Sleeper 115

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

MONDRIAN – IBIZA • WILLIAM HEINECKE • GUNDARI – FOLEGANDROS

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 115 076

HOTEL REVIEWS

114

Mondrian • Hyde

056

Gundari

062

Castelfalfi

068

Locke am Platz

076

The Hoxton

083

Rosewood

088

Six Senses La Sagesse

095

t’Huys Suites

101

Ibiza

Folegandros Tuscany Zurich

Vienna

Munich

© Silke Briel

© Kensington Leverne

Grenada

De L’Europe Amsterdam

056

© Julius Hirtzberger 003

CONTENTS ISSUE 115 FEATURES

095

Meeting... William Heinecke

042

Meeting... Roam Interior Design

048

Lab to Lobby

114

The Fairfield Feeling

120

Following a record year, the founder and Chairman of Minor International tells of his entrepreneurial path to building a hospitality empire.

Six months on from the inception of Roam Interior Design, the studio’s Founding Principal talks design philosophies and the impact of AI. TFE Hotels trials a hospitality concept that operates in beta mode, resulting in a stay that constantly evolves in response to guest feedback. © John Athimaritis

158

As Fairfield by Marriott makes its debut in Europe, those behind the landmark opening reveal the process of creating a prototype.

068

REGULARS

© Alessandro Moggi

062

088

© What The Fox

© Ana Santl

004

Check-In

026

Drawing Board

028

The Lobby

051

Design Details

110

Business Centre

128

Events

139

Indoor Furniture

153

Specifier

161

Check-Out

170

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SESSIONS #6 Langkawi, Malaysia – 4-6 March 2025

www.sleepersessions.com

©Nicolas_Matheus

ligne-roset-contract.com

Spa–Hôtel Le Negresco, Jean-Philippe Nuel.

Fabriqué en france.

WELCOME

ON THE COVER Mondrian, Ibiza © Julius Hirtzberger

Door to Door

S

o many of the stories we tell in Sleeper are about a

a memorable travel experience, not only within the bounds of

journey, of sorts. The journey of a first-time hotelier as

the hotel or even the local vicinity, but the entire door-to-

they overcome the challenges of getting a new venture

door journey. It’s a move that is hoped will help build loyalty,

off the ground. The journey of a designer as they develop a

tying travellers to a brand as they traverse road and rail, seas

scheme and bring it to life. Perhaps even the literal journey

and skies.

of a guest as they navigate through the public spaces to their

This sector is explored in depth in Starboard, our sister

suite. But rarely, if ever, is the journey from home to hotel

publication focusing on hospitality on the move, but the way

considered – until recently.

in which the two are coming together is really beginning to

As the travel industry continues to evolve, the once-disparate

capture the imagination of hotel group leadership too. Behind

domains of hospitality and transportation are growing ever

the scenes, there’s plenty of talk amongst the big players as to

closer. What began with a move to revolutionise the cruise

how to further tap into the transportation aspect of the travel

experience through the recruitment of renowned hospitality

experience, something that became a topic of conversation

designers, has led to convergence in all directions. A number

at recent judging day for AHEAD. Marriott, Hilton and IHG

of major hotel groups are diversifying from traditional models

have all made moves in one way or another. Perhaps the most

to design the entire away-from-home experience. Some are

interesting is from Accor, which has secured LVMH investment

forging partnerships with transfer services on land and in the

to accelerate growth of the Orient Express brand, which spans

air – the Suite to Seat venture between Marriott’s St Pancras

hotels, trains and ships. The venture also sees LVMH – the

Renaissance Hotel in London and Eurostar, for example, or

world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate – venture deeper

Yotel’s rewards scheme with JetBlue. Others are developing

into the experience market.

their own forms of luxury travel: The Ritz-Carlton made a

As a community that travels extensively for work and

splash with its debut superyacht in 2022, while the first Four

pleasure, we all know that transiting from airport terminal

Seasons vessel is set take to the water in 2026, soon to be

to hotel – and back again – can come with challenges. To

followed by Aman as it transports its sophisticated style and

know that every step of a trip, from the transportation to the

spirit to the seas. In return, cruise lines are creating land-

accommodation to the cuisine, is in the hospitable hands of a

based beach clubs with facilities to rival the world’s best

luxury hotel operator, would undoubtedly make the journey

resorts, and car manufacturers are bringing their signature

all the more memorable.

aesthetic to interiors. Belmond meanwhile has been amongst the first to establish itself as a travel company, with a portfolio of hotels, boats, safaris and trains – the latter of which is said to be a key focus for the company through 2024.

Ultimately, the goal for many of these operators is to create

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

021

CUSTOM POD by Chelsom T H E A L C H E M I S T, M A N C H E S T E R CHELSOM.CO.UK

Sleeper full page edition July Aug 24.indd 1

21/06/2024 10:09:02

GUEST BOOK

150

088

076

062

150 Cédric Etienne

088 Tara Bernerd

062 Ricardo Larriera

076 Tatjana von Stein

Following countless trips to Alentejo to explore the harvest and production of cork, Belgium-born interior architect Cédric Etienne set out on an entrepreneurial quest to bring the natural and sustainable material into contemporary interiors. Under the banner of Studio Corkinho – which he co-founded in 2013 – Etienne was invited to Sleeper Sessions in Portugal, where he described his unique approach and led Sustenance workshops, helping hospitality specifiers and suppliers to carve their own cork creations.

Tara Bernerd’s signature style of ‘approachable luxury’ has made its mark on hotels around the globe, from Los Angeles and New York to Osaka and Hong Kong. For her latest project, the designer has ventured to Munich, creating interiors for the first Rosewood property in Germany. In collaboration with the owner and operator, Bernerd has crafted an elegant scheme that gracefully combines old and new, taking inspiration from the listed architecture and honouring the “effortless chic of Munich”.

“To open a hotel, I think you need a certain level of naivety and insanity, mixed with vision,” explains Ricardo Larriera, as he reflects on opening his first hotel. Enamoured by the rugged beauty of the little-known Greek island of Folegandros, the former advertising director upped sticks from Australia and embarked on a mission to create a rustic retreat that harmonises with its surroundings. The result is Gundari, where architecture and interiors by Block722 are set to put the island on the luxury hotel map.

London-based interior designer Tatjana von Stein founded her eponymous studio in 2016, and has since introduced her bold aesthetic to hotels, members’ clubs and restaurants worldwide. Teaming up with Locke – the stylish aparthotel concept from Edyn – von Stein recently took her creative talents to Zurich, envisioning the brand’s debut property in Switzerland.

Located in the Enge quarter, Locke am Platz is an ode to the city’s Modernist design heritage and is characterised by a vibrant colour palette and sense of drama.

023

@SleeperMagazine

FRONT DESK EDITORIAL

COMMERCIAL

EVENTS

DESIGN

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

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

Business Development Charlotte Gowing c.gowing@mondiale.co.uk

Event Manager Robyn Heaton r.heaton@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Eleanor Howard e.howard@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

Finance Director Amanda Giles

Content & Research Ellie Foster e.foster@mondiale.co.uk

Chairman Damian Walsh

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Production Mel Capper CORPORATE Accounts ar@mondiale.co.uk

Data & Marketing Lauren Blain l.blain@mondiale.co.uk

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000

CHECK-IN

Pernille Lind and Richy Almond The founders of Lind + Almond jet off for a fantasy break at a Geoffrey Bawa-designed resort amidst the lush jungles of Northern India.

Where are you?

and we’re greeted by the scent of drifting

And what’s on the menu?

In the mountains of Northern India.

incense and the sounds of a trickling water

Grilled tiger prawns with chilli lime sauce to

fountain. Our room has tall ceilings, exposed

start, then the house curry, followed by the local

How did you get there?

beams and stone floors, while wooden fans spin

speciality for dessert.

Via luxury steam train.

gently and bamboo blinds filter in soft dappled

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

light. The space is filled with antique furniture,

Would you like something to drink with that?

local artwork and curious ornaments.

Ice-cold IPA, whisky soda and tart dessert wine.

Who designed it?

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

Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Vermouth.

Basil Fawlty, on his best behaviour.

And who’s at the concierge desk?

M Gustave from The Grand Budapest Hotel.

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

Who are you sharing your room with?

The restaurant is located in a remote corner of

A Michael Palin travel book and a glass of water.

Each other!

the grounds, accessed via a winding footpath lit by oil lamp. Interiors are filled with

What’s your essential travel companion?

Is there anything you would like waiting for

pleasantly-worn rattan furniture, and there’s

Sunglasses, podcasts, face mist and a book.

you in your room?

an open kitchen; the ambience is hushed yet

A gin and tonic.

anticipatory, with occasional flashes of fire

What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?

from the kitchen and the smell of spices wafting

Evolve Beauty products.

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

through on a cool breeze. Curious cocktails are

Our hotel is surrounded by swaying palms and

delivered on silver trays by barefoot waiters,

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

deep jungle teeming with tropical birdlife,

and the soundtrack to the evening is a sitar

Late check-out.

looking out to snow-capped mountains in the

accompanied by a chorus of chirping crickets.

Bath or power shower?

distance. Smiling linen-clad staff welcome us in, Who are you dining with this evening?

Rain shower.

Geoffrey Bawa is here, as is Julia Roberts, George Orwell, larger-than-life character Dame

And what’s for breakfast?

Edna Everage, and Scottish designer and artist

Tropical fruits and scrambled eggs, with

Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

mushrooms, tomatoes and herbs, or whatever the chef recommends.

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Hotel Sanders, Copenhagen; The Newman, London (2025) www.lindalmond.co

Who’s manning the stoves?

Mark Dobbie and Andy Oliver, the chefs behind

Swimming pool, spa or gym?

Thai restaurants Som Saa and Kolae, which we

An outdoor saltwater pool set amongst the trees

regularly visit.

and overlooking the mountains.

027

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD The Ritz-Carlton Riviera Maya MEXICO

Desarrolladora Arca and IMI Worldwide Properties have announced plans for The RitzCarlton Riviera Maya – a hotel and branded residences development on the Caribbean coast of Mexico.

Slated to open in 2026, the resort is set amongst 220 acres of lush tropical jungle and dense mangroves, opening out to a crescentshaped beach and the ocean beyond.

DRAWING BOARD

Designed by Sordo Madaleno, the hotel

Lounge for quick bites; and The Beach Club,

component comprises 300 guestrooms and

the community’s social epicenter, located at the

suites, along with a range of leisure amenities

ocean’s edge.

including four swimming pools and The Lagoon

“We are honoured to collaborate with

– a family-friendly splash-play area. The resort

Desarrolladora Arca to bring The Ritz-Carlton

will also have its own spa and racquet club with

brand to life on Mexico’s Caribbean coast,

tennis and pickleball courts.

a key destination and market for us,” says

F&B outlets, brought to life by TalentChef,

Sarah Khalifa, Vice President of Mixed-Use

include an open-fire grill, a traditional Mexican

Development, Marriott International. “We are

bakery and an indigenous food market.

excited to introduce a fresh and inspired path in

Restaurant Central meanwhile is an open-air

luxury for the brand. The Ritz-Carlton Riviera

food hall featuring six venues, complete with

Maya will be a flagship addition to our portfolio,

an on-site distillery, wine cellar and speakeasy.

setting a new benchmark for hospitality in the

The culinary experience also includes The

region, and we look forward to welcoming our

Farmhouse, a farm-to-table concept; Excursion

esteemed owners and guests upon opening.”

DRAWING BOARD

andBeyond Suyian

Luxury experiential and conservation company

Tourism Concession over the 44,000-acre

andBeyond has unveiled plans to open a

Suyian Conservancy. Forming part of a vital

KENYA

new property in north-western Laikipia, a

wildlife movement corridor, Suyian is home to

wilderness area in Kenya. Slated to open in July

a range of wilderness areas, including savanna

2025, andBeyond Suyian, will be an intimate

and more than 16km of land alongside the Ewaso

safari escape comprising 14 spacious suites, all

Narok river. A multi-decade partnership with

with a private plunge pool and outdoor shower.

conservation charity Space for Giants allows

Amenities also include a gym and a wellness

andBeyond to function as the sole luxury lodge

centre, equipped with two treatment rooms, a

and tented camp operator on the conservancy.

steam room and cold plunge pool.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: andBeyond Architecture: Nicholas Plewman Architects, Michaelis Boyd Architects Interior Design: Fox Browne Creative www.andbeyond.com

030

“Our expansion into Laikipia is the

For the design, andBeyond has teamed up

culmination of a long-held desire to increase

with Cape Town-based Nicholas Plewman

our impact and lodge operating footprint in

Architects and Michaelis Boyd Architects.

Kenya,” says Joss Kent, CEO and Executive

Following over 30 years of collaboration with

Chairman of andBeyond. “Representing a

andBeyond – during which they have led the

critical piece of the Kenyan circuit, the area not

design and development of lodges in Botswana

only offers a world-class game experience but

and Kenya – Fox Browne Creative has been

also aligns with many of our ambitious impact

tasked with bringing a distinct sense of place

objectives in terms of securing and protecting

to the interiors.

endangered wildlife and habitat ecosystems,

The opening comes as the brand extends its lodge circuit in Kenya, announcing an Exclusive

as well as enabling conservation through empowered communities.”

Muyu. collection

designed by Stephane De Winter

@manutti_official

manutti.com

Manutti_Sleeper_236x275.indd 1

outdoor luxury

22/04/2024 11:57:58

DRAWING BOARD

SIRO Olaya

Following the launch of SIRO One Za’abeel

holistic hospitality experience. Developed

earlier this year, Kerzner International has

by 80 Real Estate Company, the project will

RIYADH

signed new properties in Los Cabos and Riyadh,

complement the region’s ongoing expansion in

signalling the global expansion of the fitness-

healthcare infrastructure and services.

focused brand.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: 80 Real Estate Company Operator: Kerzner International www.sirohotels.com

032

“SIRO encapsulates the dynamic spirit

Set to open in 2027, SIRO Palmilla will comprise

of innovation that has been at the heart of

120 keys and a cluster of branded residences, 14

Kerzner’s culture for over 30 years, disrupting

of which will be standalone villas. Developed by

the hospitality sector,” comments Philippe

Fortem Capital, the hotel will form part of the

Zuber, CEO, Kerzner International. “SIRO is a

new Palmilla Reserve masterplan located near

direct response to the societal shift in attitudes

Kerzner’s flagship One&Only Palmilla in Los

towards sports and wellness, and was designed

Cabos, Mexico, offering sweeping views of the

to be a rapid-growth challenger brand that

ocean and surrounding hills.

enables Kerzner to expand our global footprint in

The Riyadh outpost meanwhile, represents

the world’s most vibrant cities. The subsequent

Kerzner’s first foray into Saudi Arabia, coinciding

excitement we’re seeing among investors and

with the Kingdom’s commitment to wellness as

developers is testament to the market demand

both a cultural and economic priority. Slated

for this revolutionary new concept.”

to open in 2028 within the city’s business and

The growing SIRO brand complements

residential district, SIRO Olaya will feature 200

Kerzner International’s portfolio of luxury

guestrooms alongside the brand’s signature

and ultra-luxury resorts across the Atlantis,

fitness and recovery facilities, providing a

One&Only and Rare Finds brands.

DRAWING BOARD

La Maviglia

Ultimate Collection has revealed plans for La Maviglia, a luxury resort in the Primitivo wine

Architecture has been enlisted to restore the

PUGLIA

region of Puglia, slated for completion in 2027.

16 th-century Masseria and design the new

In total, the 202-hectare resort comprises a

interventions, while landscape architecture

70-suite hotel, 35 villas and an extensive golf

firm Enea has been tasked with harmoniously

complex. The hotel component will offer a

combining the built environment with olive

selection of suites ranging from 60m2 to 400m2

trees, vineyards and ancient water features.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Ultimate Collection Architecture: Oppenheim Architecture Landscaping: Enea www.lamaviglia.com

034

Miami

and

Basel-based

Oppenheim

with private terraces or gardens, as well as four

“Our design approach for La Maviglia is one

culinary outlets, a state-of-the-art 5,000m2

of deep respect and integration with its natural

wellness and medical spa, a large swimming

and historical context,” says Chad Oppenheim,

pool set amongst landscaped gardens and a

Founding Principal, Oppenheim Architecture.

private beach club.

“We meticulously studied the site, its colours,

The La Maviglia Golf Complex meanwhile

textures and the play of light, allowing these

will centre around a world-class 18-hole golf

elements to guide our design process. By utilising

course with a two-sided playable driving range

local materials and traditional techniques, we

and extensive practice facilities. The estate’s

aim to create a symbiotic relationship between

original Masseria will be transformed into a

the buildings and the natural landscape,

clubhouse, housing shops, dedicated events

ensuring the development feels highly sensitive

spaces and a Golfer’s Lodge with 20 deluxe

and responsive. Its overall design will reflect

double bedrooms, a landscaped fruit courtyard

the local heritage to create spaces that are both

and lap pool with a spacious sun deck.

modern and timeless.”

DRAWING BOARD

Recess Hotel & Club

Left Lane will debut new brand Recess in 2026,

Four F&B outlets will be in operation across

following the successful opening of Hotel Bardo

the property, including Le Flâneur, a fresh take

SAVANNAH

earlier this year.

on the classic French brasserie and The Servery,

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Left Lane Development Interior Design: Left Lane, Atelier Pond www.leftlanedevelopment.com

036

The flagship Recess Hotel & Club will find

a hidden gem with all-day food to-go. The

home in Savannah’s Manger building, which

lobby bar meanwhile will function as a central

originally opened in 1912 as Hotel Savannah,

hub with a continuous flow of drinks. Additional

before being converted into an office building

public spaces include Kilter, a rooftop pool

in 1977. Now, the property will be transformed

and garden oasis, and The Annex, a 6,500ft2,

into a 221-key lifestyle hotel and clubhouse

two-storey events venue that will double as a

that is rich in nostalgia, celebrating the creative

clubhouse complete with its own open kitchen

undercurrent of the city.

concept, Coterie.

Left Lane has partnered with Atelier Pond

“We are driven by a commitment to the

for the hotel’s design, devising a retro-futurist

community and each of our hotels’ respective

narrative for its 136 guestrooms, 23 suites

histories, striving to deliver nostalgic, layered

and 62 bunk rooms. Envisioned to foster

spaces that inspire exploration and offer an

connectivity, the property will feature a number

authentic sense of place,” comments Jon

of communal spaces, including a ‘Rumpus

Kully, Managing Partner at Left Lane. “We

Room’ – a dedicated social setting – on each

are building Recess as a magnetic cultural hub

floor. The core of the Recess brand however, is

where the local community and travellers can

its clubhouse spaces, which occupy the lower,

create and find real-life connection in their very

first and second floors.

own clubhouse.”

©2024 Waterworks is a Registered Trademark of Waterworks IP Company, LLC

A C O N T E M P O R A R Y D E C L A R AT I O N

FINOT

DRAWING BOARD

Anantara Dragon Seseh BALI

Minor Hotels has signed an agreement with

Envisioned by British architect John Dawes,

Taryan Group to manage Anantara Dragon

the property’s striking curvilinear form draws

Seseh, a newbuild resort and branded residences

inspiration from the mythical Barong of Bali,

slated to open on the black volcanic shores of

a dragon-like creature symbolising strength,

Bali in 2027.

grace and prosperity. The result is a cocooning

Located a short drive from the southern

structure topped by a shapely roof, with

coastal hotspot of Canggu, the resort marks

blaconies and terraces that blur the boundaries

the group’s fourth venture on the Indonesian

between indoors and outdoors, combining a

island; in addition to existing properties in

contemporary elegance with the feeling of being

Uluwatu and Seminyak, Anantara Ubud is set

amongst nature.

to open later this year.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Taryan Group Operator: Minor Hotels Architecture: John Dawes www.minorhotels.com

038

“Global travellers cannot get enough of

The forthcoming Anantara Dragon Seseh

Bali as arrivals grow well past pre-pandemic

features 216 guestrooms and suites ranging in

levels,” reveals Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor

size from 52-120m2, each with panoramic views

Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International.

across the Indian Ocean. In addition to three

“Today’s travellers continue to look for new

F&B outlets – including a specialty Japanese

ways to appreciate Bali’s rich heritage and the

restaurant and poolside bar – on-site amenities

island’s diverse experiences. We look forward to

include three swimming pools, a beach lounge,

partnering with Taryan Group to show travellers

a signature Anantara Spa, dedicated yoga and

why Seseh Beach is Bali’s next hotspot by

meditation studios, a fitness centre and a surf

offering guests unforgettable experiences on

school, where guests can learn to ride the waves.

the island.”

TA I L O R MADE SHADE

T h e La n a , D ub a i.

OCEAN MASTER M1 CRESCENT

TUUCI.COM

DRAWING BOARD

Quinta de Valmarinha SINTRA

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner and Interior Design: De Rosee Sa www.quintadevalmarinha.com

040

London and Lisbon-based studio De Rosee Sá has

and a dining room with an open kitchen.

announced plans for a new boutique hotel in the

Additional amenities include a heated outdoor

countryside surrounds of Sintra, a Portuguese

pool, accompanied by a dedicated lounge and

resort town and UNESCO World Heritage Site

bar. A wellness hub meanwhile will feature a spa

famed for its Romantic architecture.

with four treatment rooms, alongside a gym,

Slated to launch in 2027, Quinta de Valmarinha

yoga studio, infrared sauna and steam room,

will occupy a 18th-century former farmhouse,

in addition to a cold plunge and indoor pool.

nestled amidst vineyards. Responsible for

Five hectares of gardens will provide additional

both design and operations, De Rosee Sa aims

public spaces for guests.

to restore many of the property’s existing

“The property, once a rundown farm, stands

architectural details that are typical of historic

out as one of the few historic properties

Portuguese quintas.

overlooking the sea in this area,” explains Max

“The transition into designing and operating

de Rosée. “While initially looking for a holiday

in the hospitality sector is a natural extension

home, the property’s unique charm captured

of our passion for creating lifestyles through

our hearts, leading us to consider a hospitality

design,” explains Claire Sá, Director of De Rosee

venture. Encouragement from heritage and

Sá. “Entering the hospitality scene allows us to

tourism departments further solidified our

extend our design philosophy to control not just

decision. We aim to curate a design beyond

aesthetics but also the overall experience.”

aesthetics, focusing on atmosphere and

Upon completion, the hotel will comprise 32 suites, as well as a restaurant with a courtyard,

guest interaction while offering an authentic immersion into local culture.”

Pr i ma r yDe s i g n

BOOSTNATURALPRO

Meeting…

William Heinecke Following a record year, the founder and Chairman of Minor International tells of his entrepreneurial path to building a hospitality empire.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: Courtesy of Minor International

A

ffable and astute. Genial and generous. These

His parents told him he was on his own. And he cleaned

are just a few adjectives to describe the self-

up, literally. With the equivalent of US$1,200 of borrowed

made William Heinecke, Chairman of Minor

money, he set up an office cleaning business and another

International. Such attributes are evident

selling radio advertising time. By the time he was 21, he had

during a breakfast briefing overlooking the

made his first million, albeit with some diversions along the

bay of Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort in

way. There had been no Plan B. Decisiveness and a fearless

Thailand, prior to an on-stage interview at Sleeper Sessions,

spirit were early indicators of his business ethos. When asked

the meetings forum for hospitality specifiers and suppliers.

in the Quick Question article, “Is the customer always right?”

Heinecke is at ease and confident, ready to take on all

his succinct response was “Yes, especially if it is me.” Of

manner of questions and queries. The evening before, he

confidence, there is no lack.

was chatting global geo-politics and bamboo in the company of the Mayor of Phuket.

In 2000, Heinecke penned The Entrepreneur, 21 Golden Rules for the Global Business Manager; a second edition was

Heinecke first appeared in the pages of Sleeper more

published in 2003, expanding to 25 rules. In it, he talks

than 20 years ago, as a participant of the magazine’s ‘A

of foresight and identifying gaps in the market to fill. For

Quick Question’ feature, in which he was described as ‘the

him, a perfect hotel room in the Quick Question article

Richard Branson of Southeast Asia’. An apt portrait, given his

had to have room service from top local restaurants. And

clear entrepreneurial spirit and the breadth of his business

he was already way down this track, having established a

interests, which emerged at an early age.

food delivery service via motorbikes in 1989. This enterprise

Born in Virginia, USA, Heinecke’s family moved around Asia – Japan, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur – before finally

speaks volumes of his vision given the almost ubiquitous presence of such services today.

settling in Bangkok in 1963, where he attended the

Heinecke, the early adopter, dares to be different. He

International School Bangkok. Aged 17, he turned down a

was quick to view resorts as an asset class. In the 1970s, he

US college education, preferring “a life of luxury in Thailand,

recognised that the Thai middle classes were beginning to

where I didn’t have to make up my own bed each morning,”

spread their wings and that a trip to Pattaya – a short hop to

he reveals.

the coast east of Bangkok – was a spending experience. He

043

MEETING…

MEETING…

The portfolio includes the recently renovated Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel in Italy, and the forthcoming Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp in Zambia

took over an old hotel built by the US military for troops on R&R leave during the Vietnam War, and opened the Royal Garden Resort Pattaya in 1978, now known as the Avani Pattaya Resort.

