Sleeper - Issue 119

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

ODERA – TINOS • HO KWON PING • POPULUS – DENVER

Coastal collection 25 Lighting designed to stand the test of time astrolighting.com

CONTENTS ISSUE 119 076

HOTEL REVIEWS

102

Odera

062

Bisate Reserve

068

Park Hyatt

076

Pendry Natirar

083

Delano

088

Hotel Bella Grande

097

Rosewood Schloss Fuschl

102

The Resident

111

Populus

116

Tinos

© What The Fox Studio

Rwanda

London River Thames New Jersey

088

Dubai

Copenhagen

© Natelee Cocks

© Matthieu Salvaing

097

Salzburg

Edinburgh Denver

003

CONTENTS ISSUE 119 FEATURES

116

Meeting... Ho Kwon Ping

040

Fresh off the back of his Outstanding Contribution win at AHEAD Asia, the founder of Banyan Group reflects on three decades of pioneering hospitality.

25 Years of Oppenheim Architecture 047

Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, Chad Oppenheim discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.

© Yoshihiro Makino

158

083

Meeting... Gareth Banner

052

Lasting Legacy

129

Having overseen the launch of its latest venture in Washington DC, the Group Managing Director of The Ned discusses design DNA, evolution and future developments.

Design consultancy Greenspace delves into the archives, looking to stories of the past to build a brand identity befitting of a London landmark.

REGULARS

062

004

068

Check-In

028

Drawing Board

030

The Lobby

055

Design Details

126

Business Centre

132

Events

143

Outdoor Furniture

157

Art

173

Specifier

179

Check-Out

194

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PHILIA, design Rodolfo Dordoni rodaonline.com

J A N U S E T C I E .C O M

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AM A NU a r m cha ir & d in in g t a b le b y Ya b u Pu s helb er g T R I B U.C OM

LEYA FAMILY designed by HOFFMANN KAHLEYSS DESIGN

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WELCOME

ON THE COVER Odera, Tinos © Christos Drazos

That Special Something hat makes an award-winning hotel? It’s a question

W

In truth, there’s no right or wrong, and that’s the beauty

we’re often asked throughout the entry process for

of AHEAD. A 10-key tented camp in the wild can, and does,

AHEAD, particularly from the creatives who are

compete with a mixed-use development in a cosmopolitan

eager to get their hands on a coveted trophy and be in with a

capital city. After fierce debate over architecture and space-

chance of being named best new hotel in the world.

planning, interior design and FF&E, budget and commercial

By name, the scheme is billed as the Awards for Hospitality

viability, it’s often that special something that is the deciding

Experience and Design, having evolved from a focus on

factor – an intangible quality that can’t typically be designed

architecture and interiors to now encompass the role they

on demand or manufactured.

play in shaping the overall guest experience. This could be

For me – a career-long hospitality commentator with

the sense of place that comes from the style and composition

almost two decades in the role – there are only a handful of

of the building, or perhaps it’s the stories told through the

hotels that I can truly say had that special something. It’s

materials that are handcrafted by local artisans. Such aspects

difficult to pinpoint exactly what it was that made them so

are crucial to catch the eye of AHEAD’s judging panel, but

memorable that even long after check-out, they still have the

typically, it’s that special something that captures their hearts.

power to evoke an emotional reaction.

During the course of the 2024 awards programme, there

So for those who are looking to enter a new hotel opening

were countless juxtapositions at play. Branded versus

for this year’s AHEAD programme, tell us the stories behind

independent. Global versus local. Newcomer versus veteran.

the architecture and interior design scheme, but also show us

Big budget versus cost-effective. The list goes on… There

how they contribute to the locale or the guest experience –

was much debate amongst judges as to which hotels should

what distinguishes them from the competition?

ultimately be crowned winners, yet in so many of these David-

Given the sheer variety of entries and wide-ranging

and-Goliath-like battles, it wasn’t necessarily the biggest or

expertise of the judging panel, it’s impossible to predict which

strongest that came out on top.

way the vote might go, which is why we encourage hotels of all

For the industry specialists serving on the AHEAD panel,

shapes and scales to put themselves forward and be in with a

there are guidelines and criteria by which to judge, but there

chance of winning an accolade. And in answer to the question

are no hard-and-fast rules as to what makes a hotel special.

posed as to what makes an award-winning hotel... It’s just

As a result, the lengthy discussions that took place at the

that special something.

behind-closed-doors judging sessions in all four regions were insightful to say the least, often throwing up more questions than they did answers. What is the definition of a resort? Is guest experience more important than interior design? How can you compare a marble-clad palace to a raw and rustic retreat? Yet in the end, a winner emerges.

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

023

Ogado. collection designed by Brent De Meulenaere

Get inspired at manutti.com

outdoor luxury

GUEST BOOK

056

083

076

© Christian Horan © John David Pittman

© Felix Dol Maillot

116

056 Julien Sebban

083 Michael Fuerstman

116 Jeanne Gang

076 Charlie Whinney

The word uchronia refers to the reimagining of our world in an alternative dimension – an idealised existence that takes life in new directions. It is a concept that Julien Sebban embraced in the naming of his studio, and one that continues to inform his creation of ‘places of experience’.

The multidisciplinary collective has developed a distinct signature style that aligns with the spirit of its name – most recently evident in a surrealist conceptual hotel developed for the latest edition of Maison & Objet.

“As hoteliers we have a responsibility to create authentic stays for guests, and here, it’s about experiencing the romantic ideal of an estate in the countryside,” says Michael Fuerstman as he reflects on the design brief for Pendry Natirar.

In transforming the historic mansion into Pendry Hotels & Resorts’ first drive-to resort, the co-founder and Creative Director embraced existing elements as the foundation, before layering contemporary touches to bring the property to life.

Whilst on a hiking trip in scenic Colorado, architect Jeanne Gang – founder of Studio Gang – was captivated by the eyelike knots that climb the trunks of the ubiquitous Aspen Tree.

So when later approached by environmentalist developer Urban Villages to design a new hotel in Denver, she knew she wanted to incorporate this iconic motif into the façade. Named after the native tree, Populus is billed as the first carbon-positive hotel in the USA and stands proud as a test-case for all future hotels.

Charlie Whinney is no stranger to the hotel sector, having introduced his signature steam-bent art to a host of new openings of late. His portfolio spans prestigious projects across London and beyond, including Mandarin Oriental Mayfair and, most recently, Park Hyatt London River Thames. For the brand’s debut in the capital, the artist created a striking installation named ‘Ebb & Flow’. Presiding over the lobby, the sinuous piece pays homage to the tidal movements of the River Thames, seting the tone for a ‘park by water’ experience.

025

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FRONT DESK EDITORIAL

COMMERCIAL

EVENTS

DESIGN

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

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

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CHECK-IN

Jose Rivero and Lee McNichol Having established their own atelier, the founders of Studio Sixty7 take a fantasy break to an Axel Vervoordt-designed resort in the Botswana wilderness.

Where are you?

Is there anything you would like waiting for

Who’s manning the stoves?

We are overlooking the Okavango Delta in

you in your room?

Adejoké Bakare, the first black woman in the

Botswana, with its breathtaking views and

Air-conditioning is a must, along with a freshly

UK to be awarded a Michelin star. Her take on

overflowing array of wildlife - no mosquitoes

poured Negroni and Margarita on the rocks.

modern African cuisine is like no other.

in sight, thankfully.

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

And what’s on the menu?

How did you get there?

The interiors embrace a soft, earthy palette,

Everything from Bakare’s restaurant, Chishuru,

Wrapped-up in cashmere throws, we take a

while smooth plaster and weathered woods

in London.

dreamy hot-air balloon ride with a constant

are layered with linens and textiles handwoven

flow of Dom Pérignon. It’s sunset and we catch

in Africa. Every piece of furniture has been

Would you like something to drink with that?

the golden hour glow.

selected to tell a story, as well as give comfort.

Joanna Lumley keeps bringing over bottles of

It is all about subtle elegance and embracing

Dom Pérignon – we’re starting to think she’s

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

the Okavango Delta views from our perfectly

back to playing Patsy from the iconic British

Sir David Attenborough and Dame Joanna

sized balcony.

sitcom Absolutely Fabulous!

safari retreat, where storytelling and nature go

Who designed it?

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

hand-in-hand with champagne, darling.

Master of design, Axel Vervoordt, with his

A classic Negroni - they know us so well.

Lumley, who else? They have recently opened a

minimalist interiors and curated, locally sourced And who’s at the concierge desk?

accessories and sculptures. It’s a feast for the

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

An incredible lady called Dorothy Bahati, who

eyes and a lesson in design.

A signed safari survival guide by Sir David comes in handy.

we met on a recent trip to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives. She is a woman on a mission

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

for change, full of smiles and laughter.

It’s sunset and we can hear the lions roaring

Would you like a newspaper or magazine in

over the soft jazz playing in the background. The

the morning?

Who are you sharing your room with?

restaurant is a magical safari tent surrounded

A newspaper, accompanied by a freshly brewed

Other than each other, Jose has a soft spot for

by lanterns and the African bush beyond. We

coffee. Nothing beats the smell of strong coffee

Timothée Chalamet, who happens to be filming

sit on large cushions upholstered in brightly

beans to start the day.

a new movie in the Okavango Delta.

coloured Kente print fabrics with the smell of the campfire and food drifting in.

What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?

Treat us to La Mer skincare and spray us with

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Sun Siyam Pasikudah, Sri Lanka; Sun Siyam Resorts, Maldives www.studiosixty7.co.uk

Who are you dining with this evening?

Byredo’s Bal D’Afrique fragrance, and we’ll be

Sir David Attenborough, who’s been telling us

all yours.

stories about his life in nature; Karl Lagerfeld talks all things fashion; Kelly Wearstler is on

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

interiors; the Spice Girls on music; and Sofia

Late check-out - the roaring lions are our early

Vergara is just being Sofia!

morning alarm clock.

029

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

Therme DUBAI

Therme Group has unveiled plans for a new resort in Dubai’s Zabeel Park, slated for completion by 2028.

Named Therme Dubai – Islands In The Sky, the resort has been designed by architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R) to combine city living and the natural world, with features including botanical gardens, stacked terraces and cascading pools.

“Elevated high above the concerns of everyday urban life, Therme Dubai is an oasis in the sky,” says Elizabeth Diller, Founding Partner of DS+R. “It emerges from the lake of a revitalised Zabeel Park as a series of botanical islands stacked into a tower.

Each island is a platform for thermal pools, decks and verdant indoor and outdoor vegetation; each offers a distinctive atmosphere, and each is oriented toward the dramatic view of the Dubai skyline. Guests are immersed in unique environments – the intense heat of saunas and steam rooms and the ambient temperature of thermal pools and cool mineral pools.

DS+R is thrilled to take part in the convergence of Therme’s innovative approach to the tradition of public baths and Dubai’s legacy for landmark architecture.”

The resort will employ numerous practices to meet Therme Group’s sustainability targets – 90% of the water used in its thermal pools will be recycled, while 80% of the fresh air and cooling needs will be met through clean energy sources.

Dr Robert Hanea, founder and CEO of Therme Group, comments: “Dubai is a city that understands the future must be built with wellbeing at its core.

This partnership brings together two forces driving that future: Dubai’s bold vision for urban planning and Therme Group’s commitment to redefining urban wellbeing through innovation. We are shaping how cities can integrate nature, water and culture to elevate quality of life at scale.”

DRAWING BOARD

Wilderness Magashi Peninsula RWANDA

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Wilderness Architecture: Luxury Frontiers Interior Design: Artichoke, Wilderness in-house www.wildernessdestinations.com

032

Wilderness Rwanda is preparing to expand its

development, Wilderness Rwanda also works

offer with the launch of Wilderness Magashi

with the Akagera Management Company – a

Peninsula in September 2025. The luxury safari

collaboration between the Rwanda Development

lodge will be located within a private concession

Board and African Parks – to support essential

at Akagera National Park, Central Africa’s

conservation initiatives, including predator

largest protected wetland and Rwanda’s only

monitoring and educational programmes for

sanctuary for savannah species.

the next generation of conservationists.

The creative vision of Luxury Frontiers,

“In addition to our conservation and

Artichoke and the Wilderness in-house design

community initiatives, Magashi Peninsula also

team, Wilderness Magashi Peninsula is an

celebrates Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage,”

eight-bed camp made up of a four-bed villa and

says Manzi Kayihura, Executive Director of

two twin rooms, located 200m apart to ensure

Wilderness Rwanda. “The interiors will reflect

privacy. Each accommodation unit comes

locally inspired design, and as with all our camps,

with its own plunge pool and is raised off the

every detail aligns with our purpose-driven

ground to enhance views of the surroundings.

ethos. Furthermore, the lodge’s construction

The camp’s central public area meanwhile

and daily operations will engage team members

features dining and lounge spaces, as well as

from neighbouring communities, with a strong

a swimming pool, gym and wellness facilities.

commitment to nurturing local talent and

Designed with a minimal environmental

creating meaningful employment, building on

footprint, the property will be powered entirely

our vision of fostering a sustainable tourism

by solar energy. As part of the Magashi Peninsula

model that benefits the entire region.”

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/LS990METAL

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DRAWING BOARD

Tempo Hotel & Residences SANTA CATARINA

Foster + Partners has revealed a first look at its

been envisioned to maximise links with the

designs for a new hotel and residences in the

outdoors, facilitating views of nearby mountains

southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina.

and beaches. Public spaces also lean into the

Part of a development by Muze, Tempo Hotel

location, with a rooftop infinity pool wrapping

& Residences centres around a rich landscaped

around the building to provide unobstructed

garden comprising natural trails, pavilions,

360-degree views.

water features and pools, designed to act as a seamless extension of the beachfront.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Muze Operator: Hilton Worldwide Architecture: Foster + Partners www.hilton.com

034

“The Tempo Hotel & Residences capture the spirit of this vibrant coastal location,”

A private drop-off area provides views of the

comments David Summerfield, Head of Studio

greenery from the moment of arrival, with the

at Foster + Partners. “Nature is woven through

entryway leading into the lobby and restaurant,

every part of the development, which will take

which incorporates a sunken outdoor seating

guests and residents on a truly spectacular

area that further enhances the connection

journey from the beach to their private suites

to the natural landscape. Each suite comes

and whole-floor residences.”

with a private terrace oriented to offer direct

Partner Juan Frigerio adds: “Every element

views of the oceanfront, as well as sliding

of our scheme has been carefully designed to

timber screens for added privacy and shade.

establish new connections with the spectacular

Inside, a warm palette of concrete and timber

surroundings, while providing the highest level

features throughout, reflecting the hues of the

of comfort and luxury. Tempo will be a new

surrounding environment.

global destination that offers an entirely unique

The property’s undulating architecture has

oceanfront experience.”

©2025 Waterworks is a Registered Trademark of Waterworks IP Company, LLC

Henry, meet Chronos.

DRAWING BOARD

Hook Island

Epochal Hotels has unveiled plans to open a new

responsive to the land,” comments Graeme

eco-lodge on Australia’s Hook Island. Glenn

Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer

AUSTRALIA

Piper, the group’s CEO, acquired the leasehold

at Luxury Frontiers. Development will take a

in 2022 alongside a small group of investors,

phased approach to minimise its footprint, with

with the vision of restoring a location that had

measures in place to prevent erosion, manage

been left severely impacted by cyclones.

waste and reduce noise pollution. Across the

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Epochal Hotels Architecture and Interior Design: Luxury Frontiers, Glenn Piper www.epochalhotels.com

036

Slated for launch in 2027, the destination

site, extensive tree surveys are guiding the

comprises 39 biophilic cabins nestled across

placement of buildings, again to preserve native

forest and beachfront settings. Amenities will

plants and habitats.

include a fine-dining restaurant and beach club,

As Labe explains, interiors are set to reflect

as well as an all-day dining restaurant, bar,

Hook Island’s vibrant palette. “Upon arrival,

outdoor firepit, swimming pool and lounging

guests first notice earthy tones of brown, green

deck. Wellness facilities meanwhile take the

and ocean blue,” he says. “As they explore

form of a forest spa and eco pools.

further, bursts of colour – drawn from the

Piper, in collaboration with Luxury Frontiers,

island’s birds, coral and marine life – begin to

has designed the resort to embody ‘barefoot

emerge, much like the Great Barrier Reef, whose

luxury’. Architectural plans draw inspiration

brilliance is revealed through discovery. Each

from nature, grounding the resort within its

accommodation type carries a distinct identity,

surroundings. “Our modular, prefabricated

blending eclectic, playful design with a nature-

approach minimises environmental impact

centric foundation and evolving the story and

while allowing for architecture that is fluid and

purpose of each unit’s typology.”

PH BERNARD TOUILLON

ETHIMO.COM

SHOWROOM L O N D O N , 3 5 -3 9 O L D S T R E E T – E C1V 9 H X M I L A N / PA R I S / R O M E / C A N N E S S A L O N E D E L M O B I L E . M I L A N 8 -13 A P R I L / H A L L 2 4 S TA N D C 3 7

PAT I O B Y Z A N E L L AT O / B O R T O T T O

DRAWING BOARD

Delano

Ennismore and Cain International have offered

movement and fluidity – an homage to Miami’s

a glimpse inside the new Delano Miami Beach,

coastal rhythm and the sculptural elegance of

MIAMI BEACH

set to reopen its doors in late 2025 following

Art Deco architecture.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Cain International Operator: Ennismore Architecture and Interior Design: Elastic Architects, Ennismore in-house www.delanohotels.com

038

complete renovation. The property has been

She continues: “Art plays a definitive role

redesigned by Elastic Architects in collaboration

in Delano’s redefined narrative. Where Delano

with Ennismore, with interiors paying homage

was once whimsical, we have reimagined and

to its Art Deco roots. Original vertical paint bands

transformed that spirit into artistry. Every

and terrazzo flooring are set to be reinstated,

piece of furniture is a custom-designed art

while the Delano logo and the lobby’s hexagonal

piece, sculptural in nature, sophisticated and

columns are being restored.

timelessly stylish. In collaboration with Nicola

“We drew from Miami’s rich and colourful

Green Studio, we also developed intricate,

identity, weaving in Delano’s iconic design

bespoke patterns and graphic motifs, inspired

elements. Our vision was to redefine the brand

by Miami’s cultural and natural heritage. These

by tracing its origins and interpreting its true

motifs and patterns permeate the design,

identity for the present day,” says Ria Vogiatzi

gracing area rugs, furnishings and decorative

Xenou, founder of Elastic Architects. “The

details throughout the property.”

historic Delano featured a defining detail: its

In addition to 171 guestrooms and suites,

iconic entrance curtains. We have honoured

Delano Miami Beach will be home to four F&B

this signature moment with walls that are

venues, as well as retail and event spaces, a

veiled with full dramatic drapery, flowing

wellness studio, spa, swimming pools and a

wavy textures and organic contours that exude

beachfront amenity deck.

Meeting…

Ho Kwon Ping Fresh off the back of his Outstanding Contribution win at AHEAD Asia, the founder of Banyan Group reflects on three decades of pioneering hospitality.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: Courtesy of Banyan Group

I

am an accidental hotelier, but an intentional traveller,”

opportunities; then on to Marrakech to visit the riads

quips Ho Kwon Ping, also known as KP Ho, the founder

operated under the Angsana Heritage Collection brand; and

and Executive Chairman of Banyan Group, a hospitality

finally on to London.

business currently operating over 90 hotels in 20

The accidental hotelier moniker meanwhile, is a little

countries. These are primarily in Southeast Asia with

more complicated. “I did some crazy things in my 30s,” he

outliers in Mexico, Cuba, Morocco, the UAE and Saudi

prefaces. One of these was oil exploration, of which he simply

Arabia. He dials in on a Friday afternoon from his home

states: “It was an abject failure.” Chastened, he and his wife

in Phuket, having just stepped off a plane from Singapore,

Claire sought refuge in a holiday home on Phuket, where they

where the corporate office is located. Fresh-faced, he wears

came across some nearby abandoned land, a series of lagoons

a slim-fitting white T-shirt that speaks of a down-to-earth,

that reminded Ho of his visits to Hawaii. It was cheaply

utilitarian man. Calmly, he holds forth on a wide variety of

acquired without a clear idea of what to do with it – a punt

topics that offer a fascinating insight to a mind always in

taken without much due-diligence. It subsequently emerged

motion. A keen mind that is never short of an opinion.

that the land was heavily polluted from tin-mine dredging.

Elaborating on the self-appointed titles – which he also

To make it usable, they began its rehabilitation – many years

used to describe himself whilst accepting the Outstanding

of earthworks to replace the acid-leached topsoil and the

Contribution award at AHEAD Asia 2024 in recognition

planting thousands of trees. Slowly, the idea of resorts came

of Banyan Group’s 30 years in business – the intentional

into being and the first few properties of Laguna Phuket were

traveller reflects on his early life. There were family moves

outsourced to management companies. “Eventually, due to a

from Hong Kong, where he was born, schooling in Singapore,

lack of takers for one of the properties, we said we’ll do it,”

a stint in Taiwan, university in the United States before

he explains. “And that’s totally by accident.”

settling in Singapore. There were many journeys too, often

In 1994, Ho opened the flagship Banyan Tree Phuket,

back-packing, including a yet-to-be-completed tour of

which included the brand’s first spa. First-hand experience

the Mekong River from source to delta. A few weeks before

of Laguna Phuket revealed a world of orderliness and

our call, he took a trip to Istanbul to look at upcoming

tranquillity compared to the majority of the Thai island.

MEETING…

MEETING…

Banyan Group’s mission to embody the romance of travel spans properties such as Banyan Tree Dubai and Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape

Neighbouring resorts include Angsana, Cassia and Homm Suites – all part of Banyan Group.

A banyan tree is a fig, recognisable by its aerial roots. The business name comes from the small fishing village of Banyan Tree Bay on Lamma Island, just off the coast of Hong Kong, where the newlyweds had found a small home.

Such a botanical motif points clearly to the importance of the natural environment to the couple. “The venture started from the very DNA

“We never talked about signature standards or brand architecture – it was something that started out as pure, intuitive artistry.”

utmost importance. He later clarifies that he is not exactly sure this is written down, one of several moments of levity.

The business previously carried out all design work in-house via its own studio, Architrave Design & Planning. “It was disbanded, partly because we have grown so much, so now we work with many different designers,” Ho states. So, what do they look for in a designer?

Affordability is one attribute, but they also look

of Claire and myself,” he reveals. “She studied

for “a mix between creative style and service

development sociology, I studied development

efficiency,” he says, adding that these should

economics. We’re both of a generation where

not be mutually exclusive but are sometimes

Asia was coming out of its poverty, and

countervailing forces in practice.

development was very much at the heart of what

Time eludes us so we hop through a number

we sought to do,” Ho recalls. They disagreed

of topics. Firstly, brand proliferation, where

with the Western model of what protecting the

does it stop? “There’s no magic number for

environment involved. “I call it the ‘Greenpeace

brands. I think we’ve reached our limit with 12

model’, which is basically ‘screw people if you

for the time being and there’s no clear segment

have to, but the endangered snail species is more

of the market that we cannot reach, especially

important’.” Rejecting this simplicity and given

if we consider brand extensions,” he states,

their heritage, the duo recognised the trade-off

referring to the introduction of Banyan Tree Escape, Banyan Tree Veya and Angsana Heritage

between conservation and people’s livelihood.

The group’s guiding principle since its inception – ‘Embracing the Environment,

Aman as two examples that pride themselves

Collection. “And there’s always white-label

on their exclusivity.

hotels, XYZ by Banyan Tree, to deal with oneoff, unique properties that don’t totally fit a

Empowering People’ – still resonates today.

I mention a brand design guidelines document

“Both are equally important,” states Ho,

that Ho professes not to have seen. “We never

referencing notable initiatives, such as a free

even talked about signature standards or brand

And what of the relationship with Accor?

kindergarten for the children of employees; the

architecture – it was something that started

Ho notes that Accor owns 5% of Banyan Tree.

