Sleeper 95

HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN

ZANNIER HOTELS BÃI SAN HÔ • TARA BERNERD • VOLKSHAUS – BASEL

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CONTENTS ISSUE 95 090

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HOTEL REVIEWS Volkshaus 064 Basel

Terme di Saturnia

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Hyatt Centric Center City

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Tuscany © Robert Rieger

Philadelphia

L’Escale 086 Seychelles

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The Hari

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New Wing at Hôtel Les Haras

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The Mayfair Townhouse

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Hong Kong

Strasbourg

© Elsa Young

London

VIETNAM

LOCATION REPORT

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A magnet for hotel development in Southeast Asia, can Vietnam capitalise to become a leader of tourism in the region? We look at the latest openings and future pipeline.

Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô

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Azerai 114 Ke Ga Bay

Capella 119 Hanoi

Maia Resort Quy Nhon

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© Frederik Wissink 003

CONTENTS ISSUE 95 FEATURES

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Meeting... Tara Bernerd

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Meeting... Nobu Hospitality

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Sheraton: A New Brand Vision

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Next Level Sustainability

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Despite the challenges of the past 12 months, Tara Bernerd has completed a hotel in Hong Kong, and won a number of new projects. Here, she talks repeat business, remote styling and adapting to new ways of working.

Relying on a devoted fanbase with an enduring appetite for Chef Nobu’s Japanese-inspired restaurants, Nobu Hospitality converts long-term diners into hotel guests. CEO Trevor Horwell explains how.

© Ngo Hoang

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Marriott rolls-out its new vision for Sheraton, drawing on the brand’s roots as a community hub to design spaces for coming together.

With sustainability a priority in all businesses, what is the hospitality industry doing to take things to the next level?

AHEAD 153

The AHEAD Global judging panel shed light on what they look for in a winning project and how those triumphant stood out in their categories.

REGULARS Check-In 028 081

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Drawing Board

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The Lobby

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Business Centre

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Outdoor Furniture & Accessories

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Specifier 181 Check-Out © Nicole Franzen

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L AUFE N 1892 | SWI T ZERL AND

RH .COM/ CON TRACT

Create, innovate.

Design.

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WELCOME

ON THE COVER Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô, Vietnam © Frederik Wissink

Here To Stay

A

s the pandemic continues to make its presence felt

has rendered outsourcing all the more appealing and recent

around the world, it’s still difficult to determine

months have given rise to networks of kitchens that boast

when and in what state the hospitality industry will

multi-cuisine menus and delivery to home or hotel in a matter

emerge. What is clear is that it will be a very different place

of minutes.

to 12 months ago. There’s been a major shift in consumer

And co-working models have been bolstered thanks to

behaviour, and in turn this is changing the way hotels are both

enforced work from home guidelines; hotels that hadn’t

designed and operated. What’s interesting is that Covid isn’t

previously considered workspaces are quickly replanning their

necessarily driving change, but accelerating the trends that

lobby or rerpurposing guestrooms as private offices in a bid

were already in motion before the virus took hold.

meet changing consumer behaviours.

The use of technology has undoubtedly accelerated. Steady

Refurbishments have stepped-up too – with occupancy low

advances in handheld devices for example have enabled us to

or doors closed altogether, owners are taking the opportunity

carry out tasks more efficiently for over a decade, but now,

to make upgrades. On a conference call with Marriott, leaders

smartphones have infiltrated every aspect of daily life. The

told how pandemic-related closures have accelerated roll-out

closure of retail, restaurants and leisure clubs in some parts of

of the new brand vision for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. After

the world has led to a dramatic rise in the use of apps to shop

all, renovation of a shuttered hotel is far less complex than a

for clothing and groceries, order take-away meals and take

multi-phase refurb with guests still wandering the corridors.

care of our mental and physical wellbeing. A handful of hotels

And with health and wellbeing front-of-mind, the hybrid

have successfully implemented guest-facing technology such

hotel-and-medical-facility will become mainstream, or at

as airport-style kiosks for self-check-in and in-room tablets

least elements of. I’m not talking hand sanitiser and face-

to control lighting and temperature, but the industry has long

masks, but features such as biophilic design, mood-boosting

been criticised for lagging behind other sectors. Could the

lighting, cleansing air filtration systems and antimicrobial

current climate lead to an industry-wide shift? Covid-era

surfaces – benefits that make staying healthy effortless.

ideas borrowed from the high street, such as the use of apps

On the whole, crises do a very good job of separating the

to order drinks from the bar without having to leave your seat

wheat from the chaff; filtering out concepts that do little to

could eliminate queues. Or the hotel experience could become

enhance the guest experience to make way for those that are

entirely contactless, much like Amazon’s till-less grocery

here to stay.

store, in which shoppers choose their items then ‘just walk out’, with purchases tracked by cameras and sensors.

In the dining sector, the trend for dark kitchens has also accelerated. Some hotel operators were already dispensing with food prep areas, instead relying on delivery services from off-site – or dark – kitchens; the impact of the pandemic

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

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GUEST BOOK

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© Christian Grund

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© Lakshmi Harilela

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064 We Are Content

114 Adrian Zecha

090 Dr Aron Harilela

081 Jun Aizaki

Lawyer Adrian Hagenbach and architect Leopold Weinberg founded real estate management company We Are Content with the aim of developing concepts that centre around a property’s history, architecture and location.

Following the success of Hotel Helvetia in Zurich, their latest venture sees the transformation of a series of buildings in Basel, where they collaborated with locally based architects Herzog & de Meuron to create Volkshaus, which literally translates to ‘house for the people’.

“I have always envisioned that each Azerai would have an independent character and offer a different experience to its sister resorts,” says Adrian Zecha, who launched his own hotel brand in 2017 after stepping back from Aman. The first two openings take in the wonders of the Mekong Delta and history and culture of Vietnam, while the latest addition, Azerai Ke Ga Bay, is a beach resort in the coastal province of Bình Thuận. “When combined, the three complement each other for a balanced travel opportunity.”

Having joined the family business in 1994, Dr Aron Harilela has spent almost three decades developing and managing hotels.

As Chairman and CEO, he now oversees Harilela Group’s global portfolio, which includes alliances with IHG, Hyatt and Onyx. In 2016, he spearheaded the launch of the group’s own brand with the opening of The Hari in London, and has recently brought the venture home to Hong Kong, creating an elegant new flagship designed by longstanding collaborator Tara Bernerd.

“We wanted not only to reference the city’s role as an industrial leader through materials and decorative objects, but also incorporate a narrative centred around the rich landscape and abundant natural resources of the surrounding area,” says Jun Aizaki of the inspiration behind his first full hotel project. As founder of Brooklyn-based studio Crème, Aizaki has recently completed the design of Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia, a new flagship that pays homage to the craft traditions of Pennsylvania’s lumber capital.

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CHECK-IN

Pascale Lauber and Ulrike Bauschke Having spent three years transforming an Italian palazzo into a boutique hotel, the designers-turned-hoteliers of ID Living take a fantasy break in Bali, where a resort designed with respect for the environment awaits.

Where are you?

Is there anything you would like waiting for

we are joined by a lively group that includes

Ubud in Bali, amongst the rainforest and rice

you in your room?

Cher, Charlize Theron, Australian musician

paddies.

Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles…

Lisa Gerrard, Ed Sheeran, Morgan Freeman and

How did you get there?

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

We flew first class with Swiss Air Lines. We were

It’s a resort of private residences, all of which

Who’s manning the stoves?

welcomed on board with a glass of Ruinart Blanc

have a Zen feel – think teak wood, open-plan

Nobu Matsuhisa together with Ivor Jones, Head

de Blanc Champagne and got ready for the night

living, decks built on batu kuning rock and a

Chef from Beau Constantia in Cape Town.

flight with La Prairie cosmetics and Paul Smith

Japanese water garden. An infinity pool carved

pyjamas while the cabin crew prepared our beds.

from dark grey granite is accompanied by

And what’s on the menu?

Waking up the next morning, we enjoyed a bowl

oversized sun loungers that look out to the

Authentic Kaiseki cuisine, a traditional Japanese

of the finest Swiss muesli and a cup of Nespresso

jungle and rice paddies beyond; all we can hear

tasting menu comprising many small dishes.

served by George Clooney. We were picked up

are the sounds of nature – tropical birds and

from the airport by a private chauffeur in an air

flowing water. In our room, a king-size bed

Would you like something to drink with that?

conditioned car - nothing too fancy, we don’t

beckons, with 100% cotton linen, down feather

Slightly hot Jokan sake and a bottle of Fryer’s

like to show off.

cushions and a mattress that’s not too firm,

Cove Pinot Noir from South Africa.

singer-songwriter Sia.

but not too soft. The heart of the hotel is the Who is there to greet you on arrival?

spa, where we go for a total wellness overhaul,

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

Our private butler, available 24 hours-a-day,

complete with holistic treatments and nutrition

Nothing. We will head to the bar for our final

with a lemongrass-infused hand towel.

to revitalise both mind and body.

cocktail of the night, prepared by mixologist

And who’s at the concierge desk?

Who designed it?

American actor Héctor Elizondo reprises his role

With respect for the environment and nature

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

from Pretty Woman... only without Julia Roberts

a central element, Cheong Yew Kuan took the

A book that clears the mind after a busy day.

and Richard Gere.

architectural lead, while Koichiro Ikebuchi

Leonardo Giorgini, before retreating upstairs.

Who are you sharing your room with?

showcases his Japanese blend of traditional and

What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?

contemporary design throughout the interiors.

Harfield Village, all-natural and sustainable.

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

Eccentric and moody, with high ceilings and

Late check-out, we hate to rush in the morning.

It’s just us, we don’t share.

dramatic chandeliers. Antiques from all over the

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Paragon 700, Italy www.idliving-pl.com

world are a feast for the eyes, while the cocktail

Bath or power shower?

bar is like no other.

Shower, even without the power.

Who are you dining with this evening?

Swimming pool, spa or gym?

We have a tête-à-tête with each other, then

Spa for the full works.

029

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

Tower C SHENZHEN

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has won a design competition to build Tower C at Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters Base – a mixed-use development featuring a hotel, office space and a convention centre.

Forming part of a new business and financial hub serving the Greater Bay Area of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, the masterplan integrates clusters of corporate headquarters along with art galleries, entertainment and dining facilities, retail outlets and landscaped public plazas.

Wrapped in a double-insulated glass curtain, Tower C comprises two 400m towers tied together with sweeping bridges, forming a multi-dimensional vertical city. In response to the city’s north-south green axis and Shenzhen’s east-west urban corridor, the proposed structure connects directly to the adjacent park and plazas, which transform into a terraced landscape extending upwards within the towers, inviting the public into the heart of the building.

Using their own 3D modelling tools, ZHA has optimised efficiencies in the building’s architectural massing, orientation and façade-to-floor ratios. Each terraced level will feature aquaponic gardens that filter air pollution, while low-volatile organic compound materials will be employed to minimise indoor pollutants. In line with the district’s smart management systems, the building’s external and interior conditions will be monitored constantly, adjusting the latter in real time to reduce energy consumption. The architects also plan to incorporate natural and hybrid ventilation with environmental control for each floor.

Served by the expanding Shenzhen Metro network, the tower’s stepped podium will be integrated with the adjacent park to create a new public space. This will not only provide direct pedestrian access, but will also allow daylight into the transport interchange below ground, as well as bicycle parking and charging facilities.

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

Tri Vananda

Montara Hospitality Group has unveiled

simplicity of each villa’s architecture lends itself

designs for Tri Vananda, a health and wellness

to warm, balanced interiors. P49 Deesign takes

PHUKET

residential community and resort in Phuket,

a modernist approach with an elegant blend

Thailand. Slated for completion in 2022, the

of earth tones and materials. Complementing

project will be built on 232 acres of land.

the predominantly wooden interior scheme are

Spread across three main zones, the resort

tropical accents such as woven rattan details,

comprises a residential community with 263

natural wood coffee tables and leather sofas.

villas; a comprehensive medical and wellness

Outside, clear glass railings on upper floors

centre; and a wetland nature reserve.

delineate the home from the outdoors without

Thai firms Habita Architects and Arsomsilp

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Montara Hospitality Group Architecture: Arsomsilp Community & Environmental Architect, Habita Architects Interior Design: AvroKo, P49 Deesign Consultants: Susan Harmsworth, Under a Tree www.montarahospitality.com

032

creating visual separation.

Community & Environmental Architect will

Situated at the heart of the site, the wellness

helm Tri Vananda’s architecture and landscape

resort boasts scenic views of the mountain, lakes

design, while P49 Deesign lead on the interiors

and tropical forests. Natural materials such as

together with AvroKo. The design narrative

stone and wood will be employed throughout,

centres around four core pillars: cognitive health

with floor-to-ceiling windows facilitating a

and mindfulness, biophilic and environmental

modern oasis.

sustainability, evidence-based functional

Kittisak

Pattamasaevi,

CEO,

Montara

and integrative medicine and nutrition, and

Hospitality, comments: “Tri Vananda is our most

multigenerational living.

ambitious project to-date, and we hope it will

Ranging from 150 to 750m2, the residential villas are decidedly minimalist dwellings; the

set the gold standard for wellness programmes for retreats or residential developments.”

PH BERNARD TOUILLON

V E N E X I A BY L U C A N I C H E T T O

SHOWROOM LONDON , CHE L SE A HARBOUR DE SIGN CE NTRE M I L A N / PA R I S / R O M E / C A N N E S / C O L O G N E ETHIMO.COM

DRAWING BOARD

Shangri-La Shougang Park BEIJING

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Shougang Group Operator: Shangri-La Architecture, Interior Design and Landscaping: Lissoni Casal Ribeiro www.shangri-la.com

034

Lissoni Casal Ribeiro, a division of Lissoni

The structural framework of the main

& Partners, has unveiled designs for a 282-

building will be retained, with interiors stripped

key Shangri-La hotel within an abandoned

back to reveal a skeleton of industrial heritage

industrial complex formerly known as the

with concrete walls and steel roof trusses. The

Beijing Steelworks.

public spaces will be organised across two levels

Slated to open in 2022 to coincide with the

with the ground floor conceived as an open-

Beijing Winter Olympics, the project – led by

plan destination featuring restaurants and bars,

Piero Lissoni and Miguel Casal Ribeiro – takes

while the first floor mezzanine – accessed via

an integrated approach, and considers the

a striking spiral staircase – will house a lobby

architecture of the façades together with the

lounge. The 282 guestrooms occupy an adjacent

design of the interiors and landscaping of the

building connected by an elevated bridge, while

internal and external green spaces.

a new extension will accomodate events spaces.

The development comprises a series of

Though the site has a strong industrial

interconnected structures set around a central

identity, Lissoni Casal Ribeiro have sought to

main building, which will house the public

soften the mass of the buildings with smaller

spaces. An extensive glass façade covers the

volumes and vertical openings. Giving balance

original structure, enclosing the building in

and proportion, the façade is divided into three

a transparent skin that leaves its style intact

horizontal layers: the ground floor with terraces

while controlling the light and temperature

and cantilevering canopies; a second more

inside, transforming the space into a winter

compact layer; and finally a rooftop canopy that

garden filled with greenery.

conceals the MEP areas.

MIAMI SANDERSONDESIGNGROUP.COM/CLARKEANDCLARKE @CLARKE_CLARKE_INTERIORS

DRAWING BOARD

Arizona Biltmore, Waldorf Astoria PHOENIX

Virserius Studio has revealed designs for the

“Recognising the magnitude of the hotel’s

ongoing transformation of the Arizona Biltmore,

illustrious history, identity and panache, we

a Waldorf Astoria resort in the heart of Phoenix.

have been working to return it to its glory.”

The US$100 million project, due to complete

The team began by delving into the hotel’s

this year, involves a significant upgrade to the

history, reviewing old photography and hearing

swimming pool and surrounding terraces, as

the stories of former guests and staff. The

well as the outdoor events spaces, Wright’s Bar

ensuing concept sees architectural and Art Deco

and the historic cottage-style guestrooms.

details retained or recreated in a contemporary

The hotel first opened in 1929 and quickly

way. Wright’s fondness for stained-glass for

became the embodiment of old Hollywood

example has inspired the mosaic tiling of the

glamour, attracting presidents, royalty and film

swimming pool, while his signature Biltmore

stars. Considered an architectural masterpiece,

Block – a pre-cast patterned block used in the

it showcases the groundbreaking influence

construction of the hotel – has inspired the

of Frank Lloyd Wright, who consulted on the

geometric shapes of the light fittings, furniture

hotel with his protégé Albert Chase McArthur,

and poolside cabanas.

whose own influences are woven throughout the

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Blackstone Operator: Hilton Interior Design: Virserius Studio www.arizonabiltmore.com

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original design.

Virserius concludes: “All the pieces in this project are custom-designed in an assortment

“When Blackstone, the owners of Arizona

of colours that pay homage to the expansive

Biltmore, approached us, they emphasised the

Southwestern sky, land and vibrant art,

historic importance of the project,” explains

combining for what is sure to be an eclectic and

Therese Virserius, founder of Virserius Studio.

colourful surprise.”

DRAWING BOARD

Populus DENVER

Real estate firm Urban Villages has tasked architecture practice Studio Gang with designing a new 13-storey, mixed-use building in Denver.

Set for completion in 2023, Populus will house a 250-key hotel, 40 micro-apartments, a rooftop bar and public viewing deck, a ballroom overlooking the Colorado State Capitol, and a ground-level lobby with multiple F&B outlets.

The complex, which connects the city’s Golden Triangle and downtown districts, looks to re-energise the adjacent Civic Center Park, with Studio Gang selected for its approach to hyper-local, biophilic design and a shared commitment to sustainability.

“Forming an essential interface between inside and outside, the hotel’s distinctive windows expand its rooms to the city and Rocky Mountains beyond,” says the Chicagobased firm on its first building in the state. “The shape is inspired by the growth pattern seen on the aspen trees of Colorado, whose branches produce eyes on the trunk’s surface.”

In addition to complying with Denver’s Green Building Ordinance, the project will be designed in a way that improves its operational efficiency and minimises its impact on the environment.

Jon Buerge, Chief Development Officer at Urban Villages, comments: “As the signature private development on Civic Center Park, we felt a responsibility to create a community asset that would contribute to the architectural legacy of the Mountain West and provide 24/7 activation in this underserved area. We have brought together a team that exemplifies this vision – from architecture and design, to sustainability, hospitality and F&B.”

038

© Studio Gang

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Urban Villages Architecture: Studio Gang Interior Design: DesignAgency www.urban-villages.com

MADE FOR SHADE & OUTDOOR LIVING. www.jardinico.com

DRAWING BOARD

Ritz-Carlton Reserve Peninsula Papagayo COSTA RICA

Marriott International has appointed SB

The region’s tropical forests, flora and fauna

Architects, Gensler and Luxury Frontiers

inspire the visual narrative too, with guests

to design Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Peninsula

led through layers of landscaping by natural

Papagayo, an 80-room eco-luxury hotel with

footpaths, a hanging rope bridge and forest

residential villas in northern Costa Rica.

trails. There’s also a secret grotto pool and a

Slated to open in 2023, with interiors by San Francisco-based firm Bamo and landscaping by

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Gencom Developer: The Athens Group Operator: Marriott International Architecture: SB Architects, Gensler, Luxury Frontiers Interior Design: Bamo Landscaping: EDSA www.ritzcarlton.com

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funicular whisking guests up and down the hillside while providing bird’s-eye views.

EDSA, the development will tap into the ethos

Honouring the way Costa Ricans live

of the Guanacaste Province and its Pura Vida

in harmony with the land, site-sensitive

philosophy, drawing from historical insights

construction practices will preserve native

into the region’s past and traditions, physical

eco-systems and biodiversity, while responsibly

insights into its biodiversity, and social insights

sourced materials safeguard environmental

into its intersection of land, culture and people.

and human health. Guestrooms, residences

Nestled into the jungle, the resort’s elevated

and public spaces are also set to feature energy

treehouses, hillside villas and luxury tents

efficiency and recycling programmes, together

reflect Costa Rican heritage by way of local

with sustainability initiatives aiming to reduce

materials, classical forms and techniques that

and offset greenhouse gas emissions, cut

recall historic churches, while archaeological

water consumption and minimise solid waste.

artifacts dotted throughout will be indicative

Allowing residents to give back to the Guanacaste

of prehistoric tribes that lived in the valleys of

community through social programmes is a

Guanacaste over 10,000 years ago.

fundamental aspect of SB Architects’ vision too.

DRAWING BOARD

Virgin Hotels MIAMI

Virgin Hotels, the lifestyle brand founded by Sir Richard Branson, has announced it will open five new properties over the next three years, with ventures in Las Vegas, New Orleans and New York City set to debut in 2021, followed by Edinburgh in 2022.

The group will also plant its flag in Florida, with Virgin Hotels Miami due to open in the Brickell neighbourhood in 2023. Designed

by Blur Workshop, the 40-storey newbuild comprises 250 guestrooms, a spa, and over 15,000ft2 of meeting and event space, together with its signature Commons Club – a restaurant, bar and social club; a beer garden and live music venue; and a Funny Library coffee shop.

“We are very optimistic about the return of travel despite the tremendous difficulties posed

by Covid-19,” says CEO Raul Leal. “We’re not only thinking of the out-of-towner but are also focused on providing the unique Virgin experience to the communities we call home.

By leveraging our exclusive ‘Chamber’ room design, forward-thinking technology, food and beverage offerings, and entertainment, we’re able to ensure a delightful stay while keeping our travellers safe.”

The brand is exploring further sites in the USA and Europe as part of its international expansion plans, with openings on the horizon in Philadelphia, Glasgow, Cannes and Ibiza.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Blue Jay Capital Operator: Virgin Hotels Architecture: Blur Workshop www.virginhotels.com

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

DRAWING BOARD

Valley Ridge

Valley Ridge Holdings, the developer of a 284-

some of the UK’s largest real estate and lodging

acre site in Suffolk, has revealed further details

transactions, while Cook is best known as the

SUFFOLK

of its premium staycation resort slated to open

former CEO of Malmaison, where he drove the

in 2023/24.

development of both the Malmaison and Hotel

Built using sustainable and carbon-neutral

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Valley Ridge Holdings Architecture: Holder Mathias Architects www.valleyridge.com

du Vin brands.

practices, the resort will feature a 350-key four-

“Valley Ridge represents a tremendous

star hotel as well as a range of self-catering

opportunity to create a very special destination,

accommodation in the form of eco-friendly

one of very few like it in the UK, in a supply-

wooden lodges. A snow dome housing one of

constrained market,” comments Church. “I

the largest indoor ski slopes in the UK allows for

am very excited to support the Valley Ridge

the year-round provision of winter sports, while

team on the delivery of this project; together

additional leisure facilities include a state-of-

we are building a resilient business that meets

the-art water park, a spa and a cinema. The

changing consumer demand.”

project will also feature retail outlets and an

Cook adds: “The vision for Valley Ridge is

extensive food and beverage offering with bars,

that of a truly differentiated destination resort.

restaurants, cafés and a country club.

The combination of sport, fitness and wellbeing

To help deliver the £500m development,

coupled with a thoughtful and relevant culinary

Valley Ridge has brought in industry veterans

offering to suit all tastes is exceptional. The

David Church and Robert B. Cook, who will

quality of accommodation and ease of access

support the board with their real estate and

will ensure that Valley Ridge will become the

hospitality expertise. Church has advised on

go-to for UK staycations.”

© Holder Mathias Architects

044

© Edmund Dabney

SMALL DETAILS CREATE THE BIGGER PICTURE

Meeting…

Tara Bernerd Despite the challenges of the past 12 months, Tara Bernerd has completed a hotel in Hong Kong, and won a number of new projects. Here, she talks repeat business, remote styling and adapting to new ways of working.

Words: Guy Dittrich

W

ith the welcome flash

she says, for its proximity to both Zurich and

of a broad smile, Tara

Milan airports. Several recent social media

Bernerd greets me from

posts show her walking amongst snow-capped

her home office in Gstaad,

mountains. “I feel blessed to be here with the

Switzerland. Upbeat and

absolute benefit of nature,” she explains. “I’m

chatty, she oozes energy.

grateful to be out of the city.”

Her drive and determination is palpable. It is

Like the rest of her 31-strong team, of

a drive that has seen her eponymous studio

whom she is clearly proud, describing them as

– established in London in 2002 – bring her

incredibly talented, Bernerd has been working

aesthetic of sophisticated luxury to high-end

remotely. She made the decision to close the

hotels around the world.

UK office prior to lockdown – a full 12 months

Alongside residential and restaurant projects,

ago – a move triggered by some staff returning

private members clubs and a yacht, are a host of

from projects in Asia. Discussing the difficulties

hotels. There are several for Thompson Hotels

of 2020, she explains that it has been a year

including 60 Thompson in New York, now the

of adapting. The design process changed,

flagship of Sixty Hotels, and Belgraves, now

with more presentations being done virtually,

The Hari London, conveniently located just

including showing materials, colours and

around the corner from her office. Hong Kong

fabrics. The initial stages of a project – the

sees the recent completion of another for The

navigation of space, layouts, schematic designs

Hari brand. Throw in the UK flagship for IHG’s

– were also taking place online without too

Kimpton, plus several projects for Four Seasons

much disruption. However, the opening of

on both sides of the Atlantic, and you get a good

hotels during lockdown “was an extraordinary

measure of her portfolio.

experience” according to Bernerd, with the

London was home for Bernerd growing up,

dressing, styling and final snagging done via

but she now divides her time between the UK

remote cameras. “I’ve been in awe of how we

capital and Gstaad, the latter being convenient,

have adapted; we’ve been able to win pitches

© Philip Vile

© Philip Vile

MEETING…

Bernerd describes her style as handsome, as seen in projects such as Kimpton Fitzroy London (top) and Thompson Chicago (bottom)

and finalise design schemes even though we’re all in our separate places,” she notes.

So how has the design itself changed? Bernerd explains that hotels have made significant operational adjustments to improve guest safety and security. She believes that technological efficiencies will continue to develop, and sees more emphasis on how design can help operations with ideas of social distancing, space planning, staff and guest flows, and densities in public spaces. It is a commercial awareness that

“I’ve been in awe of how we have adapted; we’ve been able to win pitches and finalise design schemes even though we’re all in our separate places.”

collaborate with from Tokyo to the States,” she enthuses. Once the projects were secured, she then had the “incredible experience” of assisting Starck on the architecture, design and interiors, recalling that whilst there was humour, joy and playfulness in his work, it was always considered.

Acknowledging that her career is the culmination of organic experiences, she does recount a tipping point that took her into design.

This came with a personal loft investment into which she poured all her energy, pulling

is apparent in much of her work.

Bernerd is hugely positive that the industry

together the planning, architecture and design.

will be back with force. “Much of the last year

Developing two apartments – one buyer wanting

was about survival,” she observes, aware that

“everything in it apart from me and my clothes”

hotels are an area of strength for the studio.

