on the interiors, resulting in a bold and colourful medley of guestrooms that appealed to ‘artistic souls’.

But after years of above-average occupancies, the interiors had grown tired and Hotel Fox was in need of a major overhaul. Rather than rehash an already-done formula, Brøchner opted for an entirely different design concept, this time responding to the local area.

They also took the opportunity to extend the property into two neighbouring townhouses, doubling the room count to 118 and allowing for additional public and private event spaces.

Enlisting the services of designer Morten Hedegaard, founder of Asite, Brøchner has created a hotel that respects the original architecture, while bringing in a modern edge. Mid-century Danish furniture combines with contemporary touches such as loft-style suites, skylight bathrooms and balconies with panoramic views of the Danish capital.

The 118 guestrooms are understated, yet cosy, with natural finishes and industrial-style fixtures. Materials such as wood, leather, chrome and cotton are seen in everything from furniture to accessories, standing out against a muted colour palette of greys and white. Beds feature twin headboards that curve to the contours of the human body, carved from a wood grain that coordinate with the bedside table. Leather makes an appearance in headrests, lounge chairs and mirror frames, while brass hooks and specially designed coathangers add character.

A host of Danish designers and manufacturers have been specified in the project, including Ege, Damixa, Nordic Design Group, Hekabe,

hen Sleeper signed up to hold its next Sleepover event at what was set to be Copenhagen’s newest boutique hotel, SP34 was little more than a construction site and a blueprint. The property, owned by Brøchner Hotels, was in the throes of a major renovation, which involved significant expansion.

There was, of course, an element of risk involved. Asking a group of hotel owners, developers, operators, architects, designers and consultants to journey to a hotel that wasn’t yet built. After all, how often does a hotel really open on schedule?

But, true to his word, Karim Nielsen, CEO of Brøchner Hotels, delivered on time, and 120 of Europe’s leading hospitality players were amongst the first guests to stay at Hotel SP34. Opening its doors just 24 hours before Sleepover’s arrival, there were bound to be a few teething problems. But Nielsen and his team, including General Manager Lise Egenius, proved the perfect hosts. Now fully operational, the hotel offers 118 guestrooms, two restaurants, two bars, a conference centre, and its very own 25-seat cinema.

The property is owned by Brøchner Hotels, who operate almost 300 rooms in central Copenhagen. The family-run enterprise was founded in 1982 by Bergliot and Hans Brøchner and is now headed up by their son, Søren, and his wife Mette Brøchner-Mortensen, with Nielsen as CEO. The group’s properties are all within walking distance from Tivoli, the City Hall and the main pedestrianised shopping street and include Hotel Danmark and Hotel Astoria, the latter of which joined the portfolio at the beginning of 2014.

The newest addition is Hotel SP34. Named as the abbreviation of its address – Sankt Peders Stræde 34 – it is located in the old Latin Quarter, a bohemian neighbourhood teeming with vintage shops, hip

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Above: Cocks & Cows is a classic American burger joint with a modern Scandinavian twist

GS Malmgren Interiors and Designers Story. Carl Hansen & Søn has provided the lounge chairs and soft seating seen throughout the property, as well as Hans J. Wegner’s CH88 chair, a 1955 design that previously existed only as a prototype.

Other pieces are from European suppliers such as Fermob, JAB Anstoetz and Laufen, whose contemporary Living City washbasin was selected for the guest bathroom. And Hedegaard himself has designed pieces specifically for the hotel, including the SP34 chair, which is based on forgotten furniture found in the basement of the townhouse extension.

The lobby is a series of open plan spaces set around a central check in desk, which also operates as a bar. A variety of seating options allow for individual work stations as well as social lounging, while the highlight is a cosy library where floor-to-ceiling shelving units house a curated collection of books alongside healthy plantlife.

The food and beverage offering includes Din Nye Ven, a downto-earth beer and coffee bar, and Bar Moritz, a streetside wine and tapas bar where concertina doors open out to Sankt Peders Stræde to create an inside-outside venue.

Also with an outdoor terrace is Cocks & Cows, the classic American burger joint with a modern Scandinavian twist. Serving

up towering burgers as its speciality, the restaurant is also renowned for its creative cocktails, hence the curious name. Beneath, the subterranean breakfast room takes the industrial look a step further.

Unrefined concrete walls and exposed ceiling pipes have been left untouched to create a cavernous dining room, fitted out with vintage furniture and branded food produce.

Worthy of a mention is SP34’s lighting scheme, developed by Niclas Hoflin, founder of Swedish studio Rubn. Hoflin has selected fittings from his own collection that tie in with the industrial style of the interiors. Exposed bulbs and brass finishes are recurring features, chosen to coordinate with the vintage glass pendants found in an old barn in Småland, Sweden.

Above all it is the service culture that sets SP34 apart. Brøchner has recently introduced a ‘Wine Hour’ across all three of its properties in which guests can pour themselves a glass of wine every afternoon.

According to Nielsen, the initiative has opened up a dialogue between staff and guests, establishing first-name-terms contact that is often only possible in small, family-run hotels. Plans for Brøchner’s next venture are yet to be unveiled, but it is this strong service philosophy that will help ensure its success.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 118 guestrooms | 2 restaurants | 2 bars | Event Spaces: 2 | www.brochner-hotels.dk Owner / Operator: Brøchner Hotels | Interior Design: Morten Hedegaard, Asite For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park BORNES DE AGUIAR

A 19th century spa in northern Portugal has relaunched as a sustainable eco-resort featuring a series of treetop suites.

Words: Mark Smith | Photography: Courtesy of Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park

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edras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park is set in a picturesque forest in the north-western corner of Portugal and has been attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its thermal springs since the late 19th century. A spa was built in 1879 and since then, the patronage of royalty, the discovery of new springs and subsequent arrival of the railway has ensured its success.

Relaunched as a sustainable, modern eco-resort just an hour from Porto, the spa and nature park – a member of Design Hotels – boasts 20 hectares of woodland and eight kilometres of paths, linking several thermal springs with a series of eco-houses and the spa. The central avenue retains some of the original historic buildings,

including the recently renovated casino, now used for events, and a newbuild clubhouse that allows guests to relax and socialise in a modern, cosy, communal space. The park is currently operated by Unicer, Portugal’s largest soft drinks company, which instigated the spa renovation in 2009 and launched the eco-houses in 2012.

Appealing to nature lovers, families and dedicated spa purists, the thermal spa is central to the project. Renovated by Alvaro Siza Vieira, the internationally renowned architect has created a unique space that seamlessly blends old with new. “I wanted to maintain the spirit of the building, adding a new wing and making a rigorous recuperation,” he explains. “In the new areas I tried a continuity

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Left: Designed by Alvaro Siza Vieira, the spa retains many of its original Art Nouveau features and embraces natural daylight

of expression, using traditional materials (ceramics, marble, wood) carefully integrating the new equipment.”

Retaining many of its original Art Nouveau features and embracing natural daylight, the spa has 14 treatment rooms, heated indoor pool, sauna, hammam, whirlpool bath and two relaxation rooms. Stark and functional, the new wing links perfectly with the older historic building, using white painted walls to unify the project as one. The spa is devoid of luxury furnishings and fittings, instead embracing the surrounding nature. An intentional plan according to Vieira, who explains: “I tried to obtain a quiet atmosphere and a general quality of design, including a clear relation with the park.” The spa offers a range of wellness treatments that rely on the healing power of the water plus a selection of targeted treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation, ideal for those staying in the eco-houses.

Designed by architect Luís Rebelo de Andrade, the 12 modular eco-houses and two tree-houses are constructed with minimal impact on the natural environment, blending perfectly with the lush green vegetation. No tree was felled in the construction of the buildings; instead, the modular houses were developed specifically for Pedras Salgadas

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Above: Designed by architect Luís Rebelo de Andrade, the 11 modular eco-houses and two tree-houses are constructed with minimal impact on the natural environment, blending perfectly with the lush green vegetation

to Rebelo de Andrade: “The eco-houses seem to endow the park with a way of living in an environment in full contact with nature, each one becoming part of this enchanted forest.”

The two tree-houses are effectively tree-top studios, each covering an area of 22m2. They provide impressive views looking directly out to the canopy and feature some of the mod-cons of the eco-houses such as free wireless internet, LED TV and air-conditioning.

Working on a project of national significance presented its own unique difficulties according to Rebelo de Andrade. “It was a challenge working in Pedras Salgadas, not only in terms of environment but also in terms of culture. This park is very important for the local culture and population but also for the history of the thermal parks in Portugal.” He goes on to explain how the design and construction were dictated by the park, concluding: “We wanted to make our intervention as invisible as possible: see and not be seen. This attitude should be a priority in the present. We always tried to preserve the local environment and hide the contemporary buildings.”

Park, designed by Rebelo de Andrade and constructed by the Portuguese company Modular System. Manufactured in a workshop and assembled on-site, the three-piece modular design of the houses are supported by metal posts with a smaller cross-section to avoid interfering with the natural lay of the land and the roots of existing trees. Other eco features include thermal insulation, LED lighting and separation of wastewater.

Designed to ensure absolute comfort, the seven larger eco-houses, measuring 62m2, include two bedrooms, a living room, kitchenette and outdoor deck. The four smaller eco-houses have the same facilities with just one bedroom and a sofa bed in the living room.

Nature is literally a step away, as all accommodations feature outdoor decks and vast floor-to ceiling windows in unexpected corners. There’s a constant connection to the woodland. Covered in slate and wood, local materials are used where possible, which foster integration and render these small houses virtually invisible amongst their surroundings. This was essential to the design concept according

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 12 eco-houses, 2 treehouses | 1 restaurant | Spa: 14 treatment rooms | Event Spaces: 2 | www.pedrassalgadaspark.com Owner / Operator: Unicer | Eco-House Architecture: Luís Rebelo de Andrade | Spa Architecture: Alvaro Siza Vieira For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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OD Port Portals MALLORCA

Studio Rahola Vidal and Mayte Matutes have designed a new hotel for the owners of Ibiza’s Ocean Drive, at Mallorca’s upmarket marina resort.

Words: Matt Turner | Photography: © Raquel Martinez

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here is a pecking order at Port Portals. The richer the holidaymaker, the bigger their yacht, and the further along the harbour they have to moor it. The wealthiest travellers turn left – just as they do when boarding a plane – as they disembark their vessels, towards Gerhard Schwaiger’s Michelin-starred Tristan restaurant, celeb-hangout Flanigan or the Tahini sushi-bar. Other visitors – many of them staying in the high rise apartment blocks around the marina – head for the cluster of upmarket, family-friendly restaurants and pubs along its eastern flank, perhaps pausing for a drink at local institution Wellies en route. The rest meanwhile, are more likely to be staying further inland at Portals Nous where cafes and bars offer cheap tapas and all day English breakfasts.

Make no mistake, this is a playground for the rich, even if the notso-rich also wander around the marina, casting envious glances at the superyachts and sports cars on ostentatious display.

It’s a logical spot then, for the owners of Ibiza’s Ocean Drive to down anchor with their third hotel – one which sees the creation of OD Hotels as a new brand offering ‘contemporary luxury for the international jetset’.

The founders of Barcelona-based Irish pub chain Ryans first ventured into the hotel market with the acquisition and refurbishment of Ocean Drive on Ibiza’s equally swanky Marina Botafoch in 2006.

This Miami-inspired Art Deco property has become a cornerstone of Ibiza’s hotel scene, popular with high profile DJs and music acts

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Above: Guestrooms are furnished in neutral tones with natural finishes of wood, stone and leather, enhancing the sea views outside

thanks to tailored services such as breakfast served until 4pm, and mixers for hire in the bedrooms.

Its agroturismo sister property Can Jaume, by contrast, is a rural retreat surrounded by orange groves, in the village of Puig d’en Valls just outside Ibiza Town.

The company has also diversified – into real estate, with the acquisition of Meridiana Inmobiliaria in 2010; into logistics, with eiH, a company providing hotel equipment and supplies to properties across Ibiza; and into eco-friendly agriculture with Ocean Almond.

It also launched its sixth Ryans pub, with an attached aparthotel, in Ibiza this summer.

OD Port Portals is a straightforward proposition of 77 guestrooms topped and tailed by a lobby lounge and restaurant on the ground floor, and a Sky Bar (inspired by the one at its sister property in Ibiza), on the roof. A manicured pool area, gardens planted with bright purple flowers, and a floor of meeting rooms above the lobby complete the offer.

Designed by Studio Rahola Vidal and Mayte Matutes of Estudi Pam 2, the interiors take their cue from the Ibizan sister properties,

with retro glamour conveyed through carefully selected design classics. The materials and colour palette are based on traditional Mallorcan construction methods, interpreted in modern style.

Warm colours offset cool white, producing playful variations of light and shadow, both inside and out. Guestrooms combine clean lines and soothing hues, accented by the warmth of wood, stone and leather detailing. The airy public spaces are a focal point, with designer furniture and textiles made exclusively for the hotel.

The designers have added interest and texture to the simple layout, using perforated screens in the lobby to create smaller pockets of interest, and window shutters in vibrant colours to break up what would otherwise be a monotonous façade.

From its advantageous location above Port Portals, the property boasts extensive views across the island and out to sea. “The Hotel OD Port Portals takes advantage of its situation and orientation to provide the best views and the best sunlight conditions to each room,” say the designers. “The main purpose of the design is to offer visitors a place where they could experience the sensuality of the Mediterranean.”

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 76 guestrooms | 1 restaurant | 1 bar | Event Space: 4 meeting rooms | www.od-hotels.com Owner / Operator: OD Group | Architecture: Rahola Vidal Arquitectes | Interior Design: Estudi Pam 2 For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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St. Regis ABU DHABI

Blending Emirati design with Art Deco aesthetics, St. Regis Abu Dhabi resides in Nation Towers, the capital’s new landmark skyscraper.

Words: Molly Dolan | Photography: Courtesy of St. Regis

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ow do you combine the emblematic design of a century-old brand with Arabian culture, factoring in an ultra-modern skyscraper and the world’s highest skybridge? St. Regis Abu Dhabi has the answers.

Located at the southern end of the Corniche, the newbuild Nation Towers houses the latest addition to the St. Regis portfolio.

A distinctive landmark on the Abu Dhabi skyline, the mixed-use complex is designed by WZMH Architects and made up of two skyscrapers linked by a skybridge.

It is the second St. Regis in the UAE capital, the first of which, St. Regis Saadiyat Island, opened in February 2012. Both have been designed by global practice Hirsch Bedner Associates. “The overall

design was centred on Art Deco detailing with a contemporary mood,” explains Josh Mason, Associate at HBA Dubai, of the new addition. “Inspiration came from the St. Regis brand’s luxury and grandeur, and from Emirati culture. The design team did extensive research into the region as well as the Art Deco style.”

As Abu Dhabi did not experience the Art Deco era of the Twenties and Thirties in the way that destinations such as New York and Shanghai did, HBA fashioned an imaginary historical starting point: what would classical Art Deco have looked like if it had been expressed in Abu Dhabi? This pushed the designers to look to the colours of surrounding sands, traditional foods, spices and the flourishing markets of the time for inspiration, re-envisaging it for

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Above: The Abu Dhabi Suite sits 200 metres above ground, spanning the Nation Towers’ skybridge Opposite Page (Top): The St. Regis Bar is divided into three spaces; a Library, a Bar and a Cigar Bar Bottom: The Abu Dhabi Suite features a Grand Drawing Room, complete with intricate glass dome and Deco detailing

Advancing 33 floors up, the 282 sumptuous guestrooms begin, accompanied by 55 suites that all offer panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. “The overall palette is a neutral desert base colouration, with bold brushes of colour and intricate local patterns,” describes Mason. “The attention to detail is what makes this project special, there is detail at every level.”

The Deco theme is as evident in the guestrooms as ever, with rich, dark walnut furniture featuring sleek curves and ornate detailing.

Meanwhile, the bathtub offers a sense of luxury: freestanding and positioned at floor-to-ceiling windows. The waterfront views dominate the room and are rivalled only by the white stone mosaic or marble cladding on the floor, walls and ceiling.

Linking the two buildings of Nation Towers is a skybridge, positioned 200 metres above ground and home to the Abu Dhabi Suite. Spanning two floors and 1,120m2, the suite offers panoramic views of both the Corniche and the city skyline. Inspired by the spirit of the ‘Roaring Twenties’, the design features bold lines and bespoke embellishment, with the consistent colour palette of warm tones such as gold and amber.

Reinforcing a desire to highlight local culture at every opportunity, Arabian motifs in stone and onyx define the floor pattern, complemented by silk and velvet fabrics in hues of ruby, turquoise and amber. “The location absolutely affects the design and feel. The artwork, accessories and patterns tell their own story of Abu Dhabi’s history,” notes Mason.

Further elevating the level of luxury, custom furniture is accented with Macassar ebony, ivory, gold leaf and crystal. The Abu Dhabi Suite also features its own spa with double treatment room, movie

the 21st century. “With the St. Regis Abu Dhabi, we aimed to create a sophisticated and modern environment that marries Arabic influences with the needs of global travellers,” comments Mason. “Using local references, we were able to combine the elegant lines of Arabic design with stately and modernist Art Deco forms to create a unique standout hotel on par with the greatest hotels worldwide.”

A clear amalgamation of the styles is seen in the entrance lobby, where homage is paid to the region’s natural resource-based economy.

“It’s a unique area,” states Mason, “with its dual-winding staircase around a custom designed tapestry of a historical scene of Abu Dhabi’s dhow ships and pearl diving.” St. Regis Hotels around the world are particularly known for two design elements, the staircase and chandeliers, and St. Regis Abu Dhabi lives up to this reputation, featuring low-hanging Arabian lantern-inspired chandeliers in the grand lobby. “The best hotel design should capture the sense of place, integrating the local culture into the design for an extraordinary experience,” continues Mason.

Paying homage to the St. Regis ritual of afternoon tea, the tea lounge is nestled in the grand reception hall, complete with deep pile carpets and signature crystal and bronze lantern chandeliers.

Progression up the curved staircase leads to a number of the hotel’s culinary venues, including Villa Toscana, the Tuscan-inspired restaurant featuring vaulted ceilings and exposed beams, as well as a sizeable stone fireplace. A focal point of the gastronomy outlets is Rhodes 44, which incorporates the atmosphere of open-air souks and takes its name from Gary Rhodes, who heads the eatery. Highlights of the restaurant include the individual food stations and outdoor space, reminiscent of a traditional Abu Dhabi wooden-hulled boat.

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Right: Low hanging Arabian lantern-inspired chandeliers feature in the hotel’s lobby

theatre, kitchen and gym. Private elevator access adds to the exclusivity of the room, heightening indulgence and creating the feeling of a private sanctuary, complete with staff quarters.

All guestrooms and suites overlook the Nation Riviera Beach Club, complete with its own stretch of beach and a cabanasurrounded swimming pool, with Jacuzzi area and immersed pool bar, offering tranquil views over the beachfront. This sense of relaxation is extended back inside Nation Towers, with the hotel’s Remède Spa. A sprawling 3,200m2, the spa includes 11 treatment rooms inspired by the sand dunes of the Arabian desert, together with St. Regis’ opulence and sophistication.

The soothing light of the spa complements the rich, dark woods and embossed leather featured throughout.

“We enjoy working on luxury brands as both the budget and design dream come together,” concludes Sandra Cortner, Principal at HBA Atlanta.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 283 guestrooms | 8 restaurants | 4 bars | Spa: 3,200m2 | Event Space: 2,195m2 | www.stregisabudhabi.com Operator: Starwood Hotels and Resorts | Tower Architecture: WZMH Architects | Interior Design: Hirsch Bedner Associates For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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Metropolitan by Como MIAMI BEACH

Paola Navone completes her second project for Como Hotels & Resorts, a 74-key hotel in Miami’s Art Deco district.

Words: Guy Dittrich | Photography: © Graciela Cattarossi

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tepping up the terrazzo steps into Metropolitan by Como, guests enter a world of elegant tranquillity. The 74-room hotel, located in the mid-beach area of Miami, reflects the understated luxury expected of a Como Hotels & Resorts property and marks the Singapore-based group’s first venture in the US. The hotel sits on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic shore and the Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Pancoast. It even has its own jetty across Collins Avenue. Here, with the relative madness of Miami’s South Beach retail and restaurant scene distanced, the serenity is tangible. It is communicated first via service, led by the

debonair General Manager Javier Beneyto, that puts the norm of the oh-so-casual Miami service culture firmly in its place. And secondly via a subtle but compelling design story from Paola Navone.

