HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN
SHANGRI-LA – KUNMING • PAOLO FERRARI • ZANNIER – ÎLE DE BENDOR
Lighting designed to stand the test of time
CONTENTS ISSUE 128 096
HOTEL REVIEWS
112
Zannier
056
Casa Bonavita
066
Maison Felix
073
Amoh
076
Son Xotano
083
The Ritz-Carlton
088
Luura Cliff
096
Nômade Temple
104
The Zetter
112
Shangri-La
119
Île de Bendor Malta © Martin Morrell
Miami Beach Rhodes
056
Mallorca
Key Biscayne © DePasquale + Maffini
Paros
Madrid
Bloomsbury
076
Kunming
© Christos Drazos 003
CONTENTS ISSUE 128 FEATURES
066
Meeting... Paolo Ferrari
028
Meeting... Mark Burns
037
20 Years of INC
043
Following the completion of two career-defining projects in Saudi Arabia, Paolo Ferrari reflects on the philosophy that has shaped his eponymous practice over the past decade. As Chedi Hospitality enters the next phase of growth, the group’s Chief Design & Construction Officer reveals how a philosophy rooted in place, culture and emotion is shaping its next chapter.
© Boz Gagovski
020
126
REGULARS
© Jose Hevia Blach
119
043
© Kris Tamburello
© Owen Raggett
004
Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, the Founding Partner of INC discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.
Check-In
016
Drawing Board
018
The Lobby
049
Design Details
125
Business Centre
128
Events
139
Spotlight
148
Bathrooms & Amenities
151
Beds, Linens & Mattresses
165
Specifier
169
Check-Out
186
fenabel@fenabel.pt | fenabel.pt
WELCOME
ON THE COVER Shangri-La, Kunming © Owen Raggett
Marking The Moment
I
n a world that seems to move at an ever-increasing speed,
Ten years on, that principle still holds true. Winning entries
milestones have a way of making us stop. Whether marking
demonstrate operational efficiency, commercial viability and
a new beginning, a year of growth or a dream finally realised,
intelligent interpretation of the brief, as well as originality,
they offer a rare opportunity to pause, reflect on the journey
emotional resonance and the all-important guest experience.
and acknowledge a moment worth celebrating.
And behind every project is a story of collaboration. Owners,
In hospitality, where the focus is so often on what comes
operators, architects, interior designers, artists, makers and
next, these moments can feel particularly significant. New
suppliers come together to turn an idea into an experience,
hotels open, brands evolve, trends emerge and expectations
often over years of work that culminates in a hotel finally
shift, creating an industry that is constantly in motion. A
coming to life. It’s a milestone – a moment to recognise a
decade can bring profound change – not only in how hotels
collective effort before moving on to the next project.
look and operate, but their very purpose.
AHEAD exists to celebrate that collective effort,
Over the past ten years, the hospitality industry has changed
acknowledging that progress is rarely the work of one
considerably: boundaries between hotel, restaurant, residence
discipline or individual. It is the result of people coming
and social space have blurred; wellness has progressed from an
together, challenging conventions and imagining what
add-on to an expectation; and sustainability is now imperative.
hospitality could be. Its 10th anniversary is therefore more
At the same time, a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship,
than a celebration of longevity; it’s a chance to reflect on a
local culture and a sense of place has challenged the idea
decade of collaboration and creativity.
that luxury equals excess. And perhaps most significantly,
And perhaps that’s the real value of marking a milestone.
hotels are no longer viewed simply as a commodity, but as
It gives us a moment to take stock of how far we have come
an experience.
and celebrate the people and ideas that have brought us here
Much of this evolution has been documented in the pages
– before inevitably turning our attention to the next chapter.
of Sleeper, and it was against this backdrop that AHEAD was
For an industry that is always looking ahead, there is value in
born. Building on the European Hotel Design Awards, the
marking the moment.
programme was announced in 2016 with a new name and global reach. AHEAD – the Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design – reflected an industry that was becoming increasingly international while identifying that exceptional hospitality could no longer be defined by aesthetics alone.
Catherine Martin • Managing Editor
011
GUEST BOOK
066
096
© Valiana Variantza
066 Suzanne and Christopher Sharp Suzanne and Christopher Sharp founded The Rug Company in 1997, establishing a reputation for artisanal hand-loomed rugs and collaborating with the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Diane von Furstenberg and Alexander McQueen. After selling their stake in 2015, the husband-andwife duo turned their attention to an 18th-century palazzo in Malta, transforming it into a boutique retreat shaped by an appreciation for the island’s history, craftsmanship and culture.
© Stéphanie Davilma
142
056
096 Sophie Khoury
142 Lukáš Zak Uliarczyk
056 Marc de Jouffroy
As Director of Hospitality at Vivium, Sophie Khoury is the driving force behind Luura – a new hotel brand rooted in culture, curiosity and the Mediterranean way of life. Guided by a belief that the future of luxury lies in a genuine sense of belonging, the creative strategist has channelled her personal passions into a highly considered experience; the debut property on the Greek island of Paros sees thoughtful design, local character and a strong sense of identity converge, helping guests feel connected to the destination.
After training as an industrial designer in the Czech Republic, Lukáš Zak Uliarczyk honed his craft at Preciosa Lighting, where he now takes the creative lead on hospitality projects. His latest commission however, was to design a new trophy for AHEAD. Handcrafted from Bohemian crystal, the one-of-a-kind pieces feature a sloping face that follows the precise angle seen across AHEAD branding, while a vibrant colour gradient corresponds to each region, maintaining a visual language across the programme.
In his role as Directeur Général of Société Paul Ricard, Marc de Jouffroy oversees the legacy of his late great-grandfather, pastis pioneer Paul Ricard. His latest project has been the revival of Île de Bendor – a 1960s creative haven reimagined in collaboration with Zannier Hotels. “We were not looking to erase the island’s identity, but rather to preserve its unique soul while elevating it to a highly desirable destination,” de Jouffroy explains. “I believe my great-grandfather would be deeply proud to see it reborn.”
013
@SleeperMagazine
FRONT DESK EDITORIAL
COMMERCIAL
EVENTS
DESIGN
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Account Manager James Lloyd j.lloyd@mondiale.co.uk
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000
CHECK-IN
Greg Keffer The founder of Keffer Studio takes a fantasy break to 19th-century Chicago to witness the dawn of a new architectural and technological age.
Where are you?
Who are you sharing your room with?
Who are you dining with this evening?
At the opening of The World’s Columbian
My husband Darin is currently off hunting
Michelle Obama, who grew up on the South
Exposition in Chicago, 1893. I grew up on a farm
down the puppet show at the fair. So for now
Side; Madonna, who has reinvented herself
in Indiana – far enough that Chicago existed in
it’s just me, a phone full of messages I’m not
more than any artist of the 20th century; Antoni
my imagination long before I ever set foot in
reading and a bed I do not have to negotiate.
Gaudí, who is deep into the Sagrada Família;
it. It was everything the flat land around me
Some luxuries cannot be designed; they have
Andy Warhol, who is the only person I trust
wasn’t. Scale. Noise. The sense that someone
to be protected.
to hold up a mirror to all this without saying
looked at a blank site and built something
a word; and Anthony Bourdain, because every
extraordinary. The White City is that feeling
Describe the hotel, your room and the view...
great table needs someone who will speak the
at maximum volume. 600 acres of Beaux-Arts
The hotel sits at the edge of the fairground
truth and make you feel that being alive, curious
architecture rising out of a lake-front swamp,
overlooking the Grand Basin. The room has high
and hungry is enough.
lit by electric light, visited by millions of people
ceilings, steel-framed windows and furnishings
who have never seen anything like it.
that make me feel both completely at home and
Who’s manning the stoves?
nowhere near it at the same time. The view is
Jake Potashnick, Chef patron of Feld in Chicago,
How did you get there?
of the Court of Honor at dusk, electric lights
who sources everything from Midwestern farms
A Pullman railcar from New York, aka a radical
shimmering across the water and the inaugural
within a four-hour radius. Bringing him to 1893
time machine. Crossing the Midwest in late
Ferris wheel turning against the night sky. That
feels less like a fantasy than a correction. This
April, watching the flat geometry of the land
wheel was born at this fair, an idea that would
food should have always been here.
unfold through the window, the grain elevators,
travel to every corner of the world and make
the light over Illinois in spring. When the
people everywhere feel like children.
And what’s on the menu? Lake Michigan whitefish, followed by corn from
fairgrounds appear through the glass, I already understand something about what it took to
Who designed it?
my family’s farm, alongside something slow-
build them.
Burnham conceived it and architect Jeanne
roasted that has been going since morning.
Gang built it. One man who believed American
Bourdain orders another round of drinks, so
Who is there to greet you on arrival?
design could announce itself to the world, and
nobody misses dessert.
Daniel Burnham, who spearheaded the entire
one woman who spent her career proving he
enterprise, bending 20 architects, 10,000
was right.
Would you like something to drink with that? A Rye Manhattan.
workers and an impossible deadline to his will. He shakes my hand as though he has been
What’s the restaurant and bar like?
expecting me.
American fashion designer Halston has created
What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?
the most glamorous yet restrained room I have
The 1893 Sears Roebuck catalogue. Nothing says
And who’s at the concierge desk?
ever stood in. Red velvet banquettes, long clean
more about a culture than what it was buying:
A 26-year-old Frank Lloyd Wright, who
lines and candlelight doing all the work. The
the objects people chose, the language used
is furious about the Beaux-Arts classicism
bar is darker and more intimate, with walnut
to sell them, the aspirations encoded in every
surrounding him. He tells me which buildings
panelling, leather seating and a long counter
page. I read it until I fall asleep, which does
are worth my time and which are frauds.
where serious conversations take place.
not take long.
017
DRAWING BOARD
DRAWING BOARD Hacienda Ras El Hekma EGYPT
OBMI has won a design competition to lead the masterplanning, architecture and landscape design for Hacienda Ras El Hekma, a 1,400-acre city-scale destination on Egypt’s North Coast. Envisioned by Palm Hills Development and Miran Hills, the gated complex comprises three luxury hotels, 13,000 residences and a downtown district known as The Village, alongside a range of leisure and entertainment amenities, such as a water park, cycling trails, fine-dining restaurants and a seafront amphitheatre. Spanning
4.8km
of
Mediterranean
beachfront, the masterplan draws the coastline inland, weaving lagoons and pools through the site to establish an ever-present relationship with water. This approach extends to the arrival experience, where landscaped streets and neighbourhood squares form a connected sequence leading towards the sea. Public and private realms are carefully layered to create a walkable community, with each route revealing new views and gathering places. “Every row of this community was studied from the water back,” explains Nadeen ElMargoushy, Design Director for the project and Senior Lead Design Architect at OBMI. “The heights step down, the streets weave with the terrain and the views unfold in layers – so whether you’re on the first row or the fourth, the sea is part of your daily life. The Mediterranean became more than an edge condition; it became the heart of the masterplan – a living influence whose morphology shaped not only the architecture, but also the movement, the spatial hierarchy, the open spaces and the community’s relationship with the horizon.”
DRAWING BOARD
DRAWING BOARD
The Hari
Harilela Group has revealed plans to open The
entirely different environment and on a different
Hari Singapore, marking the third outpost for
scale,” comments Bernerd. “Singapore’s
SINGAPORE
the luxury boutique brand.
architecture, tropical climate and energy
Scheduled to open in Spring 2027, the project
naturally influenced the way we approached the
will see the Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City
interiors, resulting in a hotel that retains The
Centre transformed into a 326-key luxury hotel,
Hari’s distinctive character whilst feeling deeply
with amenities including multiple dining venues,
connected to its surroundings.”
an executive lounge, a rooftop swimming pool and a range of wellness facilities.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Harilela Group Interior Design: Tara Bernerd & Partners www.harilela.com
020
Dr Aron Harilela, founder of The Hari, adds: “This hotel, like our sister properties in
British design studio Tara Bernerd & Partners
Belgravia and Wan Chai, will embody relaxed
will lead on interiors, having previously shaped
elegance punctuated by eccentricity, wit, culture
the vision at sister properties in London
and genuine heartfelt hospitality. Singapore is
and Hong Kong. Her approach will combine
key to our ambition to evolve The Hari in major
contemporary elegance with a sense of place,
international destinations.”
drawing on Singapore’s identity to create a richly
Reinforcing this ambition, Harilela Group
layered scheme. This will be complemented by
has recently signed a three-hotel franchise
The Hari’s signature art programme, which
agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts; the
rotates exhibitions every six months.
partnership will see The Hari hotels integrated
“Every project begins with understanding
into the luxury lifestyle Vignette Collection,
its setting, and The Hari Singapore offered an
broadening the brand’s reach and opening up
opportunity to interpret the brand within an
new avenues for growth.
DESIGNED FOR DAYDREAMS W H E R E S T I L L N E S S U N F O L D S , T H E L I G H T S O F T E N S A N D D AY D R E A M S D R I F T BY T H E WAT E R ’ S E D G E . C R A F T E D F O R M O M E N T S W H E N T I M E S L O W S A N D T H E D AY B E L O N G S O N LY T O YO U .
Ocean Master MAX Bolero: Ombré Blossom Marquesa Double Sun Lounge
TUUCI.COM
DRAWING BOARD
Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Marriott International has signed an agreement
by privacy, highly personalised service and a
with Shanghai SIIC North Bund New Landmark
deep connection to place. Amenities include a
SHANGHAI
Construction & Development to introduce
specialty restaurant and lobby lounge, as well
Ritz-Carlton Reserve to Shanghai, marking the
as a spa and wellness retreat.
brand’s first urban outpost.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Shanghai SIIC North Bund New Landmark Construction & Development Operator: Marriott International Architecture: KPF, East China Architectural Design & Research Institute www.marriott.com
022
“There is an intimacy to Reserve – an
Slated to open in 2030, the hotel will form
extraordinary level of personalisation, a deep
part of a landmark mixed-use development
connection to local culture, and a sense of
alongside retail units, office space and private
discovery and wellbeing that allows guests
residences. Designed by KPF with East China
to experience a place in an entirely different
Architectural Design & Research Institute as
way,” says Tina Edmundson, President of
Executive Architect, the 480m building is set to
Luxury, Marriott International. “Bringing that
become the world’s tallest all-electric tower,
philosophy to Shanghai for our first urban
with its façade wrapped in triple glazing. At
Reserve is an incredibly exciting evolution for
its base, a pedestrianised zone connects to
the brand. Shanghai is a city unlike any other,
landscaped parks and public transport systems,
where extraordinary heritage and culture exist
while the crown – shaped like a magnolia flower
alongside incredible creativity, energy and global
in reference to the city’s emblem – will feature
influence. We see a remarkable opportunity to
an observation deck.
create a true sanctuary within that energy –
With 110 guestrooms and suites, many
one that feels unmistakably of Shanghai, while
overlooking the Bund and Huangpu River, the
offering the highly bespoke, transformative
Ritz-Carlton Reserve experience will be defined
experiences that make Reserve so special.”
NEW FORM OF DIALOGUE VITREON STEEL REIMAGINES BATHROOM ARCHITECTURE LAUFEN.COM
DRAWING BOARD
Yas Point
Aldar has unveiled plans for a new lifestyle
On the waterfront, a carefully curated
destination on the northern shores of Yas
experience centres around a 700m promenade,
ABU DHABI
Island – Abu Dhabi’s landmark entertainment
where retail, F&B and recreational amenities
and leisure hub.
converge. Open-water activities such as
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner and Developer: Aldar www.yaspointbyaldar.com
024
With a gross development value of AED6-
kayaking and windsurfing will coexist with
billion, Yas Point is a fully integrated waterfront
quieter areas dedicated to relaxation, while
community comprising a luxury resort, branded
beachside hospitality venues are set to offer an
residences, an international school, retail,
array of dining options.
dining and leisure facilities, all set within a
Over time, Yas Point will continue to develop,
beachfront enclave connected to the island’s
reinforcing Aldar’s vision of creating integrated
existing attractions.
communities that enrich how people live, visit
In total, the masterplan spans approximately
and connect. “The world’s greatest destinations
600,000m 2 and is designed to encourage
never stand still; they continue to evolve to
movement and discovery through park-to-
remain globally relevant and create new reasons
sea connections. From Lea Park, landscaped
for people to visit, live and connect,” says
pathways lead towards the shoreline, linking
Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development.
neighbourhood gardens, shaded community
“Yas Point reflects that ambition, introducing
areas and wellness-focused outdoor spaces
a vibrant waterfront destination that expands
along the way. Planned access to future island
how people experience Yas Island and reinforces
mobility infrastructure will further integrate the
Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for
destination into the wider Yas Island ecosystem.
lifestyle, tourism and investment.”
DRAWING BOARD
Viceroy Park Avenue
Viceroy Hotels & Residences has announced
can be configured as three separate rooms
its return to New York City with Viceroy Park
or combined into a single larger venue to
NEW YORK
Avenue, slated to open in December 2026.
accommodate various occasions.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Investor: BGO Developer: Highgate Operator: Viceroy Hotels & Residences, Tao Group Hospitality (F&B) Interior Design: Meyer Davis Studio www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
026
Located at the corner of Park Avenue
Occupying the third floor, a dedicated spa
South and 29th Street in Manhattan’s NoMad
features four treatment rooms, a sauna, steam
neighbourhood, the 252-key hotel offers a
room and cold plunge, while the fitness centre
range of spacious accommodation, including
is equipped with Technogym equipment. A
three 18th-floor penthouse suites measuring up
2,100ft2 Wellness Penthouse will also offer
to 2,100ft2, as well as a 2,000ft2 duplex. Interiors
a private infrared sauna, cold plunge, fitness
are designed by Meyer Davis Studio to reflect
equipment and recovery technology, alongside
the comfort and eclecticism of a Manhattan
an indoor fireplace and outdoor terrace.
residence, achieved through a combination of
“Viceroy Park Avenue represents an exciting
warm timber tones, textured stone, layered
milestone for our brand and a natural next step,
lighting and custom furnishings.
as we continue shaping a more thoughtful,
The F&B programme is being developed in
experiential approach to luxury hospitality,”
partnership with Tao Group Hospitality, and
says Arash Azarbarzin, CEO of Viceroy Hotels
includes a ground-floor restaurant and café,
& Residences. “With Viceroy Park Avenue, we
in addition to a placemaking rooftop with an
are creating a hotel that reflects the energy and
outdoor pool, cocktail lounge and social spaces
cultural spirit of New York City, while delivering
overlooking the city. The hotel also offers more
a style of hospitality that feels refined yet
than 15,000ft2 of flexible events space, which
relaxed, elevated yet human.”
Two brands, one finish: brushed bronze creates a clean, cohesive design – from switches to fittings. JUNG.GROUP/BRUSHED-BRONZE
© LOCATION: CASACERAMICA, PHOTO: MICHAEL SANDMAIER
SIGNATURE DESIGN. CRAFTED IN FINISHES.
Meeting… Paolo Ferrari Following the completion of two career-defining projects in Saudi Arabia, Paolo Ferrari reflects on the philosophy that has shaped his eponymous practice over the past decade. Words: Eleanor Howard • Portrait Photography: © Julien Cadena
T
here’s something exhilarating
curiosity continued to manifest in passions
about taking risks in order to create
for drawing, painting and writing, before
something different. That spirit of
culminating in a year studying fine art. “It was
experimentation excites me,” says
a very liberating experience,” he reflects. “It
Paolo Ferrari with a mischievous
gave me an incredible foundation.”
smile, as he looks out across the
From there, Ferrari studied environmental
Ionian sea with the silhouette of Mount Etna
design at OCAD University in Toronto, Canada’s
looming in the distance. Fresh from delivering
oldest and largest art and design school. “I was
the keynote address at Sleeper Sessions in Sicily,
quite naive and sheltered. I didn’t understand
the Canadian designer reflects on the mindset
the breadth of this world, but going to
that has shaped his Toronto- and Milan-based
university was the moment everything clicked
practice over the past decade.
for me – it expanded my thinking,” he states.
The foundations however, were laid much
Ferrari credits the programme’s emphasis
earlier. “As a kid, I was always surrounded by
on conceptual thinking with influencing the
people making things, which meant I would
philosophy that would later define his work.
play in quite unconventional ways,” he laughs.
Before striking out on his own, Ferrari began
Weekends were spent experimenting with
his career at a small practice in Toronto, before
carving at his father’s woodwork shop, while
joining Yabu Pushelberg, where he spent six
his great aunt was a seamstress, often allowing
years rising from Senior Designer to Design
him to play with scraps of fabric and leather. “It
Director. “Working at Yabu Pushelberg was an
felt like a really magical place.”
eye-opening experience because it exposed me
Throughout adolescence, that creative
to a completely different scale,” he states. It
MEETING…
© Ema Peter
Courtesy of Studio Paolo Ferrari
Courtesy of Studio Paolo Ferrari
MEETING…
The interiors at Desert Rock are characterised by a mineral-based material palette inspired by local geology and heritage
was while overseeing a range of global projects, from Four Seasons Kuwait at Burj Alshaya to La Samaritaine in Paris, that he came to appreciate the immersive nature of hospitality design, which he likens to filmmaking, wherein a director controls every element of a scene to shape the overall narrative. “We often think of architecture and design in the context of control – controlling light, arranging vistas or views, orchestrating experience,” he explains. “When designing a hotel, that process extends – you’re able to do so much more. What makes our work
“There’s something exhilarating about taking risks in order to create something different. That spirit of experimentation excites me.”
within a two-tower mixed-use development by the late Frank Gehry. Yet it was two hotel projects in Saudi Arabia – radically different in concept, setting and character – that altered the trajectory of the practice. The first, Desert Rock from Red Sea Global, saw Studio Paolo Ferrari work alongside Oppenheim Architecture to create a remote luxury resort nestled in the granite cliffs of the Hijaz mountains. Conceived as an extension of the landscape rather than an imposition upon it, the project’s greatest challenge was
so rewarding is that we’re designing spaces for
its setting. “The desert is not an easy place to
people to escape their day-to-day lives, to be
work – it quickly humbles you,” reveals Ferrari.
transported to another existence.”
“There’s an intensity to the heat and the rock.
Yet Ferrari found himself increasingly
Construction work is quite challenging. But
searching for greater meaning in his work.
there’s also a profound spiritual quality to the
“Up until this point in my career, I feel like
silence of the site.”
there wasn’t enough discussion as to why,”
For the interiors, Ferrari adopted an approach
he reveals. Prompted by this realisation, he
rooted in restraint: “Carl Andre once said, ‘Art is
launched his eponymous studio in 2016 - not
the exclusion of the unnecessary’, which guided us through the design process,” he explains.
simply to establish independence, but to find purpose. “Starting my practice was a return
drawing inspiration from the concept of total
“This was not about dominance, but humility
to those foundational years at school, where
design championed by Gio Ponti and Carlo
and reduction, constantly paring elements back
the work was more conceptual – not taking
Scarpa. “From the very beginning, we would
to the absolute essence. It was never about
anything at face value or pursuing a traditional
design bespoke furniture for our projects,” he
minimalism, but rather seeking purity and a
approach because that is what has always been
says. This evolved into what is now Editions,
connection back to site and context. There’s a
done,” he explains. “It was about not being
a contemporary furniture collection that
clarity that’s born from respect and humility,
afraid to carve your own path.”
explores the duality between sculpture and
where you’re trying to design as little as possible
It was through this process of questioning that
utility, simplicity and refinement. “It’s been
and to celebrate the natural qualities of a site.”
