Sleeper 106

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

AETHOS – ERICEIRA • BARANOWITZ + KRONENBERG • THE RITZ-CARLTON NOMAD – NEW YORK

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CONTENTS ISSUE 106 078

HOTEL REVIEWS

100

The Ritz-Carlton NoMad

056

Aethos

064

W Dubai – Mina Seyahi

070

Mandarin Oriental Palace

078

Capelongue

083

&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

088

The Other House

095

Rezydent MGallery

100

The Pavilions, The First Musica

105

New York Ericeira Dubai

Lucerne 095

Bonnieux

Tanzania

© Jack Hardy

© James McDonald

070

London Sopot

Rome

FEATURES Meeting... Baranowitz + Kronenberg

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Meeting... Ruby Hotels

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Having designed for a wide range of hospitality settings over the past two decades, Tel Aviv-based architects Alon Baranowitz and Irene Kronenberg reveal how storytelling and a focus on people have been key to their success.

© Owen Raggett

As Ruby Hotels prepares to launch a new property in London’s Notting Hill, Head of Design Matthew Balon discusses his love for delving into local history and culture to create hotels with a tale to tell.

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CONTENTS ISSUE 106 FEATURES

056

Design Details

108

Focusing on the specifics that contribute to the overall experience, we visit a suite in Andalusia to discover how its perfectly imperfect tiles capture the charm of their surroundings.

AHEAD

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Spanning the lengths and breadths of their regions, from the rugged valleys of Saudi Arabia to the leafy suburbs of London, the AHEAD MEA and Europe winners showcase the very best in hospitality experience and design.

Spotlight... DUX © Björn Wallander

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© Asaf Kliger

© Sharon Derhy

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REGULARS

146

111

136

130

To gain a better understanding of what it means to be an operator, DUX is using its very own hotel as a testing ground for new and existing products.

Check-In

020

Drawing Board

022

The Lobby

047

Business Centre

122

Floorcoverings

133

Specifier

139

Check-Out

146

TRIBU.COM

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RH.COM/CONTRACT Six Senses Ibiza, Spain Winner of two AHEAD Europe Awards (2021)

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WELCOME

ON THE COVER Aethos, Ericeira © Pion Studio

Turning Point

2

022 marked a turning point for the hospitality industry.

pandemic that all four AHEAD award ceremonies took place

It was the year of recovery for many: increased leisure

in person, with gatherings in Singapore, New York, Dubai and

demand saw more heads in beds and restaurants and

London, celebrating the best in hospitality experience and

bars were bustling once again, resulting in performance

design. The year also marked the launch of Sleeper Sessions

returning to 2019 levels for the first time since the onset of

– a new style of meetings-driven events connecting specifiers

the pandemic.

and suppliers – which debuted to a rapturous response.

Though there are undoubtedly challenges ahead, the uptick

And finally, in the closing weeks of 2022, we announced

in performance is bringing renewed confidence to the sector.

the acquisition of Top Hotel Projects, the online database of

Deals are being inked, architects and designers are sharpening

in-progress hotel projects. Behind the scenes, we’ve been

their pencils, and manufacturers are making new collections

working closely with the core team in Germany to reposition

as fast as their production lines can manage.

the platform under a new brand identity of THP, and the

2022 was a big year for Sleeper Media too, with a return

coming months will see the roll-out of various enhancements.

to business for all activities across the portfolio as well as

The acquisition not only cements our position as the

new ventures. The print magazine has gone from strength to

market-leading media company for hospitality design and

strength, and following a full cleanse and continual update

development, it means that we can now track a project from

of our database, we can more confident than ever that it

planning, through design, build and fit-out to completion;

is being delivered to a targeted readership of leaders and

from the initial signing and input into the THP database,

decision-makers actively working on new hotel developments

to featuring in the pages of Sleeper and being entered into

worldwide. Our online community has also grown, with the

AHEAD. The combination of digital, print and events will

digital issue and website attracting record numbers, peaking at

provide our entire community with a full-spectrum media

36,000 page views in March. On social platforms, the number of

offer to support and enhance activities; at a time of increased

Instagram followers is fast approaching the 20,000-mark and

competiton for all businesses, finding the right partner is key.

our LinkedIn audience has doubled over the past 12 months,

If you would like to find out more about working with Sleeper

with posts collectively averaging 75,000 monthly impressions

Media, please don’t hesitate to contact the team. As always,

and an engagement rate well above the benchmark.

we appreciate your support and wish you a prosperous 2023.

Across the wider Sleeper Media portfolio, Starboard – the magazine for style in travel – has gathered pace once again thanks to the new concepts coming to the seas and skies, and Supper continues to serve up the most compelling F&B openings from across the hotel sector.

On the events side, 2022 was the first time since the

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

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Strategy & Concept Architecture & Interiors Identity & Wayfinding Artwork & Styling

Octagon Point 5 Cheapside London EC2V 6AA www.adassociates.london

GUEST BOOK

070

064

048

© Francisco Nogueira

© Alison Emerick

095

070 Clint Nagata “Through the notion of storytelling, the owners wanted to create something fresh both for Dubai and the W brand,” says Clint Nagata, founder and Creative Partner at Blink Design Group, on the inspiration for W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. Working alongside Stickman Tribe to bring tales of Arabia to Dubai’s ancient port district, Nagata and his team paid homage to traditional dhow boats in the guestrooms, and drew from the mythical landscapes and creatures in One Thousand and One Nights for the spa.

064 Benjamin Habbel and Jeff Coe When entrepreneurs Benjamin Habbel and Jeff Coe decided to create a high-end hotel in the Portuguese town of Ericeira, they weren’t after the typical surfing crowd, but rather those that appreciated – and could afford – a more refined experience after their session on the open water. So, they turned to native architect Luis Pedra Silva and interior designer Ala Zreigat to create Aethos, a laid-back yet elevated resort that captures the textures, diversity and spirit of its coastal surroundings.

095 Marie Soliman

048 Ruud Belmans

As co-founder of Bergman Design House, Marie Soliman is accustomed to working with to limitless budgets on luxury residential and superyacht projects. But she’s adept at spending effectively too, as proven by the interiors of The Other House, a new residents’ club developed by Naomi Heaton. “I think what Naomi liked about our proposal was that we understood the budget – where to spend the money and how to make an impact through colour, texture and pattern,” she explains.

“We felt it would be nice if the bar could literally be grown for the event,” says Ruud Belmans, co-founder of Antwerp-based design firm WeWantMore, which collaborated with organic material artist Côme Di Meglio and creative agency La Succulente to construct a mycelium bar at HIX. Taking cues from the shapes and textures of shells, the bar highlighted the potential of the root-like fungus while showcasing the future of sustainable design, illustrating how nature can be inspirational both aesthetically and structurally.

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FRONT DESK @SleeperMagazine

EDITORIAL

DESIGN

FINANCE

Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner

Design Manager David Bell

Finance Director Amanda Giles

Production Dan Seaton

Group Financial Controller Sarah Healey

m.turner@mondiale.co.uk

Managing Editor Catherine Martin

c.martin@mondiale.co.uk

d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

d.seaton@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Ben Thomas

b.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Eleanor Howard

e.howard@mondiale.co.uk

Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich

PORTFOLIO

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

s.healey@mondiale.co.uk

Group Credit Controller Lynette Levi EVENTS & MARKETING

Commercial Lead Kirsty Studholme

l.levi@mondiale.co.uk

Accounts Assistant Kerry Mountney

k.mountney@mondiale.co.uk

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Content & Research Olivia Mavers

CORPORATE

Data & Marketing Lauren Blain

Chairman Damian Walsh

o.mavers@mondiale.co.uk ADVERTISING

Business Development Rob Hart r.hart@mondiale.co.uk

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Annual subscription (6 issues): £120.00. Subscription records maintained at Sleeper Media. Sleeper (ISSN: 1476-4075 / USPS: 21550) is published bi-monthly by Mondiale Media Ltd and is distributed in the USA by RRD/Spatial. Pending periodicals postage paid at South Hackensack, NJ. Send USA address changes to Sleeper, c/o RRD, 1250 Valley Brook Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, USA. Mailed by Spatial Global • Printed by Buxton Press

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S HO P ON - L I NE : e t h i m o . c o m

Showroom

L o n d o n / M I L A N / PA R I S

Rome / Cannes / Cologne

B A I A b y C HR I S TO P HE P I L L ET

xxx

© Alexander Jordan

CHECK-IN

Tolù Adẹ̀kọ́ Escaping his busy city life in London, the founder and Creative Director of Adẹ̀kọ́ & Co journeys to East Africa for a fantasy break amidst nature.

Where are you?

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

Who’s manning the stoves?

On a safari beach retreat in Kenya.

Located on Kenya’s tropical coast in the Serengeti

American chef, restaurateur and author Thomas

National Park, the hotel is characterised by

Keller. He has established a new paradigm in

How did you get there?

organic textures and finishes. A host escorts

hospitality and is cooking up a storm.

I sailed from Southampton to South Africa on

us to our standalone villa, where a double-

a cruise ship, before stepping aboard a private

height room features a neutral and moody

And what’s on the menu?

yacht for the final stretch to Nairobi.

palette with dark timber, leather and bronze

Fresh seafood that the local fishermen bring to

detailing. There’s a custom upholstered bed and

the shore from their catch of the day.

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

bespoke, locally crafted furniture. The views are

I’m greeted by Sharan Pasricha of Ennismore

spectacular from dusk till dawn; in the scorched

Would you like something to drink with that?

and a Bombay Sapphire gin and tonic.

savannah, big cats, elephants and giraffes roam

A glass of 2014 The Sadie Family Palladius White

free among ancient baobab and acacia trees.

from Swartland, South Africa.

Nick Jones, founder of Soho House, is at the

Who designed it?

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

concierge desk ready to walk us through the

We designed the interiors in collaboration with

An assortment of Nespresso pods.

resort and share his experiences.

Adjaye Associates, founded by Ghanaian-British

And who’s at the concierge desk?

architect Sir David Adjaye OM OBE. Who are you sharing your room with?

My wife, Blessing.

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

The Purpose Driven Life by American author

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

Rick Warren and a remote to control lighting,

Effortlessly balancing the natural setting with

music and temperature – I’m not getting up.

Is there anything you would like waiting for

luxurious comforts and modern amenities, the

you in your room?

restaurant and bar are inspired by the region’s

Would you like a newspaper in the morning?

Just the essentials – perfectly ironed, fresh linen

diverse culture, the soothing colours of nature,

No, thank you. I prefer to practice mindfulness

bedding, a bouquet of Annabelle hydrangeas

and local materials. The enchanting exterior is

and meditation in the morning.

and a tropical fruit platter, as well as a Trudon

composed of timber beams and a thatched roof,

Classic Reed Diffuser to create a warm and

while the elegant and authentic interiors have

What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?

inviting sensory ambience.

been designed for a variety of dining experiences

Tom Ford please.

with custom furniture by native artisans. From

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Waldorf Astoria, Doha; London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square; MSC Grandiosa www.adeko.co

every seat, there are panoramic views of the

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

Indian Ocean.

Late check-out.

Who are you dining with this evening?

Bath or power shower?

Blessing and I are dining with architect and

Power shower.

interior designer Paul Dupré-Lafon, sharing his love for Cubism and functional forms of

Full English or continental breakfast?

furniture with multiple finishes.

Continental with African flavours.

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DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

Ulvsnesøy Island NORWAY

Xxx xxx

London-based interiors firm Nous Design has unveiled

Facilities will include several restaurants, a spa with

plans for a new mixed-use island resort in the West

cliff-edge outdoor infinity pools, an events space and

Norwegian fjords. Nestled between Osterøy’s steep

a gym. There are also plans to incorporate boat huts

mountain crevasses, the ultra-sustainable development

that will be used as workshops, such as a smokery,

comprises a luxury hotel, spa and residences, combining

art studio and music room, the idea being to build a

the old buildings at the centre of the isle with a series

community. As it stands, the little-known island is

of modern standalone villas.

home only to a small herd of mountain goats. “Over

The newly developed structures will be contemporary

the past 140 years, Ulvsnesøy has been kept away from

in their aesthetic yet take their inspiration from

the public eye as it served as a rehabilitation centre for

traditional Norwegian boat houses called Nausts, which

wayward teenagers,” says Gilad, who adds that it was

Nous Design founder Nir Gilad describes as “extremely

once referred to as ‘bad boy’s island’. “After centuries-

practical cabins” for storing vessels as well as sailing and

long insulation, the area is finally opening up to the

fishing equipment. “The marine proximity and iconic

public, incorporating its rich history – with the help

look of the Nausts form beautiful and scenic settings

of the regional community – to create a true locally

throughout West Norway’s coastline,” he explains. “The

immersive hospitality offering.”

boat houses inspired us to develop a unique offering of a modern-day fisherman’s village that feel as if it has organically developed over time.”

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

Soho House

Following expansion into Scandinavia with

indoor and outdoor seating with a Pool House

new clubs in Copenhagen and Stockholm, Soho

bar, as well as a dining room that evokes the

MEXICO CITY

House has now revealed it will open its first

romanticism of a European greenhouse through

property in Latin America in 2023.

a bright interior filled with greenery.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Orca Holding Developer: Grupo Sordo Madaleno Operator: Membership Collective Group Interior Design: Soho House Design www.sohohouse.com

024

Situated in Mexico City’s Colonia Juárez

“Mexico City is an exciting opening for Soho

neighbourhood – considered the hub for the

House as it marks our first location in Latin

city’s international activity – the luxury hotel

America,” says Jarrett Stuhl, Chief Operating

and members’ club will occupy a restored private

Officer, Soho House Americas. “We’ve had

residence, with a ‘Casa’ and ‘Annex’ housing

a presence in the city since 2017 through our

three bars and lounges, a standalone restaurant,

Cities Without Houses programme, and we are

and a courtyard with outdoor dining.

now delighted to introduce a physical space that

Conceived by Soho House Design, the interior

is both historic and grand. This House is one

scheme will reflect the building’s Baroque

of our most ambitious design projects to-date,

heritage and historic French influences with a

and we look forward to welcoming our existing

mixture of locally made custom furniture and

and future members to experience the rich and

vintage pieces from Mexican designers. The

vibrant culture of Mexico City.”

space will also display an art collection featuring

Soho House Mexico City will be joined by

more than 100 works from artists born, based,

another debutant in 2023, with Membership

or trained in Mexico.

Collective Group set to mark its entry into

The surrounding grounds meanwhile will be anchored by an outdoor pool, offering

Southeast Asia with an arts and culture-inspired property in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit district.

collection LES FORÊTS pattern TINTO

Showrooms

London

Paris

Culemborg

Los Angeles

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DRAWING BOARD

Six Senses

Six Senses will make its Sub-Saharan Africa

amenities include a raised restaurant, specialty

debut in 2025 with a wellness resort on

dining and braai bar, and a sunset look-out bar.

VICTORIA FALLS

Zimbabwe’s Princess Elizabeth Island.

A Six Senses signature spa will comprise four

In bringing the project to life, the operator

treatment rooms, a jungle gym accompanied by

is working with the development team of

a ranger, a yoga deck, heated outdoor pools, a

Worth International, comprising SIP Project

panoramic sauna, and an integrated retail and

Managers, DSA Architects International and

concept store.

CKR Consultant Engineers. Their scheme sees a

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Worth International Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: DSA Architects International Interior Design: Dsgn Consultants: SIP Project Managers, CKR Consultant Engineers www.sixsenses.com

026

Johannesburg-based

interior

design

collection of stilted lodges – fabricated off-site

consultancy Dsgn has been tasked with capturing

to minimise construction impact – connected

the eclectic and authentic spirit of Zimbabwe.

by raised walkways and bridges. Engineering

Timber floors and natural finishes will serve as

innovation will ensure the lightest possible

a canvas to showcase bespoke furnishings and

footprint while still able to withstand a heavy

artwork, with the aim to achieve sophistication

knock from a passing elephant.

and comfort overlayed with colours, textures

Each of the 22 lodges will be equipped with

and craftsmanship.

private terraces, whilst 15 deluxe lodges are to

Six Senses Victoria Falls is part of The House

feature suspended pools. There are also plans to

of Chinhara initiative to restore Zimbabwean

add 17 individual pool villas, nine of which will

tourism by elevating the accommodation count

offer multi-bedroom accommodation.

and quality for visitors to Victoria Falls National

Amongst the communal areas are a main

Park, as well as providing host accommodation

welcome pavilion and a lobby lounge, where

facilities and hospitality training opportunities.

The emotion of light.

ALMA

design by Matteo Cibic

ilfanale.com

DRAWING BOARD

Dorchester Collection

Dorchester Collection has announced plans for

tranquillity, where residents can immerse their

its first hotel in Asia, located within Japan’s

senses in nature and experience the Japanese

TOKYO

tallest building. Slated for completion in 2028,

art of omotenashi – the nation’s own spirit of

the hotel will form part of Tokyo’s Torch Tower,

hospitality and customer service.

currently under development by Mitsubishi Estate and Tokyo Century Corporation.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Tokyo Century Corporation, Mitsubishi Estate Operator: Dorchester Collection Architecture: Sou Fujimoto Architects, Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei www.dorchestercollection.com

“This new development will become a beacon for Japan’s ultra-luxury hotel landscape and

Located on the upper floors of the tower

set new benchmarks,” comments Christopher

with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and Mount

Cowdray, CEO at Dorchester Collection. “World-

Fuji, the hotel features nature-inspired design

class architects will inspire with their symbolic

motifs throughout its interiors, marking a

design torch concept, lighting up not only the

continuum from the nearby Kyu Shiba Rikyu

future of Tokyo and Japan but also the world.”

Garden, Hamarikyu Garden and the water of

He continues: “Tokyo has long been an

Tokyo Ba. Personal touches and collector’s

integral part of our growth strategy, given

items such as fine art and antiques will add

its status a gateway to Asia and its global

character and storytelling, establishing a warm

significance, and to be partnering with the

residential atmosphere. Visitors can also expect

highly esteemed Mitsubishi Estate Co and Tokyo

a soothing colour palette and warm lighting that

Century Corporation is a true honour.”

is synonymous with the Dorchester brand.

Dorchester Collection currently comprises

New for its Asia property, Dorchester

nine hotels across London, Paris, Milan, Rome

Collection is set to debut an indoor garden

and Los Angeles, with The Lana scheduled to

dubbed Sky Hill, which will serve as an oasis of

open in Dubai later this year.

© Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei

028

DRAWING BOARD

Legacy Hotel & Residences MIAMI

Real estate developer Royal Palm Companies has landed a US$340 million construction loan from New York City-based Silverstein Capital Partners for Legacy Hotel & Residences, a 51-storey mixed-use building planned for the 27-acre Miami Worldcenter development.

Designed by Kobi Karp with interiors by ID & Design International, the Art-Deco inspired tower will comprise 310 residences and 219 hotel rooms, as well as a spa, Sky Lounge on the 45th floor, and a cantilevered pool deck with bar. It will also be home to the world’s first-ever Blue Zones flagship, a wellness centre with services ranging from acupuncture to cryotherapy and nutrition. Beyond the facility, the property will integrate Blue Zones into its DNA, offering nonalcoholic beverage menus, circadian lighting and stay-active reminders.

“One reason we’re building Legacy Hotel & Residences is to meet the ongoing demand for wellness travel, an industry that’s skyrocketing in value every year,” says Daniel Kodsi, CEO of Royal Palm Companies. “While many hospitality groups are shifting to meet the wellness demand, we’re introducing an experience unlike any other. Our guests will be part of a Blue Zones community, with access to medical practitioners, cutting-edge technology, and smarter lifestyle choices. Other hotels are offering wellness amenities, but we’re offering the chance to live a longer and healthier life.”

The project broke ground last August, with site work and excavation already under way.

Construction is expected to complete by 2024.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Silverstein Capital Partners Developer: Royal Palm Companies Operator: Accor Architecture: Kobi Karp Interior Design: ID & Design International www.legacymwc.com

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DRAWING BOARD

Straubingerplatz

Vienna-based architecture practice BWM

will be inspired by the chiaroscuro of historical

Architekten has been commissioned by real

oil paintings, resulting in an expressive use

AUSTRIA

estate firm Hirmer Immobilien to restore Bad

of light and dark shades, while the signature

Gastein’s Straubingerplatz to its former glory

restaurant and bar on the ground floor will be

with two new hotel projects – Hotel Straubinger

housed within an impressive historic hall.

and Badeschloss.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Hirmer Immobilien Operator: Travel Charme Architecture and Interior Design: BWM Architekten www.bwm.at

032

The cosmopolitan-style Badeschloss opposite

Slated for completion in 2023, the heritage-

is set to feature 100 guestrooms, with design

protected buildings will “work with the layers

taking a playful approach to bathing culture.

of the past” according to BWM architect Erich

Individual areas in the lobby – such as the

Bernard, who confirms that the studio’s

restaurant, bar and kiosk – will transition

planning ideas “are always preceded by a

smoothly into one another, while a concept

precise historical analysis”. “It is important

store and rooftop spa round out the facilities.

to us to work with – and not against – the

Badeschloss will be fronted by a double-

remnants of the past,” says Bernard. “They give

skin, coloured-concrete façade and topped by

old buildings their charm and special appeal;

an infinity pool, with upper storeys featuring

it’s what makes them attractive and unique.”

bay windows that serve as “display cabinets”

Named after a prominent local hotelier family,

for bathtubs. Markus Kaplan, Architect at BWM,

Hotel Straubinger will comprise 46 guestrooms

explains: “The fact that the skins have different

that combine a natural patina on the walls,

thicknesses gives the façade a lively appearance

surviving doors and other original artefacts with

and a relief-like character that blends well into

new elements. The colour palette and lighting

the Alpine surroundings.”

M O N O KO FOR CONTEMPLATION OR COLLABORATION

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DRAWING BOARD

Art’otel

Squire & Partners has revealed its inspiration for

within the overall composition. Double-height

Art’otel London Hoxton, slated to open in early

floorplates are then rotated in order to give

LONDON HOXTON

2024. Occupying a prominent site in the South

the illusion of a series of moving components.