The rectilinear Art Deco façade of the former Traymore Hotel is unusually all white when compared to the concoction of ice cream pastels that typify the hotels of the same genre further south along Ocean Drive. The Traymore was constructed in 1929 by Art Deco architect Albert Anis, whose presence in the Ocean Drive enclave is felt in numerous projects including The Leslie, The Whitelaw and The Mantell Plaza. With such heritage, the building is protected by

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Above: Navone has adopted largely a pale, sea-foam green, soft grey and white colour scheme throughout the property

the city’s Historic Preservation Board. “We used this restriction as a motion to creativity,” explains Navone, the Italian designer who recently completed Point Yamu in Phuket, Thailand, also for Como.

“By respecting the Art Deco style of the building, we tried to give a poetic and intimate mood, everything is very simple,” she continues.

“Respecting all the strict rules about style, colours and materials, we worked hard on translating the pre-existing decorative language into something special and contemporary,” she explains of the challenge faced.

And the structure of the hotel reflects its Deco pedigree. The decorative geometric style of the exterior provides many guestrooms with small balconies offering either ocean vistas or views over the inland waterways. Inside, original architectural details include ribbed columns, cusped arches and scalloped ceiling cornicing, home to warm ambient lighting.

The terrazzo flooring of the lobby that steps up to the Traymore Restaurant and Bar has been stunningly restored. The colours of the terrazzo are pure Art Deco – salmon and coral pinks meet pale lemon and pistachio. In turn Navone has adopted largely a pale, sea-foam green, soft grey and white colour scheme throughout the property.

Yet the hotel is not defined by its vintage roots. A contemporary

spirit runs through every shape and surface. Thus modern edge and old-fashioned charm collide to create a fresh Miami style, flooded with natural light. The restaurant is furnished with casual lounge chairs of white woven polyethylene, dining chairs and high-backed curved sofas from the Weekend and InOut collections designed by Navone for Gervasoni, for whom she is also Art Director. Subtle and luxurious, the upholstery is in soft-grey linen with white piping.

This combination is doubly effective because bedheads and other furnishings in the guestrooms see a switch around with the colours reversed. Another double in guestrooms is Navone’s reinterpretation of the finer terrazzo composition in the lobby floors. Guestrooms see larger sized chips of black stone stand out on a white background, cooling underfoot in the humid Miami heat.

The guestrooms reflect some of the more contemporary elements to which Navone refers. Like the rest of the hotel much is custommade including the wave-like profile of the wood panelling on the walls, painted in a cool mint. The casework has a high sheen white finish and much of it is designed by Navone for Gervasoni and subbrand Letti & Co. Alongside a slat-framed rocking chair are bedside tables fashioned from haphazardly stacked drawers and a beautiful and functional

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Above Left: A small rectangular pool is surrounded by grass, palm trees and furnishings from Gervasoni’s InOut collection Above Right: The rectilinear Art Deco façade of the former Traymore Hotel is all white

freestanding work desk with built-in power sockets and a slim upstand with shelf.

Of course this wouldn’t be Art Deco if there weren’t some chrome surfaces – largely in bathrooms and the top floor spa. Other metal elements include the bar counter covered in soft zinc and the decorative banisters in what appears to be Corten steel accented with glass balls. Mirror too. Obviously in the bathrooms but also behind the bar, alongside a collection of antique handmade porcelain pieces from Malicorne, a village in the Loire, where small workshops have being creating ceramics since the 18th century.

These pieces reflect the influence Navone’s global outlook has brought to the project. As do the Metro tiles in bathrooms and the black, stick-like projections of Serge Mouille lamps above the lift bank. “In my work I enjoy mixing things that come from very different countries and centuries,” explains Navone.

The hotel’s spa, the Como Shambhala Urban Escape, occupies the

top floor of the hotel and is an intimate space with four beautifully appointed but compact treatment rooms. There is little in the way of indoor relaxation space but this is Miami, and the roof of the hotel hosts a hydrotherapy pool alongside shaded day beds with fabulous views to the ocean. This is complemented by an outdoor yoga terrace with inland views overlooking Collins Avenue. Whilst the street is not so busy, the noise of the mechanical equipment cooling the neighbouring condominium blocks is not particularly conducive to calm. Or to yoga.

However the residential nature of the plots either side of the hotel do serve to make the hotel’s section of the beach very peaceful. This is reached via a small rectangular pool surrounded by grass, palm trees and more furnishings, again from Gervasoni’s InOut collection.

Concludes Navone: “I share with Como the idea that luxury today can be an appreciation of simplicity. I’d like to think that at Metropolitan everyone can breathe a soft and peaceful beauty.”

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 74 guestrooms | 1 restaurant | 1 bar | Spa: 4 treatment rooms | www.comohotels.com Owner/Operator: Como Hotels & Resorts | Interior Design: Paola Navone For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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AMSTERDAM

Strong demand and above average growth mean the Dutch capital remains an attractive market for new development.

Words: Catherine Martin | Main Photography: © Anthony Parkinson / James Balston

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t’s impossible to talk about Amsterdam’s hotel market without first mentioning CitizenM, the affordable luxury brand that burst onto the scene in 2008. Introduced as a pit stop for mobile citizens travelling in and out of Schiphol Airport, the new breed of hotels has grown into a portfolio of properties across Europe, winning widespread acclaim for its interior design to its graphics.

Now embarking on a major world expansion, the brand is arguably Amsterdam’s greatest hospitality export.

Perhaps then, it was CitizenM’s innovative concept created for explorers, adventurers and dreamers that has spearheaded a number of less conventional developments in the city. Opened in recent months, Volkshotel is a 172-room property where nothing is

standard, not even a standard room, and Hotel Not Hotel, made up of individual cottages, each with its own creator, story, and identity.

Topping the scale for the downright unusual has to be the Faralda NDSM Crane Hotel, located atop a former industrial crane. Plucky guests can even bungee jump from its pinnacle if they so desire.

Such concepts will no doubt appeal to the creative types drawn to Amsterdam for its café culture, laid-back lifestyle and world-class art scene, which has seen a huge boost since the reopening of the city’s three major art museums, the Van Gogh, Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk.

2013 also marked the 400th anniversary of the Canal Ring, sparking interest in the redevelopment of the city’s famed canal houses. The most recent addition is Waldorf Astoria, comprising six monumental

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to introduce a new 433-room Hilton hotel connected to the airport 17th century canal palaces situated on the UNESCO heritage via a covered walkway. Designed by prominent Dutch architects, protected Herengracht. Its high profile opening and inevitable success Mecanoo, with interiors by Merkx+Girod and Hirsch Bedner indicates that there is still a place for the more traditional five-star Associates, the new hotel will replace the current Hilton property hotels in the city. and is expected to open in 2015.

According to a study by Horwath HTL, Amsterdam’s hotel Other hotels in the pipeline include The Hoxton Amsterdam, the market is performing incredibly well across the board. In 2013, brand’s first venture in continental Europe, a 157-room property average occupancy in three- to five-star properties rose by 1.8% to from Group Pestana, and a Hyatt Regency on the site of the former 79.2%, significantly higher than the Dutch average of 60.9%. Further Emma Kinderziekenhuis building, being developed by Aedes Real research by PwC anticipates this rate will remain stable for 2014 and Estate and UBM Realitätentwicklung AG. 2015. It also expects RevPAR to rise by 0.6% this year, taking into Furthermore, Starwood Hotels & Resorts has announced it will account the number of new openings. debut its W brand in the Netherlands in 2015 with the unveiling of Closely linked with hotel performance, the MICE market is also W Amsterdam, and Provast and Meininger Hotels have been awarded strong. According to O+S, Amsterdam’s Department for Research and the bid for a new mixed-use development close to Amstel Station.

Statistics, almost 40% of all overnight stays in the city’s hotels in 2013 Finally, construction has begun for the were booked by corporate travellers. This is transformation of the former Shell Tower related to the fact that Amsterdam hosted a into A’DAM, a mixed-use development of number of large congresses in 2013, attracting offices, entertainment venues, a hotel and a record 400,000 international visitors to an observation deck. Significant additions to Amsterdam RAI Exhibition and Convention the Arthur Staal designed building include a Centre. In fact, there has been a dramatic rooftop platform that will be a nightclub, 30% increase in the conference segment over and a class cylinder, which will house a the past five years. To accommodate future rotating restaurant. growth, the tender for a new hotel at the “Although Amsterdam’s hotel market Amsterdam RAI was announced earlier this has been growing fast over the last few year. The Municipality of Amsterdam, the years, new initiatives and new projects Zuidas Development Office and Amsterdam keep popping up,” explains van Schie. And RAI are looking for parties to develop a plan growth doesn’t look to slow any time soon. for the hotel’s development and construction, Howarth HTL “Next year, a record-breaking 1,900 rooms as well as for its financing and operation. The will open in the city,” he continues, adding envisioned four-star hotel will offer at least that there are still opportunities to be had. “I think both budget and 650 rooms and construction is slated to begin in mid-2016. mid-market are still very interesting to invest in, and there is space Other new developments geared towards the business traveller for one or two more luxury hotels.” include Courtyard by Marriott at Atlas Arena Amsterdam – a But is there a risk of overdevelopment? No, says van Schie, thanks mixed-use development in the upcoming Zuidoost commercial to the introduction of the new Regional Hotel Strategy 2016-2022. and entertainment district – and in the same area, the city’s second “The new hotel policy chooses quality over quantity, so each and Steigenberger Hotel. According to René van Schie, Hotel Development every new project has to add value to its direct environment,” Intermediary for the Municipality of Amsterdam, there’s an increased he explains. While demand for hotel rooms is expected to keep interest for hotel developments in the financial district, while a increasing in the foreseeable future, the new approach will allow the planned metro link between the north and the south of the city is Municipality of Amsterdam and I Amsterdam, an online information expected to open up new areas. and support service for those planning a new hotel in the city, to Rapid growth at Schiphol Airport – the fourth largest in Europe – follow developments more closely in order to anticipate a potential has led to a flurry of announcements. A 314-room Novotel designed surplus of rooms. Such careful planning will surely safeguard the

by Mulderblauw Architects is currently under construction, while future of Amsterdam’s booming hotel market.

Hilton Worldwide and Schiphol Real Estate have signed an agreement

“In 2013, average occupancy in three- to five-star properties rose by 1.8% to 79.2%, significantly higher than the Dutch average of 60.9%.”

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Clockwise From Right: Construction has begun for the transformation of the former Shell Tower into A’DAM; An agreement is in place to introduce a new Hilton hotel connected to Schiphol Airport; Starwood Hotels & Resorts has announced it will debut its W brand in Amsterdam; The city’s second Steigenberger Hotel is under way; and Meininger Hotels will operate a new property close to Amstel Station

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Waldorf Astoria AMSTERDAM

OeverZaaijer and GA Design have converted a series of historic canal houses on Amsterdam’s Herengracht to a refined luxury hotel.

Words: Matt Turner | Photography: © Anthony Parkinson / James Balston

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he merchants of the Dutch ‘Golden Age’ were the masters of their universe. Throughout the 17th century, the seafaring brokers and dealers of Holland exerted an increasingly dominant influence on world trade – one which saw the creation of the first multinational corporation (the Dutch East India Company), financed by the shares that established the first modern stock exchange, and supported by the Bank of Amsterdam (arguably the first of its kind in the world).

These mercantile pioneers built temples to their newfound wealth along the canals of their home city. An unusual law, which taxed property based on its width, meant these houses had deceptively narrow facades, but everything else about them was grand.

And there are few finer examples than the six buildings recently converted to the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, on Herengracht in the city’s UNESCO protected canal belt. Once home to families such as the Hoofts, Kemps and De Wildts – some of the wealthiest and most influential residents of the city – the houses have been delicately restored by developer DvM, to create an elegant 93-guestroom hotel steeped in history.

The atmosphere is one of understated luxury. Refined and tranquil interiors reference the surrounding waterways and famous Dutch paintings, creating framed views of the canals and gardens.

Chris Webb, Senior Director Interior Design for Hilton Worldwide, comments: “The design approach was to create a classic timeless interior with strong reference to location, brand and the trading history of the city. Carefully sourced finishes, design details, textures and products relate directly to the story of Amsterdam during its Golden Age.”

Previous Page: A custom made ‘armillary sphere’ referencing Dutch naval history takes centre stage in the Peacock Alley, allowing views from the front entrance through to the gardens beyond This Page: Ornate plasterwork, marble floors and classically proportioned furnishings create a grand entrance to the hotel, through a modern glass cube delicately inserted into the historical building.

“It’s an incredible property,” says David Clixby of GA Design who led the interior design, in partnership with Hilton Worldwide’s Global Design Team. “What’s amazing is not just the six houses facing Herengracht, but that three of the houses also face Keizersgracht, and the garden to the rear.”

That connection between the two canals has defined the layout of the ground floor.

A grand double staircase leads to the arrival lobby which retains much of its period detailing, including a beautifully restored sweeping staircase that leads to the ‘Bel Etage’. Reception and the concierge services are located in two historic, high ceiling rooms flanking the entrance.

Waldorf Astoria’s signature ‘Peacock Alley’ lobby lounge occupies the heart of the building, allowing sightlines through to the gardens on the other side as guests first enter the hotel. An ‘Armillary sphere’ sculpture, referencing Dutch maritime trade and navigation takes centre stage, in place of

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Above: Bathrooms are clean, simple and luxurious with marble finishes, and extensive use of the RAL 9010 white paint used throughout the hotel.

The rafters of the historic townhouses add a quirky charm to the top-floor rooms and suites

the usual Waldorf Astoria clock, which would have blocked the views through the lobby.

“The design vision was to allow guests to experience the splendour of the property’s heritage and surroundings through a contemporary setting, as well as the hotel’s design links to signature Waldorf Astoria brand elements now seen in more than 25 hotels and resorts around the world,” explains Clixby. “The building is of such major historical value the government wanted to give it back to the city so the locals could experience it. Our major challenge was to put 93 rooms into this building, with a lot of restrictions on what could be altered.”

The architect for the project was Amsterdam-based practice OeverZaaijer. “There were numerous existing historical walls that had to remain intact,” says Marlies Zwols of OeverZaaijer.

“Existing penetrations could be blocked up but no new penetrations were allowed. Whilst this created a challenge, it has also led to a guestroom arrangement that still retains the integrity of the individual canal houses. As no two rooms are the same, this has given

a wonderful variety throughout. While the top-range suites have period architectural elements intact, the rooms under the rafters are quirkier, with more of an individual charm.Throughout the buildings small pockets of space have provided opportunities to create the unexpected, making each room unique.”

The different layouts give variety, but all follow a standard colour palette, with accents of lapis lazuli and ochre hues referencing Dutch artist Vermeer. Natural light is maximised through floor-to-ceiling windows framed by subtle drapery. Exquisite fabrics, textures and upholstery create a sumptuous residential feel.

Acclaimed restaurateurs Jonnie and Thérèse Boer, owners of the three-Michelin star restaurant De Librije in Zwolle, have created the hotel’s fine dining offer Librije’s Zusje Amsterdam, headed by Executive Chef Sidney Schutte. The compact 40-cover restaurant occupies a space which opens out onto the courtyard garden, with it’s putti-decorated Teahouse converted from an 18th century summerhouse, and the 5,000 tulips planted for the hotel’s launch.

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Above: In the guestrooms, accents of lapis lazuli and stronger ochre colours reference the work of Vermeer. Fabrics from the likes of Lelievre and Harlequin combine with leathers by Andrew Muirhead and Vescom wallcoverings to create a luxurious residential feel. Lighting is by Heathfield and Vaughan Lighting

A Guerlain Spa is also located on the garden level of one of the oldest parts of the building, designed in muted grey and earthy tones with warm influences of lavender and honey, linking to the beehives at the hotel. There are three treatment rooms, a small swimming pool, and sauna.

The labyrinthine layout of the building has inevitably meant some compromises in terms of navigability. Walking from one end of the building requires several twists and turns, and subtle changes in the floor level mark the transition from one house to the next.

Designer Steffi Backhouse of GA Design International speaks highly of the way carpet supplier Ulster Carpets rose to the challenge of providing flooring solutions which fitted the complex footprints of the guestrooms and corridors.

The design team has been clever in working with the space. The Van loon Suite, for example, has an unusual layout with the bathroom

downstairs from the bedroom, and a WC which is actually in the neighbouring building, but the designers have used the building’s quirks to create direct, private access from the suite to the spa.

Wherever guests turn they will encounter authentically historical interiors. The ground floor Maurer Room, adjacent to Peacock Alley, is a superb example of rococo interiors, some of which are attributed to acclaimed artist Jacob Maurer, now used for private dining and exclusive meetings. Original vaults, dating back to the building’s former use as bank, have been converted to the Vault Bar – an intimate den of rich jewel-like colours. Some of the original safety deposit boxes have been relocated to form a back bar display, others are still in use as the actual safety deposit for the hotel. Most impressive of all is a majestic stairway, attributed to Daniel Marot, architect to the Stadholder-King Willem III and designer of Het Loo Palace, now restored to its full, former glory.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 93 guestrooms | 2 restaurants | 1 bar | Spa: 342m2 | Event Space: 7 meeting rooms | www.hilton.com Developer / Owner: DvM | Operator: Hilton Worldwide | Architecture: OeverZaaijer | Interior Design: GA Design International For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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Volkshotel AMSTERDAM

From newspaper HQ, to a creative hub for start-ups and artists’ studios, Amsterdam’s new hangout is described by its creators as ‘a 24 hour micro-society’.

Words: Matt Turner | Photography © Mark Groeneveld

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n the 1960s era of free love, radical politics and liberal mores, De Volkskrant was one of Holland’s most popular left wing newspapers. Now its former headquarters has been reinvented as a creative hub combining hotel, café, cocktail bar, club, restaurant and workspace.

The building, designed by Rotterdam-based architects Kraaijvanger, was the most modern newspaper office of its time when it opened in 1965, with locals nicknaming it ‘the White Swan’ thanks to the 1.5m white tiles that adorned its façade.

It remained the home of the paper for over 40 years, but as with many newspapers, the changing circumstances of modern media eventually led to a relocation in 2007. The office move was a long time in the planning, and the building had begun to fall into disrepair long before the staff left, complaining of leaking windows, ice cold winters and a ‘sickening fungus smell’ in the editor’s office.

Designer Bas Van Tol explains: “As years went by, one by one the white tiles fell down. The white and bright façade turned grey.

Many called the Amsterdam Wibautstraat the most ugly street in the city. The White Swan seemed to have flown away.”

Previous Page: The ground floor café and lobby is a raw, industrial space which also houses ‘Workplaats’ – an area where freelancers can rent cheap workspace and meeting facilities This Page & Opposite: Guestrooms vary in size from ‘Sir Standard’ to ‘Ms Big’ to ‘Mrs Massive’

Demolition seemed inevitable but as local planners deliberated over the future of the building, a forward thinking organisation – the Urban Resort Foundation – saw the opportunity to offer workspace to young entrepreneurs in the tech and creative industries. This creative hub – or ‘Broedplaats’ as the Dutch call it – soon gave rise to the conversion of the old staff canteen on the seventh floor into Canvas, which quickly established itself as one of Amsterdam’s hippest club / restaurant pop-ups.

By 2011, plans had crystallised for the building to live on as a hotel, although it took until mid-2013 for the renovation to begin.

A year later Volkshotel opened its doors, welcoming allcomers to a new space where ‘everyone is welcome to drink, work, eat, meet and sleep’. The building’s status as a creative hub remains, with 85 of Broedplaats VKG’s original 180 tenants moving to the side wing of the building, and Canvas restored from the basement to the seventh floor. As part of Volkshotel’s support of the creative community, the public areas will be used as exhibition space and tenants’ products will be sold in the hotel shop.

Much of the collateral for Volkshotel – photographs, doorhangers and city maps for example – has been provided by Broedplaats VKG residents. Others work with the hotel on the programming of club nights and other events, such as the 24 hour opening party, for which

tickets promised ‘party, sleepover, breakfast saunas and splashing around in hot tubs.’

