Sleeper 111

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

IZZA – MARRAKECH • ARASH AZARBARZIN • REGINA EXPERIMENTAL – BIARRITZ

Innovation meets timeless design in our new collection of contemporary lighting concepts for hospitality, residential, and commercial spaces Lighting designed to stand the test of time follow @astrolighting | astrolighting.com

CONTENTS ISSUE 111 068

HOTEL REVIEWS

111

Regina Experimental

068

Regent

077

Pnoé Breathing Life

084

Izza

092

Pieve Aldina

099

Pan Pacific Orchard

104

Domes Noruz

111

Stay

117

Mondrian Duxton

122

The Municipal

128

Biarritz

© Fampiano Kraniotis

Hong Kong Crete

Marrakech 084

Tuscany

Singapore

© Mr Tripper

© Olia Paspalaki

Mykonos Camden

Singapore

122

Liverpool

FEATURES Meeting... Arash Azarbarzin 048 As Highgate looks to expand its luxury lifestyle portfolio, the group’s Principal and CEO talks of the people, products and places that will help deliver dynamic hospitality experiences.

The Heritage of the Future

054

As building usage evolves, the Head of Hospitality at Purcell discusses the potential presented by heritage sites. © Studio Periphery 003

CONTENTS ISSUE 111 099

FEATURES 21 Years of Tara Bernerd

056

Healing Hospitality

138

Creativity Meets Commerciality

146

Mind, Body and Spurs

180

Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary of her eponymous studio, Tara Bernerd discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.

Following the opening of a new Lanserhof in Germany, architect Christoph Ingenhoven discusses the development of the medi-resort concept, outlining the positive impact of design on guest wellbeing.

In a world that oscillates between the creative and the commercial, the founder of AboundStudio reveals why this doesn’t happen by chance, but by design.

117

092

As Tottenham Hotspur ramps up its player recovery programme, the football club’s Head of Medicine & Sports Science explains the importance of its partnership with DUX.

REGULARS

© Beth Davis

138

183

© HGEsch

004

Check-In

030

Drawing Board

032

The Lobby

061

Design Details

136

Business Centre

152

Events

163

Fabrics, Wallcoverings & Surfaces

183

Beds, Bedding & Mattresses

194

Specifier

197

Check-Out

218

B AT H R O O M

ACCESSORIES

SERIES

MIRRORS

LIGHTS

H I X E V E N T 2 023 . LO N D O N 16 -17 N OV E M B R E 2 023

W W W. D E C O R - WA LT H E R .C O M

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One site. One box.

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INTERCONTINENTAL LYON – HOTEL DIEU. FRANCE Studio Jean Philippe Nuel.

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WELCOME

ON THE COVER Izza, Marrakech

A Moment of Quiet

T

here’s always plenty of talk in the hospitality industry

of Hilton London Bankside, where guests – and staff too – are

about the vibrancy of social spaces in a hotel, with

encouraged to take time for themselves and disconnect from

the measure of success often based on the energy of

daily life.

the bar or popularity of the restaurant. No longer relying on

You only have to look at the number of off-grid cabins and

overnight guests, most hoteliers consider their appeal to the

camps popping up in the wilderness to realise that there’s

local community to be the holy grail, the goal being to get

demand for this type of experience; to completely switch

people through the door, whatever the occasion or time of

off and give minds and bodies a chance to rest. Even silent

day. But what of those who seek the opposite?

retreats are reportedly seeing a resurgence since the pandemic,

A recent stay at Lanserhof – a medical-centre-meetswellness-resort on the island of Sylt – demonstrated the

with FOMO turning to JOMO (joy of missing out) in favour of alone time.

restorative effects of tranquillity, where the noise of the

In a different vein, moments of quiet are making their way

outside world is silenced by the sounds of nature. Here, there’s

into design schemes too. At Regent Hong Kong, also featured

no desire to have locals calling in for a bite to eat or a dip in

in this issue, Chi Wing Lo describes the sense of serenity

the pool; the sprawling resort is reserved for guests only. In a

created in the guestrooms, using fine fabrics and subtle

bid to halt the bombardment of information from the always-

embellishments to achieve what he refers to as quiet luxury.

connected online world, the use of laptops and mobile phones

The designer believes that a space for contemplation cannot

is strongly discouraged. And under doctor’s orders, chit-chat

be loud or demand attention; a move that goes against the

at the dinner table is frowned upon, enabling the body to

marketing mantra of visual brand awareness.

effectively and efficiently digest every mouthful. Christoph

So whether it’s quiet luxury or the luxury of quiet, the

Ingenhoven’s design is intentionally quiet too; furniture is

appeal is growing amongst hoteliers, designers and guests.

primarily oriented towards the view rather than a TV screen,

Of course, there will always be a time and place to jostle over

and there’s no art on the walls or bold pops of colour, only a

a spot at the bar or soak up the atmosphere of the hottest new

calming palette of natural materials in neutral colourways.

hotel opening, but for now, a moment of quiet.

Even in urban destinations, where the hubbub of the city is the main attraction, a handful of operators are introducing moments of quiet for their guests. The Londoner for example, has given a large proportion of its floorplan over to guest-only spaces, creating a relaxed ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of Leicester Square. And in this issue of Sleeper, we feature the meditation pods that were installed in the lobby

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

025

STYLING STUDIO SALARIS - PH. MATTEO IMBRIANI

2 0 2 3 Te x t i l e s C o l l e c t i o n : Fr a m m e n t i Ve n e z i a n i - r u b e l l i . c o m

GUEST BOOK

122

138

068

© Jim Rakete

146

© Karel Baras

© Studio Periphery

122 Chum

138 Christoph Ingenhoven

146 James Huntly

068 Dorothée Meilichzon

New York-based artist Kaws – aka Brian Donnelly – is known for his reinterpretation of seminal characters from popular culture, with featureless figure Chum one of his most famous creations.

So when The Artling secured one for Mondrian Duxton Singapore, they knew it would make a statement. Standing 6m tall at the entrance to the hotel, the piece – entitled What Party – represents the eclecticism of Duxton’s street culture, standing side by side with historic shophouses while looking ahead to a new era for the city.

“The idea is to create a particularly sustainable and healthy building complex in which guests can recuperate and reenergise in harmony with nature,” says Christoph Ingenhoven on the planning and design of three medi-resorts for Lanserhof Group.

Under his eponymous studio, Ingenhoven is a pioneer in sustainable architecture, designing in accordance with the highest green building standards. His latest project, Lanserhof Sylt, demonstrates this through the elimination of toxic materials.

Having built a reputation for his work at several design agencies and hospitality brands over the years, James Huntly moved to Australia in 2019 to launch AboundStudio, a branding firm he describes as an “ecosystem of creative and commercial minds”.

Now based between Perth and London, Huntly is working with the likes of IHG and Edyn to help to craft memorable, meaningful brands that enrich the cultural landscape as well as the lives of those who encounter them, in turn driving growth for the operator.

Since founding her studio in Paris in 2009, Dorothée Meilichzon has built a portfolio of hospitality projects across Europe, ranging from restaurants and bars to airport lounges and hotels. A longstanding relationship with Experimental Group has seen her design interiors for Henrietta Hotel in London, Il Palazzo in Venice and Montesol in Ibiza, as well as the newly opened Regina Experimental in Biarritz, where her signature sense of style can be seen throughout the Basqueinspired property.

027

@SleeperMagazine

FRONT DESK EDITORIAL

COMMERCIAL

EVENTS

DESIGN

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

Commercial Lead Kirsty Studholme k.studholme@mondiale.co.uk

Design Manager David Bell

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

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Event Manager Kayley Johnson k.johnson@mondiale.co.uk

Deputy Editor Ben Thomas b.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

Business Development Kate Borastero k.borastero@mondiale.co.uk

Marketing & Events Olivia Mavers o.mavers@mondiale.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Cara Rogers c.rogers@mondiale.co.uk

Account Manager Holly Huish h.huish@mondiale.co.uk

RESEARCH & MARKETING

Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich

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CHECK-IN

Benjamin El Doghaili The Head of Design at Mama Shelter swaps Paris for Beirut, taking a fantasy break to a Gio Ponti-designed bolthole brimming with European eclecticism.

Where are you?

And who’s at the concierge desk?

has collaborated with Italian designer Gio Ponti,

I’m in Beirut at the very height of summer,

Jean Claude Elgaire, the famous clef d’or known

whose European eclecticism and coherency of

sitting on a white-and-turquoise mosaic pool

for attending to the fantasies of guests at Plaza

the Mediterranean world complements Morris’

deck patterned by Gio Ponti. Beside me on a fine

Athénée. He was once requested by a sheikh to

assumed character.

white metal table is a glass of fresh arak, a small

organise a parade of one-hundred camels along

cup of cardamom-flavoured coffee and a glass

Avenue Montaigne in Paris.

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

In the basement, a hidden bar with a resin

of rose syrup water. The views of the seafront offer all that I expect from the Mediterranean;

Who are you sharing your room with?

counter rotates around the base of the pool,

Elipson speakers playing never-ending Fairuz

My friends – I love being around them during

with rounded submarine-like windows looking

songs hang on white-painted concrete pillars

my travels. I like the chaos of opened suitcases

directly onto the water. We are seated on

and I can hear the sound of the local youth

and the clutter of clothing everywhere, as well

armchairs sculpted by Italian designer Gaetano

jumping in the bay and joking around in Arabic.

as the comforting smell of different perfumes.

Pesce in the shape of fish, and from the ceiling hangs an art installation that makes us feel as

This is a happy feeling.

Is there anything you would like waiting for

if we are immersed in a fantastical seascape.

How did you get there?

you in your room?

It was a true journey. I left Paris from Gare de

A letter from the General Manager promising

Who are you dining with this evening?

l’Est and spent four days on board The Orient

me full attention, and a glass of arak with plenty

The artists that worked on the project, as well

Express. From Belgrade, the eastern world

of ice, served on the terrace.

as Morris and Gio. David Hockney is busy sketching, and Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum

opened its arms until the city of Constantinople.

It was then a road trip through Antioch in Syria

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

to finally arrive in Beirut, capital of Phoenicia.

It is a typical mid-1960s building by the sea with

is joining us later.

a raw concrete façade. The top floor is home

And what’s on the menu?

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

to the restaurant, which frames the landscape

Chef Pierre Gagnaire has crafted a special menu

My friend David Hockney, who is wearing a

through large circular windows. The interiors

with musician Flavien Berger. Our first dish is

red velvet suit with sarwal trousers and his

feature oriental patterns across the carpets,

a Lebanese man’ouché with steamed spinach

legendary giant round glasses. Hiding by the

walls and upholstery, and there’s a smoky yet

coated in lemon gloss and sumac, and we finish

entrance, he surprises me with a spray of orange

sweet smell radiating from the narghiles. On

with a pomegranate sorbet topped with sheep

blossom water!

the ground floor, the lobby is a prolongation of

milk snow.

the pool, while a majestic spiral staircase to the

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Mama Shelter Roma; Mama Shelter Lisboa; Mama Shelter Rennes; Mama Shelter Dijon www.benjamineldoghaili.com

upper-level lounge is the perfect runway; guests

Would you like something to drink with that?

elegantly climb the stairs wearing beautifully-

An intelligent water able to turn itself sweet or

detailled tunics and extravagant hats.

salty in contact with the dishes.

Who designed it?

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

American architect Morris Lapidus – his love for

My notebook and a Micron 04 pen to sketch the

the Mediterranean shines through. Inside, he

designs I imagine in my dreams.

031

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

Anantara Trojena SAUDI ARABIA Minor Hotels has announced plans to expand Anantara’s

of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International. “We

presence in Saudi Arabia, with a newbuild resort at Trojena –

look forward to working with the team at Neom to bring

the year-round mountain destination forming part of Neom.

the resort to fruition within this aspirational destination.”

Powered by renewable energy, the 270-key resort will

Philip Gullett, Executive Director and Region Head at

feature a variety of guestrooms and suites, some with private

Trojena, comments: “Trojena redefines the understanding of

pools, and all offering panoramic lake or mountain views.

year-round, ultra-luxury hospitality and mountain tourism.

On the menu are two specialty restaurants, an all-day dining

With the addition of Anantara in our iconic Water Village,

venue with a show kitchen, a café and high-tea lounge, and

we will be elevating the travel experience for discerning

a rooftop majlis. Additional facilities include an Anantara

guests. Anantara will serve as a luxurious sanctuary along

Spa with separate male and female wet areas, plus a fitness

the edge of Trojena’s new lake, situated in a region that will

centre, multiple hammams and an infinity pool.

offer the Gulf’s first outdoor ski resort and where world-

Elsewhere, a stargazing deck, outdoor cinema and sports pavilion will bolster the recreational offering, and the resort will also incorporate various events spaces.

“We are thrilled that this property will soon be under development at Trojena, which is the perfect location for Anantara to bring its heartfelt hospitality and trademark take on authentic, indigenous luxury,” says Dillip Rajakarier, CEO

class sporting events, art exhibitions, concerts and cultural festivals will be staged.”

DRAWING BOARD

Four Seasons Resort & Residences at Tropicalia DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Cisneros Real Estate Operator: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Architecture: Gensler Interior Design: Isay Weinfeld Landscaping: EDSA www.fourseasons.com

034

Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts has announced

which have private terraces and gardens. The

plans for Four Seasons Resort & Residences

buildings integrate with the landscape to give

Dominican Republic at Tropicalia, a sustainable

the sense of being immersed in nature, while

destination along the beachfront of Playa

designs are low impact, drawing on the island’s

Esmerelda. The project is being developed in

colonial-era towns through the use of Coralina

partnership with Cisneros Real Estate and is

limestone, brick and stucco.

slated for completion in early 2026.

On completion, the resort will house a spa,

Located on the southern shores of Samaná

fitness centre and yoga pavilion, along with

Bay, the resort marks the first phase of

culinary venues ranging from a specialty

development at Tropicalia, where a diverse

restaurant and beachside grill to a ceviche bar,

ecosystem of beaches, forests and lagoons

marketplace, a coffee shop and rum bar.

sits alongside a working coconut plantation

“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio in the

and organic farm. Responsible for creating

Dominican Republic, a market that we have long

a scheme that harmonsises with the natural

been focused on as a luxury travel destination,”

beauty of the site, Gensler has been appointed

says Alejandro Reynal, President and CEO of

executive architect, while Brazilian architect

Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. “We are proud

Isay Weinfeld is leading interior design and

to bring this project to life with our partners at

EDSA on masterplanning and landscaping.

Cisneros, who share our values of supporting

Together, they have adopted a Tropical

the environments and communities in which

Modernist aesthetic across the hotel’s 95

we operate, and who we deeply admire for their

guestrooms and 25 private residences, many of

work with Fundación Tropicalia.”

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DRAWING BOARD

Soho House

Soho House is set to open its first property in

large central bar and DJ booth, while the main

the north of England in Spring 2024, with a 133-

members’ club a level above comprises a casual

MANCHESTER

room house in Manchester’s St John’s area.

bar and lounge area. A more formal dining space

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Allied Manchester Operator: Soho House Interior Design: Soho House Design Main Contractor: ARJ Construction www.sohohouse.com

036

Spread across five floors of the former

is set to be run by Head Chef James Lord, who

Granada Studios – a building with a rich history

is returning home to Manchester after a stint at

in broadcasting, having hosted The Beatles’

76 Dean Street in London.

first-ever televised performance – the site will

The property’s east-facing wall will boast a

draw inspiration from the 1950s and ‘60s, with

retractable roof, with an awning that opens in

an eclectic collection of bespoke and vintage

the warmer months to maximise views across

furniture pieces referencing its golden era.

the city. There’s an outdoor rooftop pool –

In keeping with the theme, feature fabrics

complete with sunbeds and a terrace bar – while

used on headboards in the guestrooms and

a spiral staircase leads to the ninth floor, home

hanging tapestries in the club space have been

to a late-night bar and live music venue.

developed in partnership with Print Pattern

“Bringing Soho House to other cities in the UK

Archive, paying homage to Manchester-based

has always been something that we’ve wanted

artists and giving a second life to local prints.

to do and, as a Mancunian, I’m particularly

The development will include a Mollie’s

proud to be coming to Manchester,” says

Motel, Bar & Diner at street level, while a gym,

Andrew Carnie, CEO of Soho House. “Nick and

studio and sauna on the first floor will open to a

the design team have worked hard to create

balcony with relaxed seating. The seventh floor

a space for our members that preserves the

will be used as a flexible events space with a

heritage of the Granada Studios building.”

EDITION 28

New Lighting Collection

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24/10/2023 15:12:49

DRAWING BOARD

Hotel Daphne

Bunkhouse – the Austin-based hospitality

“We are excited to be expanding our presence

company founded on the pillars of design,

in Houston with Hotel Daphne, our second

HOUSTON

music and community-driven experiences – has

project in the works in the city,” says Amar

revealed plans for Hotel Daphne, due to open in

Lalvani, Executive Chairman at Bunkhouse

Houston in early 2025. The launch will follow

Hotels. “The property will be a sophisticated

the debut of Hotel Saint Augustine in the same

yet relaxing gathering place for both staying

city in autumn 2024.

guests and the local community alike, in a

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Bob and Ben Ackerley Developer: RGA Ventures Operator: Bunkhouse Architecture: Blanchard A+D, Darwin Architecture Interior Design: Bunkhouse in-house design team www.bunkhousehotels.com

038

Designed by Blanchard A+D and Darwin

neighbourhood that we adore – the exact type

Architecture, the five-storey newbuild is

of place Bunkhouse is renowned for creating

inspired by the architecture of Houston Heights

and one that is reflective of Houston’s diversity,

and features painted brickwork, stepped

history and culture.”

parapets and steel windows, harmonising with

Ben Ackerley, co-owner of the hotel, adds:

the neighborhood’s recycled industrial style.

“Bunkhouse wrote the book on creating trendy

The interior design is being led by Bunkhouse’s

boutique hotels in Texas; and ever since I

in-house team and melds elements of the Arts &

stayed at Hotel San Jose many years ago, I

Crafts movement with a Folk Victorian aesthetic.

have dreamed of helping bring Bunkhouse to

In all, Hotel Daphne will comprise 47

Houston. Hotel Daphne will be the first of its

guestrooms and suites, an all-day restaurant,

kind in the Heights and is only going to add to

ground-floor bar and lounge, as well as a

the momentum that the neighbourhood already

courtyard, outdoor pool and lobby retail outlet

has going as it grows into one of the premiere

– a signature of the Bunkhouse brand.

destinations in the city.”

O U T- F I T B Y S T U D I O A D O L I N I

PH BERNARD TOUILLON

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DRAWING BOARD

Six Senses Amaala

As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia undergoes

salt rooms, a Watsu pool, yoga platform, sound

major tourism transformation as part of Vision

dome and multi-sensory relaxation areas.

SAUDI ARABIA

2030, Six Senses has announced it will open at Red Sea Global’s Amaala development.

With architecture by U+A and interiors

tea house, while prayer rooms and communal

by Studio Carter, the hotel comprises 64

lounges will also be open to guests. Additional

guestrooms, six suites and 30 villas, all inspired

food and beverage offerings will range from

by the region’s traditional coastal villages. 25

all-day dining venues with Middle Eastern

private residences will also form part of the

and Mediterranean influences, to a signature

development, connected by shared courtyards.

Southeast Asian restaurant, a juice bar and

The accommodations will seamlessly integrate

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Red Sea Global Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: U+A Interior Design: Studio Carter www.sixsenses.com

040

Other amenities across the resort include a coffee roastery, bakery, water bar and shisha

fermentation rooms.

with the naturally-occurring topography, while

Aligning with the Six Senses brand ethos,

a key feature is the Mesa, a flat-topped hill

sustainability is at the core of the resort’s

where fossilised corals and mollusks stand

building and operation, with a dedicated

testimony to the ancient history of the land.

desalination plant that has zero impact on nearby

The site opens up to the beaches of Hijaz Cove

coral reefs and a ban on single-use plastics.

to the north and natural rock pools and a pocket

Additionally, all wastewater and organic waste

beach to the south. A mangrove boardwalk leads

will be used for agriculture and on the site’s

to the spa, which is set up within a private

organic farm, while energy requirements will be

cove; facilities include a cryotherapy chamber,

met using renewable sources, in line with the

infrared saunas, herbal steam rooms, ice baths,

development’s zero carbon footprint.

STONE

design by DT Studio

ilfanale.com

DRAWING BOARD

The Río Arts District

SB Architects has been appointed to design

flow, but the materiality is what provides

The Río Arts District, a mixed-use community

differentiation. Vertical metal panels add a

RIONEGRO

space in Rionegro, Colombia. A celebration of

touch of elegance, while also reflecting the

art, nature and Colombian culture, the 27,568m2

surrounding environment.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Julián Pérez Architecture: SB Architects www.sb-architects.com

042

development comprises exhibition spaces,

Campo continues: “The hotel has walkable

music studios, boutiques, signature restaurants

roof gardens that connect guests to the ethos

and an experiential hotel.

of the destination, while windows offer views

The district is made up of five buildings linked

across the bustling district. It is also unique in

by open-air pathways that encircle the site;

how it embraces the surrounding community;

in orienting the buildings, SB Architects was

as guests step out of the lobby, they are greeted

guided by how water moves over rocks, boulders

by the energy of the district, and a sense that

and natural bridges. “Our design concept

they are a part of something bigger. The

imagines the structures as rock formations, and

experience of staying here is immersive and

the people visiting the district as water moving

transformative, allowing visitors to leave with

through it,” explains Miguel Campo, Vice

a deeper understanding of Colombia.”

President of SB Architects. “The architecture

Though a hotel operator is yet to be

and the expression of the hotel stand out

announced, it is hoped that The Río Arts District

from the rest of the district, with a sleek and

will contribute to the area’s growth and attract a

modern design that incorporates traditional

diverse mix of residents and travellers, all while

Colombian materials in a contemporary way.

serving as a cultural platform for established

All five buildings are organic with a curvilinear

and emerging artists across various disciplines.

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DRAWING BOARD

4-6 Bedford Place

Studio Moren has received planning permission

“We are mindful of preserving history while

to turn the Grade II-listed 4–6 Bedford Place

creating a space that fits seamlessly into the

LONDON

into a 43-room townhouse hotel, backed by

modern world,” explains Rachael Reid, Senior

investor and developer SAV Group. Located

Interior Designer at the firm. “Guests will feel

between Russell Square and Bloomsbury Square

as though they are peering through a looking

Gardens, the hotel will make use of the area’s

glass at a piece of the past.”

rich historical and architectural character to shape the guest experience.

The site currently comprises a row of

dense, built-up city like London to be able to

converted Georgian terrace houses that will be

re-use buildings and bring an area back to life.

retained and restored, while three newbuild

In planning to revitalise the property, we first

wings to the rear will extend the hotel’s

assessed what was important, before arranging

accommodation offering. Once complete, the

to remove what was not, while protecting and

property will feature a compact reception space,

replacing historic features.

bar and lounge, alongside a variety of standard, suite and accessible guestrooms.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: SAV Group Architecture and Interior Design: Studio Moren www.studiomoren.co.uk

044

Angela Franco, Architect Project Lead at Studio Moren, adds: “It is so important in a

“Functional elements fundamental to the workings of a modern hotel, such as en suite

The project’s architecture and interiors are

bathrooms, will then be added in a juxtaposing

entirely under the direction of Studio Moren,

yet lightweight and reversible design style, with

with the design team drawing on its skill

the intention not to clash or detract from the

for storytelling to pay homage to the former

original authenticity of the building, but to play

residents who lived here in the 1900s.

with it and create something modern.”

V I T R IUM C O L O UR S DE S I GN B Y C HR I S T I A N W E R NE R

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C O L O U R U P Y O U R E V E R Y D AY The series which offers statement pieces for the bathroom. w w w.dur av it.c o.uk

13.10.23 11:52

DRAWING BOARD

Sandals

Sandals Resorts International has revealed that

first communal-style restaurant, will plate up

its ninth Caribbean outpost will make its debut

seasonal platters from an open kitchen, while

SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

in March 2024, joining a portfolio of beachfront

grab-and-go concept Imoro – named after the

properties in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia,

local indigenous word for green – will offer an

Barbados and The Bahamas.

array of healthy bowls. Three Jewels, whose

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Sandals Resorts International Interior Design and Procurement: Hospitality Purveyors www.sandals.com

046

Set on a 50-acre site to the backdrop of

name is inspired by the flag of Saint Vincent

mountains and rainforest, Sandals Saint Vincent

and The Grenadines, will spotlight Eastern

and The Grenadines comprises 301 guestrooms

Caribbean rums to the sounds of Caribbean vinyl

and suites – the group’s most expansive to-

classics, and Parisol is an open-air beach club.

date – with the Two-Bedroom Butler Villas also

Further facilities include the Red Lane Spa, a

being a Sandals first. Other options include a

double-crescent infinity-edge pool, and a 300ft

two-storey overwater villa with its own rooftop

linear pool with swim-up bar.

lounge, plus select accommodations have been

“The resort is a dream more than two decades

enhanced with private fitness rooms and a

in the making,” says Adam Stewart, Executive

dedicated space for movie nights. Interiors

Chairman of Sandals Resorts International.

throughout feature biophilic elements that

“From the moment we laid eyes on Vincy, as

lean into the surrounding landscape, with local

the locals lovingly call her, we felt this sense of

volcanic materials used alongside views that

magic, wonder and awe so palpable you could

frame the area’s flora.

almost touch it. A true diamond of a place, she

The resort will be home to 16 F&B concepts serving a range of cuisines; Buccan, the brand’s

meets every possibility to deliver an exceptional experience worthy of her very site.”

The Municipal Hotel Liverpool - MGallery // © Gunner Gu // northern-lights.co.uk

Meeting…

Arash Azarbarzin As Highgate looks to expand its luxury lifestyle portfolio, the group’s Principal and CEO talks of the people, products and places that will help deliver dynamic hospitality experiences.

Words: Ben Thomas • Portrait Photography: © Andrew Werner

I

’ve always respected Highgate’s business perspective and

partners through a platform designed to optimise operational

its reputation as a value-adding partner,” says Arash

efficiencies, distribution and hotel concept development.

Azarbarzin, Principal and CEO at Highgate, which has been

The ambition, in Azarbarzin’s mind, is to become the best

a trusted investment and operating partner of hospitality

hotel operator globally. “We treat each asset as if we own

assets for more than 30 years. “The company was built

it, with the same level of detail and scrutiny to maximise

on the same core principles that I conduct my business

its potential,” he explains. “As we expand, we will continue

– unparalleled work ethic, creativity and a commitment to

pursuing opportunities by adhering to the key principles

putting people first.”

that have contributed to Highgate’s historical success.” Said

Despite his longstanding admiration for the New York-

principles include fostering high-fidelity relationships with

based owner-operator, Azarbarzin felt that he could add

partners and institutions, innovating around operational,

further value to the portfolio. So, when the opportunity

distribution and hotel positioning capabilities, as well as

arose to become the company’s first-ever CEO in September

becoming a collaborative counterparty on transactions.

2021, he knew it was an offer he could not turn down. “The

A key component to this expansion will be the growth

same ethos and hustle that Highgate started out with still

of the company’s luxury lifestyle portfolio, with Azarbarzin

exists today,” he explains. “Even since my arrival, we have

noting that Highgate has recently bolstered its team with

experienced a number of significant and defining moments,

several hospitality leaders. “Luxury and lifestyle hospitality

from expanding our F&B division – TableOne Hospitality

allows us to deliver a product and service culture that is

– with Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina and renowned

expressive of today’s dynamic and innovative environment,”

restaurateur Patric Yumul, to introducing new mentorship

he states. “Our assets are shaped by the people and places

approaches, developing organisational talent and increasing

that surround them, and deliver distinctive, memorable

our focus on ESG.”

experiences that create an emotional connection for guests.”