Shoreditch Conservation Area, the hotel will

Twisting metal fins in a variety of sizes rise

comprise 340 guestrooms, co-working spaces,

vertically, positioned in syncopated rhythm

an art gallery and cinema. Additional facilities

around the tower, giving a depth of articulation

include a spa, gym and pool, as well as several

to the exterior façade.

restaurants, bars and lounges.

034

two large-scale original Banksy artworks –

to the cultural identity of the nearby Silicon

which were already part of the site – are being

Roundabout – a hub for many technology

conserved and incorporated into the design.

companies. As a result, its architectural form

“The project was conceived in 2008, and

and cladding take cues from the mechanical

after several design iterations, I am excited

components of early analogue computers, with

to see our ideas developing into an important

a cylindrical shape that evolved into a fractured

part of Shoreditch’s urban fabric,” says Murray

cogwheel throughout the planning process,

Levinson, Partner at Squire & Partners. “The

rising and adapting in response to its context

design concept makes a subtle nod to the

and interior functions.

development of the computer – without which

Each section of the cogwheel is extruded over

Silicon Roundabout would not have its name –

two floors, separated by a horizontal aluminium

providing another example of how our work is

shelf that allows every level to read individually

influenced by the distinct context of a location.”

© Squire & Partners

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: PPHE Hotel Group Developer: AKT II Operator: PPHE Hotel Group, Radisson Hotel Group Architecture: Squire & Partners www.artotel.com

Framing the tower at first-floor height,

Spanning 26 storeys, the building responds

Meeting…

Baranowitz + Kronenberg Having designed for a wide range of hospitality settings over the past two decades, Tel Aviv-based architects Alon Baranowitz and Irene Kronenberg reveal how storytelling and a focus on people have been key to their success.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Portrait Photography: © Sharon Derhy

I

t’s difficult to categorise the work of Alon

retail and cultural sectors, restaurants and bars

Baranowitz and Irene Kronenberg. Over

plus, of course, hotels.

the several times we have met, the duo

“We know it’s a cliché, but we are

describe themselves not as architects, but

storytellers,” said the pair when we first met

as storytellers. Anthropologists is another

in 2019. And stories they duly told to the

of their preferred identifiers, as is agents

audience at Sleepover Ibiza, Sleeper’s event

of change. Whatever the terminology, they

for hotel innovators. Stories of their work on

are talented hospitality designers. Partners

the island for Sir Hotels and W. Sir Joan is just

in business and life, they are intelligent and

one of the properties they have completed for

erudite, engaging and thoughtful. At Sleeper

Sir Hotels, whose interiors major on stories of

Sessions in Mykonos, they were both delighted

personal connection. Yet the storytelling idea

with the serendipitous meetings with like-

began long before this in 1999 with Zozobra, a

minded souls. Seeing them in their matching

Far Eastern restaurant in Herzliya, an industrial

Birkenstocks was as endearing as hearing them

area about a 15-minute drive from Tel Aviv.

finish each other’s sentences.

Here, Baranowitz and Kronenberg began

The partnership was established with the

the transformation from a purely functional

founding of Baranowitz + Kronenberg in Tel

approach of fulfilling a brief towards developing

Aviv in 1999. Prior to that, they had both been

a conversation. “I remember the exact place, the

working in their own practices, with Kronenberg

chair, the dialogue with the client,” explains

graduating from the Technion School of Interior

Baranowitz as if it was last week. Zozobra

Design in 1981 and Baranowitz from the Pratt

was one of the first projects the two worked

Institute of New York in 1990. Together,

on together; they still talk of it fondly. The

their portfolio includes work in the realms of

restaurant first sparked a creative synergy that

workspace and product design, from chairs to a

continues to drive all that they do today.

new form of basin. There is also output in the

Their approach to new projects is novel;

© Lutz Vorderwuelbecke

© Amit Geron

MEETING…

For W Ibiza (top) and Sir Joan (bottom), Baranowitz + Kronenberg overcame strict planning restrictions to produce designs that speak to the laid-back, bohemian lifestyle of the Balearic isle

conversations are not necessarily about aesthetics, but knowledge and context. The duo see these two items helping to avoid the trap of repetition. Similarly, they try hard not to come too readily to solutions, fearing the easy answer is usually not the best. They describe their methodology as the “down-up” approach.

“We dig into the future and by the act of digging we go through many layers until we see the light at the other end,” explains Baranowitz.

The playfulness of their narrative can be seen in the design of Tapas Ahad Ha’am, a

“We know it’s a cliché, but we are storytellers.

We dig into the future and by the act of digging we go through many layers until we see the light at the other end.”

the Europe Hotels Private Collection, now re-branded Sircle Collection, founded by Wizman who is described by Kronenberg as “a true visionary”. Their successful collaboration continued with the 2015 opening of W Amsterdam, an asset management deal of Wizman’s. Here, Baranowitz and Kronenberg looked to the history of the hotel’s former post office and telephone exchange building for inspiration. The tolerant culture of Amsterdam is reflected in the honesty of the materials palette, which features poured concrete, epoxy

restaurant that opened in Tel Aviv back in 2010.

resin, steel and brass tubes – 5km of them in

The interiors are described using a recipe format

fact, reflecting the telephone exchange cables.

of ‘ingredients’, including 20 different kinds of

Prior to designing their second W hotel in

typically colourful Spanish tiles, sturdy wooden

2020 came several other projects, including

chairs – no matter what kind – and a handful

many restaurants in a portfolio that exceeds

of simple yet robust tables. This is followed by

30 to date. Sir Victor in Barcelona sees the

the ‘preparation’, which involves ‘pouring’ the

transformation of the former Hotel Omm based

ingredients into the container – the restaurant

on interpretations of life at the junction of

space – before adding the finishing flourishes.

mountains and sea. The property also includes Mr Porter, a modern take on the steakhouse

The recipe narrative is apt, as cooking is close to their hearts and shown in their love for

of each bar and the people in them. Here, we

and just one of the many restaurants they have

restaurant projects.

see the anthropology coming through. A focus

designed for The Entourage Group. There is

But it was a bar, Gorky, that set the designers

is on people; how staff efficiently operate the

another Mr Porter in W Amsterdam, along with

on their way. The owner of Zozobra requested

space and how guests move through it. People

the grand brasserie style of The Duchess and

they design the “most upscale bar in Tel Aviv”.

are the driver in a Baranowitz and Kronenberg

upscale burger option, The Butcher. The latter

Having accepted the challenge, the pair became

world that is free of prior conceptions.

also arrived in Sir Joan and Sir Savigny in Berlin,

anxious about their lack of specific experience. I

A tipping point came in 2008 with the

as well as a standalone outlet in Manchester.

questioned this modesty, suggesting that their

opening of Momo, billed as ‘one of the first

Baranowitz and Kronenberg’s designs for the

restaurant portfolio surely gave them sufficient

cosmopolitan restaurants in Amsterdam’ with

Isakaya restaurants meanwhile, serving Asian-

knowledge. “It’s different,” retorts Baranowitz

its East-meets-West cuisine. The restaurant

Japanese fusion cuisine, can be found at Sir

of bar design. “A different galaxy,” adds

was the first project of Yossi Eliyahoo and Liran

Albert and Sir Joan in Ibiza.

Kronenberg, explaining that whilst restaurants

Wizman, co-founders of The Entourage Group

And it is on Ibiza, the small party island that

are open to all, bars are very specific.

– a creator of high-end culinary concepts. The

has slowly been reinventing its existing hotel

To overcome this perceived weakness,

success of this initial collaboration has seen an

stock, where the duo’s site-specific approach

they hopped off to New York and visited 24

ongoing relationship with Wizman, including

comes into its own. At Sir Joan, a tricky roadside

bars in three days to get some ideas. “People

the design of the first-ever Sir hotel, Sir

location was deftly handled, and Baranowitz

were looking at us quite strangely,” relates

Albert in Amsterdam in 2013. Here, the design

and Kronenberg believe the strict planning

Baranowitz. “We were sitting at the bar with a

narrative was based on the concept of a 21st

restrictions required them to be more creative,

notebook and sketching at all hours of the night.”

century aristocrat – a well-travelled gentleman

eventually resulting in a better product. The

To which Kronenberg adds: “We didn’t have

of the world who populates his mansion with

38-key hotel follows a design narrative that

iPhones back then so we couldn’t take photos.”

artefacts collected on his travels.

pays homage to the yachting lifestyle of this

They go on to talk about the different energies

Sir Albert opened under the umbrella of

port neighbourhood. Along the coast at W Ibiza,

039

MEETING…

Sir Victor in Barcelona sees the transformation of the former Hotel Omm based on interpretations of life at the junction of mountains and sea

situated in Santa Eulalia del Rio, Kronenberg saw a

to hybrid spaces that move between workspaces during

“mission impossible” with extremely low ceilings. A

the day to sleeping quarters at night, essentially built

major intervention was needed, and a strong storyline

around a disappearing bed amongst other tricks. “This

followed from their investigation. This centred on the

resonates with sustainability in that we are not adding

image of a naked woman viewed from behind with her

a square metre in the city and the hotels can run up to

arms spread open to the sea, the wind and the sky. A

120 and 130% occupancy,” notes Baranowitz.

poetic ode that speaks of a lifestyle language melding

The future for Baranowitz and Kronenberg includes

the bohemian, flower-power image with the island’s

numerous projects closer to home, as Israel goes

mystique and intrigue.

through something of a hotel boom, particularly

The re-use and re-purposing of existing buildings

in Tel Aviv. Here is Dizengoff 99 within one of the

is something that excites Baranowitz and Kronenberg.

buildings of the White City area of preserved Bauhaus

They are keen to develop dialogues with buildings

architecture. There’s also Pinsker on the city’s most

and in their view, the older ones have more to say.

important piazza; a luxurious property to be managed

Baranowitz sees such sustainability reflected best in

by Isrotel alongside high-end residential apartments;

the word ‘caring’ – both for one another and for our

and Rothschild 24 Hotel, inspired by the spirit and

shared environment. The preservation of an existing

vision of Baron de Rothschild. Further afield comes

structure being clearly more environmentally friendly

The Migdal, a resort on the Sea of Galilee in the north

when compared to a newbuild replacement.

of Israel, which references the religious connotations

Talk of sustainability in this vein leads to another

of the region – a story in its own right. These five

hotel-related idea, Co-Hito, a project that illustrates

hotel projects, along with many more bars, restaurants

the pair’s search for change. Developed in 2018, Co-

and others, will deliver further opportunities for

Hito allows city spaces to be used more effectively.

storytelling. For born storytellers, writing the next

Guestrooms in existing hotel stock would be converted

chapter is what it’s all about.

© Amit Geron

040

Lara Gabrielle Interiors | Jaysam Contractors | Marco Joe Fazio Creative Agency

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MEETING...

Meeting…

Ruby Hotels As Ruby Hotels prepares to launch a new property in London’s Notting Hill, Head of Design Matthew Balon discusses his love for delving into local history and culture to create hotels with a tale to tell.

Words: Ben Thomas

042

PROFILE Matthew Balon Head of Design, Ruby Hotels

“Being part of the company’s growth process

guestrooms, where around 80% of the elements

was something that really attracted me to the

are standardised – the public spaces provide

role,” says Matthew Balon, Head of Design

an opportunity to try something different, for

Before joining Ruby Hotels in 2017, Matthew Balon worked with major operators such as Marriott International and Radisson Hotel Group during his time at Munich-based studio RaumConcept.

He now oversees the design strategy for Ruby’s global portfolio, managing a team of architects, interior designers and buyers.

at Ruby Hotels, as we sit down to discuss his

ourselves and the city.”

career trajectory at the group’s debut property

In writing these stories, a deep dive into the

in London. Having worked with Marriott

destination is Balon’s first port of call, whether

International and Radisson Hotel Group during

that be the history of the area, its culture or the

his time as an interior architect at Munich-based

surrounding architecture. “I love research and

studio RaumConcept, Balon joined Ruby Hotels

spend as much time as possible on this part of the

in 2017 when the brand was still in its infancy,

design process,” he explains, recounting tales of

Ruby Hotels was founded in 2013 by CEO Michael Struck, who has since opened 15 hotels, with a further 18 under construction or in the planning phase.

and has since built an in-house design team

his explorations into the South Bank area and its

that oversees every aspect of the aesthetic. “The

centuries-old market for Ruby Lucy.

ability to design in-house gives us the freedom to

At Ruby Zoe meanwhile, opening in London’s

be creative and try new things,” he explains. “It

Notting Hill this Spring, interiors will take cues

Recent Openings: Ruby Lucy, London; Ruby Claire, Geneva; Ruby Rosi, Munich

also means the entire design-and-build process

from the Caribbean culture of the neighbourhood

is faster, which makes things more fun as we’re

and its iconic carnival. “The design scheme is

Upcoming Openings: Ruby Zoe, London (2023); Ruby Giulia, Florence (2023); Ruby Molly, Dublin (2024)

able to see our vision progress quickly.”

inspired by the post-war period, which saw an

Efficiency is something that Ruby has

influx of Afro-Caribbeans,” says Balon. “The

championed from the outset, establishing a

district soon became a melting pot for characters

‘Lean Luxury’ philosophy that provides only the

and stories, with a spirit of generosity created by

essentials, like a comfortable bed, a good shower

those who came to call it home.” As such, Balon

and a vibrant bar, ensuring that guests aren’t

is hoping to provide a feel for what the place is

paying for unnecessary extras. But that doesn’t

all about, painting a picture for both Londoners

mean skimping on soul or character, far from it.

and international guests.

From a design perspective, the idea is to amplify

The locally inspired approach begins with

the essentials with layers of decoration that draw

the façade, which speaks to the surrounding

on the locale. “We’re always looking to tell a

vernacular using a clever two-tone skin.

story inspired by the location of a hotel,” Balon

“The building has an interesting method of

confirms. “And while there is a connecting factor

communicating with the area,” Balon explains.

between all of our sites – predominantly in the

“When viewing it from the Holland Park side, it

xxx

presents a neutral façade that references the Brutalist architecture of Notting Hill, but when viewed from the other side, it presents more of a playful look with coloured ceramic tiles that mirror the shades of Portobello Road.” The exterior also pays homage to the district’s musical heritage, with soundwave-like panels that “dance across the front of the structure” in the words of Balon, who reveals that Ruby’s design team

“We’re always looking to tell a story inspired by the location of a hotel. While there is a connecting factor between all of our sites, the public spaces provide an opportunity to try something new.”

loved the architectural concept so much, they decided to incorporate similar elements within guestroom panelling, as well as an installation of speakers and music-themed lighting fixtures.

through a piece of public art outside the ground floor

Music will take centre stage at the hotel’s bar too,

of the development, which will honour the traditions

which blends the pastel tones of the iconic street

of carnival and masquerade. Designed by British-

nearby with warm textures and sun-bleached surfaces

Trinidadian visual artist Zak Ové, the mosaic will bring

that tip their hat to island life. Building on Ruby’s

together hundreds of pieces of glass and tile, becoming

brand standard of having a performance stage within

a symbol for the Notting Hill neighbourhood. “We felt

each of its properties, Zoe will feature two podiums,

strongly that artwork should be integrated into the

where artists from the neighbourhood can tell their

building, sending a meaningful message that the whole

stories or play their songs. “The bar is the heart of

is greater than the sum of the parts,” Balon stresses.

our public spaces; it’s the first thing that guests see

The same message will be conveyed at Ruby Giulia in

when they enter any of our sites,” says Balon, adding

Florence, which presents a completely different climate,

that the space in Notting Hill will feature large picture

history and design world than in London. As such,

windows, plenty of greenery, and vintage furnishings

materials will be reflective of their surroundings, with

and materials that develop a natural patina over time.

many of the 19th-century building’s original features

“Our bars must channel a laidback atmosphere. We

preserved. “Some locations are more historically

want passers-by to look in from the street and feel

inspired,” explains Balon, stating that the traditional

comfortable coming inside for a drink, without the

Florentine arcades on the ground floor will allow for

impression it is exclusively designed for hotel guests.”

dramatic public spaces with high ceilings and loose

This sense of community will be championed

furnishings that harmonise with the city’s heritage.

043

MEETING…

“The bar is the heart of our public spaces; it’s the first thing that guests see when they enter any of our sites.”

The forthcoming Florence hotel will also house

opportunity to take that first step into different

a workspace, continuing the same philosophy

markets, though he is the first to admit that

as the brand’s core portfolio with the aim of

scaling up also brings with it the challenge of

using space efficiently and delivering on what

new regulations and ways of thinking. With this

guests really need. Stuttgart and Dublin will

in mind, could Ruby look to outsource the design

follow suit, learning from the blueprint set by

of its hotels? “We would never say never and it’s

Ruby Workspaces in Vienna, Munich, Dusseldorf,

certainly something we are keen to explore in

Hamburg and Amsterdam; the latter was Ruby’s

the future,” Balon confesses. “For now though,

fifth co-working space to-date, but the first

we must collaborate in ways that make sense for

to occupy the same structure as a Ruby hotel,

the way we work.”

offering 138 workstations across three floors.

Ruby

At Ruby Louise in Frankfurt (left) and Ruby Lilly in Munich (right), the interiors take cues from bygone eras, blending vintage furnishings and objects with more contemporary elements

Emma

in

Amsterdam’s

Passing the ten-year mark does however

Omval

mean that the group is starting to think about

neighbourhood also marked the operator’s first

refreshing its older properties. “Ruby Hotels is

re-flagging project, with the former QO hotel

still young, so it’s difficult to say for certain what

transformed into a Ruby property that takes its

the lifecycle of our hotels is,” Balon concludes.

visual cues from the area’s nautical history.

“We recently visited our first site in Vienna to

Likewise, a debut in Edinburgh in 2025 will

see what shape the project was in and whether

see the conversion and partial new construction

it stood the test of time. I can tell you I was

of three connected buildings on the city’s famous

surprised at how well it looked! That comes down

Princes Street, with 300 rooms and a 24/7 bar

to our core values of using quality materials, like

once again paying homage to the locale.

real wood and brass, which can develop a patina

With the group’s pipeline continuing to grow across Western Europe, Balon is relishing the

over time. They are perfectly imperfect, and that’s what we’re all about.”

© Gregor Hofbauer

044

Terrazza Collection

CONSIDERED DESIGN

THE LOBBY

Hang In There Bedouin tents have been a symbol of hospitality in the harsh

Inside, the tents feature a bed, armchair and private

terrain of the Arabic deserts for centuries, but suspending

bathroom, while mod-cons include an entertainment system

them between two rocky ridges is an entirely new prospect.

with WiFi access. Guests can also visit a spa at the top of

Hanging high above the mountains of Sharjah, Floating

the mountain, while down on the ground are a reception,

Retreat by Dubai-based Ardh Architects comprises a series

restaurant and concierge offering activities such as mountain

of tents, which rest on an architectural framework inserted

climbing, desert treks and cycling.

amidst adjacent cliffs. The platform is secured with criss-

“The pointed tops of the tents celebrate the past and

crossing, high-stress cables – much like a suspension bridge –

evoke a sense of adventure,” says Omran Alowais, founder of

to provide stability in windy conditions, with the pods using a

Ardh Architects, which is working with Shurooq Investment

motorised system to be raised and lowered according to guest

Company to explore new potentials in the hospitality

desires, leaving them suspended in mid-air.

industry. “These cliff-edge sleeping pods are typically built

Built to withstand the elements, the floating suites are

for professional climbers, but our proposal delivers them to

crafted from lightweight, breathable materials that have a

the general public. Floating Retreat is a new type of camping

minimum lifespan of five years, after which they could be

experience that allows travellers to connect with nature in

repurposed to create new products.

a way that is simply not possible within a concrete jungle.”

THE LOBBY

Great Things Will Grow

048

The bar is much more than a place to grab a drink.

one of these great things might be,” says Ruud

It’s a place to encounter, to have meaningful

Belmans, co-founder of WeWantMore, adding

conversations and even talk business. But at an

that the space featured a fragrance by EcoScent

exhibition representing the hospitality design

– offering notes of sandalwood, bergamot and

sector’s best and brightest, any old bar simply

citrus – as well as fixtures and furnishings from

won’t do, so why not grow one specifically for

Ege Carpets, Muuto, Hoad & More, Antalis, Elm

the occasion? That’s exactly what Belgian design

London and Wisdom Audio. Evo Design handled

studio WeWantMore did for the 2022 edition

the fit-out, producing an area that transformed

of HIX, collaborating with organic material

waste into an experimental installation that,

artist Côme Di Meglio and creative agency La

for Di Meglio, signifies the latest in a line of

Succulente to showcase the future of sustainable

myco-structures that connect spirituality and

design and highlight the potential of mycelium –

spatial experience with physical materiality.

an intertwining network of fungal threads.

“Mycelium has intrinsic sensory qualities

Embodying the show’s ‘Great Things Will

that creates a virtuous resonance within our

Grow’ theme, The Mush Room drew inspiration

bodies,” he explains. “I’ve been working with

from shapes and textures found on shells,

this material for four years, and applying my

illustrating the infinite source of inspiration that

research to the bar was the perfect embodiment

nature can be both aesthetically and structurally.

of my practice: hospitality and conviviality. With

“We felt it would be nice if the bar could literally

The Mush Room, the binding power of mycelium

be grown for the event, creating a link to the

was expressed through the human interactions

show while also providing an example of what

it nurtured.”

The Road Less Travelled “Our world is packed with incredible places. Places we often miss if we stick to the tourist trail,” states the introduction to Go Here Instead: An Alternative Travel List.

Published by DK Eyewitness Travel, the 224-page hardback features a comprehensive round-up of alternatives to the world’s most visited destinations, from the northern powerhouse giving London a run for its money, to the fun-filled festival taking the shine off Coachella, and the island blooms just as beautiful as Japan’s cherry blossoms.

The guidebook is divided into seven different types of trip: Architectural and Historical Sights, Festivals and Parties, Great Journeys, Architectural Marvels, Natural Wonders, Art and Culture and Cities. Alongside 100 entries, each focusing on an alternative to a wellknown spot, sight or experience, Go Here Instead offers impressive photography and stylised locator maps that pinpoint the alternative sights, experiences and destinations.

“You might have heard of a few of the places inside this book – when is anything completely off the beaten track? But we bet you’ll still find plenty of hidden gems to inspire your future travels,” concludes the introduction. “So don’t stick to what you know; take the road less travelled instead. The world is waiting.”