Architect Steven Seenbruggen has remained true to the 1960s aesthetic of the original building, leaving in tact the concrete, steel, wood and glass of the original structure, and replacing the decrepit white tiles with freshly rendered plasterwork.

Interior design duties have been taken on by Bas Van Tol of Studio Müller Van Tol, well known in the city for his work on projects such as Club 11, Club Trouw and Restaurant As. “The design is inspired by the physicality of newspaper production and the vanishing world of paper, ink and photographs,” says Van Tol of his cut-and-paste creations. Ink raster patterns that enliven the elongated check-in counter and enlarged, overblown cut-outs of De Volkskrant’s masthead adorn the ground floor walls. Iconic photographs from the newspaper’s archives, showing groups rising up in defence of their ideals, line the corridor walls. “Made up of ordinary people, these counter-movements – ‘provos’ in the 1960s, hippies in the 70s, squatters in the 80s – defined the mood of their eras, just as the images define the spaces of the hotel.”

The ground floor ‘Workplaats’ café and lobby area is a large, raw, industrial space with exposed air conditioning ducts, and oversized chintzy lampshades above the bar counter. To the right of reception

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Above: Guestrooms mix rough concrete finishes with vintage furniture and beds mounted on podiums

there are extensive co-working spaces, where freelancers can rent a desk for a reasonable price, as well as four, small meeting rooms and three larger conference rooms. The basement space which provided a home to Canvas whilst the refurbishment carried on above is now re-invented as Doka – an all-night cocktail bar hosting cultural events and live performances.

The majority of bedrooms are simple in design – you get the impression guests won’t be spending much time in them. A variety of room sizes are classified as ‘Sir Standard’, ‘Miss Petite’, ‘Ms Big’ or ‘Mrs Massive’.

Details referencing the overall newspaper theme include handprinted silk-screens on the walls, and lamp shades. Bas van Tol has framed the views out of bedroom windows onto neighbouring hotspots – including pop-up restaurants Baut and Trouw – with coves that are deep enough to sit in or work on. Electrically operated venetian blinds offer privacy. Rough concrete surfaces are mixed with vintage furniture finds. Despite the simple finishes, there is a clever

use of space. Beds are on podiums, hung from ceilings or sandwiched between the walls in the smaller rooms.

Nine of the rooms have been individually designed by different creative friends of the hotel. ‘Danny’s Room’, designed by Eva van Halewijn, is a kitsch creation, featuring flock wallpaper, a bed designed like a fruit crate and a giant statue of a deer. ‘Edmund’ is a riot of clashing geometric forms, the bath cantilevered on a plinth above the bed with a miniature cactus garden at one end.

In ‘Jonny Jukebox’, by Remco Gonggrijp, an Akai turntable sits beneath a framed copy of the Eagles’ Hotel California. In the ‘White Bike’ room, designer Thijs van Oostween references Amsterdam’s status as a cycling capital. The bed is mounted on wheels. White plaster casts of Dutch bikes, complete with functioning bells, line the walls. The desklamp is refashioned from bicycle lights. Wall mounted leather panniers provide an alternative storage solution. As for the ‘Soixante-Neuf’ room, designed by Rosa Winkel, we will leave that to your imagination.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 172 guestrooms | 2 restaurants | 2 bars | Event Space: 5 meeting rooms | www.volkshotel.nl Architecture: Studio Steenbruggen | Interior Design (Hotel & Guestrooms): Studio Müller Van Tol For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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See you in Borneo HI Design Asia 5-7 November 2014

Hotel Not Hotel AMSTERDAM

Collaboration-O has transformed a voluminous atrium into individual guest cottages that together create a ‘micro-neighbourhood’.

Words: Eileen Keribar | Photography: Courtesy of Hotel Not Hotel

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Hotel Not Hotel is housed in a modern structure ready-made for a non-traditional concept, a voluminous atrium flanked with mezzanines that are joined by a bridge. Initially intended to be a public bazaar passageway between Witte de Withstraat and Piri Reisplein, the trio stepped in and acquired a hotel license when that plan was overridden by public opinion.

The entire hotel is one big living room, with cosy seating areas between the cottages. “The building really inspired the concept and quickly dictated its design,” explains Tijmen Receveur, “we immediately decided to work with multiple designers to make a design-driven environment comprised of a variety of room types, but ultimately it was a very organic process, as we didn’t come with any pre-conceived notions.”

Luuk van den Broek led Collaboration-O’s team, bringing his signature melding of craftsmanship and industrial design with compelling composition. Building on the strength and vision of each individual designer, and with a complete carte blanche, the freedom led to a playful and lighthearted assortment of rooms for guests to choose from.

“The space was really so wonderful for a concept like this,” reflects van den Broek. “It allowed us to create a diverse neighbourhood indoors by playing on an inside-out feeling – feeling as though you’re outside when you’re indoors” Half of Hotel Not Hotel’s 20 guestrooms are built as freestanding installations within the impressive space of high ceilings and grand arches, some with en suite bathrooms, and the majority sharing the sleek communal facilities on the ground floor.

It’s difficult to select a pièce de résistance, but the beautifully

asting aside the typical hotel conventions of monotonous, carpeted hallways lined with identical doors, Hotel Not Hotel is a refreshing remedy to muffled piano music, awkward elevator rides and guest anonymity. An open space whose resulting ‘micro-neighbourhood’ feel stems from a philosophy of interactivity and relaxation, it engages residents, locals and visitors alike to linger and mingle in its gallery-like environment.

Off the beaten tourist circuit of Amsterdam’s famed canal district, Hotel Not Hotel lures visitors to one of the city’s lesser-known districts with the promise of a true local experience. In De Baarsjes, once a dubious residential neighbourhood, affordable housing has attracted young creatives and, with them, a burst of new energy.

Conceived by Bruno Bont in collaboration with his partners Tijmen Receveur and Dirk Hoogerwerf, a young trio of entrepreneurs who cut their teeth in the local hospitality scene, the concept started with a seed of an idea: to create something that reflects Amsterdam’s day-to-day rhythm of life and the personality of its artistic talent.

Rooms at Hotel Not Hotel aren’t merely rooms, but rather guest ‘cottages’ or clandestine chambers designed by young Dutch artists.

With the hopes of developing each guestroom with a different designer, the three local entrepreneurs found their solution in upand-coming Eindhoven-based practice Collaboration-O. A collective of 14 designers and artists, Collaboration-O brought the individual perspective of varied designers all under one roof.

No stranger to eclectic open-plan spaces, Collaboration-O’s own workspace is comprised of sub-divided lots with individual studios and shared public spaces, essentially a model for what the hotel’s founders were hoping to achieve.

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Above Left: For the more adventurous, the Crow’s Nest features its own watch tower offering a great vantage point Above Right: A restored 1960s vintage Amsterdam streetcar certainly takes centre-stage in the middle of the hotel,

restored 1960s vintage Amsterdam streetcar certainly takes centrestage in the middle of the hotel, decked out with a king-size bed and built-in seating. Equally eyecatching is artist Arno Coenen’s Crisis-Free Zone, where elaborately cut wood carvings loosely based on Transylvanian symbolism aim to keep evil out of the ornately wallpapered sanctuaries within its gates.

For the more adventurous, the Crow’s Nest features its own watch tower offering a great vantage point for one of Hotel Not Hotel’s many events, parties or exhibitions. Flipping the 3D printing trend on its head, the Printed House is a conceptual translation of the fine line between reality and modern digital life, reducing reality to a 2D printed TV, living room and façade.

For those seeking more traditional neighbourhood homes, the Spanish villa-styled Casa No Casa or the prim homes of Mr and Mrs de With leave guests expecting the paperboy to drop by any moment, but not to worry, they’ll be just as pleased when their breakfast turns

up on their doorstep in a picnic basket. A delightful touch.

Up on the mezzanine, floor-to-ceiling bookcases laden with reading material conceal ten charmingly clandestine rooms of varying sizes, with corner rooms boasting en suite bathrooms and windows overlooking the street. Facing the library, easy leather sofas extend the public living room upstairs.

Showcasing Collaboration-O’s strength in product design, custom furnishings ranging from a retro-fitted bathtub loveseat to light fixtures fashioned from glass plates and cups carry the hotel’s sense of quirk and wonder throughout.

An obvious side-effect of the installation-style approach, some rooms lack natural light, but between the appealing communal spaces and a buzzing café and bar – also designed by Collaboration-O – that’s as popular with locals as it is with guests, we’re reminded that this hotel is not a hotel. At least not one where you stay in your room all day.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 20 guestrooms | 1 restaurants | 1 bars | Event Space: 512m2 | www.hotelnothotel.com Owner / Investor: Bruno Bont, Tijmen Receveur and Dirk Hoogerwerf | Interior Design: Collaboration-O For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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Faralda NDSM Crane Hotel AMSTERDAM

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A derelict crane in the former NDSM shipyard is home to the latest hospitality venture from Edwin Kornmann Rudi.

Words: Molly Dolan | Photography: Courtesy of Faralda NDSM Crane Hotel

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itting in front of the wharf three years ago, I noticed the old harbour crane, huge in height and space. I was bored of developing conventional real estate and wanted to realise the impossible,” exclaims Edwin Kornmann Rudi, owner of Faralda NDSM Crane Hotel.

Situated in the heart of Amsterdam’s former NDSM ship wharf, the unconventional hotel comprises three contemporary suites within a crane, each positioned at a different height from 35 to 45 metres. “The crane is a monumental building in the highest category,” comments Rudi, as he describes the significance of such a challenging project in the centre of one of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods.

Historically a shipyard, the NDSM locale transformed in the 1990s, becoming a prolific hub for artists, skaters and squatters.

The vast area was dominated by individuals seeking a space for

creative outlet. Then, Art City was born, a location and community that invites and inspires.

Rudi lists the shipyard setting as inspiration for Faralda, stating: “Every location needs its own vision.” The exterior has been inspired

by Bernard Tschumi, renowned for Deconstructivism. “The new parts are red,” explains Rudi. “I painted and restored the old parts of the monument in original colours such as blue, grey and yellow. Overall, it’s an old, industrial building.”

The name itself is unique, inspired by an elusive Dutch beauty living in the 1950s. The legend of lady Faralda speaks of a heroine with many sensual and independent character traits, each of which directly influence the design of the hotel.

Common areas rest at the base of the crane, accompanied by two panoramic elevators ready to lift guests to their sanctuary. The

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Previous Page: Chivasso provided a variety of sumptuous fabrics in dark hues for the Secret Suite This Page: Villeroy & Boch bathroom fittings can be found in each of the suites

exclusive suites sit at the top of the crane, with three cabin containers positioned vertically, each housing a suite with panoramic views of the Amsterdam waterfront. “The interior is high-end, an exclusive contemporary design experience that nobody expects,” notes Rudi.

The interior design has been completed by Edward van Vliet and Studio Heem, with emphasis placed on individuality.

With each suite featuring its own design concept, the Mystique Suite – located some 45m above ground – is centred on the language of the Orient. Lavish dark colours and plush materials adorn the 36m2 space, juxtaposing with the Secret Suite, the middle of the three.

Pulling the Orient theme into the 21st century, the saturated colours become more vivacious, and decoration takes a back seat to abstract shapes and a more minimalistic approach.

The lowest of the three double-storey cabins is the Free Spirit Suite, more contemporary in both its approach and concept. Muted colours and restrained materials fill the space, taking inspiration from the language of the harbour and the site’s past-life.

Above the cabins sits a Jacuzzi, offering the same unprecedented views as the guestrooms below, but in the open air. Due to the structure of the ‘building’, rotation with the wind is inevitable, resulting in a slow turning motion capturing the entire city.

According to Rudi, future developments are dependent on opportunity, as is evident with this most recent project. “With the right vision, every impossible mission is possible!”

EXPRESS CHECKOUT: 3 suites | Event Space: 60m2 | www.faralda.com Owner: Edwin Kornmann Rudi | Interior Design: Edward van Vliet and Studio Heem For full photography of this project and details of the companies involved visit www.innspec.com

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02/09/2014 15:37

KEY MEMBERS OF THE ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT TEAMS (LEFT TO RIGHT): George Scammell, Vice President, Global Design | John Valletta, President, Super 8 | Brian Watson, Vice President, Architecture, Design & Construction Europe, Middle East,Africa and Indian Ocean | Rui Barros, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Indian Ocean | Nima Davoodzadeh, Vice President of Development, UK & Western Europe | Bani Haddad, Regional Vice President, Middle East & Africa

Wyndham Hotel Group CREATING BR ANDS WITH ESSENCE

A delve into the inner workings of the architecture, design and development teams at Wyndham Hotel Group reveals a fresh approach to brand standards and a healthy pipeline going forward.

Words: Catherine Martin | Photography & Renderings: Courtesy of Wyndham Hotel Group

W

orld’s largest hotel group is a designation that many strive to obtain. But when it comes to the number of properties in its portfolio, Wyndham Hotel Group beats the competition hands down.

Offering lodgings in every category from economy to upperupscale, the US-based company has a total of 7,542 hotels on its books. That was at the last count. With 15 brands and a pipeline that spans six continents, rest assured that there are a few hundred more rooms to add.

That Wyndham Worldwide only became an independent, pure-play hospitality company in 2006, make its achievements all the more remarkable. The original Wyndham name came from the Wyndham Hotel Corporation which was founded in 1981 in Dallas, Texas, by real estate developer Trammell Crow. A merger with REIT Patriot American Hospitality, in which Patriot took ownership of the assets and leased them to Wyndham to operate, stimulated growth in the 1990s. The acquisition of multiple portfolios followed but unable to

sustain such growth, the group agreed to a US$1 billion restructuring when a consortium of private equity firms assumed control. Renamed Wyndham International, the group continued to struggle in the early 2000s, forcing the sale of assets at heavily discounted prices.

The turning point came in 2005, when Wyndham International was acquired by affiliates of the Blackstone Group for US$3.24 billion and taken private. Many of the hotels were sold off or rebranded, with Wyndham and Wyndham Garden going to Cendant Corporation, the result of a merger between CUC International and Henry Silverman’s Hospitality Franchise Systems. In 2006, all Cendant brands, including Ramada and Super 8, became part of Wyndham.

Today, Wyndham Hotel Group is one of three business units under the remit of Wyndham Worldwide, the others trading in timeshare resorts and vacation rentals. Its leadership falls to Geoff Ballotti, who was recently announced as President and CEO following the departure of Eric Danziger earlier this year. Danziger can be credited with guiding the group through a period of considerable

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growth, which has since seen the Wyndham name develop into a well-respected player in the global hospitality industry. But governance for the next generation falls to Ballotti, and his 6,000-strong workforce located around the globe.

The group is headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, where a number of corporate associates – including Vice President of Global Design George Scammell – are based. Scammell, along with a global team of architects and designers, support all three of Wyndham’s business units. “Within the department we have directors of architecture, interior design and prototype design and then we work in conjunction with and support all the different regional offices,” he explains.

“Our focus is currently working with the hotel group, developing our brands, creating a brand essence and enhancing the brand standards as we continue to roll them out nationally as well as internationally.”

Much of the day-to-day operations are carried out on the ground in the local offices, with Scammell on hand to support with standards and design concepts to ensure consistency.

While some design work is carried out inhouse – including the recently unveiled prototype for economy brand Microtel Inn & Suites

by Wyndham – the majority is outsourced.

Scammell and his regional associates are adept at recommending designers and consultants from which the owner can select and they’re open to a variety of talents. Typically, both a local and an international studio are put forward, as well as one that would perhaps understand the objectives for a particular project. “We’re obviously looking for experience but we do consider other sources, especially since the recession when a lot of the young talent was dispersed,” explains Scammell.

“We are looking for designers that bring in a different competitive advantage to a project and we work closely with them to ensure they deliver.”

Working with an external design firm generally begins with a brand immersion that involves intensive training on brand standards and the brand essence, as well as the appropriateness of the market. According to Scammell, there are

occasions where a pre-defined brand does not translate to a particular market. “What we’ve done is create brand essences that establish the look and feel of a brand,” he explains. For example, a Super 8 hotel in the Middle East may be more of an upscale product than its US counterpart, but the look and feel remains the same. Variations are evident in the performance specifications, stipulated to best support that particular market segment and region.

While there are some newbuild projects under way in the vacation ownership side of the business – including a growing number of combined hotel and timeshare developments – in the US, Wyndham’s brands are predominantly conversion

We are looking for designers that bring in a different competitive advantage to a project and we work closely with them to ensure they deliver.

George Scammell

products. “All of our standards are designed with conversion in mind and we’ve adopted the philosophy that we only want to ask the owners to do what makes good business sense for them,” continues Scammell. “The standards are written to be flexible so that they’re adaptable to the needs of the market while maintaining the qualities and consistencies expected within that product.”

As of 30 June 2014, the group’s development pipeline included over 970 hotels and approximately 117,000 rooms globally. There are plans to expand into Kenya after the signing of a franchise agreement for Ramada Nairobi, Wyndham Hotel Group’s first property in the country. The group’s portfolio of hotels in Germany has grown to more than 100, following

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the recent openings of a further eight hotels across the country in association with hotel management company Grand City Hotels. A major refresh to significantly elevate the Howard Johnson brand is under way in the USA, and Wingate has unveiled a new-construction prototype that evolves the guest experience to better meet travellers’ needs while lowering development costs and capturing greater efficiencies for hotel owners.

One of the most exciting developments in EMEA is the first TRYP by Wyndham hotel in the Middle East. With 672 guestrooms, the property is currently planned to be the select-service brand’s largest in the world upon opening in Dubai in 2017.

Heading up this region, Rui Barros, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, believes there is still plenty of room for growth. “My responsibility is to look after our portfolio of brands across the territory, ensuring that we continue to grow the brands that we currently have, and introduce new brands when the need arises,” he explains. “The other part of my role is to drive organic growth through our existing portfolio of properties, which is around 400 throughout the region.

“We had record growth in 2013 so the intent in 2014 is to build on the momentum that we’ve created,” he continues. “Our goal is to focus on growing, not only in emerging markets such as Turkey, the Middle East and Eastern Africa, we are also focused on mature markets such as Germany, where we opened a significant amount of properties last year.”

Responsible for driving such growth in EMEA, is Nima Davoodzadeh, Vice President of Development, UK and Western Europe, and Bani Haddad, Regional Vice President, Middle East and North Africa. Within the region, there are currently seven brands operating including Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Howard Johnson, TRYP by Wyndham, Days Inn, Hawthorn Suites

by Wyndham, Super 8 and Ramada, the latter of which has the largest presence. Also reporting to Barros and working closely with Davoodzadeh and Haddad is Brian Watson, Vice President for Architecture, Design & Construction in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Indian Ocean. An

Below & Right: The 389-room Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent, Turkey, will open later this year Middle: Wyndham Hotel Group recently expanded into Tanzania with a Ramada Resort in Dar es Salaam Bottom: The first TRYP by Wyndham hotel in the Middle East is expected to be the select-service brand’s largest in the world upon opening in Dubai in 2016

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Above: The 293-room Wyndham Grand Frankfurt features a spacious, inviting lobby with an open fire

architect by profession, Watson has daily contact with the development team on new projects. “One of the most interesting aspects of the job is when someone comes to us with an opportunity and it’s a conversation between the design team, the development team and the owner about what is the right brand fit and what’s going to make this investment work.”

This can be a challenge when it comes to managing expectations, says Davoodzadeh: “For us, we love all our children equally. We have 15 brands and the aim is to find the right brand for the right project. The brands cater to different segments of the market so depending on the location, and the project, the investment, we come to a good understanding with the owner as to what’s best for them at the end of the day, which is the investment and his return.”

Further down the line, Watson is also responsible for ensuring a continuity of the brand essence in each and every property, adhering to brand guidelines and technical standards governed

by Scammell in Parsippany. However there is flexibility. “One size does not fit all,” explains Watson. “It’s possible to have the same set of standards throughout the US, but if you move those into Russia or Turkey for instance, you often find that changes need to be made meaning we

have to be flexible.”

The introduction of ‘brand essences’ rather than rigid brand standards has been transformational for the business, according to Davoodzadeh. “It was a big deal,” he explains, “but the flexibility has opened a lot of opportunities for us. It’s not just a label, it’s a fundamental difference.”

Adds Barros: “We are firm believers that there should be continuity in terms of the brand essence.

The brands should come alive through artwork or colour or whatever it may be that the consumer recognises as being a brand element. At the same time we know that certain things need to have flexibility. We are in the business of making sure we offer brand solutions that will drive profitability for our developers, and so flexibility has to be a part of that, without compromising design.”