– made her realise that she wanted to pursue

“We have clients with very long-term views

lifestyle design. “At that moment, when I had

and the feeling is that of optimism,” she notes,

ultimately created something from scratch and

with several projects slated to open from 2023

gone on to sell it, I realised this was exactly

and beyond. She also sees more resort work and

where I wanted to be.”

Along with this steady accumulation of

further assignments in Asia on the horizon.

Alongside this positive repartee is an

skills, Bernerd tells me the most important

endearing vulnerability. Asked to talk of herself

element of what she does is communication

growing up, Bernerd is hesitant. She’s coy about

and relationships: “I really do believe that connection, listening and understanding is

having left school aged 16 as it was not the “appropriate” thing to do and not something

and afterwards, there was the opportunity to

crucial.” She elaborates on the huge effort

she would now advocate. A rebellious teenager?

go to a lecture by Foster,” she explains, relating

made to ensure that all her teams have been

“Just enough,” she responds. She likes the idea

her fascination that design and architecture

staying connected and in touch during the

of going to the University of Life and talks of

could affect a city and lifestyles. “I found him

pandemic. Undoubtedly for someone high up

learning life lessons while working in Hong

inspirational; I ended up working through a

on the party guestlist, connections are one

Kong. She also had a stint at a London film

series of commitments and apprenticeships

thing of which she is not short. Converting

school. “I never wanted to be an actress; I was

and got myself into the work that I do today,”

those into something meaningful is however

more fascinated by the whole production side of

she explains. These commitments included a

her aptitude. And here, Bernerd’s success is

things,” she recounts, recalling the ideas that

role in the commercial sector for property firm

seen in the amount of repeat business she has.

somehow find their way into her projects. “Even

Nelson Bakewell, where she gained experience

Take the three Thompson hotels with Jason

today, a part of that continues, particularly in

in restaurants. “Without knowing how useful

Pomeranc in Chicago, London and New York.

the way I envisage spaces when I first approach

it would be, I was already establishing a strong

Or Aron Harilela and his Harilela Group hotels in

a project.” I allude to Ian Schrager’s outlook of a

understanding of the value of land and rentals,

London and Hong Kong. There are also several

hotel as theatre, but Bernerd turns this more to

some of the components behind what we do

projects with Four Seasons including 145 newly-

the mix of creative disciplines and how talents

today,” she continues. Bernerd then had a spell

enhanced Superior and Deluxe guestrooms

are brought together for a cohesive whole.

working with John Hitchcox – to whom she

at Four Seasons Hotel London Park Lane; the

She recalls an impactful moment of her

was married for a time – and Philippe Starck

redesign of the Empire Suite at Four Seasons

youth. “I was visiting the Royal Academy where

at their Yoo venture. This brought together all

Hotel New York Downtown; and the upcoming

there was an exhibition featuring the works of

the different experiences. “We were travelling,

Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences Fort

Sir Norman Foster and Lord Richard Rogers

looking for remarkable sites and people to

Lauderdale. Bernerd recalls the early days of the

049

MEETING…

“I really do believe that connection, listening and understanding is crucial.”

Interiors at the forthcoming Four Seasons Hotel Fort Lauderdale echo the heyday of the location and add to the expectation of a new Floridian Riviera

050

relationship, revealing that the first phone call

Similarly, at the recently opened Zentis Osaka,

was a key moment for the studio “given the

where she feels privileged to have been able to

gravitas of the brand”.

bring to life this new hotel brand; the pedigree

And what of her style? Amidst mentions of a

of owners Palace Hotel Group is showcased with

residential feel and the current need for homely

a traditional Japanese experience reflecting the

comforts, her use of architectural elements

local culture and style.

could be described as industrial or masculine.

Other upcoming projects include the 148-

“Handsome,” she counters, along with “not

key Four Seasons Hotel Fort Lauderdale, where

overly pretty”. And she’s right. Her projects

a scheme of understated elegance echoes the

also see bold statements of colour, of geometric

heyday of the city – an era of Chris-Craft boats

patterning and of massif forms inspired by the

and Capri pants – and will add to the expectation

architecture. Add in modern art, 20th century

of a new Floridian Riviera. Also on the books are

furniture and plenty of layering; it’s through

Equinox Hotel Los Angeles in a major landmark

this mix of creative elements that she sees the

designed by Frank Gehry opposite his Walt

opportunity to help brands create their DNA.

Disney Concert Hall. Bernerd and her team

This was the case for Thompson Hotels,

have plans for Europe too, including Rosewood

where her latest project – opening in Spring

Munich and, soon to be announced, a hotel with

2021 – is in Hollywood, a place dear to Bernerd

architecture by OMA and another Four Seasons.

having spent time there in her twenties. The

The rebellious teenager is an undoubted

design builds on old-school Hollywood glamour

survivor showing a design spirit that, in equal

mixed with West Coast Modernism in a scheme

measure, delights her clients for its business

that aims to capture the feel of the South of

acumen and their guests for its aura of seductive,

France and mid-century Southern California.

cosmopolitan élan.

Bonjour

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Meeting…

Trevor Horwell Relying on a devoted fanbase with an enduring appetite for Chef Nobu’s Japanese-inspired restaurants, Nobu Hospitality converts long-term diners into hotel guests. CEO Trevor Horwell explains how.

Words: Nicole Trilivas

PROFILE Trevor Horwell CEO, Nobu Hospitality

From Miami to Moscow, Marbella to Manila, the

EXPANSION DURING CONTRACTION

Nobu name needs little introduction among the

Despite the challenges of 2020, Nobu Hospitality

beau monde these days. First entering into the

managed to launch not one but three multi-

Since 2009, Trevor Horwell has been working alongside Nobu Hospitality shareholders Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper to migrate the trendy Nobu fine-dining concept into an international hotel empire, starting with the first hotel in Las Vegas in 2013.

collective lexicon in 1994, when Chef Nobuyuki

million-dollar hotels, with Nobu Hotel Chicago,

‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa opened his rule-defying

Nobu Hotel Warsaw and Nobu Hotel London

Japanese-meet-Peruvian titular restaurant in

Portman Square, the second London site for

New York, the brand reached new heights in 2013

the brand, which already has a presence in

when it opened the doors of its first hotel within

Shoreditch. While these properties didn’t suffer

Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Since then, the

any major pandemic-related opening delays,

group has gone on to plant flags in all regions,

there was a series of stops and starts from ever-

with each new addition tapping into the locale

changing restrictions to contend and Horwell was

while honouring its Japanese roots.

pleasantly surprised by the reception when the

Now, with 13 hotels open and 10 in development across five continents, Horwell’s international expertise – hewed from stints as Global Head of Hotels for Hard Rock Hotels and CEO of Como Investment – has ensured that the Japanese-minimalistic Nobu identity is never lost in translation.

Recent Openings: Nobu Hotel Warsaw; Nobu Hotel Chicago; Nobu Hotel London Portman Square Upcoming Openings: Nobu Hotel Marrakech (2021); Nobu Hotel Riyadh (2021); Nobu Hotel Atlanta (2022); Nobu Hotel & Residences Toronto (2023)

052

“When we went into hotels, we didn’t set out

doors opened. “We couldn’t believe the number

to reinvent the hotel experience,” says Trevor

of bookings we were getting from locals,” he says

Horwell, who in 2009 joined as CEO of Nobu

of Warsaw property, the brand’s first hotel in

Hospitality alongside shareholders Chef Nobu,

Eastern Europe; and it was the same in other

Robert De Niro and Meir Teper. “Nobu was

markets, with even Chicago’s outdoor rooftop

already a gamechanger 25 years ago, so our aim

restaurant turning over 100-150 covers per day

was to bring the brand’s culture and service to

in freezing December temperatures. “Despite

the hotel sector to create a 24/7 experience.”

everything, we were very encouraged, which

This strategy is largely hinged on the brand’s

gives us confidence for the future. We know that

well-defined culture and loyal customer base.

when our venues are fully open, they will perform

“We have five-million customers dining at Nobu

well,” he predicts.

restaurants every year,” continues Horwell. “So

Local restaurant business has always been key

we only really need to convert 10-15% to hotel

to new openings and has aided initial triumphs:

guests and we’ve filled all our rooms.”

“Sometimes, hotels don’t stabilise until the

With revenue projections slated to exceed

third or fourth year,” Horwell explains. “We’re

US$600 million over the next five years, you

very fortunate because once we open the doors

could say it’s working – so much so that not

of the restaurant, we build a significant local

even a pandemic can’t dim this brand’s future.

following. Around 70-80% of our restaurant

MEETING…

“The restaurant has to work. We don’t want to open a hotel in a city where we’re not going to get local F&B business; that’s the starting point for everything we do.”

business is from locals, and we’ve been able to

In many instances, location and real estate

convert some of those customers to stay with us

dictate the early stages of design; North America

owners today want to maintain the integrity of

too. A lot of hotel companies lose money in food

sees more newbuilds as there are better options

their properties whilst having an appetite to

and beverage, but that’s a strong element of our

in terms of space and availability, whereas

work with us to enable complete differentiation,

business model.”

European cities are more likely to be conversions.

revenue advantage, and leveraging our food and

“It’s always good to build from scratch because

beverage prowess,” says Horwell. “The global

you can create exactly what you want,” says

health and economic crisis have underscored

The fact that locals are coming into Nobu hotels

Horwell. The upcoming Nobu Hotel & Residences

this, and with Nobu’s strong appeal to the local

also adds a native infusion into the global brand’s

Toronto, the first residential offer from the brand,

market as well as the international traveller, we

identity. “It’s the locals coming in that creates

is one of the more ambitious newbuilds: “We’re

are pleased to provide such advantage.”

a different experience, which in turn brings

developing twin towers which will feature 660

Having planted flags in the Americas, Europe,

a different type of customer into the hotel; it

residential units and 36 hotel suites as well as a

the Middle East, Africa and Asia, the group

becomes a 365-degree holistic experience.”

GLOBAL RECOGNITION, LOCAL APPEAL

Hotel Ibiza Bay. “An increasing number of hotel

lifestyle space known as Nobu Centre,” he says of

plans to bolster its presence in key destinations.

With this in mind, Nobu Hospitality hires

the Teeple Architects-designed project. A podium

New markets are determined by economic

its back- and front-of-house team from the

at the base will retain the classic brick façade of

prospects (for example, in some European

community: “We bring in local employees to

the original Pilkington Glass Factory while the

submarkets average room rates are just too

drive what the local experience is about. If you go

two 45-storey towers rise above. Though it’s still

low to be considered desirable), and also by the

to Cabo for example, you want to live the Mexican

under construction, the project is already hugely

restaurant’s viability. “The restaurant has to

experience; we do this by adding local dishes to

successful: “We sold all the residences within

work,” says Horwell. “We don’t want to open

the menu and programming site-specific events

three months, probably at some of the highest

a hotel in a city where we’re not going to get

with the help of native curators. Even the music

prices ever paid per square foot in Toronto,”

local F&B business; that’s the starting point for

is selected according to the destination.”

Horwell notes.

everything we do.”

character, Horwell stresses that the hotels must

FUTURE FACING

for the future growth of the hotel business.

be definitively and immediately Nobu. This is

Along with Toronto, Horwell says there are ten

“We have 45 restaurants in 20 countries; we’re

largely achieved via coherent design: “We tend

projects currently in development around the

aiming to get to the same level with our hotels

to work with a few select designers for all of our

world including Riyadh, Tel Aviv, São Paulo

within the next five years or so,” says Horwell.

projects; Rockwell Group designed the Las Vegas

and Atlanta. One of the most anticipated is the

It’s an ambitious plan in the current climate,

debut and Miami Beach hotel having already

brand’s entry into Africa. Nobu Hotel Marrakech

but one that the team are deeply committed to.

devised a number of our restaurants, while Studio

is located in the Hivernage district, steps from

And as for that impressive revenue projection?

PCH have worked on our properties in Cabo San

the historic heart of the city, and will house 71

“$600 million is what we can achieve, but for

Lucas, Malibu and Warsaw,” Horwell explains.

guestrooms along with a variety of dynamic

us, it’s really about each hotel being successful

“For the new London opening, we enlisted David

dining venues and rooftop spaces. The venture

as a standalone, and that’s how we’re moving

Collins Studio. These designers understand the

is a collaboraion with Hivernage Collection and

forward as a brand.”

Nobu aesthetic.”

MC Hotels, the latter being co-owners of Nobu

And yet, while each property has its own

The restaurant-first approach plots the course

053

THE LOBBY Pool Life L’Albereta brings Fornasetti’s muse to life in mosaic form using 600,000 Bisazza tiles.

It’s not uncommon for a hotel’s wellness facilities to include one – if not multiple – swimming pools, so what sets one pool apart from the next?

Some opt for the rooftop variety with panoramic views of the city, while others prefer an infinityedge in which the water seemingly flows into the ocean beyond.

At L’Albereta, a Relais & Châteaux hotel nestled in the hills of Franciacorta in Northern Italy, it’s the craftsmanship of its home nation that has inspired. In a recent revamp, the hotel joined forces with Bisazza to adorn its spa pool with 600,000 Bisazza tiles, arranged in a design that illustrates the countenance of Belle Époque opera singer Lina Cavalieri. One of several decorative motifs created as part of the glass mosaic manufacturer’s partnership with Fornasetti, the Ortensia mosaic depicts a mysterious black-andwhite portrait of Cavalieri – Piero Fornasetti’s muse – discreetly surfacing amid a multitude of petals formed by 25 pastel hues of pink and blue 20 x 20mm glass tiles. The mosaic design blends seamlessly into shades of green framing the pool, evoking an aura of relaxation whilst also establishing a dialogue with the surrounding foliage and nearby outdoor garden.

Enhanced by the magnifying effect of the water, the swimming pool decor represents a unique intersection of art, design and wellbeing by virtue of the fine craftsmanship and savoirfaire of both Italian companies.

© Matteo Imbriani

THE LOBBY

Garden-in-a-Hotel Fifty years ago, the prime minister of Singapore

immersive treetop walk experience overlooking

declared his vision to transform the then polluted

the lush forest canopy. Meanwhile, sculptural

city-state into a Garden City. The approach has

pavilions inspired by birds’ nests are ensconced

inspired a wealth of biophilic architecture, and

in greenery, providing enclaves for guests to

continues to influence the design of private

relax amongst nature.

residences and commercial buildings alike.

Besides its nature-inspired aesthetics,

The latest enterprise to bring the outside in

Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay is upgrading its

is Pan Pacific’s Parkroyal Collection Marina

F&B experiences, bringing sustainable practices

Bay, billed as Singapore’s first garden-in-a-

to both the dining concepts and operations.

hotel. Originally designed by neo-futuristic

All-day dining restaurant Peppermint will use

American architect John Portman and formerly

locally-sourced ingredients along with produce

known as Marina Mandarin, the 21-storey hotel

hand-harvested from the on-site urban farm,

has undergone a SG$45million renovation to

and diners will be able to step out onto the terrace

incorporate a new 370m2 indoor lobby garden

to explore the herbs and edible flowers that top

adorned with a 13m-tall landscaped green wall

their culinary creations. Processes will also be

and more than 2,400 different trees and plants.

implemented for food waste to be broken down

One of the key biophilic attractions is the

into nutrient water for the garden, resulting in a

Atrium Sky Bridge, an elevated path offering an

circular economy.

The Chemistry of Design “It’s all about chemistry!” says Maria Katsarou Vafiadis of her approach to design. “A smartly designed space can interact with its environment, and most importantly, with the person who occupies it.”

Since founding MKV Design in 1999, Vafiadis has designed luxury hotels and private residences around the world.

Her latest venture sees a selection of these projects come together in Design Alchemist, a new coffee-table book devoted to the elements that connect people and places.

Written by Dominic Bradbury and published by Assouline, the 255-page hardback book is divided into themes such as location, culture and history, and explores the inspiration behind the studio’s notable projects. Featured hotels include Royal Savoy in Lausanne, Sheraton Grand London Park Lane and The Romanos at Costa Navarino in Greece, as well as Bürgenstock Hotel in the Swiss Alps, described as one of the most ambitious and wide-ranging projects undertaken by MKV Design.

“Spaces that combine ingredients such as beauty and function, history and culture, artistry and invention, become all the more rewarding and memorable,” writes Bradbury. “For MKV Design, this is part of the chemistry of design.”

056

LET’S FOCUS ON THE “WE” IN WELLBEING.

Chalet Anna Maria, Photographer Alex Kaiser, Austria

KOKON Corporate Campus, Liechtenstein

Courtesy of Faena Hotel, Miami Beach. Photographer Nik Koenig, USA

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THE LOBBY

Hotel 2035 ReardonSmith Architects ask students to help create a guestroom for the next generation.

When it comes to designing the guestroom of the

reconfigured by guests to suit their own needs. Fitted

future, who better to help than the guests of the future

with high-quality natural materials and a spa-like

themselves? With this in mind, ReardonSmith Architects

bathroom, the scheme features moveable walls, fold-

has collaborated with students from international hotel

away furniture, mood lighting and a bed that disappears

schools to create Heya, a space for globally connected

into the ceiling, resulting in a variety of uses ranging

digital natives who believe customisation is the new

from workspace to social hub.

luxury. Designed specifically for Gen Z – those born

For Jonny Sin, Director at ReardonSmith Architects,

between 1995 and 2010 – the concept was developed

Heya is a timely solution: “As we stand on the threshold

around four core principles:

of a post-pandemic world, two global influences are aligning to shape human behaviour; our response to the

• Versatility – accommodating four different guest types

experience of Covid-19 and the increasing significance

identified as leisure, business, wellness and long-stay

of Generation Z in how we live, work and play on our

• Technology – fully integrated into the room using an

attitudes, our choices and how we consume. Gen Zers

Internet-of-Things approach

are enabled by ever-advancing technology to curate the

• Wellness - through natural daylight and the latest

experiences and environments around them.”

standards of sustainable and biophilic design

The project – created together with HoCoSo and

• Personal – an array of amenities to personalise the

Delight Lifestyle Branding Agency – was initially

stay, delivered at the touch of an app

designed as part of Sleep & Eat’s room set competition, but having recognised the tangible benefits for owners,

058

Thanks to technology, Heya – named after the Japanese

investors and operators, ReardonSmith have continued

word for ‘room’ and traditionally a space that served as

with the scheme, creating a website (myheya.com) that

a living and dining room as well as a bedroom – can be

shows the room in action.

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THE LOBBY

060

Counting Sheep

Elevating Design

Lympstone Manor adds new accommodation in the form of Shepherd Huts nestled in the woodland.

IGV Group and Caroppi Caberlon join forces for a journey to remember.

With travellers continually on the lookout for novel experiences, hotels across

The interiors of an elevator aren’t usually at the

the UK have been enhancing their overnight offer with new cabins, lodges or

top of a designer’s to-do list, but Italian architects

standalone suites. Last year, Ramside Hall in Durham built luxury treehouses

Caroppi Caberlon are set to change that, having

in the forest, while Gilpin Hotel in the Lake District created spa suites that

collaborated with IGV Group to rethink the lift

appear to float over water. Now, Lympstone Manor in Devon has unveiled its

cabin as a suspended moment of surprise. Inspired

Shepherd Huts, a collection of standalone units across the 28-acre estate.

by periods such as La Belle Époque and the Golden

Named Hare’s Rest, Otter Holt, Beehive, Hedgehog Row and Fox Den in

Age, Chiara Caberlon and Ermanno Caroppi wanted

honour of the local wildlife, the huts feature a kitchenette and lounge as well as

to show how a lift’s functional role can become an

an outdoor deck overlooking the vineyard; some even come with freestanding

integral part of a design scheme, transporting guests

baths and wood-fired hot-tubs. The cabins sleep up to five guests, and are

in a memorable way.

surprisingly spacious thanks to some clever craftsmanship from Blackdown

“The idea of furnishing an elevator – a space that

Shepherd Huts; along with the king-size bed, additional sleeping areas have

has always been taken for granted – was fun, and

been engineered to disappear into the fabric of the structure when not in use.

confirmation that companies are increasingly aiming

Each hut has been designed bespoke in colours and fabrics inspired by its

to differentiate themselves through uniqueness and

namesake, complemented by artwork handpainted by Rachel Toll.

creativity,” says Caroppi.

The Shepherd Huts are the latest in a number of new ventures at Lympstone

The designs – which include a Wes Anderson-style

Manor; the flagship hotel from Michael Caines has recently won planning

scene with hotel keys hanging from the wall – are

permission for a swimming pool and accompanying pool house, while the chef

part of IGV Group’s Ad Hoc line, a new generation

is soon to launch Mickey’s Beach Bar & Restaurant on the nearby seafront.

of lifts created by architects.

THE QUEEN’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 2020

S

ubscription-based services are typically

serve the surge of remote workers. In October

used in the software and e-commerce

2020, Selina – which targets digital nomads,

industries, but after witnessing the global

travel-addicts and adventurous backpackers

success of businesses like Netflix and Spotify,

– announced its acquisition of Remote Year, a

other sectors are considering the model as a way

company that facilitates travel and accomodation

to generate new revenue. Meal kits, beauty boxes

for remote workers. The partnership coincides

and gin clubs have grown exponentially in recent

with the launch of Selina’s two subscription-

years, and now the travel industry has recognised

based packages, which allow members to

the potential too.

purchase travel credits for lower rates, or stay

Three years ago, BeRightBack was amongst the first to make waves by introducing a

at a Selina hotel for extended periods with coworking facilities included.

subscription service wherein travellers pay a

And the latter months of 2020 saw a slew of

GB£49.99 monthly fee in exchange for three

work and travel passes from leading hospitality

surprise holidays per year. At the other end of

groups. First off the mark was CitizenM, which

the spectrum, luxury hospitality brand Inspirato

rolled-out a corporate subscription package that

launched a US$2,500 per month subscription

includes a three-night stay at any of its hotels

Subscribed Stays With remote working here to stay, the hospitality industry looks to capitalise on digital nomads by adopting subscriptionbased services.

Words: Eleanor Howard

that allows members to book unlimited stays

worldwide, workspace and meeting room access,

at its selection of homes and hotels with no

as well as superfast WiFi. Accor has implemented

nightly charges, taxes or fees. Focusing on the

a Hotel Office concept that allows workers to

‘holiday’ aspect of travel, these offerings were

make daytime bookings and use guestrooms for

born out of the consumer’s desire for simplicity

work, while Hyatt’s The Great Relocate package

and convenience. Such concepts set the wheels in

provides a flexible way to see the world while

motion and in 2020, travel industry intelligence

working and living in the comfort of its hotels.

platform Skift named the movement as one

As we approach the second quarter of

of its Megatrends, stating ‘subscriptions and

2021, travel subscriptions are showing no

memberships represent a compelling way for

sign of slowing, so much so that Wunderman

travel companies to create lasting relationships

Thompson included the trend in its The Future

with consumers’.

100 list: “Travel subscriptions are a way for both

With the global pandemic forcing the

hotels and residences to attract much-needed

hospitality industry to seek out new revenue

custom, and for these businesses to pivot to

streams, and at the same time fundamentally

offer accommodation that’s targeted to remote

changing the we live and work, subscription

workers, rather than traditional vacationers.”

services are gaining ground.

concept, the pandemic has seen a renewed drive

workforce will work remotely five days a month,

for loyalty, which might just be the catalyst for

according to Global Workplace Analytics; thus,

it to flourish.

what has emerged is a reimagining of the traditional travel subscription model to instead

062

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Volkshaus BASEL Herzog & de Meuron bring new life to a group of public buildings in Basel, returning them to their former use as a place to connect.

Words: Guy Dittrich • Photography: © Robert Rieger

V

064

olkshaus, a house of the people. You

won because of our vision and positioning of

would expect something accessible,

the property,” explains Weinberg succinctly.

locally

connected,

Based on their experience with Hotel Helvetia

something for everyone. And this is precisely

in Zurich and restaurant developments for third

what you once got from this group of 1920s

parties, they received a 100-year lease.

relevant

and

public buildings located in central Basel. In its

Supporting their competition entry was

heyday it was home to concert and beer halls,

a letter of intent from Herzog & de Meuron

restaurants and retail space; ahead of its time,

(HdM), the architectural firm behind high

it was a truly mixed-use project. Over the years

profile projects such as Beijing’s ‘Bird’s Nest’

however, the diversity of use was lost to offices,

stadium and Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie. With

and an architecturally invasive renovation in the

their studio located just across the Rhine from

1970s – which included the insertion of HVAC

Volkshaus, and a personal connection with the

services, laminate panelling and plastic cable

new owners, they were a natural choice to help

ducts – did little to help.

realise the vision. “Whilst studying architecture

Step in architect Leopold Weinberg and

at ETH Zurich, Jacques Herzog and Pierre de

lawyer Adrian Hagenbach, partners of real estate

Meuron were professors at the outpost location

portfolio management firm We Are Content,

in Basel and I did my Masters with them,” says

who entered the city’s 2010 competition to

Weinberg, going on to describe the subsequent

revitalise the buildings. Ever since they founded

working relationship as like having a “a great

the business, their aim has been to develop

conversation partner”.

concepts that centre around a property’s

And so began the staged refurbishment. The

history, architecture and location. In Basel, the

buildings of Volkshaus Basel are situated around

ambition was to once again make Volkshaus a

three sides of a cobbled courtyard that is home

place where people could come together. “We

to leafy poplar trees. One of the buildings, a

065

Wallcoverings depict park scenes taken from 17th century copperplate etchings found in a Basel museum

concert hall, is much larger than the others, which in turn house meeting spaces, a bar, brasserie and 45 guestrooms across five floors.

The first stage of the project saw the development of the public spaces – a moody bar, a brasserie overlooking the courtyard, and the reinstatement of the concert hall and other smaller event spaces. These opened in 2012 and a strong cultural programme put the venue firmly back on the map.

“The design is about being classic, beautiful and sensual at the same time but it’s also very simple and not too overloaded,” enthuses Ascan Mergenthaler, Partner-in-Charge at Herzog & de Meuron. The previous interventions left little of the history of the building. “You can never go back to the original once it is severely altered or destroyed but you can capture that spirit,” he continues.

First came the spatial organisation. Today the new lobby, bright and white, is counterpoised against the darkened hues of the bar opposite.

The lobby, together with the installation of glass vitrines either side of the entrance to

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Bedside tables and solid oak lounge chairs were specially conceived for Volkshaus and play on Herzog de Meuron’s X-Hocker stool

the courtyard and concert hall, is used as an

designs and prototyping by HdM. “With the

exhibition space by local gallery von Bartha.

furniture, we didn’t want to go back to the

The hotel’s immediate neighbourhood has a

1920s or follow sleek modern design trends, so

strong alternative art scene, to say nothing of

we designed our own,” explains Mergenthaler,

the connection with Art Basel.

describing the pieces as unexpected and timeless.

The layout of the new guestrooms interpreted

The solid oak lounge chairs and ottomans

the concept of historic grand hotels, which had

were specially conceived for the project, and

bathrooms located along the corridor. “HdM

side tables are a play on the firm’s X-Hocker

cleverly dealt with this by creating a large

stool. Made by Horgenglarus, Switzerland’s

‘cupboard’ within each guestroom,” explains

oldest manufacturer of chairs and tables, are

Weinberg. The black stained oak and back-

the elegant Volkshaus bentwood chairs seen in

painted glass of this entry and bathroom zone

the bar, brasserie and guestrooms. Look closely,

contrast with the lighter tones of the bedroom.

each features a different shaped backrest.