All just a decade after graduating high school.

Another gap in the market to be filled came in the 1990s with the realisation that there was no deluxe accommodation in Chiang Mai – the largest city in northern Thailand. Following the adage if we build it, they will come, land was acquired and the Regent (now Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai) was realised. Inspired by classic Northern Thai architecture, the design of elegant two-storey guest pavilions was based on the ornamented teak and open-sided shelters of

“We make design decisions that are best tailored to each location and market, aligned with our Profit by Design belief that profit should be gained from the outset of an efficiently designed hotel.”

the underwater restaurant, Sea. The complete and sympathetic renovation of a 13th-century Capuchin convent built into the cliffside at Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel. And Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, an eco-sanctuary built in harmony with nature, amidst mangroves.

On design, he tells the story of collaborating with talents such as Bill Bensley. “He didn’t start working for us because we paid enormous fees, but the relationship has blossomed into a great friendship that ensures our hotel interiors and gardens are considered among the best in the world,” explains Heinecke. Design at Minor Hotels is coordinated by a Technical

Lanna-era upper-class homes. Once a quarry,

Services team, working with owners through

the property was transformed by Bill Bensley

the development, coordination and construction

into a verdant Thai farming village complete

process. “We make design decisions that are

with rice paddies and water buffaloes.

best tailored to each location and market,

Heinecke founded Minor Holdings in 1970,

aligned with our Profit by Design philosophy

reflecting his legal status at the venture’s

that profit should be gained from the outset of

founding. Now Minor International, the

an efficiently-designed hotel,” says Heinecke.

company continues to operate in three main

As the examples above indicate, sustainability

sectors: hospitality, restaurants and lifestyle

is important to Minor. A group with strong resort origins, many of its hotels are set

retail. Minor Hotels, the largest of the three, today includes over 550 properties with around

Americas – and the Boscolo Hotels portfolio

amongst nature. “We are responsible for being

80,000 guestrooms in operation across eight

in Europe (2020), which have been rebranded

good environmental stewards and promoting

brands in 56 countries.

to Anantara and NH Collection flags. This

biodiversity conservation,” notes Heinecke.

As owner, operator and investor, Minor

growth was not only in terms of the number

Questioned that both are conceivably easier

Hotels has a diverse portfolio. In addition to

of properties, but also of a wider geographical

in equatorial and resort environments than

the group’s own brands, Minor Hotels owns

spread taking in Europe, the Americas, the

more northern, urban climates, Heinecke is

managed properties in Thailand, such as Four

Middle East and China. Most notably, the NH

unequivocal: “Minimising our environmental

Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Four Seasons Tented

Hotel Group acquisition took Minor Hotels from

footprint in the design and execution of projects

Camp Golden Triangle in northern Thailand,

a regional player to the global stage, tripling its

is a constant across all our projects.”

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, JW Marriott

property count overnight.

In 2023 – a record year for profitability –

Phuket Resort & Spa and The St Regis Bangkok.

When asked about the importance of design

Minor Hotels achieved a group-wide RevPAR

The luxury brand Anantara Hotels & Resorts

and experience, Heinecke responds: “We invest

increase of 22% versus the previous year.

was launched in 2001 and now numbers over

in every destination to create memories and

“2024 will likely be the biggest year for travel

50 properties and counting. This was followed

experiences.” Over-delivery on expectation,

and another record year for Minor,” asserts

in 2006 by a diversification into residential

and letting guests know you appreciate them,

Heinecke. “Our plans to increase the pace of

development via serviced living managed by

ensures repeat business, he continues. Taking

openings and expand our brands reflect our

Four Seasons, St Regis and later Anantara. There

the Anantara brand, Heinecke sees this as “a

bullish outlook for global travel in the coming

has also been significant growth by acquisition

true version of a destination that embraces its

years.” Up to 250 new properties are slated to be

– Oaks Hotels & Resorts (2011), Tivoli Hotels &

surroundings and culture”. He ventures a few

added to the inventory over the next three years

Resorts (2016), NH Hotel Group (2018) – which

examples: the house reef at Anantara Kihavah

with Anantara, Avani, Tivoli and NH brands

recently rebranded to Minor Hotels Europe &

Maldives Villas for snorkelling or viewing from

expected to be key drivers of portfolio growth.

045

MEETING…

“Minimising our environmental footprint in the design and execution of projects is a constant across all our projects.”

Up to 250 new properties are slated to be added to the portfolio over the next three years, including the soon-to-open Avani Barbarons Seychelles Resort

046

A release shared earlier this year also states

With almost 43,000 employees, Heinecke

that Minor Hotels expects to unveil multiple

acknowledges Minor Hotels’ responsibilities

new brands in 2024 and 2025 to meet unmet

to society and staff. “Society is like a forest

consumer demand. More gaps in the market to

– it won’t continue to flourish if we don’t

capitalise on. Heinecke is coy on details, but

replenish what we took out,” he quips. There

personal ambitions to “build hotels in places

is much support for this, evident in the 2021

I have not visited” could see further exotic

founding of the Asian Institute of Hospitality

destinations coming into play via new or

Management in association with Les Roches

existing brands.

from Switzerland, and Minor’s 2023 and 2024

There is more clarity on non-hotel experiences.

certification as a Great Place to Work. Additional

These refer to a collection of related hospitality

are foundations dedicated to protecting Asian

businesses, including culinary offerings such

elephants and marine turtles, and the Heinecke

as Minor’s acquisition of London-based The

Foundation was established in 2000 to support

Wolseley Hospitality Group, formerly known as

less fortunate children of all ages who have

Corbin & King; wellness – over 70 Anantara Spa

outstanding records of academic performance.

and AvaniSpa locations and partnerships with

Heinecke is clearly a driven man, but he

Clinique, La Prairie and Vivid by Verita IV Drip

is also never far from a smile and a chuckle.

Bar in Bangkok; and tented camps – Anantara

Sleeper’s Quick Question feature always ended

Kafue River Tented Camp in Zambia, set to

by asking the respondent what they would

launch in early 2025. There are also sailing trips

like to ask the next interviewee. Back in 2003,

– Loy Pela in Bangkok and Mekong Kingdoms in

Heinecke asked: “Who would you most like to

Luang Prabang, Laos; and train journeys – The

have help you raid the mini-bar?” His answer

Vietage by Anantara in central Vietnam.

today is Sophia Loren.

Meeting…

Roam Interior Design Six months on from the inception of Roam Interior Design, the studio’s Founding Principal talks design philosophies, the impact of AI and future plans.

Words: Eleanor Howard

PROFILE Mary Alice Palmer Founding Principal and Global Creative Director – Roam Interior Design Formerly known as HKS Hospitality Interiors, Roam Interior Design is an independent firm with a global portfolio of luxury hospitality and residential projects.

Based in Dallas and London, the firm operates under the leadership of Palmer, alongside Global Practice Manager and Principal Olga Acosta.

Current Projects: The Ritz-Carlton, Portland (2024); Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Antigua (2025); Mitsis Rhodes; Amaala Triple Bay Yacht Club, Saudi Arabia

O

ver the course of 13 years, HKS Hospitality

difficult to overcome the preconceived notions

Interiors built an international portfolio

associated with a global architecture firm. I found

of projects – Auberge Resorts Bishop’s

myself continuously having to educate people

Lodge in New Mexico and Esperanza Los Cabos

on our unique perspective of looking at interiors

amongst them – all completed under the

from both an architectural and decorative

umbrella of global architecture firm HKS.

standpoint. So, it became important for us to

That was until last year, when the division’s

figure out how to communicate who we are and

Founding Principal Mary Alice Palmer made the

what we do to our market more effectively, with

decision to rebrand as Roam Interior Design,

the help of a brand strategist. Ultimately, we

an independently operated luxury design firm

decided to establish Roam as a separate brand to

specialising in the hospitality and residential

differentiate us from the overall firm.

sectors. Under the leadership of Palmer, alongside Global Practice Manager and Principal

What does Roam stand for?

Olga Acosta, the award-winning team of

The word Roam has many connotations so

interior designers and interior architects based

there’s some ambiguity to it that is valuable

in London and Dallas now has the opportunity

in communicating our story. We’re roaming

to work independently with external partners,

away from HKS, and we’re roaming the world,

as well as with its parent company, expanding

discovering, creating and defining destinations.

the firm’s reach within the highly competitive hospitality design landscape.

Sitting down with Palmer in London, the

How would you describe the Roam design philosophy?

conversation flows from design philosophies to

We don’t have a house style. We want to create a

the challenges of technology, to the firm’s plans

cinematic experience for guests through interiors

for the future, which include a renovation for

that reflect a sense of place and are deeply rooted

Mitsis in Rhodes and a new flagship for The Ritz-

in the history and unique characteristics of a

Carlton brand in Portland, Oregon, as well as the

location, from the culture to the art and even

forthcoming Amaala Triple Bay Yacht Club.

literature that inspires. Ultimately, we want to create a memorable narrative that the guest

048

Why did you rebrand HKS Hospitality Interiors?

can engage with emotionally by fostering a

As we grew within HKS, it became increasingly

connection with the surroundings.

MEETING…

“Ultimately, we want to create a memorable narrative that the guest can engage with emotionally by fostering a connection with the surroundings.”

Tell us about projects in the pipeline...

which involves designing opportunities that

programme to generate an image. The world is

Our team recently completed The Ritz-Carlton,

subtly guide guests into making more sustainable

already moving incredibly fast, and that compels

Portland, which has been shortlisted in the

or healthy choices. For example, we created a

owners to shorten schedules and tighten fees.

Restaurant category for AHEAD Americas 2024.

beautiful grand staircase in the lobby at The Ritz-

As AI increasingly comes into play, it raises the

Here, we were faced with the challenge of

Carlton, Portland, that will hopefully encourage

question of how technology will further impact

translating the city’s rugged individualism and

guests to walk rather than use the elevator.

owners’ expectations.

experience that the local community would

What challenges do you see going forward?

What are Roam’s plans for the future?

embrace. In terms of projects on the boards,

Our biggest challenge is the advancement of AI

In addition to multiplying our wins within

we’re currently working alongside WATG to help

and how it is going to impact our work, both

the categories in which we operate, we’re also

Mitsis in Rhodes redefine what their new brand

positively and negatively. One of the advantages

considering reopening an office in Singapore.

looks like in physical form. We’re also working

of still being attached to a large firm like HKS is

After having to disband the team during the

with Nikki Beach on a new project in Antigua,

that we have access to their research into how

pandemic, we recently travelled over to reassess

comprising a hotel, branded residences and the

we can manipulate AI and use it in a way that is

the situation now Asia has recovered post-Covid.

group’s signature beach club.

beneficial rather than detrimental. For instance,

There’s so much happening in Australia and New

when creating mood boards, if we’re looking for

Zealand, so we want to be in closer proximity

What trends are you currently seeing in the

something specific to encapsulate the vision in

to those opportunities, as well as projects in

hospitality sector?

our heads, we can input a description to an AI

destinations like Indonesia and the Maldives.

spectacular landscape into a five-star luxury

The ongoing discussion surrounding what luxury means today is interesting, because I think it’s no longer rooted in traditional formality. There are, of course, certain projects for which that classic luxury is still fitting, but there seems to be a real push to understand what a guest is looking for in a luxury destination.

How does sustainability impact your approach?

The firm at large has a distinct strategy that incorporates sustainability into every project as a baseline. Within our own research and advisory department, we have a team who are incredibly well-versed in coming up with ways that we can create better built environments. Several years ago, we launched Mindful Materials, a programme that helps us to select the best products in a material design environment by looking at what they are made from, as well as where they are manufactured in order to reduce travel distances where possible. We also implement Point of Decision Design (PODD),

THE LOBBY

Dystopian Design Hospitality designers are typically tasked with crafting

– wellbeing and survival. Reimagining the typical bunker,

interiors for shiny new skyscrapers and tropical resorts –

the concept serves as a hideout in extreme situations, but

places where business and leisure travellers feel at home, if

its design also makes for a welcoming environment – one

only for a few days. How might the design process change,

that visitors might not want to leave. The structure’s sturdy

though, when envisioning interiors for situations that are

architecture evokes feelings of safety and security, while the

less than idyllic? Spanish design studio Wanna recently

interiors, with glowing lights and soft materials, encourage

explored this topic when faced with the challenge of creating

relaxation and comfort, creating a dialogue that works to

an underground shelter to display at Casa Decor, an annual

calm. The project, built with high-pressure laminates from

trade show held in Madrid. Delving into the role that

Formica, metallic laminates from Homapal and surfaces

interior design can play in the creation of emergency living

from Fenix, also delves into the versatility of these materials

spaces, the studio devised Cozy Bunker, a Brutalist-inspired

and their potential for use in new realms of the design

subterranean refuge that combines two contrasting concepts

world. A new take on dystopian design.

© Javier de Paz Garcia

THE LOBBY

Atlas of Never Built Architectural thought often centres around the cityscapes of the future, considering what our world might look like in 10, 100 or 1,000 years. And yet a new book, published by Phaidon and written by Sam Lubell and Greg Goldin, takes a different approach, reflecting instead on what could have been.

A comprehensive, geographicallyarranged global survey of more than 300 extraordinary unbuilt architectural projects from the 20th and 21st century, Atlas of Never Built Architecture takes a deep-dive into the creations that have been dreamt up by influential architects, ranging from hotels and casinos, to museums and arts centres, as well as artificial islands and entire cities. Imagery includes sketches and digital renderings, offering insight into how the architectural projects were initially conceived. There are futuristic visions from the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright, IM Pei and Le Corbusier, as well as proposals from more contemporary creatives including Norman Foster, Kengo Kuma and Zaha Hadid. Featuring projects at times impractical or fanciful, but always imaginative and ambitious, the tome demonstrates how our built environments could have looked very different indeed.

The Dorchester In Bloom The dawn of a new season in the hospitality

the walls as it blossoms in shades of pale pink.

world can bring a whole host of new offerings,

Naturally, the seasonal celebrations have also

from fresh interiors sparkling with bright

involved more tangible activations, with the

coats of paint, to updated food and beverage

hotel’s garden transforming into a pink paradise

selections that reflect the time of year. This year,

with pretty parasols for the summer months. The

to celebrate the launch of its summer season,

space is the site of a new spritz stand that will see

London hotel The Dorchester has quite literally

a range of beverages served to guests, developed

come into full bloom.

in partnership with alcohol-free sparkling drinks

Demonstrating that the beauty of botanical

052

brand Wild Idol.

doesn’t always take the form of a bouquet of

A new ice-cream trolley meanwhile has

fresh flowers, The Dorchester’s façade was

also been rolled out, offering seasonal serves

recently brought to life by a new immersive AR

alongside a new adaptation of afternoon tea.

experience, accessed via a QR code located just

Menu highlights include the Wild Idol Sgroppino

outside The Dorchester Garden. Once scanned,

– an elderflower sorbet blended with Wild Idol

the installation unlocks a bespoke Instagram

– as well as pastries inspired by the drinks’

filter depicting The Dorchester Rose – the

tasting notes. A seasonal hamper is also available

hotel’s signature pink flower, specially created by

at Cake & Flowers, The Dorchester’s hybrid

designer florist Philip Hammond in collaboration

florist-patisserie boutique, and includes a floral

with Meijer Roses of Holland. The foliage comes

bouquet, a box of bonbons and a perfectly chilled

to life as guests film the façade, growing up

bottle of Wild Idol.

DI SCOVERT HENEW COL L E CT I ONS

AXL NEW WEBSI T E

W

hether it’s the goosebumps that appear

to revolutionise the design process, whereby

when gazing at the hues of a hillside

focusing on human emotion can create more

sunset. The sense of wonder whilst

impactful results – an approach that is crucial

getting lost in a profound piece of art. Or the

in hospitality settings. Landau states: “Hotels

head-spinning intake of breath at the sheer

are especially significant in the field, as they

scale of a city skyline. “Understanding these

are public, social spaces that also have a wider

neurophysiological responses is crucial in an era

impact on the communities they inhabit.”

where art, design and culture are vital ingredients

Delving deeper, the report explores four key

to support our mental, physical and emotional

areas of Designing for Belonging, Community,

health.” This insight, courtesy of Kinda Studios,

Transformation and Longevity. “The character,

finds home within a new 68-page report from

culture and shape of built spaces is linked to our

Design Hotels, which delves deep into the

sense of belonging – a feeling deeply ingrained

impact of aesthetics, culture and environments

in human nature,” the report reads. “Stemming

on our brains, bodies and behaviour – an area

from our evolutionary needs, this feeling of

of study otherwise known as neuroaesthetics.

affinity and physical safety is essential for

Produced in partnership with FSB, the report

us to be present, connected and to flourish in

Design for the Mind Design Hotels partners with Kinda Studios to explore the impact of aesthetics on the human brain, body and behaviour.

054

pairs academic data with cultural insight, case

our environments.” Designing for Community

studies and interviews with experts such as

involves maximising public spaces to drive social

pioneering neuroscientist Anjan Chatterjee, to

interaction and deeper connections – boosting

provide an accessible tool kit detailing how to

the immune system and triggering the release of

apply the field’s principles to design projects.

oxytocin – while Designing for Transformation

“Our aspiration with this study is to arm our

is grounded in the observation that guests are

creative community with newfound knowledge,

increasingly willing to invest time and money in

to design purpose-led spaces that don’t just look

experiences that can redefine their relationships

beautiful, but have an intentional impact on our

and worldview. The final element spotlighted

behaviour, our wellbeing and on society as a

in the report, Designing for Longevity, suggests

whole,” explains Sarah Doyle, Deputy Managing

taking advantage of the links between nature

Director and Global Brand Leader at Design

and human health – a process that benefits

Hotels. “It’s a manifesto for a positive future.”

both people and planet. The integration of

With interior design typically prioritising visual

biophilic principles, including the application

aesthetics, the report highlights the importance

of biomaterials and incorporation of geometric

of integrating neuroaesthetic principles into

patterns found in nature, is proven to soothe our

hospitality design, suggesting that, “to enhance

nervous system and enhance cognitive function.

the human experience, we need to understand the

The report concludes: “By placing nature at

complex interplay between our senses, and how

the heart of design, we can preserve our planet

they work with our brains to prompt intentional

and shift our role from environmental takers to

emotions”. Robyn Landau, co-founder of Kinda

stewards – improving our health and longevity

Studios, believes this insight has the power

in the process.”

JUNG UNIQUE x GRAFT. MADE TO BE DIFFERENT. Urban switch collection: cool designs as an ode to Berlin and individuality.

You are welcome to visit us at: JUNG UK Showroom · 6 / 7 Albemarle Way · Clerkenwell · London Visit by prior arrangement: jung.group/london JUNG.GROUP/GRAFT

JUNG_AZ_UNIQUE-Graft_236x275mm_EN_RZ.indd 1

29.04.24 11:55

056

Mondrian • Hyde IBIZA Ennismore breathes new life into a 70s beach resort for a dual-branded debut.

Words: Matt Turner • Photography: © Julius Hirtzberger

E

ntry into Ibiza’s increasingly competitive hotel scene has presented challenges for investors and developers in recent years. Strict planning laws and strong

public feelings on environmental matters have made the construction of new hotels, particularly in the most alluring beachfront locations, all but impossible. Local antipathy towards both tourists and property developers, seen across the Balearic Islands, is likely to make the white-hot hospitality market of the White Isle even more difficult to penetrate. What limited opportunities remain are largely through the conversion of tourist hotels, originally built in the 1960s and 70s, now being extensively remodelled into luxury lifestyle offerings.

Ennismore has recently joined the likes of Standard, Six Senses, Nobu and 7Pines with not one, but two hotel launches, created through a development deal with ADH Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality wing of investor and asset manager Apollo Global Management. Mondrian and Hyde Ibiza is a twin property development that has seen a complete overhaul of an existing all-inclusive resort on Cala Llonga beach, originally built in 1972.

057

Cuarto Interior has created an unmistakeably Balearic aesthetic at Mondrian Ibiza, with whitewashed walls and touches of rattan, wood and stone

058

This is the first time the two brands have been

Mondrian and Hyde Ibiza officially opened in

co-located, but in many ways they are natural

April 2024 following a soft opening at the end

bedfellows, both with each other and Ibiza. “The

of the 2023 season. AIME Studios – Ennismore’s

two brands speak to Ibiza but in very different

in-house creative team – worked with Spanish

ways,” says Mark Eacott, Global Vice President

firms Beades Architects and Cuarto Interior on

of Design for Ennismore. “Hyde is more of a

the project. Despite its proximity to the Old

music-led, boho-chic brand with a festival vibe,

Town, the airport and Ibiza’s famed nightclubs,

which is reflected in the materiality, the textiles

Cala Llonga has remained a relatively low-key

and the pops of colour in its design. Mondrian is

location, notable for its setting in a naturally

more of a future-forward, culturally progressive

sheltered bay, flanked by lush pine-clad hills.

brand with sleek and sculptural interiors.”

This is one of the only beachfront locations on

Both brands have their origins in LA nightlife.

the island where guests can immediately access

Hyde Lounge on Sunset Strip marked the

the hills on foot, enjoying the hikes that are

brand’s debut before later expansion into hotels,

an increasingly popular activity for health-

residences and beach clubs. And Mondrian, lest

conscious visitors. Its ferry terminal also offers

we forget, was launched in West Hollywood

regular services to Ibiza’s main harbour, Santa

in 1996 by that pioneer of both discotheques

Eulària and neighbouring island Formentera.

and boutique hotels, Ian Schrager. Both were

Across both properties, the interiors are not

under the stewardship of SBE, until Accor

so much shoe-horned into the existing spaces,

acquired them as part of its joint venture with

as flowing through them in gentle waves that

Ennismore. Given this shared history, Ibiza

blur indoor and outdoor, whilst referencing the

feels an appropriate location for their first

local topography. In the 154-room Mondrian,

geographical coupling.

sinuous, white-washed walls create cave-like

059

The boho-chic aesthetic is in further evidence in Hyde, albeit with more colourful interventions in the lobby and F&B spaces

spaces that echo the abundance of natural grottos along the Ibicenco coastline.

“We were mindful of how the brand’s future-

– its white flowing forms and natural materials

forward, fantastical DNA would work within

echoing the famed fashion that the island’s

the serene visual landscape of Cala Llonga in a

bohemian inhabitants have made synonymous

way that felt natural and unforced,” continues

with Ibiza. The pillars breaking up the space

Eacott. “The hotel bears all the aesthetic

bring to mind ‘Time and Space’ – a sculpture

hallmarks of a Mondrian, yet there is a softness

of standing stones made by Australian artist

and an element of movement conveyed through

Andrew Rogers overlooking Ibiza’s mystical

structural curves, organic shapes and sculptural

island Es Vedra.

fluidity that is reflective of the property’s singular setting.”

060

Mid-Century furnishings in rattan, wood and stone create an unmistakeably Balearic aesthetic

Eacott adds: “Progressive materiality, futuristic furniture and unexpected artistic

The check-in is housed in a striking, ocean-

moments work to blur the boundaries of art

blue nook off the main lobby area, a deep-

and design and create an immersive cultural

sea diver’s outfit standing alongside the

space familiar to Mondrian regulars. We

aquamarine acrylic front desk. “These confident

worked in collaboration with London-based

injections of bold colour punctuate the serene,

collective Gone Rogue on a considered curation

tonal landscape of the guestrooms and public

of artists and installations that spark interest

areas, creating a ‘filter over reality’ experience;

and engagement. Works such as The Kissing of

from the cobalt of the hotel’s statement pool

the Sun and the Moon by Lauren Baker play

table, to the almost unbelievable blue of the

with reflective materiality and lighting design

Mediterranean Sea glimpsed at every turn

to create a soft sensory experience, while Ash

through the oversized windows,” notes Eacott.

by Corine van Voorbergen appears at first

glance minimalist, yet emerges as an intuitive,

docks where local fishermen keep their boats.

layered piece upon closer look.”

