Sleeper - Issue 86 by Mondiale Media

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

THE STANDARD – LONDON • DAVID ROCKWELL • SISTER CITY – NEW YORK

Featured lights: Boston 370

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; November 10 - 11, 2019 Stand 3307 Jacob K. Javits Center New York City

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CONTENTS ISSUE 86

064

087

HOTEL REVIEWS The Standard

064

Proper Hotel

074

Château du Grand-Lucé

081

The Langley

087

London

Santa Monica

Loire Valley

096

Buckinghamshire

Dakota 093 Manchester

Six Senses Bhutan

096

Ikador 102 Croatia

The Magnolia Hotel

109

The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel

115

Four Seasons Hotel

118

The Moorgate

120

The Calile

126

Quinta do Lago 074

Manchester

Sao Paulo

London

Brisbane

003

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CONTENTS ISSUE 86

142

LOCATION REPORT NEW YORK Sister City

134

TWA Hotel

142

Equinox Hotel

152

The latest offshoot from Ace Hotels and Atelier Ace channels a distinctive sense of minimalism throughout its debut project.

A quartet of New York designers and architects reimagines JFK’s iconic TWA Terminal as a midcentury modern hotel.

Leading fitness brand Equinox opens its first gym/hotel hybrid as part of Manhattan’s colossal Hudson Yards development

FEATURES 056

134

The Lobby

025

Meeting… David Rockwell

056

From pop-ups to installations, The Lobby explores hotel life in all its forms.

The recipient of the 2019 AHEAD Americas Outstanding Contribution prize looks back on a stellar career and the changing face of luxury.

DEPARTMENTS

195

Check-In 040

Specifier 213

Drawing Board

042

Check-Out 234

Business Centre

158

Events 173 Bathrooms 195

004

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ON THE COVER Library Lounge at The Standard, London.

20 Years of Hospitality Design

y coincidence I am writing this in the lobby of 25hours

Martins Lane and The Sanderson. Malmaison and Hotel du

Hotel Number One in Hamburg – the exact spot our

Vin – trailblazers in the UK’s boutique hotel movement –

Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner wrote this column back in

were primed for expansion, and Starwood had just opened

September 2004, introducing our first major redesign.

W New York. Over the years, Sleeper has been fortunate to

So where better to reveal our new look? This time it’s more

be amongst the first to try such new concepts, and as we

of a re-edit than a full relaunch; an evolution rather than a

enter our 20th year, we continue to champion excellence in

revolution. We have a new strapline – Hospitality Experience

hospitality design, development and experience.

& Design – in line with AHEAD (Awards for Hospitality

We were there when Alex Calderwood (RIP) transformed a

Experience & Design). We’ve cleaned up our layouts to

Seattle halfway house into a hotel for the creative classes; and

establish a consistent look and feel across all three of our

again twenty years later when Atelier Ace unveiled Sister City,

print titles. And we’ve introduced new content following a

having adapted the original Ace concept for a new generation

strategic partnership with Top Hotel Projects, a venture that

of guests whose needs differ vastly from those who came-of-

will bring in-depth data on hotel developments worldwide to

age two decades ago.

the pages of Sleeper.

Closer to home in the UK, we were recently invited to see

Yet some of the biggest changes we’re introducing to the

results of a £12m top-to-toe refurbishment at The Edwardian

magazine are beyond its pages. Our partnership with Top Hotel

Manchester, formerly Radisson Edwardian Free Trade Hall,

Projects allows us to target our readership more precisely,

which featured on the front cover of issue 1 of Sleeper when

ensuring that we reach a constantly updated list of decision-

it first opened its doors.

makers and specifiers at all under-construction hotel projects

Despite the new look, our message is very much the same.

worldwide. You may have also noticed this print edition is

We’ll continue to craft content and commercial solutions

packaged in a more sustainable manner – compostable potato

to connect communities creating exceptional hospitality

starch for our mailing list recipients, and a more robust,

experiences around the world. And over the coming 12 months

recyclable card-based package for paying subscribers. These

we’ll be compiling some special features, looking back at the

innovations and improvements are just the start of a full year

people and projects that have shaped the hospitality landscape,

of 20th anniversary celebrations.

and ahead to what the future holds. Who knows what might

When the very first issue of Sleeper landed on desks in

be on our cover twenty years from now?

September 1999, it did so with the aim of bringing a new type of trade publication to the market, one that was both aspirational and inspirational, fostering a connection between those owning and operating hotels, and those responsible for creating them. There was a hunch that the sector was on the verge of radical change. Ian Schrager had arrived in London with St

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

019

GUEST BOOK

142

074

093

081

142 Somsack Sikhounmuong

093 Ken McCulloch

074 Kelly Wearstler

081 Marcy Holthus

Working in collaboration with the TWA Hotel team, fashion designer Somsack Sikhounmuong is the creative force behind the clothing and accessory collection on sale at the property’s dedicated shop. Comprising pieces from tracksuits in the brand’s signature shade of red to cashmere jumpers bearing the TWA logo and travel pouches adorned with Sikhounmoung’s own sketch of the sweeping terminal, the J. Crew and Gola alumni has drawn from the wider hotel’s Mid-century design for a series of stylish souvenirs.

A pioneer of the boutique hotel movement in the UK, Ken McCulloch founded Malmaison in 1994, before going on to shakeup the affordable luxury market with Dakota Hotels. The brand – inspired by the elegant style and impeccable service of the Dakota airliner – made its debut in Nottingham in 2004 and has since opened in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Leeds. Earlier this year, Dakota Hotels landed in Manchester, where interior designer Amanda Rosa brings a touch of old-school Mayfair to the Cottonopolis.

Since establishing her own studio in the 1990s, American designer Kelly Wearstler has created experiential environments for residential, hospitality, commercial and retail spaces, as well as expansive collections of lifestyle products. Having designed the interiors for the San Francisco debut of Proper Hotels in 2017, Wearstler’s latest project sees her introduce her signature exploration of materiality, colour and form to Santa Monica’s Proper Hotel, where organic textures and natural elements take centrestage.

“My hospitality career may seem a little serendipitous – along the lines of an accidental hotelier – but on reflection it’s a clear and certain path directed by my professional experience in the real estate and finance industries, my affinity for historical and architecturally significant properties, my bold approach to everything, and my love of problem-solving,” says hotelier Marcy Holthus. The visionary launched Pilot Hotels in 2018, and has recently opened Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé in the Loire Valley.

021

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FRONT DESK @SleeperMagazine

EDITORIAL

DESIGN

AHEAD

Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner

Design Manager David Bell

Global Sponsorship Lorraine Jack

Managing Editor Catherine Martin

Production Zoe Willcox

FINANCE

Assistant Editor Kristofer Thomas

Production Sonam Diki

Finance Director Amanda Giles

Assistant Editor Ben Thomas

EVENTS & MARKETING

Group Financial Controller Sarah Healey

Editorial Assistant Donna Salek

Brand Director Amy Wright

Editor-at-Large Guy Dittrich

Events Manager Melanie Page

ADVERTISING

Senior Events & Marketing Executive Millie Allegro

m.turner@mondiale.co.uk

c.martin@mondiale.co.uk

k.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

Commercial Director Rebecca Archacki r.archacki@mondiale.co.uk

Advertising Manager Rob Hart r.hart@mondiale.co.uk

Advertising Sales Charlotte Gowing

l.jack@mondiale.co.uk

z.willcox@mondiale.co.uk

s.diki@mondiale.co.uk

b.thomas@mondiale.co.uk

d.salek@mondiale.co.uk

PORTFOLIO

a.wright@mondiale.co.uk

m.page@mondiale.co.uk

m.allegro@mondiale.co.uk

Data & Circulation Co-ordinator Hayley Redston

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

s.healey@mondiale.co.uk

Group Credit Controller Lynette Levi l.levi@mondiale.co.uk

Accounts Assistant Kerry Mountney

k.mountney@mondiale.co.uk

Junior Accounts Assistant Idaira Canellas Gonzalez

idaira.c.gonzalez@mondiale.co.uk

CORPORATE

h.redston@mondiale.co.uk

Subscriptions

sleeper@mondiale.co.uk

Chairman Damian Walsh

c.gowing@mondiale.co.uk

Retail cover price (where sold): £7.95. Annual subscription rates (6 issues): UK: £65.00 • Europe: £85.00 • RoW: £110.00. Subscription records maintained at Sleeper Media. Sleeper (ISSN: 1476-4075 / USPS: 21550) is published bi-monthly by Mondiale Media Ltd and is distributed in the USA by RRD/Spatial. Pending periodicals postage paid at South Hackensack, NJ. Send address changes to Sleeper, c/o RRD, 1250 Valley Brook Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, USA • Mailed by Spatial Global • Printed by Buxton Press.

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C R E AT E T I M E L E S S LU X U RY W W W.ULSTERCARPETS.COM RIT Z- CA R LTO N BER LIN Â· GA DESIG N INTER N ATIO N A L

THE LOBBY

Cocktails in Glass Houses… Following huge popularity last year, Scotland’s biggest

Ten gin-based mixes, a quintessentially Scottish whisky

cocktail festival is set to return to Edinburgh in October,

beverage, and The Glasshouse’s own bespoke ECW recipe,

and the city’s leading hotels are getting in on the action.

reflecting the hotel’s creative everyday menu.

In partnership with Edinburgh Cocktail Week (ECW), The

General access to the rooftop is complementary with

Glasshouse – a member of YTL Hotels – will welcome the

an ECW wristband and visitors are free to experience the

city’s first pop-up cocktail domes on its two-acre rooftop.

garden, where a pop-up Johnnie Walker bar will be serving

The transparent structures invite festival-goers to cosy-up

Edinburgh’s premium whiskies.

and take in the panoramic skyline views whilst sipping on a selection of signature drinks.

Edinburgh’s Waldorf Astoria will also be participating in the festival, introducing a cocktail-themed afternoon

The domes accommodate up to eight guests and are styled

tea experience for the duration of the week. These pop-

with sofas, blankets, rugs and fairy lights to create a snug

ups make up part of ECW’s cocktail village, returning to

atmosphere regardless of Edinburgh’s unpredictable weather

the Festival Square for another year. The village features a

conditions. Cocktails on offer include Belsazar Vermouth,

forest-themed extension, 19 pop-up bars, live music, and

Casamigos Tequila, Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray No.

an outdoor seating area.

THE LOBBY

2119: A Hotel Odyssey In celebration of its centenary, Hilton looks ahead to envision the hotel of the future.

026

Since its inception in 1919, Hilton has been a

Once inside, guests will only see what they

pioneer in the hospitality industry, introducing

want to see. Every area will morph into a

air conditioning, in-room televisions and the

hyper-personalised space, with individual

computerised reservation system – all designed

data insights gleaned from embedded chip

to provide guests with the very best experience.

technology ensuring that rooms are ready the

Now, to celebrate its centenary, the global

moment a visitor walks in.

brand is propelling into the future, forecasting

“Guests will still seek comfort and rest during

trends and imagining the innovations that will

hotel stays in 100 years’ time; this has been

await guests in 100 years’ time.

the case for thousands of years,” says Joshua

Combining its own thoughts with those of

Sloser, Senior Vice President, Digital Product

futurist Gerd Leonhard, Hilton’s vision spans

Innovation, Hilton. “Hyper-personalisation will

everything from technology and design, to food

only work to enhance that experience, allowing

and drink, sustainability and wellness. In short,

guests to unwind in an environment created

it predicts a world of intergalactic getaways,

solely based on their preferences.”

hyper-personalised stays and 3D-printed

Though the forthcoming century may be

dinners; hotels will migrate to other planets

filled with artificial intelligence (AI), human

or high in the mountains to avoid encroaching

contact will be more critical than ever according

seas, while previously uninhabitable deserts will

to Leonhard: “The future will be exponential,

be transformed into places of recreation, and

convergent, holistic and most importantly

restaurant menus will be dominated by insect

– human-centric. As our world goes rapidly

proteins and lab-grown meat.

digital, data will be the new oil, AI will be the

Hotel structures will come to closer mirror

new electricity and the internet of things (IoT)

their surroundings too, with buildings becoming

the new nervous system. However, the more we

more intrinsically linked to local environments

digitise, the more human connection becomes

than ever before.

important. We cannot substitute relationships.”

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THE LOBBY

Out of Office The Hoxton enters the co-working market with a new shared workspace concept.

Its lobbies have been used as unofficial

members their own office in six, eight or 22-

workspaces by freelancers since it opened in

desk size options.

London over a decade ago, and now The Hoxton

Packaged with each membership tier are

has launched a dedicated co-working brand to

mates’ rates on The Hoxton’s guestrooms and

tap into the burgeoning market. Designed by

restaurants, free guest passes, a help-yourself

London-based owner and developer Ennismore,

pantry and stationary cupboard, £2 barista

the concept – titled Working From_ – will roll

coffee, and day-use hotel rooms for those who

out at two of its newest hotels in Chicago, which

want to work in total comfort. There’s also

debuted in April, and the newly-opened Hoxton

unlimited meeting room access and printing in

London, Southwark.

line with a fair use policy, as well as a dedicated

While working in a Hoxton lobby comes at

deadline resource where, if available, members

no cost, Working From_ will operate a flexible

who are working late into the night can get a

multi-tiered membership structure, catering to

hotel room for £25. On top of that is a weekly

everyone from freelancers working late nights

events programme and wellness studio run by

and weekends to fully operational start-ups

local partners, together with brain food served

eyeing an entire office.

up at a nutritionist-approved café or delivered

There’s a day pass (£30) for those who need a

directly to desks.

dedicated space to work from for a few hours, or

Occupying six floors of the 192-room Hoxton

for £75 per month, the Side Hustler rate secures

Southwark, Working From_ Southwark will

budding entrepreneurs a spot on a shared desk

feature 744 desks, five meeting rooms, a

during evenings and weekends. Desk Hop

wellness studio with daily classes and quiet

(£200/month) caters to workers happy to desk

booths for making private calls. The workspaces

surf, while Open Studio (£500/desk) provides a

will be flooded with natural light and decked in

permanent desk in a pod of six or eight people,

greenery for a garden-like look and feel. Local

and Private Studio (from £700/desk) gives

fitness partner The Refinery E9 will curate the programming in the wellness studio, running yoga, mindfulness and meditation sessions to keep workers feeling energised. Meanwhile, learning network You Can Now (YCN) will host a series of free weekly talks and workshops intended to inspire professional development. Additional facilities will include showers, lockers, bike storage and a members’ cafe serving healthy desk-side lunch delivery. Likewise, The Hoxton Chicago’s Working From_ West Loop will comprise two floors of shared workspace with 294 desks, two meeting rooms, two terraces and a weekly agenda of events. The new destination will also feature a members’ café and bar plating up a menu by Boka Restaurant Group, as well as access to a wellness studio, where members will have discounts on a rotating calendar of classes.

028

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THE LOBBY

Growing for Gold A hotel exclusively for houseplants opened its

give a helping hand to the increasing number

doors this summer holiday season, offering

of plant parents.”

peace of mind for vacationing ‘plant parents’

The hotel comes following a surge of

with trust issues. The 100 room – more like

houseplant popularity amongst millennials.

shelf – guesthouse, established by online plant

Research commissioned by Patch found that

retailer Patch, promised its leafy residents

67% of Londoners bought a plant in the last

an all-inclusive stay and specialised TLC

year; and after reporting sales of around 130,000

from a team of experts – all free-of-charge.

plants in 2018, they are on track to sell 300,000

Understanding that every plant requires a

by the end of 2019.

different maintenance regime, the team’s

Rose Grower, the hotel’s aptly named

customised care revolved around three

manager, adds: “The hotel is a sanctuary for

fundamentals of organic, vegan plant food;

your beloved plants. They will be in great

careful watering through custom hydration spa

company and looked after with the respect

treatments; and the right exposure to sunlight.

and love they so richly deserve. So many of us

CEO Freddie Blackett comments: “We all

have asked a friend or family member to water

know the crushing disappointing when you

the plants when we’re away, only to return to

return from holiday to find that your plant has

disappointment. The hotel not only saves your

gone from green lusciousness, to a burnt, dry

plants, but your relationships too.”

bunch of twigs. We wanted to open the hotel to

030

Suspended in Time There’s something rather poignant about a palatial ruin, be that the Roman Forum, Machu Picchu or Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Structures that were once built to last, built to impress, built with style and grandeur, now besieged by nature and suspended in time. More remarkable is how the most ostentatious of buildings, many of which are former hotels, have fallen into such disrepair. Delving into the decline of what were once homes and holiday resorts for the wealthiest members of society, Abandoned Palaces by Michael Kerrigan uncovers the reasons behind the abandonment of these colossal constructions, from changing trends to politics, bankruptcy and natural disasters. One example is the deserted Royal Hotel on Hachijojima Island in Japan. A once-luxurious resort, built during the early 1960s when the region was economically on the rise, now sits as an overgrown, crumbling heap due to a cautious government discouraging foreign travel, with newly affluent potential guests encouraged to find their jet-set luxury nearer to home. Despite becoming the centrepiece of Hachijojima – billed at the time as the ‘Hawaii of Japan’ – the resort closed in the 1990s after restrictions were relaxed and has stood empty ever since, its French Baroque architecture gradually decaying into a backdrop teeming with a different kind of life.

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THE LOBBY

An Unforgettable Installation In keeping with its playful brand ethos,

Forgot adds: “Colour and form are important

CitizenM has commissioned London-based

aspects of my design process. It was exciting

artist Emily Forgot to create Never Lost: an

to find out that CitizenM wanted me to push

immersive installation that will transform its

my design thinking further, leading us to

CitizenM London Shoreditch hotel entrance into

incorporate materials I hadn’t worked with in

an interactive maze for London Design Festival.

the past to add to the more sensory experience

“Since my first solo show during LDF in

Unlike the traditional labyrinth, designed

architecture and interior spaces – often with a

to confuse, disorientate and hold participants

fantastical element,” says Forgot. “A maze is

captive, Forgot’s installation is somewhat less

perhaps one of the most surreal built structures,

intense. Using music to soothe visitors and

so the idea to create one for CitizenM was the

encourage a calm state of mind, Never Lost will

perfect route to take.”

be enhanced by three tracks from the Music for

Forgot’s colourful visual language and

Brainwaves album, a project commissioned by

architectural references will bring the project

CitizenM to combat issues such as anxiety and

to life, drawing inspiration from designers such

sleeplessness brought about from travelling.

as Xavier Corbero, Ricardo Bofill and Richard

Forgot’s vision will come to life between

England, who embrace fantasy storytelling

14-30 September, encouraging visitors to step

in their practices, merging joyful spirit with

outside their comfort zones and into a whimsical

functionality. In this respect, Never Lost

work of art. Visitors won’t be forgetting it any

will seek to explore the limits between real,

time soon.

remembered and imagined spaces.

032

of the maze.”

2016, much of my work has been based on

wc@thomas-crapper.com

+44 (0) 1789 450522

THE LOBBY

New Openings... Sleeper’s pick of new openings

034

Parīlio Paros

The Hoxton Southwark

The Dive Motel & Swim Club Nashville

Perched between Paros’ tranquil Kolympithres Beach and the whitewashed fishing village of Naoussa, the 33-suite Parīlio guesthouse echoes the aesthetic of the Greek island’s distinctive blockwhite architecture, layering spaces with natural stone materials and a soothing colour palette of neutral white, grey, ochre, ivory and sienna. Devised by native designer Stamos Hondrodimos, the hotel features a spa, a fully equipped gym and Mr. E. Here – an on-site restaurant headed up by chef Alexandros Tsiotinis.

Occupying a 14-storey newbuild in South London, the 192-key Hoxton Southwark marks the eighth hotel in the brand’s portfolio and its third in the UK capital. With Ennismore Design Studio overseeing industrial chic interiors, the factoryinspired scheme has been elevated by British-made furniture and lush greenery providing an airy counterpoint. The property features the brand’s signature communal spaces, a rooftop seafood restaurant and the second outpost of its new co-working concept, Working From_.

Having reinterpreted the traditional bed and breakfast as dynamic boutique concepts in Nashville and Brooklyn, Urban Cowboy’s Lyon Porter and Jersey Banks have launched a new creation; The Dive Motel & Swim Club – a 23-key property occupying a renovated 1956 Nashville motor inn. Designed, operated and owned by the duo, the motel features a 60-foot swimming pool, interiors layered with vintage ‘70s wallpaper and, true to name, an on-site dive bar serving as both restaurant and check-in desk.

HOSPITALITY IS OUR SPECIALITY Described as one of New York City’s most exceptional landmarks, The Beekman is located in a once-abandoned site in lower Manhattan.

materials that were used to bring Brudnizki’s vision to life. The result is over 4,000 exceptional vintage and bespoke pieces; an incredible array of

Our team worked alongside prestigious architectural history of the building. sourcing exceptional materials. Antiqued burl walnut, hand hewn oak, industrial iron and opulent marble are just a few of the

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THE BEEKMAN, A THOMPSON HOTEL, NEW YORK PHOTO CREDIT: © BJÖRN WALLANDER/OTTO

ver the past ten years, the world has

and has introduced a new shower-product

produced more plastic than during the

dispenser system in lieu of providing throwaway

whole of the last century. Consequently,

shampoo and conditioner bottles.

a staggering eight million tonnes of plastic

Speaking in 2018, Michel Miserez, Area Vice

waste is dumped into our oceans every year, and

President, UK & Ireland, Marriott International,

even more shocking was the recent discovery

explained: “Our UK hotels used 300,000 straws

of microscopic particles falling out of the sky

last year. By removing plastic straws from these

with snow in the Arctic. The facts speak for

properties, we made a small but significant step

themselves, and tackling what is undoubtedly a

in reducing the volume of plastic that damages

large-scale environmental disaster may seem an

our environment and wildlife.”

impossible task, but there is a glimmer of hope.

Similarly, Minor Hotel Group has adopted a

Increasing pressure from green-thinking

straw-free policy across its Anantara and Avani

consumers, together with new government

brands in Asia, with a view to extending the

regulations, has catalysed the war on plastic,

scheme to hotels across Europe, Australasia

with recent reports shedding positive light on

and the Middle East, while Edition Hotels

single-use carrier bag sales at UK supermarkets,

has launched the Stay Plastic Free initiative,

War on Plastic From plastic straws to the complete eradication of singleuse products, the hospitality industry opts for greener alternatives to combat waste.

036

which have plunged by 93% in five years thanks

promising to meet this goal fully by the end of

to the introduction of a 5p levy. On top of that,

this year.

high-street chains like Costa Coffee, Wagamama

The publishing industry has been forced to

and McDonald’s have removed plastic straws

rethink its stance on plastic too, with the vast

from circulation – though the latter has run

majority of current mailing material ending

into controversy over whether its new paper

up in landfill. As part of our own commitment

versions are in fact recyclable – while the

to a greener future, Sleeper Media is turning

British Parliament is also planning to tax plastic

to biodegradable polywrapping, meaning the

packaging that is not made from at least 30%

distribution of our magazines will be more

recycled content.

sustainable going forward.

Taking the lead from retailers, the hospitality

Changing the global mindset towards single-

industry began its crusade towards a greener

use plastics will not happen overnight, but

future by finding alternatives to plastic straws and

with the rise of biodegradable and recyclable

has since championed fully-fledged movements

alternatives, attitudes are slowly beginning to

to phase out single-use products altogether.

shift. Consumers are making informed buying

Amongst those pledging to take action,

decisions based upon sustainability concerns,

Hilton Worldwide has revealed a goal to cut its

driving hotels to prove their eco-credentials and

environmental impact in half by 2030, starting

accelerating the eradication of plastic waste – a

by removing plastic straws and substituting the

move that may not solve the crisis, but at the

water bottles used in its conference rooms, while

very least demonstrates why certain parts of the

Marriott International expects to eliminate one

hospitality industry could prove to be part of the

billion plastic straws each year going forward,

solution rather than the problem.

GREECE - OLEA ALL SUITE HOTEL D E S I G N BY B L O C K 7 2 2 A R C H I T E C T S +

W W W.V I N C E N T S H E P PA R D.C O M

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hough the likes of Coachella and Glastonbury

as the main selling point, whilst over on the

continue to draw record crowds, music

Baja California peninsula Vidanta Los Cabos

festival culture is nonetheless undergoing

has partnered with Hakkasan Group to develop

something of a ground shift. With the rise of

its entertainment facilities to the point where

glamping, organisers have increasingly found

parties headlined by Calvin Harris and other high

themselves catering for guests seeking a moment

profile DJs are commonplace, and festivals can be

of expensive comfort in muddy fields and

hosted as easily as a guest chef.

overflowing urinals, introducing initiatives to

The move could prove risky however, and

draw the luxury class into an environment they

hoteliers looking to explore the presence of music

would perhaps avoid otherwise.

festivals within their properties should remember

The rise of urban and inner-city festivals is

that both Coachella and Glastonbury were

big news for the hotel industry, in that it brings

conceived as rallies against the commercialisation

a previously distant concept and crowd into

of music festivals – the former an elaborate

territory more familiar. Whilst these two markets

middle finger to Ticketmaster’s extortionate

would rarely have crossed before the profits made

rates and the latter deeply tied to hippie culture

themselves obvious, festival culture now stands

and the free festival movement.

Hotel Jamboree As music festival culture undergoes changes in attitude, audience and execution, could hoteliers step in to capitalise?

038

right at the doorstep, seeking shelter from rains

More than ever, the target millennial market

that can wash an entire year’s planning down the

has a strong nose for inauthenticity, and know

drain, and infrastructure not dependant on the

the difference between genuine cultural platform

length of extension cables.

and cash grab weekender. For inspiration, look

W Hotels, for instance, will host its third Wake

to Ibiza, where hotel/club hybrids in the vein

Up Call festival from 10–13 October at W Dubai

of Ushuaïa and Pikes have played a part in the

– The Palm, with a line up including Disclosure

musical landscape for decades, slowly becoming

and Rita Ora. Taking over the entire hotel with

intertwined with the party as both venue and

special F&B, wellness and social elements

accommodation option.

running parallel, the festival will offer members

There is little separation between these

of Marriott’s Bonvoy loyalty programme the

properties and the festivities they host, and by

chance to spend points on upgrades, access to

immersing themselves totally in the surrounding

meet and greets, special sound check sessions

culture they have become a part of the scene’s

and exclusive performances. The roving festival

lore and traditions, and see guests returning

travels from one W property to the next, bringing

summer after summer.

together a congregation of its youthful target

The attempt to bring these kinds of initiatives

market then giving them little-to-no reason to

into the fold must be genuine, because discerning

leave the property.

festival-goers will know otherwise, and whilst

Similarly, Mexico’s Careyes Resort will host

there may be less rain and dirt to contend

the third of its annual Ondalinda festivities in

with, muddy charm still trumps focus-grouped

November, the line up set on equal par with

sterility for some, even from the comfort of a

the luxury estate’s glamorous lifestyle offer

fully-furnished yurt.

+ 1 6 4 6 . 5 1 0 . 5 24 4 | w w w. l u t e ca .c o m

CHECK-IN

Michael Achenbaum The CEO of Gansevoort Hotel Group takes a fantasy break in Hawaii, where hotel royalty join forces for an unforgettable stay.

Who’s manning the stoves?

Where are you?

Is there anything you would like waiting for

Hawaii.

you in your room?

Danny Meyer, restaurateur and founder of

A fruit punch and vegetable spring roll – just like

Union Square Hospitality Group; his consistency

the ones served at Amanyara Turks & Caicos.

and service are unparalleled and his expert team

How did you get there?

can master any style of food.

American Airlines Business Class. Anything more is unnecessary, as American Airlines hit

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

all the relevant notes for my travel.

The hotel is situated on a beachfront cliff and

And what’s on the menu?

is constructed from timber wrapped around

A Mediterranean-inspired feast of eclectic

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

a black metal frame, with floor-to-ceiling

flavours and perfect portions. Greek salad, a

Ian Schrager. He is the Godfather of boutique

windows looking out to the vast ocean views.

selection of mezze and grilled branzino are on

hotels and you can always learn from his

Paths and stairs cut into the side of the hill

the menu, followed by confectioner Lady M’s

experience and vision. This hotel is an

lead down to the beach, where a beautiful deck

signature crêpe cake.

opportunity for him to reinvent a leisure

and swimming pool await. Our guestroom

experience while making sure all of the stylish

is contemporary with rich-coloured tiles, a

Would you like something to drink with that?

elements of his lifetime are incorporated.

woven area rug and a huge white bed as the

Coke Zero.

centerpiece. Outside, a beautiful tub with a view And who’s at the concierge desk?

is the ultimate luxury.