“It hides away all the noise,” quips Weinberg.

the act. Laufen supplied the VAL sinks designed

curtains, which recount the origins of Volkshaus

by Konstantin Grcic, and the IALO pendant

as a theatrical space. Curtains by ZigZag of

lamps in the lobby are produced by Zumtobel.

Zurich are at the windows, but also behind

Deliberate use of local suppliers lessens

the bed, and when drawn serve to conceal

environmental impact, explains Weinberg, but

the bathroom and entrance door, creating “a

more prosaically also ensures quick repairs and

very intimate space – you feel embraced and

replacement if required.

cocooned,” engages Mergenthaler.

The property sees a good deal of product

068

Several other Swiss manufacturers get in on

This feeling of separation is enhanced by

There is consistency in other design details that have allowed HdM to bring to life the beauty

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070

of the old buildings. Oval windows either side

how this extends to the quality of produce used

of the original entrance to the bar are repeated

in the kitchen and even the toiletries. Supplied

along passages, on internal doors and mirrors.

by Zurich-based Soeder, these 100% biological

Similarly, headboards of oak slats reference the

products are so fresh they have a short shelf life.

benches out in the courtyard, while the diamond

Weinberg sees such consistency as almost

pattern of the security bars at ground floor

Zen-like. And it is evident too in the choice of

windows is played on in bathroom ceilings.

materials, particularly the Terrazzo flooring,

The details are joined by a signature colour,

which was common a century ago. All was

applied boldly in the bathroom tiling and in

newly poured by a Luzern-based supplier and

more subtle shades in the soft furnishings

fulfilled the dual role of levelling out the floors

and wallcoverings. “The Volkshaus colour is

and concealing pipework. Super-hygienic and

green, which comes from the trees shading

long-lasting, the Terrazzo ticks many boxes.

the courtyard,” states Mergenthaler. Pale

Weinberg and Hagenbach use the analogy

green makes it into the guestroom wallpaper

of a good leather jacket to describe their

made by Wirz Tapeten. In the fading light of

transformation of Volkshaus, stating “it

early evening, the effect here is almost that of

becomes better as it becomes used.” They also

polished concrete but the reality is a brushed

explain their investment as asymmetrical, with

fleece-like feel with large-scale park scenes

more in some areas and less in others, yet the

taken from 17th century copperplate etchings

quality is high throughout. Theirs is a curated

found in a Basel museum and realised in the

experience based on the perception of luxury.

style of Merian stitch. Such tactility is important

A relaxed luxury of calm informality that has

to Weinberg and Hagenbach, who emphasise

consistency at its core.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Volkshaus Basel Immobilien Architecture and Interior Design: Herzog & de Meuron Construction Manager: Dietziker Partner Baumanagement Construction Engineer: Ulaga Weiss www.volkshaus-basel.ch

072

Terme di Saturnia TUSCANY THDP draws on Tuscan tradition and the qualities of water to transform a spa resort near Italy’s most famous thermal springs.

Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Giorgio Baroni

T

ucked away in the unspoilt countryside of southern Tuscany, Terme di Saturnia is recognised as one of the most historic spa complexes in Italian history, with

natives flocking to its natural hot springs for thousands of years. Originating from the rain that lands on the region’s Mount Amiata lava dome, the geological conformation is fuelled by a tank-shaped crater, from which clean water renewed at intervals of six hours flows with a constant temperature of 37.5 degrees. As the water descends down the valley towards the picturesque Le Cascate del Mulino falls, it cools and the sulphur within it crystalises, making the pools brighter with an almost celestial appearance.

The natural phenomenon has maintained its allure to this day, so much so that a luxury resort was built nearby in 1919, allowing travellers to stay the night after bathing in its therapeutic waters. Now, the resort has been given a new lease of life by London-based architecture and interior design studio THDP, whose renovation looks to the future while paying homage to Saturnia’s storied past.

“The brief was to achieve a visible and perceived renewal with a stronger identity and international Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) standard while retaining the internal architecture and maintaining the high-quality furnishings of late designer Lorenzo Bellini’s original scheme,” says Italian architect Manuela Mannino, who founded THDP with her partner Nicholas J Hickson. “Our inspiration was centred around the supernatural condition of the pure thermal water

073

The hotel’s relationship with its surroundings is recalled through warm colours, travertine and greenery, which encapsulate what Maremma is renowned for

074

that flows from the top of the Mount Amiata

for serving wines and a social table for hosting

to an underground river, eroding the minerals

Eno-gastronomic experiences and tastings.

and forming the conditions of the pool. We

“Our objective was to enhance the arrival

also focused on local finishes, crafts, forms

experience with the renovation of the entrance

and colours, using terms such as reflection,

and porch, creating greater transparency

corrosion, erosion, layering and ripples to create

between interior and exterior, and introduce

the visual and emotional language.”

new lighting such as suspended lanterns

The aquatic theme – coordinated by Project

and two large installations that replicate the

Manager Patrizia Scafati – begins in the

reflections of water on the ceiling,” THDP

reception area, designed in collaboration with

continues. “We also created a sense of vertical

local artisans such as Ragnini, a craft workshop

perspective through sculptures, including one

that was tasked with creating oxidised tables

that is designed to recall the waterfalls of the

and bronzed handles, and master craftsmen

nearby mill and the oxidation of the water by

like Materica, who use sulphur-dense water

overlaying several finished metal plates with

and the liquid from metal to devise unique

different oxidation effects. Lastly, we wanted

finishes. Guests are greeted by a new fireplace

to devise a point of encounter between classic

and cosy living area, though an existing central

and contemporary by mixing existing furniture

window remains intact, framing an olive tree

with new outdoor pieces by the likes of Emu and

and furniture upholstered in outdoor fabrics.

Talenti, along with two large lounge sofas that

Lighting installations by Gomiero further

surround the lobby’s central fireplace.”

emphasise the narrative, with rippling glass

Moving through the ground floor – lit by Il

spheres transposing the reflexes of water onto

Fanale’s bronze Plie lamps and rattan appliques

the walls, while a pop-up bar has been added

by Bover – a new living wall provides a backdrop

Taking cues from the Tuscan landscape, guestrooms feature parquet flooring, leather chairs and soft furnishings in tones of turquoise and petroleum

076

for culinary events, as well as shielding the

turquoise tiles decorating bronze metal dividers

entrance to the Buffet Room, a transitional

by Ragnini. The bar counter features turquoise

space between the lobby and the hotel’s 1919

and petrol blue terracotta tiles too, handmade

Restaurant. Elsewhere, the White Room features

by Pecchioli Firenze in its Fondale colourway.

a series of square tables arranged around two

“Terme di Saturnia is famous for its wild

large dining tables handcrafted in traditional

horses, leather craft and ceramics, so our

Tuscan style, while flexible venue Sala Bianca

concept derived from this sense of belonging to

– originally conceived as a secondary breakfast

the motherland, a deep attachment to nature

room – can now be used for private dinners and

and its cycles,” the practice explains. “The

evening events thanks to a connecting patio.

colour palette combines golden earthy tones and

Centred around an olive tree, the patio – or

aquatic hues, which become richer and deeper

internal garden – is furnished with a blend of

the closer you get to the natural pool, while

classic and contemporary pieces and continues

the teal and turquoise shades are a result of

the emphasis on the surrounding area, in

the water’s temperature, which changes to aqua

particular the spa. The innate relationship is

green once it flows down to the waterfall.”

recalled through travertine flooring, artworks

Upstairs, the property’s 132 guestrooms have

and terracotta pieces reminiscent of Tuscan

been freshened up to mirror the look and feel

workers from centuries gone by, together with

of the public spaces. Custom Axminster rugs by

warm colours and greenery that encapsulate

Brintons give way to a colour palette inspired

what the Maremma region is renowned for.

by the shades of the surrounding countryside,

Rounding out the lobby level renovations,

while furniture derives from Tuscany’s leather

the bar and library balance tradition and

traditions, and soft furnishings by Citielle in

modernity by way of vases from ND Dolfi and

turquoise and petroleum tones are evocative

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sleeper.indd 1

12/02/2021 16:06:42

of the area’s thermal spring waters. Carpets

generations, while we also worked with an

have been replaced with Havwoods’ walnut

expert in restoration from Florence, an FF&E

oak parquet flooring and rugs by Loloey, while

company who are masters of carpentry, and a

padded drapery and blackout Velcro curtains

soft furnishings contractor with vast knowledge

were added to guarantee a good night’s sleep,

of the country’s fabrics industry.”

and bespoke details come in the form of

Though the end result was a success, THDP

transparent wardrobes designed by THDP and

did face some hurdles along the way, including

artworks from Rome-based studio Duealberi.

the preservation of wooden furnishings in the

Bathrooms follow the Italian aesthetic and

common areas and rooms to maintain continuity

couple brass thermostatic showers by Zucchetti

with the original scheme and make the

with restored travertine coatings and accessories

refurbishment more sustainable. “The project

by Monteleone, including rectangular and round

was challenging as we made the conscious

cosmetic mirrors. In the suites, Marca Corona’s

decision to breathe new life into a number of

Motif Extra tiles reproduce the veins, shades

existing casegoods,” the studio recalls.

and tactility of Calacatta marble in porcelain stone form.

078

Up next for the firm are a DoubleTree by Hilton in Rome and a Delta by Marriott in Sicily,

“Most of the companies involved were

while it is also working on the restoration of

local, from Italian design districts and with

a listed palace close to Venice’s Rialto Bridge,

traditions,” THDP confirms. “This idea

collaborating with SGA Studio to convert the

extends to the contractors, who were vital to

heritage building into extended stay apartments

the project. Ragnini is a metal workshop based

for a European hotel operator. If Terme di

in the pretty Tuscan village of Pitigliano, which

Saturnia is anything to by, guests can expect

has continued the family tradition for seven

another example of Italian design at its finest.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Terme di Saturnia Natural Destination Affiliation: The Leading Hotels of the World Architecture and Interior Design: THDP Project Manager: Patrizia Scafati Graphic Design: Luca Galliano Art Consultants: Agostinelli Arte, Duealberi MIP/HVAC Consultant: L22 Landscaping: Paolo Pejrone www.termedisaturnia.it

TERME DI SATURNIA Ci.ti.elle owes its fame to two generations of experience in the textile furnishing sector.

The manufacture of interior curtains, sofas, armchairs, bed bases, carpets, wallcoverings are among most important services carried out by the company.

The quality of the work carried out by the tailoring workshop is enhanced by the use of exclusive fabrics and refined coordinated products also made to the client’s design.

Its 30 years of experience joined with the collaboration of the most qualified craftsmen in the furniture and design sector, allows Ci.ti.elle to guarantee the satisfaction of its customers through innovative products and excellent services. www.citielle.com • info@citielle.com

Hyatt Centric PHILADELPHIA Brooklyn-based studio Crème taps into the industrial past of Pennsylvania’s lumber capital to design a new flagship for Hyatt.

Words: Ben Thomas Photography: © Nicole Franzen

M

eander through Pennsylvania’s northern

Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia –

tier and it soon becomes clear why the

located within the trendy Rittenhouse Square

state literally translates to ‘Penn’s

at 1620 Chancellor Street – captures this

Woods’. A seemingly endless blanket of white

industrial heritage with aplomb. The newly

pine, oak and hemlock trees stretches as far as

opened flagship honours Pennsylvania’s craft

the eye can see, though this rich landscape was

traditions through a Shaker-style scheme by

under threat just a century ago.

Brooklyn-based architecture and design studio

When Quaker colonists descended on the

Crème, whose first full hotel project is sprinkled

banks of the Delaware River in 1682, it is

with subtle Japanese touches that pay homage

estimated that 90% of the region was covered

to its founder’s signature style.

in forest. As more and more settlers arrived,

“We wanted not only to reference the city’s

timber quickly emerged as the building material

role as an industrial leader through materials

of choice and the lumber industry boomed, with

and decorative objects, but also incorporate a

trunks often lashed together on rafts and floated

narrative centred around the rich landscape and

downstream to Philadelphia for construction

abundant natural resources of the surrounding

purposes. By the 1920s however, all that

area, which allowed Philadelphia to become

remained of these once sprawling holts were a

a historic lumber capital and the basis for

few scarce strands of inaccessible and protected

Pennsylvania’s farming tradition,” says Jun

woodland. Thankfully, the state government

Aizaki, founder and Principal of Crème.

and Civilian Conservation Corps stepped in to

To counter the newbuild’s glossy façade, the

purchase thousands of acres across the province,

practice incorporated an abundance of raw wood

allowing its timber trade to continue operations

and organic patterns, which create a sense of

while better conserving the fertile environment.

warmth and elevated rusticity that is accented

081

Interiors honour Philadelphia’s craft traditions through a Shakerstyle design by Crème, who added subtle Japanese touches in an ode to its founder’s signature style

by details connecting the city’s roots to its modern-

interiors and serves as a visual guide to the importance

day streetscape of art, mosaics and murals.

of its natural resources and agriculture for the state.

In the lobby, timber is used to temper industrial

The collection includes an antique ice pick – the oldest

materials such as exposed concrete and blackened

of the bunch – as well as ligneous items like miniature

steel, with panelled walls and stitched leather coming

houses referencing agricultural buildings, a set of

together to unify the skills – woodwork, metalsmith

oars, and unique finds such as vintage tennis rackets

and leathercraft – that have shaped Philadelphia’s

sourced from a hobbyist’s basement.

culture for centuries. In similar fashion, the clean lines

“Allié stressed the importance of the conversation

and geometry of a double-height staircase contrast

between items and the narrative they constructed as a

with suspended wooden spindles that tip their hat to

whole,” Aizaki recalls of the collaboration. “As such,

Shaker craftsmanship, while custom black cage lights

each piece works to create a loose narrative around the

by Preciosa and an art installation featuring forest-

natural world and the cultivation of land, as an ode to

like patterns behind the reception desk make the visual

the farming history of Pennsylvania.”

references to the unique topography of the region.

for the elevator lobbies too, integrating recycled

the lobby through to the hotel’s restaurant and bar,

garments to bring the Philadelphia tapestry to life.

Patchwork, where functional seating with low-slung

The textile-based works include abstract references

backs and tapered leg details offset Shaker-style pieces

to the human figure and landscapes in a clean,

like a geometric side table combining modern shapes

muted palette that allows the textures and form to

with traditional spindles. Another on-theme addition

be the focus. Similar themes are explored in a vibrant

is Stellar Works’ Exchange collection, designed by

painting that Caffrey produced for the lobby, which is

Crème as a contemporary take on the traditional

said to “capture the dignity and beauty of the human

Windsor chair with steel supports and stretchers.

form and our planet, where the human condition binds

“The name Patchwork speaks to the interior

some figures together while pushing others apart,”

inspiration and references Philadelphia itself, whose

according to its creator. The intensity of the painting

neighbourhoods look almost like a patchwork quilt

is striking at first, though figurative elements slowly

when viewed from above,” explains Aizaki, who called

emerge and keep the attention. Additional works by

on emerging artists from across America’s East Coast

local artists – sourced by art consultancy Soho Myriad

to bring life to the walls by creating works in keeping

– complement quilt-inspired rugs in the guestrooms,

with the narrative. “Along with materials, art was

offering a bold counterpoint to the pared back aesthetic

a critical element to our design and offers the most

and take cues from urban exploration.

direct connection to historical references.”

082

The Brooklyn-based artist crafted 22 unique collages

This fusion of tradition and modernity flows from

“As with any project of this nature, our primary

The lobby’s large display shelves, for instance,

focus was on the materials and design features and

showcase wood and metal works along with a mix of

their influence on guests as they move through the

objects and accessories curated by artists Fanny Allié

space,” says Aizaki. “We wanted to reflect the heart

and Yael Caffrey. Old and new, natural and manmade,

and vibrancy of the city and continue the narratives of

each piece embodies textures seen throughout the

past and present, nature and manmade, while keeping

083

084

comfort at the forefront. In the guest corridors,

layout, shifting the entrance to centre and

timber battens were a cost-effective method

splitting the bathroom module into two spaces

of providing texture and visual interest, while

– one with an enclosed WC, the other with a

room signage and sconces are a prominent

shower and vanity unit – on either side for

design element that again references craft.”

increased usability.”

Upper floors echo the patchwork theme by

Rooms also feature a beautifully-crafted piece

way of custom carpets from Sacco, which line

of furniture that cleverly incorporates a closet,

the corridors with nature-inspired patterns

luggage rack, desk and shelving into a single

based on the Japanese shibori technique, while

unit, finished in white oak and blackened steel.

inside the hotel’s 332 guestrooms there are

This opened up space for further living areas,

subtle allusions to local culture; colourful kayak

where a sofa is positioned to offer views of the

paddles are a whimsical nod to Pennsylvania’s

city through picture windows framed by sheer

major rivers, bespoke rugs by Crosby Street

curtains from Erica Shamrock Textiles’ Avenue

Studios reference Quaker quilting patterns, and

collection in its Snowfall colourway.

bathrooms – featuring sleek fittings by Kohler

This may well be a brand new building,

and lighting by Chelsom – capture the shifting

but once inside, guests would be forgiven

landscapes of The Keystone State through Jill

for thinking they had been transported back

Malek’s Terrains wallpaper.

to the height of the Shaker movement, with

“For the rooms, we took the opportunity to

Crème’s deep-rooted design ensuring that the

look closely at how guests use short-term living

lumber past of Philadelphia – more a forest of

spaces in order to maximise their comfort,”

skyscrapers than trees in today’s world – is

Aizaki confirms. “We pushed past the typical

celebrated just as thoroughly as its present.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Hyatt Hotels Corporation Architecture: DAS Architects Interior Design: Crème Branding: Crème (F&B), Piscatello Design Centre (signage) Lighting Design: The Lighting Practice Art Consultant: Soho Myriad Art Consulting, Yalie Studio Procurement: Rosemont Project Manager: Becker & Frondorf Main Contractor: Clemens Construction Company www.hyatt.com

L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa SEYCHELLES Winch Design brings its superyacht expertise to the hospitality sector, creating an authentic Seychellois resort on the island of Mahé.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © Elsa Young

R

ecent years have seen something of a blurring of lines

And so L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa was born. Occupying

in the hospitality design world in that studios best

a prime spot on the water’s edge, with mountain views to

known for their land-based projects have ventured to

one side and the Indian Ocean to the other, the resort has

the seas, transferring the skills and strategies employed in

been designed by Winch to harmonise with its surroundings.

their hotel projects to ocean-faring vessels, giving rise to

“A central philosophy underpinning the masterplan was the

the boutique cruise ship. Now, the same is happening in the

symbiotic relationship between ocean and mountain, and

opposite direction, with cruise and yacht specialists being

this is illustrated perfectly by the decision to create a clear

asked to design residences and hotels.

visual line from the ocean directly through the centre of the

For Winch Design, the London-based studio behind a

resort to the spa area, set to the backdrop of the mountain-

number of luxury yachts and private jets, the move into

scape,” says Tomlinson. The structure – part existing hotel,

hospitality has been organic. “We have worked with ultra-

part newbuild – is sympathetic to the traditional Seychellois

high net-worth clients for the past 35 years and initially the

vernacular with a double-hip roof like those seen in nearby

studio specialised in bespoke sailing and superyacht designs,”

villages. The landscaping – developed by Landmark Studios

explains Simon Tomlinson, Director of Architecture. “As

– centres around water, with pools across multiple levels,

we developed meaningful relationships and gained a deep

boardwalks and plenty of tropical plantlife.

understanding of their lifestyles, clients started to ask us to design projects on land and in the air.”

086

Guestrooms are spread across multiple buildings and include entry-level options with balcony, villas with

For their first hotel project, Winch were tasked with

additional living space, and the sprawling 375m2 Royal Suite,

creating an exclusive destination with dining and spa

which comes with its own swimming pool and Jacuzzi. The

facilities, as well as a private marina where guests could

materials used, both inside and out, foster a connection with

step directly from their yachts onto the resort. “The client

the island and were thoughtfully selected for their tactility.

initially approached Winch Design for a bespoke yacht,

“The structures were made from a local tropical hardwood

but then realised he wanted something more,” Tomlinson

called Nayatoh, meaning that not only the colour and texture

continues. “As conversations progressed, it transpired there

of the timber is authentically Seychellois, but also that the

was the opportunity for not only an exclusive residence, but

DNA of the resort is laced with the spirit of the island,”

a commercial endeavour catering to the touring elite.”

Tomlinson explains, adding that the team rejected a slate

087

roof in favour of timber, which will gradually

The materials and finishes across the resort

change from exposure to the elements. “These

have been specified with the tropical climate

choices helped create an authentic sense of

in mind, and in contrast to projects for private

place, which was the guiding design ethos

clients, the furniture is selected to appeal to

throughout the build.”

a wide range of guest profiles. The team have

The spirit of Mahé also finds its way inside,

relished in the new challenge, as well the

with the colours, textures and materials of the

opportunity to apply their design expertise

island woven into the concept. Local granite and

in a different way. “As space is restricted on

lava stone join sea grass and cork panelling,

a yacht, it is second nature to us to consider

while raffia veneers, drift oak joinery and rope-

its full possibility and practicality,” explains

wrapped columns bring a soft warmth to the

Tomlinson. “Every inch is considered, and

spaces. Inspiration from the ocean is seen in

nothing is superfluous.” The architect also

the turquoise and deep-sea blues of the soft

believes that the attention to detail required on

furnishings, and in a shoal of ceramic fish

yacht projects – which he refers to as “yacht

swimming around the light fixtures in the

quality” – has translated to a high standard

public spaces, their sculptural form brought to

of finish across the resort. And the successful

life by Scabetti. Most of the furniture across the

completion of L’Escale is already paying

resort is designed bespoke by the Winch team

dividends. Although they remain tight-lipped

and handcrafted in sustainable teak by artisans

on the details, Winch Design have revealed that

in Bali and the Philippines. Other pieces,

their second hotel project – a large undertaking

including artwork and accessories, have been

in a European capital city – is in the works.

sourced from local markets or made from coco shell, mahogany and petrified wood.

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Architecture: Winch Design, ADD Locus Architects Interior Design: Winch Design Lighting Design: Bo Steiber Landscaping: Landmark Studios Main Contractor: Laxmanbhai Project Manager: ADD Locus Architects www.lescaleresort.com

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www.roman-showers.com

The Hari HONG KONG The Harilela family bring their flagship brand home to Hong Kong, enlisting Tara Bernerd & Partners to create an elegant design scheme.

Words: Chris Dwyer • Photography: Courtesy of Harilela Group

I

n one of Asia’s most dynamic destinations, the 2020 opening of The Hari Hong Kong from Harilela Group could hardly have been more unfortunately timed. There was

not only the city’s total shutdown to foreign visitors – still ongoing – but also a maximum of two diners at any time, with all restaurants and bars forced to close from 6pm.

The Harilela family however are resilient, having weathered numerous challenges over the past six decades to build a property portfolio that spans the globe. Established in 1959

by Hari Harilela, the group owns hotels on its home turf of Hong Kong, as well as in New York, Bangkok, Singapore and Penang, partnering with IHG, Hyatt and Onyx on a variety of brands. In 2016, with Dr Aron Harilela at the helm following the passing of his father, the group ventured into new territory, creating its own brand designed to encapsulate the family’s passion for service and sophisticated luxury.

The Hari London – a rebrand of the former Belgraves hotel in the exclusive neighbourhood of Belgravia – marked the beginning of the venture, and paved the way for growth.

For the Hong Kong flagship, Harilela secured a prime spot on a commercial strip midway between Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, close to the city’s convention centre and business district. Occupying a LEED- and BREEAM-certified newbuild delivered by Atkins, it makes for a sleek addition to Hong Kong’s skyline and boasts impressive eco-credentials, including a three-storey green wall that brings a welcome splash of colour.

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Guestrooms are open-plan with enough space for a two-seater sofa, though a system of antiquebrass Crittal doors enable the bathrooms to be closed off

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For the interiors, Harilela once again turned

as the petrol-blue lacquer panelling that accents

to Tara Bernerd, having worked with the

various surfaces. The palette is dominated by

London-based designer on Belgraves a decade

jewel tones of sapphire, emerald and amber,

earlier. The Hong Kong property displays the

while the play of materials combines tweed and

same contemporary elegance seen in the UK

velvet, leather and linen. Timber and marble

capital, and draws on local culture and history

also feature prominently, as do the works of art

for a sense of place. “We aimed to create a hotel

that hang throughout, some traditional, some

that feels as though you are walking into the

digital, once again demonstrating the contrast

most elegant of Hong Kong homes when you

of Hong Kong’s identity.

arrive. Like a tailored suit, it brings a London

In the lobby, a lounge is furnished with tomes

attitude to Hong Kong,” Bernerd explains. “We

on art and design, available for purchase or to

sought to contrast the commercial heritage of

peruse while relaxing into the leather sofas. The

the neighbourhood with a modern, forward-

first floor is also home to The Boardroom, the

looking attitude.”

hotel’s one meeting room for a maximum of 10

That modern attitude comes in the form

guests, although the expansive terrace and two

of subtle touches of wit that punctuate the

F&B outlets will also host events in due course.

guestrooms and public spaces. On arrival, an

At Lucciola Restaurant & Bar, Piedmont-born

elevator up to the first-floor check-in features

chef Francesco Gava focuses on seasonality and

an animation of a quintessential English

flavour to present classic Italian dishes with a

gentleman twirling an umbrella, effectively

contemporary twist. The bar – likely to become

introducing the gentle sense of humour that

a popular destination for Negronis – channels

pervades the property. For those in the know,

old-world glamour with black-and-white

there are subtle nods to The Hari London, such

floor tiles, fluted glass cabinets and brass light

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fixtures. One floor above at Zoku Restaurant

bathtub and The Hari-branded amenities made

& Terrace, vibrant Japanese cuisine from chef

by La Bottega with a scent specially created for

Phillip Pak also impresses. Split into a lounge

the hotel.

and dining area, the space features intimate

A final touch confirms The Hari’s cheeky

banquettes upholstered in tactile velvet and

sense of humour and ability not to take itself

leather, accompanied by sculptural dining

too seriously; the door sign to indicate that a

chairs and displays of Sake. It’s the ceiling

room is being serviced reads ‘another one wipes

however that draws the eye, appearing to unfold

the dust’. It demonstrates an attention to detail

overhead like an origami model.

that extends to every aspect of the hotel, and

Guestrooms range from the 25m2 entry-level

the new opening is clearly an achievement of

offer to a collection of suites up on the 32nd floor.

which Chairman and CEO Dr Aron Harilela is

All are designed to maximise space thanks to an

proud. Back in 2016, he described the launch

open-plan layout that allows for a two-seater

of the group’s own brand as the culmination of

sofa, though a system of antique-brass Crittal

a lifelong dream, and despite the challenges of

doors enable the bathroom to be closed off

launching amidst a pandemic, he notes: “This

when necessary. The Hari Suite is a beautiful,

is our home and I remain incredibly optimistic

understated and elegant space with a balcony –

about its future. I see The Hari Hong Kong as

a rare find in Hong Kong’s hotels – looking out

a beacon for the city, and my hope is that its

towards Victoria Peak. A separate sitting room

opening sends a clear and strong message of

has a distinct Mid-Century Modern feel with

our confidence in what lies ahead.”

a yellow velvet sofa, bespoke timber credenzas and glass-topped marble coffee tables, while the light-filled bathroom includes double basins, a

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Harilela Group Architecture: Atkins Interior Design: Tara Bernerd & Partners www.thehari.com

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Hôtel Les Haras New Wing STRASBOURG Jouin Manku revisit the 18th century royal stud farm they helped transform into a hotel in 2014, adding a new wing centred around wellbeing.