Ferrari arrived at the idea that would go on to
rewarding to pursue ideas we find interesting
Drawing inspiration from local geology and
shape the practice’s approach over the following
without being guided by a client,” he explains.
heritage, the interiors employ a mineral-based
decade. “When I asked myself what stays
“It’s a symbiotic relationship; the time we
material palette of concrete, plaster, limestone,
with me, I realised I was chasing the sublime
spend developing, engineering and prototyping
bronze and wood, brought to life through more
and the feeling of awe – that unmistakable
then feeds back into our projects and elevates
than 200 bespoke pieces of furniture and
quality that strikes you,” he reveals. At a time
our work.”
lighting. Across the resort’s 64 suites and villas,
when hospitality is increasingly prioritising
The result is a portfolio that resists
touchpoints evoke regional craft traditions such
the experiential, Ferrari takes this a step
categorisation – rather than being connected
as an incense ritual marking arrival, Al Sadu-
further, using design to evoke the intangible –
by a signature aesthetic, the projects are united
inspired woven rugs, monolithic limestone
atmosphere, emotion and memories that linger
by a conceptual approach that adapts to each
cabinetry and sand-cast bronze hardware – one
long after guests have checked out.
context. There’s a cerebral cannabis dispensary;
of Ferrari’s favourite features. “The handles
That philosophy extends beyond interiors
a subterranean speakeasy; a New England-
feel bone-like with an anthropomorphic
to encompass every element of a project,
inspired bar and lounge; and private residences
quality, as though uncovered in the desert,”
031
MEETING…
“With ambitious work comes outrageously high expectations. It can be a lot of pressure.”
he details animatedly. “This was our way of
back to the architecture itself. Inspired by
subconsciously embedding a sense of place to
the craftsmanship of luxury yachts, custom
connect guests to their surroundings. Whether
furnishings respond to the orbs’ organic
they notice such details is almost irrelevant,
geometry, from cantilevered mirrors suspended
instead it’s about the intent.”
from curving ceiling planes to a crescent-like
While Desert Rock was an exercise in
Dotted throughout the interiors are what
different challenge. Set on Sheybarah Island in
Ferrari describes as “moments of invention” –
the middle of the Red Sea, the 73-key resort
objects that serve as both sculptural elements
comprises a series of polished steel orbs that
and tactile points of discovery. Chief among
seemingly float above the water. “The brief for
them is a mirrored cabinet that, at the touch
Shebara was the never-before-seen, which is
of a button, reveals itself to be a crimson-
not an easy feat,” he reveals. “With ambitious
lined mini-bar. “We wanted to introduce the
work comes outrageously high expectations. It
element of surprise,” he explains. “I love that
can be a lot of pressure.”
when guests arrive in the suite, they don’t know
Inside, Ferrari sought to balance Shaun Killa’s
Inspired by the craftsmanship of luxury yachts, the interiors at Shebara are defined by sinuous curves and a tactile palette of leather, timber and travertine
sofa that follows the contours of the wall.
restraint, Shebara presented a completely
what it is, but they’re drawn to it.”
futuristic architecture with a warm yet tactile
Such attention to detail hasn’t gone unnoticed.
palette of leather, timber and travertine. “We
Over the past 18 months, Studio Paolo Ferrari
tapped into the quality of aerodynamics and
has received widespread recognition for both
movement to develop a design language that is
Desert Rock and Shebara, including four AHEAD
uniquely specific to this project,” he explains,
MEA awards. “These two projects represent the
citing the decision to incorporate polished
full range of our practice – they’re two sides of
steel into the interior as a way of connecting
the same coin,” he declares. “Desert Rock is
© Ema Peter
032
ESSENTIAL BY NATURE TIMELESS BY DESIGN
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MEETING…
Among the studio’s forthcoming projects is Moncayo, Auberge Collection – a beachfront resort with interiors that blur the boundary between indoors and out
034
silence, restrained, pared back, whereas Shebara
National Forest and the waters of Puerto del
is bombastic, creative invention, luminosity
Rey. Slated to open in 2027, the nature retreat
and reflection. What excites me the most is the
will bring the outdoors in through Ferrari’s
opportunity to design both.”
light-filled interiors.
With this momentum, the practice is busier
Meanwhile in Greece, the studio is designing
than ever, working on a diverse pipeline of
1 Hotels & Homes Elounda Hills in Crete – the
projects, from a privately owned 74m San
brand’s first European resort and first project
Lorenzo superyacht to a Raffles resort and
in Greece. “We had to ask ourselves, ‘how do
residences on the East Cape of Mexico. Situated
we design something that feels quintessentially
in the desert landscape between the Sea of
Cretan but also in line with the 1 Hotels ethos?’”
Cortez and the Sierra de la Laguna mountains,
he explains. “We’re excavating a lot of rock and
the intimate sanctuary will feature interiors that
reusing it in different ways. It’s about utilising
reflect the distinctive culture and heritage of
materiality from site to ensure interiors are very
Baja California Sur, whilst capturing the Raffles
much rooted to place.”
brand spirit and commitment to sustainability.
Reflecting on the past decade, Ferrari speaks
“My dream is that it’s 100% made in Mexico,”
with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation.
he reveals. “While I understand that this will
“I feel extremely proud to have built a body
come with some limitations, I love the idea
of work that is attracting some extraordinary
of only working with local manufacturers to
clients,” he concludes. “For the longest time,
uncover surprising beauty and imperfection.”
it felt like nothing was happening. I no longer
Also underway is Moncayo, Auberge Collection
have dream projects, which is a nice position to
in Puerto Rico, a luxury beachfront property
be in. Now, the focus is on getting better and
nestled between the rainforest of El Yunque
pushing our creativity further.”
Rock Bar, AYANA Resort, Bali
Comfort you don’t see. Atmosphere you feel. magnovent.eu
hospitality@magnovent.eu
magnovent.living
Meeting… Mark Burns As Chedi Hospitality enters the next phase of growth, the group’s Chief Design & Construction Officer reveals how a philosophy rooted in place, culture and emotion is shaping its next chapter. Words: Naomi Chadderton
Mark Burns Chief Design & Construction Officer Chedi Hospitality With over 30 years of experience in luxury hospitality design, Mark Burns oversees the Technical Services division at Chedi Hospitality, where he’s responsible for shaping the creative narrative of each new property and ensuring the brand’s design philosophy is brought to life consistently across its growing global portfolio. Prior to joining Chedi Hospitality, Burns founded a luxury advisory firm, and in recent years, has been a consultant for private offices of royal family members on international hotel investments.
G
rowing up, Mark Burns had ambitions
creative legends who wanted nothing other than
of becoming a theme park designer. Yet
perfection closely resonated with the projects I
with hospitality already in the family –
have undertaken for Royal Households,” he says.
through ownership and operations – his path
His latest career move marks an important
quickly became clear. “I think it was always a
new chapter in a relationship with GHM, which
calling to pursue a career in design,” he reflects.
stretches back almost three decades. It also
After leaving school, Burns went straight into
comes at a pivotal time for the group, which
a design studio, quickly gaining exposure to
has recently evolved into Chedi Hospitality
some of Europe’s most prominent hotels. “I was
under the leadership of newly appointed CEO
involved in several prestigious refurbishments
Stephan Schupbach. The refreshed corporate
across Europe such as Claridge’s and The
identity reflects Schupbach’s broader vision
Connaught in London, as well as The Amstel in
for the group, with ambitions to embrace a
Amsterdam. In the mid-90s I moved into a lead
multi-faceted approach to high-end living and
consultant role to pursue more international
experiential travel while building upon the
greenfield developments where I could tune in
group’s heritage. At its core is a renewed focus
on unique creative interpretations,” he explains.
on strengthening and reinventing its flagship
“The assignments took me across the globe,
Chedi brand, expanding beyond hospitality into
introducing me to new cultures and crafts that
private residences and developing a new hotel
still influence me today.”
brand, Serai.
Now, more than three decades into a career at
Burns was first introduced to the group in
the forefront of luxury hospitality design, Burns
1997 while working with Regent Hotels, later
has collaborated with leading practices on more
supporting the team in completing elements of
than 500 developments spanning five continents.
The Chedi Muscat in Oman. In the years that
He credits his time in South America and China
followed, he continued to serve as a consultant on
in particular with broadening his understanding
select projects, before joining Chedi Hospitality
of different cultures, materials and approaches
exclusively in October 2024. Now heading up the
to design. His career has also taken him to some
Technical Services division, he leads the creative
of the world’s most celebrated hotels, including
direction of new properties, as well as overseeing
Villa d’Este on Lake Como and Royal Mansour
the continued evolution of the group’s existing
Marrakech. “Working with ownership and
portfolio, which stretches from Switzerland and
037
MEETING…
The Chedi, Hegra
Montenegro to Saudi Arabia, where The Chedi Hegra recently opened amidst the ancient desert landscape of AlUla. When approaching the design of each Chedi property, Burns is guided by the belief that it should be defined not by design, but by emotion. “Our focus is to stimulate creative interpretation on a one-of-one
“A unique interpretation and a collaborative approach are significant considerations, but ultimately it is the people, their personalities and the passion they bring, that are most important.”
basis,” he explains. Rather than applying a uniform aesthetic across the portfolio, each property therefore begins with its own design narrative, shaped by its
038
location and cultural context. From there, Burns
Wadi Safar, an 85-key desert retreat slated to open
focuses on authentic local materials, layered FF&E and
within Riyadh’s Diriyah Gate development in 2027. “It
curated artwork to create what he describes as “warm
has been an incredible journey of discovery into the
restraint”. References to Chedi’s Asian heritage are
Najd culture, working with Bjarke Ingels Group and KCA
subtly woven throughout, balanced by a strong focus
International” says Burns of the design process. “The
on operational efficiency to ensure the finished design
challenges of unique interpretation whilst retaining the
gives teams “maximum efficiency and opportunity to
authority’s requirements set alongside other incredible
deliver best-in-class service”.
assets has been a memorable journey.”
Also central to his approach is a global network of
In addition to strategically strengthening its
creative collaborators. When selecting a partner, Burns
strongholds across EMEA, the group is extending its
looks beyond established relationships, seeking out
global reach, as evidenced by its long-anticipated re-
designers whose work responds sensitively to the context
entry into Asia with The Chedi Niseko – a boutique
of each property. But there’s a greater consideration:
alpine retreat in the heart of Hirafu, set for completion
“Ultimately it is the people, their personalities and the
in June 2029. Positioned within Japan’s mountainous
passion they bring, that is most important,” he reveals.
ski country, the resort will offer access to world-class
It’s a philosophy that comes at an important moment
slopes and year-round outdoor activities, in addition to
for Chedi Hospitality. Under Schupbach’s leadership,
bespoke programming, in line with Chedi Hospitality’s
the group is entering a new phase of growth, with the
dedication to crafting design-led, culturally attuned
group set to more than double its portfolio with 15
destinations. “Collaborating with Kengo Kuma and his
projects in the pipeline. Most imminent is The Chedi
office in Tokyo brings its own level of excitement,”
MEETING…
The Chedi, Wadi Safar
notes Burns. “His legendary interpretations are being
take pride of place, as will careful planning to ensure
further layered with a series of best-in-class specialists
each property operates efficiently over time, reducing
that will position this asset as a global destination.”
its environmental impact, as well as the need for future
Elsewhere in the region, the group recently
alterations. “We balance design with technology to
announced its forthcoming debut in the Maldives
ensure that systems and infrastructure use the most
for 2028. Developed in partnership with JIH Global
suitable approach to minimise off-site access to energy
Investments, The Chedi Kan’baashaa comprises a 58-
consumption,” explains Burns. “Working with local
key boutique hotel and a collection of 11 residences,
partners, we continually seek to create experiences that
reflecting the group’s ambitions to offer both refined
not only bring guests closer to the local culture but also
hospitality and private residential living. Conceived as
give back to the local communities and environments.”
a secluded sanctuary, the project is designed to balance architecture, privacy and a sense of place.
040
For Burns, however, the main challenge as Chedi’s footprint expands is not simply to translate the brand
And it doesn’t stop there. Spain, Greece, Switzerland,
into more destinations, but to do so without losing the
Morocco, Zanzibar, Bali, China and the USA are all on
identity that has defined it for almost three decades.
the agenda as the brand prepares to extend its offerings
Each property may respond differently to its setting,
further afield than ever before. “Having recently
but a familiar thread of design and service will continue
travelled to the northern parts of Scandinavia to the
to connect them.
highest peak in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the oldest
“With so many great brands and locations across
tea plantations in China to undeveloped parts of Africa
the globe, we believe that it better serves our owners
and the Indian Ocean, we see global opportunities for
to ensure we stay true to the foundations of Chedi
our brands,” Burns reveals.
with minimum to no dilution,” concludes Burns.
As is to be expected, sustainability will play a key part
“In doing so, our guests will have the opportunity to
in these upcoming projects – a factor that has always
travel globally in unique settings whilst retaining the
shaped the group’s design philosophies since inception.
comforting recognition of connecting pillars of design
Local materiality and craftsmanship will continue to
and service.”
©2026 Waterworks is a Registered Trademark of Waterworks IP Company, LLC
Invest
s. e c e i p ment
A NEW ICON A NEW DESIGN
COYA DORNBRACHT.COM
20 Years of INC Upon celebrating a milestone anniversary, the Founding Partner of INC discusses the past, present and future of hospitality design.
T
aking a human-centred approach to
scope has expanded enormously. Early in our
design, INC has spent the past two decades
career, we focused primarily on creating beautiful
shaping architecture, interiors and objects
designs. Today, beauty is the threshold of entry,
that foster connection and a sense of place. As
but it is not the destination. We think equally
the multidisciplinary studio celebrates its 20th
about psychology, operations, sustainability,
anniversary, Founding Partner and Creative
wellness, culture and community. We have come
Director Adam Rolston reflects on the journey
to understand that architecture and interiors
Established in 2006 by Adam Rolston, Drew Stuart and Gabriel Benroth, INC is a multidisciplinary studio specialising in architecture, interior design and product design. Based in New York, the practice works across hospitality, residential and mixed-use sectors, with projects across the USA.
so far.
succeed when they change how people feel and
Key Hotel Projects: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, New York; The Line, Washington DC; Kimpton Era Midtown, New York; The Morrow, Washington DC; The Nashville Edition, Texas (2028)
Adam Rolston (far left) Founding Partner and Creative Director INC
ON THE INITIAL VISION
interact with one another. The greatest shift has been realising that our work goes beyond
When we founded INC 20 years ago, our ambition
designing buildings, interiors and objects, to
was to create recognisable and relatable places.
cultivating relationships between guests and
We believed architecture and design should
cities, buildings and landscapes, institutions
begin with people rather than objects, with
and communities, and people themselves. As
emotion rather than image. Even then, we were
the practice has matured, hospitality has evolved
interested in how design could shape the way
from a project type to a methodology. Its lessons
people relate to one another, creating places that
now inform everything we do.
feel generous, memorable and deeply human. Our name was, and remains, our mission. The
ON MILESTONE HOTEL PROJECTS
acronym, INC, is derived from the Latin words,
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge fundamentally shaped
Iucunditas, Necessarius, Creo, which translates
our thinking. It represented much more than
to, Joy, Utility and Craft – the principles that
a successful hotel or an stylistic pivot for both
continue to guide our work today.
the studio and the industry. It became a proof
Hospitality became the perfect laboratory
of concept for many of the ideas that continue
for these ideas because it asks architecture
to define our work today. The project combined
and interiors to do something fundamentally
brownfield adaptive re-use, environmental
emotional. A hotel is a place that welcomes
stewardship, total design and a profound
strangers, creates connection and offers a sense
connection to place. Rather than creating an
of belonging. That has been our north star from
isolated luxury destination, it became part
the very beginning.
of Brooklyn Bridge Park and the surrounding
ON EVOLUTION Our fundamental belief hasn’t changed, but its
neighbourhood, blurring the boundary between hotel and city. The experience taught us that hospitality can contribute to civic life as much
043
MEETING…
MEETING…
“The best hotels don’t stand apart from their neighbourhoods. They participate in them, becoming living rooms for the city, where travellers and locals interact naturally.” © Kris Tamburello
as private experience – a realisation that has influenced every hospitality project we’ve undertaken since.
ON CHANGES IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN The biggest change has been in what clients and guests value. © Eric Laignel
20 years ago, hospitality often focused on spectacle, exclusivity and visual identity. Today, there is a much greater interest in placemaking, wellbeing, flexibility and a genuine connection to location that goes beyond style. Guests increasingly seek environments that are highly specific and meaningful. Our own projects reflect that evolution – they don’t fall apart if you change a chair, because we build worlds. The emphasis has shifted from designing destinations to cultivating communities. The best hotels don’t stand apart from their neighbourhoods. They participate in them, becoming living rooms for the city, where travellers and locals interact naturally. That shift feels incredibly optimistic because it positions hospitality as a cultural and civic force rather than simply a commercial one. Hotels are the new town square.
ON PROUD MOMENTS While we’re immensely proud of our work, no single project defines our greatest achievement. Instead, it is witnessing our studio culture endure and evolve over two decades. INC has been a laboratory of talent and host to an extraordinary intergenerational cohort of designers. Knowing that the studio has served as a place where an intimate group of brilliant people can grow, experiment and discover their own voices is the accomplishment that means the most to us. Architecture
Milestone projects for the studio include (top to bottom) 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge in New York, The Morrow in Washington DC and Kimpton Era Midtown in New York
044
and design is always collaborative. If we’ve built anything lasting, we hope our legacy is both our portfolio of work and a community of designers who continue to shape the profession.
CRAFTSMANSHIP IS THE PROCESS
MEETING…
The Nashville Edition, Texas
ON NEW OPENINGS
architects, designers, artists, scientists, developers and
Our work reflects the increasingly fluid boundaries
communities come together to solve those problems
between hospitality and other sectors. We’re working
creatively. Ultimately, we would like to be recognised
on destination resorts in Mexico and the USA, each
for an enduring way of thinking about people and place,
deeply rooted in its landscape and local culture. At the
rather than a signature aesthetic.
same time, we’re designing two newbuild residential towers in New York City that borrow many of the social
ON HOTEL DESIGN IN 2100
qualities traditionally associated with great hotels,
By 2100, the technologies we design with will almost
creating richer shared spaces and stronger communities
certainly be unrecognisable. Artificial intelligence,
within urban housing. In Park City, Utah, our work
robotics, advanced materials and regenerative
includes new ski lodges alongside residential buildings
environmental systems will transform how buildings
that explore mountain living connected to the natural
are conceived, constructed and operated. But the
environment. While these projects vary greatly in scale
fundamental purpose of hospitality will remain
and programming, they all ask the same question which
unchanged. Human beings will still need places where
continues to guide us: how can architecture create a
they feel welcomed, understood and connected. If
deeper sense of place and belonging?
anything, as our lives become increasingly virtual,
ON THE NEXT 20 YEARS
046
those physical experiences of belonging will become even more valuable.
Success won’t simply be measured by the number of
The hotels of the future will be more adaptive,
projects we’ve completed, the places we’ve worked
sustainable and intelligent than anything we can
or the awards garnered. We hope the studio is
imagine today. Yet their purpose will remain the
increasingly defined by a shared culture, a practice
same, to create places where strangers feel – if only
capable of transmitting its values across generations
for a moment – at home. Looking back over the past
while remaining curious enough to continually reinvent
20 years, that is perhaps the most important lesson
itself. The challenges facing architecture and design,
we’ve learned. We began believing we were designing
including climate change, urbanisation, wellness and
buildings, interiors and objects, but we’ve come to
social connection, will require deeper collaboration than
understand that, at our best, we’re really designing for,
ever before. We hope INC continues to be a place where
and are shepherds of, the human experience.
E sales@cocowolf.co.uk | T +44 (0) 207 262 8614 572 Kings Road, London, SW6 2DY
THE LOBBY
A Peek Behind The Curtain Known for its lively entertainment attractions across
seating and instead immerse themselves in a roaming journey,
properties in Las Vegas, Macau and Cotai, Wynn Resorts is
even venturing backstage to get a glimpse of the world behind
envisioning something altogether more immersive for its
the curtain.
latest venture.
All of this takes place within a modern interpretation of
Through a partnership with Punchdrunk – the
the classic theatre. With architecture that draws on Art Deco
internationally acclaimed theatre company famed for shaking
influences, the interior utilises sculpted drapery and rich
up the format of traditional performances – Wynn Al Marjan
fabrics to evoke Hollywood’s golden era and the glamour
Island will debut an original stage production when it opens in
of 1970s Las Vegas. From the lobby to the elevators, every
2027. Hinting at the nature of the show, Punchdrunk Artistic
element has been crafted to conjure both nostalgic ideals and
Director and founder, Felix Barrett MBE, expresses a hope that
an exciting sense of novelty.
“the production will deliver a spectacular theatrical experience,
“Among the dozens of unique and transportive guest
both for audiences seeking world-class entertainment and for
experiences we offer in our resorts, entertainment has always
those in search of something truly unexpected.”
been an essential element,” concludes Craig S Billings, CEO,
And unexpected it will be. Inspired by the spirit of Las
Wynn Resorts. “With Punchdrunk, we are creating something
Vegas’ revue-style shows, the spectacle comes not only from
entirely original for Wynn Al Marjan Island. A theatrical world
the live singing and dancing, but its participatory nature.
that could only exist here, and one that reflects the craft and
Upon booking, guests will have the option to forgo traditional
dedication to artistry at the heart of Wynn.”
THE LOBBY
A Hotel Like No Other “From architecture, interior design and haute cuisine to royalty, politics and high society, so many fascinating elements and personalities have combined to imbue Claridge’s with its unrivalled heritage and unique character,” says social historian and writer Martin Williams of Claridge’s: Queen of Hotels, Hotel of Kings. Marking the first authorised biography of the iconic Mayfair hotel, the 320-page monograph – published by Hodder & Stoughton – delves into the archives to trace its evolution. Unfolding across insider accounts and previously unseen photography, the volume explores the people, events and traditions that have shaped the property’s identity, offering both a social history of London and a portrait of one of the capital’s most storied hotels. “Since its earliest days at the height of the Regency, luminaries as diverse as Empress Eugénie, Audrey Hepburn, Winston Churchill and Gordon Ramsay have passed through its doors, each leaving an indelible mark behind them,” Williams concludes. “It’s been a privilege to be granted the opportunity to tell, for the first time ever, the complete history of Claridge’s – truly a hotel like no other.”
Threads of Renewal
050
Throughout their service, hotel linens are a quiet
choices, waste to renewal. Hotel guests and the
constant in the guest experience, accompanying
local community can contribute by donating
guests through moments of rest and renewal. In
unwanted clothing and textiles, allowing the
keeping with this spirit, The Westin London City
installation to evolve over time.
has unveiled a thought-provoking installation
Threads of Renewal also encourages support
that transforms retired linens into a work of art.
for textile sustainability initiatives such as TRAID
Created by textile artist and sustainability
(Textile Recycling for Aid and International
researcher Dr Katherine Soucie, Threads of
Development) and Return to Vendor, elevating
Renewal demonstrates how hospitality can
the visual display into a collective expression of
embrace circular design principles, while
positive environmental action.
bringing the discourse around textile waste and
Ultimately, by highlighting the intrinsic link
environmental responsibility to the forefront.
between personal wellbeing and the wellbeing
“Every piece of fabric carries a story,” Soucie
of the environment, Threads of Renewal serves
comments. “Through Threads of Renewal, we’re
as a reminder that caring for the world is an act
not only extending the life of materials that
of caring for ourselves. As Soucie concludes:
would otherwise be discarded, but also inviting
“By transforming retired hotel linens into a
people to rethink their relationship with textiles
collaborative work of art, we’re demonstrating
and the resources we often take for granted.”
that creativity can be a powerful catalyst for
The patchwork piece is based around the
environmental change, and that even the simplest
concept of a door, symbolising the transition
materials can begin a new chapter when viewed
from old to new, consumption to conscious
through the lens of possibility.”
THE LOBBY
© Ben Fitchett
Tent In The City Urban Cowboy brings its Americana aesthetic to New York City, offering a camping experience defined by rustic luxury and Western heritage.
New York City might typically conjure images
sourced from Beacon Flea Market and Elephant
of soaring skyscrapers and speeding taxis, but a
Trunk introduce a sense of discovery, as antique
new energy is emerging – one that is decidedly
lanterns and 1920s canteens find home among
more rural.
mounted antlers and repurposed boat oars.
In partnership with Dovetail + Co, Urban
Custom elements created in collaboration with
Cowboy is tapping into this shift, bringing its
Kevin Jacob Design further emphasise the spirit
signature Americana style to the metropolis
of American heritage, though the New York City
through an immersive camping experience that
skyline remains in full view – best enjoyed from
blends rustic luxury with Western heritage.
the roll-top bathtub.
Set on Governors Island, The Urban Cowboy
“The Urban Cowboy Tent at Collective
Tent at Collective Retreats is just an eight-
Retreats, like Urban Cowboy Lodge, embodies
minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, yet
the kind of unexpected hospitality experiences
feels a world away from the urban bustle.
we strive to create at Dovetail + Co: immersive
Designed by Urban Cowboy co-founder
destinations that invite guests to experience a
Lyon Porter, the 325ft2 tent is a richly layered
place in an entirely new way,” comments Phil
interpretation of the brand’s signature style.
Hospod, founder and CEO of Dovetail + Co. “By
Interiors are lined in Pendleton’s Harding-
bringing together Urban Cowboy’s distinctive
patterned fabric, with the deep crimson
aesthetic with the natural setting and unique
panels extending across the walls, ceiling and
character of Collective Retreats Governors Island,
headboard, while El Paso Saddle Blanket rugs add
we’ve created an experience that celebrates both
comfort underfoot.
brands and encourages connection, discovery and
A curated collection of one-of-a-kind pieces
052
memorable stays.”
LIGHTING THAT ELEVATES EVERY STAY TRUSTED BY THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS HOTEL BRANDS, FROM CONCEPT TO ROLLOUT FLEXIBLE MANUFACTURING
|
FASTER DELIVERY
|
EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY
A
sk any fitness fanatic what their secret
there’s a greater movement happening; some
to results is and they’ll likely tell
groups are positioning fitness as an integral part
you the same thing: consistency. But
of the guest experience.
what happens when travel disrupts routine?