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime? Vanity Fair and Joseph Heller’s satirical war

The concierge from Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris; Who designed it?

novel Catch-22, which reminds me of the

Zaha Hadid. Owing to her talent with form, it

humour in life even when it all gets confusing

Who are you sharing your room with?

would be amazing to see how she interprets

and difficult.

My girlfriend Cinthia and our child Logan are

blending the structure into the contours of the

here. Having my son experience the beauty of

hill and beachfront.

there is never anything they won’t do for you.

What toiletries would you like to freshen up with?

Hawaii is worth the trek. What’s the restaurant and bar like?

Rita Hazan hair products and Tata Harper

The restaurant is akin to El Chiringuito in Ibiza

creams.

– light and airy with a simple palette of natural timber and white soft furnishings.

Full English, continental or something different?

Who are you dining with this evening?

Protein, banana and oat milkshake.

Barack Obama; stand-up comedian and political

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS The Curtain, London; Gansevoort Meatpacking, New York www.gansevoorthotelgroup.com

commentators Jim Jefferies and Jon Stewart;

Swimming pool, spa or gym?

comedian Sarah Silverman; and businessman

Gym every day for HIIT.

and politician Michael Bloomberg. The banter mixed with historic insights is a truly memorable experience.

041

xxx

DRAWING BOARD

Awakening SAN MANUEL

Awakening – a happiness-focused resort on the Yucatan Peninsula – has announced a planned 2020 opening date. Set amidst the natural surroundings of San Manuel, a small Mayan community at the heart of the Yucutan headland, Awakening seeks to foster sustainable and transformational experiences. Combining high-end comfort with a programme of tranquil spiritual elements, adrenaline-pumping adventures and cultural excursions, the project has been envisioned by founders Adriana Chardí and Martin Loeffler, with design by Mexican firm ArqMov. Taking the form of a series of rounded Human Cocoons, the hotel is being developed to allow guests to fully experience the sounds, sights and smells of the jungle, with the structures seeking to provide a level of luxury equal to that of a high-end eco-boutique. Following the flow of nature, the hotel unfolds around eight cenotes – natural pools of fresh water connected to the world’s largest underground river system – and is oriented to allow guests to reconnect with both the land and each other by way of an aesthetic focus on natural forms and sacred geometry. Construction will adhere to high standards of sustainability with low impact building materials and reforestation activities. Chardí and Loeffler will also curate a series of experiences and excursions as part of the offer, including those dedicated to action sports (Awakening Adrenaline); tours and talks on local Mayan history (Awakening New Perspectives) and the emotional and physical connections between couples (Awakening Sensuality). A fully customised, bespoke programme designed to be undertaken individually will also be available.

xxx

DRAWING BOARD

Capella

Capella Hotels & Resorts has revealed a Q4

is through art, entertainment or cuisine,

opening date for a 101-key property along

we strive to showcase the rich culture of

BANGKOK

Bangkok’s River of Kings.

the Charoenkrung district. Our cuisine will

Located in close proximity to the Chao Phraya and Charoenkrung neighbourhoods,

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Country Group Development Architecture: Hamiltons Architects, Dhevanand Architects Interior Design: PIA, Hirsch Bedner Associates, Bamo Project Manager: Archetype Group Landscape Design: P Cascade www.capellahotels.com

044

reflect the re-awakening of this captivating Charoenkrung neighbourhood.”

the property will mark the group’s first urban

A second restaurant – Phra Nakhon –

hotel in Thailand, as well as one of the first to

will be overseen by Head Thai Chef Wichian

open on the area’s riverbank for two decades.

Triattanavatin, a Chaoroenkrung local born and

With design of public spaces, guestrooms and

raised in the area who will draw influence from

bars overseen by HBA Bangkok, architecture

the area’s bustling markets and hole-in-the-

by Dhevanand Architects and additional design

wall restaurants.

contributions from Bamo and PIA, the project

“Charoenkrung is part of my soul,”

forms part of the 14-acre Chao Phraya Estate

Triattanavatin explains. “So it is a great

development, and incorporates a river-facing

honour to introduce the cuisine of my home to

lounge filled with natural light, a signature

international guests. Charoenkrung has always

restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Mauro

welcomed the world and Capella Bangkok will

Colagreco, a ballroom with waterfront backdrop,

continue this proud legacy.”

and Auriga Wellness – a spa facility offering Asian therapies and ancient Thai treatments.

The hotel forms part of the US$918 million Chao Phraya Estate, which will also house the

“At Capella Bangkok, we are focused on

forthcoming Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok.

creating luxurious and highly authentic

Developed by Country Group Development,

experiences that echo the traditions of our

guests of both will have direct access to the

destination,” comments John Blanco, General

city’s longest private waterfront promenade.

Manager of Capella Bangkok. “Whether it

Design Authenticity. Meticulous Craftsmanship. Service Excellence.

VIEW OUR CUSTOM CAPABILITIES AND A PORTFOLIO OF OUR PROJECTS WORLDWIDE 8 0 0. 927. 21 20 | WAT E RWORKS .COM/COMME RC I AL

DRAWING BOARD

The Prestige Hotel

A new urban heritage hotel in Penang’s capital

order to counteract long, narrow proportions

city of George Town has announced its October

the studio felt could be monotonous. As such,

PENANG

opening date.

elements including a custom reception desk that

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Public Packages Holding Architecture: KL Wong Architect Interior Design: Ministry of Design www.theprestige.my

046

Launching as a member of Design Hotels

appears to balance on spheres, hidden doors in

and featuring 162 guestrooms, an all-day

guestrooms revealing pantries, and mechanised

restaurant, a rooftop infinity pool and a vibrant

lights that rotate to cast shadows of lattice have

dining and retail arcade, The Prestige Hotel has

all been created to animate it.

been envisioned by developer PPH and designer

Guestrooms ranging from standard to deluxe

Ministry of Design as a mix of contemporary and

to loft feature custom-designed showers and

colonial aesthetics for a style billed as Tropical

wardrobe enclosures fitted with champagne

Victorian. Set within a newbuild structure

bronze tinted metal and glass, as well as a

Victorian vanity mirror frame abstracted with

Street – at the heart of the city’s UNESCO World

angular forms that appears to float.

Heritage Site – the project will open amidst a

Elsewhere, inspired by the classic English

cluster of intricate Victorian-era buildings to

Victorian conservatory, The Glasshouse

showcase a repackaging of the colonial style as

restaurant is housed within latticed metal

well as several allusions to magic and trickery.

frame walls and glazing, with mirrored surfaces

Taking cues from the Christian Bale-starring

creating the illusion of multiple rooms, where

magician film of the same name, the challenging

chef Shafiq Rizhar Rozali will serve up modern

site layout has seen Ministry of Design employ

takes on local favourites including Nyonya Ulam

visual tricks and the element of surprise in

Rice and Crispy Chicken Gochujang.

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DRAWING BOARD

Hari HONG KONG

The Harilela Group has announced a 2020 opening date for its first Hong Kong hotel and second self-managed property. Following the successful launch of the group’s Belgravia flagship The Hari London, the 210-key Hari Hong Kong will be located in the city’s lively Wan Chai district, with owner Aron Harilela once again appointing Tara Bernerd & Partners to create the full interior architecture and design scheme. Comrpising two restaurants, indoor and terrace bars, meeting rooms, an art gallery and fitness centre, Bernerd’s aesthetic will combine a rich palette of bold materials with notes drawn from the local area, whilst orienting spaces to optimise views of the city. Billed as a chic oasis in the heart of the busy commercial area, The Hari Hong Kong will mark the first hotel in Asia to be operated under the Harilela family’s own brand.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: The Harilela Group Interior Design: Tara Bernerd & Partners Lead Consultant: Atkins Global www.harilela.com

048

styling Ilaria Bacciocchi / photography Max Rommel / ad Designwork

Italian Chair Maker

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DRAWING BOARD

Refuge De La Traye LES TROIS VALEES

Set in the heart of the Meribel ski area overlooking

with panoramic views – serving up dishes

Mont Blanc, a new luxury chalet hotel will open

including raclette and fondue – as well as

in Les Trois Valees this December.

featuring a well-stocked cheese counter under

Nestled between the lake and mountains, and

one of the building’s stone vaults, a wine cellar,

only accessible by foot, electric car or horseback

cigar lounge and herbal tea station. The leisure

from Les Allues, the high-altitude Refuge de la

offer is rounded out by a 3D cinema, dedicated

Traye comprises two chalets linked by an interior

wellness centre, animal pen and various

corridor and two freestanding traditional mazot

facilities for personal or professional events –

structures. Originally built in 1982, the seven-

with igloos, marquees and tepees among the

key property will house just 24 guests at a time

available settings – as well as the property’s

for an experience characterised by privacy,

own chapel.

retreat and reconnection with nature.

forge a connection between heart, mind and

responsibility, the project has been renovated

surrounding mountain landscape, and will

with extensive use of local stone, larch wood

feature traditional treatments including hay

and lauze. Accomodation options include five

beds and milk baths, as well as massages in

guestrooms and suites housing two to four

the main facility and a series of independent

people, two mazots and a private chalet, all

activities in the self-care cabins and Iyashi

designed with rich materials, fabrics and woods,

Dome sauna.

as well as a signature fragrance created by Blaise

Both summer and winter stays will be available

Mautin, bringing together white flowers, lily of

to guests – the summer period running from

the valley and honeysuckle.

June to September, and winter from December

Elsewhere, the F&B programme incorporates an intimate 25-cover restaurant and a terrace

050

The spa, meanwhile, has been designed to

Placing an emphasis on environmental

to April – with the possibility of either full or part privatisation of the entire retreat.

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DRAWING BOARD

CitizenM

CitizenM has announced plans to open its

In keeping with the brand style, the property

fourth hotel in London, a 226-key property on

will make use of creative technology such as

LONDON VICTORIA

Westminster’s Vauxhall Bridge Road.

self-check-in kiosks and mood pad tablets

Set to open in 2021, CitizenM London Victoria

Klass van Lookeren Campagne, CEO of

based firm ICA and interiors by the brand’s

CitizenM, comments: “We are excited to have

Amsterdam-based partner Concrete.

completed this transaction after securing

Constructed using CitizenM’s modular

planning consent in a prime location. With three

building method, each room will be made and

hotels already operating successfully in London,

furnished individually in a factory offsite, before

this new property will offer a fantastic addition

being assembled at the location. This technique

to our portfolio and confirms our commitment

allows for efficient construction and ease of

to expand further in London’s most desirable

quality control, as well as delivering the brand’s

neighbourhoods.”

architectural aesthetic of identifiable square units and clean lines across the façade.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer / Operator: CitizenM Architecture: ICA Interior Design: Concrete www.citizenm.com

052

which allow guests to customise their rooms.

will feature architecture overseen by Glasgow-

The news follows the opening of CitizenM Bowery on New York City’s Lower East Side,

Signature CitizenM spaces including a living

the building marking the tallest modular hotel

room and canteen will feature bespoke artwork,

in the world, comprising 210 prefabricated

whilst guestrooms include XL king-sized beds,

guestrooms. Future CitizenM target locations

rain showers and furniture from long-term

inlcude Paris, Milan, Rome, Munich, Hamburg,

collaborator Vitra.

Stockholm, Copenhagen and Geneva.

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DRAWING BOARD

25hours Hotel

The 25hours Hotel Company has revealed

floors – as well as cinema, café and bar facilities.

a summer 2020 opening date for its debut

Elsewhere, a rooftop Italian restaurant will

PIAZZA SAN PAOLINO, FLORENCE

property in Italy. Following the launch of the brand’s first

EXPRESS CHECKOUT Owner: AccorHotels Investor / Developer: Invesco Real Estate Operator: 25hours Hotel Company Architecture: Genius Loci Architettura Interior Design: Paola Navone www.25hours-hotels.com

054

occupy a patio atop the historical 18th century bank building.

hotel in France with 25hours Hotel Terminus

“Italy has topped the list of preferred locations

Nord, the brand will enter the Italian market

in our expansion strategy for some time now, so

with 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino, a 173-

we’re particularly delighted about our imminent

key project in Florence just steps from Piazza

launch on the Florentine market,” says Florian

di Santa Maria Novella.

Kollenz, Chief Development Officer at 25hours

With interiors designed by Paola Navone and

Hotels. “The building itself has huge potential,

architecture by Genius Loci Architettura, the

and the spacious public areas will certainly get

property’s aesthetic and experiential narrative

our creative juices flowing.”

will draw prominent inspiration from Dante

The hotel will join a portfolio of 10 European

Alighieri’s classic Inferno and Divine Comedy

properties, the majority in Germany, though

tales, which see the protagonist descending to

2020 will also see the brand expand its footprint

the depths of hell.

beyond the continent with the summer launch

Located within three existing listed buildings

of the 434-key 25hours Hotel Dubai, designed

that will be renovated and integrated as a single

by Woods Bagot. Following this in 2021, the

complex, the 10,750m2 hotel will feature a

243-key 25hours Copenhagen will open with

special Inferno Room for guests to stay in –

an interior scheme overseen by London-based

a suite styled with red furnishings and black

Martin Brudnizki Design Studio.

R E D E F I N I N G C O N T R A C T I N T E R I O R S S T Y L E L I B R A R YC O N T R A C T. C O M

MEETING…

Meeting… David Rockwell Fresh from taking home the AHEAD Americas Outstanding Contribution Award, the founder and President of Rockwell Group talks diversity, drama and the shifting sands of luxury.

Words: Kristofer Thomas • Portrait Photography: © Brigitte Lacombe

uch has been made of the

and President of the eponymous Rockwell

theatre and drama of interior

Group. “So, there definitely is a crossover

design and architecture, often

between hotel design and set design, it just

in the vaguest of tones, with

might not be where you expect.”

‘drama’ an easy shorthand for

Raised in a theatrical family, the conventional

towering spaces or unexpected

definition of the word came first for Rockwell.

juxtapositions. However, for all this translating

Cast by his mother in community productions

of the complex emotional reactions inherent to

– herself a vaudeville dancer and choreographer

stagecraft, few professionals within the hotel

- the designer knows the overlap between

sector are actively fluent, or have had feet

disciplines better than most. And though

planted firmly on the boards, let alone made

long retired from on-stage roles, continued

lasting marks in both disciplines.

theatrical involvement in the form of acclaimed

“One of the most interesting things over the

set designs for musicals and plays from Tootsie

years has been discovering how environments

to The Rocky Horror Show has highlighted a

set the stage for the creation of memorable

keen understanding of the nuances of both, to

experiences,” explains David Rockwell, Founder

the point where Rockwell stands as the only architect to ever win a Tony or Emmy award, of which he has received both. I meet Rockwell at his Union Square studio, a month before he is set to receive the AHEAD Americas Outstanding Contribution Award, and we speak with the lunchtime bustle of the historic intersection in motion below.

057

MEETING...

Moxy Chelsea’s The Fleur Room channels floral maximalism in-line with the vibrant Flower District streets below

The square itself sits at a crossroads of New York aesthetics, in a limbo of sorts between the sleek corporatism of Midtown Manhattan and the last of the Bohemians in Greenwich Village, Soho and Bowery. In a sense, the studio operates accordingly; creating the hypermodern Equinox Hotel two miles east at uber-development Hudson Yards shortly after revealing the floral maximalism of The Fleur Room atop Moxy Chelsea. Even

“More and more we realise what creates the greatest impact is that which triggers the memory of your experience.”

shifting sands of taste and commerce through a number of landmark projects. In 1998 it was the first W Hotel, a conversion of the old Doral Inn on Lexington avenue, for which Rockwell co-developed the concept that would go on to be arguably the preeminent millennial brand before millennials even came of age, and predicting the lobby-as-living-room focus on connectivity now widely embraced. Likewise, in 2005 it was Aloft, where he again oversaw

within Hudson Yards there is disparity between

the conceptual makeup; unashamedly vibrant,

the Rockwell-designed elements. Equinox sits

with increased attention paid to flexibility of

alongside newly-opened cultural centre The

both offer and physical spaces, again something

Shed, the latter’s exterior an abstract, billowing

that would spill over into the wider hotel design

sail with retractable roof, whilst inside resides

community down the line.

a scheme of stripped-back utilitarianism; a

An ongoing collaboration with Nobuyuki

simple yet comfortable solution so as not to

Matsuhisa and Robert de Niro adapting the

detract from the programming.

Japanese chef’s celebrated Peruvian-Japanese

Ahead of The Shed’s inaugural performance,

fusion restaurants into Nobu Hotel locations

Rockwell and production designer Adam

worldwide has also gathered significant

Stockhausen wrapped the stage in uniform

momentum, intersecting neatly with the re-

plywood, allowing the performers to shine

emergence of F&B as a key element throughout

within a large abstract space that could have

the 2010s. Now, with Equinox, Rockwell seeks

easily overpowered them.

to predict the next era of hospitality design.

“Good set design will help the audience relate

“I think in the late eighties and early nineties

to the actors, and likewise help the actors feel

a lot of guests were looking for predictability,

like the environment is contributing to them

“When we started in the eighties it’s difficult

but now there’s a huge quest for experience,”

telling the story; I think this is true for most

to say we had a process for this,” he explains.

he explains. “In this regard I think Equinox is

types of project,” he muses. “You remember a

“What we did have was curiosity, and a drive,

going to be a fascinating project. The brand has

great set and how it made you feel just like you

and fearlessness. There was no particular goal

grown out of a lot of what is true about Equinox

would a great hotel. We do the same research

for the studio in terms of size, just a lot of hunger

gyms, but also what I would refer to as open-

and develop the same level of detailed backstory

for new experiences. I now encourage the group

space.”

for each so that no design decision is arbitrary

to be quite porous, which I think allows them

Joining the gym chain as a member to immerse

– more and more we realise what creates the

to grow their own independent culture, and for

himself in the Equinox culture, Rockwell sought

greatest impact is that which triggers the

me to engage where I can be of highest or best

to glean the brand’s sense of hospitality before

memory of your experience.”

value – overseeing the culture; taking the box,

putting pencil to paper. The results orbit

rattling it and shaking it and turning it upside

the notion of rejuvenation, with the design

down so we don’t get complacent.”

featuring details from a smooth continuous line

Indeed, it is difficult to forget the wraparound glass walls of The Fleur Room retracting at night, placing guests on a rooftop veranda in

Established in 1984, Rockwell Group has

connecting the guestroom headboard to the sofa

the shadow of the Empire State Building, nor the

spent the last three decades at the heart of North

– and bathrooms not dissimilar to scaled down

moment of unexpected minimalist respite that

American interior design, with the ripples of its

spa facilities – to building-wide achievements

Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace provides amidst the

impact spreading out globally. Now leading a

like the precisely engineered sound isolation

frenzy of Las Vegas. The drama in Rockwell’s

staff of 250 with partners Shawn Sullivan and

deployed throughout to keep the drone of the

work comes from how guests interact with it,

Greg Keffer, and with a satellite office in Madrid

New York street orchestra at bay.

which, like all good art or theatre, allows space

serving the European market, Rockwell’s

“Anywhere we could find specifics around

for interpretation as opposed to directing the

portfolio reads like something of a road map

rejuvenation and the contemporary sense of

action and reaction wholesale.

for hotel design through the years, charting the

luxury we doubled down,” he notes. “I think

059

MEETING…

“Believing you know the answer is the death of design. No matter what happens it should always be about wanting to explore what’s possible.”

the perception of what luxury is has radically

influential architect and educator Cedric Price

changed though; an early example was the first

– has no doubt seen him gravitate towards

Nobu – one of, if not the first triple Michelin-

emergent concepts with the potential to change

starred restaurant without tablecloths – and this

how things are done. Accelerating this is The

has a lot to do with the blurring of boundaries

Lab at Rockwell Group, a 20-strong group of

between work, life and play, all elements that

architects, designers, strategists and technology

hotels now touch on. Things that move and

specialists dedicated to exploring and incubating

change are now much more important, so

ideas with the potential to inform the industry’s

understanding something as simple as how the

future innovations. The interactive lifestyle

days and seasons change within the hotel was a

gallery within The Hudson Yards Experience

very important element to the project.”

Center – which sees visitors learning about

As such, the bar adjacent to the Equinox

the development by way of a mix of digital and

lobby transforms from healthy juice bar in the

physical features – was a product of the lab’s

morning to liquor lounge at night, whilst at

work, combining the firm’s acclaimed skills

Moxy the meeting rooms alongside The Fleur

in the physical realm with a demonstration

Room can phase between comfortable corporate

of its capabilities within more speculative and

space and quick extensions to the open-plan

emergent fields.

bar layout.

Rockwell Group Europe’s design at Gran Hotel Ingles preserves the building’s historical identity whilst combining it with modern visuals

However, for all the innovation and future-

The forward-thinking principles of those

gazing, the studio has proved adept at working

Rockwell names as influences – Peter Cook’s

with legacy too, a prominent example coming in

avant-garde

constructivist

the Madrid Studio’s reimagining of Gran Hotel

Ukrainian set designer Boris Aronson, legend

Ingles – an historical slice of the Spanish capital

of North American design Frank Gehry and

originally constructed in 1886.

Archigram,

060

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MEETING…

Whilst interiors have undoubtedly been brought in line with 21st century tastes, there

062

a park.

remains a thread of sparkling historical

For someone who has spent the last few years

sensitivity, from the salvaged relics dotted

– and a career at large – deftly juggling product

throughout to the original mouldings, the

collaborations – most recently with Gessi,

latter intriguingly deconstructed and extended

Knoll and Benchmark – designing cutting edge

across guestroom ceilings as if they were the

backdrops for the 81st and 82nd Academy Awards,

building’s veins. A character that could easily

and readying the launch of what he hopes will

have been obscured by fine-tuned updates

be the next chapter in modern hospitality, the

and realignment instead shines through and

move outdoors would come as something of a

tastefully restores a part of the city’s fabric.

surprise, although this seems to be the point.

“I think the key is figuring out where you can

“Our goal as a firm is to never wake up and

create work that really makes a difference,” he

find ourselves defined or trapped in a box, so

notes. “But the other key is the support, and our

that movement from landmark to newbuild to

incredible team of designers, business minds,

airport to theatre to park is critical,” Rockwell

and technicians, who really allow me to do what

concludes. “Believing you know the answer is

I do best.”

the death of design; no matter what happens

The conversation wraps up as the lunchtime

The newly-opened Equinox Hotel channels notions of rejuvination and wellness by way of rounded profiles and gentle colour schemes

me that one dream project he’s yet to tackle is

rush filters back into the surrounding blocks, and the crossroads at Union Square is still again. Perhaps inspired by years of looking down to the island of trees at its centre, Rockwell tells

it should always be about wanting to explore what’s possible.”

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The Standard LONDON In an industry exclusive, Sleeper talks to the design, development and operations team behind London’s hottest new hotel. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of Standard International

064

s one of the top tourist destinations in the world,

So just how long has The Standard hankered for a presence

London ranks high on the wish list for many a hotel

in the UK capital? “For at least a decade,” says CEO Amar

operator or developer; a presence here is the holy

Lalvani, who joined the company in 2011 and has since been

grail, and over the years there’s been no shortage of new

at the forefront of expanding the brand internationally. “In

openings to fill these pages. There are few hotels however

fact, on my first day working for The Standard, I got on a

that have had a real impact on the market; in which the

flight to London to scope a property, before even going to the

teams behind them have not only the capital and know-how

office. That’s how important it has been for us.”

to bring a vision to life, but the knack of being in the right

Having looked at a dozen sites over the years, “the one”

place at the right time, the gumption to deviate from the

came in 2013, when a call from Crosstree Real Estate Partners

norm, and the ability to create a buzz that continues long

alerted them to a former council building out to tender. At

after launch.

the time, the newly formed investment business – founded

And every once in a while, something special comes along.

by former Starwood Capital and Blackstone Group executives

In 2018 it was Kimpton Fitzroy; in 2017 it was The Ned; and

Sean Arnold and Nick Lyle – was focused solely on the

before that, the likes of CitizenM, The Hoxton and Ace Hotel

London market, and having known both Balazs and Lalvani

made waves for breaking boundaries and bringing something

through mutual contacts, were on the lookout for potential

new to the city. So when we heard whispers that one of the

locations. “We felt that London was ready for The Standard,

USA’s best-loved brands was planning its London debut,

and we knew The Standard was interested in London,”

we had a sneaking suspicion that 2019 would be the year of

recalls Arnold, adding that the two companies had previously

The Standard.

explored a site in Shoreditch, but its conversion to hotel-

Six years in the making, the London outpost builds on the

use was deemed unviable. “We got to know the team well

success of The Standard hotels in LA, New York and Miami,

during that process, and then in the middle of 2013, Camden

bringing its distinctive culture and irreverent style to a new

Council put the property in King’s Cross on the market and

audience. Founded in 1999 by André Balazs, the brand was

we started looking into it,” he continues. “We hired Orms to

an instant hit amongst a young, hip generation of travellers

study the building for every application – office, residential

seeking more than just a place to sleep. With five properties

and hotel – and became convinced of its feasibility as a hotel.

to its name, growth has ‑until now – been measured, Balazs

So we phoned André and asked if he wanted to take a look;

having favoured organic expansion over the numbers game.

he came and absolutely loved it.”

But in 2013, the hotelier stepped down from the day-to-day

And so the seeds of The Standard London were sown.

running of the business, selling an 80% stake to the newly

However it took another 12 months for the acquisition to

formed Standard International, and subsequently paving the

complete, and months more for planning consent. “Given

future development.

that the building was being sold by Camden Council, it was

065

066

lengthy and complicated public procurement process

sculpted element, catching the light throughout the

in which we had to submit detailed information on

day and creating a constantly changing display. On the

what we planned do with the site,” notes Arnold. “We

8th floor, Orms opted for timber and glass to foster a

were the only ones that actually wanted to keep the

connection between the suite’s interiors and private

existing building; other bids were looking to tear it

terraces, and up above, the 10th-floor restaurant and

down as it was considered a negative contributor to

bar features double-height glazing to maximise views

the local built environment.”

of St. Pancras to the north and the city to the south.

Sitting directly opposite the Grade I-listed St.