Seedlings programme to help at-risk children;

out as pure, intuitive artistry.” Though he does

He sees that Accor’s presence in almost every

the first marine conservation and education

acknowledge that “once you become halfway

country in the world provides reach, and when

centre in the Maldives; and the ongoing local

successful, you have to start institutionalising

cooperating together they manage properties

sourcing of the craft products sold in their

things”. And herein lies the challenge. “Where

50:50 and share the management fees. “I don’t

Banyan Tree Galleries.

do you infuse some degree of freedom to

think much of our DNA has changed because of

Our conversation moves on to design. The

express what is the romance of travel?” he

our venture with Accor,” he concludes.

group’s ethos follows a strong sense of place,

questions. “How do you go about giving a brand

We close our conversation with a look to the

and Ho refers to the romance of travel. “For

some air?” Certainly, there are some standards:

future, as talk drifts towards global events and

me the romance of travel has nothing to do

“If we incorporate a private pool, it’s not so

their impact on the hospitality sector. So, how

with the physical luxury of the product itself,”

much the dimensions, the brand standard is

is he planning to grow the business? Firstly, he

he explains. “The notion was never one of

that guests are able to swim stark naked.” It

looks to their success in the branded residences

exclusive luxury.” He references Bulgari and

could be assumed that he means privacy is of

market, which is due in part to luck. “We’ve

specific brand.”

043

MEETING…

“I’m an accidental hotelier, but an intentional traveller.”

Slated to open in 2025, Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape in Tanzania marks the group’s first safari resort, offering guests a purposeful discovery experience

044

sold thousands of villas, at a few million dollars

“We’re now building a growing cash pile,

apiece,” he explains. This good fortune comes

looking at buying small chains and absorbing

from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has

them into our brand architecture,” Ho remarks.

seen a different sort of ‘invasion’ in Thailand

Though nothing is confirmed yet, he suggests

that has driven very strong margins on sales.

that a chain of 20-30 smaller hotels would

“A recent survey by Savills ranked us as the

be ideal. And this makes sense, as by mid-

fourth largest branded residence operator in the

2025 the portfolio is expected to be around

world by completed and pipeline schemes,” he

100 hotels. “Unless the acquired chain had a

beams. Quite an achievement considering they

very distinctive and strong brand, the hotels

were beaten only by Marriott, Accor and Four

will probably be folded into the existing brand

Seasons. Phuket too shines brightly in Savills’

portfolio,” he adds.

Top 10 Rising Locations for branded residences.

KP Ho is a multifaceted character with great

Secondly, the group also had a good

energy and broad knowledge. A rebel in his

relationship with Vanke, a large Chinese

youth; he had two stints in jail; he has remained

property development company that owns a 5%

headstrong as the risk taken with the Laguna

stake. “We sold all the hotels we owned in China

Phuket property purchase witnesses. He still

to Vanke [the remainder were already managed

has appetite to change the world for the good

hotels] together with 60% of our management

through the ongoing success of a regenerative

company at a time when the property market

family business focused on the long-term.

was buoyant,” he continues. Following the post-

Perhaps his path has been so interesting because

Covid collapse of the Chinese property market

of a philosophy he mentioned: “Half of what we

12-18 months ago, they bought everything back

achieve in life is due to luck, good or bad. We

when the market was low.

shouldn’t take ourselves too seriously.”

TA I L O R MADE SHADE

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

OCEAN MASTER M1 CRESCENT

TUUCI.COM

MEETING…

25 Years Of Oppenheim Architecture Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, Chad Oppenheim discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.

© Ken Hayden

T

he role of an architect has arguably evolved

ON EVOLUTION

over the years, with the discipline now firmly

Our approach has evolved yet remains consistent – using

focused on shaping the built environment in a

architecture to create a better habitat for all species,

way that benefits both people and planet. For Chad

most notably our own, to help people connect with the

Oppenheim, this is nothing new. In fact, the founder

world around them and each other. Initially, the focus

of Oppenheim Architecture has dedicated the past 25

was on smaller, intimate projects that aligned with my

years to creating landmark buildings that are highly

ethos of sustainability and sensitivity to context. Over

sensitive to their context and climate.

time, our approach has evolved to encompass larger,

KEY HOTEL PROJECTS

The self-proclaimed ‘architectural archaeologist’

more complex undertakings. Projects like Desert Rock

Lago Maggiore Retreat, Switzerland (2018)

goes beyond the bounds of conventional architectural

demonstrate this evolution – they are bolder in scale,

production, studying people and cultures, technologies

yet retain our core values of integration with nature and

Jali Hotel and Residences, Albania (2021)

and materials, psychologies and experiences, to create

thoughtful design.

The Langham, Gold Coast (2022) Desert Rock, Saudi Arabia (2024) Hotel Jali, Albania (2025) La Maviglia, Puglia (2027) Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences, Bahamas (2027)

buildings and spaces that connect people with the

Our journey has taught us to embrace technological

spirit of place. This approach goes hand-in-hand with

advancements while remaining deeply rooted in the

the belief that buildings and their environment should

principles of timeless architecture. We not only consider

be deeply symbiotic, where projects belong to their site

the architecture, but are creators of new ecosystems

and form follows feeling.

that support a symbiotic relationship between humans

Now, a quarter of a century after the studio’s inception in Miami, its visionary founder reveals more about the journey so far.

ON THE INITIAL VISION

and nature.

ON MILESTONE HOTEL PROJECTS Desert Rock, nestled in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region, stands as a milestone. It’s a project that exemplifies

When I founded Oppenheim Architecture, my vision

our philosophy of building with the land, not on it.

was to create spaces that celebrate the natural world

The resort is carved into the natural rock formations,

while elevating the human experience. I was driven

blending so seamlessly that it feels as though it has

by the desire to design structures that honour their

always been there. This project was special because it

surroundings, forging a harmonious relationship

challenged us to think differently about construction

between architecture and the environment. The goal was

– how to minimise disruption and create something

never just to build, but to craft experiences – spaces that

profoundly respectful of its environment. It was

resonate emotionally and spiritually. Our first projects

inspired by the original architecture of the Nabataean

sought to enhance the way people live, exploring new

civilisation, which is in keeping with our philosophy

spatial experiences that improve life, while creating a

of capturing the spirit of place with all our projects. It

great return on investment for our clients.

also connects with our vision of a more primitive future,

047

MEETING…

MEETING…

“The goal was never just to build, but to craft experiences – spaces that resonate emotionally and spiritually.”

where we integrate a visceral understanding of how to work with the land, using minimal external resources to create the most heightened experience in specific environments around the world.

One of my proudest moments was standing at the Desert Rock site, seeing our vision take shape within the timeless rock formations. Witnessing our team’s commitment to the principles of minimal impact and ecological respect reaffirmed the power of architecture to inspire and heal. Moments like these remind me why I started this journey. I hope that our ethos of doing more with less is an inspiration for the future.

ON CHANGES IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN The shift toward experiential travel has significantly influenced hospitality design. Clients are now asking for projects that offer meaningful, immersive experiences rather than just luxury. It’s no longer just about aesthetics, it’s about creating spaces that tell a story and deepen the connection between humans and nature. It is also about preserving and enhancing the natural environment.

ON NEW OPENINGS In addition to Desert Rock, we recently finished The Jewel in Australia. Both of these resorts redefine luxury with naturedriven design and advanced sustainability measures, including solar power and zero-waste systems. We also completed the design of Six Senses Wadi Safar, which is now under construction. This project, sited on top of a rock plateau with immense views over the valley surrounding it, interprets the architectural DNA of the ancient Najdi architecture.

We have also received permits for a resort in Puglia that celebrates the region’s unique architecture, finding lessons from the historical trulli and masseria that exist on the site.

048

A milestone project for the studio is Desert Rock, a resort carved into the natural rock formations of Saudi Arabia

Solo Chair Philippe Starck Triada Benjamin Hubert

Manufacturing a Better World

MEETING…

“Our future projects will not just coexist with nature, but will actively contribute to its preservation and regeneration.”

Plus, we are working on an incredible resort on the Cape of Cabo, as well as a retreat in the Swiss Alps that combines traditional chalet design with modern, energy-efficient technologies.

In Albania, we are working with the visionary Prime Minister Edi Rama to create a new destination © Recent Spaces

on the coast. We are incorporating all the ancient techniques from the rich history of Albanian architecture. Each project continues our commitment to enhancing the human-nature connection. One other really fun project is designing a 300ft super energy-efficient yacht.

ON THE NEXT 25 YEARS I envision Oppenheim Architecture continuing to lead in creating spaces that honour our planet.

We aim to push boundaries in sustainable design, incorporating new technologies while remaining true to our core philosophy of timeless, contextsensitive architecture. The future will bring more collaborations with scientists, engineers and artists to address pressing global challenges.

ON HOTEL DESIGN IN 2100 By 2100, our hotel designs will be fully integrated within their environments, possibly even selfhealing and self-sustaining. Imagine structures that adapt to climate change, use artificial intelligence to optimise the guest experience, and actively restore ecosystems. Our future projects will not just coexist

Forthcoming projects include (top to bottom): La Maviglia, Puglia; Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences, Bahamas; Hotel Jali, Albania

050

with nature, but will actively contribute to its preservation and regeneration.

Meeting…

Gareth Banner Fresh from overseeing the launch of its latest venture in Washington DC, the Group Managing Director of The Ned discusses design DNA, evolution and future developments.

PROFILE Gareth Banner Group Managing Director The Ned Gareth Banner has been a driving force behind The Ned’s growth since its original London opening in 2017. He was appointed as pre-opening Managing Director of The Ned London in 2016 and promoted to Group Managing Director in 2022 to oversee the brand’s expansion into North America and the Middle East.

Current Projects: The Ned, London; The Ned NoMad, New York; The Ned, Doha; Ned’s Club, Washington DC

W

struck by its potential, immediately calling

How has the brand evolved?

up Soho House chairman and investor Ron

The Ned has evolved significantly since its

Burkle to make plans for its future. Over the

founding, though its core ethos remains

next five years, the Grade I-listed building was

unchanged. Initially, we didn’t set out to build

transformed, launching as the first outpost

a global brand. However, London’s success

of The Ned, a hospitality offer that fuses a

fuelled our ambition and confidence to expand

hotel with a members’ club and vibrant F&B

internationally. This growth is particularly

experiences. Since then, the brand has only

evident in our private members’ clubs, a space

continued to grow, launching properties in New

where we share DNA with Soho House – a brand

York, Doha and, most recently, Washington DC.

that occupies a unique market position and

Overseeing the development, operations and

has successfully scaled to 60 locations. While

design of these new openings is Gareth Banner,

each property reflects its unique architectural

The Ned’s Group Managing Director.

and cultural surroundings, our dedication to

hen Soho House founder Nick Jones

in the comprehensive range of amenities and

first visited London’s former Midland

curated events available for members and guests.

Bank headquarters in 2012, he was

creating spaces where professionals can work What is The Ned’s core ethos?

052

and socialise remains steadfast.

To create a multi-faceted urban experience that

One of the most significant changes has been

seamlessly integrates a hotel, private members’

our focus on understanding each location’s

club and collection of public restaurants and bars.

market and adapting to meet the needs of our

This upscale, multi-dimensional environment

members and guests. For example, our approach

is designed as a playground for adults, offering

to F&B and interior design ensures a sense of

stays where guests can enjoy the convenience of

familiarity at every site, but we also tailor

not needing to leave the property.

elements to suit local expectations.

The Ned’s Club embodies this ethos by fostering

The brand’s evolution into an international

spaces where like-minded, high-performing

presence highlights its ability to adapt to

professionals can work, meet and socialise in a

different architectural histories and regional

refined yet relaxed setting. The mission to blend

identities while preserving the essence of what

business, leisure and social activities is reflected

makes it unique.

MEETING…

© Frank Frances

How would you describe The Ned’s signature

complexities

and considerable expense.

surroundings. We aspire to open in major

interior design style?

Retaining the original integrity of the structure

gateway cities, focusing on political, financial

Its aesthetic is heavily inspired by the 1920s and

while ensuring it meets contemporary functional

and business hubs, offering our members the

30s, particularly the glamorous era of transatlantic

requirements can be both time-consuming and

opportunity to join a global network.

ocean liners and Art Deco motifs. The London

costly. The five-year refurbishment of the Grade

property, for example, was inspired by the Orient

I-listed Midland Bank, for example, underscores

What can you share about your latest opening?

Express and ships like The Normandie. This

the substantial investment of both time and

Situated in the Walker Building in President’s

signature design is characterised by luxurious

resources necessary to achieve a balance between

Park, Ned’s Club Washington DC offers an

materials such as brass and mahogany, vintage

preservation and modernisation. One of the key

intimate, elevated experience with tailored

décor and richly patterned furnishings. Each Ned

lessons we learned from the transformation of

dining, entertainment and social opportunities,

property reflects its location through thoughtful

the building was that the scarcest resource wasn’t

as well as panoramic views of The White House

design that respects and repurposes the historical

just the capital needed, but vision, creativity

and the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Club

significance of the building.

and courage. These elements were essential in

occupies the upper three floors of the newly

bringing the project to life.

developed Milken Centre campus, once home

What are the challenges and opportunities in

to iconic institutions such as Riggs Bank and

working with historic properties?

How do you select a new location for The Ned?

American Security and Trust Company. The

Repurposing buildings, such as The Ned’s

When looking for new development ventures,

interior design meanwhile honours the capital’s

transformation of the Midland Bank in London,

we prioritise culturally and architecturally

rich history with a vintage aesthetic inspired by

offers several notable advantages. Chief among

significant buildings in prominent and diverse

the Art Deco and Neoclassical eras.

these is the infusion of unique character, prestige

locations. As awareness of the brand continues

and a sense of heritage into the property, which

to grow, we are also beginning to explore the

What’s next for The Ned?

in turn enriches the overall experience for guests

potential of expanding the concept laterally and

We have an interesting and strategic pipeline

and members. The building’s architectural

into more rural areas, adding new dimensions

planned for the coming years. Currently, we

splendour also adds depth and authenticity to

to our offering.

are exploring options at two locations in North

the brand’s luxurious appeal, allowing patrons

Upscale and sophisticated settings, combined

America, one on the East Coast and one on the

to engage with spaces that are steeped in history

with a focus on brand-building and a strong

West Coast. Additionally, we are at an advanced

and craftsmanship.

membership proposition, will always remain

stage of planning for a very special project in

However, this approach is not without its

integral to our DNA. This approach ensures

Europe. Closer to home, we will also soon be

challenges. The process of adapting such

that each new site reflects the brand’s ethos

announcing an exciting new location in the UK,

buildings for modern use often entails significant

while embracing the unique character of its

in the Home Counties.

053

DESIGN CENTRE EAST CHELSEA HARBOUR LONDON

LIGHTING FOR LIFE

THE LOBBY On The Move In response to a growing demand for experiential hospitality

The design is also completely customisable with the potential

offerings that prioritise sustainability without compromising

to incorporate renewable energy solutions and adjust layouts

on comfort, Danish studio Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has

to suit different settings.

teamed up with cabin manufacturer Nokken to develop a

“We wanted to create something that transcends the typical

low impact accommodation alternative for eco-resorts and

idea of temporary architecture,” explains Finn Nørkjær,

glamping sites.

Partner at BIG. “The Softshell challenges the boundaries of

Combining architectural finesse with environmental

mobility and permanence, offering a structure that is not only

sensitivity, Softshell is a modular structure comprising a

functional but also enhances the environment in which it’s

lightweight 18m2 timber-framed tent enclosed by a recyclable

placed. It’s a step towards how we can build more sustainably

cotton-mix canvas. Designed to be disassembled and relocated

while delivering memorable experiences.”

with minimal site disturbance, Softshell contributes to an eco-

Designed to meet the evolving needs of the hospitality

friendly tourism model, reducing the need for permanent

market, the structure’s flexibility enables operators to adapt

infrastructure in sensitive natural areas while offering guests

it for various climates and terrains, from lush forested areas to

a memorable, responsible way to connect with nature.

desert landscapes, providing guests with a unique, immersive stay that remains environmentally friendly. “With the Softshell, we’re offering the hospitality industry something that stands apart from traditional tented structures,” explains Nokken co-founder, James Van Tromp. “It merges the design sophistication of permanent architecture with the flexibility of a temporary solution, catering to guests who want to be immersed in nature, but with the design aesthetic and level of comfort they would expect in a luxury hotel.”

THE LOBBY

Blurring the Boundaries Parisian studio Uchronia presents its whimsical take on a surrealist hotel – as featured at the latest edition of Maison & Objet.

Parisian design collective Uchronia showcased its

and garden, blended sport with nature. Towering

signature style at January’s edition of Maison &

sculptures represented giant figures frozen in

Objet, with an eye-catching take on the show’s

athletic poses, animating the setting and bending

theme of Sur/Reality.

the rules of scale and realism. Stacked structures

Named Hotel Uchronia, the immersive installation saw visitors stepping through a

introducing a vibrant rhythm to the space.

dramatic velvet curtain to explore a series of

Ensuring all elements of the hospitality

whimsical spaces that fused art, design and

experience were explored in its dalliance with

functionality. First up was the hybrid café bar,

surrealism, Uchronia also curated a number

a play on scale, proprtion and balance to distort

of transitional spaces within the imagined

visitors’ perception of reality. An oversized chair,

hotel, including a spa and smoking room. The

for instance, provided the support for a dining

former offered a tranquil setting through bright,

table, while the bar doubled as a communal table,

luminous interiors, while the latter was a hushed

inviting viewers to rethink spatial norms.

cocoon bathed in soft light filtered in through

The next setting, the master bedroom, saw

056

meanwhile enhanced the sense of dynamism,

stained-glass windows.

a bed perched on a sloped podium to give the

Once all corners of Hotel Uchronia were

illusion of defying gravity. And in the bathroom,

explored, visitors were left to continue their

abstract-like mirrors were positioned to enhance

day at Maison & Objet, still mulling over the

the room’s surreal design, providing unexpected

imaginative dreamscape and the blurring of

flashes of shape and colour. The final area, a gym

realities it presented.

Nu Collection

Nu faucets represent a purity of visual expression and a synthesis of essential design elements: form, shape and colour. A collection that strips away the artifice to arrive at the essence of its timeless design.

Nu Collection

AAFF Nu_Sleeper.indd 1

5/3/25 11:37

THE LOBBY

From Your Butler

© Dudi Hasson

Quiet Luxury The perfect partnership can serve as a powerful

collection draws on minimalist designs in a

affirmation of a hotel’s identity, be it an artistic

way that perfectly taps into the hotel’s cohesive

installation for a creative urban hub, or a

branding. The range is characterised by fluid

Michelin-decorated residency for an epicurean

cuts and understated hues of midnight blue,

haven. For Parisian hotel Le Bristol – whose halls

cream, chocolate and heather-grey, with pieces

have long been a discrete home-away-from-

including hoodies, sweatpants and pyjamas

home for politicians, filmmakers and musicians

available in USA-made cotton jersey and cable-

– its centenary celebrations have offered the

knit cashmere, as well as smaller accessories

opportunity to affirm its position as a stylish

such as caps and bags. Each piece is marked with

proponent of ‘quiet luxury’ through a number of

a crest, or with the hotel’s famed address.

pop-ups and collaborations.

merchandise, the hotel establishes a physical

Rich for the second time, Le Bristol has unveiled

link between them that remains beyond their

a limited-edition capsule collection of chic

stays, whilst also affirming a key part of the

clothing pieces, whose vintage-inspired aesthetic

property’s branding. “Le Bristol Paris is the art of

embodies the hotel’s timeless elegance.

the intangible, the very essence of quiet luxury,”

Demonstrating Le Bristol’s philosophy that luxury does not have to be ostentatious, the

058

By kitting guests out in subtly branded

Teaming up with loungewear brand Sporty &

says Luca Allegri, President of the hotel. Its latest collaboration proves this and more.

“What exactly do the butlers at Raffles take care of? Simple. They do anything you could dream of and everything you didn’t know you needed,” writes fashion editor and author Derek C. Blasberg in the foreword to Raffles: From Your Butler. Published by Raffles Hotels & Resorts in collaboration with Assouline as part of its Hospitality Collection, the 240-page hardback – written by travel journalist Mark Ellwood – invites readers on a journey into the world of Raffles, where British refinement and Asian charm come to life through the lens of the brand’s legendary Butler Service. From Singapore – where Raffles and its butler service began – to Dubai to Boston, the tome explores how the brand’s definition of personalised and seamless service differs across five continents. Each Raffles hotel presents stories about how its butlers create magic, depicted through more than 200 exclusive photographs, visuals and vignettes. “The role of a butler is to make life’s landing a little softer, to reduce the chaos of the outside world,” reflects Blasberg. “The original quiet luxury, perhaps.”

RIVA COLLECTION

@graff_designs

Redefining Elegance in Shower +44 020 8133 7645 info@graff-designs.com

P

rivate members’ clubs of past conjure

comfortable yet clinical. In Ibiza, Six Senses’

images of hazy days and debaucherous

Rose Bar – the brainchild of longevity expert Dr

nights, but as the world becomes ever more

Mark Hyman – features interiors by Jonathan

health-conscious, a different kind of members’

Leitersdorf designed in line with the pillars

club has emerged; one that swaps sequins for

of functional medicine, with an intention to

saunas and martinis for microbiome mapping.

regenerate and restore. “At Rose Bar, we believe

© Courtesy of Surrenne

The longevity club is a private members’

that longevity does not need to be served in

experience centred entirely around living well, for

a clinical environment. It’s about creating a

longer – blending the scientific and the spiritual

space that intuitively supports wellbeing while

to enhance human health and lengthen lifespan.

remaining medically suitable,” explains Talana

According to venture capital investor Afterwork,

Bestall, part of the founding team of Rose Bar.

it’s a sector worth investing in, with the market

“The interiors embrace natural materials, with

“projected to be worth US$44.2 billion by 2030,

soft, rounded edges and flowing forms designed

up from US$25.1 billion in 2020”.

to soothe. Rose Bar also features circadian

Such growth has led to the likes of Kerzner

rhythm lighting that adjusts throughout the

International and SBE debuting new longevity

day, syncing with the body’s natural cycles to

Living Well, For Longer An increased focus on living well for longer sees hospitality groups marrying the luxuries of hotels with the principles of functional medicine.

Words: Cara Rogers

060

concepts, while forthcoming ventures include

optimise function, energy and rest. Additionally,

a revolutionary clinic at Minos Palace Resort in

the spatial design follows a circular flow,

Crete, where a pioneering approach to wellbeing

intentionally guiding guests through a seamless

targets ‘12 Hallmarks of Ageing’.

loop of experiences. Every design choice is

Also venturing into the sector is Maybourne Hotel Group, which recently unveiled Surrenne,

intentional, supporting the journey toward an extended health span.”

a new wellbeing and longevity members’ club

Similarly, at Maybourne’s Surrenne, interiors

at London’s The Emory. “Design, facilities and

by Remi Tessier draw on the senses to enhance

technology are fusing together to create spaces

wellbeing. “The lighting is choreographed to

that blend traditional spa modalities with science

adapt throughout the day,” David-Wilkinson

and a medical grounding,” explains Hattie David-

reveals. “This is complemented by AI-generated

Wilkinson, Global Head of Wellness & Longevity

soundscapes – even heard underwater – and the

at Maybourne. “Data, diagnostics and AI are

uplifting scent of Surrenne’s Energy fragrance.”

all being utilised to personalise programming,

Such wellness-focused design interventions

treatments and experiences. This methodology

come in addition to a wide experiential offer,

and technology is also incredibly effective for

including an active recovery zone with biohacking

ever-evolving membership programmes, which

staples such as a medical-grade hyperbaric

weave in fitness, nutrition and lifestyle.”

oxygen chamber and a full suite of diagnostics,

Playing a role in providing a life-lengthening

microbiome mapping and epigenetic testing.

experience is interior design, with hospitality

While transformative hospitality is a long-

groups blending the luxury of a hotel with

established offer, hoteliers are now embroiled in

principles of science, crafting spaces that are

missions to lengthen, as well as transform, lives.