Equinox demonstrates how established
According to Google Trends, the number of
fitness companies can disrupt the industry
travellers searching for a hotel that keeps them
by introducing their own offerings. The first
on track dramatically increases. Having studied
Equinox hotel opened in New York in 2019,
the figures, Blk Box observed a 255% increase in
boasting a 60,000ft2 fitness club that spans
global searches for ‘hotels with good gyms’ in May
three levels, with a private Pilates studio and a
2026, and a 1491% surge in searches for ‘hotel
dedicated weights floor, along with a 15,000ft2
with gym near me’ over the course of a year.
pool and sundeck, a 25-yard indoor saltwater lap
© Zoran Radonjic
This rise of fitness-first travellers points to
pool, and hot and cold plunge pools.
an area of hotel design that demands specialist
Designed with the same attention to detail and
attention, as Blk Box founder Gregory Bradley
material quality as a luxury hotel, the facilities
explains: “Fitness is no longer something people
combine refined interiors with performance-
leave behind when they travel. Whether guests
enhancing technologies to create an elevated
Check In, Work Out Growing demand for high-quality hotel gyms is prompting owners and operators to rethink the scale, design and ambition of their fitness facilities.
054
are away for work, leisure, sport or competition,
fitness environment. This approach extends to
more people want access to proper training
guestrooms and F&B, aligning with the brand’s
facilities that allow them to stay consistent with
longstanding ethos: ‘It’s not fitness. It’s life.’
their routine. That has changed the role of the
Kerzner International has also stepped into
hotel gym. It is no longer just a tick-box amenity
the realm, developing a new brand deovted to
with a treadmill and a small rack of dumbbells.
physical wellbeing. With the introduction of SIRO
For a growing number of guests, the quality of
– representing Strength, Inclusive, Reflection
the training space now influences where they
and Originality – in 2024, the pillars of fitness,
choose to stay.”
nutrition, sleep, recovery and mindfulness are
Some operators are already responding to
embodied in every environment. Along with
this shift, investing in next-generation fitness
world-class training facilities and customisable
equipment to bring hotel gyms in line with the
meal plans, guestrooms are equipped for both
standards guests expect from dedicated fitness
workout and recovery, with yoga mats and
facilities. “We’re seeing more hotels invest in
Swedish ladders incorporated into the interiors
strength and functional training equipment
to accompany the likes of thermoregulated
because expectations have moved on,” Bradley
mattresses and circadian lighting.
highlights. “Guests increasingly want access
As fitness becomes an increasingly important
to equipment they would use in a serious gym
part of the travel experience, hotels are being
environment, from squat racks and free weights
challenged to raise their game – not only by
to dedicated functional training areas.”
providing dedicated facilities, but by delivering
Upgrading facilities is certainly one way to
the same level of quality, design and attention
entice a health-conscious clientele, however
to detail found throughout the rest of the stay.
Photographer • Matthieu Salvaing
169 boulevard Haussmann, Paris 8 533 Kings Road, London, SW10 0TZ www.edition169.com
Zannier ÎLE DE BENDOR Société Paul Ricard and Zannier Hotels join forces to revive a forgotten island on the French Riviera, shaping a new destination that honours the creative vision of its founder. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © DePasquale + Maffini
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hen Paul Ricard first set eyes on Île de Bendor in the early 1950s, a vision began to take shape. At the time, the Mediterranean island off the coast
of Bandol was little more than a rocky outcrop, fringed with wild vegetation and home to a lone sheep. Yet the French entrepreneur saw its potential, setting in motion an ambitious transformation that would become an unlikely haven for artists and free-thinkers. Having made his fortune as the creator of pastis – the anise- and liquorice-flavoured apéritif that still bears his name – Ricard bought the seven-hectare site and set about realising his dream. Over the years, he built a marina, hotels and a village lined with galleries and workshops, creating an Île du Bonheur – an island of happiness, where creativity, conviviality and the good life were open to all. In its heyday, Bendor was a must-visit port of call for those exploring the Côte d’Azur, but as the decades passed, its allure began to fade. Ricard died in 1997, and by 2005, one of the original hotels had closed its doors, signalling the end of an era. In 2021, Société Paul Ricard – still under family ownership – closed the island altogether, paving the way for a full-scale redevelopment that would bring its founder’s vision into a new era. “Île de Bendor has always been a
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Strengthening the bond between the island and its Mediterranean heritage, interiors are furnished with a considered collection of art and craft
truly special place – a beloved location, cherished by so many, that
that continues to foster creativity and discovery while adapting to
unfortunately experienced a period of decline,” explains Marc de
contemporary expectations. Many elements of the project draw
Jouffroy, Directeur Général of Société Paul Ricard. “For us, it was
directly from that spirit.”
essential to restore the island to its former glory.”
Arriving from the mainland, a seven-minute boat ride from
As Ricard’s great-grandson, the revival carries a personal
Bandol, Ricard’s presence is immediately felt. A statue bearing
significance for de Jouffroy, making it especially meaningful to
his enduring motto, ‘nul bien sans peine’ (nothing valuable is
remain true to the original ethos. “We wanted to keep Paul Ricard’s
obtained without effort) keeps watch over the harbour, while
legacy alive and honour his vision,” he affirms. “We were not
archival photographs hang on the walls of the waterside café, where
looking to overhaul or erase the island’s identity, but rather to
pastis-flavoured ice cream is served as a playful nod to his legacy.
preserve its unique soul while elevating it to a highly desirable destination for international travellers.”
From here, meandering pathways weave through landscaped gardens and along the shoreline, connecting clusters of buildings
Finding a hotel partner who understood the significance of the
arranged in the style of a Provençal village. With the resort’s
island’s history was equally crucial, prompting a global search and
accommodation and associated amenities distributed across some
rigorous selection process. Société Paul Ricard ultimately opted for
25 buildings dotted throughout the island, careful consideration
Zannier Hotels, having been won over by the group’s considered
was given to how visitors would find their way around. The
approach. “What made Zannier Hotels the ideal fit was their proven
guest journey has been meticulously planned by Hardel Le Bihan
ability to curate deeply authentic, respectful luxury experiences,”
Architectes, who were initially asked to assess the site’s potential
de Jouffroy explains. “They share our commitment to heritage,
from both a technical and architectural perspective. Following a
craftsmanship and sense of place, bringing the perfect balance of
preliminary study, the Paris-based studio proposed an integrated
subtlety, elegance and global appeal.”
approach, recognising that successful revitalisation would depend
For Arnaud Zannier, who spent childhood holidays nearby, the
on treating architecture and landscaping as a cohesive composition.
island held a particular allure. “Île de Bendor offered something
As a result, they were commissioned to lead the revitalisation of
that we deeply value at Zannier Hotels: authenticity,” the hotelier
the entire island, taking in renovation, restoration and newbuild,
recalls. “It’s rare to find a place with such a strong identity, rich
as well as collaborating with Niez Studio on the landscaping.
history and close ties to its surrounding community; respecting that deep connection guided our every step.”
“Our approach always begins by understanding what’s already there; we take the time to conduct a thorough analysis of each
The project aligned perfectly with the Zannier Hotels philosophy
building before deciding whether to preserve or convert it,” explains
of creating one-of-a-kind destinations that are deeply rooted in
Cyrille Le Bihan, Founding Partner of Hardel Le Bihan Architectes,
their environment, but unlike previous ventures – such as Phum
referencing the island’s diverse mix of building styles and states
Baitang in Cambodia and Omaanda in Namibia, both created from
of repair. “The balance between preservation, renovation and new
scratch – Île de Bendor already had its own distinct character.
construction evolved over the course of the project, informed by
“This wasn’t a destination that needed to be invented, because
technical diagnosis and eventual purpose.”
Paul Ricard had already created its story, soul and legacy,” Zannier
The majority of the buildings remain intact, still recognisable
continues. “I saw an opportunity to simply reimagine the island
from their original form. The historic Delos Hotel, for example,
while honouring what makes it unique.”
has been preserved and upgraded to meet modern standards, with
The world Ricard created provided a natural point of reference,
a sensitive extension now housing 39 guestrooms and suites. “The
but the goal was never simply to recreate the past. “Paul Ricard’s
existing design already showcased distinct characteristics, so our
influence was at the centre of this project from the very beginning;
approach was to highlight these features by enhancing them and
he was a passionate advocate for the Mediterranean way of life,
ensuring their long-term technical and aesthetic durability,” Le
with a love of art, craftsmanship and nature,” Zannier explains. “I
Bihan explains. The 49-key Soukana building underwent extensive
asked myself how he might imagine Île de Bendor today, a place
renovation, while the five sailor’s houses have been converted into
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two-storey Maisons Madrague, each featuring a bedroom, lounge and private garden that captures the Provençal charm. In the centre of the island, the demolition of structurally fragile and discordant buildings has made way for a 1,200m2 spa – the most significant new construction. “Resonance draws inspiration from the architectural history and culture of Roman baths; it is an enveloping space, conducive to introspection and meditation, offering a haven of wellbeing,” reveals Le Bihan. “The choice of natural stone, the noble and reassuring solidity of the stone blocks quarried locally, the design of the protective arches with their mashrabiya screen walls filtering soft light – everything was carefully considered to create the setting envisioned by Arnaud Zannier and his team.” Regardless of the building, local and sustainable materials such as stone and wood were used across the site, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic and reinforcing connection to the Mediterranean. The landscaping, once mature,
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by Thomas King Premium belgian tapware since 1935
Each venue has its own distinct identity, sharing a palette of local and sustainable materials such as stone and wood
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will take this further, weaving indigenous planting
studio sourced antiques from across France, also
between the buildings to blur the boundaries between
commissioning bespoke pieces for specific spaces.
architecture and landscape.
“Craftsmanship was essential to our approach because
For the interiors, Zannier Design Studio also
it brings genuineness, character and a human touch
looked to the surroundings for inspiration, pairing
that cannot be replicated through standardised
Mediterranean influences with the restraint for which
design,” Zannier notes. “We worked closely with
the brand is known. “My goal was for the interiors to
artisans whose skills are deeply rooted in the region,
feel deeply connected to the island,” Zannier reveals,
ensuring every handcrafted element tells a story,
adding that the palette directly reflects the limestone
strengthening the bond between the island and its
cliffs and coastal vegetation, as well as the sea and
Mediterranean heritage.”
the warm Provençal light. Natural materials such as
Wall art brings another dimension to the interiors,
stone, wood and plaster are used throughout, though
further connecting the spaces to Bendor’s creative
each accommodation style has its own identity. Delos
heritage. Gallerists Victoire Monrose and Juliette
channels 1960s glamour through a retro-chic scheme
Caussil, founders of Orae, have curated a 250-strong
of pastel blue and mid-century accents, while Soukana
collection tailored to each space. At Delos, Franco-
is dedicated to wellbeing, with a soothing palette
Japanese artist Tiffany Bouelle created 39 paintings
designed for retreat and restoration. This extends
with warm, expressive lines that recall the gestures
to the FF&E too, with sumptuous beds by Hypnos, a
of 1950s abstract expressionism – the era in which
considered lighting scheme by Prado and minimalist
Hotel Delos was originally conceived. And at Soukana,
faucets designed by Thomas King for RVB, finished in a
the artistic journey unfolds through a quieter, more
dark bronze hue to harmonise with the muted palette.
contemplative lens, with works by Bec Kirby and David
Public spaces follow the same aesthetic, enriched
Servan-Schreiber rooted in the principles of nature,
by a considered collection of art and craft. The
wellbeing and slow living. Orae also has its own
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gallery on the island, where sculptures, textiles
one-island, one-resort concepts fall flat. “We
and pottery invite visitors to explore the cultural
never wanted the island to become an exclusive
heritage of the Mediterranean.
enclave reserved solely for overnight guests,”
For a more immersive experience, guests can
de Jouffroy affirms. “It remains a welcoming
take part in daily workshops in the Village des
destination for day visitors, whether they come
Artisans, trying their hand at watercolours or
to enjoy dinner by the sea, participate in an
ceramics, or perhaps an afternoon spent learning
artistic workshop or indulge in a moment of
to make a traditional Provençal lavender wand
pure relaxation at the spa. Keeping the island
with Franc 1884. The sessions are hosted by the
alive, vibrant and accessible to all is the truest
artists-in-residence – creators who live on the
tribute to its original essence.”
island, weaving permanent works into its fabric
For the Ricard family, seeing Île de Bendor
while inviting guests to share their craft. It’s an
flourish once again has been an emotional
initiative that de Jouffroy is particularly proud
journey, particularly among those who
of, declaring: “Reviving this creative sanctuary
remember the island at the height of its success.
was essential to keeping Paul Ricard’s devotion
“I believe my great-grandfather would be
to the arts alive.”
deeply proud to see his beloved island reborn;
Such experiences might sound like the
that it remains a place cherished by all for its
preserve of the privileged few, but in keeping
authenticity, charm and beauty would mean
with Ricard’s original directive, the island is
the world to him,” de Jouffroy concludes.
open to all. A reservation at any of the resort’s
“Bendor is truly a one-of-a-kind sanctuary,
restaurants or leisure facilities comes with a
and together with Zannier Hotels, our highest
complimentary water taxi – a simple touch
ambition is simply to ensure its light continues
that keeps the destination lively where so many
to shine bright for generations to come.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Société Paul Ricard Operator: Zannier Hotels Architecture: Hardel et Le Bihan Architectes Interior Design: Zannier Design Studio Art Consultant: Orae Landscaping: Niez Studio Main Contractor: Bouygues Bâtiment Sud-Est www.zannierhotels.com
Casa Bonavita MALTA Once a family retreat, an 18th-century Maltese palazzo is reimagined by a husband-and-wife duo as a biophilic boutique layered with art and antiques. Words: Rick Jordan • Photography: © Boz Gagovski
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et adrift in the Mediterranean above North Africa,
holidays and weddings, gradually restoring the interiors. It
the small island of Malta has been a stepping stone
provided safe haven during the pandemic, which is when the
for many different cultures over the centuries, all of
seeds were sown for turning it into a hotel. No strangers to
which have left their mark. From an architecture and design
the design sector, the Sharps founded The Rug Company in
perspective, it’s a curious mix – from the megalithic temples
1997, establishing a reputation for artisanal hand-loomed
carved before Stonehenge was a twinkle in its creator’s
rugs and collaborating with the likes of Vivienne Westwood,
eye to the Bauhaus-style linearity of Malta International
Diane von Furstenberg and Alexander McQueen, before
Contemporary Art Space, ingeniously layered by Ipostudio
selling their majority stake in 2015.
within the bastions of a 16th-century fortress.
guests pass through a small courtyard beneath the stone
in gilt-painted detail around the capital of Valletta, as well
arches of the former stables, where walls painted with orange
as in neighbouring towns. In Attard – one of Malta’s historic
trees accompany a simple bureau standing as the check-in
Three Villages – the bells of St Mary’s toll down orange-
desk. The intention, according to Suzanne, was always to
scented limestone streets and into the garden courtyard of
make it feel more like a home than a hotel – albeit one in
Casa Bonavita, an 18th-century villa that has been reborn as
which the former kitchen is now a cocktail bar, decorated
a 17-room boutique hotel.
with a handpainted de Gournay mural of Valletta Harbour in
Built as a country retreat by a Maltese family with Venetian
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Casa Bonavita came as a fresh creative project. On arrival,
But it’s the Baroque that truly defines the island, unfurling
the 17th century, sail boats aflutter at full mast.
roots, the casa was falling into disrepair by the time Suzanne
Throughout, the interiors feel layered with pieces gathered
and Christopher Sharp purchased it in 2010. “The original
over time, with craftsmanship evident in the details. No
family had left during the war and no one had really loved it
two doors are the same – all were made to fit. Bathrooms
since,” recounts Suzanne. “It felt locked-and-shuttered – a
were painstakingly painted with a marble-effect – which
little Miss Havisham – but we fell for it instantly. The layout
was “actually more expensive than real marble,” remarks
is so balanced and the light is incredible.”
Suzanne. A corridor leading to a brace of rooms doubles as
Suzanne was born in Malta before spending her teenage
a small gallery for antique Sicilian and Maltese tiles; vintage
years in Rome; Christopher grew up in Uganda, and while the
Murano bubble lights hang overhead; and Italian chairs, wall
couple have lived around the world, the island has remained
sconces and other heirlooms furnish the bedrooms, alongside
a favourite. Over the years, they would stay at the casa for
a museum’s worth of paintings. Several have been in the
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The cocktail bar (opposite) is adorned with a handpainted de Gournay mural depicting 17th-century sail boats at Valletta Harbour
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family for generations, though son Jamie, an art
transition between the indoors and outdoors
dealer, collected many more, including works
is such a key part of the Mediterranean way
by island painters such as Kenneth Zammit
of life,” explains Christopher. “The frescoed
Tabona. “The history and geography of the
restaurant was designed to bring the beauty and
island meant that so many pieces feel at home
tranquillity of the garden indoors, connecting
here,” Suzanne notes. “English, Italian, North
the house to its surrounding landscape through
African and Maltese, of course.”
arches opening onto a flagstone courtyard.”
During Sleeper’s visit earlier this year, before
The transformation from family residence
Casa Bonavita opened to the public, Italian
to hotel hasn’t been a radical one, yet it still
muralists Alfonso Orombelli and Luna Aulehla
required architectural expertise. Maltese-based
Greppi were busy applying the final touches to
firm Paul Camilleri & Associates picked up the
the salon ceiling, high up on a raised platform.
local compliance, planning and services, while
The pair are more accustomed to casting their
long-term collaborator Michael Mozny refined
trompe l’oeil magic on private homes and
the spatial planning and interior layouts.
palaces, but tell me later that Casa Bonavita
“One of the key challenges was adapting the
is one of the best projects they’ve worked
300-year-old structure to suit contemporary
on, talking of a “reciprocal understanding”
living, yet respecting its character,” explains
with the Sharps. Their designs help to blur
Mozny. “For instance, integrating bathrooms
the boundaries between indoors and out, with
into each suite was a challenge. The brief also
vines and flowers winding across the walls of
evolved over time – I originally helped modify
the restaurant, mirroring the verdant courtyard.
the house as a family residence, then as the
“The relationship between the interiors and
hotel, adding the four-room dower house,
the garden stands out above all, as that seamless
ensuring it became a coherent composition.”
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Collaboration lies at the heart of Casa
advantage. “I knew exactly how the building
Bonavita – not only with artisans on the island
behaved – which rooms catch the first winter
and around Europe, but with family members
sun, where the evening light lingers in summer.
too. The couple’s daughter, Sophie, provides
That became the starting point,” notes Jack.
glug-glug jugs, plates and other ceramics from
“Instead of creating a handful of scenes, I built
the Villa Bologna Pottery studio nearby. And
an automated system that follows the rhythm
Christopher’s remit is the garden at the heart
of the year and gradually adjusts every light
of the palazzo, bright with bougainvillea and
accordingly. Music follows the same philosophy.
shaded by palms, while the main swimming
It’s everywhere, but never obvious. Each room
pool is concealed behind a hedge. “One of
has four small speakers rather than one loud
the greatest challenges was that the property
one, so the sound is gentle, immersive and
revealed itself all at once rather than unfolding
impossible to locate.”
gradually as you moved through it,” he
Casa Bonavita is a rare place indeed – a
explains. “We wanted to create a sequence of
tapestry of a hotel that has been woven from
distinct spaces, where each turn offers a new
the travels and creativity of its owners, as
perspective or unexpected view. With the house
well as from the history of the island itself.
becoming a hotel, it was important to provide
“We wanted to reflect the most evocative and
spaces that guests could retreat to, balanced by
romantic elements of Malta’s past, distilling
those that encourage conviviality.”
its essence to guests in a way that feels both
Another of The Sharps’ offspring, son Jack,
authentic and intimate,” concludes Suzanne.
shaped the atmosphere, namely through the
“We hope the true sense of place leaves guests
lighting, soundscapes and sauna technology.
feeling connected to Malta, with a deeper, more
Having lived at Casa Bonavita was a huge
nuanced understanding of the island.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Christopher and Suzanne Sharp Architectural Planning: Michael Mozny Architect of Record: Paul Camilleri & Associates Interior Design: Suzanne Sharp Studio Art Consultant: Jamie Sharp www.casabonavita.com
Maison Felix MIAMI BEACH Namron Hospitality enters the US market with a Mediterraneanmeets-Miami hideaway envisioned by Felix Cohen. Words: Matt Turner Photography: Courtesy of Maison Felix
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tretching from 60th Street to Surfside,
but Scher persevered, acquiring various parcels
North Beach is the quieter end of
of land around the hotel in partnership with
Miami Beach. This narrow barrier strip,
Alex Blavatnik. Recent plans unveiled through a
home to residential buildings and laidback
joint venture between Witkoff Group and Ocean
neighbourhood restaurants, is defined by low-
Terrace Holdings promise completion by 2029.
rise mid-century Miami Modernist architecture,
Given the developers’ pedigree – Alex Blavatnik
which stands as a marked contrast to the Art
chairs Access Industries, created by his brother
Deco hotels and towering condominiums found
Len Blavatnik, which revitalised Mid Beach
further south.
in the mid-2010s with Alan Faena – expect a
Yet plans are afoot to change this. Ocean
transformational impact on the neighbourhood.
Terrace, a mixed-use development occupying
In the meantime, Maison Felix, a low-key
an entire oceanfront block from 75th to 76th
hotel launched by Namron Hospitality, has
Street, will comprise a 20-storey residential
brought renewed attention to the area. Named
tower, 24 resort residences, a 42-bed boutique
after its designer, Felix Cohen – a legendary
hotel, a private members’ club and street-
figure in Miami’s design scene, who introduced
level retail, all surrounded by a five-acre park
Parisian fashion to Florida with his boutique
designed by landscape architect Raymond
Oxygene at Bal Harbour Shops in 1983 – Maison
Jungles. The vision dates back over a decade.
Felix is his tribute to the Mediterranean holidays
Your writer remembers touring the Broadmoor
of his youth. It’s a tranquil sanctuary of refined,
Hotel with developer Sandor Scher of Claro
understated luxury that contrasts markedly
Developments in 2015 as he outlined his plans to
with the larger hotels further down the coast.
revitalise this run-down stretch. Early planning
“Maison Felix is more than a space I
applications stalled due to public opposition,
designed,” Cohen says. “It is a reflection of
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who I am. Every detail echoes a life shaped by
orange to teal and turquoise, conjuring the
beauty, precision and emotion. It is not just a
rustic landscapes and cerulean waters of
hotel, but an invitation into the world I have
the Mediterranean. Neutral bouclé sofas,
spent decades creating.”
Scandinavian-style fabric floor lamps and jute
This blink-and-you-might-miss-it property
rugs create an organic atmosphere. Subtle brass
sits a couple of blocks from the beach, tucked
accents, vintage mirrors and hand-selected
behind tropical foliage at the junction of 74th
antiques exude the European elegance Felix is
and Harding. Described by Namron as “a
synonymous with, while bold, contemporary
discreet sanctuary where family legacy meets
artwork by local artists reflects Miami’s vibrant
contemporary sophistication,” the design
energy and creative spirit.
preserves the original 1948 Mediterranean
Maison Felix marked Namron Hospitality’s
character while introducing a sophisticated,
entry into the US market, alongside the
contemporary interior with French touches. 25
November 2025 opening of Le Particulier in
rooms and suites span two storeys, arranged
South Beach and The William’s relaunch in
around a central courtyard pool and garden
New York’s Midtown. The operator has been
enveloped in traveller’s palms. A Spanish barrel-
expanding rapidly across Mexico with La
tile roof nods to the building’s heritage; green
Valise Los Cabos, El Cortés in Mexico City, plus
glazed staircases with palm-print wallpaper
acquisitions of Musa in Guerrero and Nest in
connect the floors; and green-and-white woven
Baja California. It may not be in Mexico, but
bistro chairs and matching loungers frame the
Maison Felix equally reflects Namron’s mission:
statement pool.
championing lesser-known destinations and
Guestrooms
feature
colour
schemes
ranging from rust-red terracotta and sunset
creating distinct, characterful places that anchor deeply to their surroundings.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Namron Hospitality Interior Design: Felix Cohen www.maisonfelix.miami
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Amoh RHODES Marriott International brings The Luxury Collection to Rhodes with a coastal resort rooted in Greek mythology and craft. Words: Andrew Wakem • Photography: © Christos Drazos
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et on a peninsula on the eastern coast of Rhodes, where olive groves, sheltered coves and an ancient quarry meet the Aegean Sea, Amoh, a Luxury Collection
Resort, emerges. It is a setting of such natural authority that the most convincing design response was not to compete with it, but to listen. Studio Lost, founded by Constantina Tsoutsikou, has done exactly that. The resort draws from Rhodian craft, mythology and the slower rhythms of island life, yet never slips into pastiche. Stone, timber, linen and woven surfaces give the interiors a tactile calm, complemented by handcrafted ceramics, carved joinery and pebble mosaics that bring local traditions into a contemporary expression of Greek luxury. Against
the
geometric
architecture
of
Savvas
Kampouropoulos & Associates, Tsoutsikou’s curvaceous interiors provide a softer counterpoint rooted in the history of its setting. In Greek mythology, the island was personified by Rhodos, a sea nymph and the beloved of Helios, god of the sun. Legend tells that when the gods divided the world, Helios was absent and overlooked. When Rhodes later emerged from the sea, he claimed the island as his domain and Rhodos as his consort. Their union forever entwined Rhodes with light, beauty and the sea. That mythology is encapsulated in the coastal quarry bordering the site, once a source of limestone for the Acropolis and fortified castle of Lindos. “The quarry became our starting point,” Tsoutsikou explains. “It holds the memory of Rhodes in its material - the relationship between
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Inspired by Greek artistry, bespoke furniture across the resort has been designed by Studio Lost in collaboration with Design Pergola, combining sculptural forms, refined detailing and a restrained material palette
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landscape, craftsmanship and architecture.
all-day dining spot Lithos, monumental timber
We wanted the interiors to carry that history
doors recall the fortified entrances of medieval
forward without recreating the past.”