Pendant lamps are suggestive of their baskets,

In marked contrast to the all-white backdrop of all-day restaurant Sun & Moon, and its

while bedside tables allude to jewellery on sale at Ibiza’s hippie market stalls.

adjacent grab’n’go coffee outlet Perq, Japanese

Two pools, interspersed with plentiful lounge

restaurant Niko below is a darkly atmospheric

seating, hammocks and swing chairs, connect

space centred around its sushi counter, with

the two properties and offer immediate access

wabi-sabi style tableware and furnishings

to the beach on the Hyde side. Restaurants and

setting the stage for guest chef residencies and

bars meanwhile include Mexican ocean-to-

theatrical entertainment. Guestrooms continue

table concept Cuyo, pulsating poolside hangout

the light, flowing design scheme, featuring

Hyde Beach and the neighbouring Bungalow bar

leather latticed headboards, organically

and restaurant – with the requisite DJs, copious

sculpted light fittings and furnishings in natural

cocktails and an international menu.

materials. All rooms and suites feature private

“There was a lot of debate about co-locating

terraces, offering stunning views over Cala

the two brands, particularly with the shared pool

Llonga or the surrounding woodland.

deck, but it has worked out very well. We have

The boho-chic aesthetic is in further

been really pleased with the positive response,

evidence in Hyde, albeit with more colourful

not just from the guests but the ownership and

interventions in the lobby, where pastel wall

the local community,” concludes Eacott. “We

tiles and upholstery to the central, circular

were mindful of other hotels on Ibiza and how

banquettes introduce a more energetic vibe.

competitive the market is here, but ultimately

The 401 guestrooms feature weathered wooden

we stayed true to what we wanted to do and let

cabinets and headboards inspired by the dry

the power of the brands do the work.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Accor, Ennismore Architecture: Beades Architects Interior Design: AIME Studios, Cuarto Interior Art Consultant: Gone Rogue www.ennismore.com

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Gundari FOLEGANDROS Enamoured by the rugged beauty of a little-known Greek island, first-time hotelier Ricardo Larriera enlists Block 722 to create a cliffside retreat.

Words: Emma Love • Photography: © Anna Santl (unless otherwise stated)

F

olegandros has no airport, no beach clubs and an arid, rocky landscape unchanged for centuries. Farmers occasionally ride donkeys along the deserted main

road, while some of the sandy coves can only be accessed by foot or boat. This low-key vibe and lack of development is precisely what convinced Australian former advertising director Ricardo Larriera to up sticks from Sydney and open his first hotel, Gundari, on the Greek island. “I heard about Folegandros from an old friend in 2018, then I came out and saw its beauty for myself,” he states. “Because it doesn’t have an airport or large cruise terminal, the growth of tourism is sustainable. It still very much has a Greek soul, yet Santorini is only a 50-minute ferry away.”

Larriera enlisted Athens-based architecture and interior design studio Block722 and together they began scouting for possible sites, settling on an 80-acre cliffside plot on the island’s southeast coast, marked by dry stone walls. “It’s a five-minute drive from Chora, yet no-one’s really been here – only goats. The location allowed us the opportunity to create a hotel that’s about raw luxury and seclusion,” he continues, citing Southern Ocean Lodge on Australia’s Kangaroo Island as somewhere with a similar concept. “To open a hotel, I think you need a certain level of naivety and insanity, mixed with vision. That intersection is perfect for starting a project like this.”

His brief was essentially for a subtle – and sustainable – design. “I knew that I didn’t want white boxes; the buildings needed to integrate into their surroundings,” he explains. “Now, from the ocean, you can hardly see them.”

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Chanelling rustic simplicity, the interiors are centred around a neutral palette, from marble floors to tree trunk bedside tables

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Lead architect on the project Elena Milidaki recalls

serene. At Gundari, we have used a neutral palette,

how Block722 and Larriera were aligned from the

marble floors that feel grounded and warm woods for

beginning. “We were lucky that Ricardo has the same

an interesting contrast,” explains Milidaki, listing

vision as our studio,” she explains. “He appreciates

the veneer bedhead, tree trunk bedside tables and

the Cycladic landscape, the culture and traditions, and

wardrobes as examples. Much of the furniture is

wanted to respect that. We decided on a low profile

custom-designed by Block722 and made by Athens

for the architecture, using stone excavated onsite and

company Nitsolas, while Japanese-style paper lighting

cement the colour of the earth.”

is by Akari and Parisian manufacturer Celine Wright.

Construction was set to start at the beginning of

Thoughtful touches include olive-oil-based Greek

2020, then Covid hit. Eventually, it got underway in

Olive Era bath products, and, in the top-end suites,

2022, but not before over 600 seedlings were collected

Pioneer turntables. “I’m an audiophile freak and given

from the site and taken to nurseries on neighbouring

our idea of slow living, vinyl makes sense,” explains

islands to be nurtured. These have now been replanted

Larriera, whose 200-strong record collection is stored

amongst olive and acacia trees, ornamental grasses,

in a specially designed wooden cabinet in the living

agave and herbs. Of the 25 suites – which range

room-style lobby for guests to borrow. Stoneware

from 35-70m2 of internal living space – seven are

vessels and objects by ceramicists such as Kallia

subterranean and built into the cliff, meaning they

Panopoulou and Maru Meleniou are displayed on the

are kept naturally cool from the earth above. All come

shelves above. Equally central to this space is a vintage

with solar panels and energy-efficient heat pumps,

tan leather sofa and armchairs, and the monolithic

dreamy sea views and a plunge pool. There are also

marble check-in desk carved with nature-inspired

villas, with three and four bedrooms.

symbols by multidisciplinary studio Esto Association.

Inside, the look is rustic simplicity. “In general,

As well as reception, the main building houses

our studio focuses on creating spaces that are very

the Orizon restaurant and bar, which opens onto a

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© Matha Vosdou

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bamboo-shaded terrace and 25m infinity pool.

14 additional suites and villas are slated to open

The seafood-focused menus are curated by

further down the cliff. Still to come before then

Lefteris Lazarou, chef-owner of Michelin-star

is an intimate three-seater wine bar and a

Varoulko restaurant in Athens, while the cocktail

farm-to-table dining experience.

list comes courtesy of the mixologists behind

Other hotel-arranged activities are aimed

Line, a bar specialising in fermentation. “My

at encouraging guests to get out and explore,

idea was to leverage other people’s expertise

ranging from winery visits on nearby Sikinos, to

by partnering with the best of the best who are

guided walking tours and cooking classes with

relevant to the Gundari concept,” says Larriera.

the owner of iconic restaurant Irene’s. “A lot of

To one side of the restaurant is a second

our experiences are focused on regenerating the

outdoor dining area. “The front terrace has the

island’s culture,” notes Larriera. “For instance,

vista, but later in the design process we had

Irene retired two years ago but we convinced her

the idea of a courtyard too,” says Milidaki.

to host traditional cooking classes. The idea is

“In Chora, there are many little squares and

to deliver something interesting and authentic

we wanted to create that same village feeling.

to guests that also keeps her knowledge alive.

There’s no shade so it’s meant for the evening

Similarly, Poly who runs our Chora tour is an

when the stone walls protect guests from wind

island original. It’s great that she is telling the

and they can look at the stars while eating.”

story of Folegandros and sharing its history.”

There’s also a gym with an outdoor deck,

It’s an approach that sums up the essence

where complimentary yoga takes place three

of Gundari: rooted design that leans into its

mornings a week, and a subterranean spa

environment, combined with an elevated

with two treatment rooms. The latter will be

offering that is set to put the island on the

expanded in 2026 as part of phase two, when

luxury hotel map.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Fol Resort Developer: Apax Operator: Hotel Brain Architecture and Interior Design: Block722 Graphic Design: K2 Design Lighting Design: L+DG Lighting Architects Main Contractor: Apax Project Manager: Focal Project Managers www.gundari.com

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Castelfalfi TUSCANY Having been transformed into a diffused hotel, a once abandoned village in the rolling hills of Tuscany continues to evolve.

Words: Claudia Baillie Photography: Courtesy of Castelfalfi (unless otherwise stated)

T

he concept of an Albergo Diffuso or ‘diffused hotel’ is nothing new. Devised in the 1980s by tourism consultant Giancarlo Dall’Ara, the idea was to restore

buildings across entire historic estates, transforming ancient villages and rural farm buildings into luxury accommodation for discerning travellers looking for a more immersive and authentic experience. Over the past 20 years, the model has become so successful, both as a means of generating tourism, as well as rescuing settlements from decline, that diffused hotels have sprung up across Europe and beyond, with ventures having opened in Mexico, Japan and Bhutan.

The largest concentration – more than 150 properties – remains in Italy however, and among those burgeoning enterprises is Castelfalfi, a 2,700-acre estate scattered across the undulating hills that stretch between Pisa, Florence and Siena. At the centre of this idyllic expanse is an ancient walled borgo, one of Tuscany’s most scenic hilltop villages, once owned by the Medici and inhabited since Etruscan times. It was this spellbinding spot with its 360-degree panoramic views that charmed Indonesian entrepreneur Sri Prakash Lohia, who acquired the estate in May 2021 from German tourism group TUI. Marking Lohia’s first foray into hospitality, his vision was to make Castelfalfi a destination resort with community at its heart. “For developers, these buildings offer a priceless canvas interwoven with historic detail that’s rich for storytelling, but restoration is challenging and costly,” explains General Manager Roberto Protezione. “We have to work in a way that is compliant

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© Mattia Aquila

Envisioned by Affine Design, the new suites feature handcrafted rope headboards and doors clad in intricate straw marquetry

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and respectful of the heritage of the buildings,

has resulted in amenities for both guests and

whilst also taking into account the expectations

locals. “Our community is extremely important

of modern travellers.”

and in addition to 50 residents in the borgo, we

The ambitious plan was to upgrade the estate

also have 39 business units including clothing

as quickly as possible, just one of the reasons

shops, a gelateria, a pizzeria and a grocery store.

why multiple design studios were used across

Everyone can enjoy the piazzas, the botanical

the project alongside a team of local experts.

garden, the public pool and the restaurants, as

“Significant investment was also made in the

well as the festivals we hold,” says Protezione.

agricultural estate that includes 62 acres of

At the heart of the site is the hotel itself,

vineyards and over 10,000 olive trees, none

comprising 31 rooms in Il Tabaccaia, the old

of which had been managed for many years,”

tobacco warehouse, and a further 115 rooms

continues Protezione. “With the help of our

in the main building directly opposite. Here,

Agricultural Director, Diego Mugnaini, the

two Castelfalfi Suites and two Castelfalfi Grand

focus has been on improving the infrastructure

Suites envisioned by French agency Affine

to bring the production of wine and olive oil up

Design, are the newest and most elevated

to the highest standards using renewable energy

offering. With sweeping views of the Tuscan

and organic farming principles.”

countryside, the latter can be connected to cater

Having re-opened in April 2022 under Lohia’s

for larger groups or families with the option

ownership, the estate has continued to evolve.

to accommodate staff and security too. Unique

New additions for 2024 include a theatrical

design details include headboards handcrafted

restaurant, branded spa and newly re-designed

from fine rope by French artist Véronique De

suites, marking the culmination of an extensive

Soultrait, and doors clad in intricate straw

transformation project that began in 2021 and

marquetry by Lison de Caunes, whose roster

Tura Collection

Inspired by Barcelona’s 20th century architecture and Mediterranean design, Tura bathroom collection blends voids, linear forms, geometric shapes and sustainable elements.

roca.com/tura

TURA_Master_Anunci.indd 1

30/4/24 9:40

© Alessandro Moggi

Olivina, designed by Blue Sky Hospitality, is dressed in a rich palette of regional materials, from terracotta and copper, to oak and olive

of prestigious clients includes Cartier, Hermes

and the village,” explains Claudia Tronci,

and Le Meurice. Glistening mosaics by Italian

Director of Project Development at Castelfalfi.

tile afficionados Bisazza line the bathrooms

“The emphasis was to offer contemporary living

alongside a palette of fine marble and polished

while at the same time conserving the villa’s

travertine. “When we began the renovation,

history.” A charming forest mural, custom-

Affine stood out as their vision was completely

made cabinetry and a fossilised wood washbasin

in line with ours,” says Protezione. “We wanted

hewn by a local craftsman all add to the scheme,

guests to feel at one with nature, while being

as does a feature table by Italian manufacturer

surrounded by a refined, comfortable interior.”

Laurameroni, which takes pride of place in

In the picturesque valley below, six rural

the dining room. Upstairs, the patina of the

buildings have been transformed into luxury

traditional terracotta floor has been preserved.

villas, all of which can be privately rented.

Back in the main building, the RAKxa

The newest however, just a short walk from

Wellness Spa – launched in Spring 2024 – is

the hotel, is Casa Medici. A three-bedroom

the first European outpost for the respected

property with an open-plan kitchen, dining

Thai wellness brand. Also conceived by Affine

and sitting room, a private garden and direct

Design, the elegant space features soft lighting

access to the borgo’s ancient botanical gardens,

and gently curved shapes to evoke the feeling of

it has been brought back to life by Lebanese

relaxation and flow across its seven treatment

practice Raëd Abbillama Architects. “It’s our

rooms, two saunas, steam room, relaxation area

first villa located within the hamlet and is

and salon, though the highlight is a heated,

perfect for guests who want a larger, private

granite-lined indoor/outdoor infinity pool,

living environment without being too far from

surrounded by cocoon-like relaxation areas.

the services and facilities available in the hotel

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The gastronomic offering is rich and varied,

passionately designing and delivering new build hotels rooted in culture and community

The BoTree Marylebone

@eprarchitects www.epr.co.uk

The Hoxton Shepherd’s Bush

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encompassing Italian trattoria and pizzeria Il

With two tasting menus devised by Executive

Rosmarino (originally the ‘dopolavoro’, an

Chef Davide De Simone, the aim going forward

informal restaurant, bar and meeting spot

is for Michelin-star standards. “Here, we’ve left

frequented by villagers after work), the golf

the historic space untouched – the landscape

course’s dedicated all-day dining Country

and the food will speak for themselves,” says

Clubhouse, pool bar Giglio Blu and the hotel’s

Tronci. Later in the year, a two-bedroom

Ecrù Bar & Lounge, which backs onto an outdoor

penthouse suite by Tuscan menswear designer

terrace furnished with chic pieces by Paola

Stefano Ricci will debut in the same building. A

Lenti. Most impressive is Olivina, the main

dedicated Stefano Ricci boutique will also open

hotel restaurant designed by Henry Chebaane,

in the village.

Chief Creative Officer and Managing Director

“The growth of experiential travel and the

of multidisciplinary design studio Blue Sky

luxury traveller’s desire to fully immerse

Hospitality. “The space needed to be flexible in

themselves in the local environment means

order to accommodate diners at breakfast, lunch

we’re always looking at expanding and curating

and dinner and we also wanted to maximise the

the range of activities available on the estate,”

view,” notes Tronci. “The idea was to create a

concludes Protezione. “From agricultural and

fully immersive Teatro del Gusto – a theatre of

food and wine-based pursuits to outdoor sports,

taste. Chebaane’s palette reflects the seasons

evening wilderness safaris and truffle hunting,

of the landscape with elements of terracotta,

we want to offer visitors the most authentic

copper, oak, bronze, grape and olive.”

experience of Tuscany. Our ambition is to

Brand new during Sleeper’s visit, 25-seat

continue to evolve into a destination where our

gourmet restaurant La Rocca opened in the

guests will always feel revived, renewed and

imposing medieval castle at the top of the borgo.

above all, inspired.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: SP Lohia Family Architecture: Raed Abillama Architects (Casa Medici) Interior Design: Affine Design, Caberlon Caroppi, Raёd Abillama Architects, Blue Sky Hospitality (Olivina) www.castelfalfi.com

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MEDA

DESIGN BY PETER WIRZ

@laufen_uk

Discover more at www.laufen.co.uk

Locke am Platz ZURICH Locke debuts in Switzerland with a vibrant aparthotel that nods to Zurich’s Modernist design heritage.

Words: Cara Rogers • Photography: © Kensington Leverne

P

icture a serviced apartment from years gone by and it might not have been the most stylish of abodes. It will likely have been well-equipped, with living spaces and

a kitchenette – all the practicalities required for a longer stay – but creative design was not necessarily at the forefront of the offer.

That was before the rise of the design-led aparthotel, driven in part by Edyn, developers and operators of serviced hotels and stylish long-stay accommodation across Europe.

Launched in 1997 with the aim of offering a new level of flexibility that wasn‘t yet available with the traditional hotel model, the group comprises three brands – Cove, SACO and Locke. The latter is a design-forward, community-focused brand, with 15 properties in cities including London, Berlin and Manchester – each of which blend the practicality and autonomy of aparthotels with the character of a lifestyle hotel. The brand’s latest opening is Locke am Platz, an 80key property in the Enge quarter of Zurich, known for its expansive green spaces and proximity to the city’s famed lake. “Zurich was a natural choice for Locke – not only is it a business hub, but it is a cosmopolitan city that attracts many leisure travellers,” says Sam Sheridan, Commercial Director of Edyn. “It also benefits from a fantastic gastronomic scene with several Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant nightlife, art and culture.”

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Art Deco touches bring a sense of drama to interiors at Locke am Platz, with geometric-patterned curtains featuring alongside sculptural lighting

Each Locke property is brought to life by a new creative mind – for its debut in Switzerland, the brand

while foliage scattered throughout is accompanied by abstract sculptures and Classical busts.

partnered with London-based studio Tatjana von

The design language continues in the property’s

Stein. “We had been courting since before Covid while

boudoir-inspired accommodation, which comprises

waiting for the right project to work on together,”

40 apartments and 40 hotel-style suites – a first for

von Stein reveals. “This one certainly was it, and

Locke. “True to our ethos, our decisions are led by the

it was wonderful to be able to design the full guest

local market and the destination,” reveals Sheridan.

experience from start to finish.”

“As a destination, Zurich has that duality of guests

The studio’s starting point for the design scheme

looking for longer stays, as well as those who will pass

were the brand guidelines, which centre around

through the city for a night or two while exploring

creating a sense of place. “Locke really gives designers

Switzerland and Europe. We wanted to engage short-

the freedom to propose a narrative to weave into the

stay guests in addition to our usual demographic and

property, making it unique to each location,” she

offer flexibility for travellers.”

explains. “Our main sensibility was to work with the

Inside, the eye is drawn to vivid red curtains that

existing bones of the building, try to save what we

frame the bed, brightly-coloured abstract artwork

could and bring a design narrative to life that was

scattered across the walls and a stripy red-and-white

unique to the brand, location and building.” The

pouffe perched in front of a dressing table-style

resulting interiors draw on the city’s cultural identity,

set-up. Art Deco touches bring an added layer to the

in addition to its architectural legacy. “We took time

design, from geometric-patterned curtains lining

to really observe the site’s context,” she continues.

windows, to striking sculptural lighting and curved

“Life around the lake and the architecture around it,

banquette seating that creates a cosy nook. The

which oozes indulgent elegance and grandeur, as well

guestrooms aren’t without elements of warmth, with

as the city’s Modernist heritage, which you can see in

timber accents and soft tones of yellow and orange

its art museum Pavillon Le Corbusier, the Eichbühl

breaking up the otherwise bold colour palette. Given

Cemetery and even the Helvetica typeface, which was

that many of Locke am Platz’s guests are checking

born here.”

in for longer stays, there is a lounge with a marble

Interiors are bold from the beginning, with a vibrant

table that can be used for working and dining, as well

lobby setting the scene perfectly. “We’ve created a

as a fully-equipped kitchenette, decked out in the

sense of theatre, transporting guests into a terracotta

property’s trademark red hues.

world when they first step into reception,” says the

Catering to all manner of dining preferences,

designer, referencing the sweeping curtains that cloak

the property is also home to restaurant Choupette,

the perimeter of the room, cocooning the space and

neighboured by a chic bar and lounge. A raised,

adding a touch of drama reminiscent of an old-world

carpeted lounge is guests’ entry point into the venue,

theatre. A central seating cluster breaks up the volume,

wrapped in the same terracotta curtains as the lobby.

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Here, curved sofas, low wooden tables and low-

style mural by Magdalena Julia Gordon that

hanging sculptural lights create a stylish setting

stretches across the ceiling, and a rug inspired

in which to recline with a drink. Continuing

by the residence of Italian architect Osvaldo

to take inspiration from the aesthetics of the

Borsani. As is the case across the remainder of

Modernist era, a curved, green marble-topped

the hotel, interiors are sleek and indulgent, yet

bar is wrapped in bespoke decorative timber

always playful.

panels and paired with velvet stools.

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The final word on the design comes from von

Led by Head Chef Jaco Redelinghuys,

Stein, who explains that the studio sought to

Choupette’s culinary offer draws on that of

create a narrative that would be fundamentally

a modern French brasserie, combining these

intriguing to guests, layered and multi-

traditions with Nordic touches such as preserving

faceted. “I think design is about incentivising

or pickling, and even Japanese fermenting

behaviour,” she says. “I hope to transport

techniques. Food is served in the main dining

guests into a little world where the deeper they

room, where the design takes cues from the Swiss

go, the more details they capture. I want guests

Riviera – a landscape-inspired palette of greens

to feel a desire to keep exploring.”

and yellows providing a departure from the rest

Also encouraging guests to keep exploring,

of the property. Furniture has been designed

Locke currently has a pipeline of projects that

bespoke by von Stein’s studio, while velvet

will see it continuing to expand across Europe,

finishes by Yarn Collective have been integrated

with forthcoming openings that include a

alongside accents of stainless steel, micro-

restored 17th-century convent in Lisbon, as well

cement and high-gloss paints. The restaurant

as the brand’s first outpost in France, set to give

is also accompanied by a private dining room,

guests a taste of Parisian apartment living in the

where details include a handpainted Classical-

city’s Latin Quarter.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Edyn Investor: Brookfield Architecture: Monoplan Interior Design: Tatjana von Stein Art Consultant: Cramer & Bell Procurement: Dodds & Shute Main Contractor: Glaeser Projekt Project Manager: Drees & Sommer www.lockeliving.com

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SPA DESIGN

www.barrandwray.com/spas

The Hoxton VIENNA Austria’s former Chamber of Commerce gets a Mid-Centuryinspired revamp courtesy of BWM Designers & Architects and AIME Studios.

Words: Matt Turner Photography: © Julius Hirtzberger

I

hospitality developments, you could do worse

originally designed by early 20 th-century

than look at the Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna

architect Carl Appel. Ennismore’s in-house

Workshop) of turn-of-the-century Austria.

creative team AIME Studios has worked closely

Founded by architect and designer Josef

with Austrian practice BWM Designers &

Hoffmann, painter and graphic artist Koloman

Architects to convert it into a hotel, retaining

Moser, and their entrepreneurial patron Fritz

and replicating existing elements of the austere

Waerndorfer, its cross-discipline approach

post-war building where possible.

f you were looking for an early prototype of

headquarters of the Austrian Chamber of

the creative teams that drive many modern

Commerce – a listed Modernist structure

paved the way for the Bauhaus and Art Deco movements that followed.

“We are committed to preserving the architecture of the post-war period for future

Their work has been a significant influence

generations, and we took a particularly

on The Hoxton Vienna, a striking and successful

sustainable approach with this project. We

addition to the portfolio of Ennismore’s fast-

converted the existing structure from an office

growing lifestyle brand, which has waltzed

building into a hotel without having to create a

its way into the Austrian capital’s hospitality

huge amount of additional space,” says Markus

landscape with a harmonious symphony of

Kaplan, Partner at BWM. “We were able to

architecture, interiors, branding, art, food and

create 196 guestrooms while leaving a really

fashion. Along with Ennismore stablemates

low ecological footprint.”

25hours and SO/, it’s a property that brings

Its original stone façade has been recreated

a more vibrant edge to the city’s somewhat

in Cipollino marble, with sculptural elements

conservative hotel scene.

such as the portico and entrance portals

The Hoxton Vienna is housed in the former

restored to their original state, right down to

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Food and beverage outlets explore Mid-Century era aesthetics from around the globe

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the door handles. Ditto the terrazzo flooring in the

the iconic Konzerthaus façade by local artist, Rudolf

expansive, double-height lobby, with its imposing,

Fitz, is another noteworthy piece.

fluted aluminium-clad columns and black rubber

F&B outlets and events spaces explore various

stair-rails. “Our motto has always been to expand the

aesthetics from different geographical locations in

city, meaning to understand the buildings and things

the Mid-Century era. Bouvier, tucked off to the right

that are already there rather than ignore them,” adds

of the lobby, is an all-day modern bistro brought to

Kaplan. “This project has brought the starkness and

life by Ennismore’s Carte Blanched. Its menu offers

austerity of post-war architecture to contemporary

a Manhattanite take on European classics, created

building culture. We’ve restored the façade to its

in partnership with Jeremiah Stone and Fabián von

former glory and given the top floor back its original

Hauske Valtierra, the duo behind New York’s Wildair.

clarity by removing additions from the 1980s.”