Driving growth is something Azarbarzin is adept at, having

Across the United States, recent projects such as The

built successful teams and cultures during stints for the

Joseph in Nashville, The Elser in Miami and The Bellevue

likes of SBE Entertainment, Proper Hospitality and most

in Philadelphia demonstrate Highgate’s growth ambitions,

recently, SH Hotels & Resorts, where he was instrumental

while The Newbury in Boston saw the group unite a stellar

in the development of 1 Hotels, Treehouse and Baccarat.

cast of Jeffrey Beers, Alexandra Champalimaud and Mario

Implementing this expertise at Highgate, Azarbarzin’s

Carbone to restore the city’s grand dame to its former glory.

primary mission is to enhance the offering of its hospitality

And then there’s Park Lane in New York, winner of the Hotel

049

MEETING…

“Luxury and lifestyle hospitality allows us to deliver a product and service culture that is expressive of today’s dynamic and innovative environment.”

At The Newbury in Boston, Highgate brought together a stellar cast of Jeffrey Beers, Alexandra Champalimaud and Mario Carbone to restore the city’s grand dame to its former glory

Renovation category at AHEAD Americas 2022,

Within Highgate’s resort division, the

where Highgate entrusted acclaimed hospitality

forthcoming Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences

designers Yabu Pushelberg with scripting a new

– a 155-key development on Palm Beach’s

tale for Leona Helmsley’s beloved property on

Singer Island – is being designed and developed

Central Park South, creating a space that shuns

to provide an immersive wellness experience,

the exclusivity of a traditional uptown hotel.

fusing Eastern principles with Western luxury.

The domestic pipeline remains strong

A member of Preferred Hotels, the twin-tower

throughout the States, with Azarbarzin

property has been envisioned by S & E Architects

confirming that the company has plans to

and Bilkey Llinas Design as an oceanfront

expand its presence in major gateway cities

refuge, combining a serene design scheme with

such as New York, Dallas, Chicago and Boston.

mind and body therapies.

“Romer Hell’s Kitchen, as an example, is a

While Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences is

neighbourhood hotel rooted in local culture,”

a newbuild, Azarbarzin reveals that given the

he explains. “We’ve designed, programmed

state of capital markets, Highgate sees more

and activated the property so that it not only

short-term opportunities in adaptive re-use

delivers the brand promise within the hotel

and more long-term prospects in ground-

itself, but serves as an extension to explore

up development. “Our in-house design and

the surrounding cocktail bars, art galleries,

construction studio, Lucid, oversees projects

boutiques and other nearby businesses.” This

ranging from major luxury repositionings to

neighbourhood-inspired approach has been

select-service developments. Currently, the

taken for Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador in

department is managing more than 100 active

Hawaii too, where the design personifies the

projects in 35 US states, as well as looking after

local landscape and captures the city’s spirit.

several hospitality developments abroad.”

© Nikolas Koenig

050

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MEETING…

© Read McKendree

Designed by Goodrich and Islyn Studio, Romer Hell’s Kitchen is a neighbourhood hotel rooted in local culture, with artworks showcased throughout

052

On the subject of international expansion,

In 2021, the group reduced its total greenhouse

Highgate has ambitious plans for Europe

gas emissions by 21.8% based on 2019 figures

according to Azarbarzin, with major cities a

and cut its energy use by more than 170,000

target for the group, as well as Portugal and

megawatt hours. For Azarbarzin, these figures

the UK in particular.

represent the company’s desire to lead the way.

But across all of its new ventures, as well

“We are proud to be a leader on this front by

as the 87,500 hotel rooms currently under

presenting analysis that can serve as a roadmap

its management, the company is striving to

to help drive hospitality management towards a

reduce its environmental impact by conducting

net-zero future without compromising on the

comprehensive analyses of its sustainability

guest experience.”

performance. “In 2023, we published our first-

The same goes on the social front, with the

ever Environmental, Social and Governance

group’s people-first approach to leadership

Report,” Azarbarzin confirms. “We have group-

fostering an optimal working environment

wide goals to expand on numerous initiatives

for all its associates and partners – one that

highlighted in the report, including increasing

prioritises equality and inclusion at every level.

the number of carbon neutral hotels, on-site

The ultimate aim, as Azarbarzin puts it, is to

solar systems, biodiversity projects, third-

“provide an ecosystem of programmes that

party eco-certified hotels and electric vehicle

support our people during every stage of their

charging stations.”

journey”, from joining the team to working

For an owner-operator like Highgate, tracking

their way through the ranks. Given Azarbarzin’s

and reporting carbon, energy, water and waste

success in the past, it’s no surpise that he’s

data is becoming a critical component in

on course to create a forward-thinking,

helping to become an eco-conscious business.

entrepreneurial culture at Highgate too.

DESIGN TO LOVE. PRICES TO LIKE

BABETTE LOUNGE CHAIR Design to love. Prices to like. Call it our mantra, to us it’s the very core of what we do. At SOFACOMPANY we always offer you high-quality Danish design and value for money. The way we do business is slightly different from others. Simply because we manage everything ourselves allowing us to skip price-raising intermediaries. Moreover, we offer you full flexibility from choosing fabrics and colours to developing designs from scratch in cooperation with our talented inhouse design team. So, tell us about your project and we’ll take it anywhere you like.

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23/10/2023 13.43

The Heritage of the Future

© Agnese Sanvito

NICK DE KLERK ASSOCIATE PARTNER AND HEAD OF HOSPITALITY PURCELL

B

uildings, despite assumptions to the contrary,

heritage properties. For operators meanwhile,

are not static,” says Nick de Klerk, Associate

historic sites offer authenticity in spades, as well as

Partner and Head of Hospitality at British

the opportunity to reduce waste, design circularity

architecture practice Purcell, which through

in and toxicity out, and explore on-site energy

decades of work on heritage sites across the UK,

generation and fabric-first improvements to reduce

has developed a craft and knowledge-based design

energy demand at source.

approach that can be sensitive or radical, depending on the project demands.

As building usage evolves, the Head of Hospitality at Purcell discusses the opportunities presented by heritage properties.

Words: Ben Thomas

For de Klerk, one of the pleasures of working on

years of experience in hospitality, retail, residential

existing buildings is the sheer variety, as no two are

and workplace design, de Klerk is continuing to

ever alike. “We have a complex mix on the boards

drive home the firm’s heritage-friendly philosophy

in our UK studios,” he explains, citing large-scale

thanks to his own interest in historic structures.

adaptive re-use and conversion projects in London

The architect believes improving their performance

and Manchester, as well as the development of a

and efficiency, as well as carefully modernising

new country house hotel, all of which are completely

them through refurbishment or adaptive re-use, is

unique. “Our hospitality expertise runs the gamut,

important work in the context of both conserving

from envisioning new concepts based on the

built heritage and addressing the climate crisis.

principles of independent operators, to introducing

“Through use and adaption, buildings develop a

project stakeholders and developing a vision

unique character that reflects the time and place in

for landmark sites, to the design and delivery of

which they exist,” he explains. “People also develop

London’s largest luxury hotels.”

attachments to and affection for them; they have

Across its entire portfolio, a key objective for

memories of events and experiences that have taken

Purcell is not just changing buildings from one

place, which are an intrinsic part of their value.”

use to another, but offering potential for future

AN OPPORTUNISTIC OUTLOOK

adaptation. In some cases, this means considering design for disassembly, material passporting and

As building usage evolves – significant reductions

the ability to reuse components and materials,

in workspace requirements, for instance – and

reducing waste when fit-outs inevitably have to

full-scale demolition faces increased criticism, de

change. In others, it means providing the occupier

Klerk claims there will be greater opportunities to

with a degree of flexibility in how the building is

convert existing structures into hotels: “Increased

operated. While challenging to get right, de Klerk

institutional investment in the hospitality sector

believes it is possible to achieve, noting that some

brings with it a requirement for more rigorous

of Purcell’s projects have previously been homes,

reporting on sustainability and carbon mitigation

schools, military barracks and hospitals, and will

measures, and existing buildings, with their

soon begin a new phase of their history as a hotel.

significant banks of embodied carbon, can be relatively straightforward wins for new hotels.”

054

AN ADAPTABLE APPROACH

Having joined Purcell in 2023, bringing over 20

“As an architect, it’s a privilege to craft or weave another layer of history onto already rich

For owners and developers, two key benefits of

and fascinating structures and become part of the

hotel conversions are cost and time to market, both

evolution of a building’s story,” de Klerk concludes.

of which are significantly reduced in comparison to

“Purcell’s deep knowledge of heritage landmarks

a newbuild. Naturally, it depends on the segment

has given us a particular insight into what makes

and condition of the structure, but according to de

buildings memorable, as well as an ability to design

Klerk, many of Purcell’s luxury hotel projects occupy

what will be considered the heritage of the future.”

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21 Years Of Tara Bernerd & Partners Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary of her eponymous studio, Tara Bernerd discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.

S KEY HOTEL PROJECTS

ince Tara Bernerd founded her eponymous

Group, who gave me a huge opportunity to work on a

design practice in 2002, her signature

residential development. This taught me a great amount

‘approachable luxury’ aesthetic has made its

– if you can do 100 apartments, you can cope with 100

mark on hotels across the globe. Based in London’s

guestrooms in a hotel. Essentially, it grew from there.

Belgravia, the studio has worked with the likes of

Each successful project led to us being on the radar of

Four Seasons, Rosewood and Belmond, championing

other developers, and because we were comfortable with

an approach that fosters meaningful connections

the business-to-business system of working, we were

and creates a distinct sense of place. Now, as Tara

able to then start meeting hotel owners and operators.

Bernerd & Partners celebrates 21 years of design, its founder reflects on the journey so far – from milestone

ON EVOLUTION

projects to recent openings and proudest moments –

I don’t think our approach has changed, but 21 years

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya (2023)

and muses on what might be next.

of experience has enriched us with a greater depth of

Conrad Los Angeles (2022)

ON THE INITIAL VISION

Four Seasons Hotel, Fort Lauderdale (2022)

When I set the business up 21 years ago, it was

years – I’m learning all the time. Increasingly, our work

essentially about trying to make one’s goals a reality

in the hotel sector is opening up opportunities with

The Hari, Hong Kong (2020)

and that meant winning the work. I always had a vision

individual spas and restaurants. Last year we delivered

that we would provide a design service on a business-

two restaurants for José Andrés at Conrad Los Angeles,

to-business basis, which of course includes hotels,

and now we’re working with Costas Spiliadis on a new

where we’re predominantly working today. But in order

Milos restaurant, this time a standalone.

Rosewood, Munich (2023)

Kimpton Fitzroy, London (2018) Sixty Soho, New York (2014) Thompson, Chicago (2013)

to have the great privilege and responsibility to design

understanding. We have stayed true to the original ethos of the studio and added layers of knowledge over the

these incredible hotels, we needed experience. One of

ON CHANGES IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN

my first clients was Tony Pidgley, founder of Berkeley

The more hotels we design, the greater our understanding of space, because so much of what we design is moulded into the operational requirements of a project. It’s not just about style, we have to consider how people use spaces within hotels and that has changed over the years. We have also seen a rise in demand for sustainable design solutions; developers and operators that we’re working with are far more focused on sustainability than ever before. I’m still educating myself but it’s a very important part of our work and something we’re now constantly conscious of.

056

MEETING…

“So much of what we design is moulded into the operational requirements of a project. It’s not just about style, we have to consider how people use spaces within hotels and that has changed over the years.”

ON MILESTONE HOTEL PROJECTS In a sense, every project is a milestone. You work so hard to win the pitch, particularly when you fall in love with the site and have such respect for the owner or operator. If the stars align and you get appointed, from that moment on – whether the project duration is 12 months or ten years – everything is about overcoming challenges. One of the most exciting times for us as a studio came when we were appointed to design Four Seasons Hotel & Residences in Fort Lauderdale, which was a newbuild project with Kobi Karp. For me, Four Seasons is one of the top-tier operators, so just to be on their radar was incredible. Delivering that project and watching it come to life was a tremendous milestone.

And equally, I feel moved by our recent work with Belmond on Maroma in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. To create a new resort from an existing property that we were adding to architecturally and refining in terms of spatial layouts was a huge undertaking, but also an extraordinary privilege. It’s a very different style that people might not associate with our studio, because once you dive into a beachfront property that is a juxtaposition between the jungle and the beach in the heart of Mexico, you’re able to play more with colour and pattern. It took such a combination of skills, from architecture to interiors to graphics. We designed all the furniture too and had it made by local artisans – that was a milestone to deliver something so bespoke. And of course, sustainability was a huge part of the project; we did a deep dive to ensure that every material – whether the stone, tiles or wood – was considered.

The entire project has been an incredible journey.

ON PROUD MOMENTS There are so many elements to a project that, for me, the proudest moments are often the smaller things. It could be

At Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Tara Bernerd & Partners worked with local artisans to deliver a design rooted in the locale

057

MEETING…

“I don’t think our approach has changed, but 21 years of experience has enriched us with a greater depth of understanding.” © Rich Stapleton

that a concept presentation for one area of the hotel has been well received by the client, or a successful day on site. It’s not always about the grand finale. There are many touching moments throughout the course of a project and that’s what keeps me motivated.

ON NEW OPENINGS We have just opened Rosewood Munich, which is a key © Philip Vile

moment for us as it’s our first project with the group. We’re now working with other brands that are new to us; we’ve been appointed on a luxury hotel in Italy, and we’re talking to a boutique operator for a property in Japan. It’s a good mix. We never cut-and-paste our designs – I think that’s something that makes the whole business stand out; each new project is like a new member of the family and is treated as such.

ON THE NEXT 21 YEARS In 21 years’ time, I would like to think we’re still considered a studio that hoteliers want to talk to. I hope that people will continue to come to us for the same calibre of projects we’re working on today – that would be a pretty great place to be.

ON HOTEL DESIGN IN 2100 In order to consider the future, I would look back in time as I’m fascinated by social history. As much as hotels have © Davide Lovatti

Milestone projects for the studio include (top to bottom) Four Seasons Hotel & Residences Fort Lauderdale; two restaurants for José Andrés at Conrad Los Angeles; and the recently-opened Rosewood Munich, its first project for the hotel group

058

advanced over the years, when we consider at the grand dames of the past, people always liked to be with people. So I can’t tell you the form of the seating or selection of materials in 2100, but I think guests will still want connectivity, places to meet and an experience. I consider hotels to be the lifestyle palaces of our world today – places where you can cross a threshold and be immersed in the interiors; I believe this will continue, but they might be lifestyle spaceships rather than lifestyle palaces!

LOBBY INSET RUG, THE PEARLE HOTEL, BURLINGTON, ON, CANADA. W I T H S T U D I O M U N G E . 8 0% W O O L , 20% N Y L O N , H A N D A X M I N S T E R .

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THE LOBBY

Mythtopia Legends As the worlds of hospitality and augmented reality

trees, taking part in mystical missions as they explore.

continue to collide, operators are increasingly seeking

For the less adventurous, there’s plenty of other activities

new ways to immerse guests in the digital universe.

to enjoy the natural world, and by visiting Mythtopia,

The latest innovation due to make its debut in 2024 is

eco-tourists can help to rewild the forest and restore the

Mythtopia, an augmented reality, eco-glamping resort

natural environment; simply buying an NFT will support

set amongst 200 acres of greenery just outside Edinburgh.

Mythtopia on its mission to plant over 120,000 trees.

Thought to be the UK’s first holiday destination exclusive

“Through Mythtopia, we are aiming to create a Scottish

to NFT holders, it comprises 150 low-carbon geometric

getaway with a difference in this new digital landscape,”

domes and lodges alongside a restaurant, clubhouse, bar

says founder Oliver Pyle-Santini. “Something like this

and spa.

has never really been done before, and by blending

Mythtopia’s USP however is a geofenced augmented

together eco-tourism, gaming and the cryptosphere,

reality playground dubbed ‘Mythtopia Legends’, where

we’re hoping to create a new era for travel and tourism.

guests can explore the woodland through an AR story

We have been careful to maintain the cultural heritage of

filled with mythical creatures. They can develop their own

the land the site sits on by entwining Celtic stories into

AR character, befriend dwarves and interact with talking

the experience for all ages to enjoy.”

THE LOBBY

The Built Environment “I didn’t want to make a book,” says Piero Lissoni, whose recently launched tome details his creative journey at the helm of Lissoni & Partners. “I tried to describe what we are. We are not architects, we are not designers, we are not graphic designers – we are a strange mix lying between humanism and maybe a dash of science.”

Entitled Environments and published

by Rizzoli, the book traces 100 architecture and interior design projects from a career spanning four decades.

The look and feel of the book was also designed by Lissoni & Partners and reflects the studio’s signature style, from the choice of packaging to the paper that differentiates the two inserts: one on product design embellished with illustrations by Guido Scarabottolo, and another on graphic design.

Stefano Casciani, the book’s editor, reveals: “Writing and editing this book has been a long journey in the spacetime continuum of Piero Lissoni’s work.

And if, as the science argues, spacetime is curved or circular, then by moving attentively through this construction of cherished pages, in the end we should find ourselves returning to its origins: an idea of space, an environment which can be architecture, object, graphics, photography or words.”

Meditation Moments without feeling too enclosed. Inside, earthy tones

down for the night, it’s a chance to step away

promote a sense of calm, while a plush lounge

from the stresses of everyday life, even just for a

chair and ottoman are an inviting spot to recline

few days. And yet, a recent poll by Hilton found

in comfort.

that 47% of travellers find it difficult to fully

The pod is equipped with everything a guest

switch off, even when holidaying, preoccupied

needs to complete their relaxation experience,

with thoughts of what awaits back home.

including a set of noise-cancelling headphones,

In a bid to bring a moment of calm to busy

facilitating total disconnection from the outside

lives, Hilton London Bankside has installed a

world. Courtesy of Inhere, there are also a

relaxation pod in its lobby, encouraging guests

range of guided meditation tracks, combining

to take time for themselves and prioritise their

mindfulness, visualisation techniques and

mental health.

sounds of nature to escape the hubbub of London.

Designed in collaboration with a meditation

The Inhere Meditation Pod is available for use

teacher, the Inhere Meditation Pod is circular in

by those staying at Hilton London Bankside or

form – a shape that signifies unity, balance and

dining in one of the hotel’s restaurants. Staff

grounding – and framed by vertical slats crafted

members at the property are also encouraged

from dark Sapele timber. Accessed via a flowing

to make use of the space – a move intended

string curtain, it allows light to softly filter

to promote a positive and supportive work

through, offering just enough privacy to soothe

environment for the team.

© Francesco Caredda

062

For many, a stay in a hotel isn’t just about bedding

NEW SHOWROOM DESIGN CENTRE EAST CHELSEA HARBOUR LONDON

LIGHTING FOR LIFE

T

he word community is bandied around by

rooms, six are for co-working and the rooftop

the hotel industry, often without defining

houses a restaurant and bar. As a hotelier 20

what it means across different sectors

years ago, you never would have thought about

and markets. So what asset classes are best for

using half the building as co-working space,

local communities? How can hotels meet the

but it’s a great way of diversifying revenues and

needs of locals, paying guests and passers by?

generating a captured audience in-house.”

And is the hotelisation of real estate here to

Lassman followed his point by highlighting

stay? Those were the questions posed to three

that it’s often an educational piece for investors,

hospitality experts during the 20th edition of

with insight presented on additional revenue

the Annual Hotel Conference in Manchester,

streams and how brands can differentiate

where an overarching theme of Adapt to Thrive

themselves in a fast-paced market with plenty

reverberated throughout the programme.

of competition. “Traditionally, 80-85% of hotel

In a session aptly named Live, Work, Play,

revenues came from rooms, so understanding a

Louise Burney, Operational Real Estate Sector

model outside of that is naturally a challenge.”

Lead at Legal & General Investment Management,

Away from more urban environments, Ben

kicked things off by explaining that a large

Harper, CEO of Watergate Bay, Another Place

Live, Work, Play During the 20th Annual Hotel Conference in Manchester, hospitality experts delve into the essence of community.

Words: Ben Thomas

064

proportion of the population are seeking a

and Beach Retreats, stressed that fostering

fluid environment rather than something more

a sense of community is at the heart of each

traditional and rigid. She notes: “From an

brand, with three key considerations. “First is

investment perspective, it’s about putting people

the responsibility we have for our locals, as we

and places first. With our existing assets, we are

are custodians of the beaches and lakes they

working with occupiers and their customers to

want to use,” Harper revealed. “The second is

engage with local businesses; with regeneration

the community that interacts with our businesses

and repurposing projects, we are looking to

directly, whether they eat, surf, swim or stay

develop vibrant, inclusive local economies.”

with us. And the third element is our team and

The same sentiment was shared by Philip

our partners, who we connect with in a way that

Lassman, Vice President of Development for

makes them feel part of a something bigger.”

Northern Europe at Accor, who revealed that

This philosophy is set to inform the group’s

through its AccorLocal and Accor One Living

latest venture too, with Harper tapping into

platforms, the group is hoping to create vibrant

his aparthotel expertise to create a brand-new

hubs that are central to the surrounding

lifestyle brand for non-urban, leisure-focused

community. “Guests want to be in and amongst

environments. “The vision is to take the best

the locals, so if our lobbies, restaurants and

of lifestyle hotels like Watergate Bay and blend

bars are full, then ultimately we’ll attract more

these elements with an authentic self-catering

travellers,” he stated, citing how Accor is taking

model,” he explains. As with all community-

learnings from Ennismore following its merger.

focused hotel projects, the purpose is to create

“Take The Hoxton Southwark for instance, a

an ecosystem of experiences that guests, locals

13-storey building of which six floors are hotel

and everyone in between can truly connect with.

D

uring the pandemic, there were fears the

with collaboration and creativity in mind, the

MICE market may struggle to recover

spaces feature an interconnecting pottery studio,

following the collapse of international

bedouin-style phone tents and even a sandpit

business travel. But three years on and the

for those who want a quick game of pétanque

workforce has largely returned to in-person

between sessions.

events, with attendance expected to rise far beyond 2019 levels in the years to come.

Whatever the chosen design, envisioning environments that boost engagement, spark

© Ingrid Rasmussen

While the sector continues on an upward

new ideas and forge meaningful connections

trajectory, the way that events are booked,

will be essential in attracting a new generation

planned

undergone

of business travellers. “As organisers, we must

fundamental change, with human connection

consider optimising networking, collaboration

and a sense of belonging now more important

and connection through events spaces,” explains

than ever, according to a new report by Accor.

Johan Vakidis, Chief Creative Officer at C2, a

and

executed

has

Titled Meeting Expectations: The Future

Montréal-based studio that is working with

of Meetings & Events, the report addresses

Accor’s Pullman brand to design spaces for the

five key trends the group expects to shape the

customer of tomorrow. “By creating experiences

Meeting Expectations Accor releases a new report exploring the future of meetings and events, revealing the value of human connection and memorable experiences.

Words: Ben Thomas

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growth of the industry going forward, from

rather than simply facilitating meeting rooms,

designing experiences to balancing purpose and

the hospitality industry can help to embed

productivity. “The global business landscape is

ideas, memories and new ways of thinking,

undergoing a profound transformation,” says

resulting in meetings that are fun and uplifting

Sophie Hulgard, Chief Sales Officer at Accor.

for participants but also, crucially, meet the

“The way that we live, work and interact has

expectations of those who are footing the bill.”

been reshaped over the last few years, and the

Developing memorable experiences means

ripple effects of these changes have created new

gaining a deeper understanding of the people

opportunities for those in the events sector.”

present at meetings, which in turn allows

From a design perspective, lounge-like

for greater personalisation. According to C2,

lifestyle spaces are proving far more appealing

71% of event attendees expect some form of

to the modern business traveller than bland,

personalisation, while 76% would have a negative

corporate areas offering little signs of creativity.

view of an event that is not personalised. As

Winners of the Events category at AHEAD – the

such, Pullman and C2 are looking to push the

Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design –

boundaries, with Pullman Paris Montparnasse

showcase how meetings and events spaces can

– whose 16,000ft 2 Immersive Floor hosts

be elevated in line with a hotel’s wider design

everything from fashion shows to car launches

scheme. Take 25hours Dubai One Central for

– serving as a blueprint for future projects.

instance, winner at AHEAD MEA 2022, whose

Hulgard concludes: “The global meetings

MICE offering includes lofty industrial spaces

industry is forecast to be worth US$1.78billion by

that feed into a locally inspired theme crafted by

2030. That’s because being in a room with people

Christoph Hoffmann and Woods Bagot. Designed

matters – it’s powerful and valuable.”

M A G I S T R AT E S ’ B A L L R O O M B A R AT T H E N O M A D

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

Regina Experimental BIARRITZ Experimental Group and Dorothée Meilichzon reunite to create a coastal hideaway that embodies the spirit of French Basque.

Words: Cara Rogers Photography: © Mr Tripper (unless otherwise stated)

M

ention the south of France and it’s likely the lavender fields of Provence or the glitz and glamour of Cannes that come to mind. But on the west coast, just above

the Spanish border, sits the lesser-known town of Biarritz, a quaint seaside resort in French Basque. It’s here that Experimental Group has opened its latest hotel.

A popular destination for European royalty in the 1800s and a socialite hotspot throughout the Roaring Twenties, the town is now known for its sand and surf. With its traditional charm and understated style, it’s easy to see why the group chose to plant its flag here. “We had been looking to open in the area for years,” says Olivier Bon, co-founder of Experimental Group. “We were waiting for the right address, where we could create our signature style of hospitality and welcome our regular Experimental guests, many of whom are frequent visitors to the town.”

The hotel occupies a Belle Époque building, perched on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Biscay. Built in 1907 by architect and landscape designer Henry Martinet, it is steeped in history, having been occupied and destroyed by German forces in World War II, and later partially turned into private apartments in a bid to fund a full restoration.

Now under the ownership of Experimental Group, the brand-new hotel comprises 72 guestrooms alongside a restaurant and bar, vast orangery and a spa with an outdoor

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‘Le petit palais Biarrot’ is a serene haven that pays homage to the building’s Art Deco origins and Basque traditions

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pool. Redesigned by longstanding Experimental

while curated photography books document

collaborator Dorothée Meilichzon, ‘le petit

Biarritz’s surfing culture and raw materials like

palais Biarrot’ – to give it its nickname – is a

straw and rope blend with marine stripes and

serene haven that pays homage to the building’s

seashell motifs.

Art Deco origins and Basque traditions, with a

In creating a sense of place, Meilichzon looked

healthy dose of the designer’s signature style.

to craftspeople from across the region. “A lot of

Nowhere are these influences more clear

the hotel’s design elements were locally made,”

than in the vast 15m-high atrium at the heart

she points out, adding that “the carpentry,

of the hotel, complete with an Eiffel-style

plaster frescoes and the atrium’s towering

glass roof from the 1920s. Previously a winter

columns made from straw were created in the

garden, the space – which Meilichzon confesses

Basque Country”.

is her favourite of the hotel – has been filled

Wrapped around the atrium are four floors

with all manner of delightful design details.

of corridors leading into guestrooms, crowned

“We wanted to pay tribute to Biarritz and the

on the upper levels by sweeping archways that

Basque country,” says the designer. “So we

establish the design language for the rest of the

drew inspiration from the region’s Neo-Basque

hotel and give the space a striking symmetry.

architecture, as well as the Atlantic.”