Rhodes, lending dinner a sense of occasion.
The arrival sequence establishes this dialogue
Open-air Italian eatery Cava di Pietra looks
immediately. Working with local craftspeople,
towards the quarry and feels grounded in
Studio Lost developed an interlocking border
stone. Refined steakhouse Glaze takes a more
motif inspired by the handlaid black-and-
theatrical approach through ceramic references.
white pebble mosaics found in the courtyards
And Greek seafood spot Kymata, beside one of
of historic captain’s houses in Lindos.
the coves, adopts a lighter coastal character
Reinterpreted at an architectural scale, it frames
with mosaic-topped tables and rope-clad
the lobby and signals the resort’s all-embracing
dining chairs designed by Vincent Van Duysen
commitment to craft.
for Kettal. Oversized artworks and handcrafted
Inside, bold geometric flooring topped
objects bring a residential quality, while a
with custom wave-patterned rugs by Edition
shared material language connects the venues.
169 leads beneath sculptural lighting, while
By day, the main pool is the resort’s beating
warm timber and tactile upholstery soften the
heart. A bold geometric mosaic, informed by
architecture. Woven textile wallcoverings sit
traditional Greek patternmaking, transforms
alongside wood panelling, adding depth, warmth
the water into a living canvas. Its two-toned
and acoustic comfort. The lobby is impressive
blue composition evokes the shifting depths of
without feeling ceremonial, designed for use
the Aegean, with turquoise, deeper marine tones
rather than ornament.
and touches of green extending across umbrellas
Each restaurant is conceived as a distinct
and bespoke loungers. Marble planters, olive
chapter in the wider story. At Mediterranean
trees and native planting create pockets of
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At Glaze, architectural arches and darkstained timber are combined with tactile wallcoverings and soft upholstery
privacy, while linen-draped cabanas topped
The resort’s spa, Elispa, takes its name from
with bamboo cast graphic shadows. By night,
Elísso, meaning the infinite curve of nature in
the pool becomes an atmospheric backdrop to
Greek, a motif echoed throughout the interiors
the restaurant terrace above.
in softly rounded corners and wave-like forms.
At the poolside, Isle bar is a compact pavilion
Though largely underground, its brighter spaces
of glazing and timber lattice. Its blue marble
retain an ethereal quality, while the more
façade is punctuated by white highlights that
intimate treatment rooms feel deliberately
create a triangular pattern, while a curved pale-
cocooning. Guided by the four elements, the
marble counter and suspended timber shelving
spa’s modern Greek wellness philosophy draws
serve as a relaxed focal point. Terracotta pots,
on wild herbs, volcanic clay and olive oil. Six
verdant greenery and pale-blue pinstriped
treatment rooms, a private couples’ suite,
uniforms complete the Mediterranean palette.
sauna, steam bath and relaxation areas complete
As evening falls, the space extends into a sunken
the sanctuary, while a secluded sunken outdoor
lounge centred around a circular fire pit, with
pool offers a tranquil retreat for adults.
seating upholstered in neutral Vagenas fabric
Across the 197 guestrooms and suites,
and bespoke tables supplied by Design Pergola.
Amoh maintains the same restrained sense
Here, a weekly Sunset Aperitivo offers a nod to
of immersion, with 96 opening onto private
Helios and Rhodos.
pools. The room names – Hemera, Eos and
Beyond the pool, Kavos Beach is reached by
Selene – drawn from the Greek personifications
a quarry-like stepped descent, framed by stone
of day, dawn and the moon, quietly continue
walls and uninterrupted views. Kymata Beach
the resort’s mythological narrative without
is a more intimate bay, with stone terraces that
becoming overtly themed.
gently descend to the shoreline.
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Interiors evoke a residential atmosphere.
Amoh, A Luxury Collection Resort, Rhodes IMAGE: CHRISTOS DRAZOS
Exterior Design Bespoke Outdoor Furniture
design-pergola.com
Upholstered headboards, crafted timber,
resort’s scale, the arrangement creates a sense
rounded seating, sculptural tables and woven
of seclusion and, as each route culminates in
lighting sit within a palette inspired by the
water, the illusion of occupying a private island.
quarry: warm limestone, soft sand, weathered
Considered landscaping supports this
earth and rich bronze, with terracotta-orange
approach. Across the resort, 276 olive trees
accents recalling Greek amphorae. Large-
are woven into the site as a living expression
format limestone-effect porcelain tiles by
of Rhodes, alongside cypress trees, native
Atlas Concorde remain cool underfoot. The
species and planted roofs, reinforcing the
bathrooms contain one of the strongest material
connection between the architecture, the land
gestures with basins cut from substantial blocks
and centuries-old Mediterranean tradition.
of stone, their chiselled façades appearing as
In the heat of the day, the chorus of cicadas
though carved directly from the nearby quarry.
enhances the sense of place; and when the
A continuous herringbone floor flows from
island winds arrive, the lush planting brings
bathroom to bedroom and towards the pool
movement to the plan. After dark, carefully
terrace, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor
positioned lighting transforms the landscape
connection. At the threshold, expansive glazing
into an abstract backdrop.
opens towards olive trees or the sea, and terraces serve as an extension outwards.
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Every threshold, transition and destination has been choreographed to encourage curiosity,
The masterplan unfolds gradually through a
moving from bold architectural gestures to
series of low-rise guestrooms, whereby each
intimate, handcrafted details. Amoh feels
cluster is connected by village-like streets
shaped not by a decorative concept, but by the
across the peninsula, the pathways repeatedly
land itself: the quarry, coves, olive trees, heat,
drawing the eye towards the sea. Despite the
craft and rituals of island life.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Wavemaker Architecture: Savvas Kampouropoulos & Associates Interior Design: Studio Lost www.amoh.com
25-26 November 2026 Excel London
HIX writes its next chapter...
Creative. Curated. Connected.
The journey continues… HIX Europe unites leading designers, operators and developers in London, the global hub for contemporary hospitality design. The creative, immersive experience features installations, activations and talks showcasing the cutting-edge design excellence shaping tomorrow’s hotel landscape.
A new home at Excel
Our new venue Excel connects seamlessly from across Europe via direct flights to Heathrow or City Airport. From central London, the Elizabeth Line whisks delegates to Excel in minutes. Whether arriving from Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin – or Soho, Clerkenwell or the City – the journey is smooth and stress-free.
Taking place alongside AHEAD Europe at MAGAZINE London, HIX Europe sits at the heart of East London’s emerging hospitality scene. Canary Wharf, Docklands and Greenwich Peninsula together create an interconnected ecosystem of venues, tours and accommodation for European hospitality leaders where everything connects.
A new East London campus Over 200 leading interior brands converge in an immersive environment. From surfaces and furnishings to technology and lighting, explore the complete hotel supply chain. Network with Europe’s visionary designers, operators and developers. Discover inspirational ideas, cutting-edge innovations and the trends shaping tomorrow’s hospitality world. HIX Europe – where design truly happens.
A new hotel
w expo for Europe’s l design community
25-26 November 2026
Excel London
REGISTER NOW www.hixevent.com
Son Xotano MALLORCA Annua Signature Hotels expands its Mallorcan portfolio with a rural retreat housed within a 12th-century possessió. Words: Matt Turner Photography: Courtesy of Son Xotano
A
nnua Signature Hotels may be built
of Annua Signature Hotels. “A place where
around the philosophy that the true
every texture, every scent, every silence evokes
essence of luxury is time, but its
something essential – something remembered.”
founders have wasted none in establishing
The renovation has been sensitively handled
the group as a distinctive new presence in
by Clapés Pizà, a Mallorca-based studio founded
the hotel industry. Brothers Álvaro and Iñaki
by architects Adrià Clapés and Joan Pizà. Dry-
Sasiambarrena followed the 2021 launch of
stone walls have been restored, original beams
their debut property Amagatay in Menorca
repointed and historical elements reintroduced
with Hotel César in Lanzarote in 2023 and
throughout. Designer and frequent Annua
Morvedra Nou, also on Menorca, in 2024. They
collaborator Virginia Nieto meanwhile was
have subsequently expanded into neighbouring
enlisted to transform the interiors, using local
Mallorca with Son Xotano and coastal retreat
materials such as Mallorcan clay, pine, linen
Gran Hotel Margalida.
and brushed metal. The resulting palette
Described as ‘a timeless retreat rooted in
of sky blues and earthy browns reflects the
landscape, memory and material’, Son Xotano
surrounding landscape and gives the property
is the conversion of a 12th-century possessió, or
a calm, grounded character.
rural estate, nestled among ancient olive trees,
The lobby sets the tone for a hotel that feels
working vineyards and lavender-swept fields.
more like a private mansion than a conventional
The brief called to preserve the layered character
resort. Historical features are carefully balanced
of the centuries-old estate while adapting it to
with contemporary furniture and sculptural
the needs of modern-day guests. “We wanted
accents: a smooth, plaster-finished stone
to create a space that felt like a homecoming,”
staircase curves upwards beneath soft grey-
says Álvaro, co-founder and Creative Director
white beams, framed by minimalist black
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In the lobby, exposed beams and archways are balanced by Mid-Century armchairs and contemporary artwork
wrought-iron railings. Oversized planters filled
Locally sourced fabrics deepen the sense of
with dried branches and delicate botanicals sit
place. Mallorca-made roba de llengües textiles
alongside smooth, stone-coloured spheres
in traditional ikat patterns appear on accent
on black circular bases. Mid-Century-style
cushions, headboard panels and imaginative
armchairs with white tufted cushions are paired
treatments on ceiling beams, while neutral
with a low-profile curved beige sofa, while three
linen bedding is supplied by heritage Spanish
oversized spherical paper lanterns hang above at
brand Bassols.
staggered heights. Shuttered French doors offer a glimpse of the central courtyard beyond.
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Expansive bathrooms feature sandstone basins and Cristina Rubinetterie sanitaryware
Art is woven into the property through
in matte gunmetal or brass. Walk-in rain
sculptural furnishings, framed local photography
showers are enveloped in handcrafted ceramic
and bespoke artisan pieces. A subtle fragrance
tiles glazed in chalky greens or deep slate blues,
concept – lavender from the gardens, fig leaf
while side tables by Belgian designer Marie
and sun-warmed stone – echoes the natural
Michielssen for Serax provide a platform for
surroundings and deepens the sense of place.
full-sized Aesop amenities.
The 22 guestrooms exude calm, with original
The 14 suites add further layers of comfort,
architectural details complemented by bespoke
with lounge areas, freestanding clawfoot
furniture, much of which is designed by Nieto’s
bathtubs and fireplaces for cooler months.
studio in collaboration with local artisans.
Select rooms also feature private plunge pools
Rooms are thoughtfully proportioned, many
or walled patios shaded by olive trees.
retaining arched windows, vaulted ceilings or
Light plays an important role throughout
stone thresholds that open onto private gardens
the property – from natural daylight filtered
or balconies.
through wooden shutters and flowing linen
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drapery, to handblown glass lighting from
“Sometimes it’s a fisherman I’ve known since
Gordiola, an 18th-century atelier founded just
childhood; sometimes it’s the smell of wild
10km away in nearby Algaida, adding another
fennel after the rain.”
local layer.
a series of buildings known as les cases,
by dry-stone walls and surrounded by native
organised around a central courtyard, or la
carob, olive and cypress trees. Blue-and-white
clastra. Son Xotano revives this idea with a
chequered sunloungers and linen-draped
vine-covered piazza at its heart, home to a
pergolas line the perimeter, reinforcing the
restored horno de leña wood-fired oven and
relaxed rhythm of the estate.
a scenic setting for long lunches and twilight
At one end of the pool, a low-rise
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Historically, Mallorcan possessiós comprised
The social hub of the hotel is the pool, framed
dinners under the stars.
structure with a terracotta-tiled roof houses
Still to come is El Celler, the property’s
the signature restaurant and bar, helmed
historic wine cellar reimagined as an intimate
by acclaimed Menorcan chef José María
yet rustic grill restaurant, where clay walls, soft
Borrás. The Mediterranean menu showcases
lighting and local ceramics cultivate an air of
ingredients sourced from surrounding farms
hushed conviviality.
or grown directly on the estate, where ancient
Ultimately, Son Xotano encourages guests to
agricultural terraces have been revived and a
slow down: to wander the estate, linger on a
kitchen garden added to provide the restaurant
sunlounger and discover secluded corners for
with homegrown produce.
reading, conversation and quiet reflection. In
“Every dish tells a story,” reveals Borrás, who
doing so, it embodies Annua Signature Hotels’
draws inspiration from the island’s seasons,
ethos: ‘We are more than a destination; we are
small producers and his own memories.
caretakers of your time.’
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Annua Signature Hotels Architecture: Clapés Pizà Interior Design: Virginia Nieto www.annuahotels.com
The Ritz-Carlton KEY BISCAYNE Drawing on the colours, textures and rhythms of island living, a cherished Miami resort reopens with a renewed design grounded in its coastal setting. Words: Hannah Wintle • Photography: Courtesy of Marriott International (unless otherwise stated)
F
rom the paint-splashed walls of Wynwood to the neon lights of South Beach, Miami is a city defined by vibrancy. Home to the world’s largest collection
of Art Deco architecture, its geometric skyline rises above white-sand beaches in a kaleidoscopic display of colour and symmetry, and the atmosphere on the ground is just as vivacious. And yet, there is another side of the city, one that exudes a different kind of glamour altogether. Enjoying a slower pace and an air of sophistication, Key Biscayne is a subtropical island just a scenic drive south over the Rickenbacker Causeway, where luscious parks meet sun-soaked coasts. It is here that The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne has been a defining presence since its opening in 2001. A quarter of century later, the cherished resort has reopened its doors following a transformative US$100 million refurbishment, recast as a beacon of seaside opulence by developers Gencom, together with Hart Howerton on architecture, DesignAgency taking the lead on interiors and Chapi Design on guestrooms. “This hotel is iconic on the Miami luxury scene,” comments Tatiana Sheveleva, Owner of Chapi Design. “We were designing spaces that people felt connected with. So, to keep the balance between heritage and refresh, the location became the inspiration.” Set across 17 acres of pristine beachfront, the indoor-outdoor sanctuary is defined by clean architectural lines, natural textures and a colour palette that
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Rum Bar’s moody palette of deep blues and rusty oranges pairs with the dark-wood of floor-to-ceiling panels etched with tropical motifs
090
adopts the tonality of its island setting. “Key Biscayne
lingering, with low-slung seating in sandy shades
has always been a hidden harbour, an orchard island,
complemented by marble-topped coffee tables and a
somewhere people arrive to recover, and that history is
sculptural chandelier.
quiet by nature,” Sheveleva continues. “It would have
“DesignAgency envisioned a lobby centrepiece that
been easy to illustrate it too literally. Instead, we let
captures Key Biscayne’s coastal warmth the instant
it shape the palette and the proportions: enveloping
guests step inside,” comments Josh Mandel, CEO of
sands, sun-bleached woods, misty coastal hues and
Majestic Lighting – the company behind the striking
floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the ocean present
luminaire. “The brief called for a bold presence with
in every room.”
soft, inviting 2700K light, so we answered with a hand-
This philosophy is first established in the lobby,
built composition of 120 individually shaped acrylic
where DesignAgency’s fresh approach to modern
ribbons in clear, amber and gold, layered to create
coastal sophistication sets the tone for the entire stay.
the illusion of movement caught mid-air. The piece
Upon entering, the eye is instantly drawn upwards
cascades organically from an oval canopy, finished in a
and outwards through a triple-storey expanse of glass,
warm taupe to blend into the architecture, in which 32
beyond which the Atlantic glitters on the horizon. “The
integrated light sources provide an ambient glow. The
newly enlarged window, adapted in collaboration with
result is a fixture that reads as art first and lighting
Hart Howerton, opens the interior and transforms it
second, a signature piece that sets the tone for the
into a bright, welcoming space where guests naturally
entire arrival experience.”
gather,” comments Anwar Mekhayech, Founding
Within the lobby, Rum Bar offers a change of pace.
Partner of DesignAgency. The view is flanked by
Here, a moodier palette of deep blues and rusty
swathes of sheer linen that soften the sun as it pours
oranges pairs with the dark-wood of floor-to-ceiling
in, bathing the voluminous space in natural light.
panels etched with tropical motifs. The counter itself
As Mekhayech points out, it’s an area designed for
is encased in sheets of fluted gold, mirroring the
Paralía evokes the spirit of a Greek taverna, with a palm tree mural and a cluster of oversized rattan lampshades
rippling light fixtures above. Newly opened up to the
The ground floor culminates in The Ritz-Carlton
lobby, Mekhayech reflects on how the two adjacent
Spa, an indoor-outdoor experience where nature,
spaces coexist: “Purposely distinct in character, they
ritual and sensory experiences converge. Drawing
are designed to energise each other, with Rum Bar
inspiration from the surrounding mangroves and
repositioned as both a lobby bar and a destination in
limestone landscape, the 30,000ft2 wellness sanctuary
its own right. This created a natural flow between the
cultivates its serene atmosphere through a hushed
two that enhances the energy and experience of both.”
material palette of stone, oak, limewashed walls and
Next door, Luma – the hotel’s Italian dining concept
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terracotta accents.
– reintroduces island sensibilities by way of alabaster
In the guestrooms, Chapi Design continues the
walls, tropical potted plants and chandeliers with
tropical narrative through considered details that
fluttering petals of white marble, while maintaining
reflect the island’s heritage. “Key Biscayne’s history
some of Rum Bar’s atmospheric colour palette through
is the thread that runs through every room and
cobalt banquettes and emerald dining chairs.
residence,” Sheveleva tells Sleeper. “From its earliest
Outside, meandering pathways trace through
identity as a protected harbour and place of arrival,
abundant greenery, leading the way to tree-lined
to its later life as one of the country’s great coconut-
pools just steps away from lapping shores. Here, the
exporting orchards – all of this finds its place in the
hotel’s F&B offer is completed with a series of casual
design. Woven textures, pale greens, warm ambers,
dining venues serving up poolside snacks, as well as
rounded silhouettes – these are tactile references to
an open-air Mediterranean restaurant specialising in
that agrarian past. Alongside that, we drew on the
seafood of the Aegean persuasion. Evoking the spirit
coral reef just offshore, which gave us the veining in
of Greek and Turkish tavernas, Paralía is characterised
our stone surfaces and the branching, elkhorn forms
by a palm tree mural beneath a cluster of oversized
in the lighting. It’s a narrative built in layers, not a
rattan lampshades.
single statement.”
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In a more literal connection to the
What becomes clear at The Ritz-Carlton Key
surroundings, each room boasts ocean or garden
Biscayne is that every opportunity to emphasise
views, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows or
the island atmosphere is taken with care and
enjoyed from private balconies. Inside, the
expertise. Inevitably, such an approach extends
beachy palette continues in textured neutrals
beyond the undulating waves and coastal breeze
and pale woods. The caramel-veined marble
to encapsulate the island’s dynamic cultural
that tops tables and encases the bathroom
scene. “Key Biscayne is a relaxed, almost
brings warmth and depth, emphasised further
secretive calming destination – but it also has
still through golden hardware and honeyed
a luxury social life,” Sheveleva reveals. “Subtle
glass that mimics the setting sun.
Latin American influences appear in the custom
Lighting, both natural and artificial, plays an
textiles and curated art, and the island’s tennis
important role in the project, even becoming
heritage shows up in precise linear detailing and
one of Sheveleva’s favourite design details:
tailored upholstery.”
“A custom-designed glass sconce becomes
As the designer summarises, the result is a
a signature element across bedrooms, suites
subtle shift in mentality, somewhere guests
and residences. Its fluid, undulating form
new or returning can arrive and feel instantly
mirrors the island’s barrier shoal geography –
at peace within the environment. “They should
translucent, luminous and in constant dialogue
feel like they have arrived home,” she concludes.
with light. Positioned beside intricately carved
“Comfortable and easy, not overwhelmed by
wood headboards etched with wave-like
details or unnecessary layers of decoration.
patterns, the handblown sconce by Lasvit
Interiors crafted with knowing nods, never
creates a poetic interplay between solidity and
overt. Everything needed to feel calm. That’s
fluidity, land and sea.”
very Key Biscayne.”
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Gencom Operator: Marriott International Architecture: Hart Howerton Interior Design: DesignAgency, Chapi Design (guestrooms) Art Consultant: Kevin Barry Art Advisory Graphic Design: StudioDA (F&B) Procurement: The Parker Company Main Contractor: First Finish Project Manager: Turner Townsend www.ritzcarlton.com
TEXTILES | WALLPAPERS | CARPETS | CURTAINS | ROLLER BLINDS | MOTORIZED TRACKS 3 EVIAS STR, MAROUSI 15125, ATHENS, GREECE T +30 210 6120277 E INFO@VAGENAS.EU WWW.VAGENAS.EU
Luura Cliff PAROS Vivium ventures into hospitality with the introduction of a new hotel brand rooted in culture, curiosity and the Mediterranean way of life. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of Luura
L
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aunching a new brand in an already crowded hospitality
evolution of hospitality. Fifty years ago, the focus was on
landscape takes courage, vision and the conviction to
grandiose scale and polished marble; today, everyone talks
forge a distinctive path. Established hoteliers might
about experiences,” she continues. “I believe the future of
argue that it takes decades of industry experience too, yet
luxury lies in a genuine sense of belonging, and that’s why
for Sophie Khoury, it is her position as a newcomer that has
we’re doubling down on culture. Through culture, you can
brought a fresh perspective.
explore the core essence of a destination.”
The daughter of Lebanese-French entrepreneur Elie Khouri,
In accordance with Luura’s brand values, each property
Sophie worked as a creative strategist in the technology
will be designed to reflect its destination, inviting guests to
sector, before carving out her own niche within the family
connect with local culture and identity in new ways. “We’re
business. Since its establishment in 2017, Vivium has built a
rethinking what it means to bring culture into a space,”
varied portfolio spanning real estate, art and collectibles, and
Sophie reveals. “Whether guestrooms, wellness or retail, it’s
is also responsible for bringing the likes of Cassina, Giorgetti
about infusing it across every touchpoint.”
and Kettal to the Middle East through its FF&E procurement
This extends to art and crafts in particular, as well as
arm. Up until recently, hospitality wasn’t on the radar, but
music, programming and partnerships with Mediterranean
a new acquisition and untapped potential sparked interest.
suppliers – an approach described as “culture in and out”.
“As a family, we travel a lot and love hotels, but hadn’t
“We care as much about what is happening within the hotel
really thought about going into hospitality,” explains Sophie,
as we do outside,” Sophie explains, pointing out the likes of
founder of Luura and Director of Hospitality at Vivium. “We
bespoke ceramics by Maria Economides, handmade bathrobes
were looking at real estate in Paros and then identified a
from Anatolia, locally made pasteli in the mini-bar and a
gap in the market; we felt there was space for something a
wine-tasting experience with Paros Farming Community.
little different.”
“Every detail has been chosen with intention; guided by
After a global search for a brand that would align with her
curiosity, we connect travellers to experiences both within
vision, Sophie concluded that there was no perfect fit, so set
our spaces and beyond them,” she continues. “Not everyone
about creating her own, resulting in a concept that is shaped
will notice the effort that’s gone into creating Luura, but
by culture. “When I started to develop Luura, I looked at the
even those that don’t will still feel it.”