Words: Ben Thomas • Photography: © Nicolas Matheus

hen Sleeper first visited Hôtel Les Haras back in

W

The spa, connected to the original hotel building via a

2014, we were so enamoured by its design concept

restored tunnel, is inspired by Chinese medicine and herbal

that it made our front cover. The former royal

therapy. Set within a former clinic once run by the Deaconess

stud – constructed in 1752 for Louis XV – had undergone

Community – a sisterhood that offered pastoral care – it is

a dramatic transformation, with Jacques Marescaux,

a cocooning space that addresses the needs of the body and

founder of the Research Institute Against Digestive Cancer

mind. “This is a notion that particularly appeals to both of us

(IRCAD), taking the unusual step of diversifying into hotelry,

because it is an integral aspect of our practice,” say Patrick

developing a property that would accommodate visiting

Jouin and Sanjit Manku. “The project called for us to be

scientists. Architects Denu & Paradon and designers Jouin

especially attentive to the physical and emotional experience

Manku took inspiration from the equestrian world to create

of the guests.”

a contemporary haven that celebrates the building’s history;

Showcasing the interplay between material and light,

the way in which the spiral staircase – newly constructed

the pièce de résistance is an 18m swimming pool, lined

from curved beechwood – intersects with the original oak

with Corian cavities that house an experiential shower,

beams for example, is a lesson in craftsmanship.

Turkish bath and sauna. A relaxation lounge looks out onto

So successful has the project been, that Jouin Manku

the garden through floor-to-ceiling windows while three

recently returned to design a new wing, adding 60

treatment rooms offer services by French beauty brand Nuxe.

guestrooms, a spa and three meeting spaces. The challenge

Rounding out the new wing is a breakfast lounge, versatile

for the duo was to create a unique identity for the extension,

enough to be used for private events and seminars for up

which occupies a 19th century building across the street, while

to 100 guests. Interiors share the same palette as the rest

maintaining a sense of unity throughout the property.

of the hotel and combine with details that link to care and

In guestrooms – some of which benefit from exposed

wellbeing. Lampshades resemble headpieces worn by the

roof beams – the designers have borrowed natural materials

Sisters for example, while a wall relief by sculptor Pierre-

such as wood, leather, linen and cotton from the original

Louis Dietschy depicts commonly used medicinal plants such

hotel, combining with new or reimagined furniture. The

as red clover, speedwell and wisteria.

introduction of a sofa bench along with a moveable ottoman

The combination of hotel and medical facility is a growing

and side table bring a living-room feel to the space, and

concept in the hospitality world, but to find one with such a

bamboo-panelled bathrooms echo Japan’s onsen culture.

strong design concept is no mean feat.

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The Mayfair Townhouse LONDON Inspired by the bohemian dandy era, Goddard Littlefair transform a row of Georgian townhouses into a personality-packed abode.

Words: Ianthe Butt • Photography: © Adam Lynk

E

verything in moderation, including moderation,” so

magic over grand dame Gleneagles and scores of high-end

said Oscar Wilde. One wagers then, that he’d approve

residences – has created rooms and public spaces that have

of The Mayfair Townhouse, the newest Bright Young

“a Georgian heart, but contemporary rhythm,” says co-

Thing on the central London scene. Located on Half Moon

The spirit of Victorian dandyism – embodied by Wilde

comedy The Importance of Being Earnest – the latest opening

and his contemporaries who spearheaded the Aesthetic

from Iconic Luxury Hotels (ILH) cuts a vivacious dash from

Movement and celebrated ‘art for art’s sake’ – and Mayfair’s

the entrance lobby, where a dazzling Clarita Brinkerhoff

history as a magnet for bohemians, were core inspirations for

peacock sculpture adorned with over 25,000 Swarovski

the design narrative, which, in Littlefair’s words “overlays

crystals stands atop marble-effect tiles.

contemporary themes onto a historical canvas, marrying Old

Owned by L+R Hotels, ILH is synonymous with classic

and New Mayfair with a layer of 1920s extravagance”.

British elegance, counting the likes of Cliveden House and

On the ground level is The Dandy Bar, a drinks spot

Chewton Glen in its portfolio, but its newest outpost, with

with dramatic black lacquered panelling, rattan wall lights

the tagline ‘Oscar Wilde meets Alice-in-Wonderland’, offers

by Colonel and herringbone walnut timber flooring by

something a little different. “Each of the Iconic Luxury

Havwoods. Littlefair imagined the bar as a twinkling jewel

Hotels has its own distinct personality; what’s unique about

box to wow guests on arrival, and verre églomisé panels

The Mayfair Townhouse is a playful, flamboyant ambience,

framed in bronze on central columns along with antique

and the use of art as a core design component,” says Andrew

mirror panels criss-crossing the ceiling are used cleverly.

Stembridge, ILH’s Executive Director.

“Not only do mirrors add sparkle and make an intimate space

Just a short walk from leafy Green Park, it comprises 15

feel larger, their reflectivity transports you to a different

Georgian townhouses, seven of which are Grade II-listed.

place, and almost distorts the world,” says Littlefair.

The exterior is a step-back-in-time vision; cream, charcoal

Bespoke Ozo Living furniture includes seaweed-hued leather

grey and maroon accented façade, leaded, fan-patterned

stools with antique brass stud finishing, alongside Abbey

Palladium windows and cast-iron balcony railings. Once

Upholstery burnt orange leather fitted banquettes, which riff

inside, things take on a different tempo, as luxury interior

on 1950s Zephyr car seating.

design studio Goddard Littlefair – renowned for casting its

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founder Jo Littlefair.

Street – Wilde’s regular haunt, and setting for his farcical

The bar’s bespoke plumage-look gantry, by Northern

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In The Club Room, forest green paintwork contrasts with crimson alcove curiosity cabinets, whose shelves are neatly lined with vintage books, butterflies in gilded vitrines and Pols Potten porcelain bird sculptures

Lights, was inspired by the feather-edge of flapper girls’ dresses. Combining blown glass, bronze metalwork and handpainted gilt elements, it creates ‘curtain’s up’ theatre.

Beneath, mixologists in double-breasted navy waistcoats and aubergine velvet bow ties, attire designed by Field Grey, serve inky-black Chic cocktails made with charcoal tea, strawberry cognac and liquorice liquor, alongside Seedlip and Double Dutch mocktails.

Off the entrance lobby, a Contardi alabaster and bronze chandelier cascades down the stairwell to the lower ground, a shower of flattened mint humbug-like spheres. Taking design cues from a gentleman’s pocket watch, it’s a visual leading down the rabbit hole to the communal spaces below.

All white marble tabletops, mink leather banquettes and mushroom-like opal glass table lamps, the Club Room is a residential-feel dining space where Adam Simmonds’ all-day menu – featuring hearty beetroot and black quinoa burgers and addictive Jerusalem artichoke croquettes – is served. Forest green paintwork contrasts with crimson alcove curiosity

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Graphite black. Pure matt.

LS 990

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Art, curated by Minda Dowling, is central to The Mayfair Townhouse and includes both traditional and fantastical pieces

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cabinets, whose shelves are neatly lined with

to the property’s fox mascot (renard means

vintage books, butterflies in gilded vitrines and

fox in French), chosen, says Littlefair, “as it

Pols Potten porcelain bird sculptures. “These

is symbolic of the subversive, mischievous

are items that the imagined original Townhouse

characteristics of the aesthetes whose influences

residents – artists, musicians and thespians –

we were channelling”. An eclectic gallery of foxy

might have owned,” says Littlefair.

artwork – including Adrian Higgins’ vulpine-

Surreal portraits by Kazakhstani fine-art

human hybrid prints – complements black

photographer Svetlana Melik-Nubarova add a

leather, scallop-backed banquettes, a bespoke

contemporary layer; one of a top-hatted gent

Ozo Living table with psychedelic swirled print

with a butterfly-eyeglass monocle, another has

from Lelievre’s Jean-Paul Gaultier collection

a drone soaring above a caped lady with days-

overlaid by glass, domed silk and bronze lamps,

gone-by ringlets. They bring to life the fictitious

and cushions in paisley and patterned fabrics.

Renard family, an exuberant clan of Huguenot

Upstairs, labyrinthine corridors are dressed

weavers dreamt up by art consultant Minda

with portrait photography that fuses the

Dowling as the backbone of the Townhouse’s

traditional and fantastical; Miss Aniela’s

artwork narrative.

pieces see women in grand chateaux sporting

Goddard Littlefair worked closely with

digitally-added Icarus-like wings, while the

Dowling – who created collections for the

faces of Marja van den Hurk’s subjects are

likes of The Beaumont and St Martin’s Lane

replaced with floral bouquets.

– to ensure a fluidity between the design and

While all 172 sleek, jet-black bedroom

art stories. The scarlet-walled Den, one of

doors sport an etched metal fox hook, what

two meeting-spaces-cum-private-dining-

lies beyond is unique. “There are almost

rooms on the lower ground, pays homage

no identical rooms in the entire building,”

says Martin Goddard, co-founder of Goddard

Monochrome bathrooms, with black and white

Littlefair. “Hotel iterations of the past left an

mosaic marble flooring, Hansgrohe showers

unconsidered patchwork of spaces, with ceiling

and Lefroy Brooks faucets offer a calming

height differences and unexpected bulkheads.”

counterbalance to the bedroom’s uplifting

After stripping the building back to its bones,

gemstone tones.

the duo felt it important to embrace the lack of

A handful of larger suites have open-plan

uniformity. So, design commonality was created

living areas and extra quirky luxe thanks to

through the use of recurring colour palettes –

Kelly Wearstler brushed brass lighting, House of

dusky blue, red and gold accents – paisley and

Hackney parrot-print cushion covers and slate

Prince of Wales fabrics, Brintons geometric-

grey wool curtains held by ruby tasselled Sacho

patterned carpets, timber casegoods and – to

tiebacks. Perhaps most unique are the ground-

help guests feel at home – GHD hairdryers and

floor, split-level Garden Suites. Inspired

Nespresso machines.

by Cecil Beaton’s love of horticulture, leafy

Mayfair’s history as a tailoring hub inspired

glamour is created through moss-look Brintons

a crafting ethos towards interiors. “In the same

carpets, floral Lewis & Wood Hawksmoor

way you might find a colour flash or detail stitch

wallpaper, deep Burlington bathtubs, Crittal-

under the lapel of a bespoke suit, we added in

framed conservatories and patios enclosed by

unexpected design touches – a crimson accent

vine-covered trellises. Packed to the rafters

to ceiling coffers, or piping on a headboard,”

with surprising and storytelling design, the

says Goddard. “It’s witty without being

Townhouse is set to do just dandily with 21st

overbearing.” Furniture cross-pollinates eras;

century aesthetes.

think buttoned armchairs with contemporary lines, and leather-wrapped wingback chairs.

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: L+R Hotels Operator: Iconic Luxury Hotels Architecture: BSBG Interior Design: Goddard Littlefair Art Consultant: Minda Dowling Lighting Design: Gemini Lighting; Kate & Sam Procurement: Benjamin West Landscaping: Plant Plan Main Contractor: Edgewater Contracts www.themayfairtownhouse.com

VIETNAM

LOCATION REPORT A magnet for hotel development in Southeast Asia, can Vietnam capitalise on its pandemic performance to become a leader of tourism in the region?

Words: Neena Dhillon

S

ince 2015, Vietnam has nimbly climbed

projected value of US$13.8 billion. Yet despite

stability combined with a young workforce

tourism rankings, rising to the third-

the specific challenges faced by tourism,

in its favour, the tourism product remains

most popular ASEAN country to visit

Vietnam as a whole has shown remarkable

underdeveloped. To accelerate diversification

in 2019 – and, in that same year, one of the

resilience, in large part due to its successful

and respond in part to a post-pandemic world,

top-10 nations worldwide in terms of tourism

handling of the pandemic, which has kept case

VNAT intends to focus efforts on wellness

growth. Achieving 18 million foreign tourist

numbers low while simultaneously avoiding

tourism – including sports, health, yoga,

arrivals, an equally buoyant figure of 85 million

national lockdowns and keeping doors open to

culture and ecotourism – while relying less

domestically, and with the industry worth close

trade. Registering an increase of 2.8% in 2020,

on mass tourism and exploring personalised

to US$32 billion, Travel & Tourism had been

Vietnam’s economy now stands as the fourth

accommodation options such as farmstays.

shaping up as an emerging powerhouse – having

biggest in Southeast Asia, in absolute terms.

VNAT Vice Chairman Ha Van Sieu has suggested

grown 7.7% on 2018 and contributed 8.8% of

that destinations with developed infrastructure,

total GDP. Named Asia’s Leading Destination at

PIPELINE PROJECTIONS

the 2019 World Travel Awards, Vietnam has a

The market is ripe for foreign investment,

give way to new coastal and pristine rural

range of compelling natural and cultural assets,

with hospitality one of the key industries to

destinations – Mu Cang Chai and Lai Chau in

as Catherine Heald, CEO of Asia-focused travel

benefit despite the short-term financial hit

the north are examples. Additionally, the focus

specialist Remote Lands, describes: “A tropical

from continuing travel restrictions. According

of investors may shift away from hotels of large

land of friendly people, bustling cities, heavenly

to Tophotelprojects, there are currently 125

numbers to small- and medium-sized projects.

beaches, brilliant green rice paddies and lush

hotel projects in the pipeline, with 70 under

What is certain is that tourism recovery in

emerald rainforests, Vietnam has it all. The

construction, and more than 50,000 additional

Vietnam is expected to be faster than the global

nation features temples, historic ports, a bevy

keys on the way over the coming years. Sounding

average, with the country likely to bounce back

of unspoilt tropical islands, museums, art and

a note of caution, however, are hotel occupancy

within a year according to VNAT. Not only

more than 50 hill tribes.”

levels that point to an underlying softness in

able to rely on its top feeder markets of China,

2020 was all set to be a record breaker, with

demand. In the year prior to the pandemic, as

South Korea, Thailand and Taiwan, it has also

the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism

calculated by data specialist STR, occupancy

laid several foundations during the pandemic

(VNAT) announcing a target of 20.5 million

levels fell by 6.2% from 67.1% in 2018 to 62.9%

to more thoroughly exploit domestic tourism.

international visitors. Then the pandemic hit.

in 2019. RevPAR also dropped by 6% over 2018

Inevitably, arrivals plummeted to an estimated

to a very modest US$79 in 2019, although ADR

HOMEGROWN DISRUPTION

3.8 million, down 79%, while domestic travel

held steady at US$125.

One hotel brand positioning itself to directly

also suffered and the industry contracted to a

While Vietnam has economic and political

such as Danang and Nha Trang, could well

target Asia’s new generation of travellers is

LOCATION REPORT

Wink Hotels, conceived by Indochina Kajima

template – inspired by Vietnamese urban culture

all-villa resort, owned by Sun Group, situated

and operated by Indochina Vanguard (both joint

and created by Reda Amalou and Stéphanie

on 60 hectares in Phu Quoc, followed by a 306-

ventures between Vietnam-based Indochina

Ledoux of AW2 – as well as 24-hour self-check-

room hotel based at the KDI Holdings-owned

Capital with Japan’s Kajima Corporation and

in, co-working and leisure spaces, self-service

integrated resort complex of Vega City Nha

Singapore’s Vanguard Hotels respectively).

food carts and vending machines, membership

Trang. Thai operator Centara Hotels & Resorts

“Asia’s fast-growing economies are being

programmes plus premium bedding by

has signalled its intentions with a planned target

powered by upwardly mobile millennial

Catherine Denoual Maison. “Wink Hotels fills

of 20 new properties confirmed across Vietnam

entrepreneurs, but nowhere more so than

a gap in the local hospitality landscape since

in the next five years, the focus on economic

in Vietnam, which has the most inclusive

about 77% of the market comprises mom-and-

hubs and high-growth coastal areas. And

and dynamic young-at-heart population in

pop unbranded lodging options,” adds Piro.

with its strong focus on Asia, Accor highlights

the region,” observes Michael Piro, CEO of

“We have a chance to consolidate that demand

Vietnam as one of its top-five national growth

Wink Hotels. “Our homegrown, revolutionary

with a pioneering branded product that speaks

markets with launches including two Mövenpick

hospitality brand caters to this generation,

to both local and foreign travellers, following

resorts, the Grand Mercure Hanoi and Pullman

which is emerging throughout Indochina, with a

international quality standards at an affordable

Hai Phong. The latter two properties feature

concept that aims to redefine affordable luxury

price point.”

designs from TTA Partners and Baumschlager

and foster real community through a unique

Eberle in collaboration with CHIL Interior

lifestyle movement that we’ll bring to every city

INTERNATIONAL MOVES

in which we’re located.”

Global operators meanwhile also recognise the

South East Asia, says: “Vietnam is a strategic

The pipeline for Wink is ebullient both in

huge potential of Vietnam. IHG Hotels & Resorts

market, and our recent signings underline our

terms of reach and speed. Starting with Wink

builds on an existing portfolio of 13 hotels with

long-term commitment to this vibrant nation,

Hotel Saigon Centre, set to open imminently

six openings slated for 2021 across a range of

as we plan to showcase even more of the

in a hip ward of the Central Business District,

brands from luxury InterContinental and Regent

country in the coming years with a wider choice

followed by two properties in Danang, the plan

to upscale Crowne Plaza and Voco through to

of accommodation.” At the time of publishing,

is to expand to at least 20 locations within the

budget Holiday Inn. Expansion is centred on

this included three new projects in partnership

next seven years. “First, we open Saigon, then

established resort destinations of Phu Quoc,

with real estate developer Novaland Group.

other major Vietnamese cities including Hanoi,

Danang and the Ho Tram Strip as well as Ho

and beyond in places such as Can Tho, Hai

Chi Minh City, in which Hotel Indigo makes its

The following pages feature four recent hotel

Phong and Vung Tau,” confirms Piro. Common

national debut. Sonia Cheng’s New World Hotels

openings across Vietnam, as well as a preview of

to the properties will be a vibrant brand design

& Resorts expands across the country with an

what’s to come.

Design respectively. Garth Simmons, Accor CEO

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LOCATION REPORT

Zannier Hotels BÃI SAN HÔ Immersed in magnificent natural surroundings, a new resort from Zannier Hotels honours Vietnam’s long-held architectural traditions.

Words: Neena Dhillon • Photography: © Frederik Wissink

A

rnaud Zannier is the very definition of a hands-on owner. Under his stewardship, over the past decade, Zannier Hotels has become a byword for humble

luxury, for masterful simplicity and for resorts that exude authenticity by favouring vernacular architecture. While the 2015 opening of Cambodia’s Phum Baitang represented the family’s debut in Southeast Asia, Zannier had by then already purchased 98 hectares of verdant land, fringed by its own kilometre-long beach, on the Bay of Corals in south central coastal Vietnam. The parcel, nestled in the relatively undiscovered province of Phu Yen, meets the Zannier criteria of taking guests to new corners of the world, secluded as it is between sea and dramatic hills. “Set on its own peninsula, and protected from future development, I knew immediately on seeing the land that it would fit our brand DNA, creating a hospitality experience in a region where little tourism currently exists,” recalls Zannier. “We always wanted three or four regional hotels to make a tour around Southeast Asia for our clients.”

While more than 100 structures have been created for the expansive site, including 71 villas, Zannier instructed construction workers to remove vegetation only from building footprints with provision for a three-metre clearance range.

At the same time, an onsite nursery comprising 50,000-plus indigenous plants had been cultivated prior to construction, meaning the landscaping team was in a position to replant and maintain the site’s richness in terms of vegetation – coverage stands at 96.5% – and to preserve the biodiversity

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In the villas, thatched ceilings, wooden floors and hessian lampshades blend organically with bamboo furniture

110

so important to the birds and animals who feed on

blue walls blend organically with reclaimed wood and

the native fruits, nectar, nuts and seeds. “Establishing

bamboo furniture, just as woven reed fishing baskets

your own nursery to compensate for lost vegetation

and conical leaf hats remind guests of the fishermen

takes a lot of time but, economically, it works out

whose lifestyles have inspired these villas.

beneficially because you don’t have to transport large

For the second villa type, it is the longhouses of

amounts of soil and source thousands of new plants,”

the Rade people that heavily influence. “Typically at

observes Zannier. “At the same time, it meant we

least 30-40 metres long, these houses literally expand

could employ local gardeners, farmers and fishermen

as the family grows, with rooms or compartments

who know the land.”

added in succession,” notes Zannier of the traditional

This sensitivity to the landscape has extended to the

structures. Embedded into the resort’s hilltop,

architectural approach. With extensive on-the-ground

one- and two-bedroom Hill Pool Villas are suitably

research carried out into Vietnam’s culture, cuisine and

generous and linear, benefitting from vaulted

customs, including at the Ethnology Museum in Hanoi,

ceilings reminiscent of a boat’s bow. Similar to local

Zannier and his team settled on three construction

longhouses, communal spaces are grouped in the first

forms for accommodation, all sympathetic to the

half of the bamboo-clad villa and more private areas,

natural surroundings and reflecting different lifestyles.

including the bathroom, in the second. An external

Tribute is paid to indigenous fishing communities, in

loggia, terrace and pool ensure the accommodation

particular their floating villages, with the Paddy Field

spills out to the lush greenery beyond while interiors

Villas. These wooden abodes rise from paddy fields on

are understated, earthy in brushed stone and weathered

traditional stilts and are replete with homely terraces.

wood, with silk prints adorning walls.

Inside, a daybed tucked into the window emphasises

As the third option, and offering close connection

connection with the external environment. Thatched

to the sea, Beach Pool Villas take their lead from the

ceilings, wooden floors, hessian lampshades and deep

Cham inhabitants of Vietnam. Responding to the

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112

climatic conditions on the beach, the orderly, single-

craftwork of ceiling beams, and local artefacts on

storey, stilted villas have a west-facing entrance and

display, including an antique pottery collection, the

are installed with open-columned walls for both

experience is refined, peaceful and plays to the senses.

privacy and air circulation. Cooling cottons and linens

In fact, I’d say it’s one of the most memorable.”

complement rattan and hessian accents, with walls

With artefacts and objects sourced from Southeast

covered in a natural material of clay, sand and straw,

Asian stores, warehouses and markets, standout

called cob.

pieces also enliven Hoa Sen Spa. Here, soil and sand

Architectural achievement reaches its heights,

inform the luminescent colour palette, including the

though, at Bà Hai, which Zannier hopes to make one

treatment room corridor affectionately named ‘the

of the best Vietnamese restaurants in the country.

golden arcade’ and decorated with a sizeable antique

“In tribute to incredible Bahnar communal houses,

gong. Another antique find comes in the form of an

which traditionally serve as a towering meeting hall

old pharmacy cupboard, proudly exhibited in the

in villages, our restaurant soars 12 metres high on

main building. Through careful choreography across

stilts, its structure composed of long horizontal

the resort, Zannier has paid special attention to the

beams supported by wooden pillars and topped with

journey of guest discovery and the reception in the

a very steep, sloped, rattan roof designed to be wind-

main building is no exception. As he sums up: “We

resistant,” Zannier says, picking up the story. “We do

purposefully oriented the entrance towards the rear

have typhoons, so I was worried about the building

of the hillside so that when guests come through on

being so high, but we found the right specialist team

arrival, they have a spectacular moment, at altitude,

to complete the construction. Just as in traditional

to enjoy this vista of the entire property, seeing its

homes, one of the first sights to greet you will be a

grandeur and variety of vibes, from hills to beach and

cook, seated in the welcome courtyard, preparing food

paddy field. Sensational nature comes into view – very

in clay pots. With elegantly simple interiors, intricate

green, dense and luxurious.”

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Arnaud Zannier Operator: Zannier Hotels Architecture: Zannier Hotels, SKO Interior Design: Zannier Hotels Interiors Landscaping: Interscene 3.0 Main Contractor: Archetype Group www.zannierhotels.com

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2021-02-16 10:35 AM

Azerai KE GA BAY Adrian Zecha heads to the beach for the third property in his Azerai brand, which opens with heightened contemporary appeal after a full renovation.

Words: Neena Dhillon • Photography: Courtesy of Azerai

S

ome years ago, when Adrian Zecha visited a resort at Ke Ga Bay in southeastern Vietnam, it was the memory of the “wonderful tropical gardens” that stayed with him.

“Set among a scattering of small fishing villages and dragon fruit farms, I was enormously impressed by the serenity of the resort, which was quite remote and well removed from others,” he explains. Rather serendipitously, it is to the same site that Zecha has returned for the third opening under his Azerai brand. “I have always envisioned that each Azerai would have an independent character and offer a different experience to its sister resorts,” he continues. “My first, in Can Tho, provides a fantastic base for exploring the wonders of the Mekong Delta while the second Azerai in Hue overlooks the Perfume River, affording an insight into the history and culture of Vietnam. Now my third, here at Ke Ga Bay, contrasts once more, its beach setting giving a sybaritic experience. When combined, the three complement each other for a balanced travel opportunity.”

Following a six-month renovation of the former Princess D’Annam Resort – during which Zecha asked Studio Noor to open up existing buildings to the gardens and sea breezes, create informal settings, and introduce generous degrees of personal space, dining and lounging options – Azerai Ke Ga Bay emerges afresh, in tune with contemporary lifestyles.

David Hodkinson, Design Director of Studio Noor, describes

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the considerations that shaped the work: “The

lounge, popular at sunset as a destination

design direction and style of Adrian Zecha, from

hangout, the daybed platform in the main

Aman to Azerai, is well-known for its simplicity

pool, and the ten pool suites that leave behind

and elegance, with materials used minimally

their enclosed and insular character. Indeed,

but in a sophisticated fashion. As such, we

wherever possible, suites find a connection

ensured we used local materials and crafts,

to the external landscape through sliding

from pebblecrete flooring to woven rattan and

doors, large daybeds or seating terraces with

seagrass, natural artworks including silk, and

pleasing outdoor vistas. The surroundings of

furniture designed in Vietnam.”