But perhaps the most eye-catching addition is the

Pancras International railway station, the squat,

exterior shuttle lift, which glides up the side of the

concrete edifice that previously housed Camden Council

building taking guests directly to the rooftop. Its

offices is a stark contrast to George Gilbert Scott’s

rounded form and pillarbox red glow based on the

Gothic Revival masterpiece. But Crosstree persevered,

iconic London bus creates a striking feature, and also

enlisting experts to set out the architectural merits

serves to provide additional lift capacity at busy times.

of the building, using the report as part of their

At ground level, redesigned entry points and a

submission. “At first, there was almost an insistence

reinstated public garden connect the hotel to the

from the planners that we tear down the building,”

streetscape, while the main entrance is notable for

Arnold continues. “We felt that that would be a shame,

its large-scale revolving door and upside-down

and quite liked the seventies Brutalist architecture.”

signage - a symbol of The Standard’s playful, often

Thankfully Crosstree got their way, and the

unconventional approach.

characteristic façade – known locally as the egg-box

For the interiors, Crosstree turned to Shawn

– has since become a star, signalling the revival of a

Hausman, a long-time collaborator of The Standard

style that just a decade ago was widely considered ugly

and responsible in part for establishing the DNA of the

and oppressive.

brand. As well as being The Standard’s first venture

Picking up the story, Lalvani adds: “As soon as we

outside the USA, the project also marked Hausman’s

saw it, we said ‘this is the one!’ The unexpected (but

first in London, so there was a shared objective to

now seemingly obvious) location and the aesthetics

make an impact. With vibrant colourways, bold use

have The Standard written all over them. My sense is

of pattern and a distinct retro vibe, Hausman has

that our unique approach to preserving the building,

succeeded in bringing an entirely new aesthetic to

intelligent space planning, optimism about where the

the city. While there’s no mistaking the hotel belongs

neighbourhood was heading and confidence that The

to The Standard family, it’s unashamedly London, or

Standard could create something totally different in

more specifically, Camden. Hausman looked to the

the market allowed us to win the day.”

history of the area – from the punk bands that played

Crosstree then went about assembling a professional

here in the 1960s to the dark underbelly of King’s

team of architects, designers and consultants, with

Cross – as well as its recent transformation, resulting

Orms taking the lead on the exterior architecture

in a hotel that has real character. The free-spirited

and shell. The façade’s precast concrete panels were

ambiance can be felt from the off, with the front-of-

extensively cleaned, the original tinted windows in

house team forgoing the usual formalities to provide

their distinct frames replaced with clear glass, and

a homely welcome – perhaps a sign of the brand’s

on the building’s corners, rounded panes with high-

Californian roots showing through. Even their attire,

grade acoustic specifications were inserted, creating

designed bespoke by The Uniform Studio, deviates

a feature for the guestrooms within.

from the norm, with some wearing boiler suits –

Structural modifications included the removal of a

currently making a comeback from their seventies

stair core between the building and adjacent Camden

heyday – and others dressed in Harrington-style

Town Hall, opening up the views to St. Pancras, while

jackets in a nod to Steve McQueen.

the relocation of the plant enclosure on the upper

Responsible for injecting a flavour of California cool

floors made way for a rooftop extension. Here, PVD-

to Camden is Chief Design Officer Verena Haller, who

coated stainless steel cladding was angled to form a

joined Standard International in 2018 and has since

067

The Library Lounge features a collection of books curated by Carrie Maclennan from Camden’s former public library

worked closely with Hausman and interior architects

Sounds Studio – a recording booth and performance

Archer Humphreys to execute the vision. “My role is to

pod at the heart of the public spaces – champions

bring design, operations and brand together to create

upcoming and established talent from across London.

one cohesive experience,” she explains, noting that

And the striking ceramic installation in the lobby is the

the result is a reflection of both the US-based brand

work of Lubna Chowdhary, who completed a residency

and the London market. “It’s fresh and unexpected,”

at Camden Arts Centre back in 1994, when she was first

she continues. “This project represents relentless

starting out. There’s also a strong local connection in

attention to detail and soul, and over time, guests will

the Library Lounge. “The Library is something that

begin to notice the finer details and material choices

guests have really taken to,” says Lalvani. “When

that celebrate a connection to the locale.”

we discovered the property, this space was a public

Fostering that local connection is key to all of The Standard’s projects, and so the group brought in

068

library, so we reinvented it with Carrie Maclennan, our very own librarian.”

man-on-the-ground Bruce Robertson as Managing

However, in true Standard style, it’s not as expected.

Director, having overseen a number of the city’s top

Rather than the go-to coffee-table tomes found in

openings over the years. “We aim to bring London to

other hotels, Maclennan has curated a collection from

the hotel rather than the other way around,” he notes,

the books that previously lined these shelves. Some

a view shared by Lalvani. “Each Standard is heavily

date back to the seventies and eighties and show signs

influenced by the collaborators we work with locally,”

of being well-read, others are newer and reference

he adds. “They help us evolve the existing Standard

the area’s rich history or vibrant culture. All are

DNA into something unique to the location; this hotel

labelled according to the Dewey Decimal System, just

is unmistakable in that regard.”

like in a public library, only here, the numeric order

The robes in the guestrooms are designed by Central

is intentionally random. The subject categories also

Saint Martins graduate Craig Green, for example. The

speak of a hotel that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

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28.08.19 08:38

Public spaces are rich in colour and texture, with retro furniture and lighting adding character

Order is paired with Chaos, Romance alongside

New York dive bar, where hearty fare, craft beers and

Technology. And it’s no coincidence that Politics and

classic cocktails are already a hit with the after-work

Tragedy share a shelf.

crowd. Textured glass, Transport for London-inspired

For its F&B programme, the hotel has enlisted

upholstery and retro furniture characterise the space,

the talents of English chefs Peter Sanchez-Iglesias

but it’s the pastel tiles that line the floor and bar front

and Adam Rawson. “We have been conscious from

that really steal the show. Designed by Hausman and

the outset that you can’t turn up in London, one of

created by fit-out specialist McCue Crafted Fit, the bar

the greatest cities on earth, and tell the locals what

itself is said to be the second longest in the UK and is

they want,” notes Robertson. “It has always struck

a real work of art.

me that The Standard’s restaurants and bars enjoyed

The guestrooms are equally striking, with polished

enduring appeal, as they are uniquely pitched to their

mahogany casegoods and retro-futuristic cabinets

local communities; they became civic assets rather

housing all manner of amenities. Vintage light fittings,

than canteens to the bedrooms. We hope to continue

both here and throughout the public spaces, include

that in London, which is why we have assembled a

space-age pendants and bold table lamps, all rewired

team of local talent.”

and restored by Dernier & Hamlyn. Even the lighting

Michelin-starred chef Sanchez-Iglesias heads up Decimo, the 10th-floor restaurant and bar due to open

070

control is on-brand, with Jung’s switches and sockets supplied in Le Corbusier colourways.

in October, while Rawson oversees the ground-floor

In all, there are 266 guestrooms configured in a

spaces. Isla’s seasonal menu features British produce

variety of styles; some boast views across to St.Pancras,

from sea, soil and land, and is served in a dining room

while suites on the upper floors feature bathtubs on

rich in colour and texture, with soft leather upholstery

the outdoor terrace. The Cosy Core rooms however are

supplied by Tiger. Next door, Double Standard, is

worth a special mention. To some, the windowless

positioned somewhere between a British pub and a

rooms provide refuge after catching the red-eye; to

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others, they’re party spaces, where losing track

what it is that makes a hotel special. Is it the

of time is part of the appeal. For Crosstree,

facilities and services on offer? A cohesive

they’re a particularly proud moment. “Trying

design concept? A certain feeling you get from

to solve what to do with the the deep floorplate

spending time in the spaces? Of course it’s a

was one of the key challenges,” explains Arnold.

combination of the three, but having spoken to

“Usually, windowless rooms are uninviting,

those at the forefront of bringing The Standard

but Shawn really pushed the boundary and

to life, there’s genuine respect for the input

created some of the coolest rooms in the hotel.

of each and every collaborator, and a passion

We’ve taken a negative and turned it into an

that’s palpable as you walk through the door.

interesting product.”

“The levels of design enthusiasm encouraged by

It’s a move that has been praised by the

a developer with a shared vision has resulted in

operations team too, and opened up the property

something quite special,” says Robertson, while

to a diverse mix of guests. “The repetitive façade

Haller notes: “It has been built with so much

hides 42 architecturally different room types

patience and care, which is not something you

across three design philosophies and numerous

find any more.”

colourways,” notes Robertson. “Every corner of

For Lalvani however, it’s all about teamwork.

the floorplate has been exploited and celebrated

“The hotel is filled with fantastic moments, but

rather than made uniform. This has resulted

my favourite part is the team,” he concludes.

in a property that is not only interesting, but

“The diversity, the pride, the spirit and the

through the vertical spread of room types can

positive energy is absolutely infectious and

fit many different budgets.”

guests feel it from the moment they arrive. It’s

It’s clear that The Standard has something for everyone, but it’s often difficult to pinpoint

072

the team that creates the magic and I couldn’t be more proud.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Crosstree Real Estate Partners Operator: Standard International Architecture: Orms Interior Architecture: Archer Humphryes Architects Interior Design: Shawn Hausman Design Main Contractor: McLaren Project Manager: Tower Eight www.standardhotels.com

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Proper Hotel SANTA MONICA Following its San Francisco debut, Proper Hotels lands in LA, where organic textures and natural elements of the coastline take centrestage. Words: Juliana Shallcross • Photography: © The Ingalls

074

ye-catching, intricately detailed, historic buildings

family,” explains Brian De Lowe, President and co-founder

aren’t often the first things that come to mind when

of Proper Hospitality. “We are obsessed with delivering top-

one thinks of Los Angeles. Entertainment? Definitely.

notch service, memorable design and world-class culinary

The beach? Of course. But architectural gems from another

and entertainment experiences to creative and culturally

era? Not necessarily. Yet across the vast swathe of towns that

vibrant cities.”

encompass the Greater Los Angeles area, there are plenty

And so Proper Hospitality was born, making its debut

of quiet historical stunners still standing gracefully amidst

in 2017 with a flagship in San Francisco. With growth very

modern counterparts.

much on the cards from the off, the team found a site in

One such stunner is Santa Monica Proper Hotel on the

LA, where they could build on the brand’s core attributes of

corner of Wilshire Boulevard and 7th Street. But there’s a

luxury, location and world-class amenities. “It’s really the

twist. The second hotel in the Proper Hotels & Residences

only game in town if you’re a high-end traveller and are

portfolio occupies a 100-year-old landmark having been

looking to have it all under one roof,” says De Lowe of the

purposefully merged with a contemporary, curvaceous

new addition. “We’ve had people staying with us who would

structure. The result brings not only the first luxury hotel

never stay west of the 405 freeway because there haven’t

to open in the district in several decades, but one that

been any options. But now, there’s a hotel that appeals to

satisfies all the requisites for modern jetsetters, from

them on the Westside.”

character, eclectic design and cutting-edge technology, to

Of course, merging old with new was no easy feat.

great food and drink, a rooftop swimming pool and even a

However, the Proper Hospitality team – led by De Lowe

comprehensive wellness offer.

and co-founders Bradford Korzen and Alex Samek – were

As the story goes, Proper began as a feeling, rather

previously responsible for driving growth at Viceroy Hotel

than an idea; an acute awareness that despite the current

Group; vital experience that gave them the development

proliferation of boutique and lifestyle hotels, there were

and operational chops to tackle a project as diverse as Santa

few properties designed for today’s global creative nomad.

Monica Proper.

“Passion is what pushes us to find, create, and operate one-

The hotel’s landmark Y-shaped building – erected in 1928

of-a-kind properties that we, ourselves, as experienced

when the beach city was experiencing tremendous growth

travellers, want to experience and enjoy with our friends and

– embodies the Spanish Colonial Revival period flourishing

075

The reception gives way to an airy lounge and bar, which features an impressive array of seating for work, dining or play

076

at that time, and still bears the words ‘Santa Monica

restaurant, set to open in a matter of weeks, will draw

Professional Bldg’ carved into the stone façade above

from Californian and Mexican flavours, techniques and

the main entrance. Stuccoed walls, ornate iron railings,

ingredients, both in the open kitchen and at the bar.

detailed parapets and low relief carvings abound, and

Yet the Proper hotel experience actually begins

every part of the six-storey tower, which had served

in the new building just behind the historic one, a

as a revolving door for retail and offices in recent

short walk across an open courtyard. It’s here where

decades, has been revived and refurbished.

guests enter a soothing lobby oasis, also designed by

Designer Kelly Wearstler, best known for her

Wearstler, yet without any of the obvious tropes of

California cool style, transformed the former offices

beachside hotels, save for the subtle shell-like shape

into 55 thoughtfully-designed guestrooms, with

of the front desk and a custom chain link sculpture

hardwood floors, oversized fabric headboards and

that looks only vaguely nautical.

textured wallpaper in a neutral scheme featuring

The reception gives way to an airy lounge and

organic textures and natural elements. There’s an

bar called Palma, which has an impressive array of

abundance of detail in the guestrooms, but the look

different seating for work, dining or play. Wearstler

never feels over-the-top, perhaps because the colours

curated the artwork and sculptural furniture, often

are earthy, muted and selected to embody the warm

from local artists, taking inspiration from the 1950s

and relaxing California sunshine.

to 1970s and in styles from Scandinavian to Brutalist.

Downstairs, the building’s new corner entrance

A small, high-ceilinged grotto-like space was carved

opens the door to the eagerly-anticipated Onda

out in the lobby as a secluded spot, with shag rugs,

restaurant, a unique collaboration between Los Angeles

bookshelves and more intriguing sculptural furniture.

chef Jessica Koslow of Squirl, and Mexican tastemaker

While Wearstler’s interior design connects the two

Gabriela Cámara, best known for Contramar in Mexico

buildings in style, the new addition, designed by

City and Cala in San Francisco. The ground-floor

Howard Laks Architecture, has a markedly different

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078

look. The exterior is a cast-in-concrete series

with views overlooking downtown Santa Monica

of waves, a departure for architecture in Santa

and in the distance, the Pacific Ocean. There’s

Monica, which tends to favour glass boxes.

also a Mediterranean menu to indulge in,

“The new structure is designed in a

enjoyed from both indoor and outdoor seating.

contemporary style, intended to reference, not

Just above the lobby is the tech-forward

replicate or overwhelm the landmark building,”

fitness centre and a 3,000ft2 outpost of the cult

says Laks, who began the design and permitting

favourite Ayurvedic wellness guru, Marth Soffer.

process for the site nearly 15 years ago. “The

Her Surya Spa will offer individually curated

curves drape around the historic building,

multi-day programmes for total wellness,

reading as a monumental framework and

alongside single treatments such as Ayurvedic

orderly juxtaposed waveforms. While similar in

facials and body scrubs.

massing and scale, the new structure becomes a

With this unusual hybrid hotel of historic and

backdrop to the landmark building, contrasting

contemporary under its belt, Proper Hotels is

with its form and continuing in relevance.”

now focused on bringing their brand of high

Guestrooms here are slightly larger in size,

design and luxury to Downtown Los Angeles

and despite the wavy slither of concrete around

and Austin, Texas in the coming months. The

the floor-to-ceiling windows, feel more escapist

LA outpost will be another historic retrofit,

and resort-like compared to the Landmark

while Austin will be a completely newbuild,

rooms, which have a strong city vibe.

both with Wearstler’s design touch creating a

The contemporary addition also made it possible for Proper to offer a rooftop swimming pool and adjacent restaurant and lounge, Calandra. The centerpiece is the circular bar

uniquely Proper stay.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT Investor / Developer: The Kor Group Operator: Proper Hospitality Architecture: Howard Laks Architects Interior Design: Kelly Wearstler Main Contractor: Morley Builders www.properhotel.com

079

Feasibility & Master Planning Branding & Identity Architectural Design Artwork & Dressing

606 Octagon Point 5 Cheapside London EC2V 6AA www.adassociates.london

Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé LOIRE VALLEY Pilot Hotels – a new collection from Marcy Holthus – makes its European debut in the Loire Valley with the conversion of a magnificent château. Words: Ayesha Khan • Photography: © Adam Lynk

hen they grew bored of their lavish

developing her nascent hotel brand Pilot Hotels

homes in Paris, France’s nobility

(with a first property in Park City, Utah) fell in

would retreat to the Loire Valley to

love with the uber-luxe connotation a château-

languish in their summer ‘cottages’. One such

hotel would inevitably have. “My hospitality

humble abode, constructed in 1760, in the a

career may seem a little serendipitous – along

la mode Neoclassical design of the day – and

the lines of an accidental hotelier – but on

sprawled over a modest 80 acres – belonged to

reflection it’s a clear and certain path directed

the Baron Jacques Pineau de Viennay. Upon the

by my professional experience in the real estate

grounds he built himself a handsome 45,000ft2

and finance industries, my affinity for historical

home. In its Enlightenment heyday, the château

and architecturally significant properties, my

hosted lavish soirées and salons with the likes

bold approach to everything, and my love of

of Mozart, Voltaire and Rousseau. However, in

problem-solving,” Holthus says.

the 20th century, the edifice’s luster faded as it

And so she set out with a design brief that

fell into oblivion, hosting a hospital, then non-

called for “translating Baron Jacques Pineau

descript government offices. In 2003 American

de Viennay’s vision of au courant grandeur

interior designer Timothy Corrigan undertook

into the 21st century”. Holthus enlisted the

a painstaking renovation to rescue the château

design prowess of husband-and-wife duo

and restore it to its former glory.

Paul and Shannon Wehsener of Paul Allen

But the vision to convert the château into

Design, and, guided closely by Holthus, the

a hotel came from Marcy Holthus, who, in

two set about scouring the antique houses of

081

Upon entry, a collection of elk heads harkens back to the hunting traditions of Loire Valley nobility

France and collaborating with fine houses of French

Baron by Jean-Baptiste Pielement – the very artist

craftsmanship, from Pierre Frey to Tassinari & Chattel,

who painted the walls at Marie Antoinette’s Petit

to pick up where the Baron would have left off whilst

Tironian at Versailles – reveal the trendy Chinoiserie

also adapting to what chic 21st-century descendants

style of the time. Underfoot, the same floors as in

may have wanted. “Paul loves everything fancy while

Versailles add to the château’s splendid authenticity.

my love is Mid-century,” notes Shannon Wehsener,

Paul Allen Design provided the perfect foil to this

describing both the perfect union of styles.

storied envelope by introducing contemporary Roche

Upon entry, a collection of elk heads harkens back to the hunting traditions of Loire Valley nobility.

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Bobois sofas, stone-topped tables and a palm frond Baccarat chandelier from the 1920s.

17ft ceilings preside over a marble and gilt table that

Although much of Timothy Corrigan’s design for the

Paul Wehsener says “can stand alone and be its own

dining room – including its bold salmon pink walls

statement”. Proceeding on the building’s strong

– was kept intact, the functions of the château’s new

central axis to the Grand Salon reveals a light and

life as a hotel dictated the versatility of the massive

airy space that Holthus admits felt “completely

dining table that can be shortened, or broken out

overwhelming” at first sight. “You immediately

into multiple tables for smaller guest groups. A host

feel the sense of history as you walk through those

of dining chairs adorned in Lelièvre gaufrage fabric

doors,” she exclaims. A Mid-century coffee table –

were purpose-built for the room. Most of the day-

which is surprisingly at home with its 18th century

to-day dining takes place in Le Lucé restaurant, a

compatriots – and fabrics from Pierre Frey that blend

once forgotten auxiliary room of the château, where

French tradition with Trevira technology are equally

a striking chartreuse color palette punctuates antique

comfortable in the space. A quartet of heritage

mirror, exposed beam ceilings and paneled walls.

chairs feature intricate Aubusson fabric – a request

Past an authentic Aubusson settee and an elegant

that raised eyebrows with the Wehseners’ French

stair that deliberately features generous treads and low

upholsterers, traditionally, plain fabrics would line the

risers – because how else would the women in their

outside backs, while the inside backs would feature all

elegant gowns glide down them to greet their guests?

the finery to complement a lady’s gown.

– is an axial hallway lined with custom-designed

Adjacent to this room is one of the most important

runners with prints from Pierre Frey’s Archival XVIII

in the château. Imposing canvas walls painted for the

C. On the second level, guest accommodations are

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each designed in a distinct colour palette, one

“horrified” the design team at first, but proved

more vibrant than the other, while a powder

to be a welcome gift. “What was a simple

blue suite – Holthus’ favourite – features an

hallway in someone’s home became an arrival

exquisite toile in drapery and wallcovering by

event with a series of arches over doors and a

Manuel Canovas and a Chanel coffee table.

lovely symmetry,” she remarks.

Elsewhere, the Luce suite features decidedly

“It is surprising how similar things are,”

feminine touches and is perfectly perched upon

Holthus admits, as she comments on the

the château’s central axis with views clear

language barrier and learning curve of

across to the formal gardens and lush oak forest

working in France. “The process is similar; the

beyond. Finding beds for the rooms proved to be

regulations are similar and the friendships we

impossible. In Shannon Wehsener’s own words:

made feel very familiar. We have been welcomed

“There are no 18th-century beds big enough for

by the French and the French government at

the new noble – the traveller that is used to a

every level, and truly feel like this project has

king-sized bed!”

been a fabulous French-American partnership,”

A bevvy of design challenges followed

she says with a smile as the sun sets over the

the team throughout the process – the most

adjacent village and the church bells signal yet

rigorous of which was fire safety and building

another fabulous dinner in the Loire Valley.

codes. The need for flame-retardant upholstery challenged fabric houses to develop hospitalityfriendly iterations of some of their most storied archival prints. The first-floor corridor leading to guestrooms required the installation of fire doors, which Shannon Wehsener admits

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Pilot Hotels Architecture: AAUE Interior Design and Procurement: Paul Allen Design Main Contractor: Atelier Richet Graphic Design: Smashing Designs Art Consultant: Paul Allen Design and Marcy Holthus www.chateaugrandluce.com

THE

LANGLEY

SPA

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SPA

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WWW.MIVAN.COM TEL: 028 94481000 WWW.MIVAN.COM DEAN.UPRICHARD@MIVAN.COM TEL: 028 94481000 DEAN.UPRICHARD@MIVAN.COM

The Langley BUCKINGHAMSHIRE City & Country Hotels enlists Dennis Irvine Studio to restore and convert a 230-year-old hunting lodge in rural England. Words: Guy Dittrich Photography: © Matthew Shaw

o close and yet a world away; the latest

fields, and ultimately leads to a circular fountain

addition to Marriott International’s

in front of the hotel. The main house comprises

Luxury Collection is just a 40-minute

two elements; the first a blocky Georgian

drive from central London (and considerably

structure – originally owned by the Duke

less from Heathrow Airport and the M25), yet

of Marlborough – with a restrained exterior

its location in rural Buckinghamshire feels far

ornamentation of painted render typical of its

more remote.

era; the second a ‘new’ façade of creamy Bath

Set within the grounds of Langley Park Estate

stone added in Victorian times.

dating back to the 13th century, The Langley

Despite its Palladian simplicity, this sweeping

occupies a 230-year-old hunting lodge and its

double-winged, twin-turreted folly adds

adjacent buildings, having been converted by

grandeur, as does the symmetrical U-shaped

owner City & Country Hotels with all the bells

staircase fronting the property, installed

and whistles of a newbuild. Part restoration,

following extensive excavations to replace the

part conversion, the project undoubtedly had

single, uninspiring flight of steps.

its complexities, taking some six years to come

Adding to the experience, particularly for

to fruition. “The biggest challenge we faced

those arriving at dusk, lighting consultant

was to include all the modern services within a

DPA has created a scheme that highlights the

protected heritage property,” explains Dennis

architectural features, carefully tucking away

Irvine, founder of Dennis Irvine Studio, who

sources to create focal points of interest as well

was appointed to design the 41 guestrooms and

as providing a functional level of light. “We

suites as well as the public spaces.

wanted to balance a spectacular arrival with a

The arrival experience takes guests along a

perspective of the darkness of the surrounding

tree-lined drive with cows grazing in nearby

parkland,” explains DPA Partner, Nick Hoggett.

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The Cedar restaurant features chair backs inspired by Monet’s watercolour paintings

Guests can now re-enact their own BBC

transformed a dilapidated shambles into one

period-drama moment, walking up these new

of the more stately members of the Luxury

steps into a lobby complete with Doric columns,

Collection. And the robustness of the work is

original mosaic flooring and a bright interior

clear; The Langley is built to last. The render of

staircase vestibule topped with a glazed dome.

the hunting lodge was damaged for example,

The public spaces on this high-ceilinged

so was reapplied like-for-like using specialist

reception level include a restaurant, tea lounge,

materials and rendering techniques that only

bar and meeting facilities. Above are guestrooms

work at certain temperatures, whilst over 100

replete with covings, dado rails and skirtings –

replacement mahogany doors were constructed

the historic detailing precisely matched – where

to join the 20 marble fireplaces preserved by

Irvine has introduced respectful, understated

Oxley Conservation.

and timeless contemporary elements. Much

Elsewhere, the choice of fabrics and

of the furniture, specified personally by

wallcoverings showcase Irvine’s balance of

the designer, is by De’Art, with technical

feminine delicacy. The Cedar restaurant sets

joinery throughout the entire hotel by Mivan.

Vescom’s petrol-blue Zanzibar mohair covered

Meanwhile, the bathrooms are masterpieces of

sofas alongside a watercolour wash on the

bookmatched marble, incorporating Perrin &

crushed velvet of dining chairs, prompting

Rowe freestanding baths for a baroque touch.

visions of Monet’s Water Lilies, with the scene

Top-floor guestrooms meanwhile, sit beneath

illuminated by a Hector Finch pendant hanging

the eaves and offer great views over the original

above. Likewise, dreamy shades across the tree-

park-scape, designed by celebrated 18th century

scape of the Selva wallcovering by Casamance

landscape architect Capability Brown. Within

are offset by the handpainted silver touch of

the turreted wings lie a series of quirky, huge

Fromental’s Travetine silk wallpaper in the tea

volume suites; one of which was once used

lounge, as well as the strung-bead chandelier

to hang the hunt’s kill. Elsewhere, the semi-

from Dernier & Hamlyn, who provided a similar

basement holds a six-seat cinema, conceived

creation in the lobby.

with the nearby Pinewood Studios in mind,

Only in the cosy Churchill Bar does a masculine

alongside The Boot Room entertaining venue

brutishness counter this, where clubby leather-

and a wine cellar with a private dining room by

clad furnishings, tartan carpet, a humidor and

the kitchens.

large fireplace set the scene. Throughout these

Across the driveway is the Brew House –

spaces and the wider hotel runs a thread of

characterised by its restored brewing tun and

paintings and visual work curated by Portobello

topped with a clock tower – which is home to 15

Art, adding an extra layer of historicity by way

guestrooms arranged around a courtyard. With

of heritage portraits and golden frames.

a view to the profitability of the property, Irvine

To follow a convincing line of contemporary

proposed the discreet construction to afford a

design within the historic shell, Irvine has

further six keys.

deployed countless items, finishes and lighting

Much of what is visible today has been

pieces throughout, all bespoke, as each room

delivered both in spite and because of the

has slightly different proportions. In the Brew

restrictions surrounding the Grade II-listed

House, the approach references the building’s

building. Working closely with preservation

former use as stables with a number of stitched

organisation English Heritage, Irvine has

leather elements. As such, guests can choose

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between the sleek newbuild rooms and their

grade brass inlays. DPA also ensured a degree

more historically-inclined counterparts.

of brightness to enhance the welcome, bathing

When it comes to the newer elements of

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guests in light before they move on.

the hotel, perhaps the boldest intervention is

The marble is extraordinary in scale and

the spa. Upon acquisition, the property was

colour, and Irvine has inserted distinctive brass

conceived as a private home for the owning

batons into the slabs of pale silk Georgette

Affara family, for whom Irvine had worked

marble, as well as darker double border detail

before, completing the interiors of two of their

accents for contrast – parquet-style and made

yachts. Once the conversion to hotel use was

from vein-cut Eramosa. Irvine also had some fun

decided, the inclusion of a spa became vital.

down here. A beautiful mirror wall installation

With no suitable space to be found in the

– formed from a doubling sequence of bevelled

existing buildings, a 9m-deep pit was excavated

edged mirrors – flows into charming, blush

and over 1,000 lorry loads of earth removed.

pill-shaped manicure stations, whilst a series

Beneath the seemingly unremarkable black

of lacquered brass screens that mimic ripples on

tarmac of the parking area now lies a 2,000m2

a pond are highlighted by deep blue and white

subterranean spa, created in conjunction with

upholstery, with the piping of spa furnishings

consultants SMC.

a mix of colour inversions.

“We wanted to develop the sense of arrival

A special hotel created with longevity and

using the narrow entrance to the spa to draw the

timelessness in mind, but also imbued with a

guest in, let them breathe and relax,” recounts

sense of playful gentleness, The Langley is an

Irvine of a transition area that reinterprets

exercise in both carefully researched historical

historical details like wood panelling as points of

detail and thoroughly modern hospitality.

intrigue, here designed with slimline, marine-

Escape and enjoy.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Investor / Developer: City & Country Hotels Operator: Marriott Luxury Collection Architecture: Frederick Gibberd Partnership, Veretec Interior Design: Dennis Irvine Studio Main Contractor: Multiplex Lighting Design: DPA Art Consultant: Portobello Art Landscaping: Colvin & Moggridge www.marriott.com

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Dakota MANCHESTER Dakota Hotels launches its fifth property in the UK, bringing a touch of Mayfair to Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Words: Ben Thomas Photography: Courtesy of Dakota Hotels

n 1936, the Douglas DC-3 aircraft made its

Manchester has been masterminded by KPP

maiden flight from New York to Chicago and

Architects in the hotel group’s trademark black

went on to revolutionise the aviation industry.

brick style, while interiors by Amanda Rosa,

Designated the Dakota in British Royal Air Force

McCulloch’s wife, bring a touch of old-school

service, the aircraft changed the face of air travel

Mayfair to the Cottonopolis. On entering the

by making stylish design and luxury service

imposing building, guests are greeted by a series

more accessible to the masses. Established with

of sleek public areas featuring a dark colour

the aim of applying that same pioneering spirit

palette, rich fabrics and atmospheric lighting,

to hospitality, Dakota Hotels began its journey

with venetian blinds between the reception

in Scotland, debuting at Eurocentral just outside

area and bar, wooden screened booths in the

of Glasgow in 2006, before taking up residency

restaurant and the abundant use of candlelight

in the Edinburgh suburb of South Queensferry,

likening the ground floor spaces to a film

close to Edinburgh Airport, a year later. The

noir set. Adding character to the scheme are

brainchild of British hotelier Ken McCulloch –

a collection of movie posters on the corridor

founder of the Malmaison brand – Dakota has

walls, together with playful touches such as a

since expanded throughout the UK, moving into

textile dog named Chester – who can be seen

city centre locations in Glasgow and Leeds. Now,

climbing on a table in the lobby.

marking the most significant venture in its 13-

“Our first objective is to ensure the guest is

year history, the brand has brought its distinct

comfortable and relaxed. We try to make the

concept to Manchester, launching a new £30

interiors look and feel natural,” says McCulloch.

million property in the city’s Northern Quarter.

