Issuu

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

HUGO TORO • WALDORF ASTORIA – NEW YORK • TELEGRAPH – TBILISI

Lighting designed to stand the test of time

CONTENTS ISSUE 124 070

HOTEL REVIEWS

097

Waldorf Astoria

048

1 Hotel

058

Telegraph

065

La Fondation

070

Gora Kadan

078

Petra

085

Vista Ostuni

088

Sir Devonshire Square

097

Fairmont

100

New York

Copenhagen Tbilisi Paris 065

Fuji

Copenhagen

Puglia

London Tokyo

048

CONTENTS ISSUE 124 FEATURES

078

Meeting... Hugo Toro

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90 Years of OBMI

038

The Future Guest

107

Following success at AHEAD, the artist-architect behind the world’s first Orient Express hotel reflects on colour, craft and the cinematic storytelling shaping his immersive interiors. Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, the Chairman of OBMI discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.

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024

100

032

004

In the second installment of The Future Guest, the six behaviours and four mindsets are unpacked to paint a picture of the Both/And Guest.

REGULARS Check-In

020

Drawing Board

022

The Lobby

043

Business Centre

112

Events

121

Floorcoverings

133

Specifier

139

Check-Out

146

PERFORMANCE MEETS ELEGANCE

Ocean Master MAX Bolero: Ombré Blossom Marquesa Double Sun Lounge

TUUCI.COM

RH.COM/CONTRACT Thuwal Private Retreat, Red Sea, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

As HIX continues to evolve we’re planning the next chapter in its journey. Europe’s premier hospitality design event is moving to EXCEL London for 2026 and beyond, to create HIX Europe. A connected and curated campus, bringing together the best in hotel design from across the continent in East London from 25-26 November 2026.

www.hixevent.com

CONNECTING EUROPE’S HOTEL DESIGN COMMUNITY

CONNECTED

C U R AT E D

CAMPUS

The Elizabeth Line has made EXCEL the most connected venue in Europe offering a quick, comfortable and convenient journey from:

HIX Europe will be a creative, immersive experience on a level playing field – a blank canvas to re-imagine an unforgettable event through installations, activations and talks on the show floor.

AHEAD Europe, the industry’s most coveted awards ceremony, will be joining HIX in Docklands at MAGAZINE London on Thursday 26 November.

• Central London – Farringdon (13 mins), Tottenham Court Road (16 mins), Bond Street (18 mins) and Paddington (22 mins) • Heathrow Airport – (48 mins) with access to over 200 destinations globally

Speakers from the AHEAD Awards’ global pool of judges, designers and hotels – the best-ofthe-best worldwide – will share inspirational ideas and insights.

• London City Airport – (10 mins) with direct flights to 32 of Europe’s key hubs

HIX TALKS will explore the trends and topics that are shaping hospitality.

The two events – just a 15-minute cab or a scenic cable car ride apart – will bring together the very best European hospitality designers, operator, and developers. Across both events , East London will be the epicentre for the hotel design community to converge in November 2026.

#8 BALI 10 - 12 March, 2026 Potato Head – Bali

www.sleepersessions.com

WELCOME

ON THE COVER Orient Express La Minerva, Rome © Alexandre Tabaste

Connecting A Community

t Sleeper, we have always believed that hospitality

is a platform for new hotels and their creators, recognising

is more than an industry – it’s a community shaped

the achievements of owners, operators, architects and

by creativity, collaboration and culture. As global

designers. With the AHEAD Global Top 100 revealed, we are

hospitality continues to evolve, adapting to new challenges

now open for entries for the 2026 series – full entry criteria

and opportunities, our role has never been clearer: to inform,

can be found online. Furthermore, ceremony dates have been

connect and champion the people and ideas driving it forward.

announced: AHEAD Asia takes place at Pan Pacific Orchard

Sleeper Media’s 360-degree offer is designed to support this

in Singapore on 11 September; AHEAD Americas will debut

ethos at every touchpoint: through a mix of print, digital, social

at Gotham Hall, New York, on 15 October; AHEAD MEA is at

and experiential platforms, we provide brands and designers

Bluewaters Forum Dubai on 2 November; and AHEAD Europe

with year-round visibility and meaningful engagement.

will relocate to Magazine, London, on 26 November. Tickets

At the core of this offer is Sleeper – the leading magazine

are now available, and judging by last year’s sell-out events,

for hospitality experience and design. Reviews of the most

we recommend booking early.

interesting new hotel openings – visited in-person by our

And finally, HIX Europe continues to grow as a vital

globetrotting team of contributors – feature insight from their

marketplace and meeting point for the community. This year

creators, while headline interviews offer behind-the-scenes

will see a move to Excel to create a connected and curated

access to the people shaping the future of hospitality. Our

campus for European hotel design. Further details will be

digital platforms extend this conversation daily, with news

announced soon, so in the meantime, mark your calendars

of signings and portfolio developments, as listed on THP – a

for 25-26 November.

comprehensive database that identifies key projects and their decision-makers.

As we look ahead to the year to come, Sleeper Media remains dedicated to supporting the hospitality industry through

Beyond media, Sleeper Media is proud to be a leading

thoughtful media, meaningful events and genuine community

convener of the industry through a portfolio of events that

building. Whether through print, digital or live events, our

foster connection, dialogue and inspiration. This year, Sleeper

mission is simple: to help the industry connect, evolve and

Sessions lands on the shores of Bali (10-12 March) and Sicily

thrive. We look forward to continuing this journey together.

(12-14 May), bringing the community together for a curated

Welcome to the new issue of Sleeper. Enjoy your stay.

programme of insightful conversation, creativity, product sourcing and socialising. AHEAD remains a cornerstone of our events calendar, celebrating excellence in hospitality experience and design across the globe. More than an awards programme, AHEAD

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

015

Photographer • Maxime Verret

becomes a european maker

169 boulevard Haussmann, Paris 8 533 Kings Road, London, SW10 0TZ www.edition169.com

GUEST BOOK

070

024

065

048

070 Brice Errera

065 Neri & Hu

048 Larry Traxler

024 Blacbird

Based in Paris, Brice Errera is President of Galia, the familyowned real estate group behind La Fondation. Spanning 10,000m2, the new venture is a multifaceted destination that combines hospitality, work and wellness. “We envisioned a place where people can sleep, work, eat, exercise, attend a conference or visit an exhibition, all under one roof,” he describes. “It’s a dynamic environment that feels alive, welcoming locals, travellers, creatives, athletes and anyone in search of something different.”

When American-Chinese duo Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu were tasked with transforming Tblisi’s former Post and Telegraph office, maintaining the building’s legacy of connection was key. Overseeing both its reconstruction and design, they ultimately crafted an active civic space in the heart of the city, from its street-like corridors to its communal central courtyard. “What was once a site of telegraphic connection has become a layered architectural narrative of community, memory and mobility,” the duo reflect.

“Great achievements are never the work of one person. They are the result of many hearts and minds coming together to create magic. With alignment on a singular vision, it truly feels like we gave the hotel its soul back,” says Larry Traxler of the newly restored Waldorf Astoria New York. As the former Senior Vice President and Global Head of Architecture & Design for Hilton, Traxler oversaw the eight-year renovation project, working with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Pierre-Yves Rochon to restore the grand dame to its Art Deco glory.

As the founders of Blacbird, Ieva Lagūna and David F Jeannet share a passion for hospitality, design and craftsmanship. With a decade of experience modelling for the likes of Dior, Calvin Klein and Victoria’s Secret, Lagūna has developed a distinctive sense of style and a sharp eye for detail, while Jeannet brings two decades of entrepreneurship and business development expertise. Together, they will launch a new brand of lifestyle hotels, known as Blacbird Sanctuaries, that inspire intentional living in a distracted world.

017

@SleeperMagazine

FRONT DESK EDITORIAL

COMMERCIAL

EVENTS

DESIGN

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

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

Commercial Lead Kieran Dean k.dean@mondiale.co.uk

Design Manager David Bell

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

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

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

Deputy Editor Eleanor Howard e.howard@mondiale.co.uk

Account Manager James Lloyd j.lloyd@mondiale.co.uk

Events Co-ordinator Charlotte Yiatrou c.yiatrou@mondiale.co.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

Editorial Assistant Hannah Wintle h.wintle@mondiale.co.uk Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich

enquiry@sleeper.media

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SUBSCRIPTIONS

SUSTAINABILITY

Visit the online store to subscribe and save across all Sleeper Media magazines.

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CORPORATE Accounts ar@mondiale.co.uk Chairman Damian Walsh Finance Director Amanda Giles

Sleeper is printed by Buxton Press on FSC Mix-certified paper using 100% vegetable-based inks. Magazines mailed from Spatial Global are packaged in FSC-certified wrap that is fully recyclable.

Subscription records are maintained at Sleeper Media. For address changes, email enquiry@sleeper.media Sleeper (ISSN: 1476-4075 / USPS: 21550) is published bi-monthly by Sleeper Media Ltd and is distributed in the USA by RRD/Spatial Global. Pending periodicals postage paid at South Hackensack, NJ. Send USA address changes to Sleeper, c/o RRD, 1250 Valley Brook Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, USA.

PORTFOLIO

Strawberry Studios, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 (0)161 464 4750 • www.sleeper.media

Tropical Modern Design. Cosmopolitan Spirit. Luteca.com | @lutecafurniture

xxx

CHECK-IN

Eglantine Sicat and Pauline Dellemotte The founders of Uncanny Studio take a fantasy break in the Cyclades, where their clifftop retreat is suspended between sea and sky.

Where are you?

For us, creativity thrives in this delicate balance

marble and flickering candlelight. A live band

A secluded clifftop retreat in the Cyclades – a

between presence and rest.

fills the space with gentle rhythm, while the stars above complete the experience.

place suspended between sea and sky. The air is perfumed with wild thyme and salt, and the

Is there anything you would like waiting for

light shifts like silk across limewashed walls.

you in your room?

Who are you dining with this evening?

A bottle of Sancerre chilling beside two hand-

Filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard, who transformed

blown Murano glasses.

the way we experience stories; Colombian

How did you get there?

entrepreneur Felipe Steiner, whose vibrant

By seaplane from Athens, skimming low over the water before landing in a private cove. From

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

design philosophy pushes boundaries; Tom

there, a vintage Riva boat carries us to shore,

Our hotel is a sanctuary carved into the cliffs. The

Chalmers, Head of Design at Mohari Hospitality,

the engine fading as the sea stretches endlessly

architecture is sensual and authentic – textured

who inspires us with his creativity and curiosity;

onto the horizon.

stone, linen drapery and bronze accents glow

astronaut Kellie Gerardi who reminds us to

in the Aegean sun, alongside dashes of warm

dream big; Italian architect and designer Gae

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

colour. The view encourages guests to relax and

Aulenti, whose work continues to inspire;

We are welcomed by Aman founder Adrian

breathe deeply – it is a place to linger in the

and master artisan Lison de Caunes, whose

Zecha, whose quiet mastery of atmosphere

body as much as in the mind.

craftsmanship and passion shines brightly.

hospitality lies in restraint – creating space for

Who designed it?

Who’s manning the stoves?

serenity and beauty.

Architects Carlo Scarpa and Emmanuel

Chef Jaime Rodríguez of Celele in Cartagena. His

Pontremoli. Scarpa’s delicate attention to

cooking is a journey through culture – each dish

And who’s at the concierge desk?

texture, detail and light invites touch, pause

layered with texture, aroma and emotion.

Eva Papadaki, founder of Athens concept store

and reflection, while Pontremoli’s classical

and café 10am Apotheke, whose knowledge

precision and sense of proportion weave quiet

And what’s on the menu?

of bespoke rituals and sensory experiences is

order through the architecture, grounding the

His signature Latin-inspired flair is married

unparalleled. Every recommendation – from

ethereal in enduring elegance. Together, they

with Greek freshness, turning local ingredients

local artisans to hidden gems – is curated with

have shaped a sanctuary where stone, wood and

into extraordinary experiences.

care, turning each moment into a memory. She

water converse; every corner frames a memory;

reminds us that hospitality is as much about

every beam of light becomes an experience; and

Would you like something to drink with that?

thoughtfulness as it is about service.

every level tells a story.

Assyrtiko from Santorini – lively, bright and

Who are you sharing your room with?

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

Our closest friends – those who bring laughter,

The open-air restaurant is shaded by a pergola

warmth and shared reflection. Switching off

woven with jasmine, its scent drifting through

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

together is essential; it allows us to pause,

the warm evening air. Stone tables are softened

A small bottle of ouzo, a square of dark chocolate

reset and find inspiration in quiet moments,

by patterned linens and vibrant fabrics. The

with sea salt, and a handwritten note inviting us

conversation and the gentle rhythm of the day.

bar below feels like a hidden grotto with brass,

to stargaze from the terrace.

has long inspired us. He understands that true

perfectly aligned with Rodríguez’s playful balance of freshness and spice.

021

DRAWING BOARD

Vertex OKINAWA Marking a transition from private villas, Japanese

In a bid to preserve the island’s unique coastal and

hospitality group Not A Hotel has launched Vertex, a

marine ecosystems, the modular structure will utilise

full-service hotel brand focused on the intersection

prefabricated concrete elements, alongside Okinawa

between architecture, design and technology.

pine and limestone to evoke the surrounding sandy

Set to debut on the Japanese island of Okinawa, the

beaches. Harnessing the prevailing Kāchibē winds,

inaugural resort will feature an array of accommodation

the architecture promotes natural ventilation across

types dotted across a 25,322m2 site, designed as a

guestrooms and communal areas, with all facilities

contemporary interpretation of the island’s traditional

positioned a minimum of 6.5m above the high-water

vernacular architecture. Conceived by Zaha Hadid

line to mitigate weather disturbance.

Architects (ZHA), the resort is characterised by a

“Informed by the site’s remarkable topography, the

series of stepped horizontal terraces, courtyards and

design is a continuation of ZHA’s ongoing research

gardens that follow the contours of the surrounding

of composition and materiality that is driven by

ancient Ryukyu limestone formations.

explorations of landscape formations evident in nature,” explains Project Director Ludovico Lombardi. “The stepped canopies of the hotel gently transition from the unique geology of the shoreline to the dense vegetation of the rainforest – giving uninterrupted views of the ocean and a deep connection to the surrounding environment, while providing a sense of privacy that enriches user experience and charts a journey through the varied natural ecosystems of the region.”

DRAWING BOARD

Blacbird

Jeannet Group - a privately owned Swiss group

by Paris-based architecture studio AW2 and

holding interests across real estate, hospitality,

managed by Silveroc. The venture is spread

LAAX

furniture and finance - has announced plans

across three buildings, each created with

for a new brand of lifestyle hotels that inspire

character and purpose to embody zen-inspired

intentional living in a distracted world.

living. Interiors honour a commitment to

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Jeannet Group Operator: Blacbird Creative Direction: Ieva Lagūna Architecture and Interior Design: AW2 Paris Contractor: Silveroc www.jeannet.com

024

Founded by entrepreneur David F Jeannet and

elegance and craftsmanship, with authentic

Latvian model Ieva Lagūna, Blacbird balances

materials, organic textures and earthy tones

timeless design with authentic experiences and

forging a connection to nature, while panoramic

a connection to the natural world, championing

bay windows offer soul-nurturing views of the

the shift towards slow travel and meaningful

Signina Mountains.

hospitality. Each property will be crafted to

“Blacbird blends timeless craftsmanship

engage the senses, while intuitive technology

with thoughtful detail to create spaces that feel

serves quietly in the background to support

both grounding and effortless,” explains Ieva

freedom and ease without distraction.

Lagūna, Creative Director of Blacbird. “We offer

The first Blacbird Sanctuary will make its

an alternative to fleeting trends and excess, with

debut in the Swiss Alps in Winter 2027/28,

refined experiences designed to enrich daily life.

occupying a prime site in the mountain resort

The environments we create engage the senses

of Laax. Forming part of Via Valetta – Jeannet

and reflect our belief that true luxury is found

Group’s mixed-use development comprising

in authenticity, connection and presence. Above

residential, retail and F&B components, as well

all, Blacbird seeks to cultivate slow living and

as hotel serviced apartments – it is designed

wellbeing in a fast-paced world.”

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

DRAWING BOARD

Renneria

Gazzini Real Estate Group has enlisted Italian

Ensuring agriculture remains at the heart of

firm Network of Architecture (NOA) to transform

the project, NOA has incorporated urban gardens,

BOLZANO

an agricultural plot in the Dolomites into a

green rooftops and orchards throughout to

sustainable urban neighbourhood that promotes

establish continuity with the site’s historical

inclusive and environmentally conscious living.

identity, whilst also serving the community as

Embracing the princples of functional

as educational hubs, gathering places and local

proximity, the district integrates hospitality,

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Gazzini Real Estate Group Architecture: Network of Architecture www.noa.network

026

food networks.

housing, healthcare, workplaces, schools and

“Four words guided our vision: residential,

recreational areas to form a dynamic urban

cultural, communal and collaborative,”

ecosystem that anticipates future standards of

explains Lukas Rungger, NOA founder and

quality of life, environmental responsibility and

project architect. “Residential, because we

social cohesion.

offer diverse and inclusive housing typologies.

Spanning 13 hectares, the masterplan is

Cultural, because new institutions – libraries,

centred around three main squares, each with a

institutes, laboratories – stimulate the

different function: commercial, educational and

district’s intellectual life. Communal, because

retail. The buildings follow the natural slope

Renneria retains the scale of a village. And

of the terrain, harmonising with the landscape

collaborative, with urban gardens at the core of

as inhabitable architecture. Volumes are clad

this participatory dimension. Renneria aims to

in wooden slats – arranged horizontally on

be an urban laboratory of innovation, a model

residential buildings and vertically on public

capable of combining growth, quality of life and

ones – and topped with accessible green roofs.

respect for the environment.”

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

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

DRAWING BOARD

The Cape Town Edition

Marriott International and V&A Waterfront

of the planned Granger Bay development,

Holdings have signed an agreement to open an

the hotel will enjoy panoramic views of the

CAPE TOWN

Edition Hotel in Cape Town in 2026.

Atlantic Ocean, the City Bowl and some of Cape

Marking the brand’s African debut, The

Town’s most celebrated landmarks, including

Cape Town Edition will be located at the

Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.

V&A Waterfront – one of the most visited

Guests and residents can also enjoy the V&A

destinations on the continent – and comprises

Waterfront’s attractions, from its Amphitheatre

a 142-key hotel alongside private residences.

and Battery Park to a newly-developed public

Shanghai-based architecture and interior

promenade along the water’s edge.

design studio Neri & Hu has been appointed

“The signing of our first Edition Hotel in

to lead the project, joined by local firm Studio

Africa marks a significant milestone for the

Mas. Together, they will deliver a sophisticated

company’s growth strategy in the continent,”

and welcoming atmosphere that blends modern

comments Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President

luxurious style with authentic local character.

of Development, Middle East & Africa, at

Facilities

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: V&A Waterfront Holdings Operator: Marriott International Architecture and Interior Design: Neri & Hu, Studio Mas Main Contractor: GVK Siya Zama Construction www.editionhotels.com

028

include

world-class

dining

Marriott International. “Cape Town is a city that

experiences and a signature rooftop bar, as

embodies creativity, diversity and a dynamic

well as a spa, swimming pool and meeting and

spirit - qualities that align perfectly with the

event facilities. A series of curated social spaces

brand’s ethos. The V&A Waterfront is an iconic

will also be on offer, reflecting the city’s rich

location, and we are confident that this project

heritage and cosmopolitan energy.

will set a new standard for luxury hospitality

Thanks to its desirable location at the edge

in the market.”

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

MADE TO TOUCH. DESIGNED TO CONTROL. LS 990 IN ALUMINIUM DARK

DRAWING BOARD

Puro

Puro Hotels has taken its first step towards

conversation on European and Scandinavian art

international expansion, with plans to open

and design. Our aim is to create a hotel that feels

BUDAPEST

in Budapest in Summer 2026. Located in

distinctive, with highly private and truly public

Terézváros – a lively district in the heart of the

spaces, built around the belief that atmosphere

Hungarian capital – Puro Budapest marks the

and quality can inspire connections.”

Warsaw-based group’s first venture outside

Facilities at Puro Budapest include a

Poland, and builds on the success of properties

restaurant, rooftop terrace and street-facing

in Krakow, Wrocław, Łódź and Gdańsk.

bakery and wine bar, as well as a wellness area

Featuring 212 guestrooms arranged around

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Puro Hotels Architecture: Archikon Architects Interior Design: A Studio Between www.purohotel.pl

030

inspired by the city’s traditional bathing houses.

an open courtyard, the seven-storey newbuild

The launch is part of a broader international

is envisioned by Archikon Architects, with

expansion plan for Puro Hotels, with a Prague

interiors by A Studio Between. The design is

outpost slated for later in the year. “Budapest

characterised by a neutral palette of stone,

and Prague feel like natural next steps:

timber, textured brick and warm stucco,

both cities value heritage while embracing

combining Scandinavian aesthetics with

innovation, and there’s a growing appetite for

influences drawn from the surrounding city.

lifestyle hospitality within Central and Eastern

“We have been deeply inspired by the beauty of

Europe,” comments Rune Askevold, co-founder

Budapest – its history, strength, tone and light,”

and CEO of Puro Hotels. “Bringing Puro here

says Richard J McConkey, founder of A Studio

means creating spaces that feel authentic, while

Between. “The city has such a unique mix of

adding something distinctly new to the local

cultures, and we are opening this up to a wider

hospitality scene.”

Nicosia 5-Star Hotel | The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection

Meeting… Hugo Toro Following success at AHEAD, the artist-architect behind the world’s first Orient Express hotel reflects on colour, craft and the cinematic storytelling shaping his immersive interiors. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Alexandre Tabaste

032

ugo Toro doesn’t design spaces, so much as he

later revealed to be a sharp suit accessorised with a vintage

composes masterpieces. Step into one of his

necklace from the 1970s, no shirt, à la Grace Jones.

creations and every brushstroke is a sensual

Style clearly plays a role in Toro’s identity, and he admits

expression of texture, tone and light. A work

to remembering people’s outfits over their names. But behind

of art that is unapologetically cinematic,

the flamboyant façade, there’s a softer side. “I was a weird

much like the man himself.

kid,” he recalls, describing himself as a little different from

“I’m an interior designer, I’m an architect and I’m a painter

his family, most of whom are are doctors or pharmacists.

too – that’s why I consider myself an artist-architect,” Toro

“I was always sketching and making models of treehouses,

declares as we take a seat in the library lounge at London’s

and still now, painting is my form of expression; words are

The Standard. He’s in town to attend AHEAD Europe, having

not really my thing.”

been shortlisted in multiple categories – once for Pur’, the

Aside from a short-lived desire to work with dolphins,

Michelin-starred restaurant at Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme,

Toro has always aspired to a career in the creative industries.

and five times, no less, for Orient Express La Minerva, the

He was raised in the east of France and, at the age of 18,

much-anticipated debut from the legendary heritage brand.

relocated to Paris to study interior design at Penninghen.