It’s a setting of impressive scale yet, despite

Looking around the atrium, the Basque

the volume, it doesn’t feel cavernous, with

influences are evident, from the oxblood red

low-hanging paper lamps by Ingo Maurer and

tones that mimic the painted timber houses

Anthony Dickens working to create interiors that

typical of the region, to furniture shaped like the

cocoon, rather than overwhelm. The atrium’s

Itsasoan footbridge in nearby Guétary. Shades

furniture meanwhile – all of which is bespoke

of blue and green nod to the Atlantic Ocean,

– is arranged in cosy clusters, equally suited to

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a focused laptop session as to evening drinks.

Sofas and tables use curved shapes and rounded edges that mirror the archways up above – forms that are also replicated in Regina’s restaurant, and on headboards in guestrooms.

At the foot of the atrium is the bar, set within a 1920s-inspired structure, from which a selection of classic and signature Experimental cocktails are served. Here, a long counter pays homage to the Cote D’Azur Modernist home of architect Eileen Gray, and a centrepiece piano provides the soundtrack for guests as they sip.

The hotel’s second food and beverage venue is Frenchie – an Experimental signature that also finds home in Verbier and Pigalle. A nauticalinspired restaurant helmed by Chef Gregory Marchand, Frenchie Biarritz sees navy and white-striped upholstery and seashell-shaped lighting – a hallmark design motif of the hotel – provide the backdrop for a menu that takes inspiration from local Basque cuisine. Naturally, the restaurant’s layout also takes advantage of Regina’s coastside location, with a relaxed

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terrace looking out over the Atlantic Ocean,

vanities, representing the sun, as well as the

serving as the ideal sunset spot for diners.

pride in the locale that is so central to Regina

It’s inside the hotel’s rooms, though, that

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Experimental’s design.

guests will find the most striking views of the

Guestrooms are stylish yet charming, and

Atlantic and the Pyrénées. Despite that, far from

there are plenty of nostalgic touches that allude

relying on the view, Regina Experimental’s 72

to the property’s long and storied history, like

guestrooms are picture-perfect in their own

a vintage-style dial phone and tasselled leather

right, inspired by the design of classic coastal

room keys reminiscent of old-world hotels.

Atlantic holiday homes. Doors embellished with

And yet Meilichzon has created interiors that

a shell-shaped knocker – bespoke ironmongery

are far from dated, rather contemporary and

is Meilichzon’s signature touch – lead into

fresh. “When guests spend time in these spaces,

guestrooms that are equal part sophisticated

I want them to feel that they are in the Basque

and relaxing.

Country,” she says. “But in 2023!”

Drawing the eye upon entering is the

While Experimental Group has successfully

headboard, unique in each room but always

pulled off the opening of another design-

designed in the same Neo-Basque style, with

forward hotel, the group’s wanderlust is by no

curved forms and long horizontal lines that

means satiated. Thanks to fresh investment in

allude to the region’s traditional architecture.

2022, Experimental is continuing its expansion

Guestrooms bring together materials like straw

across Europe and the US – hotels in Rome and

and rope, combined with marine stripes and the

Paris are in the works, and Sleeper was lucky

same red and blue tones found in the atrium.

enough to get a first glimpse at the group’s

In the bathrooms, the symbol of the Basque

debut in Val-d’Isère, currently slated for

Country – a curvilinear helix – is printed on

December 2024.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Experimental Group Interior Design: Dorothée Meilichzon www.experimentalgroup.com

View the full gallery on

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17.03.22 17:50

Regent HONG KONG A legendary hotel on the Kowloon harbourfront is reborn, reinstating its position as a brand flagship.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of IHG (unless otherwise stated)

W

ith arguably the most prestigious

representation, and the city already had a strong

address on Victoria Harbour, at the

connection with the Regent name.”

southernmost tip of the Kowloon

Chertouh, a seasoned hotelier who led the

Peninsula, Regent Hong Kong shines once again

relaunch, admits he’s been overwhelmed by the

as a beacon of the city’s hospitality scene.

response from locals and their affection for the

Having operated as an InterContinental for

hotel. “Wherever you go, whoever you speak

the past 20 years, the property in fact began

to, people have a memory in this property,” he

life as a Regent, opening in 1980 as a flagship

explains. “Dinner with their grandparents, a

for the luxury brand. In its heyday it starred

gala in the ballroom or just posing for pictures

in films, hosted dignitaries and served as the

on the marble staircase – these memories are

setting for many a family celebration, as well

part of the Hong Kong community.”

as consistently being named amongst the best

With that in mind, the pressure was on to

hotels in the world. The success continued

appoint a designer who understood the legacy

under IHG, and in 2015 as part of its asset-light

of the property, could elevate the interiors to the

drive, the group sold the property to Supreme

standards of Regent and bring something new

Key, retaining the management contract as the

to the market. “Our aim was to create a unique

new owners committed to a comprehensive

experience using design as a differentiator,”

refurbishment. At around the same time,

Chertouh continues. “We’re not trying to

IHG acquired a 51% stake in Regent Hotels &

impress with marble and the shiny surfaces that

Resorts, and the stars aligned for a rebrand. “It

represented luxury in the past; we wanted to

just made sense,” explains Michel Chertouh,

bring a serenity, a quiet luxury through simple,

Managing Director of Regent Hong Kong. “IHG

natural materials and soft tones.”

wanted to grow the brand as it didn’t have much

Mastering this sense of quiet luxury, Chi Wing

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The bathroom is designed as a sanctuary, where bathing with a view takes centre stage

Lo was enlisted to envision the guestrooms and lobby lounge,

old and new, particularly in the public areas of the hotel,” Lo

marking a homecoming of sorts for the Hong Kong-born,

explains. “By recalling the past in the context of the present,

Milan-based designer. “Chi Wing left Hong Kong 40 years

the history of Regent finds its continuity and the legend

ago, when this hotel was first being developed, and has been

lives on.”

working in the West as an artist and furniture designer so he

The staircases also demonstrate the beauty of contrast.

has a balanced approach,” says Chertouh. “He’s not a hotel

“The existing grand white stair of rare Calacatta marble has

designer, meaning he doesn’t get caught up in the paradigms

been conserved and articulated with a chiaroscuro tonality,

of what luxury should be.”

while a new perforated metal spiral stair in the form of a

For Lo, the prestige of designing a Regent was too great

lantern tower links to the lower level,” Lo points out. And

to turn down, and despite the scale of the project, he opted

the contrasts continue with the transition from the low-

to continue his typical practice of working solo, meaning

ceilinged check-in area to the double-height lobby lounge,

direct involvement at every stage. “I have been running a

flooded with natural daylight through floor-to-ceiling

solo practice from the beginning of my career and clients

glazing. It is here that the hotel plays its trump card: the

come to appreciate that their project is truly taken care of

view. A prime spot to take in the panorama of Victoria

by the designer they have chosen; there’s no better way to

Harbour and the Hong Kong Island beyond, the interiors

convey my ideas,” he explains. “My vision was to provide

are deliberately pared back with a neutral palette of beige,

a sanctuary rather than simply a place to stay; I wanted to

taupe and tan. Low-level lighting ensures the skyline can be

embody the spirit of Regent and provide a sense of peace,

seen by night, and a tiered floorplan means there’s no bad

serenity and balance amidst the bustling metropolis.”

seat. Lo’s experience in furniture design also comes to the

That sense of serenity is immediately palpable on

fore, with the designer explaining: “To ensure that every

setting foot in the lobby. Guests are greeted by the Golden

guest can enjoy this vista from every position, all armchairs

Illusion passageway – a row of vertical screens developed

are installed with a hidden revolving mechanism to orient

in collaboration with Lasvit, which appear as floor-to-

the sitting direction as desired.”

ceiling chandeliers; inspired by ancient Liuli crystal art, the

Up in the guestrooms, the view is also the focal point,

shimmering screens are made from glass bricks and lit from

perfectly framed in an oak casement and fronted by a lengthy

within, resulting in what Lo calls “restrained opulence”.

daybed. “A beautiful view without a special vantage is merely

Lo masterfully plays with light and reflection to dazzling

a postcard anyone can buy,” Lo says of the setting, adding

effect; a softly-lit translucent onyx counter atop a dark granite

that his philosophy centred around creating a “personal

floor gives the impression it is floating, for instance, while

haven” for the guest. The calming palette is made up of

a cinematic artwork by Hunk Keung plays on the 15m-long

timber, stone, glass and leather, sitting beneath a rhythmic

LED screen. This new media form of art sits alongside more

vaulted ceiling that mimics the gentle waves of the water

traditional pieces that honour the past, nodding to Regent’s

outside. There’s no art in the rooms – “the view is the art”

signature ‘beauty of contrasts’. One of the most symbolic is a

quips Lo – and nothing jarring or out of place. “A guestroom

retrospective montage of artworks from the original Regent,

that evokes contemplation cannot be loud, nor should its

now digitised and presented in a new way, printed on a

finishes, colour or elements be fighting for dominance

translucent scroll. “There are deliberated juxtapositions of

among themselves,” he explains. “The sound of tranquillity

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© Edmon Leong

Designed by Bar Studio, Harbourside takes its cue from the indoor trees that anchor the space, setting the tone for a verdant garden feel

is a symphony of silence played by the soft-

to Lo’s design – where bathers can recline in

tone carpet, the harmonic furniture and a few

comfort while taking in the views. A monolithic

melodic yet restrained notes from the detail

stone spout from which the water cascades like

of the bed, the handle of the wardrobe or the

a waterfall adds to the experience.

button on the cushion.”

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Back on the lower levels, Regent Hong Kong’s

Lo’s passions are reflected in his handcrafted

dining and imbibing destinations have also been

furniture, in which he draws inspiration from

refurbished, with Bar Studio responsible for

the two fundamentals of geometry – the circle,

three of the venues. At Harbourside, a market-

representing the quest for perfection, and the

style buffet with live cooking stations, the brief

square, symbolising the earth and sky in Chinese

was to retain the spirit of the much-loved eatery,

tradition. Every element has been thoughtfully

while also modernising it in line with the new

designed for harmony: the cocooning headboard;

era. “The venue takes its cue from an existing

the spherical reading light that emits a warming

focal element – the two indoor trees that anchor

glow; even the waste bin has been considered,

the space – setting the tone for a verdant garden

designed to slot neatly within the cabinet so as

feel,” explains Rowena Hockin, Curatorial

not to detract from the orderliness.

Director at Bar Studio. “The triple-height space

The bathroom too is a sanctuary, with brushed

captures plenty of light and we aimed to harness

granite, natural oak and honed Calacatta used

that further with the introduction of mirrors

across surfaces and vanities, accompanied by

that reflect the spectacular views.”

faucets in Grohe’s Warm Sunset finish. There’s

An earthy colour palette and green creeper

an extra-large basin and spacious shower

panels continue the light and airy garden feel,

cubicle, though the highlight has to be the

while timber parquet flooring in the main

freestanding bathtub – produced by Claybrook

dining room fosters a connection to nature.

© Edmon Leong

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In reference to its harbourside location, the

along with custom wall sconces designed as a

restaurant also features an art installation

modern take on the Chinese lantern.

entitled Reflections of the Sea, comprising

Bar Studio are also working on a third venue,

shimmering metallic discs, intricately decorated

a destination bar set to launch later this year,

by Rebecca Gouldson in a dot matrix technique

while the refurbished Nobu has just made its

to depict seafaring imagery.

debut along with Regent Club. Elsewhere in the

The Steakhouse meanwhile moves into richer

hotel, two-Michelin-starred Yan Toh Heen,

and moodier tones inspired by the cuisine. An

which remained open during the refurbishment,

entrance framed by charred panels, styled on the

has returned to its original name of Lai Ching

traditional Japanese wood-burning technique of

Heen; the events spaces have seen an upgrade;

shou sugi ban, greets guests on arrival, leading

and the pool has been furnished with new

to a dining room and wine cellar. “Naturally,

daybeds to accompany parasols from Tuuci.

the famous charcoal grill takes centre stage,

Three years in-the-making, Regent Hong

with the dining spaces designed to take in the

Kong has made its return with sophistication

action of the show kitchen,” Hockin points out,

and refinement, reinstating its position as a

adding that “an opulent palette of burgundy and

brand flagship. “We knew expectations were

charcoal, with highlights of bronze, copper and

high, so we wanted to play to the strengths

gold, speaks of contemporary luxury”.

of the location,” concludes Chertouh. “Guests

Display cabinets housing fresh cuts of meat

will remember this property, not only for its

and a vast wine collection add to the drama, as

location, but for its design details and distinct

do the angled mirrors by the window, reflecting

feeling of quiet luxury. It has a unique position

the harbour lights in all directions. Tactile

and will bring new memories for the city as we

leather and suede upholstery complete the look

move forward.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Supreme Key Operator: IHG Interior Design: Chi Wing Lo, Bar Studio www.hongkong.regenthotels.com

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

S TA R T D E S I G N I N G T O D AY AT T U U C I . C O M / S H A D E S T U D I O

Tuuci_creative_Sleeper_May_2023.indd 1

3-5-2023 10:44:49

Pnoé Breathing Life CRETE MK Hotel Collection continues its partnership with Cube Concept to create an earthy wellness resort that honours the locale.

Words: Claudia Baillie • Photography: © Olia Paspalaki

T

hink of Greek island architecture and one would be forgiven for imagining the dazzling white walls and cerulean domes that dot the landscapes of the Cyclades.

But this is Crete, whose roots are wound deeply through ancient Minoan civilisation and as a result, it is rugged stone, wood and other earthy materials that have for centuries been used to construct the island’s historic buildings.

These traditional elements have had more than a passing influence on the aesthetic of Pnoé – which translates simply as breath – the newest wellness resort at Karteros Beach on the northern coast of Greece’s largest island. The property is the brainchild of Marita Karatzi, Group CEO of MK Hotel Collection, while the design and construction of the refined build is the work of Cube Concept, a practice based in nearby Heraklion. So impressed was Karatzi with a residential project the studio completed for her brother in 2018, that when it came to developing Unique Blue, her first resort on the island, Cube Concept were top of her wish-list. Since then, they have also collaborated on Cicada Suites and Cicada Beach Club, with Pnoé being the latest five-star opening.

Karatzi’s brief was to create a retreat that is in harmony with the craggy landscape while at once being calm and luxurious, but there was a catch. Instead of starting from

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Sandy coloured plaster blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, while slatted timber openings cast delicate shadows over airy courtyards

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scratch, the team at Cube Concept had to work

cool stone flooring runs from the interior to the

around an existing structure – the skeleton of a

terrace beyond.

bungalow-style hotel built in 1968. A challenge

Across the site, rough-hewn walls are

indeed, but nonetheless the design process took

constructed from a handsome, chocolate brown

just a year and it was a staggeringly short ten

stone sourced locally in the village of Milatos,

months before the entire project was complete.

while slatted timber screens cast delicate

The original floorplate included residential

shadows and sandy-toned plaster blends

blocks arranged around a central courtyard and

seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

swimming pool, as well a small reception area

“We wanted to link the building to its locality,

that was removed completely. “Instead, we

and for it to sit comfortably within the Cretan

opened up the entrance and added a pergola

landscape,” Lironi explains.

that creates wonderful shadow-play,” says

Simplified to a gently curving teardrop, the

Aria Lironi, co-founder and Design Director

swimming pool is edged by chic macrame

at Cube Concept. “The weather in Greece is

parasols and home to Aeri, a cabin-style bar

excellent during the summer months, so this

serving juices, cocktails and light snacks, while

transitional space means that when guests

a series of smaller decorative pools are peppered

arrive, they can immediately see the courtyard

across the resort. A second level and rooftop

but they’re not completely exposed. It’s also

terrace have also been added to the existing

a reference to the layout of traditional Cretan

single-storey building to form Thymises, a fine

homes, which often have an entryway designed

dining Cretan restaurant, and Uranos, a chic,

to protect from the sun.” The team used this

contemporary bar.

indoor-outdoor concept throughout, including

Evoking the atmosphere of classic Cretan

in the monastically calm reception, where the

tavernas, Thymises features a dark timber slatted

ceiling, textural plaster walls and handsome leather furniture as well as a menu conceived in collaboration with Peskesi, a much-celebrated restaurant in Heraklion, where seasonal, fresh produce is sourced from an organic, biodynamic farm in the foothills of the nearby mountains. In contrast, Uranos is a light-filled space boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the fiery Grecian sunsets, which rarely disappoint.

Aspects of the original building also played a part in the design of Anása, an international restaurant where guests can enjoy breakfast and an à la carte menu later in the day. “It was constructed in the style of the Modernist era, so we wanted to reference architects such as Ludwig Mies Van De Rohe,” says Lironi. As such, the team incorporated terrazzo flooring, a cube-like, metal lighting structure and slender columns to support the roof. The brief also specified an open kitchen, while the generous ceiling height is maximised with a custommade light installation inspired by the breeze that sweeps through the space.

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Tubs Modular

by Nahtrang Studio

New Decorative Collection

Sixty rooms, all with their own private pool,

wood fired sauna, steam room and hot and cold

fan out around the courtyard and are in keeping

spray tunnel. Also available are a multitude of

with the theme of air. Each is based on an open-

treatments, yoga classes, personal training and

plan layout, from the Breeze Suites to the Breath

breathwork therapy, as well as a gym. What

Suites, which also include a living area, walk-

sets the spa apart however is next-generation

in closet, bathtub and Jacuzzi. At the top of

facilities such as a hyperbaric oxygen chamber –

the range, three impressive Signature Suites

a favourite among sportspeople and celebrities

measure up at an ample 51m2 and benefit from a

– which infuses the body with oxygen to speed

large private pool, an external sauna and steam

up healing and reverse ageing, and Zerobody,

cabin and in-room fitness equipment.

a dry float system designed to relieve stress,

Inside the residences, a dark palette is

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muscle and joint pain, and aid sleep.

combined with rich timber joinery handcrafted

The success of the resort and indeed the

by Cretan artisans, as well as grey terrazzo

ongoing relationship between Karatzi and

flooring that keeps the rooms cool during the

Cube Concept means that Elios, a more family-

warmer months. Bespoke lighting and curving,

friendly opening is slated for completion on

grid-like screens are another nod to the

the island next year. “What we love about

Modernist-style building.

working with Marita is that she’s the best kind

Key to Pnoé’s focus on physical, emotional

of collaborator,” Lironi reveals. “She’s involved

and mental wellbeing is the spa, where a

in the entire process, listens to a professional

walkway of stepping stones over water lead

opinion and never wants to do things that

into the cavernous space. Inside is a relaxation

have been done before. That pushes us to go

area complete with a Himalayan salt stone wall,

further, and to always create something that’s

hydromassage pool, striking waterfall feature,

completely unique.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: CIG Hellas Operator: MK Hotel Collection Architecture and Interior Design: Cube Concepts Lighting Design: Ioannis Tsakirelis Art Consultant: Ileana Kolivaki Project Manager: Nikos Grilos www.pnoe-breathinglife.com

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Izza MARRAKECH Set among the maze-like medina of the Red City, a new art-filled escape channels the eclectic style of the late, great Bill Willis.

Words: Abigail Lowe • Photography: Courtesy of Izza Marrakech

S

tanding with shirt hanging loosely open, hands on hips and drenched in a golden glow, Bill Willis squints into the camera. There’s a swagger to his stance, a teasing

coquettishness of the kind that came to define his colourful approach to both work and life. Willis died in 2010, but his contribution to Moroccan design left him crowned the North African country’s greatest aesthete, and that’s why this photo – rescued from the personal collection at his former home, Dar Noujoum, in Marrakech – now hangs in tribute at Izza, where Willis’ influence and outlook can be felt in every ornate nook and cranny.

Born in Tennessee and schooled at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Willis was among a whirlwind of free-spirited, open-minded creatives who landed on the sun-baked soil of Morocco in the mid-1960s. A character famed for his straight-talking sensibilities, offbeat mindset and extraordinary talent, Willis’ oeuvre took the textures, shapes and colours intrinsic to Morocco – derived from amalgamations of Islamic, Middle Eastern and Moorish design – and reimagined them with a Western eye, kickstarting trends and bringing traditional techniques to life for new audiences.

“Bill Willis was the leading light of Moroccan interior design and he’s a source of endless inspiration at Izza,”

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Every corner at Izza is a visual feast, with a gallery of digital and contemporary works from established and emerging artists

094

says the hotel’s interior design assistant, Aicha

discovery. The carefully curated aesthetic helps

Benazzouz. “His distinctive style and eclectic

guests relax while appreciating the artistic

designs are evident throughout, alongside a

riches that surround them.”

plethora of photos showcasing his life among

It’s true – every corner at Izza is a visual

stars like Grace Jones, Mick Jagger and Yves

feast and that’s before you’ve even laid eyes on

Saint Laurent.” Willis’ innate ability to tap into

the hotel’s gallery of digital and contemporary

a creative life-force is also the soulful basis of

art, valued at over £5 million. The Museum

Izza’s ‘House of Friends’ ethos, which aims to

in the Medina, as it’s known, features works

provide an inspirational hub for the world’s

from established artists like Sebastião Salgado

globetrotting visionaries while connecting them

– whose Amazônia collection was declared

with the surrounding culture of the city.

‘the most significant NFT collection from

Set among Marrakech’s electrifying, maze-

a living photographer’ by Sotheby’s – and

like medina, Izza is an elegantly finished,

AI artist Refik Anadol, whose work has been

14-key boutique hotel, so tranquil compared

showcased at MoMA. Adding credence to

to the tumult outside that it’s akin to finding

Morocco’s burgeoning reputation as a hub for

shelter during a storm. Like all riads, its

the arts, the collection also includes arresting

unassuming façade belies what awaits within,

coal and candle wax pieces of rising local talent

so stepping over the threshold is the equivalent

Mouhcine Rahaoui.

of entering Narnia, where a whole new world

“A creative community can serve as a bridge

unfolds. “The combination of Moroccan design

for cross-cultural exchange,” says Benazzouz.

alongside vintage elements allows for in-depth

“And that promotes international dialogue

storytelling,” Benazzouz explains. “And that

and understanding. We want to encourage

engages our guests in a captivating journey of

collaboration and creativity among our guests,

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and to help launch careers for emerging artists.” As a reinvigorator of other cultures, it’s a sentiment that Willis would surely have supported, so it’s fitting that the artworks sit harmoniously alongside the ancient architecture and traditional craftsmanship that he himself once reimagined, eventually becoming the central pillars of his work.

Willis was a master of the centuriesold technique of zellige, in which typically Moroccan-made tiles of vivid colours and varying shapes are placed in intricate patterns.

He was also single-handedly responsible for a resurgence in the popularity of tadelakt, a type of elegant, elaborate plasterwork sculpted in place and seen framing fireplaces, ceilings and doorways. These details crop up in eye-pleasing pockets all over Izza, acting as nods to Willis’ genius and ensuring thematic continuity in both private and communal spaces. “It’s reflective of Moroccan heritage, blending past and present,” explains Benazzouz.

Alongside architect Amine Kabbaj and

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Sustainability report

11.10.23 14:21

098

designer Roman Piotrowski, Benazzouz paid

of Pierre Frey, while luxurious, natural wool

particular attention to this juxtaposition of

rugs – which feel like heaven underfoot – were

old and new when furnishing the hotel, a

custom-made by artisans high in the Atlas

painstaking process that took 18 months to

Mountains and sourced through Tribaliste. “I

complete. “We wanted to explore the captivating

loved spending hours finding a rare gem, giving

story of personalities like Bill while staying true

a second life to a piece of furniture or honouring

to authentic Moroccan hospitality,” she reveals.

the designs of the past,” Benazzouz reveals.

“After that, it was about considering each room’s

In future, Izza will host exhibitions,

volume, because every one was different.” Trips

workshops and performances by local and

to Marrakech’s best vintage suppliers followed,

international artists in celebration of Morocco’s

along with conversations with the country’s

unique creative identity. And guests will be

most talented artisans. “Little by little we

woven into that narrative as both observer and

made our selections, combining them to create

participant in its story. “The freedom-seekers

a comfortable yet unique atmosphere.”

of the past came here to find something and

The result is a beguiling patchwork of

what they discovered changed their lives,”

Mid-Century furniture including armchairs,

Benazzouz concludes. “We hope this place will

bedside tables and desks, all resized, freshly

do the same for our guests.”

upholstered or repurposed to suit the character

Sat by the crackling fire in the hotel’s well-

of each room. Decked out in warm, earthy tones

stocked library, where the history of Morocco

alongside calming shades of taupe and ivory,

comes alive on the page, the spirit of Bill Willis

every space also features statement lighting or

and the legacy of his distinctive leitmotif is

bespoke Murano glass chandeliers handcrafted

palpable. It’s fair to assume that he would have

by local glassblowers. Fabrics come courtesy

liked it here.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Neon Architecture: Amine Kabbaj Interior Design: Roman Piotrowski, Aicha Benazzouz www.izza.com

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BURJ AL ARAB JUMEIRAH Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Pieve Aldina TUSCANY French hoteliers Guillaume Foucher and Frédéric Biousse make their first foray in Italy with the conversion of a charming Tuscan farmhouse.

Words: Kasia Dietz Photography: Courtesy of Pieve Aldina

T

asteful elegance is what defines luxury for

would prove a perfect fit for Fontenille. It’s

French hoteliers Guillaume Foucher and

the property’s history and clandestine position

Frédéric Biousse, setting the tone for each

that most captivated the worldly duo. Foucher

of their 11 hotels. The founders of Les Domaines

shares: “It’s a special house steeped in history

de Fontenille take an authentic approach to

and the proximity to the church gives it a

hospitality, paying tribute to a property’s roots,

feeling of spirituality. The spaces are large and

cultivating the soul of the estate, and creating

uncluttered, while the building’s position on top

singular experiences for their guests. Their

of the hill immerses guests in the sky.”

carefully curated collection includes a hotel

Now a national monument, the well-

in Marseille overlooking the Mediterranean,

preserved episcopal complex of three stone

an 18th-century château outside of Paris, a

buildings – comprising a 16th- and 17th-century

Provençal villa in the Luberon, and a former

residence – is where the bishops of Siena once

17th-century palace in Menorca.

summered. Guests are offered the key to enter

In June 2023, the pair made their first foray

the church of Santa Maria Novella dating back

in Italy, deep within the Chianti region between

to the 10th century. Referred to as la Pieve, the

Florence and Siena. According to Foucher, it was

historic site – a prime example of Romanesque

“the light, the landscapes, the cuisine and the

architecture in Tuscany – has been declared

relationship with art” in Tuscany that led them

a listed building by the Superintendency of

to the opening of Pieve Aldina, now a member

Archaeology, Fine Arts & Landscape.

of Relais & Châteaux.

A long amble through the 40 hectares of

Upon discovering these rolling hills dotted

olive groves, with the chapel punctuating the

with slender cypress trees and wild olive

horizon, recalls the property’s hallowed history.

groves, Foucher and Biousse knew this domain

It goes as far back as 1043, when the Count of

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Piancaldoli offered the estate as a gift to his wife Aldina Ubaldini, for whom the hotel is named.

In his signature style, Foucher worked closely with Italian design team Pierattelli Architetture in dictating every detail. He went as far as living on the land, spending several nights in each of the 22 rooms and suites, to better feel the space.

Characteristic of Les Domaines de Fontenille, every chamber is uniquely outfitted with pastelcoloured couches and beds by Gervasoni.

Within the buildings of the Studiolo and Conventino, restored Neoclassical frescoes decorate the walls. Discreet religious icons share the space with Parisian artist Dune Varela who printed on slabs of Carrara marble, while artist Stéphanie Montaigu pasted images of flowers and ancient sculptures onto the yellowed pages of aged books. Wooden beams compose the high and sometimes sloping ceilings, while terracotta tiles are complemented by contemporary furnishings in earthy hues of beige, brown and green, with Italian art books adorning the marble tablestops.