“For this project, the main influence was to look

Situated on Ducie Street close to Piccadilly

back rather than forward, taking inspiration

Station and the Rochdale Canal, Dakota

from the honesty and integrity of classic hotels.”

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The hotel’s crowning glory is the Grand Deluxe Suite with a wraparound rooftop terrace overlooking the Northern Quarter and nearby Ancoats neighbourhood

The hotel’s 137 guestrooms and 20 suites

creations, as well as a carefully curated wine

follow a similarly elegant colour palette, with

list. Accompanying the bar is The Champagne

dusky purple mohair throws harking back to

Room, a semi-private space decked in dark

Dakota’s roots in Scotland. Every guestroom

tones and marble, which can be used for canapé

is equipped with rainfall showers, Chelsom

receptions or whisky tasting experiences.

lighting and a smart TV with a full Sky package,

“The Dakota Grill and cocktail bar are the

while the Garden King rooms include private

heart and soul of the whole operation,” says

garden terraces, and Signature and Executive

McCulloch, noting that guests often visit Dakota

Suites provide super king-size beds and two

hotels for their restaurants alone. “Over the

separate en-suites.

years, Dakota has created its own success by

The crowning glory however is the Grand Deluxe Suite, a penthouse located on the eighth

the standard of its restaurants and the dining experience we deliver time and time again.”

level of the building. Billed as the largest in the

Another unique addition is The Cigar Garden,

city, the standout suite features its own private

a purpose-built terrace warmed by gas fires,

entrance, lounge, dining area, two bedrooms,

where guests can pair their favourite Cuban

walk-in

en-suite

from the hotel’s dedicated humidor with a

bathrooms with steam showers and a two-metre

fine collection of premium cognac and whisky.

sunken tub – not to mention a complimentary

The waterside terrace is available for al fresco

mini fridge stocked with local brands like

drinking and dining when the weather permits,

Manchester Gin and Brightside Brewery. In

catering to a maximum of 80 covers, while a

addition, a wraparound rooftop terrace provides

second heated terrace close by can host open-

panoramic views over the Northern Quarter and

air events for up to 50 people.

wardrobe,

fireplace,

nearby Ancoats neighbourhood.

From its heritage as an industrial powerhouse

“The most important thing for me is a

to its musical and artistic pedigree, Manchester

hotel that makes you feel special,” McCulloch

has frequently led the way up north, and the

continues. “It’s the finer details that make all

launch of Dakota’s fifth property only goes to

the difference; the simple things done brilliantly.

strengthen that. As the new flagship, the hotel

Amanda understands that and is aware of what

has paved the way for further openings, with

needs to be created. There is longevity to her

destinations such as London, Birmingham and

design, and it truly has a character of its own.”

Cardiff all under consideration.

At the heart of the F&B programme, the

For McCulloch however, the focus for now

104-cover Dakota Grill serves a classically-

is building on what has already been created:

inspired menu rich with seasonal ingredients,

“As I’ve always said, we should try to make

while a private dining space can also

our hotels a little bit better every day, which

host exclusive parties for 20 guests. The

doesn’t sound much, but multiply that by 365,

neighbourhood brasserie, with waterside vistas

that’s quite a lot! There’s no place like home,

of Piccadilly Basin, plates up signature dishes

but we’re working on it.”

like grass-fed, 35-day-aged steak cooked over hot coals, as well as seafood dishes ranging from classic poached haddock to a flavoursome monkfish curry. For those after something a little stronger, a chic cocktail lounge offers an impressive drinks list combining classics with bespoke in-house

EXPRESS CHECKOUT Owner: Evans Property Group Operator: Dakota Hotels Architecture: KPP Architects Interior Design: Amanda Rosa Interiors Main Contractor: GMI Construction www.dakotahotels.co.uk

095

Six Senses BHUTAN Six Senses steps into Bhutan with a series of five ambitious lodges firmly rooted in local culture. Words: Emma Love • Photography: Courtesy of Six Senses

hutan has been a bucket list destination for many since the landlocked country first opened up to tourism in 1974. Yet despite its growing popularity, hotel

development has been slow, and there have been relatively few high-end options for visitors travelling to the Kingdom’s monasteries, dzongs and dramatic landscapes. So Six Senses Bhutan, a new circuit of lodges that connects five western and central valleys – Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Gangtey and Bumthang – is a highly anticipated and welcome addition. Created in collaboration with Bangkok-based Habita Architects, the project has taken five-and-a-half years to complete, with each site thoughtfully designed to fully immerse travellers in local culture. “The landscapes and the level of calm and stillness were the reasons why I chose the locations,” explains Dasho Sangay Wangchuck, a Thimphuborn entrepreneur and the brainchild behind the ambitious multi-site hotel. “What I really wanted to stand out were the amazing panoramic views of the towns and temples below, but also the mountains, which are right there in front of you. These valleys are iconic and offer guests the full flavour of the country, and, as a brand, Six Senses truly fits with what Bhutan stands for.” The influence of surroundings is evident in the lodges, with the Six Senses in-house design team referencing the distinct character of each valley in the varying schemes. “We wanted to give guests a different experience at each destination, so for the design concepts we looked at the topography and local life for inspiration,” says Apiwat Anukularmphai, Corporate Creative & Design Director, Six Senses. For instance, the Master Lodge – comprising 20 suites and five villas – is

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Suites overlook Bhutan’s rolling landscape from their hillside perch

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perched on a hillside surrounded by pine trees

objects from teapots to wooden bowls behind

above Thimphu, the country’s capital. As you

the reception desk, and, in the bar, a wave-like

enter the main building, which houses the

ceiling that references the national dress.

living room, bar and restaurant, and look out

In contrast, at Punakha it’s the farming way

of the floor-to-ceiling windows to the valley

of life brought to the fore. The lush valley is

below, it’s immediately obvious why it has been

full of rice paddies and fields where all kinds

nicknamed the Palace in the Sky.

of produce are grown, including red chillies,

White stonewashed walls and a shingle roof

aubergines and carrots, making it a natural

take their cues from Bhutanese architecture,

starting point for the design. “Since Punakha

while surrounding ornamental pools reflect

is famous for its rice, we took the farmhouse

the clouds above. The cloud motif can also be

as the main idea,” says Anukularmphai of the

seen as delicate, swirling art murals by local

hemlock wood building which, doubles up

artists in the simply decorated rooms, where

as the living room and bar, and cantilevers

Himalayan hemlock wood has been used for the

dramatically over the pool.

floor and ceiling. There’s a custom-designed

The lodge here feels intimate and rustic, with

tan leather armchair and matching bedboard

16 suites split across four buttermilk yellow

below a wood-panelled wall; a traditional

buildings, as well as three villas from 1,312ft2

bukhari stove that is lit on chilly nights; cosy

to 2,949ft2 that all face the forest-steeped

handmade wool rugs from India; and pops of

mountains. In the restaurant, an installation

lemon in the sofa cushions. Other nods to local

of baskets hangs from the ceiling over the

culture in the public spaces include a mandala

help-yourself fruit station, and guests sit in

of the medicine Buddha inside the entrance to

curving rattan chairs by Bangkok-based interior

bring out positive energy, a display of everyday

company Corner 43 Décor, looking out to the

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terrace and the pool beyond. The majority of

team of architectural lighting designers again

the furniture across all locations is custom-

from Bangkok, to undertake the task.

designed and produced in India.

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At Paro, a special dining experience on

Handcrafted elements are integral to each

the guests’ last evening is often held in the

lodge, but the level of skill involved is perhaps

aforementioned ruin, and there is a small

most impressive at Paro, where the stone walls

temple with a resident monk where guests can

of the main building – influenced by the ruin

go to meditate – an extension of the wellness

of a neighbouring dzong – were constructed

offer that Six Senses is renowned for. And, at

entirely by hand. “We wanted to replicate the

each lodge, there is of course a signature Six

techniques used in the 12th century, so each

Senses spa, though each with a different focus

piece of stone was individually chiselled into

for sake of variety – at Thimphu it’s health,

the right shape and size, then meticulously

whereas Punakha focuses on time and Paro

stacked,” recalls Anukularmphai.

specialises in education. As such, guests can

In the living room, grey sofas are brightened

move between the lodges for a holistic journey.

with orange-red cushions alongside tan leather

“Bhutan has an age-old culture,” says

pouffes and abstract graphic rugs in mustard

Wangchuck. “We were an isolated pocket for

and black, which nod to Tiger’s Nest, the

a long time; busy living our own way of life,

famous monastery built on a sheer cliff face

which was and still is embedded in spirituality.

that can be hiked from here as part of a tailor-

With new age sophisticated travel, everyone

made itinerary. “For me, the lighting is also

is looking for the next experience, and at Six

important; we have used lots of decorative lights

Senses Bhutan we have tried to take this to

and wall sconces so that it feels homely,” adds

another level in every way.” Experiences don’t

Anukularmphai who commissioned Be-Lit, a

come much more extraordinary than this.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Investor / Developer: Bhutan Ventures & Hospitality Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas Architecture: Habita Architects Interior Design: Six Senses in-house design team Project Manager: Fabrice Perusson Lighting Design: Be-Lit and BKK Landscaping: In-house and PLA www.sixsenses.com

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Ikador OPATIJA Atellior looks to the heritage of Opatija Riviera to design an elegant villa in harmony with its surroundings. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Bruno Rondinelli

roatia has seen its fair share of hotel development in

empire. Designed by Studio L, the four-storey mansion bears

recent years, with international players waking up

the hallmarks of the era’s architecture, delivered here in a

to the potential of the nation’s culturally-rich cities,

21st century way. Interiors too recall a bygone era, with a

pristine coastline and little-explored islands. Yet despite

scheme that marries classic and contemporary as devised

the fact that the number of branded guestrooms grew by

by Zagreb- and London-based practice Atellior. “We wanted

58% (Horwath HTL) in 2018, domestic operators and private

to evoke the spirit of the golden age of Opatija in a modern

owners still very much dominate the market, bringing some

context, using timeless materials in contemporary and fresh

welcome variety to the hospitality landscape.

combinations,” say the studio’s founders Una Barac and Ante

To the north of typical tourist hotspots such as Dubrovnik

Marić, who took the lead on the project together with team

and Split, the Istrian Peninsula has long been attracting

members Tea Matija Pinjuh and Ljerka Kabelka. “The endless

well-heeled travellers, allured by the sub-Mediterranean

sea view of Kvarner Bay is visible from every corner of the

climate and secluded bays that sit in the shadow of the Učka

hotel, so our interior colour schemes were inspired by the

mountain range. In the late 1800s, new rail routes brought

accents of sun-gold pouring over sea-blue, with highlights

artists, writers and musicians to the newly-built grand

of green to represent the Mediterranean pine trees. Luxurious

hotels of Opatija – thought to be the oldest tourist resort in

finishes, carefully chosen materials and bespoke furniture

Croatia – while royalty holidayed at the private villas that dot

give fluidity to the contemporary yet timeless signature of

the coastline. It was a riviera retreat at its finest, and it’s this

our design.”

era that has inspired the team behind Ikador, the first fullyfledged hotel from Croatian conglomerate Zubak Grupa.

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The lobby tells the story of the empire that once ruled this region, with furniture and fittings sourced from Central

The newbuild property sits on the rocky shores of the

Europe to complement travertine stone flooring – laid here in

Adriatic Sea, and is constructed in the style of the nearby

a chevron pattern with bronze accents – and the Pietra Grey

villas that still stand as a reminder of the Austro-Hungarian

marble of the check-in desk. Sumptuous armchairs are from

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Erba Italia, sofas are inspired by the work of Josef Hoffmann and manufactured by Wittmann, while Lasvit’s Neverending Glory pendants – each the silhouette of an eminent concert hall – take centrestage above. The light, airy welcome leads through to the bar and restaurant, where a notably darker colour palette leads the eye to the spectacular sea view, framed perfectly by the architecture. By day, guests spill out onto the terrace, lounging on B&B Italia furniture while taking in the coastline; by night, the restaurant really comes

The 14 guestrooms, as well as the three-bedroom Presidential Suite, feature honest materials such as brass, stone and marble

into its own. Smoked oak parquet flooring and midnightblue paintwork form a darkened backdrop that, together with the lighting installation – a brass pergola design with groups of rod-like pendants hanging over tables – creates a feeling of dining by starlight. The food offer, cooked up by Croatian Executive Chef Željko Jovanović, makes use of local produce and sees fresh takes on national favourites as well as some inventive flavour pairings. Dalmation proscuitto, Kvarner shrimps and Adriatic squid feature on the seasonal menu, each beautifully plated and embellished with freshlycut herbs or caper flowers. The cocktail bar – a transitional space between the lobby and the restaurant – once again features honest materials such as brass, stone and marble, while a cosy cigar bar continues the dark-hued palette of the restaurant, bringing rich materials and textures to accompany the roaring fire. With just 14 guestrooms, Ikador aims to combine the facilities of a traditional hotel with the privacy of villa stays, and as such, rooms are designed as spacious living quarters with the finest materials and utmost attention to detail. Pietra

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DEFINING SPA. SINCE 1928.

Burtschahof

Photos: Hanno Mackowitz

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Grey stone, tactile velvet upholstery and luxurious

signature treatments involving singing bowls and

leather headboards feature alongside artisan rugs

soft chimes to cleanse the mind and attune the soul.

made locally by Regeneracija, their patterns inspired

This idea of sound and sea is evident throughout the

by the musical scores of the composers who came to

hotel, making regular appearances in the branding and

Opatija in the 1900s. Casegoods, designed bespoke

graphics, which see sketches of seahorses, crabs and

by Atellior, have also been given the royal treatment

lobster harmoniously paired with trumpets, French

with bronze trims and fabric lining for the finest

horns and string instruments, while the ‘d’ of Ikador

in storage. While the guestrooms feature classical

is stylised to represent a musical note.

traits, bathrooms are decidedly contemporary, with

For both the operator and the design team, the

geometric tiles accompanying sleek basins, minimalist

creation of Ikador was about appealing to a particular

Axor fittings and, in the Presidential Suite, a statement

lifestyle, and nowhere is this more apparent than

freestanding bathtub by Villeroy & Boch.

the Riva Lounge, a brand partnership that brings the

Harking back to a time when travellers flocked here

premium yacht-maker to these shores for the first

to bathe in the public pools, wellness is central to

time. Following in the footsteps of lounges in Monte

the Ikador offer. A spa was an obvious addition, but

Carlo, Venice and Mykonos, the waterside offer features

perhaps less expected is its location – up on the third

Riva’s trademark use of lacquered wood and stainless

floor to afford a direct connection to the sea – and the

steel, along with its aqua marine hues. There’s even

impressive array of facilities, particularly given the

a six-seater yacht docked out front, available for

hotel’s modest room count. A sauna and steam room

guests to explore the coastline in style. It’s a savvy

emitting fragrant pine from the mountains join a rasul

partnership that will no doubt attract Riva’s legion of

chamber, salt room, hydrotherapy tub and heated

followers, and crucially, one that neatly aligns with

loungers, the latter on an outdoor terrace overlooking

Ikador’s core characteristics; elegant, timeless and

the Adriatic. There’s a focus on sound therapy, with

built on heritage.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner /Developer: AutoZubak Operator: Ikador Architecture: Studio L Interior Design: Atellior Main Contractor: GT Jura Procurement: AutoZubak Graphic Design: Fabular Branding Agency Landscaping: Ksenija Jurčić Diminić www.ikador.com

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27/08/2019 11.00

OP - Sleeper Advert - Final - Print Marks.pdf

27/08/2019

09:46

CMY

The Vintage Hotel, Lisbon

Curating the Story of Art

Hospitality I Corporate I Residential I Events www.omeyprojects.com

The Magnolia Hotel QUINTA DO LAGO A mid-century, motel-inspired project brings Palm Springs style to The Algarve. Words: Matt Turner Photography: Courtesy of Magnolia Hotel (unless otherwise stated)

f the Algarve were Asia, Quinta do Lago – or

equal measure, with the aim of bringing a fresh

QdL as it is colloquially known – would be its

new energy as well as a younger demographic

Singapore. Clean, green and inhabited largely

to the region.

by the wealthy, it started life as an exclusive

Says O’Sullivan: “The brief was to bring

golf complex but has since evolved into a

something completely fresh and unseen to

sprawling resort of expensive villas, luxury

the Algarve. The design is light, playful and

hotels, boutique shops and perfectly manicured

inviting for lazy days spent sipping cocktails

gardens and fairways.

by the pool or grazing fresh local dishes in the

Originally launched in late 2017, as a phased

restaurant. First-hand experience during a trip

refurbishment got underway, The Magnolia is

to Palm Springs helped shape the design, taking

a significant addition to the area’s hotel offer,

the glory days of the 1950s US motel with the

providing a more affordable, youth-oriented

pastel Art Deco hues of Miami to create a bright,

accommodation option in contrast to its palatial

glamorous travel spot.”

next-door neighbour the Conrad Algarve, or

The architecture of the hotel that previously

the more discreet five-star properties in the

occupied the site lent itself to the motel model.

surrounding area.

The Americana influence is clear from the

Interior designers Bryan O’Sullivan Studio

moment guests pull up to its driveway. A retro-

have brought a Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic

neon sign depicting a diving girl in bathing cap

to this modern take on the iconic motels of the

illuminates the façade, alongside funky lettering

1950s. The approach has afforded them licence

announcing the hotel’s name. Bedroom blocks

to experiment with a palette of bold colours,

are separated from the main reception by an

a catalogue of intirguing textures and a set of

outdoor pool and restaurant.

design features charming and considered in

The 74 guestrooms and three suites are

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Guestrooms feature a palette of dusky pink and white with flashes of signature Magnolia red providing accents

decorated in pink and white with the signature

London-based Bag & Bones art label – were on display

Magnolia red providing accents to the industrial retro-

during Sleeper’s visit.

style furniture and amenities. Each of the individual

The bar, with its custom tile mural of botanical

rooms feature new integrated fabric upholstered

foliage by Surface Design Studio, overlooks an outdoor

headboards and retro industrial-style furniture

heated swimming pool flanked by yellow and white

bringing together comfort and contemporary pieces.

striped parasols and beach loungers. In summer ‘dive-

“We mixed new pieces with salvage pieces to create an authentic atmosphere that is visually interesting,”

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in’ movies are projected poolside onto the side of an adjoining building.

says O’Sullivan “We worked closely with companies

From here, a car park leads down past the main

such as Inside Out Contracts, London House Rugs,

accommodation blocks (one of which also houses a

Pamono and Vesoi Lighting, as well as designing

small spa, gym and PlayStation-equipped recreation

many bespoke pieces with our own in-house furniture

room) past the hotel’s tennis court to a collection of

design team.”

seven exclusive cottages, clad in pastel-hued wood,

The main reception building comprises a sequence

each providing an expansive bedroom, bathroom,

of spaces, from lobby, through lounge to bar and

lounge, as well as kitchen and patio areas well suited

restaurant. An eclectic mix of retro-style furniture,

to families and larger groups, be they golf-trippers,

lighting and brightly coloured kilim rugs sits against

wedding parties, or the numerous football teams using

a dusky pink backdrop, with a striking graphic striped

Quinta do Lago for pre-season training camps.

ceiling overhead. In the restaurant, vibrant yellow

Both families and sportspeople will find plenty to

dining chairs contrast with the mint-green tones of

occupy them both on-site and in the wider Quinta do

the walls.

Lago enclave. The Magnolia is just one of a range of

A rolling programme of art is curated by Omey

new facilities introduced over the past year to which

Projects. Vibrant pop art pieces by Irish sisters and

guests have quick and ready access via a shuttle service

artists Cavanagh and Gigi Foyle – founders of the

or the free-to-hire vintage-style bikes lined up on

Â© Rodrigo Costa

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the forecourt. Foremost amongst these is The

facilities are all part of a plan to broaden the

Campus – a state-of-the-art, elite performance

resort’s appeal beyond the golfing and family

centre, with a stadium-quality football pitch

holidays that have largely defined it to-date:

at its heart, alongside professional padel and

“Quinta do Lago is a unique lifestyle resort

tennis courts, a high-spec gym packed with the

and the latest addition to this, bringing a

equipment used by professional sports teams

totally new energy is The Magnolia Hotel. This

for training and an outdoor pool. The Campus

vibrant property will bring a new perspective to

is also home to Dano’s – a vast sports bar and

the area, providing visitors with a completely

restaurant more akin to Soho Farmhouse than

different way to experience Quinta do Lago.”

your typical big-screen barn.

a very family-orientated resort and we have

are available at a lake surrounded by villas of the

created something that will speak to those

like you usually only see when ‘The X Factor’

now in their mid-twenties who may have been

decamps to the judges’ houses.

coming to Quinta since childhood. They are

Celebrities and sports stars alike can relax in

looking for a more relaxed, affordable and fun

a private, paparazzi-prohibited lakeside beach.

alternative to keep enjoying the area, on their

Waterfront eateries Casa do Lago and The Shack

own terms. We have also provided an alternative

offer seafood, tapas and light bites. Those

accommodation option for young sports people

seeking a more sophisticated dining option

who want to couple their training sessions in

can venture to Bovino, a high-end steakhouse

Quinta with a mini-break in an environment

that suits their lifestyle.”

Rosa-Violan. As CEO of Quinta do Lago, Sean Moriarty explains, the new hotel, restaurants and leisure

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Concludes O’Sullivan: “Quinta Do Lago is

Elsewhere, an extensive array of watersports

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Dennis O’Brien Operator / Developer: Quinta do Lago Interior Design / Lighting Design: Bryan O’ Sullivan Studio Main Contractor: Luis Negocios Landscaping: Q Landscape Art Consultant: Omey Projects www.themagnoliahotelqdl.com

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2019.08.21 - Sleeper Advert.indd 1

19/08/2019 09:25:06

The Edwardian Manchester A Radisson Collection Hotel MANCHESTER

hen Sleeper first visited Radisson Edwardian Free Trade Hall (as it was then known) back in 2004, we were so enamoured by the glazed atrium that links the historic

Grade II-listed façade with a new 16-storey tower, that it made our front cover. The hotel was an instant success, marrying old and new and bringing some much-needed facilities to a growing city. But with

The Manchester flagship of Edwardian Hotels London emerges from a £12 million renovation to join Radisson Hotel Group’s new generation of premium properties.

increased competition in recent years, not to mention changes in both ownership and name to contend with, it was time for an upgrade. Now, some 15 years after first opening its doors, the 263key property has undergone a £12 million renovation, relaunching as The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel. As one of only three UK members of the brand – reserved for

Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Andrew Beasley

a new generation of exceptional hotels – The Edwardian meets certain criteria for location, design and experience, and so, much like before, the aim was to retain the authentic character of the original building while ushering in a new era of luxury. Taking charge of the multi-phase refurbishment, Edwardian Hotels London’s in-house design team, led by Creative Director Rob Steul and Product Design Manager Krishma Singh-Dear, paid considerable attention to the architecture of the Free Trade Hall, bringing contemporary touches to the colonnades and archways. “It was critical in this building to get the balance of old and new right, allowing the memory of the Free Trade Hall, with its heroic

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The hotel’s new restaurant and bar are divided into three principal spaces; a bar, an intimate circular dining area and a relaxed lounge overlooking Peter Street

heroic façade, to live on as part of a confidently

woollen charcoal grey armchairs, while a baby

modern yet comfortable hotel,” confirms Steul.

grand piano and Free Trade Hall-inspired

“The ground floor now creates a coherent guest

artwork capture the city’s ties to art, culture

arrival leading to a varied and memorable flow

and music.

of elegant spaces – layering materials, colour

Guestrooms and suites have also been

and lighting in a clear spatial sequence with

revamped, while the hotel’s spa and gym were

texture and drama.”

reimagined to create a more fluid floorplan.

While the glazed atrium remains, the hotel’s

Elsewhere, events spaces have been reconfigured

restaurant and bar have been completely

to allow for break-out areas, with curated

transformed, replaced by Peter Street Kitchen –

artworks celebrating Manchester’s historical

a new restaurant serving Japanese and Mexican

past and the Free Trade Hall’s role in the

sharing plates together with imaginative

suffragette movement, and Timorous Beasties’

cocktails. Nestled beneath the building’s

bumble-bee wallpaper paying homage to the

palazzo-style arches, the venue is divided

city’s iconic worker bee in the new meeting

into three principle spaces; a bar, an intimate

room, The Hive.

circular dining area and a relaxed lounge in the

For Iype Abraham, Commercial Development

barrel-vaulted colonnade overlooking Peter

Director, Edwardian Hotels London, the

Street. Each distinct in their approach, the

refurbishment is a reflection of the group’s

areas offer a variety of tailored experiences with

continued investment: “We understand that

unique, menu-inspired features such as shared

what guests need and expect when they travel

bench tables, intimate leather-clad booths and

continues to evolve and change, and we pride

a Hibachi-inspired fire-pit table.

ourselves on having always been at the forefront

More recently, The Library curated by

of meeting and exceeding these expectations.

Assouline was introduced to provide guests with

To do so, we constantly invest in updating our

a sanctuary from which to soak up the library

rooms, restaurants and shared spaces across the

curator’s cultural offering while enjoying

Edwardian Hotels London portfolio to ensure

contemporary dishes and cocktails. The new

guests experience the best of our properties.”

social space uses mirrored nickel lamps to project a warm glow over navy velvet and dark

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Edwardian Hotels London Architecture and Interior Design: Edwardian Hotels London in-house team Lighting Design: Lighting Design International www.radissonhotels.com

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The Presidential Suite Four Seasons Hotel SÃO PAULO Four Seasons enlists San Francisco-based design studio Bamo to create an interior scheme rich in Paulistano flavour for its first outpost in Brazil. Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Aaron Leitz

erched above the treetops overlooking the leafy

With panoramas across the Parque da Cidade

green spaces along the Pinheiros river, The

district, the suite shines a light on local craft in a living

Presidential Suite at Four Seasons Hotel São

room featuring Mid-century seating and a curving

Paulo is a showcase for Brazilian design, with San

chaise longue. From the Dinamarquesa lounge chair by

Francisco-based studio Bamo devising a scheme that

Jorge Zalszupin to iconic pieces from architect Sergio

pays homage to the country’s creative heritage.

Rodrigues, the native designs complement bespoke

In developing their vision, Bamo principals Michael

millwork seating in ebonised wood and a desk with a

Booth and Anne Wilkinson took cues from native

South American-inspired chair, as well as furnishings

architects Oscar Niemeyer and Burle Marx, creating

and sculptures dotted throughout the hotel, such as

an international luxury aesthetic rendered in Brazilian

Paulo Mendes da Rocha’s famed Paulistano chair, and

materials and infused with classic Paulistano flavour.

a dome of glowing glass orbs by Brazilian sculptor

“We were greatly inspired by the design approach

In the master bedroom, textile artist Nani Chirellato’s

mimic any one style specifically,” explains Booth.

wallcovering provides a disruption in texture from

“Our goal was to capture the Brazilian soul, fusing

the warm grey walls – adorned by abstract artworks

relaxed modernism with artful details and sensuous

from local artists such as Karen de Picciotto, Jose

materiality to create a story that appeals to the

Munhoz, Cassio Lazaro and Arnaldo Bataglini – while

international traveller and local design enthusiasts

a headboard crafted from South American tonewood,

alike,” adds Wilkinson.