The relationship between the departments is crucial throughout the entire process. “For me, the design team are considered the guardians of the brand,” comments Haddad. “They can also be one of the guarantors of consistency of the product so this is why we work with them very closely.

When we start developing and introducing a new brand to the region, their input is crucial for us to adapt these products to the markets’ needs while staying true to the brand essences and standards and ethos.”

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Perhaps the group’s greatest success story, certainly in recent years, is that of Super 8. A contemporary new guestroom concept designed specifically for EMEA was unveiled at the International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF) in 2012, capturing the attention of developers and investors, not to mention rival hotel groups.

Two years on, the brand has reached a number of significant milestones, including its debut in the region. The much-anticipated Super 8 Riyadh opened its doors in May 2014 as a roadside rest stop for the growing number of highway travellers throughout the Kingdom. It is the first hotel to open as part of a master development agreement with Saudi Automotive Services Company (SASCO) – the largest petrol station operator in Saudi Arabia – for 20 Super 8 hotels in the country over a period of five years.

The development team’s return to Berlin in 2014 marked yet another milestone, the breaking ground of the first Super 8 hotel in Germany.

Developed by GS Star GmbH, the 160-room Super 8 Munich is the first of 10 hotels to open as part of a previously signed multi-year agreement between Tristar Hotel GmbH and Wyndham Hotel Group.

Expected to open in 2016, the six-storey newbuild will employ the new design concept featuring a multi-functional lobby and guestrooms that

Above: TRYP by Wyndham Antwerp, Belgium, is one of 95 TRYP-branded properties in EMEA

meet the needs of modern travellers. Built using modular construction to allow for faster and more economical development, the look is clean and contemporary combining simplicity with comfort.

Guestrooms feature timber flooring, high quality fixtures, a full-sized bed and flatscreen television while a glass panel separating the bedroom and bathroom – complete with walk-in shower – opens up the space making it feel larger that its 17.5m2.

Despite its modular construction and low price point, this isn’t a cookie-cutter brand. Its conception as a conversion brand means that by its very nature, each property is different, as John Valletta, President of the Super 8 brand explains: “There’s quite a bit of variation in the exterior and physical layout of the hotels. Where we bring consistency isn’t necessarily with exterior design, but with the interior design and service delivery.

“The local market may determine that the actual physical product may differ from country to country or market to market, but Super 8 will always stand for its core values of being an economy brand,” continues Valletta. The size of the guestrooms for example, differs regionally depending on what’s considered appropriate for the market. “In the US, a room may be considerably larger than a room in Europe, but smaller than in

Saudi Arabia where large rooms are considered the norm,” explains Valletta, referring to Super 8 Riyadh’s suites that feature a regular bed plus a seating area that can be converted to a second sleeping space to accommodate families of up to five. “Much of what we do at Super 8 is market driven, always with the consistent thread of maintaining excellence in economy operation and standing for the economy segment in that local market,” he continues.

Public spaces are also up for discussion.

Typically, Super 8 hotels don’t offer restaurants or bars, but once again, this is market driven. Such decisions, along with interior design changes, are often made at head office with input from the regional teams. Watson and Davoodzadeh have been responsible for the design and development of the brand for EMEA, having questioned how they could tap into the growing budget sector post-recession. “The outcome was that we take a brand, which is the biggest player in its segment worldwide, and bring it into EMEA respecting and appreciating that it’s not the perfect fit for EMEA in its existing shape,” explains Davoodzadeh, which is where Watson and his team come in. Watson sought to create an evolved product that would work in the current market, ‘Europeanising’ it, if

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you will, and introducing flexible solutions. “The work we’ve done to value engineer the product means that it works equally well for newbuilds and conversions,” explains Watson. “We’ve got a kit of parts that we now think will fit neatly into a conversion situation.” Davoodzadeh adds: “In essence it’s a better quality product and I think we’ve probably gone slightly upmarket because that’s what the market demanded.”

The individuality of each Super 8 comes through in its service offering and interior design. Whilst the key attributes of the guestroom remain the same from hotel to hotel, artwork is one way in which a sense of place has been introduced. Many of the elements have, of course, filtered down from head office, where Scammell oversees design across all brands. “We have so many hotels that we wanted each one to come across as individual and unique to that community,” he explains. “What we did is create what we call brand defining elements, and those are items that are consistently found within each property but exacting to the location of that particular hotel. In the guestrooms we have our headboard programme where we have black and white photographed headboards,” he continues. “The photographs are taken within the local area and could be architectural, natural, or

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Above: Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Dubai offers 188 guestrooms and suites with views of the Arabian Gulf. The brand made its debut in the Middle East in 2013

cultural… something that is unique and special to that community.”

The design and development teams on both sides of the Atlantic have worked to tweak the concept in recent months, to the point where the momentum behind the new look feels like that of a new brand launch. “Because we’ve done a lot of work on updating the design over the last two years, we talk about it as if it’s a new brand,” comments Davoodzadeh. “The truth is the brand has been around for a long time and that’s what we’re banking on.”

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Super 8 was established in 1974 as a single motel in Aberdeen, South Dakota, charging a rate of $8.88 per night. The brand was acquired by Wyndham Worldwide’s predecessor in 1993 and has grown to over 2,400 properties – the majority of which are in the USA – more hotels than any other economy lodging chain in the world. And growth is expected to continue according to Valletta. In addition to the multi-property deals announced in Germany, Turkey, Poland and Saudi Arabia,

Valletta is looking to push ahead with a global rollout. Super 8 has already built a strong presence in China with almost 600 properties there, and South America looks to be next on the hit list having launched the brand in the market last year.

“There are very few markets in the US and Canada where we are not represented,” says Valletta, “so our focus tends to be on gaining distribution in key markets.”

Working with the supply chain also falls under the remit of the Architecture, Design & Construction team within each market. In the USA, a procurement programme is in place for suppliers that have delivered to the group’s standards. “The strength of the programme is that, because we cross utilise these manufacturers across the portfolio, we’re able to increase the qualities of product that goes through the factories which in turn drives quantity and reduces cost,” explains Scammell. “We’re able to offer that as a value-add for our franchisees to ensure they’re getting good quality at a great price.”

In EMEA, the process is somewhat different.

“For us, it’s not about the supplier as such but the item and the quality of it,” states Davoodzadeh.

“Our approach, which I think has been part of our success, is that we describe the product that we want and the quality that we want, but we don’t dictate a certain supplier.”

And Watson certainly isn’t averse to using unknown or local suppliers. “We have to be flexible and work with the owners, particularly when they haven’t got their own supplier base,” he explains, adding the mock-up room design is crucial in testing both the look and feel of the product as well as its robustness.

Selecting the right products that are effective and efficient is crucial to the end result, particularly when it comes to connectivity, lighting control, and even something as simple as installing plug sockets in accessible locations. “If it doesn’t function, it compromises the experience,” states Davoodzadeh. “Brian has this great quote that I keep telling my clients when it comes to the design stage… Let’s not forget to get the basics right.

That’s the focus.”

Wyndham Hotel Group: Founded in 2006 | Headquarters: Parsippany, New Jersey, USA | President & CEO: Geoff Ballotti Brands: 15 | Number of hotels in portfolio: 7,542* | Number of guestrooms in portfolio: 650,223* (* as of 30 June 2014)

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astrolighting.co.uk

North America Report In the first of a new series examining the hotel construction pipeline in various markets around the world, new data reveals that the city of New York remains a regional hotspot.

1. New York 64 PROJECTS 18,853 ROOMS 4. Austin

2. Miami 35 PROJECTS 9,583 ROOMS

14 PROJECTS 5,017 ROOMS

3. Chicago 20 PROJECTS 545 ROOMS

14 PROJECTS 4,816 ROOMS

5. Seattle

7. Atlanta

6. San Diego 14 PROJECTS 3,520 ROOMS

12 PROJECTS 2,687 ROOMS

8. Las Vegas

10 PROJECTS 20,481 ROOMS 9. Houston 10 PROJECTS 3,591 ROOMS

REGION OVERVIEW

10. Des Moines

10 PROJECTS 1,646 ROOMS

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HOTELS PROJECTS BY YEAR OF OPENING

259

495

178

67

43

PROJECTS

PROJECTS

PROJECTS

PROJECTS

PROJECTS

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

HOTEL PROJECTS BY CATEGORY FIRST CLASS | UPSCALE | MIDSCALE

LUXURY | UPPER UPSCALE

837 PROJECTS

206 PROJECTS

202,733 ROOMS

HOTEL PROJECTS BY STATUS

65,771 ROOMS

TOP COUNTRIES FIRST CLASS

TOP CITIES

LUXURY

TOTAL

FIRST CLASS

LUXURY

TOTAL

Projects

Rooms

Projects

Rooms

Projects

Rooms

Projects

Rooms

Projects

Rooms

Projects

Rooms

1. USA

722

176,220

131

43,092

853

219,312

1. New York

46

14,821

18

4,032

64

18,853

2. Mexico

42

8,144

24

9,212

66

17,326

2. Miami

32

8,371

3

1,212

35

9,583

3. Canada

34

5,774

10

4,162

44

9,936

3. Chicago

17

4,702

3

843

20

545

4. Bahamas

6

5,168

4

1,283

10

6,451

4. Austin

11

2,816

3

2,201

14

5,017

5. Dominican Rep 4

975

6

2,168

10

3,143

5. Seattle

11

4,374

3

442

14

4,816

2

565

4

1,308

6

1,873

6. San Diego

13

3,020

1

500

14

3,520

7. Turks & Caicos 1

170

5

824

6

994

7. Atlanta

11

2,523

1

164

12

2,687

8. Puerto Rico

4

765

1

371

5

1,136

8. Las Vegas

5

11,496

5

8,985

10

20,481

9. Nicaragua

4

476

1

330

5

806

9. Houston

10

3,591

-

-

10

3,591

10. Jamaica

2

956

2

576

4

1,523

10. Des Moines

10

1646

-

-

10

1,646

6. Costa Rica

Top Hotel Projects is an online database of all major hotel projects, refurbishments and extensions worldwide.

For more information and to subscribe visit: www.tophotelprojects.com or call +49 4261 4140 0

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Helping you upgrade.

Our hotel specialists will help you stay one step ahead www.deloitte.co.uk/travelhospitalityleisure

Š 2014 Deloitte LLP. All rights reserved.

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06/08/2014 14:27

THE INTELLIGENCE SOURCE FOR THE HOTEL INVESTMENT COMMUNITY

Rezidor pins hopes on emerging markets Rezidor is continuing its expansion into profitable emerging markets, despite some temporary revenue issues from its hotels in Ukraine and Russia. With the proceeds of the recent rights issue on the balance sheet, an acceleration in new signings was promised, as management revealed a disappointing set of first half results.

The results were hit by a number of one-offs including a strengthening Euro, the consequences of selling out of a casino project, and the timing of Easter.

“The Middle East and Africa really is the opportunity area,” said CEO Wolfgang Neumann.

In particular, he singled out Saudi Arabia as “a very lucrative market”, where Rezidor has recently announced additions that will take its presence there to 22 hotels. Radisson Blus have just been signed for Jeddah, Jeddah Corniche and Salihiyah, along with Park Inns in Riyadh and Dammam. The majority of these are conversions, meaning they will come on stream later this year and in the first half of 2015.

Middle East and Africa was Rezidor’s best performing region in the second quarter, with revpar up 9.6%, accelerating from 6.4% in the first quarter. Western Europe also performed well, with an average 4.9% revpar increase in the second quarter helped by a strong performance from Irish and UK hotels.

That emerging markets can be inherently more risky was underlined by an update from Neumann about its hotels in Ukraine, sitting potentially in the line of fire from international military action. The company has five hotels in Ukraine, all managed, and reported year-todate revpar down 14.9%, although it was admitted that more recently the decline is nearer 50%. Rezidor has 10% of its room stock in the Russian market, with 27 hotels across the country; so far, revpar is slightly softer, while domestic business confidence is down.

The risks of further escalation of the conflict and possible sanctions remain, with Rezidor’s only relief being that all the hotels in the region are on asset light contracts.

Nevertheless, it expects fee income to be down by around EUR1.5m for the year as a result.

Elsewhere, France continues to be weak, not helped by a refurbishment closure in Lyon, and the Nordic markets have yet to recover. The company is still working to extricate itself from unprofitable leases, and hopes to conclude these situations before the end of the year.

There was no news on the progress of the new Quorvus and Red brands. Signings of new hotels are slightly above the level of last year, with 11 hotels and 2,200 rooms added to the pipeline in the second quarter. “The market continues to improve and we are well placed,” insisted Neumann.

Looking ahead, he added: “Eastern Europe remains a concern, while we have a number of leases on the radar which are unprofitable.

We are confident that in the second half we will have further deals that will further drive value going forward.”

“With the fee business, we have struggled,” admitted deputy president Knut Kleiven. Both revenue and ebit was down on last year, and even in the Middle East and Africa, where revpar grew strongly, profits were lower due to write downs.

The rest of the year will see continued financial pain, warned Kleiven, due to the loss of income from a casino the group exited from, of around EUR2m; there is also an allowance against possible tax claim. And while the Lyon hotel was closed for refit, with a clear hit on revenues, other hotels will not be fully closed during improvement works.

HA Perspective (by Chris Bown): Good news was hard to find in Rezidor’s presentation. Accounting issues tempered good headline performance in the Middle East and Africa, while Eastern Europe’s froth was blown away by the problematic political situation in Ukraine.

Such are the risks of moving into emerging markets.

There was no concrete news on the new brands, while it appears that Rezidor is still taking a while to extricate itself from problem leases.

The problem for management is that we are now not far from 2015, and deadline time for the Route 2015 turnaround strategy set out in 2011. Targets on margins, revenue growth, fee growth and cost savings were all announced publicly, and if

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they are missed, surely investors will put management under pressure.

Let’s hope they spend the EUR60m raised in the recent rights issue wisely.

HA Perspective (by Andrew Sangster): The Ukrainian situation at first sight seems a particular worry for Rezidor given that Eastern Europe, which is mostly Russia, is its most profitable region in terms of fees.

But Russia represents 10% of Rezidor’s room stock with the Ukraine being another 1%. This is certainly not critical for the company, especially as its exposure is all asset light. It estimates fee income in Russia will be down EUR1.5m on the year.

Nonetheless, Russia was one of Rezidor’s big success stories and at the centre of its emerging markets push. The warm glow around emerging markets faded several years ago in the wider economy but for fee income focused hotel groups the push into such territories is still seen as a huge opportunity.

The Russian meltdown hurts because the country was one of the biggest of these opportunities.

While not quite on the scale of China, its fellow BRIC, Russia was seen as offering a substantial middle income population which meant establishing a sufficiently large infrastructure to enable a large scale roll out made sense for the hotel brand companies.

Rezidor had been the first out of the blocks of the global hotel brands and had been the most successful in navigating the difficult Russian

market profitably. The current situation is scant reward for all that effort and success.

Arguably, the most worrying aspect is not that Russia is going to be relatively unprofitable but that investors will increasingly fight shy of investing in emerging markets.

Political risk has gone from being ignored to being overplayed.

Emerging markets were – and are – all about optionality: risks have to be spread. While Rezidor has suffered a setback in Russia, its front-running role in Africa continues to look promising. It is the biggest and most experienced hotel brand companies that will succeed in emerging markets.

Rezidor continues to be a favoured option in this regard.

Meanwhile, the geopolitical situation in Russia looks unpromising. President Putin has boxed himself into a corner that means yielding to the West by not supporting Ukrainian rebels in the East of that country will devastate his domestic popularity but continuing to support the rebels will lead to sanctions from the West that will in time devastate the Russian economy (and in turn his domestic political support).

Barring the emergence of some hitherto unforeseen compromise position, the situation does not look like it will end well for Russia and for those invested in the country.

Most international hotel companies appear to be adopting a position of waiting and seeing. The potential of Russia is too big and alluring to simply walk away from but the threat of ever tougher sanctions is

focusing on success for our owners and client base in the region,” said Leslie Ng, chief investment officer of Interstate. “Maintaining and enhancing Rim’s leadership teams and executives for continuity and growth is an extremely important objective of Interstate.”

Robert Crook, managing director in the UK, who joined the group with Interstate’s acquisition of Chardon Management in September last year, told Hotel Analyst: “Consolidation is the future – companies like Interstate are very ambitious and keen to grow and the way to do that is either through organic growth or more strategically.”

Interstate’s acquisition of Chardon added 32 hotels to its estate in the UK and Ireland, taking it to a total of 47 hotels. This latest deal with Rim Hospitality added to Interstate’s portfolio of nearly 400 hotels with 71,000 rooms located throughout the US and around the world.

As Interstate was bolstering its standing in its domestic market, so Topland was doing the same in the UK, with a GBP75m deal to acquire four star hotel chain Hallmark. The deal gives Topland eight UK hotels, adding 730 rooms and taking its portfolio to 30 hotels nationwide.

Hallmark was acquired in 2007

by Bridgepoint for GBP55m.

Bridgepoint sold the assets to Topland in an off-market transaction, after upgrading several hotels from three stars to four.

Topland will combine the Hallmark properties with its Menzies platform, acquired in 2013. The combined group, with more than

enough to cause a pause.

During July, a significant positive development for the hotel industry in Russia was the passing of a law allowing gaming in Sochi. A law was being passed to allow the development of casinos in Crimea but this was amended to include Sochi, a much more promising location for a major casino development.

Sochi’s hotels had struggled in the aftermath of the building boom ahead of the Winter Olympics.

The casino initiative will help drive domestic tourism and further infrastructure development, although attracting international tourists remains a forlorn hope in the near term.

Third party management continues consolidation Interstate Hotels & Resorts has acquired the management agreements of Rim Hospitality for an undisclosed fee.

The deal is the latest in a series for the group, which last year acquired Chardon Hospitality in the UK, as the third-party management sector continues to grow.

The addition of Rim Hospitality will add nearly 70 hotels with more than 10,600 rooms, including hotels under brands for Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide and Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

“Interstate is committed to strengthening our presence on the West Coast, enriching services and

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3,000 rooms, will be managed by Bespoke.

Topland is preparing itself for a floatation within the year, with the group looking towards a GBP1bn valuation. Its current value is estimated at around GBP500m.

Lionel Benjamin, Topland’s director of hotels, told the Financial Times that the deal reflected Britain’s economic recovery, which has begun to ripple out from London into the regions over the past year, adding: “The hotel sector is particularly attractive to our group because we believe we can drive income streams which traditionally have lagged behind other commercial property assets.”

The acceleration of Topland’s growth has been marked by scooping up properties in the underpressure regional UK markets.

As previously reported in Hotel Analyst, Topland’s first major step into the hotel sector was in 2005, when it acquired a portfolio of Thistle hotels purchased in a sale and leaseback deal. The GBP185m transaction was backed by Thistle signing 30 year leases on the properties, with fixed increases for the first half of the agreements.

In 2011, the company added to its portfolio of owned hotels, buying two Hiltons from the Royal Bank of Scotland. It paid GBP39.25m for the Hilton Brighton Metropole, a 340 room seafront hotel; and GBP35.7m for the 319 room Glasgow Hilton. Both are let to Hilton on 30 year leases from 2001, with a turnover element to the rental paid.

In 2012, Topland took its first

more direct operational interest, buying the Royal Crescent hotel in Bath from the administrators to the Von Essen hotel group. Vision Asset Management was installed to run the hotel.

Topland is looking to further expand its hotel portfolio and said that it would consider individual acquisitions and portfolios or corporate acquisitions across the UK and Europe and is thought to be looking at one or two specific deals.

Also in the UK, fellow management company Kew Green has secured seven new contracts during the second quarter of 2014. Four Ramada Encores, two Holiday Inns and the Grand Hotel in Brighton have been added to its portfolio, which now numbers 37.

The Ramada properties are in Barnsley, Crewe, Haydock and at Birmingham’s NEC. Paul Johnson, CEO, said: “We are delighted to have added these hotels to our portfolio and look forward to seeing them continue to develop under our management. These additions are part of our continued strategy to grow our managed division, alongside our owned estate, with a target to reach a portfolio of in excess of 60 hotels.”