062

Odera TINOS An ode to the traditions of the island it calls home, a new addition to Marriott’s Autograph Collection celebrates a lesserknown Cycladic destination.

Words: Matt Turner • Photography: © Christos Drazos

I

ts name translates, somewhat poetically, as ‘ode to the wind’, but the design of Odera Tinos is in many ways also an homage to the landscape and culture of the island that

surrounds it.

Tinos is one of a new wave of Cycladic islands attracting increasing international interest from visitors seeking something a little different to, and escape from the crowds of, neighbouring Mykonos, from which it is just a 30-minute ferry ride away. The emerging destination has a strong cultural identity and its own distinctive topography. In summer, its rugged landscape – largely terraced by the farming of generations gone by – is parched to a rusty brown that might make lusher islands look more attractive.

Yet navigating the corkscrew roads that traverse its hills reveals a multitude of hidden delights. Famous for its marble artisanry, Tinos is as much about the villages, churches and monasteries that proliferate its rocky interior as the beaches that fringe its coastline.

Now, the island has its first full-scale luxury boutique hotel in the guise of Odera, an Autograph Collection property that opened its doors in May 2024, developed by Greek private equity fund Tethys in partnership with TConstructions.

Nestled above Vourni Beach, it occupies a secluded bay on the west coast of the island. There are 77 guestrooms and pool suites on offer, as well as an expansive spa, meeting spaces, two bars and a signature Mediterranean restaurant, plus a private beach club.

063

Studio Bonarchi has drawn on the island’s signature craftsmanship to infuse interiors with a sense of place

Interiors are by Studio Bonarchi, which has tapped

create a colour palette that means the hotel is in total

into Tinos’ local traditions, artisans and producers to

harmony with its natural surroundings, connected to

imbue the hotel with a strong sense of place. This

the earth and its topography.”

commitment to supporting the island’s craftsmanship

The resulting scheme exudes a serene sophistication,

is evident throughout. Tinian stonework, masonry and

with furnishing from the likes of Blossom, Lamprinidis

marble sculpture sit alongside meticulously crafted

Furniture and Mavromas-Antonopoulos, alongside

furnishings. And references to the ‘dovecote’ pigeon

carpets by Petratos and lighting by Vimar. A key

houses that punctuate the island’s rural landscape

partner in the project was fabrics and furnishings

with their distinctive white geometric façades are

specialist Vagenas, which supplied and installed soft

subtly woven into the design scheme.

furnishings, fabrics, wallcoverings, cushions, day

All guestrooms and suites are spacious and boast magnificent sea views from their terraces, most with

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beds, bedspreads and decorative pillows throughout the property.

dedicated plunge pools. An expansive 170m2 residence

The hotel is also home to the Odera Art Initiative

also features a large living area, private terrace, indoor

– a striking and varied ensemble of artworks by a

patio, well-equipped kitchenette and two private pools

host of Greek and international artists that reflects

overlooking the Aegean.

the cultural heritage and natural landscape of Tinos.

“The concept of Odera was to create something more

The collection has been assembled under the auspices

than a hotel – to embody the island’s essence with

of curators Anastasia Sgoumpopoulou and Anastasia

a primary focus on sustainability and authenticity,”

Tsoureka Saracaki.

says designer Vangelis Bonarchi. “Odera meets this

Furthermore, Odera’s developers have taken

through a commitment to preserving the environment,

sustainability seriously, repurposing rock from

celebrating local producers and supporting the island’s

beneath the property to form its foundations,

skilled artisans. We wanted to celebrate the island and

deploying solar panels extensively and harnessing

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geothermal energy for heating and cooling.

smoothies. Guests can also immerse themselves

The water used for the hotel’s many pools is

in the O Spa, a sanctuary of holistic wellness

supplied through a borehole and cleaned with

that features a hammam and pool, as well as an

natural salt electrolysis rather than chlorine,

innovative Zerobody weightless dry float system

whilst the wastewater used to irrigate plants is

by Starpool.

a by-product of the geothermal energy system.

Although Odera has many attractions and

Tinos is also home to a dynamic and fast-

amenities to keep guests on property, they

growing culinary scene, as reflected in the menu

are also encouraged to explore the island and

at Odera’s Eos Bar & Restaurant. Executive Chef

immerse themselves in its culture, whether

Dimitris Skarmoutsos blends tradition with a

through exploring local vineyards, heading

modern flair, showcasing taverna stalwarts

into lively Tinos town, or visiting the Panagia

such as Greek salad, grilled fish and freshly

Evangelistria, the Holy Church of the Virgin

baked bread in inventive and elevated ways.

Mary that is a major pilgrimage site for Greek

Tinos is gaining an international reputation

Orthodox Christians.

for the quality of its wines too, a feat that sees

Like many of the lesser-known Greek

Odera sourcing much of its wine list from the

islands, Tinos faces the dilemma of balancing

surrounding vineyards.

its newfound popularity amongst tourists with

Down at the seafront, the sandy beachfront

the needs of the local community. Conscious of

extends deep into the property to create an

avoiding the over-tourism that has affected the

exclusive club, which is accessed by a pathway

likes of Santorini and Mykonos, visitor groups

through the landscape, or via a short ride in a

are restricted to smaller numbers to ensure the

club car. Here, the Nosti Beach Bar & Restaurant

local community is not overwhelmed by the

offers a light menu of salads, sandwiches and

increase of guests Odera expects to attract.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Investor: Tethys Operator: Trésor Hospitality Architecture: Panos Nikolaidis Interior Design: Studio Bonarchi Main Contractor: TConstructions www.oderatinos.com

T E X T I L E S • WA L L PA P E R S • C A R P E TS • C U R TA I N S • R O L L E R B L I N D S • M OTO R I Z E D T R AC KS 3 ΕVIAS ST MAROUSI 151 25 ATHENS GREECE • T +30 210 6120277 • INFO@VAGENAS.EU • WWW.VAGENAS.EU

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Bisate Reserve RWANDA Artichoke weaves a narrative-rich design that honours the culture and creativity of Rwanda, celebrating its inspiring conservation story.

Words: Julia Freemantle • Photography: Courtesy of Wilderness

C

onceived as an extension, but also an elevated version of the existing Wilderness Bisate Lodge, Bisate Reserve is a celebration of culture, landscape and conservation

in equal measure.

With a deep reverence for its setting overlooking the volcanoes of the Virunga Massif, and cognisance of its greater purpose, the intimate four-villa property is luxurious yet mindful. And while designed to offer an ultra-exclusive experience, it expresses this through qualities that have increasingly come to equate a new understanding of luxury – peace, privacy and space.

Focusing on cultural immersion, the design embodies both functionality and authenticity, and honours Rwanda’s natural and creative heritage throughout the generous 200m2 suites and communal lodge spaces. But not only do

the interiors and architecture reference their context, they were also largely created by local craftspeople using native materials. “By bringing together Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship, we’ve created a space that feels luxurious and is also deeply rooted in the land,” says designer Câline Williams-Wynn of Artichoke, the studio responsible for the interiors at Wilderness Bisate Reserve and the neighbouring Bisate Lodge.

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Each of the dome-like structures features curved interior walls handwoven from grass and reeds by local collective Irebe

This starts with the structures themselves,

bathroom. In Rwandan culture, these Agaseke,

designed by Nicholas Plewman Architects.

or peace baskets, are made using a generations-

Unassuming from a distance, they blend in

old weaving technique called Inyanja and

to the hillside like a bird’s nest in the tree

represent harmony – a fitting symbol of the way

branches. The structures were inspired by the

the design acknowledges its setting.

reconstructed dwellings of Rwanda’s bygone

The tiling tells a different story of Rwanda’s

royalty found at the King’s Palace Museum

craft heritage through a black-and-white colour

in the Nyanza District – their beehive-shaped

scheme and patterns inspired by traditional

thatched huts the impetus for the dome-like

Imigongo art – an intricate technique that

lodgings. “Spherical private rooms and public

dates back to the 18th century. A woven bench by

areas are a bespoke and sustainable solution for

South African outfit Houtlander in the entrance

the inhabitation of the complex surroundings,”

reflects this artisanal tradition in its own black-

says founder Nicholas Plewman of the forms,

and-white geometric pattern.

which create a cocooning effect.

local volcanic rock, hand-chipped by members

was handwoven from grass and reeds in a

of the community. “Volcanic stone from the

traditional style by local collective Irebe. “Given

area is a powerful design element that not only

their commitment to cultural preservation,

grounds the space in its environment but also

sustainability and community empowerment,

brings in a sense of durability and strength.

a partnership with the organisation was a

Likewise, local red brick evokes the warmth of

natural fit,” reveals Williams-Wynn. Irebe

Rwanda’s landscape,” notes Williams-Wynn.

gracefully curved

is also responsible for the handmade basket installation in the main area’s light-flooded

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Other tiles at Bisate Reserve are made from

interior wall

Each

Described

by

Artichoke’s

team

as

“purposeful”, the tactile scheme encourages

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guests to engage with this setting, offering an emotive and sensory journey. Spaces that echo the same softness of the misty hills and lush forest beyond inspire contemplation and relaxation. “Our goal was to envision a rich experience that blends Rwanda’s culture with thoughtfully designed spaces,” reflects Williams-Wynn.

Beyond these overt visual references is a deeper layer of meaning. Wilderness’ conservation purpose has been brought to the fore and communicated by the lodge itself, while books on Rwanda’s history, culture and wildlife are found on various tabletops and shelves, encouraging learning and immersion. These are displayed alongside a variety of local crafts.

“Incorporating individual art pieces allowed us not only to create a stimulating environment, but also to tell a story – enhancing the connection between guests and place,” explains Williams-Wynn.

The approach shows in different mediums and materials. Rwandan artist Rigobert

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Uwiduhaye was responsible for the life-size

room has its own fireplace, and the curved deck,

gorilla paintings in both the public and private

enveloped by plants, hosts a private wood-fired

spaces. And Waldman Studios from South Africa

hot tub.

created a mobile graphic installation in the main

Guest experiences also invite engagement

lodge with sepia-toned images depicting the

and participation through initiatives like tree

people and primates of Rwanda. “This is one of

planting. To date, Wilderness has facilitated the

the ways we wanted to provide a glimpse of the

planting of 100,000 indigenous trees across a

experience that awaits the guests,” she adds.

42-hectare site that was previously farmland,

This experience centres on being in nature,

forming part of a long-term vision. This in

which has quite literally been woven into the

turn has prompted the welcome return of birds

fabric of the interiors – embroidery by women’s

and wildlife species, regenerating what was

collective Ibaba adorns armchairs and cushions.

originally there and bringing the forest ever

And in each villa, a curated pinboard details

closer. Golden monkeys and gorillas have even

the area’s indigenous flora, with photographs,

been seen nearby, demonstrating the power of

illustrations and paper art of species that have

returning the landscape to its natural state.

returned as a result of reforestation initiatives.

As holistic and immersive as the interiors

The extensive amenities too, reinforce

and programming are, the team amplify and

this connection to the landscape and foster a

reinforce this still further. Deeply knowledgeable

mood of reflection. The endlessly comfortable

about the country and the land itself, most of

bedroom has a wood-burning fire always on

the team are not just Rwandan, but from the

the go, while the en suite bathroom is equipped

vicinity. Their connection to the landscape,

with a dressing area and a bathtub with full

and pride in their culture, serves to create an

view of the volcanoes. The cosy kitchen-sitting

environment that is as joyous as it is nurturing.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Wilderness Architecture: Nicholas Plewman Architects Interior Design: Artichoke Art Consultant: Waldman Studios, Studio of African Wildlife Art Procurement: Holler Trade Landscaping: Bisate Agronomist Team Main Contractor: Town & Country Construction Project Manager: Luxury Frontiers www.wildernessdestinations.com

Specialist art consultants Formed of a team of consultants and designers, SMC Art is a London based art consultancy offering tailored services to projects across the globe.

We believe artwork is key to a beautiful space and integral in forming a brand’s signature. www.smc-artconsultancy.com

Park Hyatt LONDON RIVER THAMES Hyatt debuts its most prestigious brand in the British capital, uniting the creative visions of KPF, SuperPotato and Studio Moren.

Words: Matt Turner • Photography: © Matthieu Salvaing

W

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hen Hong Kong-based developer Parkview unveiled

destination comprising premium residences, hotels, shops,

its original blueprint for Battersea Power Station

restaurants and parklands.

some twenty years ago, the plan was for two

The Nine Elms design team comprises some of the biggest

Hyatt hotels on the site, protruding from its iconic chimney

names in global architecture: Skidmore Owings & Merrill

stacked façade. That vision never came to fruition, yet now,

(SOM), Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) and Allies &

two decades on, Hyatt has planted its Park Hyatt flag in

Morrison. Landscape architects Gillespies meanwhile are

Battersea, not at the Power Station but at nearby Nine Elms,

leading on Linear Park, a green corridor stretching through

the sprawling development zone anchored by the new US

the centre of the site from Battersea Power Station to

Embassy, thanks to a deal inked with R&F UK in 2020.

Vauxhall Cross.

The plans for a hotel at Nine Elms date back to 2013 when

With all that in mind, it’s easy to see why this was such

Wanda Group, one of China’s largest developers, acquired a

an appealing opportunity for Hyatt to introduce its most

site for a towering hotel, intended to bring its luxury hotel

prestigious brand to London. The riverfront location directly

brand Dalian Wanda into the European market, alongside

opposite Westminster, for instance, allows for some stunning

two residential buildings. The Chinese government’s

views over the most recognisable icons of the capital’s

mounting scrutiny of overseas property investments by

skyline, from the London Eye and Big Ben, to Westminster

Sino-real estate companies put paid to that plan. But R&F

Abbey and Buckingham Palace.

UK eventually formed a joint venture with another Chinese

Nearby Battersea Park meanwhile offers some 200 acres of

developer, CC Land, to bring the Nine Elms Square plot back

green space. Cultural destinations such as The Oval cricket

to life and open a hotel there.

ground and Tate Britain are conveniently located close by,

The newly opened Park Hyatt London River Thames is

whilst the new tube station extending the Northern line to

just one element of a vast series of developments at which

the Power Station brings all this within much easier reach

construction is now well underway. Extensive plans feature

of London’s other districts.

the creation of 2,300 apartments, as well as 120,000ft2 of

KPF were the architects for the building that houses Park

commercial space and numerous shops and restaurants. The

Hyatt, with interiors by Japanese firm SuperPotato, which

vision includes One Thames City, an exclusive new riverside

has worked on numerous Hyatt-branded properties in Asia,

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although this is their first venture in London.

Hotel architects Studio Moren was tasked with making the project a reality, as well as designing the interiors of wine library and tea lounge Tamisé.

Interiors epitomise the Park Hyatt brand in their elegant simplicity, with ever-so-subtle nods to classic English style offering some sense of place. The neutral, muted design is complemented by colour accents and notable artworks by a roster of contemporary artists including Ian Rayer-Smith, Jo Taylor, Françoise Delaire, Gabriel Leung, George Blacklock and Ewan David. And in the lobby, a striking bentwood installation by Charlie Whinney entitled ‘Ebb & Flow’ was inspired by the River Thames.

Guestrooms feature a calming white and ebony colour palette, enhanced with William Morris wallpapers and accents of leather and brass throughout. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that every room is filled with natural light, and many have sweeping views over the city rooftops.

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The property is home to four F&B venues,

14,337ft2 of meeting space on offer – including

offering varied dining and drinking experiences.

one of the largest ballrooms to open in central

On the ground floor, The Nine Elms Kitchen &

London in decades, which can be divided into

Terrace presents an extensive menu of small

three spaces for more intimate events. A further

plates, sharing platters, grills and wood-fired

seven meeting rooms can also be opened to form

flatbreads, whilst The Nine Elms Bar & Lounge

one larger space and connect to an expansive

is a refined yet relaxed area just off the main

foyer. Given the hotel’s proximity to the US

lobby, defined by its large-scale statement

Embassy and the flexibility of its spaces, it will

artworks. Elsewhere, Tamisé – the only part

be an appealing new option for meeting and

of the hotel designed solely by Studio Moren –

event planners.

offers a 300-label wine collection and curated

“The opening of Park Hyatt London River

loose-leaf teas in a setting overlooking the

Thames is a testament to our continued

river. Restaurant Yú Gé meanwhile celebrates

commitment to expanding our luxury brand

the essence of traditional Cantonese culinary

offering across Europe, Africa and the Middle

artistry in a sultry red-toned setting.

East,” says Javier Águila, Group President EAME,

The wellness facilities are some of the most

Hyatt. “Sustaining this momentum is key to

expansive in London. An entire floor is dedicated

our goal of hotels’ accommodating guests who

to rejuvenation, featuring a serene indoor pool,

are looking for the ultimate indulgence. With

a 1,550ft2 state-of-the-art fitness centre, a spa

Park Hyatt London River Thames’ exceptional

with panoramic views, a tranquil relaxation

views, sophisticated design, memorable

lounge and six treatment rooms kitted out with

meeting spaces and second-to-none culinary

treatment beds from Lemi Group.

experiences, we are confident that this hotel will

Another floor is dedicated to events, with

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exceed expectations.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: R&F One Operator: Hyatt Architecture: KPF (external), Studio Moren (internal) Interior Design: SuperPotato, Studio Moren (Tamisé) Art Consultant: Debut Studios Procurement: Piatek Landscaping: LDA Design, Maylim Main Contractor: Multiplex Project Manager: Avison Young www.hyatt.com

Photography by Ye Rin Mok

Elevate Your Guest Experiences with Bespoke Art Collections

Work with our Art Advisors on carefully curated art collections that tell a story and amplify your creative vision—from Paintings & Photographs to Sculptures, Tapestries, Bas Reliefs, & More.

Get in touch with an Art Advisor at saatchiart.com/trade-hospitality

Saatchi Art was honored to be the art consultant for Bellagio Las Vegas, working closely with Champalimaud on art for all the Suites.

Pendry Natirar NEW JERSEY DesignAgency transforms a storied Tudor-style mansion into Pendry’s first countryside resort.

Words: Ayesha Khan Photography: © Christian Horan, courtesy of Pendry Hotels & Resorts

P

erched atop a hill amongst 500 acres in New

have a responsibility to create authentic stays for

Jersey’s wealthy Somerset County, Pendry

our guests, and here, it’s about experiencing the

Natirar’s original Tudor-style mansion

romantic ideal of an estate in the countryside;

has quite the colourful past. It was built in 1912

it would feel disingenuous to make the resort

for Kate Macy Ladd, the daughter of a wealthy

modern for the sake of being modern,” says

whaling tycoon and philanthropist, who would

Fuerstman. “You can feel the history in the

later go on to convert the stately mansion into

patina, the weathered brick and the majestic

a convalescent home for women. It was then

fireplaces, within both the intimate spaces and

purchased by the King of Morocco as a place to

the grand. We leaned into embracing the classic

stay when visiting his son at Princeton. Over

elements of Natirar as the foundation, and

the years it weathered an economic crisis and

from there, we layered contemporary touches

allegedly fell into the possession of Sir Richard

– sophisticated yet subtle design statements to

Branson, before being earmarked by Pendry

bring the property to life.”

Hotels & Resorts to become its first adaptive

Further blurring the boundaries between past

reuse, drive-to resort. As such, it is the perfect

and present, Philadelphia-based CosciaMoos

counterpart to Pendry Manhattan West, serving

Architecture was tasked with using materials

as a town-and-country experience. In fact,

that reference the existing mansion to create

guests of the city property can simply jump

a newbuild addition to house guestrooms,

on a train to Natirar, escaping to the peaceful

wellness and fitness facilities and a restaurant.

countryside in a little over an hour.

Interiors firm DesignAgency – who also

It is this sense of retreat that drove the design

envisioned Pendry Washington DC – riffed off

brief from Michael Fuerstman, Pendry’s co-

of this ethos. “It was an exciting challenge

founder and Creative Director. “As hoteliers we

to interpret Pendry’s approach of ‘polished

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The Great Room is furnished with contemporary pieces such as the curved Elle sofa and Cordova cocktail table from Bernhardt

comfort with a modern edge’ for its first countryside

twist. “There’s a Ralph-Lauren-meets-English-

resort,” explains Founding Partner Anwar Mekhayech.

countryside aesthetic taken into the next generation.

“We wanted to a create a memorable sanctuary that

We layered accessories that are unique to the area,

encourages guests to indulge in a luxurious escape

paying homage to the horse country, adding in some

while immersing them in the local context. Spaces

of the treasures that were original to the house.”

focus on the romantic landscape, and each touchpoint underscores comfort, quality and refinement.”

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The Great Room is flanked by smaller, yet equally well-designed spaces that truly conjure the many

The grandeur unfolds as guests enter through the

entertaining rooms of a stately home. In The Billiards

mansion’s sturdy wooden doors to a entry hallway

Room, DesignAgency opted for blue tones to accentuate

with a roaring fire and walls clad in vinyl manila hemp

the intricate fleur de lis plasterwork ceiling. In the

wallpaper from Phillip Jeffries. To the right, beyond

Library and Green Room, more calming, verdant

equally ornate doors, is the reception area where

hues are combined with velvets, suedes and leathers

DesignAgency employed an apt design tactic. “The

to offset the intricate timber panelling and original

reception is residential in scale so the desks are living

library shelves dating back over 100 years.

room height, giving the sense of arriving at a friend’s

At the threshold of the old mansion and new

home,” explains US Managing Director and Principal

construction, Ladd’s Tavern is designed as a

Alexandra Bruemmer Cole.

conservatory in a period home, where natural light

Guests are then led to The Great Room, where

and the surrounding landscape take centre stage. “As

original timber panelling and yet another limestone

soon as we saw the property’s sweeping views, we

fireplace holds court. “We introduced contemporary

knew they should be the focus,” recalls Mekhayech.

furnishings in the space to make it feel more modern,”

The exterior masonry provides an ideal backdrop to

says Bruemmer Cole, recalling Fuerstman’s modus

the bar crowned by Frey pendant lights by Currey &

operandi of blending sense of place with a signature

Co, while Menlo chairs from Palecek and soft green-

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toned banquettes echo the rolling hills. Outside,

the impressive bi-level 12,000ft2 spa. Accessed

terraced seating nooks surrounded by topiaries

via an imposing Danube marble spiral staircase,

conjure garden follies from English country homes.

the tranquil space is characterised by sculpted,

Another nexus of old and new is the Orangerie,

plastered walls, diffused LED lighting and the

a glass-roofed arcade that provides a moment

pièce de résistance – a tempered soaking pool

to pause and admire the grounds on the way

that overlooks the acres of national park and

to the newbuild guestrooms and spa. Here, a

Raritan Valley beyond. Treatments include a self-

modern interpretation of the mansion’s original

guided mud experience featuring ingredients

grand staircase presides above cosy seating and

harvested from the on-property farm.

a neon-lit artwork by Heidi Conrod. At Ninety

Looking back on the long and often difficult

Acres, the hotel’s signature restaurant and

journey of navigating a challenging renovation

cooking school, copper clad tables amid exposed

compounded by the Covid shutdown, Fuerstman

brick, floral printed velvets and a contemporary

reflects: “There were unexpected surprises in

take on the mansion’s omnipresent limestone

renovating a 100-year-old estate, although,

fireplaces set the scene for garden-to-plate

that is the thing about these extraordinary

cuisine provided by an on-site 10-acre farm.

developments – they are built to last

In the hotel’s 66 rooms, guests are invited to

generations and require love, attention and

relax amidst more hues of green set amongst

great stewardship. I’m very proud of the level of

decidedly English country-leaning features

commitment and perseverance by everyone that

such as carved headboards, ceiling rosettes and

has had a hand in contributing to this amazing

oak flooring, accompanied by plush armchairs

place, and I’m beyond excited for our guests to

and elegant footboard benches from Lily Jack.

discover this iconic destination, and to fall in

One of the most popular hotel amenities is

love with Pendry Natirar, as I certainly have.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Bob Wojtowicz Operator: Montage International Architecture: CosciaMoos Architecture Interior Design: DesignAgency Art Consultant: Soho Art Consulting Procurement: Benjamin West Main Contractor: Epic Management Project Manager: Joe Epifano www.pendry.com

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Delano DUBAI Ennismore enlists Elastic Architects to reinterpret Ian Schrager’s signature Miami resort for the Middle Eastern market.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Natelee Cocks

I

t was fun. On the terrace of Tutto Passa, the all-day-dining venue of the newly opened Delano Dubai, sitting with Mark Eacott, Global Vice President of Design at Ennismore, and

Ria Vogiatzi, founder of Elastic Architects. The evening was mild, the view over the Gulf calming. We had only got as far as dipping our bread into the olive oil but already the gentle repartee had started.