Ke Ga Bay play a key role in influencing the

Hodkinson acknowledges the studio had a

subdued colours and lighting choices, with

good architectural base to start with, giving his

wooden elements and screening representing

team the freedom to introduce large openings

a grounding element. “Since the name of our

particularly for the pool villas, connect F&B to

firm means ‘light from the heavens’ in Arabic,

the main pool and corresponding views out

we always enjoy playing with the lighting

to the sea, install a new arrival pavilion, free

experience,” adds Hodkinson. “At Azerai Ke

up the restaurant layout, and change the spa

Ga Bay, we have added canopies and louvres to

entrance. The latter was important to Zecha,

create shadows on façades of floors and walls

who wanted the beachfront spa to have its own

at different times of the day.” Perhaps, though,

sense of identity, arrival and feeling of escape.

the resort’s biggest highlight is the journey

This was achieved by changing the approach

from restaurant and bar out to the spectacular

to the commanding building through the lush

main pool and down to the beach, via natural

gardens of ginger, tropical trees and flowers.

stone steps, for this is where the strongest link

Standout spaces now include the sunken

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to the bay’s picturesque panorama is forged.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Cong Ty Tnhh Du Lich Viet Phap Operator: Azerai Interior Design: Studio Noor Lighting Design: Bo Steiber www.azerai.com

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We are looking forward to the launch of NoMad London.

The notorious Grade II listed Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station has been transformed into a luxurious hotel and police museum as the first European offering for successful American lifestyle brand NoMad.

LOCATION REPORT

Capella HANOI For the Vietnamese debut of Capella Hotels & Resorts, Bensley dreams up a world that sings with the glamour, mischief and beauty of opera.

Words: Neena Dhillon • Photography: © Ngo Hoang

D

ay in, day out, designers tell stories,

visiting opera singers, artists, composers,

drawing on inspirational people, events

stage and costume designers – this is truly

and objects to inform their aesthetic

where Hanoi’s haute-volée would have come

vision. In the hands of Bill Bensley, however,

to gather in privacy, make merry and collapse

storytelling is elevated to a fantastical form, his

into impeccably made beds just before sunrise.”

hotel projects underpinned by a contextualising

On a tree-lined boulevard along Hoan

narrative that bridges art, reality, history and

Kiem Lake, Capella Hanoi rises from street

the imagination, with the freedom to roam and

level with Art Nouveau and Deco flourishes,

soar into fully realised, alternate universes.

its architectural form reflecting the styles

For Capella’s first property in Vietnam, the

that would have been in vogue during Hanoi

designer’s eponymous studio has been charged

Opera House’s heyday. The Bensley team has

with designing every detail, from architecture

succeeded in imbuing the building with a

to interiors, tableware to bathroom fittings.

genuine sense of heritage, even though it is

Taking their cue from the capital’s iconic opera

newly constructed. Black detailing and gold

house, located nearby, Bensley and his team

accents complement the marble, stone and glass

transport visitors back to turn-of-the-20th-

façade, these decorative motifs carried inside

century Hanoi by conceptualising the 47-room

and throughout the property. Other notable

luxury hotel as a home away from home for

design features weaving their way around

performing society. “As with any project we

interiors include detailed plasterwork and

do, I was intent on creating a unique DNA, and

mouldings with patterns that are replicated on

teaching our guests something new,” explains

furniture, bathroom fixtures and door handles.

Bensley. “Envisioning the hotel as une petite

Describing more of the approach, Bensley says:

auberge during her glory days – welcoming

“Our senior interior designer Aood [Pakheenai

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Taking their cue from Hanoi’s iconic opera house, guestrooms are individually designed and feature memorabilia, costumes and objects in honour of famous stage stars

120

Saenharn] is a very quiet man who wields his pencil

the bed, an artwork depicts the black hat she wore

like Superman might a sword. His drawings for this

when photographed by MGM photographer Ruth

project are mind-bogglingly beautiful. Many public

Harriet Louise in the 1920s, while clothes, jewellery

areas and all the guestrooms have handpainted

and magazine pictures also double as subjects for the

murals, while all the doors are adorned with black

framed boxes. As always, Bensley and his team spent

and gold graphic artworks that depict the story of the

months and months scouring antique shops, markets

character after which each space is named.”

and fairs to collect more than 1,000 pieces and curate

As a hallmark of Bensley, guestrooms are highly

them into collections. “This to me is one of the best

individual, named here after famous muses including

parts – my motto, after all, is to shop first and think

Sarah Bernhardt, Eleonora Duse, Léon Bakst, Sergei

later,” Bensley confirms laughing. “We collected

Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes. One particular corner

memorabilia, costumes and objects while visiting the

suite celebrates English actress Ellen Terry, who is

Marché aux Puces in Paris, Lincoln Antiques Shows

depicted in a dramatic custom-made portrait. Her

and Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market.”

life is lovingly documented in framed shadowboxes

While guestrooms benefit from custom portraiture

mounted on the walls, showing old prints from

by Kate Spencer, exuberant murals make a splash in

her plays, newspaper adverts taken from original

public spaces, not least the inner courtyard, where a

editions dating back to 1889, property registers for

full-height gem tells the tale of Vietnam’s history.

her country homes, theatre binoculars and vintage

From an original drawn by Aood, and then handmade

playing cards to reflect one of her favourite hobbies.

in situ by skilled local craftspeople, the mural’s form is

Over in the Greta Garbo room meanwhile, the actress is

inspired by the sculptures of Palais de la Porte Dorée in

honoured with a tiny portrait, found in the wardrobe,

Paris. The lift lobby is another alluring space, complete

capturing her in the title role of the film Ninotchka,

with four imposing caryatids that ‘support’ the ceiling

for which she received an Oscar nomination. Over

in a witty nod to turn-of-the-century scenic design.

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Rather than dial down the drama for

here is quite fun – a series of pink photographs

boutique-sized Auriga Spa, Bensley has

taken of antique accessories that actors needed

heightened the visual fireworks. “The two

to powder their noses and prepare for the stage,

couples treatment rooms are gorgeously bold,”

all shot by William Barrington-Binns.”

he confirms. “Together with the gym and pool,

To complete the F&B offering, Diva’s Lounge

this is an area that we designate as ‘Regale’

exhibits some of the designer’s favourite

because the influence here is Vietnamese

pieces, not least an original Zinc bar and

royalty. Rich colours and materials are paired

historic fireplace, both chosen to meld with

with opulent fabrics and murals while the pool

Vietnamese-inspired rugs, detailed furniture

is a dizzying Art Deco fantasy, making one feel

and heavy drapes. Once housed in a Parisian

quite pampered.”

café, the Zinc counter and bar wall would have

Signature restaurant Backstage announces

held bottles of absinthe and vermouth, while

its arrival with a cheeky mural portraying

the fireplace is likely to have originated from

paparazzi on the hunt for off-duty performers.

16th- or 17th-century France due to its size and

Filled with trunks, costumes and stage props,

intricacy of engravings. Bensley notes how rare

Bensley had a blast collecting the vintage gowns

it is for today’s collectors to find such pieces;

and wooden shoe moulds that make this a

fittingly, they find a new home in a hotel that

fitting space in which actors might congregate

recaptures the glitz of Hanoi a century ago,

pre- and post-show. “The brasserie has black

when it bridged East and West as the cultural

marble floors, lots of mirrors, and a cage-like

capital of Indochina.

structure of brass bars that line the walls and from which musical instruments and props are displayed,” Bensley elaborates. “The artwork

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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Sun Group Operator: Capella Hotel Group Architecture and Interior Design: Bensley Lighting Consultant: Dazzle Landscaping: Bensley Main Contractors: SunEC, THD, OIC Fit-out Contractor: AA Corporation www.www.capellahotels.com

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LOCATION REPORT

Maia Resort QUY NHON A resort of pared-down beachfront elegance and subtle Vietnamese flair signals the launch of a new brand from Fusion Hotel Group.

Words: Neena Dhillon Photography: Courtesy of Fusion Hotel Group

K

nown in Vietnam for their all-spa-

elegance with multiple accommodation options,

inclusive resorts, Fusion Hotel Group’s

Fusion Hotel Group also specified that the all-

bold expansion plan involves opening

villa resort capitalise on the dramatic views of

properties in emerging destinations that span

Phuong Mai Bay. Achieved through building

the country as well as the introduction of new

orientation, generous layouts and an open-

concepts. “Departing from our trusted spa-

plan living approach that permeates public

inclusive formula, we are anchoring the appeal

and private spaces, there is an undeniable

of our latest brand, Maia Resorts, to immersive

connection between the external and internal.

food experiences with options running the

From arrival, the lobby’s volume sets the tone,

gamut, from farm- and sea-to-table dining

with screening, tropical indoor planting and

to Vietnamese cooking classes, pop-up dining

water features lending warmth, intimacy and

events to local foodie tours,” reveals the group’s

interest. Lorenz Lennaerts, CEO and co-founder

Vice President of Operations, Samir Wildemann.

of Pure, explains more: “The freestanding

The central coastal destination of Quy Nhon

reception building welcomes with its sunken

in Binh Dinh Province has been selected for

seating and a flower-patterned lattice wall that

the Maia debut, specifically seven hectares of

encloses the space while maintaining a breezy

tranquil oceanfront upon which a 60-key resort

and open feel. Arriving guests see the large

has been built. “Offering rich culture, cuisine,

internal water feature with frangipani trees first

history and diverse landscapes, nowhere could

and then the ocean as the backdrop.”

be better than Quy Nhon to begin our first culinary-focused brand,” adds Wildemann.

Generous spaces flow naturally from indoors to outdoors in all guest villas, with

Tasking Ho Chi Minh City-based Pure Design

many featuring plunge pools, private cabanas

Studio to create a property of understated

and inset daybeds set among the landscaped

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LOCATION REPORT

gardens. “With the villa concept including a fully

special place in Buddhist and Hindu faiths as well as

opening sliding door, the private terrace and pool

the cultures of several Asian countries,” says Bittner.

become part of your living space,” says Lennaerts.

“In addition to being a versatile ingredient in daily

“Interiors benefit from spacious open-plan living

life, the lotus is thought to hold health benefits and

and sleeping areas, still cleverly separated by feature

spiritual meanings.”

shelving, while grand master bathrooms look directly

Signature restaurant Vi, which represents the

onto private gardens, which means guests can immerse

resort’s centrepiece, has been situated to give direct

themselves in nature while sitting in their bathtub.”

views to the ocean waters. “Since Vi is positioned on

Across the resort, local stone, reclaimed wood and

the beach, we felt the interior design should not detract

glass complement copper detailing with materials

from the surroundings,” notes Bittner. Contemporary

cannily recycled, as General Manager Marc Bittner

furniture is uplifted with soft furnishings in turquoise

explains: “Reclaimed fishing vessels have been

while handcrafted ceramics match the tonal scheme,

transformed into beach tables and wall art while oil

and a modular wall of oxidised copper leaves catches

drums are crafted into lotus leaf décor.” To ensure

the light, framing the space in the dining room. The

the country’s sweeping coastline is reflected in the

transition between the restaurant terrace and the

design, handwoven fabrics come from northern

main pool area is particularly successful, nurturing

Vietnam, ceramics from the central region, and

that central concept once more, concludes Lennaerts:

custom-made furniture from the south. The approach

“Inspired by the rice terraces of northern Vietnam,

is evident at Vela Spa, where textiles and colours

we have designed the transition to incorporate steps

mirror the beachfront setting. Seen as an emblematic

and a water feature that cascades down and overflows

motif throughout the spa and extending to the resort

into the infinity pool, creating a design element that

restaurants as well as staff uniforms, the lotus appears

combines two areas in the most harmonising way.”

regularly. “We chose this symbol because it holds a

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: VinaCapital Operator: Fusion Hotel Group Architecture and Interior Design: Pure Design Studio Landscaping: Duc Phu Main Contractor: Qcons www.quynhon.maiaresorts.com

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1.

VIETNAM LOCATION REPORT

According to Tophotelprojects, there are currently 125 hotel projects in the pipeline, accounting for more than 50,000 new keys over the coming years.

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1. New World Nha Trang

2. Regent Phu Quoc

Located on the south-central coast surrounded by lush mountainscapes, New World Nha Trang marks the brand’s fourth property in Vietnam. Set to open in 2023, the 306-key property will feature guestrooms and suites with large balconies, as well as three standalone beachfront villas with two to four bedrooms. F&B venues include four restaurants and lounges, each with a distinct ambience and culinary style, while further facilities include an outdoor infinity pool, spa, fitness centre and multiple events and meetings spaces.

The first Regent property to open in Southeast Asia since IHG acquired the brand in 2018, Regent Phu Quoc will open on the island’s marina later this year. Combining understated luxury with indigenous design that encapsulates the essence of the locale, the resort will offer a collection of suites including the King Sky Pool Villa, a 165m2 haven with indoor and outdoor living space and a private swimming pool. The hotel also features six F&B outlets, ranging from a Michelinstarred restaurant to a rooftop bar and beach club.

Operator: Rosewood Hotel Group Developer: KDI Holdings

Developer: BIM Group Operator: IHG Hotels & Resorts Architecture and Interior Design: Blink Design Group

LOCATION REPORT

2.

3.

4.

5.

3. Avani+ Ho Tram

4. Wink Hotel Danang

5. Grand Mercure Hanoi

Slated to open in 2023, Avani+ Ho Tram forms part of Hai Vuong Tourism’s Sanctuary development, which also includes a beach club, conference centre and leisure pier. Designed by Korn Architects, the property features 200 guestrooms as well as 268 one-, two- and three-bedroom managed residences available for purchase. Avani Hotels & Resorts has a robust development pipeline in Vietnam with a total of three properties under construction.

With Wink Hotel Saigon Centre set to open imminently, the homegrown group has announced two new properties in Danang.

Located at the heart of the city’s entertainment district, Wink Hotel Danang Centre features 243 guestrooms, a sky lobby and multifunctional co-working spaces, with architecture and interiors

by Paris-based studio AW2. The second property will be located along the Hàn River and forms part of a mixed-use complex.

Located opposite the Temple of Literature, a popular tourist attraction, Grand Mercure Hanoi is set to open later in 2021. The 181-key property will feature a variety of F&B options ranging from a fine-dining restaurant serving local cuisine to a rooftop sky lounge. Catering to both leisure and business travellers, there will be extensive fitness and wellness facilities, as well as three function rooms and a ballroom for up to 250 guests.

Owner and Developer: Hai Vuong Tourism Joint Stock Company Operator: Minor International Architecture: Korn Architects

Operator: Indochina Vanguard Hotels Developer: Indochina Kajima Architecture and Interior Design: AW2

Operator: Accor Architecture: TTA-Partners Interior Design: CHIL Interior Design

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

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#2 MYKONOS 10-12 MAY 2022

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Sheraton Hotels & Resorts A New Brand Vision Marriott International rolls-out its new vision for Sheraton, drawing on the brand’s roots as a community hub to design spaces for coming together.

Words: Catherine Martin

F

or major hotel groups with thousands

overarching design vision is based around the

comes from Coffee Bar Bar, Sheraton’s new food

of properties in all corners of the globe,

art of gathering,” explains Brittney Hepler,

and beverage concept. Part bar, part coffee bar,

implementing a new look for even a single

Senior Design Manager with Marriott’s Global

part market, the space transitions seamlessly

brand is no mean feat. From securing the support

Design Strategies team. Speaking via video

from day to night, with dining options that are

of individual owners to establishing a consistent

conference, she continues: “It is an art form

customisable to all tastes and time schedules.

design DNA, the process takes years before a tin

to create spaces that really welcome guests

“This is the heartbeat of our public space, and

of paint is even opened. So it’s easy to see why

and support meaningful experiences; within

it’s what really makes our communal energy

Marriott International is proud to show off its

our spaces, guest and locals should feel a

thrive,” explains Helper. “It is a scalable

vision for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts.

connected sense of belonging, both physically

concept with multiple components for casual

and emotionally.”

interactions throughout the day.”

Having announced plans to refresh the brand back in 2018, Marriott has now reached the

At the heart of the experience is the lobby,

Flexibility and adaptability have been key to

important milestone of completing renovations

which has been reimagined as the public square

the vision. “Our lobbies have this connected

at select hotels. Properties in Tel Aviv, Dubai,

of the hotel. As Helper explains, public squares

and communal feel with fluid spaces, because

Denver and Guangzhou are amongst those

have been around for thousands of years, and

as people, we transition through many different

exhibiting the new look, and with momentum

though they differ from one city to the next –

tasks throughout the day,” Helper continues.

building, over 40 hotels around the world are

as do Sheraton hotels – they serve the same

“Sheraton’s public spaces are built to respond to

expected to reflect the vision by the end of

purpose: “These spaces have stood the test of

that; we’re building adaptable spaces that blur

2022. “This is a pivotal moment for Sheraton

time and continue to evolve to accommodate the

traditional boundaries.”

as we see hotel owners embracing the new

way people want to come together.”

Having used Sheraton Phoenix as a living

vision and bringing it to life for the first time,”

The idea of gathering as a community sparked

test lab to explore design strategies, the

says Amanda Nichols, Global Brand Leader.

the team’s imagination and was developed into

team have now come up with a shared DNA

“Over the past 80 years, Sheraton has always

a series of features, or kit of parts. Built into the

that will permeate across all properties, with

offered guests the time-honoured assurance of

new design are signature elements such as The

regional nuances seen in the implementation

a welcoming community. We’re proud to have

Community Table, a workspace with integrated

and design details of the scheme. At the last

built on this legacy in the new concept, creating

lighting, outlets and wireless charging stations

count, Sheraton has 446 properties across 74

an environment where guests can enjoy all the

that, as Helper describes, “invites guests to

countries, making it Marriott International’s

familiar comforts of the Sheraton brand, but

work or to dine as a group, or alone together”.

most global brand. 2021 will see the group

with fresh, contemporary updates.”

There’s also soundproof booths for phone calls

continue on its transformation journey, with

Drawing on its roots as a community hub, the

or tête-à-têtes, and The Studios – flexible

renovations expected to complete in Nice, Kiev,

new approach creates a holistic experience with

gathering spaces that are enclosed in glass so

Nashville and Xian, each becoming a showcase

spaces to connect, where guests feel comfortable

that guests can meet in privacy while capturing

for Sheraton’s philosophy of ‘where the world

whether working, meeting or relaxing. “Our

the energy of the lobby. Much of that energy

comes together’.

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Designed by AMA, Gaia is a low-impact fully floating hotel concept fashioned from marine-grade lightweight composite materials

Next Level Sustainability With sustainability a priority in all businesses, what is the hospitality industry doing to take things to the next level?

Words: Lauren Ho

S

ustainability is certainly a hot topic at the

is taking things to a new level in terms of building

moment. Over the past decade, plastic

practices, materials and general operations, prompted

pollution has reached an all-time high,

in large by an increase of conscious travellers. The

an analysis by NASA and the National

latest sustainability report from Booking.com, in fact,

Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

notes that 70% of travellers would be more likely to

(NOAA) has confirmed the past five years

book a property if it was eco-friendly.

have been the hottest since records began 140 years

“What we are witnessing is an evolution of travel,

ago, while the United Nations has said that should

with travellers and businesses inspired to embrace

the global population reach 9.6 billion by 2050, the

destinations and hotels that prioritise a more holistic

equivalent of almost three planets could be required to

commitment to protecting the planet,” explains

provide the natural resources needed to sustain current

Costas Christ, Brand Leader of Beyond Green and

lifestyles. In short, the impact of our consumerism has

President of Beyond Green Travel. The newly launched

sky-rocketed.

sustainable brand from Preferred Hotel Group brings

But, the last 10 years have also seen the world

together the very best of sustainable hospitality with a

waking up to climate change, with major industries

global, member-based portfolio of properties – which

from fashion to technology and agriculture taking

undergo a strict vetting process – that truly ‘transform

strides towards cleaning up their acts. No longer

travel as a force for good’. The recently opened Xigera

just an added bonus, managing sustainability has

Safari Lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, for

become a necessary part of any business, with HSBC

example, has implemented a reverse osmosis system

reporting that 85% see environmental sustainability

to provide clean drinking water as part of its many

as a priority.

initiatives, while The Brando in French Polynesia is

In the travel and tourism sector, the push to go

not only restoring the Tetiaroa Atoll, where the hotel

green is also in full swing. Moving beyond the standard

is located, but its renewable energy systems include

measures – like banning single-use plastic and

using local coconut oil to help power the resort

reducing waste – the hospitality industry, especially,

together with solar panels.

Designed by Mamou-Mani, an upcoming hotel comprising a series of bamboo eco-pods in Mexico is taking sustainable building practices to new levels

a

e

Of course, while the pandemic has certainly

takes on the ambition to eliminate the concept

of innovation, is Svart. Located in Norway’s

given us pause for thought, the truth is that

of waste. In terms of materials, that means

Arctic Circle and due to open in 2022, the 99-

mass tourism is still a reality. This means one of

everything is fully recyclable or biodegradable,

key property is billing itself as the world’s first

the biggest challenges of really getting to grips

while the actual design has been implemented

energy-positive hotel – meaning it will produce

with sustainable tourism is mainstreaming it

with a precise digital approach. “For GSH 2.0,

more energy that it uses – with an aim to be

into all aspects of the industry, from business

we use the close link between the digital model

carbon neutral during construction and, most

travel to gap years away. “Sustainability can no

and production process to foresee the offcuts

importantly, have an off-grid system during the

longer just be an add-on,” continues Christ.

from the cross laminated timber production,”

first five years of operation. Designed by Oslo-

“There is a tendency to view sustainability as

explains the firm’s architect and partner, Lasse

based architecture firm Snøhetta, Svart will be

a trend or a fad, when in reality it is now a

Lind. “The ‘waste’ is then used to produce most

built on a weather-resistant wooden support

fundamental aspect of business success in a

of the furniture for the hotel.”

frame using poles that will allow the tide to

rapidly changing world.”

This digital approach is something London-

ebb and flow naturally while also ensuring zero

Guy Heywood, Chief Operating Office for Six

based architecture firm Mamou-Mani has also

land impact and reduction in seabed disruption.

Senses, one of the world’s leading sustainable

embraced. With projects such as Galaxia – a

The building will have thermal heating and

hotel brands, says: “We face lots of challenges

spiralling timber pavilion that was the main

cooling systems, a fully recyclable jet sewage

both in terms of how sustainability can be

temple at Burning Man festival in 2018 – and an

system, and residual heat will be captured for

translated into operations on a daily basis

upcoming hotel comprising a series of bamboo

the heating and air conditioning units and

and also the perceived additional cost of being

eco-pods in Mexico, Mamou-Mani is certainly

greenhouse farming. The actual structure of

sustainable for an owner or a developer. That

taking sustainable building practices to new

the building meanwhile will be manufactured

said, it is becoming more and more crucial these

levels. Using compost toilets for local crops,

off-site and flat-packed to be assembled with

days to make sure that we are not only talking

gravity lights charged by the guests and cool

minimal impact on-site. “This method will

the talk, but walking the walk.”

water mist nets instead of air conditioning, each

reduce the waste and carbon emissions, the

Trine Richter also quotes the extra costs as

of the pods has been created using parametric

building material waste and land contamination

one of the biggest obstacles when it comes to

tools. “This means we develop a kind of

during the construction phase,” says Ivaylo

building and operating a sustainable hotel. “It’s

software instead of drawings,” explains Arthur

Lefterov, the hotel’s Development Director.

more expensive and there is a greater risk when

Mamou-Mani, the firm’s Managing Director.

Elsewhere, the prefabricated, flat-pack

using new methods and materials,” she notes.

“We have an amazing engineer with whom

approach is picking up steam, with both the

As Director of Green Solution House (GSH), an

we share the algorithms. They send it back to

Habitas hotel brand and UAE-based design

innovative hotel on the far-flung Danish island

us with the optimal sizing and then we work

studio AMA integrating it into their projects.

of Bornholm off the east coast of the mainland,

with our environmental engineer to produce

The former is also putting its stamp on the

Richter says her goal is to be the frontrunner

the most efficient design. This is probably the

industry with its vertical integration method.

in the hospitality industry when it comes to

first project – at least in our firm but maybe

With properties in Mexico and Namibia, and

building and operating a sustainable hotel.

globally – where everything is parametric, from

upcoming launches in Saudia Arabia, Bhutan

the choice of where to put the panels to the

and Costa Rica, the group controls the entire

geometry of the wood being minimised. It’s a

production and operations process in-house

very holistic project.”

and also designs, manufactures and flat-packs

PIONEERING BUILDING PRACTICES Now with a new wing designed by Danish practice 3XN and its innovation unit GXN, GSH

Setting the sustainability bar high in terms

each hotel off-site with the aim to install, rather

137

Kisawa Sanctuary in Mozambique (top) and Habitas AlUla in Saudi Arabia (bottom) are amongst the first hotels to be built using 3D-printed materials

than develop each property. “Being vertically

in a tactile, natural and, most importantly, a

used for the concrete formwork which, in turn,

integrated allows us to design with a focus on

sustainable finish to the buildings’ façades.

created a unique texture on the walls.

sustainability, both in terms of materials used

Innovative use and choice of materials has

At the other end of the spectrum, Levy says

and a light-touch footprint on the land during

also been key in taking sustainability to a new

Habitas Hotels – which uses cross-laminated

construction” explains Kfir Levy, the brand’s

level. AMA says we will see more bamboo, local

timber as its main material – has substituted

co-founder.

materials and rammed-earth buildings, while

concrete foundations with helical screw piles,

Meanwhile, Gaia’s low-impact fully floating

Sonu Shivdasani, founder of Soneva – one of

which as he says allows them to achieve the

concept – fashioned from marine grade

the leading sustainable hospitality brands

same result as a traditional concrete foundation,

lightweight composite materials - means the

– says natural building materials as well as

but with a fraction of the footprint and impact

resort can be relocated to different destinations

recycled and repurposed materials will become

needed. “No digging, no rebar, no wet process,

and its prefabricated modules mean less waste

more prominent. “It makes sense for the

no heavy equipment or large crews needed,”

during construction. “Climate change is

environment and often makes sense financially

he states.

increasing as an urgent concern for designers

too,” he comments.

NEXT LEVEL OPERATIONS

to address,” says Andy Shaw, Managing

Tony Machado, Senior Vice President of

Partner at AMA. “The synthesis of innovation

Design at SH Hotels & Resorts, which operates

While the majority of hotels have gotten on board

and sustainability through design allows

sustainable brand 1 Hotels, also notes:

with initiatives like plastic-free programmes or

these concerns to be addressed with a positive

“Sustainable concrete and more permeable

persuading guests to re-use their bath towels,

outcome for people and the environment.” With

outdoor surfaces are a lot more fashionable

many of the industry’s best-known brands are

this in mind, the hotel’s renewable energy is

than they used to be. Innovating around their

working hard to step up their commitment.

generated on-site through solar panels, passive

traditional counterparts is imperative if we are

The Datai in Langkawi, for example, along

design measures in the shape of the pods allows

going to address increased runoff and pollution

with its recently revamped Nature Centre and

for airflow cooling, while under water, marine

from cities.”

Permaculture Garden – with its zero-waste

life is stimulated by way of 3D-printed calcium carbonate coral skeletons.