He’s dressed in an eye-catching ensemble, head to toe in

Having finished top of his class, job offers came in from

a psychedelic two-piece. “I painted the pattern for a project,

Europe’s leading studios; a move to London was on the cards,

then the client had it made into an outfit as a present,”

but at the last minute, he had a change of heart. “I decided

Toro tells me, pulling out his phone to show a reel of the

to do a second master’s degree, this time in architecture at

project in question – a Felliniesque restaurant on the French

the University of Applied Arts in Vienna,” he explains. “Zaha

Riviera, where walls, tabletops, dining chairs and menu

Hadid, Greg Lynn and Wolf Prix of Coop Himmelbau were

covers are adorned with the distinctive design. Scrolling

my teachers, so it was very experimental.”

through his digital feed, almost every hotel, restaurant and

Toro talks at speed through his education: an exchange

bar he designs premieres with a movie-like vignette – a

programme in Australia, a year at UCLA, then final exams

curated mise-en-scène showcasing the artistry, and a cameo

back in Paris, qualifying him to practice as both an interior

from Toro himself, always immaculately dressed, usually in

designer and an architect, all the while continuing with his

some variation of colour or pattern. “Tonight I’ll be wearing

artwork. “I don’t like to be confined to one field,” he admits.

black, for once,” he shares of his awards attire, which is

“My first master’s was about drawing, while my second

MEETING…

At Orient Express La Minerva, Toro’s aim was to bring the soul of the city in, looking to its texture, colour and light for inspiration

included 3D modelling, parametric design and robotics, so it’s an interesting combination.” This multifarious education has deeply influenced Toro’s approach, as has his dual nationality. The self-styled artist-architect is the child of a French father and a Mexican mother, and though the family moved to France before Toro was born, their respective heritages made a mark. “I grew up with two very different

“I’m an interior designer, I’m an architect and I’m a painter too – that’s why I consider myself an artist-architect.”

that allows Rouquette to create his inventive dishes in the kitchen, before stepping out into the dining room to engage with guests. The space is characterised by custom-designed Murano glass chandeliers, sculptural furniture and artworks painted by Toro himself, while the finer details include bronze bas-relief railings and Brutalist sculptures. This all-encompassing approach is typical

parents: my Mom is fiery, while my Dad is

of Toro; he’s even been known to design door

calmer,” he explains, adding that their impact

handles. “95% of what you see in a project

has been subliminal – a natural saturation of

has been designed by me; I’m an artist, I like

being immersed in the cultures and traditions

to do everything,” he asserts, reeling off the

of both Latin America and Europe. “I’m known

likes of lampshades, fabrics, valet stands and

to work with colour, so maybe that comes from

bar stools, as well as uniforms, logos and

the fact that my Mom is Mexican. She would

graphics. Questioned on whether it’s difficult to

wake me up at 3am to paint the living room

convince a client to allow such carte blanche, he

red; I’m the same,” he grins mischievously. He

states: “No, that’s why they come to me.” The

references Mexican architect Luis Barragán’s

response is that of a man who is confident in his

bold use of colour as a key source of inspiration,

principles, not willing to compromise if there’s

while the European influence can be traced

a dictatorial design brief or limited scope. “I

to Vienna Secessionist Otto Wagner and his

don’t want to do only decoration, I’m interested in context, how to bring in the architecture and

approach to texture and materiality. As such, Toro’s style is artistic and richly layered, with

going on to explain that, through the variety of

add layers of design, art and atmosphere,” he

a generous dose of drama.

projects he won, he quickly learned the nuances

continues. “I want to create spaces that are

Having spent a few years at a “regular”

within the niche. “You need to understand the

engaging, offering a 360-degree experience.”

architecture firm working on stadia and public

circulation flow, the number of waiter stations,

Other F&B venues in Toro’s portfolio include

housing, Toro launched his own studio in Paris.

the height of the tables,” he continues. “And it’s

Booking Office 1869 and Gothic Bar at the now

The goal? “To be free: to follow my own path and

different in London than in Paris, or whether a

reflagged St Pancras Renaissance in London, Le

be free to create whatever I want,” he exclaims.

fine-dining restaurant or an after-work club.”

Café for Louis Vuitton in Seoul, and Gigi Rigolatto

There was no set agenda in terms of sector, but

Whatever the categorisation, Toro relished

restaurants in Saint-Tropez, Paris and Dubai.

as it happens, hospitality had always been in his

in being able to express his vision across every

More recently, he completed Il Grande and its

blood. His parents met while working at Club

touchpoint, from the furniture and lighting

Mexican speakeasy at Palm Beach – a waterfront

Med in Cancun, his father as the resort doctor.

to the tableware. Place settings, for example,

entertainment development in Cannes – where

And still today, his mother is known for her

might feature cutlery with distinctive shagreen

the sultry interiors have undoubtedly played

hosting skills: Toro describes her dinners as

handles, like at La Scène. Or there’s Pur’ – where

a role in attracting the glitterati. While he

a “stage” with a dressed table, plentiful food

bespoke napkin rings, single-flower vases and

clearly relishes in the drama and decadence

and a warm welcome – gestures that are often

candleholders are designed to “theatrically

of restaurant design, Toro believes that it

regarded as defining traits of Mexican culture.

signal the start and end of dinner”. It’s at Pur’

was actually a cultural endeavour that put his

Perhaps this explains the allure of restaurant

– the Michelin-starred restaurant within Park

name on the map. “I was selected by Mobilier

design too. Early projects run the gamut from

Hyatt Paris-Vendôme – that best showcases

National to represent France in the renovation

Perruche – an al fresco, Mediterranean-inspired

Toro’s approach. The transformational

of the fifth floor of Villa Albertine, a satellite of

terrace on the rooftop of Printemps Haussmann

refurbishment is a collaboration with Michelin-

Villa Medici,” he says proudly. The prestigious

– to La Scène, a fine-dining bistro helmed by

starred chef Jean-François Rouquette – an

role involved the meticulous restoration of the

Michelin-starred chef Stéphanie Le Quellec.

immediate connection that resulted in a creative

Helen Hay Whitney studio, a crown jewel of the

“That was the starting point for me, and I

partnership. The concept follows a host-at-

landmarked Payne Whitney Mansion, itself a

became known for restaurants,” Toro confirms,

home narrative, with an apartment-style layout

Gilded Age architectural masterpiece built by

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036

MEETING…

Toro’s all-encompassing approach takes in architecture, interior design, art and the creation of bespoke details such as furniture, fabrics and uniforms

“I want guests to feel like they’re in Rome, so I looked at what represents the city for me – the texture, the colour, the light.”

Stanford White in the early 1900s. The project

he explains. “I wanted it to be rooted in the city,

in each room depending on the orientation: if

was won through an open-call competition in

so it’s 70% Rome and 30% Orient Express.”

you’re facing north, the tone is cooler; facing

2022, for which Toro was eventually selected

In all, the hotel features 93 guestrooms, four

south, it’s warmer,” he explains. “On a train,

as the winner. According to Villa Albertine, the

signature suites, a lobby bar, rooftop restaurant,

the sky is constantly changing, so this creates

selection jury was impressed by the designer’s

spa and various events spaces, collectively

the idea of travelling without actually moving.”

“poetic aesthetic originality” and proficiency

occupying the historic Piazza della Minerva,

Toro highlights that, other than one chair,

in retaining historic character while crafting

just steps from the Pantheon. The building was

nothing is from a catalogue, and he recounts

a strong modern identity. Perhaps it was this

acquired by Arsenale Group in 2021, subsequently

the hours and hours of craft that have gone

sensitivity to heritage and respectful balance

undergoing a comprehensive renovation that

into creating the interiors – not only his own,

with contemporary interventions that appealed

involved the meticulous restoration of heritage

but that of artisans from across the country.

to the decision-makers at Orient Express.

features, combining Art Déco style with

It’s quite an achievement, but are these details

Villa Albertine opened the door to new

contemporary elegance. It was built in 1620 as

communicated to the guest? Ever the artist,

audiences and geographies, and since then,

a residence for wealthy aristocrats, and later

he responds: “You don’t always need an

Toro has signed forthcoming projects in New

converted to a hotel, becoming a Grand Tour

explanation. It’s like art. You don’t have to

York, Ibiza and Marrakech, as well as a hotel in

favourite among creatives such as Stendhal,

understand it, but you feel something.”

the Alpine resort of Courchevel for Monte-Carlo

Vittorio Alfieri and Herman Melville. But as

And he’s right, of course. Hotels are

Société des Bains de Mer. He has been tapped to

Toro emphasises, it wasn’t about replicating

moving beyond mere commodities to become

showcase his paintings at major exhibitions too,

the past; the aim was to bring the soul of the

experience-driven destinations that focus on

but the artist-architect’s greatest undertaking

city in, creating a place where cultures converge

emotional connection and cultural relevance.

has been his first full hotel project: Orient

and stories are shared. “I want guests to feel

Orient Express La Minerva achieves this and

Express La Minerva in Rome. Plans to revive

like they’re in Rome, so I looked at what

more, delivering an experience that feels

the iconic brand were mooted as early as 2014,

represents the city for me – the texture, the

contemporary, yet deeply rooted in place,

with SNCF – owners of the trademark – setting

colour, the light,” he describes. The warm

ushering in a new era for the iconic brand.

out a strategy to launch a collection of hotels.

tones, for example, hark back to the candlelight

The judges for AHEAD Europe were impressed

In 2017, Accor took a 50% stake and the two

that was once the only form of illumination in

too. The awards ceremony that brought Toro to

partners set about translating the glamour and

the building, while wall treatments have the

London turned out to be a big night in which

old-world charm of the legendary train to a

appearance of texture, with a patina that has

he picked up four accolades, including the

hotel setting. As the first property under the

developed over centuries. The “patchwork

coveted Hotel of the Year. At judging day, the

iconic name, La Minerva was hotly anticipated,

of references” are the result of a strong

panel spoke of the hotel’s “refined boldness,

making its design quite the responsibility. Toro

photographic memory that Toro harnesses to

guided by a hand that understands restraint as

was appointed having beat off stiff competition

paint his own picture. The details are authentic,

much as expression”. One commended “the

from big names and longer-established studios,

subtly incorporated into furniture, fittings and

deep understanding of historical context that

winning the client over with his unique

fabrics. Rich wooden detailing is reminiscent

avoids excess or pastiche”. Another described

proposal. Having previously designed La Dolce

of Orient Express carriages; geometric patterns

it as “unmistakably Roman”, a comment that

Vita Lounge at Roma Ostiense station – the

are reinterpreted for a new era; and carpets

for Toro, will come as a clear mark of success.

starting point for rail journeys aboard La Dolce

have been manufactured to Toro’s painting

“When it’s your first hotel and you start with an

Vita Orient Express – Toro was able to draw on

of concentric circles inspired by the oculus of

Orient Express that everyone is waiting for, it’s

his experience of both the city and the brand.

the Pantheon. Everything is bespoke. Toro’s

a big responsibility,” he concludes. “What I’m

“I didn’t want to replicate the past, or create a

favourite feature is the handpainted scene above

happiest about is that Roman’s love the hotel;

Disneyland-like version of the Orient Express,”

the bed, a portrayal of Rome’s sky. “It’s different

it feels like a Roman experience.”

037

90 Years Of OBMI Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, the Chairman of OBMI discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.

riven by a philosophy of community-centred

environments means you experience the impact of

design, OBMI has made a name for itself

development first-hand. We understood very quickly

building a global portfolio of projects with

that architecture affects not only landscapes, but

authentic hospitality and sustainability at their core. Now in its 90th year of business, Chairman Tim Peak

reveals more about the firm’s journey so far.

ON THE INITIAL VISION Tim Peck Chairman, OBMI Founded in 1936, OBMI is a global architecture, design and masterplanning firm specialising in luxury hospitality. With offices in key cities including Bermuda, Miami, Dubai and London, the company boasts an international portfolio of projects ranging from urban resorts to island communities. Key Hotel Projects: Royal Mansour, Marrakech; Carlisle Bay, Antigua; Diriyah Gate, Saudi Arabia; Six Senses Deep Water Cay, Bahamas; AlWadi – The Living Canyon, Saudi Arabia; The RitzCarlton, Cairo; Angsana Real de la Quinta Benahavis, Marbella

038

communities, livelihoods and culture. As OBMI expanded beyond the Caribbean and became a global practice, notably after opening the Miami office around 2000, we carried that island mindset with us. The scale of projects changed dramatically, but the

When Will Onions and Val Bouchard established OBMI

thinking did not. We learned how to apply the same

in Bermuda 90 years ago, it was not an obvious time

sensitivity to vastly different contexts, from the Middle

to start an architectural practice. The world was on the

East to North Africa, Europe and beyond.

edge of profound upheaval, yet the ambition behind

More recently, this evolution has continued through

the studio was quietly optimistic. Onions, in particular,

our innovation lab, NU. It allows us to ask bigger

was an extraordinarily creative designer. He looked

questions about the future of hospitality, including

closely at what already existed in Bermuda, from local

vertical resorts embedded within cities such as Aera;

cottages to roof forms and the way buildings worked

transformable rooms that adapt throughout the day, and

with the climate, and reinterpreted that vernacular for

movable resorts designed to leave almost no permanent

a new era of travel. He was not interested in importing

footprint, as demonstrated by Habitare. These ideas are

architecture wholesale from elsewhere. He wanted

about finding responsible ways to design for a rapidly

to evolve something that felt authentic to place, but

changing world without losing our sense of place.

capable of welcoming international visitors and new ways of living. In many ways, he didn’t simply design

ON MILESTONE HOTEL PROJECTS

buildings, he helped define what we now recognise

Royal Mansour in Marrakech feels like a defining

globally as Bermudian architecture. That idea of

moment. What began as a private guesthouse for the

innovation rooted in culture, landscape and community

King of Morocco evolved into one of the world’s most

has remained at the core of OBMI ever since.

celebrated luxury hotels. From the outset, the goal was

ON EVOLUTION

not to create a conventional resort, but to reinterpret the essence of Marrakech itself. Architecturally, the

I have been with OBMI for 45 years – half of the

hotel is conceived as a contemporary medina; guests

studio’s life – and the most interesting evolution I have

move through narrow, souk-like passages, while

witnessed has not been stylistic, but philosophical. We

accommodation is arranged as individual riads rather

began as an island-based practice, and particularly in

than standard guestrooms. Meanwhile, a fully concealed

the Caribbean, that shapes how you see the world as

service infrastructure allows hospitality to function

an architect. Living and working in small, sensitive

seamlessly without intruding on the guest experience.

MEETING…

“Guests are increasingly aware, often subconsciously, of how a space makes them feel and how it supports their wellbeing, even beyond their stay.”

What makes the project particularly meaningful is the way it engages with craftsmanship. Local artisans were brought directly into the design process, allowing their knowledge of materials, pattern and technique to inform the architecture from the inside out. Rather than dictating form, we listened. The result is a building that feels deeply rooted, rather than styled. It was a project that gave us confidence in slowing down, in trusting culture and in allowing tradition to guide innovation rather than limit it.

ON CHANGES IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN Hospitality design has moved from being transactional to being experiential, and increasingly emotional. Early in my career, success was measured in fairly straightforward terms: a good room, a good view, a good restaurant. Today, guests arrive with very different expectations. They are seeking meaning, connection and a sense that their presence contributes something positive to the place they are visiting. Wellness has become central to this shift, but not in a superficial sense. It is no longer just about spa facilities. It is about human comfort in its fullest expression, including air quality, light, acoustics, movement, sleep and psychological ease. Guests are increasingly aware, often subconsciously, of how a space makes them feel and how it supports their wellbeing, even beyond their stay. Equally important is responsibility. Sustainability has always been an innate part of OBMI’s thinking, particularly in island environments, where resources are finite and systems are fragile. Long before sustainability became a defined discipline, we were designing in ways that worked with climate and geography out of necessity. In island projects, water use has always been a critical consideration. Collecting and reusing rainwater, reducing demand through passive design and working with natural drainage and topography

Key projects for the firm include (top to bottom) Habitare, Royal Mansour in Marrakech and Oil Nut Bay in the British Virgin Islands

039

are not add-ons, but fundamentals. Buildings are oriented to capture prevailing breezes, reduce reliance on mechanical systems and create comfort through shade, ventilation and landscape rather than technology alone, in many instances learning from the traditions of the early vernacular. At Oil Nut Bay in the British Virgin Islands, these principles extend beyond individual buildings. The development has been shaped as a longterm resort community that evolves gradually, respects the land, protects the marine environment and avoids overloading island infrastructure. Growth is paced, systems are carefully managed and the project responds to the island rather than reshaping it. In settings where the natural environment is the primary asset, hospitality design becomes more about shaping a relationship between people, place and ecology. Projects must not simply minimise harm, but actively strengthen ecosystems, culture and local economies.

ON PROUD MOMENTS Rather than a single project or moment, I am most proud of the continuity of the studio itself. Having spent much of my professional life at OBMI, I have witnessed cycles of change, moments of uncertainty and the need to question decisions and occasionally reinvent how we work. Very few architectural practices survive beyond a single generation, yet OBMI is approaching 90 years, having evolved across geographies, cultures and economic cycles while remaining grounded in core values of respect for place and cultural understanding. We have endured because we have not been driven by ego. We have been willing to look critically at ourselves, adapt our structure and make space for new leadership and new ideas without losing sight of what defines us. What gives me the greatest satisfaction today is seeing the next generation within OBMI push ideas such as regenerative tourism, wellness-led design and new models of hospitality, often far beyond what we imagined even a decade ago, while

Forthcoming projects include (top to bottom): AlWadi – The Living Canyon, Saudi Arabia; The Ritz-Carlton Cairo, Palm Hills; Angsana Real de la Quinta Benahavis, Marbella

040

still speaking the same language of context and culture. At that point, you realise the studio has a future that extends well beyond any one individual and that is deeply rewarding.

“In settings where the natural environment is the primary asset, hospitality design becomes more about shaping a relationship between people, place and ecology.”

Aera is a vertical resort developed by NU, OBMI’s inhouse innovation lab

ON NEW OPENINGS

wellness components alongside public realm and waterfront

We’re currently working across a broad portfolio of luxury

spaces, the development will serve as a long-term social and

hospitality and mixed-use projects worldwide, including

financial catalyst for Abha, while setting a new benchmark for

collaborations with global brands such as One & Only,

regenerative, place-led development in the region.

Fairmont, The Ritz-Carlton, St Regis, Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts, Rosewood and Four Seasons, particularly across the

ON THE NEXT 90 YEARS

Middle East and North Africa.

If we’re successful, the studio of the future won’t be defined by

In Egypt for example, The Ritz-Carlton Cairo, Palm Hills,

scale, but by substance. It will continue to focus on contribution

brings together a hotel, serviced apartments and branded

rather than volume, on responsibility rather than spectacle.

residences and is shaped by a deep respect for Egypt’s cultural

Technology will undoubtedly transform how we work, from

heritage. Our aim has been to interpret the spirit of Egyptian

artificial intelligence to fabrication and operations. Yet the

craftsmanship, its textiles, materials and long tradition of

essence of the practice must remain human. Our role will still

making, in a contemporary hospitality-led environment. We

be to listen carefully, interpret thoughtfully and create places

have looked to the country’s broader cultural memory, allowing

that people feel genuinely connected to.

its layers of influence, artistry and generosity to inform the architecture and guest experience. The design seeks to create

ON HOTEL DESIGN IN 2100

a setting that feels rooted, refined and connected to place,

By 2100, I believe luxury and responsibility will be inseparable.

bringing legacy, craft and contemporary living together in a

Hotels will be expected to actively regenerate the environments

way that feels both grounded and forward-looking.

they occupy, restoring ecosystems, supporting local culture

In Europe, we are leading the design of Angsana Real de La

and acting as stewards of place rather than consumers.

Quinta Benahavís Marbella, Banyan Tree’s first Angsana resort

Regenerative tourism will no longer be experimental; it will

in Spain. Set within the hills, the project unites hospitality,

be essential. On a human level, buildings will become far more

living and wellness together as part of a wider masterplanned

responsive to the people inside them. We’re already designing

community. The architecture is carefully embedded into the

for comfort through light, air, sound and movement. In the

sloping terrain, capturing long views and encouraging a strong

future, architecture will adapt dynamically to physical and

relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Conceived

emotional needs in real time.

as a long-term lifestyle destination rather than a standalone

Yet despite all of this change, the fundamentals will remain

resort, the design reflects a quiet, place-led approach to

surprisingly constant. A great hotel should send guests back

contemporary hospitality, grounded in the character, climate

into the world happier than when they arrived. Hotels will still

and rhythms of the Andalusian landscape.

be about storytelling, connection and moments of belonging

Another major project is AlWadi - The Living Canyon in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Integrating luxury hospitality, cultural and

– spaces that allow people to slow down, recalibrate and leave with a deeper appreciation of life.

041

S H OW ER TOI LE T C L E AN E T AUR IA_D ESIG N BY PE T ER W IR Z L AU F E N 1 8 9 2 | SW IT ZE R L AN D

THE LOBBY

Beach Reads British artist Es Devlin has given a whole new meaning to

screen displays key phrases from Devlin’s curated collection,

the term ‘beach read’ with her latest project – a monumental

accompanied by a recording of her reading them aloud. “This

kinetic sculpture on the shores of Miami. Commissioned

installation seeks to express the vitality of the library through

to mark the 10th anniversary of Faena Art, a non-profit

a series of encounters between viewers revolving to meet one

organisation founded by hotelier Alan Faena, Library of Us is

another through language around a circular collective reading

a 50ft installation comprising 2,500 books, selected for having

table,” explains Devlin.

influenced Devlin’s philosophy, life and practice.

Alan Faena, founder of Faena Group and Faena Art, adds:

Sitting on a metal plinth, the triangular sculpture rotates

“Celebrating 10 years of Faena Art commissions is a deeply

over a shallow pool of water. Visitors are invited to take a seat

meaningful milestone for us. Miami Art Week has always been

at the surrounding communal reading table, set daily with

a moment to ignite imagination and connect our community

Devlin’s own personally annotated books. One side remains

through culture. With Es Devlin’s transformative installations,

static, while the other revolves in tandem with the library,

we are taking that vision to new heights, turning the iconic

creating both new sightlines and spontaneous interactions

spaces of Faena Miami Beach into immersive experiences that

between readers. At the centre of the bookshelf, a 30ft LED

invite reflection, dialogue and connection.”

Designed to Stay

In Harmony

044

Delivering memorable experiences is an exercise

a balanced environment, where intentional

in emotional resonance, and, with an ethos of

lighting enhances materiality to produce an

‘creating places people want to stay’, Studio

enveloping atmosphere.

Moren knows this all too well. The architecture

With the added bonus of quietly supporting

and interior design studio explored this concept at

wellbeing and comfort, The Harmony Suite

HIX 2025, collaborating with Silent Gliss to create

was a physical manifestation of Studio Moren’s

an immersive guestroom concept that explored

belief that the most memorable spaces are those

how thoughtful, design-led interventions can

that balance individuality with operational

elevate the guest experience and shape a more

intelligence to create an environment that feels

intuitive form of hospitality.

human, considered and emotionally resonant.