Pau Ferro, and handwoven fabric inlay panels complete

Epitomising the design team’s approach, the 14th

The hotel’s expansive Presidential Suite is infused with Brazilian materials and classic Paulistano flavour

Francisco Brennand.

of some of the Brazilian greats but did not want to

the somewhat patriotic aesthetic.

floor Presidential Suite is characterised by locally

“The use of travertine, burled wood, dark-stained

sourced finishes such as Brazilian granite, Jatoba wood

ipe and a light-toned plaster throughout formed the

and a leather area rug in place of carpet. The overall

ideal backdrop for a design that features striking

palette brings together earthy patterns, contrasting

colours, modern Brazilian furnishings and local

wooden tones with satin brass accents and bursts of

artwork,” Booth concludes. “Each of these were key

marigold, while a sense of transparency is created via

to the success of the suite.”

a slatted wall separating the bedroom and bathroom.

Housed within a 29-storey tower masterminded

“We wanted to create something that was a showcase

by HKS Architects and Aflalo & Gasperini Architects,

for Brazilian design in a clean, modern, gallery-like

the hotel features 258 guestrooms, a spa, and a

feel,” Booth and Wilkinson continue. “The suite sits

lobby bar and restaurant designed by Bamo, as well

above the treeline, removed from the bustle of the

as a restaurant, ballroom and meeting space by EDG

city, so we also played up that feeling of openness and

Design. Completing the development are 12 floors of

maximised the views and light as much as possible.”

private residences by Brazilian architect Arthur Casas.

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The Moorgate LONDON Set amidst a quickly changing locale, The Moorgate balances a neoclassical past with its operator’s forward-thinking sensibilities. Words: Matt Turner • Photography: © Nicholas Worley

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esigned by architects Lifschutz Davidson

townhouses, and introduced daylight into the

Sandilands, The Moorgate is a boutique

heart of the space. A sculptural, white staircase,

aparthotel comprising 27 elegant suites

bathed in the natural glow of a skylight, has

and contemporary apartments in the heart of the

an almost monastic quality, having been

City of London. Operated by SACO, it combines

carefully designed to respond to the angles of

the space and comfort of a luxury pied-à-terre

the building.

with the style and services of an intimate hotel.

The material palette pulls off a delicate

This part of London is undergoing rapid

balancing act between the historical context of

change. Under ground, major engineering works

the building and its contemporary conversion.

are taking place as part of Crossrail to link

The dark timbers of the first floor reception space

Moorgate tube station with Liverpool Street.

open to light-filled living spaces and bedrooms

Soon, a new London HQ for Deutsche Bank

above. In the lobby, moody oak panelling is

will tower above. And all around it, the Culture

topped by a brass profile and perfecty aligned

Mile development is aiming to give coherent

with flooring in a bespoke trapezoidal layout

identity to a new neighbourhood encompassing

combining Pietra Serena and Bateig Azul stone.

the Barbican, Guildhall School of Music &

The apartments are finished to an equally

Drama, and the Museum of London alongside a

high standard, with contemporary Smeg

new Centre for Music being designed by Diller

kitchens, herringbone timber floors, custom-

Scofidio + Renfro.

made furniture by Gubi and Saba Italia, and Flos

Yet once inside The Moorgate, the cacophony

lighting. Italian contractor Paolo Castelli took

of construction outside is silenced by high-

care of the supply and installation of finishes

spec soundproofing. Clever architectural

and custom-made furniture both for rooms and

interventions have united these once distinct

public areas.

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The design of the apartments differs slightly

“In the private spaces, meanwhile, pieces by

depending on their outlook. Those on the

Brazilian-born visual artist Carolina Mizrahi

London Wall side are more contemporary in

play with large-format colour photography of

their design nuances, with those overlooking

abstracted floral imagery, influenced by the

Moorgate characterised by neoclassical

artist’s work in the fashion industry.”

decorative elements, such as frameworks and moulded skirtings. Every guestroom features tailor-made

facilities at sister property Leman Locke, such

wardrobes and kitchens, fully equipped with

as meeting rooms, the joint gym and meditation

appliances seamlessly integrated into tactile

areas and its popular Treves & Hyde restaurant.

oak-veneered furnishings.

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As part of soon-to-be-rebranded SACO Property Group, guests also have access to the

Says Eric Jafari, Managing Director of SACO:

Against this carefully engineered neutral

“Perhaps The Moorgate’s greatest success is

backdrop, visual drama and interest is provided

the fact that the property is incredibly popular

through an art collection curated by consultants

with discerning travellers looking for a place

Artiq, described by the firm’s COO Katie Terres

to stay in the city that they can call home.

as being “designed to speak to a travelled

They are impressed with the design, space and

guest, a consumer of international fine arts

comfort that each apartment offers and, as a

and culture.”

result, we are starting to see a high number of

“Profiling the styles of two global artists, in the

repeat guests. This is testament to the clever

public areas the work of New York-based artist

approach of the architects Lifschutz Davidson

Zeren Badar juxtaposes historical portraiture

Sandilands, who provided a space that offers

with humorous interventions such as plastic

unique, stylish accommodation and retains

straws obscuring the face,” Terres continues.

many period features.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Investor: Epic Developer: Florala Properties Operator: SACO Architecture: Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands Interior Design: Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands and SACO in-house team Main Contractor: MY Construction Project Manager: Beadmans Procurement: JCT Design & Build Lighting Design: Lighting Bureau www.themoorgate.com

REVOLUTION IN MATT BLACK

JOIN THE REVOLUTION www.sanipexgroup.co.uk | sales@sanipexgroup.co.uk

The Calile BRISBANE A gentle minimalist aesthetic and uncompromising attention to detail results in a soothing subtropical trailblazer. Words: Juliet Kinsman • Photography: © Sean Fennessy

esthetes and creative corporates who spend much time on the road can delight in the blurring between business and lifestyle hotels in recent years thanks

to an extraordinary evolution in city hotels. Terms such as ‘boutique’ and ‘five-star’ have long since been bandied around, but what makes a new breed of hotel stand out is the quality and sensitivity of design, as exemplified by The Calile. When this 175-key newbuild opened in Brisbane, it created a tropical urban resort category all of its own. Operated by TFE Hotels, The Calile is owned by Cal and Michael Malouf, who have been instrumental in creating the retail and lifestyle district that surrounds the property. Brisbane has until now been known for complementing its

Gold Coast gateway location with plenty of bling and a deep tan; The Calile’s soft understated frond-embellished elegance has given the city’s image a much-welcomed makeunder. Husband-and-wife architects Adrian Spence and Ingrid Richards wanted to take advantage of Queensland’s tropical climate, and in that enviable Australian way, bring some of the outdoors in. That may be a typical antipodean MO when it comes to private villas on the beach or in the bush — but it’s a braver, bolder achievement when applied to a brand new white-brick city block. Soft retro-toned peachy and moss-toned marbles, sandy sisal flooring, blush brass and warm oak accents add a soothing, sophisticated feel to what on paper could appear as a clean-lined brick and concrete building. Paint colour connoisseurs can admire Dulux at its best — behold pink Mornington, green French Limestone, blue Clunies in the bedrooms. Richards & Spence haven’t just conjured a

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sophisticated tropical city hotel accented with

to balconies and huge windows. Sustainability,

Rajasthan marble and Italian travertine and

too, was a consideration, with ethically sourced

porphyry, the whole project has proven an artful

materials, energy-saving control system and

act of upscale place-making for Brisbane.

corridors that are naturally ventilated, thanks

Guests can glide into the sandy-toned lobby lounge in corporate mode, pause on a sculptural

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to bespoke breeze-blocks with intriguing semicircle gaps in the wall.

Bertoia Diamond Chair from Knoll and admire

It’s always refreshing when a hotel’s

the Duomo pendant lights from New Zealand’s

branding is as appealing and joy-sparking

Anaesthetic, then head up to the Palm Springs-

as the furnishings of the forward-thinking

evoking pool terrace where serviced cabanas,

establishment, and every touchpoint at The

Australian-made Grazia & Co. sunloungers

Calile delights thanks to their illustrated

and poolside tables by Sydney’s Robert Plumb

collateral from Brisbane-based agencies Bland

instantly reinforce the mood.

Design and New Initiative.

An elegant yet spirited city hub such as this

Fresh, original and stylish throughout,

has previously been absent from Australia’s

the tell-tale sign of a developer’s touch is a

accommodation landscape, and the designers

charismatic mixed-use of space — in this case,

attribute it to their riffing on other tropical

15 boutiques at the base of the block. Inviting

spots. Richards & Spence explain that they

the restaurateur behind acclaimed Greek

looked to other hot-weather cities with a

eatery Hellenika into the first floor has seen

resort focus — Miami, Palm Springs, Rio de

an injection of flavour, soul and buzz, and by

Janeiro and Mexico City — to inform their

seamlessly hosting the refined results-focused

design. Guestrooms feel urban in their sleek

Kailo Medispa, The Calile has confirmed its

minimalism, yet have a holiday warmth thanks

status as a class act.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Cal and Michael Malouf Developer: Calile Malouf Investments Operator: TFE Hotels Architecture and Interior Design: Richards & Spence Main Contractor: Hutchinson Builders Graphic Design: Studio Bland Landscaping: Lat27, Penfold Projects www.thecalilehotel.com

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HI Design MEA AD 236x275 Sept 2019 v3.indd 1

25/09/2019 12:52

LOCATION REPORT NEW YORK As the Big Apple welcomes a wave of new openings, the numbers point to a continuing surge.

ew York City has the rare privilege of being

and-went territory where fads and crazes reside. Had

one of a handful of metropolies that, save for

Ian Schrager not taken the risk of stripping back and

catastrophe, will draw swathes of new hotels

condensing the hotel offer for The Morgans Hotel on

without much effort. This Field of Dreams, build-

Madison Avenue back in the eighties, then we may not

it-they-will-come effect relies largely on the city’s

have the boutique category at all. Most immediately

status as an economic powerhouse, as it does for

notable is the growing popularity of guestrooms

similarly prominent destinations in London, Paris,

sacrificing space for style. With land at something

Shanghai and a handful of others. However, the

of a premium in New York, projects like Ace Hotels’

heady mix of cultural, commercial and social factors

Sister City and the Moxy properties in Times Square,

that drew a record 65.1 million visitors in 2018 – up

Downtown and East Village have worked to make

from 54.3 million in 2013 – and solidified it as the

these compact options as comfortable, functional and

most popular US destination for overseas visitors for

aesthetic as they can by way of fixtures and furnishings

a sixth straight record-breaking year, should not be

that fold and modulate. In a similar vein, the hybrid

discounted. As such, the continuing influx – growing

approaches of Equinox Hotel – combining gym and

even as the country undergoes the turbulence of a

hotel elements – and the planned RH Guesthouse, that

chaotic Trump administration – has seen something

will fuse the brand’s retail offer with touchstones of

of a boom in the city’s hotel scene. From boutique to

experiential hospitality, could prove a sea-change

branded, and colossal to compact, a series of notable

in the sector as lines between previously defined

openings have risen up across New York’s boroughs to

categories are blurred or broken down.

accommodate the extra numbers, and in anticipation of further records smashed.

Performance

The Future

New York holds the largest hotel pipeline in the US according to Top Hotel Projects, with 63 four- and

According to STR, New York recorded the highest

five-star projects accounting for 14,793 guestrooms.

national levels in occupancy (87.3%), ADR (US$262.31)

Amongst these will be Six Senses New York, marking

and RevPAR (US$228.96) in 2018, making it the best

the group’s first North American hotel and situated

performing city in North America. Hotel supply

within The XI – a pair of twisting towers by Bjarke

in Manhattan alone has increased by 10.8% (or an

Ingels. Meanwhile, Aman will launch its third US

estimated 9,600 units) since 2015, and though the new

property in Midtown Manhattan’s Crown Building

supply briefly drove down ADR between 2015 and 2017,

for an 83-key urban sanctuary featuring a 2,300m2,

the all-time high in occupancy rates last year signals

three-storey signature spa. Following Equinox’s lead

a significant absorption of the surge.

of a bringing a decidedly wellness-focused offer to one

Trends

of the world’s busiest cities, the quickening pace of life and growing number of visitors could perhaps see a

The hotels covered in this report demonstrate a

new wave of similarly oriented projects, countering the

number of innovations in the fields of both design and

bustle with pockets of tranquillity and respite. Whilst

development. Whilst guests will likely glean a number

there will always be a place for glamorous luxury

of trends emergent across the city from these hotels,

experiences in the Big Apple, times are changing, and

New York has proven an effective incubator for new

the incoming generation of tourists is more in-tune

ideas in hospitality that go on to gain a foothold in the

with the wellness sphere than ever before.

wider market as opposed to stumbling into the came-

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LOCATION REPORT UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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Six Senses

Aman

Renaissance Chelsea

Part of the Bjarke Ingelsdesigned The XI – a mixed-use neighbourhood development anchored by a pair of twisting towers – the debut North American hotel for Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas will offer guests a wellness-focused offer across 137 sanctuary-inspired guestrooms.

Occupying midtown Manhattan’s iconic and highly exclusive Crown Building, Aman New York will open its doors in 2020 as the brand’s first urban project, and is set to feature a three-storey spa alongside an innovative F&B offer channelling an interpretation of Japan’s washoku dining tradition.

With sweeping views of the city from its perch in Chelsea, Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel will occupy 38 floors of the former Antique Garage, in close proximity to major event and transport hubs and is set to feature an interior design scheme by Stonehill Taylor.

Developer: HFZ Capital Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas Architecture: BIG NYC Interior Design: Gilles & Boissier

Owner: Crown Invest Developer: Crown Invest and OKO Group Operator: Aman Interior Design: Jean-Michel Gathy

Developer / Investor: The Lam Group Operator: Real Hospitality Group Architecture: Nobutaka Ashihara Architect Interior Design: Stonehill Taylor

For more information on new hotel projects in planning or under construction, visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

More news in our professional portal pro.villeroy-boch.com/ architectsandplanners

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Sister City NEW YORK 20 years since redefining hospitality for the creative class, Ace Hotel Group launches a new concept orbiting values of minimalism and autonomy. Words: Kristofer Thomas Photography: © Adrian Gaut (unless otherwise stated)

tepping into Sister City, guests are greeted with a lobby score composed by experimental musician Julianna Barwick. Whilst artistic installations in hotel lobbies

are now a staple of boutique and branded project alike – shorthand beyond furnishing and palette for what is to come – Barwick’s work here is different. A collaboration of sorts with music technologist Luisa Pereira and an artificial intelligence system developed with Microsoft, the process sees cameras placed in the hotel’s roof sending information – gathered data pertaining to clouds, weather, airspace or simply the presence of a pigeon perched nearby – down to mingle with pre-recorded washes of Barwick’s ambient sounds for a perpetually changing soundscape, one that reacts, in real time, to the atmosphere and goings-on of its locale, 24-hours-a-day. The name of this particular game is ‘Circumstance Synthesis’. As the latest venture from Atelier Ace, the studio behind Ace Hotels, Sister City lands in New York’s Bowery neighbourhood with many of the same goals as its parent brand – mainly to provide the youthful, creative class with suitably cool surroundings. However, the creative Generation X-ers of Seattle, 1999 – the first guests to experience the Ace portfolio – are a much different affair to the creatives of 2019, New York City. As such, some adaptation was required.

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Punctuated by industrial-style pillars painted matte white, ground-floor restaurant Floret is characterised by its catologue of wooden textures

136

The property is located on the thoroughfare

curation of Japanese Bento Boxes, and John

of Bowery’s eponymous main street, set back

Cages’ 4’33 – the infamously silent piece that

behind an inconspicuous concrete wall and

sees the audience’s reaction to the absence of

brass gate, a short walk from both music venue

music become the song itself – the design is the

Bowery Electric and the modern art of New

result of stripping back the contemporary hotel

Museum. If the location alone isn’t a sufficient

offer to its bones, retaining only the beautiful

enough indication, Sister City has a specific

and the necessary.

guest in mind, and Atelier Ace has immersed

Accessible either through a slender alley

itself in all the elements and ideas that will draw

off the street, where casual seating unfolds

them in.

behind the covert gate, or a neatly arranged

“We were guided by the philosophy of less, but

pocket garden to the rear – this guest-only

better, and sought to design our platonic ideal

door leading to a typically graffiti-clad Nolita

of square one,” explains Brad Wilson, President,

back-alley – the property is a quietly confident

Ace Hotel Group. “We asked ourselves what was

alternative to the influx of heavily-branded

truly needed when travelling, but filtered it

Manhattan contemporaries.

through the lens of human-oriented technology

Within, the aforementioned score sets the

and mindful design. While Sister City shares Ace

scene for a breezy palette of white and wood,

Hotel’s love for people and places, it distils it

the few pops of colour provided by the shelves

to a different form of compassionate hospitality

of plant life, and light bouncing off textured

— one that is more autonomous, tech-oriented

tiles placed sparingly amidst the chequerboard

and minimal.”

underfoot. Wooden arches built within the

Inspired by the precise Scandinavian

slatted wall adjacent lead guests into Floret,

functionality of Finnish saunas, the streamlined

a ground-floor restaurant where these

DIMPLE Designed in collaboration with Sister City

Contemporary LED lighting designed and built in Brooklyn 50 Greene St New York NY 10013

richbrilliantwilling.com

@rbw_studio

LOCATION REPORT

Utilitarian guestrooms are elegantly designed with just a few simple interventions, such as the Dimple light by Rich Brilliant Willing which appears throughout the hotel

touchstones are translated as a curving wooden bar facing seating punctuated by a row of white pillars. Headed up by chef Joe Ogrondnek, Floret completes a fluid welcome that circulates through tranquil exterior and interior without much interruption. “Sister City was designed entirely in-house by our team at Atelier Ace, and we were looking for idiosyncratic ways to take care of people and respect the place we’re in,” Wilson notes. “The hotel acts as a sort of urban oasis in the district, a place that quiets the din and cacophony the Lower East Side is famous for. As such, we planted flora in both our garden entrances to organically transition you from the street into the space, and our outdoor restaurant patio for Floret feels miles away from Bowery.” These gentle transitions define much of the hotel. The steely exterior architecture is mirrored in industrial-style elevators, whilst the steadfast palette climbs alongside, spilling into guestrooms from bunk to single to king to terrace, the latter with coveted skyline views. Whilst these spaces follow a trend of smaller guestrooms padded out with style emergent across New York, the combination of a clearly defined minimalist aesthetic and the project’s less but better ethos sees them at once emptying the design of distractions and highlighting the complex work that lies beneath. “The rooms at Sister City needed to be cleverly designed, so we looked to modular furniture and multi-purpose pieces for inspiration, and played with scale, proportion and minimalism to let each individual element shine,” Wilson explains. “The TV cabinet folds down to become a desk; the valet becomes a transformative catchall for individual needs; the bed frame acts as a storage unit and the terrazzo vanity grounds the room as a central visual cue that’s both elegant and utilitarian.” High above sits Last Light, the hotel’s rooftop bar. Another © Brian W. Ferry

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indoor-outdoor hybrid, similar in tone to that set previously, Last Light is differentiated by darker shades of wood, and linear takes on the curving staples of the lobby. Wrapped in tall windows and shaded with steely blues and greys, the

LOCATION REPORT

140

scheme here acts as a sleek counter to the casual

acting as a springboard for guests themselves

tones below. A terrace around the exterior is

to animate,” Wilson concludes. “In Lecture

smartly divided into a social square smattered

on Nothing, John Cage said ‘I have nothing to

with rounded tables and seats, and a quieter

say, and I am saying it, and that is poetry, as I

stretch to the back, both with panoramic views

needed it.’ Sister City, while stripped of excess,

towards Manhattan or One World Trade Center.

is poetic in form and function, and we followed

However, whilst all the essentials are present

Cage’s concept in spirit, paying meticulous

– and by design the only thing present – it is, like

attention to detail and focusing on how form,

Barwick and Glass’ music, the notes Sister City

simplicity and craft can be poetry in one of the

doesn’t play that makes it stand out. Affording

busiest cities in the world.”

guests a large degree of independence to create

Having made waves with its casual tone

their own experience, a similarly minimalist

and light-touch offer, the first Sister City has

approach to service sees an automated check-in

already achieved the most difficult instance of

seamlessly integrated into the lobby – the kiosks

circumstance synthesis, that is to say it has a

clad in the same light wood as doorframes – and

sector often opposed to branded offers excited

guest pantries located on each level, revealed as

about a brand.

alcoves at the turn of corridors. Staff are there

And whilst the aesthetic may change for

to help of course, but first and foremost this is

future locations – “we can imagine Sister City

a hotel for guests to discover themselves.

in similarly dense, design-forward, global

“It’s designed to appeal to the traveller who

locations like Tokyo, Copenhagen or Hong

appreciates independence, intuitive technology

Kong,” Wilson muses – the core idea has

and self-guided hospitality, with its balance of

already demonstrated that Sister City is more

functional design and aesthetic mindfulness

than adept at adapting to the world around it.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Omnia Group Investor: Northwind Group Operator: Atelier Ace Interior Design / Graphic Design: Atelier Ace Main Contractor: CMG Services Procurement: Omnia Group, ISC Hospitality Procurement Services Lighting Design: Manhattan Lights Landscaping: Urban Garden Centre www.sistercitynyc.com

PORCELANOSA PROJECTS TERRAZAS DEL LAGO, MADRID Rainscreen Cladding System from Butech using KRIONTM Lux from KRION Solid Surface by PORCELANOSA. For more information on projects please visit www.porcelanosa.com/uk

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LOCATION REPORT

TWA Hotel NEW YORK Opening within a landmark of North American architecture, TWA Hotel channels a loving tribute to the heyday of the jet age and Mid-century design. Words: Kristofer Thomas • Photography: © David Mitchell

he year is 1962, and the Trans World Airlines Flight Centre (TWA) has officially opened as the latest and greatest terminal at New York’s Idlewild Airport. A

complex slice of neo-futurism, the winged structure is the work of Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, whose design for Washington’s Dulles International Airport – a graceful curve suggestive of take-off and landing trajectories – has just set a new aesthetic standard for the colossal transport hubs springing up across North America. A year later, Idlewild will change its name to JFK in honour of the fallen President, but the Jet Age he briefly presided over – these structures arguably marking its peak – will roll on a while longer, profoundly altering the technological, political and social landscapes at home and abroad. As the first terminal with enclosed passenger jetways, CCTV, public address systems and baggage carousels – essentially all the staples we now know – TWA Flight Centre opened as something of a leap forward in both design and content, cutting-edge for its time and symbolic of the many other developments to come as society became more connected. By 2001, however, the symbolism had changed, and the sale of TWA to American Airlines, followed by the subsequent closure of the terminal, marked a last gasp – the innovations now commonplace and prerequisite. The Terminal 5 it served would reopen in 2005, though Saarinen’s winged head house

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Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Paris Café features a pastel palette and the classic Saarinen-designed tulip table

structure stood as a decorative landmark as

not only working around a change in function,

opposed to functioning facility, stuck in disused

but also designing interior elements within the

limbo as proposals for a new purpose came and

constraints of a stylistic era long since passed.

went. There were ideas to fill the white walls

“One of our biggest challenges was designing

with a museum, or a conference centre, or a

a brand new hotel that has that same allure,

restaurant, though none stuck. There did,

excitement and sexiness,” she adds.

however, remain a sizeable hole in the market.

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Developed

MCR

and

Morse

with

Whilst a host of nondescript accommodation

architectural renovation work by New York-

surrounds JFK, the most prominent airport

based Beyer Blinder Belle and Lubrano Ciavarra

of one of the world’s most prominent cities

Architects, the 512-key TWA Hotel occupies

perhaps deserved something a cut above. In

the restored flight centre, the head house

the end, nearly 60 years on from its debut,

structure now acting as a lobby whilst two

the comprehensively restored landmark now

newly-constructed wings spread out behind

houses all three aforementioned proposals,

housing guestrooms. Though the function may

imaginatively incorporated within one of the

be new, the scheme is very much indebted to

most ambitious hotel openings of the year.

the past, incorporating touchstones of the TWA

“Saarinen’s original design is a masterpiece

branding and history along with a general sense

of sculptural forms, evocative of flight, and

of nostalgia for a style somewhere between

reflective of the joy and wonder of flying in the

Saarinen’s visions of the future and mid-

golden age of travel,” explains Sara Duffy, Senior

century retrophilia.

Interiors Associate at Stonehill Taylor, one of

Combining historic authenticity with a

two firms – the other being New York’s INC

close reading of what today’s guests want

Architecture & Design – unenviably tasked with

from an airport hotel, the result is a blending

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monitoraudio.com

MA Sleeper SeptOct19.indd 1

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LOCATION REPORT

The hotel’s 50,000ft2 of event space includes a ballroom, outdoor terrace and 45 event rooms designed in the midcentury modern style

of recreation and reinterpretation, proudly

imbued with luxurious details in the streaked

tethered to its past whilst introducing a raft of

marble bar and stepped lighting fixtures in

contemporary updates.

chrome. These join the pool bar atop the

Stepping into the lobby, an Escher-style

structure – inspired by the Hotel du Cap-Eden-

scene of swinging curves and rounded

Roc in Cap d’Antibes – and Connie’s Cocktail

concrete, guests are greeted with an immediate

Lounge, housed within a restored Starliner

indicator of this style in a dedicated museum.

L-1649A, once the line’s pride and joy.

Showcasing items from a flight attendant’s log

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Grab-and-go

snacks,

elevated

with

and gilded playing cards to vintage furniture

involvement from established New York eateries,

and Balmain uniforms, the 2,000 artefacts

are available from stalls in the Departures Hall,

here and throughout the hotel act as a primer

whilst those who overindulge can work it off in

of sorts for it’s raison d’être. Up adjacent wide

the world’s largest hotel gym, located next door

steps sits the conversation pit, coated in TWA’s

to the TWA shop selling souvenirs by fashion

signature shade of red, which spreads out from

designer Somsack Sikhounmuong.

here as the predominant accent throughout.

Equally vast are the 50,000ft2 of INC-designed

Ahead is the iconic window stretching across

event spaces. The Constellation ballroom

the terminal and looking out over the runway,

connects with 7,000ft2 of pre-function space for

and above hangs the original information

galas and shows, whilst the Landmark Hall –

board, once again the centre of attention with

stretching underneath the new wings – extends

departures and arrivals tumbling with the letter

the Mid-century modern theming between a

cards. One coiled level above sits Jean-Georges

central public area dotted with high-backed

Vongerichten’s Paris Café and Lisbon Lounge,

royal blue seating, and 45 smaller meeting

set out as a typical airport restaurant though

rooms and skyboxes overlooking them.

D E S I G N S I N S P I R E D B Y N AT U R E A N D E N G I N E E R E D TO M E E T I T S R E S I L I E N C E

C E L E B R AT I N G T W O D E C A D E S O F S U P E R I O R S H A D E

DESIGN ENGINEERING I N N OVAT I O N E X P LO R AT I O N

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However, whilst these elements speak to

warm, natural walnut and brass finishes to

the consideration afforded to the hotel’s wider

make the space feel current for today’s guests,”

theming and execution, the true level of detail

she adds.

is only revealed once guests reach the Stonehill Taylor-designed guestrooms. “The whole concept was to allow the Saarinen

now – standard room categories are joined by

building to shine while creating a comfortable

a catalogue of suites named for integral Jet

and luxurious experience in the guestrooms,”

Age figures. The Howard Hughes Presidential

Duffy notes. “We looked at the ethos and the

Suite comes with runway views and a custom-

meaning of the year 1962 in order to envision

built walnut and brushed brass cocktail bar,

a contemporary guest experience: intuitive,

whilst the suite named for Saarinen features a

refined, and in communication with Saarinen’s

selection of his furnishings paired with custom

work. In order to do so, many elements of the

pieces like the Stonehill Taylor-designed brass

era worked their way into the design.”

pole lamp. All come with specially engineered,

With this, Duffy refers to icons of Midcentury modern in the Saarinen Womb Chair and

150

Reached through the iconic connection tubes that once bustled with travellers – and do again

sound-insulated windows – the second thickest in the world to keep out roaring jets.