Custom Flooring. Integrated Millwork. Bespoke Furniture.

12/22/22 9:47 AM

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maderasurfaces.com

New York | Los Angeles

THE LOBBY

Idyllic Islands

© Prudence Cuming

A Kaleidoscope of Hope

050

British artist Damien Hirst has a longstanding

white canvasses, allowing the insects to hatch,

affiliation with Claridge’s. Having transformed

fly, mate and die throughout the installation.

its lobby during London’s Frieze Art Fair in 2019

Best viewed from the foot of the main

– filling the space with a collection of mythical

staircase, the mosaic upholds the legacy of the

sculptures that told the story of an ancient

artist’s Kaleidoscope series, bringing together a

shipwreck – the visionary returned to the hotel

mass of cerulean, scarlet and lilac glass pieces.

two years later for the launch of an art gallery,

The compositions reinforce Hirst’s deep-rooted

which showcased his very first NFT collection as

connection with butterflies, which in the past

well as whimsical works – including the iconic

has seen him turn real butterfly wings into

pipe cleaner animals and Colour Chart series –

dazzling mosaics. Since then, the artist has

available for purchase using cryptocurrency.

used the insects to address questions around

Continuing his collaboration with the property,

mortality, exploring the idea of life and death by

Hirst has topped its seven-storey staircase with

highlighting their iridescent beauty when both

a butterfly-inspired mosaic that seeks to capture

alive and dead.

the circle of life. Marking his debut in stained-

“I love Claridge’s, I love light and I love

glass, the skylight spans 8ft x 6ft and references

butterflies, so I was delighted when asked to

the artist’s use of butterflies as a form of beauty

design a stained glass window for the hotel’s

and tool of provocation; something that began

staircase,” says Hirst. “I love how it’s turned

in 1991 with his first solo exhibition, In and Out

out; I wanted to create an optimistic kaleidoscope

of Love, for which Hirst attached live pupae to

of hope and I think the result speaks for itself.”

“Cut off from the commotion of the mainland, surrounded by waves and the high drama of the elements, islands have been a Xanadu for centuries of writers’ and explorers’ most idyllic fantasies,” writes John Burns, Editor-inChief at Kinfolk, in the first of a new series that fosters thoughtful perspectives on the places we visit. Published by Artisan Books, the 256-page hardback takes readers on a journey off the beaten track, to islands big and small, through a collection of 18 new travel stories.

Burns has split the tome into three sections, each comprising six different destinations with a long-form essay: Escape transports the audience to otherworldly landscapes and ponders the meaning behind the buzzworthy term, ‘armchair traveller’; Explore stretches the definition of island to its boundaries, visiting islands that offer new perspectives on urban settings; and Unwind ventures to some of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, from bougainvillea-fringed Mediterranean sands to rugged and remote Nordic shores. Alongside considered destination coverage, Kinfolk Islands comprises 280 vibrant photographs and practical guidance for travellers, as well as thoughtful reflections on why the idea of an island embodies so many travel fantasies.

IMAGINE. DREAM. CREATE. D I S C O V E R U N L I M I T E D S H A D E C U S T O M I Z AT I O N .

START DESIGNING TODAY AT TUUCI.COM/SHADESTUDIO

Tuuci_creative_Sleeper_January_2023.indd 1

9-1-2023 14:37:28

O

ver the past few years, the global

At HIX 2022, the collective established a

hospitality industry has deftly navigated

student competition – focused exclusively on

a once-in-a-generation crisis, and

Ukraine – to envision the future of hospitality

through a process of adaptation, evolution and

design. Open to all Ukrainian architecture

innovation, the sector is returning stronger and

and interior design students, the competition

more dynamic than ever. But it’s important

provides entrants with access to mentorship

to recognise that not everywhere has bounced

lectures from the three judges covering numerous

back as quickly, and some – like the Ukrainian

aspects of the hospitality industry, with prizes

hospitality scene – are facing new challenges,

set to include internship opportunities at partner

such as war. Now is the time to use and share

studios. The resulting winners will be invited to

the lessons learnt from the pandemic to aid the

attend HIX 2023 and the AHEAD Europe 2023

recovery of the country’s hotel market in its time

awards ceremony, with Yotel hosting them for

of need.

the duration of their stay in London.

“War changes everything around you,” explains

“I have always been motivated by attracting

Ukrainian designer Yova Yager, who recently

the next generation of architects and designers

opened a new restaurant in Odessa despite

into the world of hospitality design and, to that

Hospitality, Not Hostility HIX teams up with a trio of hospitality designers to launch a collective dedicated to supporting the recovery of Ukraine’s hospitality industry.

052

the ongoing conflict. “You begin to appreciate

end, ReardonSmith Architects ran a European

what you always thought was a given – access

student award for a number of years,” says

to drinking water, the ability to communicate

Executive Chairman of the practice, Patrick

with loved ones and even to speak in a native

Reardon. “Our dedicated focus on architecture

language,” she explains. “But when the sirens

and design students in Ukraine, together with our

begin and people hide in bomb shelters, they

decision to expand our mission into a programme

continue to live, and, crucially, continue their

of mentoring for all students involved in the

education. At such times, the primary things

competition will, I believe, add greater value

become secondary; education may not save your

and demonstrate our support for the hopes of

life at a time of war, but it is a question to the

the Ukrainian people for a future where hostility

future: what comes after victory?”

will be replaced by hospitality.”

Building on this spirit of resilience, HIX has

Maria Vafiadis, founder and Managing Director

partnered with Yager, alongside London-based

of MKV Design, concludes: “All wars mean

firms ReardonSmith Architects and MKV Design

destruction. By contrast, architecture and design

to form Kindling – a design collective launched to

is about creation, and hospitality embodies the

support, showcase, elevate and mentor Ukrainian

act of bringing people together, bridging cultural

architecture and design students. Together, the

differences and giving people the chance to

trio of designers will foster hospitality excellence

engage in positive new experiences. Our aim

in all its forms, recognising the social value of

is to give Ukraine’s emerging architects and

design and the emerging talent that could drive

designers an opportunity to express themselves,

the reimagination of these spaces as centres of

learn and be part of a programme that looks to

cohesive, post-war communities.

their futures.”

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New A&D Centre open in Clerkenwell

© Ema

T

he return of leisure travel post-pandemic

architects, designers, contractors, consultants

has brought with it a greater demand

and end users – to partake in sustainability goals

for truly sustainable destinations, with

early in the design process. Everyone gets a seat

consumers becoming more critical of hotel

at the table, and this collaborative approach is

operation standards than ever before. Such shifts

key to locating cross-discipline synergies and

have forced hotel operators to step away from

solving problems in a project’s infancy.

greenwashing shortcuts and move towards more

It is time to stop looking at sustainable design

holistically sustainable practices. And while eco-

as being solely environmentally conscious and

resorts and incentivising reward systems have

start looking at it as a holistic design process.

kickstarted the transition towards a greener

The reality is that sustainable design is about

future, what’s next for hospitality could be a

building in harmony with the triple bottom line,

game changer, according to interior architect

a conceptual tool that aims to develop long-

Essraa Shaaban of Dubai-based studio Ema –

term sustainable businesses and measure their

which is committed to balancing human need,

success against three main factors: economic

economic requirements and environmental

impact, social impact and environmental

responsibility in every step of its hotel projects.

impact. Building design is not much different

An Integrative Process As the hotel sector goes green, Essraa Shaaban of Dubai-based studio Ema reveals why a collaborative approach will be key.

The hospitality market is one of the most

on a hypothetic level, so it can be used as a tool

challenging with regards to sustainability due

to push the eco-initiative forward in ways that

to the many moving parts at play – something

do not compromise the economy or the safety

that became more complex during times when

measures required in the past few years.

disposable products were a necessity for safety

Setting sustainability goals and addressing

reasons. But with the hotel sector on the mend,

them from the early stages of a project will

well-established developers and operators are

allow for the improvement of operational

striving towards more holistic sustainability

costs, guest comfort and the experience. This

goals, redefining the industry under the watchful

would consequently lighten the load on hotel

eye of a client base that is now more informed.

operations, resulting in a more holistic approach

When it comes to more holistically sustainable operations, the process does not start with hotel

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to sustainability and a hospitality sector that is deeply rooted in how hotels are integrally run.

operation; rather, it begins at the project’s

Sustainable design should not only operate

conception by getting all parties involved in

intuitively but also be informative; part of the

the initiative from the get-go. In recent years,

social impact design is to provide information to

we have seen a dramatic rise in collaborative

end users, and in hospitality this means helping

design across the industry and while challenging,

guests to understand their own responsibilities

this type of design process is vital in achieving

as well as how to behave in order to achieve

holistic industry goals. There is also now a

these environmental goals. The increase in

Credit Category within the LEED Rating system

collaborative design is creating a condition within

titled the Integrative Process, which calls for all

the industry that enables holistic hospitality to

stakeholders – including developers, operators,

grow and replace greenwashing on a large scale.

The Ritz-Carlton New York NOMAD A stellar line-up of designers join forces to create a new landmark in Manhattan, marking a new direction for Marriott’s classic luxury brand.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Björn Wallander (unless otherwise stated)

T

he 106th Ritz Carlton is part of the brand’s new direction.

Empire State Building views that can be utilised by the

It’s an evolution, not a revolution. “The Ritz-Carlton

adjacent events spaces. The podium is also home to Bazaar,

New York NoMad is a terrific proof point of our future

a fine-dining restaurant, and spa with polished shellac walls

vision,” explains Donna McNamara, Vice President and

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matching beautiful stone floors.

Global Brand Leader for Ritz-Carlton of the efforts to meet

Above are 219 guestrooms and 31 suites, plus sixteen

the needs of a changing luxury consumer in a thoroughly

one- and two-bedroom penthouse residences. Then comes

modern way. It is a view shared by Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos,

a rooftop bar with a small open terrace. Further up, high

President of real estate developer Flag Luxury Group, which

columns support mechanical rooms that mimic those on

now has five Ritz-Carlton hotels in its portfolio. “Eight years

intermediate levels at the base of the tower. The upshot is

ago, we set out to create the next generation of Ritz-Carlton

an uncommon lightness of structure.

in North America to attract a younger and more affluent

Guestrooms feature large picture windows framing a city

customer,” she posts on LinkedIn of the new property in this

of lights, stretching southwest between the Hudson and East

neighbourhood north of Madison Square Gardens.

Rivers. Some rooms have sunrise views of the Empire State

The structure itself, a slender tower of 50 storeys, is an

Building and further away the Chrysler Building. Cleverly,

all-new construction by Rafael Viñoly Architects. A gleaming

this vista is available to all through a cheeky horizontal slot

façade looks southwest over several fortuitously low-rise

window in the lift lobbies. Add in the nearby Flatiron building

Manhattan blocks. Viñoly has made the most of this. The

and guests have the landmarks of mid-Manhattan tourist

tower sits on a podium and with the guestrooms only starting

guides. But it is from the flower district a block away on 28th

on the eighth floor, they offer striking views of the city.

Street, choked with buckets of cut flowers and plants, that

Its position on a corner of Broadway, the boulevard that

the hotel draws its design narrative. “It feels exactly right

slices diagonally across the island’s rigorous midtown grid,

for the location,” quips McNamara, referencing other hotels

also results in a uniquely shaped plot. The L-shaped podium

in the portfolio in Mexico City, Amman and the Maldives as

creates a plaza, providing some welcome distance between

recent examples of the brand’s design evolution.

the hotel’s reception, lounge and bar and the bustling

The lobby vestibule here in New York City is a jungle

pavement. The Broadway corner element meanwhile engages

gangway of ferns and greenery to lift the spirits, with a small

directly with both streets and is home to a vibrant restaurant,

and discreet flower trolley beside the concierge stand set

attracting a strong local following. The set back of the tower

against more erudite botanical leitmotifs. Stepping past the

on the podium generates space for Madison Terrace, offering

petal-like Cirrus crystal screens designed by Yabu Pushelberg

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© Michael Kleinberg

Envisioned by Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio, the lobby lounge features an organic-shaped chandelier by Canadian designer Randall Zieber, beyond which is a jungle-like bar

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and manufactured by Lasvit, large artworks

small sharing plates like the pops of blues in

by Ross Bleckner and Donald Baechler bring

the design. “We have put the influence of the

waterlily canvases into a lounge area. Above and

Mediterranean menu into the interior design,”

representative of falling petals are light fittings

explains Angeline Yang, Associate and Senior

by Canadian designer Randall Zieber.

Interior Designer at Rockwell Group, pointing

Beyond this is the bar, another jungle of green

to countless examples. Columnar effects are

hangs from the ceiling, where it is joined by

reminders of Greece, as symbolic as the uplit

a capacious organic-shaped chandelier also by

olive trees reigning over a central banquette

Zieber. This whole lounge area was designed by

seating arrangement upholstered in a collage

Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio and adjacent to the

of four different blue fabrics. Custom-made

bar is the firm’s tour de force – a huge light

blue-black porcelain tiles by Imagine Tile are

fitting formed of lamella-like fins that floats

“inspired by a Gio Ponti design that mimics

lightly on the ceiling. The blooming analogy

an olive within an olive leaf”, advances Yang.

continues with a colourful mosaic pixelated

Clusters of fabric chandeliers are painted with

floor pattern of oversized flowers.

archaeological, livestock and foliage imagery.

Other public areas are given their own

These illustrations were developed internally

expression and see an A-list roster of designers

by Rockwell Graphics and then handpainted

involved. On the ground floor, Rockwell

by Alpha Workshop, a non-profit organisation

Group leads the way at Zaytinya, a restaurant

just a few blocks away, dedicated to helping

accessible from the lobby or its own separate

those with disabilities via art education and

street entrance. Spanish Chef José Andrés is

employment. The soft curves of these interior

responsible for all aspects of the hotel’s F&B,

elements, white oak and macramé wall

and his mezze menu is a joy to behold, its

hangings, offset the angularity of the building.

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At rooftop bar Nubelez, Martin Brudnizki Design Studio has maximised the views of the city using varying seating heights and low shelving behind the bar

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The eye-catcher of Zaytinya, meaning olive

stone bar do not miss out. Aside from the gold

oil in Turkish, is the bar. A spray of blue-

effect, colour tones are limited to red and teal,

green glass discs arcs up and over the counter

except for in the step-up private booths. Here

with its beautifully chiselled front. The two-

are plush, deep-red velvet upholstery and a

tone modules are hand-blown with a subtle

woven, peacock feather wallcovering which, like

bubble-effect by West Coast fabricators, Savoy,

the blinds, help with acoustics. All seatcoverings

and reference the protective Evil Eye. They are

are dressed in red tones but in four different

reflected in the enamelled finish of the lava

fabrics including leather and mohair. This

stone countertop by Pyrolave of France in a

detailed layering, as well as the use of rounded

bespoke blue colour. At the joint between the

shapes – including the circular brass chandeliers

shades of each disc is a lighting element that

by Bluebird Lighting from California – juxtapose

allows for a noticeable diurnal change.

the modernity of the architecture too. That and

Up top, Martin Brudnizki Design Studio

the endearing 1950s-style pink dresses worn by

has maximised the 270-degree view from the

the waitresses, bring a happy vibe to this proper

Nubeluz bar that runs the full length of the

bar with its grown-up cocktails. Truly a star

building. “The view is the king,” explains

in the sky.

Associate Luke Garcia, motioning to the

In between these two is Bazaar, yet to open at

furniture arrangement orientated towards the

the time of review but set to be part of Andrés

full-length windows. Each window is topped

portfolio, which includes nearly 30 restaurants

with faux, ruched, relaxed Roman blinds.

and four Michelin stars. Designed also by Lázaro

Selected seating heights ensure all guests get

Rosa-Violán Studio, Bazaar follows the firm’s

the view, while low and open shelving behind

sophisticated, layered and atmospheric style.

the bar means that those sat at the backlit onyx

Upholstery and drapes at the high windows

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are in warm colour tones with ornamentation,

stretches around a corner, its branchy geometry

patterning and texture at the fore.

rooting it to the background, balancing the

Guestrooms are suave spaces with the crisp

unfinished flower of Ross Bleckner’s artwork

modernity of a limited colour and materials

across the Maya Romanoff wood wallcovering.

palette of brown-grey tones seen in leather,

The leather headboards were produced in

wood, stone and lustrous metals. The focal point

Italy and are totally integrated, including

is that view again. The sophisticated interiors

recessed reading lamps. Adjacent are Pinedo’s

by Cristian Pinedo at Sussurus International,

rocky nightstands. Massif and made from dark

described as the project’s Chief Creative Officer

Nero Marquina marble, they appear to float but

by Olarte de Kanavos, are a worthy match.

in fact rest on recessed reflective black bases.

Pinedo plays subtly with the flower

Their mitred edges are a delight of precision,

association through “beauty but also contrast,

crafted by Indonesian manufacturer Saniharto.

asymmetrical yet balanced and harmonious

Matching this solidity and lightness are solid

compositions”. The bed set-up is a perfect

stone basins, at a pleasing above-average

example. “A daring asymmetrical composition

height, within four-piece bathrooms lined with

with the artwork completely to one side, leaving

lighter and darker marble terrazzo.

the centre empty for the petals of the pendant

In a city of world-renowned landmark

lamp, ready to be blown away with the breeze,”

buildings, Viñoly’s architecture now stands out

describes Pinedo. Hanging from high ceilings

amongst them. The evolving, locally centred

are interlinked hoops of light, Pinedo’s petals. A

design concept realised at The Ritz-Carlton

canopy installation by Extra Ordinario includes

New York NoMad by a taskforce of visionary

two cleverly hidden adjustable pin lights to

designers has the chance to do the same in a

spotlight artworks. A mirror screen meanwhile

city of luxury hotels.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Flag Luxury Group Operator: Marriott International, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Architecture: Rafael Viñoly Architects Interior Design: Lázaro Rosa-Violán, Rockwell Group, Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, Susurrus International www.ritzcarlton.com

SCAN ME! Working in close collaboration with the professional team, BECK are delighted to have been the main contractor on NoMad London. To find out more, please contact Vanessa Budd: vbudd@beckinteriors.com

064

Aethos ERICEIRA Aethos is designed to appeal to surfers with a taste for the finer things in life, though a passion for the waves isn’t a prerequisite for check-in.

Words: Elly Earls • Photography: © Pion Studio (unless otherwise stated)

W

hen entrepreneurs Benjamin Habbel and Jeffrey Coe decided to create a high-end hotel in Ericeira – declared Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve

in 2011 – they wanted to appeal to a specific demographic, drawn to the fishing village not for its idyllic whitewashed houses or delicious seafood, but for its world-class waves.

Unlike the majority of hospitality business owners in the small town 40 minutes north of Lisbon though, they weren’t after the typical “barefoot, backpacking surfers”, as Ala Zreigat, interior designer and co-founder of Barcelonabased Astet Studio puts it. This demographic is already well served with hostels and guesthouses, many even bring their own accommodation with them, setting up campervans in car parks, campsites and on cliff edges along the rugged coastline. Aethos was to cater to surfers who appreciated – and could afford – a more refined experience after their session on the open water.

With surfing such an integral part of the Ericeira lifestyle, Zreigat and Portuguese architect Luis Pedra Silva did everything they could to ensure guests feel connected to the ocean through the design of the property, capturing the textures, diversity and spirit of its surroundings. The first order of business was to open up the interiors of the building, which was originally conceived as a rehabilitation centre back in the ‘90s but has since sat unused. Where once there were segregating walls is now a double-volume lobby, with tall arched windows announcing the proximity of the waves

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© Francisco Nogueira

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immediately upon arrival. “There’s a sense of serenity when you’re in the lobby and looking out at the ocean through the huge windows,” reveals Zreigat. It is quite the welcome.

The designer also wanted guests to experience that connection to the water the minute they walk into their room, and so optimised views from the floor-to-ceiling windows – some dual aspect – allowing plenty of daylight to pour in.

“The rooms are airy, open and casual, and the furniture is minimal with no clutter,” he says, adding that glimpses of the surroundings can be seen from every angle; mirrored headboards reflect the ocean while the bathroom layout enables guests to shower with a direct view of the sea. “We looked to bring the views in and blur the lines between inside and out,” he continues. “All the views that you can see, even when showering, are the same as you would have if you sat on the terrace.”

As the best waves in Ericeira come when summer is winding down, the rooms and the public areas are designed for year-round

067

occupancy. “One of the challenges was making

property to be a gathering place for Lisbonites,

the hotel work for every season, but we solved

locals and other travellers. Entrepreneurs can

this by proposing a dialogue between cold and

share ideas over the co-working table, and

warm materials,” explains Zreigat. “We wanted

the entire property is designed to encourage

it to feel fresh and cool during the summer and

socialising, from the pool with its enormous

cosy and warm in winter.”

day beds to the lobby with its many different

A laid-back yet elevated scheme defines the

seating areas. The menu at Aethos’ restaurant,

lounge area of the multi-purpose lobby; leather

Onda – translated as wave – is also curated

sofas and deep-pile rugs balance out cold stone

for sharing. Guests won’t forget the delights

floors, while white porcelain tiles contrast with

of Executive Chef Afonso Blazquez in a hurry;

a ceiling of natural fibre panels. “Wherever you

worth a mention are the smoked eel burger and

are, you feel like this could be a summer or a

cured mackerel with coriander puree. Dinner is

winter setting,” Zreigat stresses.

also wont to continue into the night, spilling out

Surf enthusiasts will not only appreciate

The decision to create more of an upmarket

wetsuits but can also tap into the expertise

offering was something of a gamble in this

of surf conceirge Joana Andrade, the only

setting; Habbel and Coe could see that Ericeira

Portuguese woman to ride the skyscraper-sized

was growing in popularity, but had no way of

waves at nearby Nazare, who is on hand year

knowing whether that would translate into

round to deliver lessons to guests of all levels

demand for the property they had in mind. Fast

and offer tips on where to find the best waves.

forward to the hotel’s opening in late summer

Of course, surfing is not a prerequisite for a

2022 and they needn’t have worried. Ericeira

stay at Aethos. Habbel and Coe also want their

068

onto the ocean-facing terrace.

the hotel’s individual storage for boards and

was ready.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Limestone Capital Operator: Aethos Architecture: Pedra Silva Arquitectos Interior Design: Astet Studio Signage: Bindopor Landscaping: Topiaris Main Contractor: Novos Construtores Project Manager: Massiv Bau www.aethoshotels.com

Proud to play our part in the conversion and restoration of some of London’s most significant hospitality projects

Clockwise from top: The OWO / Raffles London, Rosewood London, NoMad London, Kimpton Fitzroy and The Ned www.epr.co.uk

W Dubai – Mina Seyahi DUBAI Stickman Tribe and Blink Design Group bring the Arabic tradition of storytelling to a new hotel on Jumeirah Beach.