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The country charm of each room and suite

which guests can taste every ingredient” –

is enhanced by flowing drapes, wood fixtures,

including ancient forgotten fruits, foraged herbs

painted skirting boards and cosy bedspreads.

and wild fish – is best savoured at Le Rondini,

The minimalist, white-walled bathrooms

a restaurant set in what were once outhouses.

meanwhile feature walk-in showers or deep

It seems fitting that the place where farming

ceramic bathtubs, with natural amenities by

tools and olives were kept before pressing has

Susanne Kaufmann.

been transformed into a dining room, featuring

Adjacent to the stone staircase on the ground

modest wooden tables and thoughtful artwork

floor, guests are warmly greeted at reception by

beneath a vaulted ceiling in iron and terracotta.

General Manager Fabio Serafino and a larger-

Guests can peek through to the open kitchen at

than-life Roman statue. In true Fontenille

the chefs concocting regional specialties before

fashion, art references are omnipresent.

dining in the courtyard, where a grand wisteria,

A series of salons set a culinary scene with

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stone fountain and tealights set the mood.

cured meats hanging from the ceiling and

When guests aren’t lounging by the pool,

plentiful bottles of wine lining the shelves,

or enjoying an aperitivo on one of the outdoor

including those from the owners’ vineyards in

terraces overlooking the domain and the lush

France. The rustic kitchen, where the making

countryside, the secluded spa – equipped with

of pasta is an art form, appears ready to invite

two massage rooms, a sauna and a Turkish bath

guests to a meal – one that they will learn to

– provides an extra dose of serenity. Just leave

cook themselves at the expert hands of chef

time to explore the surrounding woods and olive

Flavio Faedi. Formerly Executive Chef at Castello

groves, inhale the fragrant wild roses and lemon

di Reschio in Umbria, Faedi’s skill at creating

trees and discover the pleasure of a slower pace

haute cuisine dishes comprising “plates in

of life, Tuscan-style.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner/Operator: Les Domaines de Fontenille Affiliation: Relais & Châteaux Architecture and Interior Design: Pierattelli Architetture lesdomainesdefontenille.com

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Image credit: EPR Architects / Raffles London / The Office of Thierry Despont. Courtesy of The OWO, London. Photographer, John Athimaritis.

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tora esign, res d , e r tu c manufa Lighting llation and insta

tion

Pan Pacific Orchard SINGAPORE WOHA continues its quest to develop sustainable solutions for tropical high-rise hotels, envisioning an architectural masterpiece that rises above the trees in Garden City.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Studio Periphery (unless otherwise stated)

decade after collaborating with Pan Pacific Hotels

A

Starting with humans and nature at macro level are the

Group on ParkRoyal Collection Pickering, envisioning

Sky Terraces. Verdant and vertically arranged, they provide

terraced gardens nestled between glass towers,

a diverse outdoor space with different planting themes. The

Singapore-based architecture practice WOHA has joined

lowest Forest Terrace features jungle planting of fern and

forces with the owner-operator once more to develop

fig, while the Beach Terrace leans towards littoral palms,

another sustainability-focused, tropical high-rise hotel.

pandanus and broadleaf plants. The Garden Terrace includes

The open-air architecture and lush greenery of Pan

jasmine and tea trees, and the topmost Cloud Terrace is lined

Pacific Orchard are striking; the 3D matrix is set within a

with Alpine plants. The interior and exterior design elements

monumental, hollowed-out structure supported by imposing

of each guestroom stack, as well as their colour, texture and

corner columns – all blooming with plant life. The hotel is

materials, are equally varied to create separate atmospheres.

stratified by four of WOHA’s Sky Terraces. “Two sides of each

Each level’s circular corner columns are structural shafts

are occupied by a five-floor stack of guestrooms organised

that seemingly disappear, their living green livery acting as

in an L-layout, with full-height openings of 26m on the

camouflage. Clad in a perforated aluminium skin, backed

opposite two elevations,” clarifies Hong Wei Phua, Director

with a soil-based planting medium, the columns are drip-

at WOHA. The layouts flip through 180 degrees between each

fed with grey water harvested from the almost daily tropical

of the horizontal layers, creating a zigzag of openings.

rains. This is collected from the roof above the Cloud Terrace,

Built on the site of a previous hotel, the 347-key property occupies a rectangular plot sloping down towards Orchard

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which features a perforated screen above glass panels that keeps the rain out, to be harvested, and lets the light in.

Road, a key retail location whose name derives from the

On top are photovoltaics used to power the hotel. The

spice plantations and fruit orchards established here in

topmost plants of the columns receive the least sunlight as

the 19th century. Singapore planning agency, The Urban

they are shaded by the terrace; their special nightly top-up

Redevelopment Authority, is promoting Orchard Road as an

comes via a light treatment that produces an elegant halo

urban green corridor, of which Pan Pacific Orchard is a key

around the top of each tower. Together, the planting amounts

part. Having published a book – Garden City Mega City – on

to a colossal 300% of the plot coverage. This over-planting

urban redevelopment in 2016, which proposed solutions to

helps towards passive cooling, reduced CO2, environmental

make Asian megacities more liveable, WOHA saw the hotel

diversity and the positive effect of biophilia.

as an opportunity to demonstrate some of its ideas. These

The massing of these deep levels also provides shading

include the reconciliation between humans and the planet,

essential in the city. The tall volume of the voids are WOHA’s

the humanisation of urban life and the reduction in the

Breezeway Atriums, which allow for cross-ventilation and

demarcation between public and private spaces.

funnelling of wind over plants and water bodies to reduce

© Darren Soh

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Guestrooms feature furnishings from Minotti and Pedrali, carpets

by Weavepact, bathroom fittings from Hansgrohe and neatly practical washlets by Roca

temperatures. At the ground floor Forest Terrace, this

The same wall treatment is found on some walls

is more difficult to achieve, so large ceiling fans –

of the guestrooms. Rooms are generous in their

appropriately enough from Big Ass Fans – keep the

detailing and feature furnishings from Minotti and

air in motion.

Pedrali, carpets by Weavepact, bathroom fittings from

Plants help with human comprehension of the

Hansgrohe and neatly practical washlets by Roca.

space too. This and other elements of scale have been

The luxury offering continues with creative space

added by WOHA to humanise the volumes. The open-

planning – drawers within drawers and clever corner-

latticed shelving of the lobby’s high walls incorporates

combination sliding doors. Small trays for amenities,

lanterns, birds and other objects. As the sun moves

designed by WOHA, are another thoughtful detail.

across the space, a fleeting show of light and shadow

More obvious are private balconies where light and

comes from the known objects of this composition.

motion sensors on blinds and sliding doors keep the

Similarly, the guestroom corridors are gently

106

air cool.

illuminated by lights hidden behind curved ceiling

The storeys above and below each Sky Terrace

coving. The monotony of the corridors is disrupted

boast higher ceilings. Those above allow for the F&B

by niches and vestibules, nearly all with daylight.

amenities, lounges and function rooms. On the Beach

Walls are lined with a vertical abstraction of solid

Terrace, guestrooms become double-height loft rooms,

tropical timber batons with a triangular profile that is

which also have private access to their own peninsula

interspersed with columns of mirrors. Two elements

terrace in the pool. The floor immediately below each

within this finish make it more personable. Firstly,

terrace is taller in height too, meaning the views out

there is a randomness to the order and number of

from the rooms and balconies open up vertically. The

timber batons and mirrors, and secondly, where the

view from a single storey would have been compressed

lengths of timber started or ended, they are chamfered

by the deep ceiling of the terrace immediately above.

to create a beak shape.

So, to avoid any sense of claustrophobia, a mirror

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finish of the underside of the terrace has been added to reflects what’s below.

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Public access excludes the Beach Terrace, which comprises the pool, gym and Pan Pacific’s signature

WOHA sees hotels as means of making cities more

St Gregory spa. This level features a sandy palette best

liveable. At Pan Pacific Orchard, this is perhaps most

seen in the sloping floor of the large, organically-

obvious in the entrance area, where a tumbling

shaped pool, connected under a sandcastle bridge to

waterfall rushes amidst the jungle planting, down

a slim lap-pool that itself washes up to the Aqua Bar.

terraces adjacent to the lobby, Pacific Breeze bar and

Mosella is yet another vast space, its high ceilings

onto the patio of the hotel’s Mosella restaurant. On the

being a representation of traditional Asian longhouses

other side of the space is a public access way. “The

anchored by a glass mosaic drum, the cover to the

cascading water has a calming effect and masks the

supporting corner tower, which becomes “a lantern

noise of the city,” says Phua.

in the forest” as per Phua. The open kitchen serves

Each Sky Terrace is viewed as a communal area where

Mediterranean cuisine with a Peruvian slant – the

Phua sees public amenities unpacked. The Florette Bar

melting pot of Peru’s food culture served family-style

on the Forest Terrace captures a winter-garden effect

in the Asian manner.

through a metal framework, with a delicate array of

Hotels can be leaders in sustainability, especially

petal-like LED paddles twinkling beneath a curving,

those conceived by leaders in sustainable architecture,

mirrored ceiling. The bar extends out to the lawn and

like WOHA. Pan Pacific Orchard demonstrates how

pond feature of the terrace. The Cloud Terrace is home

humans and nature can be reconciled; the hotel

to inside and outside breakout areas for the hotel’s

respectfully bows to the city, asking to be understood,

events spaces, which include flexible meeting rooms

adopted and copied. As General Manager Marcel

and the large Claymore ballroom. Its tapered ceiling,

Holman notes of the eight-year project: “The shared

described by Phua as “an abstraction of billowing

concept of sustainability between WOHA and UOL

clouds” sits above an impressive LCD screen.

Group is truly visionary.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: UOL Group Operator: Pan Pacific Hotels Group Architecture, Interior Design and Landscaping: WOHA Landscape Contractor: Plantwerkz Main Contractor: Shimizu Corporation www.panpacific.com

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LE AVE THE REST TO US

Domes Noruz MYKONOS With new investment, Domes Resorts continues expansion across Greece, introducing its design-led lifestyle brand to Mykonos.

Words: Catherine Martin Photography: © Anima Vision

O

n an island that has become known

from Bain Capital, enabling the acquisition of

for its vibrant nightlife and throngs of

an existing hotel and its redevelopment and

day-trippers stepping off the visiting

renovation to meet the standards that Domes

cruise ships, moments of quiet are difficult

guests have come to expect.

to come by. But away from the labyrinth of

Taking the lead on architecture and interior

narrow streets that form the main town – where

design, Greek studio Urban Soul Project was

purple bougainvillea pose prettily against the

tasked with creating an authentic retreat

whitewashed Cycladic houses – Domes Resorts

that has a sense of place, combining Cycladic

has found a serene spot to set up camp.

style with elegant luxury. Arriving through a

Perched on a clifftop along the coast, just a

tranquil walled courtyard that sets the scene

short drive from the heart of Mykonos, Domes

for within, the resort unfolds across five

Noruz is the latest addition to Domes Resorts’

interwoven buildings collectively housing a

rapidly-expanding portfolio following recent

restaurant, bar, spa and leisure spaces as well

openings in Halkidiki and Milos. Having made

as 38 guestrooms and suites. The architecture

its name with family-friendly Domes of Elounda

is immediately of the location, with soft-edged

in Crete, the group now has multiple brands,

asymmetric cubes that play with volume and

including Originals, Reserves and the foodie-

scale, set across multiple levels linked by open-

focused Aulus. In Mykonos, it’s Noruz – the

air stone staircases. Arched niches do double-

design-led, adults-only lifestyle brand – that

duty in creating semi-enclosed terraces that

was deemed the best fit for the market, making

protect from the island’s strong winds, while

it the third property to carry the appellation after

the façades are punctuated by decorative

ventures in Chania and Kassandra. The project

triangular cut-outs – also seen on K-Studio’s

has been made possible thanks to investment

designs for the airport terminal – inspired by

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The resort is a sanctuary of indooroutdoor living with guestrooms and public spaces opening out to terraces and balconies

the artistic pigeon houses of the 18th and 19th

feature their own pool neatly enclosed in a

centuries found across the Cyclades. Where

semi-circular framework for added privacy.

the resort does differ is in its colour palette;

All are immediately calming, appearing as if

rather than the whitewashed walls typical of the

they are carved into the cliff-face owing to

island, Urban Soul Project instead opted for a

the rounded corners between wall and ceiling.

more earthy aesthetic that harmonises with the

They showcase the same carefully considered

surrounding sandy landscape. “Domes Noruz

selection of materials and finishes, with warm

Mykonos draws its inspiration from the beauty

timber and smooth Karnis marble alongside

of nature and Cycladic minimalism,” explains

tactile linen and rattan, together exuding a quiet

Polina Liarostathi, Head of Hotels at Urban

luxury that is quintessentially Greek.

Soul Project. “With a strong focus on Aegean

The top-tier Haven room, spanning 47m2, is

vistas, the use of natural materials such as

a sanctuary of indoor-outdoor living with an

timber, stone, marble and textured plasters

open-plan bedroom and lounge leading out to a

is combined with an approach that supports

spacious semi-enclosed terrace that is perfectly

both international and local suppliers and

oriented for sunset views. There’s plenty of

manufacturers, ultimately bringing to life the

spots to kick back and relax, whether on the

hotel’s vision of understated luxury.”

sprawling corner sofa upholstered in linen, or

Spread across multiple buildings and accessed

the giant beanbag chair out on the terrace. The

via winding passageways borrowed from

suite also comes with a private sundeck and

nearby Cycladic villages, the accommodations

pool, though the resort’s main infinity pool

are classified as Retreats, Suites or Havens,

isn’t to be missed either, thanks to its ‘floating’

many with secluded pools or hot tubs. Some

daybeds at the water’s edge.

offer sea views from the balcony while others

112

The F&B venues also honour the Greek way

113

114

of life, not only in the delectable dishes and

where the drinks list is inspired by ancient Greek

local wines, but in their design too. Topos, the

rituals and makes use of local ingredients.

signature restaurant found across a number of

Rounding out the offer at Domes Noruz

Domes properties, occupies a poolside building

Mykonos are a spa, retail zone and outdoor

that benefits from folding glass doors that can

gym, plus there’s plans for a yoga terrace once

be fully opened for another taste of indoor-

further windproofing is in place. And that’s not

outdoor living. The dining room follows the

all. Across the wider group, there are plans to

same aesthetic as the guestrooms with a simple

continue the upward growth trajectory in new

palette of timber and stone, dressed with a

ways. In addition to the three hotels that made

collection of urns and woven baskets – much

their debut this year, Domes Resorts has opened

like those found in the homes of locals. Outside,

Sora Lifestyle Beach Club on Corfu, as well as

a mature tamarisk tree sits at the centre of the

its first standalone fine-dining restaurant,

terrace, with dining tables positioned around

Makris by Domes, in central Athens. Both

the perimeter beneath the shade of the pergola,

are indicators of an intention to become an

a natural timber structure that filters the

authentic Greek lifestyle group that goes beyond

sunlight to artistic effect.

accommodation. As CEO George Spanos notes:

Helmed by Executive Chef Dionysios

“Iconic works of architecture, handpicked

Pliatsikas, Topos serves Neo-Greek cuisine

locations and affection for the people that

influenced by seasonal flavours, while Raw

work and live here, while remaining focused on

Gastro Bar specialises in raw dishes such as

rebirth and transformation, are all ingredients

cured cod ceviche and seabass tartare. After

that allow us to deliver groundbreaking products

sunset, the lights go down and the lobbyside N

to our guests as we continue to grow, connect

Bar transforms into a seductive cocktail lounge,

and make memories together.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Domes Resorts Investor: Bain Capital Architecture and Interior Design: Urban Soul Project Lighting Design: ADLight Art Consultant: PrintSin Main Contractor: Ergoline Project Manager: Focal www.domesresorts.com

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COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

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Stay CAMDEN Stay taps into the science of sleep with its chic long-stay apartments in the heart of Camden.

Words: Cara Rogers Photography: © Beth Davis (unless otherwise stated)

W

hen Sleeper arrives at Stay Camden,

comprise a living area and fully-fitted kitchen

there’s a palpable buzz in the air.

as well as a dedicated workspace and private

It’s Friday afternoon and people

balcony. Once inside, the bustle of the lobby

are scuttling about the lobby, some hunting

and nearby hubbub of Camden Market becomes

for a spot to set up their laptop for the day,

a distant memory. It’s a tranquil, minimalist

others unloading TV cameras. “We get a lot of

space that guests can make their own, whether

production crews staying here, and actors too,”

on video calls or enjoying a leisurely glass of

explains our tour guide, as we hitch a lift up to

wine come nightfall.

the apartments.

Interiors have been brought to life by Yaara

Superstar cameos aside, it’s no surprise

Gooner, Head of Architecture & Design at Stay,

that aparthotels like this one have become

with the aesthetic built on Scandinavian design

increasingly popular, particularly amongst

principles that facilitate a sense of calm. Natural

travellers looking for long-stay lodgings that

colours and textures – all considered conducive

offer more freedom than a typical hotel. Chic and

to relaxation – make up the foundations of the

stylish yet fully-equipped and practical, Stay

palette, while exposed brickwork, Crittall-style

Camden is a convenient setting for work, rest

windows and brushed steel fixtures reference

and play. Most residents are corporate, though

Camden’s industrial past.

families moving house also find their way here,

With most guests staying a minimum of

thanks to a partnership with relocation agents

seven nights, facilitating a good night’s sleep

that makes transitions as smooth as possible.

is of utmost importance – the health benefits of

Stay Camden’s 169 apartments are spread

which include improved focus and productivity.

across three blocks located along the banks

As such, Gooner has enlisted independent sleep

of the lock. Ranging from 55-130m 2, they

expert Dr Neil Stanley to ensure the design of

117

© Andrew Twort

A feature wall in the bedroom is lined with blonde timber that sets the Scandinavian tone

the property is conducive to shut-eye. “33% of

needs a different environment to be able to

your life is spent in the bedroom, so investing

fall asleep,” she explains. “What we can do is

in making it a sleep-optimised environment is

provide a platform for guests to customise their

key. With so many things to busy our brains

environment so they feel safe, can relax, and

– from social media scrolling, to the cost of

which reminds them of home.”

living crisis, to climate change – creating an

Gooner points out that every detail is

environment that is calm and conducive to

important when creating a space that is both

dropping off is crucial,” explains Dr Stanley.

relaxing and customisable, from navigable

“In a hotel room, one might experience curtains

light switches to easily-adjustable temperature

that don’t meet in the middle, the whir of the

– Stay Camden’s apartments offer underfloor

mini-bar fridge or noisy air conditioning set at

heating, a luxury for those who prefer their

a higher than optimal temperature for sleep.”

living quarters on the warmer side.

According to the expert, consideration of the

The textures featured across the space have

science of sleep through the design process

also been carefully considered, since natural

can also have a clear commercial benefit: “You

materials like timber and stone are foster a

might not like the restaurant, the gym or the

calmness. With this in mind, a feature wall in

swimming pool in your hotel, but if you go

the bedroom is lined with blonde timber that

somewhere and cannot sleep, I guarantee you

sets the Scandinavian tone, while a sumptuous

will never go back to that property.”

velvet bucket chair, woollen bed throw and

To craft interiors that would send even the

118

circular mirrors add a softness.

most restless guest to sleep, Gooner adopted a

“In many hotels, the design is so busy that

“human-centric” design philosophy. “Sleeping

you don’t feel relaxed enough to sleep,” says

is something that is very subjective; everyone

Gooner. “Our bedrooms are simple, minimal

DESIGN TO LOVE. PRICES TO LIKE

PAULA 3-SEATER SOFA Design to love. Prices to like. Call it our mantra, to us it’s the very core of what we do. At SOFACOMPANY we always offer you high-quality Danish design and value for money. The way we do business is slightly different from others. Simply because we manage everything ourselves allowing us to skip price-raising intermediaries. Moreover, we offer you full flexibility from choosing fabrics and colours to developing designs from scratch in cooperation with our talented inhouse design team. So, tell us about your project and we’ll take it anywhere you like.

Always aiming for spectacular.

SC_Sleeper_Magazine_1+2_236x275mm.indd 2

23/10/2023 13.43

and clean in terms of aesthetic. To get a good

a six-foot-long desk in the property’s reception

night’s sleep, you need to be able to relax,

– a striking piece whose diverse origins reflects

so I picked out calming, earthy tones for the

the melting pot that is Camden.

interiors at Stay.”

hamper offered in the apartments on arrival,

the open-plan living space – complete with

with sweet and savoury treats selected for

cosy living room, a dining area and kitchen –

their biodegradable packaging, and in place of

accented with darker notes like an olive-toned

plastic bottles, glass carafes that can be refilled

sofa and the occasional burst of greenery. With

at water stations.

lighting another key consideration, the designer

Back downstairs, Stay Camden offers a stellar

has ensured that natural daylight floods in

selection of additional amenities. There’s a gym,

through expansive windows, while spherical

as well as a laidback café next door to satisfy any

light fixtures emit a warm glow after dark.

cravings for baked goods. Continuing to cater to

Naturally, given Stay’s corporate guest

the mobile workforce, Stay’s sister brand, Labs,

demographic, the apartments are also suitably

holds court across multiple floors, providing an

tech-savvy, equipped with a virtual concierge

expansive co-working space – also designed by

service that allows for a number of services and

Gooner – with meeting rooms, an auditorium

customisation options to be reached at the touch

and individual phone booths.

of a button.

120

The same philosophy extends to the welcome

A similar soft aesthetic is woven through

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Ground Gilbey Investors: LabTech London, Stanley Sidings Operator: Stay Interior Design: Yaara Gooner Main Contractor: Mace www.stay.com

For those who frequent properties like these,

Many of the materials and surfaces across the

Stay Camden is a handy spot for a long-term city

property have eco-friendly credentials too; rugs

stint away from home – designed to facilitate

in living rooms are made from recycled bottles,

hard work, hibernation and the occasional

while offcuts of marble have been used to create

Hollywood film crew.

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Mondrian Duxton SINGAPORE Mondrian’s entry into Southeast Asia sees DP Architects and Studio Carter deconstruct the traditional Singaporean aesthetic to create the contemporary.

Words: Luo Jingmei • Photography: © Studio Periphery

I

n the 19th century, Singapore’s Duxton Hill

“The design of the hotel fosters a spirit of

was a 13-hectare nutmeg plantation, thought

community by creating a through-block link

to house some 1,800 trees, while its current

of interesting multi-level spaces, strategically

landscape of ornate shophouses – now conserved

leveraging every available space to create

by the Urban Redevelopment Authority – can be

opportunities for people to connect and

traced back to the 1900s. Today, many of these

interact,” says Suneeth Changaroth, Project

quaint buildings contain boutique offices, cafés

Director at DP Architects.

and bars, and this is the setting that forms a

The arched garden portals, which take on a

backdrop for the new Mondrian Singapore

different character at night courtesy of coloured

Duxton, opened by Ennismore in June 2023.

lights that make for an Instagram-worthy foil,

Prior to the hotel’s existence, the building on

are part of a motif seen through the entire

site was a nondescript structure containing a

development. Viewed as a link between the

hodgepodge of businesses. The architecture by

past and present, the design was inspired by

DP Architects not only creates a new icon in

the architectural vocabulary of the shophouse

the vicinity, but also improves the urbanscape

typology. Mark Wong, Project Architect at DP

by cutting a pedestrian walkway through the

Architects, explains: “The scheme continues the

structure, connecting the laid-back Duxton Hill

traditional shophouse design language in the

with the bustling intersection of Neil Road and

F&B-and-retail wing, while the hotel tower’s

Craig Road lower down the slopes.

design takes on an elegant Modernist language

The overall massing features a tower facing Duxton Hill and a lower block fronting Neil

122

with visual cues and inspiration coming from the traditional shophouse.”

Road. In between is a lushly-planted garden,

The lobby level at Duxton Hill takes guests

integrated with reflective pools and an arching

to the third storey, where Italian steakhouse

greenery-laced portal. This respite is a

Bottega di Carna, opened by celebrated chef

delightful pause in the built-up area, providing

Dario Cecchini, provides a warm welcome. This

picturesque views as one traverses between the

is the heart of the hotel – both symbolically

different parts of the hotel.

and structurally. “In response to the operator’s

123

On the hotel’s third level, Italian steakhouse Bottega di Carna introduces an abundance of greenery inspired by the city

124

desire to break free from the typical arrival

As part of the brand identity, a custom graphic

experience, we planned the lobby to be a bustling

of large swirls covers ceilings in the restaurant

restaurant,” says Robbyn Carter, founder of

and corridors to the guestrooms. “Using Chinese

Studio Carter, who worked on the interior

black ink as the medium for creating the brush

design except for Christina’s – a café turned

strokes of varied lines brings a touch of cultural

cocktail bar with interiors by GreyMatters.

significance and artistic expression,” says Carter

The vibrant design at Bottega di Carna

on the design, which weaves in narratives of

mirrors Cecchini’s charismatic personality.

Singapore’s flora, fauna and cultural elements

“Open show kitchens allow guests to witness

from various ethnic groups in the city.

the enigmatic skills of the chef and his team,

Another place to survey the surroundings

adding an element of entertainment to the

is the Canyon Club rooftop bar and poolside

dining experience,” Carter highlights.

cabanas, influenced by 1970s Hollywood

The designer was inspired by the city-state’s

glamour. The development also integrates

greenery for the design too. “We introduced

several independent F&B establishments,

plants and green stone accents, creating a

such as the Kengo Kuma-designed omakase

sense of natural serenity and freshness,” she

restaurant Suzuki and Mediterranean eatery

describes. “One of the standout features is the

Noa, helmed by chef Alain Devahive.

atrium ceiling, where lush plants spill down the

Throughout the hotel, bespoke furniture,

sides into the space, adding a touch of verdant

joinery and furnishing reflect Carter’s passion for

charm to the hotel’s interior.” Columns clad in

craft while paying homage to the region’s history

rippled mirror augment the greenery and sense

as a trading hub for goods and commodities that

of space, while paying homage to the waters

propagated “shared experiences, ideas, artistry

surrounding the island.

and cultural exchange”. The reception desk

B E AU T Y I S F U N DA M E N TA L

LONDON

N E W YO R K

DUBAI

H O N G KO N G

We are makers of hand-painted, embroidered and printed wallcoverings.

Folly in Lettuce, photographed by Studio Rochowski at The Goring Hotel

for instance, is crafted from reclaimed railroad

room meetings and events, while the fifth is a

tracks and painted black.

one-bedroom suite with a gable roof and use of

Within the tower block’s 302 guestrooms

In the guestrooms, residents are offered

a jewel-like glass cases that reflect the cityscape

an insight into Singaporean artist André

outside the windows, while arched portals

Wee’s creative process through a special

continue the shophouse reference.

augmented reality filter – just one example

That Carter herself spent six years living

of the thoughtful curation and placement of

in a Singapore shophouse before returning to

artworks by design consultancy The Artling.

Los Angeles underpins the authenticity of the

Cocktail bar Jungle Ballroom’s botanical theme

scheme. This marries with her original creative

is underscored by the artwork of Emma Anna,

endeavours as a sculptor. “The sculptural

while the most striking piece of the collection

influence is evident in the choice of materials,

is a 6m-high bronze sculpture by New York-

the arrangement of elements and the spatial

based artist Kaws, which stands sentry at the

composition of our design,” she elaborates. In

hotel’s entrance.

the guestrooms, cloud-like mini-bars echo the movements of nomadic travellers.