Design features include a chequerboard terrazzo floor,

For the interiors, AIME Studios has taken its

deep-red wall panelling, 1950s-inspired custom

cue from 1950s architecture, with a multi-layered

seating and retro advertising posters harking back to

approach that mixes Mid-Century Austrian design

Mad Men-era Madison Avenue. A 70-cover terrace

with rich textures, geometric shapes and bold tiling.

with fringed parasols, tiled tabletops and greenery will

In the lobby, original travertine-clad walls and lush

come into its own in spring and summer.

greenery provide an appropriate backdrop to ruby red

Subterranean speakeasy Salon Paradise is an

sofas, vintage 1950s-inspired armchairs, rugs and

underground cocktail bar influenced by the Beat

Mid-Century lighting.

Generation counterculture of the 1950s, and their

Consultants Sterling Art have curated artwork

jazz club hangouts. A vintage 1920s Hoffmann

throughout the public spaces and guestrooms. A

Konzertklavier piano takes centre stage alongside

bespoke abstract botanical piece by Austrian artist, Rini

a burl-timber bar, around which are aged leather

Spiel, hangs proudly over the lobby. An oil painting of

banquettes, textured fabrics and handwritten postcards

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dating to the Prohibition era. Carte Blanched

a new rooftop bar, outdoor terrace and pool,

worked with Rory Shepherd of Paris’ Little Red

which offer an almost 360-degree panoramic

Door for a drinks list, with libations named after

view over the city.

characters in Jack Kerouac’s seminal beatnik

The Hoxton Vienna’s event spaces also mark

novel On The Road: Sal Paradise (tangerine

a new direction for the brand. The Auditorium

sorbet, tartaric acid and Sekt sparkling wine),

is the first theatre-style venue in the portfolio.

the dessert-like Big Slim (peanut butter cognac,

Fashioned from an existing civic space, it has

banana and cream) or the Old Bull take on an

has tiered cinema-style balcony seating, striped

Old-Fashioned (white rye, white vermouth,

walls, electric blue drapes, a large and flexible

vanilla and pine).

floor space, plus its own dedicated street

Up at rooftop bar Cayo Coco, it is Cuba not

entrance and two fully-stocked bars. Hovering

Kerouac that has driven the concept, with

above the roof of the auditorium is a new,

tropical interiors of rattan furniture, bright

lightweight single-storey structure, with an

blue ceramic tiled columns and bold artworks

additional six rooms housing Hoxton’s signature

that hark back to the golden age of travel in

Apartment concept, set around an open pantry

Havana. Bar snacks such as crispy coconut

with a kitchen that can switch to a bar in the

shrimp and chicharrones offer an alternative to

evening. The design references the traditional

the schnitzel and strudel that dominate most

Viennese Gasthaus, with its geometric tiling,

Viennese menus. The rooftop has seen the

clashing patterns, warm timber panelling

building restored to its initial state as envisioned

and mohair upholstered chairs – subtle odes

by Carl Appel. An extension from the 1980s has

to the location’s traditions within a property

been removed and the original roofline from

that pushes boundaries amidst the city’s usual

the time of construction reinstated to create

hospitality offer.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: KNSA Hospitality Operator: Ennismore Architecture: BWM Designers & Architects Interior Design: AIME Studios, Carte Blanched Art Consultant: Sterling Art Landscaping: Weidlfein Main Contractor: JP Immobilien Project Manager: Turner & Townsend www.thehoxton.com

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Rosewood MUNICH A trio of European design firms team up to transform the former Bavarian State Bank into Rosewood’s first hotel in Germany.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Davide Lovatti

L

ooking out from Rosewood Munich across the redtiled rooftops of the Altstadt, the spires of several churches, including the twin towers of the landmark

Frauenkirche, come into view. They are seemingly within touching distance from the terraces of the fifth-floor Houses, Rosewood’s name for its signature suites. You can hardly be more centrally located. The 132 guestrooms may not all have such grand views, but they have a shared identity that links the grandeur of Rococo and Baroque-style façades with the comfortable modern identity the city has carved out for itself.

The owners of the hotel are Schörghuber Group, a large Munich-based family business that includes construction and real estate under the banner of Bayerische Hausbau, and a hotel division, Arabella Hospitality. Together with operator Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, they have created the first new true luxury hotel in Munich for well over a decade. Its creation is the result of the co-operation and co-ordination of the specialists involved, as Trish Luyckx, Executive Vice President of Global Design & Project Services of Rosewood explains: “We carefully selected a group of designers and artists that align with our vision and can bring it to life.

Our in-house team oversaw the project, ensuring that our concept was realised in collaboration with them.”

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Tara Bernerd & Partners’ tranquil design scheme exudes luxury through rich materials and quality craftsmanship

Local architects Hilmer Sattler Architekten Ahlers

some 120cm below street level. From here, and with

Albrecht (HSA) were appointed in 2015, well before

the lobby and guestrooms above, the bar, restaurant

the operator was known. They were dealing with the

and events spaces in the Palais are all accessible. A

amalgamation of two buildings; the façades of both

planted courtyard lies above the ballroom and provides

fall under Denkmalschutz monument protection

total tranquillity for those guestrooms overlooking it.

controls. The larger and more dominant of the two

There is tranquillity too in the interiors by Tara

is the imposing solid sandstone edifice of the former

Bernerd & Partners. “We created a cohesive sense

Bavarian State Bank, completed in 1904, where the

of soul, bringing the old and the new together,”

monumental stone staircases and stucco ceiling are

explains Bernerd of this graceful combination, where

also listed. Around the corner is the more decorative

it really is difficult to tell one from the other. The

and genteel façade of Palais Neuhaus-Preysing, a

layout of the original buildings guides the quirky

former aristocratic residence. Bomb damaged in the

arrangement of rooms giving them a residential feel

war, it was restored in the 1950s and some refurbished

“honouring the effortless chic of Munich”. There is joy

interior elements from that time are protected.

in patterns, muted and striking pops of colour, texture

Apart from these areas, the core of the hotel is

and finishes. And lots of luxury: in volumes - high

new, and HSA had some fun with its reimagination.

ceilings accentuated by arched finishes; in the quality

The high-ceilinged, wood-panelled lobby surrounds

of materials - marble everywhere with bathroom

an asymmetrical staircase leading down to the

floors like huge blocks of nougat; and in the quality

Wintergarten. Above the staircase is a deep ceiling

of craftsmanship – assured joins, smooth finishes just

recess lined with a contemporary diamond-patterned

waiting to be stroked, no snagging.

stucco – a modern interpretation of the entrance

There is also an authenticity of materiality and

ceiling. The fully glazed elevation of the Wintergarten

form, which references Rosewood’s Sense of Place

looks onto a covetable terrace, flooding the adjacent

philosophy. Elements of traditional Bavarian costume

all-day dining room with light.

are seen in the guestrooms. Loden wool upholstery

Upon the appointment of Rosewood and London-

in deep earthy greens, curtains and lampshades in

based interior designers Tara Bernerd & Partners,

grey linen, with tan leather table inserts. A blend

things really started to coalesce. “Working together

of contemporary and geometric forms and patterns

with both at an early stage really helped to develop

with gentle curves in sofas, armrests and side tables.

the room layouts so that all aspects of access and

Continuity in the shared vertical ribbed or fluted

function could be integrated,” explains Project Lead

patterning in the glass doors and pale stone wall panels

Steffen Görn. Nevertheless, the original floorplate

of bathrooms, the armoire and other furnishings. And

led to almost every room being unique and a rather

local are a host of German suppliers with Hansgrohe

complex arrangement of corridors. Or should that be

and Duravit, Nymphenburg Porcelain and Klafs saunas

characterful? After all, the buildings are old and were

amongst them. Natural tones – off whites, a very pale

not designed as modern-day hotels.

pink touch to guestroom walls accented by Wimmer

Helping with orientation is the courtyard terrace,

parquet flooring, dark wood furnishings and Jung

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The glazed Wintergarten looks onto a terrace, flooding the adjacent allday dining room with light

electric switches in a gently antiqued brass finish.

display and backlit mirror ceiling roundels create

Calming interiors. Glamorous, but never overdone.

the mood. Bar Montez also conceals a speakeasy, of

The F&B venues exude a similar glamour introduced

course, behind an unassuming door. Bottles of liquor

by Caroline Dippold, who runs her eponymously-

are secured in cages behind a bankteller’s counter with

named practice based just around the corner from the

a ‘penny floor’. It’s all red velvet and tassels, dark

hotel. “We were amongst the last consultants to be

wood panelling and cut glass.

appointed and were able to complement the subdued yet rich interiors,” she reveals.

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Brasserie Cuvilliés has a similar street-facing entrance on the opposite corner of the bank building.

Inspired by the city’s renowned jazz culture, Bar

Here, Dippold borrowed from the neighbourhood’s

Montez is dark and moody. Focus is on the colourful

old-fashioned shop entrances to deliver a subtle retail

and eye-catching stained-glass art piece crafted by

experience that leads downstairs to the restaurant.

Franz Mayer of Munich. The double-sided installation

The space picks up on many of the traditional French

of stylised jazz musicians welcomes guests at the

restaurant motifs, while an assemblage of brass, marble

separate street-level entrance and down the stairs, it

and stripes add an Art Deco touch. “Materials that will

provides the backdrop to live nightly performances.

patinate over time,” notes Dippold. Slabs of calacatta

The space is flexible with a variety of sumptuous

viola marble line the front of the open kitchen, to

furnishings, intimate spaces and different seating

one side of which is a narrow return cleverly utilised

heights. It can also be configured to reveal a dance

for intimate counter seating. Around the columns of

floor. Eclectic lighting solutions were evolved in

this semi-basement space, a variety of banquettes are

collaboration with Joern Siebke of Studio Lux Berlin,

arranged. Here too is a private dining room with a

formerly with tonychistudio, a long-time collaborator

cooking station and its own separate unmarked street

of Rosewood. A large, multi-piece chandelier, subtle

entrance. The majority of furnishings are custom-

curves of light on the bar counter, a warming bottle

designed and crafted in Germany, accompanied by

select pieces from European manufacturers,

with a sauna, spacious Technogym fitness area

such as lighting by Chelsom.

and a private entrance for members. Both have

At the heart of the restaurant stands a sizeable

timeless, arch-led interiors by Tara Bernerd

ceramic sculpture featuring playful Bavarian

& Partners and lighting by Studio Lux Berlin.

motifs. Created by Nymphenburg Porcelain

Their lighting of the columnar architecture

Manufactory, it is just one of many locally

surrounding the subterranean hydro-pool is

commissioned artworks that sit alongside

a subtle but decisive intervention. “Here we

pieces from the Schörghuber family’s personal

have created the impression of volume,” notes

collection. London-based art consultants Double

Siebke, of the calm and enveloping atmosphere,

Decker curated these across a wide variety

– “a real synthesis of light and space”.

of mediums – the glass wall in Bar Montez,

The realisation of such a project sees plaudits

photography and textiles. Monochromatic,

for both operator and owner. Of Rosewood,

colourful, abstract, refined - they all tell stories

Görn comments with regard to the historic and

of past and present. “We looked at the opulence

newbuild arrangement, stating the fortuity of

of the building, the neighbourhood, the city and

having “a bespoke solution that allowed no real

Bavaria to tell a united narrative that connects

limit to the way in which the old structure could

guests to their immediate surroundings and

be used”. And from Bernerd: “Schörghuber

creates lasting memories,” explains co-founder

Group were tremendous to work with, looking

Melita Skamnaki.

to create seductive interiors with an intelligent

Other amenities include extensive events

use of budgets.”

spaces such as the beautifully ornate and

The result is a new level of luxury hospitality

protected entertaining rooms of the Palais. Below

for the city, showcasing the combined and

the courtyards is the Asaya spa, an urban retreat

coherent efforts of all parties involved.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Schörghuber Group Operator: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Architecture: Hilmer Sattler Architekten Ahlers Albrecht Interior Design: Tara Bernerd & Partners, Dippold Innenarchitektur (F&B) Art Consultant: Double Decker Lighting Design: Studio Lux Berlin www.rosewoodhotels.com

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FURNITURE | OUTDOOR | LIGHTING | ACCESSORIES

EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATIVE IN UK & EUROPE palecek.com | paolomoschino.com

Six Senses La Sagesse GRENADA Six Senses makes its Caribbean debut with a sustainably-minded resort inspired by the island’s landscape and culture.

Words: Lauren Jade Hill Photography: © John Athimaritis

W

hen Six Senses La Sagesse welcomed its

bay inspired us to repurpose materials such

first guests this spring, the milestone

as natural stone, integrating them into the

property for this sustainability- and

resort’s winding walkways for example, and we

wellness-focused brand became the first resort

incorporated native trees like white cedar, rock

of its kind on the rugged coastline of Grenada’s

fig and bluggoe banana into the landscaping,”

verdant southeast. Set away from the main

he continues. “As our landscape flourishes, we

activity of the island’s tourism scene, the

envision a resilient biosphere coexisting with

new retreat sits above a secluded cove across

the changing seasons.”

the Atlantic-facing clifftops of the Caribbean nation’s rural Saint David’s parish.

In this verdant setting, just 56 pool suites and 15 standalone villas stagger the hillside,

This offbeat setting is key to the overall resort

perched on the coastline’s clifftop and facing

experience, for which Simeon Halstead led the

the wild silver-sand shores. Amongst the

architectural design, while Range Developments

resort’s accommodation offering are five

saw its realisation. Bleu Design Consultants

expansive four-bedroom retreats, which afford

meanwhile took on the interiors, with Intramuro

270-degree views from their position on a bluff.

delivering the concept on-site. In each area of the design, tribute is paid to the location.

In each direction, the hillside leads down to a village-like cluster of common areas at beach

“We set out on a mission to ensure that

level, with the panoramic spa set away on the

our resort seamlessly blends with the natural

edge of a lagoon. Landscaped gardens feature

landscape, harmonising with the surrounding

throughout the site, sandwiched between the

vegetation of La Sagesse Bay,” explains the

Atlantic Ocean and verdant mountains.

hotel’s General Manager, Thomas Fehlbier.

An ocean-facing pool and the all-day-dining

“The innate tranquillity and purity of this

restaurant Callaloo are the heart of the resort,

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Interiors feature artwork by Grenadian artists, infusing the resort with colours, textures and motifs that reflect island culture

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with a boutique, library, Earth Lab, poolside

wildlife. We really take pride in prioritising the

Scoop Café, watersports centre and Alchemy Bar

conservation of local ecology.”

making up the rest of the complex. Maintaining

This connection with the environment is

the connection to Grenada’s Spice Island

further enhanced by the integration of cultural

heritage, natural pathways meander through

influences into the design scheme. In fact, the

the gardens around the central wildlife-rich

island is home to talented craftspeople who

lagoon to the separate spa building and further

use everything from coconut leaves to dried

along to the secluded beachside signature

calabashes to make unique creations, some of

eatery, SeaFire.

which are displayed in the hotel. “Incorporating

The structures that make up the low-rise

Grenada’s Caribbean identity into the resort’s

Caribbean village-like resort are contemporary

interior design was a thoughtful process. We

yet understated, reflecting the architectural

brought in the artwork of local artists to infuse

style of the region. The use of natural and

each space with colours, textures and motifs

repurposed materials was integral to the

that reflect the island’s cultural heritage.”

project’s sustainable approach, which also saw

In the hillside pool suite, Caribbean

the development of the natural lagoon that is

and coastal inspiration is presented in a

connected to the sea.

contemporary context. Dark wood and woven

“Measures were taken during the resort’s

rattan furnishings meet white shutters and a

development to deepen the water body, allowing

blue and white colour scheme in the fabrics and

small marine animals to enter and creating a

soft furnishings, while local artwork depicting

safe environment for them,” explains Fehlbier.

coastal scenes decorates the walls. In each

“The lagoon now naturally ebbs and flows with

accomodation type, floor-to-ceiling windows

the tides, providing a haven for the marine and

draw in the panoramic views, while terraces

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with private pools provide a secluded outdoor space for taking it all in.

More vibrant spice-inspired Caribbean colours

lagoon. While the upper level houses fitness

are brought into the resort’s common areas,

facilities, including a state-of-the-art gym,

from paprika cushions to turmeric-toned tiling.

studio and yoga pavilion, the lower floor

The high-ceilinged main restaurant Callaloo is a

comprises the spa’s treatment rooms, hammam,

light-filled, open space pairing white walls with

biohacking suite and relaxation area. On the

dark wood tables, banquette and wicker-backed

outdoor deck, hot, cold and therapy pools are

seating with emerald cushions. A dark-green

joined by a sauna.

tiled bar surrounding the open kitchen and palm

Set apart on its own stretch of coast, signature

print feature wall are then complemented by

restaurant SeaFire is characterised by the same,

thoughtfully placed ocean-inspired ornaments,

natural, pared-back aesthetic. With much of the

basketry and tropical greenery.

focus placed on the open wood-fire grill and

Callaloo spills out to the terrace of the poolside Panquai Breeze Bar, where pops of yellow, red

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Providing the most serene setting, the Six Senses Spa spans two floors overlooking the

raw bar, the venue is backed by the views over the sea that all tables face onto.

and turquoise feature through cushions, bar

Despite the sophisticated yet organic resort

stools and a patterned ceiling above the open-

that has been created, it’s perhaps unsurprising

sided bar. Dark wood, white walls, plantlife

that it’s still the surrounding land and sea that

and natural materials such as bamboo define

captivates guests of Six Senses La Sagesse

the other interiors, from the boutique to the

the most. As Fehlbier concludes: “Since our

Alchemy Bar, with the beamed library standing

opening, our guests have consistently marvelled

out for its patterned floor tiling and sculptural

at the vast scale of the resort and its unmatched

light fittings.

views over the bay, lagoon and ocean.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Range Developments Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: Simeon Halstead + Associates Interior Design: Bleu Design Consultants, Main Contractor: Intramuro www.sixsenses.com

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Studio Frantzén Harrods | Joyn Studio | Jaysam Contractors

bespoke stone fabrication for over 50 years #stoneexperts #bringingstonetolife

www.stone-circle.com

t’Huys Suites De L’Europe AMSTERDAM

T

o keep the spirit of De L’Europe alive during Covid-enforced closures, Amsterdam’s grande dame invited creative friends to move in and use its suites as a home and work space, something

of a temporary artist-in-residence programme. So when restrictions were lifted and life resumed, it seemed a natural progression to invite designers back to create a permanent expression of their work in the form of a hotel suite.

Local brands take up permanent residence at De L’Europe, bringing their individual style from the worlds of art, film, fashion and design.

Occupying an entire wing of the hotel, the collection of 16 suites has now been unveiled under the name ‘t Huys, an old spelling of the Dutch word ‘het huis’ which translates to ‘house’. Each suite not only showcases its namesake’s work and personality, but also immerses guests in their world of art, film, design or fashion, providing access not only to the designers’ own selection of jewellery, movies, haute couture and more

Words: Nicola Leigh Stewart • Photography: © James Stokes

during their stays, but also exclusive experiences such as private visits to ateliers. To complement the suites, a new ground-floor concept store stocks design pieces from the creatives involved, and is open to the public to give all travellers the chance to connect with the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

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SISTERS JANSSEN SUITE Bold femininity underpins the concept of the suite by Tisjia and Ziarah Janssen – Curaçao-born sisters now living in Amsterdam.

The siblings have designed a space that brings their creative world to life, and with Grace Jones as their muse, also embraces a norules approach to expressing femininity. Inspired by photographs of Jones’ fearless fashion choices – one of the singer wearing a purple headdress and in the other, a barely there ensemble of orange-red coils – the sisters have split their suite into two monochromatic areas: an all-purple entrance dubbed The Witches Foyer and a bold red bedroom named The Womb. The latter has been designed to cocoon and embrace with plush carpet, tactile materials and of course, its bright red hue. Like many of the suites, The Womb also has a hybrid function, although in the Sisters Janssen world the idea isn’t to work; instead a huge raised bed finished with a velvet border is intended for daytime lounging, as well as nighttime slumber. Furnishings and accessories are a mix of lucky vintage finds such as the bedside lamps and curved mesh armchair, and bespoke pieces by Tisjia and Ziarah’s parents. Look out for shelves set around pouting purple lips from their furniture designer father, a collection of ceramic female nudes by their artist mother, and from Ziarah, a large mural that takes pride of place above the bed in a full-on celebration of the female form.

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UPHOLSTERED CUSHIONS FOR THE BEST OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Discover more at www.agorafabrics.com & www.aerobucushion.com

RONALD VAN DER KEMP SUITE ‘Hotel design but make it fashion’ could be a summary of Ronald van der Kemp’s stylish suite. The man behind RVDK, the world’s first sustainable couture label, was invited to create his own permanent suite after living in the very same space during Covid. The minimalist white walls are a contrast to van der Kemp’s signature designs, offering the ideal blank canvas to showcase the highly colourful designs. Case in point, the couture floral maxi-dress that hangs in the suite’s entrance, which was designed for the hotel’s 125th anniversary. In the bedroom, van der Kemp has put an ultra-modern spin on the traditional four-poster bed with a curtain of white fringing surrounding each side, and up above is a bespoke RVDK artwork to lie back and admire. Next door, van der Kemp has turned the room that he himself used as a workspace into a creative yet high-powered Devil Wears Pradastyle studio. Lining the walls are hundreds of glossy magazine clippings of RVDK on the pages of Vogue, Elle and more, which together act as a giant Ronald van der Kemp mood board. The only piece of furniture is a large glossy white table, accessorised with a rail of RVDK haute couture, which guests can borrow during their stay. Other perks of the suite are a kimono designed by van der Kemp and personalised with guests’ initials, and access to the designer’s studio, normally closed to the public.

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SNOWSKY The most beautiful way to gently cool down.

indoor.technoalpin.com

VAN GOGH MUSEUM SUITE Perhaps the most sensitive project, and certainly the most intense according to De L’Europe, was creating the Van Gogh suite as part of an exclusive partnership with Amsterdam’s iconic Van Gogh Museum.

What could have easily become a clichéd pastiche of a man whose face and work is known the world over, instead is an elegant space that pays homage to the Dutch Post-Impressionist’s enduring legacy.

Van Gogh’s natural subjects have informed the soft colour palette; think shades of mustard, rust and lilac grey, referencing his sunsoaked haystacks in Provence, or perhaps his famed sunflowers. In the bedroom, a blossoming bedspread combines all of Van Gogh’s florals in one bouquet, whilst in the salon, a desk takes its shade from The Yellow House painting that hangs in the museum. Yet, the design goes further than simply replicating colour palettes. After looking through the archives of Van Gogh’s personal letters and paintings, the museum curated a selection of special editions that are now on display in the suite, as though owned by a collector. Not only can guests view sketches and a letter to Van Gogh’s beloved brother, but they can also choose one of three masterpieces to be hung in the suite. To create further sensory immersion into the artist’s world, imagery is projected onto the ceiling above the bed, a sound system plays music inspired by Van Gogh, and in the bathroom, fragrances are inspired by what were believed to be his favourite flowers – almond blossom and sunflowers.

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THE CADOGAN, A BELMOND HOTEL

SCAN ME! At BECK, our comprehensive range of in-house services take a project from blueprint to a luxurious finish.

To discover more, please contact Vanessa Budd: vbudd@beckinteriors.com

BIBI VAN DER VELDEN SUITE While Bibi van der Velden currently calls Portugal home, the Dutch jewellery designer wanted to create an Amsterdam pied-à-terre near her studio, where she could gather friends and family. As with her jewellery and ceramic collections, which draw inspiration from the natural world, van der Velden took design cues from nature to create a soothing and organic space with views of the Amstel river. Sage walls, green velvet cushions and emerald glass vases reference the jewellery designer’s favourite stone – malachite – a large chunk of which has been placed in the suite as a striking accessory.

Unsurprisingly, as a jeweller accustomed to working with her hands, van der Velden has favoured tactile materials throughout, from the fabric and timber headboard in the bedroom to the rich velour sofas and plush rugs in the salon. Even the all-vintage collection of furnishings, carefully curated by the designer, has a tactile feel with a mix of woods and matte and gloss finishes. To add a pop of colour to the subdued palette, Dirk van der Kooij’s iconic Meltingpot table sits in the dining area, surrounded by dining chairs upholstered in coral fabric. van der Velden has used various natural forms as decorative objects, from large slices of gemstones to vases of dried flowers and branches. The standout piece is a largerthan-life oversized necklace hanging on the wall, crafted from shells and a variety of coral to represent different elements of the sea.