Words: Ben Thomas Photography: © Owen Raggett

W

hen entering a hotel room, it’s not often you are greeted by a chocolate viper head and a mock-up magazine starring your portrait as the cover shot,

but at W Hotels, they like to do things differently.

Having debuted on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah in 2019, applying its energetic ethos to an area of the city dotted with similarly lavish resorts, the brand has now made its mark on the Mina Seyahi district, paying homage to the Middle East through a locally rooted design scheme.

Situated on an offshoot of Sheikh Zayed Road, the 31-storey structure harmonises with its glitzy counterparts but in fact speaks a different architectural language, soaring above the marina with an exterior by architecture firm Aedas that nods to the city’s rich seafaring history of pearling, fishing and boat-building. “The concept is inspired by Dubai’s strong relationship with the sea, and by local craftsmanship of boat-building fused with biomimicry,” says Aedas’ Global Design Principal Ignacio Gomez, adding that the roof of the tower forms a graceful swooping shape of the dhow – a traditional two-masted sailing boats used for trading goods and fishing activities – to reinforce the nautical theme, while the steel and aluminium façade shimmers gold in the sun to create a mirage-like effect.

Arabian influences permeate through the arrival experience too, with a giant sculptural tree flanking the hotel’s approach, a tribute to the Al Hakawati book – said to be the book of the storyteller – greeting guests at the entrance, and a seductive snakeskin floor providing a path to the reptileinspired reception area. Adding to the rich layers of visual

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The W Lounge features a cosy bar with a jungle-chic aesthetic, brought to life by rainforest wallpaper, feline figurines and lampstands shaped like snakes

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tapestry, the lobby channels the atmosphere of

rear of the space, a cosy bar takes on a jungle

a Middle Eastern souk through warm tones and

chic aesthetic, with rainforest wallpaper, feline

gold accents, while a flying carpet explodes into

figurines that honour the Arabian leopard, and

a crystal chandelier, and a seating area takes

lampstands shaped like vipers. And stepping

cues from the halqas – or storytellers’ circles –

outside, the wildlife theme continues in the

that brought people together in days gone by.

form of a larger-than-life scorpion sculpture,

“We wanted to open up the pages of the

while Arabic heritage is imbued through

history book, with each area telling the story

canopies above the bar and seating areas that

of the location,” says Marcos Cain, founder

mirror the shape of tagine dishes.

of Stickman Tribe, the Dubai-born studio

But perhaps the most captivating artform

entrusted with envisioning the hotel’s ground

on street level is a beaded installation that

floor spaces. “Our aim was to be culturally and

arches above the hotel’s retail outlet, which

regionally aware, so we conducted research on

features names of the stories from the book

local fauna and flora, as well as indigenous

One Thousand and One Nights – another nod

reptiles and animals, and landmark locations

to storytellers of the Middle East. “The ground

like the city’s Old Souk – where gold, spices and

floor has a whimsical approach, with an eclectic

textiles have been traded for hundreds of years.

mix of colours, materials and finishes that

In every space, guests will quickly get the idea

reference the regional culture,” Cain explains,

they are in the UAE.”

noting that Stickman Tribe sought to create a

The same principles were applied to The

crescendo of elements that unified each zone.

W Lounge, where a striking oryx sculpture

“Ultimately, the thread that knits the design

rises above a central leather banquette, black

together contains five key pillars: storytelling,

marble flooring and winged armchairs. To the

poetry, art, history and tradition.”

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In the lobby, the reception area pays homage to the Saharan Viper, while a curved bead installation nods to the famous Arabic book One Thousand and One Nights

This quintet of inspiration was also in the mind of Blink Design Group, which “channelled its alter ego” for the property’s signature restaurant, guestrooms and spa according to founder and Creative Partner, Clint Nagata.

“With signature restaurant Ginger Moon, we wanted to create a beachless beach club,” says Nagata. “It’s barefoot luxury on steroids; somewhere guests can walk around without their sandals amidst a tropical theme featuring driftwood-like columns and handcarved elements.”

Returning to the wider theme, the 318 guestrooms and 27 suites tap into the ancient Arabic storytelling tradition of Al-Halqa, while at the same time referencing the traditional dhow boats that would dock in the Mina Seyahi port – or the ‘Port of Travellers’ as it is otherwise known – when the area was a hub for the copper trade during ancient times.

Before guests reach their rooms, the transition experience from public to private space takes them on an intriguing journey down a dark, moody corridor, which plays on the art of celestial navigation and its significance before the days of GPS. This creates a dramatic interplay with the lightfilled guestrooms, where floor-to-ceiling windows – neatly framed by Forest Group’s CS and KS curtain tracks – reveal views of the harbour below. Nowadays, modern vessels now throng the jetties, though Blink did pay tribute to the voyaging boats of old through headboards that evoke sails.

Other locally inspired touches include Arabian lighting that hangs by the bed to cast sunset tones over the neutral wall finish, as well as a shimmering fringe veil that tips its hat to the Arab Islamic culture of long floating abaya robes. “Our goal was to give the rooms a local feel, with touchpoints based on the hotel’s location within the city,” says Nagata.

“Historically, this part of town was a port, so we fused references to the dhow with the essence of storytelling.”

The pièce de résistance of Blink’s scheme is the 160m2 E-Wow Suite on the 30th floor, where Nagata and his team were given free rein with the visual narrative. In keeping with the hotel’s aesthetic, they explored the centuries-old souk

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battles of poetry, where the winner would have

In amongst these bursts of creative chaos,

their words written in golden ink and hung at

it was equally important for the hotel to offer

the gates of Mecca. Putting this thread of history

a place of sanctuary that turns the whimsical

into practice, the firm incorporated golden

experience down a notch while retaining the

fixtures – including a bedside chest reminiscent

soul of storytelling and the spirit of the souk.

of a traveller’s trunk – and a lighting feature

The result is Bar-B Spa, an escapism-inducing

that flows like calligraphy. Such details are set

space on level 30, for which Blink drew from the

against a sunset-inspired colour palette and an

mythical landscapes and creatures gracing the

intricately crafted marquetry panel that echoes

pages of One Thousand and One Nights.

the storytelling ethos apparent throughout.

076

Taking centre stage here is a deep green

Adhering to the W brand’s typically audacious

manicure counter that doubles as a working bar

brand standards, the E-Wow Suite is also fit to

– above which hang a series of Murano-style,

host a get-together, with a bar that doubles as

organically shaped glass pendants that glisten

a DJ station and a living area separated from

in the light – while in more private areas like

the two bedrooms by an airlock concept created

the couple’s treatment room, design details

using pressed metal embossed with poetic

such as fairy-tale lighting and leopard print

words. Acoustically, this means residents can

wallcoverings speak to the wider theme.

throw a party in the living area while people

“Through the notion of storytelling, the

sleep quietly on the other side of the wall. They

owners wanted to create something fresh both

can also head one floor up to newly opened

for Dubai and the W brand,” says Nagata. It

rooftop bar and lounge, Attiko, which travels

appears that their objective has been achieved,

further afield to Asia for its verdant aesthetic;

with guests flocking through the doors to

think lush greenery and an earthy palette.

discover what the mystical bazaar has to offer.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Wasl Hospitality & Leisure Operator: Marriott International Architecture: Aedas Interior Design: Stickman Tribe, Blink Design Group Landscaping: Terra Firma Main Contractor: Dubai Contracting Company Fit-out Contractor: Dutco Interiors www.w-hotels.marriott.com

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Mandarin Oriental Palace LUCERNE Swiss firm Iwan Bühler Architekten and London-based interior designers Jestico + Whiles bring about a new chapter in the life of a century-old lakeside palace.

Words: Mary Lussiana • Photography: © George Apostolidis (unless otherwise stated)

I

used to come here as a child to visit my grandfather,”

life of the palace. The iconic chequerboard terrazzo

says Marco-Antonio Diemer, Director of Marketing

marble flooring, the scagliola columns and the stucco-

at Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne as we tuck

adorned walls have all been carefully restored, as has

into scones and a pot of Lapansi Antlers white tea

the hotel’s original colour palette of terracotta, rich

at the newly opened property in Switzerland. On

greens and chalk whites, inspired by Bucher’s journeys

the other side of the windows, at the edge of Lake

around the Mediterranean. It is a fitting homage to

Lucerne, people stroll down the avenue of chestnut

this legendary man, who brought both hotels and the

trees, leaves already golden in the autumn sun, as

railway to Lucerne.

the water glistens beyond. Just as it would have when

But it is not just the presence of Bucher found in the

Hotel Palace, as it was then, first opened in 1906. And

details here, for under the curation of Visto, many of

again when Diemer came to visit.

the 74 modern art pieces lend weight to the sense of

History and heritage have been central to the

place. It may be in the pattern of the rugs in many of

renovation of this lakeside palace. That and its promise

the rooms by Swiss company Tisca, which has created

of excellence, built on a reputation of a century and

an abstract interpretation of light and colour rippling

more, all of which have resulted in a continuity across

across the water. Or the hand-tufted rug by Tai Ping

the generations as families grow up and return, keen

in the Presidential Suite, which resembles the pattern

to add another layer of memories to the rich mix.

of densely packed feathers on the wing of a swan – the

It was exactly what Swiss entrepreneur Franz Josef

logo of Lucerne. Or perhaps the sculpture of thinly

Bucher, who built the Belle Époque hotel, dreamt of

sliced mica by Christina Watka, cascading across the

when he said upon its completion: “Now I want people

wall behind the reception area to create reflections

to experience what I have done.”

of light. The slices echo the shapes of the dappled

And Bucher has not been forgotten in this renovation,

light as it moves across Lake Lucerne, with the form

with local architects Iwan Bühler Architekten and

of the whole installation mimicking that of the lake

London-based interior designers Jestico + Whiles –

it overlooks. And just to emphasise the point, across

responsible for Hotel Villa Honegg just across the

the room in one of the many historical paintings is

lake – both respecting his original vision in the five

a rendition in oil paint of the same glistening lake.

years it took them to bring about a new chapter in the

078

In the 136 bedrooms, small brass crosses in the

© James McDonald

079

In the guestrooms, crosses on the joints of bespoke wooden furniture nod to the Chinese art of cabinetry – representing Mandarin Oriental’s roots – as well as the Swiss cross

joints of bespoke wooden furniture nod to the

than marble. Every single detail was considered,

Chinese art of cabinetry – to represent Mandarin

with quality being paramount. We felt as though

Oriental’s roots – as well as the Swiss cross.

we were custodians of the building, respectfully

Carrying the attention to detail right across the

breathing new life into the faded palace to

board are a selection of local apples grown in the

ensure she flourished for the next century.”

sunny hills close to Lucerne. Guests can gaze out

The design brief evolved for Jestico +

from their balcony whilst munching on the fruit

Whiles once Mandarin Oriental became

as they soak up vistas of the lake and Mount

involved, necessitating an adherence to brand

Pilatus beyond, a view which many rooms are

standards while still leaving room for the

blessed with. The colours of the natural world

group’s trademark touch of slight irreverence.

outside are also reflected in the interiors, from

Unlike so many designers whose work is

the oak parquet floor to the palette of muted

immediately recognisable, Jestico + Whiles

pistachio and dusky coral. And throughout,

revels in shapeshifting across its deliberately

a mix of old and new ranges from restored

diverse range of projects. This ensures, as the

heritage window frames to contemporary

firm reacts to the specific context of each,

furniture produced by family-run Italian brand

that it brings a freshness and authenticity to

Molteni&C.

every piece of work it undertakes, rather than

“The whole design was a matter of marrying

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imposing a tried and tested format.

elegance with longevity,” explains Jennifer de

The biggest change that Jestico + Whiles

Vere-Hopkins, Associate Director at Jestico +

oversaw at the property, which impacts on

Whiles. “Thinking about how this hotel would

arrival, was the relocation of the main door.

continue to stand the test of time, we used

The previous entrance, which led into the centre

materials that would last, like granite rather

of the hotel from the town, has gone. Now, the

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entrance is at one end of the palace, meaning

Colonnade restaurant will offer modern French

guests arrive in by the reception and benefit

haute cuisine, while the intimate six seats

from the impressively long vista of gleaming

at Minamo will deliver a Japanese omakase

marble and rust-red columns in front of them,

experience. Both are opening in Spring 2023.

around which swirl the hotel’s bespoke scent of edelweiss, lavender, citrus and bergamot.

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Outside on the terrace meanwhile, Quai 10 is all about lakeside views and al fresco

Edelweiss is also the hero of the Bellefontaine

dining with Mediterranean cuisine at its heart.

spa, where the steam room comes clad in hand-

The recently opened MOzern Bar & Brasserie

cut Tuscan Cipollino marble, white Carrara

was buzzing at the time of review; waiters

marble and grey granite. Here, treatments use

navigating the original burnt umber scagliola

Swiss-made Bellefontaine, whose anti-ageing

columns beneath a vast chandelier, which

approach and research into the fight against

throws light onto the central circular bar and

free radicals is persuasive. Drawing on pure

rich walnut and wicker furniture. With its high

water from Alpine glaciers and extract from the

ceilings, brass accents and moss green walls,

edelweiss flower, the brand has created a range

Belle Époque charm radiates from the space.

of treatments befitting of this location.

Asian accented all-day dining includes sharing

And finally, there are the restaurants. No

dishes of steamed bao buns, crispy duck rolls

self-respecting Mandarin Oriental would offer

and raclette cheeseburgers of Swiss beef, but

anything less than excellence in its restaurants,

save room for the MOzern noodles. Neither

renowned as they are for the number of

Chow Mein nor Pad Thai, according to the

Michelin stars they have garnered globally. In

menu, rather something seriously good created

Lucerne, four are promised under the patronage

in Lucerne with a nod to the Far East. A bit like

of Executive Chef Gilad Peled. The gourmet

Mandarin Oriental Palace itself.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: First Swiss Hotel Collection Operator: Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Architecture: Iwan Bühler Architekten Interior Design: Jestico + Whiles Lighting Design: Lichtteam Art Consultant: Visto Procurement: Invita Landscaping: SKK Project Manager: Itten+Brechbühl www.mandarinoriental.com

We know hotels.

A one-of-a-kind residence where comfort through the renowned DUX Bed and DUX furniture are key.

The DUXIANA is our hotel in Malmö, Sweden, where we showcase the very best of our furniture and service. ®

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The world’s prestigious hotels trust DUX for their guests’ comfort. ®

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We believe the greatest luxury of all is a good night’s sleep. Hotels around the world choose DUX to give their guests the best sleep experience.

These hotels know that their customers expect the highest level of comfort and luxury when they travel. ®

Our beds are designed to provide the ultimate sleeping experience, with a balanced combination of premium materials, expert craftsmanship and decades of sleep research and measurement.

We’re serious about sleep.

In addition to providing unparalleled comfort, our beds are also designed with durability and longevity in mind. They are built to withstand the rigours of constant use in a hotel setting, and are made to last for many years with minimal maintenance.

Designed as a modular solution, if a component needs replacing or upgrading, only that part is changed. Better for you, and the planet.

Entrusting DUX to deliver a great night’s sleep is an investment not only in the longevity and comfort of your beds, but your total guest experience. ®

A heritage of world-class furniture design.

Jetson Chair This iconic easy chair, designed by Bruno Mathsson, reflects Swedish modern design and Mathsson’s obsession with comfort, with its bowl-shaped seat and ergonomically designed high back.

Karin Chair This classically elegant armchair was designed by Bruno Mathsson in 1969 and was the first item of furniture in a successful collaboration that lasted for several decades. Comfortable stuffed cushions rest on a chromeplated frame with supporting web.

Ritzy 3-seater An elegant 3-seater sofa for the home or office.

DUX Pascal spring-core seat cushions provide optimal seating comfort.

Introduced in black, brown and cognac fullgrain aniline leather with stainless steel legs. ®

Alicia Alicia is a modern sofa system with Italian lines and Swedish comfort. It is one of our favourites, built in different sizes on one base, with a backrest and cushions. The sofa also features a choice of slim or wide armrests which can be topped with, or without, marble or wood.

We know hotels.

A one-of-a-kind residence where comfort through the renowned DUX Bed and DUX furniture are key.

The DUXIANA is our hotel in Malmö, Sweden, where we showcase the very best of our furniture and service. ®

®

®

Capelongue BONNIEUX Interiors agency Jaune presents a modern riff on tradition at Beaumier’s new French outpost, where escapism and elegance are offered in equal measure.

Words: Sarah Leigh Bannerman Photography: © Charlotte Lindet

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rovence is famed for its rolling hills,

stone architecture, imperfect shape and timber

quaint villages and abundant vineyards,

shutters provided the blueprint for Studio

but now there’s a new reason to visit.

Arch, the architecture firm behind the newer

Capelongue, the latest addition to Beaumier’s

buildings in the cluster. All mimic the original

French portfolio, opened its doors last summer

and respect the region’s longstanding aesthetic

on a hilltop spot in the picturesque commune

in a way that’s unnoticeable to the untrained

of Bonnieux. Void of neighbours closer than a

eye. This is what gives Provence and Capelongue

15-minute walk away, its position alone omits

their charm. There’s nothing glossy here.

an alluring sense of escapism and encourages

Everything about the space is reflective of its

complete departure from everyday life. For

surroundings and feels evocative of an ancient

those in search of calm, Capelongue offers a

French farmhouse.

retreat in the most literal sense of the word.

Interiors present a modern riff on tradition

The vast estate is currently home to 37 rooms

that’s in keeping with Beaumier’s sister

and suites, and further expansion is on track

properties; considered luxury and impeccable

for the coming years. Guests who wake early

taste are rooted in the brand DNA. Paula Alvarez

enough for sunrise will be privy to a cloud of

de Toledo and Marine Delaloy – the creative duo

mist ascending from the depths of the valley.

of interiors agency Jaune – are the masterminds

Night owls can stargaze as darkness cloaks the

behind the look, which brings the outside in

sky, spotlighting nature’s constellations against

using exposed stone, ochre and terracotta.

the soft soundtrack of crickets. Both are worth

“Provence is very familiar to us,” says Alvarez

being outside for.

de Toledo. “We’re native so we have a strong

The oldest of Capelongue’s buildings dates back to the 18th century. Its sandy coloured

attachment to its crafts. The furnishings are inspired by memories from our childhoods.”

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Bringing elements of the outdoors in, the hotel’s rustic design scheme fuses exposed stone with earthy tones like ochre and terracotta

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Curvaceous design elements mimic the

Expansive photography books and dried

shapes of the surrounding landscape and

flowers decorate the smooth marble centre

infiltrate every room. Thonet chairs, tables and

table, not just in vases but tied in clusters

barstools in the café are rounded, as are mirror

and attached to walls. It adds an element of

edges, lampshades and ceramics used to serve

texture and brings to mind the region’s famous

hot drinks and daily bakes. By contrast, slim

lavender fields. In the grounds, wisteria, olive

rectangular wall tiles and decorative strips of

trees, rosemary bushes and bursts of pistachio

timber at the doors of each storage cabinet

green continue the theme, lining the stone path

run in horizontal lines. Juxtaposing shapes

to one of two pools. Potted citrus trees pepper

are at play. “Much of the furniture has been

the courtyard and vines wind their way up the

bought from Éditions Midi,” Alvarez de Toledo

garden walls.

explains. “The founder Jérémie du Chaffautis

Every room boasts a similar aesthetic and

is also a Provence native. We wanted to work

consistency throughout the property is clear.

with local artisans and materials to restore the

Subtle commonalities surpass aesthetic. The

original spirit of the estate.”

lampshades used in several common areas, for

The most Instagram-worthy room meanwhile

example, were sourced from the same basket-

can be found through an archway in the wall.

maker in Salernes who provided the mirrors in

Purely decorative save for a winding spiral

the bathrooms. Each vanity unit is handmade

staircase that leads to a corridor of guestrooms,

by Jaune and pendant lamps have been selected

it is home to a cavernous white wall of cubby

from La Vannerie Pascal Lafon’s collection.

holes in varying sizes. Each is filled with a

Artwork chosen by architecture and branding

different ceramic, some of which are locally

studio Saint-Lazare adds an element of

sourced or antique.

differentiation and some bedrooms feature

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unique design touches, but this isn’t the kind

The restaurant plans are inspired by an old

of place where each space has been designed

sheepfold – another nod to local traditions and

differently to the next.

the fruit of Provence’s land. Cooking will take

There’s confidence in the aesthetic choices,

place on an open fire, the goal being to create

and duly so. Bright and airy, spacious and

a homely atmosphere befitting to the French

considered with hero furniture pieces in a mix

countryside. The on-site herb garden and

of materials – every area feels calming without

vineyard will undoubtedly be put to optimum

being sterile. The warmth of terracotta and oak

use too.

offsets concrete bathtubs and lime plaster walls,

Beaumier’s plans for Capelongue don’t

while handmade tiles bring individuality among

stop there. In 2024, the hotel will welcome

the uniform.

the addition of a further 57 rooms. The two

It’s a look that’s planned to continue as phase two of the property development commences

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outdoor swimming pools will remain, as will the communal areas and courtyard.

in 2023. 16 new rooms will replace the current

Not just a picture-postcard example of

restaurant and spill across the gardens, the

considered hotel design but also a showcase

restaurant will be moved to where the spa and

of how aesthetics can enhance, as well as play

gym has been located until now, and the latter

into their surroundings, Capelongue is the kind

will be repositioned accordingly. Naturally,

of place that guests leave feeling a whole lot

Jaune will be pivotal to the design plans. “The

calmer than when they arrived. Jaune’s clever

new spa will be more streamlined and minimal

combination of colour and natural materials,

in its look than the current one,” says Alvarez

coupled with the property’s rural surroundings,

de Toledo. “We will use much of the same

invoke a feeling of escapism while staying true

materials as we have elsewhere.”

to Beaumier’s established take on luxury.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Beaumier Architecture: Studio Arch Interior Design: Jaune Art Consultant: Saint-Lazare www.beaumier.com

EVENT SPACE AT THE PARK LANE HOTEL, NEW YORK CITY DESIGNED BY YABU PUSHELBERG CARPET DETAILS 100% NYLON, DYE-INJECTED IN USA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIAN GAUT

WWW.CREATIVEMATTERSINC.COM LABEL STEP PARTNER – IMPROVING THE WORKING AND LIVING CONDITIONS OF CARPET WEAVERS, AS WELL AS PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY METHODS OF PRODUCTION.