“When I speak to people about Delano, they have the pool in mind,” says Vogiatzi of the original hotel that opened in 1994 on Collins Avenue of Miami’s South Beach. “And the Rose Bar. Both very iconic.” Eacott chips in with a reminder about the curtains, and lot more besides.

We meet to discuss the Middle Eastern iteration of Delano, Ian Schrager’s early epistle on the resort hotel. A project in which he oversaw the work of Anda Andrei and Philippe Starck, not known for hotel design at the time.

“We went through the archives and interviewed locals in Miami,” elaborates Eacott. “Obviously, there was the hedonistic side - the amazing pool scene where Starck created a ledge for guests to engage. No one was doing that in hotels back then.” He continues, listing other iconic Delano traits. The partially sunken furniture in the pool, the white-on-white, the dark to light transition from corridor to guestrooms and the checked floors.

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The tone-on-tone guestrooms feature a textured palette of grey marble, soft leather and linen-effect wall finishes

“Delano has depth; this is not a superficial copy of

velvet-covered banquette that twists down the slope in

what went before,” notes Vogiatzi. Eacott explains of

a way that slightly disrupts the way you sit. A quirky,

the project that was completed in an exceptionally

unexpected surprise.

tight eight-month construction period: “All these

The guestrooms of the former property required

things we picked up on and then added a twist or a

softening. “The black and dark tonality was too

variation – it’s Delano 2.0. This was a very special

intense,” explains Vogiatzi. “We wanted to make it

project. After all, we were not only creating a new

softer.” A tone-on-tone approach was taken – white

flagship in a new market, we are also telling the next

on beige, grey marble, linen-effect wall finishes, soft

chapter of the Delano story, 30 years later, in a way

leather for the headboard and lined window shutters

that feels both respectful to the legacy of the original

above a cosy, padded alcove. Splashes of Delano’s

and in tune with the energy and style of Dubai. The

sage green come via the notepad and internal lining

balance has to be just right.”

of the hanging cupboard. Further elements of self-care

Delano Dubai is the renovation of the former Caesars Palace, set on what is possibly the most pleasant beach

include Byredo toiletries, Humantra electrolytes and Nutrili dietary supplements.

in Dubai, one of the few places along this stretch of

There are more surprises in Rose Bar – or the

the Gulf where waves actually lap upon the shore. The

jewellery box as Vogiatzi calls it. The circular counter

golden sands of the Dubai coast do not stretch as far

is crowned by an oversized cut-glass chandelier and

as those in Florida, yet are equally pristine.

the focus is on the cocktail list. Red velvet upholstery

The hotel sits on Bluewaters Island, developed on

and drapes, alongside mirrors give definite sex appeal.

reclaimed land by Meeras, part of Dubai Holdings and

Curtains pull back to reveal intimate tables and the

completed in 2018. The island is a mix of branded

pièce de résistance, the dance floor. Its transparent

residential, retail and resorts. The stylish modernism

surface amazes. The oversized, amorphous furniture

and slim minaret of the Masjid Tasamah Mosque can’t

covered in mirrored mosaic astonishes. It’s small

be missed upon arrival, setting the tone for a potential

but infinite. “A magical, crazy and unexpected

blueprint for future Dubai neighbourhoods. Delano is

experience,” according to Vogiatzi.

this one’s new beating heart.

The bar is part of the poolside activation – its front

Here, it’s about surprise and softness. At the

door inserted into a wall of greenery; the entrance

entrance, Vogiatzi uses sculptural marble pieces for

lined with pots of roses. There is a speakeasy entrance

low-slung seating beneath a shaded canopy lined

through a hidden door in the private dining room of

with high verdant hedges. Step over the inset ‘D’ at

Tutto Passa.

the threshold (to become a design standard), through

The restaurant also activates the pool. Interiors are

layers of long white drapes and into the large volume

inspired by the Amalfi Coast – a curved fabric ceiling

of the lobby. Backlit curves sweep across the ceiling,

installation references the sea – whilst the open

beneath which are curvaceous, custom-designed

kitchen, terrazzo floor, textured plaster and terracotta

sofas. “They’re more of an art piece than a simple

speak of a homely, maternal Italian kitchen. The

piece of furniture,” Vogiatzi enthuses. The former

terrace is shaded by a pergola of horizontal lamella.

black stone flooring has been replaced with cherry

These are also seen on the poolside cabanas. Both pick

wood, as the original terrazzo was in Miami. A short

up on the vertical detailing of guestroom terraces in

ramp down to the elevators is lined on one side with a

the original architecture of WS Atkins.

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The all-new Delano Penthouse, designed by La Bottega, is an achievement in its own right, occupying a whole floor with a private elevator.

From the terrace with pool, the uninterrupted views of the Gulf and Dubai skyline are unmatched. So too are the outdoor furnishings and lighting supplied by RH Contract. The interiors include five bedrooms, kitchens by Bulthaup and large living spaces, which are available for functions, and are furnished again

by RH Contract plus Molteni and Poliform.

Materiality is high quality. The beautifully patterned parquet flooring is seamlessly smooth.

The variety of the stonework on floors and walls is astonishing – as is the solid marble tub. To get an idea of the scale, the penthouse occupies what was previously a Peruvian restaurant.

The art curation by Curio is highlighted in the penthouse. Founder Shalini Misra describes it as “a seamless blend of modern sophistication with natural textures and regional influences, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury”.

There is great variety in both formats and

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Partner Artist, Bethany Holmes, working plein air. Photo Credit Natasha Boyes

Sometimes we don’t even

start with a blank canvas.

Reframing Art Consultancy ar ts to r y. c o . uk

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origin, with several artists based in the UAE.

time of review. Amongst these are Blue Door,

The fluidity of the works of German Christoph

a Mediterranean restaurant with a secluded

Schrein are seen in large format here but also

garden behind a blue door, and Maison Revka,

on every keycard. White artworks are prevalent

a Parisian celebration of Slavic gastronomy.

– take the ceramic collages by Studio Ceramx

Reached from the hotel’s lobby via a flight of

founder Maureen Gamal at the entrance, or the

‘look at me’ stairs, the brasserie features a lot

plaster finish of the minimalist works above the

of detailing to create a 19th-century Parisian

beds of standard guestrooms.

look. The restaurant also services the hotel’s

That many of the design cues of the first

second pool, accessible only to guests in suites

Delano have been respected and brought back to

and diners. There are two other venues - La

life is testimony to the rigour Ennismore applies

Cantina Beach and Gohan, a Japanese dining

to the design process. A rigour required because

experience. Both are by Rikas Group, which has

of the variety of its different brands and the

many existing outlets in Dubai and recently

speed with which new properties are coming

partnered with Ennismore.

to market. The property was the first Delano

Delano Dubai is neither a faithful copy – there

2.0 resort to open and will be followed by the

are no original Art Deco buildings in Dubai –

re-opening of Miami in late 2025, where Elastic

nor a radical revision of the original Miami

Architects are also major protagonists. Maison

property. Instead, it is an edited translation

Delano Paris, an urban equivalent, opened

of the emblematic characteristics of the first

quietly in 2023, with other similar opportunities

Delano. Or as Eacott puts it, “the flavour of

being scoped out for London and Seoul.

Delano”. A flavour that addresses the challenge

The timescale of the project sees several

of striking a balance between exclusive yet

elements of the property incomplete at the

welcoming, whilst also allowing for expansion.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Dubai Holdings Operator: Ennismore Architecture: WS Atkins Interior Design: Elastic Architects, SA Consultants, La Bottega, Y Design Art Consultant: Curio www.delanohotels.com

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Hotel Bella Grande COPENHAGEN CoFoCo tasks Tonen Agency to create a boutique hotel in Copenhagen, where a nostalgic design scheme takes centre stage.

Words: Matt Turner Photography: © Copenhagen Food Collective

S

ituated on Vester Volgade just a few steps

of La Dolce Vita to Denmark. Taking inspiration

from the City Hall Square, Bella Grande

from a Venetian palazzo, they have transformed

is the second hotel from Copenhagen-

the former Hotel Kong Frederik, originally built

based restaurateurs and hoteliers Copenhagen

in 1899, into a staged set of spaces that look

Food Collective (CoFoCo). The group has carved

like they could have been a backdrop to the

out a significant niche in the Danish capital’s

Sicily-set second season of The White Lotus.

competitive F&B scene with 18 restaurants now

“The interior design plays with a nostalgia that

in operation, many of which are popular fixtures

is utterly elegant, yet also unexpected,” say the

among tourists and locals alike.

designers. “Starting with the lobby, the ground

As a result, it’s no surprise to find the

floor offers richly layered spaces that work as a

restaurant taking centre stage in this latest

dialogue between the past and the present, and

addition to the portfolio. Almost the entire

a mix of colours that are somehow vintage and

ground floor of Bella Grande plays host to Donna,

contemporary at the same time.”

a sprawling, buzzing Italian restaurant. Its

In the lobby, a polished chrome reception

interiors are in marked contrast to the Scandi-

counter sits in front of a bank of cubby-holes

chic minimalism of the many Copenhagen

accommodating old-fashioned tasselled room

restaurants offering interpretations of the New

keys, neatly arranged in Wes Anderson-esque

Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma – not least

symmetry. Indeed, the Grand Budapest Hotel

in several of CoFoCo’s own venues.

film also appears to have influenced the choice

Interiors are the work of long term CoFoCo

of typeface for the signage, as well as the

collaborators Malene Bech-Pedersen and Mette

fuchsia, pink and blood-red colour scheme on

Bonavent of Tonen Agency, and their design

display in the main restaurant atrium.

scheme is a feast for the senses, bringing the flair

Previously dark and underused, the space

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has been brought back to dramatic life with chequered marble flooring and arched nooks that provide a backdrop to curvaceous banquette seating upholstered in a variety of floral and candy-stripe patterns. Tonen has sourced a range of vintage objects and artworks to sit alongside more contemporary pieces – many of them courtesy of Danish manufacturers: furnishings from &Tradition, lampshades by Oi Soi Oi and bespoke vanities made locally by Københavns Møbelsnedkeri.

On the upper floors, guestrooms have been refurbished and rationalised from the complex historical layout inherited from the former Hotel Kong Frederik. Here, the colour scheme is muted and more calming than in the public areas. Ege Carpets can be found in the corridors, while Bell lamps in chrome by Tom Dixon sit atop side tables from Polspotten, alongside gently curved bedheads. Another Danish firm, SofaCompany, has supplied a variety of soft furnishings in bespoke fabrics, including Judi armchairs, multifunctional poufs and Charlie

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benches. “The soft shapes and padded legs of

which areas work best for which purposes at

the various designs really helped add roundness

different times of day. “Originally the plan was

to the décor, and the use of customised fabrics

that the atrium would just be this front space,

result in a scheme that feels uniquely Bella

and the back space would be the restaurant,”

Grande,” says Bech-Pedersen.

he reveals. “But as soon as the atrium was

“Both Bella and Donna are very much

completed and became such an attractive space,

unmistakable expressions of our style,” explain

it very quickly became the heart and soul of

the designers. “We love the historic references,

the hotel.”

mixing vintage with new design and the use of materials that age beautifully.”

“We had two important pointers,” they add.

guests, with Tonen Agency revealing that it was

“First of all, to create a design hotel that is a

aiming to create a romantic space that morphs

true treat to the eye, and second to highlight

into more of a club-like atmosphere as the

the historic and very classic architecture of the

evening progresses. A sense of fun pervades,

building. The guestrooms should be luxurious,

even in the basement bathrooms, where a

with high-quality materials and references to

fairground style ‘candy-grabber’ machine

Mid-Century Italian design.”

dishes out kitsch prizes, ranging from pink

James Spreadbury, who worked as Noma’s

100

On the evidence of Sleeper’s visit, Donna has become a huge hit with locals as well as hotel

rabbit ears to cuddly toys.

Service Director for 12 years, is now overseeing

“We fell in love with the restaurant-nightclub

CoFoCo’s operations following a sabbatical

feel that we found in Italy,” conclude the

in his native Australia. He says that some of

creatives. “It’s moody and mysterious, but most

the spaces may be structurally rearranged or

of all it’s an atmosphere of wanting to conquer

adapted to different uses as they figure out

the night.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Copenhagen Food Collective Architecture: Wabé Studio Interior Design: Tonen Agency Graphic Design: All The Way To Paris, Spring/Summer www.hotelbellagrande.com

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German Precision

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Rosewood Schloss Fuschl SALZBURG Rosewood enlists a team of European creatives to transform a 15th-century castle into a luxury lakeside retreat.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © What The Fox Studio

P

erched on a small, steep-sided peninsula jutting into the western end of Lake Fuschl, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl’s location is simply stunning, with views taken

straight from a postcard. Just to the east of Salzburg, the wooded Voralp mountains of Salzkammergut – an area partly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – are dotted with glacial lakes, their crystal waters at once turquoise and midnight blue.

The 98-key luxury hotel comprises a restored castle tower dating back to the 15th century, built as a hunting lodge for the clerics of Salzburg. Adjacent are six lakeside chalets, alongside three newer wings of guestrooms that lead to the lobby and Asaya Spa, creating an intimate semi-enclosure around the tower.

Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is the third of a Deutsch-Austrian triumvirate of recent openings by the Asian brand that include hotels in Vienna and nearby Munich. Both properties are owned by Arabella Hospitality, part of the Munich-based Schörghuber Group. Schloss Fuschl was acquired in 2004 and, after a major renovation, re-opened in 2006 as part of The Luxury Collection of Starwood.

Doris Nusmeier-Bellár, Design Lead at Arabella Hospitality, takes up the story. “The property is close to the Schörghuber

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From floral rugs in the lobby to wood flooring in the guestrooms, colour palettes and patterns throughout draw on the surrounding nature

family’s heart,” she explains. “Florian [son of the

cooperation,” adds Dippold of the openness between

deceased Stefan who made the acquisition] sees the

all parties involved.

re-positioning as completing his father’s work. My

And the positive vibes continue with the operator

main task was to ensure that all the different areas of

relationship. “It’s always a good experience working

the hotel had their own persona but clearly shared the

with Rosewood,” states Dippold. “It’s very familiar.

same values as the rest of the family.”

Of course there are disagreements, but you’re always

The responsibility for achieving this was divided

arguing in the same direction, towards the same

amongst a number of providers. Munich-based

common goal, to get a better solution.” McGinnity

Dippold Innenarchitektur was appointed – without a

is equally enthusiastic: “The level of detail Rosewood

pitch – based on the scheme delivered at the bar and

brings to projects as an operator is fantastic; the

restaurant of Rosewood Munich, both of which were

touches that elevate the interiors, give it a heightened

shortlisted at AHEAD Europe 2024. Founder Caroline

sense of personal luxury and beautiful layering.”

Dippold and team were responsible for complete

It’s this layering that plays into Rosewood’s Sense

makeovers of all existing F&B venues, as well as

of Place, a phrase so important to the group that they

the creation of three new ones. G.A. Group, which

have the trademark. Historic buildings are a breeze for

is also working on another hotel project for Arabella

Rosewood – and Schloss Fuschl is heritage heaven for

Hospitality in Mallorca, designed the guestrooms and

starters. Existing collections of antique furnishings

suites in the newer part of the hotel, all the public

were drawn upon sparingly. New chandeliers from

spaces and the extensively remodelled spa. Bauer

Dippold hang besides refurbished ones. Authenticity

Stahl, based in nearby Linz, added Austrian ambiance

was key for all collaborators – the original wall

all round, specifically in the five Heritage Rooms and

structure of the tower’s deep window was carefully

two suites found in the tower and the lakeview chalets.

exposed by local restorer, Henrich Helminger.

And styling was by German-born Diane Nittke, a

The surrounding nature – from the water to the flora as it changes through the seasons – is deeply

Rosewood regular.

This family of creatives has coalesced well, in line

rooted in colour palettes and patterns. Rugs in the

with Nusmeier-Bellár’s goal. “We were aligned in

lobby and suites have wide borders patterned with

our approach,” confirms Terry McGinnity, Executive

flowers – not just from Austria or Salzburg, but from

Design Director of G.A. Group. “We would share

the valley itself. “Doris was very exacting,” explains

one another’s colour palettes to ensure

harmony

McGinnity of the many iterations of patterning. A

between spaces.” McGinnity too praises the input

similar level of attention to detail was given to the

from stylist, Nittke, quipping: “She sourced all the

corridor carpets, reminiscent of the delicate lace of a

books, which made our shelves look better!” A high

traditional dirndl dress.

level of cooperation was necessary given the two-year

Fabrics commonly used for regional clothing such

timescale to complete the works. “It was a very nice

as weighty felt, loden and burlap, in greens and greys,

105

The Sisi Teesalon is anchored by a Pieter Fransz de Grebbe painting depicating a young bridal couple

106

are seen in curtains and upholstery. Other local

space has also been given new, feminine life

materiality comes by way of solid wood flooring

as the Sisi Teesalon, which recognises the

and extensive stretches of lamella in the spa.

hotel’s role as the location for the iconic Sissi

And in a moment of levity, decorated salad

trilogy – one of the most successful German

bowls from nearby Gmundner Keramik are re-

film franchises of all time, following the life

purposed as basins in the chalet bathrooms.

story of the 19th-century Empress Elisabeth of

In play are a number of local craftspeople,

Austria. Above Schloss Restaurant is a glazed

artisans and artists. Vienna-based Marie

winter garden, the Seeterrasee, where Dippold

Hartig handpainted a series of landscapes for

sees the most impact of her work. The view

the interiors of standalone mini-bar vitrines.

gives the impression of being aboard a ship at

Her largest work can be found in Schloss Bar.

sea, while the spatial arrangement gives Florian

Also handpainted and using only four colours,

Schörghuber the outside bar he always wanted.

it brings nature into this atmospheric space, a

Arguably, the addition of a kitchen to the

combination of refined detailing and the solidity

lakeside See Club will be more impactful,

of its hunting heritage, completed by a roaring

dramatically improving guest service. In

log fire with antlers above.

addition to pergola-covered seating and live

The bar occupies the oldest part of the tower

entertainment, the beach club-inspired venue

and is a connection point for much of Dippold’s

serves up fresh seafood and grill specialties

work. Her operational know-how ensures better

overlooking the Austrian Alps.

access throughout Schloss Restaurant and also

The hotel’s Sense of Place comes also from

creates more space for banquette seating in the

its distinctive art collection. Curated by Britt

less formal Vinothek, that leads to a terraced

Ulsess of Blue Lion, a Schörghuber subsidiary,

biergarten. A former incidental corridor-like

the selection comprises Old Master paintings

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World-Class Design

from the Low Countries and France between the

his typical upside-down style, it hangs in the

16th and 18th centuries. “Together they create the

double-height lobby, a space designed by G.A.

atmosphere of the castle in the 15th century,”

Group from a mish-mash of existing rooms. For

explains Ulsess, noting that the hotel is the

better contrast, the largely white canvas hangs

only one with a collection of Dutch Old Masters.

in front of an untreated, wood panelled wall.

Indeed, it’s not in every hotel that guests will

The same idea is reversed along lengthy

pass an original 300-year-old oil painting on

guestroom corridors. Here, simple wood

the staircase. In Schloss Bar – her favourite

panelling, this time in white, provides the

room – hang numerous related paintings. Man

appropriate backdrop for the rich tones of

Drinking Beer by Karl Van Mander and Card-

the various Old Masters. “It’s a really simple

Sharpers by Jacob Von Oost are still relevant

device to create a textural language that gives

today. The Hunting Party by Jacob Ochtervelt

an essence of the original building,” McGinnity

sits in front of Hartig’s forest-like mural and

points out. And it’s those deep colours – the

its wooded background almost blends in, in a

russet, midnight blues, green baize – seen on a

moment of serendipity.

guestroom sofa as easily as a dining chair, that

Such art placement has the effect of enhancing

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bring cohesion to the connected spaces.

a guest’s perception of a space, as Ulsess notes:

This understated melange of historic

“In the Sisi Teesalon, the young bridal couple in

and new elegance elevates the interiors at

Pieter Fransz de Grebber’s painting creates an

Rosewood Schloss Fuschl. The success of

atmosphere, making the lounge feel as if it is

the complementary work of all the different

already occupied.” The outlier of the collection

creatives involved is testament to both the

is a huge, statement piece from contemporary

enduring guidance from the owners and the

artist Georg Baselitz, a citizen of Salzburg. In

relentless pursuit of excellence from Rosewood.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Schörghuber Group Operator: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Interior Design: G.A. Group, Dippold Innenarchitektur (F&B), Bauer Stahl, Nittke Interiors Art Consultant: Blue Lion www.rosewoodhotels.com

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French Flair

The Resident EDINBURGH Tapping into a growing desire for authentic hospitality, a new hotel in Edinburgh introduces a sense of place at every touchpoint, from the architecture to the artwork.

Words: Catherine Martin Photography: © Jeremy Rata

L

iving like a local has become a high priority

– have been rebadged and repositioned, and

for seasoned travellers, with the desire to

now, expansion beckons with a new opening

experience a destination in a more authentic

in Edinburgh.

way prevailing over time spent traipsing around

Located on a quiet residential street at the

the customary tourist attractions. This approach

boundary of the West End and New Town,

applies to everything from retail to restaurants,

the 164-key hotel occupies the former HMRC

as well as the overnight stay, with the challenge

offices known as Meldrum House. Regarded as

for designers being to avoid the clichés and

an eyesore against the Georgian architecture of

create hotels that delve deeper into the fabric

the surrounding streets, the building has been

of a destination.

treated to a structural upgrade and new façade,

For The Resident, a growing brand from

with MLA taking the lead on the architectural

Mactaggart Family & Partners, the clue is in

transformation. And though a knock-down-

the name, with properties serving as a base

and-rebuild approach was considered, the

from which guests can connect with the local

operator felt there was an opportunity to bring

neighbourhood and ultimately, feel like a

together old and new. “Instead of a newbuild,

resident. Having undergone several iterations

we repurposed an existing structure in a way

over the years, beginning life as Base2Stay

that embraces its past and sustains its future,”

before being renamed Nadler Hotels, a change in

explains Orr. “We saw past the blight of

leadership in 2018 led to a rethink, and the brand

decades-long notoriety to transform it into a

has now found its place in the UK market as The

quality hotel, and more importantly, we did so

Resident. With David Orr at the helm as CEO,

sustainably, which aligns with our values.”

existing properties in Liverpool and London –

As such, the concrete frame has been retained

including Covent Garden, Kensington and Soho

minimising unnecessary construction waste,

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A sense of place is evident in the colour scheme and FF&E selection, with Timorous Beasties, Harris Tweed and Charlotte James Furniture among the suppliers

while further sustainable redevelopment initiatives include

Earthy tones such as olive and oatmeal take cues from

the recycling of 8.5 tonnes of glass during deconstruction.

the hills visible in the distance, while saturated hues nod

For the new façade, MLA opted for sandstone in keeping with

to the city’s affectionate nickname of Auld Reekie, meaning

the adjacent buildings, introducing a more contemporary

‘old smoky’ in reference to the dense smoke that once

look through vertically paired window frames and elegant

billowed out of chimneys. A further sense of place comes

cladding at the upper and lower levels.

from the FF&E, with many of the finishes and furnishings

A careful balance between the traditional and the

sourced from local artisans. “We sourced furnishings and

contemporary continues inside, where the ‘resident’

accessories locally to celebrate heritage and quality, as well

narrative also comes into play. “Every aspect is designed to

as strengthening the hotel’s identity,” Smith notes. Sofas

enable guests to feel truly at home in the city,” reveals Orr.

are crafted by Charlotte James Furniture, based just south

“Ultimately, we want guests to feel like they are staying in a

of Edinburgh; guestroom throws are by Corrinne Muir

homely environment rather than a traditional hotel, a place

Interiors in Stirling; and chairs are upholstered in Harris

where they can immerse themselves in Edinburgh while still

Tweed, handwoven in the Outer Hebrides. The design team

enjoying comforts and understated luxury.”

also specified pieces from Glasgow studio Timorous Beasties,

The interior design scheme has been conceived by Caroline

such as cushions in the classic Thistle range, and a dramatic

Smith, founder of Wish Interior Architecture, in collaboration

Cloud Toile wallpaper that creates a backlit ceiling feature

with consultant Creative Director Craig Allen, and builds

in The Library.

on the style and functionality of other properties in the

As with other properties in the portfolio, there’s no

portfolio, with the key point of difference being a distinct

restaurant or bar at The Resident; guests are instead

sense of place. “The ethos of The Resident is to arrive as a

encouraged to explore the local area. There is however a

guest and leave as a local,” explains Smith. “We have worked

spacious lounge with a mix of seating; through the day, the

closely with Resident Hotels across all of their sites and put

communal high tables are the ideal perch for laptop users,

a great deal of consideration into the selection of fabrics and

and come 5pm, the sofas by the fireplace are the prime spot

finishes of each property to ensure individuality; a sense of

for the nightly wine hour. Tucked away around the corner,

place is so important to the brand.”