HA Perspective (by Chris Bown): While there are plenty of ways to structure a hotel business, the move to asset-light has helped deliver the growth of the focused third party manager, interspersing brawn between the bricks of real estate ownership and the brains of brand marketing.

And in the global business

Asian investors stake out Europe

of hospitality, Interstate has demonstrated how it believes it can effectively deliver a hotel management business across borders, albeit by acquiring local expertise to drive its growth. It is not all one-way traffic, either. UK management company Bespoke, which is growing its business with the help of landlord partners such as Topland in the UK, recently opened a US office and believes it has a service of value to offer to US owners of boutique hotels.

Stretching further afield, Redefine from South Africa linked up with UK management company BDL. For a larger management company, there will be efficiencies of scale. But there are also opportunities to nurture and grow staff – an area where new rulebooks may need to be written.

Industry newcomer Mike DeNoma at GLH says he was stunned by the waste of human capital he discovered in the sector, as staff work to rules that give them little discretion; and at GLH he is seeing great results from empowering staff. Such initiatives are essential, if the more demanding millennial hotel customer is to experience a great stay, whether the hotel is budget, boutique or luxury.

And hotel management companies with an international business also have the potential to support brand partners expand in parts of the world where skills shortages are proving a drag on expansion. Never mind the increasingly sophisticated management software, guests meet staff – and that’s where loyalty can really be won or lost.

A flurry of deals has demonstrated that Europe’s hotel market is on the up once more, with both investors and operators looking for consolidation opportunities as country markets start to pick up.

Significantly, it is Asian money that is making the running on several of the major transactions as groups bid to stake out the continent.

Hotel group Louvre is targeting the German market, with a plan to build a portfolio of up to 50 hotels in a partnership of backers led by private equity fund A Capital.

The team have made their first investment, buying 10 hotels from the DHM Group and picking up three and four star hotels in Frankfurt, Koln, Dortmund, Bremen and Mannheim. Currently operating under the Balladins brand, the hotels will be renovated and reflagged under Louvre’s Tulip Inn and Golden Tulip brands.

A Capital has previously invested in Club Med, and takes some of the credit for re-orienting that business to take advantage of the Chinese market. Likewise, it is expected to help position the Louvre brands in the minds of outbound Chinese travellers heading for Europe.

“This unique partnership will allow us to reach a critical size in Germany,” said Matthieu Evrard, Louvre chief development officer. “With this transaction we will double our footprint in the German market and we will create a platform for further investment

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in the near future. A Capital will bring its strong understanding of the German market and its support to attract tourists from emerging markets, in particular China, into Germany’s major cities.”

Andre Loesekrug-Pietri, founder of A Capital, said of the deal, its first in Germany: “This transaction demonstrates our unique capacity to implement our sector focused fund strategy and build smart partnerships with leading industrial players.”

In Germany and Belgium, Thai investor Fico Corporation has spent EUR80m buying a portfolio of nine hotels under the Days Inn, Ibis and TRYP flags, its first step in a plan that will see it looking for a further 20 properties over the next two years. The deal has been backed by a EUR45m short term loan from Krungthai Bank.

In contrast with Louvre’s acquisitions, Fico appears to be planning to retain the existing brand flags. In Germany, it has taken on Days Inns in Berlin West and Dresden; Ibis properties in Erfurt Ost and Gelsenkirchen; and TRYP hotels in Bad Oldesloe, Berlin East, Leipzig North and Garden Bad Malente. There is one Belgian property, the TRYP in Antwerp. “The group was looking at opportunities in Europe, and this portfolio will strengthen our core hospitality business,” said Fico’s Krit Srichawla. He told the Bangkok Post the acquisitions were expected to deliver an 8-9% yield.

Fico has been expanding its interests in hotels, and currently owns 16 Thai hotels, operating

under flags including Novotel and Mercure. It has a further five in development, and also owns several restaurant brands as well as having a stake in the franchise holder of Domino’s Pizza in Thailand.

And consolidating its position in Central Europe is Czech management company CPI, which has added 10 new hotels to its roster, and expanded outside its home country for the first time. CPI, which until 2007 traded as Fortuna, has taken over management of the Mamaison hotels and residence properties, including three properties in the Czech Republic as well as hotels in Bratislava, Warsaw, Budapest and Moscow. It has also picked up management of the Parkhotel Vienna Bielsko Biala in Poland.

“This is our first venture into foreign markets,” confirmed CPI chairman Jan Kratina. “The inclusion of Mamaison hotels and residences into our portfolio is a significant step forward.” The hotels will continue to operate under their existing brands, and will sit alongside CPI’s 18 existing properties running under Choice’s Clarion flag, and the Fortuna, Buddha-Bar and Spa & Kur brands.

In London, recent activity has been at the upper end of the market, with rebrands shuffling the pack.

Italian chain Starhotels has acquired two properties, the Pelham and Gore, paying more than GBP43m for the 101 rooms in the two four

and five star properties. The pair were sold by KPMG on behalf of private owners Con Ring, attracting a range of international buyers.

“The deal further demonstrates the continuing strong appetite from overseas for well-located real estate in central London,” commented KPMG’s Neil Meredith. Starhotels currently has 22 hotels across Italy, in Paris and New York.

Also changing brands is the Cadogan, which landlord Cadogan Estates will refit with fewer, larger rooms before a reopening in 2016 under the Belmond flag.

The USD48m refurbishment will reduce the room count from 64 to 54. Belmond, formerly OrientExpress hotels, currently has no representation in the UK capital, running the 32 room Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire.

And in the four star space, sector newcomer Mike DeNoma has delivered another of his promised new brands into the market.

Every Hotels will be delivered by glh, backed by Guoman Leisure, and will launch with conversions of some of the group’s existing London estate. DeNoma intends to build Every up to 50 hotels by the end of the decade, promising it as a great conversion brand for tired four star properties. “The four star sector continues to bury its head in the sand, in the face of changing consumer needs,” he commented.

“Every is our direct response to owners and developers burdened

with legacy buildings who are keen for a new four star option that responds to the changing market.”

HA Perspective (by Chris Bown): Hotel investors appear to have a more optimistic outlook than the International Monetary Fund, when it comes to Europe’s economies.

The IMF’s latest assessment warns of the dangers of deflation, continuing high unemployment and the need for intervention – through asset purchases, or quantitative easing – to ensure the numbers remain positive. The worry is that, with little credit being advanced, investment and growth will remain slow for years to come.

However, both the German and UK hotel markets are looking considerably stronger than they were a year ago, with occupancy and rate figures improving. At consultants JLL, Christoph Harle says their prediction of a c20% increase in deal volume in the German market to EUR12bn looks to be about right. A lack of new construction continues to favour sellers, with yields moving in.

Similarly the UK has also yet to see much new construction, putting owners in a good position as revpar improves. With finance now easing, new builds will start to make an impact in the German market in the next two to three years, with the UK a little way behind.

Louvre’s move into Germany is a brand play, with the company

taking hold of a portfolio of smaller hotels, in secondary locations that will require capital expenditure.

From this, however, it will be better placed to pick off and add individual hotels in the prime German cities.

There is some talk of the Asian investors linking their buying to marketing activities in home markets. The growth in Chinese visitors to Europe is set to continue, and those who can sell their hotel brands effectively in this massive source market stand to do well.

One worry expressed by commentators in the wider commercial property market, is the extent to which these newer investors plan to hold their acquisitions for the longer term, compared to their forebears.

Writing in Property Week, Richard White, head of real estate at KPMG, expressed concern for the liquidity of the market, as this change is likely to reduce deal churn. While agents may wish for more deal activity, for the hotel brands and managers, the prospect of an aligned, long term owner is probably no bad thing.

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 or call +44 (0)20 8870 6388

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17–20 September Earls Court

Register for the UK’s largest design event and see the Design Kaledeidoscope • www.100percentdesign.co.uk

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HD Americas Miami www.hdamericasexpo.com Hot.E London www.europehotelconference.com 100% Design London www.100percentdesign.co.uk Designjunction London www.thedesignjunction.co.uk

21-24 SEP

21-24 SEP

24-27 SEP

30-1

SEP/OCT

Decorex London www.decorex.com

OCT

Focus/14 London www.dcch.co.uk

OCT

Abitare il Tempo Verona www.abitareiltempo.it AHIF Addis Ababa www.africa-conference.com

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1-3

1-3

15-16 OCT

15-17 OCT

WAF Singapore www.worldarchitecturefestival.com Inside Singapore www.insidefestival.com The Annual Hotel Conference Manchester www.theahc.co.uk HICAP Hong Kong www.hicapconference.com

18-21 SEP

Industrial Chic

Made In Italy

24-27

ABITARE IL TEMPO

DESIGNJUNCTION

SEP

The 2014 edition of Abitare il Tempo is set to put the spotlight on the contract sector. Taking place at Veronafiere in conjunction with Marmomacc, Made in Italy will host design, architecture, research and experimentation exhibitions in collaboration with Italian companies and a number of well-known designers. The new concept will ensure better integration of visitors to the two shows and allow all exhibitors to play an active role in the programme of events through workshops and B2B meetings. www.abitareiltempo.it 15-16 The fourth edition of Designjunction is set to return to the industrial surrounds of the Sorting Office for this year’s London Design Festival. Spanning four floors of the central London location, Designjunction will showcase pop-up features and installations alongside 180 leading global brands promoting design and innovation. This year’s line-up will see the return of a host of companies including Modus, Bolon, Andreu World, Dare Studio, Republic of Fritz Hansen, Original BTC and Baroncelli.

Forming part of the event, Lightjunction will present the very best of global decorative lighting brands and will encompass the

21-24 SEP

entire basement of the Sorting Office, as well as reaching across parts of the fi rst and second floors. Organised in partnership with Cameron Peters Fine Lighting and Megaman, Lightjunction will be bigger than ever with installations by Blackbody and Jake Dyson.

Brands to look out for include Lightyears, Artemide, Zero, Anglepoise, Cini & Nils and Örsjö – all of whom will present new products.

Running alongside the event, the West End Design Quarter unites four vibrant districts of central London to become the city’s newest design destination during the festival. www.thedesignjunction.co.uk

Changing Tastes FOCUS/14

Sleeper is to host a professional practice seminar at Focus/14 in association with the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards. Entitled ‘Changing Tastes’, the session will see panelists – Steve La Bouchardiere of designLSM, Robert Angell of Robert Angell Design International and Neil Hogan of SHH – discuss their work and explore why this competitive sector is witnessing such unparalleled creativity and innovation. The seminar will be chaired by Taschen editor Julius Wiedemannn and takes place on 23 September as part of the Conversation in Design programme at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour. Focus/14 will also feature talks by influential global names, access-all-areas showroom events and specially commissioned installations.

Tickets for Sleeper’s seminar are priced at £10 and can be purchased online. www.dcch.co.uk

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OCT

Hotel Inspector THE AHC Renowned hotelier and onscreen ‘Hotel Inspector’ Alex Polizzi has been announced as keynote speaker for The Annual Hotel Conference. Alex comes from a long line of hoteliers that includes her uncle, Sir Rocco Forte, and grandfather, Lord Charles Forte. She launched Hotel Tresanton in St. Mawes, Cornwall, and Hotel Endsleigh in Milton Abbot, Devon, with her mother, designer Olga Polizzi, and in 2008, became host of TV series The Hotel Inspector. www.theahc.co.uk

Look forward to some The Sleep Set Exclusive design collaborations creating fully-functional hotel suites - previous participants include Nous Design, Purpose Design, Scott Brownrigg and Wilmott Dixon. Sleep Set is the design competition with a revelation of the hotels of tomorrow.

The Exhibition Source from the most famous names in hotel design, hand-picked for Sleep, including Lasvit, Designheure, Grohe, ABB/Busch-Jaeger, Pergo, Walker Greenbank, Drapilux, Hansgrohe, Orangebox, Saint Gobain and Dare Studio.

The Sleep Conference With a line up that includes Jeremy King, Werner Aisslinger, Glenn Pushelberg, Sรถren Hulberg, Asli Kutlucan and George Yabu, join the leaders and influencers in hotel design to debate, challenge and network.

Be part of something special, register today:

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Shortlist Announced After much anticipation, the finalists of the European Hotel Design Awards have been announced, revealing an exciting diversity of talent across all sectors.

A

Contribution Award announced – previous winners of which include hotelier Ian Schrager, Design Hotels’ founder Claus Sendlinger, and industry veteran Patrick Reardon of ReardonSmith Architects – as well as the winning entry of Tomorrow’s Hotel. The Tomorrow’s Hotel competition, organised by Sleeper in association with Arup Foresight + Research + Innovation, challenges architects and designers to showcase their vision for the hotel of the future, with reference to a specific theme. The theme for 2014 is ‘Food’. The brief encourages applicants to questions how hotel restaurants can capture the imagination of guests as well as locals, and how pop-up food concepts can invigorate the F&B offer of hotels. It also asks them to consider traditional offerings such as room service and mini-bars, and current trends for urban farming and green roofs.

Now in their 17th year, the European Hotel Design Awards are widely acknowledged as the leading pan-European awards to focus on excellence in hotel architecture and design. They are affiliated to Sleep, the two-day event which immediately follows the awards evening, attracting some 3,500 people to its conference, exhibition and showcase of concept room sets.

The awards are attended by more than 800 of Europe’s leading hotel developers, owners, operators, architects and designers each year. There are a limited number of tickets still available, bookable online. This is your chance to join the key people involved in creating beautiful new hotels across the continent and honour the diversity of talent that drives forward the hospitality industry each year.

design-led hostel in Barcelona, an urban jungle inspired hotel in Berlin, and a former palazzo in Venice are just some of the projects that have been shortlisted for the European Hotel Design Awards.

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

“The overall quality of entries for this year’s European Hotel Design Awards was the highest I have seen in ten years on the judging panel,” says Matt Turner, Editor-in-Chief of Sleeper. “The voting to select the final five in each category was very close and the shortlisted entries can all be proud to have made it this far. The shortlist demonstrates the diversity of today’s hotel industry and the talent of the designers and architects who play such an important role in enhancing the guest experience for their clients.”

Widely celebrated for their role in establishing the value of hotel design, the awards are distinguished by a meticulous and comprehensive judging process based not only on creative merit but also on commercial viability. The 17-strong judging panel – chaired

by Celia Geyer, Senior Director of Architecture & Design, Europe and North Africa, for Hilton Worldwide – will spend the coming weeks visiting each of the shortlisted projects, before meeting in October to cast their final votes. The winners will be announced on 25 November during a dinner at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London, expected to be Europe’s largest single gathering of the sector’s leaders and influencers.

The evening will also see the recipient of the Outstanding

www.europeanhoteldesignawards.com Turn the page to see this year’s shortlist in full...

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The Shortlist THE ARCHITECTURE AWARDS

ADAPTIVE RE-USE

NEWBUILD

RENOVATION

25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, Germany

By KEC Planungsbüro / Hild und K Architekten

Hotel The Passage, Basel, Switzerland

By Wyss+Santos Dipl. Architekten M.Arch/HTL GmbH

Ace Hotel London, UK

By EPR Architects

Fontevraud L’Hôtel, France

By Gabor Mester de Parajd

Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, UK

By Ica

Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy

By Denniston

Qbic Hotel London City, UK

By March & White

Lanserhof Tegernsee, Marienstein, Germany

By Ingenhoven Architects

The Inn at John O’Groats, UK

By GLM

Seehotel Enzian, Weissensee, Austria

By XLGD Architectures

Parkhotel Holzner, Oberboson, Italy

By Bergmeisterwolf Architekten / Künstler Manfred Alois Mayr

Waldorf Astoria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

By OeverZaaijer Architecture & Urbanism

The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland

By Denniston

Rosewood London, UK

By EPR, Architects The Hotel Brussels, Belgium

By GCA Arquitectos

THE INTERIOR DESIGN AWARDS

BAR

BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS

CAFÉ, BAR OR ALL DAY DINING

Carve Bar at W Verbier, Switzerland By concrete

Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy

By Denniston

Capricorn at InterContinental Davos, Switzerland

By Living Design

Ham Yard Hotel London, UK

By Kit Kemp

Ham Yard Hotel, London, UK

By Kit Kemp

Clarion Hotel The Edge, Tromsø, Norway

By Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects

L’iBar at Fontevraud L’Hôtel, France

By Jouin Manku

Rosewood London, UK

By Tony Chi & Associates

The Globe at Hilton Istanbul Bomonti, Turkey

By GA Design International

Monkey Bar at 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, Germany

By Studio Aisslinger

The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland

By Denniston

The Rosebery at Mandarin Oriental London, UK

By GA Design International

Scarfes Bar at Rosewood London, UK

By Martin Brudnizki Design Studio

The Guest House Vienna, Austria

By Conran & Partners

Urban Meadow at Doubletree by Hilton Hyde Park, London, UK By Blacksheep

LOBBY, LOUNGE & PUBLIC AREAS Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy

By Denniston Generator Barcelona, Spain

By DesignAgency Generator Venice, Italy

By DesignAgency Palazzo Parigi, Milan, Italy

By Pierre-Yves Rochon The London EDITION, UK

By Yabu Pushelberg in collaboration with Ian Schrager Company Design Studio

RESTAURANT

SPA & WELLNESS

SUITE

Berners Tavern and Punch Room at The London EDITION, UK

By Yabu Pushelberg in collaboration with I.S.C Design Studio

AWAY spa at W Verbier, Switzerland By concrete

The Barcelona Suite at The Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, Spain By Patricia Urquiola

Eforea Spa at Hilton Istanbul Bomonti, Turkey

By GA Design International

Gotthard’s Restaurant at Stora Hotellet, Umeâ, Sweden

By Stylt Trampoli

House Spa at Dormy House Hotel, Worcestershire, UK

By Sparcstudio

Ham Yard Hotel, London, UK

By Kit Kemp

Lanserhof Tegernsee Marienstein, Germany

By Ingenhoven Architects

Brasserie Les Haras at Les Haras, Strasbourg, France

By Jouin Manku

The Chedi Andermatt Switzerland

By Denniston

NENI at 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin

By Studio Aisslinger

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The Manor House Suite at Rosewood, London, UK

By Tony Chi & Associates The Palais Royal Suite at Grand Hotel du Palais Royal, Paris,

By Pierre-Yves Rochon The Suites at Aman Canal Grande, Venice, Italy

By Denniston The Suites InterContinental Davos

By Living Design

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Sponsors of The AHC 2014 Accor Avvio BDRC Continental Best Western GB Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group CBRE Hotels Comply Direct ES Group Limited Focus Hotels Management Ltd Glion Institute of Higher Education, London GVA Hilton Worldwide IHG Interstate Hotels & Resorts JLL John Sisk & Son Ltd Knight Frank Marriott International Inc McAleer & Rushe Group Natwest PLC Santander Corporate & Commercial Savills Servest Group Limited Squire Patton Boggs Starwood Hotels & Resorts Tower Hotel Management Travelzoo Worldhotels *Sponsors correct at the time of publication

To register for the UK’s leading hotel conference, please visit www.theahc.co.uk We look forward to welcoming you to The AHC @AnnualHotelConf #AHC2014

Learn Network Be inspired See you at The AHC!

Hilton Deansgate Manchester Hotel Wednesday 15th & Thursday 16th October 2014

The Future is Now Established for 11 years and attracting over 700 delegates, The AHC is the leading event for the UK hotel industry.

Join owners operators and managers as well as investors, developers, designers, architects, consultants, tourism leaders and regional tourist board representatives for a day and a half of unrivalled practical knowledge designed to add real value to your business operations. In addition, there will be...

• Multiple and varied Networking opportunities • Engaging and topical Speakers • Leading Technology via The AHC App created to inform and facilitate interaction • Unbeatable Value with a delegate rate of £495.00 (ex VAT)

designjunction London’s leading destination for design In partnership with

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17–21 September 2014 The Sorting Office New Oxford Street London WC1A 1BA thedesignjunction.co.uk 01/07/2014 16:45

Sleep: The Hotel Design Event 26-27 NOVEMBER 2014

As the countdown to Sleep 2014 begins, the exclusive line-up of exhibitors and their new products are unveiled.

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xcitement is mounting as the innovative products to be unveiled designed outdoor hotel environment. Glatz, a Swiss manufacturer at Sleep, Europe’s favourite and most established annual event of sunshades, will make its UK debut, while Tuuci will display dedicated to hotel design, development and architecture, its parasols, pavilions and lounges. Further exhibitors include continue to be revealed. This year’s vibrant mix of exhibitors promises Encompass, Garpa, Modern Garden Company, Kettal and Summit. diversity, innovation and the highest quality of craftsmanship.