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DESIGN DETAILS

LODGES & CABINS

The Rounds An increased desire to be amongst nature has resulted in a number of hotels expanding their offer, immersing guests in the great outdoors through new accommodation concepts nestled in the wilderness. With this in mind, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge – a boutique hotel in Hunter, New York – has opened a collection of cabins within its grounds; aptly named The Rounds, they have been designed by Post Company to harmonise with their surroundings.

“In 2016, we led the design, interior design and branding transformation of Scribner’s Catskill Lodge. We reshaped the hotel’s structure and style into a contemporary hideaway that honours the retreat’s eccentric personality,” says Jou-Yie Chou, Partner at Post Company. “For The Rounds, we wanted to create a new residential-inspired experience for guests.”

With an exterior clad in cedar shingles, the cabins take cues from the region’s small dwellings, in an architectural style typical of the Catskill Mountains. Scandinavian-style cabins and the Alpine huts of Chamonix also provided inspiration.

Each of The Rounds features 12 sides and a vaulted ceiling, joined together at the apex by an oculus skylight – a form that presented challenges for the design team. “Not having any standard 90-degree corners in these structures was certainly unique for us,” continues Chou. “The multiple facets and circular symmetry guided the programmatic language and locations – from the centralised seating area below the skylight, to the desk, bathroom layout, sleeping alcoves and built-in window seating. Each quadrant of the dodecagon was purposefully considered.”

Interiors have been crafted to foster a connection to the outdoors, with natural materials and a neutral-toned colour palette accompanying bleached pine flooring laid to accentuate the dodecagon shape. Completing the experience is a private deck with outdoor shower or Japanese soaking tub, where guests can bathe amongst the beauty of nature. © Moriah Wolfe

DESIGN DETAILS

LODGES & CABINS

Madwaleni River Lodge

Design rooted in the locale can connect guests to their

echo the organic nature of its surroundings. In creating

surroundings in an authentic way, integrating cultural

the boma, Luxury Frontiers tapped into the skillset

traditions and native craftsmanship into the guest

of the local community, collaborating with artisans

experience for a unique sense of place. This approach

to weave recycled timber around a steel framework

has informed the development of a new gathering space

– eradicating the invasive black wattle plant species

at Madwaleni River Lodge, a tented camp nestled in

in the process. As basket weaving is essential to the

the wilds of South Africa’s Babanango Game Reserve.

preservation of Zulu cultural identity, the structure

Known as a boma – historically used as a livestock

is also designed to decay over time, meaning it can

enclosure in Eastern and Southern Africa – the structure

be rewoven in a cyclical process. Inside, candle-lit

has been envisioned by Luxury Frontiers to bring guests

dining tables surround a central firepit, creating an

together amidst nature. Situated away from the main

atmospheric setting for a culinary feast. Further to

accomodation, the concept reflects the rich cultural

being a meeting place for guests, the boma also serves

tapestry of the reserve, its circular form inspired by the

to uplift the local community through the provision of

traditional Zulu beehive hut, with curving walls that

jobs, all the while celebrating African craftsmanship.

Hilton Park Lane

Lab to Lobby TFE Hotels trials a hospitality concept that operates in beta mode, resulting in a stay that constantly evolves in response to guest feedback.

Words: Eleanor Howard • Photography: © Silke Briel (unless otherwise stated)

M

odular furniture, app-operated doors

of the brand manifesto, with variations ranging

and a self-serve bar – these are just

from design and storage solutions to room flow and

a few of the experimental ideas being

bathroom styles, yet all designed using materials

trialled at MM:NT, a mini-hotel

within the re-use, return or recycle phase. MM:NT

laboratory in Berlin that will operate

operates with a self-serve model, providing easy-

in an ongoing beta mode, constantly

to-use in-room digital functions controlled via a

evolving in response to guest feedback.

concierge web-based mobile app. For example, tech-

The concept is developed by Adina Hotels – an

savvy guests can check-in, check-out, open doors,

aparthotel operator owned by Sydney-based TFE Hotels

access shared amenities and communicate with staff

– together with design strategist Philippa Wagner

all from their smartphones.

and German hardware systems and furniture fittings

“MM:NT Berlin Lab exists to test market reactions

manufacturer Häfele. Located in Berlin’s Hackescher

to new ideas and innovations,” explains Asli Kutlucan,

Markt, the compact aparthotel is currently conducting

CEO at Adina Europe. “Our theory is that there is a

a two-month experiment whereby guests stay for free

cohort of Gen Z and Millennial travellers in particular

in exchange for real-time qualitative feedback on the

who are open to new ways of interacting with hotel

design, public spaces and overall experience. With

services. We’re therefore using MM:NT Berlin Lab to

an agile learning process, the innovative approach

explore various hotel interfaces to see how we can

to development will allow TFE to adapt and refine

adapt to changing behaviours and demands. Berlin is

the hotel experience to meet customer needs and

the ideal location for our beta hotel as it attracts the

desires, as well as emerging trends. It will also assist

culturally curious and is a mecca for change-makers

the operator in bringing new brands and hospitality

and creative minds.”

experiences to market faster and more efficiently than a traditional hotel build.

SETTING STANDARDS

The trial sees guests recruited via social media test

Such an out-of-the-box concept begs the question

out six distinct rooms, each a different interpretation

– where to begin? Wagner and the TFE team first set

© Lars Bronseth

“MM:NT exists to test market reactions to new ideas and innovations. We’re therefore using the lab to explore various hotel interfaces to see how we can adapt to changing behaviours and demands.”

ASLI KUTLUCAN

out to develop a design brief that captured their

from recycled materials by Smile Plastics. It is

are divided into three categories: Little, Middle

desire to maximise space without sacrificing

here where guests will first interact with the

and Big, each offering comfort and convenience

experience, whilst also ensuring every aspect

lab’s unique self-serve model in the form of

in equal measure, with minimalist interiors that

comes with consideration and purpose – for

The Hub – built-in lockers and shelves where

focus on textured materials. “We want to let

both people and planet. They also specified that

groceries, laundry and meals can be delivered.

the textures speak for themselves and create a

the interiors should be flexible, with spaces that

The Häfele-built structure also contains

soothing atmosphere for the rooms,” explains

can adapt as and when required.

complimentary extras such as toasters, pillows,

Wagner. “That way, there’s no need for any

The concept is further built on four distinct

board games and salt and pepper, as well as

accessories, which keeps FF&E costs down – a

design pillars: seamless interaction between

paid-for upgrades such as hair straighteners,

saving we can pass on to guests.”

digital and shared spaces; intuitive and

a steamer, yoga mat and further kitchen

Designed by Acme, the largest guestroom

efficient service, supported by enhanced

equipment, which are available upon request

comprises a compact kitchenette complete

design touchpoints and layout; standardised

through the web app. “Within a 350-key

with a Foresso worktop made from recycled

guestrooms to ensure brand consistency, along

aparthotel, there could be a toaster in every

woodchip, and an open-plan living and dining

with public spaces that are unique to each

room, but probably only 20-30% of guests use

area accompanied by a birch veneer table. Walls

location; and warm and welcoming interiors

it,” notes Wagner. “Yet every time someone

and flooring are lined with recycled sage green

that soften the lab’s digital backdrop.

stays in the room, it has to be cleaned, it will

glass tiles, which then transition to bamboo,

These pillars were presented to lead interior

need to be serviced, which adds to costs. Our

signifying a designated area for sleep and

designer Acme – responsible for envisioning four

logic is that guests can have it for free, they just

another for recreation. Acme has also utilised

of the guestrooms and communal areas – and

have to request to borrow it via the app as and

Häfele’s smart systems and lighting control,

to Viennese firm BWM Designers & Architects

when it’s needed.” The system helps to reduce

with three settings: vitality, social and relax.

and Häfele, who conceived the remaining two

consumption, the number of staff required for

Based on a traditional 19 th-century Dutch

guestrooms. MM:NT also enlisted London- and

administrative tasks and the cleaning of unused

design, the closet-bed is crowned by a Davide

Hong Kong-based creative practice HATO to

items, enabling increased focus on delivering a

Groppi moon-shaped light suspended above.

conceptualise the lab’s branding, visual identity

great guest experience.

There’s also an extra fold-down bed for family

and low-impact website.

SOCIAL SPACES

The self-serve journey continues at The

use; modular and flexible furniture throughout

Counter, a multi-purpose bar clad in eco-

allows the space to transform for various

friendly tiles from Smile Plastics. By day, it

functions, from co-working to dining.

The beating heart of the lab is the Lounge, a

functions as a café offering self-pour coffee and

“Calm, uncluttered spaces are essential to

public-facing lobby kitted out by Acme with

sandwiches, before morphing into a bar after

the MM:NT Berlin Lab experience. Modular

plantlife, vintage pieces and recycled furniture,

5pm serving locally-sourced natural wine and

construction and using natural and recycled

in line with MM:NT’s conscious hospitality

pilsner. An adjacent co-working area features a

materials were essential to creating this,” says

ethos. Offering opportunities for guests to

bespoke table also by Smile Plastics, surrounded

Friedrich Ludewig, Director of Acme. “Compact

both relax and socialise, the sprawling space is

by Snøhetta chairs manufactured using recycled

rooms with smart storage solutions and built-

divided into various set-ups.

ocean plastic in collaboration with Nordic

in features to make the most of the available

Comfort Products.

square metre.”

upholstered with recycled polyester fabric by

BETA BEDROOMS

small-packages adage, the two Little rooms,

Vescom, a vintage tapestry rug in shades of

In the spirit of simplicity and transparency –

also envisioned by Acme, feature the essentials

pinks, purples and reds, and a small table made

two of MM:NT’s brand pillars – the guestrooms

with modular storage to make the most of the

Upon entry, guests are greeted by The Snug, a cosy corner featuring an olive green sofa

Befitting of the good-things-come-in-

117

118

compact space. The interiors follow a similar

its larger and smaller counterparts, BWM

our commitment to innovative design solutions

design scheme, with bathrooms adorned in

envisioned an alternative interpretation of the

that prioritise both form and function. With its

either vibrant terracotta or sage green tiles with

19m2 room category, with a modular design

transformative features and sustainable ethos,

recycled polyester drapes acting as partitioners.

brought to life through pull out seating and

00:02 sets a new standard in contemporary

Despite having the most compact floorplates at

foldable wall panels that double as a desk. The

living experiences.”

11-14m2, the Little rooms feature the largest

compact kitchenette is complete with a Foresso

The remaining Room 00.03 was created

vanities and beds from Swissfeel or Auping,

recycled worktop, and drawers and cupboards

by Häfele to showcase furniture and digital

alongside recycled post-industrial plastic waste

that are controlled by Häfele locks that can be

technologies designed to personalise the guest

sinks from Durat and rainshowers. Guests in

opened through the concierge app.

experience and enhance operational efficiency.

these rooms also have access to the Little

Following Acme’s lead, the Viennese firm

Lounge, fitted with a streamline breakfast bar

opted for a similar sage, beige and wood scheme

QUALITATIVE QUESTIONS

countertop suitable for eating or working, as

to create a welcoming and calming atmosphere.

At the time of Sleeper’s visit, MM:NT Berlin

well as a selection of artworks by Berlin-based

Ambient lighting fixtures from Nemo Lighting,

was midway through its two-month trial

artists rented from agency Artiq.

such as the Lampe De Marseille wall lamp and

period, welcoming guests for one, two or three-

“We made rich shared spaces possible by

Flos Bellhop LED table lamps, cast a gentle

night stays. As the lab enters the next stage

re-thinking typical apartment hotel layouts,”

glow, while soft furnishings add a touch of

of the experiment, the MM:NT team will begin

explains Ludewig. “For example, instead of

comfort and Mid-Century style, with the Hay

analysing guests’ qualitative feedback from

each guestroom having its own small table

Rey chairs upholstered in Kvadrat Steelcut Trio

videos and surveys input through the app and

and chair, we created compact bedrooms and

416 and a black Normann Copenhagen stool

adjust the concept accordingly. With the hotel

a shared lounge, a social space for coworking,

complemented by a pale pink carpet.

opening for official bookings in Summer 2024,

and somewhere to enjoy a drink or bite to eat.”

Reflecting on BWM’s interpretation of the

the lab will continue to operate in beta mode,

While Acme’s Middle Room takes signature

brief, Partner Erich Bernard comments: “Room

with future guests continuing to help shape the

elements such as tiling and furniture from

00:02 is not just a space; it’s a testament to

spaces and services on offer.

QN-ALFORD-PLACE-6P-MB Quintiesse Collection

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR LIGHTING | CEILING FANS enquiries@elsteadlighting.com | elsteadlighting.com

Elstead_Sleeper_FP_July 2024.indd 1

17/06/2024 09:56:22

The Fairfield Feeling As Fairfield by Marriott makes its debut in Europe, those behind the landmark opening reveal the process of creating a prototype.

Words: Cara Rogers • Photography: © Cathrine Stukhard

I

n 1950s Virginia, John Willard and Alice Marriott purchased Fairfield Farm, a country retreat that embodied a peaceful, simple way of life. As the story goes, the pair hosted family and friends, business associates and dignitaries, with each stay centred around comfort and community. Fast-forward a few years, and it was this

spirit that led to the opening of the first Fairfield by Marriott in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1987. Three decades on, the uppermidscale brand has expanded to a collection of almost 1,300 hotels across the globe, making it the second-largest in the Marriott International portfolio. While the vast majority find home in North America, recent expansion has seen new outposts land in Asia, Central and South America, and though Europe had long been on the radar, the group was yet to find the right spot for the brand – until now. In April 2024, Fairfield made its debut in Europe, with the landmark opening of Fairfield by Marriott Copenhagen Nordhavn.

THE ESSENCE OF FAIRFIELD “The essence of Fairfield is to deliver a beautifully simple stay, grounded in warm hospitality,” says Mary Garris, Global Vice President of Classic Select Brands at Marriott International, speaking at a press conference on the eve of the hotel’s launch party. This essence centres around comfort and simplicity, with additional amenities limited to the essentials – a full-service restaurant, for instance,

121

“We moulded the brand so that it doesn’t feel like an American brand entering Denmark. It was very important that we took Fairfield and its family heritage and made it Danish.”

SANNE FÆRGSTED, CORE HOSPITALITY

is notably absent at the Copenhagen outpost.

open in Thailand and the Dominican Republic.”

blossoming hub for independents and creatives,

It’s a tried-and-tested formula that caters to

The brand is also set to make its debut in the

with new shops and restaurants continuing to

the typical Fairfield guest, many of whom are

Middle East, with the first opening in Saudi

sprout. Sanne Færgsted, Director of Operations

business travellers seeking a quality yet fuss-

Arabia scheduled for 2027.

at Core Hospitality, which manages the

For now, though, the focus is on making its

property, explains: “Nordhavn is a new area

“We know that the modern business traveller

mark in Europe. “Within the EMEA market, the

in Copenhagen, but we saw an established

often wants to maintain their routine when

upper midscale sector has some of the biggest

atmosphere, so we work to connect with the

they’re travelling and have all the services

growth opportunities,” says Piotr Stempkowski,

local community.”

they could need – an uncomplicated hotel

Senior Director of Select Brands in the region for

A connection to the locale has been an

experience,” continues Garris. “Oftentimes, I

Marriott International, explaining why Europe

important part of bringing Fairfield to Europe,

prefer to stay at a Fairfield when I’m travelling

makes for an appealing prospect. “We kept

according to the team behind the expansion.

for business because I want to be in and out,

hearing from the development team, owners and

“We moulded the brand so that it doesn’t feel

without all the fuss that I may get at a premium

franchisees that there were great opportunities

like an American brand entering Denmark,”

or luxury hotel. The Select tier of hotels and

in the region for a brand like Fairfield.”

Færgsted reveals. “It was very important that

free stay.

specifically the experience that we have

Having scouted various locations for

we took Fairfield and its family heritage and

designed for Fairfield speaks very much to the

Fairfield’s long-anticipated debut on the

made it Danish. So we transformed its values in

guest who’s looking for that.”

continent, the development team eventually

line with the Danish way of doing things – for

The brand sits within Marriott’s Select tier

landed on Copenhagen. “It’s one of those

example bringing in a sense of hygge by lighting

alongside the likes of Moxy and AC Hotels;

cities with its own identity. It has an amazing

candles in the evenings to create that feeling

described as a gateway brand, it’s often a

reputation across the key source markets within

of cosiness. We also don’t have a restaurant,

guest’s first experience of the group portfolio,

Europe, and is a destination that resonates with

because we want people to go out and support

with evidence showing that travellers later

US travellers,” notes Stempkowski. “We’ve also

local businesses – to be part of the area.”

progress to higher tiers for more luxury stays.

been successful in bringing our other lifestyle

As such, Garris emphasises, “it’s important to

brands here already,” he continues, referencing

CREATING A BLUEPRINT

make the right impression”.

AC Hotel Bella Sky Copenhagen and the 2019

Introducing the brand to an entirely new corner

opening of Moxy.

of the globe brought about a host of unique

DANISH DEBUT

While a city-centre site may have been an

design considerations. Marriott’s approach to

With the brand firmly established in the Americas

obvious choice for a brand debut, Marriott

creating a new regional blueprint begins with

and Asia, expansion to Europe beckoned. “We

has been savvy in selecting a developing

its signature “modern, calm décor, which is

have a pipeline of over 400 hotels, and we

district. Nordhavn is a former industrial port

an aesthetic that is timeless and classic,” says

are continuing to expand around the world,”

currently undergoing transformation to create

Garris. “Then we ask how we can adapt it for

reveals Garris. “Last year we opened properties

a waterfront destination, complete with a

the location. We always start with that same

in Cambodia, Puerto Rico and the Philippines,

recent metro extension, cruise dock and

foundation, then bring it to life based on what

and in the coming years we’ll see properties

Denmark’s largest marina nearby. It is also a

makes that region what it is, and what the

123

“The prototype has been designed to fit anywhere in Europe, with the option of localisation.”

KATE MOONEY, OCCA

To bring its European debut to life, Marriott teamed up with Occa, tasking the studio with creating a prototype for Fairfield properties across the continent

124

market demands in terms of aesthetics.” Garris

and facilities programming – considering what

references Japan as an example of how Fairfield

a European Fairfield needs in terms of room

caters to the local market. “We have over 30

numbers, type of rooms, public areas and back-

hotels in Japan and most of them are located

of-house. Our prototypes aren’t just about the

next to a Michi-no-Eki – roadside stations

aesthetics, they take in the overall operational

that bring to life the individual regions through

picture, too.”

cuisine and cultural elements. We drew on these

Creating a blueprint that can be implemented

elements to create hotels that are based on the

across the region whilst still maintaining a

materiality of the destination.”

sense of the locale presented an additional

For its European debut, Marriott teamed up

set of difficulties. “One of the challenges of

with Occa, tasking the studio with developing

creating a prototype for Europe is that we are

a prototype for Fairfield properties across the

a continent of 44 countries, it’s a very diverse

continent. Getting to grips with the hallmarks

territory,” she notes. “The approach we

of the Fairfield brand was an important element

took was to bring a little of everything, from

of the design process, as Kate Mooney, the

Northern European Scandic design heritage

studio’s founder, explains: “Back in February

and furniture influences, to warm, Southern

2022, the global design team from the US came

European hospitality. Everything that we

over to our studios in the UK for a full week’s

incorporated – every colour, every texture,

immersion into the brand, unpacking what it

every piece of furniture – celebrates that diverse

stands for, its heritage and history,” she says.

mix of cultures and their distinct approaches

“Then we looked at how to apply the brand

to hospitality. The prototype has been designed

pillars, and what that means in a European

to fit anywhere in Europe, with the option of

setting. We started working on initial concepts

localisation.”

LSE LIGHTING

roduced from recycled plastic bottles collected from the ocean

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DESIGNING FOR DENMARK

many of which are actually by German or Italian

The result is a property that is distinctly Danish,

designers, and manufactured in Slovakia or

with Occa partnering with Mette Fredskild

Poland,” she adds. “So while there’s a Danish

Studio and architects Henning Larsen to

design heritage, there’s a European influence as

attain further local insight. Drawing on the

well.” Southern European traditions meanwhile

Scandinavian aesthetic, the design team has

manifest in the hotel’s social kitchen, a large,

opted for colour palettes and materials found

open-plan space that is the site of a relaxed

in nature; both public spaces and guestrooms

breakfast buffet in the mornings.

embody a sense of calm, manifested through

Subtle references to the flora and fauna of

soft blue and green tones paired with wooden

Europe are also found across the property,

accents and organic forms. “Coming out of

for instance in photography that alludes to

Covid, people were just tentatively starting to

the continent’s landscapes. These elements,

visit hotels again,” Mooney explains. “So we

Mooney reveals, are the key to adapting

felt that this was the time to create a hotel that

Fairfield’s hotels across the continent. “The

makes guests feel instantly safe and relaxed,

idea is that you can find the particular plants

comfortable and clean as soon as they walk in

and natural elements that are specific to Spain

the door. And nature does that.”

or to Finland,” she points out. “So the artwork

A closer look at the design scheme also hints

The new opening is distinctly Danish, with a sense of calm manifesting through a natureinspired colour palette, soft fabrics and organic forms

126

should change in subtle ways.”

at other European locations. “The colour scheme

By focusing on both the bigger picture and

came from bringing together photographs of

the smallest of details, the design team has

forests from Spain, Italy and England, and

succeeded in creating a hotel that is undoubtedly

everywhere in between. Additionally, a lot of the

at home in Copenhagen, whilst also setting the

furniture is sourced from iconic Danish brands,

tone for what is to come.

U K D E S I G N E R S & M A N U FA C T U R E R S O F W O R K S PA C E F U R N I T U R E

G O F. C O . U K

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Tel: 01204 664422

Tel: 020 7242 5709

Hotel Construction Pipeline MEA As Saudi Arabia works towards its ambitious Vision 2030 development plan, the Kingdom remains the most active hotel market in the Middle East & Africa, according to the latest data from THP, with 266 projects (86,264 rooms) currently listed in its database.

While Dubai continues to rank highest in the region by city, with 67 projects in the pipeline, Saudi Arabia has five locations within the top ten, notably Diriyah and Al Madinah – both of which will welcome giga-projects in the coming years. The holy city of Makkah also maintains its position as the top city by room count, with hotels typically larger to accommodate the annual influx of religious tourists.

Elsewhere in the region, Egypt continues to lead growth on the African continent, with IHG recently announcing the signing of two new Crowne Plaza properties in Cairo.

Radisson Hotel Group is also bolstering its African presence with the addition of 1,200 new rooms, including Raddison Red hotels in Morocco and Nigeria, opening in 2027 and 2028 respectively.

In total, the Middle East & Africa has 1,019 projects listed in the THP database, accounting for 247,528 rooms. The region is set to add more than 60,000 rooms to its inventory in 2024, with a further 52,300 due in 2025.

TOP CITIES DUBAI Projects 67 Rooms 18,543 RIYADH Projects 54 Rooms 19,488 JEDDAH Projects 37 Rooms 9,237

MAKKAH Projects 22 Rooms 24,676

TEL AVIV Projects 26 Rooms 4,954

CAIRO Projects 22 Rooms 5,073

MUSCAT Projects 19 Rooms 3,951

DOHA Projects 23 Rooms 6,317

DIRIYAH Projects 20 Rooms 2,990

AL MADINAH Projects 12 Rooms 5,894

TOP COUNTRIES

Projects Rooms

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

For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

128

Projects Rooms

1

2

3

4

5

SAUDI ARABIA 266 86,264

TURKEY 123 24,542

UAE 119 29,852

EGYPT 78 20,769

ISRAEL 69 13,025

6

7

8

9

10

OMAN 36 8,494

GEORGIA 33 8,090

QATAR 28 8,768

MOROCCO 28 6,566

NIGERIA 25 4,419

BUSINESS CENTRE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Of the 247,528 rooms in the pipeline, 54% (132,368 rooms) are under construction and 23% (55,587 rooms) are in planning. It is within these phases that interior design schemes and FF&E fit-outs are being implemented.

VISION

PRE-PLANNING

PLANNING

CONSTRUCTION

PRE-OPENING

Projects 13 Rooms 4,258

Projects 168 Rooms 37,910

Projects 217 Rooms 55,587

Projects 533 Rooms 132,368

Projects 88 Rooms 17,405

GROUPS AND BRANDS Within the THP database, Marriott International holds the greatest number of projects in the pipeline across the Middle East & Africa. Accor follows closely behind, led by the midscale Novotel brand with forthcoming ventures in Riyadh and Makkah.