126

green marble to emulate the city’s landscape.

and suites meanwhile, showers are encased in

The understated atmosphere of the reception area is juxtaposed with the psychedelic shades

Unique to the property are five shophouse-

of Ian Davenport’s Deep Magenta mirrored

inspired suites, where sloped ceilings and

artwork and Singaporean artist Daniel Ng’s

shutter windows evoke their namesake, and

Waterfall IV video art. Together, these pieces

contemporary twists in the design details

add another layer of richness to the hotel’s

eschew pastiche. Four suites feature Murphy

melding of narrative with form, telling stories

beds that can be packed up to accommodate in-

of place and time.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Craig Road Property Holdings Operator: Ennismore Architecture: DP Architects Interior Design: Studio Carter, GreyMatters Lighting Design: Lighting Planners Associates Art Consultant: The Artling Landscaping: Shma Company Main Contractor: Sim Lian Construction www.mondriansingapore.com

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something new EGGER Decorative Collection 24+ launching in February 2024

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17/10/2023 10:29

128

The Municipal LIVERPOOL Retaining its historic charm, a city landmark is sensitively converted to a hotel, where the magnificent Palm Court takes centre stage.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of The Municipal

I

f the number of entries in the Conversion

columns flanking the entrance and no less than

category of this year’s AHEAD awards is

18 sandstone statues representing the arts,

anything to go by, the hotel industry is making

sciences and industries of Liverpool.

full use of existing buildings across Europe,

Completed in 1868, the quadrangular

transforming unoccupied or underutilised

structure was designed by Corporation architect

spaces into vibrant hospitality hubs that

John Weightman, who was influenced by both

help reinvigorate an area. Vacant offices

French and Italian Renaissance styles to combine

and shuttered shops – many victims of the

ornate stonework and ornamental ironmongery,

pandemic – are seeing new life as hotels, but

with pavilions at each corner topped by convex-

it’s arguably heritage buildings that spark the

hipped mansard roofs. Having been purpose-

most interest, their rich past often making an

built for the city council, it housed everyone

authentic narrative for the design scheme.

from the medical officer to the mayor over a

In Liverpool – the fifth largest city in the UK, boasting a varied mix of arts and culture,

150-year period, before being deemed surplus to requirements and too costly to maintain.

sporting events and shopping – there’s no

The sale to Fragrance Group came in 2016,

shortage of heritage buildings, having once

marking a new addition to the Singapore-

been a major trading port and playing a key

based developer’s UK portfolio of hotels, many

role in the Industrial Revolution. And while

of which are set within historic buildings. In

the Liver Building is the star attraction on the

its Liverpool acquisition, the group took on not

waterfront, a short stroll away on Dale Street

only a historic building, but one with Grade

flaunts façade after façade of listed buildings.

II*-listed status, the star signifying it to be of

At its centre, the Municipal Building stands out

particular national importance. It is this rich

for its landmark clocktower, rising 64m tall

history that makes the property a good fit for

and visible from across the city. The frontage

Accor’s MGallery collection, which prides itself

too is of epic proportions, featuring gargantuan

on the art of storytelling.

129

The lighting scheme throughout the hotel – developed in collaboration with Artin Light – features fitings by Northern Lights and Chelsom

130

The mammoth task of renovating and restoring the building was entrusted to architects Falconer Chester

systems without detracting from the ornate detailing and character of the spaces.”

Hall, while interiors are by Koncept ID and Grayland

Indeed, the likes of plumbing and ventilation

Interior Design. For Falconer Chester Hall, the remit

required a considered approach, with architect,

of work included both conversion and newbuild

designer and contractor coming together to find the

elements, the latter being a four-storey, bronze-clad

best solution. In the public spaces for example, where

extension to the rear to house the spa and additional

access through the finely-decorated ceiling just wasn’t

guestrooms. The bulk of the project however involved

possible, air conditioning is built into the banquette

the heritage building, working closely with Historic

seating, concealed behind grilles at their base.

England and Liverpool City Council’s planning and

Taking the lead on the interiors, Simon Scott and

heritage team. “Restoration of the exterior of the

Jenny Denton of Koncept ID were appointed to develop

building involved months of detailed assessments

the design scheme, while fit-out, selection of loose

and traditional craftsmanship, painstakingly cleaning,

FF&E and branding were undertaken by Grayland, a

mending, preserving and enhancing the ornate

new studio founded by Denton in 2019.

stonework,” explains Alastair Shepherd, Director at

On a tour of the property, Denton explains how

Falconer Chester Hall. Inside, the project became

the design had to be a sensitive balance between

ever more complex. “Firstly, the design team had

old and new, with the majority of original surfaces

to understand the existing structure, stripping back

retained and restored in line with the requirements

layers of incongruous modern interventions to allow

of various heritage bodies. “Because of the building’s

the beauty of the original building to take centre

importance, there were limits to what could be done,”

stage,” he continues. Then came planning the spaces

she reveals. “Naturally, the council wanted ensure that

and insertion of the usual mod cons. “The biggest

key details were preserved and so our concept is very

challenge was introducing mechanical and electrical

much based on the different services that have been

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Guestrooms in the existing building feature high ceilings and tall arced windows for plenty of natural daylight

132

housed here over the years – it all nods back to the

client’s desire, was destined to be the Palm Court. At

building and its history.”

its centre, the bar is the focal point, accentuated by

This is most evident in the artwork and curios on display throughout the hotel, referencing agriculture,

British racing green tiles, a marble countertop and an elegant brass frame to house the glassware.

manufacturing and trade, as well as engineering,

By day, Palm Court is a charming spot for a leisurely

electricity and medicine, all tied in with the history of

coffee or casual lunch, and by night, it transforms into

the city. There’s entomology exhibits and a ceramic

an atmospheric bar, with clusters of seating that help

phrenology head; an ode to the Liverpool-born

to break down the space into cosy niches. According to

inventor of the crossword and abstract takes on the

Denton, the lighting was key to defining the different

city skyline; a well-worn leather boot found during

uses according to time of day, so the studio worked

construction and starched white collars in frames. In

with Artin Light and Northern Lights to develop a

line with the MGallery brand, all have a story to tell.

lighting scheme, most notably with the decagonal

On arrival, a large-scale artwork of the Liverpool

chandeliers up above, each comprising laser-cut

waterfront hangs behind the reception desk, setting

antique fretwork and matte opal panels that diffuse

the tone with its muted palette that harmonises with

a warming glow.

the rich timber panelling. “The lobby is intentionally

Tucked away to the side, the library is a quieter

dark and moody, before opening up to Palm Court,”

space to settle into an armchair by the fireplace, and to

says Denton, as the voluminous, light-filled space is

the rear, British brasserie Seaforth has its own distinct

revealed in all its glory. Undoubtedly the crown jewel

identity, yet still benefits from the ambiance of Palm

of the property, it’s a magnificent sight, set beneath

Court. The hotel also caters to afternoon tea lovers

newly-glazed skylights and lined with parallel rows

thanks to The Botanic Tea Room, which occupies a

of palm trees. The internal quadrangle previously

corner pavilion at the front of the building. Here,

served as the Treasurer’s Public Office, but as per the

Koncept and Grayland have opted for a more feminine

paolomoschino.com

134

look, with semi-circular booths and floral

the facilities, the spa in the newbuild extension

dining chairs set around a central blossom tree.

is more contemporary in style.

On the upper floors, the 179 guestrooms and

Responsible for delivering the scheme on

suites – almost all unique owing to the existing

site, main contractor Russell WBHO worked

floorplate – line the perimeter of the building.

closely with Falconer Chester Hall and Grayland

In the newbuild portion, floor-to-ceiling

Interior Design to ensure the standards of the

windows mean plenty of natural daylight,

owner, operator and heritage bodies were met.

while those in the existing building feature

“This was a highly complex project with the

high ceilings and tall arced windows. All follow

change of use from office to hotel, and the

the same design scheme and feature a botanic

addition of a modern extension to a Grade

patterned headboard as the centrepiece, framed

II*-listed building,” concludes Gareth Russell,

by wall panelling that neatly houses a built-in

Managing Director of Russell WBHO. “The client

reading lighting by Chelsom in golden bronze.

had a very clear vision of what this building

Upholstery and soft furnishings in ochre and

could become and we hope that hotel guests and

regal blue accompany casegoods by O’Donnell,

the people of Liverpool can now enjoy it and be

designed in a range of combinations to fit

proud of what we have all achieved.”

the varying floorplates, while carpet designs

That the hotel was packed with diners,

reference the architectural detailing. The top-

overnight guests and events attendees during

level Presidential Suite – previously the mayor’s

Sleeper’s stay is a sure sign of success for the

office – also comes with a freestanding copper

operator, though for the design teams involved,

bathtub in the surrounds of heritage-listed wall

proof must surely come in making the AHEAD

panelling. The same panelling can be seen in the

Europe shortlist, beating off stiff competition to

Weightman meeting room, while rounding out

be in the running for best conversion in Europe.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Fragrance Group Operator: RBH Hospitality, Accor Architecture: Falconer Chester Hall Interior Design: Koncept ID, Grayland Interior Design Lighting Design: Artin Lighting Branding: Paragon DCX Art Consultant: Studio2C F&B Consultant: PSC Hospitality Procurement: Astore Procurement Main Contractor: Russell WBHO www.municipalhotelliverpool.com

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Where furniture making is more than just a job, it is a passion.

LUXURY

BESPOKE

LIFESTYLE

HERITAGE

CONTEMPORARY

The Municipal Hotel Liverpool, MGallery

Where nostalgia meets innovation.

Following a £40m refurbishment, the expertise of hotel furniture manufacturer’s, O’Donnell Furniture Makers, was called upon to bring a touch of modernity, with a hint of quintessential style, to the 179 guestrooms of this magnificent hotel. The rooms range from double beds to suites, and all showcase warm and earthy colour palettes. The hotel renovation included all guestrooms and suites, some with private courtyard gardens, and bespoke furniture all designed in collaboration with O’Donnell Furniture Makers, a family owned business, based in West Cork, Ireland, and now in its fourth generation of expertise.

O’Donnell Furniture Makers Head Office Baltimore Road, Skibbereen, West Cork, Ireland +353 (0) 28 22274 odonnellfurniture.com

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DESIGN DETAILS

LOBBY & PUBLIC SPACES

Marriott Casablanca It’s often remarked that history repeats itself, and the same can be said for design, with Brutalism returning to popularity having once been branded ugly, intimidating and bland. For Atelier Pod, the movement is one of beauty, with the design studio opting to embrace the features of a Jean-François Zevaco masterpiece in its creation of a new lobby at Marriott Casablanca.

Built in 1985 and previously operated as a Sheraton, the city landmark is a sturdy concrete mass featuring a corner section cut-out which, from within, is viewed as an architectural canopy of right-angled layers.

Following on from Zevaco’s work, Atelier Pod has accentuated the volume through the use of towering stone columns and pendant lighting suspended from high above, while a pared back palette of natural materials such as walnut adds warmth.

The scheme allows for multiple lounges and pockets of seating that cater to a variety of guest needs which, according to Atelier Pod, “gives the Brutalist structure an architectural response that brings it into its own future”.

Healing Hospitality Following the opening of a new Lanserhof in Germany, architect Christoph Ingenhoven discusses the development of the medi-resort concept, outlining the positive impact of design on guest wellbeing.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Alexander Haiden (unless otherwise stated)

I

t was a new invention in a way,” says

extensive research in the fields of naturopathy,

Christoph Ingenhoven on the planning and

psychoneuroimmunology and cutting-edge

design of Lanserhof Tegernsee, the first

modern medicine, amongst others, the approach

newbuild development from medi-resort

involves a combination of methods that promote

specialists Lanserhof Group. “At the time

health and regeneration. At the heart of the

there was nothing else like it, we had to start

concept is the Lanserhof Cure, which begins

from scratch.”

with sensitive detoxification, purification and

Indeed, in 2014, medical tourism was

deacidification through fasting, nutrition and

in its infancy, but over the past decade,

intestinal cleansing. Detailed physical and

consumer spend on such services has grown

anamnestic examinations on arrival at the

exponentially, giving rise to a new niche for

resort determine the exact programme for

the hospitality industry – one that combines

each individual guest, with everything from

the facilities of a clinic with the luxury of a

acupuncture, oxygen therapy and lymphatic

hotel. However the Lanserhof Group’s history

drainage to musculoskeletal ultrasound, heart

dates back further, to a small, family-run hotel

rate variability and cryotherapy on offer. This

in Austria’s Tyrolean mountains, where Dr

is supported by exercise, relaxation techniques

Christian Harisch – descending from a long line

and massage as well as infusions and dietary

of hoteliers – developed a health concept that

supplements. Far from a spa break, it’s a

aims to regenerate and revitalise. Forty years

thorough MOT of the body and mind. All this,

on, and that property still stands, operating

say Lanserhof, “in the midst of powerful nature

as Lanserhof Lans, making the group a true

and in combination with architecture that

innovator in the sector.

supports regeneration”.

THE CONCEPT

BUILDING BLOCKS

‘Live better for longer’ is the primary goal of the

Taking the lead on creating such architecture

Lanserhof concept and the desired outcome of

is Christoph Ingenhoven, who founded his

every stay at one of the three resorts. Based on

studio in 1985. Best known for buildings such

© HGEsch

At Lanserhof Sylt, a spiral staircase dazzles beneath gently curving timber beams that follow the profile of the free-form thatched roof

as the Lufthansa Aviation Center at Frankfurt Airport and the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg, Ingenhoven’s involvement with Lanserhof began in 2011, when Harisch called out-of-the-blue and asked him to look at a project at Lake Tegernsee in southern Germany.

“We had no experience in designing medical centres or spas, and we weren’t known for hotels,” the architect points out. Ingenhoven was, however, an experienced guest, having stayed at the original Lans property some years earlier. “For me, this is a much better

“The idea is to create a particularly sustainable and healthy building complex in which guests can recuperate and reenergise in harmony with nature.”

The architect was also keen to maximise the relationship between the natural world and the built environment, stating: “The buildings here act as if they are sand dunes; they have short vertical façades and an overhanging roof that in some cases is just a metre from the dune. We wanted to follow this idea.”

Having scrutinised every element of the traditional design aesthetic, Ingenhoven explored different forms and applications, guided by his own desire to produce a modern interpretation. The result is a meandering, low-

motivation,” he continues. “We were new in

rise structure with a free-flowing thatched roof

the field, but very keen.”

– the largest in Europe, measuring 7,100m2 –

Less than two years later, Lanserhof

that follows the contours of the dunes. Instead

Tegernsee made its debut in the Bavarian Alps;

of the red brick of nearby houses, the façades

the hotel guestrooms and state-of-the-art

are transparent, glazed from floor to ceiling and

medical centre occupying a timber building

around curving corners too. And the windows

that sits in harmony with the landscape. The

protruding from the roof have been reimagined,

façades were constructed primarily from natural

now inverted to create outdoor terraces for

materials, such as larch from renewable sources

every guestroom. According to Ingenhoven,

and integrated planting, while guestrooms are

natural materials and a harmonious design

designed as places of retreat.

are the building blocks of health-promoting

Then came the refurbishment and extension

architecture, but there’s more to it than meets

of Lanserhof Lans, an altogether different offer

the eye.

given the location and heritage of the property.

is a pioneer in sustainable architecture, always

The existing guesthouse was fully modernised

designing in accordance with the highest green

BUILDING BIOLOGY

and a new, elliptical structure added to house

building standards. Key to the schemes at all

The building biology at Lanserhof goes far

a saltwater swimming pool, spa and treatment

three Lanserhof resorts is the integration of the

deeper than aesthetics. With the health and

rooms, with suites on the upper floors. This

architecture with the surroundings, whether

wellbeing of guests the priority, every material

time, red cedar was the material of choice,

alpine or coastal. In Sylt, it’s the sand dunes

within the resorts has been carefully considered,

with a planted roof garden and private terraces

that are the defining feature of the landscape,

taking into account lifecycle and environmental

fostering a connection to the outdoors.

while a distinct style of architecture makes up

performance. In line with building biology

The most recent opening in the Lanserhof

the built environment. “We look very closely at

principles, there’s no synthetic finishes, and

portfolio is on Sylt, an island in northern

the vernacular – the history, building materials

paints and varnishes have been tested under

Germany known for its endless beaches. Built on

and traditional architecture of a region – to

ecological and health criteria. “The idea is to

the site of a former military base, in proximity

identify the essentials, then we create a modern

create a particularly sustainable and healthy

to Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National

interpretation,” explains Ingenhoven. “I had

building complex in which guests can recuperate

Park, the resort was eight years in-the-making,

been to Sylt as a child, and as a young adult

and reenergise in harmony with nature,”

a process that involved back-and-forth with

with my own children, so already had an idea

Ingenhoven explains. “It really helps to have

heritage bodies, government officials and locals

of its characteristics.”

a building biologist who checks every material

to convince them that the scheme would in no

Referencing the island’s traditional Frisian

and every treatment. In the building industry,

way damage the protected sand dunes nor its

houses capped with quaint thatched roofs, he

there are still a lot of chemical treatments

population of birdlife.

continues: “I love the use of reed; it’s a beautiful

that are harmful so we have to be very careful;

For Ingenhoven, a founding member of the

material and there’s an underestimation of what

at Lanserhof we make sure that there are no

German Sustainable Building Council, protecting

you can do with it, so I was very much in favour

emissions, and nothing toxic or poisoning.”

the environment was only natural; the practice

of incorporating it into the design.”

The architect reiterates that designing

141

142

“I wouldn’t say architecture alone is healing but I do think it can support healing processes by providing the right environment.”

buildings that are green in terms of low

the “disorientation of corridor after corridor

are scheduled and the relevant doctor calls

consumption and high efficiency has always

often found in hotels”.

for patients to be seen, but that’s where the

been part of the studio’s DNA, however building

The guestrooms are designed as places of

similarities end; in terms of design and fit-out,

biology – defined as a holistic study of the

retreat and, despite the high level of single

it’s far superior to a typical clinic, with quality

interrelationships between humans and their

occupancy, all are generous in size with an

finishes and state-of-the-art equipment.

manmade environment – is a growing trend.

open-plan living space. The larger suites,

In planning the facility, Ingengoven

“Since we started working with Lanserhof, we

spread across two floors and measuring up to

consulted with Lanserhof’s council of doctors

have noticed an increased desire for healthy

78m2, feature a lounge on the lower level and

to ensure their needs would be met, both as a

buildings, particularly when it comes to how

cosy sleeping area beneath the thatched roof

working environment and to deliver the wide

that building could help people stay healthy,”

up above. Bathrooms are also generous with

range of services on offer. “It’s a balancing

confirms Ingenhoven. “This is the direction I

a spacious shower cubicle and freestanding

act,” comments Ingenhoven. “The facility

see wellness going.”

bathtub, the latter by Bette and made from

has to fulfil clinical requirements to a high

a glazed titanium steel that is extremely

standard, but it shouldn’t look like a hospital.

durable and fully recyclable – another nod to

Because of the mix of health, wellbeing and

The interior design of each resort is also based

lifecycle and environmental performance. And

beauty treatments, we designed a space that is

on guest wellbeing, with Ingenhoven opting

amenities are neatly tucked away behind the

somewhere between the three. When a guest

for a calming palette of natural materials

slimline mirrored cabinets, again so there’s no

is having a manicure, they don’t want to feel

and neutral tones. “There’s a tranquillity and

distraction from the sense of serenity.

as if they’re in a laboratory, and equally, when

A SENSE OF SERENITY

receiving test results, they shouldn’t feel like

simplicity to the spaces,” he explains. “People

All rooms have a private balcony or terrace

get distracted with mobile phones and laptops;

furnished by Kettal, where guests are invited to

everything is bigger, brighter, more direct, more

recline and take in the surroundings. “The main

On arrival, the waiting room features a

hectic. We wanted to take that all away so that

aim of the guest experience is to encourage a

curving blue sofa – the meeting point for all

guests can concentrate on themselves.”

they’re in a beauty salon.”

connection with nature,” Ingenhoven explains.

appointments – and a row of semi-private

There’s no art on the walls, for example, or

“While I can’t forbid guests from getting

booths serviced by a front-of-house team

bold pops of colour. And furniture is primarily

distracted by their own devices, I can offer

garbed in healthcare-style uniforms to

oriented towards the view rather than a TV

something better in exchange – a place to take

differentiate from hotel staff. Leading off the

screen. Interiors are understated, making use

in the landscape.”

corridor are the consultation and treatment

of timber, stone and glass to the backdrop

The wraparound windows mean the landscape

rooms, all with natural daylight and access

of an earthy palette of beige and soft browns

can be viewed from every space, whether tucking

to fresh air. Lighting is functional, surfaces

– “what’s in the landscape is also in the

in to the nutritional cuisine in the restaurant, or

are hygienic and the colour palette is more

building,” as Ingenhoven puts it. The timber

relaxing by the fire in the lounge, where a row

clinical – subtle yet crucial points of difference

in particular is used to spectacular effect, not

of Eames chairs with matching ottomans offer

from the hotel. “There’s a clear change in the

only in the parquet flooring and vertical screens

the prime spot for an uninterrupted panorama.

attitude of the building,” Ingenhoven confirms.

throughout the hotel, but on ceilings too, taking

“Take the colour white; there’s no white in the

the form of long beams that gently curve

A MEDICAL MARVEL

to the profile of the roof. The most dazzling

When it comes to the medical facilities at

intervention is the staircase, standing at the

Lanserhof Sylt, a decision was made early on

The materials used are however subject to the

intersection of the three wings and spiralling

in the planning process to differentiate from

same rigorous testing as in the hotel, ensuring

from the basement to the guestroom floors.

the hotel component. As such, the consultation

there’s nothing toxic in the environment.

“It’s an architectural attraction that people will

rooms and treatment chambers are all housed

According to Dr Christina Haeggberg, Deputy

remember, whether walking the inner circle or

in one wing of the resort, with its own reception

Medical Director at Lanserhof Sylt, this level

the outer circle,” Ingenhoven explains, adding

and waiting area. The 5,000m2 facility functions

of commitment at the design stage supports

that it also helps with orientation, eliminating

much like a typical clinic in that appointments

the health and wellbeing of guests throughout

guestrooms, it is introduced only in the medical facility, bringing more of a clinical feel.”

143

the course of their stay. “From construction to

seminars. Nordic walking, cycle tours and early

HEALING HOSPITALITY

interiors, all materials have been selected to

morning awakening by the sea are all part of the

The combination of the Lanserhof philosophy

allow ‘clean breathing’, which aids the detox

programme, as are music recitals and cooking

and Ingenhoven’s considered approach makes

process via the lungs,” she explains, adding

classes. For those in favour of relaxation, the

for a compelling product and raises the question

that the access to fresh air from all guestrooms

spa features experience showers and a steam

as to whether architecture can in fact be

and public spaces is important for a healthy

room alongside two large saunas by Klafs and

healing. “I wouldn’t say architecture alone is

respiratory system. She concludes: “The

relaxation beds arrranged around a central fire.

healing, but I do think it can support healing

spaciousness and tranquillity of the resort also

There’s also an indoor-to-outdoor pool, where

processes by providing the right environment,”

supports recuperation and regeneration.”

swimming amongst nature nourishes the soul.

he concludes. “Studies have found that hospital

LONGEVITY AT LANSERHOF

Such facilities don’t come cheap, but having

patients with a view of a tree heal significantly

been an innovator in the sector, Lanserhof

faster than those positioned away from the

Playing a role in the ‘live better for longer’

Group can see longevity in its concept and is

window, so we try to do this at Lanserhof. It

approach at Lanserhof are the hotel facilities,

committed to expanding to new markets. In

costs a lot of façade but it’s beneficial to feel

dealing with everything from nutrition to

addition to the three standalone resorts, The

connected to nature.”

physical and mental health. In the restaurant,

Arts Club in London houses a small facility while

The experience is perhaps best demonstrated

the cuisine served is bespoke to each guest

Hamburg has physio and cardio clinics. And

by Ingenhoven’s favourite spot at Lanserhof

and, for those who aren’t fasting, comprises

according to Ingenhoven, there’s more to come.

Sylt – the infusion room. It’s here, where

nutrient-rich vegetables, organic meat and

The group has recently announced its entry into

rejuvenating therapies are administered

dairy sourced from local suppliers. Meals are

Spain, with a newbuild resort at Marbella’s

intravenously, sitting beneath the thatched roof

also supplemented by a ‘green shot’ of algae oil

Finca Cortesin development, representing a

and looking out to views of the sand dunes and

and freshly-pressed wheatgrass, which brings a

€100 million investment in the wellness sector.

ocean beyond, that medicine, architecture and

whole host of benefits.

Ingenhoven reveals that his design will once

nature come together for a transformative dose

again take in local influences while aiming for

of healing hospitality.

There’s a lounge, library and outdoor terrace, as well as a lecture hall for educational

144

the highest sustainability standards.

Reshape your escape.

BetteSuno.

Discover BetteSuno: Designed by Barber Osgerby

www.my-bette.com

Creativity Meets Commerciality In a world that oscillates between the creative and the commercial, the founder of AboundStudio reveals why this doesn’t happen by chance, but by design.

Words: Ben Thomas

I

t takes more than a clever logo, stylish

all; an ambition to raise the benchmark and

interior or fleeting advertising campaign to

enrich the way we live, work and travel with

create a standout brand in today’s market.

category-defining concepts and experiences.”

Those who push the boundaries understand

Huntly’s first job with The Formation Creative

the power of harnessing design to drive

Consultants opened the door to a career in

growth, which in turn can ignite a brand.

design, providing him with a taste for working

For James Huntly, founder and Creative

with those brave enough to disrupt the status

Director of Perth-based branding firm

quo. “My love affair with hotels started with

AboundStudio, the opportunity lies in

my earliest project, shaping the original Hoxton

recognising the relationship between all layers

hotel in Shoreditch, London,” he reveals,

of a brand. Having sat on both sides of the table

adding that the project taught him the value

– agency and client – Huntly moved to Australia

of looking at brands holistically and designing

to launch his own practice in 2019, joining

around people. “Little did I know where this

forces with his partner in business and in life,

would lead me, let alone how it would go on to

Alison, to create what he calls an “ecosystem

define a sector.”

of creative and commercial minds”. “I’ve been

Fast forward a decade and Huntly had

fortunate to collaborate with an array of iconic

switched from agency to client, taking up

hospitality brands and personalities over the

a position as Brand Innovation Director in-

course of my career,” he explains. “Looking

house at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG),

back, there’s been a mindset that defines them

where he furthered his appreciation for fusing

“There’s an abundance of opportunities to bring brands alive through product, interiors, communication and service design, whether in evocative or subtle ways.”

commerciality and creativity. The highlight

landscape as well as the lives of those who

between the creative and the commercial, this

of Huntly’s time at IHG was taking the Voco

encounter them. According to Huntly, for

doesn’t happen by chance but by design,” states

brand from concept to completion. “Voco has

hospitality brands to resonate with guests

Huntly. “It requires an intimate understanding

become a phenomenal success and IHG’s fastest

on a deeper emotional level, they must have

of people and places, their lifestyles and

growing brand,” he says proudly, pointing to

values and a purpose-led philosophy. One

behaviours.” It also means looking beyond

the 46 hotels opened worldwide.

that transcends design disciplines and weaves

the latest trend or fad – and the one after that

itself across the guest journey to cultivate a

– to craft more meaningful propositions and

connection with surrounding community.

experiences that guests come back to.