Across The Harmony Suite, warm tones,

“The Harmony Suite is an opportunity to show

inviting textiles and detailed joinery expressed

how we approach design with purpose,” explains

a narrative rooted in clarity, comfort and

David Harte, Partner and Head of Interior Design

craftsmanship. The scheme demonstrated how

at Studio Moren. “It’s about creating spaces

subtle layers of materiality – from natural fabrics

that feel calm, personal and beautifully resolved

to timber and metallics – can be combined with

– places where every detail works together to

advanced automation for a sensory experience

create a natural sense of ease. Our collaboration

that challenges the reliance on technology for

with Silent Gliss highlights how intelligent

impact. Through subtle integration of Silent

shading and crafted materials can enhance a

Gliss’ shading solutions, the installation becomes

guest’s experience without distraction.”

“A great hotel is not defined by its thread-count or star-rating, but by its resonance: the quiet, lasting imprint a place leaves upon our memory,” writes Stijn Oyen in Designed to Stay, the latest print publication from Design Hotels. Created in collaboration with Berlinbased publishing house Gestalten, the 352-page hardback proposes that a property is measured by its impact on the guest, as demonstrated by the 300 Design Hotels properties featured. Uniquely, the collection is grouped by atmosphere rather than geography. ‘Space as Story’ explores spaces conceived as narrative performances, while ‘Natural Resonance’ examines a luxury rooted in the elemental dialogue between design and the landscape. ‘Attuned to the City’ redefines the urban retreat as a sophisticated pause within the city’s rhythm, and ‘Rooted in Place’ reveals hotels that function as living archives of their immediate cultural context. To bring these themes to life on the page, Design Hotels has enlisted an ensemble of global creatives to share their own reflections, from Oliver Jahn and Alexis Dornier to Eleni Petaloti. Alongside their insightful commentary, the tome features photography and art that captures the spirit of each property, as well as the lasting impressions they leave on guests.

DESIGN

PROCUREMENT www.occa-design.com

BRANDING

he future of hospitality is holistic,” asserts

from the region’s cultural ancestry, Six Senses

Anna Bjurstam, Wellness Pioneer for Six

Rome therefore offers a modern reinterpretation

Senses. “Gone is the quick-fix mindset;

of the Roman baths, and the forthcoming Six

we’re seeing wellbeing become an intentional

Senses London is also set to debut a cold-water

strategy of our guests’ everyday lives.”

immersion journey.

Undoubtedly, the desire for holistic wellbeing

Breathwork finds its way onto the list too,

is on the rise, and with a projected growth

with the report stating that “the simplest tool we

of nearly US$9 trillion by 2028, the Global

possess is the most powerful”. Guided sessions

Wellness Institute identifies wellness tourism as

such as pranayama and transformational

a significant growth leader. So as today’s guest

breathing boost relaxation and focus, while being

pursues intentional trips that leave them feeling

accessible to all ages and abilities.

rejuvenated, it falls to the hospitality industry

It’s also important to look to the biggest

to ensure that the needs of their mind, body and

success stories of the day. “The Middle East is

soul are being thoroughly met. To better cater to

emerging as a global hub for wellness, with the

these growing wellness demands, Six Senses has

MENA region now ranking #1 globally for growth

identified seven key trends.

in spa use,” Sands reveals. The UAE is tipped

The Want for Wellness As the appetite for wellness tourism grows, Six Senses identifies the trends set to shape holistic hospitality.

046

According to Mark Sands, Vice President of

as the region’s fastest-growing market in the

Wellness at Six Senses, workplace wellbeing is

sector, while in Saudi Arabia, wellness tourism is

a significant area of focus, particularly among

growing at 66% annually according to the Global

the C-suite community, who are increasingly

Wellness Institute.

tying leadership quality to their overall wellness.

The report then identifies the return to

In response, Six Senses’ Integrated Wellness

analogue as a wellness initiative. Deeper than

philosophy and personalised programmes are

just a digital detox, this means purposefully

designed to empower leaders, unlocking sharper

engaging with mindful activities – from crafts

decision-making, resilience under pressure and

to conversing – and as such, transformative

purpose-led management.

experiences are part of every Six Senses stay.

Another consideration revolves around the

With the mind and body taken care of, what

role of technology. Perhaps surprisingly, Sands

of the soul? “True longevity isn’t just about

believes that “AI is reshaping how we approach

adding years to life, but about adding life to

wellness,” and points to the benefits of utilising

those years through purpose, meaning and

technology-driven approaches such as smart

spiritual connection,” the report summarises,

wearables to help accelerate a guest’s recovery,

adding that guests no longer separate their

performance and stress reduction.

spiritual journey from their wellness goals. As

Next up is a trend that has arguably crossed

Bjurstam concludes: “People are looking for a

the line from fad to lifestyle choice. Contrast

wellness ecosystem both at home and as they

therapy and the growing appetite for thermal

travel – somewhere their wellbeing is considered

rituals remains, in Sands’ view, “one of the most

throughout their entire experience. It has moved

accessible forms of biohacking”. Taking cues

from doing wellness, to being well.”

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Waldorf Astoria NEW YORK In a landmark restoration project, Hilton enlists Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Pierre-Yves Rochon to reinvigorate a grand dame to its former Art Deco glory. Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Joe Thomas (unless otherwise stated)

escribed by Conrad Hilton as “the greatest of them

patterns, burnished metals and high-sheen lacquered

all,” Waldorf Astoria New York has opened its doors

finishes – mixed with more ornate Neoclassical tropes and

once again, following an eight-year renovation that

icons. Variously described as the city’s ‘unofficial palace’ or

challenged the many parties involved with its combination

‘a city within a building’, the hotel has hosted royalty, heads

of scale, heritage and status.

of state and stars of stage and screen, becoming a cultural

Occupying an entire city block in Manhattan, it was once

In more recent times, the 1,400-key hotel was still

equivalent of almost 14 football fields. The sheer size and

generating a significant annual income, but was undoubtedly

quality of the project is museum-worthy, and achieving such

tired. In 2009, Hilton began looking at its future with Larry

a feat at this scale is astonishing - particularly given the

Traxler, Senior Vice President – Global Head Architecture &

complexities of combining old and new. On the one hand,

Design, actively evaluating the cost of restoring the grand

the exterior and majority of public spaces are protected by

dame to its former glory. “We were slicing and dicing to

landmark status; on the other, the guestrooms and residences

maximise the potential, leveraging residential possibilities

are near-newbuild.

for one of the most significant adaptive re-use projects in

The history of the hotel dates back to the 1890s, when

Manhattan’s history,” he reflects. Unsurprisingly, the initial

two feuding cousins operated rival hotels on adjacent

estimate of over US$1 billion was more than Hilton wanted to

plots – The Waldorf and The Astoria – before ultimately

spend, though it is alleged that the final cost was double that.

deciding to join forces and connect the two properties with

Investment was needed and by 2014 Anbang Insurance

a 300ft marble promenade. Nicknamed ‘Peacock Alley’ by

Group had purchased the property for a cool US$1.95 billion,

the press, it became a place for high society to see and be

making it the most expensive hotel ever sold. The deal

seen, and remains a signature in Waldorf Astoria worldwide.

included an unprecedented 100-year management agreement

Both hotels were demolished in 1929 to make way for the

for Hilton, with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and

construction of the Empire State Building, with the current

Pierre-Yves Rochon appointed to lead the architecture and

Waldorf Astoria located in Midtown and completed in 1931

interiors, respectively.

to the plans of architects Schultze & Weaver.

048

symbol of the New York elite.

the largest hotel in the world spanning 149,000m2, or the

The hotel closed in 2017 for redevelopment. It was time

Reflecting its genesis in the 1930s, the new iteration is

- in the afternoon before a major event, a large section of

adorned with an abundance of Art Deco features – geometric

the ballroom ceiling gave way. By 2018 major demolition

Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria New York

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The hotel’s F&B line-up encompasses both brand signatures and new concepts, from Peacock Alley to Lex Yard

had begun. Then came the pandemic and the

Following modification and frequent removal

Key to the multi-functionality of Peacock Alley

ensuing shutdowns that led to procurement

of mechanical equipment, SOM repurposed

was the need to distinguish it from the reception

difficulties and a host of cost overruns. “It

these flat areas into more than 20 communal

area, achieved by relocating the a library to the

felt like finishing was going to be impossible,”

and private terraces. The original entrances ran

other side of the symmetrical staircases. This

explains Traxler. However, with the building

north to south beneath the entire city block. The

separation, aided acoustically by a faceted glass

stripped to its bare bones, they were compelled

new porte-cochères – one for guests and one for

wall, together with a standard ceiling height

to “stick to the original vision – no shortcuts”.

residents – create wonderfully private arrival

creates the “intimacy and discretion today’s

By 2021, Strategic Hotels & Resorts assumed

moments away from the Manhattan madness,

luxury traveller expects,” says Traxler. He also

ownership with Chantell Walsh and Tim Taylor

and for guests leads to two symmetrical

acknowledges that the scale is certainly generous

leading design and construction respectively.

staircases up to the main lobby.

in a time of a diminishing transactional check-

They applied the same rigour as per the rest

The pièce de résistance on this level is

in interface. “It’s not just about function but

of their portfolio, which includes properties

Peacock Alley. With its sightlines restored as

creating an arrival experience that signals care

under Four Seasons, Fairmont and The Ritz-

per the original layout, guests can once again

and sophistication,” he counters.

Carlton. Despite the owner-operator’s vast

see from Park Avenue to Lexington. “Every

There are two other restaurants on this level.

experience, Waldorf Astoria New York was

move was driven by a holistic spatial strategy

Yoshoku, a fine-dining Japanese eatery, is

unusual. “Typically, our projects focus on

rather than a decorative overlay,” explains Amy

situated either side of the Park Avenue entrance.

refining interiors and minimising invasive

Jakubowski, Principal and Managing Director at

It is a somewhat awkward space of different

architectural work,” explains Walsh. “The

PYR, of their reclamation of the clarity, flow and

levels and widths, within which PYR has cleverly

Waldorf approached the level of ground-up

spatial rhythm throughout the property. At the

inserted seating on raised colonnaded areas and

construction.” And ground-up it was. Only

centre of this double-height space is the all-

in cosy, semi-private booths. Waiting stations

4% of the hotel’s interior was landmarked.

new bar and lounge arranged around the 1893

amidst the booths facilitate impeccable service,

The rest was made new with SOM re-

Chicago World’s Fair Clock. Surrounded by black

whilst planting and screening provide further

constructing floorplates and making structural

Saint Laurent marble and a slim brass inlay is

privacy suitable for the astonishing variety of

reinforcements in a full gut job.

a vast wave-like carpet, which celebrates the

small plates and bowls of the tasting menu.

For the protected façade, SOM used a combination of preservation, restoration

fluidity and connection of spaces reinforcing PYR’s spatial aim.

Opposite, accessed via Lexington Avenue is Lex Yard, a bustling brasserie that celebrates

and reconfiguration. Schultze & Weaver’s

The lounge furniture is suitable for both

seasonality and provenance. Helmed by chef

specifically developed Waldorf Gray bricks now

relaxing conversations and dining, where the

Michael Anthony, the two-floor venue is not

gleam alongside handsome limestone, bronze

menu includes, of course, the iconic Waldorf

part of the protection order, and is therefore a

doorways and decorative elements in copper,

salad. Service for this large space is made easier

departure point for the interiors. This allowed

aluminium and terracotta. The single remaining

by high-gloss Chinoiserie waiting stations in

AvroKo some considerable latitude, especially

original window on the 16th floor was the model

each corner. The adjacent black lacquered bar

when it came to colour, as Partner William

for the replacement of 5,600 double-hung

has an inspiring bold backdrop, its suspended

Harris explains: “We took advantage of this,

windows. Microscopic analysis of the original

ceiling providing a different intimacy. The

dreaming up a dramatic colour-drenched velvet

grey paint ensured the new, high-performing

levels of comfort delivered by the design in all

and lacquer wrapped stair experience.”

aluminium frames match the originals – just

its aspects certainly encourage dwell-time and

AvroKo’s overall design direction was guided

one example of the forensic investigation into

additional spend from well-heeled clientele.

by the textures of New York, an alternative to

Within this landmarked area, all of the black

the Deco patterns seen elsewhere. Pavement

Other structural changes include new guest

stone columns, friezes and ceiling details were

detailing, tiling in nearby Grand Central

and residential terraces and the creation of

refurbished. The original maple burr panelling

Station, green lights mimicking those in the

two separate porte-cochères from the original

was restored. And reminiscent of New York’s

subway. Passers-by can look all the way across

one. The setback massing of the city’s towers

Jazz Age, a three-piece band starts up around

this boisterous-chic brasserie typology and

is characteristic of Art Deco architecture.

Cole Porter’s original Steinway piano at dusk.

see the dramatic back bar. Upstairs, with its

the hotel’s evolution.

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Many architectural features have been restored, such as the 150,000-piece Wheel of Life mosaic in the Park Avenue Lobby

private access from the hotel, the experience is more

original images. Their American Renaissance style is

elevated, literally. For example, columns upstairs are

in harmony with the silver panels of the arched salon,

upholstered in padded leather, while their ground-

lit by refurbished chandeliers above a checkerboard

floor counterparts are characterised by white lacquered

stone floor.

wood and brass.

complete with three tiers of silvered metallic balconies.

are the events spaces on the third level of the hotel,

The original decorative bas relief ceiling and wall

where the restoration and adaptive re-use ideals of

detailing have been restored and the first vision for

SOM are again strongly in play. These stunning venues

the lighting realised using modern technology. Like

are also accessed via the Lexington Avenue entrance,

the new hydraulic stage, AV systems and heavy-duty

which has been remodelled with staircases in place of

rigging points, these are cleverly disguised and will

escalators and its façade made brighter to match the

doubtless see the return of the ballroom as one of

windows and grilles on the Park Avenue entrance. This

the city’s premier venues. Surrounding guestrooms

consistency of light reinforces the hotel’s main axial

had been affected by noise from the ballroom, so

symmetry. Also restored are the original elevators,

supporting steel columns were cut and the whole

each historically sized to accommodate three ladies

room was re-supported on isolating rubber structural

side-by-side dressed in period hooped ballgowns.

connections. A significant undertaking deemed

The events spaces are connected by the Silver

052

Adjacent is the opera-inspired Grand Ballroom,

Subject to the full force of heritage regulations

worthwhile for guest satisfaction scores.

Corridor, a Palace of Versailles-inspired gallery of

When reimagining the new guestrooms, PYR

mirrors that encapsulates the hotel’s sparkle. ArtCare

focused on circulation, movement, light and function

Conservation carefully restored 16 wall murals

to enhance both the luxury and commercial value.

commissioned for the original hotel, removing years

The reconfiguration of the hotel has resulted in 375

of cigar smoke and deteriorating varnish to reveal the

guestrooms along with 375 residential units that are

Guestrooms feature modern interpretations of Art Deco, from polished casegoods and shagreen leather to brass accents

currently outside the hotel stock. In developing the

Jakubowski describes the foyer experience. This small

guestroom floorplan, PYR discovered an additional

pause creates serenity to which subtle colourways of

30cm perimeter of surface area after the removal

celadon, taupe and white bring further calmness. Dark

of multiple layers of cladding that had been used to

stone floors and bathroom surfaces add a masculine

conceal various adjustments.

touch. Polished casegoods, shagreen leather, brass and

Similarly, the corridors had become a confusing maze over the years. “I was always getting lost,”

054

other metal features serve as modern interpretations of the Art Deco theme.

explains Traxler. Residential-inspired lift lobbies,

Supremely comfortable, the rooms leave nothing to

together with corridor artworks, furnishings and

chance when it comes to detailing and amenities. Even

carpet patterns play a role in making the guest journey

cupboard drawers are lined with the same veneer as the

more intuitive, reducing the need for signage. The

exteriors. “You are not shortchanged here,” explains

FF&E selection throughout is of the highest standard,

Jakubowski. “The attention to detail is phenomenal.

with many pieces bespoke, such as the hotel’s

It’s just exquisite.” Ceiling and wall mouldings are

signature clock stand and service station cabinetry

ubiquitous – such was the need for mouldings that a

by JC Hospitality. Elsewhere, Bernhardt has supplied

dedicated workshop was set up in the hotel. A double

a diverse range of seating options that balance

entrance to the bathroom adds privacy, while sliding

sophistication with comfort.

doors are recessed so as to not take up floor space.

The guestroom interiors are equally residential

Lighting is controlled by a Lutron system, aided by

in character and quite grown-up. “The goal was to

automated black-out and sheer curtains. Simple yet

create a sense of home,” notes Jakubowski of the

masterfully done.

accommodation that spans 11 categories and averages

Room service is also an art. When ringing for some

around 53m2. A high-gloss wooden door leads to

ice, a bucket arrives in seconds. This is in part due to

another moment of “welcome and respite,” as

the fact that a number of rooms on each floor have

been repurposed as butler’s pantries and linen

experiences through design.” As the brand’s

closets to allow swift housekeeping. “Team

first and flagship hotel, its renewal gives clarity

members share a lot of pride in being part

to owners, both current and future. “We finally

of such a special hotel,” explains Managing

understand why you fought so hard for Peacock

Director Luigi Romaniello. “We are staffed to

Alley and the clock,” they tell him. “Now that

provide an exceptional guest experience.” He

these owners can see the true vision of the

goes on to explain that elevated staff amenities

property, they realise that the continuity makes

– such as access to work stations and an on-site

their investment more valuable.”

tailor for custom wardrobes from NoUniforms – encourage great performance.

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Understandably there is a great deal of satisfaction in the hotel’s reopening, as Walsh

Other investments include a fully equipped

reflects: “It’s not every day that you get to

beauty room stocked with Guerlain make-up,

help rewrite the story of a New York legend.”

though it’s in the spa where the French beauty

PYR describes the project as “the ideal setting

brand really comes into its own. There are

for a timeless luxury hotel”, whilst Traxler

plenty of treatment rooms, saunas, an ‘Arctic’

captures the property’s collegiate spirit:

room, salt and steam rooms and hammams, as

“Great achievements are never the work of one

well as a sleek and spacious exercise area, all

person,” he concludes. “They are the result of

wrapped up in suitably fresh palette of white,

many hearts and minds coming together to

grey and taupe designed by Wimberly Interiors.

create magic. With alignment on a singular

For Traxler, Waldorf Astoria New York is

vision, it truly feels like we gave the hotel its

more than a hotel. “It sets a new benchmark

soul back. In a world where design often leans

for luxury hospitality,” he states. “It’s not just

towards minimalism, these spaces remind us of

about opulence – it’s about creating meaningful

the power of boldness.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Strategic Hotels & Resorts Operator: Hilton Architecture: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Interior Design: Pierre Yves-Rochon, AvroKo (F&B), Wimberly Interiors (Spa) Art Consultant: Soho Art Procurement: Raeder Whaler Main Contractor: Suffolk Construction Project Manager: Cumming Group www.waldorfastorianewyork.com

Art is far more than a furnishing. It is your hotel’s signature.

Reframing Art Consultancy a r tstory. co. u k

Artist Bethany Holmes for Miiro Templeton Gardens

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1 Hotel COPENHAGEN The historic Skt Petri is reimagined as a nature-led Nordic flagship for Starwood’s environmentally-driven hotel brand. Words: Matt Turner • Photography: © Mikkel Vang

openhagen is regularly cited as one of the world’s most liveable cities, and it has a strong claim to be one of its most sustainable too. Its cycle-friendly

streets, an energy system combining offshore wind turbines with district heating to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and a national appetite for organic food all combine to make the Danish capital a paragon of ecological virtue. According to Starwood founder Barry Sternlicht, this reputation as a world leader in sustainability made it an obvious fit for his company’s environmentally-driven hotel brand: “Copenhagen has always held a special place in my heart,” says Sternlicht. “There’s an ease and beauty to life here – how the Danes live with a true creative spirit, warmth, tolerance and hospitality, how design and sustainability are seamlessly woven into the culture, and how nature is embraced in the most effortless, elegant way. This city reflects everything 1 Hotels stands for.” 1 Hotel Copenhagen is a reimagining of one of the city’s first design hotels, Skt Petri – originally conceived by Danish architect Vilhelm Lauritzen in the 1920s as the Daelis department store, and subsequently converted into a hotel by Erik Møller Architects before its launch in 2003. It occupies a central location in the heart of the city’s student quarter, adjacent to the University of Copenhagen and offering easy access to local landmarks such as Tivoli Gardens, the Rundetaarn tower and Rosenborg Castle.

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Designed in collaboration with Norm Architects, guestrooms feature organic textures, natural light and locally influenced details

Starwood’s in-house design team, working with

through a partnership with procurement and recycling

AvroKo on the public areas and Norm Architects

specialist Holmris, while wood panelling uses surplus

for the guestrooms, have imbued the hotel with

materials from flooring manufacturer Dinesen. Wall

natural materials and calming interiors in neutral

finishes include breathable marble paint from St

tones enlivened with bursts of flora and foliage.

Leo and natural clay plasters from Clayworks. And

Handcrafted Danish furnishings, sculptural lighting

the majority of loose and fixed furniture, along with

and layered textures reflect the organic beauty of the

extensive upholstery and casegoods production, comes

Nordic landscape. Lush greenery, created with local

courtesy of Parla. Further adding to the scheme, a

firm Oxygreen, plays a pivotal role – from a planted

range of Parla Collection pieces, including the shapely

staircase leading up to the lobby where trees occupy

Hug Sofa, can be found in the lobby – selected as

the atrium, to terraces framed with vegetation and

a result of the Turkish manufacturer’s ongoing

topped with seating upholstered in Perennials fabrics.

commitment to sustainable craftsmanship.

Artwork has been carefully curated in collaboration

Every last detail has been considered for its

with consultants Art Story, and includes installations

environmental impact, with single-use items

by Copenhagen-based artists such Sara Martinsen,

minimised wherever possible. Keycards are wooden,

who repurposes discarded and natural materials,

chalkboards replace much of the traditional hotel

and Tine Otto’s hand-spun, naturally dyed yarns.

signage, notecards are made from seeded paper and

Additional pieces combine seagrass and reclaimed

coathangers are then created from recycled thank-you

wood, nodding to Copenhagen’s nautical history. And

notes. Guests are encouraged to play their part too –

Landscape Portrait by Rhoda Ting and Mikkel Bojesen

the ‘1 Less Thing’ programme invites them to donate

explores the relationship between humans, nature

worn clothing through JunkFood, a Copenhagen

and industry using locally foraged fungi, moss, and

charity founded by Michelin-starred restaurant

agricultural waste. Art Story also created a collection

Alchemist, which now serves over half-a-million hot

of abstract artworks using recycled cotton, wool,

meals annually to those in need.

bulrush and FSC-certified pine, underscoring a shared commitment to sustainability.

Other innovative local partnerships have been forged with the likes of Koji Copenhagen, a fermentation lab

The brand’s environmental ethos is evident

that transforms surplus produce into umami-rich

throughout. A living wall brings greenery to the

ingredients, and ByBi, a social enterprise supporting

façade, and outdoor terraces are filled with wildflowers

biodiversity through urban beekeeping.

and seasonal herbs emitting scents of peppermint, marjoram, thyme and lavender.

Amenities also reflect the hotel’s sustainable credentials: in-room dispensers allow guests to fill

The 252 guestrooms, 26 of which are suites, feature

bottles with filtered water, whilst waterproof raincoats

natural light, organic textures and locally influenced

by cult local brand Rains are available to those staying

details. Reclaimed wood and woven fabrics create

in suites. In advance of a spa by organic wellness

warmth, while bathrooms showcase stone basins and

pioneer Bamford opening later this year, guests can

rainfall showers, with leafy accents.

avail themselves of a signature blend of the brand’s

Much of the furniture from Skt Petri was redeployed

bathroom products created especially for the hotel.