103 Projects 101 Projects 88 Projects 78 Projects 57 Projects

BRAND

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Radisson

24

3,892

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

23

5,767

InterContinental

17

4,923

Novotel

17

3,886

Kempinski

17

3,862

Hilton Garden Inn

16

3,577

Radisson Blu

16

3,463

Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts

15

2,997

Hotel Indigo

13

2,667

Autograph Collection

13

1,746

YEAR OF OPENING

2024 (29%)

2025 (24%)

2026 (16%)

2027 (13%)

UNCONFIRMED (18%)

129

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15–18AUG 2024

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BUSINESS CENTRE

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

Hostel to fortune

from seller Blackrock. The two assets have a

average rate through selective discounting and

combined 557 beds, and will be held within

shrewd yielding of room inventory, there is

Real estate investor Azora is stepping up its

Azora’s European Hotel and Lodging Fund.

room for additional growth in RevPAR.”

activity in the hostel segment, as established

UK-listed hostel operator Safestay is on

The report notes that around 70% of

players look for further opportunities now

the growth track once more, having had to

hostel bookings come via OTAs, and among

revenues have recovered.

sell down assets during the pandemic. The

those, the segment has its own dedicated

Its Latroupe brand enters a booming

company agreed two deals in Spain during

player, Hostelworld. The company saw gross

marketplace, and other operators are also

April 2024, one an acquisition and the other

sales up 32% in 2023, to a record EUR619m

looking for expansion opportunities. Safestay

its first management agreement. In Calpe, the

on 22.7 million net bed nights. EBITDA

has already added two properties this year, both

company has signed a 20-year management

swung to EUR18.4m, allowing it to pay down

in Spain, while A&O has cash to deploy in its

agreement with the owner of a 120-bed hostel

debt. Alongside its dedicated OTA function,

quest to reach more than 40 European locations.

in the Costa Blanca destination. The property

Hostelworld has been building its membership

For Azora, now appears the time to accelerate

was a successful hostel operation prior to the

model with its social network for travellers and

its move into the hostel space after a pandemic

pandemic, and following a refurbishment and

hostel users, with members now accounting for

delay. The group announced plans in 2019 to

rebranding, will open as a Safestay hostel in

74% of bookings. The app-based platform has

exploit the opportunity in hostels, acquiring

June. The agreement provides Safestay with

allowed Hostelworld to reduce its marketing

properties in Madrid, Bilbao, Lisbon and

a base management fee, and a percentage of

spend, as a proportion of sales.

Brussels specifically for conversion. At the time,

revenue and profits above minimum targets.

In March, hostel brand A&O revealed it

Azora’s Javier Arus noted a structural shift in

“This is the first management contract signed

has a further EUR500m to invest in growing

demand, prompted by the growing number of

by Safestay and we are already discussing other

its portfolio across Europe, as it focuses on

younger people who, thanks to Airbnb, were

similar opportunities with the aim of adding an

converting office buildings or retail space. “We

seeking different travel experiences.

asset-light portfolio of hostels to sit alongside

are flexible and we want to grow,” said founder

our expanding freehold and leasehold portfolio,”

Oliver Winter. “Whether lease or ownership,

said Safestay chairman Larry Lipman.

newbuild or conversion, our property expansion

The company has already established an operating platform and hostel brand, Latroupe, which was set up in 2021 to take on the

In Cordoba, the group has paid EUR2m for

covers a wide variety of property types.” This

converted properties, starting in Brussels and

Hotel Lineros, an established 30-room property

summer will see the group open its latest venture

Bilbao. According to Saffron Consultants, who

that will be converted on a rolling basis to a

in Florence, its 39th, where it has converted an

developed Latroupe, it “has the quality of a

100-bed hostel. The group’s fifth hostel in

office building into a 470-bed hostel. Winter’s

hotel with the social atmosphere and unique

Spain, it should benefit from its existing

wishlist for additional sites includes London,

travelling experience of a hostel. The target

infrastructure. The group’s Edinburgh hostel,

Paris, Rome, Madrid, Lisbon, Berlin, Munich,

audience is a new type of guest – a more mature

which has been refitted, will also open in June.

Prague and Amsterdam. The group recorded

backpacker, willing to spend more but wanting

It bought the GBP4.3m asset last autumn, which

sales of EUR217m in 2023, from 6.1 million

to have the social aspects of hostel life when

came complete with tenanted office floors, and

overnight stays, a figure up from 5.55 million

travelling independently. The new concept

has been working to create a 225-bed hostel in

the previous year.

also needed to entice young active families and

the Scottish capital.

Also waiting in the wings are investors Excem

working nomads”. Azora has said the aim is for

According to the State of Hostels Report

and KKR, who own the Cats hostel brand, with

the services of a four-star hotel, yet with hostel

from Cloudbeds, ADRs recovered fully in 2021,

three properties in Madrid, plus sites in Porto

bed pricing in the mix for travellers on a budget.

indexed to 2019, and last year stood at 127%

and Lisbon. Prior to the pandemic, the pair were

In May 2023, the site in Madrid was launched.

of the 2019 figure. “While 2020 and 2021 are

talking about expanding the brand to around

In March 2024, Azora acquired two adjacent

outliers due to the pandemic, the pattern of

20 properties across Europe. While it has not

hotels in Brussels for a reported EUR18m, and

steady RevPAR growth since then bodes well for

added any more acquisitions since, the brand is

more recently it has spent EUR55m buying

hostels in 2024. Provided occupancy remains

offering to franchise properties.

Jacobs Inn hostels in Dublin and Barcelona

consistent, and hostels can maintain or increase

For Blackrock, the disposal of the Dublin and

131

Barcelona properties would appear to signal the

being fully tapped. Juggling between the sources of

delivered a number of innovative hotel and F&B

end of its involvement in hostels. It acquired

demand is, however, tricky and requires experienced

concepts, including The Ned, a hotel brand now

a hostel portfolio in 2019, with three initial

operators. One thing that is increasingly clear is not

managed by Soho House. The group previously

assets and a pipeline of six more, in Rome,

all operators are equal. And this is particularly the

had investor Ron Burkle as a substantial owner.

Porto, Lisbon, Dublin and London as it teamed

case in the arena of hybrid hospitality, that area of

Part of the group’s colourful past includes a

up with operator Amistat International. In 2020,

crossover between all the different sorts of niche

2024 lawsuit filed against Ennismore, with a

Blackrock acquired the Jacobs Inn hostel in

hospitality-related concepts, from co-working to

claim that senior executives there interfered

Dublin as joint venture partners Patron Capital

co-living, and from hostels to extended-stay.

during negotiations to sell Burkle’s stake -

and CoDE Pod Hostels flipped the asset just 16

It’s a question of finding the right operator and

months after buying it. Today, Amistat has just

the right niche. Even a great operator will fail if their

“By pairing an already proven brand concept

two hostels operating, in Barcelona and Ibiza.

niche is too narrow. Too broad a niche, however, is

that’s ready for expansion with the power of

almost as bad, as an operator will struggle to offer a

Hilton’s commercial engine, we are accelerating

HA PERSPECTIVE

differentiated consumer experience. Daring investors

our ability to drive growth in the luxury lifestyle

By Andrew Sangster: Hostels are one of the most

will take the plunge into new, emergent niches but

segment,” said Chris Silcock, Hilton’s president

successful of the new hospitality niches that have

expect significant additional returns to reflect this

of global brands and commercial services.

emerged in recent years. They blend robust demand

risk. More cautious investors will wait until niches

And at Wyndham, now freed from the

dynamics (pandemics aside) with an ability to

establish themselves and have a track record. Hostels

strictures of a potential takeover by Choice,

generate profit per square metre that often exceeds

are well on their way to delivering that track record,

the group has announced the addition of a new

more established segments like hotels.

and they deserve the corresponding rerating.

extended-stay brand, WaterWalk, by way of what is described as a strategic partnership. The deal

But hostels took a big hit during the pandemic with their communal experience making them among the last of the travel segments to return to full health. During the Covid lockdowns, there was

Buying brands

gives Wyndham 11 properties immediately in the upscale extended-stay space, complementing its existing Hawthorn midscale brand and

speculation in some quarters that hostel demand

Hilton and Wyndham have both announced the

recently launched economy brand in the niche,

would never fully recover. The fears of a permanent

acquisition of new brands, in a clear indication

Echo Suites. The brand was developed by serial

diminution of hostel demand were, as we said at the

that CEOs now believe organic growth will not

extended-stay brand creator Jack DeBoer and

time, unfounded. While it is true that some sectors of

be enough to drive their businesses forward. The

launched in 2014, and has to date been growing

group leisure activity have suffered a lasting impact

moves are also an indication that, in a tougher

in family ownership.

from Covid lockdowns, hostels have not. Examples of

marketplace with flattening performance, there

“Guest demand for the extended-stay

still struggling sectors are cinemas, where, according

is a need to exploit segments in the hotel market

segment reached record highs, which has been

to the UK Cinema Association, admission figures in

that are underserved by their current portfolio

underscored by demand from owners and

2023 were 25% lower than in 2019; and nightclubs,

of brands.

developers looking for new opportunities to

At Hilton, CEO Chris Nassetta announced the

partner with Wyndham,” said chief development

group has acquired the NoMad lifestyle brand,

officer Chip Ohlsson. “Our vision is to offer the

Hostels on the other hand have bounced back

which it believes has the potential to become

industry’s most robust portfolio of extended-

to exceed trading levels seen in 2019. Hostelworld,

a 100-strong global luxury brand. The deal

stay brands and the addition of WaterWalk

perhaps the best barometer of the sector, said that its

with brand owner Sydell Group, which Hilton

marks an important step in that direction –

net booking volume was at a record level in 2023, up

is buying a controlling interest in, will provide

helping ensure we have an offering in every

32% on 2022, and this positive trend was continuing

Hilton with a single trading property in London

segment, for every owner and for every guest.”

into 2024. The bedrock of hostel demand has been

from which to build out. A current second

WaterWalk is different from other extended-

school and student groups. A key appeal has been

NoMad hotel, in Las Vegas, is not part of the

stay brands as it straddles the space between

the consistency of this demand. New concepts are

deal, and will be rebranded. Sydell’s team will

serviced apartments and rental housing.

expanding the offering beyond these traditional

continue to manage the brand, while Hilton will

Properties feature regular STAY-branded

markets into leisure and even business travellers.

contribute its development and property signing

extended-stay suites, but also offer unfurnished

While I am a little sceptical about how strong

expertise. The company says there are already

LIVE units, which typically rent for much longer

the business traveller demand can be, leisure,

potentially around 10 more sites in negotiation.

periods.

particularly family, is a huge area that is far from

Sydell is led by Andrew Zobler, who has

where, according to CGA by NIQ, there are 37% fewer venues than at the start of lockdowns.

132

which was ultimately picked up by MGM.

NoMad London is itself owned by Qatari

BUSINESS CENTRE

investors, and was created by Sydell from a

brands” discussion is a somewhat tired debate that

previously discussed the challenges and opportunities

former courthouse and police station, with 91

somehow never seems to go away. At Hotel Analyst,

of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World relationship.

rooms, a restaurant and bar, and a museum.

we have tried our best, pointing out, for example,

A similar deal with AutoCamp, the provider of

Delayed by the pandemic, the property opened

that LVMH, Europe’s most valuable company by

camping experiences at US national parks and

in May 2021. Last autumn, lender Cohort Capital

market capitalisation, seems to prosper pretty well

other natural settings, is less of a threat to existing

agreed a two year, GBP73m facility to refinance

despite having more than 75 brand houses, plus the

franchisee relationships than SLH but has a lot of

the previous syndicated bank debt against the

near countless individual brands within these.

the same benefits.

asset. At the time, the lender declared the hotel

Dimitris Manikis, president EMEA at Wyndham,

Nassetta suggested that Hilton would not be

was performing strongly, “and the F&B concept

told delegates at this year’s IHIF that consumers will

buying many more brands, having struck the deal to

and plan is a compelling one”.

decide the future of brands. He is right. The problem

buy Graduate for USD210m. This had the potential to

is that for hotel brand companies, owners are also

grow to between 400 and 500 hotels, he claimed. The

HA PERSPECTIVE

customers. To quote Manikis again, owners are core

acquisition of NoMad was the “bullseye” in terms of

By Chris Bown: Hilton’s NoMad deal attracted a lot of

– “the essence” – for his company.

addressing Hilton’s gap in the luxury lifestyle, said

attention, indicative more of the fuss around Sydell

One of the problems with how the hotel sector

Nassetta. Hilton had been barred from entering the

and its leader, than the scale of the proposition. After

has historically looked at brands is solely through

space until 2013 following the Denizen debacle that

all, Hilton gets one working prototype hotel off the

the owners’ lens. So you have bizarre ideas like areas

saw it sued by Starwood Hotels, then independent

bat - the challenge will be replicating the magic

of protection that prevent brand companies from

from Marriott. The 2010 settlement saw Hilton

in a multi-site rollout. Compare it with the recent

opening hotels close to each other. However, the

excluded from lifestyle hotels with court-appointed

Graduate Hotels acquisition, which already has a

most basic understanding of economics would show

monitors ensuring it stuck to the court ruling. The

portfolio of trading properties, and more signing

that having a density of the same company’s brands

extra decade Hilton has taken is perhaps overkill on

momentum. But if Hilton can get the NoMad brand

in a given location will help give pricing power to

legal compliance.

book right, then they could have an interesting

the brand owner, which will, in turn, directly

addition to their boutique and lifestyle offering.

benefit the property owner. It says something about

Partnering up

Wyndham, in contrast, looks to have picked up a far

how suspiciously property owners view brands and

more interesting beast. WaterWalk will take it into a

operators, that they would rather have the pseudo-

battleground with other extended-stay brands such

protection of being the “exclusive” property under a

Major hotel groups are picking up small, regional

as those in the portfolio of aggressively expanding

particular badge than genuinely seeking to maximise

players as they look to establish portfolio-level

Ascott. If it can in any way repeat the signing pace

the economic return for the property.

conversion opportunities to infill gaps in their

it has achieved with its Echo brand, then expect

Meanwhile, hotel brand companies are making

global coverage.

significant strides into becoming meaningful drivers

IHG, Choice and Marriott have all announced

But, in buying into a concept that blurs the

of demand for property owners. Taking loyalty

new deals, collaborative in style, that will boost

lines between extended-stay and rental housing,

schemes beyond just points and into experiences

their growth numbers at a stroke. For IHG, a

Wyndham could be dipping its toe into another

will add real value and so will well-judged brand

deal with Novum Hospitality will double its

part of the accommodation landscape - and it may

extensions. The move by Wyndham to strike a

presence in Germany, while Choice’s deal in

just find that there’s profitable potential there. In

“strategic relationship” with WaterWalk is a

France will do similar for them. For Marriott,

the UK, student accommodation provider Unite

significant step deeper into the residential market.

a group branding deal with a Japanese hotel

received a grilling from analysts when they signed

The residential rental market has so far taken baby

developer and operator could be the first stage

up to experiment in the long-term rental market,

steps into the branded space. The entrance of a

in larger growth plans there.

worried about lower returns - but more recently,

brand giant like Wyndham brings the loyalty and

those fears appear to have been overblown; and

technology muscle the sector has lacked to date.

WaterWalk to expand its footprint quickly.

For incoming local partners, the lure of a big brand affiliation is the promise of consistently

Unite is growing its interest in that area. As Airbnb

Also speaking at IHIF, Hilton’s CEO Chris Nassetta

delivering more business that should exceed the

tries to ease its way into bed with several private

said adding partnerships on the experiential side

associated fees payable to the brand machine. In

rental landlords in the US, it might find Wyndham

was a critical part of Hilton’s loyalty platform. The

times of tougher finance costs and inflationary

taking a look, too.

programme would break through the 200 million

pressures, the promise of the global distribution

member barrier this year.

machines is attractive, as the post-pandemic

HA PERSPECTIVE

By Andrew Sangster: The “there are too many

On top of the experiential partnerships are distribution partnerships. Hotel Analyst has

travel resurgence transitions into flatter market conditions.

133

BUSINESS CENTRE

In Germany, the agreement between IHG

hotels as they switch. Zenitude will manage the

German market. Asset-light brand groups all

and Novum will see all of the Novum portfolio

conversions, and manage the properties under

struggle with Germany, where many hotels are

and pipeline rebrand to IHG flags, a move that

franchise agreements.

owned by local pension fund investors who insist

will, at a stroke, increase IHG’s global system

A family-owned operator, Zenitude was

their properties must be leased - a liability the

size by 1.9%. Currently, that number stands at

founded in 2009 and today has over 40 hotels

brand groups simply don’t want to shoulder. With

108 operating hotels, with a further 11 signed

under management. The business has a strong

Novum holding lease liabilities, suddenly there’s a

to the development pipeline. The vast majority

pipeline, with ambitious plans to grow outside

way forward.

are in Germany, while eight are in Austria and

France. “For Zenitude, our collaboration with

Similarly, the French Zenitude business appears

outposts in the Netherlands and UK.

Choice is very important in order for us to

to have decided that riding with a big brand will

Of the total, Novum’s 52 hotels currently

be able to face the technical, marketing and

help drive in the customers, allowing the leaders

branded The Niu will become Holiday Inns -

distribution challenges that the hotel industry

of the business more time, and better margins, so

though the announcement has suggested these

faces,” said Romain Lubrano, CEO of Zenitude.

they can concentrate on growth rather than survival.

properties will retain the German name too, in

“Being supported by Choice will enable us to

Choice, which has long appeared ambivalent about

a dual branding that “will combine the domestic

meet these challenges, respond to customer

its business outside the US, is looking more and more

presence of The Niu with Holiday Inn’s trusted

needs by upgrading our hotels in France, and

internationally-focused.

reputation and global brand recognition to build

expand into the EMEA region.”

a leading position in a key target market”.

And in Japan, Marriott has agreed a

A further 56 sites, currently under Novum’s

rebranding deal with local operator HMI, which

Yggotel, Select and Novum brands will

will add seven properties initially to the giant

be rebranded under IHG’s newest brand

group’s presence in the country. Four HMI

designed specifically for conversions, Garner -

hotels will rebrand as Marriotts, and three

immediately giving that new brand significant

more will become Courtyard properties. While

European scale. A final tranche of Novum’s

calling the move a strategic collaboration, few

portfolio, its extended-stay properties that

further details have been revealed as to how the

currently trade as Acora Living the City, will be

pair have structured the arrangement. A long-

switching to IHG’s Candlewood Suites brand.

established player in the Japanese market, HMI

The pair have signed a 30-year agreement, and

has a total of 44 hotels open and trading, all

have mentioned that they may well look to work

currently under its own local brands.

together on signing and adding further hotels into the arrangement. IHG has committed key

HA PERSPECTIVE

money to help with refits to meet the brand

By Chris Bown: At the end of the day, it’s a tough

standards.

game to beat the big brand machines, if you’re a

In France, Choice Hotels has agreed a 20-

medium sized, mid-market operator. And, if your

year strategic agreement with family-owned

bank is breathing down your neck and making your

hotel operator Zenitude, which will see over

debt refinancing look troublesome, or you can’t see

30 hotels switch to Choice brands, including

your way to getting hotel RevPAR to where you need

Clarion, Comfort, Ascend and possibly a long-

to be in the current market, then signing with the

stay brand. The move will double Choice’s

devil can suddenly look quite attractive.

presence in France. The plan is to shift the

Novum gets to keep its business at the scale it

properties across during 2024 and 2025, and

is now, remaining family owned. The bank will

the project will be starting with a 460-room

be off its back, as IHG helps to pay for property

hotel at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, which

refurbishments over the next couple of years. And,

will become a Clarion; the Hotel la Valadiere

in the case of new developments, it’s far easier to

outside Montpelier, rebranding to the Ascend

get backing for the construction of an IHG-branded

Collection; and the 110-room Clarion Aparthotel

hotel, rather than one that’s going to get a Novum

Toulouse Blagnac Airport. Choice says it will be

name over the door.

supporting the refurbishment and updating of

134

For IHG, this is a great solution to cracking the

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BUSINESS CENTRE

2.

1.

3.

4.

Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 1. MADRID

Tokyo’s hotel industry reported record-high ADR and RevPAR in May, in keeping with a strong performance across Japan. In addition to events held at the 55,000-capacity Tokyo Dome, factors that have contributed to the increases include a later opening post-pandemic, above-average inflation and a rise in international demand.

April 2024 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 79.5% ( 6.6%) ADR EUR184.20 ( 16.6%) RevPAR EUR146.43 ( 24.2%)

May 2024 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 78.4% ( 4.2%) ADR JPY 37,671.27 ( 44.0%) RevPAR JPY 29,529.07 ( 50.0%)

2. BERLIN

4. SYDNEY

May 2024 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 78.8% ( 2.6%) ADR EUR133.90 ( 6.0%) RevPAR EUR105.57 ( 8.7%)

April 2024 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 72.6% ( 7.1%) ADR AUD247.70 ( 0.2%) RevPAR AUD179.86 ( 7.3%)

Playing host to a number of corporate and leisure events throughout May has boosted Berlin’s hotel performance across all three metrics.

Occupancy hit 95.5% during CWIEME, an electrical engineering exhibition, while ADR and RevPAR spiked during stoner rock event Desertfest, which overlapped with the Global Business Summit.

136

3. TOKYO

Sporting events such as the Madrid Open and UEFA Champions League quarter-finals led to healthy performance growth in April, according to preliminary data from STR, with the Spanish capital reporting a 24.2% RevPAR increase year over year.

Daily occupancy peaked at 93.4% on Wednesday 24 April, averaging at 79.5% for the month.

Sydney’s hotel industry saw improved performance across the three key performance metrics according to preliminary data for April, due in part to changes in the annual calendar. April 2024 benefitted from Easter and Anzac Day being separated by a lengthier time period than in 2023, providing clear weeks for corporate travel.

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

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

EE SMITH CONTRACTS, AT THE PINNACLE OF SUPER-PRIME FIT OUT ACROSS ALL LUXURY SECTORS W W W. E E S M I T H . C O . U K

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

Having received more than 350 entries from a host of countries across Asia and the Americas, AHEAD has officially kick-started its 2024 season, unveiling shortlists for both regions, with Europe and MEA to follow soon.

From soaring newbuilds to off-grid retreats, the shortlists span an expansive range of categories, including Guestroom, Lobby and Spa, as well as the wider Hotel Conversion and Newbuild. Each showcases the most innovative new hospitality offerings from the region, with judges searching in particular for projects that fuse creative excellence with commercial viability and – most importantly – outstanding guest experience.

The judging panel – comprising owners, operators, developers, architects, interior designers and industry commentators – reviewed entries online

before casting their votes to determine the finalists.

Chairing the panel in Asia is Billie Khoo, Senior Design & Projects Director (APAC) for Hilton Worldwide, with senior representatives from HBA, Design Hotels and Avroko also making the expert line-up. And in the Americas, Ace Hotel Group’s CEO Brad Wilson leads a group of panelists hailing from Pierre-Yves Rochon, Marriott International and Chapi Chapo Design, to name but a few.