INNOVATIVE MATERIALS

Concrete is, in fact, the main material used

organic food production system – now has its

in the construction of Bali’s Desa Potato Head,

own water bottling plant, recycling storage

a creative village with a zero-waste philosophy.

plant and glass crusher, alongside its many

“The concrete is porous and not sealed, which

other wildlife initiatives.

Indeed, when it opens, Kisawa Sanctuary is

helps to cool down the building by two or

Desa Potato Head continues its zero-waste

said to be the world’s first resort built using

three degrees to reduce energy needed for

mission with the aim of reducing its current

3D-printed materials. Set over 740 acres on

cooling,” explains David Gianotten, architect

3% of waste going to the landfill to nil, while

Benguerra Island, part of a remote archipelago

and Managing Partner at OMA. Elsewhere,

the Soneva brand has been implementing a

marooned off the coast of Mozambique, the

locally-sourced materials include ijuk (a local

system to tackle mosquitoes without the use

12-bungalow resort will use patented 3D sand-

roofing material), teak from a renewable source,

of insecticide. Soneva Fushi has successfully

printing technology across various construction

handcrafted breeze blocks, terrazzo made from

reduced its mosquito population by 95%, which

elements from masonry and flooring to tiling.

waste concrete, and ceiling panels woven with

in turn has resulted in greater biodiversity and

Interestingly, it will also use the island’s own

recycled plastic bottles. Meanwhile, to reduce

improved production in the vegetable garden

sand and seawater to create the mortar, resulting

waste in construction, reclaimed wood was

that supplies the restaurants.

139

At Desa Potato Head in Bali, building materials come from the local area while furniture is made from recycled plastic

The 1 Hotel brand continues to fly the

sustainability can no longer just be an add-on.

sustainability flag with its many initiatives

Normalising sustainability in the hospitality

including a razor sharp focus on energy and

industry means eliminating competitiveness

water-consumption for each of its buildings;

and working together as a collective to set an

taking its daylight design, cool roofs and natural

example, raise awareness and educate.

ventilation further by implementing building-

Whether it’s through a monthly newsletter

level energy tracking and management systems;

like 1 Hotels’ Notes from the Field to kick-start

and achieving net Carbon Neutrality certification

conversations; an initiative like Desa Potato

across its properties. “The name of the game is

Head’s Sustainability Lab, which produces

resource conservation,” says Corinne Hanson,

furniture, homeware and accessories from

Corporate Director of Sustainability & Impact at

waste; using your hotel to set an industry

SH Hotels & Resorts. “We try to rely on natural

standard for other properties to learn from, such

ventilation wherever possible. We fill our hotels

as Svart; educating local communities through

with plants that calm and soothe while they

initiatives like at Wilderness Safaris; or creating

clean the air, and we rely on locally sourced,

immersive experiences to educate guests, the

natural fibres and materials that we use over

real transition will be when consumers begin

and over again instead of throwing away. We

to consider their purchasing decisions so that

also integrate cutting-edge technology behind

this becomes a standard way of travelling,

the scenes to track our energy efficiency to

which will, in turn, increase the volume of

five second intervals so we can avoid energy-

sustainability-focused hospitality options.

intensive behavior or target problem machinery for upgrading.”

But, to reiterate Christ from Beyond Green,

© Tommaso Riva

© Kevin Mak

140

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08.02.21 10:17

Hotel Construction Pipeline Asia Pacific With China’s successful control of Covid-19, business and leisure travel is beginning to return, and with that comes renewed optimism from developers. As a result, the nation tops the hotel construction pipeline in Asia Pacific, accounting for over 50% of the entire region’s future openings.

The data shows that Asia Pacific has 2,611 projects in the pipeline totalling some 618,457 rooms, 35% of which are expected to open in 2021. The cities of Chengdu, Shanghai and Nanjing lead the way in terms of the number of projects under construction, while Xian, Wuhan and Shenzhen also make the top 10.

Outside of China, Australia is pushing ahead with new development after a prolonged period of limited new supply.

The uptick – thought to be the most significant since the lead-up to Sydney’s hosting of the Olympic Games in 2000 – is being driven by a rise in tourism (preCovid) and sees Melbourne emerge as the favoured destination for planting flags.

Amongst the 32 projects in the pipeline is a Shangri-La in the city’s central business district, a 200-key 25hours hotel and a 1 Hotel that forms part of the riverside Seafarers development.

TOP CITIES CHENGDU Projects 63 Rooms 14,085

HANGZHOU Projects 44 Rooms 10,488

SHANGHAI Projects 50 Rooms 12,784

BANGKOK Projects 40 Rooms 10,849

NANJING Projects 46 Rooms 9,679

WUHAN Projects 34 Rooms 7,796

XIAN Projects 45 Rooms 9,534

ZHUHAI Projects 34 Rooms 7,278

Projects Rooms

142

MELBOURNE Projects 32 Rooms 7,403

TOP COUNTRIES

In Thailand, Bangkok will also continue to add to its inventory with new offers from Ritz-Carlton, Moxy, Canopy by Hilton, Six Senses and Voco.

Tophotelprojects is a data service to support the design, build, furnishing and operation of hotels worldwide. For more information visit: www.tophotelprojects.com

SHENZHEN Projects 33 Rooms 7,681

Projects Rooms

1

2

3

4

5

CHINA 1,370 325,453

AUSTRALIA 182 35,087

INDIA 156 24,031

THAILAND 125 31,333

INDONESIA 123 22,472

6

7

8

9

10

VIETNAM 123 50,961

MALAYSIA 77 24,251

JAPAN 71 14,365

PHILIPPINES 66 16,883

RUSSIA 60 11,316

BUSINESS CENTRE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Of the 618,457 rooms in the pipeline, 24% (666 projects) are in the planning phase and a further 58% (1,444 projects) are under construction. It is within these phases that interior design schemes and FF&E fit-outs are being planned and implemented.

VISION

Projects 20 Rooms 6,109

PRE-PLANNING

PLANNING

CONSTRUCTION

PRE-OPENING

Projects 333 Rooms 75,616

Projects 666 Rooms 148,302

Projects 1,444 Rooms 356,447

Projects 148 Rooms 31,983

GROUPS AND BRANDS Having opened 75 hotels across Asia Pacific in 2020, Marriott International continues to expand its portfolio with 383 projects in the pipeline, 100 of which are expected to open in 2021. In terms of brands, Hilton’s flagship leads the way accounting for 22,740 new rooms.

383 253 240 230 165

Projects

Projects

Projects

Projects

Projects

BRAND

PROJECTS

ROOMS

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

81

22,740

Marriott Hotels & Resorts

59

17,616

Citadines Apart’Hotels

58

11,198

Hilton Garden Inn

55

11,826

Doubletree by Hilton

52

12,330

Hyatt Regency

48

11,676

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts

45

12,855

Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts

44

10,395

Crowne Plaza

43

10,477

Hotel Indigo

42

7,622

YEAR OF OPENING

2021 (34%)

2022 (27%)

2023 (12%)

2024 (7%)

UNCONFIRMED (20%)

143

THE VISUAL WORLD OF HOTEL DESIGN ... dive into the fascination!

www.TOPHOTELDESIGN.com

BUSINESS CENTRE

The intelligence source for the hotel investment community

Virtual kitchens gain headway

Salima Vellani, who owns KBox Global, says

by Balderton Capital, last Autumn. Vellani said

her model is one of “host kitchen” rather than

the company could break even in the UK this

Hotels have finally discovered a way to make

dark kitchen, as it exploits existing kitchen

year, but it is now expanding internationally.

money from their kitchens - by joining the

infrastructure. The company has 170 kitchens

Another growing UK operator is the Lean

burgeoning dark kitchen movement.

signed around the UK, with close to 50

Kitchen Network. Hotel consultant James

Demand for home-delivered food has

operational already. “There’s a big pipeline, but

Devitt is working with the company to grow its

accelerated through the pandemic. And it has

it depends on lockdown,” Vellani notes. Many

network, which is expanding from London and

been met by a number of creative business

will reopen once staff come back off furlough.

now has 40 locations live, with another 100 in

people in the hospitality sector, working out

Vellani named Best Western as being one UK

the pipeline including Holiday Inns, Radisson

ways to prepare that food by exploiting existing

chain that has realised the opportunity, and

and Hilton hotels. He says the package is an

kitchen facilities.

said that one unnamed hotelier had been able

attractive one for hoteliers: “A hotel trying to

A number of business concepts are growing

to obtain better refinancing terms once lenders

do this on its own would see the hotel fall over

under labels of ghost kitchens, dark kitchens

realised the value of the new food sales revenue

- there’s a lot to think about. Hotels can’t fill

and lean kitchens. All exploit branded food,

stream from their property.

their rooms at the moment, so this is low on their priority list - but they should be thinking

and new home delivery services to supply food

KBox’s offer starts with an assessment of a

cooked either in existing infrastructure, or

kitchen’s equipment and capabilities. It then

in newly built industrial kitchens. Many are

analyses likely market demand in the locality,

Devitt said the pace of the operation is

also meeting an upswing in vegetarian and

using the data to recommend suitable menus

impressive, with Lean Kitchen expecting the

vegan dishes, and their tapping into a sector

and brands. KBox uses social media to market

kitchen to acknowledge an order within seconds,

that Euromonitor reckons could be a USD1trn

the food to its target audiences. It supplies a

and have it prepared for delivery within eight

business in ten years.

tablet onto which orders are delivered, trains

minutes. Food is promoted via social media,

They are coming into a pandemic-driven

staff to cook the menus, and arranges delivery

“and they live or die on their reviews”.

home delivery market that has already seen

via one of three delivery partners. The company

“What they’re not producing is fine dining,”

many restaurant businesses pivot into home

charges a royalty, but insists there are no up-

said Devitt - but there are plenty who like the

deliveries, turning their premises into dark

front costs to signing.

look of it. “The consumer only knows the brand

kitchens and linking up with the existing delivery experts.

“It is very dependent on geography,” said Vellani of the opportunity, adding that GBP2-

about doing this, now.”

and the food - not where it comes from. It’s definitely not going to go away.”

Leading actors in the business say they can

10k per week of revenue is entirely possible.

KBox’s Vellani also points out that a hotel

typically create revenues of up to GBP10,000

“You’re in a market that is expanding very fast,

kitchen that converts to the start-up’s menus

per week for a kitchen. With marketing and

it’s taking away demand from supermarkets.”

can then replicate the same menu as room

delivery taken care of, they say hotel owners

The scale of growth means “there’s very little

service too. They simply get their staff to deliver

are finding the opportunity to make money

cannibalisation going on”.

the prepared dish upstairs, rather than sending it out with a cyclist.

from their kitchens highly attractive, not least

Vellani said that the company’s AI, combined

as the business cannot be closed by pandemic

with constant demand feedback, means it has

In the US, hospitality veteran Sam Nazarian

lockdowns. Some of the start-ups have been

an efficiency loop that helps the best performing

has launched C3, which the company says is

spawned by executives from the delivery services

kitchens support others: “Hotels can claw back

a portfolio of “digital kitchens, virtual and

such as Just Eat and Deliveroo, and taxi provider

some of that lost business.”

full-service culinary brands, and lifestyle food

Uber - with the latter pivoting into food delivery

KBox grew out of the Absurd Bird restaurant

halls”. The aim is to create a family of food

as the pandemic hit taxi customer numbers.

chain, and was initially backed by the Boghani

brands and offer them for home delivery only.

Others are coming from the restaurant sector,

family, who own the Splendid Hospitality

C3 is part of SBE, itself 50% owned by

spotting an opportunity to grow brands without

Group. It received GBP5m in backing from

Accor, and launched in February 2020 with the

the stress of signing and launching restaurants

Hoxton Ventures in mid-2020, and topped up

expectation of opening more than 130 kitchens

in the short term.

with a further GBP12m in a funding round led

by the year end. Some of those properties

145

include shuttered restaurants, which C3 has

The bright orange Easy brand is getting into

mogul Petter Stordalen and his Strawberry

leased. Recently, C3 signed a deal with Graduate

restaurant home delivery, along with others, while

group, with the pair aiming to work together

Hotels in the USA to launch Graduate Food Hall,

some towns and cities are seeing enterprising locals

on opportunities in the region. The move has

initially opening in six properties. Graduate

setting up a rival service to Deliveroo, without the

been welcomed by industry insiders as an

will outsource its food management services to

need to pay back the venture capitalists.

opportunity to shine a light on a part of the

the company, which will be largely focused on

But for the hotelier, the great thing about these

world ignored for too long by the brands, with

developing a delivery service - though there will

new technology platforms is, they take the risk. Make

the potential to shake up the sleepy blackwater.

be in-hotel options too.

meals while the sun shines.

Other US start-ups in the space include Kitchen United and CloudKitchen. The latter

HA PERSPECTIVE

Petri, a 288-room luxury property, in a deal

has been launched by former Uber CEO Travis

By Andrew Sangster: Every week in our commentary

estimated to be worth EUR144m. Strawberry

Kalanick. Plus there is Virtual Kitchen, founded

we speak of how Covid has accelerated change rather

will continue to manage the hotel in the short

by two former Uber executives, which raised

than caused change. And this week, yet again, we

to medium term, while the new owner explores

USD20m in September.

repeat. Prior to the pandemic, hotel operators had

the potential for redevelopment of the site.

experimented with either abandoning kitchens

Kimmo Virtanen, Director of Scandinavia,

HA PERSPECTIVE

altogether, relying instead on delivery services, or

Russia and the Baltic States for Christie & Co,

By Chris Bown: Finally, a real opportunity to

had tried to create scale in their F&B offer by making

said the arrival of StarCap could shake up the

turn the money pit of the hotel kitchen into a real

it more accessible to non-hotel guests. Virtual

market and introduce more international hotel

money spinner. All too often the hotel restaurant is

kitchens, which have come to prominence during

brands, which remain under-represented in

a financial failure, meeting the needs of overnight

the pandemic, have the capacity to speed up these

the region. It will also shine a light on the

guests, but failing to attract any non-resident

existing trends.

opportunities for repositioning to meet the

With fast, affordable and accessible delivery

market better. “I’ve always said the market is a

Hotels can be part of this delivered fast food

options, hotels can become the ultimate bed factories,

sleeping beauty - I’ve been trying to encourage

revolution - but they need to be quick, as plenty

dispensing with everything but the most minimal of

investors for some time. We’re underpenetrated

of hard-up restaurants are already looking for a

guest services. A number of delivery services, notably

with brands.”

part of the action too. It’s a market that appears

Deliveroo, have been offering hotels the option to

And Peter Haaber, founder of Danish limited

to be growing fast and the startups are chasing

create dedicated menus for guests. At Hotel Analyst’s

service hotel brand Zleep, said of the move: “It’s

market share. Time will tell how the momentum is

Hotel Operations Conference, we featured a speaker

brilliant - the more investors, the better.” He

maintained, as desperate hospitality businesses are

from Deliveroo explaining just such an offer.

noted that both Accor and Marriott are looking

business. A few make it work, but not many.

already planning how to get bums on restaurant

On the flip side of this, virtual kitchens offer

to increase the presence of their brands in

seats once national lockdowns ease; and town and

the chance to scale up and deliver a return on the

the region, with Starwood Capital’s arrival

city centres work out ways to entice us to get out to

investment in staff and equipment required for an

promising to improve their chances.

shop and eat out again.

effective food and beverage offer.

Stordalen’s Strawberry group has eleven

One challenge for virtual food brands is impressing

For the owner of a hotel property, there is also

affiliates, but hospitality is a major part of the

brand values, when the food is dropped off in a

the opportunity to rent out the kitchen facilities

combined business. It owns Nordic Choice,

box, and the eating experience is defined by the

of a premises to an ambitious operator of virtual

which operates 210 hotels in the Nordics and

consumer’s home surroundings. There are already

kitchens. The leasing of F&B is not a new concept

Baltics, with the majority of them in Sweden and

those in the industry in the US expressing concern

but the ability to deliver scale more easily thanks to

Norway. Alongside portfolios under the Clarion,

that there are too many brands being launched.

virtual kitchens opens up more opportunities.

Comfort and Quality brands, the company also operates a good number of independent hotels.

Another concern, also raised in some parts of the US, is that the scramble to launch these businesses is

Via Strawberry Properties, the group also holds

Opening up the Nordics

hotels, with a current portfolio of 16 properties.

marketing machine, and the delivery partner, take

Starwood Capital has made its first investment

throughout the hotel organisation.

a large chunk out of total revenues.

in Denmark, in what could preface a much

In 2019, Strawberry teamed up with TDR

And that concern over the cost of deliveries is

larger strategic push into the Scandinavian

Capital and Altor to rescue the Scandinavian

already driving new entrants into the marketplace.

hotel market. It has teamed up with local hotel

business of Thomas Cook, Vinggruppen, as the

driving up the price of renting kitchen space. Those investing in the space note that commissions to the

146

The initial deal involves the acquisition of Strawberry’s landmark hotel in Denmark, Skt

In all, around 17,000 staff are reckoned to work

BUSINESS CENTRE

China market points the way

company failed. That deal also included the

tree.” Virtanen reckons the region’s hotels

acquisition of a dozen holiday hotels on Spanish

are poised to bounce back strongly, thanks to

islands. At the time, Stordalen commented: “I

a strong pre-Covid economic environment, a

China’s hotel market has seen a recent faltering

have said that I will not invest in hotels outside

lower reliance on international arrivals, and

in its steps toward recovery. Local flare-ups

the Nordic and Baltic countries, but sometimes

lower levels of infection.

of Covid-19 have led to Chinese authorities

the temptation is too great. These are fantastic

Elsewhere on the continent, Starwood Capital

imposing a series of local and regional

hotels that we want to be able to continue to

is moving towards a takeover of Austrian

restrictions. Those restrictions are hitting the

offer Ving’s guests.”

property group CA Immo, which is active across

performance of hotels, which had previously

Stordalen has spoken publicly about the

European office markets. And in late 2019, the

seen several good months of improving

impact of the pandemic on his business and

investor acquired a residential rental portfolio

occupancy, as China looked to have shaken off

the need to cover his group’s debts. In mid-

in Finland, alongside local partner Avara Oy.

the worst of the pandemic.

in Stockholm for SEK1.5bn to investor NREP,

HA PERSPECTIVE

the Chinese market is Thai-based hotel group

in the country’s largest hotel transaction for

By Chris Bown: It feels like Scandinavia’s hotel

Minor. It recently signed a new partnership

five years. He commented at the time: “The

markets are about to be shaken up - and that should

agreement designed to expand several of its

property was not really for sale, but it is difficult

benefit both investors and visitors to the region. It

brands into the country.

to say no to a deal if the buyer is serious, capital

has suited the funds that are passive owners of

China’s domestic travel market is still

strong and offers a clear development plan for

hotels, to work with mid-market local brands - but

restricted as authorities continue to urge locals

the building.”

that has shut out international distribution, and

not to travel. Air fares for the Chinese New Year

probably also diminished inbound tourism numbers

period, generally a very busy time, remain low

too over the years.

as demand has failed to materialise. Travel

2020, Strawberry sold Clarion Hotel Amaranten

More recently, he put one of his properties, Comfort Hotel Stavanger, into bankruptcy. That

Taking a longer term view on the potential of

property, it is reported, struggled even in better

Now, all of a sudden, Starwood Capital are

platform Ctrip says most people are heeding

times and over five years had racked up losses

likely to do the unthinkable. They’ll probably land

official advice, and staying in their workplace

of NOK12m.

a big brand for their new Copenhagen purchase

cities rather than travelling home to their

Timothy Abram, Vice President at Starwood

- Edition, Waldorf Astoria, perhaps? - and be off

families - and as a result, it has noted more than

Capital, said of the new deal: “We look forward

tripping around the countryside with Stordalen’s

80% of its users are looking to travel locally.

to announcing our future plans for the hotel

help, looking for distressed properties to reposition.

Hotels, particularly luxury ones, are benefitting

in due course. We are also very excited to

With big local branded operators such as Scandic

from a trend to book into local properties for

explore future acquisitions together with Petter

looking in poor shape at the moment, what’s to say

the holiday.

Stordalen given his unique hospitality track

a landlord or two might be up for a chat?

record in the Nordics.”

At Huazhu, which operates a network of

For Stordalen, the link-up helps ease a cashflow

budget hotels across China, fourth quarter

Stordalen added: “In a post-corona world,

situation which must have been far from comfortable,

preliminary results saw blended RevPAR of

we see numerous possibilities together as the

compounded by the unlucky timing of his acquisition

just 2.4% from the equivalent 2019 quarter.

hospitality industry recovers. Maybe it is telling

of the former Thomas Cook assets in the region. Now,

At RMB186, the figure was up on the RMB179

that our first move together will be one of the

he’ll be able to look at opportunities afresh - and

in the previous quarter. Blended room rate has

largest European hotel transactions of 2021.”

his new partners will surely be raking through his

almost completely recovered, while occupancy

current portfolio with a view to making repositioning

reached 80.6% in the quarter, against 82.2% in

moves with financially fruitful rebrands.

2019. The company said it expected to declare

Christie’s Virtanen said the market is shaped by passive institutional investors who prefer lease agreements, content with a decent return;

The arrival of a new investor will also provide

Q4 revenues ahead of previous guidance, as

and a predominance of mid-market product.

a spur for the other major landlord in the region,

“travelling demand shows resilience, and

“There is a discrepancy. RevPARs have been

Pandox. Its CEO Anders Nissen has been looking

recovery in previously affected cities started

historically very good, and we have very little

forward to the opportunities arising from distress

accelerating after adjusting down the risk level

branded stock. Everyone is welcome to make

out of the pandemic. Now he has a new rival.

in those cities from mid-to-high risk to low risk.”

their mark - they just haven’t bothered.”

In China, the company opened 393 hotels

He added that he is frequently called by

during the quarter, but 114 hotels left the

investors, “but there is little actively on the

portfolio, giving a net size of 6,669 hotels at

market - maybe now is the time to shake the

the end of the calendar year.

147

BUSINESS CENTRE

At Minor, the group is teaming up with

fight against Covid-19, such as offering hotels

new partner Funyard Hotels & Resorts for an

to support government for pandemic prevention

expansion into China. The aim is to bring its

and control.”

Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Elewana, Tivoli and NH brands to the mainland. Funyard is part

HA PERSPECTIVE

of Country Garden, a major Chinese property

By Chris Bown: The Chinese government is still

investment group, effectively acting as its hotels

playing whack-a-mole with its sporadic Covid-19

arm. The company operates around 200 hotels

breakouts and is restricting foreign travel. But

in China, many under its own brands including

remarkably, its domestic hotel business is largely

Funyard, Beelan, Kylin and Fondney. It has a

back to normal - any other hotelier worldwide right

joint venture agreement running with Hilton to

now would give anything to be just 2.4% down on

grow the Home2 and Homewood extended stay

last year’s figures, as Huazhu is.

brands in the country - which appears to be

As for Minor, fresh from its fundraise, Funyard

delivering a fast-growing list of new openings;

looks to be a good partner. Already driving signings

and an agreement to develop Oakwood branded

for Hilton, and joint venturing with Oakwood, it looks

apartments in China as well.

to be a company that is comfortable in partnerships.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels,

So long as it can sign suitable properties for the

said: “China’s hospitality market is extremely

Thai-based group, this could be a great way into

competitive, but full of opportunities. We hope

the Chinese market.

to fully exploit our respective advantages and jointly explore new opportunities in industry

HA PERSPECTIVE

development, capitalising on Funyard’s rich

By Andrew Sangster: The Huazhu numbers were for

experience in China and Minor’s international

hotel operations rather than company financials,

expertise in the global hotel and resort segment.”

but they nonetheless provide good evidence of how

Ji Hongjun, President of Funyard Hotels &

strong the recovery is. And it is strong. Remarkably

Resorts, remarked: “We and Minor Hotels are

strong given that China’s borders are effectively

both convinced that China’s resort market is

closed. For countries with a similarly healthy

full of potential. Funyard Hotels & Resorts

domestic market (in Europe, the UK and Germany

has plenty of managerial experience and local

are good examples) then a similarly sharp rebound

resources in the domestic market, while Minor

might be expected as lockdowns are eased.

Hotels is an outstanding establishment in the

It is much less clear what happens in regard to

global hotel and resort market. We look forward

cross-border travel. Vaccinations are clearly a key

to working with Minor Hotels to tap into the

component but until there is widespread deployment

Chinese resort market and bring new energy to

globally, governments are likely to come under

Chinese and even global tourism.”

pressure to protect citizens by keeping borders

Huazhu also now has its European division,

closed. Though, if this all nets to a result that sees

through its acquisition of Deutsche Hospitality.

RevPAR down just 2.4% in Q2 2021 compared to Q2

Despite the extension of lockdown measures

2019, I think most operators in Europe will take it.

restricting business in its home market, Huazhu

In the meantime, even with just domestic

said revenues would be in line with previous

travel, consolidation has picked up speed in China.

guidance. The company said in a statement:

According to Huazhu, the number of branded chain

“In addition, we are taking further cost and

hotel rooms increased by 2.8% between Q4 2019 and

cash flow measures, such as negotiating with

Q3 2020. Independent hotel rooms, however, shrunk

landlords to reduce our rental costs, reducing

by 5.7%. This too is likely to be replicated in Europe.

or eliminating discretionary corporate spending and capital expenditures. We also actively sought new business opportunities in the government’s

148

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Performance Data 2020 vs 2019 (year-over-year % changes and absolute values)

Covid-19 Update: Global Hotel Performance

CANADA

In Canada, occupancy and RevPAR saw all-time lows while ADR fell to its lowest level since 2012. Year-over-year declines were the country’s worst across all three key performance metrics.

The release of December hotel performance data made official what the industry already knew – 2020 was the worst year on record.

Overall, global hotel demand (room nights sold) fell 43% in 2020, and most regions still sit well below the 50% occupancy mark as the world moves into a second pandemic year. Fortunately, industry forecasts call for meaningful recovery to begin later in 2021 as vaccine distribution becomes more widespread, Covid-19 cases fall, and the context for travel improves.

Some markets, mostly in the Asia Pacific region, are further ahead in the recovery timeline due to earlier initial exposure to the virus and more effective mitigation efforts in the months that followed.

Mainland China for example, is closer to pre-pandemic levels than almost every other major market around the world.

Chengdu, Hangzhou and Xian, which offer both leisure attractions and corporate advantages, recovered a substantial portion of hotel business in 2020, and Sanya was one of only two major metro markets around the world to record yearover-year RevPAR growth.

Another standout region late in the year was the Middle East. The UAE, specifically, showed consistent improvement in performance levels during the second half of 2020 and even showed some monthly year-over-year growth in the metrics.

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

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

150

Occupancy 49.2% to 33.1% ADR 21.0% to CAD130.43 RevPAR 59.8% to CAD43.11

USA

The USA reported all-time lows in occupancy and RevPAR. ADR came in lower than any year since 2011. Year-over-year declines were the worst on record across the three key performance metrics.