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Furthermore, mini-bars are stocked with

and ‘lightbulb’. Its cocktail menu incorporates

items sourced from Copenhagen’s plethora of

freshly foraged botanicals and typically

small-scale food and drink producers: Rebæl

Scandinavian flavours of lingonberry, dill and

sodas, Gro cold-pressed juices, True Gum and

cinnamon blended with regional products

Bornholm Pære Snaps.

such as Stauning Høst Danish whisky, sea

The hotel’s wider F&B programme is overseen

The Farmstand, a small market-style counter

Green-starred restaurant Apricity in London’s

situated in the lobby, salvages imperfect fruits

Mayfair embraces seasonality, circularity

that would otherwise be discarded to provide a

and regenerative farming. The restaurant,

complimentary offer for guests. Also located in

Fjora, draws inspiration from the surrounding

the lobby, The Goodthings Shop sells sustainable

landscape, with dishes built around wild herbs,

wares from local artisan makers, women-led

edible flowers and mushrooms grown by

businesses and eco-conscious brands.

Copenhagen-based Funga Farm. Seasonal fruit

“Design is everything in Copenhagen, but

and vegetables are preserved through pickling

it’s never just about how something looks,”

and fermentation, their sharp flavours cutting

says Raul Leal, CEO of Starwood Hotels. “It’s

through rich cuts of duck, pork belly and trout.

about the way it functions, the way it feels, the

Interiors feature reclaimed brick flooring,

materials used, and the story it tells. With 1

mycelium-grown pendant lights by Sebastian

Hotel Copenhagen, we’ve created a space that

Cox, and extensive timber millwork cladding

speaks to that holistic approach – honouring

the walls.

Danish craft, integrating local materials, and

The bar, known as Pære, takes its name from a play on the Danish words for ‘pear’

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buckthorn snaps and Nordic cucumber aquavit.

by Chef Chantelle Nicholson, whose Michelin

embracing biophilic design in a way that’s uniquely Nordic.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Starwood Capital Group Operator: Starwood Hotels Architecture: Synergy Architects Interior Design: AvroKo, Norm Architects Art Consultant: Art Story Lighting Consultant: Artin Light Procurement: Holmris Landscaping: Oxgreen Main Contractor: Arpe Kjeldsholm www.1hotels.com

1 Hotel Copenhagen Copenhagen 1 Copenhagen,Denmark Denmark Copenhagen,

Telegraph TBILISI Silk Road Group enlist Neri & Hu to transform a soviet-era post office into a luxury hotel that embodies its history of connection. Words: Hannah Wintle

s Tbilisi’s main artery, Rustaveli Avenue

The hotel honours its past in every detail,

is home to some of Georgia’s most

from the design scheme by Neri & Hu Design &

significant landmarks, and among them,

Research Office to the dot-dot-dash crowning

the majestic soviet-era Post and Telegraph

its logo – Morse Code for the letter ‘U’, a tongue-

Office. Designed by architects Lado Alexi-

in-cheek reference to the guest themselves. “We

Meskhishvili and Teimuraz Mikashavidze and

were lucky with Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu,”

built in the 1970s, the éclair stone-clad building

says George Ramishvili, founder and Chairman

was, for a time, the city’s gateway to the wider

of Silk Road Group. “They are among the most

world. “When I visited as a child, it was buzzing

respected names in global architecture, and are

with people,” reminisces Alexi-Meskhishvili’s

minimalists, which was key for us. Their style

son, Gogi, speaking on an in-house film

perfectly suits this building.”

documenting the building’s rebirth. “Parcels,

For the American-Chinese duo, their initial

telegrams – everything passed through here for

impression of the site was one of both historical

the city.”

weight and unrealised potential. “The Telegraph

It is fitting then, that a landmark built to

building holds a special place in Tbilisi’s social

facilitate human connection should preserve

memory – not just as a physical landmark,

this legacy today. As the Caucasus region’s

but as a space of communication, connection

first and only member of Leading Hotels of the

and exchange,” they explain. “Seeing such a

World, Telegraph reinterprets the building’s

meaningful building abandoned for so many

original purpose in an age where its function

years was striking – there was a sense of

and technologies have become obsolete, yet

stillness, but also a quiet power waiting to be

the desire to forge meaningful relationships

reawakened. As with many of our projects, the

remains as important as ever.

narrative began with the building itself. We felt

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Public spaces and guestrooms feature furniture from a range of international manufacturers, including Cassina and Stellarworks, while en suites are kitted-out by Sanipex

deeply honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility

building, we create a mini-city within this large

of bringing it back to life – not by erasing its past, but

infrastructure. What was once a telegraph building is

by building on its legacy. Our goal was to respect its

now a community centre.”

identity while reimagining it for contemporary use,

Indeed, ‘mini-city’ is an apt descriptor, with ground

creating a new chapter that remains connected to its

floor corridors forming streets evocative of Tbilisi’s

original spirit of openness and exchange.”

narrow alleyways, connecting a host of spaces that

Despite a change in function from telegraphy

could equally sit on a town square. Foremost are the

to hospitality, Neri & Hu kept alive the ethos by

hotel’s F&B offerings, which span a variety of styles

envisioning the building as a destination for human

and cuisines, ranging from Laan Thai, helmed by Chef

connection, a concept epitomised by the hotel’s motto:

Rose Chalalai Singh, to chic bar Bell & Gray, as well

‘Meet me at the Telegraph’. This theme of union is

as the hotel’s answer to Georgian fine-dining, Grand

evident in the hotel’s public spaces; throughout the

Café. Here, the hotel’s geometric exterior is mirrored

ground floor, in lieu of walls, glass panels partition

in the structural pillars and coffered ceiling, while

the space, allowing sunlight and sightlines to travel

elegant marble floors, rich wood and metallic accents

uninterrupted, creating a feeling of openness. This

enhance the environment. Elsewhere, the Wine Library

is achieved without isolating the new from the old.

offers a curated selection of wines and books, which

Existing as a constant reminder of the building’s past

peer down from the walnut shelves that line the

life, parts of its historic structure have been reimagined

room’s perimeter. Next door, a small recording studio

as intentional focal points: exposed beams and raw

is equipped for any would-be podcasters, as well as

concrete columns maintain an industrial quality that

housing a variety of vinyl records for those who would

juxtaposes otherwise clean, geometric spaces, harking

rather listen than read and imbibe.

back to the building’s Brutalist Soviet roots.

“The hotel was designed to engage actively with the

“Our approach to working with heritage architecture

surrounding urban fabric, both visually and socially,”

is always about layering, allowing traces of history to

reveal Neri and Hu. “The ground floor venues are

coexist with new insertions that are clearly of their

conceived not as isolated programmatic elements,

time,” say the duo. “We retained key architectural

but as extensions of the city. In many ways, it is

elements that speak to the building’s memory, while

like individual buildings embedded within the urban

introducing interventions that meet contemporary

context. The internal corridors function like small

standards of use, comfort and sustainability. This

streets, connecting back to the city and encouraging

balance between reverence and renewal is at the core

circulation through the site.”

of how we strive to transform the old into something

These so-called streets orbit a communal, central

meaningfully new. By bringing the streets into the

courtyard – “a vibrant piazza that reactivates the

067

Guestroom proportions are redefined with layered partitions outlined by an ebony steel frame, guiding movement through a subtle enfilade sequence

building’s role as a gathering place,” remark

However, slicing the room in such a way was

the duo. Taking cues from the many introverted

never intended to be subtle; the ebony steel

courtyards found across Tbilisi, the open-air

frame of each partition extends in a continuous

space is characterised by black metal structural

grid, where it finds a new functionality at

frames and an abundance of greenery, which

each guest touchpoint, whether as a tether for

climbs skyward through a central cavity to adorn

pendant lights or a place to hang coats.

all six floors, across which 239 guestrooms and suites are arranged concentrically.

068

Here, the materiality and colour palette comes into its own. Inspired by the building’s existing

In each, intuitive design was a necessity. Due

finishes, the colours are defined by the inherent

to the inability to reconfigure the building’s

tone of each material – wood, metal and stone

layout, every room is unique in its shape and

– to maintain a quiet and coherent atmosphere.

size, though typically long and narrow with

Where this theme departs is in the deliberate

an abundance of natural light. Neri & Hu’s

inclusion of green accents, found primarily

considered approach expertly guides the guest

in the soft furnishings. Echoing the internal

through the space by redefining its proportions

courtyard and surrounding city streetscapes, its

through a series of layered partitions, creating

measured use provides a visual and symbolic

a subtle enfilade sequence. “The fluted glass

connection between interior and exterior.

elements play a key role in this experience:

This connection is further emphasised

they divide the space while maintaining a

through the art scheme, curated by Silk

sense of depth and continuity. Their layered

Hospitality’s Mariam Kakabadze. “Since the

transparency blurs the boundary between

building itself is a work of art, I wanted the

interior and exterior, softening the perception

overall concept to be cohesive and unified, with

of space and atmosphere,” Neri and Hu reveal.

every element emerging naturally from the

architecture itself,” she reveals. Symbolically

Stone Rooftop Bar – the world’s first rooftop

divided into three main streams that each

venue under the magazine’s name – is a dynamic

represent a distinct direction, the concept

and energetic space that offers panoramic views

allows guests to experience the country’s

of Tbilisi’s twinkling skyline, backdropped by

culture from multiple different perspectives.

the looming Mount Mtatsminda.

On the ground and first floors, this manifests

Certainly, the hotel emphasises connection in

in a selection of contemporary works, including

every aspect, from the mini-city curated across

original pieces from Georgian and international

its ground floor, to the considered interiors

designers. The next two storeys tell a Modernist

that link past and present. “What was once a

tale, with well-known Georgian artworks across

site of telegraphic connection has become a

various media displayed in guestrooms. Finally,

layered architectural narrative of community,

the upper floors highlight architectural heritage

memory and mobility,” summarise Neri and

through photography, sketches and studies of

Hu. “Telegraph thus honours its legacy not as a

old urban monuments.

dormant monument, but as an active, breathing

But for guests who seek a more high-octane introduction to Georgia’s creative scene, two

civic space that continues to foster collective belonging in the heart of Tbilisi.”

lively music venues offer the perfect indulgence.

This, it seems, is a fitting outcome for

Tatuza Jazz Club – named after legendary jazz

a building first designed with humanity at

bassist Tamaz ‘Tatuza’ Kurashvili – is an ideal

its heart. As Ramishvili concludes: “Many

setting for any music-lover, with crimson-

generations have seen this building, and many

drenched interiors by Noa Studio Architects and

more will. It once housed Silknet’s united

expertly crafted acoustics courtesy of French

telecom offices, linking Georgia to the world,

architect Xavier Fabre. Alternatively, Rolling

and it still connects us today.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Silk Road Group Operator: Silk Hospitality Architect of Record: Archidea Architecture Architecture: Neri & Hu Design & Research Office Interior Design: Neri & Hu Design & Research Office, Noa Studio Architects Lighting Concept: The Flaming Beacon Lighting Design: Meinhardt Light Studio Main Contractor: D&T Group www.telegraphhotel.com

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La Fondation PARIS Family-run real estate group Galia creates a multifaceted destination, where hospitality, work and wellness converge. Words: Catherine Martin Photography: © Clement Gerard (unless otherwise stated)

n a city that consistently ranks among the most active hotel development markets in the world, it takes a lot to stand out from the crowd in Paris. Away from the iconic palace

hotels and the quirky boutiques, a new style of property has taken shape in the form of La Fondation. Located in the 17th arrondissement, between Parc Monceau and Les Batignolles, the 10,000m2 development comprises

a 58-key hotel, two restaurants and a landscaped rooftop, as well as a sports club, offices and events spaces. It is the brainchild of Galia, a family-owned real estate group specialising in mixed-use destinations that are rooted in their environment and serve the needs of their inhabitants. “Our aim with this project was to create a holistic and artistic destination that brings together three distinct worlds – hospitality, work and wellness,” explains Brice Errera, President of Galia. “We envisioned a place where people can sleep, work, eat, exercise, attend a conference or visit an exhibition, all under one roof. It’s a dynamic environment that feels alive, welcoming locals, travellers, creatives, athletes and anyone in search of something different.” In bringing this vision to life, Galia partnered with Terlia Hospitality, a Parisian operator with expertise in hotel development and project management. Together, they have created ‘a living space for free spirits’ – a multifaceted destination for like-minded people, whether local or tourist.

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The residential-style lobby is furnished with deep-pile rugs, cosy armchairs and shelving topped with books and ornaments

For Galia – which has a variety of mixed-use projects

Establishing connections to the neighbourhood was deemed

under way across the city – each new venture begins with

key to the success of La Fondation and as such, the facilities

a thorough evaluation of the neighbourhood, together with

are designed to appeal to the local market. The offices and

a review of changing lifestyles. “We embraced a mixed-use

co-working cater to creative professionals and freelancers,

model to reflect how people live and work today,” notes

and the events spaces can be used for business meetings,

Errera, adding that the rise of the remote workforce and

presentations and seminars. Furthermore, a programme of

growing importance of fitness and wellbeing served as a

cultural events ranges from art exhibitions to garden parties.

driving force. “Today’s guests aren’t just looking for a place

The sports club meanwhile is open to community members

to sleep, they’re seeking experiences, energy and connection.

and hotel guests, and features a state-of-the-art gym kitted

For us, this hybrid model is not just a trend, but a glimpse

out by Technogym, a climbing wall and five studios hosting

into the future of urban living and hospitality, far beyond

over 100 classes per week. There’s also a spa, semi-Olympic

the traditional bed-and-breakfast offer.”

swimming pool, hammam and sauna, as well as a juice bar

From the main entrance on Rue Legendre, La Fondation

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and retail boutique – all designed by Atelier MKD.

might easily be mistaken for a compact, six-storey newbuild,

The complex has dedicated entrances for the sports club,

but behind the façade, the narrow plot extends over 100

offices and events spaces, while the hotel and F&B venues are

metres, taking in a 1960s office block and a multi-storey car

reached via a pedestrianised porte-cochère. Inside, a warm

park. The complex task of bringing the various components

welcome awaits: characterised by a palette of comforting

together in a unified and interlinked floorplan fell to PCA-

hues and tactile materials, the lobby is a homely affair, where

Stream, an architecture and urban planning office based in

the formalities of check-in play second fiddle to sinking

the 3rd arrondissement. In accordance with Galia’s ambition,

into an armchair to browse one of the coffee table tomes

the studio opted to combine old and new, preserving the

on display. Artwork, deep-pile rugs and shelving dressed

heritage of the existing architecture while injecting a sense

in ornaments add to the residential ambience – a look that

of modernity. Expansive volumes and industrial materials

has been curated by Roman & Williams, the New York studio

remain, sitting in harmony with a contemporary façade of

selected to design the interiors. “I’ve long admired their

geometric window boxes framed by black metal and timber.

work; every one of their projects tells a story, rich with

Perhaps the most unusual feature is the helical ramp of the

personality and purpose,” says Errera of the appointment.

former car park – a bold architectural gesture of raw concrete

“Roman and Williams don’t just decorate a space, they

that now links the offices to the co-working and events

seamlessly integrate craftsmanship and artistry, building a

spaces. Not only a transitional walkway, the once-stark

narrative in which every material, texture and object has

space doubles as an art gallery too, lined with a revolving

meaning. Collaborating with them was about more than

display of works that encourage cultural discovery. “Our

aesthetics, it was about creating an atmosphere, a soul,

ambition was to create a place that feels both timeless and

something that resonates deeply with anyone who walks

distinctive; spaces that resonate with a wide audience while

through the doors.”

still managing to surprise and inspire,” says Errera. “With

This combination of craftsmanship and artistry,

the talented team at PCA-Stream, we transformed the site

atmosphere and soul, takes centre stage throughout the

into a vibrant living environment. The result is a unique

hotel. In guestrooms, warm woodwork is used to great effect,

combination of facilities that breathe life not only into the

framing windows, creating alcoves and as the bedhead – a

building itself, but also into the surrounding neighbourhood.”

counterpoint against the midnight-blue wallcovering and

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Greenery is omnipresent at La Fondation, both in the landscaping and interior fit-out

industrial-style fittings. Handcrafted furniture and bespoke artworks complete the look, while bathrooms are clad top-to-toe in handsome emerald tiles. The hand of Roman & Williams is also evident in the two restaurants. On the ground floor, La Base is a neighbourhood brasserie that draws in passers-by with its shopfront windows and streetside patio. The cuisine sees French classics reinvented with a contemporary twist – an approach that could also describe the interiors: timber panelling and fluted mouldings nod to the timeless classics, while tan leather upholstery, metal light fixtures and exposed electrical wiring honour industrial modernity. Craftmanship can be seen in the details too – the sculpted bar front, handpainted frescoes and a double-height mosaic of ceramic tiles – part of an extensive programme curated by Amelie du Chalard and her studio Maison d’Art. Up on the 8th floor, Les Ailes is a more elevated dining experience serving seasonal French cuisine in a vibrant setting. Noble materials such as wood, stone and metallic accents are accompanied by bold use of colour in the carpets

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and upholstery, and a three-dimensional relief

and patios for events, and secluded hideaways

spanning the length of the space adds depth

for moments of quiet.

and rhythm. The restaurant occupies a glazed

The hanging gardens are accessible to office

rooftop extension that is set back from the façade

workers, events attendees and sports club

so as not visible from the street – a response

members, while the rooftop bar has become a

to planning regulations that restrict the height

popular haunt for locals. It’s also from here –

of buildings. This also aided the creation of

La Fondation’s highest point – that the scale of

an outdoor terrace, where dining takes place

the site and its amenities come into perspective.

to views of the surrounding neighbourhood. A

“We’re very proud of the project: its ambition,

few steps higher, and La Fondation’s rooftop bar

its complexity, and the fact that we were able

offers panoramic views of the entire city, with

to bring it to life without compromising on our

the Eiffel Tower a beacon in the distance. The

vision,” concludes Errera. “Bringing together

space will no doubt be popular come summer,

such a diverse range of uses in a single location,

when a programme of events includes sunset

all while aiming for an ambitious level of

dinners and concerts amongst the greenery,

architecture and design was a bold undertaking

landscaped by Agence Christophe Gautrand &

for us as a family-owned group, and seeing it

Associés. In fact, the landscape architecture was

resonate – not only with visitors, but also with

a significant undertaking: despite the urban

people from the neighbourhood – is incredibly

setting, nature is omnipresent at La Fondation,

rewarding. Perhaps the greatest challenge,

with the studio creating multistorey green walls

and the most important, was ensuring that we

at the façade as well as 1,500m2 of hanging

could deliver a seamless, memorable experience

gardens. This veritable oasis extends across the

for our guests. That’s ultimately what defines

rooftops of the entire complex, forming terraces

success for us.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Galia Operator: Terlia Hospitality Architecture: PCA-Stream Interior Design: Roman & Williams, Atelier MKD (sports club) Art Consultant: Amelie Maison d’Art Landscaping: Agence Christophe Gautrand & Associés www.lafondationhotel.com

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Gora Kadan FUJI Blending heritage and tradition, a new ryokan opens as a deeply restorative retreat surrounded by nature. Words: Nicola Chilton • Photography: © Kazuyoshi Miyoshi

ew hotels have the extraordinary setting of Gora Kadan Fuji. Sitting at the foot of Japan’s most famous volcano, it is only natural that practically every viewpoint is

oriented towards the sacred peak. “You could visit for 10 years and never see the same view of Mount Fuji twice,” says Ikuo Ogitsu, the architect responsible for the new hotel. Gora Kadan Fuji is the younger sister of the original Gora Kadan, an Imperial family summer residence-turned-ryokan that has been welcoming guests to the hot spring resort town of Hakone since 1948. The new venture’s unrivalled setting positions it as one of the closest to Mount Fuji. Located directly to the east of the mountain, it sits at an altitude of just over 800 metres with soul-soothing views of the forested slopes that lead up to the peak, covered with a white cap of snow in winter. But for Ogitsu, the setting goes beyond being picturesque. With Mount Fuji as the vertical axis and the foothills as the horizontal, it takes on a spiritual, sacred significance. “This alignment creates a natural spatial composition reminiscent of a great hall, with Mount Fuji serving as its altar,” he says. On arrival, a low-roofed gate and earthen exterior walls are the prominent forms, offering no hint of what can be found within. “You can’t see anything yet, just the tiled roof of the lobby, but this is where you step from the everyday world into another, extraordinary world,” reveals Ogitsu.

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Corridors are lined with delicate shoji screens that diffuse light with a soft opacity

Those first steps into the hotel take guests

to over-design the spaces, instead letting the

through a lattice gate along a garden path by

materials and traditional Japanese architectural

trickling water, into the high-ceilinged, light-

features speak for themselves.

filled lobby. It’s here that Mount Fuji makes

Inside, the design centres around the five

her first appearance, framed by a wall of picture

natural elements – earth, water, wind, fire and

windows and reflected in a mirror-like pool

space. For Tomoyuki Miyagawa, Gora Kadan

of water on the outdoor terrace. The journey

Fuji’s General Manager, the warmth of the

continues into a calming lounge, where the

Japanese materials used throughout the hotel

ceiling height drops and natural flames add an

is central to the experience. “We hope that

element of warmth. “This difference in ceiling

guests will notice the finer details, like the

heights, from high to low to high again, is the

earthen walls made from local soil, lacquered

rhythm with which guests enter the world

elevator doors, woven ajiro ceilings and naguri

of Gora Kadan,” explains Ogitsu. Beyond the

handcarved floors, as well as the paper fusuma

lounge, a long corridor with tall columns of

doors made using Edo-period techniques,” he

Japanese cypress leads to the cantilevered Fuji-

states. “Many skilled craftspeople contributed

view terrace. Extending six metres from the

to both the interior design and landscaping,

façade, this narrow deck seems to float mid-

and we hope that by experiencing the quality

air, the mountain almost close enough to touch.

firsthand, guests will also recognise the value

The 39 guestrooms are also positioned to take

of traditional crafts that are otherwise at risk of

full advantage of the Fuji views, as are the three

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fading due to declining demand.”

standalone garden villas, the largest of which

Nowhere in the hotel is overly accessorised.

has its own outdoor swimming pool. When

Artworks and antiques are chosen for their

envisioning the hotel, Ogitsu was conscious not

ability to complement the spaces rather than

draw attention to themselves. The hotel’s

world where hotels are becoming increasingly

art collection encompasses works by globally

commoditised. “What was once an ordinary

renowned artists including Hiroshi Sugimoto

part of life for Japanese people, such as sitting

alongside pieces by creators from nearby areas.

on tatami floors, has become less common in

“By integrating abstract art into the rooms, it

today’s comfort-driven, Western-influenced

becomes part of the guest experience rather

lifestyles,” notes Miyagawa. “We want to pass

than simply decoration,” says Miyagawa.

down the warmth of these spaces, reminiscent

The boutique – part retail, part gallery, part

of time spent in a grandmother’s home, so that

showcase for local artists – features a mix of

guests can rediscover the simple comfort and

contemporary craft pieces and antique ceramics

beauty of living on tatami.”

with motifs of Mount Fuji.