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A vast collection of artworks curated by the Khoury family in collaboration with Artemis Baltoyanni explore themes of time slowing down and dreamscapes
For the brand’s debut on the east coast of Paros,
Lambs & Lions seeking to balance Cycladic character
Sophie enlisted Elastic and Lambs & Lions to lead on
with a palpable connection to surroundings. “We
design, while a strategic partnership with Ennismore
wanted to create a place that feels connected to the
under Morgans Originals supports operations
island, that genuinely belongs here,” explains the
and distribution. As an existing hotel, there were
Michael Schickinger, the studio’s founder and Creative
some constraints, but a shared desire to prioritise
Director. “We were much more interested in the
craftsmanship and materiality, underpinned by respect
essence of Cycladic architecture than its appearance,
for the surroundings, has resulted in a destination that
so rather than reproduce the familiar vocabulary, we
honours Paros and the wider Mediterranean.
looked at thickness, proportion, shadow, texture,
For the architecture, Athens-based studio Elastic was tasked with upgrading structures and establishing
intense sunlight and shelter.”
an intuitive guest journey through the site. The
Treating the architecture and interiors as one
existing cluster of buildings has been reimagined
continuous experience, Lambs & Lions worked closely
as a Cycladic village anchored by the public spaces,
with Elastic to ensure a seamless transition between
while a new chapel set in a serene courtyard will host
indoors and outdoors. Shading structures and built-
weddings beneath handpainted frescoes.
in furniture are designed as an extension of the
The 39 suites are accessed via a network of
architecture, while an earthy palette of natural stone,
labyrinthine pathways that guide movement through
timber and textured plaster honours the island’s
subtle level changes and stone walls, softened by
fertile valleys and rocky terrain. The studio also used
pockets of greenery. Cubic volumes and whitewashed
the thick walls and small window apertures to their
façades draw on the architectural language of the
advantage, creating spaces that appear as if carved into
Cyclades, while the ever-present stone walls give
the landscape. “The interiors were conceived almost
the resort its distinctive character. In what became
as minimalist shelters – warm, protective and quietly
one of the most ambitious undertakings, the hand-
comfortable,” Schickinger reveals, adding that the aim
assembled walls stretch 10,000m across the site and
was to create spaces that feel “calm and grounded,
are made using stone from the island itself, with the
but never austere”. This is particularly evident in the
team personally selecting slabs by colour and quality.
suites, where arched portals and dark ceilings foster
“We approached the design of Luura Cliff as a study
a sense of quiet enclosure, further enhanced by cosy
in materiality, proportion and spatial layering, where
window nooks and cocooning lounges. The result is
architecture is defined through the precise articulation
a secluded sanctuary that invites guests to settle in
of stone, light and geometry,” explains Ria Xenou, co-
and linger, whether curling up with a book, basking
founder of Elastic. “The design emphasises tactility
in the sun or soaking up the Aegean views. “Comfort
and contrast. Rough stone surfaces meet smooth white
was particularly important,” Schickinger points
planes, while timber pergolas introduce warmth and
out. “Furniture is generous, tactile and deliberately
softness, filtering natural light and creating a dynamic
informal; luxury here comes more from proportion,
play of shadow throughout the day.”
material and ease than from ornament.”
The same approach applied to the interiors, with
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simplicity and the way buildings mediate between
Much of the furniture is bespoke, designed by Lambs
099
Stretching 10,000m across the site, the ever-present stone walls envelop suites and public spaces to give the resort its distinctive character
& Lions to respond to the floorplate of each
experience. Large-scale sculptures, canvases
individual suite. This level of customisation
and objet d’art feature throughout the property,
called for an equally considered approach to
with some pieces available to purchase from
FF&E, with more than 3,000 items sourced and
the onsite boutique. The journey begins at the
delivered to the island over a two-year period
main entrance, where Francesco Clemente’s
– a highly coordinated operation led by Dubai-
bronze figures evoke wonder with their cloud-
based procurement specialist Orsini SPI.
like heads, while Matthew Derbyshire’s Hercule
In accordance with the overarching vision,
Meets Galattea towers over landscaped gardens
the design team opted for natural materials that
by the pool. In the lobby, a display of ceramic
are tactile and patinate over time. Textured wall
vessels incorporates the works of Onofrio Acone,
treatments are applied by hand, for example;
Zein Daouk and Leena Similu, with the touch of
soft furnishings incorporate linen, cotton
the hand evident in their organic forms. And
and woven fabrics supplied by Vagenas; and
across both public spaces and suites, woven
faucets by Graff come in a brushed bronze
baskets, carved urns and terracotta pots add
finish. “Our role was to introduce tactility and
depth to shelving and alcoves, each carefully
human character, crafting a language that feels
placed to respond to the character of its
soft and elemental, with enough imperfection
surroundings. “There was a conscious effort to
and individuality to prevent becoming overly
allow craftsmanship to feel lived with rather than
polished,” explains Schickinger. “The ambition
presented as a decorative reference; it becomes
was for the hotel to feel collected rather than
part of the everyday experience,” Schickinger
decorated – a place shaped through architecture,
affirms, echoing Luura’s overarching ethos.
furniture, art, craft and personal objects.” This layered approach is central to the Luura
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And it’s here that Sophie’s passion for culture comes into its own, her discerning eye bringing
R E . D E F I N I N G U N I F O R M . B E A U T I F U L LY C R A F T E D . D E S I G N T O D E L I V E R Y. B U I LT T O M O V E W I T H T H E M O M E N T.
W W W. R E L I N E L O N D O N . C O M @RE .LINELONDON
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together a collection that sparks curiosity, with
F&B follows the same rhythm, shifting from
each piece feeling as though it has always
leisurely daytime dining to more energetic
belonged there. The objects join a vast collection
spaces as the sun dips. At the heart of the
of artworks curated by the Khoury family in
resort, Lenea is a modern Mediterranean
collaboration with Artemis Baltoyanni. An oil
specialising in sharing plates made using fresh
painting by Tschabalala Self draws on the Greek
local ingredients, and towards the water, the
myth of Leda and Zeus, while a watercolour by
first Greek outpost of Mimi Kakushi perches on
Sofia Mitsola explores the strength of women.
the edge of the cliff. Serving inventive cocktails
Other pieces follow themes of time slowing down
alongside sushi, sashimi and tempura, the
and dreamscapes, the latter shaped around the
wildly popular Japanese restaurant from Dubai-
sleep-healing qualities of the ancient Sanctuary
based Rikas Hospitality Group is sure to draw
of Asclepius.
a crowd.
The overall experience at Luura is one of
By partnering with established brands, Luura
restoration and renewal. Days unfold at an
is extending its reach while enriching its own
unhurried pace, balancing moments of stillness
offering. This approach is set to continue at
with a sense of energy and discovery. The
forthcoming properties in Athens and on the
wellness offering spans contemplative practices
eastern side of Paros, the latter of which will
and more active pursuits, from breathwork,
feature a new F&B concept from Paris Society.
sound baths and meditation to yoga, strength
And though each destination will be different,
training and high-intensity workouts. There’s
the underlying philosophy remains consistent:
also a sauna and ice bath for contrast therapy,
to draw from its surroundings, creating
and a range of face and body treatments using
experiences rooted in culture, curiosity and a
a bespoke blend of oils.
genuine connection to place.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Vivium Developer: 750 Development Operator: Ennismore Architecture: Elastic Interior Design: Lambs & Lions Art Consultant: Artemis Baltoyanni, Elie Khouri Art Foundation Lighting Design: Archtube Graphic Design: Saint-Lazare Uniform Design: Re.Line Procurement: Orsini SPI Landscaping: Greenways Main Contractor: Pima Group www.luurahotels.com
Procurement partner - Luura, Paros
FF&F & OS&E Procurement
Budget planning
Tendering
Logistics
On-Site installation supervision
We didn’t just source Luura, Paros.
We stayed on site, until every last piece was right Orsini SPI managed procurement for Luura, the newly opened clifftop retreat on Paros. Sourcing, budgeting and qualitycontrolling every piece of FF&E and OS&E, then staying on site through installation to see it through. The hands-on supervision, valued as much as the sourcing itself, is what clients remember. Since 2002, we’ve brought the same rigour to hospitality’s most demanding openings worldwide.
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orsini-spi.com
23
Years in service
Nômade Temple MADRID Bringing the spirit of its Mexican roots to Madrid, Nômade Temple’s European debut is shaped by craftsmanship, nostalgia and flea market finds. Words: Lucy Lovell • Photography: © Sergio Pradana
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andwiched between Goliath buildings on Madrid’s Gran Vía, there’s an unexpected homeliness to Nômade Temple Madrid. The lobby, with its fluffy Persian
rugs, tasselled 70s armchairs and bookshelves of vintage Proust hardbacks, feels more like a living room – a complete departure from the architecture, decorated with chiselled white limestone like a delicately iced cake. “Do you want to know our secret weapon?” asks Carlos Cole, Head of Design at Nômade Temple’s in-house studio Oneness. “Nostalgia,” he whispers. Cole, together with Head Architect Gabriel Levy, gave this hotel its soul. They spent countless hours combing through Madrid’s flea market, El Rastro, for second-hand furniture and artwork. Around 20% of the items in the lobby are vintage: mottled marble tables, hand-carved Maasai warrior statues and – Cole’s favourite – a vintage Pierre Giraudoninspired lamp with a smoked-glass shade and resin base. “It was a real ganga [bargain],” he laughs, remembering how he haggled for it. But these retro items have value beyond their price tag; for Cole and Levy, they are the key to triggering nostalgia. “When guests see something that calls to their heart, they connect to the space and therefore the brand. In marketing, there is nothing more important than
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A European sensibility is evident in the FF&E selection, with Porcelanosa, Neolith, Élitis and Egger among the suppliers
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connecting to the space,” says Cole. “Even if
razor clams, which are suspended from the
they didn’t have a lamp exactly like that, maybe
ceiling like cocoons. Hand-sculpted from paper,
their grandma or aunt had something similar,
they are the work of Alejandro Cano-Lasso
and it takes them back.”
Carretero, a Madrid-born marine biologist. For
With 93 guestrooms and two suites, the
Cole, it’s a nod to the group’s early properties.
Madrid hotel marks the first European
“It’s like bringing the spirit of the ocean here,”
outpost for Sebastian Sas’ hospitality group
he describes.
Nômade People. Sas is elusive when it comes
The team spent around four years familiarising
to interviews according to Cole, but his desire
themselves with the Gran Vía building, formerly
to create holistic hospitality permeates the
a hotel that had been stripped of its soul after
business. “Sebastian is a very sensitive being;
some heavy-handed refurbishments. Cole
he has the ideas and we bring them down to
thought it was important to listen to the
earth,” he explains.
building – quite literally. “The spirits talked to
It’s a process that Cole has perfected at
us,” he reveals. “They wanted us to tell their
Nômade Temple’s other two properties. The
story through the design.” One of the original
first venture was a sea-facing hotel in Tulum,
features that had to be retained was a bust of
Mexico. Next came an idyll in Holbox, a palm
the original owner, a wealthy count whose name
tree-studded island around 180km to the north.
is unknown. His white ceramic portrait presides
Both hotels are engulfed by tropical greenery
over a wooden staircase dating back to around
and the warm Caribbean ocean, elements of
1917, with wrought iron balusters and Moorish
which have been embedded in their first urban
revival tiles.
hotel. In Madrid, the lobby is lit by hanging
The design is sympathetic to the building’s
pendants shaped like mussels, sea snails and
history, yet the team has not been shy about
making big changes. A newly added basement is now home to an underground club, Say No More, with private booths hidden behind cherry-red velvet curtains and weekly DJ sets by Gladys Palmera, owner of the world’s largest private collection of Afro-Latin and Caribbean vinyl. Also in the basement is Gön House of Healing, an urban wellbeing temple characterised by textured concrete walls, flowing curtains and a serene fountain. Transformative treatments on offer range from clinical longevity assessments to sound baths using Tibetan bowls to activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. Other major structural changes include a rooftop pool with a swim-up bar, accompanied by a mini forest of glossy-leaved umbrella trees and banana plants with frilly fronds – a peaceful spot to enjoy the Gran Vía views. Back on the ground floor, the 112-cover restaurant, Guga, serves eclectic dishes made from recipes inspired by Italy, Spain and Uruguay. The furniture is elegant and grownup: large tables with natural stone, aged brass
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and layered textiles, while the walls display
Graphenstone, an organic, lime-based paste
handpainted murals inspired by Madrid’s
applied with a trowel to give a textured, lived-in
vibrant art scene. Artist Carlito Dalceggio took
finish. “We don’t want white and minimalist,”
inspiration from various works on display
explains Levy. “This is much more romantic.”
within one-kilometre of the hotel; parts of
Overall, the interiors at Nômade Temple
Picasso’s Guernica, Goya’s La Maja Desnuda
Madrid are tactile and eclectic, but it’s the retro
and Velázquez’s Las Meninas can be spotted
accents that make it feel familiar and grounded.
in the expressive piece. According to Cole,
“It creates a cocooning cosiness,” concludes
these are the more highbrow artworks that
Levy. “When guests first arrive at the hotel,
diners can enjoy from their dinner chairs, but
they see all the white buildings on Gran Vía.
Dalceggio’s nightclub mural – a raunchy piece
Outside it’s cold, but here it’s contained. It’s
with female nudes and lots of symbolism – is
warm, it’s human.”
more underground. “It shows a sexier, darker
Cole and Levy look back fondly on their work
side,” says Cole. Here, keen-eyed culture fans
at the hotel. After putting on the finishing
might spot elements of The Garden of Earthly
touches at 2am ahead of the grand opening,
Delights by Hieronymus Bosch or the risqué
the team shared a vermouth under the glow of
films of Pedro Almodóvar.
Carretero’s sea snail-shaped lights. “Once we
The bedrooms, too, are darker and more
finished, we all sat down on the sofa and just
intimate. Walls are either forest green or dressed
looked at what we had created,” Levy recalls.
in ikat-inspired wallpaper by Barcelona-based
“The feeling was amazing – it was like being
Coordonné. Red fabric lamps keep lighting
home.” And even without knowing the secrets
low and the mood sultry, while the en suite
behind the team’s design, it’s a feeling that
is covered in clouds of soft pink thanks to
guests will be able to relate to.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Hotei Properties Group Socimi Operator: Nômade People Architecture: Oneness, RCCyP Arquitectura, G2 Arquitectos Interior Design: Oneness Lighting Design: Anoche Visual Identity: Norte, Nômade People Main Contractor: G2 Arquitectos www.nomade.com
Dakota Hotel, Manchester Airport
Hotel Gotham, Newcastle
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Seaton House, St Andrews
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The Zetter BLOOMSBURY Thurstan crafts a residential-inspired retreat shaped by Georgian architecture and an eclectic array of antiques. Words: Matt Turner • Photography: Courtesy of The Zetter
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leeper has been following the evolution of The Zetter since Mark Sainsbury and Michael Benyan opened the inaugural hotel – an environmentally aware
conversion of the former Zetter Pools building in Clerkenwell – back in 2004. Subsequent openings saw the group pivot to a more boutique, smaller-scale concept, combining shabbychic Victorian-inspired interiors with a high-end mixology offering created in partnership with cocktail industry legend Tony Conigliaro. The Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell opened in 2008, followed by another Townhouse on Marylebone’s Seymour Street in 2015. It has been over a decade since that last launch, but now new owners Orca Holding are planning a major expansion of the brand, kicking off with a 68-guestroom hotel in Bloomsbury. James Thurstan Waterworth, the former Soho House Design Director now heading up his own practice Thurstan, has been brought in to oversee the interiors. Taking inspiration from Bloomsbury’s literary and artistic heritage, he has created a scheme that combines antique finds, vintage lighting and rich textiles to cultivate a residential feel. It is an approach that eschews hotel convention in favour of something more organic, feeling as though it has been assembled over time. The nearby British
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Museum is a specific source of inspiration – the hotel is filled with an eclectic array of over 3,000 curiosities and objets trouvés, akin to those that a 19th-century explorer might have collated on their travels. The hotel’s astonishing array of artefacts unveils itself across a series of public spaces that follow the understated entrance on Montague Street. There is no lobby as such, but a Parlour that serves afternoon tea, curated cocktails and small plates from day through night. Waterworth has followed a globetrotting path to curating The Zetter’s design. Having spent years scouring auctions, flea markets, antique dealers and galleries to amass a range of items encompassing influences from Africa, India, Oceania, the Americas and beyond, many of them have now found a natural home at The Zetter Bloomsbury. There are Turkish rugs, Chinese lacquered cabinets and carved tribal masks, interspersed with framed scripts, abstract sculptures, military memorabilia and much more besides.
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“We wanted guests to feel like they were
envisioned by Rich Landscapes, is thought to
staying with a well-travelled friend,” explains
be one of the largest hotel gardens in London,
Waterworth. “Someone who has filled their
and offers an escape from the hustle and bustle
home with treasures and stories from around
of the city, as well as summer barbecues and al
the world, but also deeply appreciates the
fresco feasts. An additional dining space The
Georgian bones of the building.”
Orangery, with its extensive glazing overlooking
Guestrooms range in size and style from intimate Cosy Rooms to grand Terrace Suites
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the garden, offers a transitional space between indoors and out.
with four-poster beds, freestanding clawfoot
“With The Zetter Bloomsbury, we’ve captured
bathtubs and sweeping garden views. Marble-
something essential about the neighbourhood’s
finished bathrooms feature Perrin & Rowe
creative and intellectual character – a
sanitaryware, and flooring is by Ted Todd,
design rooted in history yet refreshingly
topped with bespoke rugs by Vanderhurd.
contemporary,” says Kevin Rockey, Managing
The interiors are a natural evolution of those
Director, Operations Europe, The Zetter Group.
created for The Zetter Group’s other townhouse
“This represents a natural evolution for us.”
properties, which were described at the time as
Under its new ownership, The Zetter Group
being inspired by adventures and amours of two
is about to embark on foreign adventures of
fictitious characters – Great Aunt Wilhelmina
its own. Laith Pharaon, CEO of Orca Holding,
for the Clerkenwell property, and Wicked Uncle
sees huge growth potential and an opportunity
Seymour for The Zetter Marylebone.
for more strategic expansion in key European
The hotel’s crowning glory – and hidden gem
gateway cities such as Paris, Madrid and
– is an expansive garden tucked away behind
Amsterdam, with the benefit of his team’s
the Georgian townhouses. This secret oasis,
global hotel development experience.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Orca Holding Operator: The Zetter Group Architecture: Atelierdb Architects Interior Design: Thurstan Landscaping: Rich Landscapes Main Contractor: du Boulay Projects www.thezetter.com
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Shangri-La KUNMING
W
ith its mild climate and perpetual sense of bloom, Kunming is known as the City of Eternal Spring, while the wider province of Yunnan is shaped by millennia-
old traditions surrounding Pu-erh tea. It is here that ShangriLa has opened its latest hotel, blending its signature Asian
Drawing on Yunnan’s landscapes, culture and tea traditions, AvroKO crafts a refined retreat shaped by the spirit of an imaginary mansion.
hospitality with a contemporary interpretation of the province’s rich cultural heritage. Envisioned by AvroKO as an ‘Inspired Mansion of a Yunnan Tea Plantation’, the interiors take guests on an immersive journey through a fictional mansion, drawing on the region’s landscapes and rituals. “The mansion concept gave us both a structural logic and an emotional framework,” explains William Harris, founder and Partner at AvroKO. “It
Words: Eleanor Howard • Photography: © Owen Raggett
allowed us to assign each part of the hotel its own role in the life of an imagined Yunnan estate, from the arrival garden to the private suites, without any of those spaces feeling disconnected from the whole. Each space tells a different chapter, but they all belong to the same story.”
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“Tea in Yunnan is not simply a beverage. It is a relationship between land, season, craft and time; that complexity gave us something rich enough to carry an entire hotel.” WILLIAM HARRIS, AVROKO
GARDEN OF AN INSPIRED MANSION The journey through Yunnan’s natural beauty begins with a pebble-lined driveway that winds through lush gardens to a landscaped courtyard, where considered design blurs the boundary between architecture and nature. Stone pathways and vibrant greenery lead to a lobby adorned with textures and colours echoing Yunnan’s rich landscape. “The garden arrival sequence, the living greenery woven through the lobby and the views drawn inward through the architecture all reflect a genuine belief that the landscape should not remain outside the building – it should inhabit it,” explains Harris. In the guestrooms and suites, sculptural lighting and translucent floral overlays reinforce the connection, while artistic wall panels and curated furnishings mimic the lively patterns of nature in motion. The suites broaden the landscape narrative through scenic murals of Yunnan’s mist-covered mountains and whimsical floral motifs, such as Camellia-inspired embroidery. Elsewhere, green latticework and cascading roses create the atmosphere of a secret garden in spring, with delicate floral patterns and soft lighting adding to the sense of place.
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FROM LEAF TO CUP “Tea culture is ultimately one of patience, of slowing down enough to notice the difference between one harvest and another, one preparation and the next,” says Harris of the sensibility that shaped AvroKO’s approach to materiality, colour and light across the property. The evolution of tea from leaf to cup informs the interiors, from the freshness of early spring seen in the guestrooms, expressed through soft botanical greens and light-washed timber, to the more saturated hues in the suites, which recall the earthy warmth of aged tea. At destination bar and lounge Suma, the palette recalls the richer tones of Pu-erh tea once it has been cellared and transformed, with amber, dark timber and patinated metal sitting alongside woven textures and natural stone. The bar forms a focal point for the narrative, taking cues from plantations, while pergolas are inspired by tea arbors. The lighting scheme is similarly layered, cultivating an atmosphere grounded in the slower rhythms of tea rituals, as Harris explains: “Rather than bright, uniform illumination, we worked toward layered, ambient light that shifts with the time of day, creating spaces that feel different at dawn than they do at dusk, reflecting the way a tea ceremony is always shaped by the quality of the light around it.”
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THE SPIRIT OF YUNNAN Yunnan’s architectural heritage forms the spatial framework for the hotel, as Harris explains: “The sense of moving through a series of nested spaces rather than a single continuous flow all draw from the architecture of the Yunnan mansion and its relationship between interior and garden.” Beyond the porte cochère, which echoes Kunming’s famed archways, curved openings and timber screens continue the architectural language, while a sedan chair-inspired lift nods to traditional Chinese ceremonial processions. Cultural references are also incorporated through craft, pattern and material, as seen at Suma, where Yi, Bai, Hani and Naxi textiles are reinterpreted as rhythmic wall textures, woven backdrops and detailed metal inlays on stools and screens. “The textile and craft traditions of Yunnan’s indigenous communities demanded a particular kind of humility,” notes Harris. “They are cultural languages that carry identity and memory in their geometry and colour.”
“Yunnan’s landscape is extraordinary in its range, moving from mist-covered mountains and ancient tea forests to tropical valleys, flower-filled plains and dramatic canyons. Rather than trying to represent this identity literally, we used it as a sensory reference point to inform colour, texture and material selection throughout.” WILLIAM HARRIS, AVROKO
Steeped in tradition and culture, Shangri-La Kunming serves as a gateway to the region’s rich identity, as Harris concludes: “The mansion is the container; the spirit of Yunnan is what brings it to life.”
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B LOSSOM LINEAR PORTABLE LIGH T
COCKTAIL
DESIGN DETAILS
LODGES, CABINS & TENTED CAMPS
Hårtwood
How can architecture inhabit a forest with the
recalls the wood of a young sapling, while
lightest possible touch? This was the question
the shingled façades echo ageing bark. “The
posed to Studio KSA when designing Hårtwood,
treehouses nestle unobtrusively among the trees,
an off-grid treehouse hotel in the Haliburton
their bark-like cladding blending with the rough
Highlands of Ontario. The answer lies in working
trunks of the forest,” explains Maggie Bennedsen,
with the trees, creating structures that engage
Principal at Studio KSA. “At night, they glow like
directly with the living canopy while minimising
floating lanterns, drawing guests in with their
disturbance to the forest floor.
warm, intimate interiors.”
Created by Fort Treehouse Co in collaboration
The raised positioning serves to minimise
with engineers and arborists, the three cabins
excavation and protect fragile root systems,
are inserted into existing openings in the canopy;
meaning the surrounding ecology remains largely
each is paired with a carefully selected host tree
intact. Specialised attachment hardware has
that will continue to grow in response to climate
also been developed to accommodate the natural
conditions and seasonal changes.
movement and growth of the trees. In this way,
The material palette further roots the dwellings
the treehouses become living buildings, existing
in their setting. Inside, Baltic birch panelling
in harmony with the forest that supports them.