The Library is an intimate residential-style lounge with cosy

In Edinburgh, there’s a rich tapestry of cultural and

armchairs and a collection of books curated by Ultimate

historic references to work with, though a conscious decision

Library, all selected for their connection to the heritage and

to avoid the archetypal tartanalia meant looking elsewhere

culture of Edinburgh.

for inspiration. “Our aim was to instil a sense of place

Upstairs, the 164 guestrooms are well-planned for both

without referencing the usual tartan and Brigadoon,” Smith

convenience and comfort. The size of each module was

continues. “We adopted a subtler approach to tell our story,

largely determined by structural columns and the existing

celebrating both Edinburgh and Scotland yet delivering it in a

floorplate, meaning standard rooms are a compact 18m2.

rather more sophisticated and contemporary way. Our design

Despite this, there’s a still a feeling of space thanks to smart

narrative pays homage to the location and connects guests

solutions and plenty of natural daylight from the floor-

to the surrounding area: the colour palette comes from the

to-ceiling windows. “We spent a lot of time planning the

land, while texture and quality of light is of huge importance

guestrooms because we didn’t want to waste any space,”

in Edinburgh and helped inform our decisions.”

Smith reveals, adding that the bespoke king-sized beds are

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a brand standard, so other amenities had to

ink and watercolour. “On one of the early site

fit neatly in alongside. In the entry vestibule,

visits, when the hotel was under construction,

there’s a nifty bench that doubles as a shoe rack,

we were able to access the roof and take in the

as well as coat hooks and an umbrella stand

incredible views, from the castle and across the

– this is Edinburgh after all. A mini-kitchen-

chimney pots on the adjacent rooftops, to the

cum-cocktail bar is equipped with a coffee

Georgian architecture of New Town and the Firth

machine, microwave, glassware and crockery.

of Forth beyond,” Smith explains. This cityscape

Then there’s a wardrobe and vanity area,

became the inspiration, and after thousands

followed by the bathroom with a large walk-

of photographs to capture the changing light,

in shower. There’s even space for a table and

followed by countless sketches in situ, the

chairs by the window, to take in views across

artist returned to the studio to create her own

the rooftops. And up on the seventh floor, the

interpretation. And much like the ethos of The

two Junior Suites feature their own private roof

Resident, the artworks avoid the trappings of

terrace with sightlines to the castle.

an archetype and rather reveal the city from

And though most rooms do come with a view,

a variety of different viewpoints – an aspect

scenes of the city can be seen in the artwork

that perhaps only a resident would recognise.

too. The limited-edition prints are created

“There is something unique about the interior

by the interior designer herself, having been

designer of a hotel also creating the artwork,”

commissioned by Orr and the Mactaggart Family

Smith concludes. “There was a real opportunity

to produce a series of originals. Under the guise

to ensure the colours of the art harmonise with

of Urban Sketchliner – a personal passion that

the base palette of the interiors, resulting in a

has developed into a business venture – Smith

cohesive concept that brings together the sense

created seven pieces in her signature style using

of place we strived to deliver.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Mactaggart Family & Partners Operator: Resident Hotels Architecture: MLA Interior Design: Wish Interior Architecture Creative Direction: Craig Allen FF&E Procurement: Occa Art: Urban Sketchliner, Dacre Fine Art Book Curation: Ultimate Library Main Contractor: Morrison Construction Joinery: Thomas Johnstone www.residenthotels.com

H O S P I TA L I T Y S L E E P S O L U T I O N S

Handmade. Sustainable. Recyclable. +44 (0) 1332 497111

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04/03/2025 11:12

Populus DENVER Urban Villages enlists Studio Gang to envision the first carbon-positive hotel in the USA, setting new sustainability standards from design through to operations.

Words: Ayesha Khan • Photography: © Jason O’Rear (unless otherwise stated)

O

n a hiking trip in scenic Colorado, acclaimed architect Jeanne Gang was captivated by the eye-like notches that climb the trunks of

the ubiquitous Aspen tree. So when she was later approached by sustainable developer Urban Villages to design the first carbon-positive hotel in the US, she knew she wanted to incorporate this native motif into the façade. Aptly named Populus after the scientific name for the deciduous tree, the construction, interiors, operation and lifecycle of this hotel seek to be a resounding test-case for the entire hospitality industry, proving that sustainability can, and should, play a starring role in every hotel project worldwide.

© Yoshihiro Makino

MEANS AND METHODS The shocking truth about the construction

hotel’s carbon footprint by partnering with

wanted to ensure that what we specified goes

industry is that it is responsible for a staggering

Grassroots Carbon, OneTreePlanted and

beyond the typical lifecycle of eight-to-ten

45% of greenhouse emissions in the US. With

Terrapass to acquire 7,000 tonnes of high

years, aiming instead for 25-to-30 years.”

this in mind, Urban Villages opted to use

integrity, certified forest and soil carbon

Operationally, the hotel’s restaurants follow

Holcim’s innovative EcoPact low-carbon

credits as part of its evolving, nature-based

a farm-to-table, table-to-farm philosophy,

concrete mix for the structure of Populus,

sustainability strategy. To further offset

prioritising the sourcing of ingredients through

bringing 30% lower CO2 emissions than the

emissions, the developer planted over 70,000

regenerative agriculture partnerships with Zero

standard equivalent. Additional strategic steps

Engelmann spruce trees in Gunnison County

Foodprint, Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture

to improve environmental performance include

on a site that had been ravaged to near

& the Environment and the US Department of

a continuously insulated façade system of glass

endangerment by beetle kill. The initiative is

Agriculture, to ensure that all cuisine served at

fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC) cladding, which

ongoing through partnership with the National

the hotel aligns with overarching sustainability

acts as a thermal regulator to keep the building

Forest Foundation and One Night, One Tree

goals. Any food waste is converted into nutrient-

warm in winter and cool during summer.

programme – a promise to plant a tree for every

rich compost using BioGreen360’s Food Cycling

Energy usage in the building is 100% renewable

room night booked, giving guests the feeling of

biodigester, and then returned to the very farms

too, and the omnipresent Aspen-notch windows

making their own contribution to change.

that supply the produce.

feature ‘eyelids’ that significantly reduce solar

Inside, every material has been thought and

All means and methods are transparent

heat gain.

re-thought in a lengthy yet deliberate process.

and data-driven. “We employ principles of

There was also the conscious decision to

“Everything we have done has been about re-

truth, transparency and tracking,” explains

exclude an on-site parking garage, as steel and

purposing, re-utilising and giving materials a

Prine, highlighting a partnership with Lotus

reinforced concrete are major contributors to a

longer life,” explains General Manager George

Engineering & Sustainability to monitor the

building’s carbon footprint.

Prine, a Colorado native who was closely

hotel’s carbon footprint, energy usage, waste

involved in the hotel’s development. “We

output and offsetting strategies.

Urban Villages then went on to offset the

118

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© Yoshihiro Makino

THE FOREST FLOOR For the interiors, Wildman Chalmers Design

to be felt rather than just seen, and all of which

developed a scheme that first and foremost

add to a mindful and unforgettable experience.”

focuses on sustainability; as such, every piece

To emulate the forest floor, poured concrete

of FF&E is considered, from the innovative

was used underfoot for its promise of patina,

materials to the consciously sourced furniture.

while overhead, a distressed timber ceiling is

The result is an elegant and sustainable design

made from salvaged fencing. Taking centre

that is deeply connected to nature and the

stage, the reception desk is hewn of a hollowed-

surrounding neighbourhood. “We didn’t want

out Rio Grande Cottonwood tree, set against

guests to feel like we just inserted a design

a shingle wall of beetle kill-infected pine to

that has no context,” says Principal and Design

demonstrate how beauty can come from the

Director Heather Wildman. “The challenge was

ravages of nature.

to be bold, yet complementary.”

120

Suspended above is a tapestry crafted from 500

“Our aim was to build on the Aspen tree

sheets of Reishi, a leather alternative engineered

inspiration with a broader lens, to evoke the

from the root structure of mushrooms,

feelings and emotions of moving through

developed by MycoWorks through its patented

nature,” she continues. “The interiors are far

Fine Mycelium platform. The nature-inspired

from shy but instil a sense of calm, embracing

design continues with tables carved from rock,

imperfections, layers of textures, and elements

sinuous banquettes emulating the contours of

of surprise that showcase creative and

the Rockies, and wall sconces from In Common

sustainable design. We are excited for guests to

With that mimic the parabolic form of Gang’s

discover and engage with the hotel’s artisanship

beloved windows, which soar to some 30ft in

and design details – many of which are meant

this space and bring in plenty of daylight.

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© Yoshihiro Makino

THE TREE TRUNK The ethos of the hotel is firmly embedded in the entire guest journey, even in the oftenforgotten transitional spaces such as corridors and stairwells. It begins at check-in with the presentation of the keycard, housed in a plantable seedpaper sleeve that guests can take to grow at home – a memorable keepsake.

Then it’s to the elevators, where the sounds of nature play on a loop, having been curated from hours and hours of recordings from across the Rockies. A mirror to the natural world, the melodies change as the day progresses, mimicking birdsong and weather patterns exactly as they are found in nature.

Corridors are a juxtaposition of light and dark, with a faux cork wallcovering highlighted by glimmers of metallic, seedpod-inspired sconces. All illumination is LED, and bronze wall lights designed in the shape of the Aspeneye windows have been integrated above each room number, giving the appearance of peeking through the leaves.

122

© Yoshihiro Makino

THE BRANCHES In contrast to the corridors, the 265 guestrooms are bright and airy. Fabrics and finishes were selected to comply with a host of sustainability standards such as Cradle to Cradle, with Wildman Chalmers sourcing carpeting from Forth Surfaces that will completely biodegrade at landfill. Even the OS&E package aligns with the ethos, featuring glasses hewn from recycled wine bottles, 100% cotton bedding from Bellino Fine Linen and soap that is collected after use and melted down into fresh bars by local manufacturer Mountain Time Soap & Supply.

On the walls, a thought-provoking art collection curated by artist and environmentalist Katherine Homes extends beyond eye-catching visuals to encompass a full sensory experience inspired by the feelings evoked whilst sitting among an Aspen grove. In many rooms, the eye-shaped windows extend into a curved, © Yoshihiro Makino

124

cushioned window hammock, providing the perfect vantage point to take in the views and further connect with the outdoors.

© Yoshihiro Makino

THE CANOPY “We wanted to be bold, bright and playful,”

the surrounding mountains. Captivating art in

Wildman says of Stellar Jay, the hotel’s rooftop

the form of Yakisugi, the Japanese method of

restaurant, bar and terrace, which is inspired

charring wood to preserve it, holds court near

by the lush canopy of a treetop as it changes

the indoor-outdoor bar. Designed by Katherine

through the seasons. Interiors are characterised

Homes, the browned and blackened wood art

by saturated gold tones and lime wash green

installation is a poignant message given the

hues, with end-grain wood flooring that

prevalence of wildfires in the region.

offers superior longevity to planks. The venue

Offering 360-degree views reaching as far

is anchored by a custom lighting installation

as the Rocky Mountains, Stellar Jay’s rooftop

named The Canopy, designed by Wildman

features a cascading garden envisioned by

Chalmers and fabricated by Raw Creative,

Superbloom, with indigenous perennials that

comprising recycled steel disks that playfully

provide an attractive habitat for local wildlife

refract light to emulate sunlight peeking

and insects, encouraging biodiversity. The four-

through the leaves. Wallcoverings are Carnegie

season garden features foliage that supports

Bio-based Xorel and cork, and there’s even a

pollination, whilst also providing a cooling

wallcovering from Organoids that features herbs

effect through shading and evapotranspiration.

and tea leaves in its composition.

This continues back at street-level, where

In the private dining room, a handpainted,

trees have been planted using an innovative

sepia-toned leaf motif by Denver-based

technology that offers access to uncompacted

artist Genevieve Smith gives the feeling of

soil, similar to a forest environment. In all,

perching in a bird’s nest high in the canopy,

Populus serves as a verdant sanctuary in the

accentuated by Aspen-eye windows overlooking

city, from the ‘forest floor’ to the ‘canopy’.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Urban Villages Operator: Aparium Hotel Group Design Architect: Studio Gang Architect of Record: Fowler Architecture & Interior Design Interior Design: Wildman Chalmers Design Art Curation: Katherine Homes Landscaping: Superbloom Main Contractor: The Beck Group www.populusdenver.com

125

DESIGN DETAILS LODGES & TENTED CAMPS

Cabane Tortin

Immersive travel has become increasingly

striking cantilever housing a lounge and three

popular in recent years, resulting in a flurry of

bedrooms. The structure is fronted by floor-to-

new hospitality experiences that enable guests

ceiling glazing that reflects the changing light

to truly connect with a destination, whether

throughout the day, and inside, cosy armchairs are

through curated art or cultural programming.

positioned to maximise the panoramic views. “The

At Cabane Tortin in the Swiss Alps, it’s the

cantilever feels as if it is suspended mid-air, while

architectural design that facilitates immersion in

the slanting glass opens up the space as a free-

the surroundings, with ingenious features making

floating observatory,” Stinessen concludes. “The

for a memorable stay.

oak panelled interiors are warm and welcoming,

Perched atop Tortin Glacier at an altitude of 3,000m, the remote lodge is designed by Norwegian architect Snorre Stinessen to foster a connection with the natural world. “This project endeavours to relate to its surroundings in a meaningful way,” Stinessen explains. “The design is influenced by the drama of the landscape and also provides a protective shelter for guests to immerse themselves in a unique experience.”

The eco-sensitive cabin is built on the site of an existing mountain hut and features a

© Albrecht Voss

inviting the views inside and ensuring guests feel a connection to the mountain peaks.”

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Lasting Legacy Design consultancy Greenspace delves into the archives, looking to stories of the past to build a brand identity befitting of a London landmark.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Greenspace

F

or a design consultancy that specialises

Staying true to the building began with simply

in building brands through authentic

exploring the site on foot – its miles of corridors and

storytelling, The Old War Office must be up

countless rooms that witnessed moments in history:

there as the most intriguing of projects – its

Winston Churchill held office here, for example; it

storied past serving as rich inspiration for

served as the command centre for World War I; and

the creation of a new-era identity. So when

later became synonymous with secret agents. “As you

Greenspace was appointed to develop a brand vision for

walk around, there’s an immediate sense of awe; you

the historic landmark’s transformation into a luxury

imagine the conversations that must have taken place

hotel and residences, the first task was to uncover a

here,” Caddy continues. “We wrote a story based on ‘if

century of secrets.

these walls could talk’, which then guided an authentic

“Our role started out as a place-making project

brand identity.”

to determine the building as a new destination in

The first major milestone came in the renaming of

Whitehall,” explains Adrian Caddy, founder and CEO

building. “The client was concerned about calling it The

of Greenspace, adding that the scarcity of hospitality

Old War Office – it doesn’t sound like a luxury hotel,”

venues in the surrounding area brought an opportunity

explains Caddy. “Part of our task was to interview

to develop a distinctive brand positioning. “We knew it

potential guests and residents; what we learned from

would be luxurious, so our focus was to ensure we stay

them is that if they wanted to stay at the hotel or buy

true to the building and its heritage; our mantra was

an apartment there, it’s because it’s The Old War Office,

authenticity trumps luxury.”

so it didn’t feel right to lose the name completely. We

“We want people to get as much pleasure from looking through a menu and choosing what to eat or drink as they do from sitting back and taking in the interior design and ambiance.”

ADRIAN CADDY

then found thousands of letters in The National

scheme, notably the elegant archways over

on compostable chlorophyll card and given at

Archives and noticed that secretaries abbreviated

the pool and carved into stone. The result is

each course,” Caddy describes. “They serve as

the address to O.W.O. rather than type it out in

an undulating scallop motif that decorates

a keepsake for diners to remember the meal.”

full, so this became the new name.”

the cover of a hardback book, which sets out

In The Spy Bar – a hidden speakeasy down in

beauty treatments and wellbeing programmes

the basement – the brand identity takes cues

alongside colour photography.

from the building’s real and fictional links to

The discovery has resulted in a contemporary yet authentic appellation, its palindromic, symmetrical form serving as a neat and elegant

For the restaurants and bars, Greenspace

espionage. “The logo typography is set to look

logo. When Raffles came in as operator, the

met with designers from The Office of Thierry

like code, and we designed the menu as a top-

name also aligned with the group’s desire to

Despont and created mood boards to foster

secret dossier,” notes Caddy, adding that Ian

preserve past treasures, and so Raffles London

a visual connection between interiors and

Fleming’s creation of James Bond was inspired

at The OWO was born. “This was an important

branding. At The Guards Bar for example, the

by goings-on at The Old War Office. “The

moment in the project, because from there,

regal uniforms of the mounted cavalry across the

perforated inner page then reveals the eyes of

we were able to set the foundations of the

road can be seen in the red leather of the dining

Christine Granville – Britain’s longest-serving

brand and start working on the identity of

chairs and menus, the latter embossed with gold

female spy – and transparent inserts evoke the

the different restaurants and bars within the

lettering. And at Saison, the Mediterranean

negatives of covert photography.”

development,” Caddy reveals. Much of the

restaurant with botanic-inspired interiors, the

There’s also a ‘martini roulette’ card featuring

initial work came in establishing the typeface.

seasonal approach of the cuisine is reflected in

redacted type that can be scratched off to reveal

“We looked at typefaces that were in use at the

the illustrations by Édith Carron, each depicting

a surprise cocktail – another keepsake for guests

time The Old War Office was completed in 1906

a particular time of year on the French Riviera.

to take away. Ultimately, it’s these moments

and commissioned a bespoke set of fonts that

Mauro Colagreco’s signature fine-dining

that contribute to a memorable experience.

would convey the aesthetic of that period,” he

restaurant goes further still. The Michelin-

“We want people to get as much pleasure from

continues, adding that the aptly named 1906

starred chef’s cuisine focuses on the bounty

looking through a menu and choosing what to

typeface can be seen across everything from

of the British countryside, so in response,

eat or drink as they do from sitting back and

signage and menus to the website.

menus are crafted from sustainable materials

taking in the interior design and ambiance,”

This is then complemented by details that

such as corn-derived seed paper and recycled

Caddy confirms. And the journey isn’t over yet.

are particular to each venue, with care taken

grass, complete with a debossed poppy design

Greenspace continues to work with Raffles, more

to ensure cohesion with the interiors and

blooming on the cover. Greenspace also created

recently creating paraphernalia for Diwali and

concept. To achieve this, Greenspace worked

a set of postcards to accompany the dining

Christmas programming, as well as packaging

in collaboration with Raffles, the interior

experience, each depicting the key ingredient

for tea and cakes. “The Old War Office has been

designers and F&B teams, meaning that there’s

of the dish. There’s radish, beetroot, kale and

a great project for us; we like buildings that

a traceable thread through the guest journey,

pear, as well as potato, lettuce and plum – some

have a legacy,” Caddy concludes. “So much of

even extending to the artwork, cocktails and

are etchings and watercolours that date back to

life feels quite transient, but some things are

cuisine. For the Guerlain Spa, the branding

Victorian times, while others have been newly

worth investing in, because they could have a

take its cues from Goddard Littlefair’s design

commissioned. “The illustrations are printed

lasting impact.”

131

Hotel Construction Pipeline Asia Pacific Retaining its spot as the most active region in the world for new hotel development, Asia Pacific has a total of 2,729 projects in the pipeline according to the latest data from THP, accounting for 623,306 rooms under construction.

As previously reported, China has the largest pipeline by far, with 1,292 projects planned by comparison to India’s 370.

Even more impressive is that by key count, the People’s Republic accounts for more than half of the total rooms planned for the entire region.

It’s no surprise then, that eight of the top 10 cities are located in China. Shanghai leads the way with 17,055 rooms across 67 projects under development thanks to ventures from Accor, including a new Grand Mercure and a Swissôtel slated for the burgeoning Shanghai Hongqiao Gubei Business Development Area.

Elsewhere in the region, Indonesia has overtaken Thailand in the rankings, while India is experiencing a surge in construction. Indian hospitality company IHCL, for example, has set a new growth benchmark with 85 signings in 2024, 38 of which are under the Taj brand.

TOP CITIES SHANGHAI Projects 67 Rooms 17,055

CHENGDU Projects 46 Rooms 10,310

HANGZHOU Projects 58 Rooms 11,978

SUZHOU Projects 39 Rooms 8,308

SHENZHEN Projects 54 Rooms 11,605

NANJING Projects 36 Rooms 7,203

BANGKOK Projects 51 Rooms 12,664

WUHAN Projects 32 Rooms 6,975

Projects Rooms

132

SINGAPORE Projects 28 Rooms 9,312

TOP COUNTRIES

In all, Asia Pacific is set to add more than 160,669 rooms to its inventory this year, with a further 142,000+ planned for 2026.

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

For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

ZHUHAI Projects 30 Rooms 6,387

Projects Rooms

1

2

3

4

5

CHINA 1,292 287,612

INDIA 370 56,821

AUSTRALIA 162 27,207

VIETNAM 159 53,283

INDONESIA 149 25,601

6

7

8

9

10

THAILAND 142 61,366

MALAYSIA 73 22,111

JAPAN 68 14,948

PHILIPPINES 62 16,114

MALDIVES 36 4,592

BUSINESS CENTRE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Of the 623,306 rooms in the pipeline, 59% (367,092 rooms) are under construction and 18% (114,275 rooms) are in the planning stage. 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 71 Rooms 14,924

Projects 406 Rooms 78,583

Projects 569 Rooms 114,275

Projects 1,505 Rooms 367,092

Projects 178 Rooms 37,524

GROUPS AND BRANDS Within the THP database, Marriott International maintains its lead with the greatest number of projects in the pipeline following another record year of signings, while Hyatt is moving up the rankings thanks to growth of its Hyatt Regency brand, accounting for 12,583 new rooms across the region.