Guestrooms feature woven ajiro ceilings, naguri handcarved floors and paper fasuma doors

Gora Kadan Fuji doesn’t focus only on

Each room has a kutsunugi-ishi – a shoe-

tradition. This is a thoroughly modern hotel

removing stone – at the entrance, where

that honours Japanese hospitality heritage,

footwear is shed. Once inside, rush mat tatami

where every room is cared for by a kadan-bito,

floors are soft underfoot, their grassy scent

a role that combines the efficiency of a butler

mixing with the pine fragrance of cypress and

with the care, warmth and knowledge of a local

cedar detailing. There is a tactility to everything,

friend. High ceilings and large, extraordinarily

from the delicate paper of the shoji screens that

comfortable beds with fluffy duvets and pillows

diffuse light with a soft opacity, to the weave of

are staples here, something that is unusual in a

the straw sandals provided for guests to wear

traditional ryokan setting. There may be more

throughout the hotel. The textures, fragrances

luxury ryokans than ever in Japan, but what

and materials form an experience that is truly

Gora Kadan Fuji offers is a deeply restorative

of its location, and one that feels precious in a

retreat surrounded by nature that also resonates

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on a cultural level. “For Japanese guests, it’s a

are a major draw for Japanese guests, who spend

place to rediscover the charm of a ryokan, while

days hopping from one to the next. All rooms

experiencing how it has evolved into a new style

come with their own tubs, some rendered in

of stay,” says Miyagawa. “For international

granite, others in cypress wood, some indoor,

guests, it’s a gateway to understanding

others outdoor, accompanied by the large public

Japanese culture through the philosophy of

baths for communal bathing.

nature cherished since ancient times, through

Perhaps this is the secret to what makes a

the etiquette and graceful conduct of the kadan-

stay here so distinct, this combination of time-

bito, and through refined gastronomy.”

honoured Japanese architectural and design

All of this – from the cultural to the calm-

techniques envisioned in a contemporary

inducing – is wrapped up in the embrace of

way, the genuine care of the kadan-bito,

the surrounding natural landscapes and the

and the reverence for the mountain that acts

palpable energy of the sacred peak. Practically

as a magnet for it all. Gora Kadan Fuji has

every space is oriented to showcase Mount Fuji,

created a world of serenity that feels far from

whether dining on the terrace of Kaiseki Kadan

the often-frenetic energy of Tokyo, just a

restaurant, or soaking in the healing waters of a

90-minute drive away.

hot spring bath. “Once you’re here, nature really

“This unique combination sharpens the

connects you to Fuji,” says Ogitsu. “There’s

senses, allowing our guests to feel the animistic

the birdsong in the morning, the cicadas in the

energy embedded in Mount Fuji’s nature and

daytime, the frogs in the evening. You can enjoy

in the architectural details inspired by it,”

all of it while eating delicious food, swimming

concludes Miyagawa. “By staying here, we hope

in the pool or soaking in the baths.”

they can feel the richness of the forest and the

Those baths, fed by natural hot spring waters,

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mystical powers of the sacred peak.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Gora Kadan Architecture: Ogitsu Architects Studio Interior Design: Ogitsu Architects Studio, Aoyama Nomura Design Visual Identity: Artless Art Consultant: Art Gardens www.gorakadan.com

Petra COPENHAGEN Furniture brand &Tradition opens its first hotel, blending Classic Danish architecture with contemporary design. Words: Matt Turner Photography: Courtesy of &Tradition

n recent years, Copenhagen’s 3 Days of Design

Danish Functionalism in the early- to mid-20th

festival has established a reputation as one of

century. He is perhaps best known for the social

the design industry’s key events. Each June,

housing schemes that proliferate the district

the international A&D community descends on

of Copenhagen in which the hotel is situated,

the Danish capital en masse to enjoy a packed

as well as railway stations on the island of

programme of showroom activations, talks and

Bornholm, and Aarhus University, which he

installations. So popular has it become that the

designed in collaboration with CF Møller, Povl

city barely has enough hotel rooms to cope with

Stegmann and Carl Theodor Marius Sørensen.

the influx of visitors, resulting in an increasing

In tribute to this architectural legacy, Petra

number of locals opting to leave the city for the

has undergone a careful restoration to retain

duration and rent out their homes, houseboats

the original craftsmanship of the 1943 building.

and apartments for lucrative sums.

Distinctive design details such as original

Petra launched with perfect timing to

terrazzo flooring, handcrafted stair bannisters

capitalise on last year’s ‘Three Days’, as it has

and brass fittings have been preserved and

become colloquially known. A collaboration

integrated throughout.

between furniture manufacturer &Tradition and

The colour palette has been curated to

hotel operator Copenhagen Design Hotels, it has

match the exact shades used by Fisker in his

seen the reimagining of a small boutique hotel

buildings, sourced from a design handbook

located on Dronningens Tværgade by the Kings

created for one of his projects, and paired with

Garden, mixing Mid-Century heritage design

hues from &Tradition’s own palette. According

with contemporary sensibilities.

to &Tradition’s Head of Spatial Design Hannah

The property was originally designed by

Jordan, this handbook also served as a guide to

architect Kay Fisker, a leading exponent of

the joinery, fixtures and fittings throughout the

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hotel – even down to the switches and power

in the bathrooms are from &Tradition’s

outlets by Jung.

Mnemonic range. Other modern interventions

Petra showcases the entire &Tradition product

include volcanic-ash Excinere tiles created

range, from heritage pieces by celebrated Danish

by Formafantasma for Dzek, which clad the

designers to more contemporary collaborations.

restaurant counter and hotel reception desk –

Each of the 40 guestrooms are furnished with a

their modular repetition echoing the distinctive

curated selection of chairs, tables and lighting

use of brick in Fisker’s buildings. A custom

from the company’s extensive catalogue,

lava stone countertop was also created by local

creating a balanced blend of classic elegance

surfacing specialists File Under Pop.

and modern comfort.

“Petra’s interior has been thoughtfully

In the restaurant and bar, Verner Panton

curated by &Tradition with classic and

Wire stools and a bouclé Little Petra chair –

contemporary designs from its collection,” says

originally designed by Viggo Boesen in 1928 – sit

Jeppe Mühlhausen, co-founder of Copenhagen

alongside a Margas sofa by Louise Liljencrantz

Design Hotels. “Encompassing an eclectic mix

and a custom-made, double-height version of

of furniture, lighting and objects that bridge

Jaime Hayon’s Archivo shelf in powder blue.

the gap between past and present, each floor

The dining arrangement combines Hvidt &

illustrates our ethos of repositioning the

Mølgaard’s 1956 Drawn chairs with circular In

significance of Kay Fisker’s architecture with

Between tables by Sami Kallio.

modern sensibilities. The result is a hotel where

Guestrooms feature Sett bedside tables by

spaces have been considered holistically, where

Luca Nichetto, Bonnet wall-mounted lights

you can find beauty in the designs as they both

by Space Copenhagen and Tripod desk lamps

work together and contrast with architecture

by Hvidt & Mølgaard. Soaps and shampoos

they occupy.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Jeppe Mühlhausen Developer: &Tradition Operator: Copenhagen Design Hotels Architecture: Kay Fisker Interior Design: &Tradition www.hotel-petra.com

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Vista Ostuni PUGLIA A family of Italian hoteliers reimagine a 14th-century palazzo as a luxury hotel, where interiors are inspired by heritage and the surrounding landscape. Words: Naomi Chadderton • Photography: Courtesy of Vista Ostuni

haracterised by rustic masserie, conical-roofed trulli and majestic palazzos, Puglia’s hospitality landscape has long told a story of quiet luxury rooted

in tradition. The latest addition to the region’s hotel scene continues this approach, seeking to create an authentic stay from a hidden gem. Vista Ostuni is a restored 14th-century palazzo in the White City, masterminded by Bianca and Luigi Passera – third and fourth generations of the longstanding hotelier family behind Lario Hotels, which also boasts Vista Verona, and Lake Como’s Villa Flori and Posta Design under its stylish umbrella. Originally a Dominican convent, later reinvented as a school for underprivileged girls and, in the early 20th century, as a tobacco factory, the structure itself has a colourful past. “When we first entered the building, we were immediately struck by its extraordinary architecture: arches chasing each other, volumes that breathe and large windows framing unique views of the surrounding landscape,” reflects Bianca Passera, President of Lario Hotels. As such, she and her team worked closely with architect Roberto Murgia of Milan-based RMA Studio to honour the historic building while bringing the spaces back to life. “We wanted to allow guests to experience history without feeling as if they were in a museum, which meant finding a way to integrate the comfort and technology expected of a contemporary luxury hotel without altering the building’s essence,” Passera continues. “Every decision

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By night, Chiostro is magically illuminated by a towering bottlelined back bar display

was made to preserve the authenticity of the

We worked closely with them, often learning

architecture so that the building’s past and

forgotten or unique techniques.”

present coexist naturally, creating a subtle dialogue between memory and modernity.”

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Vista Ostuni is home to 28 guestrooms including 19 suites, no two of which are the

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding

same. “Each room responds to its architectural

context, the design embodies the essence of

DNA, redefining the guest experience as more

‘Made in Italy’ craftsmanship through the

than just a place to sleep,” explains Passera.

prominent use of local materials. “Floors are

“They are sanctuaries for meaningful rest,

lined with marble, while ceilings feature arches

where beauty and comfort become acts of

of stone sourced from nearby, including the rare

care.” While soaring ceilings, niches and arches

volta a schifo,” explains Passera, who enlisted

dictate the layouts, each room distinguishes

the help of skilled artisans to recreate façade

itself through bespoke spatial arrangements

elements, iron railings and original woodwork.

and interior finishes. The Prestige Suite Sea

Meticulous craftsmanship also went into the

View, for example, offers 62m2 of elegant dual

Trani and Breccia Sant’Antonio floors, dry-

living areas, while the Suite Sea View Duplex

stone walls and wrought iron gates. “The

features mezzanine configurations. The Corner

ancient white chianche Pugliesi paving of the

Junior Suites, on the other hand, experiment

former tobacco factory was also recovered and

with angles and oversized windows that frame

reused around the swimming pool, preserving

far-reaching views of the sea, Ostuni or the

a tangible link to the building’s history,” she

surrounding landscape.

adds. “A dedicated team of local artisans carried

Bathrooms are luxurious private retreats in

out the complex restoration work necessary

Italian marble furnished with sculptural basins,

to return the building to its former glory.

bespoke vanities and refined brassware. “Even

TEXTILES • WALLPAPERS • CARPETS • CURTAINS • ROLLER BLINDS • MOTORIZED TRACKS 3 ΕVIAS ST MAROUSI 151 25 ATHENS GREECE • T +30 210 6120277 • INFO@VAGENAS.EU • WWW.VAGENAS.EU

While no two guestrooms are architecturally the same, all are characterised by a calming palette of gentle earth tones

small interventions, like custom valet stands that integrate mirrors, shoe racks and shelves, add personality while respecting the overall coherence,” notes Passera. “The cohesion comes from consistency in materials, light and proportion, while the uniqueness arises from the dialogue with each space’s history.” The hotel’s desirable location in the midst of such beautiful natural surroundings explains the calming colour palette of gentle earth tones, soft stone greys and muted neutrals, all of which feel ancient yet contemporary. That said, vibrant pops of blue, green and yellow are used thoughtfully throughout, inspired by the Pugliese landscape to create a delicate dialogue between interior and exterior. “Colour enhances the sensory experience while letting the architecture and natural materials remain at the forefront,” adds Passera. As to be expected, wellness also plays an important role in the guest experience, with its 350m2 spa defined by vaulted spaces in pale stone and Bisazza mosaic. Facilities include a heated indoor pool with hydromassage and sauna, and treatment suites offering Biologique Recherche rituals. There’s also not one, but three unique swimming pools dispersed around the property. The rooftop infinity pool is the crown jewel with views over Ostuni and the olive groves, while the indoor spa pool offers year-round use. The ground-floor garden pool, complete with chequerboard tiling, comes framed by ancient white chianche paving stones, Mediterranean landscaping, plush loungers and private

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cabanas. “While each pool has its own identity,

a different rhythm of light and scale that give

they share a common language of stone, water

them a more vibrant, animated character.”

and greenery, creating a continuous visual and

This particularly rings true at Chiostro, where a

emotional narrative,” Passera explains.

towering bottle-lined back bar magically lights

The hotel also plans to expand its wellness

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up at night, creating a theatrical display.

offering outdoors once the surrounding

While the majority of hotels in Puglia lean

landscaping has matured. “Think strolls

towards the rustic, there’s no denying that Vista

amongst ancient olive trees, open-air yoga and

Ostuni errs on the side of the architectural,

meditation, or quiet walks beneath the canopy,

while keeping both modern and warm in its

allowing guests to reconnect with themselves

expression of Italian hospitality. And it’s this

and nature in a truly immersive way,” suggests

creation of a new design language for the region

Passera of her vision.

where its beauty truly lies.

The hotel’s culinary offering, overseen by

“We wanted to honour Puglia’s architecture

Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton, comprises

yet translate it into a contemporary, mindful

the poolside Bianca Bistrot, Chiostro Bar and

luxury language, and I think that is exactly

fine-dining Ristorante Berton Al Vista, which

what we have done,” concludes Passera. “Vista

serves up traditional Pugliese tasting menus

Ostuni is a palace rooted in place and history,

reinterpreted for the modern day. “All our

yet it experiments with proportion, light and

dining spaces are designed for conviviality

modern insertions. The warmth comes from

and openness, with larger volumes and playful

materiality and craftsmanship rather than rustic

touches in the design,” continues Passera. “They

clichés. It’s a language that feels at home in

contrast with the private and introspective

Puglia but with a modern sensibility.” There’s

mood of the rooms and wellness areas, with

no arguing with that.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Bianca and Luigi Passera Operator: Lario Hotels Affiliation: Leading Hotels of the World Architecture: RMA Studio www.vistapalazzo.com

Photography by Brad Matthews

Hilton Newcastle Gateshead

Treehouse, Manchester

Sir Devonshire Square LONDON A 17th-century warehouse is reborn as a retro retreat in the heart of the UK capital. Words: Matt Turner Photography: Courtesy of Sir Hotels

ot quite the City, not quite Shoreditch,”

a subsidiary of institutional investment giant

is how Sircle Collection describes

TIAA, which acquired the site as part of a

Devonshire Square, the location of its

consortium in 2018 – is seeking to inject new life

first UK hotel. Indeed, this is a curious corner of

into the buildings, converting them into modern

London; just a short walk from Liverpool Street

workspaces, bars, restaurants and coffee shops,

Station, adjacent to the bustling Spitalfields

whilst upgrading the infrastructure and urban

Market, and lying in the shadows of the Square

landscaping that surrounds them under the new

Mile skyscrapers.

identity of ‘DSQ’.

Yet you could be forgiven for never having

The most significant new addition – and the

known it existed. After devastation in the

one most likely to elevate its profile – is Sir

Great Fire of London, the five-acre estate

Devonshire Square, an 81-key boutique hotel

became home to a hotch-potch of 18th-century

developed in collaboration with Amsterdam-

warehouses built by The East India Company

based hotel group Sircle Collection.

for the storage of fabrics, spices and tobacco

Design studio Maison 191, led by Samuel

arriving from the British Empire’s outposts via

Wright, has created the interiors for the hotel.

the River Thames. It was later purchased by St

Their scheme draws on Bauhaus geometry

Katharine Docks Company, with the warehouses

and the works of German textile designer

refurbished and augmented with new office

Anni Albers, combined with Mid-Century

buildings by Seifert & Partners in the late 1970s.

architectural influences from the likes of Quincy

John Robinson Architects created a new

Jones and John Lautner.

masterplan for Blackstone to unite these varied

Working with executive architects Woods

buildings into a more holistic mixed-use

Hardwick, main contractor County Contractors

project in 2017. And now, developer Nuveen –

and joinery specialists Castlebrook, Maison 191

097

has delivered a six-storey hotel accessed via a planted courtyard. Open-plan, light-filled spaces are surrounded by arched windows and linked via sculptural staircases. The material palette mixes retro terracotta tiling, stone, soft upholstery and woven fabrics by Dedar – many offering contemporary updates to original designs by Anni Albers. Window seats overlook the neighbouring buildings and nearby Spitalfields Market. Guestrooms are characterised by muted greens, earthy browns and ochre reds, contrasted with natural timber and metallic accents of brushed chrome and brass. Chelsom lighting is accompanied by bespoke furniture, graphic curtains and upholstered seating in tactile fabrics, creating interiors that reference East London’s 1970s textile industry in their warm colour palette and organic curved forms. They are linked via corridors with a psychedelic Pop Art pattern that appears to bring the carpet to life. The retro spirit continues in the bathroom, where pink and navy striped tiles

098

feature alongside BetteUltra shower trays in a

interiors of London’s tube stations. Timber

vibrant teal hue.

louvres soften an industrial glasshouse that is

“Housed in a former textile factory, our

home to the ground-floor bar – a space that

project embraced the narrative of ‘Redefining

serves espressos and breakfast bowls in the

a Vision of Utopia,’” explains Wright. “In the

morning before transitioning to seasonal salads

guestrooms, this concept comes to life through

and small plates at lunchtime. As evening falls,

Bauhaus-inspired drapery patterns, bold

it morphs into a wine bar with a curated cocktail

graphic wood veneers and bespoke furniture.

menu and cultural programming, designed as

The building’s original architecture was

a social hub for both hotel guests and locals.

celebrated and adapted, with deep window bays transformed into cosy window seats.”

Sir Devonshire Square joins Sir Hotels’ existing portfolio of properties in Amsterdam,

The hotel offers generous public areas on the

Barcelona, Berlin and Prague. Still to come

ground floor, including a Sir Shop showcasing

is the main restaurant and The Cover, Sircle

locally sourced items, and a lounge that provides

Collection’s private members’ club, which will

the backdrop to a gallery showcasing the work

both open later this year. “We are absolutely

of emerging London artists and photographers.

thrilled to be expanding further into Europe, and

Refreshed every six months, the rotating exhibit

at such a pivotal moment for Sircle Collection’s

is designed to spotlight and provide a platform

evolution,” concludes founder Liran Wizman.

for new talent whilst providing the opportunity

“It has always been a dream of ours to open

for both guests and the public to purchase pieces

a property in London and offer something

directly, with all proceeds going to the artist.

compelling and distinctive to the city, as well

The lobby, with its variety of plants and playful patterns, also offers subtle nods to the

as introduce London to The Cover, our global member’s club.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Sircle Collection Operator: Sir Hotels Interior Design: Maison 191 Art Consultant: Bionda Sno Lighting Design: Elektra Landscaping: Urban Planters Main Contractor: County Contractors www.sirhotels.com

099

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Fairmont TOKYO Fairmont makes its debut in Japan with a modern sanctuary that celebrates a sense of ritual. Words: Shiraz Randeria Photography: © Matias Vargas Antognelli (unless otherwise stated)

he Japanese district of Shibaura isn’t a well-known destination among visitors to Tokyo, so it was perhaps a surprising choice for Fairmont’s introduction to the

country. What isn’t surprising however, was the decision to appoint Bar Studio for the hotel’s masterplanning and interior design, particularly in light of the Melbourne-based practice’s award-winning portfolio for the likes of Capella, Hyatt and Rosewood. Making its debut mid-2025, the 217-key Fairmont Tokyo occupies the upper floors of the Blue Front Shibaura South Tower, offering expansive views of the cityscape. Guests to the newbuild property arrive by car or on foot, the latter via a landscaped walkway along the new bayfront development from Hamamatsuchō train station. Either way, the arrival experience makes quite the statement. “There’s a 20m-tall porte-cochère that creates a grand architectural space,” explains Lucas Chirnside, Design Director at Bar Studio. “It’s a dramatic entrance, so this challenged us to create an interior design scheme to match.” The ground-floor lobby is a transient affair, with doormen dressed in waistcoats and flat caps on hand to greet guests alongside the hotel’s Chief Happiness Officer, a black Labrador called Serene. Elevators adorned with paper wisteria

101

Textured glass panels cast ripples of light over the check-in desk, mimicking the bay’s waters below

and bamboo from Wanda Barcelona then whisk

Studio also worked on the 43rd floor F&B outlets.

guests up to the 35 -floor lobby, where they are

Whilst the architectural floorplans allow for a

met by floor-to-ceiling windows that look out

generous use of space with the main Yoshoku

onto an al fresco terrace and reflection pool, a

restaurant, it’s the smaller corners that stand

verdant display with trees and garden nooks.

out. There’s a sky-high version of a Tokyo

From check-in to the café and all-day

alleyway standing bar and a secret vinyl

brasserie, the lobby is expansive, though it’s

listening bar that is full of surprises, not least

the smaller details that are attention-grabbing,

the candelabra-inspired brass wall sconces by

such as the numerous white floral decorations

Il Pezzo Mancante and the door that operates

and textured glass panels that ripple light,

with an opening mechanism using a brass

mimicking the bay’s waters below.

French horn. And one shouldn’t overlook the

While the glass brick and marble counters are large, their lack of any signage or reception

Ryu Kosaka at Nomura.

paraphernalia is an intentional move to focus

The sense of space is transferred to the

on the human element – the Japanese sense of

217 sizeable guestrooms and suites, and

personable hospitality that fosters an effortless

progressing from the lobby, there’s a noticeable

invitation to interact. Despite the activity, it’s

change in mood. “The transition here is from

remarkably calm for such a socially-designed

the connection with the host at reception to

space. As Chirnside remarks: “The last thing we

something that feels more residential,” notes

wanted is for guests to check-in to the sounds

Chirnside. “The materiality softens as guests

of footsteps, elevators dinging and luggage

move through the corridors. We start to explore

being wheeled around.”

more Japanese craft, using timber forms that are

As well as the open-plan lobby venues, Bar

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two Japanese restaurants that were designed by

woven together. We use the ritual of entering a

103

104

ryokan and removing your shoes in the stone-

a jet-burner. “It roughens the outer layer so

floored genken before walking onto carpet.

you get this textured surface, which is beautiful

That transition between strength and softness

to look at and tactile beneath your feet,” he

of material was important: it connects to those

describes. “It’s one of those little things that

rituals of space in Japan yet in a contemporary

you can’t photograph and that only guests will

interior design language.”

experience when they remove their shoes.”

There are two room categories, though all

What guests can photograph is the view, and

follow the same sequence: an entryway leads to

this is surely one of the reasons Shibaura was

the bathroom ahead, while an adjacent sliding

chosen as Fairmont’s home. It is so unusual

door opens into the bedroom. A bar counter runs

to have panoramic waterside views in this city:

along one wall and a daybed lies in front of the

the port, Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge and planes

full-length windows. Rendered in a minimalist

coming down to land at Haneda. It is a radically

palette of evocative materials, guestrooms

different side to the capital than the tightly-

feature washi paper wallcoverings, brass

packed high-rise views of Shibuya or Ginza.

fittings, Japanese Sen timber and cloud-white

And although a second adjacent office tower

quartzite stone tops with bespoke furniture and

is currently under construction, this won’t

decorative light fittings. En suites are clad in

obstruct the hotel’s bayside or Tokyo Tower

natural textured granite, conjuring a sense of

cityscapes. Indeed Fairmont’s views will

the onsen ritual in an urban retreat.

eventually be augmented by another Accor

When asked to name his favourite design

debut a few-hundred metres away as Japan’s

detail, Chirnside highlights the level of Bar

first Raffles property is earmarked for a 2028

Studio’s experiential approach, evident in the

launch. It will join the neighbourhood in

granite flooring that has been exfoliated with

great company.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Nomura Real Estate Development Operator: Accor Architecture: Maki & Associates Local Architect: Shimizu Corporation Interior Design: Bar Studio, Ryu Kosaka Landscape Design: Field Four Design Office Lighting Consultant: Worktecht & Co Art Consultant: ICA www.fairmont.com

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Signature Design Drifting Lights Light flows where air once lingered. Suspended in glass, it bends, settles, and transforms stillness into subtle movement.