The importance of outdoor hospitality design will also be the subject A curated selection of first-time exhibitors, new brands that are of a panel discussion between experts. exclusive to Sleep, and established industry leaders will gather at “Not only is the Sleep exhibition ideal for discovering stylish London’s Business Design Centre to unveil their latest products, new designs,” explains Annette Culhane of GA Design, “it is also sparking curiosity and creativity amongst interior designers, a great way to develop an overall impression of the latest trends architects, developers, operators and owners as they plan their next emerging in the hospitality industry.” And as always, the lighting hotel projects. Stuart Wilsdon, Principal of Wilsdon Design Associates featured at the show illustrates creative innovation. French lighting and one of the judges of last year’s European studio Designheure will present two new Hotel Design Awards, comments: “Having collections, while Searchlight Electrics, access to the abundance of innovative a 70-year-old family-owned company, exhibitors and imaginative products at will unveil a series of colourful pendant Sleep completes the whole experience and lamps. Furthermore, Lasvit returns for helps make it the most comprehensive and its third year, this time with the striking interesting event in the industry.”

Crystal Rock light designed by Arik Levy.

New stars are in plentiful supply to entice The contemporary fixture is formed from visitors. Orangebox will introduce an eclectic perfectly cut, yet roughly sculpted silex mix of modern and retro furniture, while glass, suspended in the air like a frozen Sara Newman Design will make its debut shooting star. And Lights of Vienna will with a series of glassware, interior accessories be back to dazzle with a selection of Annette Culhane, GA Design and lighting. In addition, Dupré Minerals spectacular light fittings.Inspiration can will present Luxuria, a flame-retardant literally be found from floor to ceiling: wallcovering featuring thermal and acoustic insulating properties Pergo, Egger, XyloCleaf, IVC Moduelo, Radici, Interface and Wilton that reduce heat loss and muffle sound.

Carpets will present high quality vinyl, laminate, timber and carpet Perennial favourites are on board too: a rebranded Altfield returns selections specifically designed for the hospitality market. to Sleep to showcase its own products as well as those by niche Finally, there will be plenty of networking opportunities brands such as Brentano, Innovations, Weitzner, Moore & Giles and throughout the two-days, as well as at the preceding European Hotel Pollack; Kai Fabrics will launch its Couture Trevira and Luminere Design Awards, Sleep’s official event partner. Sleep runs from 26metallic textile collections; and Bette will feature the permanently 27 November with a late-night opening (until 8pm) and cocktail waterproof, flush-to-floor BetteFloor Side shower along with the hour on the first day, during which the winners of the Sleep Set BetteSelect steel enamel bath at its stand. and ReardonSmith Student Award winners will be announced.

An additional twist in 2014 explores the spaces ‘Above & Beyond’.

And headline sponsor Grohe will once again host the VIP lounge, Curated by Phil Jaffa, founder of landscape architecture studio Scape providing a relaxing respite amongst their latest innovations.

Design Associates, this new feature highlights the value of a wellwww.thesleepevent.com

“Not only is Sleep ideal for discovering stylish new designs, it’s also a great way to develop an overall impression of the latest trends emerging in the industry.”

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Above L-R: Designheure, Searchlight Electrics, Lasvit and Altfield will exhibit at Sleep to unveil their latest innovations Left: Orangebox will introduce an eclectic mix of modern and retro furniture designs Below Left: Bette will feature the BetteFloor Side shower along with the BetteSelect steel enamel bath at its stand Below Right: Kai Fabrics will launch its Couture Trevira and Luminere metallic textile collections

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4th Annual Turkey Hotel Expansion Summit 11th &12th September 2014, [Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent], Istanbul, Turkey

Event Brief As a bridge between Asia and Europe, at the crossroad of civilizations, Turkey has excelled in establishing itself as a mainstream destination for many European nations because of its rich culture, history and natural beauty.

The Turkish tourism industry has grown more than the global travel and tourism industry. As 75 hotels with 11,376 rooms are in the pipeline, global brands like Hilton, Fairmont, Starwood, Wyndham, Carlson Rezidor, Marriot, IHG, Accor and Morgans are among the leading operators expanding in various segments and the regions in Turkey`s Hospitality Market.

Noppen`s 4th Annual Turkey Hotel Expansion Summit will feature the most prominent industry leaders providing informative and inspiring discussions pertaining to the region's current needs and their ambitious future. Global and local leading operators, developers, investors, construction companies, architects, financial institutes, associations, consultants and solution providers are invited to discuss projects, future investment possibilities, international stakeholder involvements, design trends and technology updates.

Major issues to be addressed are: -Updated 2014 Outlook and Market Trends -Hotel Investments In Major And Smaller Cities -Luxury, Mid-Market And Budget Segment Outlook -Boutique, Lifestyle, Luxury Serviced Hotel Apartments -Hotel Properties Within Mixed-Use Developments -Management Agreements, Franchise & Manchise -Finance Availability And Return On Investment -Technology Development & Smart Hotels

Some of the confirmed speakers are : Özdoğan

Metin Erdoğdu

Chairman

President

Access Hospitality Development & Consulting

Horwath HTL – Turkey

Ferzan Çelikkanat

Bilge Turcan

General Manager

Chief Business Development Officer

Er Investment & Developmentl

Dedeman Hotels & Resorts International

Ekrem İmamoğlu

Tuğrul Temel

Mayor

Development Director

Beylikdüzü, Istanbul

Hilton Worldwide

For more information contact: Dennis A. Bridgeforth Group Marketing Manager T:+8621 6085 1000 F:+8621 6192 1908 E: DennisB@noppen.com.cn

Organizer:

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JOI-Design PROJECTS, PRODUCTS AND PUBLISHING

Now in its 30th year, JOI-Design has added product design and publishing to its skill set, building on an impressive portfolio of hospitality projects across Europe.

Words: Molly Dolan | Photography: Courtesy of JOI-Design

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riginally operating under the name Joehnk Interior Design, JOI-Design was founded by Peter Joehnk in 1984. “From the start of the company, I was fortunate to find talented people who became very loyal and committed to the company,” comments the co-Managing Director at JOI-Design. “I would say this is one of the most important foundations of the brand.”

A notable addition to the team came in 1993, with the joining of Corinna Kretschmar, a recent graduate in interior design. After ten years of working alongside one another, Kretschmar and Joehnk cemented both their personal and corporate relationship and entered into a business venture, relaunching the practice as as JOI-Design.

“At JOI-Design we have adopted the phrase ‘Shaping Atmosphere’ as our mantra, because this idea is at the heart of everything we do as hospitality designers,” explains Kretschmar-Joehnk, co-Managing Director. “We are aiming to shape just exactly the right atmosphere that will not only meet, but exceed expectations.”

Evidence of JOI-Design’s work can be found, not only in its homeland of Germany, but across the continent. Recent projects range from international glamour in Cannes to Germanic culture

in the Black Forest and demonstrate the versatile nature of JOIDesign’s work. “We have been fortunate to work on one of the oldest hotels in Europe, twice,” says Joehnk when speaking of one particular refurbishment. “Dating back to 1656, the Hotel Ritter Durbach in Southern Germany required a good deal of sensitivity and respect for the building’s heritage and structure,” he explains.

The solution proposed by Joehnk and his team bridges traditional and neoteric styles by pulling typical emblems of Germanic culture, and intertwining them with fresh materials in a contemporary palette.

“It is essential to recognise that hospitality design is a compromise between functionality, maintenance issues and creating a stylish environment for guests,” he adds.

“Two recently completed projects that I especially enjoyed working on are Le Clervaux Boutique Hotel and JW Marriott Cannes,” says Kretschmar-Joehnk. “We were fortunate to have creative freedom to develop a distinctive concept for each.” Le Clervaux builds on the increased demand for wellness-orientated facilities, with the hotel being comprised entirely of suites, each with its own in-room spa.

Design of the 22 suites vary, aiming to cater to all guests’ needs.

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Right: Located in Frankfurt, Capri by Fraser is Fraser Hospitality’s first project in the country

“We must always find solutions that satisfy the different requirements of guests,” explains Joehnk. “Looking at our industry today, I believe that there isn’t a single dominant trend in hotel design.”

This belief is realised through the Château, Classique and Young Spirit suites at Le Clervaux. At one end of the spectrum, the Château suites offer an opulent aesthetic, complete with a baroque undertone.

Meanwhile, the Young Spirit suites house fresher hues with minimal detailing.

With wellness fresh in the mind of the JOI-Design team, Kretschmar-Joehnk speaks about another upcoming project, Kempinski Health Resort St. Andreasberg: “We are working on an exceptional resort destination for Germany in the northern Harz region, an area well known for its restorative qualities and experiencing nature at its purest.

“The project involves the conversion of a former hospital and part newbuild. The entire complex of buildings acts as a bridge between Asia and Europe with the guests’ stay conceived as a walking-tour encompassing different types of experiences.” Joehnk adds: “The team excels at evoking emotions through a built environment’s design, thereby creating an atmosphere where guests love to linger.”

Other projects occupying the husbandand-wife partnership are located at various hotspots across the continent, with some

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Above: The team are currently working on Kempinski Health Resort St. Andreasberg located in the northern Harz region of Germany

The launching of a furniture range seemed like a natural step in the evolution of the brand

injecting an Asian infusion such as Capri by Promising a union of German engineering Fraser. Located in Frankfurt, the project will expertise and timeless sophistication, mark Fraser Hospitality’s first entry into the expansion is on the horizon for the furniture country, offering fresh input for the German collections. “JOI-Design is working closely market. with European manufacturers on new pieces, Also in JOI-Design’s home-based pipeline including ironmongery, bathroom fittings, is boutique hotel Rheinberg, consisting of 32 lamps and further lines of upholstered guestrooms tucked behind an existing façade. seating,” reveals Joehnk.

Peter Joehnk “The style will be locally influenced and Further pushing the business into new refer to the former merchandise trade, with dimensions, JOI-Design books have become ‘warehouse chic’ and ‘loft character’ informing the room concepts,” a staple for those seeking inspiration in design, with titles including describes Kretschmar-Joehnk. The practice is also involved in the 101 Hotel Rooms, 101 Hotel Lobbies, Bars and Restaurants, and restoration of the famous Hotel Reichshof in Hamburg, a city that Colours for Hotels. “We enjoy sharing our ideas and enthusiasm,” is also home to JOI-Design’s offices. states Kretschmar-Joehnk. “We are currently working on 101 Hotel Spreading its wings and showcasing talent in neighbouring Baths and Spas, which will be released in early 2015.”

Switzerland, JOI-Design has two projects under development, one in With firm plans in place across all branches of the business, 2015 Zurich for Hyatt and another for Steigenbergerin Gstaad. In addition looks set to be exciting. Kretschmar-Joehnk concludes: “We will to the bountiful pipeline of upcoming hotels for JOI-Design’s team of continue developing the different styles of the JOI-Design brand, approximately 40, they have recently launched a furniture range. “It with unwavering vision and always staying true to our core values.” seemed like a natural step in the evolution of the brand,” says Joehnk. www.joi-design.com

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Roca FROM GAVÀ TO GLOBAL

Almost one hundred years since it was established, Roca continues to push innovation, while promoting its core values through both products and projects.

Words: Molly Dolan | Photography: Courtesy of Roca

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riginating in Gavà, just outside Barcelona, and manufacturing cast-iron radiators, Roca’s modest beginnings told nothing of the success that was to come. Twelve years into the company’s timeline, in 1929, Roca took the step to begin producing baths, quickly followed by the decision to challenge the brand by producing vitreous china bathroom appliances, making them one of the first in Spain to do so.

Even in the early days, innovation was at the forefront of Roca’s values, factored into the brands core priorities, along with design, wellbeing and sustainability. This dedication is emphasised through the brand’s Innovation Lab at Roca Design Centre, the Roca Galleries found around the world, and We Are Water Foundation.

On a visit to Barcelona, it became evident that the Roca Design Centre is in itself, an innovative concept. Five locations dotted

around the globe, offer architects, designers, and of course Roca, the opportunity to experiment with the latest technologies and designs, placing them at the forefront of bathroom design.

Part of the Gavà design centre is the Innovation Lab, where new associates are recruited every two years, ensuring fresh ideas and concepts are in constant supply. The centre also collaborates with prestigious architects and designers such as Antonio Bullo, Herzog & de Meuron, David Chipperfield and Joan Gaspar to create one-off or multiple collections.

The brand’s products, which are all manufactured by Roca, are either a result of a marketing request, or conceived at the Innovation Lab. One example of this vision and creativity is the W+W, a sustainable concept that combines a washbasin with WC. Designed

by Gabriele and Oscar Buratti, the joint piece uses a system filter

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Above Left: W+W is the result of ideas from the Innovation Lab at Roca Above Right: The inventive In-Tank WC features an integrated cistern

“Sustainability is basic for a good product, style is something that is added at the end. Details are appreciated now.”

to reuse the washbasin water in the put through water testing and WC in an innovative fashion, saving completed with a certificate, water and adhering to the values of individual reference number sustainability. and checklist. Only made in “The design department are Gavà, the brand produce 500 Invery involved in the marketing and Tanks per month for shipment understanding needs, as well as worldwide. Elsewhere in the Josep Congost new developments,” explains Josep factory, automatic machines Congost, Design Director at Roca. test the durability of products, “We try to understand marketing requests compared with existing with repetitive motions and pressure assessments, and even the products, we look at both the technological and aesthetic aspects.” unconventional method of flushing a sausage through clear pipes – Believing that design is about much more than just how a product just to ensure that all is working as it should be. looks, Congost offers an insight into the secret behind the success of The product developments in the Design Centre and Innovation Roca: “There are two sides to design: the complexity of technology Lab centre largely around Roca’s values, particularly sustainability, and the simplicity for the user. We are changing how people should as seen through all of the brand’s processes. The factories have zero manage products,” he says, referring to the brand’s incorporation of waste, and materials used are sustainable. “Sustainability is basic for technology into previously tech-free pieces. “We are coming back to a good product,” exclaims Congost. “Style is something that is added simplicity, which makes it easier for users.” at the end, details are appreciated now.”

A tour of the factory revealed the attention allowed at each and In terms of the hospitality market, Congost believes that the use of every point of the production line, ensuring a high quality product. bathtubs in hotels is decreasing in use, tending to be specified only in The inventive In-Tank toilet, featuring an integrated cistern, has a suites at the upper end of the market, or in spa-like situations. “They separate assembly area in which all pieces are individually checked, will still be found in hotels, but with more function and wellness

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Above: Some products are designed in the Innovation Lab, while others are the result of collaborations with prestigious architects and designers such as Antonio Bullo, David Chipperfield and Joan Gaspar

“There are two sides to design: the complexity of technology and the simplicity for the user.”

orientated,” explains Congost. awareness and stimulating debate “It is very important for hotels amongst the public as well as health to have a sense of wellness, which and hospitality organisations. could be via hydromassage or Another project by Roca, started chromotherapy.” in 2009, is the Roca Gallery with Josep Congost In agreement with the idea that its flagship in Barcelona. Essentially bathtubs be reserved for luxury an innovative showroom, Roca has settings as opposed to standard guestrooms is Carlos Velázquez, numerous galleries in notable cities across the globe, all housed in Corporate Marketing Director at Roca. In a nod to the company’s unique architectural spaces designed by significant local architects green attitude, he comments: “Showers are being fitted in hotels more such as the London Gallery, designed by Zaha Hadid. The purpose than baths. In future, I predict that baths will be forbidden as the of the galleries is to make visitors look at the brand differently, away world can’t afford it anymore.” from its traditional image and shifting towards the values of design, With the DNA of Roca naturally pushing for sustainability, the innovation, wellbeing and sustainability. The Barcelona Gallery, company is working on a method of demonstrating to hotel guests designed by Carlos Ferrater, was the first for the brand, where the how much water they’re using. Guestrooms would display the levels values are demonstrated clearly through experience. of both hot and cold water use, on a product such as a bathroom Going forward, Roca will continue to push its fundamental mirror, which could in turn be monitored and regulated by the hotel. values, not just through the hospitality sector, but in all its activities However, according to Velázquez: “The level of importance placed around the globe. Summarising the brand’s limitless aspirations and on sustainability varies from country to country, and education intrinsic ideals in three simple words, Carlos Velázquez concludes: definitely plays a part”. Therefore, Roca aims to encourage people “Innovation is everywhere.” to be sustainable through its We Are Water foundation, promoting www.roca.com

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©2014 THE MAYA ROMANOFF CORPORATION®

M O T H E R O F P E A R L™ W A L L C O V E R I N G H A N D - PA I N T E D I N O U R C H I C A G O S T U D I O M A Y A R O M A N O F F . COM EUROPE & UK: PIERRE FREY

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The new Architectura MetalRim designs feature slim-line, rimless shower trays with integrated plug. One particularly special feature is hidden in the four corners of the shower tray, which are reinforced with galvanised steel, giving them extra stability. Select from 31 different designs, each available with 15 mm or 48 mm rims and in two finishes. The range, in other words, offers a total of 124 different products, designed to complement any and every bathroom.

Futurion shower floors, which are made of Quaryl, fit into any and every bathroom design. Villeroy & Boch’s Futurion range includes a number of different

sizes, plus a range of shower partitions under the same name to complement the trays. Thanks to their minimalist, ultra slim-line design, the showers can be fitted in three different ways – completely flush with your bath-room floor to ensure there are absolutely no rims; flat on the floor; or with a small step if you’re looking to add a tiled border around the base.

Shower trays from the Squaro Super Flat range are extremely flat and can be fitted completely flush with your bathroom floor. Another special feature is the choice of colours available (“Squaro Colorline”), allowing you to continue your floor colour scheme without any transition. For its Squaro range, Villeroy & Boch has specially developed a Walk-In solution which offers complete mobility. The central shower panel is available with an integrated control panel, and the glass doors can swivel open up to 180°, allowing you to dictate the size of your shower floor yourself.

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Bathrooms & Amenities D E S I G N , F U N C T I O N A L I T Y & S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

Aspects of hotel bathroom design involve much more than meets the eye. With guests, owners and operators pushing for a multitude of factors, a balance must be struck between design, functionality and sustainability.

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ustainability is often at the forefront of day-to-day hotel bring wellness to standard products. “Differentiation through design operation, particularly in the bathroom. Water regulations to deliver a positive experience and create ambiance in the bathroom are being increasingly enforced, and the concept of value is remains important for hotels,” observes Shanker, noting the coherence fast competing with demand for design-orientated products, pushing of guestroom design spilling into bathroom spaces too. Technology the market to focus on its environmental impact as a result. is predicted to aid the increase of wellness products, with electronic “Requests for sustainable products have been on the increase for faucets, chromotherapy, Bluetooth functions and all-round sensory some time,” exclaims Mandip Shanker, Marketing Channel Manager experiences set to be increasingly incorporated into the bathroom. of Projects at Hansgrohe. “In the past, there has been a tendency In terms of aesthetics, chrome remains dominant, according to to reduce capital costs at the front-end, but then suffer quality and Hansgrohe. However, a shift towards different finishes and increased reliability issues with bathroom fittings down the line.” However, the creativity has become noticeable, with different finishes making a actions of brands to increase awareness is having a positive effect. For statement, as well as bespoke and personalised fittings, such as example, Hansgrohe has introduced an logos or luxurious finishes including EcoSmart Check Kit, specially designed gold, rose-gold, nickel, bronze, and for the hospitality industry. The kit black chrome in a choice of polished is now being used to demonstrate or brushed, says Shanker. not only water and energy use, but “There is momentum in the market potential savings to be made by hotels. in terms of activity and confidence; “Crucially, there is not discernible with an increase in demand for higher difference in performance to hotel levels of design,” she explains. Focus is guests with the EcoSmart range,” adds also moving to coordinated fittings, or Shanker. Hansgrohe EcoSmart ranges ones that illustrate an appreciation of offer industry leading water-saving design in the public sector. technology, reducing consumption by According to Ortmann-Torbett, the Mandip Shanker approximately half. As EcoSmart uses merging of bedroom and bathroom existing best-selling Hansgrohe models spaces will continue to rise in from the Raindance and Croma shower families, hotels can deliver popularity, in addition to an increase in shower size. “We will see sustainable designs to guests, while improving cost efficiency. larger showers at the expense of bathtubs where space is an issue,” Also pioneering sustainable products is Kaldewei. Angela Ortmannshe predicts. “Also, putting the drainage system into the wall makes Torbett, Sales Director West Europe comments: “We are hearing more the shower surface seem like a large tile, with no visible outlet like noise about it; our products have always been sustainable using the Xetis product, resulting in a minimal look.” Colour-wise, the naturally occurring materials that are 100% recyclable.” However, merging of the spaces will see an increase of design in, what was this trend of energy efficiency can only extend so far, especially in traditionally, a purely functional space. Matte finishes, blacks and relation to the luxury segment. Although showering is replacing greys are expected by Kaldewei, with tiles matching up, promoting bathing, the demand for the sanctuary aspect of bathrooms is not cohesive design. going away yet. “Relaxation and wellness, due to busy lifestyles, Although a striking bathroom design, complete with luxury is driving a move towards large, freestanding luxury baths in the products, will increase the level of guest satisfaction, attention is premium hotel segment,” adds Ortmann-Torbett. increasingly being drawn to the ongoing issue of water and energy Busier lifestyles are causing guests to seek comfort and relaxation efficiency, meaning that brands must go above and beyond to not when possible, resulting in a focus on new and innovative ways to only provide innovative products, but also a promise of sustainability.