BRAND

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Crowne Plaza

62

14,128

Hyatt Regency

57

12,583

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

53

13,391

Marriott Hotels & Resorts

48

14,944

Hotel Indigo

46

8,471

Holiday Inn

45

8,519

226 Projects

InterContinental Hotels

44

10,003

JW Marriott

40

12,516

213 Projects

DoubleTree by Hilton

40

7,934

Citadines

40

7,727

396 Projects 321 Projects 232 Projects

YEAR OF OPENING

2025 (27%)

2026 (21%)

2027 (11%)

2028+ (8%)

UNCONFIRMED (33%)

133

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BUSINESS CENTRE

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

All about the experience

mean guests have an opportunity to enjoy

day, CEO Puneet Chhatwal commented: “Tree

stargazing, sitting around the campfire and

of Life can be scaled very quickly because this is

Marriott has revealed plans for a major push

old-fashioned conversation.

typically a conversion model where you can take

into the outdoors accommodation space, with

The move follows an earlier agreement signed

existing hotels and convert them into operating

two acquisitions to start. It follows its branded

by Hilton with AutoCamp, connecting sites

hotels in six-to-eight months. And right now

peers into a space where glamping looks to be

to the Hilton marketing machine and loyalty

it’s a portfolio of 19 properties, but we see it

the new must-have segment.

programme. AutoCamp’s nine sites across the

reaching 100 properties very quickly.”

The company has acquired US brand Postcard

US claim to bring the boutique hotel to the

In Europe, hotel group PPHE has a close

Cabins, and signed a partnership agreement with

great outdoors, and feature accommodation in

eye on trends, operating a campsite business

Trailborn, ahead of a promised launch of “an

Airstream caravans and cabins. A central block

in eastern Europe via its subsidiary Arena. It

outdoor-focused collection” in 2025. Postcard

provides amenities, food and beverage options

upgraded its first campsite in 2018, claiming

has 29 sites, with over 1,200 cabins across the

and organised activities.

to have created Croatia’s first all-glamping

US; Trailborn has five hotel locations, with 559

Best Western is also testing consumer appetite

resort, with 183 luxury tents. The Area One

rooms, plus a further two sites in development

for glamping, creating its Explorer Series and

99 is particularly popular with German leisure

in the US. The move follows both Hilton and

launching its first property. This will be Zion

travellers. The business has eight campsites

Hyatt in entering the segment in recent months,

Wildflower, a seasonal glamping destination in

around the Croatian coast.

with similar partnership deals. Best Western,

Zion National Park that reopens in March 2025.

Also testing out the experiential space is

too, has signed its first outdoors offering. And

The site had been developed by a BWH member,

hostel brand Generator. In December, Generator

in India, IHCL has acquired a majority stake in

who wanted to add it to the platform.

took on management of the Boutique Camping

experiential accommodation brand Tree of Life.

Speaking at the group’s annual convention,

village at the Wonderfruit festival in Thailand.

Announcing the two Marriott deals, CFO

Brad LeBlanc, chief development officer at

Accommodation included private and shared

Leeny Oberg promised: “Whether you’re looking

BWH Hotels commented: “As I looked across

tents and RVs on the site, with the shared

for bespoke lodging near natural wonders, an

our brands and where the industry is going, it

accommodation option aiming to open up the

elevated camping experience, or off the beaten

is more and more experiential. We all see it. It

event to more visitors. The five-day event, now

path excursions in nature, our planned outdoor-

is no surprise.”

in its ninth year, is held in open space outside

focused collection is expected to offer a broad

Larry Cuculic, president and CEO of BWH

Pattaya. Generator CEO Alastair Thomann

array of options for seasoned adventurers and

Hotels said the launch had opened up plenty

commented: “We’re constantly redefining

first-time explorers.”

of interest: “We already have multiple leads of

what travel accommodation should look and

The Postcard sites are generally in woodland

people with land who are interested because

feel like for our community, to create unique

settings, with accommodation in self-sufficient

they see the opportunity associated with it. It

experiences and spaces for our guests to meet,

cabins. Trailborn, meanwhile, describes its

seems to fit us well.”

share and create memories. Festivals are all

offering as “boutique hotels in the great

In November, IHCL acquired a majority

about community, so bringing Generator to

outdoors” in locations such as the Rocky

shareholding in the Tree of Life brand, which

Wonderfruit and injecting our personality and

Mountains and Grand Canyon. Both portfolios

has been developed by Ambuja Neotia Group.

DNA into the cultural event is something we’re

will be integrated into Marriott’s loyalty and

The brand offers places to stay in off-beat

really excited about.”

distribution system during 2025.

locations, promising tranquil escapes from the

In July, Hyatt agreed an alliance with Under Canvas, linking up 13 outdoors locations to its

everyday. IHCL already parters with the Ambuja

HA PERSPECTIVE

Neotia on other hotel projects around India.

By Chris Bown: At Hotel Analyst, we decided this

loyalty programme. Accommodation includes

The Tree of Life properties are an eclectic

outdoors trend was something we should take a

safari-inspired tents, while many of the

mix with small room counts, including one

closer look at. And then, while preparing this for

locations make a virtue of being off-grid and

fashioned from shipping containers, and others

you dear reader, Marriott revealed its acquisitions.

therefore off-line, with no internet or mobile

with Art Deco or modernist architecture.

That underlined we were right - the race is clearly

phone signals. The contrasting environments

Speaking at the company’s capital markets

on, to offer an ever wider range of staying options

135

for loyalty programme guests. But the Marriott deals

economy of 1.6%. In a report and survey conducted in

Yucaipa business, both major stakeholders in

point to the fact that the outdoors offering is not just

conjunction with Barclays, the CEBR found that 90%

Soho House. Despite this level of support, the

about roughing it. While Postcard feels more like a

of consumer-facing businesses believe demand for

company will still be evaluating the latest offer

proper outdoors experience, the Trailborn brand is

memorable experiences is growing faster than for

via a specially convened board committee.

more of a comfy hotel that happens to be out in the

physical products.

our long-term strategic focus on operational

the experience economy, the Barclays / CEBR survey

excellence and delivering the best member

found only a minority of businesses were engaged in

experience continues to drive improved

HA PERSPECTIVE

exploiting the opportunity. Staff training was where

performance,” commented CEO Andrew Carnie,

By Andrew Sangster: There is a lot of confusion about

it was most seen, with 31% stating they had invested

as the results were released. “As always, I’d like

what is meant by the term ‘experience economy’.

in this and 27% launching new products to provide

to thank our teams for their passion and hard

Some people have seen it, mistakenly in my view,

memorable experiences.

work, and members around the world for their

to different folks.

continued loyalty.”

as a marketing fad, perhaps now superseded by

The shift into the experience economy is profound

other fads such as the ‘attention economy’. But the

and critical for hospitality businesses. In many ways,

In early 2024, the company’s operations came

experience economy is, at its deepest level, a sub-

hospitality businesses are the tip of the spear of this

under attack from agitating research company

sector of the services or tertiary sector in the chain of

industrial revolution. We are still not seeing enough

and short seller GlassHouse Research, which

production. Notions such as the attention economy

made of the opportunity: the businesses highlighted

declared Soho House “a company with a broken

are not this.

in our story are just the beginning.

business model and terrible accounting”. The report prompted company management to

There is also much confusion, even when it is seen as a sector in the chain of production, about what it entails. And it is normally too narrowly defined. As an example, the Centre for Economics

SPACs look to surrender

threaten an autumn delisting, as the board evaluated an earlier buyout offer. That offer, however, was rebuffed as the group opted to

& Business Research, a London-based consultancy,

Soho House looks set to accept a take-private

continue as a listed vehicle, for the short-term

published research over the summer that defined it

offer that values the business at USD1.75bn. The

at least.

as businesses that provide memorable experiences.

move will see an end to the group’s US listing,

At serviced apartment group Sonder, also

This encompasses holidays, leisure trips, community

ending an unhappy period of less than four

originally listed via the SPAC route, early

events, outdoor activities, holidays abroad and

years on the public markets. The move comes

2025 brought news of board changes. Despite

cultural outings. But it excludes pubs, restaurants,

as other hospitality businesses also linked to the

teaming up with Marriott during 2024, the

and other hospitality experiences. The CEBR is not

SPAC period on the US markets of the last few

company remains under sanction from US stock

alone in this relatively narrow definition.

years, come under pressure.

market regulators. Co-founder and CEO Francis

The US Bureau of Economic Analysis pulls together

The revelation of the Soho House offer, which

Davidson has been replaced as chair of the board

data from industries including arts, entertainment,

has the support of leading investors in the

by independent director Janice Sears. Also

recreation, accommodation and food services that

business, came as the group announced third-

joining the board is Erin Wallace, previously

offer experiences. The challenge analysing the data is

quarter results. Revenues came in at USD333.4m,

with Walt Disney.

that it is based on traditional industry classification

up 13.6% year on year, while adjusted EBITDA

The company is also feeling the heat from

systems and many elements of the experience

was USD48.3m and net income turned positive

possible legal action. Law firm Bronstein, Gewitz

economy cuts across boundaries, making it hard

at USD175,000. The company pointed to total

& Grossman is threatening to put together a class

to attribute how much economic output should be

membership growth of 4.8% year on year, with

action on behalf of Sonder shareholders, based

attributed to the experience economy.

membership revenues up 16.7% to USD107.4m -

on an accusation of corporate wrongdoing.

In the narrow-ish definition, the BEA estimated last year that 4.1% of the US economy was experience

136

“Despite a choppy consumer environment,

Despite all this evidence about the potential of

wilds. A night under the stars means different things

now almost exactly one-third of total revenues.

Margins improved all round.

Sonder continues to push forward on the integration of its portfolio with Marriott, after

economy businesses. The CEBR research estimated

The USD9 per share offer, from an as yet

signing a 20-year licensing agreement in

that in the UK, the experience economy is worth

unnamed vehicle represented an 83% premium

August 2024. That work remains ongoing, and

GBP134bn, almost 4% of the UK economy.

to the recent share price - but is way short of

meantime Sonder, still listed on Nasdaq, has

The UK experience economy, as defined by the

the USD2.8bn valuation at the time the Soho

until May 2025 to regain compliance with stock

CEBR, is expected to grow by 2.6% annually, which

House business launched via a SPAC acquisition.

listing rules; notably, it is under sanction for

compares to the anticipated growth rate of the overall

It has the support of Ron Burkle, and his

failing to file its Q3 financial report in a timely

BUSINESS CENTRE

manner. The company previously restated its

market where it was seen as a tech company with

European offices, residential and hotel asset

earnings back to 2023, after noting accounting

a mission to grow above all else. Investors have

classes. In 2022, it set out to reduce debt via

and valuation errors. Sonder will also have to

subsequently reviewed that initial take and now

disposals, while looking to improve its rental

again combine its shares, which have tumbled

require profitability above all else.

income; it also set out to increase its exposure

in value, to meet the stock market’s minimum USD1 per share listing price.

Another hospitality SPAC that has seen the end of its days is Jaws Mustang Acquisition,

Soho House has been our favourite S even after the Glasshouse report. If the subscription model can be made to work, then it becomes a compelling proposition.

to European hotels, deciding it preferred the long-term outlook of the asset class.

In an investor presentation in late 2024, the group called out its successes. EUR1.5bn of

which had its shares suspended late in 2024.

Less compelling at Soho House has been its

disposals helped strengthen the balance sheet,

Barry Sternlicht was among backers of the blank

difficulties in driving stronger sales and profits at

reducing LTV to below 40%. Rental growth

cheque vehicle, which for a while looked like it

existing houses rather than just keep adding new

was up 13.6% in two years, while the group

might buy up a portfolio of Starwood Capital

ones. The Glasshouse criticism that Soho House is too

increased its stake in subsidiary Covivio Hotels

hotel assets. These were initially discussed as

focused on a younger demographic is something that

from 43.8% in late 2023, to 52.5% by mid-2024.

likely being the De Vere portfolio in the UK,

resonates across the other S businesses too. Gen Z

Other key shareholders in Covivio Hotels are

plus 1 Hotels in Brooklyn and Central Park. But

may be the future but it is Boomer and Gen X money

BNP Paribas, Generali, Credit Mutuel and Caisse

Starwood accepted an offer from Host for the

that is going to be paying most of the tabs becoming

des Depots, who between them sit on over 30%

Central Park property, and no other suitable

due today.

of the total shareholding.

replacement asset could be found to round out the proposed portfolio for disposal.

HA PERSPECTIVE

Soho House can have more exclusivity and higher

During the first half of 2024, the group sold

margins, or it can appeal to a wider group through

down several of its hotel holdings. Disposals

more accessible pricing. The former is the better

included 13 assets in France, including three

move if you need profits fast.

Accor branded hotels; four hotels in Germany;

By Andrew Sangster: There were three ‘S’s that took

Sonder, and particularly Selina, suffered from

and one in Spain. Between them the disposals

the SPAC route in hospitality that we have been

this focus on the young, too. And Selina found it

brought in EUR77m. The group also refinanced

following – Soho House, Sonder and Selina. It’s been

impossible to quickly pivot to the generations with

during the first half of 2024, with a EUR500m

a difficult time for all of them.

the cash to spend on its ‘nomadic’ lifestyle concept.

green bond issue. The paper has a nine-year

The one not in our story above, Selina, was acquired out of administration by Collective Hospitality at the

For the SPAC ‘S’ crowd, it was not a case of too much, too young; it was too young, too much.

lifestyle and experiential travel business.

What all three of the S businesses offered was a

As of mid-2024, Covivio Hotels held a portfolio valued at EUR5,821m across 12

end of August last year. This latter business, based in Singapore, saw it as an opportunity to expand its

maturity and a 4.125% coupon.

Covivio’s total hotelisation

countries. Almost a quarter of the hotels are under Accor flags, with 16% trading under NH, 15% with IHG, and 13% with B&B. Two-thirds

unique take. But they also all had much to prove in

European investment group Covivio has

of the assets are economy or midscale, with

terms of their business models.

completed a successful two-year turnaround,

one-third upscale. The average remaining lease

which has seen the group increase its

length across 16 operators is over 11 years.

At Sonder, the issue was about overhyping its tech credentials in a similar vein to WeWork. It is a tech-

commitment to the hotel sector.

From the total, 81% of revenue comes from

enabled hotelier, not a tech company. The concept

The signal that a new move is on was the

leased hotels, with 19% of revenues from

is essentially sound – to implement design and

acquisition of the group’s first hotel since 2020,

directly operated hotels, located in Germany

technology “to make a world of better stays”. But

with a purchase in Spain. Covivio said it was the

and France.

there is too much talk of revolution when it is clearly

first move of a new a strategy of growing hotel

execution that matters.

investment in southern Europe.

But for Covivio, probably the most complex hotel deal of 2024 was the untangling of cross-

The reality is that the same tech and design that

The December deal saw Covivio acquire the

Sonder has access to is available to all the ‘legacy’

Iberostar Las Dalias hotel in Tenerife, paying

hospitality companies. If Sonder is to have an edge,

Starwood Capital EUR81m for the 429-room,

The pair’s starting positions saw Covivio

it is about starting without any baggage and being

four-star property. The deal price represented a

Hotels owning 54 properties, which were

able to execute faster and more effectively than its

stabilised yield of 6.75% with operator Iberostar

leased under variable rent leases to AccorInvest.

longer-established rivals. But this has proved hard.

bound to a triple-net lease running to 2041.

Covivio also owned and asset managed a further

And to be fair to Sonder, it has had to pivot from a

The group has long held assets across the

holdings with AccorInvest, of a number of European hotel properties.

60 hotels leased to AccorInvest, the result of

137

BUSINESS CENTRE

two joint ventures set up between 2010 and

In a November statement, Covivio confirmed:

Covivio said it liked hotels due to four factors: more

2014. These involved outside investors Credit

“This will involve continued strengthening of

demand than supply; the high yields, outperforming

Agricole Assurances, Caisse des Depots and

the group’s exposure to hotels, with the aim

inflation and GDP; a flexible ownership model;

Societe Generale.

of increasing the group’s exposure to Southern

and that the asset class is gaining traction in the

Europe.”

investment market.

The resolution involved Covivio Hotels acquiring 43 operating companies, and

Interestingly, the group is also looking

Hotels are not only a preferred asset class at

transferring 16 other properties to AccorInvest.

to deploy a hospitality-led approach to its

Covivio but the experience of running them is

The company explained: “The deal with

management of all its property assets, across

being deployed across the other asset classes too.

AccorInvest will enable Covivio to strengthen

both offices and flexible working options, and

Everything is being hotelised.

its hotel presence in areas with strong tourist

residential.

appeal and significant potential for value creation through repositioning and management

HA PERSPECTIVE

optimisation.”

By Andrew Sangster: The hotelisation of real estate

Out of all the assets, two German hotels were

is perhaps exemplified by the direction of travel

re-leased to B&B, while a refurbishment plan

at Covivio. Not only is its share of hotel assets set

is already in place for 10 of the Accor branded

to grow significantly but it is taking its hospitality

hotels in France.

learning into its other asset classes.

The group also established its management

Covivio believes that the real estate investment

platform under a new name, WiZiU, launching

market has reached a trough. It sees increasing

with 10 hotels and 1,150 rooms under

investment volumes in hotels and some major

management in French and Belgian cities.

transactions in German residential. The office

WiZiU was set up with the aim of taking on

market has seen “polarisation”.

operation of the properties involved in the

At its Capital Markets Day held at the end of

AccorInvest swap deal, once they were fully held

November it said how it would pursue office-to-

in Covivio’s control. As a result, by the end of

hotel conversion and deploy a hospitality approach

2024, WiZiU planned to have 24 hotels under

in its residential investment. In a further nod to

management, with 3,090 rooms in a portfolio

operationalising its office portfolio, it plans to

worth around EUR500m.

accelerate the roll-out of its Wellio flex office brand.

“As

138

part

of

our

repositioning

and

The key shift is the move from passive to active

performance improvement plan, having our

investment management thanks to the launch of its

own management platform is a key asset for

management platform.

our future development,” said Sebastien de

In offices, Covivio talked about shifting from being

Courtivron, deputy general manager of Covivio

a landlord to an operator and therefore “monitoring

Hotels.

the whole value chain”. And its not just about flex

In December 2024, the management platform

office. Covivio described its ‘DUX’ approach (design

picked up a further 12 properties in a deal

and user experience), and smart building and

with French investor Atypio Hotels. Atypio,

connectivity.

which has 38 properties in total, manages

DUX is being adopted “to create destination

close to two-thirds directly, while outsourcing

places, inspired from hospitality codes”. So there

management of the remainder. Atypio focuses

are lobbies, lounges, restaurants, business centres,

on Accor branded hotels in the three- and four-

event areas, wellness and fitness. These are delivered

star market segments.

through partnerships and dedicated teams.

Looking ahead, Covivio expects to grow its

In residential, the hospitality experience is

hotel investments further. Currently, it has

similarly being exploited to offer tenants “attractive

around 20% of its portfolio in hotels, 30% in

design, and large amenities and service offer”.

residential and 50% in offices. The aim is, by

Services like F&B, fitness, event rooms, tenant app,

2030, to have those percentages roughly equal.

concierge and so on.

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

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

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27.02.25 13:10

BUSINESS CENTRE

1.

2.

3.

4.

Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 1. PARIS

Jeddah’s hosting of the Spanish Super Cup 2025 led to a significant uplift in hotel performance in January 2025, marking the highest occupancy for the month since 2015. Each of the KPIs peaked on the night of the cup final between Barcelona and Real Madrid, driving average year-over-year RevPAR gains of 20.6%.

January 2025 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 66.6% ( 6.5%) ADR EUR355.96 ( 6.3%) RevPAR EUR237.03 ( 13.3%)

January 2025 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 70.5% ( 15.0%) ADR SAR630.94 ( 4.8%) RevPAR SAR444.84 ( 20.6%)

2. MUNICH

4. SYDNEY

December 2024 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 68.3% ( 10.9%) ADR EUR127.79 ( 7.0%) RevPAR EUR87.31 ( 18.7%)

December 2024 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 78.8% ( 2.1%) ADR AUD314.15 ( 0.9%) RevPAR AUD247.43 ( 3.0%)

Munich’s hotel industry reported its highest December ADR and RevPAR on record in 2024, while occupancy matched December 2018 as the highest for the month since 2014.

Performance peaked at an occupancy of 96.8%, an ADR of EUR164.90 and RevPAR of EUR159.54 – all on Tuesday 3 December.

140

3. JEDDAH

New Year celebrations and multiple events drove Paris performance to an all-time high for January, according to data from STR. ADR and RevPAR peaked on New Year’s Day, while occupancy hit 84.7% on Wednesday 22 January, when Menswear Fashion Week coincided with a pharmaceuticals exhibition.

Following the market’s seasonal pattern, Sydney posted an all-time-high ADR (AUD854.38) and RevPAR (AUD807.62) on New Year’s Eve, while occupancy reached 94.5% – its highest for the month. Of note, the second highest occupancy in December 2024 was seen on the first night of four Crowded House performances.

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

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

Photography by Nick Callaghan

Dunluce Lodge, Portrush, Northern Ireland

SIPPING

www.aheadawards.com

000

An esteemed panel of judges meet in the English countryside to discuss the merits of new hotels around the world, before voting for their winner of the Ultimate Accolade.

Over the past 12 months, AHEAD has named its best new hotels in four global regions, with the winners spanning city, coast and countryside, and representing every subsector of the hospitality market, from branded and independent, to luxury and lifestyle, to newbuild and conversion. From a record 700+ entries, accolades were presented for Guestrooms, Lobby, Restaurant and Spa, as well as special categories such as Sustainability, Accessibility and New Concept, culminating in a Hotel of the Year for each region. In Asia, Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park in Tokyo took the prestigious prize. In the Americas, it was Rosewood’s Kona Village in Hawaii. In the Middle East and Africa, Six Senses Southern Dunes in Saudi Arabia came out on top. And in Europe, the landmark conversion of Raffles London at The OWO was triumphant.

Following ceremonies in Singapore, New York, Dubai and London, the awards programme culminated in AHEAD Global, a celebration of the best new hotels around the world and all those involved in their creation. In December, the AHEAD 100 was announced to reveal the hotels that accumulated the most votes within their respective regions, and earlier this year, the top 20 projects went head-to-head to be crowned best-of the-best. The task of selecting the top 10 and Ultimate Accolade winner fell to a panel of 25 judges from the regional panels, with developers, owners, operators, architects and interior designers all in the mix.

There were senior representatives from Accor, Marriott International and IHG, as well as

Kerzner, SH Hotels & Resorts and Ennismore; studio leaders from Rockwell Group, AvroKo, Pierre-Yves Rochon and Tristan Auer; and major players such as Red Sea Global, CTF Development and Design Hotels.

The 25-strong panel participated in a special event held in collaboration with Global Headline Sponsor RH Contract, with a twonight stay at Estelle Manor in the Oxfordshire countryside. Proceedings began with a social dinner at The Armoury, where a menu of sushi and robata classics was served alongside champagne and cocktails. Some judges spent time wandering the grounds of the 85-acre estate, others took a bracing dip in the outdoor swimming pool or wallowed in the healing waters of the Roman-inspired Eynsham Baths, plus, there was an exclusive look at Fallow House, the resort’s new events space.

Judging took place in the verdant surrounds of The Glasshouse, with each project showcased via video and photography, followed by an in-depth look at everything from the architecture, interior design and FF&E specification to spatial layout, sense of place and the all-important guest experience.

Each judge then cast their vote independently, ranking their top ten projects based on the above criteria.

With the hard work over, judges were treated to an afternoon at RH England – ‘A Celebration of History, Design, Food & Wine’. Designed

by Sir John Soane with gardens by Capability Brown, the 400-year-old estate is set within the grounds of Aynho Park, and serves as a

showcase for all that RH has to offer. After welcome drinks in The Wine Bar, there was an opportunity to view the rare books of the Architecture & Design Library and watch the herd of deer grazing on the pasture; to scale the Stairway To Heaven and explore the meticulously designed roomsets; or simply relax by the fireplace in sumptuous surrounds of The Salon. A traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches and scones in the new Conservatory also brought ample opportunity for socialising in the beautiful setting.

Back at Estelle Manor, the AHEAD Global gathering concluded with dinner at The Billiards Room, with plenty of speculation over which hotel might win the Ultimate Accolade. With votes counted, the top 10 was announced online at the end of January (full list overleaf ). Amongst the winners were a secluded sanctuary in the mountains, a sensitive conversion steeped in heritage and a richly layered city centre secret. Though all are markedly different, they share commonalities such as storytelling, a sense of place and attention to detail – qualities that all those in hospitality design strive for. In the end, it was Scorpios Bodrum that emerged as the Ultimate Accolade winner, having successfully made the transition from beach club to boutique hotel.