Prague London New York Los Angeles Dallas Atlanta Las Vegas Chicago Dubai Riyadh Doha New Delhi Singapore Hong Kong

The Future Guest Behaviour Meets Mindset In the second installment of The Future Guest, the six behaviours and four mindsets are unpacked to paint a picture of the Both/And Guest. Words: Hannah Wintle

n a world of changing priorities, lifestyles

but as Wagner’s research demonstrates, the

and values, guest expectations are evolving.

future guest is a nuanced and complex being

This fast-moving phenomenon refuses to be

who has strayed from the typical profile of

ignored, putting the pressure on hospitality

today. In response, the futurologist proffers six

to not only keep up, but keep ahead. Indeed,

future guest behaviours and four mindsets that,

identifying the guest of the future is one of

backed by data, culminate in an entire spectrum

the greatest challenges facing the sector today,

of guests who no longer settle for either/or, but

but thankfully, help is at hand.

demand both/and.

As presented last issue, Philippa Wagner,

In the last issue of Sleeper, Wagner’s

founder of People Places Spaces, has produced

methodology and approach to The Future

The Future Guest – a comprehensive report

Guest were unpacked to reveal the foundations

that explores the often-contradictory needs

on which the research arrives at its conclusion.

of traveller, coming to the conclusion that the

Now, with additional insight from a sounding

guest of tomorrow isn’t being served by the

board of industry leaders as well as real-life

hotels of today.

travellers, the Both/And Guest comes further

If this is to change, the hospitality sector must

into focus – their experiences and expectations

adapt, and doing so begins with understanding

culminating in a new course for the hospitality

exactly who it caters to. A simple task in theory,

industry to chart.

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OF SOLO TRAVELLERS WOULD STAY LONGER IF PRICING WAS FAIR

THE FUTURE GUEST BEHAVIOURS

Mursal, founder of Pillar Consulting, agrees:

Of course, no one is suggesting that the guest

“The co-living model shows that shrinking

of tomorrow is an entity of its own creation,

rooms doesn’t offer much of a cost-saving.

nor that fluctuating guest behaviours are an

The value comes when you rebalance towards

unprecedented phenomenon. However, the pace

shared spaces.”

at which this new reality is approaching comes

As highlighted in the report, Berlin’s soon-to-

as the result of a rapidly changing world, and

open Poynto seems to grasp this balance. This

understanding the six future guest behaviours as

capsule hotel grants privacy in each of its fully

outlined in the report will prove vital in the race

equipped pods, while large public areas offer

to accommodate evolving expectations. These,

spaces for co-working, dining and socialising

the report asserts, are not abstract forecasts,

on an on-demand basis. Guests can indulge in

but behaviours that are already observed, each

connection as and when it suits them, giving

of which revolves around a central paradox.

them much needed autonomy and control over

The challenge is in designing experiences that

their experience.

fill the gaps where cultural shifts and guest expectations meet.

• Solo But Social

As civic spaces around the world become harder to find, the demand for social touchpoints,

Solo travellers are an important demographic for

where locals and travellers can connect, is

hospitality to consider, and their expectations

greater than ever. Hotels are well positioned to

may not deviate too drastically from their couple

step into this role, and the call for connection

or family counterparts. With 66% travelling

is clear, with 84% of participants saying they

solo, yet only 26% choosing a hotel for its solo

would use a hotel without staying overnight.

suitability, what’s left is an industry blind spot

Furthermore, 26% refer to themselves as

that many solo travellers admit having fallen

‘community seekers’, an emerging identity

into. “Travelling solo shouldn’t mean paying

that proves the value found outside of the hotel

extra – I’m not half a couple,” says one of the

itself, and asks the industry to reposition itself

surveyed participants, while another asserts:

as a civic anchor, not merely a place of transit.

These are eye-opening statements, especially

Managing Partner at Urbanauts and Treasurests.

MAKE BOOKING DECISIONS BASED ON SUSTAINABILITY

when 41% say they would stay longer if pricing

This sentiment is echoed by Gabriela Basovska,

was fair, and 37% would extend their stays

Vice President of Development at Hyatt,

if they felt seen. What’s more, 73% of solo

who states: “A hotel should add value to its

travellers also travel multigenerationally,

neighbourhood, not just to its owner.”

EXPECT HOTELS TO SUPPORT THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

“When I ask for a table for one, I don’t want a look of pity.”

proving the existence of a duality and nuance that has long been overlooked.

108

• Community Commons

“If locals won’t use the restaurant, it isn’t community – it’s staging,” says Tiago Venâncio,

Whether this connection between the hotel and the outside world is facilitated through open

As it stands, the solo traveller is trapped in

doors, partnerships or programming, designing

a structure that has been designed for couples,

porous spaces that flex and belong within

leaving them to pay for spaces that don’t

their respective communities is increasingly

necessarily reflect their needs. Furthermore,

important amongst guests and locals alike,

true to their Both/And nature, solo guests are

with a stronger demand for hotels to become an

not simply shunning connection in favour of

integral part of the city’s fabric. As one traveller

solitude; they still want social experiences

summarises: “Hotels should feel like part of the

and opportunities for belonging, along with

neighbourhood, not separate from it.”

the autonomy to decide when to enjoy their

As an example, the report spotlights Roberta’s

alone-time. The misalignment between the

Society, a converted library in Denmark that has

Both/And Guest and the industry that serves

demonstrated how designing flexible spaces

them is simple: for the guest, travelling solo

can allow the community to thrive on its own.

is an aspirational lifestyle choice, while for the

With guestrooms upstairs and the ground

industry, it is an operational category.

floor operating as Roberta’s Stage, it enables

Still, with only a minority choosing a hotel for

the locals and guests to shape the atmosphere

its solo suitability, an opportunity gap persists,

themselves, whether through dinners or

one which may not be all that costly to embrace.

screenings, allowing social cohesion with the

From the industry sounding board, Adam

city itself to emerge naturally.

“The paradox is time. People are searching for moments of stillness, and that’s what hotels need to design for.” PHILIPPA WAGNER, PEOPLE PLACES SPACES

• Pleasure Purpose

Purpose trend, in that luxury doesn’t announce

Travelling may be an indulgence, but that

itself or put on a performance, but allows guests

doesn’t mean it should come at the cost of guilt.

to relish their stay without having to battle with

The Both/And Guest wants to treat themselves

their conscience.

while also leaving a meaningful impact, an apparent contradiction that repeatedly arose

• Restorative Care

in the report. Indeed, half of travellers actively

In a time when people are living faster than

seek luxury and pampering, with 56% craving

ever, travelling presents an opportunity to reset.

high-end food and drink and 44% prioritising

“The paradox is time,” Wagner points out.

doing what they want, when they want. Be that

“People are searching for moments of stillness,

as it may, 55% still claim to make booking

and that’s what hotels need to design for. One-

decisions based on sustainability, compared to

in-three travellers told us they judge success

just 19% prioritising indulgence alone.

by whether they come home with more energy

In fact, 42% describe themselves as

than when they left. Not by star ratings, not by

sustainability-conscious while also identifying

room size, but how their mind and body feel

as ‘go big or go home’ travellers. These

after a stay.”

characterises may seem at odds, and 69% do

The research reveals that 45% identify

admit to feeling torn between their values. For

themselves as a slow traveller, where each trip

the Both/And Guest, indulgence and impact

serves as a chance to put on the breaks. This goes

come as a package deal; sacrificing one’s

beyond add-ons: ice baths and threadcounts can

conscience for the sake of joy is no longer an

only do so much, Wagner points out, as the true

option. On the contrary, thoughtful choices

nature of restoration is regenerative. As such,

should heighten pleasure, as one participant

taking control of one’s own rhythm and leaving

puts it: “I want joy without the guilt.”

a place better than they found it is precisely

Asli Kutlucan, Europe CEO, TFE Hotels, echoes

what the Both/And Guest desires. “Travel today

this sentiment: “Indulgence without impact

isn’t only about escape – it’s about repair,” says

feels outdated. Guests want pleasure with

Venâncio. “Guests want places to breathe, slow

purpose,” he says, before illustratively adding:

down, reset – restoration as much as relaxation.

“Luxury today is local – a gin and tonic with

Quiet corners matter; not everything needs to

regional spirits feels indulgent and responsible

be programmed.”

at the same time.”

IDENTIFY AS SLOW TRAVELLERS

PREFER HUMAN MESSINESS TO AI PERFECTION

To help achieve truly restorative stays and

With guests not wanting to manage their

enable guests to feel fully rejuvenated, the

guilt, it can fall to a hotel to eliminate it for

sector should recognise that its greatest offering

them: The Newman in London has found a way

is the time each guest entrusts to it, with one

to do just this. Here, guests can truly relax in

participant admitting they would “pay more

their indulgences, safe in the knowledge that,

for a place that lets me exist at my own pace”.

through a partnership with Saira Hospitality,

As such, instead of managing their guests’

each stay supports hospitality career training for

time, hotels need to learn how to protect it,

those from underprivileged backgrounds. This

embedding restoration into the fabric of each

kind of impact is emblematic of the Pleasure

stay, rather than simply relying on add-ons.

SAY LEARNING SOMETHING NEW MAKES TRIPS MEANINGFUL

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• Human First

FOUR MINDSETS

that stagnant timekeeping can simply never

While many of the Both/And Guest’s desires are

For the Both/And Guest, the traditional

work for everyone, because everyone operates

contradictory by nature, the demand for human

categories defined by the sector aren’t always a

on a different internal clock. Instead, a life-first

warmth and seamless systems is particularly

comfortable fit. As such, the research identifies

approach can unlock repeat custom if guests

paradoxical for the industry, given the ongoing

four distinct mindsets: built from mixing-and-

know that they’ll conclude their stay feeling not

staffing crisis. While technology might be a

matching the six behaviours, they expose the

only rejuvenated, but having added something

useful tool to lean on, guests are clear: it cannot

current misalignments in the industry, as well

to their being that complements who they are.

replace personality and intuition. In fact, the

as avenues for commercial opportunity.

numbers lean heavily in favour of human touch,

• The Solo-ish

memorable, outweighing design or amenities.

With the ability to shift between relishing

this guest moves across brands based on their

Furthermore, 78% say they would rather stay

solitude and being the life of the party, these

mood. Where traditional loyalty programmes

where human messiness and intuition guide

guests want to enjoy autonomy and belonging

incentivise devotion through rewards, The

the stay as opposed to anticipated, personalised

on their terms. Equally at home in their private

Joy Collector chases feelings. To capture

AI ‘perfection’. Michael Levie, co-founder of

accommodation as they are in bustling social

their custom, hotels can’t rely on perks, so

CitizenM describes: “Guests don’t remember

spaces, The Solo-ish guest highlights the flaws

instead must offer quality experiences that

the app. They remember the smile, the nod,

in multi-guest infrastructure by seeking out

deliver emotional impact and story-worthy

the recognition.” Technology, in his opinion,

stays that welcome choice rather than silos.

transformations. Therefore, success is measured

should be invisible, becoming a tool rather than

When hotels cling to couple-centric models,

in emotional impact, not repeat bookings.

the experience itself.

they miss out on the rewards for offering

In refusing to be boxed into one type of stay,

dignified service for solo travellers, who will

EMBRACING CHANGE

extend their stays when given the option to

So what does this all mean? Designing for the

For the Both/And Guest, travel is about more

flow between their solo and social moods as

Both/And Guest means embracing fluidity and

than going away and making memories.

and when they strike.

rearranging existing models to fit complexities,

• Identity Journeys

Increasingly, they are expecting a part of their

all while offering service that feels warm and

identity to evolve, with each new experience

• The Human Exchanger

offering a take-away that is more than just a

These are the guests that view hotels as an

for every type of guest that could walk through

souvenir, be it knowledge, perspective or skill.

extension of the city they’re in, not just a

the door may fly in the face of operational

According to The Future Guest report, 44% say

building within it. The Human Exchanger wants

efficiencies, but there are rewards to be reaped

that learning makes a trip meaningful, and 47%

to become part of the atmosphere, giving as

for the brands that are bold enough.

value how travel makes them feel over what

much of themselves to the hotel experience as

These six guest behaviours and the four

they collect or achieve.

they take, whether staying overnight or not. They

mindsets that they exist within, culminate in

inviting, no matter what. Creating experiences

To capture this growing demand, hospitality

challenge the accommodation-first approach by

a clear direction for the industry: flexibility. By

brands will win loyalty not through sticking to

demonstrating the value of becoming a social

relinquishing the rigid and outdated models of

the same script, but by acting as flexible stages

backbone, and highlight new opportunities for

hospitality, the industry can meet guests where

for whichever side of themselves each guest

revenue in community activation, as opposed to

they are now, and where they might be heading

wants to indulge. “Since the pandemic, people

simply profiting off heads in beds.

in the future.

• The Rhythm Keeper

is already here, and they expect hospitality to

don’t just travel to escape,” Venâncio explains. “They travel to discover themselves.”

110

• The Joy Collector

with 73% saying staff are what makes a hotel

As Wagner concludes: “The Both/And Guest

At Salt of Palmar in Mauritius, for example,

When guests shape their stays around personal

keep up. The advantage for our industry isn’t

a Skill Swap programme invites guests and

timelines, life becomes more fluid, and

choosing efficiency or empathy, indulgence

locals to come together and share knowledge.

traditional timetables no longer make sense.

or responsibility, autonomy or belonging. It’s

Guests can offer expertise through teaching a

These guests want restoration that follows their

learning to host both with confidence, because

design class or delivering a football session,

own rhythm, allowing the freedom to recalibrate

it isn’t confusion, it’s how people live: adaptive,

while locals invite a deeper connection to the

and learn more about themselves in a guilt-

paradoxical, fluid by design. The question now

island through pottery, farming or cooking – an

free environment. The Rhythm Keeper points

is, as an industry, how are we going to bring

initiative that is symbiotic by nature.

out the glaring flaw in operational efficiency:

this to life?”

Marco Joe Fazio Creatives

#stoneexperts #bringingstonetolife

bespoke stone fabrication for over 50 years www.stone-circle.com

Hotel Construction Pipeline Global Hotel development remains robust across the globe according to the latest report from THP, with the database showing a total of 7,710 projects in the pipeline, accounting for over 1.48 million rooms. Asia Pacific (2,747 projects) continues to dominate by region, followed by Europe (2,191 projects) and North America (1,694 projects). Country-wide data shows the USA topping the rankings, ahead of China, while India continues to rise as it expands its tourism offer. New to the line-up is Thailand, with 34,869 rooms in the pipeline, the result of strategic signings in Bangkok and beyond from Hilton, Accor and IHG. Honing in on key cities, Riyadh has overtaken Dubai as the second most active market, with its construction pipeline amassing 23,965 rooms across 82 projects. Elsewhere in the Kingdom, Al Madinah has entered the top 10, due in part to the forthcoming Rua Al Madinah Project, which will introduce brands such as Waldorf Astoria, Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton to the holy city. Though the numbers fluctuate on a daily basis – with a dedicated THP research team regularly adding new signings and updating design leads – it is expected that more than 446,000 rooms will enter the market globally by the end of 2026.

TOP CITIES LONDON Projects 101 Rooms 18,566

XI’AN Projects 60 Rooms 13,425

RIYADH Projects 82 Rooms 23,965

BANGKOK Projects 59 Rooms 16,481

SHANGHAI Projects 47 Rooms 11,509

CHENGDU Projects 40 Rooms 8,468

DUBAI Projects 65 Rooms 14,434

SHENZHEN Projects 48 Rooms 14,522

HANGZHOU Projects 43 Rooms 8,495

AL MADINAH Projects 39 Rooms 16,298

TOP COUNTRIES

Projects Rooms THP is a data service that supports the development of new hotel projects worldwide. The figures in this report are extracted from the THP construction database: updated daily by an international research team, it includes four- and five-star hotel projects across all phases, from vision to pre-opening. www.tophotelprojects.com

112

Projects Rooms

USA 1,344 245,866

CHINA 1,073 240,186

INDIA 513 77,003

UK 432 59,173

GERMANY 320 47,906

SAUDI ARABIA 318 111,194

SPAIN 182 25,851

AUSTRALIA 178 28,429

INDONESIA 169 28,250

THAILAND 151 34,869

BUSINESS CENTRE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Of the 7,710 projects in the pipeline globally, 29% (2,207 projects) are in planning and 45% (3,431 projects) are under construction. It is within these phases that interior design schemes and FF&E fit-outs are being planned and implemented.

VISION

PRE-PLANNING

PLANNING

CONSTRUCTION

PRE-OPENING

Projects 299 Rooms 60,969

Projects 1,318 Rooms 240,650

Projects 2,207 Rooms 390,924

Projects 3,431 Rooms 707,097

Projects 455 Rooms 80,640

GROUPS AND BRANDS At the global level, Marriott International continues to lead by number of projects in the pipeline, fuelled largely by the ongoing expansion of its flagship brand. Hilton Worldwide follows, buoyed by the continued growth of Garden Inn, Hampton and Home2 Suites, though it’s the premium Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand that retains the top spot by project count.

929 Projects 775 Projects 602 Projects 483 Projects 376 Projects

BRAND

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

111

28,651

Hilton Garden Inn

100

17,232

Hampton by Hilton

12,814

Crowne Plaza

19,122

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 84

21,085

Home2 Suites by Hilton

10,352

Marriott Hotels

22,768

DoubleTree by Hilton

15,531

Courtyard by Marriott

17,150

Hyatt Regency

18,404

YEAR OF OPENING

2026 (32%)

2027 (21%)

2028 (11%)

2029+ (36%)

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The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

Mandarin Oriental’s exit underscores luxury’s long game

114

Honors now stands at around 180 million

East again delivered. Accor confirmed like-for-

members and remains the core lever for direct

like RevPAR guidance of 3% to 4% for the full

channel mix and pricing power. Hilton said

year and flagged continued pipeline momentum

Mandarin Oriental’s planned exit from the

about one-fifth of the quarter’s openings were

for Raffles, Fairmont and the lifestyle portfolio,

public markets comes just as luxury and

in luxury and lifestyle, and reinforced that

with conversions an important feeder.

lifestyle hotels again outperform the wider

conversion opportunities are scaling further

IHG’s trading update described a mixed

sector, underscoring how patient capital and

through Outset Collection. The company expects

but improving backdrop. Global RevPAR was

brand stewardship drive results at the top end.

more than 250 luxury and lifestyle hotels in Asia

broadly flat, but EMEAA rose on occupancy

Jardine Matheson has proposed to acquire

Pacific over time, with further growth anchored

and rate, the Middle East posted high single-

the minority interest it does not already own,

by Waldorf Astoria and Conrad in globally scarce

digit RevPAR increases, and Greater China

valuing the group at around USD4.2bn, with

city and resort locations.

stabilised with Tier-1 city leadership. Regent,

part of the consideration funded by selling

Hyatt’s results, with a higher weighting to

InterContinental and Kimpton continued

upper floors at One Causeway Bay and paying a

luxury leisure, resort and all-inclusive, showed

to extend reach in gateway markets, while

special dividend.

the same underlying pattern. “World of Hyatt

Vignette Collection provided conversion-led

The transaction is cast as a way to prioritise

surpassed 61 million members, an increase of

inroads where development finance is tight.

long-cycle refurbishment and selective

20% year over year.” Hyatt added that elite

Management said direct digital contribution

development without the constraints of

members “stay longer, spend more and are

and loyalty enrolment are trending higher,

quarterly reporting. That rationale mirrors the

more frequent guests”. In the quarter, “our

supporting rate integrity and owner economics.

quarter’s operating reality across listed peers,

luxury brands continue to generate the highest

The emphasis mirrors peers. Take friction out

where price-led gains, loyalty depth and curated

RevPAR growth,” with leisure transient revenue

of booking, bring guests into the ecosystem and

product continue to differentiate luxury and

up 1.6% overall and “up approximately 6%

protect price at the top end.

lifestyle from middle segments.

across our luxury brands”.

Wyndham sits lower in chain-scale exposure,

Marriott set out the discrepancy most plainly.

The all-inclusive portfolio delivered net

yet the quarter reinforced how loyalty

“Luxury RevPAR rose 4%, and performance

package revenue up 7.6% and forward pace

mechanics are now central across the spectrum.

weakened down the chain scales.” Management

into peak holiday periods remained robust.

“Wyndham Rewards offers unmatched value to

added that higher-end consumers “continue

Management also highlighted its growing

our 121 million Wyndham Rewards members,”

to prioritise travel” despite softer spots in the

upscale and upper midscale pipeline to extend

management said while launching a paid Insider

United States. Bonvoy is the distribution engine

network effects that feed luxury and resort

tier designed to raise stay frequency and share

behind that resilience. “Membership to our

demand in key gateways.

of wallet without adding costs to franchisees.

loyalty platform has more than doubled from

Accor provided the most granular read-

Choice Hotels used similar language to link

110 million back in 2017 to nearly 260 million.”

through on luxury and lifestyle. “Luxury and

programme design with revenue quality, noting

Marriott also pointed to record signings and a

lifestyle RevPAR growth was a solid 5% versus

that loyal members “stay nearly twice as many

pipeline above 596,000 rooms, with conversions

the prior year, driven by pricing for two-thirds

nights, and are seven times more likely to book

around 30% of nine-month signings and

and occupancy for one-third. Lifestyle posted

direct.” Both groups are pushing AI-assisted

openings. The mix is deliberate. It extends

a very solid 6.9% RevPAR growth.” The group

direct booking and upsell engines. While not

premium flags into rate-accretive locations

noted that management and franchise revenue

luxury, the strategic direction is the same. Own

without the risk and timing drag of newbuild.

in luxury and lifestyle grew almost seven

the relationship, then use it to hold or raise

Hilton echoed the loyalty-led theme and tied

points faster than RevPAR, a reminder that fee

price where the brand narrative supports it.

it directly to luxury positioning. “Our loyalty

structures are more lucrative at the top end and

India’s IHCL reported another resilient period

programme is the best-performing loyalty

that price holds better when demand wobbles.

at the upper end. Taj sustained rate strength

programme in the space. We are approaching

Regionally, France normalised after Olympic

in city and resort flags, supported by domestic

70% Honors occupancy and are growing the

disruption with a September rebound, the UK

corporate travel, premium leisure and a gradual

programme 15% to 20% a year.”

saw mid single-digit growth, and the Middle

inbound recovery. The company continued

BUSINESS CENTRE

to pair capital-light growth in management

still winning on price and pipeline. The brands that

dominant force in the transaction market in

contracts with selective CapEx in flagship

keep winning are those that deepen loyalty, hold rate

2025, saying: “Luxury performance has been

refurbishments. That approach is consistent

and deploy capital with patience.

unprecedented. We have seen rate growth that none of us forecast five years ago.”

with the global luxury playbook. Protect the heritage assets, refresh the rooms and public spaces on a measured cycle, and let the brand halo compound in rate and loyalty retention. Geography remains the main swing factor. The

Evidence, not optimism, drives 2026 hotel deals

Yet he warned that luxury sits on fragile foundations. “60% of outbound luxury travel comes from households that own 90% of the stocks. The top end of the US equity market has

USA was the softest region in mixed-segment

The

Investment

driven the last leg of this boom. If that unwinds,

portfolios, with government business lower,

Conference in London in November 2025

luxury will feel it first.” Bradshaw contrasted

corporate transient steady but unspectacular

delivered a blunt assessment of the market. The

this with the resilience of the company’s select

and group trends affected by event timing.

era of underwriting on sentiment has ended,

service portfolio. “Our 60 select service hotels in

Europe stabilised as travel flows normalised

and investors heading into 2026 must now

the UK are running at 86% occupancy. That tells

and calendar effects washed out. The Middle

justify their strategies with evidence.

me the customer still pays for value, consistency

European

Hospitality

and efficiency.”