“In the past, there has been a tendency to reduce capital costs at the frontend, but then suffer quality and reliability issues with bathroom fittings just a few years down the line.”

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GEBERIT AquaClean Sela Leading sanitary technology brand Geberit has create AquaClean Sela, now available as either floor standing or wall-hung. The product offers simple, hygienic cleaning, eradicating the need for a separate bidet. With the connections for the water and electricity all integrated, they are not visible, allowing Geberit AquaClean Sela to look like a standard WC. Simple to operate, the WC leaves the user with a feeling of freshness as it cleans with a gentle water spray at body temperature. The intensity can be adjusted to one of five levels. www.geberit.co.uk

KALDEWEI Xetis Xetis, the new enamelled shower surface with integrated wall outlet from Kaldewei celebrates modern bathroom architecture.

Harmoniously blending with the bathroom floor, Xetis plays to a clear, purist style with an outlet that sits discreetly in the wall. All of the technology is hidden, allowing a smooth, uninterrupted fi nish.

Xetis is available in 13 different sizes and in the exclusive hues of the Coordinated Colours Collection. Also available with Secure Plus, the full surface anti-slip fi nish for the colour collection. www.kaldewei.co.uk

“Technology is predicted to aid the increase of wellness products, with all-round sensory experiences set to be increasingly incorporated into the bathroom.”

TEUCO Hydroline Seaside

VOLA Round Series

Teuco’s award-winning Hydroline system is now available in the iconic Seaside bathtub.

The hydrotherapy system is non-visible, as the whirlpool jets are concealed behind subtle incisions providing pure, unadulterated air and water for hydro-massage without compromising design. As with all Hydroline models, the T08 Seaside features Cromoexperience lighting via the jet incisions, together with Teuco’s Hydrosilence system, eliminating artificial noise.

Vola has launched an electronic hands-free built-in soap dispenser to accompany the Round Series. Following the key traits of aesthetics, innovation and functionality, the dispenser complements the Vola hands-free tap and electronic cistern flush. The product takes the outer circle as the core of its design and translates it into a highly innovative product. The modular nature of the Vola washroom means that specifiers can combine any products to create a cohesive space.

www.teuco.com

www.vola.com

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FLOOR TILES: PARK ARENA 59,6x59,6cm & ANTIQUE 59,6x59,6cm.

CERAMICS · NATURAL STONE · WOOD PARQUET · TERRACOTTA · MOSAICS · KITCHENS · BEDROOM FURNITURE HYDROMASSAGE · BRASSWARE · SANITARYWARE · TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

WWW.PORCELANOSA.CO.UK

// 0800 915 4000

VITRA Memoria Designer Christophe Pillet has collaborated with Vitra to create the latest range of basins, Memoria. Five new sit-on basins are presented in Vitra’s Memoria collection, all true to Pillet’s modern style. The minimalist basins are defi ned by their exact form, which has been made possible by Vitra and its employment of the material Infi nit mineralcast. This enabled the creation of ultrathin and precise basins, available in four different shapes. www.vitra.co.uk

BAGNODESIGN Urban Collection The Urban collection from Bagnodesign combines contemporary wall-hung santiaryware, slim profi le washbasins, sleek brassware and stylish furniture solutions. Featuring softened cubic lines, Urban sanitaryware includes a wall-hung WC and bidet, along with a choice of co-ordinating washbasins, which can be wall mounted or supplied as an under-counter version. Also accompanying the sanitaryware and providing a storage solution is the Urban vanity unit, with its handle-less design for a clutter-free fi nish. www.bagnodesign.co.uk

“Relaxation and wellness, due to busy lifestyles, is driving a move towards large freestanding luxury baths in the premium hotel segment.”

CROSSWATER Belgravia Bathroom specialist Crosswater has released the Belgravia collection, an exposed shower valve collection reminiscent of a luxury Victorian bathroom.

Combining period detail with the benefits of modern, chrome plating, the range is efficient and utilises safe thermostatic control with striking levers for temperature and control between the hand shower and overhead.

ARIK LEVY Inbani Bowl Designer Arik Levy has created Inbani Bowl, a collection inspired by the harmony and contrast between forms, volumes, spaces and materials.

The juxtaposition of this contrast and the living space draws an elegant fi ne contour line around the objects and products. The collection is broad and consists of standalone and small combinations of products, all equipped with functional, striking and contemporary elements.

www.crosswater.co.uk

www.ariklevy.fr

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Enjoy and Sasha featured.

Considering guest experience, always.

Enjoy the view through the eyes of Jacuzzi

速

Visit the Jacuzzi速 Original Wellness Hotel section on our website or contact our EMEA & Asia Hospitality Director Marcus Hawtin: mobile +44.0.7715.051638 marcus.hawtin@jacuzziemea.com http://www.jacuzzi.co.uk/hotels

ZUCCHETTI Agorà Agorà is a complete bathroom collection that includes taps and accessories by Zucchetti and a freestanding bathtub and washbasin

by Kos. Designed by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba, the collection draws inspiration from a project dug out of the Zucchetti historic archives. The appeal of Thirties aesthetics remains, yet is brought up to date with a restyling that pays attention to functional needs.

The selection of taps includes different shapes and fi nishes, including chrome, bronze, polished nickel and gold fi nishes. www.zucchettikos.it

SICIS Denver Art mosaic specialist Sicis has designed the Denver bathtub, a restrained design with gentle lines, embellished with fresh white-onwhite decorations. The product has been displayed alongside white marble and glass, emanating the glamour of the Sicis brand. The bathtub acts as a focal point for all places, dominating the space in a striking manner, and providing luxury to guests. www.sicis.com

THG Beyond Crystal NOKEN Essence C

French manufacturer THG has launched a collection created by Rémi Tessier named Beyond Crystal. The contemporary bathroom faucet and coordinating accessories are defi ned by a modern style. The product features crystal lattices in clear or colour (champagne, red, aqua and blue) as well as pure shapes produced by renowned crystal manufacturer Baccarat.

Noken, the Porcelanosa Group company specialising in bathroom equipment, offers Essence C sanitary range. Wall hung or back to wall, both can be fitted with stylish covers, with towel rails, soft close seats and a number of flush system options in chrome or white. The sanitaryware and basins are available in white and black fi nishes. To complete, the Essence C collection also consists of basins, taps and accessories.

www.thg.fr

www.porcelanosa.com

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Devon & Devon Aurora Bijoux Aurora Bijoux, a re-edition of the highliy successful Aurora model, is a freestanding bathtub from Devon & Devon. With a double raised back, the unique design rests on four elegant aluminium spheres, that not only provide support, but add a decorative element.

The bathtub is made of White Tec, an exclusive fi nely-crafted mix that is proposed in a white and cream version. Polished nickel fi nish spheres are also available in chrome, light gold and antique copper. www.devon-devon.com

MAJESTIC SHOWER COMPANY Harmony Harmony, the new sliding door from shower screen specialist Majestic, aims to redefi ne minimalism in sliding shower door design. Developed for seamless integration into each unique interior, Harmony is available in a range of specifications. The range includes profi les which can be surface mounted or, for concealed support, recessed into the wall and floor. With an expanded selection of metal colour fi nishes recently added, the collection opens up possibilities in bathroom design.

WEST ONE BATHROOMS Basin and Bike A unique collaboration between Pashley Cycles and Arcade Bathrooms has resulted in the Basin and Bike, available through West One Bathrooms. The products bring eye-catching quality and everyday functionality to bathrooms, turning the most simple of spaces into the focal point. The classic bicycle frame offers a traditional design, modernised by the innovation of the basin.

www.majesticshowers.com

www.westonebathrooms.com

AQUADOMO Tavolino Decorative hardware brand Aquadomo aims to bring style and sophistication to the bathroom with its Tavolino range. The trolley with top guardrail features a metal tubing structure with three glass shelves. Dedicated to the belief that functionality does not mean having to sacrifice aesthetics, Aquadomo aims to bring style and sophistication to the most basic of sanitaryware necessities. www.aquadomo.com

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Geberit Monolith Plus

Shining star.

The Geberit Monolith Plus is no ordinary cistern. There is much more to this sanitary module for toilets than its attractive appearance lets on. Extras such as a ComfortLight and integrated odour extraction make the Geberit Monolith Plus a work of art that sets new standards. The glass front is available in umber, white and black. →  www.geberit.co.uk/monolithplus

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MATKI Sail Ahead Designer and manufacturer Matki has created shower enclosures Sail Ahead for Sunseeker yachts. The brand has cleverly designed the enclosures to fit perfectly in the space provided, while maintaining the high level of quality. In designing the range, Matki has taken into account the impact from external factors, creating an enclosure that will stand the test of time. www.matki.co.uk

VICTORIA + ALBERT BATHS Amiata Collection British brand Victoria + Albert Baths has announced a collaboration with Italian Design House Meneghello Paolelli Associates. The launch of the stylish Amiata collection is the fi rst external designer collaboration for Victoria + Albert Baths. The collection, consisting of an elegant bathtub and sleek basin, highlight the brand’s continued investment into design and product development. The Amiata collection offers a timeless, yet modern look that would suit any bathroom interior, or even shape.

TOTO Lanserhof Hotel Japanese sanitaryware producer Toto has worked on Lanserhof Hotel in Austria. Spanning 7,000m 2 , the modern health resort now utilises 84 Toto Neorest Le Washlet products, installed across the 70 guestrooms and suites, as well as the treatment area. Lanserhof also uses 52 Toto MH WC’s. Like all Toto WCs, they feature a standard rimless bowl, powerful Tornado Flush and smooth CeFiONTect glaze.

These characteristics combine for outstanding hygiene.

www.vandabaths.com

ALISEO 18 Aliseo has launched the 18 line, an array of space-driven accessories that combine the clarity of purpose with utilitarian beauty. Circle and square elements provide an upbeat profi le that incorporates smooth shapes with taut, defi ned lines. The minimalistic forms in a distinctive 18x18x18 geometric motif comprise the fresh series, which is produced exclusively from brass with a polished chrome fi nish.

www.eu.toto.com

www.aliseo.de

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Battersea I Clerkenwell I Mayfair I Notting Hill Knightsbridge I Wandsworth I Kent I Surrey @westonebathroom 0333 011 3333 At Home Design Service available

KERMAG DESIGN Mattis Luxury brand Keramag Design has added a raft of stylish new products to its collection, including the Mattis bath. The fi rst freestanding bath in the company’s portfolio complements all of the existing collections, giving designers an extended choice in back-to-wall and freestanding options. With organic lines and a contemporary design, the Mattis bath is created from resin stone, which is warm to the touch, as well as being resistant to heat, shock and chemicals. www.keramagdesign.com

FALPER Controstampo Controstampo is a collection of bathtubs and freestanding washbasins from manufacturer Falper, available through AJP Bathrooms. The collection is made from Cristalplant and is also available in metallic Corten steel, sprinkled on external surfaces to highlight the features of candid aesthetics. Subsequent to careful workmanship of surfaces, Controstampo is characterised by elegance and balance, an expression of the innovative spirit and research of Falper. www.ajp-bathrooms.co.uk

METHVEN The Lodge at Winchelsea Hotel

CP HART eMoto CP Hart has introduced its fi rst digitial range with the launch of eMoto, a cutting-edge shower and bathroom innovation that can be controlled via a phone or tablet. The range delivers precise temperature and flow accuracy and consists of the eMoto’s Total Water Control panel and dual control system called eMoto Two Way Control.

Leading shower and tapware designer Methven UK has conducted an indepth water assessment of The Lodge at Winchelsea Hotel’s guestrooms. The aim was to establish a benchmark of usage.

The company provided a solution to not only decrease flow rates, saving money on energy and water bills, but to improve the overall experience for guests. Methven UK introduced Deva flow regulators to all guestrooms, as well as utilising the Satinjet shower range.

www.cphart.co.uk

www.methven.com

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Celebrating continuity.

Celebrating change

VOLA perfection.

The complete washroom The award-winning VOLA Round Series for the luxury washroom already features the built-in waste bin and tissue dispenser.

Together with the new electronic soap dispenser, the classic VOLA hands-free tap and electronic cistern flush, the smartest corporate offices, restaurants, hotel foyers, museums, galleries and concert halls can now offer their washroom customers the complete VOLA experience.

VOLA International Studio 32-36 Great Portland Street London W1W 8QX Tel: 020 7580 7722 VOLA UK Ltd. Highfield House 108 The Hawthorns Flitwick MK45 1FN Tel.: 01525 720 111 sales@vola.co.uk www.vola.com

HANSGROHE ShowerSelect Hansgrohe has added a number of products to its ShowerSelect programme. The idea behind the range is intuitive push-button technology, controlling shower flows with the touch of a button.

The new products offer more features, new designs and convenient operation. The round S-design ShowerSelect thermostat with integrated shower support, and new ShowerSelect manual mixers complement the existing thermostatic options. www.hansgrohe.co.uk

LAUFEN Hotel SP34 Located in the Latin Quarter of Copenhagen, the newly refurbished bathrooms in the exclusive Hotel SP34 feature Laufen sanitaryware.

Designed by Morten Hedegaard, a total of 65 rooms have been refurbished, with all featuring Laufen products. In keeping with the hotel’s theme of contemporary living, Laufen provided the Living City washbasin, as well as the Laufen Pro bathtub. With hygiene an essential, Laufen Pro rimless WC was also chosen for inclusion. www.laufen.com

“The merging of guestroom and bathroom will see an increase of design in, what was traditionally, a purely functional space”

VILLEROY AND BOCH Architectura MetalRim GROHE Extended Faucet Collections With unique requirements for many washbasins, Grohe has added new medium-height variants to the Quadra, Lineare, Eurocube, Eurodisc Cosmopolitan and Concetto collections.

Furthermore, newly designed single-lever mixers have been designed for the Allure, Quadra, Lineare, Eurocube and Eurodisc Cosmopolitan lines, designed to complement freestanding wasbasins. www.grohe.com

The new Architectura MetalRim from Villeroy and Boch features slime-line, rimless shower trays with integrated plug. The four corners of the tray are reinforced with galvanised steel, offering extra stability. Specifiers are able to select from 31 different designs, each available with 15m or 48mm rims and in two fi nishes. The range offers a total of 124 different products, designed to complement any bathroom. www.villeroy-boch.co.uk

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MEISTERSTÜCK A masterpiece of German engineering excellence.

In Germany MEISTERSTÜCK means masterpiece.

What better way to describe this fully enamelled, free-standing bath. MEISTERSTÜCK blends visionary German engineering excellence with a stunning design. Crafted seamlessly in KALDEWEI steel enamel with a 30-year guarantee.

MEISTERSTÜCK CENTRO DUO OVAL

www.kaldewei.co.uk • tel: 01480 498 053

ShowerSelect ® : the new way to control shower pleasure Form and function go hand in hand with the new ShowerSelect finish sets. With a simple push of the button, you can switch on/ off or from overhead to hand shower or choose your favourite spray pattern. With no complex electronics just a reliable yet ground-breaking mechanical technology.

Intuitive: The Select buttons for intuitive, comfortable control – even for elderly and less able customers.

User-friendly: The desired temperature can b e s e t p re c is e l y w i t h t h e user-friendly handle.

Award-winning design: The ShowerSelect finish set‘s aesthetic appeal was awarded the “Design Plus Award“ by the Design Council.

Reliable: Tested more than 250,000 cycles – one touch is guaranteed.

Visit Hansgrohe at the IHS

ShowerSelect finish sets are perfect for selecting your shower pleasure. For more information visit www.pro.hansgrohe.co.uk/select

Specifier P R O D U C T S & S E R V I C E S F O R H O S P I TA L I T Y D E S I G N

BRINTONS Skullduggery At times playful and mischievous, at others dark and rocky. Brintons’ Skulduggery is a melting pot of graphical styles screaming with metallic, edgy, hedonistic designs. Drawing inspirations from music these concepts evoke graffiti and rap, heavy metal and electronica layered across in an urban, manmade theme. www.brintons.net

185

EGE CARPETS Canvas Collage

CERAMIKA PARADYZ Agat

FOSCARINI Crash and Bell

Danish carpet manufacturer Ege Carpets has teamed up with Dutch interior designer Nicolette Brunklaus to create a new collection that reflects a love of rich textile structures. Canvas Collage is inspired by reflections on industry, just before the industrial revolution. Today, technology and efficiency have replaced this laborious craft yet Brunklaus utilises its nostalgia by digitising it and collaging the linen texture in various modern ways. The woven structure is applied to all variations of the Canvas Collage collection, layered over dried dahlia flowers, in a patchwork of colours and combined with new forms.

Polish ceramic tile producer Ceramika Paradyz has announced the introduction of the Agat range of ceramic tiles. This new collection is inspired by the ancient Agate gemstone, sought after for centuries due to its beauty and reputed health giving properties. Replicating the distinctive patterning of the stone, the new tile collection features dramatic varicoloured bands which sweep across the surface. The patterning, wide variety of size options and inclusion of decorative elements such as matching mosaics provide the opportunity for creating exciting design statements that are as much at home in contemporary or classic design schemes.

Foscarini has created a new lighting collection in collaboration with Diesel Living, inspired by the brand’s rock soul.

Crash and Bell are inspired both in name and shape by percussion instruments, with Crash resembling a cymbal, and Bell looking as its name suggests. Both are available in bronze or aluminium and use a multi-faceted blown glass lamp holder that projects beams of fragmented light.

www.egecarpets.com

www.paradyz.co.uk

186

www.foscarini.com

16062_KD Xeno Sleeper Ad_275x236_Layout 1 25/06/2014 09:55 Page 1

Xeno2 Natural, serene style.

A new prestigious bathroom collection combining striking minimalism and soft geometric shapes to create a timeless elegance.

www.keramagdesign.com Keramag Design, Lawton Road, Alsager, Stoke-on-Trent ST7 2DF. T: 01270 871 756

MOOOI Prop Labelled the most versatile lamp ever, Prop Light by Bertjan Pot for Moooi promotes adaptability by offering designs in a vast range of styles. The lights are available in both round and straight styles, oneor two-sided, with options for floor-standing and hanging from both walls or ceilings. The bubbly form features ethereal spheres, offering fresh elegance for the contract market. www.moooi.com

MURASPEC New Showroom Commercial wallcoverings supplier Muraspec has opened a new showroom at King’s Road, London. New products on display include the Geometrics wallcovering collection, encompassing Optic, Pleat, Solitaire and Element designs. The range has translated the dramatic effect of Muraspec’s three-dimensional Impressions sculptured panels into four wallcovering designs with a flat emboss. Each of the intricate yet simplistic graphic designs, which play with light and shade, offer a modern interior look and capture a different 3D effect in white and grey tones.

Pictured is the Vita range. www.muraspec.com

SCHRAMM Savoy German manufacturer Schramm has launched Savoy, a new collection of beds designed specifically for the hospitality market.