Tulip Bedside Table, as well as complementary

Whilst Saarinen’s structure may now function

elements such as ‘60s snacking staples, vintage

differently, its place in design culture as a

copies of Life magazine and TWA-branded Dopp

landmark achievement is safe. And where TWA

kits in bathrooms. “While we made sure to

Hotel may not break the same ground as its

utilise the TWA chili red – an accent colour on

predecessor, it is nonetheless an impressive

the womb chair – we intentionally balanced it

achievement in adaptive reuse, walking the line

with a neutral palette of whites and blues with

between novel gimmick and sincere homage.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer / Operator: MCR Development Investor / Developer: Morse Original Architecture: Eero Saarinen Architecture: Beyer Blinder Belle, Lubrano Ciavarra Architects Interior Design: Stonehill Taylor, INC Architecture & Design Main Contractor: Turner Construction Lighting Design: One Lux Studio Graphic Design: Pentagram www.twahotel.com

Equinox Hotel NEW YORK Opening at the heart of the largest private real estate development in United States history, Equinox Hotel’s debut is a statement of hypermodern intent. Words: Kristofer Thomas • Photography: Courtesy of Equinox

merging from the luxury fitness company

with previous experience in this niche field,

that has taken the US by storm in recent

having reimagined Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s

years, the first hotel from Equinox

acclaimed Nobu restaurants as a hotel chain.

marks the brand’s latest and most ambitious

However, restaurants and hotels historically

experiential wellness proposition so far.

go hand-in-hand, whilst gyms can often

Building on the popularity of its SoulCycle, Pure

seem an afterthought in boutique and branded

Yoga and Blink Fitness subsidiaries – ventures

project alike, sharing but a few strands of

that see the traditional gym offer imbued with

hospitality DNA. As such, David Rockwell

sophisticated tech, big-name partnerships and

became an Equinox member before starting the

service touchstones adopted from members

conceptualisation and design process, to better

clubs – the opening of its debut hotel is a clear

understand its values and tweak them to appeal

step up in efforts to become the de-facto name

beyond the fitness market. “Equinox is quite a

in upscale fitness.

unique offering,” he muses. “It’s contemporary

Where others may have made the jump from

in that it takes the notion of rejuvenation to a

one sector to the other incrementally, through

completely new level narratively, and anywhere

smaller acquisitions and test subjects, this 212-

we could find specifics around regeneration and

key debut is one of considerable intent, opening

a modern sense of luxury we doubled down.”

at the heart of Hudson Yards – the largest private real estate development in US history.

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Instead of the wider scheme informing the gym space then, Equinox is arguably a

Occupying levels 24 to 38 within the David

demonstration of the inverse, wherein the gym

Childs-designed 35 Hudson Yards tower,

pillars of fitness, wellness and exercise spill out

the project sees the values of an established

and feed into aesthetics and content. This is not

fitness-focused brand rendered into a new

to say there are exercise bikes at every turn,

environment. To oversee this process of

rather the hybrid concept successfully places

translation, Equinox – along with developers

itself between the two worlds; each amenity and

Oxford Properties and Related Group – tapped

design detail subtly geared towards improving

Rockwell Group, a suitably prominent name

and maintaining one’s health, yet remaining

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153

firmly rooted the aesthetics of a luxury hotel as opposed to a workout space or hospital, seeking to be as attractive an offer to dedicated Equinox loyalists as it is new converts. Whilst a SoulCycle outpost hints at what is to come at street-level, the journey through Equinox Hotel begins on the 24th floor with expansive views over the wider development and the lattice structure of the Thomas Heatherwickdesigned Vessel viewing platform nearby. Perhaps more compact in comparison to equally luxurious contemporaries, the Equinox Hotel lobby leads guests quickly to the Stephen Starr-led Electric Lemon restaurant, where a palette of sand and beige is contrasted by black metal and polished stone slabs swirled with brown accents resembling abstracted tree rings. Movement is a prominent motif throughout the project, with both the motion across this stone and the migration of guests between the restaurant and terrace – the latter formed of sun loungers facing an infinity pool topped by a distinctive Jaume Plensa sculpture – playing into this idea. The bar adjacent has its own take on movement, shifting from a daytime offer of regenerative mixtures – think adaptogenic superfood lattes and high-intensity martinis – to a liquor lounge at night for the hotel’s indulgent version of a cheat day. “Understanding how the days and seasons change within the space was a very important element to the project,” Rockwell muses. “The lobby is quite small but spills down into the restaurant in a way that will allow both to change throughout the day.” Though the lobby may be brief, the Joyce Wang-designed spa and Equinox Club above are anything but, clocking in at 27,000ft2 and 60,000ft2 respectively. In the latter alone resides a member lounge, saltwater lap pool and studios for cycling, pilates and group classes – all clad in floor-to-ceiling windows for expansive workout views – whilst treatments available in the spa range from simple performance-driven massages to hypermodern cryotherapy treatments and microjet facials infused with bio-active nutrients. Not strictly limited to its forward-thinking wellness facilities, the hi-tech Equinox equipment that has

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become a staple of the brand has been translated

Subtle details – like how the headboard and

too, most prominently as the guest app that

sofa are connected with a smooth continuous

stitches the wellness and hotel offers together,

line, and a gradient of dark blue gently dissipates

allowing guests to personalise elements from

into lighter tones across the rugs – only adds

the running speed of a treadmill to the specifics

to the sense that, throughout Equinox Hotel,

of their dinner reservation.

interior design serves regeneration as much as

Though exploring these sections of the

Whilst the offer as a whole may come to

health and hotel, it is across the 212 Rockwell-

serve gymgoers and fitness freaks more closely

designed guestrooms where the hybridisation is

than everyday guests, there is no doubt that

at its most successful.

there remains something here for both, from

Considering each a sleeping chamber as

groundbreaking therapies to simple ways of

opposed to a bedroom, Rockwell’s approach

sleeping better. Guests become members for the

combines the highly functional with visuals

duration of their stay, and how far they choose

indented to at once complement the rejuvenation

to venture into the densely layered fitness

process and create a suitably attractive scheme

element is completely up to them.

for guests paying a premium price.

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regeneration serves interior design.

project may showcase the keen balance between

“In hospitality, lifestyle hotels have grown

A springless Coco-Mat natural fibre bed

up and luxury hotels have gotten younger in

moulds to the shape of sleepers and is laid

their outlook and experience,” says Chris

with two duvets – a Scandinavian method for

Norton, CEO, Equinox Hotels. “Now, as health

added temperature regulation – whilst total

becomes the new wealth, Equinox is uniquely

soundproofing and heavy-duty blackout blinds

positioned to define an emerging category that

create a sanctuary above the bustling yards.

is disrupting the entire industry.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: The Related Companies Operator: Equinox Hotels Architecture: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Interior Design: Rockwell Group Main Contractor: Tutor Perini Building Company www.equinox-hotels.com

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NASHVILLE ATLANTA

MIAMI

Global Hotel Construction Pipeline Following the announcement of a strategic partnership between Sleeper Media and Top Hotel Projects â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a leading provider of data, information and news on hotel properties, brands and companies worldwide â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we take a look at the global construction pipeline, identifying the cities and countries leading growth.

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BUSINESS CENTRE

DUBLIN LONDON

PARIS

BEIJING

DOHA JEDDAH

CHENGDU CHONGQING

RIYADH

SHANGHAI HANGZHOU

DUBAI

BANGKOK

BALI

MELBOURNE

TOTAL Projects: 6,656 Rooms: 1,470,876 159

Despite concerns of over-supply, Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s developers push ahead with the construction of new hotels, while in Europe, London remains an attractive market.

With the majority of international hotel groups headquartered in the USA, the country tops the rankings when it comes to hotel development.

TOP 20 CITIES

TOP 20 COUNTRIES PROJECTS

ROOMS

USA

1,389

278,634

13,986

CHINA

1,128

274,715

14,793

GERMANY

381

57,941

11,903

311

44,991

SHANGHAI

12,458

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

195

58,747

RIYADH

9,335

AUSTRALIA

165

33,968

PROJECTS

ROOMS

139

42,600

LONDON

NEW YORK

CHENGDU

DUBAI

LOS ANGELES

8,391

INDIA

160

26,767

MELBOURNE

8,905

SAUDI ARABIA

148

67,640 26,842

HANGZHOU

8,539

INDONESIA

140

BANGKOK

9,381

MEXICO

133

39,314

NASHVILLE

8,084

THAILAND

116

29,084

DUBLIN

5,030

VIETNAM

115

43,903

DOHA

10,610

FRANCE

13,241

JEDDAH

8,588

MALAYSIA

24,579

ATLANTA

7,511

JAPAN

19,107

BALI

5,950

SPAIN

15,808 12,279

MIAMI

7,018

RUSSIA

PARIS

3,896

SWITZERLAND

7,790

BEIJING

6,306

ITALY

9,498

CHONGQING

6,684

AUSTRIA

7,646

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Looking at the wider regions, Asia Pacific leads the way in the number of hotel projects under construction, with a total of 2,333 hotels planned.

REGIONS AFRICA APAC EUROPE MIDDLE EAST

160

289

63,921

2,333

565,497

1,513

257,953

571

175,501

NORTH AMERICA

1,733

372,470

SOUTH AMERICA

217

35,534

BUSINESS CENTRE

Top Hotel Projects data is categorised by phase, with the majority falling into the Under Construction bracket.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

11.6%

VISION 134 PROJECTS

30.5%

46%

9.5%

PRE-PLANNING

PLANNING

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

PRE-OPENING

777 PROJECTS

2,036 PROJECTS

3,072 PROJECTS

637 PROJECTS

YEAR OF OPENING

34.5%

18.7%

17%

18.2%

8.7%

For more information Top Hotel Projects and its hotel construction pipeline, visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

2.8% 2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024 onwards

1,129 PROJECTS

2,297 PROJECTS

1,249 PROJECTS

581 PROJECTS

189 PROJECTS

1,211 PROJECTS

161

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BUSINESS CENTRE

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community Marriott sees growth slow

3,000 projects in that development pipeline,

market in the world for it, but you’ve got

Marriott International said that opening delays

with the US accounting for around half of those,

growing markets in the Mediterranean area, as

in North America and the Middle East would

which the CEO said were “disproportionally”

well as Asia-Pacific.”

mean that room openings were more “modest”

select-service hotels. He said that around two-

The CEO said that the company had considered

than earlier guidance.

thirds of the impact was in the US and one third

acquiring an all-inclusive company, but decided

in the Middle East and Africa.

on organic growth. The group plans to build

The company was confident in its global performance, with revpar growth in China ahead

The company added more than 16,000 rooms

its platform using: The Ritz-Carlton, Luxury

of its rivals, as well as an increase in outbound

during the second quarter, including nearly

Collection, Marriott Hotels, Westin, W Hotels,

guests from the region.

3,500 rooms converted from competitor brands

Autograph Collection and Delta by Marriott.

The group said that, for 2019, it expected

and approximately 7,500 rooms in international

Looking ahead, the company has forecast

worldwide rooms’ distribution to increase by

markets. At the end of the quarter, Marriott’s

worldwide systemwide revpar up 1% to 2% in

around 5% to 5.5%, net of 1% to 1.5% room

worldwide development pipeline totalled

both the third and fourth quarters, with 1% to

deletions. In May the group had forecast growth

roughly 2,900 hotels and more than 487,000

2% revpar growth for the full year. Adjusted

of 5.5%, with rooms deletions of about 1% to

rooms, including approximately 40,000

Ebitda in 2019 was expected to be USD3.586bn

1.5%.

rooms approved, but not yet subject to signed

to USD3.626bn, a 3% to 4% increase on 2018.

Arne Sorenson, president & CEO, told analysts: “We have not seen project cancellations for 2019

contracts. Roughly 213,000 pipeline rooms were under construction at the end of the period.

HA PERSPECTIVE

openings. Over the past few years, lengthened

Adjusted Ebitda was up 1% on the year to

By Katherine Doggrell: As performance it’s-a-

construction periods reflect labour shortages,

USD952m, with revpar up 1.2%. The company

waning, there has, as we have seen at IHG where

a larger proportion of room and properties

saw revpar up by 2.6% in the quarter in

Holiday Inn is a dominant force, a fleeing to the

and increasing number of new projects using

greater China, with Sorenson acknowledging

belief that size matters. And this is what Marriott

multiple brands.

a slowdown, but telling analysts that he was

has been banking on; come the tricky times, come

“When you look at our US portfolio, what we

“optimistic about the future” given the group’s

the owners.

see is even in the limited-service segments, a

partnership with Alibaba, now a year old, as well

This is what Bonvoy was created for and, sure

bulk of what we’re doing is non-prototypical

as the group’s portfolio in the region, which he

enough, those developers quoted at the launch of

work. We’re not talking about a suburban

described as “principally Chinese business, even

the all-inclusive platform were all about the loyalty

Courtyard that looks the same from market to

in a market like Shanghai”.

programme. And Marriott was all about feeding it

market. We’re talking about an urban Courtyard

Ahead of the results saw Marriott launch an

with more leisure-friendly properties. Too much?

or an urban AC or an urban Aloft or an urban

all-inclusive platform, signing management

The company said that Marriott Bonvoy point

Moxy that is very much a custom job. And in

contracts with hotel developers who plan to

redemptions were running ahead of expectations

the tight labour and tight construction cross-

build five new all-inclusive resorts, expected

in as members “explore the new locations and

markets, exacerbated a little bit by the modest

to open between 2022 and 2025 in Mexico and

experiences offered by the significantly improved

revpar market, we’re seeing the construction

the Dominican Republic.

programme”.

Sorenson said: “The all-inclusive market

As a result, the company expected the net cash

“While construction delays have moderated

is growing rapidly and our Marriott Bonvoy

impact of the loyalty programme would be “a few

our near term rooms growth in 2019, our under-

members would like to see us in this space. We

USD100m more negative in 2019 than we expected

construction pipeline totalled 213,000 rooms in

expect to expand our all-inclusive portfolio in

at the beginning of the year, but should improve

quarter-end. Based on hotels under construction

popular, leisure destinations in the Americas,

significantly in 2020”, when the group expected it

and projected earnings data, we can see that

Europe, and Southeast Asia with both newbuild

to “calm down”.

the openings in 2020 and in the couple of years

projects and property conversions, leveraging

beyond should accelerate meaningfully from

our well-established full service and luxury

what we’re experiencing in 2019.”

brands.

timelines increase.

Sorenson said that the group was monitoring

Should enthusiasm remain high, owners may start to feel less calm about the cost.

“Broadly Caribbean basin is the biggest

163

Pandox diversifies

Group under long-term revenue-based leases.

Pandox said that it was looking to ever-greater

Nissen said: “The acquisition is industrially

of numbers in what was a slowing global market

diversification, with a long-term view including

sound and contributes to a further diversification

overall, and particularly in the US.

the US and a potential move into alternative

of Pandox’s portfolio both geographically and

assets such as hostels.

brand-wise. The hotel properties are in good

HA PERSPECTIVE By Andrew Sangster: Marriott produced a solid set

As always, a company’s results have to been seen in the context of the market overall. Morgan

CEO Anders Nissen told Hotel Analyst that,

locations in stable domestic cities in Germany

Stanley summed up the situation by cutting EBITDA

in the short term, the group would stick in the

and are mainly driven by domestic demand with

estimates by 2% for 2019 and 2020 but it raised the

upper midscale, but had an appetite for other

a good balance between the business, meeting

share price target by USD2 to USD125 as the stock

countries in Europe, including Spain.

and leisure segments. The hotels are full-

market investors rerated hotel companies upwards.

Nissen told Hotel Analyst: “At the moment

service hotels in the upper mid-scale segment

It’s slowing but it’s probably worse in other sectors.

diversification is specifically geographically,

with good guest ratings and an average size of

Marriott said that bookings via OTA channels

which means that, with the business cycles

188 rooms.”

dropped 2% globally with the US being in the

different between different countries, we have

Ruslan Husry, CEO, HR Group, said: “HR

vanguard of that strength. CEO Sorenson said: “We

diversification between international cities,

Group is very pleased to have Pandox AB as a

are working with our OTA partners to make sure that

regional cities and domestic cities. We also have

strategic investor for the three hotel properties.

we are getting business from them when we most

diversification with different brands, which talk

The transaction marks a key-milestone in

need it and not necessarily taking it when we don’t”.

to different consumers. That takes out some

our company history and the start of a long-

risk and also gives us potential.

term partnership with one of the leading hotel

It was clear, however, that Sorenson does not think that the OTA share will necessarily keep declining. He

“In the long term, this can mean that Pandox

property owners in Northern Europe. We’re

admitted that the strength of the overall economy

is open to other projects: student housing,

delighted to continue with the operation of

was a key factor in how much OTAs are used.

hostels, economy hotels, everything that is

the three hotels and to strive for an excellent

accommodation, we can do, but at the moment

performance and guest experience with our

we are focused on the upper-middle.”

teams. We look forward to further cooperation

The other disruptor that Marriott is keeping a weather eye on is the so-called sharing economy.

The comments came as the group reported

in its own words a “tiny” share. But of the luxury

EBITDA of SKr868m (EUR82m) for the quarter

Commenting on a potential interest in the

market, where Marriott is focused, its relative

to June, against SKr794m in the same period

hotels in Germany being marketed on behalf of

presence is much stronger. Sorenson said the

last year. The company said that the underlying

Louvre, Nissen said: “It is of course easier for

assurance of Marriott quality meant it was winning

demand remained positive in the second

us if we can buy hotels in markets where we

customer preference by taking out the “crapshoot”

quarter, but increases in supply led to negative

already have representation. From time to time

aspect of whether or not a stay would be good. About

revpar growth, particularly in Copenhagen, Oslo

we will look at different countries, then will

95% of the homes listed had two or more bedrooms,

and at London Heathrow.

look at other countries in Europe and then North

which made them complementary rather than substitutional to hotels.

Looking ahead, Nissen said: “Pandox is still of the opinion that, although the hotel market

America. Europe is easier to understand than the US, which is more brand driven.

One final thing to pick out from these numbers

has growth potential, it is in a mature phase

“In Spain they have very good operators, they

and the discussion around them was Marriott’s

and growth is slowing. In some submarkets new

are very good at leases – we already have seven

comments on the Indian market. Sorenson said

hotel capacity will put pressure on revpar in

hotels with NH – we have been sniffing around

that India’s hotel market was still very small with

the short and medium term. Based on positive

in Spain and it looks too expensive.”

175,000 rooms which compares to the more than two

economic growth, Pandox’s well-diversified

Earlier this year the group bolstered its

million rooms in the US which are owned by Indian

portfolio with balanced demand as well as

war chest by adjusting its dividend policy,

expats.

positive contributions from the acquisitions

with its new target a dividend pay-out ratio

that Pandox made in 2018 and 2019, there is

of 30% to 50% (previously 40% to 50%) of

potential for growth during the current year.”

total cash earnings, with an average dividend

Sorenson added he was bullish on the Indian market and believed Marriott had a leading market share both in terms of hotels open and also hotels coming into the development pipeline.

164

and to achieve mutual and continuous growth.”

Marriott has just 2,500 homes in its own listings,

During the quarter the company completed the acquisition of three hotel properties in

pay-out ratio over time of approximately 40% (previously approximately 50%).

Germany; in Augsburg, Erfurt and Dortmund

CFO Liia Nõu told the company’s capital

with a total of 565 rooms, paying EUR103m. The

markets day: “It is simply because we want more

hotels will be managed by the hotel operator HR

firepower for acquisitions. It gives us flexibility

BUSINESS CENTRE

to find good growth opportunities. It’s nothing

indicates, steady and cautious is the way forward.

signed a further 14,000 rooms into its pipeline,

dramatic, nothing urgent, we can buy anywhere

Will this diversification undermine the core

down on the prior year when it signed 20,000

as long as it is profitable. It is easy to dig where

strength of specialization? Not necessarily. What

rooms, with the group attributing the drop to

you are standing, but anywhere profitable.”

Pandox has is an intimate understanding of what

comparisons following the boost of signings

makes accommodation properties tick. For example,

following the launch of Avid. Of the 20,238

HA PERSPECTIVE

it is well aware that the hotel business is much more

rooms hotels signed in the same period last

By Katherine Doggrell: Pandox is just at that state

than just bedrooms: f&b and other revenue sources,

year, 7,630 rooms were under the Avid flag. Avid

where observers with a taste for deals – so most

while a smaller share of sales, remain critical to

signings in the Americas in the first half of this

of us – find ourselves wondering what next for the

driving profitability. Such knowledge translates well

year were 2,402 rooms.

company. Having grown at a rapid clip to be one

into the emerging alternative hotel segments such as

The CEO commented on the “challenging”

of Europe’s biggest forces and with no appetite for

hostels and already established adjacent sectors such

developing environment which Marriott

sucking up to the big brands, another phase in this

as student accommodation.

International commented on in its results,

company’s evolution must surely be in the offing. And, with most hungry investors in the sectors drawn to the taste of alternative assets such as

If Pandox sticks to its disciplined approach it is

telling those on the call: “It is a more

surely destined to become an even more dominant

challenging build environment, but we’re not

owner. No probably about it.

seeing any material impacts on our pace of openings, paces of ground breaks. And we are

hostels and serviced apartments, why shouldn’t it be a move away from mainstream hotels. In the meantime, the company has the firepower

IHG leans on Holiday Inn

continuing to accelerate growth in the US and also in Greater China.

InterContinental Hotels Group said that it

“It is a challenging signings environment.

and one suspects that Minor may also be looking to

expected to see unit growth accelerate into next

We are increasing our share of signings as

cut its debt with a little light offloading at NH. Plus

year, despite concerns over performance.

we’ve done this year and last year because of

to look at the portfolios currently washing around

there’s always Scandic.

The company continued to lean on the Holiday Inn brand family, but said that it was

HA PERSPECTIVE

starting to see an increase in signings from its

By Andrew Sangster: Is Pandox the smartest owner

new and acquired flags.

the stronger development organisation and the increase in brands. “As the new brands begin to come online, you will continue to see us accelerating into that 5%

in Europe? In the tradition of the now being rejigged

The group reported 5.7% net system growth in

to 6% range. We’re not going to give specific

Carlsberg slogan, probably. And it has a claim to be

the first half of the year, its best performance in

guidance on the exact number for 2020. But it’s

the best in the world.

a decade, with Greater China leading openings,

logical to assume that you’re going to see our

The success of Pandox has come from scale and

at 18% growth. EMEAA followed with 6.5% net

net system size numbers continue to grow.

focus. It has grown from a solid base in Scandinavia

rooms growth, while the Americas saw 2.7%

to develop significant positions in the UK and

growth.

“And we will continue to look at white spaces where we think we could launch a brand that

Germany. Even today, close to half (45% as at

The company added 30,000 new rooms to

we can use our consumer insights that we can

March 31) of Pandox’s market value is concentrated

the system, while 10,000 rooms exited, as, CEO

scale. But we’ve addressed the key areas that we

in Scandinavia, with a third (32%) in Germany and

Keith Barr commented: “We continued to focus

highlighted 18 months ago.”

a fifth (21%) in the UK

on the long-term health of our established

This steady geographic diversification has

brands”.

Barr drew attention to the new prototype for Holiday Inn across the Americas, which he said:

now seen an entry into Canada and is also being

Across the group, the company saw revpar up

“will bring fresh and modern designs to our

accompanied by the adoption of different business

0.1%. Barr told analysts that it, “as anticipated

hotels across the Americas. The concept brings

models. Leases, which are nearly all variable, are

reflected a strong comparable from last year and

us successful Open Lobby public space and guest

now joined by management agreements; by owned

a slower revpar growth environment where our

room designs together in a more efficient and

and operated with a franchise brand; and by owned

hotels maintained near-record occupancies and

flexible way with a 15% reduction in building

and operated under an independent (Pandox-

rate”.

size to create better returns for our owners”.

In the Americas, where first half revpar grew

In Greater China, where revpar was down

The next step is to move into other accommodation

0.1%, as rate growth offset occupancy declines,

by 0.3%, impacted, Barr said, by a number of

segments, not just upper midscale. This move has

IHG opened 11,000 rooms during the first half

properties in ramp up and openings in less

already started – witness the likes of Meininger on

of the year, more than two-thirds of which were

developed cities, the group signed total 90

the Pandox brand roster – but as CEO Anders Nissen

in the Holiday Inn Brand Family. The company

hotels, its highest ever for the region, and

owned) brand.

165

BUSINESS CENTRE

included 5,000 rooms from the InterContinental Alliance Resorts partnership with Sands.

in the saturated US at the time of launch. So far the evidence is that owners are seeking

Looking at the new brands, Avid had 200

sanctuary in the familiar and this may be what is

hotels signed since the launch, with 10 properties

giving Barr such a spring in his step. Despite fears

expected to be open by the end of 2019. Voco

that there were quite enough Holiday Inns to be

Hotels had six hotels open across the UK,

going along with, it continues to drive growth

Australia and the Middle East since launching

and look! The new one is 15% smaller. Perfect in

a year ago, with the company “confident” in

constrained times. I’ll have two.

reaching around 30 hotels signed by the end of this year. At Six Senses, which the company

HA PERSPECTIVE

acquired earlier this year, the group signed five

By Andrew Sangster: IHG is suggesting that it is now

new resorts, with more than 50 deals under

putting away its cheque book for acquisitions. CEO

active discussion.

Barr was keen to point out that the “white space”

The most-recent launch, Atwell Suites, fell, Barr said, “between traditional extended stay

he identified when taking up the job has now been filled.

and select service hotels”, with an average stay

Even when mentioning the possibility of new

of between four and six nights. He said that the

white space opening up, Barr talked only about

company had seen “positive owner reaction with

launching a brand rather than acquiring one.

over 50 written expressions of owner interest”,

This leaves the ambition of IHG to be delivering

with the first hotels expected to break ground

industry-leading net system size growth. The first-

in 2020 and open in 2021.

half growth of 5.7% puts it ahead of Marriott but

The company continued to extend its Concerto

behind Hilton. Not bad, but not there yet.

technology platform, with plans to pilot ways to

As Morgan Stanley pointed out, IHG’s new brand

book rooms with specific attributes by the end

Avid had signed just 13 properties in Q2, a third

of the year.

below that achieved by Hilton with its Tru brand at

Barr said that the group’s strategic initiatives,

a similar stage of launch.

outlined 18 months ago, were all being funded

IHG has plans to tap into extended stays in what

by a group-wide efficiency programme, which,

it calls the mainstream space (this is economy and

he said, remained on track to deliver USD125m

midscale combined). Atwell Suites is targeting

of savings by 2020.

average stays of four to six nights and is described

Barr was confident looking forward, adding: “As long as there’s GDP growth in the US, you’re going to see the revpar growth”.

as “falling between traditional extended stay and select-service hotels”. With acquisitions all but ruled out, IHG has to deliver on its organic growth promise. It argues that

HA PERSPECTIVE

its relaunched structure is now suited to the task.

By Katherine Doggrell: Where others have held

There will be no hiding place over the next few years.

back on the whooping and the cheering this results season, with the most hopeful comments being a light hope that sense will prevail between China and the US, Barr was divergently cheery in his outlook. And one finds oneself questioning, just a bit, given that not all in the garden is rosy. IHG has, despite its spending constraints, added a few more brands, maybe not as many as others and is looking to them to help it through any dark times. The results show some enthusiasm, although not enough for Avid to take over just yet from Holiday Inn, as was the hope

166

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

SOUTH AFRICA In light of the climate issues facing the world, hoteliers are concerned about the eventual impact on performance. Cape Town is an interesting case study; the South African capital’s water supply struggles began in 2015 as dam levels began to recede, reaching dangerously low levels in 2017. Restrictions were put in place in an effort to reduce consumption by 50%, before heavy rainfall eventually came in June 2018 to replenish reserves and subsequently ease limitations. But what effect did this have on the city’s hotels? RevPAR dropped 9% in 2018, the first year-over-year drop for the market since 2011, driven by an occupancy decrease (-6.6%) that was most evident in the opening seven months of the year. STR believe that concerns about guest experience played a part in that decline, as restrictions were placed on services normally taken for granted in hotels. Limitations on pool usage, time spent in showers and the frequency for washing towels and sheets became issues for both hoteliers and guests. However, as the dam returned to near capacity, the market began to gain momentum, and RevPAR picked up notably in March 2019. More recently, July produced a 21.4% yearover-year increase in the metric, while the opening seven months of the year as a whole produced a 4.3% lift.