East stayed strong on event-led demand and

Delegates attending the event, organised by

destination marketing. Asia continued to

Alvarez & Marsal and held at The Dorchester,

Brookfield’s Li Zhang offered a view shaped

normalise, with Japan and prime Chinese urban

heard that trading visibility has improved,

by institutional capital constraints. Explaining

markets improving while secondary locations

financing conditions are easing, and volatility

the firm’s acquisition of Generator Hostels, he

remained uneven. In almost every case, luxury

is finally receding, yet several speakers warned

said: “We are in a macro environment where

and lifestyle outperformed the system averages

that the investment bar is rising quickly. As

growth is low, so we focus on efficiency.

because price held and loyalty delivered guests

one panellist put it: “This is no longer a market

Generator yields €150-180 per room equivalent

at lower marginal distribution cost.

where you can talk your way into a deal. You

and does it on a lean cost base. That is a better

have to show the numbers.”

story than many economy hotels.” Zhang

HA PERSPECTIVE

The Investment Outlook panel opened with

argued that the hostel market in Europe remains

Two investment implications stand out. First,

that theme. Samantha Ward of Alvarez & Marsal

fragmented and under-managed: “This is not

elasticity at the top end remains structurally lower.

noted that “2025 is running ahead of 2024 in

about lifestyle. It is about real estate intensity.

Marriott’s 4% luxury RevPAR gain, Accor’s price-

terms of transaction volumes” with around

We are looking for assets that can sweat the

led growth in luxury and lifestyle, and Hyatt’s mid-

€11bn of portfolio deals still live. She cautioned,

square metres.”

single-digit luxury leisure gains all indicate that

however, that headline momentum should

Alchemy’s Tom Boszko proposed a different

affluent travellers continue to prioritise branded

not be misread. “Deal activity is up because

interpretation of the opportunity set. “Everyone

experiences. Second, development is tilting toward

visibility is returning. The distortion of the past

in private equity wants scale, simplicity and clean

conversions, collections and soft brands that bring

few years is finally falling away. What matters

structures. That has left thousands of hotels

independent hotels into the big engines. That keeps

now is the discipline of capital and the quality

in Europe untouched.” He described Italy’s

net unit growth moving without large newbuild risk

of the underwriting.”

fragmented landscape as the prime example of

Ward stressed that inflation has eased

mispriced complexity. “Most investors look at

Set against that, Mandarin Oriental’s take-private

but remains elevated and that owners are

a small family-run hotel in Italy and see risk.

looks well timed. The brand’s equity rests on scarcity,

increasingly pragmatic. “Sellers are no longer

We see a fragment of a platform. If you buy

distinctive architecture and a service culture that

pointing to outlier months. Buyers are no longer

15 or 20 of them and put the right operator in

requires heavy, episodic investment. Those choices

anchoring to peak ADR. We are moving back to

place, you create an institutional asset.” Boszko

suit private ownership where refurbishment pacing,

a normal valuation dialogue.”

argued that the next wave of returns will come

and scales the loyalty funnel that sustains pricing.

capital recycling and market entry can be managed

Cody Bradshaw, CEO of L+R Hotels, presented

over long horizons. The quarter across peers shows

a sharper message about the risks within that

why the thesis should work. Luxury and lifestyle are

normalisation. He described luxury as the

from investors “who are willing to work where others are not”. Savills’ David Kellett distilled the capital

115

dynamics driving these shifts. “Fundraising is

80% of our pipeline is outside Germany. London

and efficiency.” Aimbridge’s CEO Craig Smith

brutally hard. The big funds are taking all the

is our biggest growth market. Paris and Southern

cautioned: “Everyone wants to do everything

commitments. If you want to raise again, you

Europe are building strongly. The US is our next

with AI, but you cannot. Pick three things that

need to return capital. That is what is driving

step.” Lenze said the company’s advantage lies

will move the needle and do them well.”

transactions now.” Kellett said core capital

in repeatability. “We know our cost base, we

Paco Perez-Lozao of Amadeus warned: “The

has narrowed sharply, focusing only on prime

know our customer and we do not deviate. That

OTAs are moving faster. They have the data, the

assets with long-term visibility. “Private equity

is what makes the model scalable.”

capital and the integration with Google. Hotels

is back at the centre of the market because

Brand strategy sessions showed operators

they can move when core capital cannot. They

converging on similar ideas. Accor’s deputy

are buying, selling and recycling. That is why

CEO, Jean-Jacques Morin, said: “In ten years we

volumes will rise in 2026.”

journey.”

tripled our brand count and reduced Europe to

HA PERSPECTIVE

these

under 40% of our system. We have transformed

Across the conference, the message was consistent.

observations. Brookfield’s Zhang said: “Spain

the business. Now we execute.” He described

The European hotel market is entering a more

remains attractive, but domestic groups are

lifestyle as a structural part of the company’s

rational, data-driven phase. Interest rates are

bidding harder than international capital can

growth engine. “Lifestyle is no longer a niche. It

easing, and trading comparables are stabilising,

justify. We sold our Tenerife asset this year

is a global category with meaningful EBITDA.”

which will support increased transaction volumes in

because pricing exceeded our underwriting.”

IHG’s Karin Sheppard stressed discipline.

2026. But capital will not reward optimism. It will

Alchemy highlighted Italy and Germany as the

“We only create new brands if there is a genuine

most compelling near-term opportunities, but

gap for owners and guests. Proliferation for its

Platforms that combine operational efficiency,

with caveats. “Germany has not yet delivered

own sake destroys value.” Hilton’s John Rogers

diversified income, technological capability and

the distress people expected,” Boszko said.

echoed this: “Growing demand without growing

international repeatability will secure capital at

“But look at inflation-adjusted RevPAR, look

cost is the goal. Owners are watching the cost

scale. Those that rely on narrative alone will find

at wage growth, look at leases. There will be

line more closely than ever.” Westmont’s

that the market has moved on.

opportunities for restructurers in 2026.” Kellett

Kingsley Seevaratnam offered the owner’s

As Marvin Rust put it in the closing press briefing:

added that Germany’s trade fair recovery still

perspective: “The future is a lifestyle concept

“The question is simple: what is the investment? If

lags expectations: “The fundamentals are not

that does not carry lifestyle overhead. A sexy

you can answer that clearly, capital will back you.

broken, but the model is being tested.”

brand with a simple cost base.”

If you cannot, 2026 will be a tough place to hide.”

Regional

116

must close the gap or concede the customer

patterns

reinforced

reward evidence.

If the macro discussion sounded cautious, the

The conversation on ancillary revenue

deal-based sessions showed a clear pattern in

sharpened the message. Accor’s Agnès

the kinds of business models attracting capital.

Roquefort said: “In several of our lifestyle

CitizenM CEO Lennert de Jong (the operating

brands, ancillary revenues are more than 40%

company has since been renamed Another Star

of total revenue. In some, more than 50%.

post-acquisition) summarised the brand’s

These are restaurants with rooms.” The Social

Operators at UKHospitality’s Sustainability

formula succinctly. “We live on the paradox of

Hub’s Tasha Young described membership and

Seminar in London stressed that sustainability

affordable and luxury. Small rooms, no back-

events as “a stabiliser that smooths seasonality

strategy must now show commercial return.

of-house, full integration of technology and

and drives engagement”. Zoku’s Hans Meyer

Speakers set out practical measures already

public spaces that people actually want to use.

argued that “intensifying the use of space is

underway in estates rather than future pledges.

Guests will pay a premium for simplicity if the

the only way urban hospitality works at scale”.

The shared message was that progress depends

experience is right.” Marriott’s global head of

The implication was clear. Underwriting in 2026

on site-level delivery that reduces energy use,

M&A, Tim Grisius, explained the logic behind

will focus on total revenue per square metre, not

re-uses existing buildings, improves waste

acquiring the brand. “We are an asset-light

RevPAR alone.

systems and brings new revenue where possible.

Operators tie sustainability to profit

company. We needed a structure that preserved

Technology provided the final lens for

Marston’s presented the most directly

that while giving us exposure to a platform with

differentiation. Marriott’s president for

commercial case. The group set a goal in 2018

proven returns. CitizenM is efficient, scalable

EMEA, Satya Anand, said: “This is the biggest

“to connect our communities by building the

and differentiated. That is rare.”

technology transformation in our history. AI

biggest rapid charging network in the hospitality

Motel One’s co-CEO Stefan Lenze highlighted

is touching reservations, PMS, loyalty and

industry”. It now has “more than 561 rapid

a similarly disciplined expansion model. “70-

property operations. The goal is personalisation

chargers across the estate, from Inverness down

BUSINESS CENTRE

to Cornwall” with “117 million miles charged”.

through its facilities. Molson Coors said it

green or sustainability issues is palpable. In previous

EV charging has become a customer acquisition

“fundamentally supports EPR,” pointing to

years, attending an event like this, one would hear

tool. “EV drivers are looking for the best located

a reduction of “about 800 tons” of plastic

as much evangelising about saving the world as

charger. Our sector has the highest penetration

annually, but highlighted the difficulty

boosting the bottom line. Now it is much more

of any other sector in terms of EV drivers’

of planning investments while costs and

focused on the financial return.

preference for places to charge,” representing

implementation timelines remain unclear. The

But there is still a way to go. When I challenged

“a huge potential customer base for hospitality

brewer has committed “£100m… mostly from a

the panel talking about packaging on what impact

and new revenue generating opportunity.”

sustainability perspective” over five years while

the changes would have financially to hospitality

calling for a single UK-wide deposit return

businesses, they were unable even to give a ballpark

scheme to avoid inconsistent compliance.

estimate. This is pretty poor. There is also not

The charging partner carries installation and operational risk, allowing pubs to focus on trading. Revenue models range from profit share

Government officials highlighted that

enough discussion about the strategic implications of

to base rents that monetise unused parking.

hospitality’s energy-use intensity is among

adopting particular strategies. For example, signing

The group intends to “double the size of our

the highest in the commercial sector. The

leases with an external provider of EV charging may

charging estate again, by 2030,” including

mission to “deliver clean energy by 2030 and

look great as it does not involve capital outlay, but we

slower chargers at inns for overnight stays.

accelerate towards net zero” remains in place,

have historically seen problems with this approach

Travelodge emphasised re-use and re-fit

supported by “over £60bn of investment in the

in the hotel industry during the rollout of WiFi.

rather than newbuild. “Existing buildings

next five years.” The shift toward a single EPC

Many hoteliers ended up regretting signing

already have embedded energy and carbon, so

milestone of C for non-domestic buildings is

contracts with WiFi suppliers because when the

reusing them requires far fewer new materials.”

under consideration, with at least five years’

market shifted from paid WiFi to the expectation

The company expects around 70% of the estate

notice expected before changes take effect.

of free WiFi, it proved expensive to buy out the

to be upgraded to latest specification by year-

Haven provided a whole-estate perspective.

contractors from the previous deals. EV charging

end, with around £55m invested this year.

The operator manages 5,600 acres of coastline

may or may not go that way, but I’m not convinced

When rebranding acquired hotels, Travelodge

and employs close to 13,500 people. It has

hoteliers have fully thought through the risk they

funds the conversion and trades immediately.

reduced operational carbon by “about 60,000

take on by signing what looks like a no-lose deal.

“Even allowing for the cost of the refit, the total

tons – 7% reduced since 2019.” Its programme

Ultimately, sustainability is part of a balanced

end CapEx is less than half of what it would be

began with submetering “some 4,600” energy

scorecard approach to business. Companies engaging

to build new.” Refits keep “97% of refit waste

points and establishing site Green Teams to

with it need to show a return at some level. This can

out of landfill” and introduce smart heating,

drive behavioural change. Investment has

be immediate, say, in the form of cost savings, or a

lighting and more efficient boilers, lowering

followed in “hundreds-of-thousands of LED

longer-term play that supports the resilience of the

operating costs.

lights” and “18,000 solar panels”. One site

business. Sustainability has a huge role in hospitality

Mitchells & Butlers focused on operational

audit traced high energy use to kitchens pre-

on both counts.

emissions. The group is “committed to be net

heating equipment unnecessarily, leading to the

zero by 2040,” and is rolling out “all-electric

pointed remark about “the carbon footprint of

kitchens,” removing gas, and installing air

that bacon sandwich”.

source heat pumps for heat and hot water. It has

Across the day, operators showed that the

deployed IoT controls in “about 900 sites so far”

commercial case now leads the sustainability

to manage refrigeration, lighting and energy

narrative. Charging networks, adaptive re-use,

load, which has “helped to reduce consumption,

electrification and waste reduction programmes

reduce emissions, reduce operating costs”. Grid

are being scaled where cost and infrastructure

capacity remains the main constraint, meaning

allow. Policy obligations are rising, but

electrification roll-out must be phased where

circularity and efficiency gains are strengthening

infrastructure allows.

operating models. The challenge is sequencing:

Packaging and waste suppliers stressed the speed of regulatory change. Biffa described

taking the proven gains and preparing estates for the next stage of decarbonisation.

the arrival of extended producer responsibility invoices as a “monumental day” noting that

HA PERSPECTIVE

lighter-weight packaging is already coming

The sense that there is a ‘vibe shift’ when it comes to

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

117

BUSINESS CENTRE

Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 1. COLOGNE

Driven by the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Singapore’s hotel industry posted its highest monthly ADR and RevPAR on record. The market achieved highs in all three key performance metrics on Friday 3 October – occupancy (95.9%); ADR (SGD757.62) and RevPAR (SGD726.47) – surpassing performance during the 2024 event.

October 2025 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 80.8% ( 11.7%) ADR EUR189.43 ( 55.6%) RevPAR EUR153.06 ( 73.9%)

October 2025 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 82.8% ( 6.5%) ADR SGD384.15 ( 19.5%) RevPAR SGD317.96 ( 27.3%)

2. ABU DHABI

4. MELBOURNE

October 2025 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 86.2% ( 1.7%) ADR AED809.28 ( 18.2%) RevPAR AED697.38 ( 20.2%)

November 2025 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 82.6% ( 4.9%) ADR AUD243.47 ( 3.6%) RevPAR AUD201.05 ( 8.6%)

In Abu Dhabi, hotel performance jumped during Showdown Week, an action-packed fight-andfitness festival at Etihad Arena. The market posted its highest October occupancy since 2008, peaking at 95.0%, while ADR topped out at AED987.39 and RevPAR averaged at AED697.38 – a 20.2% uplift year on year.

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3. SINGAPORE

Anuga – a biennial trade fair for the food and beverage sector – pushed Cologne’s hotel industry to its highest ADR and RevPAR on record, according to October preliminary data from STR. ADR peaked at EUR484.12 on Sunday 5 October, while daily occupancy reached a high of 98.5% the following night.

A mix of events lifted Melbourne’s hotel performance to an all-time high for any November on record. Occupancy averaged 82.6% for the month, while ADR (AUD347.80) and RevPAR (AUD311.23) peaked on Saturday 1 November during the Melbourne Cup Carnival and a run of Oasis tour dates.

STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors. For more information and to subscribe visit: www.str.com

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

www.aheadawards.com

Red Sea Global wins big at AHEAD MEA with a regenerative mountain resort and a chain of pearl-inspired suites.

Hot on the heels of the Future Hospitality Summit, AHEAD kicked off Dubai Design Week 2025 with a glittering ceremony at Bluewaters Forum celebrating creative excellence throughout the Middle East and Africa. Having received 125 entries from across the region, the judging panel navigated the monumental task of discussing each project’s merits. After a day of deliberation, the winners emerged, representing the best in hospitality experience and design. The evening commenced with an opening address from Sleeper’s Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner, after which Hakan Ozkasikci, chair of the judging panel, took to the stage to offer an insight into the trends among this year’s shortlist. “The MEA hospitality market is in a defining moment. Demand is diversifying – bleisure, culture, sports mega-events, wellness and nature-led escapes are broadening beyond traditional luxury,” he noted. “Supply is maturing: we’re seeing depth across segments, from experiential midscale to ultra-luxury, and a surge in branded residences and long-stay.” Ozkasikci continued: “Design is moving past spectacle toward substance – climateresponsive buildings, shaded outdoor living, adaptive reuse and locally sourced systems that respect arid environments. Operators are focused on efficiency and talent: AIassisted planning, smart building systems and serious investment in people. Sustainability is no longer a sidebar – it’s a business case, with owners aligning CapEx to OpEx savings and ESG targets shaping financing and brand preference. Crucially, the MEA is telling its own stories – hospitality that feels of here, not flown in.” The first trophy of the night was presented

to Rose Bar at Delano in Dubai. Designed by Elastic Architects, the jewel-box speakeasy was described by the panel as “sumptuous and sexy with an element of surprise”. And Ennismore had plenty more cause for celebration, as Delano also emerged victorious in the Suite, Restaurant and Hotel Renovation categories. “The hotel successfully captures the essence of the brand’s iconic Miami flagship while reinterpreting it for a completely different cultural and architectural context,” said one judge, while another concluded: “The result sets the right tone for Dubai in a way that feels both authentic and contemporary, establishing a new benchmark for understated modern luxury.” Elsewhere in the emirate, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab made waves with its superyacht-inspired silhouette courtesy of Killa Design. The panel praised the innovative architecture firm for creating “a new Dubai landmark” that engages in “a strong dialogue with the immediate environment”. Praise was also given for the resort’s lush landscaping, which redefines the relationship between nature and the built environment through Killa’s use of “privacy, proportion and plant selection”. Beyond the UAE, hotels in Africa fared particularly well, taking home a total of five awards across the continent. Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa in Benin won Event Spaces, with Moke Architecten and Sundokovy Sisters commended for their balance of sophisticated aesthetics with operational efficiency, modular design and culturally resonant details. One judge commented: “A great architectural concept for a French brand within a West African setting.” In Zambia meanwhile, Fox Browne Creative

and Jack Alexander received the Hotel Conversion award for their “subtle and well crafted” transformation of a presidential retreat into a contemporary safari lodge, which successfully retains a residential atmosphere whilst reflecting the heritage of the location. And in Morocco, Le Medi-Spa at Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay took home the trophy for Spa & Wellness. The judges were impressed by the way Muza Lab “married Moroccan craftsmanship with elegance and tactility - intricate plaster, wood and metalwork to create a palette that is both soothing and sophisticated, making the experience luxurious yet deeply rooted in place”. Ultimately, the night belonged to Red Sea Global and Studio Paolo Ferrari, who scooped four awards for two of their recent Saudi Arabia projects – Shebara and Desert Rock. Shebara came top in the Guestrooms category, with the panel captivated by the Canadian design studio’s “daring, unique and bold” combination of futurism and craftsmanship. In particular, judges hailed the accommodation’s originality, experiential quality and seamless integration of interiors within a challenging architectural shell that has resulted in a “oncein-a-lifetime stay”. Meanwhile, regenerative retreat Desert Rock was triumphant in the Lobby and Resort categories, as well as the highly coveted Hotel of The Year. Carved into the craggy cliffs of the Hijaz mountains, the pioneering project designed by Oppenheim Architecture and Studio Paolo Ferrari poses a stark contrast to its fellow Saudi Arabia AHEAD winner, yet still left a lasting impression on the panel. “A truly visionary project that sets a new design standard for regenerative luxury.”

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

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

Rose Bar at Delano – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Accor / Ennismore / Elastic Architects

Wilderness Bisate Reserve – Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Wilderness / Nicholas Plewman Architects & Associates / Artichoke Interior Design / Waldman Studios

E V E N T S PA C E S Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa – Benin Echo Marina Sopie / Accor / Moke Architecten / Sundukovy Sisters

GUESTROOMS Shebara Resort – Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Killa Design / Studio Paolo Ferrari

RESORT Desert Rock Resort – Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Oppenheim Architecture / Studio Paolo Ferrari

R E S TA U R A N T Maison Revka at Delano – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Accor / Ennismore / Paris Society / Rivas / Laleh Amirassefi

HOTEL CONVERSION Chichele Presidential Lodge – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia Chichele Safaris / Chiawa Safaris / Fox Browne Creative in partnership with Jack Alexander Studio

S PA & W E L L N E S S

HOTEL NEWBUILD

SUITE

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Jumeirah Group / Killa Design / LTW / HBA / AvroKo

Delano Penthouse at Delano – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Accor / Ennismore / Kling Consult International / La Bottega

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N Delano – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Accor / Ennismore / Elastic Architects

Le Medi-Spa at Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay – M’diq, Morocco Primarios / Royal Mansour / GCA Architects / Muza Lab

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y andBeyond Mnemba Island – Zanzibar, Tanzania andBeyond Travel / Fox Browne Creative in collaboration with Nicholas Plewman Architects

L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Jumeirah Group / Killa Design / LTW / HBA / AvroKo

NEW CONCEPT The Rig – Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund

LO B BY Desert Rock Resort – Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Oppenheim Architecture / Studio Paolo Ferrari

HOTEL OF THE YEAR Desert Rock Resort – Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Oppenheim Architecture / Studio Paolo Ferrari

Winners include (clockwise from top left): andBeyond Mnemba Island, Zanzibar; Shebara Resort, Saudi Arabia; Desert Rock Resort, Saudi Arabia; Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Dubai; Le Medi-Spa at Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, Morocco; and Rose Bar at Delano, Dubai

A landmark renovation praised for its craftsmanship and materiality dominates AHEAD Europe, taking home wins in three categories as well as the coveted Hotel of the Year.