Occupancy 33.3% to 44.0% ADR 21.3% to US$103.25 RevPAR 47.5% to US$45.48

COLOMBIA

Occupancy and RevPAR were the lowest on record in STR’s Colombia database. April was the country’s low point for occupancy (6.0%), but steady improvement returned the country to 30.9% in December.

Occupancy 57.2% to 25.5% ADR 5.1% to COP255,835.94 RevPAR 59.4% to COP65,171.63

ECUADOR

Absolute occupancy and RevPAR were the lowest on record in Ecuador. June recorded the lowest occupancy (8.3%), but levels returned to 30.0% by December.

Occupancy 56.0% to 26.3% ADR 17.8% to US$76.29 RevPAR 63.9% to US$20.09

BUSINESS CENTRE

UK

Absolute occupancy and RevPAR levels were the lowest for any year on record in STR’s UK database. Amid another round of Covid-19 lockdowns, December performance was down and the country’s 26.1% occupancy level was its lowest since May.

Occupancy 47.7% to 40.5% ADR 23.9% to GBP72.08 RevPAR 60.2% to GBP29.17

NETHERLANDS

In the Netherlands, occupancy fell to a low point in April (8.5%) but improved to 44.2% in August thanks to domestic demand during the summer holidays. However, reflecting the impact of a new lockdown, December occupancy (14.2%) was the lowest for the country since May.

Occupancy 60.3% to 30.0% ADR 24.1% to EUR93.06 RevPAR 69.8% to EUR27.96

CHINA

The absolute occupancy and RevPAR levels were the lowest for any year in STR’s China database.

February was the country’s worst month in terms of occupancy (12.4%).

UAE

QATAR

Performance metrics were the lowest on record however occupancy remained high compared with other countries.

In August and September, Qatar accomplished the rare feat of yearover-year growth in ADR (+0.1%).

Occupancy 14.8% to 56.6% ADR 4.4% to QAR356.13 RevPAR 18.5% to QAR201.50

The three key performance metrics hit new lows in STR’s UAE database, but performance towards the end of the year pulled closer to pre-pandemic levels. December occupancy (67.4%) and RevPAR (AED371.24) were the highest in the country since February.

Occupancy 25.4% to 49.1% ADR 15.2% to CNY393.88 RevPAR 36.8% to CNY193.20

Occupancy 29.3% to 51.7% ADR 16.5% to AED418.83 RevPAR 41.0% to AED216.45

AUSTRALIA

After falling to its low point in April (occupancy: 19.8%), Australia reported continued improvement through the end of the year. In December, each of the three key performance metrics were the highest for the country since February: occupancy (52.8%), ADR (AUD189.50) and RevPAR (AUD99.98).

Occupancy 39.4% to 44.7% ADR 11.5% to AUD163.90 RevPAR 46.4% to AUD73.32

151

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SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

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A H E A D G LO B A L

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hotels, which makes judging AHEAD – the awards for hospitality experience and design – all the more difficult. But, thanks to a 60-strong panel of operators, developers, architects and designers, the very best projects have been revealed. Marking the culmination of eight regional awards schemes, AHEAD Global saw winners from 2019-2020 compete head-to-head in a series of new categories, with shortlisted projects presented live before a vote.

So, what makes a winner? We asked members of the judging panel to shed light on why winning projects stood out from the crowd, whether that be by elevating a neighbourhood or striking the perfect balance between sustainability and luxury.

Aliya Khan, Vice President of Design, Lifestyle Brands, at Marriott International summed it up

when she said: “Designers today do an excellent job of solving tactical problems; guestrooms are efficient, coffee is a push-button away and concepts are executed with craft and skill. But on top of all these calculated needs are the projects that make you dream; they inspire and make you, the traveller, aspire to more. They are decadent in their attention to detail, and always authentic in telling the story of their location in every sensory way possible. In a year where we have only been able to wander the world in our minds, I considered what each of the hotels can offer a global population who are starving for travel, and which ones provide a memorable experience that remind us why we seek to explore new destinations.”

The ceremony is available to watch online in full, where you can view winning presentations and hear how AHEAD brought the community together.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH HIGHLIGHTS OF AHEAD GLOBAL

www.aheadawards.com

000

T H E S O C I A L S C E N E AWA R D

THE STANDARD – LONDON, UK Crosstree Real Estate Partners / Standard International / Orms / Archer Humphryes Architects Shawn Hausman Design Pulsating public spaces are the holy grail of hospitality, and Standard International’s London debut ticks all the boxes.

Having already won three awards at AHEAD Europe, the hotel was triumphant on the Global stage thanks to the success of rooftop restaurant Decimo, the Double Standard bar and a vibrant lobby lounge that’s as equally suited to co-working as it is cocktails.

So, what stood out at The Standard? For Sam Gelin, founder of Made Hotels and judge in this category, it was the variety of spaces on offer together with the distinct identity of each, resulting in a property he describes as “thoughtful, wellexecuted and original”. Anne Wilkinson, Principal at Bamo, adds: “They took a concept and knocked it out of the park.

Every bar, restaurant and lounge has swagger and personality; it’s perfectly edited and thoughtfully designed. You can picture yourself there at any time of day or night.”

T H E G A M E C H A N G E R AWA R D

WILD COAST TENTED LODGE – SRI LANKA Resplendent Ceylon / Nomadic Resorts / Bo Reudler Studio Gamechangers break the mould, challenging the established norms of the hotel world to create something refreshing and different. Nomadic Resorts’ 36-tent safari camp in Sri Lanka does just that, using prefabrication methods to minimise its environmental footprint while echoing the context of the site through local materials such as stone, quartz and mud brick.

How did it beat off the competition? For Stefan Rier, founder of Noa*, it was the “fluid combination of innovation and tradition, resulting in an organic architectural style designed in collaboration with local artisans.” Chris Webb, Vice President of Architecture & Design EMEA, Hilton, hails the “eco credentials and respectful fusion with the landscape”, calling it a “one-off luxury experience”. Jinou Park, founder of Normal, says: “As places of escape in remote locations become more popular in the post-Covid world, the sustainable creation and operation of these accommodation types are becoming all the more important.”

AHEAD

T H E U R B A N AWA R D

ROSEWOOD BANGKOK – THAILAND Rende Development Company / Rosewood Hotel Group / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Celia Chu Design & Associates / AvroKO With the majority of new hotel development focused on urban locations, competition is fierce and a property has to be really special to stand out from the crowd. Enter Rosewood Bangkok. The 30-storey newbuild scooped The Urban Award after impressing judges with its Thai-inspired architecture and interior design scheme.

So, what set Rosewood Bangkok apart from the rest? According to Guy Heywood, Chief Operating Officer at Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, the property “hits all the right notes when it comes to the interplay between design, form and function, blending into the environment, location and fit for market,” while its interiors are “sensitive to the local culture and at the same time make a statement”. Nicholas Clayton, CEO of Capella Hotels, echoes the sentiment, adding: “The hotel’s interiors feel like a luxury manor while integrating subtle elements of Thai heritage.”

T H E R U R A L R E T R E AT AWA R D

OMAANDA – WINDHOEK EAST, NAMIBIA Zannier Hotels / Zannier Hotels Interiors Rural retreats have a duty to harmonise with their locale, immersing guests in the surrounding landscape by way of architecture and design. Having taken home the Guestrooms trophy for doing exactly that at AHEAD MEA in 2019, Omaanda won the judges over again on the Global stage with its thatched huts and 360-degree views over the African plain.

But what made the luxury lodge a winning project? For Jennyfer Lacroix, Director of Design and Construction at The Langham Hotels, it was not only its resourceful and extremely creative design solutions, but also how the project tuned into human capabilities and needs with “an intent to create awareness and a new direction of development in the region”. Emma King, Head of Design, IHG Hotels & Resorts, also judged the category and points to the distinct sense of place achieved through natural materials and Owambo-style architecture, which she believed made the property stand out: “I really appreciate the challenge of sourcing locally and adding those touchpoints into the design.”

T H E R E G E N E R AT I O N AWA R D

AMANYANGYUN – SHANGHAI, CHINA Shanghai Guyin Real Estate / Aman / Kerry Hill Architects Sensitivity is often the key when giving historic buildings a new lease of life, and Shanghai’s Amanyangyun is no exception; Kerry Hill Architects marry old and new with aplomb, so much so that the project swept the board at AHEAD Asia in 2019, winning four accolades including Hotel of the Year.

How did the hotel beat global competition? Ed Ng, Principal at AB Concept, described the owner’s determination and vision as remarkable, citing the rescue and conservation efforts that spanned two decades and saved ancient trees and buildings from ruin. Linda Boronkay, who recently founded her own design studio, applauded the project for its authenticity and cultural and historical references. “Amanyangyun is not only incredibly beautiful, it was completed with the greatest social responsibility,” she notes. Géraldine Dohogne, founder of Beyond Design, commends the sustainable approach to design and adds: “The sensitive restoration brings a truly authentic experience; this is storytelling at its best.”

T H E C R E AT I V E C O N V E R S I O N AWA R D

DEXAMENES SEASIDE HOTEL – KOUROUTA, GREECE Karaflos D&SIA / K-Studio Putting the creative in Creative Conversion, Dexamenes Seaside Hotel in the western Peloponnese struck a chord with the judges for combining the industrial brutality of a former wine factory – left untouched since the 1920s – with elegant interventions that transform the site’s once austere functionality into a place of calm, comfort and relaxation.

Designed by K-Studio, the 35-key property is a member of Design Hotels and offers the unique experience of sleeping within one of the wine tanks.

So, what makes Dexamenes a winning project? For Aliya Khan, Vice President of Design, Lifestyle Brands at Marriott International, it is the purity of the buildings – also evident in the interior design scheme – that stands out. “I like the fact that nothing is masked, beautified or hidden,” she explains.

“Everything is a true representation of what the buildings became over time, with the ‘flaws’ celebrated and enhanced in the act of the conversion to a hotel.”

AHEAD

T H E S A N C T U A R Y AWA R D

THE RETREAT AT BLUE LAGOON – GRINDAVIK, ICELAND Blue Lagoon Iceland / Basalt Architects / Design Group Italia Sanctuaries should provide a true escape from the outside world, allowing guests to recharge, restore and rebalance. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon – built on an 800-year-old lava flow – does just that, taking the idea of rest and recreation to the next level by way of a subterranean spa, geothermal lagoon and 62 suites encircled by mineral-rich waters.

How did the retreat win over the panel? For Paul Wiste, Principal at Design Assembly, the project’s response to the site impressed. “In his presentation, the architect commented that with a site like this, the architecture doesn’t need to make a statement; this humble approach was reflected in the way the design centres around the guest experience.” Wiste also highlights the way in which every sense is considered: “The details are thoughtfully layered, never too contrived or overwhelming, leaving the guest to connect with the natural surroundings and become immersed in this sanctuary.”

T H E B E A C H F R O N T B E A U T Y AWA R D

ASBURY OCEAN CLUB – ASBURY PARK, USA iStar / Salt Hotels / Handel Architects / Anda Andrei Design / Bonetti Kozerski Architects Madison Cox Associates Having won the Resort accolade at AHEAD Americas in 2020, Asbury Ocean Club proved its credentials once again, redefining the idea of beachfront beauty with its elevated experience. Part of a vibrant mixed-use development that has resurrected a neighbourhood, the hotel is a departure from the typical beach resort decor and features vivid colours and patterns selected by interior designer Anda Andrei.

So why did Asbury Ocean Club take home the prize? Chad Oppenheim, Principal at Oppenheim Architecture, is familiar with the site having grown up nearby, so was perfectly placed to judge the project. “I have been aware of the incredible history of the site and all its challenges,” he notes. “I appreciate the way the project elevates the architectural bar on the Jersey Shore.” Asked what advice he would give to those looking to enter AHEAD this year, Oppenheim said: “Put your best foot forward as competition is fierce.”

T H E P E O P L E ’ S C H O I C E AWA R D

SANTA MONICA PROPER HOTEL – USA The Kor Group / Proper Hospitality / Howard Laks Architects / Kelly Wearstler This Kelly Wearstler-designed bolthole inspired the judges at AHEAD Americas 2020 – scooping Guestrooms, Lobby & Public Spaces and the highly sought-after Hotel of the Year trophy – and went on to captivate on the Global stage, taking home The People’s Choice Award.

The winner of this category was determined via a live poll held throughout AHEAD Global, with an online audience of owners, operators, architects and interior designers asked to vote for the project they believe to show creative excellence, commercial viability and suitability for the local market. As the second property in the growing Proper portfolio, the Santa Monica outpost was commended in particular for its site-specific artisanal feel. “Passion is what pushes us to find, create, and operate one-of-a-kind properties that we ourselves want to experience and enjoy with our friends and family,” explains Brian De Lowe, President and co-founder of Proper Hospitality. It seems the AHEAD community agrees.

T H E U LT I M AT E A C C O L A D E AWA R D

DEXAMENES SEASIDE HOTEL – KOUROUTA, GREECE Karaflos D&SIA / K-Studio The final award of AHEAD Global saw the judging panel vote to determine the best of the best. With all shortlisted projects in the running, competition was fierce, but it was Dexamenes Seaside Hotel in Greece that impressed the most, winning the coveted Ultimate Accolade.

The site’s unlikely conversion to a hotel was due to the remarkable vision of both developer and designer, resulting in a project where aesthetics and experience take centrestage.

The judging panel commended K-Studio for achieving a true balance of old and new, preserving the raw beauty of a derelict industrial site while breathing new life into its walls in an authentic way. “We worked with the bare aesthetic of the site without introducing any elements or materials alien to it,” said K-Studio’s co-founder Dimitris Karampatakis during his presentation to the judges. “New construction left the existing buildings relatively untouched to retain their strong presence and ensure we balanced old and new in an elegant way.”

AHEAD

W H AT D O T H E J U D G E S L O O K F O R ?

With AHEAD’s regional awards programmes currently open for entries, we ask members of the judging panel what they look for in a winning project.

“An important aspect of any winning project is the story that is told through architecture, interior design, FF&E and service programming; how all the components are intrinsically linked by a common thread of culture and heritage, how they impact the customer experience and how they ultimately facilitate the commercial success of the project.”

“I look for a combination of interesting design that stands out while at the same time being functional in its usability. I take a holistic approach to looking at the whole picture of interior warmth, striking architecture and interesting food and beverage concepts that have strong identities of their own.”

NICHOLAS CLAYTON – CEO, CAPELLA HOTEL GROUP

SIX SENSES HOTELS RESORTS SPAS

“There’s so much homogenisation, commodification and recycled churn that I believe it important to consider how genuine innovation can create better experiences.

Hospitality is a fast-moving beast, so it is crucial to discern true ingenuity and gauge whether designs will stand the test of time.”

“While this is a design award, we are also looking for a philosophy and approach that resonates, creates interest and is in synchrony with the project’s surroundings geographically, culturally and historically.”

GUY HEYWOOD – CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER,

LINDA BORONKAY – FOUNDER, LINDA BORONKAY DESIGN STUDIO

JINOU PARK – FOUNDER, NORMAL

“A winning project has a strong concept that is successfully integrated into every part of the design; combining ideas, functionality, emotions and aesthetics in a harmonious symphony that sparks feelings of curiosity, comfort, newness and nostalgia all at once.”

“AHEAD is far beyond just a head-to-head competition on how beautiful the design is; as judges we look at each project’s invisible and contextual messages.”

ED NG – PRINCIPAL, AB CONCEPT

STEFAN RIER – FOUNDER, NOA*

“The project needs to captivate our imagination to the point where I am inspired to travel to the destination. An award-winning project should combine architecture, interior design and landscaping to demonstrate that this is a concept that has been considered and completed in its entirety. Finally, it should have that unexpected touch, that intangible element that sets it apart from the others.”

“Cosmetic is only the icing on the cake.

Now more than ever, new hotel concepts must reactivate curiosity, cultural discovery and experiences – reinventing the terms of hospitality. Designing this means thinking the intangible and how to make it happen, creating unique scenarios and developing new ways to travel where the constructed may not be the core of the outcome.”

PAUL WISTE – PRINCIPAL, DESIGN ASSEMBLY

CONSTRUCTION, THE LANGHAM HOTELS

JENNYFER LACROIX – DIRECTOR OF DESIGN &

S AV E T H E DAT E F O R A H E A D 2 0 2 1

9 SEPTEMBER 2021

16 SEPTEMBER 2021

3 NOVEMBER 2021

19 NOVEMBER 2021

CAESARS BLUEWATERS – DUBAI

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FAENA FORUM – MIAMI

EVOLUTION – LONDON

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO AHEAD GLOBAL 2020 SPONSORS

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SPOTLIGHT OUTDOOR FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES As the industry shifts to focus on the outdoors, we take a look at the best products to enhance open-air spaces.

RH Tropea An exercise in form and function, the Tropea collection by eminent Italian architect and designer Claudio Bellini achieves a perfect balance. The lounge chair’s angular silhouette, raked legs and canted, wedge back create a dynamic composition – matched by the generously proportioned seating and welcoming comfort – while its distinctive profile is modern and architectural. The collection also inclues a sofa, chaise, ottoman and coffee table, as well as a dining table, armchair and side chair. www.rh.com

SPOTLIGHT

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2.

164

3.

4.

1. Kettal Molo XL

2. Perennials Villa del Sol

3. Gommaire Alabama

4. Varaschin Emma Cross

Kettal has unveiled the latest addition to the Molo collection, the Molo XL modular sofa. Designed by Rodolfo Dordoni, the range features orthogonal geometry based on a rectangular modularity design, and can be easily adapted to meet the needs of various settings, optimising the space in which it sits. Each module can be taken apart and rearranged, creating new uses and configurations.

The design aesthetic is minimal with oversized pieces, whilst other decorative elements have intentionally not been emphasised to allow the combinations of fabrics, colours and selected details to take centrestage. The Molo XL sofa also features three different leg systems. www.kettal.com

Perennials Fabrics & Rugs has announced the debut of Villa del Sol, a new collection of vibrant 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabric and rug designs for Spring 2021.

The new range invites an escape from reality with fabrics and rugs inspired by breezy palms and tranquil resorts. Villa del Sol introduces three fabric qualities – Palmetto, Breezy and Breakwater – alongside colourways like Outta the Blue, Lapis, Verdigris, Smoky Quartz, Ginger, Peony, Morning Glory, and Confetti.

Perennials also presents five new rug designs, including Fade Away, Tide Pool, Matrix, and Euphoria, in addition to the introduction of a flatwoven shag construction, Shaggy. www.perennialsfabrics.com

Established in 2015, Belgium-based furniture manufacturer Gommaire is a reflection of the combined ideas and years of experience of designers Gommaire Cleybergh, Bert Verelst and Laurent De Greef. Its offering includes a timeless range of indoor and outdoor furniture, complemented by an extensive collection of decorative pieces. The fun, funky and on-trend Alabama oneseater forms part of its Outdoor range.

Crafted from reclaimed teak wood and cushions, the chair – which retains a rustic charm whilst exuding an air of elegance – can be used as a standalone piece or together with other items from Gommaire’s wider portfolio. www.gommaire.com

The Emma Cross dining armchair, envisioned by Monica Armani, draws inspiration from the corolla of a flower and the collar of a shirt. Varaschin’s signature hand-weaving is showcased in the seat, which features the Band – a special padded acrylic ribbon embellished with a central embroidery that overlaps the basket’s rope covering, creating a dynamic play of textures and colours.

The armchair’s Emma Cross Band is available in a range of finishes – from the most neutral of shades such as beige and anthracite to more characterising hues including rust, green and denim – making it suitable for both residential and contract projects. www.varaschin.it

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1. Leisure Plan Hive

2. Barlow Tyrie Layout

3. Ligne Roset Saparella

4. Dedon Dala

Hive by Fabrice Berrux for Ego Paris is a 16-piece collection of hexagonal modular units, available in both high and low back versions. The relaxed seating range is designed on the ‘honeycomb’ principle, which sees discreet, powdercoated aluminium frames in over 20 colour finishes, backs covered with tough polyester mesh and deep cushions combined to allow for multiple configurations – meeting the needs of any space and inviting people to come together. The high back model also forms a protective screen for extra comfort, enabling the beehive-inspired forms to be used for convivial seating arrangements in both indoor and outdoor settings. www.leisureplan.co.uk

Barlow Tyrie brings elegant indoor lounging to outdoor spaces with the Layout collection. Envisioned by designers Andrew Jones and Nathalie de Leval, Layout is a versatile modular system comprising upholstered sofas, coffee tables and multiple dining options, enabling both intimate and grand seating groups. Upholstered backs and arms are separate components and can fit on any side of the seating units to create sofas, corner sectionals, loungers, chairs, ottomans and many asymmetric configurations. The seats and teak tables use a refined frame made from 316 Marine Grade stainless steel, which is powder-coated in one of two colours. www.teak.com

A re-release of a pioneering model from 1965, Saparella consists of a fireside chair, a diabolo and a footstool. The modular seating range is versatile, allowing users to create and alter different compositions in a variety of outdoor settings. Defined by rounded lines, the series boasts an inviting and relaxing look. The diabolo draws inspiration from the toy after which it is named, while its concave outline fits with the convex shape of the fireside chairs, allowing pieces to slot together.

A settee can also be created from two chairs by placing a diabolo in the centre with each element held together by linking pieces made from mirror-polished stainless steel. www.ligne-roset.com

Comprising circular lounge elements, Dala is an easy-going yet artisanal collection characterised by a distinctive weaving style. New for 2021, Dedon has introduced five new colourways – Rioja, Cuba, Bahamas, Ubud and Ibiza – inspired by the brand’s ongoing Tour du Monde to Stephen Burks’ award-winning collection. Developed with renowned colourist Giulio Ridolfo, the palette features signature Dedon tones in new combinations. Replacing the current offering, the colours are available with the whole Dala range, from planter and lantern to footstool and lounge chair. Also new to the collection is a club chair and a range of plush cushions. www.dedon.de

SPOTLIGHT

Q&A

1.

Sanipex Group The design-led product manufacturer discusses the company’s latest foray into outdoor furniture.

Why did you decide to expand into outdoor furniture?

We have expanded our product offering in recent years to include Spa & Wellness and Tiles & Slabs. The addition of Outdoor Furniture is a natural extension servicing the same clients, completing our offer for retail and hospitality sectors.

What is the inspiration behind the outdoor collection?

As we cross many sectors, working with boutique hotels and major recognised brands, we have to offer a wide and complete collection that is up-to-date with the latest trends such as urban industrial and biophilia, whilst meeting the quality and price expectations of our clients.

Tell us about a standout product in the range?

We can see a major trend towards rope and ribbon upholstery on steel or aluminium frames, which are very pleasing aesthetically. However, sometimes comfort can be sacrificed. This is where our Fortuna Sock range offers real benefit. The collection features low maintenance Ezy Dry upholstery in a range of finishes, which is also soft and tactile for maximum comfort.

How important is the hospitality sector to your business?

In terms of our project business, the hospitality sector represents approximately 50% of the group’s sales. We have the capability to work with complete single supply offers for the three-, four- and five-star sectors, with particular strength in the boutique sector due to our ability to customise according to the designer and developer requirements.

What sets Sanipex apart from other companies?

Our vast product offering caters to a variety of styles; from creating Bali vibes beachfront with Ritz Teak, to developing funky metropolitan rooftops with LED bars, planters and seating. Sanipex offers diversity in both function and design for specification across a number of projects worldwide. www.sanipexgroup.com

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1. Luxterior Art Deco

2. Vincent Sheppard David

Founded by Grace Mallory in 2020, Luxterior offers a carefully curated range of products including lighting, furniture and outdoor accessories. Designed and made in Italy, the Art Deco collection shines for its variation in solids and voids, which give the pieces a sense of lightness. The epoxy-powder-coated aluminium frame boasts scratch-proof and shockproof properties and is available in white, taupe and gold, while polyester bands are coordinated with the frame and come in ice, taupe or gold.

The wide range of seats and backrests feature a semi-circular or linear structure – the latter choice offers the possibility to create several unique modular configurations. In addition to sofas, armchairs and chairs, Art Deco also includes tables, coffee tables and sun loungers. www.luxterior.co.uk

Established in 1992, Belgian manufacturer Vincent Sheppard is known for its ‘Lloyd Loom’ furniture – a technique where kraft paper is twisted around a metal wire and woven into unique pieces. A reinterpretation of classic teak collections, the brand’s David range comprises a lounge chair, lounge sofa, side table, coffee table, dining chair and dining table. The muted grey wash of the aged teak provides a light and contemporary feeling, which is enhanced by sleek and elegant legs. The chairs’ woven backs and rope details – produced in a soft earthy tone – complement a solid teak frame and add a sense of tactility, while its refined silhouettes are balanced by outdoor cushions for extra comfort.

Made from quick-dry foam, the cushions are available in several high-quality fabrics. www.vincentsheppard.com

Layout collection by Andrew Jones and Natalie de Leval

Award-winning outdoor furniture since 1920

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1. Janus et Cie Chopstix

2. Point Paralel

3. Vondom Venus

4. Ethimo Hut

Envisioned by celebrated architect and designer Paola Navone, Chopstix is an eclectic outdoor collection ideal for boutique hotels and estate patios. A balance of Navone’s signature avantgarde vision and effortless Italian style, the range features tables and chairs for outdoor use. Available in three finishes, the handwoven olefin rope armchair and side chair offer a tactile, enveloping seat.

The chair styles and hues can be mixed, creating a bold dining ensemble. Navone has also recreated the convivial gathering experience of her Mediterranean culture by devising modular tables that can be used alone or paired together to form one long piece. www.janusetcie.com

Gabriel Teixido’s Paralel collection for Point looks to create a visual impact, with a detail-rich design combining Indonesian teak wood – sourced from carefully managed forests – and synthetic rope to provide the necessary comfort for both indoor and outdoor spaces. The collection comprises a set of 15 pieces, with its chairs, armchairs, sofas and tables all characterised by a distinguishable back that draw the eye. “This is a serene collection that is here to stay,” explains Teixido on his most recent partnership with the Spanish furniture maker. “Its characteristic feature, wood, is a living element that connects well with people and gives it warmth.” www.point1920.com

Amsterdam-based product and interior design studio Marcel Wanders has collaborated with Spanish furniture manufacturer Vondom for over five years, and the latest creation for the brand is a trio of outdoor vases. Developed using rotational moulding, a technological process that guarantees maximum quality and detail, the curvaceous Venus vases are available in three different sizes, adding a dash of character to exterior environments. The Venus collection’s colour palette and texture also offer a sophisticated yet soft feeling, creating a glamourous atmosphere that reflects the sensuality, warmth and poetry for which Wanders is renowned. www.vondom.com

Designed by Marco Lavit, Hut is a nestlike lounge bed comprising a series of long ‘stalks’ arranged in a wigwam shape, as well as metal inserts and details that define a large circular seat covered with soft cushions. Both the external shell and the large lounge bed are made of Siberian Larcie or Accoya, a solid and high-performance, FSC-certified wood.