© Doublespace Photography
DESIGN DETAILS
GUESTROOMS
Terreno Barrio
Once a bohemian retreat for 19th-century aristocrats
hues of turquoise, cobalt or tangerine, while
and artists before evolving into a party hotspot for
below, an off-white layer provides a contemporary
Hollywood icons, Palma’s El Terreno neighbourhood
counterpoint. Sitting at the boundary between the two
has long embodied a sense of duality. Today, a new
is a linear neon artwork by Mallorcan artist Pedro
creative community is breathing life into the area,
Óliver, visually stitching together old and new while
a shift captured by Mallorcan studio Ohlab in the
nodding to the neighbourhood’s creative scene.
newly opened Terreno Barrio. Bringing together a
The newbuild wing takes a quieter approach, with a
restored 1930s building and a contemporary timber-
restrained palette that reflects a focus on sustainability
clad structure, the boutique hotel embraces both sides
and technical innovation. Cream walls are paired with
of El Terreno’s identity, allowing past and present to
timber flooring and rattan lighting, while flashes of
coexist under one roof.
red appear across murals by Mallorcan artist Albert
This duality continues inside, where each wing
Pinya. His pop-inspired characters reference energy
takes a distinct design direction. In the historic
efficiency, local resources and carbon footprint,
building, guestrooms are defined by a two-tone
bringing a playful spirit to the pared-back interiors.
scheme divided by a horizontal datum that stretches
Together, the two room concepts express El Terreno’s
across walls, windows and joinery. Above the line,
dual identity: one rooted in its colourful past, the
exposed walls and ceilings are drenched in vibrant
other looking towards a more considered future.
© Jose Hevia Blach
Hotel Construction Pipeline Europe The UK remains the leading hotel development market in Europe, with 399 projects (56,472 rooms) currently listed in the THP database. Much of this pipeline is concentrated in the capital, where the luxury hotel boom shows no sign of abating. Among the headline openings due later this year are Waldorf Astoria Admiralty Arch and St Regis London, while Mandarin Oriental is set to plant its third flag in the capital in 2028. Across mainland Europe, Germany continues to attract developers and operators, with Berlin and Hamburg driving activity. Landmark projects in the pipeline, such as Estrel Tower Berlin – the tallest hotel in Germany – and Hilton Elbtower Hamburg, indicate sustained confidence in large-scale mixed-use developments, reflecting both cities’ status as business and leisure hubs. Further east, Turkey is emerging as a key growth market with 107 projects in the pipeline. While Istanbul accounts for nearly a quarter of the country’s forthcoming projects, Bodrum is establishing itself as a luxury resort destination with new properties from St Regis, Shangri-La and Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts set to strengthen its international appeal.
TOP CITIES LONDON Projects 98 Rooms 18,794
HAMBURG Projects 29 Rooms 5,286
BERLIN Projects 34 Rooms 7,888
MANCHESTER Projects 27 Rooms 4,678
ISTANBUL Projects 26 Rooms 4,272
MADRID Projects 23 Rooms 2,817
EDINBURGH Projects 31 Rooms 4,730
DUBLIN Projects 27 Rooms 4,453
PARIS Projects 24 Rooms 3,472
VIENNA Projects 19 Rooms 3,670
TOP COUNTRIES
In total, Europe is set to add more than 45,400 rooms to its inventory by the end of 2026, with a further 88,000 due in 2027. 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
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Projects Rooms
1
2
3
4
5
UK 399 56,472
GERMANY 329 52,247
SPAIN 186 26,287
ITALY 134 16,391
TURKEY 107 18,993
6
7
8
9
10
FRANCE 91 11,338
PORTUGAL 78 10,936
GREECE 71 12,251
SWITZERLAND 71 7,895
AUSTRIA 68 9,140
BUSINESS CENTRE
CONSTRUCTION PHASE Of the 520,487 rooms in the pipeline, 24% (122,721 rooms) are under construction and 61% (315,570 rooms) are in planning. It is within these phases that interior design schemes and FF&E fit-outs are being implemented.
VISION
PRE-PLANNING
PLANNING
CONSTRUCTION
PRE-OPENING
Projects 82 Rooms 18,112
Projects 297 Rooms 46,392
Projects 771 Rooms 315,570
Projects 854 Rooms 122,721
Projects 140 Rooms 17,692
GROUPS AND BRANDS Within the THP database, Accor remains the most active hotel group in Europe, highlighting the operator’s enduring strength across the continent. Hilton, meanwhile, accounts for four of the region’s 10 most active brands, demonstrating the success of its multi-brand growth strategy.
139 Projects 127 Projects 116 Projects 114 Projects 50 Projects
BRAND
PROJECTS
ROOMS
Hampton by Hilton
26
3,680
Limehome
18
1,698
Hilton Hotels & Resorts
17
4,749
Hilton Garden Inn
17
2,470
DoubleTree by Hilton
16
2,803
Autograph Collection
15
2,400
Novotel
15
2,087
Curio Collection by Hilton
15
1,799
Mercure Hotels
15
1,524
Ruby Hotels
14
2,843
2029+ (9%)
UNCONFIRMED (30%)
YEAR OF OPENING
2026 (17%)
2027 (29%)
2028 (15%)
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For more information, please email us at hospitality.info@loccitane.com or visit hospitality.loccitane.com Visit us at EquipHotel Paris | November 2–5 | Booth P4.F018
BUSINESS CENTRE
The intelligence source for the hotel investment community
Indian hotel groups follow their guests abroad
(USD37m). Hotel-segment revenue was up 17%,
said Frankfurt would “swing from negative to
while domestic RevPAR increased 14%.
positive”. The group has also opened the first
Puneet Chhatwal, IHCL’s managing director
of three Taj safari lodges planned in Greater
Indian hotel chains are opening properties
and chief executive, said the performance
Kruger, with two further openings expected
outside their domestic market, fuelled by the
had been supported by “the strength of our
within 12 months.
growing outbound travel market from the
brandscape, diversified portfolio, but more
The international portfolio is not currently
subcontinent.
importantly, disciplined revenue management”.
a straightforward growth story. London’s St
Taj owner Indian Hotels Company has opened
Management fee income rose 26% to INR1.68bn
James’ Court refurbishment was delayed, The
a hotel in Frankfurt and a safari lodge in South
(USD17m), giving the group a larger pool
Pierre in New York lost 49 rooms after a pipe
Africa. Leela is preparing its first overseas hotel
of recurring, fee-led income to support
burst, and the West Asia conflict has hurt
in Dubai, ITC Hotels has established a presence
development.
demand in Dubai and Maldives. Chhatwal said
in Sri Lanka and Nepal, and Lemon Tree has
The group signed 20 hotels and opened 11 in
there was “a direct correlation between Dubai
identified Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore for
the quarter, taking its portfolio to 645 hotels,
and the West Asia crisis”, while international
future expansion.
including 263 in the pipeline. Most of the
leisure traffic through the region has also
The companies are not setting out to replicate
signings were in India under Gateway, Ginger
affected London, Cape Town, Sri Lanka and
the global systems of Marriott, Hilton or Accor.
and Tree of Life. Taj’s overseas expansion is
Maldives. That makes the domestic engine more
Their immediate aim is to give the Indian guest
therefore being carried by a much broader
important. India’s demand was strong enough
who already knows the brand at home a reason
domestic platform rather than driving the
to offset much of the weaker international
to choose it abroad.
group’s growth on its own.
trading in Q1. Dalwani described it plainly: “Last year, our international was firing. Today,
IHCL has about 35 international hotels, a
Chhatwal said the overseas model would
small network beside its domestic estate, but
remain capital-light. “It’s not our strategy to
a deliberate one. Some 87% of its portfolio is
start buying hotels whether in Southeast Asia
ITC Hotels is following a more regional
in India, management said on its Q1 earnings
or in Europe,” he said. IHCL would consider
version of the strategy. Its ITC Ratnadipa hotel
call. The domestic system gives Taj its customer
contributing to an upgrade required to secure
in Colombo and Fortune Resort & Wellness Spa
base, cash generation and brand recognition;
its brand, but prefers management, lease and
in Nepal put its brands into markets with close
overseas hotels can then turn that recognition
revenue-share structures in markets backed by
Indian corporate, leisure and diaspora links.
into incremental room revenue without
institutional capital.
Ratnadipa’s RevPAR was more than double its
requiring a global-scale rollout.
The approach limits the risk of mistaking
domestic is firing on all cylinders.”
level a year earlier in Q1, according to the group.
The outbound opportunity is becoming
a promising customer flow for an investment
ITC Hotels reported Q1 consolidated revenue
material. Indian members of GHA Discovery,
case. “We can’t expect to do four hotels in
of INR9.36bn (USD97m), up 15%, EBITDA of
Global Hotel Alliance’s loyalty programme,
international markets in one year. Maybe in
INR2.92bn (USD30m), up 19%, and profit after
generated USD75m of hotel revenue worldwide
five years’ time,” Chhatwal said.
tax of INR1.82bn (USD19m), up 36%. Hotel
in 2025, up 25% year on year. International
Frankfurt shows both sides of that calculation.
revenue increased 10% to INR8.81bn (USD91m),
stays represented 54% of that revenue. UAE,
Taj Hessischer Hof added around INR150m
with occupancy up 290 basis points to 74% and
Thailand and Singapore were the main overseas
(USD1.6m) of pre-opening and start-up costs
RevPAR up 8% to INR8,380 (USD87).
markets. It is a useful indication of the customer
during Q1. Chhatwal said the hotel should
The company said April demand had softened
flow, but the story for Indian operators is their
begin contributing from September, when
amid West Asia-related disruption to flights,
own domestic brand equity.
the market’s trade fair calendar resumes. He
before occupancy and room rates recovered
IHCL is using its domestic performance to
also pointed to direct Lufthansa and Air India
in May and June. It is still allocating capital
fund a measured overseas push. Consolidated
services from Indian cities, which could give
primarily at home, agreeing to buy the 130-
revenue rose 15% in Q1 to INR24.2bn (USD251m),
Taj access to passengers transiting onwards to
key Welcomhotel Ahmedabad, which it already
EBITDA increased 18% to INR7.53bn (USD78m),
the US.
manages, for INR1.55bn (USD16m). “The
and profit after tax grew 21% to INR3.58bn
Ankur Dalwani, IHCL’s chief financial officer,
acquisition of this hotel will mark another
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milestone in pursuit of the company’s growth
hotel development. A narrower bid-ask gap
company still underwrites a conventional hotel
aspiration,” said managing director Anil
is bringing assets back to the market, but
case to meet its target IRR.
Chadha.
higher construction costs, lower end values
New development faces a much harder
Leela’s Dubai investment and Lemon
and lenders’ larger equity demands mean
calculation. Tony O’Brien, development director
Tree’s Southeast Asian ambitions point in the
that new schemes remain difficult to finance.
at Travelodge, said the obstacles were “probably
same direction, albeit with different capital
The capital now available is directed towards
as great as they’ve been at any time” during his
requirements and price points. The common
existing hotels, interrupted business plans and
30 years of opening UK hotels.
thread is a domestic market large enough to
owners able to fund the work needed to reach
create brand familiarity before the customer
stabilisation. George Nicholas, founder and CEO of Shibui
lockdowns, reducing end values by between 15%
Capital, said hotel pricing had become more
and 25%. Construction costs had increased by
HA PERSPECTIVE
predictable. “Now that we’ve seen a stabilisation
at least 25%, while higher finance costs and
The comparison with China is useful. As Chinese
of cap rates, we’ve seen a stabilisation of
greater equity requirements compounded the
outbound travel grew, international hotel groups
growth, pricing is more predictable and trading
problem. “You’ve got development costs that
expanded their domestic Chinese networks partly
more forecastable,” he said. That had narrowed
are significantly higher, net end values that are
to build awareness, loyalty membership and direct
the bid-ask gap. Nicholas said transactions
significantly lower, and that does not make for
customer relationships before trying to retain those
were taking place “at every level and in every
an easy situation from a viability perspective,”
guests overseas. The domestic hotel was a customer-
region”, from smaller regional hotels to five-
O’Brien said.
acquisition tool as much as a local operating asset.
star London assets, restoring confidence that
Hotel starts and completions were therefore
Indian groups have an opportunity to reverse that
investors would have liquidity and an exit route.
at record lows. O’Brien said conversions of
route. Taj, Leela, ITC Hotels and Lemon Tree already
The market is not reopening indiscriminately.
vacant and underused offices were generally
have the domestic recognition. Their challenge is to
William Riordan, co-founder and managing
cheaper to deliver and were active in Edinburgh,
convert it into overseas stays without spending to
partner of Oberland, said his company had
Manchester and London. New builds could still
own unfamiliar assets in unfamiliar markets.
participated in around 12 transactions since its
work, but were more likely to need mixed-
IHCL’s stated approach is sensible. The Taj brand
formation in 2022, all completed off-market
use income, local authority participation or a
can travel, but a guest’s familiarity with it in Mumbai
because the assets openly offered for sale were
development partner willing to take a longer
does not make a Frankfurt lease attractive at any
mispriced. “We are seeing reasonably priced
view.
price. A management contract, a revenue share or a
assets come back into the market,” Riordan
Mark Goodbrand, director and hospitality
limited contribution to a conversion puts the brand
said. But he added that some properties would
sector lead at Elliott Wood, said projects moving
in front of its customer while leaving most real estate
remain difficult to sell: “There are some
ahead were “forensically stress-testing all of
risk with the owner.
misplaced assets, which are going to find it
the constraints and all of the issues”. At New
tricky to find a home at any price.”
London House on Fenchurch Street, early work
leaves India.
The domestic estate therefore does double duty.
132
Property investment yields were 100 to 200 basis points softer than before the Covid
It produces the profits and loyalty base that make
The change has also altered where returns
on the structure allowed a Premier Inn Hub
international growth possible, while also giving the
can be found. Riordan said he was “feeling
conversion to include eight additional storeys
group a lower-cost route to filling overseas hotels.
particularly nostalgic” when the discussion
without substantial strengthening or new
That is valuable, but it does not remove the need for
turned to ADR growth and cap rate compression.
foundations.
local operating knowledge. Chhatwal’s “one step at a
Oberland had originally pursued ambitious
That shortage of viable development is
time” is more than caution. It is the capital discipline
developments based around heritage warehouses
producing a different investment opportunity.
that will decide whether Indian brands build durable
with new towers above. Construction costs
Nicholas said many acquisitions made between
overseas networks or merely collect expensive flags.
pushed it towards refurbishing existing
2017 and 2020 had seen their original business
buildings instead.
plans interrupted by the Covid lockdowns.
The strategy has been productive. Its recently
Funding and cash flow stopped, but fund lives
Buyers return before builders
opened Glasgow hotel added 30% more keys, while a Manchester project due to open in
Limited partners may now want their money
At Novotel London West, the message from
the coming months is expected to add 25%.
for other sectors, while sponsors still see hotel
Bisnow’s Hotel Real Estate Summit was that
The experience, food and beverage offer and
upside. Nicholas described owners with “a
UK hotel investment is reopening before UK
programming can improve the return, but the
great business plan, great knowledge and great
and private equity return hurdles did not.
BUSINESS CENTRE
momentum” that needed “a little bit more time
HA PERSPECTIVE
42% of US business professionals surveyed
and a little bit more money”.
The return of transactions should not be mistaken
would consider working from a hotel.
Shibui can provide liquidity to the departing
for a return of development. Buyers can agree a price
Other groups reached for the same solution
investor at an illustrative 75% to 80% of value,
once sellers accept softer values, but a newbuild
during the Covid lockdowns. Hilton launched
then supply preferred equity to complete a
scheme cannot negotiate away the gap between
WorkSpaces by Hilton across participating
refurbishment, extension or rebrand. It may
higher costs and lower exit values. Until that gap
hotels in the UK, US and Canada, with Hilton
take board representation and veto rights
closes, existing hotels will benefit from scarce supply
Honors points and stay credit included. Hyatt
over refinancing or branding, with a typical
and the development margin will pass to lowly
offered Office for the Day at more than 400
investment horizon of two to four-and-a-half
geared owners able to fund and control the work
hotels in the Americas from USD65, adding
years.
themselves.
food and beverage discounts, access to leisure
Lloyd Lee, co-founder and managing partner of Yoo Capital, argued that traditional
facilities and World of Hyatt tier credit. Radisson equipped its Hybrid Rooms with
Day rooms check-in again
second screens, video-conferencing facilities,
backfill the finished product, finance it, buy it,
The day-use guestroom has been formally
available at 50 hotels across Europe, the Middle
sit on it, put it in the core fund,” he said. “We
reintroduced in London by Marriott, six years
East and Africa in 2020. Accor has retained a
just haven’t seen that yet, but we’re starting to
after the group sold the same idea as an
simpler Room for the Day offer, bookable
see the stars align for that.”
escape from working at home during the Covid
through ALL with loyalty points available.
The venue supplied the most obvious example
lockdowns.
IHG has no comparable group-wide product,
of the owner that can bridge that gap. Arora
London
institutions would come later. “The more traditional institutional capital will come to
Marriott
Hotel
County
printers and office supplies, with the product
Hall,
although individual hotels appear through day-
Group bought the Novotel London West in
Kensington, Maida Vale, Marble Arch and
2025 and has construction, property and hotel
Regent’s Park are offering rooms for guests who
The Covid lockdowns changed more than
operations within the same private group.
need somewhere to work, rest, change or pause
the demand. Before 2020, a room booked for a
use booking platforms.
Founder and chairman Surinder Arora said
between other commitments. The offer includes
few hours carried associations with affairs and
the business had learned a hard lesson from the
a private room, desk, Wi-Fi and bathroom, with
sex work. Day-use and other intermediaries
financial crisis. Arora Group spent GBP896m on
same-day check-in and check-out required.
widened the market to airport passengers, early
expansion in the two-and-a-half years to 2008.
Anne Legrand, area general manager for
arrivals, late departures and people seeking
A GBP340m acquisition completed in August
Central London Hotels and general manager
hotel leisure facilities, but discretion remained
2008 included GBP165m of debt, before lenders
of London Marriott Hotel County Hall, said:
part of the sales pitch.
repriced facilities sharply after the collapse of
“The need is not always a full overnight stay;
A Guardian examination of the market in
Lehman Brothers.
sometimes it is a few hours of privacy, a
January 2020 discussed the use of day rooms
reliable place to work or a calm space between
by couples and sex workers alongside their more
commitments.”
conventional applications. Andrew Sangster,
“The first nine deals we did were cash. Wonderful feeling. I don’t need to go to the lender,” Arora said. Group gearing was now
Marriott has added hot weather to the list of
editorial director of Hotel Analyst, told the
around 30%, compared with 70% to 80%
uses, presenting an air-conditioned bedroom
newspaper that operators were beginning
previously. “We’ve got construction. We don’t
as an alternative to crowded cafés, stations
to explore the opportunity, but warned that
build for anyone else, just my own team. We do
and public spaces. For the hotels, it said the
high London occupancy and the practicalities
the projects, either with refurb or new build,”
offer would produce incremental revenue from
of cleaning and staff rostering limited its
he said.
daytime inventory and attract customers beyond
application. The Covid lockdowns gave the day
the traditional overnight market.
room a corporate purpose. A private place to
That model is supporting the Sofitel Dublin Airport, due to open later this year, the
The group first formalised the product in
make video calls, escape a shared flat or use
conversion of Luton Hoo into a Fairmont and
October 2020. Its Work Anywhere programme
reliable Wi-Fi could be sold openly by a major
a proposed 500-room hotel with apartments at
offered a Day Pass, Stay Pass and Play Pass,
brand and attached to a loyalty programme.
102 Petty France in Westminster. “I like to own
with London among the launch cities. The Day
Marriott’s return suggests that hybrid working,
the assets. I like to build them, if I can,” Arora
Pass turned a guestroom into an office, while
rail and air travel, and demand for private space
said. “I’m very old-fashioned, and it’s worked
the other packages added an overnight stay or
have survived the emergency which gave the
for me.”
a longer work and leisure break. Marriott said
product its respectability.
133
BUSINESS CENTRE
HA PERSPECTIVE
Washington’s May action against military-
No foreign replacement has emerged. Under
The tempting claim is that day use allows a hotel
linked conglomerate GAESA, followed by
current US policy, an international group
to sell the same room twice. Marriott’s 2020 Day
sanctions affecting Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism,
stepping into Meliá’s position would inherit
Pass ran from 06:00 to 18:00, which exposed the
made the legal and financial risks of the
much of the contractual exposure which forced
difficulty. The room generally needed to be empty
remaining contracts difficult for foreign groups
it out. Cuba has not lost the hotel buildings. It
the previous night and cleaned again before the next
to carry. Meliá cited operational, legal, economic
has lost much of the foreign operating system
overnight arrival, while late check-outs and early
and financial difficulties in announcing its exit.
that marketed them and converted occupancy
check-ins competed for the same hours.
into hard-currency cash flow.
Day use makes more sense as a direct rate for
in distress. International visitor numbers fell
distressed inventory. It can add room and ancillary
to 1.8 million in 2025 from 2.2 million in 2024.
HA PERSPECTIVE
revenue when demand is soft, but reserving bedrooms
Edelweiss ended its Zurich-Havana route in
Politics has trumped economics in deciding the
or adding another cleaning turn will consume much
March 2025, citing weaker demand and airport
moment of departure, but economics did the early
of the gain. The money will be made on quiet days,
conditions. A February jet-fuel shortage then
work. Minor and Edelweiss had already left before
not by turning a full London hotel twice.
forced Air Canada to suspend service, while
Washington’s latest sanctions, when demand
Iberia and other carriers subsequently cut or
was weak, utilities unreliable and hard currency
suspended Cuba operations.
scarce. Sanctions changed the calculation from
Cuba loses its foreign hotel operators
CEIBA Investment provides a listed-market
whether an operator could trade through a poor
test of what the operator exodus means for hotel
cycle to whether it could legally, financially and
values. It has indirect 32.5% interests in five
reputationally remain. A 23% discount rate can allow
Cuba’s foreign hotel operating model lost its
affected Meliá hotels comprising 2,232 rooms.
for uncertainty in a continuing business. It cannot
largest participant on 24 July, when Meliá
Its four Miramar properties were valued using
replace Meliá’s distribution, brand, procurement
Hotels International withdrew management,
a 23% pre-tax discount rate in 2025, when
and payment infrastructure once those services have
commercialisation, brand and supply-chain
their average value fell from USD87,000 to
been cancelled. Gaviota can take back management
services from every hotel it ran on the island.
USD83,000 a room.
contracts; recreating the cash flows they supported
Meliá had already stopped managing
Those valuations did not price a generic
15 GAESA-linked hotels in June. Its final
Cuban hotel. They priced hotels operating with
cancellation of contracts and services ends a
Meliá’s brand, distribution and commercial
Cuba portfolio which had comprised 34 hotels
support. The loss of those elements is a cash-
and roughly 14,000 rooms.
flow issue, as well as a country-risk issue.
The withdrawal is not isolated. Blue Diamond
Raising the discount rate alone will not preserve
Resorts has returned 15 management contracts,
assumptions built on an operator that is no
Archipelago International has withdrawn its
longer there.
Aston brand from six hotels, and Minor Hotels
CEIBA’s investments are held at fair value
stopped managing its two NH hotels in Havana
through profit or loss, so any reset should appear
in February. Iberostar and Barceló have since
as a revaluation rather than a conventional
confirmed their own exits.
impairment. The economic effect could still be
Cuban entities will retain the hotel real
is another matter.
substantial.
estate and can transfer day-to-day operation
Ownership adds another complication. Meliá
to Gaviota or other state groups. But a foreign
retains 35% of HOMASI, CEIBA’s joint-venture
manager brings more than staff and a flag above
partner, giving it an underlying 17.5% interest
the door. It supplies reservation systems, brand
in the Miramar and Trinidad hotel-owning
recognition, tour-operator contracts, overseas
structures. The withdrawal announcement
marketing and the ability to procure and pay for
does not say that stake will be sold. Meliá could
goods outside Cuba. The hotels remain. Much of
therefore remain a minority owner without
the commercial system that turned rooms into
providing management, brands or distribution,
hard-currency income is leaving.
retaining an option to return only if Cuba’s
US policy has provided the immediate trigger.
134
That pressure has landed on a market already
political and sanctions environment changes.
Hotel Analyst is the news analysis service for those involved with financing hotel property or hotel operating companies. For more information and to subscribe visit: www.hotelanalyst.co.uk
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BUSINESS CENTRE
2.
3.
1. 4.
Performance benchmarking for the global hospitality industry 1. SÃO PAULO
Driven by the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monaco’s hotel industry posted its highest ADR and RevPAR for any month on record. RevPAR surpassed EUR1,000 for the first time, peaking at EUR3,933.25 on Sunday 7 June, while ADR topped out at EUR4,082.30. In addition, the market posted its highest June occupancy since 2013.