CM_SLEEPER MAG AD_DEC 2022_FA.indd 1

2022-12-18 10:45 PM

&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge TANZANIA African culture and a wildlife-rich environment provide the inspiration for a new lodge in the western reaches of the Serengeti.

Words: Lauren Jade Hill • Photography: © Andrew Morgan

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parse woodland and vast grasslands dotted with acacia trees span Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, home to herds of zebra, wildebeest and impala that are stalked

by resident predators including the ecosystem’s thriving lion prides. Giraffes stand out on the horizon and a cornucopia of birdlife – from the tawny eagle to iridescent starlings and long-legged, flamboyantly feathered secretary bird – bring life to every patch of the East African wilderness.

And it is here that Grumeti Game Reserve occupies more than 400m2 of land. Within this sprawling oasis lies &Beyond

Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge, nestled in a wooded area on the banks of the river. Pods of hippos and solitary crocodiles inhabit this body of water, with open plains and pockets of forest stretching out to the horizon beyond.

Originally built in the early 1990s, the lodge has undergone an extensive rebuild after the Grumeti River burst its banks and flooded the property in April 2020. Having worked on the original design, longstanding &Beyond collaborator Fox Browne Creative returned to create the new look. In partnership with the design practice’s in-house architect Jack Alexander, Fox Browne Creative founders Debra Fox and Christopher Browne dreamt up the concept for the lodge’s bold reinvention.

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Soft furnishings reference the vibrant colours and patterns of the kanga and kitenge fabrics worn by those living around Africa’s Great Lakes

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“We didn’t want to lose the spirit of the

Outside, a boma provides open-air space on

original lodge,” says Fox. “It’s situated in a

the riverside for outdoor dining and pre-dinner

remote area on the oxbow of the river with the

drinks by the fire and this area is joined by a

sound of hippos as a backdrop. The wildness

newly built gym and swimming pool with a

of its setting is magical, so we sought to

stylishly furnished deck, both with a privileged

retain the safari tent feel while bringing it into

position on the river.

today’s contemporary era.” Browne adds: “It’s

The lodge’s 10 suites, including a two-

a powerful location – guests are connected

bedroom option for families, extend along

straight to the hippo pond.”

the water’s edge with the surrounding trees

Residents enter first into the main living and

forming a natural privacy wall. Floor-to-

dining area, which is open on both sides to offer

ceiling windows in the bedroom and bathroom

views to the wilderness. Though nature takes

immerse guests in nature, as do the outdoor

centre stage – the deck has been carefully laid

decks with private plunge pool, while interiors

around existing trees – interiors also make their

feature local patterns and warm earthy tones.

mark. Immediately drawing the attention, a

For the structure of the suites, which

chandelier made from brightly-coloured strips

have doubled in size from the original build,

of braided material threaded through handblown

the designers were briefed to reinvent the

glass baubles hangs above the circular central

traditional safari tent while introducing a more

bar. Artisanal design details, including more

luxurious, contemporary feel. In keeping with

glass decoration hanging from the ceiling like

&Beyond’s environmental ethos, sustainability

jewels, feature alongside carefully curated

was key to the project, with recyclable materials

curios and patterned furnishings in bold shades

used throughout and the installation of a solar

of red, purple and blue.

panel system ensuring the lodge runs on 80%

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renewable energy. “We used materials typical

in different ways,” Browne explains. The Maasai

of a tent, canvas being the main ingredient but

necklace is also referenced throughout, as are

in a steel frame structure that is light on the

the traditional baskets used for winnowing grain

earth and entirely reusable; the camp could

and storing food. And the design practice worked

essentially disappear and leave no footprint

with a women’s collective in Arusha to create

behind,” says Browne. “With timber and mesh,

the recycled glass baubles dotted throughout,

we also kept the ingredients the same as in the

while all fabrics were sourced locally and woven

original lodge but applied them in a different

matting comes from craftspeople in a nearby

way. We made use of banana fibre for the roof

village. Other items were repurposed from the

too – it’s a beautiful material as well as being

original lodge. “One of our philosophies in

sustainable and renewable.”

design is to repurpose and upcycle, to reinvent

While some elements draw on the natural world, the central guest area takes inspiration

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and reinterpret using what already exists,” says Fox of the approach.

from the nomadic Maasai people and their ways

The end result, combining this ethos and a

of life. The curving forms and organic materials

wealth of local inspiration, is a contemporary

of their Manyatta homesteads for example are

wilderness retreat that fuses understated

mirrored in the ceiling niches and arrangements

luxury with a connection to the culture and

of furniture, while soft furnishings reference the

environment defining the area. “The lodge is

vibrant colours and patterns of the kanga and

a surprise,” explains Fox. “Guests expect the

kitenge fabrics worn by those living around

typical safari aesthetic of beige, linen and leather

Africa’s Great Lakes. “We’ve tapped into the

trunks, but this is different.” Browne concludes:

vibrancy of the Great Lakes and for me that

“Our design was a little experimental; the aim

immediately means looking to the fabrics used

was to push the boundaries.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: &Beyond Travel Architecture: Jack Alexander Interior Design: Fox Browne Creative www.andbeyond.com

Designed by Nina Magon

The beauty of natural stones reimagined through Dekton technology to create dreamlike enveloping spaces.

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G L A S S E F F E C T a n d PA L M b y C H E L S O M THE OTHER HOUSE , LONDON CHELSOM.CO.UK

The Other House LONDON Billed as the first of its kind, a new residents’ club opens in South Kensington, where interiors by Bergman Design House are a kaleidoscope of colour and pattern.

Words: Catherine Martin Photography: © Jack Hardy

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amed after the expression used by second

The property occupies a row of Victorian

home owners to refer to their weekend

townhouses that span a city block previously

bolthole, The Other House is making its

known as Harrington Hall. Given its former use

mark as a new style of accommodation in the

as a hotel, a simple refurbishment could have

city. But don’t be fooled by the moniker. This

sufficed, but Heaton’s vision required more.

is no home from home, it’s better.

“We don’t have conventional hotel rooms, we

Positioned somewhere between a hotel, a

offer club flats with a living room, bedroom and

serviced apartment and a private members’ club,

kitchen,” she explains. “To achieve this, we had

the venture is the brainchild of Naomi Heaton,

to completely reconfigure the floorplan; the

an entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in

layout is very different to what it was before.”

the property sector. Having founded London

Indeed, where most hotel rooms are entered

Central Portfolio back in 1990, Heaton has

directly into the sleeping quarters, rooms at The

witnessed first-hand the changing priorities

Other House open into the living space, much

of out-of-town real estate investors, and felt

like at home. Taking the private residence

there was a gap in the market for a product that

approach a step further, every club flat has its

could serve both visitors and locals, day guests

own address, with the corridors on each floor

and overnighters. And so The Other House was

named in honour of a local character. There’s

born. “The concept brings together the best of

even Amazon collection lockers on site and a

residential living – in terms of placemaking,

dedicated street entrance for grocery and take-

locality and experience – with the services of

out deliveries.

a hotel and ambiance of a club,” she reveals,

From the outset, the development has been

adding that it’s a place to call home, whatever

shaped through a residential lens rather than

the length of stay, be it a day, a month or a year.

a typical hotel scheme; in fact, Heaton doesn’t

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In the club flats, ranging in size from 23m2 to 61m2, the palette comprises deeply saturated hues of teal, racing green and oxblood red, layered with sumptuous velvets, British tweed and wool

refer to it as a hotel at all, opting instead for the

of teal, racing green and oxblood red, layered with

term ‘residents’ club’. But despite the ‘place to call

sumptuous velvets, British tweed and wool. Every

home’ ethos, the interior design scheme is – for

room is different, either by layout, colour scheme or

most – nothing like home; whimsical, fantastical and

upholstery – out of the 200 keys, there’s barely a single

flamboyant, it’s a bold departure from the restrained

room alike. Some are open-plan with an ornate screen

neutral aesthetic often seen in long-stay apartments.

separating the bedroom and lounge, others feature a

“We wanted to create an experience through the

separate living room, ideal for entertaining guests.

décor,” says Heaton, noting that there’s nothing else

There’s adjoining rooms for families or groups, and

like it in the area. To bring her vision to life, she turned

a one-offs that span two floors or occupy the turrets.

to Bergman Design House, a London-based studio

In the public areas, the design ramps up a notch. On

founded by Marie Soliman and Albin Berglund, whose

arrival, guests are greeted not by a row of formal check-

portfolio spans luxury residential and superyachts as

in desks, but a lounge that immediately sets the tone.

well as hospitality.

Cosy armchairs upholstered in a rich medley of colour

“We knew that this was Naomi’s first hotel and it

and pattern are accessorised with plump cushions,

would be challenging as the first in a brand, but we

often in contrasting shades or with flora and fauna

pitched and won it,” begins Soliman. “When we first

motifs. Coffee tables are topped with weighty tomes

met with Naomi, we had an idea of how the property

and quirky ornaments. A 9.5m lighting installation

would function in terms of the club flats, but we didn’t

by Cox London forms a leafy canopy overhead, and

expect the brief we got; she didn’t want it to feel like

floor lamps make a statement thanks to their tassels

a typical hotel, she wanted the unexpected.”

and fringing. Standing proud by the lifts, a statement

Soliman worked closely with Heaton on every aspect

peacock chair has been a hit on Instagram, and even

of the scheme, from defining the overarching concept

the public bathrooms are worth a visit for their exotic

to selecting the fabrics, fixtures and finishes. And

wallcoverings and distinctive faucets.

though the designer is perhaps more accustomed to

On the ground floor, Heaton has been savvy in the

limitless budgets with her high-net-worth clients,

selection of F&B facilities, opting for an all-day street

she’s adept at spending effectively too. “I think

café rather than an à la carte restaurant, knowing

what Naomi liked about our proposal was that we

that overnight guests will either head out or make

understood the budget – where to spend the money

use of their kitchenette. For the interiors of The Other

and how to make an impact through colour, texture

Kitchen, Soliman has taken inspiration from nearby

and pattern,” she explains.

Gloucester Road tube station, selecting glossy metro-

And colour, texture and pattern are delivered in

style tiling to accompany checkerboard flooring and

droves. In the club flats, ranging in size from 23m2

loose furniture featuring bronze accents. The venue,

to 61m2, the palette comprises deeply saturated hues

open until 6pm, is intentionally flexible meaning it

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Bergman Design House has made impact through colour, texture and pattern, complemented by an upcycled art collection that has been enhanced to reflect the property’s eccentricity

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can be reconfigured for pop-up restaurants,

the design of the crockery, it’s a visual identity

supper clubs or parties, as demonstrated at the

that is carried through with confidence.

hotel’s grand opening last October, which saw

With the ground-floor public spaces open to

performers in body paint seemingly emerge

all, it’s the private club that is proving a key

from the ruffled-silk wallcoverings and a guest

differentiator. Accessible only to overnight

appearance from the West End cast of The Lion

guests and a handful of members, the

King, who sang and dance their way through

basement-level space is home to a spacious

the hotel.

lounge, screening room, vitality pool and gym.

The bar meanwhile is a venue that doesn’t

There’s also a meditation hub that hosts sound

take itself too seriously. Named The Owl &

baths, shamanic healing and chakra cleansing

Monkey – carrying the tagline ‘wise as an owl,

– the brand focus being primarily on spiritual

curious as a monkey’ – interiors transport

and inner wellbeing. The spa lounge, known

guests to another world. Soliman has had fun

as Hogsmire, is a light-filled space beneath a

in the contrasting animal prints and exotic

glass atrium, where scalloped flooring, potted

wallcoverings, which depict the title characters

trees and an installation of flying birds take

frolicking in the jungle. A touch of glamour

centre stage. The Keeping Room in the vaults

comes courtesy of the cut-bronze mirrored wall

meanwhile takes on more of a gentleman’s club

panels and Palm chandeliers in antique gold

feel, with subdued lighting, cosy armchairs and

leaf, the latter by Chelsom, who have supplied

an open fire. With cubby holes and communal

much of the lighting throughout, including an

areas, the set-up is equally suited to working as

elliptical ribbed-glass design that casts dazzling

it is to dining or socialising, feeding in to The

rays across the wall. There’s wit and whimsy at

Other House philosophy that encourages guests

every turn; from the graphics on the menu to

to make the space their own.

Enabling guests to make their own choices

leather is vegan. Fabrics and wallcoverings are

extends to the technology and sustainability

primarily sourced from nearby showrooms in

approach too. Booking, check-in and ordering

Chelsea Harbour and on King’s Road. Furniture

food can be done by the app or through a

and lighting is made in the UK, in some cases

House Jack – the hotel’s name for the jack-

by small-scale artisans such as River Bespoke.

of-all-trades front-of-house team – depending

Even the art is upcycled, having been saved from

on personal preference. And elements of the

landfill after going unsold at auction. The 18th

sustainability policy are optional too. A planet-

century oil paintings in varying styles remain

friendly Housekeeping Lite service is included

in their timeworn frames, with Soliman adding

in the nightly rate but chargeable extras such

her own flourishes to reflect the property’s

as daily laundering of bed linen and towels

eccentricity and sense of humour, giving them

are only on request. Energy usage can also

a second life.

be tracked via the app, with guests making

The project is one that both Soliman and

their own choice as to whether they alter their

Heaton speak of passionately, having pulled

behaviour accordingly.

out all the stops to ensure the debut doesn’t

There’s been no compromise on sustainable

go unnoticed. The kaleidoscope of colour and

practices in the design-and-build however,

pattern might not be to everyone’s taste, but

so much so that the property is expected to

for Heaton, that’s exactly the point. Plans are

achieve BREEAM Excellent status. Soliman has

afoot for four to five clubs across London, each

been steadfast in her commitment to materials,

with its own style direction according to the

dedicating time to research the lifecycle of

personality of the neighbourhood, meaning

fabrics and finishes. Every tile can be recycled

guests can simply pick and choose whichever

for example, while stone is composite and

‘other house’ they prefer.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT CEO: Naomi Heaton Investor: London Central Portfolio, APG Architecture: Falconer Chester Hall Interior Design: Bergman Design House Art Consultant: Melinda Ashton Turner Lighting Design: Into Lighting Main Contractor: Red Construction Group Project Manager: Emmaus Consulting www.otherhouse.com

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Rezydent MGallery SOPOT Following a complete refurbishment, Sopot’s Rezydent hotel reopens as part of Accor’s boutique MGallery collection.

Words: Eleanor Howard • Photography: Courtesy of Accor

M

uch like the British seaside towns of Brighton and Eastbourne that find city-dwellers flocking to their beaches every summer, Sopot is where the Polish go

to escape the hustle and bustle of urban living. Positioned between cities of Gdańsk and Gdynia on the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, the seaside resort is known for its long sandy beaches and leisurly atmosphere, as well as the longest wooden pier in Europe, earning it the title of Poland’s Riviera.

Plenty of hotels have set up shop both along the seafront and inland over the years in response to regular tourist arrivals, but the newest jewel in the coastal town’s crown is Rezydent MGallery. Located on the Bohaterów Monte Cassino promenade, the hotel occupies a site steeped in local history.

Since the end of the 19th century, the spot has fulfilled various

different purposes, from a marketplace and restaurant to a distillery, bakery and even a cigarette shop, though it spent the longest stint – over 100 years – as the infamous Dworcowy Hotel, until the building was demolished in 2001 and Hotel Rezydent was built in its place.

The replacement Art Nouveau structure is in keeping with the characteristic architecture of the surrounding townhouses, with subtle references to the flora and fauna of the Baltic Sea, making it one of the most recognisable properties in the town. Since then, the property was operated independently before joining Accor as part of its Eastern European expansion plans. Following a complete refurbishment, carried out by Warsaw-based studio

101

Bistro-style eatery Grino is characterised by composite columns, grand arches and emerald floor-length drapery

Tremend during the Covid-19-induced national

restaurant Grino, complete with composite

lockdown, the hotel is now part of the boutique

columns, grand archways and doors inlaid with

MGallery collection, marking the brand’s third

panels of etched glass, contrasted by curvaceous

venture in Poland.

boucle bucket chairs and emerald green brick

The new design scheme is a celebration of the

tiling. Spread across the ground floor, the venue

traditional architectural features in recognition

is divided into two dining areas; the former is

of the site’s history, whilst also introducing

more informal with a neutral palette of creams,

contemporary elements that symbolise the

beiges and browns, while the latter occupies a

hotel’s future. Guests are now welcomed into

grand atrium with emerald floor-length drapery

the lobby by a statement Old Fables chandelier

and dried floral arrangements suspended from

suspended above the front door, comprising

the glazed roof.

handblown glass spheres of various sizes

The bistro-style eatery takes an innovative

and colours that are reminiscent of sparkling

gastronomic approach to modern Polish cuisine,

soap bubbles. This is one of several statement

offering regional delights from local suppliers,

glass pieces by Sopot-based studio Barańska

cooked and served on hot lava stones. Head

Design displayed throughout the property,

Chef Adam Ramutkowski’s signature dish of

ranging from sculptures and paintings to light

homemade cod and salmon sausages, which

installations. The lobby in particular draws

is a contemporary interpretation of a classic

inspiration from the hotel’s seaside location,

dish rooted in the history of Sopot fishermen,

with a golden amorphous reception desk that

is complemented by the barl’s signature Baltic

mimics the rippled patterns left in the sand as

beach-inspired Amber Dream cocktail made

the tide goes out.

using amber vodka.

To the right, double doors open into signature

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Plush carpet bearing a pattern derived from

a photograph of Sopot pier lines the corridors

perimeter of the hotel; in fact, as a member of

leading up to the 63 guestrooms, several of

the MGallery collection, the property offers a

which overlook the Neo-Gothic landmark, St

range of unique Memorable Moments, including

George’s Church. Inside, the emerald motif

a four-hour yacht trip on the Baltic Sea, on

continues through to the ceilings and select

which visitors can admire the captivating coastal

lounge furniture, while headboards resemble

landscape while tucking into a champagne

sand blown by the Baltic Sea, and floor lamps

picnic. There are also opportunities to partake

are inspired by amber, the native gemstone

in a jewellery workshop, during which the

of Poland. Bathrooms channel a similar air

history of Baltic gold is explored by a master

of modern luxury with matte black accents,

amber craftsman, or to book guided tours of the

patterned wallcoverings and terrazzo floors

neighbouring cities.

accompanied by L’Occitane amenities.

“Rezydent Sopot’s boutique character and

Built upon the waters of the St Adalbert’s

locally inspired architecture, as well as its

Spring, Sopot has also been a popular spa

elegance and intimate interiors, make the

destination since the town’s first sanitorium

hotel a perfect fit for the sophisticated style

opened in the 18th century. So what would be

of the MGallery brand,” says General Manager

a spa town hotel without its own dedicated

Joanna Wolny. “It is a property for passionate

spa and wellness facilities? Hidden down a

guests expecting unique experiences related to

spiral staircase in the subterranean levels is

history, architecture, art and travel. Thanks to

the intimate Prana Spa, where guests can take

its tasteful interiors, dedicated culinary offer

advantage of beauty and relaxation treatments,

and leisure facilities, the hotel slots seamlessly

three massage rooms and a dry sauna.

into the rich and beautiful tradition of the city

The guest experience doesn’t end at the

it calls home.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Rezydent Operator: Accor Interior Design: Tremend www.accor.com

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WE WILL MEET AGAIN

#2 DANANG

21-23 FEBRUARY 2023 www.sleepersessions.com

#3 DUBROVNIK 9-11 MAY 2023

The Pavilions The First Musica ROME The First Roma welcomes a third member, designed by Studio Marincola to harmonise with the city’s rich tapestry.

Words: Abby Lowe Photography: Courtesy of The Pavilions Hotels

W

hizzing through the cobbled streets

founder of Studio Marincola, which was behind

of Rome on an e-scooter – firmly

the renovation. “For me, it is impossible not

in the camp that these should be

to consider it – the colours, materials and

permanent fixtures everywhere – each bump

architecture are all inspired by the city.”

and knee-grinding bounce is a reminder of the

The most striking of these is perhaps the

history seeping up through the ancient city’s

building’s bronze-gilded concrete and mesh

foundations. Aching with the weight of past

façade, influenced by Richard Meier’s iconic

stories but not stuck in former times, new pages

Museo dell’Ara Pacis, situated just across the

are written every day in this metropolis.

water. But it’s the collective impact of a slew

Indeed, The Pavilions Rome, The First Musica

of structural changes that has transformed the

began a fresh chapter on the west bank of the

former office complex into the opulent address

River Tiber this summer, injecting a flash of

it is now. “The entire concrete structure was

five-star pizzazz to the already elegant Prati

strengthened,” Marincola confirms. “The roof

neighbourhood, and joining sister venues The

was completely opened up and every one of the

First Arte and The First Dolce, collectively

24 rooms and suites now features floor-to-

known as The First Roma.

ceiling windows.”

As Rome so pertinently conveys, heritage

All these features draw guests’ attention to

serves as an excellent tool when preparing for

the Tiber, the river that was once the lifeblood

the future, and so it is in the case of The First

of the city. The oversized windows frame its

Musica, housed in a Mid-Century building

serpentine path as it cuts through the core

originally designed by architect Mario Docci.

of different quartieri, while up at Alto, the

“To design in a city like Rome, you must

rooftop bar serving cocktails and Italian cuisine,

know its history,” explains Antonio Marincola,

sweeping views reveal its impressive scale.