Projected Room Growth for Cape Town +8.9% Existing 11,575 Pipeline 1,025

STR’s hotel profitability sample highlights the impact on utility costs for Cape Town hotels. In 2018, properties in the capital accounted for 26.9% of South Africa’s sample but represented 37.3% of utility costs, an indication of rising prices and the expensive nature of importing water. For 2018 as a whole, utility costs in Cape Town increased 15.9% from the previous year. Despite these recent developments around performance and profitability, Cape Town can still expect supply to grow in the coming years. STR is the source for premium global data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights, tracking 8 million rooms worldwide. www.str.com

168

BUSINESS CENTRE

South Africa Performance July 2019 YTD Occupancy 59.2% (-0.6%) ADR ZAR1,260.84 (+1.9%) RevPAR ZAR746.28 (+1.3%)

Cape Town Performance July 2019 YTD

Occupancy 62.8% (+3.9%) ADR ZAR1,732.94 (+0.4%) RevPAR ZAR1,088.51 (+4.3%)

169

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EVENTS DIARY

15-20 SEP

SEP

17-19 SEP

18-21 SEP

Focus/19 London www.dcch.co.uk

Top Hotel World Tour Dubai www.thpworldtour.com

The Hotel Show Dubai www.thehotelshow.com

100% Design London www.100percentdesign.co.uk

19-22 SEP

25-27 SEP

6-9 OCT

9-10 OCT

Designjunction London www.thedesignjunction.co.uk

Design Hotels Arena Tbilisi www.arena.designhotels.me

Decorex International London www.decorex.com

The Annual Hotel Conference Manchester www.theahc.co.uk

OCT

23-25 OCT

30-1

OCT-NOV

20-22 NOV

Radical Innovation Award New York www.radicalinnovationaward.com

HICAP Hong Kong www.hicapconference.com

HI Design Asia Bangkok www.hidesign-asia.com

InteriHotel Barcelona www.interihotel.com

173

EVENTS

The Hotel Show 17-19 September 2019

100% Design 18-21 September 2019

DUBAI

LONDON

The Hotel Show, part of the region’s first-ever Middle East Design &

100% Design has revealed details for its annual talks programme, with

Hospitality Week, will celebrate its 20th anniversary when it returns to

this year’s agenda set to feature a series of compelling presentations,

Dubai World Trade Centre for three days in September.

trend forecasts and panel discussions with both established designers

Hundreds of exhibitors will showcase their latest products and

and up-and-coming talents. Over the four days of the show, a diverse

services across sectors including interiors, build and technology,

selection of more than 50 in-depth conversations and debates will

with participants split into seven areas. Lighting, furniture, bedding

explore the latest trends and issues facing the hospitality sector,

flooring and fabrics will all be exhibited at this year’s show, with

with an increased focus on issue-based content such as wastage,

Diamond Life Lighting, Assa Abloy, Fairmont Designs, Groupe GM and

sustainability and how design is driving change.

Northern Feather Canada all signed up to take part.

place in a new auditorium created by London-based architectural

Leadership Forum, a series of panel discussions developed in close

practice Selencky Parsons, which will address the topic of plastic usage

consultation with the UAE’s leading hotel general managers, which

and waste through fully demountable and reusable components.

will address the key opportunities and challenges shaping the regional sector as it gears up for Expo 2020.

Programme highlights include conversations with acclaimed designers Marcel Wanders and Nina Tolstrup, as well as a presentation

There will also be engaging workshops, installations and

from David Rockwell, in which he will discuss how his projects merge

competitions such as The Hotel Room Design Challenge, in which

theatre, performance and architecture. Rockwell will also be unveiling

designers and fit-out contractors create room set concepts based upon

his latest furniture collection, Sage, for Benchmark, which focuses on

the theme ‘Dubai: A World of Possibility, A Lifetime of Stories’.

bringing wellness to the workspace.

www.thehotelshow.com

174

Celebrating the event’s 25th edition, the live conference will take

Another central feature of the event is the Middle East Hospitality

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7. – 10. 1. 2020

EVENTS

©Nacho del Rio

Decorex International 6-9 October 2019

InteriHotel 20-22 November 2019

LONDON

BARCELONA

Decorex has announced the launch of Designer Encounter, a new

Taking place at Barcelona International Convention Centre in

installation for its 2019 edition exploring the future of interior design.

November, InteriHotel will bring together more than 5,000 visitors,

Overseen by architect John Allsopp, the feature will comprise six room

from operators and interior designers to architects and suppliers.

sets, each created by a different studio to explore how interiors and technology can combine to produce a personalised experience. “In the interior design market, personalisation represents the

200 brands, with products spanning a range of sectors from furniture,

ultimate luxury, and this is something particularly important to visitors

lighting and textiles to bathrooms, flooring and technology. In the

of a show like Decorex,” Allsopp explains. “I believe our perception of

showroom-style exhibition area, suppliers will recreate different hotel

what technology means is moving away from screens and keyboards

settings like the lobby, guestroom and restaurant, allowing hoteliers

and toward direct interaction with the three-dimensional space.”

and specifiers to cast their eye over a selection of new items.

Among the designers involved are Run for the Hills – the firm

Running parallel, a programme of workshops and conferences hosted

behind London’s Kricket White City and the new Tivoli cinema, bar

by leading design experts such as Lori Pinkerton-Rolet, Director at

and café in Bath – and These White Walls, which recently completed

Park Grove Design, and Spanish architect and interior designer Tomás

its first project for chef Ollie Dabbous’ Mayfair restaurant, Hide.

Alía, a longstanding collaborator of Room Mate Hotels, will provide

Decorex International will make its debut at new venue, Olympia

delegates with insight on the latest developments in the industry.

London, from 6-9 October. The four-day event will showcase the latest

The 2019 edition will also introduce the Hotel LifeStyle Lab, a concept

in luxury design through a curated exhibition and talks programme,

in which hotel groups and interior design studios will collaborate to

with over 400 exhibitors and 14,000 visitors expected to attend.

explore the needs of new hoteliers from an interior design perspective.

www.decorex.com

176

An established meeting point for professionals in the contract hospitality sector, the show will present innovations from more than

www.interihotel.com

November

PEOPLE & BRANDS THAT CHARACTERIZE HOTEL INTERIOR DESIGN tickets available at interihotel.com a project by CENFIM

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VISIT US AT

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IND E PE ND E NT

I N T ER N AT I O NA L 2019

HOT EL S HOW 2019

Olympia, London

STAND H145

STAND B05

6-9 OCT

15-16 OCT

Designed for sleep Creating beautiful long-lasting beds and sofa beds, sustainably designed to maximise comfort, guaranteeing guests have a memorable nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep and leave positive five-star reviews. Working in partnership with hoteliers to deliver tailored sleep solutions and outstanding value. Crowne Plaza Rocco Forte

Marriott

Corinthia

InterContinental

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Wyndham

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Soho House

StayCity

Thistle

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T: +44 (0) 1332 497111 | E: info@hypnoscontractbeds.com | www.hypnoscontractbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral, complying with PAS 2060.

3730 Hypnos Sleeper Ad 236x275 aw.indd 1

15/08/2019 17:52

EVENTS

AHEAD MEA 13 November 2019 DUBAI

From Dubai’s latest mega-hotel to an intimate shipwreck lodge in Botswana, this year’s AHEAD MEA shortlist highlights the increasing

JUDGING PANEL

diversity of experience and aesthetic emerging across the region. Recognising the latest projects from operators including Four Seasons, Jumeirah and Mandarin Oriental alongside boutiques in South Africa’s Gorgeous George and Zannier Hotels’ Omaanda retreat in Namibia, the shortlist is a comprehensive look at the changing face of hospitality in the Middle East and Africa. Assessed on both design and architectural achievements as well as their commercial viability, projects will compete across 12 main categories with prizes for Guestrooms, Lobby & Public Spaces, Event Spaces and Bar, Club or Lounge, and statues recognising achievements in conversion and newbuild, as well as special prizes celebrating the best in visual identity and new concepts. The Outstanding Contribution award, meanwhile, will recognise the work of a key figure whose work has influenced the region’s hotel landscape.

Leila Abdul Rahim – Design Director, Hilton Worldwide Nick Acton-Adams – Director of Design, Meraas/North25 Paul Bishop – Owner and Founder, Bishop Design Pinar Calimano – Director, Design EMEA, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Pallavi Dean – Founder & Creative Director, Roar Hilda Impey – Design Principal, Wilson Associates Trevor Julius – CEO and Project Partner, dsgn Pia Lakshmi Sen – Associate, LW Design Group Shahab Lutfi – Chief Executive Officer, Bright Start Tarek M. Daouk – Founder and Managing Partner, Smartotels Lotfi Sidirahal – Creative Director, Atelier Pod Sheri Smith – Senior Director of Interior Design for Global Design MEA, Marriott International

AHEAD MEA will take place on 13 November at the new location of Caesars Resort Bluewaters, Dubai.

www.aheadawards.com/mea

179

EVENTS

SHORTLIST Bar, Club or Lounge

Renovation, Restoration & Conversion

Alice & Fifth at Sandton Sun Hotel Johannesburg, South Africa Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre – UAE Toro Toro at Grosvenor House – Dubai, UAE Wavehouse at Atlantis The Palm – Dubai, UAE

Al Bait Sharjah – UAE Al Faya Lodge & Spa – Sharjah, UAE Gorgeous George – Cape Town, South Africa Zabeel House By Jumeirah – Dubai, UAE

Event Spaces Aloft Hotel City Centre Deira – Dubai, UAE Caesars Forum at Caesars Bluewaters Dubai – UAE Grand Plaza by Mövenpick Media City – Dubai, UAE Mandarin Oriental – Doha, Qatar

Guestrooms Al Faya Lodge & Spa – Sharjah, UAE One&Only Nyungwe House – Rwanda Studio One Hotel – Dubai, UAE Omaanda – Windhoek East, Namibia

Hotel Newbuild Al Manara, Saraya Aqaba – Jordan Mandarin Oriental – Doha, Qatar Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE Studio One Hotel – Dubai, UAE

Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces Caesars Bluewaters Dubai – UAE Four Seasons Resort Seychelles At Desroches Island – Seychelles Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE W Dubai, The Palm – UAE

Lobby & Public Spaces Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE The Merchant House – Manama, Bahrain Zabeel House By Jumeirah – Dubai, UAE Omaanda – Windhoek East, Namibia

Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge – Chobe National Park, Botswana One&Only Nyungwe House – Rwanda Shipwreck Lodge – Skeleton Coast, Namibia Omaanda – Windhoek East, Namibia

180

Resort Four Seasons Hotel Tunis – Tunisia Four Seasons Resort Seychelles At Desroches Island – Seychelles Jumeirah Royal Saray Hotel – Seef, Bahrain Zuri Zanzibar – Tanzania

Restaurant Indya By Vineet At Le Royal Meridien – Dubai, UAE Lah Lah At Zabeel House By Jumeirah – Dubai, UAE Netsu At Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE Tasca By José Avillez At Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE

Spa & Wellness Four Seasons Hotel Tunis – Tunisia Four Seasons Resort Seychelles At Desroches Island – Seychelles The Spa At Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE Away Spa At W Dubai, The Palm – UAE

Suite Gorgeous George – Cape Town, South Africa Mandarin Oriental Jumeira – Dubai, UAE One&Only Nyungwe House – Rwanda Zuri Zanzibar – Tanzania

INTERIOR FIT OUT SPECIALIST TO

- BELMOND CADOGAN HOTEL CHELSEA, LONDON

SHORTLISTED FOR AHEAD EUROPE 2019 LOBBY & PUBLIC SPACES

LUXURY www.beck i n t e r i o r s .com

LIFESTYLE beckinteriors

MUSEUMS BECK

BESPOKE

Email Vanessa Budd a t vbudd@beckinteriors.com

AHEAD Europe 18 November 2019 LONDON

Marking the final AHEAD regional event of 2019, AHEAD Europe will recognise the most ambitious and memorable projects from the last

SHORTLIST

year, celebrating hospitality design and the hotel experience in all its forms. Amongst this year’s shortlisted properties are a converted industrial transformer station in the heart of Copenhagen, an intimate mansion guesthouse and garden in Mallorca’s Old Town and a modernist retreat surrounded by the mineral waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon. Judges will be seeking out projects that demonstrate a balance between creative design flair and commercial viability, paying close attention to aesthetic excellence and products that meet the expectation of client and guest alike. Categories include prizes for Guestrooms, Event Spaces, Restaurant, and more. Recognising achievements in architecture, interior design and operation, the triumphant properties will go on to compete with other regional winners as part of the AHEAD Global biennale in 2021 to decide the best new hotels around the world. AHEAD Europe will take place on 18 November at Battersea Evolution, London.

www.aheadawards.com/europe

182

Bar, Club or Lounge Fritz & Felix at Brenners Park Hotel – Baden Baden, Germany Juliet Rose at Hilton Munich City – Germany Rockwell at The Trafalgar St. James Hotel – London, England Salon Sacher at Hotel Sacher Wien – Vienna, Austria Soho House Amsterdam – The Netherlands

Event Spaces Andermatt Concert Hall at Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen – Andermatt, Switzerland Aquam Bibe at Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin – Bristol, England Cinema Paradiso at PURO Łódź – Poland Scandic Kødbyen – Copenhagen, Denmark Vintry & Mercer – London, England

EVENTS

Guestrooms

Resort Hotel

1477 Reichhalter Eat & Sleep – Lana, Italy Little Beach House Barcelona – Spain Palazzo Daniele – Gagliano del Capo, Italy Puro Warsaw Centrum – Poland The Stratford Hotel – London, England

Caravia Beach Hotel – Kos, Greece Olea All Suite Hotel – Tsilivi, Greece The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland – Grindavik Radisson Collection Hotel – Tsinandali Estate, Georgia The Arula Chalets – Lech am Arlberg, Austria

Hotel Conversion

Restaurant

Amerikalinjen – Oslo, Norway Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden – Palma, Mallorca Dexamenes Seaside Hotel – Kourouta, Greece Hotel Herman K – Copenhagen, Denmark The Langley – Iver, England

Cecconi’s at Soho House Amsterdam – The Netherlands Magari at Puro Warsaw Centrum – Poland Neni at 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord – Paris, France Provisioners at The Dixon Hotel – London, England Zela at ME London Hotel – England

Hotel Newbuild

Spa & Wellness

Gloriette Guesthouse – Oberbozen, Italy Mollie’s Motel & Diner – Buckland, England Puro Kraków Kazimierz – Poland Puro Łódź – Poland The Hide Hotel – Flims, Switzerland

Euphoria Retreat – Mystras, Greece Gloriette at Gloriette Guesthouse – Oberbozen, Italy Mohr Life Resort – Lermoos, Austria Pure Seven Spa at 7Pines Resort Ibiza – Spain The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland – Grindavik

Hotel Renovation & Restoration

Suite

25hours Hotel Terminus Nord – Paris, France Heckfield Place – Hampshire, England Hotel Norge – Bergen, Norway Palazzo Daniele – Gagliano del Capo, Italy Whitworth Locke – Manchester, England

Arcticscene Executive Suite at Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Rovaniemi, Finland Belmond La Residencia – Deia, Mallorca Dexamenes Seaside Hotel – Kourouta, Greece Gatehouses at Das Kranzbach – Krün, Germany Suites at The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park – London, England

Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces

Transport

Brenners Park Hotel – Baden Baden, Germany Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden – Palma, Mallorca Radisson Collection Hotel Tsinandali Estate – Georgia Sir Victor Hotel – Barcelona, Spain The Magnolia Hotel – Quinta do Lago, Portugal

AmaMagna Fingal Le Champlain Saga Spirit of Discovery Viking Orion

Lobby & Public Spaces

Visual Identity

Belmond Cadogan Hotel – London, England Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden – Palma, Mallorca Grand Park Hotel Rovinj – Croatia PURO Warsaw Centrum – Poland Sir Victor Hotel – Barcelona, Spain

Amerikalinjen – Oslo, Norway HUP – Mierlo, The Netherlands NinetyNine Hotel Heidelberg – Germany The Dixon Hotel – London, England The Magnolia Hotel – Quinta do Lago, Portugal

Lodges, Cabins & Tented Camps Hop Pickers’ Huts at The Pig at Bridge Place – Canterbury, England LumiPod – Lyon, France Manshausen 2.0 – Mannshausen, Norway Nolla Cabins – Vallisaari Island, Helsinki, Finland Piglet’s Cabins at Soho Farmhouse – Chipping Norton, England

183

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6th – 9th October 2019 Stand H189

#10176 HosBedDiv Ad FP 236x275_Sleeper Sep/Oct.indd 1

15th – 16th October 2019 Stand E04

19-20 November 2019 Stand B44

24/07/2018 15:51

EVENTS

Sleep & Eat 19-20 November 2019 LONDON

Europe’s leading hotel design show reveals the studios set to create a series of concept hospitality spaces as part of this year’s Sleep & Eat Sets.

The Sleep & Eat 2019 theme of Social FlexAbility

restaurant and Space Invader a bar. Each has

will be brought to life by six architecture and

provided a teaser graphic to give visitors an

design practices this November as part of the

early glimpse of what to expect.

show’s annual concept room installations.

Following the reveal, each studio will present

Featuring a series of hospitality spaces that

its creation at the Sleep & Eat Conference, and

seek to provoke, inspire and entertain, this

take part in several panel sessions to further

year’s Sleep & Eat Sets will address issues

explore the Social FlexAbility theme, including

surrounding human interaction in the digital

a discussion among leading hotel operators on

age by way of four guestroom designs and two

how best to activate and monetise public spaces

F&B spaces.

and a session investigating design trends in co-

Demonstrating that hotels, restaurants,

living and co-working environments.

bars and other hospitality spaces can be at

Further exploring the show’s overarching

the vanguard of defining new environments

theme, the designers of this year’s Sleeper Bar,

and interior innovations, each will enable a

Michaelis Boyd, are creating a dynamic social

spectrum of sociability and privacy according

gathering space at the heart of the show for

to guest needs.

networking and drinks. Look out for a special

The line-up of Sleep & Eat Set designers

preview in the next issue of Sleeper. Meanwhile,

this year features a roster of both new and

new for this year, a co-working Social Hub

established practices, with Twenty2degrees,

Miaja Design Group, Hat Design and Maria

opportunities for connection.

Tibblin & Co. creating the guestroom concepts, whilst Name Architecture will envision a

187

xxx

EVENTS

Guestroom Set Miaja Design Group

Guestroom Set Twenty2degrees

Guestroom Set Hat Design

“We will be presenting a concept that gives wings to human relationships. Elevation will make peace with technology and, indeed, fully embrace it, weaving it together with nature to create beauty and wellbeing, and offer a heightened state of self-reflection, awareness and meditation. Miaja Design Group and our partners on this project have a sustainable approach to design, and their conservationist ethos adds to our quest for eco-tourism.” Isabelle Miaja, Miaja Design Group

“No two guests the same. Dance, Sleep, Work, Play. A flexible space for the social, a haven for your stay. Distorted riffs softened with plush fabrics, warm timbers set against a vibrant zing, a hotel room that’s more than one thing. No Sleep ‘til London!” Joe Stella and Nick Stoupas, Twenty2degrees

“We have imagined a bedroom space that can breathe with users’ needs and moods, that they can control and re-create. Hotels are becoming used to integrating social hubs in their public areas; we see an exciting opportunity in applying the same philosophy to guestrooms. When we have flexibility to rearrange the space around us, we achieve balance and feel peaceful; it is an approach where quality of space wins over size. As Frank Lloyd Wright said: ‘Space is the breath of art’.” Anne-Marie Sabatier and Flavie Deram, Hat Design

Build Partner: Modespry Project Suppliers: Ana Roque, Lasvit, Soraa, MM Galleri

188

Build Partner: Viriato

Build Partner: Stilles Project Suppliers: Nobilis, Atrafloor

EVENTS

190

Guestroom Set Maria Tibblin & Co.

The Restaurant Set Name Architecture

The Bar Set Space Invader

“Our concept combines focus on enduring human values with the power of technology to help deliver these in a guestroom that adapts to every guest’s individual wishes. We are taking a biophilic approach and using lighting to enhance wellbeing through day and night and are also developing a Flexibility app to allow guests to personalise their experience. This will be New Luxury – sophisticated and elegant in its simplicity, a sustainable design that creates a world around each guest.” The team at Maria Tibblin & Co.

“Our Set will explore the power of design to personalise a social experience through a spatial one. It will focus on adaptable functionality and, at its heart, a table designed in a continuous plane will become the plane for social interaction. This will define the space, shape its use and determine varying levels of social stimulation, allowing users to activate the experience of their choice according to where they sit. We want visitors to ask themselves: where do I sit?” Nathalie Rozencwajg, Name Architecture

“We asked ourselves: what’s the biggest barrier to Social Flexibility in a bar? Our answer was the bar itself! So, we are creating a bar without a bar which, through layout and design, becomes a space where conversations are developed. Adaptability leading to interaction with the environment, flexibility empowering the individual to use the space as suits them, design enhancing service and promoting human interaction.” Katie Edgar, Space Invader

Build Partner: Bailey & Jones Project Suppliers: Giacomo Rossetti, Annika Baudry, Art Concepts London

Build Partner: Duboulay Contracts Project Suppliers: Ligne Roset, Matière Grise, Omexco, Absolute Lifestyle

Build Partner: J Carey Design Project Suppliers: Enigma Lighting

Shift Shifting the Industry 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;16 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;19

Radical Innovation is a platform that connects and inspires visionaries from around the globe. We challenge and mobilize disruptors, designers, hoteliers, and students to create compelling ideas that propel the hospitality and travel industry forward. Join us in New York City as this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finalists compete for a $10,000 grand prize and inspire our creative community to bring their innovative concepts to market.

NYNY The New Museum

radicalinnovationaward.com

Produced by

Media Partner

Founding Sponsor

Professional Finalists 01

Connectic Cooper Carry, New York

Volumetric High-Rise Modular Hotel Danny Forster & Architecture, New York

Infinite Explorer SB Architects, San Francisco

Student Winner 04

Innovator Level Sponsors

Visionary Level Sponsors

Rooftop Hotel Gardens Submitted by Ruslan Mannapov and Airat Zaidullin Kazan State University of Architecture & Engineering (KSUAE), Studio TIArch, Russia

Pioneer Level Sponsors

Canyon Equity Castell Project Craft House DAC Art Consulting Hospitality Logistics International Greenview Sponsors as of 08â&#x20AC;&#x201C;07â&#x20AC;&#x201C;19

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t: 01539 564040 w: kudosshowers.co.uk e: info@kudosshowers.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT xxx

Beautiful Bathrooms As bathroom design continues to evolve, we shine a spotlight on the latest innovations pushing the boundaries, and those that will continue to shape the sector going forward.

Groheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Essence ceramics collection marks the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first-ever complete and coordinated bathroom solution 000

SPOTLIGHT

196

1. AquaClean Sela Geberit

2. Pinnacle8 Kudos Showers

3. Essence Grohe

4. Kaali Victoria + Albert

Geberit’s AquaClean Sela shower toilet combines the brand’s patented WhirlSpray technology with signature functions including a more hygienic rimless WC ceramic pan and TurboFlush, which generates more effective flushing performance. Designed by Londonbased architect Christoph Behling, the model boasts a streamlined design with clean lines and a contemporary chrome or white alpine panel, while its unique oscillating spray provides a thorough cleanse by using instantly warm water. The addition of four programmable buttons also enables users to control the temperature of the water and the water pressure through a remote control. www.geberit.co.uk

The Pinnacle8 shower enclosures by Kudos Showers feature a semi-frameless design with slimline wall profiles that conceal a 20mm wall adjustment. The enclosures use SmartSeal technology on the crystal-clear seals and glassto-glass corner join seals to ensure an uninterrupted finish and a watertight bond, as well as 8mm toughened safety glass treated with Lifeshield for easy cleaning. Ranging in size from 7601800mm to suit recessed and corner installations, the enclosures’ hinged doors feature Kevlar impregnated pins on the rise and fall hinges for smooth operation, while the sliding doors come with aircraftgrade stainless steel roller bearings. www.kudosshowers.com

Grohe has launched the Essence ceramics collection, marking its first-ever complete and coordinated bathroom solution. Combining soft curves inspired by organic forms with a slim and sculpted profile, the series comprises vanity basins in three sizes, and a selection of toilets and bathtubs in three different styles: back-to-wall, built-in and freestanding. Each item within the range features Grohe’s PureGuard technology, which promises superior hygiene and a longlasting surface finish, while the bathtubs are made from titanium steel and come with an EasyClean water-repellent coating to keep day-to-day cleaning to a minimum. www.grohe.com

British manufacturer Victoria + Albert Baths has expanded its Kaali range with the addition of three new undermount basins: the oval-shaped Kaali 60 and Kaali 65 models, as well as the rounded Kaali 48 option. Each basin is identified in size by its number, which indicates its diameter, and can be undermounted in a custom countertop or in a variety of decking choices. In addition, an internal overflow and flat cutbacks allow for an easier installation of taps, with users given the opportunity to select complementary brassware from the brand’s extensive selection, which includes the Soriano, Staffordshire, Florin and Tubo ranges. www.vandabaths.com

The original

Introducing Colour 28, Matt white Bringing colour to life since 1968 Top left: 060 round head shower. Bottom left: 590H basin mixer. Right: 5471R built-in shower mixer with hand shower.