July 2026 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 61.8% (+3.9%) ADR BRL706.65 (+5.5%) RevPAR BRL436.60 (+9.6%)
June 2026 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 81.4% (+9.6%) ADR EUR1,267.48 (+85.6%) RevPAR EUR1,031.52 (+103.4%)
2. MADRID
4. SYDNEY
June 2026 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 82.2% (+2.2%) ADR EUR199.97 (+4.8%) RevPAR EUR164.32 (+7.1%)
June 2026 (year-over-year % change) Occupancy 74.1% (+1.1%) ADR AUD243.81 (+2.6%) RevPAR AUD180.77 (+3.7%)
A ten-show run by Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny helped push Madrid’s hotel industry to its highest June ADR and RevPAR on record, with occupancy peaking at 92.7% on the seventh night. The market’s performance also benefitted from Madrid Pride, the open-air Puro Latino Festival and concerts by K-pop group BTS.
136
3. MONACO
As host of AI Summit Brazil, São Paulo posted its highest July ADR and RevPAR on record, according to preliminary data from CoStar. The annual event led to peaks across the three metrics: occupancy (83.9%) reached a high on Thursday 23 July, while ADR (BRL756.89) and RevPAR (BRL629.48) climbed to their top levels the night before.
Several events helped Sydney’s hotel industry achieve year-over-year performance growth in June. ADR and RevPAR exceeded AUD300 on the penultimate night of Vivid Sydney, while occupancy peaked at 92.7%. Aided by a 0.1% supply decrease, occupancy remained above the 60% mark on all but three nights throughout the month.
CoStar with STR benchmarking is a global provider of hotel performance data, collated from 90,000 hotels and 11.8 million rooms. For more information and to subscribe visit: www.costar.com
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With preparations well underway for AHEAD 2026, the global awards programme is gearing up for a landmark year as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, AHEAD has evolved far beyond its beginnings as the European Hotel Design Awards, expanding its reach across the globe and establishing itself as one of hospitality’s leading platforms for recognising design excellence. To mark the occasion, Preciosa Lighting has been named AHEAD’s trophy partner, with a new physical expression of the accolade set to debut in 2026. Drawing on three centuries of glassmaking expertise, the Czech manufacturer has crafted a trophy that reflects AHEAD’s position on the global stage while signalling the start of its second decade.
As the global programme continues to reveal its finalists, the Middle East and Africa shortlist is the latest to be announced. Among the contenders are a record-breaking tower in Dubai, a converted heritage house in Muscat, and the ambitious destinations taking shape along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. Sub-Saharan Africa is also strongly represented among the finalists; the new generation of wilderness retreats are embracing the continent’s extraordinary landscapes, while multiple new openings in Cape Town make their mark. Now, the AHEAD MEA judging panel will convene for a day of discussion and deliberation before casting their votes, with the winners set to be revealed at a glittering ceremony at Dubai’s Bluewaters Forum on Monday 2 November.
www.aheadawards.com
000
B A R , C LU B O R LO U N G E
HOTEL NEWBUILD
N53 Cigar Lounge at One&Only One Za’aabeel – Dubai, UAE Ithra Dubai / Kerzner International / Bergman Design House
Four Seasons Resort & Residences Amaala at Triple Bay – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / U+A / Goddard Littlefair / DPA Lighting
Netsu Bar at Mandarin Oriental – Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE Wasl Asset Management Group / Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group / LW Design Group Saikindō at Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi – Al Maryah Island, UAE Mubadala / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Cundall / AvroKO Tattu Sky Lounge & Terrace at Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG – Dubai, UAE The First Group / Permanently Unique Group / InterContinental Hotels Group / Studio WYZE
Four Seasons Resort & Residences Red Sea at Shura Island – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Kingdom Holding Company / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Foster + Partners / Meyer Davis / AvroKO / EDSA Landscape Architects Morea House – Cape Town, South Africa Marriott International / Scott + Partners / Tristan Du Plessis Studio The Red Sea Edition – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Marriott International / Foster + Partners / Rockwell Group
E V E N T S PA C E S Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG – Dubai, UAE The First Group / InterContinental Hotels Group / Norr
H O T E L R E N O VAT I O N
Sofitel – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia King Abdullah Humanitarian Foundation / Accor / Saudi Diyar Consultants
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita – Beau Champ, Mauritius Riveo Hospitality / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / 1508 London / WATG / Elastic
The Red Sea Edition – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Marriott International / Foster + Partners / Rockwell Group
InterContinental Table Bay – Cape Town, South Africa V&A Waterfront / Sun International / InterContinental Hotels Group / LW Design Group
Tivoli La Vie – Muscat, Oman Oman Real Estate & Investment / Ominvest / Minor International / 10 Design / Design Unit Engineering / Studio Epilogue / Rchitect Atelier
Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lakes Towers – Dubai, UAE Accor / DZ Design
GUESTROOMS
SO/ – Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Ministry of Presidential Affairs / Ennismore / Accor / SSH / Kristina Zanic Consultants
Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG – Dubai, UAE The First Group / InterContinental Hotels Group / Norr
L A N D S C A P I N G & O U T D O O R S PA C E S
Four Seasons Resort & Residences Amaala at Triple Bay – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / U+A / Goddard Littlefair / DPA Lighting
&Beyond Suyian Lodge – Laikipia, Kenya andBeyond / Nicholas Plewman Architects & Associates / Michaelis Boyd Associates / Fox Browne Creative / Tufaha Africa
Four Seasons Resort & Residences Red Sea at Shura Island – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Kingdom Holding Company / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Foster + Partners / Meyer Davis
Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG – Dubai, UAE The First Group / InterContinental Hotels Group / Norr
Raffles – Jeddah, Saudia Arabia Erth Real Estate / Accor / DSA Architects International / Robert Angell Design International
HOTEL CONVERSION Al Bait Al Sharqi – Muscat, Oman Al Hajar Mountains Hotels & Resorts / Jibal Al Hajar The Chedi Hegra – AlUla, Saudi Arabia Royal Commission for AlUla / Chedi Hospitality / Giò Forma The Red Palace – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Boutique Group / Tristan Auer Zaria Court, Tapestry Collection by Hilton – Kigali, Rwanda UCR Kigali Company / Aleph Hospitality / Hilton Worldwide / NLÉ / Design Partnership
Four Seasons Resort & Residences Red Sea at Shura Island – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Kingdom Holding Company / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Foster + Partners / EDSA Landscape Architects
LO B BY Four Seasons Resort & Residences Amaala at Triple Bay – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / U+A / Goddard Littlefair / DPA Lighting Four Seasons Resort & Residences Red Sea at Shura Island – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Kingdom Holding Company / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Foster + Partners / Meyer Davis
AHEAD
InterContinental Table Bay – Cape Town, South Africa V&A Waterfront / Sun International / InterContinental Hotels Group / LW Design Group InterContinental The Red Sea Resort – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / InterContinental Hotels Group / Foster + Partners / Kristina Zanic Consultants
LO D G E S , C A B I N S & T E N T E D C A M P S &Beyond Suyian Lodge – Laikipia, Kenya andBeyond Travel / Nicholas Plewman Architects / Michaelis Boyd / Fox Browne Creative / Tufaha Africa Baines’ Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary – Okavango Delta, Botswana Abercrombie & Kent / Luxury Frontiers Gorilla Forest Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary – Bwindi National Park, Uganda Abercrombie & Kent / Luxury Frontiers Kalahari Dunes – Upington, South Africa Kalahari Dunes Private Game Reserve / ARRCC / SAOTA Sediba Sa Rona – Okavango Delta, Botswana Savanna Expeditions / Desert & Delta Safaris / Jack Alexander Studio / Maison & Sage / Dakota Design
RESORT InterContinental The Red Sea Resort – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / InterContinental Hotels Group / Foster + Partners / Kristina Zanic Consultants Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Jumeirah Group / Killa Design / HBA / LTW Designworks / AvroKO / Tristan Auer The Red Sea Edition – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Marriott International / Foster + Partners / Rockwell Group The St Regis Le Morne Resort – Mauritius ABKID / Marriott International / dsgn
R E S TA U R A N T Amura by Ángel León at Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel – Cape Town, South Africa Belmond / Tristan du Plessis Studio Angara at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita – Beau Champ, Mauritius Riveo Hospitality / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Elastic Canopy at The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp – Kenya Lazizi Mara / Marriott International / LW Design Group Tattu Restaurant & Bar at Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG – Dubai, UAE The First Group / Permanently Unique Group / InterContinental Hotels Group / Studio WYZE
S PA & W E L L N E S S Hyliaa Wellness at Four Seasons Resort & Residences Amaala at Triple Bay – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / U+A / Goddard Littlefair / DPA Lighting Mombo Sanctuary at Wilderness Mombo Camp – Okavango Delta, Botswana Wilderness / Black Sable Designs / Artichoke Interior Design The Spa at Four Seasons Resort & Residences Red Sea at Shura Island – Hanak, Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Kingdom Holding Company / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / Foster + Partners / Meyer Davis / AvroKO / EDSA Landscape Architects Talise Spa at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab – Dubai, UAE Dubai Holding / Jumeirah Group / Killa Design / LTW Designworks
SUITE Four Seasons Resort & Residences Amaala at Triple Bay – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts / U+A / Goddard Littlefair / DPA Lighting InterContinental Table Bay – Cape Town, South Africa V&A Waterfront / Sun International / InterContinental Hotels Group / LW Design Group InterContinental The Red Sea Resort – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / InterContinental Hotels Group / Foster + Partners / Kristina Zanic Consultants W Riyadh – KAFD – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia KAFD / Marriott International / Goettsch Partners / LW Design Group
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y The Chedi Hegra – AlUla, Saudi Arabia Royal Commission for AlUla / Chedi Hospitality / Giò Forma InterContinental The Red Sea Resort – Saudi Arabia Red Sea Global / InterContinental Hotels Group / Foster + Partners / Kristina Zanic Consultants Sediba Sa Rona – Khwai, Botswana Savanna Expeditions / Desert & Delta Safaris / Jack Alexander Studio / Maison & Sage / Dakota Design Silverback Lodge – Buhoma, Uganda Marasa Africa / HesseKleinloog Studio
An Original For Every Original As AHEAD marks its 10th anniversary, Preciosa Lighting unveils a new generation of trophies to honour the winners.
Known for illuminating hospitality projects around the world, Preciosa Lighting is bringing its creative expertise to AHEAD, designing a new trophy for the awards programme. Envisioned by Lead Designer Lukáš Zak Uliarczyk, the one-of-a-kind pieces take the form of a prism, each handcrafted from solid Bohemian crystal. “Derived from the letter ‘A’ in the AHEAD logo, the trophy stretches high as a form of architecture, representing our ambition to reach for new heights,” explains Uliarczyk. The sloping face follows the 67-degree angle used in AHEAD’s branding, while its vertical form is set to command a strong presence on stage, without compromising comfort in the hands of recipients. Conceived around the idea of ‘An Original For Every Original’ – reflecting the unique concepts behind AHEAD’s award-winning projects – each trophy features natural variations within its internal cavity, ensuring
no two are exactly alike. “The organic structure of Bohemian crystal reflects nature and its fluid, ever-changing form,” Uliarczyk continues. “As a result, the trophies are the same shape, yet always unique.” A colour gradient is then applied according to the corresponding AHEAD region, maintaining a consistent visual language across the programme while giving each trophy its own identity. As AHEAD enters its second decade, the new trophy marks a milestone for the awards, recognising the people and projects that continue to shape hospitality design. “The partnership between AHEAD and Preciosa Lighting spans years and there is no better way to honour that than crafting a trophy that represents what both companies stand for: exceptional hospitality design,” concludes Uliarczyk. “AHEAD’s trophy is testament to our ambition to push boundaries and elevate our craft.”
AHEAD
11 SEPTEMBER 2026
15 OCTOBER 2026
2 NOVEMBER 2026
26 NOVEMBER 2026
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Think Vertical With demand for flexible events spaces on the rise, Skyfold offers a sleek, adaptable solution that combines effortless operation with cohesive design. Words: Hannah Wintle
B
e it a business meeting or conference,
special finishes include stainless steel, white
Chipperfield Architects, ReardonSmith, Yabu
a private dinner or romantic wedding
markerboard and bespoke graphic murals.
Pushelberg and Albion Nord, resulting in the
ceremony, the hotel sector’s inherent
Furthermore, the system brings commercial
development of bespoke finishes. Further
aptitude for hosting makes it a frontrunner in
benefits for the operator. “The ability to adapt
consultation with the quantity surveyor and
the MICE industry. And as hotel groups continue
spaces seamlessly has become a key competitive
main contractor, as well as acoustic specialist
to invest in events facilities, their ability
advantage,” Fortin explains. “As well as creating
Sandy Brown, maximised the system’s
to accommodate a wide range of functions
multiple room configurations from a single
industry-leading rating of up to 60 STC (Rw 59),
hinges on flexibility: ultimately, the key lies
footprint, Skyfold’s fully automated operation
ensuring soundproofing and echo reduction.
in finding solutions that balance functionality,
reduces set-up time, labour requirements and
“The result is a future-proof environment that
ease of operation and seamless integration
maintenance compared to traditional operable
balances elegance with functionality, while
into carefully considered interiors. So, to offer
walls, freeing staff to focus on service.”
granting flexibility to respond to changing guest expectations, event formats and business
an alternative to the industry standard of
To ensure high standards, Skyfold collaborates
cumbersome horizontal folding doors, Skyfold
with operators, architects and designers from
has reimagined the approach entirely – by
concept to completion, aligning vision with
Skyfold’s solutions have also found a home
thinking vertically.
operational performance. “Whether installed
in another UK hospitality institution, as Fortin
requirements,” Fortin summarises.
“In today’s most prestigious hotels, flexibility
in a ballroom, meeting suite or multifunctional
highlights: “The Belfry is a renowned golf resort
is no longer a compromise,” says Stephanie
events space, each Skyfold system is tailored to
that combines events, leisure and conference
Fortin, Executive Director, International
the architectural and operational requirements
facilities, creating a strong demand for versatile
Business Development. “Skyfold’s vertically
of the property,” Fortin continues. “Throughout
spaces capable of serving diverse guest needs.”
retracting walls are quiet, discreet and visually
the process, engagement with stakeholders
The resort’s events spaces have maintained
unobtrusive, allowing events spaces to transition
ensures the solution complements the design
their refined aesthetic thanks to Skyfold’s
from open gathering places to private venues.
while meeting the demands of daily operation.”
collaboration with EPR Architects and Fusion
The system grants flexibility while maintaining
In 2025, this approach led to Skyfold’s
Interiors Group, with the project demonstrating
a refined guest experience and maximising the
successful deployment at one of London’s
flexible space management that contributes
potential of every square foot.”
most anticipated new hotel openings. “At
to both enhanced operational efficiency and
Concealed in the ceiling, Skyfold’s vertical
The Chancery Rosewood, we were selected to
customer satisfaction.
operable walls deploy at the touch of a button.
support the property’s vision for adaptable,
“Looking ahead, Skyfold will continue
As they unfold, neatly dividing large spaces into
luxury hospitality spaces,” reflects Fortin. “The
to create spaces that are both elegant and
more intimate proportions, they harmonise
brief called for flexibility while maintaining
versatile,” Fortin concludes. “As demand for
with interiors rather than detract from them. A
the refined aesthetic and attention to detail
flexibility increases, the company remains
comprehensive range of finishes – from fabric
expected of a world-class destination.”
committed to delivering effortlessly adaptable
and vinyl to wood veneer and laminate – ensures
From the outset, the company engaged in
cohesion within the wider design scheme, while
discussions with all parties, including David
environments that are built for the future.”
www.skyfold.com
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SPOTLIGHT BATHROOMS & AMENITIES From statement faucets to indulgent amenities, brands are making their mark on the hotel bathroom.
Laufen Vitreon Combining the strength and malleability of steel with the temper and chemical resistance of glass, Vitreon steel is a versatile addition to Laufen’s catalogue. This unique composite material is highly hygeinic, colour-fast, corrosion protected and scratchresistant, while offering a sophisticated finish characterised by refined geometries and a timeless aesthetic. Vitreon extends the brand’s premium bathroom range with a significantly expanded portfolio of new washbasin models, including Rivo (pictured). Sculpted from brushed stainless steel, Rivo is available in brass, titanium or copper finishes. Despite its robust nature, the basin’s ultra-slim design lends an almost weightless presence. www.laufen.com
SPOTLIGHT
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1. Tubes Grid
2. Apaiser Tembo
3. Sanipex Ginza
4. L’Occitane en Provence Hospitality Offer
Designed by Elisa Ossino, Grid reinterprets the indoor radiator through the elementary geometry of the circle. Inspired by workshop tool boards, the perforated panel is made of recycled aluminium with a thickness of just 1.5cm, and serves as both a visual and functional element. Grid is further enhanced by a range of metal accessories such as hooks, shelves and towel rails, and can be customised with Tubes’ palette of 140 RAL colours and 15 galvanic finishes, allowing for seamless coordination with a range of bathroom designs. Fully electric, Grid is available in 220/240V or extra-low voltage 24V versions, the latter allowing safe installation in wet environments. www.tubesradiatori.com
Created through a collaboration between Australian luxury bathware brand Apaiser and London design studio Yoo, Tembo is defined by elongated silhouettes, continuous curves and grounded forms. Born from a dialogue between softness and strength, the collection represents a natural evolution of Apaiser’s design philosophy: creating bathware that moves beyond function to become an integral part of the spaces we inhabit. Crafted in signature ApaiserMarble, Tembo brings together material mastery and considered design, resulting in pieces that feel contemporary yet enduring, sculptural expressions of luxury with a distinctly human purpose. www.apaiser.com
Bringing an urban energy to the bathroom, Bagnodesign introduces Ginza, a collection inspired by its namesake Tokyo district. At the heart of the collection is ‘the art of playful living’, a youthful approach to bathroom design achieved through colour and contrast. Available in a range of finishes – from Armour Truffle to Armour Lip Gloss – Ginza encompasses showering solutions, brassware, basins, furniture and accessories, which layer to create tactile configurations that bring depth and authenticity to bathrooms. Extending the concept, Ginza Junior introduces playful pink and grey finishes designed for family-friendly and inclusive spaces. www.sanipexgroup.com
For more than 25 years, Maison L’Occitane en Provence has brought hospitality expertise and spa savoirfaire to hotels around the world. From amenities and retail to spa journeys and tailored activations, the Maison combines sensoriality and sustainability to shape memorable guest experiences rooted in Haute-Provence. The L’Occitane en Provence amenities collection brings together refillable dispensers, elegant miniatures, skincare, gifts and accessories crafted with hospitality destinations in mind. Combining the Maison’s signature design and sensorial prowess, every product is manufactured to ensure uncompromising quality and authenticity. www.hospitality.loccitane.com
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1. Hunter Amenities Sachajuan
2. Majestic Mirror & Frame Angela LED Mirror
3. Kinedo Kinewall
4. Dornbracht Coya
Founded in Stockholm by stylists Sacha Mitic and Juan Rosenlind, Hunter Amenities presents Sachajuan, bringing Scandinavian design to the guest experience. Defined by minimalist aesthetics and high-performance formulations, Sachajuan makes hair and body care uncomplicated, effective and considered. At the heart of the brand is its proprietary Ocean Silk Technology, a concoction of marine algae developed to strengthen, hydrate and enhance shine. The collection’s architectural packaging is sophisticated yet not overstated, integrating into contemporary guest spaces, bringing together thoughtful design and memorable performance. www.hunteramenities.com
Backed by more than three decades’ experience supplying LED and decorative mirrors to the hospitality industry, Majestic Mirror & Frame has revealed the Angela LED Mirror, a fixture built as much for atmosphere as function. Accentuated by a slim, two-tone metal frame, the tri-fold mirror announces its presence through light rather than ornamentation, with LEDs concealed within the inner edge of its decorative moulding, casting a soft glow. Powered by Cleanlife LED technology, engineered for flawless, consistent colour temperature, the Angela LED Mirror offers a dynamic viewing experience across multiple angles, while the frame remains the quiet, defining detail of the piece. www.majesticmirror.com
Kinedo has expanded several of its Kinewall ranges, including new animalinspired wall panel designs under the Signature collection. Joining the distinctive Giraffe design launched in 2025, the Highland Cow, Peacock and Lion panels inject colour and character into bathroom interiors. Whether used as a single panel in a shower enclosure or as part of a larger feature wall, Kinewall offers flexibility, durability and ease of installation. Standouts across other expanded ranges include Tangram, an oak-coloured wood effect; Royal Foliage, a large gold-leaf pattern; and Hills, a flowing wave design with splashes of blue and orange. www.kinedo.co.uk
Defined by a fluid form that merges circle and square, Coya is the first product to be launched under Dornbracht’s new brand claim ‘inspiring your vision’. For designer Michael Sieger, its beauty lies in the contradiction: “Coya is neither round nor angular and therefore defies clear categorisation,” he explains. “At first glance, it seems surprising, almost counter-intuitive. Only to appear incredibly coherent at the same time.” Extending from the washbasin to the bath, shower and accessories, Coya is available in a range of finishes, including Chrome, Champagne and Brushed Bronze. Further customisation options can be achieved through Dornbracht Atelier. www.dornbracht.com
TEMBO COLLECTION
Unveiling TEMBO A collection that merges London’s renowned YOO studio’s narrative-led design philosophy with Australia-born luxury bathware aficionado apaiser’s expertise in handcrafted stone bathware. Conceived in apaiserMarble® through a lens of both object and ritual, TEMBO reflects quiet strength and timeless elegance.
x Melbourne | New York | Bangkok | Singapore | London | Dubai
apaiser.com
SPOTLIGHT
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1. RVB Times
2. Acquabella Slim Panel
3. Tece TeceSquare
Groupe GM Ecofill Stonecast
Designed by Thomas King for RVB, Times reinterprets traditional bathroom fittings through a contemporary lens. Combining classic references with a precise and modern design language, the signature element of the tapware collection is its cross-shaped handle with softly defined edges. Spanning washbasin, bath and shower fittings as well as matching accessories, Times is available in 18 finishes, offering a broad range of options to suit different interior styles and materials. Characterised by refined proportions and distinctive detailing, Times combines the classic character of traditional tapware with the simplicity of contemporary design. www.rvb.be
Promoting visual harmony in the bathroom, Acquabella introduces the Slim Panel, designed with lightness and style in mind. At only 3mm thick, the large-format panel makes renovation simple, quick and clean due to its low weight and ability to be installed over existing wallcoverings. Available in 10 colours and two high-definition finishes – Slate and Zero – Slim Panel is made from Acquabella’s durable Akron material, ensuring optimal alignment and adhesion, while reducing the risk of dirt, limescale and moisture build-up. The panel also pairs with the new Livo Slate and Acqua Zero shower trays, as well as other models available in the same textures. www.acquabella.com
Tece has introduced four new finishes to its premium TeceSquare metal flush plate range, unlocking greater versatility in bathroom design schemes. The new shades – brushed nickel, brushed bronze, brushed brass and brushed black – also harmonise with TeceDrainway and TeceDrainprofile shower channels to create a seamless and cohesive look. Styled in a tactile finish with an anti-fingerprint coating for minimal cleaning, the flush plates are ideal for everyday use. The TeceSquare dual-flush mechanism’s ultra-slim profile makes it suitable for front or top actuation, offering maximum flexibility to specify in a variety of bathroom styles and layouts. www.tece.com
The latest evolution of Groupe GM’s refillable dispenser system, Ecofill Stonecast places flexibility and sustainability at its heart. Featuring Groupe GM’s patented Ecofill system – comprising sealed and traceable 300ml recycled plastic pouches to support hygiene and operational efficiency – Stonecast reduces plastic waste by up to 97% compared with single-use bottles, while dispensing up to 99% of the cosmetic product. Made primarily from stone powder with customisation options that span shapes and finishes, Stonecast enables the seamless integration of larger-format dispensers within a wide range of bathroom interiors. www.groupegm.com
THE S RANGE Beautifully designed, more intuitive, with market leading functionality and next generation smart connected benefits.
Buy now or find out more
T HE U LT I M ATE S HOW ERING EXP ERIE N CE www.aqualisa.co.uk
SPOTLIGHT
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3.