Over the coming weeks, the judging panels will meet in person in their respective regions, participating in a full day of debate and deliberation, in which every shortlisted project will assessed in detail. The resulting winners will be announced during awards ceremonies held at Weylin in Brooklyn and Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay in Singapore, each taking home a Lasvit-designed trophy.

www.aheadawards.com

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

HOTEL NEWBUILD

Club Bardo at Hotel Bardo Savannah – Georgia, USA Left Lane Development / LS3P / Atelier Pond

Boca de Agua – Bacalar, Mexico Rodrigo Juarez / Frida Escobedo / Mariel Lozano / Brenda Landeros

Lost Palm at The Manchester – Kentucky, USA Hank Morris / Nik Feldman / EOP Architects / Jenny Bukovec Design & Creative

Hotelito by MUSA – Zihuatanejo, Mexico AS Design / MUSA / Juan Pablo Gomez Servín

The Pinky Ring at Bellagio Hotel & Casino – Nevada, USA MGM Resorts International / Bergman Walls & Associates / Yabu Pushelberg The Vault at Bellagio Hotel & Casino – Nevada, USA MGM Resorts International / Bergman Walls & Associates / Studio Munge

E V E N T S PA C E S Flat Mountain Farm – North Carolina, USA Shutze Studio Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa – Honduras Vista Capital / IHG Hotels & Resorts / Lane Pettigrew Associates / Theresa Fatino Design La Playa Hotel – California, USA Marc & Rose Hospitality / Synectic Design / Post Company Play Playground at Luxor Hotel & Casino – Nevada, USA Play Social / MGM Resorts International / Moser Architects / Bishop Design

Otro Oaxaca – Mexico Integradora de Servicios Aliño / Grupo Habita / Root Studio The Manchester – Kentucky, USA Hank Morris / Nik Feldman / EOP Architects / Jenny Bukovec Design & Creative

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N Dawn Ranch – California, USA Bridgeton / Bridgeton Studio / Brian Smith / Whitney Clark Faraway Martha’s Vineyard – Massachusetts, USA Blue Flag Partners / Workshop/APD Maroma, a Belmond Hotel – Quintana Roo, Mexico Belmond / Cabrera Architecture / Tara Bernerd & Partners The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern – California, USA Dakota Development / Auberge Resorts Collection / AMHA Architecture / Avroko / CJM::LA

L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S GUESTROOMS La Playa Hotel – California, USA Marc & Rose Hospitality / Synectic Design / Post Company

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – Hawaii, USA Starwood Capital Group / SH Hotels & Resorts / G70 / Lake Plato / Nicole Hollis

Mollie Aspen – Colorado, USA Hay Max / CCY Architects / Post Company

Impression Moxché by Secrets – Quintana Roo, Mexico M&M Desarrollos / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Macedo Arquitectura / Alejandro Escudero / Maat Handasa

The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo, Chattanooga – Tennessee, USA Trestle Studio / Jenny Bukovec Design & Creative

La Playa Hotel – California, USA Marc & Rose Hospitality / Synectic Design / Post Company

The Manchester ­– Kentucky, USA Hank Morris / Nik Feldman / EOP Architects / Jenny Bukovec Design & Creative

The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai – Mexico Alhel / Marriott International / Edmonds International / Ian Schrager Company / Rockwell Group

HOTEL CONVERSION

LO B BY

21c Museum Hotel St Louis – Missouri, USA NuovoRE / 21c Museum Hotels / Perfido Weiskopf Wagstaff + Goettel / Bill Rooney Studio / Hufft

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – Hawaii, USA Starwood Capital Group / SH Hotels & Resorts / G70 / Lake Plato / Nicole Hollis

The Quoin – Delaware, USA Buccini/Pollin Group / Method Co / Stokes Architecture & Design / Method Studios

Faraway Martha’s Vineyard – Massachusetts, USA Blue Flag Partners / Workshop/APD

The Radical – North Carolina, USA Hatteras Sky / Rowhouse Architects / Suomi Design Works The Ranch Hudson Valley – New York, USA The Ranch / Treestone Architecture & Construction / SR Gambrel

The Manchester – Kentucky, USA Hank Morris / Nik Feldman / EOP Architects / Jenny Bukovec Design & Creative The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai – Mexico Alhel / Marriott International / Edmonds International / Ian Schrager Company / Rockwell Group

AHEAD

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

S PA & W E L L N E S S

Boca de Agua – Bacalar, Mexico Rodrigo Juarez / Frida Escobedo / Mariel Lozano / Brenda Landeros

Impression Moxché by Secrets ­– Quintana Roo, Mexico M&M Desarrollos / Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Macedo Arquitectura / Alejandro Escudero / Maat Handasa

Dawn Ranch – California, USA Bridgeton / Bridgeton Studio / Brian Smith / Whitney Clark The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern – California, USA Dakota Development / Auberge Resorts Collection / AMHA Architecture / Avroko / CJM::LA The Rounds at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge – New York, USA Marc Chocock / Escape Hospitality / Taconic Engineering / Post Company

RESORT 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – Hawaii, USA Starwood Capital Group / SH Hotels & Resorts / G70 / Lake Plato / Nicole Hollis Boca de Agua – Bacalar, Mexico Rodrigo Juarez / Frida Escobedo / Mariel Lozano / Brenda Landeros Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, USA Rosewood Hotel Group / Walker Warner Architects / Delawie / Nicole Hollis / Vita Inc The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai – Mexico Alhel / Marriott International / Edmonds International / Ian Schrager Company / Rockwell Group

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, USA Rosewood Hotel Group / Walker Warner Architects / Delawie / Nicole Hollis / Vita Inc Maroma Spa at Maroma, a Belmond Hotel – Quintana Roo, Mexico Belmond / Cabrera Architecture / Tara Bernerd & Partners The Spa at The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai – Mexico Alhel / Marriott International / Edmonds International / Ian Schrager Company / Rockwell Group

SUITE 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – ­ Hawaii, USA Starwood Capital Group / SH Hotels & Resorts / G70 / Lake Plato / Nicole Hollis Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, USA Rosewood Hotel Group / Walker Warner Architects / Delawie / Nicole Hollis / Vita Inc The Manchester – Kentucky, USA Hank Morris / Nik Feldman / EOP Architects / Jenny Bukovec Design & Creative The Nest Suite at The Jay – California, USA KHP Capital Partners / Marriott International / AXIS/GFA Architecture + Design / Avroko

R E S TA U R A N T Bellpine at The Ritz-Carlton, Portland – Oregon, USA BPM Real Estate Group / Marriott International / GBD Architects / Roam Interior Design Cathédrale Las Vegas at Aria Resort & Casino – Nevada, USA MGM Resorts International / Tao Group Hospitality / Bloc9 Architecture / Rockwell Group The Bazaar by José Andrés at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad – New York, USA Flag Luxury Group / José Andrés Group / Howell Belanger Castelli Architects / Lázaro Rosa-Violán The Long Bar at Raffles Boston – Massachusetts, USA Trinity Stuart Development / Raffles Hotels & Resorts / Studio Paolo Ferrari

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – Hawaii, USA Starwood Capital Group / SH Hotels & Resorts / G70 / Lake Plato / Nicole Hollis Boca de Agua – Bacalar, Mexico Rodrigo Juarez / Frida Escobedo / Mariel Lozano / Brenda Landeros Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, USA Rosewood Hotel Group / Walker Warner Architects / Delawie / Nicole Hollis / Vita Inc. Mollie Aspen – Colorado, USA Hay Max / CCY Architects / Post Company

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

HOTEL NEWBUILD

AER at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai – India Provenance Land / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Prakash Mankar / Atelier Pond / PLandscape

Four Seasons Suzhou – China Sun Hung Kai Properties / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Avalon Collective

Bay Bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka – Japan Bentall Green Oak / Marriott International / Kume Sekkei Co / Strickland

Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore UOL Group / Pan Pacific Hotels Group / WOHA Architects

Qura at Regent Hong Kong – China GAW Capital / IHG Hotels & Resorts / KLS International / Bar Studio

Six Senses Kyoto – Japan Richesse Management / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Blink Design Group

Zouk Tokyo at Ginza Hotel by Granbell – Tokyo, Japan Zouk Group / Plantec Co / Fantastic Design Works / Josh Held Design

E V E N T S PA C E S BDMS Connect Center at Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort – Bangkok, Thailand BDMS Wellness Resort / Accor / OBA Office of Bangkok Architects / DWP Else – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia GF Land / Else Perspective / Faizah Architect / BEP Akitek / Studio Bikin Pan Pacific Orchard – Singapore UOL Group / Pan Pacific Hotels Group / WOHA Architects The Londoner Arena at The Londoner Macao – China Venetian Orient / Populous / Aedas

GUESTROOMS Banyan Tree Dongguan Songshan Lake – Dongguan, China Vanke / Banyan Group / Blink Design Group Janu Tokyo – Japan Mori Building / Aman Group / Pelli Clarke & Partners / Heatherwick Studio / Denniston

Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park – Tokyo, Japan Trunk Co / Keiji Ashizawa Design / Norm Architects

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N Huvafen Fushi Maldives Universal Enterprises / Blink Design Group Hyatt Centric Zhongshan Park Shanghai – China Hyatt Hotels Corporation / Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura / Sherman Kung & Associates Architects / Red Design Mondrian Hong Kong – China Peterson Group / Ennismore / byKK / Joyce Wang Studio Pan Pacific, Singapore UOL Group / Pan Pacific Hotels Group / FDAT Architects

L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Hilton Yala Resort – Yala, Sri Lanka Melwa Hotels & Resorts / Hilton Worldwide / SODA Pan Pacific Orchard – Singapore UOL Group / Pan Pacific Hotels Group / WOHA Architects

Six Senses Kyoto – Japan Richesse Management / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Blink Design Group

Six Senses Kyoto – Japan Richesse Management / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Blink Design Group

Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park – Tokyo, Japan Trunk Co / Keiji Ashizawa Design / Norm Architects

SO/ Maldives – Kaafu Atoll, Maldives S Hotels & Resorts / Ennismore / Eco-ID Architects

HOTEL CONVERSION

LO B BY

21 Carpenter – Singapore 8M Real Estate / Heritage Hospitality / WOHA Architects

Diaoyutai Qingdao – China SIIC / Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Studio Munge

Else – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia GF Land / Else Perspective / Faizah Architect / BEP Akitek / Studio Bikin Humble Hall Hotel – Xiamen, China Pan Yuewen / Feng Jingyun / Fang Lingjia Design The Interlude – Melbourne, Australia Shayher Group / TFE Hotels / Konzepte / CHADA

Else – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia GF Land / Else Perspective / Faizah Architect / BEP Akitek / Studio Bikin Janu Tokyo – Japan Mori Building / Aman Group / Pelli Clarke & Partners / Heatherwick Studio / Denniston Six Senses Kyoto – Japan Richesse Management / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Blink Design Group

AHEAD

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

SUITE

andBeyond Punakha River Lodge – Punakha, Bhutan andBeyond / Pem Gyaltsen / Fox Browne Creative

Presidential Suite at MGM Qingdao – Shandong, China SIIC / Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Studio Munge

Marasca Khao Yai – Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand Narai Hospitality / ASC Interior Co / Saturday & Sunday Garden Nay Palad Hideaway – Siargao Island, Philippines Nay Palad Hideaway / Daniel Pouzet

RESORT Banyan Tree Dongguan Songshan Lake – Dongguan, China Vanke / Banyan Group / Blink Design Group Hilton Yala Resort – Yala, Sri Lanka Melwa Hotels & Resorts / Hilton Worldwide / SODA Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Sichuan, China Luneng Group / Marriott International / WATG / Jaya Ibrahim Soneva Secret – Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Soneva / Habita Architects

R E S TA U R A N T Carna by Dario Cecchini at Mondrian Hong Kong – China Peterson Group / Ennismore / Joyce Wang Studio Fiamma at MGM Qingdao – Shandong, China SIIC / Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Studio Munge Maison Boulud at Marina Bay Sands – Singapore Sands Hospitality / Dinex Group / Eco-ID / Falkcon / Joyce Wang Studio / Vertical Green Whiskey Nova at Centara Grand Hotel Osaka – Japan Taisei Corporation / Centara Hotels & Resorts / Avroko

S PA & W E L L N E S S Banyan Tree Dongguan Songshan Lake – Dongguan, China Vanke / Banyan Group / Blink Design Group Janu Tokyo – Japan Mori Building / Aman Group / Pelli Clarke & Partners / Heatherwick Studio / Denniston Six Senses Kyoto – Japan Richesse Management / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Blink Design Group St Regis Spa at The St Regis, Singapore Marriott International / Avalon Collective

Shophouse Suite at Mondrian Singapore Duxton – Singapore Craig Road Property Holdings / Accor / DP Architects / Studio Carter Soma Mot – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Soma Hideaways / Villa Song Saigon / 932 Design Group The Ritz-Carlton Suite – The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, Australia Far East Consortium / Marriott International / Cottee Parker Architects / Bar Studio

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y 21 Carpenter – Singapore 8M Real Estate / Heritage Hospitality / WOHA Architects Pan Pacific Orchard – Singapore UOL Group / Pan Pacific Hotels Group / WOHA Architects Soneva Secret – Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Soneva / Habita Architects Taj The Trees – Mumbai, India Godrej Properties / Taj Hotels / IHCL / WATG / Conran & Partners / Studio Vikhroli

SIPPING

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17 OCTOBER 2024

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28 NOVEMBER 2024

PARKROYAL COLLECTION MARINA BAY – SINGAPORE

WEYLIN BROOKLYN – NEW YORK

BANYAN TREE – DUBAI

EVOLUTION – LONDON

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EVENTS

Sleeper Sessions 7-9 May 2024 PORTUGAL The hospitality industry sets its sights on the Comporta coastline for a three-day exploration of Portuguese perspectives.

Words: Eleanor Howard • Photography: © Gavriil Papadiotis

A

few miles south of Lisbon, the coastal

before Sleeper’s Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich

the hospitality industry needs more innovation

enclave of Comporta is evolving. Once

welcomed attendees during a sultry sunset

in general and we want to be part of the driving

a sleepy fishing village, the picturesque

reception on the hotel’s pool deck.

force behind this.”

region is emerging as a prime destination for

The Symposium programme began with an

hotel development, with investors, developers

insightful presentation from Serdar Kutucu,

perspectives in the second symposia session,

Showcasing

a

range

of

Portuguese

and operators attracted by its rustic charm and

CEO of Slow – a collective of people, places and

a trio of architects and designers shared

traditional Portuguese ways of life.

projects designed to cultivate arts, crops and

their experiences of working and living in

A fitting destination, then, for the fifth

inner gardens. With several projects underway,

the country. Madeiran maestro Nini Andrade

edition of Sleeper Sessions – a design forum

Kutucu spoke of the Friends of a Farmer

Silva spoke of her vision for the forthcoming

that provides specifiers and suppliers with

community-supported agriculture project on

W São Paulo, while Samuel Torres de Carvalho

opportunities to share ideas and collaborate

the Arrábida coast, where there are plans to

of Lisbon-based STC Arquitetura delved

on active hotel projects across the region and

expand with guest- and community-driven

into the classic characteristics of Portuguese

beyond. More than 200 delegates headed to

activities. “We aim to develop regenerative

architecture. British designer Jo Littlefair also

Tróia Design Hotel, a contemporary resort

hospitality, cultivating cultural programming,

reflected on her firm’s decision to establish a

situated on the shores of a nature reserve, for

whilst helping to preserve people and reintegrate

new studio in Porto: “We’ve been coming to

three days of symposia and sustenance.

their local culture,” he explains.

Porto for so long and are continuously hooked

The guest list comprised developers,

Kutucu also touched on the forthcoming

back because there’s a simplicity, adaptability

operators, architects and designers including

Casa Noble in Lisbon, revealing how Slow is

and willingness of people to create – hospitality

Avroko, Belmond, Rockwell Group and Six

taking inspiration from Brazilian Modernism

comes very naturally to the Portuguese. We’ve

Senses, who were all eager to learn about the

and the architectural traditions of old Lisbon

also been able to work with all sorts of artisans

latest products and services on the market.

to transform three historic buildings from

to create unique pieces that we can bring to our

Suppliers meanwhile represented a wide range

three different centuries in the ancient Graça

hotel projects across Europe.”

of product segments, from sanitaryware and

neighbourhood into a 13-key house and cultural

Giving a further taste of what Portugal has

lighting to fabrics, floorcoverings and furniture.

salon that connects with their existing beach

to offer, four explorers at the forefront of

Following Sessions’ signature four-pillar

club. Reflecting on Slow’s design philosophy,

contemporary Portuguese hospitality took to

format, the event kicked-off with a scenic

he shared: “We try to challenge the designers

the stage the following day for a conversation

boat trip social along the Arrábida coast,

we work with to truly innovate. We believe that

traversing the country’s development potential

147

and the challenges they have encountered.

observation of the shift in consumer spend from

environmental impact scores for materials

Benjamin Habbel of Aethos Hotels talked

goods to experiences, with people searching for

based on carbon emissions and water usage to

about the financial risks associated with the

personalised and meaningful experiences; as a

help designers make informed decisions.

industry – “hospitality is capital intensive and

result, the profile of hotel guest is changing. He

Early evenings were spent unwinding

it can take a long time to make a return on

also explained that local dynamics and strategies

through Sustenance workshops, which saw

your investment”. Gonçalo Pessoa of Sublime

are affecting tourism investment in individual

delegates partake in a range of activies, from

Hotels concurred: “You need some luck. That’s

countries, with Southern Europe “showing a

wine-sipping and war stories with former BBC

what I believe happened with my project in

rise in high-end and luxury projects”.

correspondent turned eco-lodge entrepreneur

Comporta – it almost fell into my hands. But

Rounding out the Symposium programme, the

Alastair Leithead, to surfboard shaping with

you have to have the courage to set it up and

‘Designing for the Modern Business Traveller

Gonçalo Menezes and Rodrigo Machaz and

follow through.”

and MICE 2.0’ panel saw design leaders from

cork creativity led by Studio Corkinho founder

Later that afternoon, José Gil Duarte, Managing

Ennismore, Hilton, IHG and Marriott discuss

Cédric Etienne, enabling delegates to continue

Partner at hospitality consultant Horwath

the future of business travel, from designing

conversations beyond their one-to-one

HTL, offered a snapshot of the European hotel

for digital nomads to reinventing events spaces.

meetings. The closing night brought attendees

market, supported by THP data. Duarte revealed

On the topic of generating revenue from MICE,

together for a memorable sunset social at the

that Portugal has a total of 87 hotels listed in

Mark Eacott of Ennismore shared details of “a

nearby Comporta Cafe Sol Tróia beach club,

the THP database – many of which are currently

45m2 intelligent guestroom that can transform

where conversations and connections continued

under construction – accounting for more than

into a meeting room, seminar space or a yoga

late into the night.

14,000 rooms. Attention then shifted to focus

studio in 45 minutes – without taking a single

on development hotspots along the Iberian

piece of furniture out the room” developed

The next Sleeper Sessions will take place in Asia in

peninsula, with Lisbon and Porto accounting

together with Studio Carter, while IHG’s

March 2025 – dates and location announced soon.

for nearly 40% of Portugal’s pipeline.

Emma King shared information on a software

To express your interest in attending, visit:

tool developed by We Want More to calculate

www.sleepersessions.com

Key takeaways from the talk include Duarte’s

148

The leading brand for hospitality experience and design

Inspiring magazines and community-driven events to connect those creating exceptional hospitality experiences around the world. www.sleeper.media

PORTFOLIO

POWERED BY

“I was dead impressed by The Lobby – it was super inspiring and familiar.

Nice meeting so many new and interesting people – what an energy boost for the fall.”

Linda Ågren, Hotel Design Manager – Scandic

3-4 September 2024 Nimb – Copenhagen Cross-Generational Collaboration The Lobby is the most inspiring hotel event in the Nordic countries, bringing the hospitality industry together in order to tackle key challenges affecting our planet and its people.

The theme for this year’s programme is Youth, which represents the heartbeat of innovation, driving change and pushing boundaries in ways that can redefine industries such as hospitality. In today’s dynamic and rapidly evolving business landscape, harnessing the energy, creativity and fresh perspectives of the younger generation is not just a choice but strategically imperative.

Nipa Doshi and Jonathan Levien Founders – Doshi Levien

Forward-Thinking Speakers With Youth in mind, the line-up of speakers is set to spark new ways of thinking about crossgenerational collaboration across the sector.

Nipa Doshi and Jonathan Levien, founders of award-winning studio Doshi Levien, will discuss their captivating work that explores and celebrates beauty, plurality and diversity, while Rasmus Munk, founder of Copenhagen’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Alchemist, will explore his unique combination of art, theatre, science, visual tech, activism and gastronomy.

Attendees will also experience the paintings of Apolonia Sokol, an artist living and working in Paris, whose work is considered among the most significant of her generation. Art, food and design – these are some of the ways to understand and drive hospitality forward, bridging the gaps between generations.

The Coolest Crowd Meet the coolest crowd from the hotel business in Europe! It is as simple as that. We learn from each other when we gather at The Lobby – an inspiring and nourishing get-together where we network and exchange ideas for a better, more conscious hotel industry.

The Programme 3 September – 6-11pm Meet the Speaker Exclusive Networking Event Location: 25hours Hotel Indre By 4 September – 9:30am-5pm The Conference Location: Axelborg by Nimb After-Party – 8pm Location: 25hours Hotel Paper Island Moderators Dorte Bagge, Hospitality Strategist and Founder – The Lobby Amy Frearson, Architectural Design Journalist Ann Van Wetteren, Senior Concept Developer Stay in touch with regular updates on The Lobby website and social media channels. @thelobbycph

Almost sold-out!

Book your ticket and get more info at www.thelobbycph.com/ticket

2024 Speakers

Erik and Liv Johansen Founder and Designer – Stylt

Rasmus Munk Founder – Alchemist

Kris Keiller Brand Creative Direction and Design Manager – Patagonia EMEA

Hotel Management School Maastricht Researchers and students

Spencer Bailey Co-founder and Editor-in-Chief – The Slowdown podcast

Apolonia Sokol Artist and Art Historian

Danni and Anemette Bühlmann Owners – Bühlmann Hotels

Nachson Mimran Co-founder – The Alpina Gstaad

Bruno Marti Executive VP of Brand Marketing – Ennismore / 25hours Hotels

Christoph Hoffman Co-founder and CEO – 25hours Hotels

MEDIA PARTNER

HEADLINE SPONSOR

SPONSORS

SPOTLIGHT INDOOR FURNITURE From plush armchairs to chic coffee tables, Scandinavian minimalism to Indochina-inspired inlays, take a look at Sleeper’s top indoor furniture picks.

RH Leo Leo is a new collection by RH, comprising lounge chairs, a dining armchair and a fabric bar stool.

Envisioned by Norwegian designer Line Svendsen to draw on the minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic, Leo is a combination of fluid lines and tailored contours, with a cradling barrel back, sculptural raked legs that impart a sense of movement and sloping arms that wrap around the seat. The frame and legs are fully upholstered by hand in high-quality fabric, while the seat and back are generously padded with high-resiliency foam.

Available in multiple fabrics with shades ranging from Burnt Caramel and Sand, to Charcoal and Fog, the pieces are stylish and comfortable additions to an array of interior design schemes. www.rh.com

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2.

3.

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4.

1. Parla Loop

2. SofaCompany Bespoke Furniture

3. Gresham Office Furniture Elco

4. Gommaire Nathan

Parla recently unveiled Loop, a new collection designed by Hines Fischer and Matthew Goodrich of New Yorkbased studio Goodrich. The second collaboration between the pair, Loop draws on their experience in the hospitality sector, seeking to reevaluate the design of public spaces in hotels.

The series comprises a sofa and lounge chair, with an oversized, enveloping frame that disperses the density of the foam throughout, maximising comfort.

The furniture, available in either fabric or leather upholstery, aligns with market trends that see guests increasingly seeking interiors that can make them feel at home. www.parladesign.com

The B2B department at Denmark-based SofaCompany offers customisation on all levels, from product personalisation to full bespoke solutions, crafted in collaboration with the brand’s in-house design team. “We have a dedicated team that’s with you all the way, committed to inspire you through a reliable and flexible collaboration,” says Niels Svolgaard, Business Sales Director at SofaCompany.

“It’s one of the many reasons our clients keep coming back to us for future projects – because we’re able to combine great design with great practice.” The brand’s ethos centres around authenticity, and using furniture to make users feel comfortable and relaxed. www.sofacompanyprofessional.com

Gresham Office Furniture is spotlighting its capsule range, Elco, designed to be the perfect balance of style and function.

Spanning a wide array of indoor furniture options, from comfortable lounge chairs and ottomans, to chic dining chairs and coffee tables, the collection showcases high-quality materials and craftsmanship through pieces designed to suit varied interior design styles. Each product is carefully crafted to provide maximum comfort and durability, with a particular focus on sleek design and versatility.

Pieces in the range are made from responsibly-sourced materials, such as FSC-certified wood, ensuring minimal environmental impact. www.gof.co.uk

Belgian furniture brand Gommaire creates timeless pieces that are inspired by the great outdoors, drawing on natural shapes, materials and textures.

All products are envisioned in-house, centred around a slogan of ‘Organic Living’, as is demonstrated by stylish duo Club Nathan with Swivel and Pouffe Nathan (pictured). The deep green hues of the pieces in the range are reminiscent of vast evergreen forests, subtly bringing the outdoor world in through furniture design. Meanwhile, as with all of Gommaire’s upholstered furniture, fabrics are custom-designed to ensure the highest possible quality and optimal seating comfort. www.gommaire.com

SPOTLIGHT

1.

2.

1. JC Hospitality JC Modern – Indochine JC Hospitality is a brand that excels in designing fine furniture and high-quality antique reproductions. For its Indochine collection, it has taken traditional art forms handed down through generations of craftspeople from Indochina, and fused them with modern techniques.