VOLA UK Ltd. Highfield House 108 The Hawthorns Flitwick MK45 1FN Tel.: 01525 720 111 - sales@vola.co.uk - www.vola.com

VOLA International Studio 32-36 Great Portland Street - London W1W 8QX Tel.: 020 7580 7722 - sales@vola.co.uk - www.vola.com

vola.com

SPOTLIGHT

198

1. Revolution Sanipex

2. LS990 Jung

3. XViu Duravit

4. Terrazzo Claybrook

Developed with durability and the end user’s maintenance in mind, Sanipex’s Revolution mixer features a onepiece spout with flush-faced handles, eliminating the deep crevasses where dust, dirt and limescale can build up. Offered in a range of styles from twohandled to three-hole deck mounted, the minimalist mixers combine a sleek design with maximum functionality and are available in four distinct finishes: a striking matte black, an organic brushed brass Zanzibar, a subtly elegant brushed nickel and a polished chrome, all of which can be applied to the brand’s wider 17-piece collection of basin mixers, bathing and showering components. www.sanipexgroup.com

Switch and control system specialist Jung has introduced its LS 990 switch in a range of metal finishes, providing a more luxurious look and feel for its bathroom offer. The new models come in a choice of matte-stained or lacquered aluminium, glass-bead-blasted stainless steel or chrome-plated options, while two variations of genuine brass: classic with a bright, softly polished finish and a black-oxide antique version complete the collection. In addition to the LS 990, Jung also provides the LS 1912 and LS Zero switches in genuine metal, the latter a flush-mountable reinterpretation of its classic LS990 range that references the element of water in its design. www.jung.de

Created in collaboration with Sieger Design, the new Viu and XViu collections from Duravit blend dynamic profiles with geometric details, while the XViu furniture series marries industrial elements with the organic curves of the Viu ceramics. Meanwhile, the rectangular exterior of the washing area combines with Duravit’s patented C-bonded technology to create a spacious inner basin and shelf area, while the supporting metal console in champagne matte or Avant Garde black matte channels an industrial feel through its V-shape profile. This is further enhanced by a selection of textures and surfaces, uniting the gloss of ceramics with glass and metal. www.duravit.co.uk

The Terrazzo bathware range is manufactured using Claybrook’s unique moulding technology, which is no longer limited to flat surfaces and allows for the creation of seamless dimensional products. Made up of natural marble chips from the company’s very own production works, the resulting collection features a varied colour palette with eight standard tones: arctic, blush, crema, gravel, obsidian, ochre, sage and steel. The technique can also be applied to any of the brand’s other collections and bespoke designs. In addition to its distinct aesthetic, the Terrazzo series is durable, low-maintenance, customisable and eco-friendly. www.claybrookinteriors.com

HOXTON BY PERRIN & ROWE

P R O U D LY M A D E

IN BRITAIN

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PR_Sleeper_HOS_236x275_.indd 1

PERRIN & ROWE CHINA SHOWROOM INTERNATIONAL PAVILION OF CIMEN MALL NO. 407, YISHAN ROAD, SHANGHAI, P. R. CHINA +86 21 54652118 SERVICECHINA@PERRINANDROWE.CO.UK

04/07/2018 10:40

SPOTLIGHT

200

1. Colour 28 Vola

2. Parramore Waterworks

3. Washlet RX EWater+ Toto

4. ViClean-I 100 Villeroy & Boch

Danish tap specialist Vola has extended its range of 14 finishes with Colour 28, a pure and minimal matte white shade that adds a touch of clarity and confidence. Inspired by the tactile forms found in nature, the new finish has been launched to increase design versatility and enable specifiers to use Vola’s products in a number of different bathroom environments, easily pairing them with a variety of décors and materials. The shade joins a wider palette of 15 colours originally developed by Scandinavian architect Arne Jacobsen in 1968, each of which remains integral to the brand’s design identity and has the ability to shape the spirit of a space. www.vola.com

Waterworks has introduced three new handcrafted custom mosaics to its growing collection: Parramore, Luminaire and MasterPiece, each of which are thoughtfully curated to offer readymade solutions and allow for greater customisation to suit any design project. Sourced from some of the world’s finest quarries and selected for their colour, movement, strength and rarity, the Parramore stones offer users a greater selection of scalable pattern capabilities. A testament to Waterworks’ dedication to craftsmanship, the designs can be individually hand-clipped or intricately cut by waterjet, merging time-honoured techniques and modern-day technology. www.waterworks.co.uk

The Washlet RX EWater+ model from Japanese manufacturer Toto features a streamlined and minimalistic design, blending in with its ceramic bowl to make the components appear as a single unit. The shower toilet comes equipped with new hygienic features such as dirt repellent EWater+ technology to clean the wand jet and an automatic descaling function, while an adjustable warm water spray is heated by a continuous-flow heater to ensure unlimited warm-water cleansing. It also comes with a heated seat, odour-absorbing deodoriser and the pre-mist feature, which automatically sprays a fine mist of water onto the toilet bowl immediately before use. www.toto.com

Villeroy & Boch’s ViClean-I 100 combines the minimalist appearance of a conventional WC with the hygiene advantages of a shower toilet. Operated using an intuitive remote control or smartphone app, the system features a HarmonicWave shower jet that moves gently backwards and forwards in a lateral wave movement, as well as DirectFlush technology, a dirtresistant CeramicPlus surface and the QuickRelease mechanism for ease of cleaning. The brand has also launched a new Black Edition, which can be coordinated with the surface-mounted washbasins from the Memento 2.0 collection in glossy black. www.villeroy-boch.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

202

1. Haptic Ritmonio

2. BetteCraft Basin Bette

3. Nexsys Kaldewei

4. Moderna Laufen

Ritmonio has expanded its Haptic series with eight new concrete handles: Tramonto, Canyon, Oceano, Vulcano, Ar-tide, Tundra, Amazzonia and Sahara, all of which are inspired by the naturality of primordial elements and are billed as ‘The Colours of the World’. Vulcano takes its cues from the colour of the lava stone, while Tramonto references the sky at nightfall. The rough and structural finishes also bring an emphasised tactile dimension to the control element of the faucet, creating an added sensory experience for the user, while each product is bespoke thanks to a manufacturing process in which every single piece is poured manually. www.ritmonio.it

Bette’s new countertop BetteCraft basin combines a sculptural design with glazed titanium-steel, making it extremely durable and easy to clean. Its unusual shape, tapering towards the top and the bottom, also creates a practical splash guard against water. Available in a choice of two sizes – 350 or 450mm diameter – the basins can be customised in a range of colours including white, matte shades and the brand’s recently launched Effect collection, highlights from which include Midnight, Blue Satin and Forest. Reinforcing Bette’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, the washbasins use only natural materials in production and are 100% recyclable. www.bette.co.uk

The Nexsys shower tray from Kaldewei comes in a total of 17 colours and 20 dimensions, as well as three new surface finishes and five stylish design covers meaning that around 5,000 combinations are possible for those looking to create bespoke bathroom designs. The tray can be integrated into small and large spaces thanks to 12 models ranging in size from 80-170cm, while its narrow waste channel fits seamlessly into the enamelled shower surface for a minimalist look. In addition to the standard brushed stainless steel option, the range is available in a number of new finishes including polished stainless steel, polished gold, brushed rose gold and alpine white. www.kaldewei.co.uk

Created by Swiss designer Peter Wirz of multidisciplinary studio Vetica, Laufen’s Moderna range comprises a selection of minimalist washbasins and vanity units, the latter available in finishes such as ash honey, dark oak, matte white and high-gloss white. Marrying practicality and gentle contouring to ensure it is accessible for a range of interior décors, the contemporary collection can be paired with the brand’s Moderna furniture and new Laurin brassware series, as well as the Laufen Pro and Palace WC ranges for a coordinated bathroom aesthetic. Complementing the washbasins and vanity units is Modernaplus, which features several WCs and bidets. www.laufen.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

204

1. Herman K Unidrain

2. Equal VitrA

3. Hi-Macs Bath LG Hausys

4. Flat Roca

Unidrain has supplied its HighLine drain and Reframe bathroom accessories to Herman K, a 31-key boutique hotel housed within Copenhagenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original electrical transformer station. Grounded in Scandinavian design values and quality, the collections were selected to complement the cool neutral palette of the interior scheme, as well as white marble and designer furnishings. Created with intelligent features that maximise functionality while conveying a subtle tone of modern luxury, HighLine drain and Reframe both come in colour options including brass, copper, black and brushed or polished stainless steel, each of which marries well with metallic details. www.unidrain.com

VitrA has collaborated with Italian designer Claudio Bellini to create Equal, a bathroom collection that explores the fusion between the organic shapes found in nature and the architectural lines present in an urban environment. Comprising a mirror with integrated LED lighting, a selection of storage and washbasin units, and a wall-hung WC, the range makes use of smooth edges to mimic the natural cavities found in lakes, alongside repeated geometric shapes and industrial accents that emulate the structures found in modernist architecture. Distinct metal rails are further complemented by monochrome hues and metallic finishes. www.vitra.co.uk

LG Hausys has launched three new bath models in its signature Hi-Macs material, each of which has been designed for integrated installation. Combining functional elements with a sleek aesthetic, the baths are enclosed and flush-mounted within the side panels, making them visually seamless with no evident joints and therefore more hygienic and easier for users to maintain. Also joining the range are a trio of shower trays in the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic shade of Alpine White, which, like the tubs, retain a warm, silky smooth feel and long-lasting finish thanks to Hi-Macsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mixture of acrylic, minerals and natural pigments, which ensures it is totally colour-fast. www.himacs.eu

Roca has introduced Flat, a brassware collection characterised by a minimalist design with square silhouettes and soft edges. Available in standard, deckmounted and wall-mounted options, the mixer complements a range of basin shapes, making it a versatile choice for specifiers. All mixers in the series are also coated in the hardwearing Roca EverShine finish, ensuring the tap retains its gleam and simplifying the cleaning process while repelling stains and discouraging the build-up of limescale. Water-saving solutions like Soft Turn technology put the user further in control, with the ability to set the desired water flow and temperature. www.roca.com

HighLine Bespoke B E S P O K E D R A I N S - A S C A N D I N AV I A N T R E AT F O R YO U R B AT H R O O M

Bespoke is a customised modular line drain system which makes it possible to produce floor drains in all lenghts. Frames and gratings are placed end-to-end, making maintenance easy and manageable. The solution is ideal for spa areas, changing rooms or large bathrooms.

unidrain.com

SPOTLIGHT

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1. Venerable WC Pan Thomas Crapper

2. Traditional Perrin & Rowe

3. Artifacts Kohler

4. DS506 Aqata

Thomas Crapper has launched a new collection of bathroom products, including the Venerable back-to-wall and wall-hung WC pan models, black powder-coated cisterns and sleek branded flush plates. Hand-cast and finished in the UK, the popular Venerable Back-to-Wall WC Pan has received a discreet makeover from its original Victorian predecessor and is available in white porcelain, with its cistern now hidden away to create a more stylish and space-saving design. The toilet lid is available in finishes such as oak, mahogany and walnut, with the Thomas Crapper logo printed on the inside of the pan and a new flush plate completing the offer. www.thomas-crapper.com

Reflecting an Edwardian elegance, Perrin & Rowe’s Traditional collection comprises a comprehensive range of basin mixers, showers and freestanding bath fillers. Bringing a touch of glamour and luxury to the bathroom space, the Victorian washbasin and stand features new brass and gold finishes that match the legs of the brassware. Although quintessentially British and manufactured in the UK, the series has been well-received further afield in hotels across North America, the Middle East and Asia. The Traditional series joins Perrin & Rowe’s wider brassware and sanitaryware, which includes the Georgian, Hoxton and Contemporary ranges. www.perrinandrowe.co.uk

Kohler’s Artifacts collection allows users to coordinate faucets, accessories, showering components and finishes to meet their personal requirements. Combining quality craftsmanship with artisan design to lend character and authenticity to the bathroom space, the range is available as an elegant monobloc or with tea, bell and column spouts featuring prong, lever and swing lever handles. Finishes include oil rubbed bronze, polished chrome, vibrant brushed bronze, brushed nickel, polished nickel and vintage nickel. The faucets are also equipped with WaterSense technology and low-flow aerators, meaning they use less water. www.kohler.co.uk

Aqata’s DS506 shower screen is crafted from a single sheet of 8mm glass, with ClearShield Eco-Glass protection as standard. The continuous single flowing curve of the screen means it can be used with a shower tray or in wet rooms, with the curvature of the glass designed to fit on a 1200mm tray with no seals. Standing at 2000mm high, the screen is available in clear or grey glass, while optional extras like steady bars can be finished in either chrome, gold, polished nickel, brushed nickel or matte black. The collection follows the launch of the DS402 model, a reeded glass wet room panel that introduces a chic modern twist to the concept of a modesty screen. www.aqata.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

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1. Liberty Roman Showers

2. Janey Mac Lefroy Brooks

3 Nu Colours Aliseo

4. TeceSquare Tece

Roman Showers’ Liberty collection comprises a selection of enclosures with sliding doors and the choice of barrier-free entry, as well as a frameless hinged door model with an ultra-modern and minimalist focus. The range also comes with unique sealing tape system technology, which reduces the need for silicone and enables the wall fixing system to be completely silicone free – the minimal easy-fix wall profile allows for straightforward installation and increases water integrity. Four colour options including silver chrome, brushed nickel, matte black and polished nickel further enable users to choose the finish that best complements their interior décor. www.roman-showers.com

The Janey Mac series by British manufacturer Lefroy Brooks marries classic industrial design with a contemporary character. Billed as a new interpretation of Deco and a mid-century expression of the minimalist modern aesthetic, the understated faucets feature clean lines and compliment the brand’s Mackintosh range and vintage-inspired Ten Ten series. Offered in basin and wall-mounted options with cross handles or levers, Janey Mac comes in finishes such as silver nickel, chromium plate and antique gold, while other bespoke colours are also available upon request. The taps follow the recent launch of Lefroy Brooks’ Fifth series and marble consoles. www.lefroybrooks.com

German manufacturer Aliseo has announced the launch of Nu Colours, an assortment of new finishes for its Face, Cosmo and Concierge mirrors. Available in brushed and polished options, the surfaces coordinate well with a variety of interior décors, and thanks to the use of PVD – a special physical vapour vacuum process that produces a decorative and durable coating – they are also easy to clean and provide high resistance to scratches. The finishes expand the choices on offer to the designer and complement Aliseo’s wider selection of mirrors and bathroom accessories, which includes soap baskets, towel rings and grab bars. www.aliseo.de

Tece has expanded its comprehensive range of surfaces with various metallic finishes for the TeceSquare metal toilet flush plate and the TeceDrain shower profile. Available in black chrome, red gold and gold, in either a brushed or polished look, the finishes are tailored to the brand fittings from Axor Hansgrohe and allow for a harmonious colour scheme across the bathroom space, from the toilet and shower through to the washstand. The stainless-steel elements of TeceSquare and TeceDrainprofile are also finished with physical vapour deposition (PVD) technology, providing greater durability, scratch resistance, colour quality and shine. www.tece.de

NEXSYS THE BETTER SOLUTION PERFECTLY COMBINED: ENAMELLED SHOWER SURFACE MEETS CHANNEL DRAIN.

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SPOTLIGHT

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1. Project Champagne Arcahorn

2. Petra Paradigm Trends

3. Quadra Waterbury

4. Jo Malone Groupe GM

Arcahornâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Project Champagne bathroom amenities set is crafted from lacquered wood in a champagne colour and features metal elements in brass with a chromed finish. The series comprises a soap pump, toothbrush holder, a rectangular tray with horn details, and a square vide-poche with horn inserts and a black leather bottom. www.artemest.com

The Petra collection by Paradigm Trends features contemporary shapes crafted from textured resin. Contrasting a white background and dark grey lines to provide subtle visual appeal, the seven-piece bathroom set includes a tissue holder, wastebasket, liquid soap dispenser, canister, amenity tray, soap dish and toothbrush holder. www.paradigmtrends.com

Waterburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quadra range comprises a selection of glass-mounted and wallmounted bathroom accessories, from toilet roll holders and towel rails to robe hooks, towel racks and a glass shelf. The British manufacturer has also included the QU03 Shower Shelf, which combines angular styling with a mirror polished stainless steel. www.waterbury.co.uk

Groupe GM has partnered with lifestyle brand Jo Malone London for a new range of luxury amenities. Blending the scent of limes with peppery basil and aromatic white thyme, The Lime Basil and Mandarin collection comprises 40ml and 75ml body and hand wash, shampoo, conditioner, body and hand lotions, and 30g and 50g soaps. www.groupegm.com

DuraSquare: Now with the new bathroom furniture series XSquare. The exact and precise edges of the DuraSquare bathroom series blends perfectly with the latest furniture collection XSquare designed by Kurt Merki Jr. Handle-free fronts, striking chrome proďŹ les and 28 furniture ďŹ nishes enable an individual bathroom design. Co-ordinating mirrors feature a touch-free control panel for demisting and light or dimming functions. Duravit London, open now. www.duravit.co.uk and pro.duravit.co.uk

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SPECIFIER

Anglepoise Edition Four Anglepoise has reunited with Paul Smith to revisit a unique patchwork colour scheme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; previously created for the Land Rover Defender â&#x20AC;&#x201C; across the Edition Four collection, comprising desk, mini and floor versions of the Sir Kenneth Georgedesigned Type 75 lamps. The industrial aesthetic is juxtaposed by a 27-colour palette of earthy tones including burgundy, leader grey, sky blue and rich clay, with a dash of fluorescent yellow for a touch of intrigue. www.anglepoise.com

SPECIFIER

Andrianna Shamaris St. Barts Collection Comprising tables, stools, bowls, benches and other sculptural pieces, the St. Barts Collection from Andrianna Shamaris is a modular line constructed from reclaimed, organic and bleached teak. Left to bake in the sun and sea salt air for over a year to achieve the uniquely shaded finish, with select pieces infused with cracked aqua or soft blue resin to resemble quartz and evoke the aesthetics of the famous French-Caribbean island. www.andriannashamarisinc.com

Amtico Signature Collection Expanding its Signature Collection with 54 new products, the latest Amtico flooring designs can be laid in simple traditional patterns or in one of 23 pre-designed motifs including the pictured Acer, the scaled parquet-style shards of Aspekt and the versatile Passo, inspired by modern ceramics. These new releases are complemented by Signature 36+, an enhanced slip-resistant version of the same designs. www.amtico.com

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Bring Walls to Life

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SPECIFIER

COLLABORATION

Axor x Jean-Marie Massaud Axor Edge Marking the latest release from the 13-year-long collaboration between Axor and French architect, designer and inventor Jean-Marie Massaud, Axor Edge has been created using a highly-precise manufacturing process ordinarily reserved for diamond milling and space-age construction. Characterised by an unconventional asymmetrical profile and its mixing of textured and smooth surfaces, the collection features mixers for washbasin, bath, bidet and shower modules, and is available in five colours including polished brass and black chrome, with or without texturing. www.axor-design.com

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THE LEADER IN MODERN ORGANIC DESIGN THE LEADER IN MODERN ORGANIC DESIGN

The Triple Burnt Collection represents a unique line modern furniture The Triple Burnt Collection represents a unique line of of modern furniture made from solid organic wood burnt three times produce a rich, charcoal finish made organic wood burnt three to to produce a rich, charcoal finish The from Triplesolid Burnt Collection represents atimes unique line of modern furniture with impressive depth-a result unachievable using standard stains and finishes. with impressive depth-a result unachievable standard stains and finishes. made from solid organic wood burnt three timesusing to produce a rich, charcoal finish with impressive depth-a result unachievable using standard stains and finishes.

We source the highest quality petrified wood available. We source the highest quality petrified wood available. EachEach piece is hand selected and and highly polished withwith minimal cracks. piece is hand selected highly polished minimal cracks. We source the highest quality petrified wood available. We can alsoalso custom largelarge slabsslabs for counter tops,tops, dining or coffee tables. We counter dining or coffee tables. Eachcan piece iscustom hand selected andfor highly polished with minimal cracks. We can also custom large slabs for counter tops, dining or coffee tables.

The St. Barts Collection features an exciting new line of organic bleached teak and St. Barts Collection features an exciting line of organic washed furniture. Thean reclaimed teaknew is bleached and leftbleached to bake TheThe St.white Barts Collection features exciting new line of organic bleached teakinteak and and white washed furniture. reclaimed is bleached andto left to bake the sun and sea saltThe air The for over a year to achieve this finish. white washed furniture. reclaimed teakteak is bleached andunique left bake in in air over for over a year to achieve this unique finish. thethe sunsun andand sea sea salt salt air for a year to achieve this unique finish.

The Cracked Resin Collection is a revolutionary line of furniture pioneered by The Cracked Resin Collection is aisgrooves revolutionary line of of furniture pioneered Andrianna Shamaris. The natural of the reclaimed teak are infused by with The Cracked Resin Collection a revolutionary line furniture pioneered by resin Andrianna Shamaris. The grooves the reclaimed teak are infused with resin that is first cracked to natural achieve agrooves uniqueofquartz crystal effect. Custom colors available. Andrianna Shamaris. The natural of the reclaimed teak are infused with resin that is first cracked to achieve a unique quartz crystal effect. Custom colors available. that is first cracked to achieve a unique quartz crystal effect. Custom colors available.

121 Varick Street 121 Varick Street New York NewNY York NY

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Harrods Harrods Knightsbridge Knightsbridge United Kingdom United Kingdom

SPECIFIER

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CASE STUDY

Pedrali Altera Pars Suites

Klafs Hotel Ochsen

A number of versatile pieces from Pedrali’s outdoor collections have been specified to enhance the exterior spaces of 12 new guestrooms at Santorini’s Altera Pars Suites. Punctuating the traditional white stone Cycladic architecture with notes of vibrant colour, the specified furnishings are intended to provide both bold accents and complement the forward-thinking interior scheme. Placed on outdoor patios, the chairs, chaise longues and tables from the CMP-designed Nolita collection follow the curving profile of the hotel’s arches whilst remaining resistant to atmospheric agents in the sea breeze and Mediterranean temperatures. Elsewhere, the distinctive Reva collection designed by Patrick Jouin adds a layer of comfort by way of generously-sized threeseat sofas, lounge chairs and sun loungers. The pieces have been selected throughout in shades of vibrant yellow and sleek anthracite grey, creating stark and stylish juxtapositions against the traditionally minimalist setting. www.pedrali.it

German spa manufacturer Klafs’ scheme within the new 400m2 spa at Kißlegg’s Hotel Ochsen sees the property’s traditional rustic inn aesthetic combined with notes of unexpected surprise. With the structure dating back to the era of horse and carriage, the wellness fit-out specialist’s task was to incorporate both a contemporary and generously-sized spa within the limited space of the hotel’s grounds. As such, Klafs approached the project with a plan to reference the typical alpine chic spa aesthetic whilst enriching it with on-trend materials and premium equipment. Comprising both classical Finnish baths and the brand’s own Sanarium concept – a sauna alternative with increased control over humidity and temperature – as well as a steam bath and microsalt lounge, the spa features a scheme channelling the tranquillity of the surrounding Lake Constance, as well as Ikono loungers and a spa floor created in collaboration with Karuun, a local manufacturer of sustainably produced rattan. www.klafs.com

SPECIFIER

Elstead Dual-lit Table Lamp Joining the Elstead portfolio as part of the British brand’s portable collection, the dual-lit table lamp is constructed from distinctive coloured blown glass and polished nickel, and features a four-way light switch allowing users to illuminate the base with or without the titanium silver faux silk shade. Four additional base models include blue, salmon, smoke tint or clear glass options, whilst the complementary Milne range comes with a honey potshaped body in textured satin shades of aubergine, teal or grey fabric. www.elsteadlighting.com

Porcelanosa Gradient The Magma Black ceramic tile range from Porcelanosa Group’s Venis uses Marquina marble as its source of inspiration; a dark-coloured recrystallised limestone rock mainly quarried in the province of Vizcaya in Spain. The compact metamorphic fine-grained rock stands out for its white veined pattern, with the remains of fossils bringing character to the surface. Magma Black marries well with ceramic wood from the brand’s Starwood collection, or can be used to achieve a minimalist look when paired with black and white furniture. www.porcelanosa.com

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SPECIFIER

CASE STUDY

Omey Projects The Mont Hotel, Dublin Enlisted as part of a EU€10 million renovation of Dublin’s The Mont Hotel, Algarve-based art consultant Omey Projects has overseen the nine-month process of creating an art programme for the newly reopened property. Working within an interior scheme designed by 21 Spaces – billed as a playful ‘old school/new cool’ aesthetic – whilst drawing from the hotel’s legacy, the studio has sought to elevate spaces with a mix of pop culture references and historical tributes, commissioning and selecting artists to produce contemporary yet nostalgic pieces in-line with the wider theming. In the hotel reception Omey has worked with Yorkshirebased artist Alarah Gee, who channelled ideas of mid-century constructivism for a distinctive graphic print, whilst the hotel’s

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winter garden has been outfitted with colourful abstracts by Marleigh Culver. Elsewhere, for the downstairs Mont Clare bar Margarida Fleming has created an expressionist mural inspired by visual’s of the hotel’s former life, and in the separate Sin Bar sits a series by Amsterdam-based BD Craft reflecting sporting heritage. Throughout the project, Omey has displayed the artwork within a range of sustainable handcrafted wooden frames from Japanese Cedar wood sourced from the island of São Miguel, Azores. In high demand for their lightweight, waterproof profiles and resistance to decay, the frames bring a trendy finishing touch, most prominently showcased by the 3m-tall portrait heading the hotel’s popular Speranza Restaurant. www.omeyprojects.com

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Curate an Icon Inspiring art for inspirational hospitality

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Unlock The Potential Running for the 16th year and attracting over 950 delegates, The AHC is the leading event for the UK hotel industry. As we continue to increase our digital connections and virtual networks through remote working and continuous interactions, never has there been a more significant time to physically meet with peers, discuss and debate prominent issues and forge new and exciting relationships that stand to benefit us both personally and professionally. Creating an environment that facilitates this vital faceto-face meeting place is our passion and we invite you to join us for The AHC 2019, a two-day event at the heart of the UK hotel industry. As always, we promise to consistently maintain an emphasis on delivering practical knowledge to add value to your hotel business.

We look forward to welcoming you to The AHC

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AFTER OVER THREE DECADES OF SUPPLYING THE BEST BATHROOM ACCESSORIES, WATERBURY HAS BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH QUALITY. WHEN THE BEST HOTELS IN THE INDUSTRY THINK QUALITY, THEY THINK WATERBURY. VISIT US AT SLEEP + EAT 2019 AT OLYMPIA LONDON 19TH -20TH NOVEMBER AND SEE OUR NEW RANGE AND MORE

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THE LANGLEY DENIS IRVINE STUDIO Image courtesy of Adam Lynk

COMBINING THE SKILLS AND EXPERTISE REQUIRED TO TURN YOUR DESIGN CONCEPTS INTO REALITY

A PLAY ON COLOURS The new dimout fabric drapilux 177 triumphs with its unusual design. A multi-coloured block stripe is created using four ground colours only: each shade appears both individually as well as in conjunction with other shades. More at: www.drapilux.com

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ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 86

AD Associates

080

Harrison Spinks

186

Omey Projects

108

AHK International

189

Hastens

029

Perrin & Rowe

199

Albrecht Jung

069

HDE Expo Build

172

Porcelanosa

141

086

Portobello Art

091

Preciosa Lighting

061

Projects by Rochdale Spears

035

Aliseo

012-013

Hector Finch

Andrianna Shamaris

217

Heimtextil

175

Aqata

167

HI Design

184-185

Ariostea

073

HICAP

228

Radical Innovation Award

192-193

Artiq

223

Hypnos

178

Restoration Hardware

010-011

Astro Lighting

002

Interihotel

177

Rich Brilliant Willing

137

Roca

077

Rocky Mountain Hardware

051

209

Roman

207

006-007

Rubelli

212 125

Bachhuber

231

Janus et Cie

008-009

Beck Interiors

181

JC Hospitality

014-015

Bette

223

Kaldewei

Brintons

063

Kettal

Chelsom

235

Klafs

105

Sanipex

Claybrook

201

Kohler

203

Sleep & Eat

Dernier & Hamlyn

227

Kudos Showers

194

Sofa Company

107

Designjunction

232

Larson Juhl

130

Stellar Works

018

Dezeen

226

Laufen

023

Style Library Contract

055

Diamond Life

225

Leisure Plan

157

Tarkett

047

Drapilux

227

LG Hausys

191

The AHC

224

Dubai Design Week

230

Ligne Roset

005

Thomas Crapper

033

170-171

Duravit

211

Luteca

039

Tribu

031

EE Smith

219

Mandarin Stone

139

Tuuci

149

Elstead Lighting

162

McCue Crafted Fit

071

UHS

092

EPR Architects

114

Mivan

085

Ulster Carpets

024

Ethimo

027

Modio

151

Unidrain

205

Feelgood Designs

231

Monitor Audio

147

Villeroy & Boch

133

Vincent Sheppard

037

Vista Green

215

Vola International

197

Ferreira de Sรก Rugs

016-017

Muzeo

020

Freifrau

236

Naturalmat

101

Gervasoni

049

Nexo Luce

053

Hakwood

129

Nicholas Haslam

113

Waterbury

225

Hamilton Conte

221

North 4 Design

231

Waterworks

045

233

CHECK-OUT

Life on Mars?

Astroland Agency completes its first mission to the Ares Space Station, pioneering the arrival of the human species to other planets.

234

When David Bowie sang about Life on Mars back

trip comes in at £5,500 per person – a snip in

in 1971, little did he know his sci-fi anthem would

comparison to similar ventures – but before

take on new relevance some 50 years later. While

you start imagining yourself hurtling through

there’s many theories as to the true meaning of

space, it should be noted that the cave is actually

cryptic lyrics such as ‘look at those cavemen go’,

located in Cantabria, Northern Spain, and is part

could it be that the rocker was actually envisioning

of a pioneering experiment. Isolated from human

a new hospitality concept? Probably not, however

contact, the 1.2km cavity has been developed to

the words do resonate with Astroland’s out-

replicate the hostile conditions of Mars, and

of-this-world experience, where guests sleep

comes equipped with everything necessary to

in specially designed domes within the natural

test the technologies and human performance

chambers of a cave. The 30-day mission involves

capabilities required to survive life on the planet.

a comprehensive physical and psychological

So while the prospects of befriending a real-life

training programme at the Astroland Space

martian may be slim, Astrolanders will play a

Centre, before a three-day jaunt to the depths

crucial role in discovering whether there really

of the cave. Once inside, Astrolanders, as they’ll

is life on Mars.

be known, will carry out space walks, experience the feeling of weightlessness and learn how to grow food in specialised laboratories. The

Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel. Designer: Helen Hooper Interiors.

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