Having spearheaded brand development at IHG for almost three years, Huntly decided it was time for a change and took the leap of faith

AboundStudio seeks to help brands achieve

“Looking at brands that have achieved

to launch his very own practice – AboundStudio.

this unified vision, informing how they look,

cult-like status in hospitality, they go far

As well as continuing his work with Voco from

talk and behave. Once defined, it then becomes

beyond offering a bed for the night – they’re

an external perspective, Huntly has shaped a

more natural for brands to justify design choices,

platforms of discovery, with activated spaces

soulful family of brands for Edyn, in Locke

shape service behaviours, curate experiential

that transition throughout the day to drive

and Cove. “With travellers blending work and

programming and even identify like-minded

revenue whilst elevating the experience,” says

leisure with longer stays, the rise of brands

partners. “It’s why I love hospitality brands,”

Huntly, who admits to seeing brand identity as

like Locke couldn’t come at a better time,” he

Huntly explains. “There’s an abundance of

intrinsic to the strategic and sustainable success

explains. “When we started work on the brand,

opportunities to bring brands alive through

of a group. “It’s about exploring new business

it had three properties in the UK. Now it has 12

product, interiors, communication and service

models that are conscious and commercial. Put

across Europe – the growth is quite staggering.

design, whether in evocative or subtle ways.”

simply, without a distinctive proposition that

The Edyn team optimise what we describe as

BALANCING BEAUTY & BUCK

challenging the traditional hotel. We’re proud

While designing eyecatching brands is Huntly’s

and creativity required to build a brand for the

to have played a part in their journey.”

forte, he is quick to stress the importance of

long-term, as well as hospitality’s dependency

adding cultural and commercial value to the

on the culture and community around it.”

PURPOSE-LED PHILOSOPHY

148

guests want and need, there is no business. It

true experience makers, with a brand that’s

world around them. The balance, he says, lies

highlights the delicate dance of commerciality

Across all of AboundStudio’s projects, the

in nurturing a brand that grows organically,

SCALING WITH SOUL

firm’s vision is clear; to work with a rising

becoming part of the cultural fabric before

Building a brand is no mean feat and it takes skill

wave of experience makers to craft memorable,

being woven into the daily lives of people

to scale authentically, with the risk of losing a

meaningful brands that enrich the cultural

and communities. “In a world that oscillates

brand’s founding vision and soul in the process

“More than ever, guests are seeking authentic experiences, so replicating what works in one location isn’t necessarily going to work for another.”

Continuing Huntly’s relationship with IHG, AboundStudio recently inspired a fresh look and feel for the Voco brand across newbuild properties in Europe, Asia and Australasia, including Japan’s Voco Osaka

150

a very real prospect. The answer, in Huntly’s

A NEW ERA OF TRAVEL

mind, is to construct a clearly articulated brand

For Huntly, the future of the hospitality sector

blueprint that becomes the bedrock to support

is bright. “We envision an industry that’s

expansion, guiding growth whilst preserving

regenerative, immersive and one that enriches

the brand’s essence and identity. “More than

the world around us, where opportunities and

ever, guests are seeking authentic experiences,

inspiration abound every day,” he envisages,

so replicating what works in one location isn’t

pointing to one particular project that he and

necessarily going to work for another.”

his wife Alison are working on for an iconic

According to Huntly, when a brand is

hospitality brand. “Whilst it’s currently under

bound by values, shared universal principles

wraps, it would be fair to say that the brand is

or signatures, it can create freedom within a

redefining luxury in all the right ways.”

framework that allows the concept to grow

Beyond that, AboundStudio is exploring other

without compromising on quality, while at the

opportunities in its new homeland and what

same time staying true to the original ethos.

hospitality brands can learn from the country’s

“It’s important to remember that a brand is not

laid-back, down-to-earth way of life: “There’s

a static construct, but rather a fluid concept that

huge potential for Australian hospitality to

requires constant nurturing and recalibration,”

become part of the fabric of life, reflecting

he explains. “By taking a fluid yet structured

the sense of freedom and individuality that

approach, it allows design to adapt authentically

come naturally to us as a nation. As such,

to each location; interpret brand signatures

we’re exploring our own uniquely Aussie hotel

beyond their original imagining, for instance, by

concept, which could inspire a new way to

asking who and what in that locale exemplifies

travel. We believe there’s a world of opportunity

the brand for the right reasons.”

out there and we’re excited to journey into it.”

Curtis_Sleeper_236x275mm_Ad_Final1.indd 1

26/10/2023 11:37

Construction Pipeline Global Hotel Groups Marriott International has the largest hotel construction pipeline in the world as listed in the THP database, with 878 four- and five-star projects currently on the boards, amounting to 190,181 rooms globally. While the US-based group is on course for expansion across all regions, it is placing strong focus on Asia, predominantly through its JW Marriott brand, which is projected to grow its portfolio volume by at least a third over the next few years.

Hilton Worldwide remains the second most-active group globally, having signed a quarterly record of more than 36,000 keys in Q2 2023 to boost its pipeline. The cities of Shanghai, Nashville and Nanjing count its greatest number of projects, with developments under the Waldorf Astoria, Tapestry and Conrad brands.

AMERICAS

Projects Rooms

1

2

3

4

5

MARRIOTT 356 63,977

HILTON 306 51,320

HYATT 126 26,511

IHG 93 15,913

ACCOR 50 10,345

1

2

3

4

5

ACCOR 122 19,841

HILTON 100 15,023

IHG 84 12,435

MARRIOTT 80 13,402

RADISSON 57 10,341

1

2

3

4

5

ACCOR 107 25,589

MARRIOTT 106 26,998

HILTON 93 18,932

IHG 64 14,199

RADISSON 61 11,811

1

2

3

4

5

MARRIOTT 347 87,458

IHG 261 57,942

HILTON 238 51,180

ACCOR 225 48,888

HYATT 182 40,467

EUROPE

Projects Rooms

For Accor, Europe and the Middle East & Africa are key regions for new construction, with the group ranking highest in both markets by number of projects. There’s no let up in appetite for assets in Riyadh and Dubai, while in Asia Pacific, Manila and Kuala Lumpur are leading the way.

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA

IHG and Hyatt are growing in Asia Pacific too, with China a key target market; all of Hyatt’s top five cities are located in the country. And for Radisson Hotel Group, 11 new signings in Q1 2023 reinforce its ambitious growth plan for the country.

Projects Rooms

ASIA PACIFIC

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

For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

152

Projects Rooms

BUSINESS CENTRE

THE GLOBAL PICTURE At a global level, Marriott International has the largest pipeline with 190,181 rooms across 878 projects. This is followed by Hilton with 135,793 rooms (733 projects) and Accor with 103,918 rooms (499 projects). Delving into the most active brands, Hilton Worldwide has the greatest share in the top ten, with its flagship brand making the list as well as extended-stay Home2 Suites.

878 Projects 733 499 Projects 498 Projects 371 Projects

Projects

BRAND

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

115

29,377

Marriott Hotels & Resorts

109

29,636

Hilton Garden Inn

108

18,241

Hampton by Hilton

96

14,227

Hotel Indigo

95

16,785

Home2 Suites by Hilton

76

10,368

DoubleTree by Hilton

75

15,561

Hyatt Regency

74

20,863

Courtyard by Marriott

73

14,414

Radisson Hotels & Resorts

71

11,807

Data in this report is extracted from the THP database and includes only four- and five-star hotel projects.

153

HISTORIC PRODUCTIONS

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BUSINESS CENTRE

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

Going all-in

Sea with 1,636 rooms; and more recently added

of new resorts in the Alps, Canada and Japan,”

a site in Abu Dhabi.

commented Club Med President Henri Giscard d’Estaing.

The all-inclusive resort space is getting ever

“The launch of ALLInclusive-Collection.com

busier, as more major groups look to get into

comes at a time when demand for all-inclusive

Club Med has been working on upscaling

an area which, since the pandemic, appears to

stays is stronger than ever,” said Gaurav

and upgrading its resorts, for superior returns

have seen a major uptick in consumer demand.

Bhushan, Co-CEO of Ennismore. “By leveraging

and greater scale economies. Almost all of its

What is becoming clear is that the pandemic

this demand and curating the best resorts from

properties are now in its Premium or Exclusive

helped switch consumer mindsets, with a

leading brands, ALL Inclusive Collection is set

categories. In the next two years, it will open

greater focus on spending time with family,

to be a market leader in the luxury all-inclusive

17 new resorts, and relaunch 10 sites following

and on choosing an environment with less left

business, with a strong pipeline globally.”

extensions or renovations, with the second half

to chance. In addition, those that spotted this

According to LEK Consulting, there are some

of 2023 seeing openings in the Alps and Japan.

trend early, such as Hyatt with its acquisition of

fundamental differences that hotel operators

In China, the group is opening two sites under

Apple Leisure, have shown others that moving

need to get their heads around, when delivering

a new sub-brand, Urban Oasis by Club Med.

into all-inclusive can be highly profitable.

all-inclusive, as “all-inclusive resorts are all

Also pushing into new markets is US waterpark

Despite the additional overheads of an all-

about the bundle. Unlike traditional hotels, the

operator Great Wolf, which is making a start on

inclusive offer, these can to an extent be offset

room is just one element of the all-inclusive

its first sites in the UK. It has secured permission

by scale efficiencies.

package. Leisure programming such as spas,

to build its first site near Bicester, which will

The latest major hotel group to commit

water sports, fitness and entertainment is

represent a GBP200m development. A 498-room

more to all-inclusive is Accor. In September,

usually included or semi-included. Successful

hotel with conferencing will feature alongside

it announced a new dedicated all-inclusive

all-inclusive resorts focus on maximising

an indoor waterpark, adventure park and nature

platform under the wing of its Ennismore

revenue per guest, rather than revenue per room.

trail. The project, which is being built partly on

division. Initially, the offering will start with

This requires a deep understanding of their

the site of the existing Bicester Golf Club, will

over 30 properties under its Rixos, SO/ and

target guests’ wants, needs and behaviours.”

also see the golf facilities reconfigured.

Swissotel brands, and the aim is to grow to

And in an executive report on the growing

Great Wolf is also looking at a second UK site

more than 50 resorts within three years. Along

consumer demand for all-inclusive, LEK

in Basingstoke, where it is working towards

the way, other existing group brands will see

Consulting warns: “Bundles are carefully

winning planning consent. Once more, the

conversions to the all-inclusive offer, including

designed, as the resort bears more risk in an all-

project is being planned on the site of a golf

Hyde, Mondrian, SLS and Fairmont.

inclusive model than in a traditional a la carte

centre, which in Basingstoke is owned by the

model. This has implications for operations,

local council.

The Ennismore offer builds on the group’s experience of operating its Rixos brand, which

revenue management and marketing.”

Currently, Great Wolf has 19 US sites open and

has around 20 years of running all-inclusive

One of the pioneers of the all-inclusive resort,

one in Canada, with a pipeline including three

properties, where not just food and drink, but

Club Med, continues to expand and shift its

more American developments. Great Wolf is

activities and entertainment are all within the

resort offering upmarket. The brand enjoyed a

backed by Blackstone, which took a controlling

booking cost.

record breaking first half of 2023, with revenues

65% stake in the business in 2019.

Rixos launched in 2000, with the Turkish

up to EUR1.06bn, 32% ahead of the previous

group establishing a large scale, all-inclusive

year and 20% ahead of 2019. That performance

HA PERSPECTIVE

offering alongside a portfolio that included

came on customer volume of 766,000, up 28%

By Andrew Sangster: Investors were historically

several city hotels too. Accor acquired a 50%

and 2% respectively.

deterred from the resort sector by the perceived

stake in the business in 2017, rebranding some

“These results are mainly driven by the

higher risk. With urban hotels, there are more

of the properties under other Accor flags and

remarkable performance of our Club Med

alternatives – other potential operators and, if

concentrating on developing Rixos as a resort

Mountain Resorts in Winter 2022, thanks to the

things get really bad, a possible change of use.

brand. Since then it has added a further site in

massive investment in recent years to upgrade

Finding rival resort operators is tough, particularly

Egypt, taking over an existing resort on the Red

the Mountain Resorts portfolio, and the opening

in a market dependent on airlift provided only by

155

tour operators, and there is little opportunity for

Hotel Analyst. In Ireland, Crowley said Dublin

locations include Edinburgh, where we’re Dalata

alternative use.

airport arrivals are ahead of pre-pandemic

is constantly looking, according to Crowley.

But this is the thinking of real estate investors

levels, boosted by a strong volume of American

“All the hotels we added to the portfolio last

rather than investors who are weighing up the

visitors. “London is now starting to see a real

year exceeded our expectations, and contributed

prospects of the business as a whole. You don’t really

return – the city is busy. London still hasn’t

greatly to our first half result,” Crowley added.

invest in the building of a resort hotel as much as the

seen the return of Chinese travellers.”

Two more hotels in London have also come

Dalata reported revenues up 29% to

on stream – with four more properties due to

Does it still make sense for asset-light operators

EUR284m, and just under EUR60m of free cash

open next year in London, Brighton, Liverpool

to be focused on resorts, given this need for a holistic

flow. The group expects like for like RevPAR of

and Manchester. “We continue to look for new

view? I think so, provided that it is understood that it

around EUR140 for July and August, and says

opportunities in Dublin, the UK and continental

is one component of the overall business.

it has already contracted 80% of its energy at

Europe,” revealed Crowley.

overall operation itself.

The big separation between resort operators

Dalata is sitting on cash and undrawn

is those who think that running a resort is just

“Recovery of international travel, including

facilities of over EUR400m, giving it options to

operating rooms with a big buffet and those who are

resurgent UK Airport traffic statistics and record

acquire more properties if opportunities arise.

focused on delivering a proper holiday experience.

numbers at Dublin Airport, provides a positive

And PPHE Hotel Group declared record

There are still more of the former than the latter

backdrop for the markets in which we operate,”

revenues in the first half of 2023, buoyed by

and this is where the opportunity lies. A combination

Crowley explained. “While we continue to

strong demand across its European portfolio.

of winning brands and savvy operators who know

monitor potential slowdowns in demand as a

The figure was up 59% year on year at GBP180m,

how to deliver across the breadth of what is required

result of high inflation levels, we are not seeing

with EBITDA up 165.7% to GBP45.2m. Room

for resort guests.

any such indicators.” The one area Dalata has

rates were up 13.1% year on year, while

Where there is plenty of airlift or other

seen an impact as consumers feel the pinch, has

occupancy continued to improve to 69.1% for

connectivity in a location that has lots of separate

been in regional UK, where F&B sales are softer.

the first half.

tourist attractions, a regular hotel brand may be a

Dalata is keen to grow in major cities across

“This momentum has continued into the

good solution. But for more isolated sites, dedicated

Europe, said Crowley, having opened a first

second half, giving us confidence in our

resort operators are essential.

hotel in Dusseldorf, Germany, and added a

full-year outlook and longer-term growth,”

One of the archetypal resort players is Club Med,

second hotel by picking up the former Hard

explained CEO Boris Ivesha. As a result, the

now owned by China’s Fosun. In the first half of

Rock in Amsterdam. “It’s opportunistic by its

company has also returned to previous levels

2023, operating profit was up 182% year-on-

nature – we want city centre hotels. Germany

of dividend payments – but remains concerned

year. Fosun expects to have 20% more Club Med

is behind where we would expect it to be, but

that its shares languish at 60% discount to

accommodation by 2025 compared to 2022. Club

is ahead due to tight cost control.” The coming

asset value. A campaign of using spare cash to

Med is part of Fosun’s ‘Happiness’ division. It is easy

year should see an improvement as the trade

buy shares, undertaken in the last few months,

to see why from an investor perspective.

fair calendar refills with events. “We’re learning

may be repeated. In the group’s main UK and

a lot from that hotel, and we’re planting seeds

Netherlands markets, PPHE reported strong

across Europe for our next phase of growth.”

international corporate, leisure and meetings

Owner-operators thrive

The Amsterdam deal, revealed in the days

demand. Its Croatian business, Arena, also

following the results announcement, sees

enjoyed a strong start into the summer season.

European hotel groups Dalata and PPHE are both

Dalata taking over the long leasehold of the

In Germany, the company reported a strong

pressing ahead with expansion, as their existing

Hard Rock Hotel in the Dutch capital from Zien

rebound in business at its hotels.

portfolios continue to perform strongly.

Group. The 173-room landmark will be switched

PPHE continued to push its growth programme

to Dalata’s Clayton brand on completion of the

through the pandemic period, with the result

deal, expected in October.

being a strong pipeline over the coming months.

Executives at both companies see no signs of demand weakening, expecting any seasonal

156

fixed rates to the end of 2024.

drop in leisure demand to be offset by further

Crowley is also keen to build further in

It recently opened Art’otel Battersea in London,

growth in business travel demand. And for

London, where the group recently opened two

a hotel it operates under a management

both, the plan is to continue signing additional

properties – a rebranded former Apex hotel,

contract. Further launches in the next year and

properties across key European markets.

and a new property in Finsbury Park, originally

a half include a Radisson Red in Belgrade, due

“Leisure has kept really strong,” confirmed

developed with Premier Inn in mind. “We think

to open before the end of 2023, while it has just

Dalata CEO Dermot Crowley, speaking to

we’re only starting in London.” Other key target

launched Art’otel Zagreb. These will be followed

BUSINESS CENTRE

by Art’otels in Rome and London’s Hoxton, in

PPHE has a buy, build and operate business

And at Accor, new Chief Finance Officer

the first half of 2024. The group has also set

model, and has mostly freehold hotels – 30 freehold,

Martine Gerow commented of growth plans:

up its European Hospitality Real Estate Fund

compared to five long leasehold and six under

“We do see an acceleration, driven by luxury

with investment partner Clal, and aims to use

contracts. And unlike Dalata, PPHE has chosen to

and lifestyle. Where we see particularly strong

this to further grow the portfolio of managed

use a global brand major’s infrastructure, having

pipeline is in the Asia Pacific region and the

properties. Up to EUR250m is ready to be spent

secured additional agreements with Radisson Hotel

Middle East.” While Hilton prefers to build

on acquisitions.

Group in May 2022. PPHE says it has access all

from within, Accor has been keener to purchase

Radisson brands at “favourable terms”.

brands to add to its collection. But, aside from

PPHE can see no market weakness: “Strong trading conditions have been maintained

On the other hand, Dalata is preferring to develop

completing the acquisition of French events

through Q2 and into Q3 across all main market

its own brands. How much Dalata is leaving on the

company Potel & Chabot, to broaden the group’s

segments of leisure, corporate travel and

table by not signing up with a big brand’s distribution

F&B offering, Gerow declared: “We have no

meetings and events.” It expects full year

system is a key question, but no doubt Dalata would

further plans for M&A.”

2023 to deliver revenue of “at least GBP400m”

claim that whatever it might gain on the topline it

Nassetta said there was strong momentum

with EBITDA of more than GBP120m. The four

would most likely lose on the bottom line. Brands

for Spark and the new Project H3 extended

new openings due within the next year will, it

don’t come for free.

stay brand. “Results were further helped by

While Dalata is focused on big cities, avoiding

Spark with approximately 60 hotels signed

global brands is perhaps a viable proposition. As

and another 400 in negotiation just six months

it grows and is tempted to take on opportunities in

since its launch. Nearly all deals are conversions

weaker locations, it may have to revisit this decision.

from third-party brands and half represent new

By Chris Bown: So the pandemic aftermath has

There is also the question about whether owning,

owners to Hilton, with our first Spark opened in

blown through, the inflationary shock has blown

operating and developing brands is spreading

September 2023 and roughly 20 by year-end.”

through – and maybe, just maybe, hotel executives

resources too thinly. Its decentralised management

On Project H3 there was still no official name,

can afford themselves the expectation that, for the

model is excellent for driving performance at the unit

but he reported: “We have received tremendous

coming quarters, business may move into relatively

level in terms of operation, but it is here where most

interest from owners and developers due to the

steady forward progress. There’s certainly little to

similar groups struggle in terms of distribution.

strong market opportunity, cost-efficient build

forecasts, deliver a stabilised addition of at least GBP25m to EBITDA.

HA PERSPECTIVE

scare the likes of PPHE and Dalata, as they look to

Just as PPHE seems to have struck a lucrative

expand more substantially into European markets –

arrangement with Radisson, Dalata is in a great

albeit with slightly different operating models.

place to strike a deal with a global major brand group too.

HA PERSPECTIVE

By Andrew Sangster: The most remarkable thing about the Dalata results is that they have delivered a like-for-like portfolio valuation growth of 6% from

and high-margin model, and we currently have more than 300 deals in negotiation.”

Regions that were slower to reopen after the pandemic are now playing catch-up. Hilton reported RevPAR up 103% year on year in China,

Looking to luxury

up 79% in Asia Pacific, up 30% in MEA and 26% in Europe, while the US figure was a more modest 6%. “China is growing very strongly,

December 2022 to June 2023. This is in a market

Hilton and Accor both upgraded their full-year

this is to be expected given where they are

where yields are going out and property values are

outlook, as the pair declared strong first-half

in the recovery process,” confirmed Gerow.

going down. Now it is possible you could argue with

figures. And they are looking to luxury and

And she also spoke to Accor’s interest in the

methodology or that apples are being compared to

lifestyle to lead their charge for further growth.

Japanese market, where the group has just

oranges, but this remains quite the achievement.

Hilton, already expanding the brand portfolio

signed to convert 23 hotels to its Mercure brand

And it is in sharp contrast with most Reits, as is the

with the new Spark limited-service conversion

family. “This is an objective we had to grow

share price performance. While LXi, for example,

brand, and the as-yet unnamed long-stay

significantly in Japan. It is a really good market,

is hovering around the lows it hit during Covid

addition, is eyeing more brand launches,

incentive fees in particular are very strong. The

lockdowns, Dalata is looking much healthier.

revealed CEO Chris Nassetta. “We’re doing

other market we are looking at is India, this is a

What both Dalata and PPHE share is a

developmental work in luxury lifestyle. In the

market that has really good growth potential.”

preparedness to take on leases. And taking on leases

next year, we’ll launch something in the luxury

“As we look to the back half of the year, we

right now is a sensible thing to be doing given where

space to add to the three brands we already have

expect continued strength driven by recovery

we most probably are in terms of the market cycle,

in the sector, giving us another shot on goal for

in international markets, business transient

pretty much close to the bottom.

luxury opportunities around the world.”

and group demand,” Nassetta explained. He

157

BUSINESS CENTRE

admitted that the US market will plateau and

colour in her answers, just the bare, safe minimum of

could even soften, but expects international

information. What the two groups have in common,

business to continue to grow. “The consensus

though, are the enjoyment of this strong trading

view last quarter was that the second half of

period, seemingly without apparent end. While the

the year would see more meaningful slowdown.

graphs will start to flatten, right now the senior

The consensus for you right now, broadly is that

teams at the big hotel groups are back to business

it’s going to slow down, but it’s more of a soft

as usual – looking for that next growth opportunity.

landing later in the year and more into 2024.

“Next year will be a darn good year, because

HA PERSPECTIVE

there’ll be strength in leisure. Everything is

By Andrew Sangster: A week after Accor delivered

getting reasonably close to a more normalised

what was a compelling set of results above consensus

environment. Prices are higher, but that’s just

expectations, its share price settled just over 1%

a broader reset that’s happened throughout

down. That long hoped-for rerating is not yet here.

the entire economy. Unless we have broad

Bernstein analysts, who rate Accor as “best idea

disinflation, which doesn’t feel like it’s

2H23 in EU hotels”, point out that Accor is the most

happening anytime soon, then pricing will

exposed among its peers to the still recovering APAC

remain sustained.”

– 32% of its rooms – and is skewed towards luxury.

Richard Clarke of Bernstein asked about

The contrast with Hilton is sharp. Hilton has 70%

likely progress on the new brands, noting that

of its rooms in North America, Accor has 5%. Hilton

both Tempo and Motto had failed to gain the

has 2% in the luxury segment and Accor has 10%.

level of traction that had been expected. “We

The strategy looks excellent, but Accor’s challenge

launched them about a day before the pandemic

is convincing its shareholders it can deliver. It has

and the vast majority of those are newbuilds,”

been through a far more extensive set of changes

replied Nassetta. “We got into Covid and there

than its peers and changed direction several times.

was no financing – everything slowed down.

Hilton, by contrast, has been single-minded in its

Those brands will do incredibly well. Spark is a

strategy. It has eschewed M&A, preferring to grow

totally different thing. One, it’s not Covid times.

and develop its own brands. It has also focused

While there are challenges out there, it’s a 100%

on the middle range of the market segments, the

conversion brand. And it’s basically taking

segments that have the broadest appeal. Accor’s

hotels that are in much weaker brands and

market segment penetration is somewhat of a

converting them into our system where there’s

lopsided barbell. As well as being strong in luxury,

huge opportunities for market share gains. It’s

it dominates the economy and midscale segments.

a relatively low ticket for owners to do it, thus,

According to Bernstein analysis, 40% of Accor’s

why we have so much interest. So, the ramp on

rooms are in these chainscale segments. It is less

that will be much faster. We will take Spark to

exposed to upper upscale, upscale and upper midscale

Europe relatively quickly.”

than its peers, the space Hilton almost exclusively occupies – just 2% of its rooms are midscale, 2%

HA PERSPECTIVE

Accor’s push into luxury looks to be a compelling

greater. The effusive, always positive and garrulous

idea. Its approach of having brand houses, like luxury

Nassetta talked brands, taking Spark international,

goods companies, is smart. The idea will, I’d expect,

and – what’s fast becoming his favourite subject –

be emulated by its rivals.

how to tap the growing middle class, globally.

158

luxury and no economy.

By Chris Bown: The contrast could not have been

But unlike say Hyatt, which has a third of its

At Accor, Sebastien Bazin dispatched newly

portfolio in luxury, Accor has yet to demonstrate

appointed CFO Gerow to deliver the Q2 results, and

that its approach to luxury will prevail. If – boosters

face the analysts. She was very careful as this was

would say when – it does prevail, then Accor will

her first such gig – and as a result, we got little real

start enjoying a rerating of its shares.

Hotel Analyst is the news analysis service for those involved with financing hotel property or hotel operating companies.

For more information and to subscribe visit: www.hotelanalyst.co.uk

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BUSINESS CENTRE

1.

2.

Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 4.

1. AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam’s hotel industry showed event-driven improvement in monthly performance according to preliminary August 2023 data, with both ADR and RevPAR recording double-digit growth yearover-year. Daily data shows the highest occupancy was on Saturday 26 August (at 93.1%), the night of the Dutch Grand Prix qualifying round.

Lower room rates have stalled Melbourne’s performance growth in September, with the industry reporting a decline in RevPAR of 3.2%.

The market’s only other month this year with a RevPAR decline was April. Though demand (+7.3%) is exceeding supply growth (+5.7%), the figures are enough to create contraction in room rates.

August 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 80.0% ( 5.2%) ADR EUR180.45 ( 18.9%) RevPAR EUR144.40 ( 25.0%)

September 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 65.4% ( 1.4%) ADR AUD212.47 ( 4.5%) RevPAR AUD138.85 ( 3.2%)

2. DUBAI

4. SYDNEY

September 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 77.6% ( 10.0%) ADR AED457.21 ( 2.7%) RevPAR AED354.94 ( 13.5%)

August 2023 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 80.7% ( 26.0%) ADR AUD261.83 ( 9.0%) RevPAR AUD211.19 ( 37.3%)

Dubai’s hotel industry posted its highest September occupancy since 2016, remaining above 70.0% for the majority of the month.

Daily data shows the highest levels in the last three days of the month – the UAE’s public holiday marking Prophet Muhammad’s birthday – peaking at 93.1% on Friday 29 September.