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106

From here, notable monuments like the Trinità

Genuinely interested in their guests and keen

dei Monti, Mausoleum of Augustus and the

to give recommendations, the team provide a

Altare della Patria are also visible; constants in

local wisdom that paves the way for a no holds

an ever-evolving landscape.

barred exploration of Rome’s well-pounded

Tributes to the city’s beauty continue inside, where luxe fabrics come courtesy of Loro

pavements. For those who like to get beneath the skin of a place, it’s invaluable insight.

Piana; timber panelling is by Alpi; and rare

That same innate curiosity and long-held

Calacatta marble all combine to conjure a calm,

knowledge brush up against each other within

cosmopolitan ambience away from the al fresco

the walls of The First Musica. “Rome has taught

buzz. “The external and internal materials

me everything I know about architecture,”

must be in harmony,” says Marincola. “The

Marincola explains. “With over 2,000 years of

cladding of the structure was therefore repeated

history and overlapping architectural styles, the

inside and many accessories in the bedrooms

colours and materials of this city are unique.

and bathrooms were crafted from brass.” The

That’s why I always try and include them in

result is contemporary yet unfussy rooms, in

my projects.”

which high quality furnishings speak loudest and comfort is key.

Lying on the bed, gazing out over the capital as parakeets swoop from trees like tiny darts

As the first light of day warms the city’s many

piercing a silhouetted skyline that’s been etched

spires, breakfast is served overlooking their

for thousands of years, the juxtaposition of then

apex at plush, fifth-floor restaurant Oliva. It’s

and now is tangible. Rome’s past may be set in

a feast fit for a Roman, naturally, spanning so

stone, but hotels like The First Musica ensure

many courses that eventually one loses count.

that the contours of what comes next are still

But it’s the service that’s most memorable.

to be coloured.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts Architecture and Interior Design: Studio Marincola www.pavilionshotels.com

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DESIGN DETAILS

SUITE

Casa La Siesta Tiles are more than just a surfacecovering at Casa La Siesta in Andalusia, where their presence within a new suite captures the rustic charm of the surroundings. Created by Bert & May founder Lee Thornley in partnership with London-based

interiors studio Kitesgrove, the suite showcases a passion for craftsmanship and natural materials, fusing an earthy palette with organic finishes.

The bedroom features reclaimed tiles from Bert & May on the floor, together with Quad tiles from the Irregular Collection, which Kitesgrove designed exclusively for Bert & May. The tiles continue into the bathroom, where their uneven, dance-like quality aligns with the perfectly imperfect design of the suite. “The Andalusian landscape informed many of our design choices, with a focus on deep earthy colours and natural, tactile textures,” says Katie Lion, Senior Interior Designer at Kitesgrove. “It was therefore important not to overshadow the warmth of the reclaimed woods and tiles, so our palette is subtle with accents of rich colour.”

PARIS | NYC | LOS ANGELES | MEXICO CITY

Contemporary design inspired by Mexican heritage

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FULL FIT-OUT CONTRACTOR TO EUROPE’S BEST HOTEL, THE LONDONER

W W W. E E S M I T H . C O . U K

@ E E S M I T H C O N T R AC T S

www.aheadawards.com

Leading lights from across the Middle East & Africa descend on The Palm Jumeirah to discover the fate of an illustrious shortlist, with a Hamburgborn hotel brand scooping the ultimate prize for its Dubai debut.

Following another stellar year of openings across the Middle East & Africa, the region’s leading hoteliers, architects and interior designers came together in Dubai to celebrate the projects that have got the industry talking, with the best and the brightest going head-tohead for a range of highly coveted awards.

After mingling with their peers over champagne and canapes in the glamorous surrounds of W Dubai The Palm, attendees were encouraged to take their seats for a pre-dinner presentation from hospitality consultant Nick van Marken, who gave an overview of the promising pipeline across the region, from the UAE’s soaring skyscrapers to Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects.

One of Saudi Arabia’s new hotspots came up trumps for the first category of the night, Sustainability, which was introduced by AHEAD in 2022 as a means of recognising hotel projects that demonstrably follow sustainable principles in both their development and delivery. Described by the judges as an “exquisite intervention in nature’s amphitheatre”, Habitas AlUla was praised for its low-impact integration with the surrounding environment, made possible through the use of ethically sourced materials and modular construction methods. “There is a purity in the way the resort is designed, constructed, laid out and programmed with an edited simplicity,” said one judge. “It remains subservient to the nature that envelops it and in turn heightens the guest experience.”

Similarly conscious credentials were possessed by the New Concept winner – a community-focused development in Africa.

Comprising a series of traditional dwellings

made using local materials and traditions, The Capanne Huts Project on Rwanda’s Nkombo Island offers a more ethical form of tourism that aspires to preserve the area’s natural balance. The project is entirely funded by Sextantio members in the form of an NGO, which has helped provide health insurance to local Rwandan communities since 2008.

“A remarkably empathetic concept,” said Sleeper’s Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich, who was joined on stage by Dubai-based designer and co-host for the evening, Pallavi Dean.

Rwanda wasn’t the only African nation to take home a trophy on the night, with four other countries heralded for hotels that pushed the boundaries of architecture and design.

Fairmont Taghazout Bay in Morocco was first to hit the mark, scooping the Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces award for its “thoughtful use of indigenous plant species” and a “real sense of softness” offered by Scape’s design, while Zambia’s Lolebezi Safari Lodge saw victory in a tightly contested Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps category, standing out from the rest for its “balance between luxury and integration with the landscape”. In the city, South African designer Tristan du Plessis was lauded for his interiors at The Penthouse Suite at Hallmark House Hotel in Johannesburg, which one judge billed as “beautiful, unique and relevant to its setting”, while AM Studio Paris bagged the Visual Identity prize for developing a comprehensive brand experience at La Maison Palmier, Abidjan’s first boutique hotel.

Though the wider region fared well across the board, Dubai proved why it is regarded as one of the hospitality heavyweights in MEA, picking up a total of eight awards including

the sought-after Hotel of the Year. Leon at The Dubai Edition was named best Bar, Club or Lounge for its “intimate and cosy” atmosphere that juxtaposes the rest of the hotel using dark walnut wood walls and black Marquina marble countertops. Bushra at Grosvenor House was labelled best Restaurant for creating “a thoughtful character that pairs with the culinary experience”. And W Dubai Mina Seyahi was handed best Guestrooms, with Blink Design Group commended for “incredible detailing and materiality” that captures the spirit of its location. Having narrowly missed out on a prize for its work on the ground floor of W Dubai Mina Seyahi, Stickman Tribe came out on top in the Hotel Renovation & Restoration category, in which The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina secured the accolade for achieving a sense of timeless luxury through a combination of Art Deco elements and lush greenery. “A game changer for the brand,” in the words of the judges.

Stealing the show for The City of Gold however was 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, which scooped four awards on the evening: Event Spaces, Hotel Newbuild, Lobby & Public Spaces, and the AHEAD MEA Hotel of the Year. Marking the group’s first property outside Europe, the project was described as “a fresh take on the region’s hospitality scene” by the judging panel, who were overawed by the “pockets of unique experiences” created

by Hopkins Architects and Woods Bagot.

Having congratulated the winners, those in attendance were invited to an afterparty hosted at SoBe, the hotel’s rooftop bar, where celebrations continued into the night.

AHEAD

B A R , C LU B O R LO U N G E

RESORT

Leon at The Dubai Edition – UAE Bhatia & Co / Marriott International / LW Design

Habitas AlUla – Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia Habitas

E V E N T S PA C E S

R E S TA U R A N T

25hours Hotel Dubai One Central – UAE Dubai World Trade Centre / Accor / Hopkins Architects / Woods Bagot

Bushra by Buddha Bar at Grosvenor House, A Luxury Collection Hotel – Dubai, UAE Marriott International / LW Design

GUESTROOMS

S PA & W E L L N E S S

W Dubai, Mina Seyahi – UAE Wasl Hospitality & Leisure / Marriott International / Aedas / Stickman Tribe / Blink Design Group

Thuraya Wellness at Habitas AlUla – Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia Habitas

HOTEL NEWBUILD

SUITE

25hours Hotel Dubai One Central – UAE Dubai World Trade Centre / Accor / Hopkins Architects / Woods Bagot

The Penthouse Suite at Hallmark House Hotel – Johannesburg, South Africa Steyn Investments / Adjaye Associates / Tristan du Plessis Studio / Black Coffee

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N & R E S T O R AT I O N

VISUAL IDENTITY

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina – UAE Wasl Hospitality & Leisure / Marriott International / Aedas / Stickman Tribe

La Maison Palmier – Abidjan, Ivory Coast Appart Hôtel / Design Hotels / Atelier M-Raud / Liautard and the Queen / AM Studio Paris

L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

Fairmont Tagazhout Bay – Morocco AKWA Group / Accor / Scape Design / HKS Architects / Wimberly Interiors

Habitas AlUla – Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia Habitas

L O B B Y & P U B L I C S PA C E S

NEW CONCEPT

25hours Hotel Dubai One Central – UAE Dubai World Trade Centre / Accor / Hopkins Architects / Woods Bagot

Sextantio, The Capanne Huts Project – Nkombo Island, Rwanda Daniele Kihlgren

LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S

HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Lolebezi Safari Lodge – Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia African Bush Camps / Fox Browne Creative / Jack Alexander

25hours Hotel Dubai One Central – UAE Dubai World Trade Centre / Accor / Hopkins Architects / Woods Bagot

AHEAD

Clockwise from top left: Lolebezi Safari Lodge; Bushra by Buddha Bar at Grosvenor House; The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina; 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central; The Penthouse Suite at Hallmark House Hotel; W Dubai Mina Seyahi

The AHEAD season culminates in a Balearic-inspired ceremony celebrating the finest new hospitality experiences Europe has to offer, from a 16-storey super-boutique hotel to a converted monastery.

Blowing a Balearic breeze over Battersea, AHEAD Europe returned to Evolution London in November for an Ibiza-inspired awards ceremony held in collaboration with Global Sponsor RH Contract. In keeping with the signature ‘Black Tie with a Twist’ dress code, the community of owners, operators, designers and architects in attendance decked themselves out in their finest attire, taking cues from the laid-back luxury of the islands and the bohemian lifestyle they evoke.

Having reunited with their industry peers over a drinks reception, guests were invited into the ballroom, where Awards Director Matt Turner welcomed attendees before Sleeper’s Managing Editor and AHEAD Europe Judge Catherine Martin shared opening remarks on the difficulty in judging such a high calibre of entries. The awards kicked off with the Outstanding Contribution accolade, presented by hotel consultant David Bailey to architect and designer Dexter Moren, founding director of Studio Moren. Since establishing his studio in 1992 with a team of three, Moren now has a 70-strong team focusing on both architecture and interior design. With a people-first approach – both in his projects and the way in which he runs his studio – Moren has built a vast portfolio of hotels that not only look good but operate efficiently too.

In the category awards, Madrid came up trumps this year with two different hotels receiving recognition from the judging panel.

The Madrid Edition impressed on various fronts, from Hotel Conversion to the hotly contested Lobby & Public Spaces category.

“Accomplished and bold, each area is considered with a clear identity and intention

of use,” said one judge, while another praised the “punchy injections of contemporary interventions that create a memorable and striking experience”. Madrid produced another winner in Rosewood Villa Magna, which collected the Hotel Renovation & Restoration prize. “It is often difficult to undertake a soft refurbishment as elegantly as the designers have done so on this project,” stated one judge. “The colour choices are impactful and the design is homogeneous throughout.”

Variety reigned supreme, particularly in the F&B categories. “This will be a space that stays in my memory having enlivened the senses” were the words of one judge when praising the Punch Room at The Madrid Edition, a contemporary reimagining of the brand’s signature bar. Described as “bold, brave and incredibly atmospheric”, the panel attributed the venue’s success to its ability to build anticipation. In London meanwhile, Mandarin Oriental was successful in the Restaurant category with The Aubrey’s Hyde Park outpost. Judges praised London-based interior design studio Brady Williams for its “exquisite use of materials and detailing”, declaring the Japanese izakaya as “a lesson in seductive design”.

Grecian resorts also fared well on the night, with Mykonos hideaway Kálesma celebrated for its suite design by Studio Bonarchi: “The attention to detail and understated design features have been beautifully executed,” said the panel. “Every single furniture and decor piece has its place and purpose.” On the island of Corfu meanwhile, Grecotel Corfu Imperial was credited for its impressive landscaping and outdoor spaces, as one judge stated: “The

landscape and hardscape work in harmony with the building architecture, placing a clear emphasis on vistas.”

This year’s Europe ceremony saw the return of the Transport award too, which went to Venice Simplon-Orient Express. With three new suites designed by Wimberly Interiors in collaboration with Belmond, the interiors of the iconic locomotive were described by the judges as “timeless luxury that harks back to a bygone era of luxury travel”, evoking a “real sense of wanderlust and exquisite escapism”.

Ultimately, London dominated the winners list, particularly amongst the special awards.

100% net zero property Room2 Chiswick took home the inaugural Sustainability prize, while Inhabit Hotels received the New Concept trophy. The big winner of the night however was The Londoner, scooping three awards in total including the most coveted of them all – the AHEAD Europe Hotel of the Year.

Standing 30m tall and 32m below street level in the heart of Leicester Square, the 16-storey hotel was “the most impressive architectural and engineering feat” according to the panel, which explains why the urban resort was handed the prize for Newbuild. Breathing new life into the Event Spaces category, the super boutique’s subterranean, West End-inspired “wonderland of event spaces” wowed the judges with a design characterised by mirrored ceilings, plus velvet drapery and artworks operated by a pulley system that “sets a new bar”. And as to why The Londoner was named Hotel of the Year, the panel said it best: “A visionary project, well executed and setting new standards in the West End – one of a kind and a worthy winner.”

AHEAD

© Xx

B A R , C LU B O R LO U N G E

R E S TA U R A N T

Punch Room at The Madrid Edition – Madrid, Spain KKH / Archer / Marriott International / Edition Hotels / ISC Design Studio / François Champsaur / John Pawson CBE

The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park – London, UK Maximal Concepts / Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group / BradyWilliams / Woods Hardwick

E V E N T S PA C E S The Londoner – London, UK Edwardian Hotels London / Woods Bagot / Yabu Pushelberg

S PA & W E L L N E S S The Bathhouse at Castello di Reschio – Perugia, Italy Count Benedikt Bolza / BB for Reschio / Lorenzo Maria Galeazzi / Katherine Kokkinides

GUESTROOMS Monastero Arx Vivendi – Arco, Italy HM Monastero / Network Of Architecture (Noa*)

SUITE Kálesma Mykonos – Greece Alogomandra Sunset / K-Studio / Studio Bonarchi

HOTEL CONVERSION The Madrid Edition – Madrid, Spain KKH / Archer / Marriott International / Edition Hotels / ISC Design Studio / François Champsaur / John Pawson CBE

HOTEL NEWBUILD The Londoner – London, UK Edwardian Hotels London / Woods Bagot / Yabu Pushelberg

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N & R E S T O R AT I O N Rosewood Villa Magna – Madrid, Spain RLH Properties / Arvo Arquitectura De Juan / Gregorio Marañón Medina / Ramón De Arana / Bar Studio

TRANSPORT Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Paris, France Belmond / Wimberly Interiors

VISUAL IDENTITY The Ivens Hotel, Autograph Collection – Lisbon, Portugal Caisor, Investimentos Turisticos E Hoteleiros / RRJ Arquitectos / Plateform / Lázaro Rosa-Violán / Cristina Matos Atelier/ Patrick Stilwell / Lopo De Carvalho

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y Room2 Chiswick – London, UK Lamington Group / House of Dre / Project Orange / Dodds & Shute

L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Grecotel Corfu Imperial – Corfu, Greece Grecotel Hotels & Resorts / Scape Design Associates / Daedalus Design London / Suited Interior Design

NEW CONCEPT

L O B B Y & P U B L I C S PA C E S

O U T S TA N D I N G C O N T R I B U T I O N

The Madrid Edition – Madrid, Spain KKH / Archer / Marriott International / Edition Hotels / ISC Design Studio / François Champsaur / John Pawson CBE

Dexter Moren, Studio Moren

LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S DistrictHive – Granada, Spain Districthive LDA / Moho Arquitectos / Novono Architecture

RESORT Six Senses Shaharut – Israel Ronny Douek / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Plesner Architects

Inhabit Hotels – London, UK

HOTEL OF THE YEAR The Londoner – London, UK Edwardian Hotels London / Woods Bagot / Yabu Pushelberg

AHEAD

Clockwise from top left: Monastero Arx Vivendi; The Bathhouse at Castello di Reschio; The Londoner; Venice Simplon-Orient-Express; DistrictHive; The Madrid Edition

2023 DATES ANNOUNCED SOON

EVENT SPONSORS

www.aheadawards.com

WATERBURY LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF MIRRORS

For decades Waterbury Bathroom Accessories has been the ‘go to’ supplier for wall mounted bathroom accessories. This is backed up by a long list of leading Hotel Groups that have

Waterbury as an approved or preffered supplier, an even longer list of Interior Designers that

specify Waterbury time after time and a longer list still of Hotels and Commercial projects around

the globe that are fitted with Waterbury products.

Please call the Waterbury Sales Team on 0121 333 6062 or 07881 361056 or sales@waterbury.co.uk

and one of the team will be happy to help you with a solution for your project.

Web: www.waterbury.co.uk | Email: sales@waterbury.co.uk | Phone: 0121 333 6062

Hotel Construction Pipeline Global Despite regional variation in performance, new hotel development remains steady according to the latest research from THP. The database currently shows a total of 7,383 hotels in the pipeline globally, accounting for more than 1.5 million rooms.

By region, Asia Pacific is the most active with 2,695 projects signed, followed

by North America (1,855 projects) and Europe (1,844 projects). Honing in on individual countries, China, USA and UK top the listings, while Spain rises up the ranks following a surge in development across urban and coastal destinations; SLS Barcelona, Nobu Hotel San Sebastian and Four Seasons Hotel Formentor will open through 2023 and 2024.

Cementing its spot in the top ten, Saudi Arabia is moving at a record-breaking pace as it pushes forward with its grand Vision 2030 plan; the pipeline currently stands at 62,977 rooms across 168 projects. From The Red Sea Project, Neom and Qiddiya to Amaala, AlUla and Diriyah Gate, the country’s so-called giga-projects form a sizeable chunk of the US$7 trillion set to be invested by its government, with luxury hotel brands flocking to the sites – as well as cities like Makkah, Madinah and Riyadh – to capture increasing tourist arrivals.

TOP CITIES DUBAI Projects 100 Rooms 23,976

CHENGDU Projects 62 Rooms 11,923

LONDON Projects 93 Rooms 17,194

SHENZHEN Projects 59 Rooms 11,545

GUANGZHOU Projects 53 Rooms 10,971

DUBLIN Projects 45 Rooms 6,777

SHANGHAI Projects 66 Rooms 15,186

NEW YORK Projects 54 Rooms 12,328

RIYADH Projects 47 Rooms 9,598

BANGKOK Projects 43 Rooms 10,994

TOP COUNTRIES

With over 500,000 rooms set to enter the market globally in 2023, there’s clearly no let-up in demand for luxury hotel development.

Projects Rooms

THP is a data service to support the design, build, furnishing and operation of hotels worldwide.

For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

122

Projects Rooms

1

2

3

4

5

CHINA 1,544 343,664

USA 1,522 295,165

UK 418 59,874

GERMANY 304 47,249

INDIA 187 28,837

6

7

8

9

10

AUSTRALIA 173 29,510

SPAIN 170 23,350

SAUDI ARABIA 168 62,977

VIETNAM 142 56,011

UAE 135 35,116

BUSINESS CENTRE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Of the 7,383 projects in the pipeline globally, 33% (2,427 projects) are in planning and 43% (3,202 projects) are under construction. It is within these phases that interior design schemes and FF&E fit-outs are being planned and implemented.

VISION

PRE-PLANNING

PLANNING

CONSTRUCTION

PRE-OPENING

Projects 180 Rooms 42,920

Projects 1,044 Rooms 202,901

Projects 2,427 Rooms 465,985

Projects 3,202 Rooms 702,110

Projects 540 Rooms 107,275

GROUPS AND BRANDS Marriott International continues to lead the way with the largest number of projects in the pipeline globally, primarily for its Marriott and Courtyard brands. IHG’s Hotel Indigo secures its place in the rankings of fastest-growing brands, while Home2 Suites by Hilton also makes the list after several new signings.

857 723 475 461 350

Projects

Projects

Projects

Projects

Projects

BRAND

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

120

39,843

Hilton Garden Inn

109

22,730

Marriott Hotels & Resorts

99

28,199

Hampton by Hilton

98

14,444

Hotel Indigo

88

15,851

Doubletree by Hilton

87

18,612

Hyatt Place

87

15,221

Courtyard by Marriott

76

13,893

Hyatt Regency

74

21,434

Home2 Suites by Hilton

74

10,746

YEAR OF OPENING

2023 (39%)

2024 (21%)

2025+ (14%)

UNCONFIRMED (26%)

123

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

Back to the future

incredibly excited about the opportunity to

our quality metrics, so our QA audits, our brand

expand in this segment in CALA, as well as other

standards. You might think that the owners

Major hotel groups have declared their

locations around the world.”

would baulk at that. I think quite the contrary.

Wyndham, which acquired Vienna House in

They care deeply about their neighbours within

Europe during the period, has also now named

the portfolio and continue to encourage us to

Slimmed down after the pandemic, they are

its new brand, Echo Suites, which already has

bring back and enforce those standards.

now reaping efficiency savings, as business

more than 120 committed US development sites.

“And then similarly, we obviously gave our

bounces back across all markets except China.

Hyatt, too has been in acquisitive mode. A

owners and franchisees a measure of relief

For now, none can spot any evidence of

deal with European hotel group Lindner has

on renovation cycle at the very bottom of the

consumers pruning their hotel expenditure,

given it substantially more presence in Europe

trough of the pandemic. We’re bringing those

while returning group business and corporate

- albeit this particular deal is, effectively, a

requirements back but with some pragmatic

travel are expected to continue rising into 2023,

franchise agreement.

perspective on hotels that are doing a terrific job

businesses in rude health, as they delivered third quarter results.