The Emperor console table in dark red (pictured) features an altar-style top and a single drawer inlaid in red eggshell, set above a gold-leaf foil mix with a black gloss lacquer base. To achieve this, intricate mosaic work in crackled eggshell, delicately shaded through the application of heat, has been combined with rich metal foils washed in multiple layers of hardened lacquer. www.jc-hospitality.com

2. John Lewis & Partners Business Expert Solutions John Lewis & Partners Business is dedicated to working with an array of companies, including those in the hospitality industry. The team’s knowledge of its top brands and own-brand products, as well as strong relationships with buyers, facilitates insight into a wide range of trends and products. From beds and sofas, to duvets and lamps, the company offers a simple purchasing solution. John Lewis & Partners Business provides an exclusive trade discount to interior designers and architects through its Interior Design membership, which can be accessed via a short application. www.johnlewis.com/business

3.

3. Pedrali Ester Lounge Italian furniture company Pedrali has expanded its Ester collection with a new lounge chair – a piece characterised by soft lines and harmonious proportions. Brought to life by French designer Patrick Jouin, Ester Lounge maintains the elegance of the armchair first presented in 2013, enhancing it with a softer form and increased comfort. Made from injected polyurethane foam with elastic belts, the chair’s proportions have been conceived to gracefully accommodate a wider, cosy seat, upon which a comfortable cushion rests. Jouin opted for a unique oval shape for the backrest, which is a defining feature of the entire collection, its form gently enveloping users. The curves of the backrest continue with the sinuous forms of the armrests, ending on the floor with refined die-cast aluminium legs, available in satinised aluminium, brushed bronze, antique brass or titanium. As for upholstery, Ester Lounge is covered with leather or fabric finishes in a wide range of colours, from bright hues to more neutral tones. Made from highperformance materials that ensure a balance of aesthetics and functionality, the product is well-suited to a range of hospitality spaces and interior design schemes. www.pedrali.com

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© Louise Carrasco

3.

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1. Arper Kata

2. Fermob Studie

3. Ligne Roset Vallée Blanche

4. Ton Chair 314

Designed by Altherr Désile Park, Arper’s Kata chair celebrates the natural beauty of wood. Available in both lounge and chair versions, it takes inspiration from the bespoke pieces made by artisans.

Its delicately-textured, custom-patterned shell is crafted from plywood, with a range of finishes on offer, including natural, black and rust oak. The chair is available with and without armrests, while comfort can be further enhanced through optional seat cushions or a fully upholstered shell. Lightweight in form and environmental footprint, Kata is designed with circular sustainability at its core, with FSC-certification and the ability to be easily disassembled. www.arper.com

For the latest iteration of Salone del Mobile in Milan, French furniture manufacturer Fermob recently unveiled two new indoor products, including the Studie chair. Designed by Tristan Lohner, the new addition to the Studie collection is a lounge armchair in a warm natural oak finish. Featuring an aluminium frame with curved edges, the piece bears all the hallmarks of the range, while its seat and backrest have been envisioned to comfortably embrace the user. Studie is available in all the shades of the Fermob colour chart, making it easy to pair with any of the group’s own tables, and to incorporate into any kind of interior design aesthetic. www.fermob.com

Ligne Roset’s Vallée Blanche chaise longue, envisioned by Pierre Guariche, invites guests to recline on a long, refined silhouette. Originally manufactured by Les Huchers-Minvielle in 1963, the seat was conceptualised while Guariche worked on the creation of La Plagne ski resort, and is one of the designer’s signature pieces. This latest edition respects the original iteration, with a wooden structure upholstered with wool fabric, while high-resilience polyurethane Bultex foam provides enhanced comfort. The seat rests on a seamless chrome metal base, comprising two cut and folded sheets, which ensures maximum stability as guests recline. www.ligne-roset.com

Czech bentwood furniture company Ton has launched a contemporary redesign of its popular Chair 14. The product has been brought to life by Swedish design studio Claesson Koivisto Rune, and brings together the unexpected elements of bentwood and mesh. The designers have reinterpreted the classic morphology of Chair 14, crafting a circular seat that nods to the mathematical constant of pi through both form and name.

The backrest and seat are made from cane weave, with a range of shades on offer. The chosen materials result in a lightweight product that is both stylish and pays homage to traditional craftsmanship. www.ton.eu

SPOTLIGHT

2.

3.

1.

4.

1. Atlas Concorde Atlas Concorde Habitat

2. Minotti Vivienne

3. Palecek Hadley

4. Bernhardt Hospitality Fabric on Frame

Atlas Concorde created its own brand to explore the potential of porcelain slabs in the design and creation of furniture.

The Atlas Concorde Habitat product selection includes a range of dining and coffee tables – rectangular in shape or with rounded corners. Contatto, a small side table, is available with either a square or round top, while the brand’s remit also encompasses washbasins and mastertops, all of which demonstrate the technical and aesthetic characteristics of porcelain. Available in an array of colours, the furniture pieces can be seamlessly incorporated alongside Atlas Concorde’s wider range of tiles, ensuring a coherent design across interiors. www.atlasconcorde.com

Vivienne is a series of indoor seating

by Italian furniture company Minotti that includes lounge armchairs, a bergère, a dining armchair and an ottoman – all well-suited to the creation of relaxed hospitality spaces. Designed by GamFratesi, the enveloping forms are built around a curved backrest, which in an interplay of volumes, creates an aesthetic that is sculptural, yet remains comfortable for users. Some of the pieces rest on a cylindrical metal swivel base – available with a chrome finish – that gives the impression that the chair is floating.

The main body meanwhile is available in various colours and is fully upholstered, ensuring maximum cosiness. www.minotti.com

The Hadley Swivel Lounge Chair is an embodiment of furniture brand Palecek’s core values: timeless design inspired by the beauty of natural materials. The product sees the clean lines of a hardwood frame surrounded by sustainably-sourced, hand-twisted lampakanay fibre rope, finished in natural, white or charcoal. The seat and inside back can be enhanced by standard or deluxe cushioning with fixed upholstery, in a choice of complementary neutral shades and weaves. A smooth-gliding 360-degree swivel mechanism allows for enhanced comfort and practicality, while the product’s open-back design gives a light and airy feel. www.palecek.com

Furniture manufacturer Bernhardt Hospitality offers a turnkey Fabric on Frame programme, providing seating suited to application in guestrooms, suites and public spaces, with a four- to six-week lead time. The initiative sees over 200 high-performance fabrics and leathers – including the newly-launched Ultrafabrics Faux Leather options – offered at a single price point for an array of indoor furniture products. Bernhardt Hospitality produces a wide range of seating designs, from the Merritt sofa (pictured), to loveseats and sleepers, sectionals, chairs, benches and ottomans that are built for long-term use in commercial environments. www.bernhardthospitality.com

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SPOTLIGHT

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1. Stellar Works Taiko

2. Freifrau Mia

3. Curtis Furniture Hilton Leeds City

4. Allermuir Bastille Lounge

Drawing on a commitment to EastWest harmony, Stellar Works’ Taiko range draws inspiration from the form of Japanese Taiko drums. A refined collection of minimalist side tables, crafted in collaboration with Amsterdambased Studio Stefan Scholten, Taiko is inspired by the instrument’s rounded shape, which makes for a visually striking design. Available in three sophisticated terrazzo combinations – ice rice white, colour gold and carbon black – the pieces seamlessly combine form and function. “The table is an expressive but functional design,” comments Scholten.

“For me, it is a beautiful mix of Asian and Western culture.” www.stellarworks.com

Freifrau has introduced its first modular sofa, envisioned by Ilja Huber. Named Mia, the product’s modular design system allows for flexibility to suit varied spatial requirements. Mia’s eleven modules can be combined in various ways, from a classic three-seater sofa set to an extensive settee suite. The combinations can also be customised by adding standalone armchairs or additional cushions. “The guiding principle for my design approach was to have comfortable armrests and backs, and so I took my inspiration from generously-proportioned cushions,” says the designer. “This offers both an inviting, comfortable appearance and actual functional comfort.” www.freifrau.com

Curtis Furniture recently supplied casegoods for the refurbishment of Hilton Leeds City. Teaming up with British interiors firm Bell & Swift, the brand followed a design narrative inspired by the culture and energy of Leeds.

Graphic patterns throughout nod to the movement of the city’s river, paired with organic forms and textures. Soft curves feature in the products’ design, including in bespoke pieces such as TV units, headboards and tables. With over 25 years of experience, Curtis is the UK’s largest manufacturer of casegoods, crafting and installing furniture for hotels across the UK from its 70,000ft2 factory in the heart of West Yorkshire. www.curtisfurniture.co.uk

Allermuir has unveiled Bastille Lounge, an evolution of its Bastille series, envisioned

by Patrick Norguet. The new range comprises a chair, alongside two- and three-seater sofas, available in an array of colours. The design language mirrors the original collection’s generously contoured and curved silhouette, projecting a quiet confidence through timeless design.

“I spend a lot of time drawing and researching to find the right style, like a musician finds their riff,” says Norguet.

“Once found, I work to make the drawing as accurate and clear as possible, removing the superfluous to find the right character for the object. Bastille Lounge went through the same process.” www.allermuir.com

Adventures in hotel design

Expo. Talks. Installations. Social.

Be a part of it: www.hixevent.com

HIX 2401 Sleeper Ad 236x275mm v2.indd 1

The ever-changing design experience that makes hotels incredible

www.hixevent.com HIX-event HIX_event

04/07/2024 16:47

OF.LINE BY SEBASTIAN HERKNER

B AT H R O O M MAISON ET OBJET . PARIS

ACCESSORIES

SERIES

MIRRORS

LIGHTS

05-09 SEPTEMBER 2024HIX . LONDON 27-28 NOVEMBER 2024

W W W . O F L I N E . D E C O R - W A LT H E R . D E

SPECIFIER

SPECIFIER

Decor Walther Of.Line Launched at Salone Internazionale del Bagno 2024, Of.Line is a new collection of bathroom accessories envisioned by Offenbach-based designer Sebastian Herkner for Decor Walther. The range is characterised by a combination of innovatively crafted solid aluminium in shades of aqua, champagne and mocha, with handmade porcelain in natureinspired hues of shell, moss and reed. Of.Line brings a new element to Decor Walther’s diverse portfolio, covering classic accessories such as soap dispensers and bowls, towel holders and toilet brushes, as well as paper towel boxes, storage trays and trinket boxes in various sizes. www.decor-walther.com

Occhio Luna Luxury German lighting brand Occhio presents Luna, a new series of six floating, celestial-inspired glass luminaires. The pieces feature the brand’s new patented fireball light source, which is set within a partially mirrored glass sphere to create a soft, glarefree yet powerful effect. Available in a variety of sizes, the range comprises wall, ceiling, table and suspended designs, with each piece bearing metal accents available in high-glass chrome or phantom finishes. Fitted with Occhio’s state-of-the-art technology, Luna can be controlled by contact-free, intuitive gestures. With the move of a hand, the light can be switched on or off, dimmed, brightened or set to a new colour temperature. An accompanying app – Occhio Air – can also be used to adjust settings, allowing the collection to produce myriad ambient lighting experiences. www.occhio.com

Bover Kando Barcelona-based lighting manufacturer Bover has launched Kando, a new line by Joana Bover that combines aesthetic allure with functionality for both indoor and outdoor use. Named after the Japanese concept of Kando – which signifies profound emotional impact and satisfaction – the collection comprises luminaires that emit a soft, inviting light through unique materials; ribbon fabric for indoor settings and nautical cord for outdoor environments, elegantly encased in a sleek Teka wood structure that doubles as a handle for easy portability. A key feature of the Kando series is its adjustable colour temperature, offering settings of 2200K, 2400K and 2700K, making it versatile for various environments.

Currently available in two sizes, with a smaller version planned for release by the end of 2024, Kando meets diverse needs. As Bover expands globally, the company continues its commitment to local craftsmanship and sustainable practices, delivering high-quality, innovative lighting solutions to enhance living spaces worldwide. www.bover.es

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SPECIFIER

S-CAB Brezza Designed by Alessandro Stabile, the Brezza armchair offers an innovative take on outdoor comfort, wherein the frame and cushions engage in a surprising dialogue. The generous upholstery leaves the round metal legs exposed, lending strength and visual identity to the armchair. Exuding sturdiness and resistance, Brezza is also practical; the upholstered elements are easy to fit into the frame, while a simple gesture is required to remove, wash or replace the upholstery. “I chose fabrics made from recycled yarn and then designed a non-glue construction of the various elements,” explains Stabile. “The frames can be stacked to reduce the shipping footprint and consequently CO2 emissions.” www.s-cab.it

RAK Ceramics RAK-Ingot Washbasins Sanitaryware and surface brand RAK Ceramics has launched its newest innovation, RAK-Ingot Washbasins. Designed to captivate with its sleek shapes, the washbasins are available in four distinct profiles – oval (550x350x115mm), rectangle (500x350x100mm), circle (360x360x110mm) and square (400x400x10mm) – ensuring compatibility with a variety of bathroom layouts. The hallmark of the collection is its array of finishes – Matt Black, Brushed Nickel and Brushed Brass – which have been crafted to complement the current trend for metallics and unique textures in contemporary bathroom design. The RAK-Ingot Washbashins are engineered for seamless integration with the brand’s accessories, mirrors and taps, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic. www.rakceramics.com/uk

Geberit AquaClean Alba AquaClean Alba is a new shower-toilet combining Geberit’s sophisticated product design with streamlined features for ultimate hygiene. Patented WhirlSpray technology delivers a gently effective cleansing experience, while the quiet TurboFlush 2.0 system and an ergonomic, rimless ceramic design ensures optimum hygiene and cleaning of the pan. AquaClean Alba offers heated water, an automatic descaling programme and a remote-control with wall bracket and Geberit Home app integration, allowing users to adjust the shower temperature and spray arm position from their smartphone. Compatible with all Geberit installation systems, the toilet features monolith modules and AquaClean design panels to enable seamless integration. A removable cover provides easy access to the descaling agent fill and spray nozzle, while the control’s LED indicator and app alerts when descaling is necessary. www.geberit.co.uk

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Akula Silky Akula has introduced the new Silky Collection, designed for both indoor and outdoor use, and manufactured from 100% UV-stabilised fabric. True to Akula’s marine-grade standard, the resilient structure stands strong against both sun and rain, maintaining its aesthetics in any outdoor area. The Silky collection is distinguished by the incorporation of unique multi-coloured yarns, adding a subtle yet distinctive effect, and high-quality stitching used in the finishing, ensuring durability and elegance.

Combining softness, robustness and sophisticated design, the range is a versatile choice for any hospitality or commercial space. www.akulaliving.com

Roda Outdoor Design by Roda/Missoni As part of Milan Design Week 2024, Roda and Missoni consolidated their new partnership with the launch of a new Outdoor Design collection. United by their innovative soul and sophisticated taste, the two companies have combined their talents to produce an aesthetic range of Roda furniture adorned with exclusive Missoni fabrics available in five different patterns – Riva, Bamboo, Opera, Spiga and Duna. The materials come in a variety of colours: from neutral sand and stucco tones to intense blues and greens, to vivid rust-red and orange. Produced and distributed

by Roda, the range upholstered in Missoni fabrics includes the pentagonal and modular sofa Mamba, the theatrical daybed Arena (pictured), the iconic lounge chair Laze, the pouffes of the Double series, the Orson lounger and the Harp chair with armrests. Davide Pompa, Sales & Marketing Director of Roda comments: “With this partnership, that combines the knowledge of fashion and outdoor furniture, we aimed to create contemporary and recognisable design pieces, focusing on detail, elegance and quality.” www.rodaonline.com

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SPECIFIER

Arte Wild Silk

Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering Yinka Ilori Collaboration

Arte has unveiled Wild Silk, a fabric collection comprising three distinct types of silk – Katia, Pure and Ghicha – each with its own story to tell. The natural look and feel of this organic material adds a sense of timeless charm to any interior, striking a balance between understated elegance and the raw beauty of nature. Katia Silk (pictured) comprises a unique blend of 80% hand-spun Katia silk and 20% cotton. The former is harvested from the cocoons of a wild silk butterfly, after which the short, soft filaments are spun by hand into thick, irregular yarns. A harmonious blend with cotton yarns creates a contrasting matte-gloss effect. The irregularities in the threads lend this wallcovering a surprising texture and distinctive appearance. Katia Silk is available in 10 colourways, from Sandcastle and Papaya to Artichoke and Cobalt. www.arte-international.com

Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering has unveiled a collaboration with British-Nigerian multidisciplinary artist and designer Yinka Ilori, drawing on his dual heritage, as well as the themes of community and the power of affirmation. The playful patterns appear simple at first, but become mesmerising upon closer inspection. From Shower Me With Flowers, whose floral motifs are pared down to their most minimal elements, to the repetitive geometrics of Eyes in Reflection, each pattern tells a story unique to Ilori. “My collaboration with Momentum is a testament to the power of happiness created by strong community and storytelling,” explains Ilori. “Together, we aim to transform commercial spaces into playful, creative hubs that inspire, uplift and even heal.” www.momentumtextilesandwalls.com

Phillip Jeffries Flourish Wallcoverings manufacturer Phillip Jeffries has launched its Summer 2024 Lookbook, featuring 17 new collections and 139 new items. “Escape to island living where gorgeous sunsets, lush botanicals and breezy afternoons inspire a carefree and luxurious style,” states the lookbook. “Authentic natural textures, exotic prints and vibrant colours embody a modern paradise.” Among the new launches is Flourish, a wallcovering depicting a serene garden landscape where birds rest among climbing botanicals and butterflies. Available in five colour palettes, Flourish uses laser-cut technology to create the scenic setting on authentic wood veneer.

Artisans also hand-place metallic leaf for a luxurious, large-scale mural with colour, dimension and texture. www.phillipjeffries.com

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Q&A

Manutti Stephane de Winter The CEO and Head of Design at Manutti tells all on the brand’s design ethos, hospitality favourites and emerging trends in the outdoor furniture sector.

What defines Manutti’s design philosophy?

Manutti’s unique DNA consists of intelligent design and craftsmanship. All the designers, craftspeople and suppliers we work with share a common goal: superior quality. We try to create designs that are functional, easy-tomaintain and evoke a feeling of summer.

What does your design process look like?

I usually search for ways to allow interiors to seamlessly flow into the outdoors. Outdoor furniture is often viewed from inside, so it is very important that the two complement one another.

I also spend a lot of time browsing architectural trends and then envisioning what the perfect accompanying outdoor furniture would look like. When people sit on a Manutti piece, I want them to experience the feeling of summer – that’s why the sun is our key symbol.

How is Manutti a good fit for hospitality settings?

Hospitality settings require furniture that can withstand heavy use and varying weather conditions. Manutti’s commitment to high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures that our furniture is not only stylish, but also durable and resilient. The wicker and rope used on some of our chairs, for example, is UVresistant and water-repellent. Manutti also offers extensive customisation options, including bespoke details and a variety of fabric choices, allowing hospitality clients to tailor our furniture to their specific needs and vision.

What is your most popular product for hotels?

The Flows sun lounger is one of our top products for hotel projects. It has a light aluminium frame, which is combined with the warmth of a handcrafted wood finish. Our Radoc dining chair and barstool are also popular, as is our modular Elements collection. Guest comfort is key in the hotel industry, and our ergonomic designs prioritise comfort without compromising on style.

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Tell us about some recent hotel projects.

We furnished the outdoor spaces at Rosewood Le Guanahani St Barth, delivering around 100 Sunrise sun loungers and dining chairs. Known for its sleek design and exceptional comfort, the collection perfectly complements the serene ambiance and luxurious design of the hotel.

We also worked on the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, where our Sandua collection adds character to the beachfront and poolside areas.

Which trends do you see on the rise in furniture design?

One of the most significant trends is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Consumers and designers alike are prioritising eco-friendly materials and processes. Furniture made from recycled, reclaimed or sustainably-sourced materials is increasingly popular. Multifunctional and modular designs will also become key as living spaces become more compact, especially in urban areas. Pieces that can serve multiple purposes or be easily reconfigured to adapt to different needs are highly sought-after, with a shift towards maximising functionality without compromising on style.

What’s next for Manutti?

We are focusing on designs derived from nature – organic silhouettes and colours will be the main focus of next season’s novelties. We’re also continuing to invest in comfort. We really want to bring the comfort of the indoors to our outdoor furniture. This is already reflected in our most recent Muyu collection, where we adopt natural materials and elegant teak silhouettes.

Manutti’s secret to success is time. We take time to get our designs right, and each piece is made to endure beyond fleeting trends, bringing people together to share moments under the sun. www.manutti.com

SPECIFIER

Schotten & Hansen Pit-a-Pat Table Schotten & Hansen has teamed up with Kit Kemp Design Studio to launch the Pit-a-Pat Table in celebration of its 40th anniversary.

Envisioned by Minnie Kemp, Design Director of Kit Kemp Design Studio, the table utilises an innovative magnetic technique developed by Schotten & Hansen. The magnetic insert is made up of wooden veneer pieces that are interchangeable. Two striking designs – London and New York – have been created with a silky lustre glaze finish. Available in three sizes – 1.8m, 2.25m or 3m long x 1.1m wide – the table has a sophisticated bronze frame decorated with a handcarved wiggle edge that softens the piece, alongside solid oak legs. www.schotten-hansen.com

Kettal Insula The Insula modular sofa is Patricia Urquiola’s updated take on the traditional seating found in Arab majlis, where community members gather to discuss events and local matters, receive and entertain guests and friends. It takes the form of a low, rational modular sofa in smooth shapes with a roll backrest, which serves as the design focal point and accentuates the horizontal. Insula combines carefully balanced proportions as an architectural element that can be subtly integrated into interiors or exteriors. Modular in design, it comprises an orthogonal aluminium base, with smooth lines and a comfortable seat cushion that comes in two sizes to allow for the use of different backrest types, such as individual, double or angular. In function, like the original majlis, the Insula sofa’s main purpose is for socialising. Its many configurations mean it can be adapted to all types of social gatherings, both indoors and outdoors: from an office reception area, providing a relaxing workspace, to a hotel lounge or outdoor terrace for sunbathing. www.kettal.com

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Save the Date 20 & 21 November 2024 Join us at LiGHT 24, the UK’s only trade show dedicated to high-end lighting specification.

For those working in design, it’s the best opportunity in the UK to explore new products, access design talks, and network with those across the sector.

Now into its third successful year, LiGHT 24 will take place at the Business Design Centre in London.

Join thousands of other industry professionals for a fantastic two days of design inspiration.

From the publishers of:

Where lighting and design unite

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CHECK-OUT

A Sensory Symphony

A new addition to Oxfordshire hideaway TreeDwellers immerses guests in nature’s soundscape.

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Whether it’s the pitter-patter of rain, the rustle

concept – originally created by students of the

of autumn leaves, the concerto of crickets or the

Estonian Academy of Arts, and later developed

warble of birdsong, the sounds of nature are

by TreeDwellers – has been brought to life by

scientifically proven to have a positive impact

Bear Woodcraft and Raven Roundwood Timber

on mood. With this in mind, TreeDwellers – a

Frames, who have carved the megaphone from

collection of organically-shaped treehouses in

giant redwood and cedar. In a nod to the ancient

the Cotswolds – has introduced a new experience

Japanese practice of forest bathing, their aim is

designed to immerse guests in the symphony of

to harness the transformative power of nature,

the surrounding woodlands. Described as the UK’s

leaving guests feeling relaxed and restored.

first ‘forest megaphone’, the nine-metre-long

“Sound meditation has always yielded powerful

installation invites guests to take a seat between

results for me on my personal journey. At

the conical-shaped amplifiers, where they can

TreeDwellers we sincerely want to go beyond

relax to nature’s soundscape. The experience

simply offering a bed in the trees,” says Tim

takes users on a sensory journey through

Rees, founder and CEO of TreeDwellers. “We have

the forest, with the crunching of sycamore

long experienced the forest’s profound impact on

leaves, the flapping of a bird’s wings and the

wellbeing and and it is a gift to be able to share

scurry of a deer amplified, stimulating alpha

this with our guests. The forest megaphone is

brainwaves and inducing a meditative state. The

not only a powerful tool, but a thing of beauty.”

The Songbird

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BLUETOOTH SPEAKER ALARM CLOCK WIRELESS CHARGING USB CHARGING ONE TIME ALARM VOLUME LIMITER

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W A L L P A P E R , F A B R I C , W A L L C O V E R I N G , L’ A C C E S S O I R E

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