1. Waterworks Easton
2. Victoria + Albert Lussari
3. Aqualisa S Range
Rooted in Edwardian design, Easton is Waterworks’ most expansive range – comprising a comprehensive tapware family that brings polished detail and timeless tradition to any bathroom. In 2026, the brand reimagines the collection with the new Royal Delft pieces, bringing blue and white porcelain to the collection’s classically proportioned fittings, resulting in a timeless mix of traditional and contemporary. Further bathroom furnishings have also been introduced, such as porcelain dishes and lidded pots. As with all Waterworks taps, the collection is cast from solid brass and designed for smooth operation, reliable performance and enduring beauty. www.waterworks.com
Victoria + Albert has expanded its Lussari collection with new built-in baths in 1600mm and 1700mm sizes. Complementing the existing freestanding, back-to-wall and corner bath options, the new drop-in and undermount models are available in gloss or matte finishes, with optional anti-slip coatings for enhanced safety and antibacterial properties. Manufactured from Victoria + Albert’s proprietary Quarrycast material, the baths combine the strength of its Volcanic Limestone with high-performance resins, delivering durability, stain resistance and heat retention, while remaining lightweight and easy to install with adjustable levelling feet for precision. www.houseofrohl.design
Aqualisa has launched the S Range, a new smart shower collection. Powered by the brand’s SmartValve technology, the range comprises three models with varying levels of user interaction, from wireless operation and customisable HD displays with integrated mood lighting, to voice assistant compatibility. Supporting sustainable showering, eco-mode can reduce water flow by up to 33%, while app-based monitoring displays water usage and shower duration. Available in Brushed Brass, Chrome, Matt Black and Gunmetal Grey finishes, the system can be installed up to 10m from the user interface, enabling designers to create clean, uninterrupted bathroom aesthetics. www.aqualisa.co.uk
Elevate every stay through scent The Compoz diffuser brings personalised in-room scent rituals to life, powered by patented French technology.
Now available to hospitality through Discover more
SPOTLIGHT
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1. ABI Interiors Nesso
2. Roca Avant
3. Aliseo Vento Brushless
Both a practical solution and a design statement, Nesso is a sanitaryware collection characterised by a minimalist design with a slim, square profile softened by gently curved edges. Created to fill a gap in the market for square tapware and accessories, Nesso is crafted from lead-free 304 stainless steel, delivering lasting performance and corrosion resistance without compromising on aesthetics. Spanning tapware, showers and accessories, the range is available in five signature finishes – brushed copper, brushed gunmetal, stainless steel, matte black and brushed brass – with adaptable forms to suit a range of design schemes. www.abiinteriors.co.uk
Roca introduces Avant, an innovative and streamlined solution for bathrooms of all sizes. Featuring an all-in-one design that integrates the cistern into the bowl, Avant occupies 20cm less space than conventional toilets, saving space in compact footprints while also reducing flush noise and simplifying installation and maintenance. Available in both wall-hung and freestanding models, the toilet works with or without electricity depending on water pressure and flow rate. Roca’s latest features – including side-mounted dual flush buttons, a soft-close seat and easy-to-remove components for cleaning – are also incorporated into the design, promoting a minimalist, hygienic system. www.roca.com
Developed for the hotel industry, the Vento Brushless hairdryer by Aliseo combines powerful performance, quiet operation and maximum efficiency. Utilising cutting-edge technology, its ultra-modern brushless DC motor has been specially adapted for highperformance without wear. Furthermore, Vento Brushless is now available in the Colour Skin concept, Aliseo’s exclusive thermoplastic surface finishing range. Offering a striking visual statement, colours include ice blue, arctic aurora, fairytale purple, jungle green and dusty rose, transforming the hairdryer and allowing it to blend into a wide range of interior styles and concepts. www.aliseo.de
Because true luxury comes full circle. Cradle to Cradle certified®: over 600 bathroom solutions by KALDEWEI
SPOTLIGHT
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1. Kaldewei Ardbeg House
2. Atlas Concorde Radisson Hotel Brussels
3. MAMIBA Saskia Spa
Celebrating the Isle of Islay’s folklore and heritage, Ardbeg House has reopened with refreshed interiors, including bathrooms by Kaldewei. The brand’s steel enamel bathtubs and shower trays feature in the hotel’s marble en suites, bringing clean architectural lines and a glass-smooth surface, as well as enhanced durability, hygiene and 100% recyclability. Providing a bold, refined addition to the richly layered storytelling of the guestrooms, Kaldewei’s solutions integrate seamlessly into each unique narrative, complementing the spaces with their warm grey and matte black colourways and offering indulgent bathing and generous showering spaces. www.kaldewei.co.uk
Complementing interiors characterised by tactility, warmth and minimalism, Atlas Concorde surfaces feature throughout Radisson Hotel Brussels, with the Marvel Travertine collection in the White Vein Cut variant taking centre stage in bathrooms. Well-suited to the hotel’s high traffic environments, this ceramic reinterpretation of travertine is characterised by a natural pattern and luminous shades, bridging the transition between spaces while maintaining design coherence. Habitat washbasins – also crafted from travertine-effect porcelain stoneware – extend the focus on texture, creating a harmonious relationship between surfaces and accessories. www.atlasconcorde.com
As a partner to some of the most prominent hotel groups in the MEA region, MAMIBA operates as a one-stop shop for hospitality, supplying hotels with amenities, spa products, linens, bathrobes, towels and operating equipment. The newest addition to the portfolio is the Saskia Spa amenities range, which includes bathroom amenities fragranced with pure essential oils and enriched with natural ingredients in a refillable wall-mountable format, alongside a luxurious wellness kit. Comprising lip balm, bath salt, a lavender essential oil pillow spray and a mini ultra repair butter with rich notes of cedarwood, musk and rose essential oil, the kit serves as a turndown gift and keepsake, and – paired with a note from the spa – boosts spa bookings and retail sales. Saskia Spa amenities are fully recyclable, with a pump mechanism engineered to prevent the product from mixing with the spring, preserving formula integrity, especially when refilling. “We built MAMIBA to be a true hospitality manufacturer and partner, not just a supplier,” says Mariam Georges, VP Business Development, MAMIBA Group. “From design to implementation, our facilities and large distribution network in EMEA and the US exist to give hotels and spas of every size access to the same standard of quality, wherever they are. From ELLE Voyage to Saskia Spa, hotels can offer their guests a luxury wellness experience without compromising on speed, scale or sustainability.” www.mamibacosmetics.com
Timeless quality, luxury comfort
Hotel Natural Splendour Shown on Plush Navy
SPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT BEDS, LINENS & MATTRESSES
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1. Carpe Diem Beds The Iconic Collection
2. Hypnos Eden Project Harmony Ortho
3. Naturalmat Braunton Bed
Driven by an ambition to unite style and comfort, Carpe Diem Beds has unveiled The Iconic Collection, featuring four beds customisable from 44 fabrics in the classic and exclusive ranges. Among them, Hällsö Walnut (pictured) comprises a handcrafted walnut frame, where the wood’s natural variations make each bed unique and the brand’s signature centred leg piece gives the appearance of floating. In addition, inspired by the great Nordic forests, The Pinnö headboard (pictured) is crafted from tall, vertical walnut slats, its natural patina and rich wood tones creating a warm and inviting ambience. Available in multiple sizes, the headboard adapts to any bed and bedroom, becoming the focal point of the room. www.carpediembeds.co.uk
Hypnos has expanded its portfolio of plant-based fibre products with the Eden Project Harmony Ortho. At its heart is the firm ReActivePro 6-turn pocket spring system, delivering a firmer support with enhanced edge protection. Pictured above at The Headland Hotel, Cornwall, the mattress is durable and comfortable as well as responsibly made. Handcrafted in the UK and designed to be recycled, its blend of natural fibres include Responsible Wool Standard-certified British wool and a layer of plant fibres from cotton, banana, orange and pineapple plants. Naturally breathable, these materials work together to regulate temperature and support restorative sleep, night after night. www.hypnoscontractbeds.com
New for 2026, Naturalmat introduces the Braunton Bed, inspired by the relaxed glamour of 1970s Italian design. Defined by a gently tapered profile and softly-sculpted silhouette, the bed features an oversized, generously padded headboard, softened with subtle rounded detailing for an architectural and welcoming look. Replacing synthetic alternatives such as foam, the headboard and bed base are filled with Naturalmat’s signature recycled denim, creating a softly angled silhouette. The Braunton Bed is upholstered in Naturalmat’s new house fabric range Jute Linen, a rich blend of jute, linen and cotton that comes in four colourways and features a subtly ribbed weave. www.naturalmat.co.uk
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SPOTLIGHT
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4. Sleepeezee Hotel Natural Splendour
5. Bellino Vicente
6. COCO-MAT Sleep Systems
Taking a fabric-and-spring approach to hospitality comfort, Sleepeezee’s Hotel Natural Splendour pairs 3,600 individually pocketed springs with a Softech comfort layer and temperature-regulating natural fillings of horsehair, British wool and cashmere. The springs contour independently to each sleeper, ensuring the mattress holds its comfort across a wide range of guest body types. With support carried through to the mattress edge, Hotel Natural Splendour’s non-turn construction and pillow-top finish is engineered to meet the demands of daily commercial use, cutting housekeeping time without sacrificing the plush, boutique feel guests expect at check-in. www.sleepeezee.com
With extensive experience delivering fine linens for the bed, bath and table, Bellino’s extensive product range has made its way into some of North America’s most exclusive hotels. Designed to meet their refined standards, Vincente combines the softness of premium cotton Sateen or Percale with timeless elegance. A delicate single-line embroidery detail – available in a range of colours – adds a subtle signature finish, creating a polished and sophisticated look. As with all Bellino linens, Vicente is made from 100% long staple cotton and is Oeko-Tex-certified, ensuring it is safe, hypoallergenic and free from harmful materials during the production process. www.bellinofinelinens.com
Offering a fresh approach to mattress construction, COCO-MAT combines successive layers of natural materials to create one complete sleep environment. From wool and cotton to eucalyptus and seaweed, each material is carefully selected to develop sleep systems that follow the contours and movements of the body, balancing support and comfort throughout the night. Led by this orthosomatic philosophy, COCO-MAT’s approach extends to hospitality, where it also accounts for the practical demands of each property. COCO-MAT sleep systems can be customised in dimensions, while their durable, metal-free construction is designed to provide consistent comfort and long-term performance. www.coco-mat.com
H O S P I TA L I T Y S L E E P S O L U T I O N S HANDMA DE | SUSTA I NA B L E | RE CYCL A B L E
V IS IT U S AT HI X, S TAN D E 2 0
+44 (0) 1332 497111 | info@hypnoscontractbeds.com | hypnoscontractbeds.com |
@hotelhypnos
SPECIFIER
SPECIFIER
Vibia Closer Designed by Ichiro Iwasaki for Vibia, Closer is intended for both indoor and outdoor settings, bringing the visual softness of interior lighting to terraces, patios and living spaces. The integrated light source is concealed within a semi-transparent woven shade, available in three shapes, to provide diffused illumination. The collection includes pendant, floor and table versions that can be combined to create layered lighting schemes. Pendant models can be suspended by cable or fixed metal rods for greater stability outdoors and on sloped ceilings, while the portable floor and table lamps feature cordless operation, inductive charging and dimming. UV-resistant materials ensure durability in exterior environments. www.vibia.com
SPECIFIER
Manutti Novelties 2027 For the new season, Manutti has introduced a warmer perspective on outdoor living, expanding several existing ranges with a palette of natural materials and finishes, copper tones and earthy browns. Alongside these additions, the brand has launched two new collections featuring fresh silhouettes and material combinations that build on Manutti’s established design language. While Muyu, Nami, Ogado and Yiko each has its own identity, together they are defined by warm materials, balanced proportions and a clear focus on comfort. From lounge to dining, the ranges are designed to create outdoor spaces that bring people together and encourage slowing down. www.manutti.com
Original BTC Blossom Linear Portable Light Original BTC has unveiled the Blossom Linear Portable Light, a refined, handcrafted take on flexible lighting. Designed to stand the test of time, the new portable luminaire combines stylistic versatility, high quality materials and best-of-British manufacturing. Marking the brand’s second portable design, Blossom Linear comprises a glossy bone china shade with satin brass or black bronze fittings. Lit by a warm LED source with three illumination levels, the softly reflective shade casts a comforting glow across a range of settings, from dining tables and bars to bedside corners and reading nooks. Balanced in proportion and weight, the lamp is designed to be transported and placed with ease. With its IP44 rating, Blossom Linear is equally at home on a terrace, offering atmosphere without the need for wiring. www.originalbtc.com
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The beauty of the past, reimagined
soholighting.com |
0208 106 1221
SPECIFIER
Sentta Luxury Contemporary Furniture Collections Sentta creates distinctive furniture that celebrates contemporary luxury through exceptional design, refined craftsmanship and premium materials. Designed and manufactured in Portugal, each range is conceived as a statement piece, combining sculptural forms, timeless elegance and uncompromising comfort. Rather than following trends, Sentta focuses on creating one-of-a-kind collections that bring character and sophistication to luxury hospitality and high-end residential interiors. Every piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and can be customised through an extensive selection of finishes, natural materials and upholstery, allowing architects and designers to create truly bespoke environments within boutique hotels, resorts and residences. www.sentta.pt
Fenabel Contract and Senior Living Furniture For 35 years, Fenabel has designed and manufactured furniture for the contract and senior living sectors, combining Portuguese craftsmanship with the performance required in demanding commercial environments. Working alongside architects, designers and operators, the company develops seating and furniture solutions for hotels, restaurants, healthcare and care facilities, where comfort, durability and functionality are of equal importance. Manufactured in Portugal, every collection is highly customisable, offering a wide choice of upholstery, timber finishes and specifications to meet the unique requirements of each project. From luxury hospitality interiors to senior living environments, Fenabel’s furniture is designed to create welcoming spaces that enhance wellbeing while withstanding everyday use. Driven by quality, innovation and long-term partnerships, Fenabel continues to deliver furniture that combines timeless design with lasting performance for projects around the world. www.fenabel.pt
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SPECIFIER
Lemi Group Sorrento Head Spa Developed to meet the demands of modern wellness centres, Sorrento Head Spa is a multifunctional treatment bed with an integrated retractable washbasin and a head spa that combines scalp-washing and massage. The FSC-certified timber and metal base is topped by a memory foam mattress designed to distribute weight evenly and eliminate pressure points. Comfort is further enhanced by a removable and adjustable horseshoe headrest that provides ergonomic head and neck support. With three motors for height, backrest and legrest adjustment, the fully electric system enables operators to fine-tune the bed’s position with millimetric precision. Operational management is further simplified by intelligent functions, such as a dedicated memory setting for the ideal hair-wash position or an end function that automatically returns the bed to the end-of-treatment position. www.lemi.it
Coco Wolf Paloma Coco Wolf has unveiled Paloma, a new sculptural outdoor furniture range inspired by the beauty of desert landscapes. Drawing influence from vast dunes, weathered stone and wind-shaped forms, the series pairs sculptural Iroko frames with soft, rounded upholstery. Designed for terraces, gardens, yachts, resorts and coastal homes, Paloma comprises modular seating, dining, lounge and occasional pieces, all handcrafted in Britain using marinegrade, quick-dry materials for exceptional outdoor performance. Available in over 200 performance fabrics, 11 wood finishes and a curated selection of porcelain and natural stone tabletops, every piece is made to order with Coco Wolf’s five-year guarantee. www.cocowolf.co.uk
Ege Carpets Ottilia Heritage by Brøchner Hotels Ege Carpets has supplied custom carpet solution Spectrum to Ottilia Heritage by Brøchner Hotels in Copenhagen’s Carlsberg City district. Drawing inspiration from the thistle flower – a favourite of Ottilia Jacobsen, wife of Carlsberg founder Carl Jacobsen – the botanical design adds a subtle narrative layer to the interiors, incorporating the personal history of the Carlsberg family. From bespoke colours and custom patterns to intuitive digital design tools, Ege Carpets offers architects and designers the freedom to create tailored flooring solutions. Whether defining spatial zones, exploring material and colour combinations or developing a unique design, every concept can be shaped with flexibility and precision. Supported by extensive customisation possibilities and creative expertise, ideas are transformed into flooring solutions that enhance both aesthetics and function. www.egecarpets.com
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CASE STUDY
Kevin Barry Art Advisory Sofitel New York
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At Sofitel New York, French refinement meets Manhattan energy across 398 guestrooms, suites and public spaces. Inspired by French fashion houses and the boldness of haute couture, the interiors set the stage for an art programme by Kevin Barry Art Advisory (KBAA) celebrating the artistry behind fashion. Rather than interpreting fashion literally, KBAA drew from the craftsmanship that goes into each finished garment. Weaving, stitching and meticulous handwork inspired a collection rich in texture and materiality. Handwoven dimensional works reference the construction of couture garments, while compositions on brushed aluminium transform the rhythmic forms of sewing tools into elegant abstractions. Throughout the property, tactile materials and unexpected details complement the warm palette, sculptural furnishings and geometric forms of the interiors. The result reflects KBAA’s belief that ‘art in luxury hospitality should do more than add beauty to a space. It should build on the design, deepen the story and give guests incentive to look closer.’ www.kevinbarry.com
EXPLOREMORE
ZEROLIGHTING.COM
SPECIFIER
Zero Lighting Curve Cluster Wall In 2019, Swedish studio Front Design enlisted Zero Lighting to create a new, characteristic floor lamp for the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm as an homage to the classic library lamp. Following the success of the luminaire, Zero has expanded the concept into a full product family named Curve. The most recent addition, Curve Cluster Wall, features three branches bundled together to form a surface mounted wall fixture. Curve Cluster Wall can function as a standalone light or combine with multiple pieces to create an organic cluster. www.zerolighting.com
Re.Line Redefining the uniform Founded by a team with roots in the fashion industry, Re.Line brings a designer’s eye to hospitality in order to create uniforms that have purpose; collections that are a natural extension of the people and the places they represent. For Re.Line, dressing a team isn’t a finishing touch; it’s an investment in the human connection that makes hospitality unforgettable. Re.Line works flexibly, shaping its approach around each client’s needs. Suitable for operators seeking one-of-a-kind pieces, Re.Line Bespoke is the fully tailored route, taking projects from first sketch to final delivery. Meanwhile, Re.Line Essentials distils that same expertise into a high-end, ready-designed collection, considered across every role – fundamental and foundational pieces that clients can customise through fabric, detailing and branding. Across both ranges, the same philosophy holds: timeless uniform, beautifully crafted, built to evolve and move – with practicality and function at its core. www.relinelondon.com
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SPECIFIER
Gloster Mandarin Oriental Muscat
Richloom Contract Aquaclean 2
Gloster creates furniture that brings the indoors out, transforming open-air spaces into places to gather and unwind, as seen at Mandarin Oriental Muscat. Located directly on Shatti Al Qurum beach, the property combines contemporary architecture with influences from Omani culture and craftsmanship. The Gloster collections used complement this architectural concept, creating high-quality outdoor areas that underline the character of the property. Natural materials, carefully crafted details and an open design create seamless transitions between the outdoor areas and the view of the Gulf of Oman. www.gloster.com
Richloom Contract has unveiled its second collection in partnership with Aquaclean, featuring high-performance, PFAS-free upholstery fabrics designed for the hospitality and cruise markets. With Aquaclean technology built into every fibre, stains can be removed with water, delivering easy-clean performance without the use of harsh chemicals. All fabrics are produced to rigorous sustainability standards, including Oeko-Tex Standard 100, REACH and ISO 14001 certifications. Available through Richloom Contract for hospitality applications at land and sea, the range is exclusively distributed by Richloom to the cruise industry. www.richloomcontract.com
Ted Todd Three Shortlists at SBID International Design Awards 2026 Ted Todd Group has secured three finalist places in the SBID International Design Awards 2026, with stand-out work from every brand in its portfolio shortlisted in the Product Design: Flooring & Floor Coverings category. The Classic Futures collection has been recognised for its three new extra-wide European oak floors – Harlington, Chatsworth and Appleby – developed in neutral tones for contemporary interiors. Also spotlighted is Harrison, a reclaimed Douglas Fir floor crafted out of timber recovered from a former RAF base in North Yorkshire, retaining its original patina and markings. Meanwhile, Karta’s Recycled Leather Series has returned to the shortlist with an oversized Herringbone format, which reinterprets the classic pattern at an architectural scale, combining recycled leather, cork and PEFC-certified wood fibre. www.tedtodd.co.uk
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High Point, NC - 14 - 20 October 2026 LONDON | HIGH POINT info@indian-ocean.co.uk
+44 (0)20 8675 4808
www.indian-ocean.co.uk
SPECIFIER
prado Zannier Île de Bendor Though prado’s collaboration with Zannier Île de Bendor began as lighting design, it grew into something bigger: a shared exploration of how a space should feel to move through, live in and host in. Working across the private island’s individual houses, prado considered the character and requirements of each property rather than applying a single lighting scheme. “A space is more than the sum of its parts: how light meets comfort, how people move, how it actually gets used,” says the Belgian brand. “Most homes get built up piece by piece, and light, ventilation and control end up fighting each other instead of working together. At prado, we approach it differently: every choice begins with the life a room needs to hold. Across the island, that meant letting the technology disappear. Light could support a rhythm instead of announcing itself. What’s left feels considered, not equipped, and simply, a better everyday.” www.prado.com
The Soho Lighting Company The Palaces Collection Created in collaboration with independent charity Historic Royal Palaces, The Palaces Collection draws inspiration from the architecture, interiors and decorative details of some of Britain’s most significant royal residences, including Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace. Handcrafted from solid brass, the range reinterprets historic hardware and finishes for contemporary hospitality and residential interiors. Each plate is designed to sit flush to the wall, while Soho Lighting’s pioneering MagnaTec magnetic fixing system creates a refined, screwless finish and simplifies installation. Available across a broad range of switches and sockets, The Palaces Collection combines traditional craftsmanship with award-winning Enkin technology, bringing intelligent dimming and reliable modern performance behind its heritage-inspired aesthetic. A choice of toggle styles – including classic toggle, paddle and orb – allows designers to tailor the detail to each scheme. Finishes include Natural Brass, Aged Brass and Heritage Bronze, with Nickel extending the palette for more contemporary interiors. Bespoke engraving is also available, offering further scope for individual hotel and hospitality projects. www.soholighting.com
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SEE US AT
SHOREDITCH Design Week
15-20 Sept Stand S40
OR SEE US AT
DECOREX 11-14 Oct Stand G64
LUXURY CORDLESS LIGHTING DOWNLOAD THE QUINTIESSE CATALOGUES enquiries@quintiesse.com | quintiesse.com Quintiesse is part of the Elstead Lighting Group Scan for PDF Catalogue
ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 128 Apaiser
155
Luteca
015
Aqualisa
157
Magnovent
036
Arte
025
Majestic
093
Astro
002
Mamiba Cosmetics
163
Atlas Concorde
087
Naturalmat
047
Beck London
145
Northern Lights
053
Bellino Linens
179
Oliver Hemming
187
Coco Wolf
048
Original BTC
124
Coco-Mat
118
Orsini
103
Curtis Furniture
111
Palecek
137
Där Lighting
085
Pooky
091
Design Pergola
081
Prado
063
Dornbracht
042
Re.Line
101
Edition 169
055
RH
Ege Carpets
008-009
Richloom
006-007 109
Elstead
183
Roca
071
EPR
051
Ruark
072
Fenabel
010
RVB
061
Gommaire
033
Sandalyeci
045
Groupe GM
159
Sanipex Group
107, 150
Hector Finch Lighting
035
Sessions
146-147
Humble
188
Sleepeezee
164
Hunter Amenities
117
Soho Lighting
171
Hypnos
167
Tece
138
Indian Ocean
181
Ted Todd
115
Interihotel
175
THP
184
JC Hospitality
173
Tribu
005
Jung
027
Tubes
065
Kaldewei
161
Tuuci
021
Kevin Barry Fine Art
039
Vagenas
095
Kinedo
135
Vibia
012
Laufen
023
Victoria + Albert Baths
153
Lemi Group
135
Waterworks
041
L'Occitane
130
Zero
177
LUM
127
185
CHECK-OUT
Paper People
A cast of colourful characters takes up residence at Janu Tokyo, blurring the line between art and hospitality.
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“Ten unexpected guests have taken up residence
Though simple in design with human-like
in Janu Tokyo,” says French artist Jean Jullien.
forms outlined in black, every character exudes
“They’re flat but colourful. And a bit lost. If you
expression, offering polite smiles or curious
see one, don’t be a stranger.”
glances as if truly taking in their surroundings.
Indeed, thanks to a whimsical exhibition
Brought to life by AD Japan, the figures are
entitled The Guests, visitors to the hotel will
formed out of Pyrex – a highly malleable material
find themselves sharing spaces with Jullien’s
chosen for its ability to replicate the delicate
signature life-sized Paper People. Designed in
qualities of paper.
the spirit of connection, each colourful creation
Janu Tokyo has also introduced exhibition-
stands out as a friendly juxtaposition to the
enhancing programming, with a two-night
hotel’s minimalist interiors.
package that includes expressive cookies and a
The installation comprises nine sculptures
multi-course dinner at Janu Grill themed around
dotted across Janu Tokyo’s social and dining
the installation, as well as a surprise gift from
areas, with a 10th reserved for overnight guests to
the artist himself.
discover. Each becomes a surprising encounter,
Reflecting on the collaboration, Jullien
whether found lounging by the pool at the
concludes: “It was a perfect setting to place these
wellness centre, peeking around a door or gazing
delicate characters, by contrast. They’re fragile
out at Tokyo Tower and beyond.
and light, like the people passing by.”
The Songbird
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