There are concerns that a tightening financing

on service, as evidenced by those quality metrics

Typical of the temperature were these

landscape could hit the progress of some new

and giving them the ability to selectively extend

comments from Marriott International CEO

hotel developments. But that concern is not

some of those renovation cycles.”

Tony Capuano: “We have yet to see signs of a

sufficient to have the big groups changing their

slowdown in global lodging demand. In fact,

views on support for landlords.

offsetting cost headwinds.

By Chris Bown: All of the big brand chief executives

approach to investment in projects changing

are declaring a bright few months ahead. But,

even in this environment,” said Marriott’s

with shorter booking windows among both leisure

pointed to a survey of customers, which found

Capuano.

competitive

and corporate customers, there are fears they are

85% of business travellers hope to travel as much

environment gets more competitive by the day,

deluding themselves in the manner of a ship’s

or more next year. “Despite near-term macro

but we will apply the same disciplined lens that

captain staring at a fog bank off the bow.

headwinds, we’re not seeing any signs that

we’ve applied in the past.”

remain very healthy.”

At Hilton Worldwide, CEO Chris Nassetta

124

HA PERSPECTIVE

“I don’t see our tried-and-true philosophical

we have seen just the opposite - booking trends

“Certainly,

the

It’s been a characteristic of the post-pandemic

fundamentals are weakening. Rising demand,

Wyndham CFO Michele Allen was a little more

recovery, that plenty of consumers have money,

coupled with historically low industry supply

generous: “We are really pleased with what we

and are keen to travel. Questions remain about how

growth, should continue to drive strong pricing

are seeing from a key money perspective. We

long this reserve of money will last. Set against this

power. We are in the midst of a rebound with

are at the table today on deals that we hadn’t

are economic concerns, though there are plenty of

secular tailwinds that should support growth.”

previously been invited to participate in. So,

economists predicting a relatively short inflationary

With cash flowing in, acquisitions are in

using the balance sheet to incentivise owners

and interest rate spike, which may fizzle out within

the air. In October, Marriott spent USD100m

to our brands is really bearing fruit for us. I do

a year. If - and it’s a big if - the Ukraine situation

acquiring Hoteles City Express, giving it an

expect the allocation to key money will increase

gets resolved, then the bumps in the road of 2022

additional 152 hotels, largely across Mexico.

slightly as we move through the seating of

will soon be forgotten.

It marks a new presence for Marriott in the

the Echo brand, but nothing that’s going to

With the profits flowing in once more, there’s the

‘affordable midscale’ segment, delivering new

materially draw away from our ability to either

question of where to spend. American CEOs – as

brands City Express, City Express Plus, City

invest in inorganic growth opportunities or

they’re typically rewarded with share bonuses - love

Express Suites, City Express Junior and City

capital allocation to share repurchase.”

buying back shares, and there’s debt to be paid down

Centro. Marriott says it will expand the brands

Also back to normal is the approach to

in Mexico, across central and Latin America,

brand standards. These were relaxed during

Hyatt set the bar high with its Apple deal, and

and in future, further afield.

the pandemic - with such issues as daily

Choice Hotels followed with its Radisson Americas

too. But surely the bigger prize has got to be M&A.

“We are bullish on the moderately priced

room refreshes set aside, while everyone was

acquisition. In comparison, Wyndham’s acquisition

midscale space, which has meaningful growth

concerned about catching Covid. But, said

of Vienna House, and Marriott’s new Mexican deal,

potential,” Capuano told analysts. “We are

Capuano: “We obviously have brought back all of

are small fry.

BUSINESS CENTRE

Bigger opportunities may well await. Club

should remain strong. While consumer spending

Chairman Wolfgang Neumann, a former CEO

Med owner Fosun, for example, is looking to sell

power is suffering, there is evidence that other

of Rezidor, said, “the hospitality industry is a

down assets to cover debts - and based on Hyatt’s

consumer spending segments are being cut back to

force for good” but warned there was now a

experience, who wouldn’t love to add an all-

maintain travel spend.

need for “much more action and much more

inclusive brand to their portfolio?

But there are limits to this, particularly if the

urgent action”.

recession proves longer than anticipated. And there

The SHA’s membership, which currently

HA PERSPECTIVE

are also other potential problems ahead for some of

encompasses 35% of the world’s branded hotel

By Andrew Sangster: There is a real puzzle around

the global majors. In my view, the problems in China

stock, faces a challenge with the traditional

Accor’s share price. Nobody can explain why it has

are under appreciated and if growth stalls in the PRC

linear consumption and production model,

failed to recover like its peers. It is a company most

this will seriously dent many NUG projections.

according to Mandziuk. Too few companies have

Overall, the situation looks remarkably positive

set science-based targets for sustainability,

given the dark clouds elsewhere in the economy,

perhaps less than 1%, warned Mandziuk, even

Morgan Stanley said after Accor’s results that it

particularly in growth sectors such as technology.

though 28% of the industry has a climate

was trading on 10 times EV / EBITDA against the 11

For the hotel sector to thrive, it is not just absolute

strategy. “We need to rethink what success

to 14 times of its equivalents. The share price year-

performance that matters but relative.

looks like and confront zero-sum thinking,”

people seem to regard highly and yet its share price continues to lag.

to-date was down 19% against 14% for peers.

The weight of money that investors still have to

he explained. “We must focus not just on the customer but on the community.”

Accor’s results were good, with RevPAR stronger

spend means that it is not if but where to deploy.

than IHG, Marriott and Hyatt, but not Whitbread

There is short-term hiatus while debt markets

Blackrock CEO Larry Fink was referenced in

nor Melia. And when it comes to net unit growth

stabilise but by Q2 next year deals look ready to start

his view that we must be deliberate about what

guidance, Accor at 3.5% was ahead of Marriott’s 3%

in earnest once again.

we are doing to the planet, people and place.

but behind Hilton’s 5% and Hyatt’s 6.5%.

Hotel brands will have relatively easy comparables

“Hospitality needs to be an agent of positive change,” added Mandziuk.

What may help is the big reorganisation of

in Q1 thanks to lingering impact of the Omicron

Accor into two units, one that groups its “power

outbreak in late 2021. Thereafter, trading will be

At the conference and gala dinner SHA hosted,

brands” like Ibis and Novotel together with other

judged on largely recovered performances. Providing

and in the following few days, a series of new

more “industrialised” brands such as Movenpick

the recession is short-lived, the hotel sector may

partnerships were announced, including with

and Pullman; the other that encompasses luxury

escape largely unscathed.

the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and

and lifestyle bringing together the brands under Ennismore with Raffles, Fairmont and Sofitel. This new structure is formally activated in the New Year.

As we wrote when this structure was announced

Hospitality seeks green leadership

the World Travel & Tourism Council.

In addition, phase two of the SHA’s Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative was released.

last July, there remains the risk that the new look

The hospitality industry wants to be a champion

This provides an updated way to calculate carbon

highlights a perceived conglomerate discount. The

in sustainability, according to two initiatives

output and is supported by the WTTC, AHLA and

luxury and lifestyle operation looks ripe to be taken

launched in October.

the Global Business Travel Association.

private by Qatari investors, perhaps giving Jin Jiang,

Lobby group the Sustainable Hospitality

Alongside the HCMI, there are similar

Accor’s single biggest shareholder with a holding of

Alliance (SHA) and trade body UKHospitality

water and waste measurement tools. All three

12.9% at the end of June, an opportunity to exit.

both announced plans to raise the industry’s

methodologies are used in the Cornell Hotel

environmental and social action efforts.

Sustainability Benchmarking index.

Beyond Accor, the bigger question remains how long hotel company performance can remain

The SHA is a 30-year-old body that started

The same week as SHA’s summit, UKHospitality

decoupled from current economic trajectories.

life as the International Hotels Environment

hosted its own rescheduled seminar to launch

Tailwinds, particularly travel recovery momentum,

Initiative, part of the then Prince of Wales’

its Sustainability Commitment. This document

still seems stronger than recessionary headwinds.

International Business Leader’s Forum. It

set out 10 pledges in four areas – waste, supply

My view is that as long as this recession does not

has now broken away and is forging a new

chain, skills and biodiversity.

create widespread unemployment, hotel demand

“covenant”, according to CEO Glenn Mandziuk.

The simultaneous launch of the Environmental

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Sustainability Guide for the Hospitality Sector

around evangelising the green cause but framing

The French government, too, has looked at

SMEs was revealed in a presentation by Burger

it as a debate about probabilities and the need to

ways to get people back into work, not least

King UK CFO Tim Doubleday. “You need a

see action as an insurance policy. We need far less

in hospitality. In the summer, the country

resilient business and this means taking

proselytising and far more rational discussion of how

recorded a 7.5% unemployment rate, something

account of ESG,” said Doubleday at the seminar.

much we need to be investing as an insurance policy.

President Macron is keen to get down to 5%,

He also noted that focusing on simple actions

There are challenging and awkward conversations

with one option being to make it tougher to

can reduce energy consumption by 30%.

ahead about who will bear the cost.

access unemployment benefits.

At the SHA Summit, it was pointed out that the

Spain, too, has struggled, and started the

HA PERSPECTIVE

hospitality industry will need to be able to defend

busy summer season short of 200,000 staff.

By Andrew Sangster: There are profound challenges

itself against regulators. Knowing exactly what

Riu Hotels has launched a pilot hotel school

as a journalist when covering the green agenda,

our industry contributes to carbon output is a good

at one of its properties in Playa de Palma. For

particularly if your focus is on numbers rather than

start. Reducing the number of ways we are currently

five months, starting in November 2022, the

emotions. Right now there are no standardised

measuring carbon down from the current couple of

hotel will run courses with Riu committing

measures of carbon and therefore no agreed way

dozen plus methodologies will take us another step

to hire 60% of the school’s graduates. The

of ranking the performance of companies in their

towards being able to make a credible defence.

initiative is being supported financially by the

For the true believers, I urge you to tone down

SOIB, the employment service for the Balearic

At the UKHospitality seminar, Sky’s Stephanie

the rhetoric and use more grown-ups like Wolfgang

islands. Other hotel groups including Viva,

Landymore said that carbon measurement is today

Neumann. If we cannot even agree on how carbon

THB and Iberostar have said they will wait for

where accountancy standards were 50 years ago. It

should be measured, then it is certain the debate will

the outcome of the pilot, but are interested in

was an intelligent answer to my questioning of why

be lost and with it any chance of implementing the

similar initiatives.

there were so many different ways of measuring

steps needed to tackle climate change.

efforts to be sustainable.

level of emotion that the green agenda does.

Attending any sustainability themed event is like being at a religious service. Almost everyone there is

Staff shortage forces creativity

driving hotel operators to get imaginative.

In the UK, it is reckoned there is a 10% vacancy across hospitality as a whole, effectively

a true believer and questioning anything makes you

A post-pandemic shortage of staff continues to

feel like you’re farting in a lift.

hinder the ability of hospitality businesses to

“Only two-in-five people working in

meet the demand from consumers, for service

hospitality would recommend it as a career - we

with a smile.

need to increase that,” said Kate Nicholls, CEO

For progress in actually doing something, there must be more focus on the trade-offs, and these must

126

The problem is also evident in the US, where a shortage of staff is hampering restaurants and

carbon. But accountancy has never generated the

meaning a shortfall of 200,000 workers.

be informed with meaningful numbers. You do not

The shortfall has led to some hotels cutting

of UKHospitality. Currently just 20% of young

have to be fully subscribed to Milton Friedman’s

seasonal capacity and events offerings, as they

people look to the sector as a career path when

notion that “the social responsibility of business is

strive to do as much as possible with less on the

leaving education, and the aim is to double that

to increase its profits” to worry that imprecations to

team. And a broader range of initiatives are now

number. “The challenges we face are so severe,

“do more now” without proper cost-benefit analysis

coming forward to help drive more skilled staff

it really needs a big, all-industry call to action

will likely not end well.

into hospitality. In the UK, an industry-wide

to address them.”

There is active and meaningful pushback to the

initiative is seeking, through private funding,

An industry-wide marketing initiative,

concept of net zero. It reminds me of where the Brexit

to build a campaign that will reposition the

Hospitality Rising, is gathering momentum

debate was a decade or so before the UK voted to

sector’s reputation among those looking for

across the UK and at the end of October

leave. We know how well that went. The Brexit vote

work or a career opportunity.

2022 launched a cross platform, sector-wide

was lost, in part, because there was a failure to

The shortage is an international issue - and

engage with the sceptics and to do the heavy lifting

some governments have already committed to

of persuasion with facts and data. Having a single,

action. In July, the German government said

Hospitality Rising was created in 2021 by Mark

agreed way to measure carbon is the first essential

it would ease ways in which companies could

McCulloch, CEO of consultancy Supersonic, who

step to engaging in discussion about trade-offs.

advertising campaign to get the attention of potential employees.

recruit workers from source markets such as

explained the initiative: “Hospitality Rising is a

Back in 2006, Hotel Analyst extensively covered

Turkey. Faster residency and work permits

call to arms for the sector. It is an opportunity

the launch of Nicholas Stern’s The Economics of

were promised, initially to help airports as they

to unite and face the challenge collectively,

Climate Change. For me, the key message was not

struggled to scale up for returning travellers.

rather than going it alone as has been the way

BUSINESS CENTRE

in the past. Inspired by the other industry

every programme is tailor-made to suit the

Easier said than done but it is what will distinguish

campaigns, most notably the famous ‘Be The

individual’s development needs. We take a

the better operators over the coming years.

Best’ initiative by The British Army, we want

maximum intake of only five candidates a year,

In the meantime, the hospitality star is beginning

to shine a fresh light on hospitality that will

so it really is an exclusive chance for potential

to rise. Despite the much touted negatives, there are

inspire a new generation of people to consider

leaders of the future to develop and grow while

huge positives about working in the industry, which

jobs and careers in a sector that we know can

learning on the job.”

marketing campaigns like Hospitality Rising do a

be both rewarding and fun.”

There is also growing interest in ways to hire

good job of highlighting.

The movement has already gathered

staff on a more flexible basis. Qwick, an on-

The sociable, groovy aspects of hospitality are

GBP850,000 on its way to an initial GBP1m

demand staffing app for restaurants, has just

too often ignored. This is a changing world where

target, with a range of supporters including

raised USD40m in a series B funding round, to

skills like empathy, sociability and craft are being

many pub and restaurant groups, as well as

help it scale up. The business expanded this year

re-evaluated and, albeit slowly, better rewarded.

hotel operators like Hilton.

from 13 to 23 markets. It is not alone. Other

Much routine knowledge work, which is

The changing environment has also led to a

platforms such as Hotel Effectiveness and Busy

overcompensated, I would argue, relative to the

situation where hotel companies now announce

are also in the space, while in the US, third party

hand and heart – terms expressed by British

pay rises not as an increase in overheads, but an

hotel operator Aimbridge recently told Hotel

journalist David Goodhart – can be replaced by

investment in their people. Whitbread recently

Analyst it is trialling this Uber-style way of

artificial intelligence. Those at the top of “head”

touted a GBP15m spend on pay rises and bonuses

hiring staff in some larger city markets.

or knowledge-based professions will continue to

as an “investment in team member pay”. In

enjoy outsized rewards but the base of the pyramid

December 2022, staff received their second pay

HA PERSPECTIVE

rise of the year, along with a one-off cost of

By Andrew Sangster: It is almost beyond parody

Hospitality is an industry of the future for the

living bonus payment for many.

how many times I have heard hospitality industry

economy, both in terms of economic growth

is narrowing.

“We’re hot off the heels of another very

executives wail about why so few people choose

prospects and employment. Goodhart’s book, ‘Head,

busy summer, where our hotel and restaurant

hospitality as a career and seem to stick their

Hand, Heart’, is subtitled: ‘The struggle for dignity

teams have continued to deliver the outstanding

fingers in their ears as everyone else explains that it

and status in the 21st Century’. Hospitality is at the

guest service for which they are famous,” said

is directly related to low pay, unsociable hours and

frontline of this battle.

Simon Ewins, Managing Director of UK hotels

little career progression.

and restaurants for Whitbread. “We want to

Maybe, then, employers could help fix the

thank our guest-facing team members for their

problem by increasing pay and offering better

continued support.”

working conditions. But of course, that can only be

And owner-operator L+R Hotels recently

done if businesses remain profitable and individual

announced a GBP500 per person bonus for staff

businesses are not compromised against their rivals.

at its Strand Palace Hotel. Other improvements

Pay is certainly going up. Growth in total pay

promised include an upgrade to back of house

across all sectors went up 6.0% for the three months

staff restaurant areas, and a wellbeing zone for

July to September 2022, year-on-year, according to

team members.

the UK’s Office for National Statistics. There was the

It is also pushing other hotel groups to

strongest growth in regular pay ever seen outside

invest directly in growing talent. UK third

of the pandemic period when the data was a little

party operator Bespoke Hotels launched a

wobbly. And leading the way is the wholesaling,

management training programme in late 2022,

retailing, hotels and restaurants sector with a

with a two-year course aimed at developing

bumper growth rate of 7.3%, beating the next placed

stars of the future. “Our trainee management

finance and business services sector at 6.2%.

programme has been created to inspire future

Thanks to inflation, however, real terms pay is

development of our team and is an exciting

dropping, down 2.7% for regular pay in the period

opportunity for successful trainee managers to

across all sectors. But inflation can be a friend when

take the next step on their career pathway,”

it comes to resetting. If hospitality employers want to

said CEO Thomas Greenall. “The programme

improve the status of the sector now is the time. Push

is open both internally and externally and

up prices, push up wages and improve productivity.

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

127

BUSINESS CENTRE

1.

2.

3.

4.

Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 1. London

According to preliminary data for November 2022, Jeddah’s hotel performance came in lower than the month prior, however it surpassed pre-pandemic comparables. Each of the three metrics showed significant improvement based on November 2019 levels, with occupancy gains of 16.2%, ADR up by 13.0%, and RevPAR demonstrating an impressive 31.3% uplift.

Occupancy 83.8% ADR GBP199.95 RevPAR GBP167.60

Occupancy 54.5% ADR SAR586.71 RevPAR SAR319.50

2. Berlin

4. Sydney

In Berlin, hotels reported lower performance month-over-month for November 2022. Further to the monthly decline, RevPAR also remained below the pre-pandemic comparable, down 4.4% on November 2019, while occupancy trailed by 15.8%.

On a positive note, the German city performed well on weekdays, peaking at 86.1% on 9 November, signifying increased business demand.

Occupancy 69.0% ADR EUR109.75 RevPAR EUR75.73

128

3. Jeddah

Following a mixed performance over the summer months, London’s hotel industry fared better in autumn, with both ADR and RevPAR surpassing pre-pandemic comparables according to preliminary data for October 2022. Occupancy was down 4.0% on October 2019, however this is a marked improvement from the August 2022 level, which was 10.5% below the 2019 comparable.

Sydney’s hotel industry recorded its best performance of the pandemic-era in November 2022; ADR was higher than any other month on record except for September 2000 when it hosted the Olympics. Occupancy was the highest since November 2019, but despite the pandemic-era high, this remained 7.9% below the 2019 comparable.

Occupancy 79.8% ADR AUD273.07 RevPAR AUD217.79

STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors.

For more information and to subscribe visit: www.str.com

130

SPOTLIGHT

An Incubator For Ideas To gain a better understanding of what it means to be an operator, DUX is using its very own hotel as a testing ground for new and existing products.

Words: Ben Thomas

O

ur Chairman had the vision to buy

door – a three-storey townhouse that was

Switzerland, where the bedmaker is currently

and operate a hotel for two reasons,”

renovated in 2018 and today serves as a natural

installing products from its new hospitality

says Kevin Slade, Head of Next Gen

extension of the hotel, providing a space where

collection, which incorporates each of its

at Swedish bed and furniture maker DUX, as

the brand can retail from but also meet to

innovations, starting with Pascal – a system of

Sleeper checks in to The DUXIANA in Malmö.

discuss collaborations with industry partners.

adjustable comfort zones that are spread across

“Firstly, so we could understand what it

“We begin by asking about a hotel’s values

the shoulders, hips and legs.

means to be a hotelier and secondly for brand

and types of guests,” Slade reveals. “From

Across all of these projects, DUX has placed

awareness; this is a real-life environment where

here, we look to understand their needs so we

a clear focus on sustainability, not only in the

designers, specifiers and consumers can come

can suggest solutions. Only then comes the

selection of materials and build practices, but

to experience our products first-hand.”

commercial element, which is typically where

also in the longevity of the finished product. “We

Having first refurbished the property upon

most brands start. We like to turn the process

are seeing more desire for sustainable products

purchasing it 14 years ago, DUX decided it was

on its head; from our experience, this enables

that stand the test of time and therefore offer

time for another revamp in 2021, and so set

us to build a more long-lasting relationship.”

better value for money,” explains Slade, citing the launch of the hospitality collection as a

about upgrading the facilities. The lobby, bar,

Such has been the case for hotel projects

lounge and restaurant on the ground floor were

like Pater Noster in its native Sweden, where

redesigned as individually defined spaces for

DUX worked closely with Erik Nissen Johansen

With that in mind, the mattresses – from

both guests and Malmö residents, while private

of Gothenburg-based design studio Stylt,

the classic H1 to the frameless HF3 – achieve

areas for dining, meetings and functions were

as well as The Audo in Copenhagen, where

Oeko Tex 100 certification, meaning they meet

introduced throughout the building. Then came

it partnered with Danish art director Bjarne

human-ecological requirements by being free

the guestrooms, where DUX’s bed collection

Hansen. Further afield, the brand’s mattresses

of toxins and other harmful substances. They

takes centre stage whilst being complemented

grace the guestrooms at Aman Kyoto, winner

have also been engineered in a way that allows

by its furniture. While all rooms were updated

of AHEAD Asia Hotel of the Year 2021. Here,

each component to be swapped or upgraded,

with different solutions for different guest

the beds – described as ‘vehicles for wellbeing’

meaning that if a layer gets damaged, hoteliers

requirements, the pièce de résistance is the full

by the manufacturer – feed into the property’s

do not have to replace the entire product.

rebuild of two suites on the top floor, as well

zen ethos, with guestrooms blending into the

As DUX continues to evolve its product

as a further room that offers a DUX bed for the

surrounding forest to create a calm and quiet

offering, so too will the company evolve the

guest and a mini version for their four-legged

atmosphere warmed by the use of timber.

experience at The DUXIANA, using the hotel as

response to this demand.

companion. The ultimate aim, in the words

The same philosophy was applied to the

an incubator for new ideas. “The near future

of Slade, was to create an “innovative testing

newly opened Runo Hotel Porvoo in Finland,

will see us further the room refurbishment

ground” for its new products.

for which DUX created a customised bed that

programme and fine tune the F&B side of the

After experiencing the company’s beds and

harmonises with its rustic yet modern style. And

business,” Slade concludes. “Who knows, maybe

furniture in a hospitality setting, guests and

so too at Hotel Villa Carona in the mountains

soon there will be new locations to unveil!”

visitors can visit the DUXIANA showroom next

above Lake Lugano on the border of Italy and

www.duxiana.com

131

Oliver Hemming

BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS AND ALARM CLOCKS

SPOTLIGHT FLOORCOVERINGS

From travertine marble to bio-attributed LVT, these new floorcovering innovations are shaping the world underfoot.