The judging panel described the property as well-executed, in which every element has been considered; ultimately, it was the creative design, authentic F&B programming and palpable sense of community that proved the winning combination.

AHEAD

© Loft One12

AHEAD Global names its Top 10 hotel openings of 2024, which range from a landmark restoration in Whitehall to a desert escape amidst the Arabian dunes.

01

Scorpios Bodrum – Turkey Maxx Royal Hotels / Scorpios / Geomim / StudioMacBride / Lambs & Lions / Annabell Kutucu / ANPT

06

Scorpios Bodrum was voted the Ultimate Accolade winner, having successfully made the transition from beach club to boutique hotel. The venture builds on the success of the Mykonos hang-out – established in 2015 by Thomas Heyne and Mario Hertel – and marks the beginning of a global expansion for the group.

02

Manna, Magouliana – Greece Stratis Batayas / K-Studio / Monogon / CS Architecture / H. Pangalou & Associates

Comprising early Islamic ruins sensitively converted by Shahira Fahmy Architects, this property was praised by judges for its careful conversion, which saw the use of historic architectural techniques to preserve original features.

07

Transformed from sanatorium to secluded mountain sanctuary, Manna is a luxury retreat nestled in the dense forests of Greece’s mount Mainalo. Judges lauded the property for its “understated design that translates into an outstanding guest experience”.

03

Six Senses Southern Dunes – Umluj, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas / Foster + Partners / Muza Lab / SKS Studio

04

08

05

At Rosewood’s new Hawaiian escape, the judging panel were impressed by the resort’s striking sense of place, brought about by the juxtaposition of laid-back Polynesian charm with dynamic volcanic landscapes, resulting in an immersive guest experience.

Otro Oaxaca – Mexico Integradora de Servicios Aliño / Grupo Habita / RootStudio Tucked away behind an unassuming façade, Otro offers an authentic take on local hospitality. “An ode to simplicity”, said the judges, who commended RootStudio for its sustainable craftsmanship and elevated utilitarian aesthetic.

09

Weaving lush greenery through a Brutalist-inspired, raw concrete structure, Keiji Ashizawa Design and Norm Architects have achieved the delicate balance of tradition and modernity that is synonymous with Tokyo, resulting in a “beautifully harmonised” design scheme, judges said.

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, USA Rosewood Hotel Group / Walker Warner Architects / Delawie / NicoleHollis / Vita Inc.

Raffles London at The OWO – London, UK Westminster Development Services / Whitehall Residences / Accor / EPR Architects / The Office of Thierry W Despont / Goddard Littlefair / AB Concept / DaeWha Kang Design / DPA Lighting Consultants For the landmark restoration at one of London’s most prestigious addresses, a star-studded design team breathed new life into a former government headquarters – a project described as “a truly extraordinary conversion”.

Blending traditional Nabatean architecture and Arabian aesthetics with panoramic views of the nearby dunes, Foster + Partners and Muza Lab have crafted a property that reflects the spirit of Saudi Arabia’s desert landscape – described by the panel as a “contextually relevant narrative that permeates every detail”.

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

Dar Tantora, The House Hotel – AlUla, Saudi Arabia Royal Commission of AlUla / Kerten Hospitality / Shahira Fahmy Architects / EQI / MMG

At Sloane – London, UK Cadogan Estate / JLC UK / ReardonSmith Architects / Graf Paris Blending elements of a chic Chelsea residence with elegant French influences, the design team behind At Sloane have crafted an elevated experience within a Victorian townhouse. Judges praised the “attention to detail that results in a feast for the eyes”.

10

One&Only Aesthesis – Athens, Greece Grivalia Hospitality / Kerzner International / AUDO / A6 Architects / K-Studio / Muza Lab / Greenways “The definition of a luxury resort,” said the panel of Kerzner’s new Athenian hotel, built on the site of a 1950s beach club.

Synthesising the original architectural vision with contemporary elements, the property echoes a modernist language while introducing One&Only’s luxury sensibilities.

AHEAD

02

05

08

07

01

06

CALLING ALL ARCHITECTS, INTERIOR DESIGNERS, DEVELOPERS AND OPERATORS...

If you have recently completed a new hotel project, it could be eligible for an award.

THE CATEGORIES

TOP TIPS TO ENTER

There are 16 categories open to enter, taking in every aspect of a hotel. The same hotel can be entered into multiple categories.

• What’s the story? Tell us about the design concept, the inspiration and selection of furnishings and finishes • Don’t underestimate the power of a picture; high-quality professional photography is crucial (avoid submitting renders) • Submit a video; videos are optional, but they do help to bring the project to life • For conversion and renovation projects, be sure to include before and after images to show the transformation

Accessibility Bar, Club or Lounge Event Spaces Guestrooms Hotel Conversion Hotel Newbuild Hotel Renovation Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps

Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces Lobby New Concept Resort Restaurant Spa & Wellness Suite Sustainability

CRITERIA AND DEADLINES Hotels that meet the following criteria are eligible to enter: ASIA • Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and April 2025 • Entry Deadline: 25 April AMERICAS • Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and April 2025 • Entry Deadline: 25 April MEA • Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and June 2025 • Entry Deadline: 6 June EUROPE • Eligibility: opened between January 2024 and July 2025 • Entry Deadline: 25 July

THE JUDGES AHEAD’s judging panels comprise over 60 industry-leading figures, including owners, operators and developers as well as architects, interior designers and consultants. 2025 panels will be announced soon.

THE PROCESS Once entries close, judges view the entries online and independently score each project based on a set of criteria; entries that showcase exceptional design and functionality, whilst demonstrating commercial viability will fare well. The highest-scoring projects in each category are then shortlisted.

Following the shortlist announcement, the regional judging panels meet in person to discuss and deliberate the merits of every hotel shortlisted. They then cast their votes to determine the winners.

For further information, download AHEAD’s entry guidelines via aheadawards.com

AHEAD

THE CEREMONIES

12 SEPTEMBER 2025

16 OCTOBER 2025

SINGAPORE

NEW YORK

3 NOVEMBER 2025

27 NOVEMBER 2025

DUBAI

LONDON

For tickets, visit the Sleeper Media Store www.sleeper.media/store/

EVENT SPONSORS

“This event is not only about talking new trends, but discovering the people who set these trends, act for the future and above all, really dare.”

Damien Perrot, Global Chief Design, Technical Services & Innovation Officer – Accor

2-3 September 2025 Copenhagen

Let’s Meet In The Lobby On a mission to redefine networking and spark conversation, The Lobby founder Dorte Bagge reveals what to expect from this year’s theme – Everyday Activism.

Dorte Bagge Founder – The Lobby

What is The Lobby?

The Lobby is an annual event for the hotel industry and so much more. Our guests see it as a ‘lobby’ – a place where meaningful connections are made, new friendships flourish and there’s a real sense of community. This is achievable thanks to the event’s exclusive and intimate setting, limited to just 250 guests. Our attendees often share that they have more time to build relationships with relevant decisionmakers. This is not just about exchanging business cards; it’s about meeting the people behind the business cards.

Who attends?

A carefully curated mix of top decisionmakers including operators, developers, interior architects, designers and suppliers.

Attendance is by invitation only, ensuring everyone present is relevant and actively working on hotel projects worldwide.

Why is it relevant to the hotel industry?

We create a community where networking evolves into meaningful business relationships

and even friendship. We work hard to find fresh perspectives on current topics that are relevant to the hotel industry. We always aim to inform and surprise. Our goal is to present topics from multiple angles, ensuring a smarter and more impactful return on investment than traditional approaches typically deliver.

What networking opportunities are there?

We believe that to do good business, it’s not enough to just talk numbers – you need to build credible relationships. Humans naturally seek community and genuine connection. Our motto is that it’s easier, and more fun, to do business when there’s mutual respect.

Practically speaking, we pair people based on their preferences through a curated seating plan, placing people where we believe they can benefit from one another. We also facilitate and encourage conversation, creating the time and space for genuine interaction. Our event spans two days, providing opportunities to meet across various settings, from a pre-event gathering to the conference and after-party, with multiple touchpoints throughout.

© Klaus Nedergaard

How do you create an atmosphere of learning, curiosity and surprise?

Our goal is to awaken the hotel industry, open its eyes to current challenges, and foster a space for transformation and innovation. We achieve this by staying true to our beliefs and maintaining an equal footing with all of our guests. We believe everyone has an interesting story, and we create opportunities for a wide range of people to connect.

What sets The Lobby apart?

The majority of our guests say that The Lobby is one of the best events they attend each year. What they express is that there’s a high level of learning, friendship and business connections. Guests leave with new contacts and relevant insights. Many continue to meet worldwide – whether by arrangement or at other conferences and trade shows. Bottom line, we ensure meaningful connections for

our guests, while also providing opportunities to learn something new.

What is this year’s theme?

This year’s theme is Everyday Activism. We gather free and assertive minds to challenge norms, ignite conversation and build a more inclusive and sustainable world in hospitality and beyond. Everyday Activism isn’t limited by age or race – it’s for anyone, anywhere, at any time. The key is to act with purpose, heart, courage and a touch of boldness to bring about positive change in the hospitality industry.

The Lobby 2025 uses its platform to take a stand, and invites you to do the same.

Guests can expect surprises and the chance to form friendships with a network of relevant, influential individuals.

MEDIA PARTNER

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

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154

SPOTLIGHT

The Stone Age Fusing tradition and innovation, StoneCircle is passionate about turning nature’s most enduring resource into a hallmark of luxury hospitality.

Words: Eleanor Howard

F

rom the Egyptian pyramids and Greek

and opulence to a hotel,” he notes. “It is also

its natural beauty, whilst the clean geometric

temples to Roman palaces and Gothic

a good choice from a practical point of view,

shape celebrates contemporary design. “We

cathedrals, stone has played a crucial

as it’s easy to clean and long-lasting.” And

use digital templating and surveying combined

role in architecture throughout history. Now,

the applications are seemingly endless, from

with CNC-equipped machines for most of

contemporary artisans are reimagining the

a patinated bronze frieze at CitizenM, Tower

the work, using files to cut and fabricate the

ancient art form for modern-day use.

of London, to book-matched marble bedside

stone on our saws and water-jet machines,”

For British manufacturer StoneCircle,

pedestals at The Mandrake, London. “Our

explains Jeff. “The stone is then hand-finished

tradition and innovation go hand-in-hand.

clients use stone throughout their hotel projects,

using traditional techniques.” This harmonious

Established in 1968 by self-taught stone carver

from lobbies, bars and public restrooms, to

blend of nature and craftsmanship exemplifies

and letter-cutter Bernard Vanhinsbergh, the

guestrooms, bathrooms and suites, as well as

the manufacturer’s commitment to assisting

Hampshire-based company is now helmed by

spas and fitness areas,” he reflects.

designers in bringing their visions to life.

his sons Jeff and Steve. Together as co-Directors,

Despite having supplied a vast number of

All StoneCircle pieces are crafted on-site

they are committed to upholding their father’s

hotels, each of StoneCircle’s projects is unique

at its 2,800m2 stonemasonry factory, which

philosophy by sourcing raw materials from all

and therefore so is its approach. “We’ve been

was extended in 2015 to incorporate new

over the world and using the latest technology

working with some of the most prestigious

technologies and sustainability operations.

and equipment to create high-quality products.

hotels in the country for decades, which

“We take our environmental responsibilities

“Stone is one of the most sustainable

means that we have a wealth of experience of

seriously,” he says. “We have implemented

construction materials, especially if chosen

working with interior designers, architects and

several measures to reduce our impact, such as

from a local quarry,” says Jeff of the benefits to

contractors,” explains Jeff. “Everything we do

rain and waste water recycling, which makes us

using stone. “It does not have to be fired, it lasts

is bespoke – we work with our clients and their

almost self-sufficient in that aspect. We also use

more or less forever if properly cared for, and

designers to choose different types of stone and

solar panels to provide 40kWh of electricity and

can be reused or recycled at the end of its life.”

ways of fabrication that fit with the desired style

surplus stone from production is collected and

and colour palette of the hotel.”

crushed for use in the construction industry.”

It’s these very properties that make stone an ideal material for hospitality settings, as

Most recently, StoneCircle supplied a one-

With the next generation at its helm,

StoneCircle has proved. Passionate about

of-a-kind console table to the forthcoming

StoneCircle continues to draw on the tradition

transforming one of nature’s most enduring

Montcalm Mayfair in London. Designed by

and heritage of stone masonry to carve a

resources into a hallmark of luxury hospitality,

Studio Mica and Studio Est, the Rain Forest

dynamic future, with a clear goal in sight, as

the company has built a robust portfolio of hotel

Green marble piece fuses the precision of CNC

Jeff concludes: “We’re striving to become the

projects across the UK over the past 50 years,

technology with the artistry of hand-finishing,

first choice for designers and specifiers in the

from Jumeirah Carlton Tower to NoMad London.

guaranteeing a flawless result. The surface of

hotel industry.”

“Stone immediately brings a feeling of elegance

the marble is meticulously polished to enhance

www.stone-circle.com

155

SPOTLIGHT OUTDOOR FURNITURE Be it a sun-dappled balcony or a palm-shaded poolside, these are the furniture and accessories enhancing the appeal of a hotel’s outdoor spaces.

RH Striata RH has unveiled its 2025 RH Outdoor collection, which features a range of new designs crafted to enhance outdoor spaces. One such design comes courtesy of Belgian creative Mathias de Ferm, who has brought his eye for architectural detail to the Striata collection (pictured). Distinguished by a barrelback silhouette wrapped in handwoven all-weather rope, the collection features refined reeded detail on a sustainably harvested premium solid teak or all-weather aluminium frame. A slender opening at the back allows for a whisper of light to stream through, while reticulated seat cushions offer maximised performance and comfort. www.rh.com

SPOTLIGHT

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1. Roda Philia

2. Vondom Pasadena

3. Freifrau Leyasol

4. Talenti Jun

Roda has unveiled Philia, an outdoor sofa system designed by its Artistic Director of many years, Rodolfo Dordoni. Philia – meaning friendship, considered by the ancient Greeks to be the highest form of love – adopts a design that allows for multiple layouts. Modular grating – a wooden grille typically used in yachts – is Philia’s signature design detail, and the core of its supporting structure. Each module in the system features a slatted teak base reminiscent of nautical decks – a robust raised platform complete with a perimeter frame and slats that also act as tabletops. Philia’s back and armrests are lightly padded and can be adjusted to three different positions. www.rodaonline.com

Vondom has partnered once more with Jean-Marie Massaud to create Pasadena, a new outdoor collection comprising a bar stool, modular sofa, side table and sun lounger. “The ambition of Pasadena is to take an archetype and transform it into something of architectural proportions, but with a large dose of comfort,” explains Massaud, adding that a balance between soft profiles, lightness and comfort is “the key to timelessness”.

Using Vondom’s extensive experience with technical materials and weatherproof foams, the pieces can be used to achieve the comfort and sophisticated design that comes with the indoors, without sacrificing the freshness of the outdoors. www.vondom.com

Freifrau has announced the expansion of its Leyasol collection with the addition of the Leyasol Sun Bed, a new piece designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Adding to a hanging chair, recliner and swing seat, the latest launch maintains the collection’s distinctive elegant metal frame. Designed by Hoffmann Kahleyss, it features a soft, removable cushion, adjustable backrest and integrated castors that ensure optimal relaxation. Further details such as concealed zip fasteners and a washable cover enhance practicality and ease of maintenance. The complete Leyasol collection offers design-driven furniture solutions for elegant comfort outdoors. www.freifrau.com

Talenti is placing the spotlight on Jun, a new collection designed by Marco Acerbis. The range, which comprises an array of relaxed seating and table options, draws on the elegance of teak for its clean, minimalist aesthetic. On chairs and sofas, the thickness of the wood has been reduced to let their plush cushions take centre stage. “The main characteristics of Jun are the balance due to the interplay between the voluminousness of the cushions and the very clean lines of the structure,” explains Acerbis. “A structure that merges with the fabrics of the backrest and armrest upholstery almost as if they were one, giving a sense of semi-dimensionality.” www.en.talentispa.com

Visit us at Salone del Mobile, Milan.

8 - 13 April 2025 Pavilion 3, booth E32 jardinico_outdoor www.jardinico.com

Made for shade since 1999.

SPOTLIGHT

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1. Gandiablasco Arena

2. Vincent Sheppard Akari

3. Palecek Capitola Outdoor

4. Janus et Cie Mattone

Gandiablasco has introduced its second collection with Søren Rose. Inspired by the movements of sand dunes, Arena adopts rounded and organic forms that pay homage to varied forms of artistry, from basketry craftsmanship to Scandinavian veneer work. “From the graceful curves of the seating to the sleek simplicity of their components, every aspect of the Arena collection exudes sophistication and durability,” says Rose. “Arena has allowed me to leverage Gandiablasco’s exceptional craftsmanship, challenging ourselves to create technically ambitious yet aesthetically fitting pieces that meet the company’s mission and values.” www.gandiablasco.com

The Akari collection by Vincent Sheppard is characterised by delicate and airy silhouettes, fine lines and tactile twisted rope. The lightweight aluminium frame, finished in a dune white powder coating, creates a light and elegant structure that can enhance the feel of any outdoor setting. The rope detailing wraps around the frame in a way that complements its gentle curves, creating an inviting form that adds to an overall sense of lightness.

Designed for effortless comfort, the quickdry cushions – available in various fabrics – are crafted to withstand the elements.

Able to dry rapidly after a rainshower, they ensure that Akari is always ready to be enjoyed. www.vincentsheppard.com

Palecek has expanded its Capitola line with the unveiling of a new outdoor seating range. Crafted with the same attention to detail, the new pieces feature a refined synthetic seagrass material that mimics the appearance of traditional bundled grass, paired with a twisted synthetic rope binding that evokes the charm of artisanal craftsmanship. With a rustic yet refined look, the Capitola Outdoor collection is built to withstand the elements while maintaining the timeless style of its indoor counterpart.

Whether on a patio or by a pool, the range offers a blend of nature-inspired design and long-lasting performance for a refined outdoor retreat. www.palecek.com

Janus et Cie has launched its first fully upholstered outdoor range, Mattone, complete with generous proportions and deep, inviting cushions. The modular lounge collection allows for a wide range of configuration possibilities, with its clean lines enabling smooth integration into both contemporary and more traditional spaces. The modular pieces are crafted with a refined aesthetic, yet engineered to resist the elements. The quick-drying covers further enhance versatility, available in two sophisticated, neutral hues – White Opal, a warm, inviting grey, and Shiitake, a monochromatic, flaxen beige – that complement and coordinate with a variety of colour palettes. www.janusetcie.com

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SPOTLIGHT

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1. Tribù Amanu

2. Point Curio

3. Barlow Tyrie Cocoon

4. Ethimo Boldini

Tribù has unveiled Amanu, a new collection designed by Yabu Pushelberg.

The range, designed to be timeless and transitional, places emphasis on comfort and sustainability. Drawing its name from the Amanu atoll in French Polynesia, the collection balances comfort with durability, and the contemporary with the classic. The dining and lounge chair feature intertwined Canax – a unique combination of natural hemp and synthetic fibres – elegantly woven around the supporting teak to give the impression that it is floating. The dining table meanwhile also sees reclaimed ceramic tiles resting upon elegant teak, creating a soft look yet sturdy feel. www.tribu.com

Patrick Norguet has designed a new collection for Point, inspired by the concept of ‘curiosities’. Aptly named Curio, the range is an exploration of art, geometry and history. “Curio is an invitation to discover the extraordinary in the everyday; each piece is intended as a tribute to curiosity and the unexpected beauty that comes from exploring new forms,” explains Norguet. Pieces feature a stylised aluminium frame, slim legs ending in a flared base, and a rope backrest that nestles the user. “Through Curio, I sought to create designs that combine technique, history and storytelling, while maintaining a focus on elegance and craftsmanship,” concludes the designer. www.point1920.com

Cocoon is a contemporary deep seating collection envisioned by international design house Astheimer. Complete with design details including curved backs and arms, circular teak legs and hand-wound chalk-coloured olefin all-weather rope, the collection includes a range of seating options, from a sofa and armchair to an ottoman. Enhancing versatility, seat back and scatter cushions are available in various Sunbrella Rain fabric colours.

Well-suited to the great outdoors, the fabrics are weather-, mould-, mildew-, fade- and UV-resistant. With the Cocoon collection, guests can recline comfortably in a range of outdoor and indoor hospitality settings. www.teak.com

Ethimo has presented a new take on Bold, its dining table inspired by megalithic architecture. Boldini, the latest addition to the company’s portfolio, maintains the character of the original design, but features different sizes and colours that highlight the sculptural spirit and craftsmanship of the range. The tabletops, available in three shapes, are created in Rosso Francia or Verde Guatemala marble or sand-coloured travertine, complete with a bright glossy finish that accentuates the natural veining in the materials. The glazed ceramic legs echo the colours and shiny effect of the tabletops, adding dynamism and cohesion to the overall design. www.ethimo.com

SPOTLIGHT

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1.

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1. Expormim Obi

2. Coco Wolf Zante

3. Manutti Ogado

4. Kettal Passage

Expormim has unveiled two new additions to Obi, an outdoor seating collection designed by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba. Inspired by the belt of the traditional Japanese kimono, the two new dining armchairs feature a high-resistance aluminium profile, with a backrest reminiscent of the tight belt found across the rest of the collection. One of the chairs features four slender, slightly coneshaped legs, while the other has a sled base to ensure further stability. Expormim has also tweaked the design of other Obi pieces, introducing a new textured band that is carefully sewn by hand and wider than the previous iteration, resulting in a more elegant aesthetic. www.expormim.com

Coco Wolf is set to debut a new collection at Salone del Mobile. Inspired by the allure of the Greek isles, Zante marks the first collaboration between the company and designer Mathias de Ferm. “Zante beautifully captures our philosophy of ‘Reconnect with Nature’, blending British craftsmanship with cutting-edge design,” says James Lorimer, Managing Director at Coco Wolf. “It took us more than a year to develop this series – every spindle, material choice and finish was carefully considered to ensure a one-of-a-kind result that aligns with our sustainable ethos.” Handcrafted using marine-grade, quick-dry materials, the furnishings are water-, stain- and UV-resistant. www.cocowolf.co.uk

Manutti’s Ogado collection, envisioned

by Brent De Meulenaere, represents a fusion of nature and craftsmanship.

Comprising three distinct table designs, each drawing on organic shapes and textures, the range draws inspiration from nature’s fluid lines. The Ogado organic dining table was created to serve as a centrepiece, seating up to 12 guests with an elongated design and flowing top. For more intimate settings, the Ogado round dining table comfortably seats up to six, featuring a smooth, circular top and a sculpted base that enhances its natural appeal. Lastly, the Ogado low dining table offers versatility with a lower profile, ideal for more relaxed gatherings. www.manutti.com

The Passage chair by Kettal has been designed by Ronan Bouroullec to embody fluidity and versatility. Seamlessly moving from one place to another, it can be installed indoors or outdoors, in a café or on a balcony, and in an urban or natural setting. The chair features a soft aluminium structure, while the seat can be made from a single piece of extruded aluminium, or from wood, fabric, robe, webbing or straw, giving it a convenient versatility. Recylable and highly durable, the product also has a reduced carbon footprint. Kettal has been crafting outdoor furniture since 1966, partnering with a host of designers to bring its creative visions to life. www.kettal.com

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SPOTLIGHT

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166

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4.

1. Leisure Plan Dedon

2. Akula New Collections

3. Tuuci Marquesa Sun Lounge

4. NOA Outdoor Living

Leisure Plan is a UK-based supplier of outdoor furniture, working with brands Dedon, Ego Paris and Fischer Möbel.

Dedon recently launched the Atolo collection, designed by Claudio Bellini.

The range features a lounge chair, two-seat sofa and footstool – available in three colours and featuring intricate woven patterns. Dedon’s entire portfolio is available from Leisure Plan, the brand’s exclusive UK importer and distributor.