160

3. MELBOURNE

Helped by the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Sydney’s hotel industry recorded its highest monthly performance levels since March 2023, according to preliminary August 2023 data. The highest occupancy (94.8%) was seen on Wednesday 16 August, the day of the Australia v England semi-final match.

3.

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

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

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SIPPING

www.aheadawards.com

000

Asia’s leading hospitality lights unite in Singapore to celebrate AHEAD Asia 2023, with Capella Sydney winning big.

Leading hoteliers, architects, interior designers and industry commentators descended on the Garden City in September, celebrating the highest echelons of hospitality in Asia.

After receiving over 130 entries from across 14 countries, AHEAD’s regional judging panel selected winners for 17 categories, which ranged from Guestroom to Lobby, Landscaping to Spa & Wellness.

Nominees sat with bated breath as the winners of AHEAD Asia 2023 were announced in a glittering ceremony at Parkroyal Marina Bay Singapore. Throughout the night, guests celebrated some of the most compelling and innovative hotel openings, from a converted residential block in the buzzing heart of Shenzhen to a treetop eco-retreat nestled within the lush Bali rainforest.

The first course of the night was the Bar, Club or Lounge award, won by Uncle Ming’s at Accor’s AKI Hong Kong, MGallery. The bar’s “understated and elegant design” by A Work of Substance was described by the judges as “reminiscent of a private club with a refined exclusivity,” and praised for its ability to elevate the two key elements of the venue – the view and the whisky.

Later on in the evening, Kiln at Ace Hotel Sydney – designed by Atelier Ace, Bates Smart

and Fiona Lynch Office – took the title of best hotel Restaurant, with interiors commended by the judging panel as “meticulously curated.”

Elsewhere, AHEAD’s newest category – Accessibility – saw judges assess new innovations in the field, with Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences handed the trophy. As the world’s first Inclucare-verified resort, the property boasts a range of accessible facilities, as well as training for staff with physical and sensory disabilities.

Several projects from China were commended throughout the evening, with the Avalon Collective-designed Andaz Nanjing Hexi bagging multiple awards. The team behind the hotel took home a prize for its Guestrooms – described as showcasing a “nuanced design” – as well as its Event Spaces, which were praised for their “upscale coworking style”.

Other celebrated locations across the region included Indonesia, where Balinese jungle paradise Lost Lindenberg – designed collaboratively by Alexis Dornier and Studio Jencquel – was named best Hotel Newbuild by the judges, who described the project as “wholly innovative and unique”.

Moving east to Sumba, beach resort and farm Cap Koroso came out on top in the Resort

category, with the panel praising the property for its “Modernist architecture, sensitive landscaping and an inherent sense of place that engages the local community.”

This year’s Outstanding Contribution winners meanwhile were Sonu Shivdasani and Eva Malström Shivdasani, founders of Soneva.

The duo, who featured in issue 109 of Sleeper, were praised for their impressive sustainable luxury initiatives and ability to create luxury hospitality with purpose.

The big winner of the night however was Capella Sydney, which scooped multiple awards including best Lobby, Hotel Conversion and the coveted AHEAD Asia Hotel of the Year title. Cleverly converted from a former Department of Agriculture building to a luxury five-star hotel, the property – designed

by Make Architects and Bar Studio – was described as “a reimagined sequence of spaces that delight” with the team commended for developing “expert transitions between new and existing architecture”.

Those who took home trophies are now gearing up to participate in AHEAD Global, where projects from all four AHEAD regions will go head-to-head to compete for global titles, including that of the AHEAD Global Hotel of the Year.

AHEAD

© Macro Studios

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

RESORT

Uncle Ming’s at AKI Hong Kong, MGallery – China Accor / Aedas / A Work of Substance

Cap Karoso – Sumba, Indonesia The Frenchman / GFAB Architects / Bitte Design Studio

E V E N T S PA C E S

R E S TA U R A N T

Andaz Nanjing Hexi – China Sun Hung Kai Properties / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Avalon Collective

Kiln at Ace Hotel Sydney – Australia Golden Age Group / Atelier Ace / Bates Smart / Fiona Lynch Office

GUESTROOMS Andaz Nanjing Hexi – China Sun Hung Kai Properties / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Avalon Collective

HOTEL CONVERSION Capella Sydney – Australia Pontiac Land Group / Capella Hotels & Resorts / Make Architects / Bar Studio

S PA & W E L L N E S S Six Senses Spa at Six Senses Fort Barwara – Rajasthan, India Espire Hospitality / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Abhikram / Mitchell & Eades

SUITE Ace Hotel Sydney – Australia Golden Age Group / Atelier Ace / Bates Smart / Flack Studio

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y HOTEL NEWBUILD Lost Lindenberg – Bali, Indonesia Lost Lindenberg Indonesia / Lindenberg Hospitality / May Hotels / Alexis Dornier / Studio Jencquel

Ulaman Eco Retreat – Bali, Indonesia Dino Magnatta / Inspiral / Prima Design / Imaji

ACC E S S I B I L I T Y H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N

Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences – Baa Atoll, Maldives Coastline Investments / The Small Maldives Island Co. / Akin Atelier

Lancemore Milawa – Australia Lancemore Group / The Stella Collective

NEW CONCEPT L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Xitan Hotel Beijing – Relais & Château – China Beijing Tan Zhe Yang Po Yuan Tourism Development Co. / Xitan Hotel Beijing Management Co. / Tofu Inc. / Bond Design Studio / Nikken Sekkei / Nomura Landscape Laboratory

Nantou City Guesthouse – Shenzhen, China Vanke / Neri & Hu Design and Research Office / Bowan Architecture

O U T S TA N D I N G C O N T R I B U T I O N Sonu Shivdasani & Eva Malström Shivdasani

LO B BY Capella Sydney – Australia Pontiac Land Group / Capella Hotels & Resorts / Make Architects / Bar Studio

LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S Ulaman Eco Retreat – Bali, Indonesia Dino Magnatta / Inspiral / Prima Design / Imaji

HOTEL OF THE YEAR Capella Sydney – Australia Pontiac Land Group / Capella Hotels & Resorts / Make Architects / Bar Studio

AHEAD

Clockwise from top left: Uncle Ming’s at AKI Hong Kong, MGallery; Kiln at Ace Hotel Sydney; Lancemore Milawa, Capella Sydney, Andaz Nanjing Hexi, Cap Karoso

Atlantis The Royal scoops three awards as AHEAD MEA celebrates the finest hospitality projects across the Middle East and Africa.

Hot on the heels of AHEAD Asia, hospitality experts from the Middle East and Africa united at W Dubai, The Palm in September to applaud the region’s finest hospitality offerings.

Architects, interior designers, sponsors and industry commentators were in attendance as the creators behind inspiring hotel projects took to the stage to receive their awards.

With a variety of projects entered from 13 countries, the expert judging panel were tasked with whittling down a shortlist of the region’s crème de la crème across 15 different categories, including Hotel Renovation, Guestroom, Landscaping and New Concept.

The winning projects showcase some of the most compelling designs and experiences in the Middle East and Africa, from an otherworldly eco-camp set among the lunar dunes of the Agafay Desert to a converted ice factory in the heart of Sharjah.

The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait was commended twice by the judges, taking home the crown for best Guestroom, as well as best Suite. Occupying a series of 1950s merchant residences, The Serai Wing was recently revamped by Anarchitect, now offering a collection of 12 private rooms and suites described by the judges as “simple, refined luxury that sensitively connects to its inherited Emirati architecture”.

Taking home the award for best Resort was Caravan Agafay by Habitas – the group’s debut in Morocco and second opening on the African content. Comprising a camp of sandy-toned, Berber-inspired canvas tents, the resort was praised for its “pared-back, authentic design” that immerses guests in its desert location.

Scooping the trophy for best Conversion was The Ned Doha, where David Chipperfield Architects (Berlin) and Soho House Design were celebrated for creating a property that “expertly celebrates Modernist architecture with subtle interventions, whilst breathing new life into the building”.

Elsewhere, One&Only Cape Town held off the competition in the Hotel Renovation category. Judges commended what they described as a “beautifully layered design approach” by Muza Lab, whose scheme was lauded as “authentic and locally relevant”.

Turning to food and beverage, Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai – designed

by LW Design – came out on top in the Bar, Club & Lounge category, with judges praising the space and its Art Deco touches as “truly immersive and cohesive”. Later in the evening, the trophy for best hotel Restaurant in the region was handed to Mei Li at Grand Hyatt Kuwait, where judges were impressed by the venue’s impressive storytelling.

Celebrating all manner of hospitality innovations, andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge was named top of its class in the Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps category, where judges agreed that renovations by Jack Alexander Studio in partnership with Fox Browne Creative were “sensationally executed, beautifully scaled and richly layered, with exquisite attention to detail”.

Innovation was the deciding factor in the New Concept category too. Securing the trophy was Kalba Ice Factory, a cultural hub and artists’ residence housed in an abandoned Brutalist ice storage facility in Sharjah, converted by 51-1 Arquitectos.

Atlantis The Royal scooped the ultimate accolade on the night, taking home the trophy for Hotel of the Year, alongside those for Hotel Newbuild and Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces.

Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, Dynamic Engineering Consultants, G.A. Group and SM Designs, the hotel was described by the panel as nothing short of “a modern-day wonder” lauded for its “captivating structure” and “bold and unashamedly epic” design.

Those triumphant at AHEAD MEA will join winners from Asia, Europe and the Americas at AHEAD Global, where projects will vie to be named not only the champions of their region, but across the globe.

AHEAD

©Benjamin Exposure

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

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

Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem – Dubai, UAE Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts / LW Design

andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge – Tanzania andBeyond / Jack Alexander Studio in partnership with Fox Browne Creative / Fox Browne Creative / Abigail Janisch / Stefania Engelbrecht

E V E N T S PA C E S Sol Beach Bar at Address Marassi Golf Resort – El Alamein, Egypt Emaar Misr / Lulie Fisher Design Studio / Capsule Arts

RESORT Caravan Agafay by Habitas – Morocco Habitas

GUESTROOMS The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait – Sharjah, UAE Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (SHUROOQ) / General Hotel Management / Anarchitect

HOTEL CONVERSION The Ned Doha – Qatar The Ned / Soho House & Co. / David Chipperfield Architects (Berlin) / Soho House Design

HOTEL NEWBUILD Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE Investment Corporation of Dubai / Kerzner International / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Dynamic Engineering Consultants / G.A. Group / SM Designs

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N One&Only Cape Town – South Africa Kerzner International / Muza Lab

L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE Investment Corporation of Dubai / Kerzner International / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Dynamic Engineering Consultants / G.A. Group / SM Designs / SKS Studio / 40 North

LO B BY Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort – Dubai, UAE Meydan / Kerzner International / LW Design

R E S TA U R A N T Mei Li at Grand Hyatt Kuwait Tamdeen Group / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / CallisonRTKL / AB Concept

S PA & W E L L N E S S Hot Spa at Babylonstoren – South Africa Karen Roos / TV3 Architects

SUITE The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait – Sharjah, UAE Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (SHUROOQ) / General Hotel Management / Anarchitect

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge – Kenya Baraka Lodges Africa / Marriott International / Innovative Planning & Design Consultants / Kristina Zanic Consultants

NEW CONCEPT Kalba Ice Factory – Sharjah, UAE Sharjah Art Foundation / 51-1 Arquitectos / Kling Consult International

HOTEL OF THE YEAR Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE Investment Corporation of Dubai / Kerzner International / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Dynamic Engineering Consultants / G.A. Group / SM Designs / SKS Studio / 40 North

AHEAD

Clockwise from top left: andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge; The Ned Doha; Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem; Atlantis The Royal; Hot Spa at Babylonstoren; The Serai Wing at The Chedi Al Bait

20 SEPTEMBER 2023

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EVENTS

Radical Innovation 24 October 2023 NEW YORK

Radical Innovation celebrates groundbreaking new hospitality concepts as it names its 2023 winners.

H

aving searched the globe for cutting-edge

projects comprised hospitality experts from the

hospitality concepts, Radical Innovation

likes of Highgate, WATG, Accor and Hilton, who,

has unveiled its 2023 winners. On 24

through a blind judging process, reviewed all

October, 100 industry architects, designers, real

submissions to create a shortlist.

estate moguls and visionaries convened at New

The two Professional Project finalists

York’s New Museum for the 17th annual Radical

had previously crossed paths on the Radical

Innovation awards ceremony, where new ideas

Innovation stage in 2020, when they were

for the hospitality sector were presented and

also chosen by the jury to compete against

deliberated. Since its launch in 2006, the annual

one another. This year, Populous and Luxury

competition has provided a platform for design

Frontiers were selected from a pool of 60

professionals and students to showcase their

anonymous submissions, vying again to take

groundbreaking visions, with the ultimate aim

home the crown.

being to have a positive impact on the future of hospitality.

PROJECT PRESENTATIONS

As proceedings began, the two design teams presented their entries – both of which explore the notion of mobile hospitality. Mbala-Nkanga showcased Spinhous, which combines the

Following welcome drinks at New Museum’s Sky

comfort of a hotel room with the flexibility of

Room, the finalists in the Professional Project

a vehicle, while Labe spoke about The Turtle

category took to the stage to present their ideas,

Bungalow, an aquatic nomad designed to sail

with Joel Mbala-Nkanga representing Populous

from island to island.

and Graeme Labe speaking on behalf of Luxury

Following the presentations, a question-and-

Frontiers. The jurors assessing this year’s

answer session saw Mbala-Nkanga and Labe

175

EVENTS

Winners of Radical Innovation 2023 include The Turtle Bungalow (opposite) in the Professional Project category; and (clockwise from above) The Rocky Hotel, The Gourd Project, PulpaTronics and H&S Health Spring

The Student Project winner meanwhile was

as well as its feasibility and potential impact.

The Rocky Hotel by Nadia Shumeeva – a student

Finally, the ceremony’s live audience voted

at Kazan State University of Architecture &

In an unprecedented move, two winners

for their favourite, with votes combined with

Engineering – who will be awarded US$5,000

were crowned in the Student Product category:

a record-breaking number of public ballots,

and the opportunity to apply for an assistantship

PulpaTronics by Barna Soma Biro, Chloe So,

totalling over 1,500.

and full scholarship from one of Radical’s

Jingyan Chen and Rui Ma from Imperial College

three university partners. Built into existing

London and The Royal College of Art was named

mountain terrain, The Rocky Hotel is set across

a winner, as was H+S Health Spring by Wen Shin

Five winners were ultimately named across

multiple levels, making use of natural materials

Zeng, Sin- Yu Lin, Yun-Jhen Wu and Yin-Chi Lu

four categories, with The Turtle Bungalow –

and offering direct access to the landscape in a

from Ming Chi University of Technology.

submitted by Graeme Labe, Juan Cloete, Rick

move that results in true immersion into the

Van Heerden and Idalina Silva Grech-Cumbo

surroundings.

PROJECT WINNERS

– scooping the prize for Professional Project.

176

drinking vessel crafted from dried and hollowed

field questions on the creativity of their vision,

gourds, a fleshy fruit with a hard skin.

The entries tapped into varied elements of the hospitality experience, with H+S Health Spring envisioning a relaxing shower

Spread across two levels, the accommodation

PRODUCT WINNERS

concept has ample space for relaxation, with

Moving onto Product winners, The Gourd

and essential oils, and PulpaTronics aiding

an overwater hammock, rooftop bar, lounge

Project was the recipient of the Professional

smart inventory management in hotels via a

and hot tub, as well as a slide offering direct

Product award, with Jun Aizaki from Crème

sustainable radio-frequency identification tag.

access to the water. Developed for minimal

Architecture & Design taking home the trophy.

impact, it also incorporates solar panels, a

A sustainable alternative to disposable plastic

For more information on Radical Innovation,

desalination plant and environmentally-safe

cups, The Gourd Project draws inspiration

which has awarded over US$200,000 to

sewage treatment, ensuring that both luxury

from centuries-old Japanese tradition, taking

progressive architectural and hospitality-

and sustainability work hand-in-hand.

the form of a biodegradable and compostable

minded thinkers, visit radicalinnovation.io

experience through a volcanic stone tank, herbs

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180

SPOTLIGHT

Mind, Body & Spurs As Tottenham Hotspur ramps up its player recovery programme, the football club’s Head of Medicine & Sports Science explains the importance of its partnership with DUX. Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Sumo Crucial

A

good night’s sleep is essential for our

arranged to suit the body’s three comfort

match preparations. 40 guestrooms feature

physical and mental health, but for

zones – shoulders, hips and legs – with each

earthy palettes, soundproofing and lighting that

those competing at the pinnacle of elite

adjustable using a soft, medium, firm or extra-

automatically changes temperature depending

sport, it also plays a vital role in the recovery

firm cassette. “Our aim is always to reduce

on the time of day, while a spacious restaurant

process. It comes as no surprise, then, that

the amount of pressure points on the body in

with floor-to-ceiling windows gives an al

as the fixture list deepens for football clubs

order to generate equal blood flow,” says Scott,

fresco dining feel. At the rear of the restaurant

worldwide, they are investing more time and

adding that consistency is key to quality sleep,

is a large media screen equipped with games

money in optimising the sleep environment.

so the idea was to create a familiar environment

consoles and soft seating for recreation, with

with minimal distractions.

other living areas for more private meetings.

Having completed a state-of-the-art training complex in 2012 and a subsequent player

With consistency in mind, the players have

Part of the original site, Myddelton Farm

accommodation facility in 2018, Tottenham

also been provided with a similar sleep system

has also been carefully redesigned to house

Hotspur has since teamed up with Swedish bed

at home, meaning places they rest regularly are

The Lodge’s informal reception, as well as

and furniture maker DUX to assist its squad in

equipped. “The feedback from the squad has

accommodation for the club’s coaching staff.

maximising their sleep and recovery routine.

been positive,” Scott confirms. “If players sleep

On the upper floor of the farmhouse is the

According to the club’s Head of Sports

well, they are more alert in the morning and can

Myddelton Suite, which is occupied by the

Medicine & Sport Science Geoff Scott, the

concentrate for longer periods throughout the

manager and comprises a bedroom, bathroom

partnership is built on a shared ambition

day. If we’re playing at home or elsewhere in

and living area with a digital tactics board.

to enhance performance. “When The Lodge

London, then the team has that reassurance in

accommodation facility was constructed, we

knowing they’ll sleep well at The Lodge.”

Tactics can be discussed in The Lodge’s multi-purpose theatre room too, which doubles

wanted to ensure that its design and everything

The beds feed into the wider recovery

as a yoga studio or additional gym space,

inside was optimised for player recovery. It soon

programme across the facility, which was

accompanying other recovery spaces such as a

became obvious that the beds, mattresses and

designed by F3 Architects. The building’s

hydrotherapy spa with hot and cold pools. Down

bedding were key to this approach. We needed

intentionally sunken profile means players

in the basement meanwhile, the main gym

a product that the players would look forward

overlook a mini orchard rather than the training

features the same equipment as the adjacent

to using.”

pitches, while its timber-clad crescent shape

training complex, while an altitude chamber,

As such, the DUX 8008 sleep system – along

offers a soothing Scandinavian feel. Even the

massage beds, a strapping area and a doctor’s

with the brand’s down-filled Xleep pillows

communal garden, with a fire pit, bean bags and

surgery round out the facilities.

– has been installed in every room, with the

loungers for team bonding, is bee-pollinated to

innovative Pascal system allowing players to

reduce symptoms for allergy sufferers.

Despite the success of DUX’s sleep systems at The Lodge and the homes of the Tottenham Hotspur squad, Scott believes there is plenty

customise the bed to suit their requirements.

Though not strictly a hotel, the building has

Named after French mathematician and scientist

been equipped with hotel-quality facilities

more to come from the partnership.

Blaise Pascal, the patented system sees springs

that ensure the squad can fine-tune their pre-

www.duxiana.com

181

ALCHEMY COLLECTION WWW.ILIV.CO.UK

SCAN TO ORDER FREE SAMPLES

SPOTLIGHT FABRICS, SURFACES & WALLCOVERINGS From timber to marble, leather to porcelain, here’s our round-up of the products paving the way in the world of fabrics, surfaces and wallcoverings.

Hi-Macs Marble Effect Finishes Hi-Macs has expanded its range of marble-effect colours. The brand has introduced two additions to Gravilla, as well as two new variations to its Aurora and Marmo series. The new Gravilla shades – Snow and Cream – are well-suited to monochrome and neutral-toned interiors, able to be smoothly integrated into classic and contemporary settings. Meanwhile, Hi-Macs’ Aurora and Marmo collections now include Aurora Calacatta Fiore and Aurora Daymoon. Aurora Calacatta Fiore offers a luxurious marble look, with thin yet marked vein detail and a touch of sparkle, while Aurora Daymoon is a subtle grey tone that works in harmony with a variety of design schemes. www.lxhausys.com

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

3.

184

4.

1. Rubelli Kieffer

2. Fromental Folly

3. Cristina Marrone Upholstery Fabrics

4. Arte Les Naturels

Design studio Formafantasma has been tasked with the creative direction of Rubelli. The first collection to be launched under the partnership is Kieffer, reinterpreted in a new light. Linen, mohair wool, hemp, cotton, alpaca and paper are just some of the selected fibres used within the range. Manufactured by Rubelli and other Italian weaving mills located close to Lake Como, the collection is made using natural materials and is available in various colours including pale yellow, lilac and pink. In Kieffer, aesthetic exploration is paired with attention to sustainability, which has long been one of the focal points of Formafantasma’s research process. www.rubelli.com

Fromental recently collaborated with Russell Sage to enhance the charm of The Goring in London. The Folly design was chosen for the hotel, a quintessential British establishment celebrated for its luxury and meticulous attention to detail. Folly was introduced into three refurbished suites in different colour palettes, embellished with silk embroidery. Renowned for its handpainted and embroidered wallcoverings, Fromental also offers durable vinyl alternatives. The same handpainted quality is used to create patterns that can be tailored to any space, with the design team working closely with clients to bring their visions to life. www.fromental.co.uk

Cristina Marrone, part of Covertex – a family-run business started in 1977 – specialises in upholstery fabrics designed or selected by the brand’s namesake.

The company produces contract-grade fabrics, with over 3,000 options available to choose from. Cristina Marrone will be launching three new sustainable fabric collections at HIX 2023, all of which have been manufactured with recycled polyester, are FR-treated with the brand’s Green FR, and produced without any harmful chemicals. Covertex is an upholstery fabric wholesaler based in West Essex, which supplies an extensive range of over 2,000 upholstery fabrics to the UK and across Europe. www.covertexltd.co.uk

Les Naturels by Arte is a new collection inspired by natural textures and colours that bring nature indoors and encourage a sense of serenity. Rêverie Tropicale portrays lush green scenery, while La Prairie is a representation of woven grass, available in 12 different colourways.

Verdure showcases a handpainted leaf pattern that draws on the design of 16th-century tapestries, transferred onto a luxury fil-à-fil fabric, and Le Raphia Tissé is a true-to-nature representation of open woven raffia against a coloured background. Finally, Le Sisal is a natural interpretation of beautifully woven sisal – widely used in the 19th century – in a warm, calming colour palette. www.arte-international.com

skoposfabrics.com

SPOTLIGHT

2.

1.

186

3.

4.

1. Madera Timber Design

2. Edmund Bell Sustainable Fabrics

3. Agua Fabrics Bouclé

4. StoneCircle The Carlton Tower Jumeirah

Madera is a design and fabrication firm that uses the medium of timber for creative expression. The brand creates custom flooring, integrated millwork and bespoke furniture that brings the natural beauty of timber into a range of interiors and design styles. Madera’s hands-on approach and design-forward methodology allows the brand to pay close attention to even the finest of details, while celebrating the natural beauty and resilience of timber. The brand’s seamless design process is a holistic collaboration between client, designer and contractor, which aims to ensure a streamlined process in hospitality projects. www.maderasurfaces.com

Edmund Bell’s sustainable fabric collection seeks to minimise environmental impact while ensuring maximum quality. Reset is a decorative blackout fabric woven from 100% recycled yarns, while Duo combines post-consumer recycled polyester and natural fibres. Link and Sway stand out for their use of flame-retardant recycled polyester Repreve yarns, sourced from post-consumer plastic bottles and pre-consumer waste. Link features an elegant, sculptured wide-grid face, while Sway offers a more natural linen appearance. Edmund Bell’s fabrics are prime selections for environmentallyconscious interior design. www.edmundbell.com

Bouclé is the latest textured soft fabric collection from Agua Fabrics, available in 16 shades. With its signature looped, curly yarns, the collection required over a year of testing to perfect. The brand has developed a material that stands up to the rigorous needs of the contract environment, while also performing in line with its other product staples. The fabric’s weave was engineered to resist wear and maintain a soft handle, achieving a 70,000 Martindale rating in the process.

In line with Agua’s entire product range, Bouclé is also waterproof, fire-retardant to the highest specification for contract use and antimicrobial, thanks to the brand’s AguaGuard365 treatment. www.aguafabrics.com

Established in 1968, StoneCircle manufactures stone products from its stonemasonry factory in England.

Based near London, the brand imports, fabricates and installs natural stone for an array of hotel projects. StoneCircle recently kitted out the spa at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, using marble wall cladding in Botticino Classico in the spa’s showers. Stylish, practical and durable, the cladding can provide a chic finish for wellness spaces, as well as a range of hospitality interiors. The abundance of colours and marble types makes it easy to pick a stone that fits with a design scheme, while slabs can also be vein matched for added impact. www.stone-circle.com

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

3.

188

4.

1. Creative Matters Smoulder

2. Atelier Foglizzo Leather Craftsmanship

3. ILiv Alchemy

4. Mandarin Stone Porcelain Tiles

Smoulder is a design from Creative Matters’ soft wallcovering collection, Tellurian. Soft wallcoverings are well positioned to add dramatic visual interest and intriguing texture to a space, as well as warmth and sound absorption.

Ideal for guestrooms and elevator lobbies, the coverings are made via a process of needle-felting, embellished by interlocking fibres, which permit the creation of softer lines associated with watercolour effects and painterly designs.

The fibres are punched together with a needle by hand and then finished by machine and, in the Smoulder design, are then layered to create swirling, smoky lines with a translucent quality. www.creativemattersinc.com

Atelier Foglizzo’s primary mission is to develop contemporary interpretations of leather, meeting demand for creations that embody quality, creativity and authenticity. Expertly-crafted leather is more than simply a material, rather it is a process with a long tradition of Italian craftsmanship behind it. As such, each creation from Atelier Foglizzo pays tribute to a deep passion for leather, as well as a keen attention to detail. The brand’s mastery in working with the material leads to products that can add a unique and functional touch to hospitality interiors, with a wide range of finishes ensuring maximised customisation to tailor to clients’ individual needs. www.foglizzo.com

ILiv’s latest fabric collection, Alchemy, is a blend of flowing geometric shapes with captivating organic textures. Inspired by the beauty of natural imperfections, Alchemy embraces the grains, curves and irregular lines that characterise earthy and organic patterns. Well-suited to warm-toned interiors, the series facilitates an organic feel. The collection is available in seven rich colourways, including Maroon, Juniper and Sunset, spotlighting irregular lines, cut velvets, stylish prints and geometrics. Interior fabric brand ILiv offers a varied range that is available worldwide through the company’s extensive network of designers, retailers, distributors and agents. www.iliv.co.uk

Founded over 30 years ago by Alma Small, Mandarin Stone is a family-run business based in the rolling hills of Monmouthshire, Wales. Offering a wide collection of marble, limestone, porcelain, ceramic and patterned tiles, the brand is able to cater to a broad range of hospitality interiors and design schemes. For instance, Mandarin Stone supplies practical, stylish wood-effect porcelain tiles, and recently introduced the option of panelled or slated woodeffect tiles – a new alternative to typical timber panelling. Adding both warmth and texture, the tiles are particularly valuable when creating an organic feel in a contemporary bathroom space. www.mandarinstone.com

Introducing Bouclé, our newest high performance upholstery fabric, purposely designed for hospitality spaces. aguafabrics.com

SPOTLIGHT

Q&A

Atlas Concorde Efrem Grasselli, Global Marketing Director, Atlas Concorde Paolo Zilli, Associate Director, Zaha Hadid Architects Atlas Concorde’s Global Marketing Director discusses the brand’s new Marvel Meraviglia collection, while the Associate Director of Zaha Hadid Architects weighs in on the companies’ recent collaboration.