Amtico Amtico Bio British manufacturer Amtico has introduced Amtico Bio, the company’s first bio-attributed, low-carbon LVT flooring option created for projects that demand the highest levels of sustainability. Available to specify across the Signature, Spacia and Form collections, Amtico Bio is manufactured using sustainable PVC derived from renewable raw materials. This process saves more than 90% on CO2 emissions released in production compared to fossil fuels. Amtico Bio is chemically and physically identical to the company’s standard LVT and works on the Mass Balance principle; for each order, Amtico sources the required amount of bio-attributed PVC, before incorporating it into existing manufacturing processes. The bio-attributed LVT maintains the same variety of designs and high-quality products that Amtico’s popular collections are known for, but with a lower carbon footprint. www.amtico.com

1.

2.

3.

134

4.

1. Stone Circle Bespoke Service

2. Shaw Contract Dye Lab

3. Atlas Concorde Marvel Travertine

4. Topfloor by Esti Abaca

Stone Circle has fabricated and installed marble flooring in many of London’s most prestigious hotels. One of the techniques available as part of the company’s bespoke service is book-matching, wherein the marble’s veins are mirrored and matched. This was used to dramatic effect in one of its London projects, where the firm installed a polished Black Wave marble floor in the bathroom of a suite. To create a truly unique look, it is also possible to inlay different marbles to create patterns within the floor. This is carried out on Stone Circle’s waterjet machines, which cut stone into the required design before bonding it on to sheets to allow for accurate installation. www.stone-circle.com

Shaw Contract’s Dye Lab carpet tile collection is now available for the EMEA market. Featuring intensely saturated hues, softer washes and a range of neutral tones, the collection draws inspiration from natural dyes and mimics the colour shifts rendered in naturally dyed textiles, creating an elegant and unpredictable visual with organic progressions from lightly pigmented to deeper saturation. Dye Lab carpet tiles are installed with Shaw’s Cradle to Cradle-certified EcoWorx backing. Seven Dye Lab colours are now stocked at the company’s carbon neutral facility in Scotland, resulting in significantly reduced lead times. www.shawcontract.com

Designed in collaboration with hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), Marvel Travertine is a porcelain tile range with travertine marble effect.

Reimagining the prestige of iconic materials used for classical architecture in a contemporary manner, HBA has created a collection of extreme realism and versatility of application. The series comprises two variants of Vein Cut and Cross Cut, which are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use covering walls, façades and floors. The former reproduces the striped appearance typical of travertine, while the latter showcases its rich colours with a stonelook surface characterised by shading. www.atlasconcorde.com

Abaca is a super-strong fibre that can be harvested from its stem to make textiles. Topfloor by Esti has partnered with an Abaca farmers’ cooperative in the Philippines to develop next generation rugs that combine the material’s best natural qualities with a strong, graphic aesthetic. The Essential collection for instance comprises plain colours or simple two or more toned weaves, while the Dis-coloured range – created by Dutch designer Claire Vos – plays with asymmetrical shapes, graduated colour and contrast borders. Topfloor’s Abaca fibre is available in a broad palette of natural shades, though it can be dyed in every Pantone colourway. www.topfloorrugs.com

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

3.

4.

1. Madera Atelier

2. Ege Carpets Colortec Stucco

3. Ferreira de Sa Flatweave

4. Creative Matters Hand Axminster

Developed as an ode to the process, the Atelier Collection by Madera explores various textures, colours and finishing techniques used to highlight the natural beauty of wood, while adding just enough je ne sais quoi to create truly unique hardwood floors from European Oak. Combining dry-ageing, surface planing and variable brushing, the texture of Atelier is as much a part of the finish as the colour. Starting with a slate of 50 colour combinations, the design and fabrication firm spent several months eliminating, then adjusting until it was left with seven high-quality floorcoverings.

Atelier products are manufactured and hand-finished in Europe. www.maderasurfaces.com

Founded in 1938, Ege Carpets is one of the leading companies in the design, development and manufacturer of premium carpets with a clear focus on sustainability. In fact, the Danish company has been given an EcoVadis Platinum rating and is the only carpet manufacturer to offer 100% Cradle to Cradle-certified carpets. Colortec Stucco is a carpet collection that oozes exclusivity and style. The surface appears elegantly disrupted across a large-patterned, multidimensional flooring canvas, while the randomised pattern creates the illusion of handcrafted construction, though it is actually the result of the company’s technological capability. www.egecarpets.com

The Flatweave range by Ferreira de Sa reflects the Portuguese manufacturer’s expertise and dedication to the art of weaving, which it has developed over the past 75 years. Inspired by Portugal’s magnificent landscapes and modest villages that best represent the country, the series follows a journey through the history and territory of Portugal to create timeless designs with rich colours and attention to detail. With a high resistance to foot traffic, the floorcoverings are suitable for residential, commercial and hospitality projects. Established in 1946, Ferreira de Sa is one of the oldest and largest existing handmade rug manufacturers in Europe. www.ferreiradesa.pt

Creative Matters recently added Hand Axminster (HAX) to its portfolio of production methods for hospitality carpets. Developed in response to client requests to enhance typical woven Axminster, HAX is a technique that combines the woven Axminster and handtufted methods of production to create added texture and definition with raised or lowered loop and cut pile, while retaining the structural durability required for hotel interiors. The firm recently completed floorcoverings for a hotel where HAX was used throughout the guestrooms and lobby. The Presidential Suite (pictured) showcases the integration of warm gold handtufted elements. www.creativemattersinc.com

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SPOTLIGHT

2.

3.

4.

1.

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1. Ragno Decora

2. Bolon Botanic

3. Deirdre Dyson Angles

4. Nanimarquina Tones

Nature is the focus of the Decora collection, comprising four different subjects that create highly expressive decorative patterns for use on both walls and floors, which can be combined with five colours in the rectified 60x120 and 30x120cm sizes. Extremely durable, 8.5mm-thick porcelain stoneware also permits plain tiles and decors to be freely alternated for modular installations and versatile combinations. Made from 40% recycled material, Decora’s ceramic surfaces are integrated with the innovative CleanOut technological treatment, which specialises in active defense against germs and bacteria for residential and commercial spaces. www.ragno.it

Sustainable Swedish design company Bolon has expanded its Artisan and Botanic collections with new colourways.

Inspired by the natural world, the Botanic collection (pictured) comprises a range of soft, warm and intelligent tones. Having proved popular since its launch, Bolon has expanded the collection’s colour palette with eight new shades: Blanche is creamy and mild bringing a sophisticated softness associated with a new kind of luxury; Honey is thoughtful with a natural warmth; Chestnut is an intriguing brown; Canyon is a heated terracotta; Rain is a refined blue tone with a hint of purple; Spearmint is a brightening colour; and Library is a classic green. www.bolon.com

Deirdre Dyson has launched Angles, with ten new designs that celebrate the striking effect of interplaying angles and linear shapes. Dyson’s hand sketches were transposed into computer designs, with the artist using her eye for colour to create different illusions, such as a 3D appearance or to give a sense of depth and distance. “I set myself the challenge of avoiding any curves and circles to see what could be achieved solely with angles,” explains Dyson. “All these designs were created with just a set square and a ruler. Once I was happy with them, I concentrated on applying a variety of colours, using them to create a feeling of space and dimension.” www.deirdredyson.com

Designed by Spanish artist Clàudia Valsells, Tones is the latest collection by Nanimarquina, comprising four rugs that bring a distinctive, harmonious, rhythmic and sensitive touch with colour as the primary tool. Tones has been developed using two techniques: the handtufted technique allows Valsells’ work to be transferred literally, and is the closest thing to creating on a blank canvas; and the ancestral technique of kilim, which provides an aged and irregularly woven appearance by using of Afghani wool that gives it a new perception. The series features an infinite wealth of shades, highlighting the chromatic harmony reminiscent of musical notes. www.nanimarquina.com

STEP INTO THE…

The UK’s only dedicated lighting specification exhibition

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SPECIFIER

SPECIFIER

Lasvit Cirrus Designed by Yabu Pushelberg to replicate the natural phenomenon of a cirrus – or a cloud forming wispy, filamentous tufted streaks at high altitude – Lasvit’s new screen system features panes of clouded glass affixed to a freestanding vertical rail, giving the impression of layered organic shapes and hues floating in space. The panels are characterised by soft, imperfect radiuses and moody colours, while the wall references the ice crystals that form the cirrus clouds. Its shades also come from nature; the clouds range in colour from white and grey

in bright light to dawn-like blues, purples and dusky pinks at sunrise and sunset. The system similarly changes its effect according to the intensity of the lighting. In daylight, the glass components are more transparent, while in the evening, they create a feeling of intimacy.

Cirrus can be used as an independent piece as well as an optical divider of interiors, including restaurants, offices and hotel suites. It is also adjustable to individual needs and adapts to a diverse range of interior purposes. www.lasvit.com

CASE STUDY

Kettal W Algarve

Coco Wolf Tamarindo Designed and developed by Coco Wolf’s co-founder and Creative Director Rebecca Lorimer, the Tamarindo collection takes cues from the Costa Rican town and comprises a range of outdoor furniture pieces, including a two- or three-seater sofa, a modular sofa, armchair and swivel armchair. The series also offers a footstool, daybed and lounger, together with a dining chair, bar stool and drum chair. Rounding out the range are a dining table, coffee table and bistro table in oval, rectangular and round options. “Tamarindo draws inspiration from Costa Rica’s tropical wonderland of jaw-dropping natural scenery, where nature cradles the soul, inspires new adventures and brings people together outside,” says Lorimer. “With organic curved edges that reflect the natural world, these designs add softness to outdoor areas and create a calming sanctuary – a stylish yet relaxing space where people can unwind.” The elegant flowing lines and sweeping curves mimic forms found in nature, with deep-seated sofas, circular swivel chairs, pebbleshaped footstools and well-rounded drum chairs all designed with comfort in mind. As sustainability is at the core of Coco Wolf’s ethos, the collection also features interchanging seat cushions, recycled fabrics and FSC wood as well as natural materials iroko wood, porcelain and stone. “Like our existing collections, Tamarindo pieces can also be made bespoke,” Lorimer explains. “From tailor-made heights and widths to swivel mechanisms and fixed or adjustable bases, the opportunities are endless.” www.cocowolf.co.uk

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Kettal has collaborated with AB Concept to supply a range of furniture products to W Algarve in Portugal. The destination’s curved Benagil caves inspired the flowing design of the hotel’s interior spaces, while a colour palette of blues, aquamarines and turquoise nods to the azure sky and surrounding Atlantic Ocean.

Fabrics and surfaces reflect the textures of the region, with curated art and lighting telling the story of local traditions and heritage – from ceramics, mosaic and crochet to Moorish costume, fishing livelihoods and the surf culture. Amongst Kettal’s collections on display is Bitta, designed by Rodolfo Dordoni and characterised by a combination of aluminium frames, seats of braided polyester and comfortable cushions. “My aim was to create dense braiding that would still let the air through, reminiscent of the braiding of the ropes used to moor boats – hence the name Bitta, which means ‘mooring’ in Italian,” says Dordoni. “This makes the pieces look lightweight but, at the same time, feel like cosy nests in natural colours.” Also supplied to W Algarve is the Basket outdoor club chair, which is a modern interpretation of the piece first created in the 1950s by Danish designers Nanna and Jørgen Ditzel. The chair comes in an original version crafted from oak and hand-braided wicker, as well as an outdoor version made using artificial fibre and teak to help combat the elements. Patricia Urquiola’s Maia Egg Swing makes an appearance at the property too, boasting a natural lightness with a structure and woven shell in fresh white tones. www.kettal.com

SPECIFIER

Wood Couture FF&E The importance of loose Furniture, Fixes & Equipment (FF&E) is often underestimated, but for Wood Couture, the benefits of having an expert manufacturer at the start of the design phase is clear and well advised. Knowing exactly how much the design will cost to implement based on the designer’s vision is the most important benefit of all. Secondly, knowing the availability of materials and fabrics helps control production times and prevents the developer from incurring any delays. Additionally, having a trusted manufacturing facility helps get the job done. Above all, what this methodology ensures is the ability to deliver projects on time, on budget and with the right quality. www.woodcouture.com

Unidrain GlassLine The GlassLine shower screen features a black frame and 10mm of clear tempered glass available in three sizes: 800-1000mm and a height of 2104mm. Installed without any visible display of fixings, screws, fittings or joins, it can be mounted to the left or right and fits tile thicknesses up to 15mm for walls and 20mm for floors. The screen is lowered into a shower base – located under the bathroom floor – before its black frame is attached to the wall, covering any edges for a smooth finish. The unseen groove-in-thefloor-flange also means the installation of the line drain is both fast and efficient. Enclosed in black powder-coated metal, the interior panel of each screen is treated with Cleantech nano-treatment. www.unidrain.com

LSA International Balcony Compact urban spaces grounded in nature inform LSA’s Balcony collection. The mouth-blown glass planters borrow their structural, offset shapes from city balconies laden in growth and natural, untamed abundance, with a design that mirrors the stepped levels seen in terraced agricultural landscapes. Biophilia sits at the core of the range; a concept centred around our affinity to engage with the natural world. Each two-part planter is self-watering, using sub-irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots of the plant. A trailing cord carries hydration from the built-in reservoir to the soil, enabling users to grow a variety of indoor plants and embrace biophilic design by improving the environment of interior spaces. www.lsa-international.com

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Embarking on a rebrand is no easy feat, particularly for a respected trade association that has built a loyal community over the past 50 years. But for the BCFA – now known as Commercial Interiors UK – a new identity has helped frame the future, ensuring it can better support its 200+ members who manufacture and supply contract quality furnishing products for the hospitality, marine, workplace, healthcare and education sectors.

Shaping the Future of Commercial Interiors With a new name and renewed focus, the UK trade association for the commercial interiors sector gears up for the future.

FIT FOR THE FUTURE “The rebrand is not something we approached lightly,” explains Chairwoman Carolyn Mitchell, who has served as a board director for over 20 years. “We had just celebrated 50 years of the BCFA, so it seemed a perfect time to look to the successes of the past, and then forward to the future years, identifying and driving through the change required to be ready for whatever happens next.”

Following consultation with members, Mitchell set up a subcommittee and embarked on an indepth strategic review to assess the effectiveness of the association. “It was important for us to review why the commercial sector needs an association, and how we provide support,” she continues. “We considered how we could be fit for the future, building on the support provided to our members to ensure their future business growth. We realised that as a sector we have to engage the next generation, and to do that we need to be more relevant, inclusive and representative.”

Mitchell describes the process as “incisive, challenging and far-reaching” in which nothing was off limits, not even the association’s name.

A NEW IDENTITY Unveiled at the annual luncheon last November, the new name of Commercial Interiors UK was coined to better represent the association.

“Communication is a fundamental part of what we do, and our research found that ‘Commercial Interiors UK’ as a name has much greater resonance around the world than the BCFA acronym,” Mitchell explains. “In order to promote our members effectively, it was vital people understood who and what we represent.”

And with a new name comes a new identity.

“The visual branding has been created with three key pillars in mind: adaptability, vibrancy, and timelessness,” she continues. “The logo takes inspiration from Bauhaus-inspired letter forms and monograms; we represent a creative industry, so for me it was important to have a brand that is visually engaging.”

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RENEWED FOCUS Though it’s an all-new visual identity, the aims and objectives of the association are more of a progression, building on what has gone before.

“We have three key areas of focus where we can add tangible value to our members and community: knowledge and education, connecting the community, and business support,” Mitchell explains. “Our activity is based on member needs so right now, our priorities include: providing support on sustainability by speeding up the adoption of sustainable practices; access to export markets through a long-term UK plan and funding on trade; ensuring our sector continues to receive government energy support; and developing an education programme to bring new talent into the sector.”

Accreditation for membership will continue to require businesses to prove they operate ethically and sustainably in the UK. In return, members will enjoy even greater support through knowledge and education hubs, ensuring they have a competitive edge in a fast-changing global sector. For 2023 and beyond, there are plans for more forums to connect the community, as well as tailored business support to help members navigate challenges and futureproof their strategy.

APPETITE FOR CHANGE So how has the rebrand been received amongst members? “Very well,” Mitchell concludes. “There was an appetite for change and an updated brand will help deliver a clearer message to our target audience. We will continue to raise industry issues that are important to the success of our members, their businesses and their clients. Our vision is to create a world with the most inspiring and productive commercial spaces, designed and furnished with exceptional UK product.” www.commercial-interiorsuk.com

SPECIFIER

Tuuci Ocean Master Mega Max Classic Tuuci has introduced its largest parasol yet, the Ocean Master Mega Max Classic, in a selection of colours and finishes. Ranging in size from 16-24ft, the parasol allows multiple tables or lounge areas to be covered using a single shade device, with a stainless steel bracketed hub system and stainless steel hinged anchor plate meaning it can withstand wind gusts up to 75mph. A dual Ambia LED light also offers independent dimmable up and down light, while adjustable infra-red heaters pivot to warm those seated beneath the canopy. The system features a micro-switch too, which automatically cuts off the power when the umbrella frame is closed. www.tuuci.com

Oliver Hemming Drama New to the Oliver Hemming collection for 2023, Drama is a highfidelity stereo Bluetooth speaker combining a classic look and feel with optimum performance. Its 77mm fibreglass cone woofers and twin passive bass drivers are complemented by two 43mm silk dome mid-to-high range tweeters that provide an orchestral sound.

Finished in ebony veneer, the speaker also boasts a curved etched stainless steel grille, with its elegant form adding a sculptural focal point to a range of interior spaces. Hidden under the veneer on the top of the system is a wireless charging unit, while rounding out the features are two USB C charging ports as well as the latest Bluetooth 5.1 and Aptx HD from Qualcomm. www.oliverhemming.com

Panaz Meridian Panaz has unveiled Meridian, a new collection for the hospitality sector comprising signature woven jacquards, as well as plain and sheer draperies. Inspired by themes of geology and natural structures, each of the seven distinctive designs – four organically textured jacquard drapery designs, a matching velvet jacquard upholstery, a wide-width sheer, and a wide-width plain with chintz and matte sides – are reminiscent of organic textures like tree bark, sedimentary stone and petrified leaves. Available in five classic colour stories, Meridian co-ordinates with Panaz’s wider upholstery portfolio, including dual-purpose velvet, Enchant. The range also adheres to fire-retardancy and technical performance standards. www.panaz.com

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Sleeper Media – the leading brand for hospitality experience and design.

Visit the store to receive your copy. www.sleeper.media/store

ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 106

AD Associates Aliseo

016 012-013

Ligne Roset

014

LSA

046

Arte

025

Luteca

109

Astro

002

Madera

049

Beck

063

Maison & Objet

129

Chelsom

094

Mandarin Stone

055

Cosentino

093

Oliver Hemming

132

Creative Matters

087

Preciosa

029

EE Smith

110

Ege

010-011

EPR

RH Contract

006-007

Sanipex

053

069

Sleeper Sessions

104

Ethimo

019

Stellar Works

Gommaire

148

Stonecircle

041

Gresham

033

Table Place Chairs

077

Hector Finch

035

THP

138

Il Fanale

027

Tribu

005

Jung

061

Tuuci

051

Kohler

031

Warwick Contract

147

La Morzocca

045

Waterbury

121

LiGHT23

137

Wood Couture

008-009

075

145

CHECK-OUT

All Embracing

Bulgarian architect Viktor Tsarski and Dutch designer Wouter Biegelaar create a celebratory cavern for the 33rd Icehotel in Sweden.

With the frozen forests and icy iguanas of last

Embrace, a new ceremony hall crafted from

year’s Icehotel long melted away, a team of 24

blocks of ice that are kept cold in a sub-zero

artists from across the globe have been busy

warehouse in nearby Jukkasjärvi, having been

carving up new creations for the 33rd edition of

harvested from the Torne River in the Spring.

the Swedish site’s winter showcase. Constructed

Designed by Bulgarian architect Viktor Tsarski

over six intense weeks, Icehotel 33 has brought

in collaboration with Dutch designer and

together the artistic nous of 13 teams from around

visualisation specialist Wouter Biegelaar, the

the world to create a three-dimensional sleeping

celebratory cavern explores the potential of ice

experience that sees supersized mushrooms and

as a constructive material, with a vaulted ceiling

Japanese gardens sprouting from the walls,

that frames an intricately cut altar below. The

ceiling and underfoot. “Yet another Icehotel is

altar itself resembles a stylised flower, which will

completed and yet another unique experience

slowly open up to the snowy surroundings as the

has been carved for our guests,” says Creative

winter season progresses. “Embrace celebrates

Director Luca Roncoroni. “Every year I’m

life, love and positivity,” explain Tsarski and

amazed at what this team can achieve; talented

Biegelaar. “In a post-Covid world filled with

international artists, flanked by a team of ice-

war and hate, our aim was to create a peaceful

professionals, producing true magic.”

place. No religion, orientation or race. Just love

The star of the show for 2023 however is

and embracing all that is good.”

© Asaf Kliger

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Furnishing fabrics for commercial spaces

The new commercial fabric brand for upholstery, blinds and curtains www.warwick.co.uk +44 (0)1451 822383

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