Clad in their finest feathers and fringing, hospitality professionals from across the continent descended on Evolution, London in November 2025 for an evening of Gatsby-style revelling as the winners of AHEAD Europe 2025 were revealed. With a theme of Broadway Black Tie, the sold-out event took cues from the enduring allure of the Roaring Twenties to deliver an evening of extravagant Art Deco decadence inspired by the golden era of the Jazz Age. But it wasn’t just the 100th anniversary of F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby or the Art Deco movement that was cause for celebration. From a pool of 240 entries spanning 29 countries, the judging panel had narrowed down its victors, a task that head judge, Federico Toresi, Global Vice President, Design, Luxury & Premium Brands at Accor, described as “thorough, impartial and, at times, lively”. Addressing the 70 shortlisted entries, he offered his congratulations: “You’ve delighted us with bold statements and subtle touches alike. What struck me most this year was the balance – creativity paired with commercial sense, operational rigour and a genuine commitment to sustainability. Europe still knows how to do luxury with exquisite taste. Our projects prove that luxury is not about excess, but about refinement, authenticity and storytelling. So tonight, let’s applaud not only the winners but also the collective creativity of our industry. Here’s to spaces that inspire, comfort and transform.” First to receive their Lasvit-designed trophy were the winners of the Outstanding Contribution award: Olivier Bon, PierreCharles Cros, Romée De Goriainoff and Xavier Padovani of Experimental. Commenting

on their intuitive and organic approach to hospitality as she presented the award, hospitality strategist Heleri Rande said: “Tonight, we honour four people who turned a hidden bar into a movement. Who took an industry known for copying and showed it how to create. Who proved that a brand can grow without losing soul, that a hotel can feel like a great bar with bedrooms, and that hospitality can be daring without ever being pretentious.” Other winners included the team behind Rosewood Amsterdam, who took home the trophy for Hotel Conversion – a category highlighted as Europe’s unique strength thanks to the number of existing heritage properties the continent has at its disposal. The project – a decade-long restoration of the city’s 17th century former Palace of Justice in the Canal district by Kentie Architects, Archer Humphryes, Studio Piet Boon and Studio Sagrada – was described by judges as “a herculean transformation”. Scooping the win in the Suite category, L’Observatoire on board Venice SimplonOrient-Express, a Belmond Train, became the only rail-based victory of the evening. Designed by Atelier JR and Wimberly Interiors, the project was praised for its exquisite craftsmanship and playful sophistication, hailed as “an artwork in motion that feels intimate and luxurious”. Some projects saw wins in multiple categories, demonstrating an overall excellence that captivated the judges. In a win for Greece, Mandarin Oriental at Costa Navarino claimed two victories, with Coopers Hill taking to the stage to collect the award for Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces. In cooperation with architects K-Studio and Tombazis &

Associates, the project was praised for how it seemingly conceals the resort within in its sloping topography, with architecture and nature standing together to create a place that feels organically grown from the land. Later, the team were triumphant once more as the property won in the Resort category, with judges describing it as “a refined, low-impact destination that redefines hospitality through elegant architecture, intuitive planning and meaningful guest connection”. However, it was Orient Express La Minerva that stole the show, boasting victories in three categories: Bar, Club or Lounge for The Minerva Bar, which impressed judges with its blend of Roman-inspired craftsmanship and noble materials; Guestrooms, clinching the win for the harmonious spatial compositions and bespoke layouts of its 97 rooms, each of which feature rich, Italian materials; and Hotel Renovation, with the property described by judges as “a remarkable transformation” that is “exceptional in every aspect”. It was therefore little surprise when artistarchitect Hugo Toro also lifted the trophy for the most coveted award of the evening: Hotel of the Year. Delivered by Barletta Group and Accor, Orient Express La Minerva was lauded for its strong identity, reinforced by incredible detailing, materiality and craftsmanship, through a transformation that judges agreed is fitting for the much-anticipated debut from the legendary heritage brand. Though it was the final regional AHEAD awards, the 2025 celebrations didn’t come to an end in Europe. Now, winners from all over the world go head-to-head at AHEAD Global, where the best of the best in hospitality design is revealed by way of the Top 100.

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

RESORT

The Minerva Bar at Orient Express La Minerva – Rome, Italy Barletta Group / Accor / Hugo Toro

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino – Navarino Bay, Greece Temes / Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group / Tombazis & Associates Architects / K-Studio / Afroditi / Alexander Waterworth Interiors / Coopers Hill / Greenways

E V E N T S PA C E S Fallow House at Estelle Manor – Cotswolds, UK C2J / Ennismore / AIME Studios

GUESTROOMS

R E S TA U R A N T Pic at Beau-Rivage Palace – Lausanne, Switzerland Sandoz Foundation Hotels / Beau-Rivage Hotel / Achille de La Harpe / Jean-Baptiste Bertolini / Tristan Auer

Orient Express La Minerva – Rome, Italy Barletta Group / Accor / Hugo Toro

S PA & W E L L N E S S

HOTEL CONVERSION

Nao at Minos Palace Resort – Crete, Greece Bluegr Hotels & Resorts / Gina Mamidaki / Dora Giakoumi / Stones & Walls / Greenways

Rosewood Amsterdam – Netherlands CTF Amsterdam / Rosewood Hotels & Resorts / Kentie Architects / Archer Humphryes Architects / Studio Piet Boon / Studio Sagrada / Piet Oudolf / DPA Lighting Consultants

HOTEL NEWBUILD Eriro Alpine Hide – Ehrwald, Austria Andreas Mader / Amelie & Dominik Posch / Christina & Martin Spielmann / Martin Gruber / Unikateur

H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N

SUITE L’Observatoire at Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a Belmond Train – Venice, Italy Belmond / Atelier JR / Wimberly Interiors

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y Fowey Hall Hotel – Cornwall, UK Luxury Family Hotels / Blake + Blake Architects / Studio Jill / Richard Sneesby Landscape Architects

Orient Express La Minerva – Rome, Italy Barletta Group / Accor / Hugo Toro

ACC E S S I B I L I T Y

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

1 Hotel Mayfair – London, UK Crosstree Real Estate Partners / 1 Hotels / Allford Hall Monaghan Morris / Studio Moren / GA Group / Dion & Arles

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino – Navarino Bay, Greece Temes / Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group / Tombazis & Associates Architects / K-Studio / Coopers Hill / Greenways

NEW CONCEPT

LO B BY

SIRO Boka Place – Tivat, Montenegro Kerzner International / Adriatic Marinas / Holder Mathias Architects / Atellior / Gillespies / DPA Lighting Consultants

The Barn at Apfelhotel Torgglerhof – South Tyrol, Italy Pichler Family / NOA / Freilich Landschaftsarchitekten

LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S Panoramahyttene at Sandhåland Camping – Sandve, Norway Holon Arkitektur

O U T S TA N D I N G C O N T R I B U T I O N AWA R D Experimental Olivier Bon / Pierre-Charles Cros / Romée de Goriainoff / Xavier Padovani

HOTEL OF THE YEAR Orient Express La Minerva – Rome, Italy Barletta Group / Accor / Hugo Toro

Winners include (clockwise from top left): Eriro Alpine Hide, Ehrwald; Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, Greece; Orient Express La Minerva, Rome; Rosewood, Amsterdam; Fowey Hall Hotel, Cornwall; and Pic at Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne

SIPPING

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Defined by precision, refinement, and enduring quality, our work brings design vision to life through seamless delivery and exceptional craftsmanship. With expertise across the world’s most distinguished hotels, we are the trusted partner for luxury hospitality projects. To discuss your next project, contact: Vanessa Budd, Business Development Director vbudd@becklondon.uk

All decors shown and mentioned are reproductions.

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SPOTLIGHT FLOORCOVERINGS

Whether neutral and calming or vibrant and energetic, floorcoverings are laying the groundwork in hospitality interiors.

Radici Bloom Back An evolution of the Bloom line, Radici introduces Bloom Back, an innovative solution that combines eco-design and sustainability. This new approach to textile flooring is made possible through a monocomponent structure, which combines a primary fabric in polyamide 6 with a backing of the same material, allowing the product to be easily regenerated at the end of its lifecycle. Bloom Back is made entirely from Econyl yarn, a regenerated nylon obtained from industrial waste such as fishing nets, textile scraps and industrial plastics, reducing environmental impact and promoting the continuous re-use of resources. As a default on all Bloom Back carpets, Radici’s AlleRAD antiallergen treatment makes textile flooring healthier and more comfortable, improving indoor air quality by removing 99.9% of allergens while maintaining durability and biodegradability. The biobased technology remains active on the carpet surface, continuously keeping allergen levels under control by promoting probiotic colonisation, enzyme production and allergen removal. Bloom Back, available in 21 solid colours or customisable designs, maintains a high standard of quality, environmental responsibility and enhanced wellbeing. www.radicicarpet.it

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1. Nanimarquina Talk Talk

2. Edition 169 Kommos

3. Creative Matters Staircase Runner

4. Ege Abstract

In his fifth collaboration with Nanimarquina, designer Jaime Hayon presents Talk Talk, a rug collection that celebrates dialogue and communication through expressive, organic shapes. Exploring the relationship between art and design, each hand-tufted rug is woven from 100% New Zealand wool, and is available in three vibrant colours – mustard, blueish-green and brick. The collection also becomes the first of Hayon’s Nanimarquina collaborations to use the rug as a work of art, rather than a canvas, with each face design available in two sizes, allowing for playful configurations that evoke energy, enthusiasm and creativity. www.nanimarquina.com

Born on the shores of the Aegean Sea, Kommos is inspired by the raw light, natural lines and mineral silence of a forgotten Greek beach, echoing the subtle beauty found where sand meets ancient ruins. The collection comprises seven designs, including Boreal (pictured), all made using the finest natural materials: combed New Zealand wool, natural silk, linen, felted wool and bamboo. These fibres offer softness, durability and elegance, contributing to the lasting quality and unique touch of each rug. Colours are intentionally reduced to the essentials: stone beiges, saline greys, sandy browns, or sometimes a trace of shadow or pale sunlight. www.edition169.com

For a contemporary ski chalet in the Quebec Laurentians, Creative Matters and ACDO crafted bespoke rugs that merge modern architecture with the warmth of mountain living. As the project’s most technical achievement, the staircase runner was inspired by linear, plaid-like motifs, connecting to the living room’s deep reds while responding to the staircase’s architectural rhythm. Handtufted in Thailand with durable wool – essential for fluctuating temperatures and heavy wear – the runner layers warm beige with rich red accents to achieve a balanced, nuanced palette, while its meticulous geometry ensures every line lands with precision. www.creativemattersinc.com

From Ege Design Studio, Abstract is a collection of 13 designs that transforms contemporary artworks into immersive floorings for hospitality spaces. Paper-cut textures, diffused watercolour effects and rhythmic geometric patterns combine with warm, vivid hues to create depth and visual contrast, and while large-scale patterns amplify impact, the handcrafted aesthetic adds warmth and authenticity. Its sophisticated cut-and-loop carpet quality enhances texture and creates a subtle three-dimensional effect underfoot. Offering both dramatic colour stories and softer, poetic expressions, Abstract is a versatile choice that suits a range of distinct environments. www.egecarpets.com

SPOTLIGHT

1. Massimo Copenhagen Symmetry

2. Limited Edition Arcadia

3. Egger Flooring Collection 25+

4. Dierdre Dyson Melange

Designed by studio Loft Kolasinski, the Symmetry rug collection explores the intersection of natural chaos and humanmade order. Inspired by the idea that straight lines are a human creation, each rug features bold, intersecting lines that cross in deliberate patterns, embodying the symmetry we impose on the world. The design features dynamic streaks that flow across the surface, creating a sense of movement and energy, which are composed within an intricate framework, providing the piece with structure and balance. The overall arrangement is modern and architectural, with the interplay of lines creating a contemporary, layered aesthetic. www.massimo.dk

Backed by more than 30 years’ experience creating custom-made rugs, Limited Edition has revealed Arcadia, a collection inspired by the smooth rocks found in remote mountain craters. With a refined craftsmanship and rich materiality, this tufted rug collection combines the natural warmth of wool, the soft sheen of Tencel and linen’s subtle texture. Each colourway is built in harmonious tonal layers, offering a calm yet expressive aesthetic. Arcadia’s design features an artful mix of cut-and-loop piles in four different heights, creating a sculptural, playful surface that shifts with the light, bringing a sense of nature into contemporary interiors. www.le.be

The Flooring Collection 25+ from Egger has been curated with modern interiors in mind, bringing together design and performance. Available in realistic woodgrain and tile designs, these scratch resistant floors are stain-resistant, dirt repellent and easy to clean. The collection encapsulates six product lines, including the versatile and durable NatureSense laminate ranges, available in a variety of decors and surface textures, and AquaDura, wood-based, water-resistant hybrid floors with a matt-touch surface. The collection is also part of Egger Interior Match, which offers matching or coordinating boards, laminate and flooring from one source. www.egger.com

New for 2026 following a Maison & Objet debut, Melange by Dierdre Dyson embraces the freedom of creative spontaneity. Comprising seven designs, the carpets are unified by a theme of geometric and kaleidoscopic shapes as seen in O (pictured), as well as a colour palette of taupe neutrals enriched with accents of burgundy, purple and burnt orange. Hand-knotted Tibetan wool and pure silk creates a luxurious texture, and every carpet is tailored to the customer’s specification. “I relied entirely on a random design process from ideas that popped into my head,” reveals Dyson. “The results are interesting, and I hope there is something for everyone.” www.deirdredyson.com

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SPOTLIGHT

CASE STUDY

Bolon The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection

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Swedish design brand Bolon has supplied a range of floorcoverings to the newly renovated The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection. Introducing a new era of hospitality to the Cyprus capital, the hotel combines the city’s historic legacy with the refinement of the international premium brand. Dubbed ‘The Do’s of the Diplomat’, the design scheme celebrates the building’s political history of alliances and notable events, while also embracing the energy of contemporary Cyprus. Every corner of the hotel introduces a new layer of comfort and authenticity, from the understated sophistication of the guestrooms and suites, to the vibrant restaurants, serene pools and refined wellness facilities. Adding to the hotel’s distinctive character are a series of carefully considered spaces, including The Grand Room, The Incognito Bar, The Library, business centre, refined event venues and curated retail experiences.

Envisioned by Cypriot studio Eraclis Papachristou, the guestrooms feature Nude Sashiko flooring from the Bolon by Patricia Urquiola collection. Selected for its distinctive design language and strong technical performance, the flooring is characterised by a Sashiko pattern and muted terracotta tone, which aligns with the hotel’s overarching design narrative. As natural daylight enters the accommodation, the floors come to life in a subtle and sophisticated way. Meanwhile, in the public spaces conceived by Dutch design firm D/Dock, Bolon by Patricia Urquiola floorcoverings were also specified for the meeting spaces, spa and gym changing rooms. Alongside aesthetic appeal, Bolon’s sustainability credentials add significant value to the project by offering a long product lifespan, as well as a maintenance routine free from harsh chemicals. www.bolon.com/en

Salone del Mobile, Milan 21-26 April LONDON | HIGH POINT info@indian-ocean.co.uk

+44 (0)20 8675 4808

www.indian-ocean.co.uk

HK-HAMPTON4-BB

HOSPITALITY & PROJECT LIGHTING enquiries@elsteadlighting.com | elsteadlighting.com

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SPECIFIER

Chelsom Groove Chelsom has unveiled Groove, a new LED reading light that elevates both form and performance. Its distinctive reeded head introduces a fresh design language, while the angled canopy and newly introduced touch-switch technology deliver a sleek, intuitive user experience. The combination wall light features a softly diffused main light – ideal as ambient nighttime illumination – which is controlled independently from the reading light for maximum flexibility. Compact and well-proportioned, Groove reduces the footprint of previous Chelsom reading light designs by 50%. Available in five finishes, it brings a tailored aesthetic to any guestroom. www.chelsom.co.uk

CASE STUDY

JC Hospitality Waldorf Astoria New York JC Hospitality was selected to collaborate with Waldorf Astoria New York, due to its proven expertise in luxury hospitality projects and ability to translate design intent into highly crafted furniture. For this project, JC Hospitality worked closely with the ownership and design teams to develop and produce key bespoke elements for both public areas and private settings. This scope includes the signature public area clock stand and all furniture for the Presidential Suite, as well as custom service station cabinets tailored to operational requirements. The pieces were engineered to respect the hotel’s historic heritage while integrating refined craftsmanship and detailing – reinforcing Waldorf Astoria’s position as a timeless symbol of elegance. www.jc-hospitality.com

Borg & Overström T2 Sparkling Water Tap Crafted in the UK, the T2 Tap System redefines the ritual of drinking water, transforming it into a moment of indulgence. Inspired by the quiet elegance of Scandinavian design, the T2 Sparkling Water Tap is engineered to perform in commercial and hospitality environments, bringing high-performance, sustainable drinking water into the world’s finest locations. Through the integrated DeepSparkle technology, the tap delivers bottleless sparkling water, with long-lasting fizz for an enduring sense of indulgence. In the world of modern hospitality, where sustainability, wellness and aesthetics converge, the T-series offers a new standard in sustainable hydration. www.borgandoverstrom.com

Lemi Group Milano Evo Designed as more than a treatment table, Milano Evo is a sensory platform that delivers a fully regenerative experience. Enhanced with Vibro-Music technology, which transforms sound into vibration, the user experiences music as a physical language, with frequencies travelling through the memory-foam mattress, releasing tension and guiding the mind into a deep state of calm. The experience is further enriched through chromotherapy – delicate colour variations that stimulate the senses – and an integrated heating system that evenly distributes warmth. With its minimalist design, customisable finishes and Italian craftmanship Milano Evo is a distinctive centrepiece for spas and wellness environments seeking to offer more than a technical gesture. www.lemispa.com/en

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SPECIFIER

CASE STUDY

Precosia Crystal Grid For a private residence in Singapore, distinguished by its generous proportions and soaring ceilings, Preciosa conceived a lighting installation that was never intended to be a subtle accent. Envisioned as a commanding centrepiece, Precosia’s signature design Crystal Grid was selected by interior design studio Massoneong for its striking architectural presence and understated elegance. Suspended within the open expanse where the living room transitions into the kitchen and dining area, the installation commands a dramatic volume. From every vantage point, the grid unveils a shifting rhythm, responding delicately to the nuances of daylight and atmosphere. The installation comprises 85 handblown crystal tubes with bubbles and 170 integrated LED modules, combining refined craftsmanship with flexible design to deliver a balanced interplay of simplicity and sophistication, perfectly in tune with its surroundings. www.preciosa.com

Original BTC Neotenic New for 2026 and designed in collaboration with Buchanan Studio, Neotenic by Original BTC brings new audiences to ancient glassblowing techniques. With great care and skill, opal glass is swirled with colour to create a mesmerising marble effect, and the resulting curvaceous bullnose glass shades tilt playfully atop a contrasting signature triangular motif base. The handcrafted collection makes glass the hero, with its shades mouthblown in house in a palette of Strawberry, Chocolate and Vanilla. Launching at Paris Deco Home, the Neotenic collection comprises table, floor, wall, ceiling and pendant lights that fuse Buchanan Studio’s romanticism and edge with a shared appreciation of utilitarian design and commitment to British craftsmanship. www.originalbtc.com © Finbarr Fallon Creative Office 141

SPECIFIER

CASE STUDY

Vagenas Nao Longevity Hub In collaboration with architecture and interior design studio Stones & Walls, Vagenas delivered the fabrics for Nao Longevity Hub at Minos Palace, Crete. The concept of the AHEAD Award-winning spa is reinforced with sheer linen curtains, cotton velvets and silk fabrics, while recessed curbed motorised curtains called for the company’s expertise in sewing and installation. Outside, Vagenas’ fabrics and vinyls dress custom-made daybeds and cosy sofa beds – their earthy shades selected to complement the timeless elegance of the space. The result produces a culture of waves, serene feelings and slow-moving mentality in all areas. www.vagenas.eu/en

Parla Radison Blu Building on its collaboration with Starwood Hotels at 1 Hotel Copenhagen, Parla is currently working on the refurbishment of three London properties. Radisson Blu hotels in Bond Street, Bloomsbury and Mercer Street are each undergoing a considered update, with Parla contributing both bespoke solutions and selected pieces from its collection as part of the refreshed interiors. Across the guestrooms, Parla is delivering a comprehensive FF&E scope, including casegoods and loose furniture. Headboards, benches, nightstands and seating areas are being designed to respond to the client’s needs while serving functionality to its fullest. Parla’s high-quality craftsmanship, combined with elevated design, creates a refined balance of comfort, durability and calm. Complementing the bespoke elements, a curated selection of Parla Collection pieces is being integrated into the projects, such as the Atlas Armchair and Bone Coffee Table. These pieces showcase Parla’s know-how, merging bespoke solutions with recognisable Parla silhouettes to create a cohesive look that responds to the client’s vision. Throughout the refurbishment, Parla’s project and design teams are working in close coordination to ensure the seamless delivery of products, while collaborating closely with the project architect’s aesthetic direction. The result is a series of evolving interiors that stay true to their roots while elevating their spirit, supporting Radisson Blu’s refined brand experience. www.parladesign.com

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23 – 25 March 2026 InterContinental | Pullman | Berlin

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ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 124 ABI Interiors

083

Indian Ocean

137

Albrecht Jung

029

JC Hospitality

055

Arte

075

Laufen

042

Art Story

057

Lemi Group

084

Astro Lighting

002

Luteca

019

Beck London

131

Occa

045

Bernhardt Hospitality

053

Oliver Hemming

147

Bolon

031

Original BTC

077

Borg & Overstrom

064

Palecek Hospitality

095

Chelsom Lighting

008-009

Parla

063

Creative Matters

047

Curtis Furniture

096

Richloom Contract

148

Edition 169

016

Roca

025

Egger

132

Silveroc

111

Elstead Lighting

138

Sleeper Sessions

EPR Architects

120

Stonecircle

106

Ethimo

027

THP

144

Guardian Glass

105

Tribu

014

Hector Finch

093

Tuuci

005

HIX Europe

010-011

Vagenas

091

IHIF

006-007

012-013

143

145

CHECK-OUT

Sky’s The Limit

Dubbed ‘The City of Superlatives’, Dubai has

And its not just the hotel’s height that is

built a global reputation on pushing boundaries

commanding attention. Ciel Dubai Marina is also

– be it architectural, engineering or rooted in

home to one of the world’s highest infinity pools,

luxury. In fact, the emirate currently holds over

perched on the 76th floor. Here, guests can swim

425 Guinness World Records – more than any

to panoramic views that stretch all the way from

other country in the Middle East – traversing

Palm Jumeirah to the Arabian Gulf.

everything from the world’s largest airport terminal to the deepest swimming pool.

Rising 377.127m into the sky, Dubai’s new architectural marvel is officially crowned the World’s Tallest Hotel.

146

“It is a tremendous honour to be recognised by Guinness World Records for this monumental

The latest feather in its record-breaking cap

achievement – one that stands as a testament

is Ciel Dubai Marina, which has been officially

to the architects, engineers, construction teams,

recognised as the World’s Tallest Hotel by

key partners and countless individuals whose

Guinness World Records – a title previously held

expertise and dedication transformed Ciel

by Gevora Hotel, unsurprisingly also in Dubai.

from a bold vision into an iconic landmark,”

Developed by The First Group and envisioned

comments Rob Burns, CEO of The First Group.

by Norr Group, the 1,004-key hotel – a Vignette

“As a defining feature of the Dubai skyline, Ciel

Collection property from IHG – soars 377.127m

further reinforces the UAE’s position as a global

into the sky and spans 81 storeys, cementing its

leader in architectural ambition, innovation and

status as an architectural icon.

luxury tourism.”

A family-owned company with nearly 70 years of expertise, providing high-quality, sustainable fabrics and finished products for specifiers and purchasers. richloomcontract.com ©

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