Where did the inspiration come from for the design of Marvel Meraviglia?

Grasselli: The collection is named after Calacatta Meraviglia, the iconic marble that inspired it, and is designed to offer a whispered elegance that encapsulates the history and future of marble-inspired aesthetic research.

A selection of five highly-prized marbles with warm, enveloping tones become interpreters of extraordinary natural colours.

What are the defining features of the new collection?

Grasselli: With neutral shades drawn from marble, this collection features

unique elements like sleek, sparse veins, soft weaves, white brushstrokes on a dark background and sumptuous blacks. Marvel Meraviglia also uses Velvetech, a new technology with an Italian patent inspired by the effect of sanding on the surface, with silk-like reflections and a velvety soft hand.

Another recent series is Diamond, designed in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects. How did that partnership come about?

Grasselli: Following a workshop at the Atlas Concorde Design Centre with Paolo Zilli, we proposed the collaboration to develop a new design for their décor range. Diamond is the result of Atlas Concorde and ZHA’s joint push toward an evolution of decorative design standards.

The collaboration builds on the combined history and expertise of Atlas Concorde and ZHA, and is based on our shared values: a strong international focus, leadership in interior design projects, innovation and pursuit of excellence, and attention to environmental sustainability issues.

How can Diamond be used in hospitality spaces?

Zilli: Diamond has the ability to focus the attention and provide a focal

point in a space. It might be used in a waiting area, behind a reception desk or to enhance a bar, swimming pool or sauna. I hope designers will find new, unconventional ways to use it, showcasing flexibility in design.

© Zaha Hadid Architects

190

What kind of interiors is Diamond suited to?

Zilli: The design is inspired by the Cosmatesque tradition, but the distortion of the geometry and transition from a flat pattern to tridimensional geometry adds a contemporary complexity to the design.

The collection is a good fit for luxury environments with a modern twist, but I’m sure designers will surprise us with alternative uses and environments that we haven’t even considered yet! www.atlasconcorde.com

Como New Contract Collection

Introducing Cristina Marrone fabrics by Covertex Ltd. Launching at HIX 2023 Stand U48 with an extensive range of commercial fabrics for the contract market.

www.covertexltd.co.uk +44(0)20 8500 3336

SPOTLIGHT

1.

192

2.

1. Egger Lacquered Chipboard

2. Skopos Fabrics Chamonix Deuxième and Treehouse

With matte surfaces firmly on trend, Egger’s PerfectSense Lacquered Chipboard finish TM9 is a surface that can be used to create a luxury look with sustainable credentials. Developed in response to growing market demand for more environmentally-sustainable material solutions, TM9 offers an entirely recyclable, carbon-negative chipboard core, and includes recycled content and sawmill by-product in its composition. The smooth, matte finish offers anti-fingerprint surface properties, stylish opacity and an inviting soft feel, combined with a colour palette of muted blues, natural greens and elegant greys. Designed for vertical applications, the single-sided matte version makes it suitable for frontals and end panels on casegoods. The resilient surface properties offer stain-, heat- and moisture-resistance, as well as antibacterial qualities in accordance with ISO 22196. The finish is an ideal vertical surface solution for versatile applications across a range of hospitality spaces, including public areas and guestrooms. PerfectSense Lacquered Chipboard TM9 is available in a palette of ten shades with matching edging from Egger’s UK-wide distribution network. Egger is a global family company founded in 1961 in Tyrol, Austria, from which it produces a wide array of wood-based panel products. www.egger.com

Skopos Fabrics has launched two complementary collections – Chamonix Deuxième and Treehouse. Chamonix Deuxième is a follow-on from the brand’s popular Chamonix collection, bringing 38 new options for contract upholstery to ensure a suitable match for all manner of interior design schemes. Sitting alongside the new range is Treehouse, which comprises three elegant, printed designs, suited for use on curtains, bed throws and upholstery. Treehouse evokes a whimsical, enchanting aesthetic in an uplifting colour palette of brights and elegant neutrals. Twisting and winding through an imaginary forest, the hero design, Eve – a detailed floral – works in tandem with Skopos’ upholstery fabrics and accents to offer versatility to an array of design schemes.

Skopos supplies contract fabrics, curtains, bedding and upholstery fabrics for commercial interiors, including hotels, leisure and cruise ship operators.

Championing design, expertise and quality service, the brand is also offers bespoke options to hotels seeking to make a statement, with Skopos Fabrics taking care of the design, source and commission of customised weaves and prints to meet customers’ criteria. The fabric house was also awarded Carbon Neutral status in 2023, making it an eco-friendly option. www.skoposfabrics.com

A leading and trusted supplier of blackout, dimout, sheer, upholstery and print fabrics for the contract, domestic and commercial interiors markets.

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SPOTLIGHT BEDS, MATTRESSES & LINENS

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1. Bellino Amalfi

2. Sleepeezee Hotel Natural Splendour

3. Naturalmat Budleigh

4. Hypnos Contract Beds Hospitality Origins

Amalfi by Bellino is a contemporary and understated bedding option that sees soft, supple sateen made from long staple cotton. A chic, clean line is created through a corded border in place of a flange, available in three accent colours – charcoal grey, coral and navy. The fabric used, like all Bellino products, is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it is hypoallergenic and free from harmful substances. Bellino has been creating luxury linens since 1991, a vertical manufacturer that weaves, finishes and sews under one roof. www.bellinofinelinens.com

Bed and mattress manufacturer Sleepeezee provides reliable and consistent quality across its hospitalityfocused product offerings, including the Hotel Natural Splendour mattress. The pillow top mattress combines a Softech Spring layer and double-layered pocketed springs with 100% natural fillings, including horsehair and British wool blended with cashmere. These materials help to regulate body temperature, while the depth of mattress fillings also provides maximum pressure relief. www.sleepeezee.com

Naturalmat has unveiled Budleigh, a playful bed design with a rounded silhouette that celebrates contemporary curves. Budleigh features a solid beech frame, oversized bun feet crafted from sustainable timber, and is filled with thick layers of recycled denim topped with breathable organic lambswool. The product’s curved headboard and base is generously upholstered both front and back in a characterful, thick bouclé yarn – a material known for its soft, cosy loops and luxurious feel. www.naturalmat.co.uk

Hypnos Contract Beds has introduced a new handmade mattress for hospitality, representing a new era of sustainable sleep solutions. Embodying Hypnos’ commitment to using natural materials, the range features 11 layers of comfort enclosed in naturally FR-rated woven cotton and viscose ticking. The 100% British wool filling is antibacterial and breathable, with all materials sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative.

Furthermore, the mattress is designed to be fully recyclable. www.hypnosbeds.com

C O M F O RT W I T H I N T E G R I T Y H O S P I TA L I T Y S L E E P S O L U T I O N S Carbon Neutral, 100% Sustainable and Recyclable +44 (0) 1332 497111

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info@hypnoscontractbeds.com

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hypnoscontractbeds.com

15/08/2023 09:39

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SPECIFIER

Hector Finch Paola The jewel-toned colours of Hector Finch’s Murano Glass collection have caught the eye of the design world, bringing a sense of refined elegance to living spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms and beyond. Mouthblown in one of Murano’s oldest glass factories, the Paola pendant comes in three sizes and five colourways – Grigio, Turchese, Blu Avio, Marrone and Viola – as well as a wall light that can be fitted with the brand’s proprietary Osh lamp to make it bathroom-compliant. The globelike spheres are suspended on a monk’s cap fitting with a small brass stalk, while small bubbles and imperfections in the glass – a result of the artisanal nature of production – make every piece unique. www.hectorfinch.com

Q&A

Parla Jean-Michel Wilmotte French architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte tells all of his new Palm range for Parla, which creates an interplay of light and shadow.

What was the inspiration behind the Palm collection?

Palm was born from the desire to imagine a family of furniture suitable for both interior and exterior use. I was working on a large-scale hotel project in the South of France, where I wanted to design metal armchairs in keeping with the surrounding nature.

Parla emerged as the ideal partner; from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, there was only one step needed to create a collection that has since grown over time. From this meeting, a complete family of furniture was born – a daybed, armchairs, stools, sofas, benches and coffee tables. By its name and details, Palm crosses the border between indoor and outdoor spaces.

How does Palm create an interplay between light and shadow?

The interplay of light and shadow is expressed through the sober lines of the backrests, which punctuate the surrounding space. The silence of shadows is brought to light and the sleek lines of the chairs give rhythm to the environment they occupy. The light marks the structure and stretches the shadows cast on the ground.

What materials have been used to construct the products?

Every piece is crafted from a textured metal frame, thus providing a balance between a raw material and maximum comfort. Each series is also available in an indoor and outdoor version, with waterresistant fabric upholstery and armrests either in solid Iroko timber or covered in leather. The cushions are magnetic and removable.

How important is the contrast of materials to the collection?

Palm perfectly combines tactility and materiality thanks to the contemporary satin finish of the metal structure, which evokes a raw aesthetic contrasted by the velvety appearance of the timber armrests. The soft weaving of the textiles enhances the embossed design of the cushions, while there is a harmony of shades with a selection of deep colours faithful to the work of our agency.

What can Palm bring to hospitality environments?

Palm’s choice of finishes and materials guarantees specifiers a collection with multiple combinations for tailor-made, unique creations. Set to grow in the near future, the collection is an ideal tool for architects and designers planning both interior and exterior spaces, from guestrooms to cafeterias to outdoor terraces. With its wealth of forms as well as the richness of materials and colours, Palm can be an extension of a hotel’s design scheme. www.parladesign.com

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CASE STUDY

Woodhouse & Law Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath Woodhouse & Law has transformed the lobby, drawing room and guestrooms at Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath. In the lobby, the interior and garden design company offset an Italian Promenade fresco by London-based duo Iksel with a MidCentury desk and orange ottoman featuring brass detailing, as well as architectural lighting that highlights the handsome pediment. The drawing room meanwhile features ornate plasterwork and triple sash windows, while walls are painted in Zoffany Quarter Mushroom and fringed ottomans provide flexibility. Original antique portraits are contrasted with a bold contemporary piece by British artist Debbie Goldsmith, and new upholstery comes in blues, warm neutrals and oranges, layered with colour and pattern from Zinc, Osborne & Little and Casamance. A new lighting scheme also includes a modern pendant by Porta Romana, wall lights by Visual Comfort and table lamps that add gentle warmth. Each of the guestrooms is unique, from grand suites overlooking the Royal Crescent at the front of the hotel to cosy attic rooms with garden views. The latter feature green and blue palettes inspired by the grounds beyond, while in smaller spaces with less natural light, a bolder use of colour adds depth. Woodhouse & Law adopted a playful approach, introducing bright sunshine yellows and a striking Iris Apfel fabric on an oversized headboard, while contemporary furniture and lighting sit alongside restored antique mirrors and bespoke cabinetry by a local maker. www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

ADA Cosmetics Argentum Apothecary ADA Cosmetics’ new amenities collection presents the first hotel cosmetics that harness the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties qualities of silver, introducing the expertise of London-based cosmetic brand Argentum Apothecary to hospitality settings around the world. Each product in the series contains Argentum’s popular silver elixir, proven to help maintain and protect the condition of the skin thanks to its hydrating, restorative and anti-ageing benefits. The plant-based, vegan-friendly formulations are also free of SLES/ SLS, parabens, silicones and mineral oils, and are not tested on animals. The full collection is fragranced with Argentum’s signature scent, Become. Created in Grasse, Provence, the herbaceous citrus wood composition opens with zesty Italian bergamot, accompanied by the delicate essence of rosewood, nutmeg and geranium leaves. A heart of spices and a warming base of sandalwood and patchouli complete the perfume.

Presented in monochrome black-and-white packaging, the products are detailed with bespoke illustrations that draw on the symbology of the four elements – fire, earth, air and water. www.ada-cosmetics.com

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EST. 2015

LONDON - BIRMINGHAM

ELEGANCE, ENGINEERED W W W. JA DA M SA N D C O . C O M

SPECIFIER

Pictured: James Hooper

Historic Productions Ltd Historic Productions enhances a hotel’s social and cultural value through in-depth historic research.

“There’s a saying in the heritage world that you start with the future and work backwards into the past, extracting the messages you want to focus on. That’s what we do,” says James Hooper, co-founder of heritage consultancy firm Historic Productions.

Hooper, who studied archaeology at university and was formerly UK Director of the Global Heritage Fund, established Historic Productions after a stint working at a solicitors in Holborn. “I was a trainee working through archives in the basement, and I came across documents signed by Queen Victoria,” he explains, lamenting that such documentation often never sees the light of day, despite keen interest from employees, employers and clients.

Enter Historic Productions. The company’s role is to provide clients with tailored, referenced research into the social, cultural and economic history of a given property or location – information that can then be used in all manner of ways. “We come in before the process of creating a brand story,” Hooper continues. “We produce research documents that are themed, organised and referenced.

The point is to be useful to the people who will later be creating brand stories.”

“But these aren’t just about architectural surveys or the logistical considerations that

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Courtesy of Corinthia Rome

face a developer – there’s a social and cultural value in what we do. Our role is about affinity, place-making and helping people fall back in love with a building that may have sadly fallen into disrepair.”

In the hotel world, having access to in-depth social and cultural research about a building has the potential to impact design narratives, as well as shape brand identity. Hooper states that such information requires professional historians able to access archives and organise data properly, rather than simply relying on untrustworthy internet searches.

At the point of refurbishment, these services can be especially useful. Hooper notes: “We can generate this material long before designers and contractors have been appointed, providing information that serves as a resource at the very beginning of a redevelopment journey.”

There’s also benefits for staff and guest, he says; a relationship between the front-of-house team and the hotel in which they work deepens their connection, and crucially, can in turn have a positive impact on the guest experience. “It’s a massively underappreciated form of social impact to make your history properly written and made available to the public,” Hooper adds.

The firm doesn’t only work on old buildings,

he stresses: “Every building – whether it’s been built yesterday or 500 years ago – sits within an ecosystem of cultural heritage. While we’re very thorough, we don’t just obsess over architectural history, rather we’re social, cultural and economic historians who provide human stories and context that bring a building to life.”

Historic Productions recently finished work on Corinthia Rome, a building with significant social and economic history. “The brief from the client was to position the hotel within the artistic ecosystem of Rome whilst maintaining its own identity. In this case, having the history presented in a way that’s themed, organised and relevant allowed the client and their consultants or subcontractors to make wellinformed design choices.”

Ultimately, the team believes that engaging with a site’s cultural, social and economic history encourages hoteliers to take responsible stewardship of a property and its heritage, resulting in a hospitality experience that engages everyone, from owner, to employee, to guest. As Hooper puts it: “This value is too precious to leave up to non-experts: your history deserves the best treatment from best-in-class historians.” www.historicproductions.co.uk

Oliver Hemming

BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS AND ALARM CLOCKS

SPECIFIER

Sofacompany Paulina Danish design brand Sofacompany has launched Paulina, a new sofa bed for the hospitality market. The folding mechanism inside the product has been crafted to ensure comfort, durability and easy housekeeping in the transition from day to night, meaning it can function as a design-led sofa or a small double bed when unfolded. For the upholstery, Sofacompany offers full customisation, meaning the solution works within any interior style too. “With Paulina, we have taken the soft organic design language and comfort from our Paula sofa, and successfully re-designed it into a sleeper sofa with one of the leading folding mechanisms on the market,” says Line Nevers Krabbenhøft, the brand’s Head of Design. Paulina will be displayed at HIX – where hospitality professionals can see the product firsthand and even test out its credentials after a busy day on the exhibition floor. www.sofacompanyprofessional.com

Groupe GM 0% Plastic Accessories Through its Care About Earth programme, sustainable amenities brand Groupe GM has launched a new 0% plastic accessory line developed with bio-based, recyclable and sustainable materials. The line minimises over-packaging and eliminates the use of fossil fuel-based plastics, bleaching and the application of soy ink on its packaging. With this forward-thinking initiative, the French manufacturer continues to play a pivotal role in protecting the planet for future generations, offering responsible solutions for hoteliers who are transitioning to more eco-friendly operations. www.groupegm.com

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PARIS | NYC | LOS ANGELES | MEXICO CITY

Contemporary design inspired by Mexican heritage

Luteca_Sleeper_ad_final.indd 4

Luteca.com @lutecafurniture

24/06/2022 12:04

SPECIFIER

Bette BetteSuno British design studio Barber Osgerby has developed BetteSuno, a fully recyclable bathroom collection for Bette combining visual lightness with the strength and durability of glazed titanium steel.

In the floorstanding basin, a round washbasin bowl cantilevers above a narrow, conically shaped pedestal that conceals pipework and has room for a tap. In the bowl washbasin meanwhile, thanks to its precisely crafted underside, the basin sits on the surface almost seamlessly and can be used as a single basin or in a row.

Referencing classic bath design, the symmetrical freestanding bath features a vertically running exterior and wide, outwardly projecting rim that can be used as a head and arm rest, shelf and grab rail. www.my-bette.com

Peloton Peloton Bike+ Global lifestyle fitness brand Peloton has launched a new Peloton Bike+ for hotels, bringing a compact solution to guestrooms, spas and wellness facilities. Peloton Bike+ features a larger, rotating screen with 360 degrees of movement, allowing users to alternate between cardio, strength and yoga exercises with ease, while there is also an option for resistance to be automatically adjusted to match instructor callouts. As with the rest of its range, Peloton enables exercisers to join a community of millions worldwide, motivating each other towards a common goal. www.business.onepeloton.co.uk

Elstead Lighting Graham Elstead Lighting has unveiled its master catalogue for 2024, which includes the Graham collection designed by British studio Hinkley.

The elegant double-shaded pendant comes in a medium and large size with a choice of lacquered brass, polished nickel and black finishes. Ideal for restaurants, lounges and reception areas in hotels, the series is part of the wider catalogue developed in collaboration with Elstead Lighting’s US partners, with more than 400 pieces from striking chandeliers and pendants to convenient portables. For almost 55 years, manufacturing and design has been the passion that has inspired the brand, which believes there is plenty of opportunity for innovation in today’s market. www.elsteadlighting.com

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Northern Lights Raffles London at The OWO Northern Lights has developed 18 bespoke lighting fixtures for Raffles London at The OWO. The company devised a rich bronze finish that harmonises with the design scheme, while timeless raw materials such as wood and brass are paired with porcelain and off-white palettes for classic contrast. In the Heritage Suites, an obelisk table lamp in wood veneer with high polished wenge and contrasting metalwork trim catches the eye. Suspended from the ceiling meanwhile are three-tier conical steel pendants topped with frosted acrylic that diffuses the light. The steel is finished in a high gloss cream, with contrasting metalwork detailing in bespoke bronze. Throughout the guestrooms, table, floor and pendant lights create soft pools of light, with red leather, glass and blackened steel offering charm and comfort. A star-shaped bowl pendant is fashioned from concrete and finished in a white powder coat, while telescopic wooden floor lamps feature a rich mahogany gloss. www.northern-lights.co.uk

TechnoAlpin SnowSky Italian manufacturer TechnoAlpin is constantly working on new resource-saving snow solutions, with its TechnoAlpin Indoor department looking to create unique sensory experiences indoors too. One of the company’s latest turnkey solutions is SnowSky, which reimagines the cooling experience in spa areas, or can be used as a statement in restaurants and cocktail bars; the elegant simplicity of powdered snow and the beauty of falling snowflakes can serve as a unique selling point for luxury hotels.

By incorporating snow as a central design element, hospitality operators can immerse guests in a festive, wintry mood, using snow as more than just a decorative piece but rather a key part of the experience. TechnoAlpin’s SnowRoom for instance is a room maintained at minus-ten degrees, filled with fresh, natural snow generated from water and air. Beyond serving as an aesthetic highlight and a multisensory experience for interior settings, it offers a sophisticated way of cooling down after a sauna session or an intense workout. Spa and fitness guests can enjoy a gradual and soft cooling of their entire bodies, including their internal organs and skin, to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. www.indoor.technoalpin.com

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Chelsom Edition 28 Edition 28 is Chelsom’s most eclectic and versatile collection yet, featuring a broader selection of materials and manufacturing skills than ever before. Within the range, artisanal, mouthblown Veneto glass ceiling, table and wall lights have been crafted to meet a variety of customer demands and interior applications. Working in collaboration with specialist Italian glass factories, the British brand has harnessed generations of glassblowing experience and expertise. Both moulded and free-form blowing techniques have been used to create statement pieces that transcend time and are suitable for both traditional and contemporary design schemes. www.chelsom.co.uk

Sanipex Alpine Alpine from Sanipex Group’s Bagnodesign brand meets the growing desire for personalisation in the bathroom, offering interior designers 19 slab options to choose from. Created with functionality in mind, the basin and shelf collection comprises countertop shelves, plinths and furniture with a selection of freestanding, wall-mounted and countertop styles in several finishes. Featuring a 6mm porcelain slab surface that covers an innovative waterproof foam core, Alpine is completely waterproof, non-porous and resistant to mould and fungus.

Installation is simple and efficient too, with tap holes drilled in-house prior to delivery in line with client requirements. For added peace-of-mind, special reinforcements along the joints of each piece serve to enhance its load-bearing properties; the brand’s in-house local bearing test process confirms that just one bracket holds a weight of up to 75kg. Alpine is made to order by skilled artisans and can be combined with Bagnodesign’s Corsair oak furniture. The range is on display at the new Bagnodesign-Sanipex Gallery in Abu Dhabi, where visitors can browse sanitaryware, furniture and brassware. www.sanipexgroup.com

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DESIGN BROUGHT TO LIGHT Request or download the New Elstead 2024 Catalogues today. +44 (0)1420 82377 | enquiries@elsteadlighting.com | www.elsteadlighting.com

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SPECIFIER

Manutti Sandua Designed by Robin Hapelt, Sandua is an organically-shaped seating and lounge range comprising dining chairs, lounge chairs, daybeds, footrests and a selection of rechargeable remotecontrolled outdoor lighting solutions. Distinctly different from one another yet perfectly in sync, each piece in the series is an ode to true craftsmanship. Using two materials, Hapelt developed the collection’s signature Dicord weave – a new handwoven combination of rope and flat wicker, based on traditional Indonesian weaving techniques. Sandua is available in either a natural teak or teak scuro base with the option of dark anthracite or light pepper finishes. www.manutti.com

Roca Nu Roca has expanded its faucet catalogue with Nu, a vivid collection created by Spanish designer Inma Bermúdez. Unveiled at ISH in Frankfurt, the series comprises three handle options – Pin, Dome and Stripes – and a selection of vibrant notes, shapes and sizes.

The collection plays with colour in bold ways and is available in six variations – green, blue, yellow, black, white and chrome – inspired

by Roca’s Mediterranean DNA. Intentionally chosen as saturated rather than pastels, the shades are complete with a glossy finish.

“Our initial inspiration came from whitewashed Mediterranean houses with their blue, green and red doors,” explains Bermúdez.

“And, after discovering Andreu Carulla’s Tura collection for Roca, inspired by the architecture of Barcelona, we thought that this new range could also be a reference to the elegant and multicoloured mosaic floor tiles found in the city’s Modernist apartments.” Nu’s three handles have a 35mm body diameter – marking Roca’s thinnest faucet to-date – and offer distinct characteristics. Dome embraces its round architectural form with a soft-edged profile, while Stripes is based on the grooved dials of old stereos and the elongated handle of Pin assumes a graceful bird-like form. www.roca.com

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

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The ever-changing design experience that makes hotels incredible

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25/08/2023 16:36

FIND NEW LEADS IN THE GLOBAL HOTEL INDUSTRY

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ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 111

ADA International

073

Fromental

125

Agua Fabrics

189

Gommaire

012-013

Akula

121

Groupe GM

Aliseo

055

Astro

Oliver Hemming

203

Palecek

161

109

Paolo Moschino

133

Hector Finch

063

Parla

029

002

Historic Productions

154

Peloton

065

Beck

067

HIX

214

RAK Ceramics

018-019

Bette

145

Hypnos

195

RH Contract

006-007

Brandstand

177

Il Fanale

041

Roca

071

Chelsom

037

ILIV

182

Roman

131

Coco Wolf

116

J Adams

201

Rubelli

026

Creative Matters

059

Janus et Cie

043

Sanipex

060

Cristina Marrone

191

JC Hospitality

196

Sinoexpo

207

Curtis Furniture

151

Jung

097

Skopos Design

185

Décor Walther

005

Leds C4

089

Sleepeezee

110

Dernier & Hamlyn

103

Lemi Group

174

Sleeper Sessions

216

Duravit

045

LiGHT 23

Dux International

098 / 220

178-179

053 / 119 022-023

Ligne Roset

024

Stellar Works Stonecircle

162

Tece

076

Edmund Bell

193

Luteca

205

EE Smith

173

Madera

020-021

Ege

Sofa Company

014-015

Maison et Objet

209

TechnoAlpin

095

Egger

127

Mandarin Stone

091

THP

215

Elstead

211

Manutti

010-011

Tribu

008-009

EPR

081

Material Bank

016-017

Tuuci

083

Ethimo

039

Monteleone

149

Vincent Sheppard

075

Feuring

159

Nanimarquina

051

Wood Couture

219

Foglizzo

187

Naturalmat

087

Woodhouse & Law

115

Forest Group

107

Northern Lights

047

Freifrau

035

O’Donnells

135

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CHECK-OUT

Subterranean Snoozing

Billed as London’s first underground hotel, the latest outpost from Zedwell submerges guests deep beneath the capital.

London’s skyline continues to rise, but with

based lighting and Hypnos beds topped with

land at a premium, developers are becoming

100% Egyptian cotton sheets reinforce the

ever more resourceful in finding sites for their

emphasis on rest and relaxation, while purified

schemes. Enter Zedwell Tottenham Court Road,

air flows throughout and noise-reducing walls,

billed as the city’s first underground hotel.

flooring and doors help guests to drift off with

Submerged below Great Russell Street just a

ease. Colours and materials play their part too; a

short distance from Tottenham Court Road tube

palette of soothing tones combines with natural

station, the former car park has been transformed

finishes to channel a sense of calm. “Our focus

into a sanctuary for sleep, courtesy of Criterion

on the science of sleep and wellbeing and the

Hospitality. Guests take the elevator down to the

unique challenges posed by an underground

lobby four levels below, where white stalactite-

space informed our design ethos,” says Darija

like rock formations nod to the mineral surfaces

Zivni-Aziz, Head of Interior Design at Criterion

found deep beneath the Earth. From here, dimly

Hospitality. “From the strategic use of stalactite

lit corridors serve as a transitional experience to

and cavernous-like aesthetics to the energy-

the serene guestrooms – or cocoons as Zedwell

efficient advantages of subterranean architecture,

calls them – which are free from all clutter,

every design element serves a specific function

gadgets and windows to limit distractions from

in enhancing the guest’s physical and emotional

the outside world. Ambient circadian rhythm-

wellbeing.” No counting sheep required here.

© Iana Ianakieva

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