Original design is at the forefront of Leisure Plan’s varied offering, with the company aiming to satisfy widespread demand for individuality and sustainability in both private and commercial outdoor living areas. www.leisureplan.co.uk

Akula has launched six new outdoor furniture collections, named Chelsea, Wimbledon, Meridian, Richmond, Soho and Fulham (pictured). The new offerings are envisioned to bring flexibility to outdoor furniture design, with products ranging from padded sling structures to modular cushioned seating. With wide-spanning mix-and-match options, specifiers are able to select from Akula‘s varied finishes and configurations for a tailored look, while a new colour palette allows for maximised creativity.

Each collection is manufactured from marine-grade materials for durability in all environments, enabling long-lasting comfort and style in all conditions. www.akulaliving.com

Tuuci’s Marquesa Sun Lounge, designed

by Dougan Clarke, offers outdoor seating in single or double formations. The pieces use Aluma-Forge Cold-Weld Construction – a proprietary furniture construction method by Tuuci, which permanently fuses corrosion-resistant stainless steel, polymer and aluminum into a durable, cold-welded joint. The joint is finished with a chamfered, stainless steel bezel and Tuuci’s authentic wood-grain AlumaTeak or solid powder-coated finishes, while the seats can be personalised with bespoke bezel, bar and button accents.

Marquesa is completed by a Twin-T Cushion Lock system, which secures cushions firmly to the frame. www.tuuci.com

At NOA, a vast experience park in Belgium, 25 companies have joined forces to create themed gardens within which visitors can explore the varied nature of outdoor spaces. Crafted with developers, architects and designers in mind, the 30,000m2 site comprises 12 pavilions that showcase the latest products and trends in outdoor living and garden design, including canopies, plantings, outdoor rugs and lighting.

Brands on display range from Alpha Wellness, Coco Wolf and Cubic Outdoor Living, to Extremis, Limited Edition and Van den Berk, with each offering visitors wide-ranging inspiration to help shape future design plans. www.noa-outdoor.com

Frida lounge chair Showroom Kortrijk, Belgium

vincentsheppard.com

SPOTLIGHT

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168

3.

4.

1. Indian Ocean Pimlico Club Love Seat

2. Jardinico Caractère JCP.301

3. Fermob Yunos

4. B&B Italia Erica

Outdoor specialist Indian Ocean has unveiled the Pimlico Club Love Seat, a new take on its existing Pimlico Club.

Showcasing a sculptural silhouette with a high backrest, the piece unites handwoven all-weather rope with sustainably-sourced FSC teak and weather-resistant cushions. Be it nestled alongside the single Highback Chair on a sun-drenched terrace, positioned by a tranquil poolside or standing alone, the Love Seat is a stylish addition to any space. British company Indian Ocean has designed and crafted luxury outdoor furniture since 1990, working to high specifications as it introduces its products to locations across the globe. www.indian-ocean.co.uk

A new addition to Jardinico’s outdoor living offer, the Caractère JCP.301 LED umbrella fuses a sleek design with ambient lighting capabilities, designed to transform any outdoor space into a sophisticated retreat. Available in a 300x300cm size, the umbrella features integrated LED lighting that is discreetly embedded in its ribs. The lights, which are powered by solar energy, cast a warm and inviting glow as the sun sets, allowing for the enjoyment of outdoor spaces into the evening. Founded in 1999, Jardinico has long designed and manufactured high-end shade products, envisioned to facilitate both luxury and functionality in outdoor living. www.jardinico.com

Fermob is ushering in a new era with Yunos, its first solar floor lamp. Standing on a tripod base, the structure sees a luminaire perched 180cm above the ground, allowing for its rays to spread far over any outdoor setting. Designed with Hellenistic accents, the lamp features XXL solar panels that capture the sunlight and reflect its rays beyond dusk, pouring out light once the sun sets. Two temperature settings are available, with intensity also dimmable depending on the requirements of the space. French outdoor furniture designer and manufacturer Fermob offers a wide range of furniture and accessories envisioned to enhance the great outdoors. www.fermob.com

B&B Italia is expanding its Erica collection, launched in 2017. Designed by Antonio Citterio, the range welcomes new seating, tables, coffee tables and finishes that maintain its refined character. “Within the newly extended Erica collection, I tried to find all the solutions to the different typologies of use of outdoor furniture: from the terrace to the swimming pool, up to the garden, inside private residences, or hotels,” says Citterio. “Locations where the product has different shapes and configurations: different modular seating systems, seats with particular shapes, sunbeds, tables and coffee tables, new design pieces that make Erica become a large, complete collection.” www.bebitalia.com

LONDON | HIGH POINT info@indian-ocean.co.uk

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www.indian-ocean.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

Outdoor Fabrics Take a look at the fabrics designed to bring added comfort and style to the great outdoors.

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1. Nanimarquina Garden

2. Vagenas Hozho

3. Richloom Contract Perform 2

Nanimarquina has unveiled Garden, a new outdoor rug collection designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Made from recycled PET and coconut fibre – a natural and durable material – the collection highlights the harmony between nature and craftsmanship, offering an elegant solution that can be subtly integrated into any outdoor environment. The use of coconut fibre ensures resistance to moisture and sunlight, enhanced antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, and the ability to maintain shape and appearance despite wear overtime.

Available in two sizes and three colours – natural, black and green – the range’s earthy tones and organic textures evoke the serenity of nature, creating an atmosphere of calm and connection with the outdoors. Nanimarquina has been designing and crafting rugs since 1987, with all manufacturing carried out in India and Pakistan by local artisans. The company collaborates with a range of designers to ensure diversity in textures, materials and shapes across its product range. www.nanimarquina.com

Vagenas has been supplying fabrics, curtains, wallpapers and carpet collections from a range of companies since the 1960s. One such brand is Casamance, which recently launched a new outdoor fabric collection named Hozho. Inspired by the traditions of the Navajo, an Indigenous people of the Southwestern United States, the range pays homage to a way of living that prioritises peace, harmony and balance – visually symbolised through carefully woven patterns.

The collection is available in a selection of four colourways, envisioned to integrate within a range of outdoor settings. With excellent colourfastness when exposed to light, good resistance to seawater and mildew, and quickdrying properties, the fabrics are well-suited to life in the open air. www.vagenas.eu

Perform 2, a new outdoor fabric offer from Richloom Contract, blends timeless elegance with durability. The collection features an array of fabrics designed to withstand the elements, whilst also providing comfort and style. Able to integrate smoothly into poolside nooks, relaxing terraces or dynamic restaurants, the new offer includes performance velvets, ethereal sheers and bold prints. The collection comprises 16 patterns and 42 colours, each inspired by one of three different trends: Tropical Chic, which embraces the vibrant spirit of the tropics, Desert Oasis, envisioned to facilitate a soothing sanctuary, and Verdant Harbour (pictured), which features a tranquil palette of turquoise greens and oceanic blues that evokes the relaxing ambience of the coast. www.richloomcontract.com

SPECIFIER

SPOTLIGHT ART From commissioning to curating, specialist consultants are elevating hospitality spaces through impactful art.

SMC Art Aroya SMC Art is a London-based art consultancy offering tailored services and curating thoughtful, authentic and bespoke artwork collections across the globe. SMC Art has worked with Aroya Cruises on the complete art collection onboard the cruise line’s inaugural vessel, Aroya. Comprising over 2,480 unique pieces, the diverse collection draws inspiration from Cruise Saudi’s Remarkably Arabian ethos. From hand-carved paper reliefs referencing traditional Najd village stucco to kinetic installations based on live tidal data of the Red Sea, the vision was to create a collection which showcases traditional craft practices and stories, reinterpreted through a new lens. The collection reflects the rich culture and varied vistas of the Kingdom in unexpected ways, reinforcing the vessel’s contemporary approach to Arabian design. The large-scale paper carvings pictured, meticulously designed by SMC Art’s own in-house creative designer and realised by Anna Maria Bellmann, adorn the public lift lobbies. The Irth restaurant meanwhile, displays an art collection curated in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Culture. The narrative developed celebrates the Saudi Arabian produce on the menu and honours the agricultural practices of the land. Artisans from different regions were commissioned to portray artworks of different mediums that reflect unique agricultural themes, from coffee and date production to olive oil fields and honey hives located in the Asir Mountains. www.smc-artconsultancy.com

SPOTLIGHT

Artiq Corinthia London With origins dating back to 1885, Corinthia London offers an unrivalled blend of location, service and style. As part of an extensive refurbishment – designed by G.A. Group and managed by Argenta Projects – international art agency Artiq was appointed to develop a curatorial strategy that embodies the playful, colourful and creative spirit integral to the iconic hotel. A bespoke collection celebrating the property’s rich history has been seamlessly integrated into the interiors, accessories and architecture, creating a cohesive and evocative aesthetic. Reinterpreting the heritage through the lens of emerging British artists, contemporary works are thoughtfully paired with archival imagery and illustrations, sourced through a partnership between Artiq and the Victoria & Albert Museum archives, bridging the past and present. Together, the art and interiors enhance Corinthia London’s timeless elegance, while infusing it with the cultural prestige of the city. www.artiq.co

Saatchi Art W Union Square The reimagining of W Union Square in New York marks a milestone in the ongoing evolution of the Marriott brand, and upon completion in 2025, will serve as the new global flagship. The renovation also marks a milestone in W Hotels’ 25-year relationship with Rockwell Group, which first designed the property in 2000. To bring new life to the interiors, Rockwell Group worked with Saatchi Art’s Chief Curator and Vice President of Art Advisory Rebecca Wilson, to provide an art collection for guestrooms, suites and the public areas. The artworks were all selected to celebrate New York’s cultural richness in music, fashion and art, and to evoke a sense of the city’s famously dynamic spirit. In the guestrooms, there are bespoke limited-edition prints by Stephen J. Powers, also known as ESPO (Exterior Surface Painting Outreach), who became known in the 1990s for his thematic graffiti pieces painted throughout the city. There are strong street art roots in the works of New York-based Carmine Santaniello too, whose collages hang in the corridors alongside paintings by Susan Washington from her Subway Sonnets series. Saatchi also commissioned a new film by Oscar Zabala for the Living Room, which captures the energy, creativity and diversity of the Big Apple. www.saatchiart.com/trade

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GRAND PALETTE STUDIO

FINE DECORATIVE FINISHES

D E S I G N C E N T R E E A S T . U N I T 3 1 3 . 3 RD F L O O R . S W 1 0 0 X F WWW.GRANDPALETTESTUDIO.COM | +44 207 097 9354

SPOTLIGHT

Artstory Miiro Borneta Artstory appointed its Spanish team in Valencia to build the art collection for Miiro Borneta, using its regional knowledge to engage with the creative community, ensuring each commissioned piece authentically reflects the spirit of the bohemian El Born district. Nestled amongst 19th-century apartments near Ciutadella Park, Miiro Borneta cultivates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The choice of artists reflects this intention, with paintings and sculptures that are discovered naturally by guests and locals as they move through the Thurstan-designed interiors.

Celebrating craftsmanship, the collection features original paintings

by Chidy Wayne and Alicia Gimeno, amongst other local talents.

This approach continues through the guestrooms with a series of wall-mounted plates by ceramicists Zaira. Artist commissions were collated together with rare finds from neighbourhood antique shops and flea markets, achieving a sustainable and timeless outcome. “Borneta is a reflection of Barcelona’s creative soul and working with Artstory was key to bringing this vision to life,” says Marina Riess, General Manager at Miiro Borneta. “Their team not only understood but elevated our Mediterranean aesthetic and deep connection to El Born. Every piece and artistic detail adds authenticity and character, turning the hotel into a sensory experience where art and hospitality blend seamlessly.” www.artstory.co.uk

Atlas Gallery Liaigre London Atlas Gallery collaborates on luxury interior projects around the world, taking art curation to another level with fine art photography and art installations, drawn from its extensive archives.

Together with bespoke framers Beyond Print, the studio combines its efforts, skills and expertise to provide works of art that bring interior spaces to life, whether small private apartments, large scale commercial projects or luxury hotels worldwide. Working with interior designers and architects, the gallery aims to achieve a synergy with the building’s architecture, to craft unique spaces and memorable experiences, with an emphasis on vintage and contemporary fine art photography.

Most recently, the studio was invited to showcase a selection of artists at the Liaigre showroom in London, alongside a new furniture collection. For loans, acquisitions or exhibitions, Atlas Gallery also offers a professional art advisory service with bespoke solutions. www.atlasgallery.com

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SPECIFIER

SPECIFIER

Original BTC AWH Wall Light Original BTC has introduced its new AWH range of bathroom wall lights, expanding the renowned Davey Lighting collection. Inspired by the striking windows of London’s Natural History Museum, the design artfully pairs sleek metalwork with a stepped glass diffuser, hand-pressed in the brand’s Oxfordbased factory. The IP44-rated fixture features a refined metal body housing a dimmable LED light source, delivering both style and dependable illumination.

Available in polished brass, chrome and antique brass, the AWH range exemplifies Original BTC’s commitment to craftsmanship and timeless design. www.originalbtc.com

SPECIFIER

Hästens Jack Ryde 100 Year Anniversary Limited Edition 2000T

180

Honouring a century of craftsmanship and innovation, bed manufacturer Hästens has introduced the Jack Ryde 100 Year Anniversary, Limited Edition 2000T in tribute to Jack Ryde, the visionary behind the brand’s iconic blue check design.

Originally launched in 1978, the Hästens 2000T redefined sleep luxury as ‘The Bed of Tomorrow’. It was also the first bed from Hästens to introduce the blue check pattern, which debuted at Stockholm Furniture Fair and has since become an enduring symbol of both the brand’s dedication to quality and Swedish design excellence. Ryde’s vision not only challenged industry convention but also redefined both the aesthetic and functional standards of the sleep industry. Evolving from this legacy, the Hästens 2000T has consistently set the benchmark in sleep innovation.

Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, every layer of the bed is designed to optimise body contouring and deliver pressure relief. The state-of-the-art system provides independent spring movement, ensuring

support, comfort and enhanced airflow for a refreshing sleep experience. This balance of tradition, craftsmanship and innovation solidifies the Hästens 2000T as the gold standard for restorative sleep. With only 2,000 pieces available worldwide, the limited edition bed represents the zenith of design precision and cutting-edge engineering, seamlessly fusing form and function. Blue saddle leather corner guards and matching leather lifting handles lend a refined and cohesive aesthetic while embodying timeless elegance and practical sophistication. The middle mattress, adorned with a hand-embroidered signature, exemplifies Hästens’ celebrated artistry and meticulous craftsmanship. Bronze accents and a distinctive signature plate on the base further elevate the design, serving as a striking tribute to Ryde’s enduring legacy and visionary spirit.

Since 1852, Swedish company Hästens has been on a mission to make the world happier, more peaceful and loving by delivering extraordinary sleep experiences. www.hastens.com

A unique outdoor experience concept in Belgium Discover a unique outdoor living experience like nowhere else.

More than 25 high-end outdoor brands show their products in no less than 12 atmospheric gardens. Architects, designers, planners, but also individuals will get inspired by the latest innovations and trends in outdoor living. Come and discover NOA!

noa-outdoor.com

NOA partners:

SPECIFIER

Humble Air Humble Air is a sleek, space-saving table lamp that blends functionality with style to bring ambiance to interiors such as restaurants and bars. Subtle yet striking, the dimmable luminaire has four settings, including a boost mode that instantly doubles its brightness when needed, making it suitable for menu reading or creating a vibrant atmosphere. Designed for an effortless experience, Humble Air is completely wireless, eliminating tangled cords and allowing flexible placement. Its group remote control feature ensures quick ambiance adjustments, while the long-lasting battery (up to 140 hours) powers multiple shifts without recharging. Plus, with an IP65 waterproof rating, Humble Air is just as reliable in outdoor settings. www.humblelights.com

Wall & Decò Aquabout Wet System A natural evolution of Wall & Decò’s Wet System, the Aquabout Wet System is billed as the first completely waterproof wallpaper dedicated to wet areas in direct contact with water, such as bathrooms, showers, kitchens, swimming pool areas and spas. It provides total water tightness and excellent crackresistance, as well as high washability performance, resistance to detergents, impacts and scratches, and compliance with fire-safety regulations. In addition to simplifying the installation process, the new water-based resins ensure a lower environmental impact, making this solution not only highperforming but also more sustainable. The 2024-2 collection is a celebration of vintage that transcends the simple concept of ‘old’ to embrace an essence of timeless style. www.wallanddeco.com

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Commercial | Retail | Hospitality | Custom Designs

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SPECIFIER

Decor Walther Kristall – Capri Blue Decor Walther has introduced the newest shade of the Kristall collection – Capri Blue. Sleek, sophisticated and full of personality, this vibrant hue reimagines the classic design with a modern twist that commands attention. Inspired by the vivid waters of Capri and the effortless charm of the Italian Riviera, the new colourway brings the essence of the Mediterranean into any environment.

The collection of accessories evokes a sense of tranquility while making a bold statement, seamlessly complementing both contemporary and classic interiors. www.decor-walther.com

Tiger Fresh Bio Leather Made in Italy using eco-friendly technology, Fresh is a bio-based, compostable leather with no metals or toxins and a nearly-zero carbon footprint. Articles tanned with Fresh are certified as more than 92% biodegradable and do not release any phytotoxins or toxic chemicals into the environment. Unlike vegan leather, which is derived from artificial, non-renewable resources such as plastic, Fresh Bio Leather is premium-grade cowhide tanned with natural ingredients like fruits and plants. It offers the same performance and tear-resistant characteristics as conventional leather, yet can be composted at the end of its usage cycle. This means that leather, a raw material derived from nature, can now return to nature through sustainable techniques to safeguard health and the environment without sacrificing quality or durability. www.tigerleather.com

Trevira CS 45th Anniversary Established in 1980, Trevira CS is a pioneer of permanently flameretardant textiles that meet all essential fire protection standards without a chemical finish, and whose properties neither wash out nor are lost through ageing or use. In fact, fabrics made from specially produced flame-retardant polyester can only be labeled as Trevira CS after passing a brand test. Trevira CS recently celebrated its 45th anniversary at Heimtextil in Frankfurt with an exhibition stand featuring a special area dedicated to the milestone with samples, brochures, pictures and anecdotes on display. In its anniversary year, Trevira CS is focusing on permanent flame retardancy, as well as the brand’s sustainability measures: preconsumer recycling; the Trevira CS take-back concept with ALTEX Textil-Recycling; developments from chemically recycled raw material; and the Trevira CS Fabric Competition 2025 submissions. www.trevira.de/en

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SPECIFIER

Tece TeceNeo Shower Toilet The TeceNeo shower toilet has won the Excellent Product Design category of the German Design Awards 2025. The shower toilet achieves thorough cleansing with a voluminous shower stream using fresh water directly from the pipe. With buttons mounted on the side of the ceramic, users can easily adjust the water volume and temperature by simply turning them, making it easier to cater to the varied needs of individual users. Without any proneto-failure electronics, TeceNeo offers a sustainable solution for modern bathrooms. The shower toilet also impresses in terms of design – with high-quality ceramics, an elegant form and without any additional control elements, it integrates well into any modern bathroom environment. “We are very pleased about this award,” says Kira Felchner, Product Manager at Tece, on the win. “It is a great recognition of our work and motivates us to continue developing products that are closely aligned with the needs of our clients in the hospitality sector and beyond.” www.tece.de

Vispring Hotel Tiara Collection Vispring is a leading luxury British bed manufacturer, responsible for introducing the pocket sprung mattress in 1901. With a rich heritage, Vispring mattresses can be found in the world’s most prestigious hotels, from The Dorchester in London to LA’s Beverly Hills Hotel. Since 1970, Vispring has been located in Plymouth, where it has set the standard for bespoke, handcrafted beds.

Each mattress is made using natural materials including British wool, real Shetland wool, cashmere, horsehair and silk. Combining technical expertise with craftsmanship reminiscent of the finest tailoring, Vispring remains an international benchmark for comfort and sophistication, while also respecting traditional methods. The Hotel Tiara Collection encompasses the brand’s bespoke offering for luxury hotels worldwide, whilst reaffirming its commitment to delivering unrivalled quality, so every hotel stay feels like home. www.vispring.com

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SEE US AT EUROLUCE, MILAN - HALL 4, STAND C33

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SPECIFIER

Forest Group CRS Design Collection The CRS Design Collection by Forest Group redefines curtain rods with sleek square and rectangular designs, suitable for adding a modern touch to interiors. With a refined, minimalist aesthetic, these rods complement interiors from Scandinavian simplicity to industrial chic. Flexible wall- and ceiling-mounted options allow for a custom look, whether bold or subtle. Available in five trendled shades – antique, taupe, stone grey, white and black – the collection blends seamlessly into any décor. The white and black finishes feature a stylish matte texture for added sophistication.

Ideal for hospitality spaces, the CRS Design Collection offers the perfect balance of style and function. www.forestgroup.com

Bellino Fine Linens Como Como is a sustainable bedding collection from Bellino Fine Linens, made from 65% cotton and 35% Tencel and finished with a plain hem. Not only is the 300 thread count linen luxurious and soft, it is also anti-microbial, moisture wicking, breathable and engineered to withstand commercial laundries, making it suitable for hotels.

Tencel fibres are renowned for their environmentally responsible, closed-loop production process which transforms wood pulp into fibre with low ecological impact. In fact, 99% of the water and solvents used are recycled. The Tencel production facilities are certified according to the European Ecolabel requirements for textile production – a label only awarded to products which have a significantly lower environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. The fibres are also USDA-certified as compostable and biodegradable, meaning they can fully revert back to nature. www.bellinofinelinens.com

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Akula Andreu World Artiq Artstory Astro Atlas Gallery Barlow Tyrie Bellino Fine Linens Coco Wolf Curtis Furniture Decor Walther Elstead EPR Architects Ethimo Fermob Forest Group Franklite Frei Frau Graff Grand Palette Studio HD Expo Hector Finch Humble Hypnos IHIF Indian Ocean Janus et Cie Jardinico JC Hospitality Jung Kettal Group Leisure Plan Lemi Group LiGHT 25 Ligne Roset

196 049 119 093 002 177 156 123 163 141 110 187 142 037 071 121 183 018-109 059 175 189 054 128 115 191 169 008-009 159 178 033 014-015 101, 107, 109 081 190 022

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087 024 051 061 181 073 096 195 172 171 161 006-007 046 057 005 082 039 185 127 075 016-017 010-011 139 192 134 151 012-013 045 067 165 167 095 027 035

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CHECK-OUT

The Pursuit of Feeling

Hoteliers and designers are on a never-ending

To feel challenged, for example, it suggests

mission to foster an emotional connection with

a trip to Greenland, navigating icebergs and

guests – after all, that’s what makes a stay all the

foraging for food in the wilderness, before a stay

more memorable. Memorable experiences are a

at the tented Saqqaq Camp overlooking Disko Bay.

top priority for travellers too, and in recognition

Alternatively, a trip to India can conjure feelings

of this, Black Tomato has launched The Pursuit of

of revitalisation, with an itinerary including

Feeling, an AI-powered platform that combines

pilgrimages to ancient temples, meditation on

the company’s two decades of travel planning

sacred riverbanks and chanting in the garden

expertise with cutting-edge technology.

of Buddha, before retiring to holistic wellness

The service encourages travellers to approach

Black Tomato launches an AI-powered search engine that generates emotiondriven recommendations, from safaris to hotel stays.

retreat Ananda in the Himalayas.

adventure through an emotional lens, inviting

“It’s a long-held insight from our clients that

them to input their desires into the Feelings

they may not know where they want to go but

Engine, which then harnesses swathes of

always know how they want to feel,” explains

information to generate emotion-driven

co-founder Tom Marchant. “The Feelings

recommendations. The resulting tailored trips

Engine is a natural extension of this philosophy,

are based on the emotions they evoke, set

creating an emotionally-focused approach to

around the key pillars of Freedom, Distraction,

travel planning that combines the best of human

Revitalised, Challenged and Contentment.

expertise and insight with leading technology.”

© Stanislas Fautré

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