Measuring 300x320cm, Hut’s proportions elevate it to bona fide architecture, yet it has no ground restrictions, meaning it can be easily moved and adapted. The lounge bed can also be customised with a curtain that ‘closes’ the nest, providing protection from direct sunlight while allowing a breeze to pass through. www.ethimo.com

Creative TUUCI for SLEEPER 2020 (CONTOUREN).indd 1

9-4-2020 10:00:12

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1. Expormim Petale

2. Luteca Edimburgo Dining Chair

3. Tuuci Northstar Mast

4. Gandia Blasco Outdoor Social Distancing

Spanish furniture brand Expormim is challenging tradition with new additions to its outdoor furniture range. Coinciding with its 60th anniversary, the manufacturer has introduced a new outdoor chair.

Named Petale and devised by Valenciabased MUT Design, the piece utilises minimal materials without sacrificing comfort and purpose. Made from stainless steel tube and textile, it features a petal-shaped backrest to provide support, which can be aided further by a customisable cushion. Measuring slightly smaller than Exporimum’s standard chairs – 48cm x 53cm x 84cm – Petale is stackable and suitable for indoor and outdoor spaces. www.expormim.com

Designed by Michael van Beuren in Mexico, the Edimburgo Dining Chair dates back to 1945. Taking cues from modernist shapes of that time and van Beuren’s Bauhaus training, its stylish and elegant form has transcended time.

Luteca’s faithful rendition, guided by the family’s original pieces, is available for full outdoor use and has a bar and counter stool design also available in the series.

Established in 2015, Luteca specialises in contemporary and modernist furniture inspired by the rich heritage of Mexico and Latin America. At Luteca’s core is an appreciation for past and present, skilled workmanship and the combination of unique local materials and techniques. www.luteca.com

The Northstar Mast is a structural and aesthetic enhancement to parasol design, utilising Tuuci’s patent-pending ‘channel and ridge’ architecture. The system features polished ridges that peak between arched channels finished in a choice of soothing wood tones or neutral powder-coated hues. Available in authentic teak, six Aluma-Teak and seven premium powder-coated finishes, the Northstar Mast provides unique finish combinations that are resistant to the elements while providing comfort in the shade. The design is available on several of the parasol styles in Tucci’s Ocean Master Max collection, as well as with any of the brand’s lift systems. www.tuuci.com

In response to the pandemic, Gandia Blasco has developed Outdoor Social Distancing, a selection of products curated to satisfy the demand for design and quality products with which to create intimate outdoor spaces, maintaining obligatory security and distancing measures. From pergolas and daybeds to cabins and picnic areas, the edit brings together pieces inspired by Mediterranean vernacular architecture, conceived by Chairman José A. GandíaBlasco Canales. The selection of products blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior whilst at once adapting to the needs of privacy, security and social distance in today’s world. www.gandiablasco.com

Contemporary & modernist design inspired by the rich legacies of Mexico and Latin America.

LUTECA.COM PARIS - NEW YORK - LOS ANGELES - MEXICO CITY

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1. Roda Levente

2. Minotti Fynn

3. Manutti Flex

4. Fast Ria

Designed by Piero Lissoni for Roda, Levante is a new collection of outdoor teak furniture that is both contemporary and reminiscent of classic pieces.

Comprising a garden table featuring a top made from framed wooden slats, a chair with armrests, a folding lounge chair and a traditional folding chaise longue, the range unites teak – a staple in outdoor furniture thanks to its resistance – with stainless steel to create graceful lines and timeless allure. Adding a touch of soft refinement, the chairs come with cushions that can be coordinated and customised using Roda’s fabrics range, which includes new high-quality, environmentally-friendly acrylic yarns. www.rodaonline.com

Embodying a balanced blend of Scandinavian culture and Italian tradition, the Fynn Outdoor range, designed by GamFratesi for Minotti, is examplar of fine wood furniture crafting, visible in the sophisticated techniques used to make the teak structure, combined with a very delicate aesthetic and an ultra-contemporary design. The signature element of the Fynn outdoor armchairs, lounge and dining armchairs is the handfinished, wooden armrest: elongated and curved, it is pleasing to the touch. The same structural features of the seating are repeated in the other elements of the range: the ottoman, benches, coffee tables and the dining table. www.minotti.com

Manutti has launched a new modular collection – Flex. The outdoor furniture manufacturer has worked closely with Italian design studio Metrica to ensure the range goes beyond the traditional concept of an outdoor sofa. The result of the collaboration is a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern style elements; a light and elegant aluminium frame flows seamlessly into handmade wooden elements, while a choice between natural and black-stained teak options means that Flex is suitable for an array of settings. Various modules can also be added to a two or three-seater sofa to create configurations that meet operator’s needs. www.manutti.com

Inspired by narrow coastal coves that recall Norwegian fjords, the Ria collection accommodates the comfort and wellbeing of the body as coves welcome and contain the sea. Designed by Alberto Lievore, it introduces the use of ropes for the first time; the signature aluminium frame – which is lightweight and longlasting – is now teamed with partially or fully woven ropes, which make up the backrest and emphasise the tactile effect.

Available in six new colour palettes, the seating range comprises dining armchairs available in three versions, a lounge chair, an armchair, a two- and three-seater sofas and a daybed, all featuring woven rope and accessorised with cushions. www.fastspa.com

Furniture for social distancing not social isolation

Suite 1586 - The Mart | 312.877.5155 info@mamagreen.com | www.mamagreen.com

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1. Mama Green Daisy

2. Palecek Outdoor Lamps

3. B&B Italia Borea

4. Table Place Chairs Moda

Created for both residential and hospitality use, Mama Green’s versatile Daisy collection comprises chairs and seater chairs that feature a rounded barrel-style backrest in two distinct versions: Daisy Rae, which has a hand-fitted rope backrest developed for outdoor use; and Daisy Mae, characterised by its meticulously handwoven wicker back. Each model is available in four distinct colours, allowing the creation of unique patterns from soft and natural to bold and vibrant. Three distinct leg options are also offered for the Daisy dining chairs depending on function and style: tapered aluminium, a swivel base or round teak. www.mamagreen.com

For nearly 50 years, Palecek designs have been inspired by the beauty of natural materials. The family-owned business places a clear focus on continuous innovation and inspired design in furniture, lighting and accessories.

Crafted for outdoor use, the brand’s new range of lamps are suitable for various environments, including wet locations.

Taking cues from the intrinsic allure of the natural world, the lamps are handwoven with all-weather synthetic rope over powder-coated metal frames to provide elevated illumination in an exterior setting. With distinctive designs alluding to exotic locales, the sophistication of Palecek is brought outdoors. www.palecek.com

Borea is an eclectic collection of outdoor chairs and tables designed by Piero Lissoni. The range features various seating options including two- and threeseater sofas, an oversized armchair, a low small armchair and a dining chair, all with sustainable cushions and aluminium structures painted in shades of dove grey, sage, clay and anthracite. Available in white, blue, grey, aquamarine green and red colour profiles, the upholstery fabrics combine deckchair stripes with thinner stripes and solid tones. Meanwhile, featuring glazed lava stone sourced from Mount Etna in Sicily, the Borea dining tables and coffee tables reflect the design and shades of the seating structures. www.bebitalia.com

The Moda Armchair by Table Place Chairs comes in a variety looks to suit individual tastes. The metal frame can be powdercoated in a range of RAL colours, while its open frame back allows additional design elements to shine through. The piping on the edges of the armchair accentuates the dynamic nature of its wireframe design, which serves to delineate the shape of the armrests. For additional support, the armchair is available with a cushioned seat pad upholstered in several fabrics including faux leather. With a retro flair, the Moda armchair offers exceptional comfort and, as such, a place in which to rest and relax – whether that’s indoors or out on the terrace. www.tableplacechairs.com

L U X T E R I O R LUXURY CONTRACT OUTDOOR LIGHTING & LIVING

Custom Made Outdoor Living Pergolas & Awnings

Italian Made Contract Furnishings

Over 300 Designer Lighting Ideas

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Y O U R N E W D E S T I N A T I O N F O R L U X U R Y O U T D O O R L I V I N G I D E A S contract@luxterior.co.uk | +44 (0) 2922417510

SPOTLIGHT

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1. Serax August

2. Feelgood Designs C603 Chair

3. Tribu Senja

4. Jardinico Caractère

Belgian designer Vincent Van Duysen is renowned for creating all-inclusive atmospheres in which he seamlessly interweaves architecture, interior design and objects. After being commissioned to convert the monastery of a former military hospital into a hotel in Antwerp, Van Duysen designed a range of outdoor furniture for the hotel’s terrace.

Comprising minimalist chairs, a lounge chair and table, the collection is crafted from aluminium and available with a black or grey-green powder coating. The pieces articluate the sheer simplicity of the monastic life they were inspired by, whilst reflecting modern-day comfort with slightly wider and lower proportions. www.serax.com

Feelgood Designs has expanded its outdoor range over the years, creating individual collections for patios, terraces, balconies, lawns and public spaces that meet the key criteria for outdoor furniture: functionality, quality and durability.

Designed by Yuzuru Yamakawa in 1958, the C603 chair’s design remains suitable for today’s environment. Available in black, natural split rattan, charcoal or natural pullut rattan on black powdercoated steel legs, the piece is both stackable and sturdy enough for regular use. To ensure longevity in various climates, rattan makes way for a highly resistant synthetic fibre with an identical look and feel to its natural twin. www.martaonline.eu

Designed by Studio Segers of Maaseik in Belgium, Senja is a modular seating collection comprising a sun lounger built to create the ultimate comfort outdoors.

Boasting a strong powder-coated aluminium frame, the lounger is UV-, water-, scratch- and weather-resistant, making it ideal for exterior use. The back is fully adjustable and comes with rear wheels for easy manoeuvrability, while the extra-soft, weatherproof cushions – available in three colourways: white, linen or wenge – utilise tear-resistant Batyline and water-repellent filling. The Senja lounger also features an optional full-length Indonesian plantation teak side table for added convenience. www.tribu.com

Blurring the boundaries between functionality and luxury, Jardinico’s Caractère collection comprises a series of outdoor umbrellas with their own unique features and elegant appearance.

Featuring a Belgian octagonal design, a uniquely taut incline of 10° and durable, high-performance materials, the range provides a modern, industrial look. Each item is also designed to be moved and operated easily; using the slider, the brand’s JCP.302 umbrella can shift into every desired position and turn 360° without adjusting its base, allowing hospitality venues to create multiple shade possibilities in a range of dimensions, colours and finishes. www.jardinico.com

Create a feelgood environment.

©renee kemps @graanmarkt13

indoor • outdoor | residential • hospitality • commercial | chairs • stools • lounge chairs • benches • tables info@martaonline.eu • www.feelgooddesigns.eu

TABLE PLACE CHAIRS

Pizzeria Italiana Espressa, Rome Alessandro Catania

TABLE PLACE CHAIRS

tableplacechairs.com | 0330 1222 117 | EC1V 7DA

SPECIFIER

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Kaldewei Natural Union Kaldewei has teamed up with legendary rock star Bryan Adams to photograph its new collection of Ming and Miena washbasins. Titled ‘Natural Union’, the collaboration aims to capture the importance of maintaining relationships while highlighting the need for hygiene awareness in today’s world. “We are all naturally connected and have a responsibility to look after each other and our planet – everyday actions such as washing your hands have never been more important,” says Adams. Crafted from steel enamel, both Ming and Miena come in a variety of new colours – the former in matte lava black, classic lava black, matte alpine white and classic alpine white, and the latter in ‘Soft Touch’ mint, ‘Sweet Love’ pink, ‘Deep Dream’ petrol and ‘Navy-Blue’ matte. www.kaldewei.com

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Arte Cameo Designed to celebrate the imperfections of the natural world, Arte’s Cameo collection of non-woven wallcoverings is inspired by organic materials and textures, from raffia and sisal to stone and wood. The range comprises eight variations in a selection of neutrals, nudes and earthy tones, each of which is finished with glossy relief inks in which asymmetry, varying shapes and structures provide unexpected harmonies for a sleek, modern and minimalist look. Shibam, seen here, is an intriguing pattern with a three-dimensional effect running throughout a rendering of open woven sisal patchwork. Available in five colourways, it features a rough texture that allows the imperfections to shine through. www.arte-international.com

Day Seven Functional Workwear Founded by Australian designer Molly Kent during her time in Osaka, bespoke uniform label Day Seven provides hospitality venues with everything from shirts, jackets and aprons to pants, shorts and jumpsuits. Taking inspiration from Japanese design aesthetics and driven by Kent’s belief that there should be a higher concentration on staff and workplace wellbeing, the made-to-order service is dedicated to producing pieces that are comfortable and functional while at once stylish and unique. “Staff are the first and last point of contact for customers; they’re the walking, talking brand,” explains Kent, who herself has over 10 years of experience in both front- and back-of-house roles. “They deserve to feel comfortable, confident, appreciated and respected at work. At Day Seven, we seek to help hospitality achieve this.” www.dayseven.com.au

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CASE STUDY

Stellar Works Nobu Hotel Warsaw

Stellar Works recently supplied furniture to the public spaces at Nobu Hotel Warsaw, Nobu Hospitality’s first property in Poland, housed in a carefully renovated 13th century building just a stone’s throw from the city’s Old Town.

Designed by native architects Medusa Group and California-based Studio PCH, the hotel combines two opposites within the same scheme; one half is an Art Deco building – the former Hotel Rialto – which dates back to the 1920s, while the other is a modern newbuild.

Adorning the common areas are Stellar Works’ comfortable SW sofas, which surround a Lunar coffee table to create a cosy area for informal meetings or relaxed socialising.

Envisioned by OEO Studio, the SW sofas come in two- and three-seater configurations and draw on the simple, functional forms championed by the early 20th-century Bauhaus movement. Lunar meanwhile is the work of Danish design firm Space Copenhagen and combines contemporary Nordic simplicity with ancient Chinese legend. The table takes its inspiration from Chang’e – the goddess of the

moon, said to arise in the west and reside in her lunar palace ‘Guanghan’, which translates to ‘wild coldness’. Like its celestial namesake, Lunar is infused with the energy of Yin – the female principle in Yin and Yang.

Elsewhere, a meeting space features the elegant Utility chairs by Neri & Hu, which are a sophisticated take on the enduringly popular industrial aesthetic. Comprising a range of lounge chairs, barstools and stools, the Utility collection is, as its name suggests, utilitarian in its references but also brings together a range of old-world and luxurious materials.

In the bar, an upholstered Arc loveseat takes centrestage. Designed by Norwegian creative Hallgeir Homstvedt with comfort in mind, the sofa encompasses a soft silhouette as well as thick seam sweeps along its edge, which act as a barrier between the strict and straight outside shape and the softer sculpted inside. With its gentle character, embracing curves and intricate upholstery details, Arc creates a feeling of cosyness and shelter ideal for hotel settings. www.stellarworks.com

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Lodes x Diesel Diesel Living with Lodes Decorative lighting company Lodes has partnered with lifestyle brand Diesel to launch the Diesel Living with Lodes line.

Comprising three exclusive additions – Flask, Vinyl and Urban Concrete – as well as five renovated existing products – Cage, Fork, Gask, Glass Drop and Pipe – the new collection features a versatile selection of lighting pieces for both residential and commercial interiors. The range is inspired by contrasting opposites, including reality and perception, and is imbued with Diesel’s cheeky design language as well as Lodes’ distinctive brand tenets. Vinyl, for instance, is made up of a metal plate with a circular engraved texture reminiscent of a music record. www.lodes.com/diesel

Pedrali Ypsilon Connect Italian manufacturer Pedrali has collaborated with Jorge Pensi Design Studio to launch Ypsilon Connect – a freestanding, sound absorbing space divider. Featuring clean lines and easily placeable in a variety of settings, the divider is characterised by acoustic panels that are shaped around a structure formed by two die-cast aluminium bases and extruded aluminium columns. The multifunctional panel can be wired to enable the installation of a TV screen holder, while accessories such as whiteboards, shelves or coat hangers can be added on any of its sides. “We like to think of our objects as tools for architects to complete their spaces, to live alongside other objects in different ways,” says Jorge Pensi. www.pedrali.it

Ragno CleanOut CleanOut by Ragno is an antimicrobe technology solution for ceramic floor and wallcoverings, which inhibits the growth and reproduction of pathogen microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, reducing bacterial load by up to 99.9% and neutralising unpleasant smells. Its exclusive silver Ion treatment, incorporated in the ceramic product, is constantly active in the surface and works day and night – even with no UV radiation present. Roots is the first collection by Ragno on which CleanOut is applied; made from 40% recycled material, it comprises concrete-based surfaces in subtly flawed shades of white, grey and beige, as well as multicolours.

The series is also available with both indoor and outdoor finishes. www.ragno.co.uk

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REPORT

Geberit Hotel Guest Experience Report

Swiss bathroom manufacturer Geberit has collaborated with some of the UK’s leading architects and experts in hygiene, sustainability and design to launch an exclusive publication exploring the complex needs of the modern guest and what the future may hold for hotels.

Providing the preface for the four-part report, architectural writer, editor and author Ruth Slavid summed up the findings with the statement: “In short, hotels will have to change.

The unimaginative operator may slosh around some sanitiser and encase a few things in plastic. But those who succeed will do so through intelligent analysis, creative design, clever specification and a real understanding of what tomorrow’s customer needs and wants.”

THE NEW GUEST EXPERIENCE Kicking off the publication, architect Dexter Moren examines the legacy that the pandemic may leave on the hospitality sector, from touchfree technology to transforming guestrooms into safe havens and harnessing materials with the shortest viral surface retention time.

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THE ART OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN With the environmental demands of the modern-day traveller evolving too, sustainability editor and founder of social consultancy Bouteco, Juliet Kinsman, looks at the pioneering projects helping to minimise the impact of hotel stays while making them more memorable.

DESIGNING FOR THE SENSES Delving into the importance of sensory design meanwhile, biophilia expert Oliver Heath reminds readers that it is not just the way that a hotel looks that matters, citing the role of lighting, acoustics and textures in improving both our physical and mental wellbeing.

HOTELS IN THE MIX Rounding out the report, Tanya Griffiths of Kay Elliott Architects discusses the increasingly blurring lines between building types and considers the opportunities that mixed-use developments can deliver for hotel guests. www.geberit.co.uk/hotelguestreport

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CASE STUDY

Creative Matters Four Seasons Hotel Toronto Creative Matters has been offering imaginative and practical floorcovering solutions to the hospitality industry for over 25 years.

The Toronto-based studio’s signature designs and environmentally conscious production expertise has seen it work on a variety of hotels in 28 countries around the world, from crafting handtufted red carpet for the lobby at Faena Hotel Miami Beach to producing 128 hand-knotted rugs for The Shinola Hotel in Detroit.

Its most recent assignment however was closer to home at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, where the firm – adept at managing a wide spectrum of projects, be that big or small, luxurious or practical – designed the carpets in the reception area, banquet hall and bar, as well as an organically shaped wool and silk rug in the spa. www.creativemattersinc.com

Erica Shamrock Textiles Stardust The Stardust collection by Brooklyn-based Erica Shamrock Textiles features plush, decadent textures – Gypsy, Mood Ring and twotone Minx – as well as intriguing patterns – Bang Bang, Capsule, Dazed and Mirage – that hint at the undercurrents of a vibrant counterculture. Created with the aim of inspiring exploration and experimentation in interior spaces, the range’s seven textiles, plus new complementary colourways such as Velvet Carolina, give off a nostalgic look and feel thanks to their vintage hues and heritage designs, which have been reimagined in today’s durable materials. www.ericashamrocktextiles.com

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Q&A

Piero Lissoni B&B Italia Following his recent appointment as the new Artistic Director of B&B Italia, acclaimed architect and designer Piero Lissoni discusses how he aims to evolve the brand’s global image, oversee its stylistic code and refresh its visual identity.

What will you bring to the role?

I count myself very lucky because the work that Antonio Citterio did for B&B Italia was truly wonderful. My role will be more a question of fine tuning. I would like to bring out even more the company’s aptitude for the contemporary, as this is what it is renowned for and possibly the only thing it has lost a little of recently by perhaps looking a nostalgically to the past.

What collections are you designing for the brand?

We’ll shortly be presenting my new outdoor collection, Borea.

It’s crafted from aluminium, very modern and features stackable elements – a genuine product that can be left outside in the rain with no problem. But above all, it looks like a plane! It gives you the idea of that timeless furniture, which brings the tradition of the 20th century into the present era.

How does good furniture design elevate hospitality spaces?

In hospitality projects, it has always been a part of my language to mix pieces of modern and contemporary design with objects and references belonging to the culture of the place. This is essential in order to give the hotel a soul and to define an informal and intimate atmosphere, to make the guest feel at home. At the same time, I think it is also important to work on custom-made pieces so as to be able to respond to the specific needs of these projects, which are complex and multifunctional creatures.

Can we expect to see your B&B designs in forthcoming hospitality projects?

Certainly... time will tell.

Where do you see furniture design headed in the future?

Design is an extraordinary discipline. In order to be able to look to the future, it must be a perfect equilibrium between rational models and an anarchic ability to shift languages. B&B Italia is a unique system made up of entrepreneurs with a vision capable of bringing together craftsmanship and industry, tradition and innovation, connections and collaborations. I hope that this path we have taken together will lead us to affirming this heritage and to opening up new opportunities for the future. www.bebitalia.com

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SPECIFIER

CASE STUDY

Naturalmat The Beaumont Devon-based manufacturer Naturalmat has supplied new mattresses to The Beaumont in London, updating all of the guestrooms having previously partnered with the hotel – originally opened almost six years ago – for its Roosevelt Suite and Sir Antony Gormley’s Sculpture Room. “One of the side effects of the pandemic is that as so many people have been so unwell; consumers are now more focused on health, wellbeing and leading a sustainable life, and hoteliers in return have been reflecting on how to adapt to this when guests return,” shares Mark Tremlett, founder of Naturalmat. The Beaumont’s General Manager, Jannes Soerensen, has also been passionate in rolling out sustainable initiatives at the hotel and explains: “Fantastic guest feedback on both the comfort and the outstanding sustainable credentials of Naturalmat’s beds, as well as the fact that they are handmade in the UK, made them the natural choice for all of our rooms.” www.naturalmat.co.uk

Bette Freestanding Baths German manufacturer Bette has launched 18 of its freestanding baths in Ebony, a new matt black colour created to complement the use of darker tones in the bathroom space. The baths range from the BetteLux and BetteStarlet to the BetteArt, together with several that are designed to be positioned against a wall or into the corner of a smaller area. As with all the company’s tubs, those featuring the Ebony finish are crafted from glazed titanium-steel, come with a 30-year warranty and are 100% recyclable. The baths are durable and easy to clean thanks to Bette’s glass-hard surface, which makes it difficult for dirt and bacteria to adhere. They are also unaffected by chemicals, a naked flame or the hot wax of a candle, allowing operators to keep them looking their best, while the surface is UV-resistant too, meaning the elegance of the matt black tone remains unaltered over the years despite heavy use. www.my-bette.com

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august

The August sunbed is available in three muted colours with comfortable matching cushions.

Discover the complete August collection on

www.serax.com

Palazzo delle Stelline, Milan / May 12th, 2021

Node Kyoto Hotel

A whole day dedicated to ideas and solutions of hotel design and renovation, on the latest trends and winning elements in the hospitality sector.

Speakers include:

PAOLA NAVONE

ANDREW LINWOOD

DAVID T’KINT

PAUL BISHOP

PATRICIA VIEL

Architect, designer, art director and interior designer

Head of Hospitality Areen Design

Partner EMEA Hirsch-Bedner Associates

Owner & Founder Bishop Design by Paul Bishop

Architect, Co-Founder ANTONIO CITTERIO PATRICIA VIEL

Organized by

/

Free ticket and more information at www.guestlab.it

/

info@guestlab.it

ADVERTISING INDEX ISSUE 95

AA Corporation

123

Ligne Roset

022

Albrecht Jung

101

Limited Edition

067

ALIS

189

Luteca

173

Aliseo

051

Luxterior

177

Astro Lighting

002

Mama Green

175

Barlow Tyrie

169

Mandarin Stone

037

Beck

045

Manutti

014-015

Chelsom

195

Marca Corona

Citielle

080

Minotti

020-021

Clarke & Clarke

035

Modio

095

Creative Matters

113

Monteleone

079

077

Day Seven

149

Naturalmat

061

Dernier & Hamlyn

196

Newhey Carpets

059

Drapilux

141

Nicholas Haslam

103

EE Smith

185

Palecek

167

EPR Architects

118

Point

027

Erica Shamrock Textiles

085

Preciosa

041

Ethimo

033

Restoration Hardware

Fast Spa

165

Roca

179

Roman

Feelgood Designs

006-007 063 089

Gommaire

018-019

Guest Lab

192

Serax

191

Hector Finch

024

Skyfold

124

Sanipex Group

016-017

Hypnos

161

Stellar Works

Il Fanale

071

Tece

Jardinico

039

The Lobby

152

JC Hospitality

054

Tophotelprojects

144

Kettal

012-013 117

008-009

Tribu

010-011

Klafs

057

Tuuci

171

Kohler

105

UHS

180

Laufen

005

Varaschin

093

Leds C4

069

Vincent Sheppard

043

Leisure Plan

162

Zucchetti

075

193

CHECK-OUT

A Good Knight’s Sleep

Netflix’s most-watched scripted series inspires an immersive overnight stay at Lexington’s 21c Museum Hotel.

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From one lockdown to the next, the greatest –

Harmon Room is a time capsule of Mid-Century

and only – form of escape available right now is

Modern design, replete with vintage accessories

through our TV screens. So it’s no surprise that 62

and period furniture from local antique shop

million households streamed chess-based drama

Scout. Custom wallpaper in a pattern dubbed

The Queen’s Gambit within the first 28 days of

‘The Knight’s Gambit’ has been designed

its release. Based on the 1983 novel of the same

specially for the room, while shelves are stocked

name, the Netflix series follows orphaned chess

with copies of Chess Review. The show’s most

prodigy Beth Harmon on her quest to become the

memorable moment has been translated as an

world’s greatest player and is filmed on a set that

artistic recreation of Harmon’s drug-induced

captures the essence of 1960s America.

hallucinations; a larger-than-life chessboard

In a bid to capitalise on Lexington’s starring

installation suspended from the ceiling in an

role as Harmon’s hometown, 21c Museum Hotel

arrangement that takes cues from her ultimate

– an art-centric property in the heart of the city –

match with Russian grandmaster Vasily Borgov.

has partnered with VisitLex and Cornett to create

And of course, no room inspired by The Queen’s

The Harmon Room, an immersive overnight stay

Gambit would be complete without an actual

inspired by the show.

chess set for its occupants to hone their skills.

A collaboration between interior designer Isabel Ladd and preservationist Lucy Jones, The

Checkmate seems a little more acceptable in a room where reality and fantasy combine.

DAY TO N A by C H E L S O M EDITION 27 NOW AVAILABLE

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chelsom.co.uk

09/02/2021 10:41

WE’RE LOOKING AT THINGS A LITTLE DIFFERENTLY

+44 (0)20 8760 0900

info@dernier-hamlyn.com​ www.dernier-hamlyn.com