Following the belief that the bed is the place in which guests spend most of their stay, it is therefore the most important factor as far as satisfaction is concerned. The handmade dual mattress system includes a combination of punctiform-reacting upper mattress and stable base mattress that softly and fully cushions every movement, ensuring the ideal anatomic position. The construction of the springs and breathable natural materials enable air to freely circulate and provide an optimum sleeping environment. www.schrammwerkstaetten.de

188

ZINC TEXTILE Sofa & Chair Company collaboration

ULSTER CARPETS Sofitel Dubai Downtown

MEGAMAN Van der Valk Hotel

Zinc Textile has announced it is to collaborate with The Sofa & Chair Company for a special installation at its flagship showroom in Chelsea Wharf for Focus/14. The partnership will showcase a range of pieces designed by The Sofa & Chair Company, covered in Zinc’s statement designs, celebrating and exploring the timeless bond between the world of textile and furnishing.

Ulster Carpets has completed the design and installation of Axminster carpets at the new Sofitel Dubai Downtown, located in the heart of Dubai. Designed and woven at Ulster’s County Armagh factory, the carpets were inspired by the opulent space to which they were destined. A number of different contemporary designs were laid throughout the hotel, making a bold statement while maintaining the feeling of quality and luxury expected from a bespoke Axminster.

International lighting company Megaman has completed work on Dutch hotel Van der Valk in Dordrecht. The brief outlined the need for sustainable products, as well as communicating the warmth of the Van der Valk brand. By utilising a mix of Megaman LED lamps, the end result is a welcoming ambience that is not only highly energy efficient, but has already proved its low maintenance credentials. Warm white temperature LEDs were used throughout, including the private spaces within the hotel, varying in strength depending on purpose.

www.zinctextile.com

www.ulstercarpets.com

www.megamanlighting.com

TIVOLI Albergo+ Tivoli Audio’s Albergo+ table radio has been designed with simplicity. The front panel controls are minimal and the display prompts with instructional “hints” while using certain features. Multiple features allow users to tune the radio, set dual alarms, and activate the sleep timer with ease. The simplistic Bluetooth wireless technology allows guests to pair the product with a smart phone, tablet, or other Bluetooth enabled device, to begin wirelessly streaming music to Albergo+. The multifunctional item occupies little space, yet promises high quality sound. Available in multiple colour options, Tivoli’s latest range also features a customisable wood cabinet in a variety of real wood veneer fi nishes. www.tivoliaudio.co.uk

190

Trevira CS Advertisement „Fabric for Ideas“

www.treviracs.com

Size 236x275 mm for DinaVanelli „Sleeper 9/10“

FABRIC FOR IDEAS

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With the new flame retardant Trevira CS fabrics.

Diversify your designs.

With the challenging designs of the current collection RAY OF LIGHT FOR THE CONTRACT from DINA VANELLI TEKSTIL Expect more. www.vanelli.com.tr Anz_Fabric-for-Ideas_engl_236x275_DinaVanelli_2014.indd 1

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BOCCI 28 Configurator Bocci has announce the launch of its new online design tool, the 28 Configurator. Designed to assist with colour selection and palatte choices, the 28 Configurator can be used to lay out a variety of options for a conceptual image of a chandelier prior to ordering. The Configurator is loaded with templates, or users can create a brand new and unique chandelier. www.bocci.ca

FORBO FLOORING SYSTEMS Flotex Colour Bursting with bright, vibrant, refreshing, sumptuous shades, the new Flotex Colour collection from Forbo Flooring Systems boasts a staggering 110 unique colourways. The new collection also combines unbeatable bionic flooring performance with an Allergy UK Seal of Approval – making it ideal for all sectors, particularly hospitality where a visual stimulus and indoor air quality is important. The diverse and encapsulating approach to colour and design in this collection, combined with a level of sophistication and style, makes it an incredibly fresh and modern alternative to carpet tiles. www.forbo-flooring.co.uk

CUBBINS Luxury Hotel Accessories Interior accessories designers Cubbins supplies quality handcrafted accoutrements for luxury hotels. Products are available in six wood fi nishes, or can be painted in a colour of choice for a bespoke result. The Bathroom Accessories range has been design to house all bathroom amenities. Along with hand towel boxes, the complete bathroom set is made up of amenities tray, tissue box, soap dish and cotton wool pot. Additional collections include desk accessories, walnut magazine holders, umbrella bins and oak amenities boxes.

Fabric covered accessories include waste paper bins and tissue boxes, all made by hand with the option of customisation. www.cubbins.co.uk

192

The secret of a memorable night’s sleep

Hypnos ‘secretly’ knows that it is a supremely comfortable bed that is at the heart of a truly memorable night’s sleep.

With a Royally approved reputation for creating the most comfortable beds in the world, Hypnos’ award winning beds and sofa beds can be found in the finest palaces, homes, hotels...

Rocco Forte

Marriott

InterContinental

Guoman

The Royal Horseguards, London

Skibo Castle, Dornoch

Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham

Calcot Manor, Tetbury

Great Northern Hotel, London

Corinthia

Millennium

Campbell Gray

St. Pancras Renaissance, London The Lanesborough, London

Stoke Park, Stoke Poges

Soho House

One Aldwych, London

Grosvenor House, London

The Royal Automobile Club, London

T: +44 (0) 1159 732180 | E: contract@hypnosbeds.com | www.hypnoscontractbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral, complying with BS PAS 2060 Standard.

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CASE STUDY

CASE STUDY

Services and Trade Co.

RHA Furniture

Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Dormy House Hotel

The turnkey interior fit out for Al Bustan Palace, a prestigious luxury hotel in Muscat, has been one of the landmark projects of Services and Trade Co. LLC. It was an extensive project that included stripping the tower block of the existing fi nishes to the bare structure; complete refurbishment of the lobby, atrium, guestrooms, suites and public areas including fi nishes, fit out and loose furniture; and execution of the MEP system as a design and build package to perfection.

Headquartered in Oman, Services and Trade Co. has over 37 years experience, executing projects for hotels, palaces, villas, high-end residential and commercial complexes. The company specialises in joinery, soft-furnishings, turnkey interior contracts, civil construction furniture manufacturing and specialist decorative painting works and has branches in Muscat, UAE, UK, India, Qatar and France. The company has worked on notable projects worldwide, ranging from part-refurbishments to complete interior design packages.

RHA Furniture worked alongside award winning designers Sparcstudio to supply and custom-make furniture for the new health spa at Dormy House in the Cotswolds, UK. The project called for a mixture of beautiful Italian designs alongside bespoke seating, tables and feature pieces, made by RHA Furniture’s own UK factory and specialist partner factory in Portugal. The Greenhouse, at the centre of the spa, offers a lounge, dining and general relaxation area. It features a large rustic style dining table, custom made with a light white gloss fi nish to complement the classic Hans J. Wegner 1949 Wishbone dining chairs. Bespoke sofas, armchairs, wingbacks and elegantly curved chaise longues are positioned elegantly across the Greenhouse, accompanied by sculptural side tables. Elegantly upholstered sofas and easy chairs feature across the public areas, including wingback armchairs with contrast button detail. The reception, treatment rooms, spa terrace and poolside continue the mixture of designer and custom made pieces. Dormy House Spa has also been shortlisted for its interior design in this year’s European Hotel Design Awards.

www.stcgroups.com

www.rhafurniture.com

194

SOURCE BOLDLY REGISTER TODAY Hospitality’s fastest growing trade fair returns in November with 500+ exhibitors and more of the unique elements, inventive brands and immersive experiences that set it apart.

BDNY.com

SPECIAL FEATURES AND PROGRAMS ISHP Annual Fundraiser BDNY Opening Reception CEU Conference Sessions Designed Lounge/Networking Spaces Design Competition Build-outs 34th Annual Gold Key Awards Gala Best of BDNY Product Design Competition

BD SIGNATURE SESSIONS Brand Central Boutique Design Power Players: Women Leaders in Hospitality (co-sponsored by NEWH and WIL) ISHP/BD Owners’ Grill

NOVEMBER 9-10 JAVITS CENTER HALL 3D & 3E

presented by

produced by

in partnership with

in association with

co-located with:

www.ton.eu

hand-crafted chairs … for generations merano chair designed by Alex Gufler A /IT

More nuances. More elegance. More versatility: The Starck bathroom series with the coordinating furniture programme. Just one example from the comprehensive Duravit range – sanitary ceramics, bathroom furniture, accessories, bathtubs, wellness products and saunas.

To find out more: Phone 0845 500 7787, info@uk.duravit.com, www.duravit.co.uk

LSE LIGHTING LTD 6 Great Western Business Park McKenzie Way Worcester WR4 9PT t: +44 (0) 1905 22243 m: +44 (0) 7887 788707 lselighting.com sales@lselighting.com

D E S I G N

S U P P LY

L I G H T

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ALBERGO. The world’s most flexible Bluetooth DAB clock radio

Bluetooth | DAB, DAB+, DMB | FM RDS | Clock Radio Sleep | Snooze | Dual Alarms | One night only alarms | Easy set | Wake to tone or radio | Choice of language Aux-in, headphone out | Remote control | Pre-set EQs | User EQ: Bass, Treble | Adjust backlight | Adjust Bluetooth reach | Limit volume Available in: Blue, Green, Graphite, Red, White | Optional Stereo Speaker | Optional Custom Cabinets For more information on Tivoli Audio please contact: Peta Austin | General Manager UK | paustin@tivoliaudio.com | +44 (0) 7780 600 337

Expressive and authentic, beautiful and tactile, the new Allura luxury vinyl tile collection from Forbo opens up a world of bespoke design possibility.

To view the new collection or request a presentation, simply visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/allura

creating better environments

BETTELUX SILHOUETTE SIDE Precise angular exterior with gently contoured interior.

Made from high-grade steel/enamel with a 30 year warranty.

Design: Tesseraux + Partner

www.bette.co.uk

Sleeper_206x120_BetteLux Silhouette Side.indd 1

29.08.2014 12:27:10

30 years experience in the design and creation of unique wet room solutions. Bespoke is our standard.

For more information, please contact our Sales team on 0845 257 6951 or visit www.onthelevel.co.uk e-mail: sales@onthelevel.co.uk Designed and manufactured in Britain

sleeper jan-feb 2014 s410.qxp_Sleeper Nov-Dec 2011 07/01/2014 16:59 Page 1

mrfdesign.co.uk

mrf

s410 wingback

DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT OF LUXURY INTERIOR ACCESSORIES HOTELS • YACHTS • INTERIOR DESIGNERS • PRIVATE CLIENTS FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.CUBBINS.CO.UK Studio 1, High Warden, Hexham, Northumberland, NE46 4SR, Telephone: +44 (0) 1434 604 181, Email: studio1@cubbins.co.uk

The best hotels demand the best quality, that’s why they’ve specified Waterbury bathroom accessories for over 30 years.

UK TEL 44 (0) 121 333 6062

SALES@WATERBURY.CO.UK

EUROPE TEL +49 (0) 8823 938 4906

WWW.WATERBURY.CO.UK

ANTHONY@WATERBURY.CO.UK

CERAMIC TILES

...add a touch of elegance

LIMESTONE

Stylish & Contemporary Wallcoverings • Home & Residential • Hotels, Restaurants & Bars • Office & Retail

SLATE MOSAIC MARBLE LEATHER PORCELAIN METALICS CERAMIC WOOD

Available in a range of colours and styles Stylish and elegant wallpaper with the added advantages of sound and heat insulation, ideal for stove and fire surrounds

For info, ideas & inspiration...

WWW.SACW.CO.UK

Tel 01782 383000 Email info@dupre-luxuria.com www.dupre-luxuria.com

13 d an ry St le n al s o gn G e u esi Se D

THE STONE & CERAMIC WAREHOUSE 51 - 55 STIRLING ROAD 020 8993 5545 CHISWICK,LONDON EXTENSIVE FREE PARKING W3 8DJ

Architectural Vision Panels For Doors & Walls

ALL CLEAR! WITH demista™ Brushed stainless steel Complete glazing system Easy installation North 4 Design Ltd Tel : 0208 885 4404

www.north4.com

Proven with a faultless track record for nearly 22 years. Universally accepted

by Architects, Interior Designers & Specifiers as the No.1 Mirror Demister Internationally Approved, Low Energy Consumption, 100% Efficient & Maintenance Free. Various Voltages. Bespoke to Order For product information contact: Tel 01923 866600 Email sales@demista.co.uk Web www.demista.co.uk

One of the UK’s leading interior contractors EESmith contracts operate successfully in a variety of sectors ranging from prestige hotels and commercial interiors to exclusive private residences.

Intercontinental Westminster Supreme Hotels

Morris Road Leicester LE2 6AL Telephone:0116 2706946 Email: contracts@eesmith.co.uk www.eesmith.co.uk

Facsimile:0116 2701515

M R . L I G H T 1 1

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W I L L I A M

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M O R R I S

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S W 6

2 U Z

W W W. M R L I G H T. C O . U K S A L E S @ M R L I G H T. C O . U K TEL. 0207 352 7525

TRADE SHOWROOM BY APPOINTMENT M O N D AY T O F R I D AY 1 0 . 3 0 A M

>

6.00 PM

C L O S E D S AT U R D AY A N D S U N D AY

Mattresses made by hand in Devon

hotel 99 Talbot Road, London, W11 2AT 020 7985 0474 info@naturalmat.co.uk www.naturalmathotel.co.uk

LIGHTING

elsteadlighting.com Decorex Stand G27

Matki Swadling Invincible thermostatic showers, available in Chrome and elegant Nickel and Antique Gold finishes.

01 4 5 4 3 2 2 8 8 8 | W W W. M AT K I . C O. U K

Manufacturer and Distributor of Fine Lighting

ART GLASS INTO ARCHITECTURE LIGHTING SCULPTURES GLASS WALLS CHANDELIERS

www.wearekolektiv.com +420 724 007 845

SLEEPER SHOWCASE

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Innspec PROJECT DIRECTORY Innspec is the new online platform for hotel design and specification from Sleeper.

Below is a small representative sample of companies involved in some of the projects reviewed in this issue.

For the complete list of all those involved, and full photography of all projects, please visit www.innspec.com

AMERICAN TRADE HOTEL, PANAMA

HAM YARD HOTEL, LONDON

Architect: Hache Uve S.A Interior Designer: Commune Design Supplier (Furnishings): Design Within Reach Consultant: Conservatorio Operator: Atelier Ace

METROPOLITAN BY COMO, MIAMI

Architect: Woods Bagot Interior Designer: Kit Kemp Supplier (Bed linen): Frette Supplier (Bathroom fittings): Lefroy Brooks Operator: Firmdale Hotels

OD PORT PORTALS, MALLORCA

Interior Designer: Paolo Navone Lighting Designer: Isometrix Lighting Design Supplier (Furniture): Gervasoni Supplier (Furnishings): Letti & Co Operator: Como Hotels and Resorts

ST REGIS, ABU DHABI

Designer: Studio Rahola Vidal / Estudi Pam 2 Supplier (Furniture): Andreu World Consultant: Mario Barredo Contractor: Roca Borras Constructora Operator: OD Hotels

THE DEAN, NEW YORK

Designer: Hirsch Bedner Associates Supplier (Furniture): Depa Industrial Group Consultant: Roya International Contractor: Arabtec Construction LLC Operator: Starwood Hotels and Resorts

Designer: Kite Architects Supplier (Bed linen): Matouk Supplier (Bathroom fittings): Watermark Designs Contractor: Pezzuco Construction Owner/Operator: ASH NYC

FARALDA NDSM CRANE HOTEL, AMSTERDAM Assistant Architect: IAA Architecten Interior Designer: Studio Heem Supplier (Fabrics): Chivasso Supplier (Bathroom fittings): Villeroy & Boch Operator: Faralda Holding BV

SP34, COPENHAGEN Designer: Morten Hedegaard, Asite Supplier (Furniture): Carl Hansen & Son Supplier (Bathroom fittings): Laufen Contractor: SBM Ejendomme A/S Operator: Brøchner Hotels

WALDORF ASTORIA, AMSTERDAM Architect: OeverZaaijer Architecture & Urbanism Interior Designer: GA Design International Supplier (Wallcoverings): Tektura Contractor: Gielissen Operator: Hilton Worldwide

To see the complete list of suppliers, contractors, consultants, designers and owners, please refer to www.innspec.com or contact the team at geoff@innspec.com or becki@innspec.com

Advertising Index 100% Design

136

EHDA

Abitare il Tempo

140

Ehrlich-Leder GmbH

AHDA

211

Albrecht Jung GmbH & Co KG

008 & 009

Pedrali Spa

015

107

Porcelanosa

171

EPR Architects Ltd

057

RHA Furniture Ltd

123

115

Forbo Flooring

202

RHIC

147

Aliseo GmbH Germany

073

Gandia Blasco

017

Roca

157

Altfield Ltd

065

Geberit

177

Sanipex Group

175

Andrianna Shamaris Inc

047

Gira

Schramm

112

Aqata

198

Hansgrohe

184

Services &Trade Co. LLC

117

Aquadomo

153

Harlequin

031

Shaw Contract Group

033

Arte

059

Heimtextil

143

Sleep

Astro Lighting Ltd

127

HI Design

144 & 145

B&B Italia

212

HICAP

BDNY

195

Bette GmbH & Co. KG – UK

27

118 & 139

Terzani Srl

023

135

The Annual Hotel Conference

148

Hypnos Ltd

193

The Hotel Show

146

202

Innspec

002

The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse

205

Burgess Furniture Ltd

203

Interface Europe Ltd

045

Tivoli Audio Cooperatief UA

201

Ceramika Paradyz

097

Jacuzzi Spa and Bath Ltd

173

Tojo

160

Cetis, Inc.

070

Janus et Cie

006 & 007

Ton

196

Design Centre Chelsea Habour

004 & 005

JL Furnishings

159

Top Floor UK Ltd

099

Chelsom Lighting Ltd

029

Kaldewei

183

Toto Europe GmbH

055

Consentino

125

Keramag

187

Turkey Hotel Expansion Summit

152

Crosswater

168

Lasvit

053

Ulster Carpets

163

Cubbins

204

Lefroy Brooks UK & Europe

041

Ultrafabrics Europe Ltd

154

Daedalian Glass Ltd

111

Ligne Roset

010

Umbrosa NV

090

Deloitte EHIC

130

Living Design

189

Villeroy & Boch AG

Demista

205

LSE Lighting

200

Viro

085

Design Junction

149

Majestic Shower Company Ltd

079

Vola

181

Dina Vanelli

191

Matki

101

Warisan

197

Duprà Minerals Ltd

205

Maya Romanoff

165

Waterbury

204

Duravit

199

Muraspec

075

West One Bathrooms Ltd

179

EE Smith Contracts Limited

206

OTL

203

Zoffany

039

Ege

025

OW Hospitality

012

209

166 & 167

Shhhh!

LIBRARY - LONDON

Behind an inconspicuous entrance on St. Martin’s Lane is a library door leading to London’s newest private members club. The brainchild of entrepreneur Ronald Ndoro, Library is a venue-with-rooms created for the eclectic literary and design communities. With its modern, minimalistic design complete with a roaring fire and multitude of books, the club resembles a homely library, inviting guests to escape amongst a treasure trove of stories and create their own narrative.

The venue features a lounge for reading, dining, live entertainment and private events, as well as six literary-themed guestrooms and a kitchen serving up dishes from the latest published cookbooks.

Working closely with Ndoro, Marc Peridis and his team at 19 Greek Street have designed the interiors using a variety of sustainable solutions. Through the studio’s in-house waste lab, tiles and surface materials have been crafted from discarded alcohol bottles found around Soho, while some of the furniture is upcycled, restored by charitable social enterprise Out Of The Dark. Comments Ndoro: “I wanted to create a home for the vibrant literary community. Due to our location, we will blend that crowd with theatricals and provide a much-needed space for the pioneering design community of the capital and beyond.”

210

Introducing‌

A New Celebration of Hotel Design for Asia BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW Save The Date: Inaugural Awards Ceremony: Thursday 12 March 2015 Parkroyal On Pickering Singapore www.asiahoteldesignawards.com

Organised By

Official Partner

Patron

Sponsored By

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D E S I G N PO R T R A I T.

Michel, seat system design by Antonio Citterio www.bebitalia.com B&B Italia Store London, SW3 2AS - 250 Brompton Road - T. 020 7591 8111 - info.bromptonroad@bebitalia.com UK Agent: Keith De La Plain - T. +44 786 0419670 - keith@keithdelaplain.com

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