HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN ISSUE 89 WWW.SLEEPERMAGAZINE.COM
ARCTIC BATH – SWEDEN • VINCENT VAN DUYSEN • TAJ RISHIKESH – INDIA
Capsule collection: Orb, designed by James Bassant
May 5-7, 2020 Stand 2829 Mandalay Bay Las Vegas
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CONTENTS ISSUE 89
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HOTEL REVIEWS
082
Arctic Bath
046
&Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
052
Great Scotland Yard
059
The Newt
067
The Fantauzzo
076
The Prince Akatoki
082
Ruby Lucy
089
Harads
© Ben Carpenter
Namibia London
Somerset
046
Brisbane London © Daniel Holmgren
© Will Pryce
052
London
LOCATION REPORT INDIA Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa 096 Uttarakhand
Four Seasons Hotel at Embassy One
106
Soho House
114
The Roseate Ganges
121
Bengaluru Mumbai
Rishikesh
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CONTENTS ISSUE 89
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FEATURES Meeting... Vincent Van Duysen
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Sleeper 2020
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Having completed his first hotel project – a converted monastery in the heart of Antwerp – Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen talks of the fundamental synergy between architecture, interiors and product design. In the first of a series of articles to celebrate our 20th anniversary year, we take a look back at the major trends and hotel projects that have defined the hospitality landscape over the last two decades.
AHEAD 165
From a hidden retreat in the heart of Tasmania, to a series of five lodges set across Bhutan’s striking landscape, and the eagerly awaited return of a colonial-era icon in Singapore, the AHEAD Asia 2020 winners have been revealed.
Spotlight... Stellar Works 040
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Created in Shanghai to connect East and West, Stellar Works invites Sleeper on a trip to China to experience the journey of its products from conception to completion.
DEPARTMENTS Check-In 028 © Fred Debrock
Drawing Board
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Business Centre
152
Events 163 096
121
Outdoor Furniture & Accessories
177
Smart Revolution
195
Specifier 201 Check-Out
004
226
Founded in 1911, Fredericia draws on its heritage of creating iconic, innovative designs developed in collaboration with a circle of internationally recognised designers. Modern originals crafted to last.
Fredericia.com
VDL Pavilion by Dion & Richard Neutra Molo Collection by Rodolfo Dordoni Band Collection by Patricia Urquiola Half Dome Lamp by Naoto Fukasawa Cala & Geometrics Rugs by Doshi Levien
CONTRACT
V I S I T R H . COM /CO N TRACT TO L E ARN MO RE .
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR SITE, GARDEN & CASUAL FURNISHINGS
Gina by Piero Lissoni JA N USETCI E .COM
RĂŠn Collection by Space Copenhagen Australia Belgium Canada China
Denmark Finland France Germany
Hong Kong Italy India Indonesia
www.stellarworks.com Ireland Japan Lebanon Malaysia
Mexico Netherlands New Zealand Norway
Philippines Poland Portugal Russia
Singapore Spain South Korea Sweden
Switzerland Taiwan Thailand Ukraine
United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States
Four Seasons The Surf Club, Surfside, Florida - Bespoke loungers, design by Joseph Dirand
Living the good life outside. Love it, live it, share it. www.tribu.com
Ph Bernard Touillon
r a Fa e L by Pa o L a n aV o n e
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 ethimo.Com
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INTERCONTINENTAL LYON – HOTEL DIEU. FRANCE Studio Jean Philippe Nuel.
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WELCOME HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE & DESIGN ISSUE 89 WWW.SLEEPERMAGAZINE.COM
ARCTIC BATH – SWEDEN • VINCENT VAN DUYSEN • TAJ RISHIKESH – INDIA
ON THE COVER Arctic Bath, Harads © Daniel Holmgren
Enjoy Your Stay?
F
or those fortunate enough to stay in hotels on a regular
Of course, it’s no easy task selecting just one stand-out;
basis, there’s a burning question that you’ll likely find
with almost 15 years at Sleeper I’ve racked up my own fair
yourself being asked time and time again: which is your
share of room nights. For me, the location of Anantara Al
favourite? Well, in celebration of our 20th anniversary year,
Jabal Al Akhdar, perched high up on a ridge on Oman’s fabled
we’ve asked a few of our loyal supporters – leading architects
Green Mountain, is second to none. The spectacular fantasy
and designers whose projects have featured in these very pages
land of Capella Ubud, as seen through the eyes of Bill Bensley,
over the years – about their most memorable hotel stay. We
is also up there with the most memorable, as is the carefree
also spoke to our globetrotting team of freelancers and those
spirit of Bikini Island & Mountain Hotel in Port de Sóller, the
who’ve had a hand in making Sleeper what it is today; their
impeccable service at Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai, and the
words certainly make for an insightful read.
unwavering commitment of the team at Belmond Cap Juluca,
A hotel’s surrounding landscape is a key talking point,
Anguilla, having bounced back from the devastation caused
upholding the importance of location, location, location;
by two major hurricanes that ravaged the island in 2017. A
recurring phrases such as classic, simple and timeless come
recent stay at the newly refurbished Raffles Hotel in Singapore
as proof that less is often more; and first impressions count,
also struck a chord; it was this grand dame that sparked my
with many detailing the warm welcome on arrival. In fact, the
fascination with the industry, having marvelled at it as a
art of hospitality – the service delivered by the front-of-house
backpacker some 20 years earlier.
team – was shown to be one of the most memorable aspects,
But if I was to pick just one, it would be Kudadoo in the
with some going so far as to name those who made their stay
Maldives. From the Japanese aesthetic of the overwater villas
so special, as if etched on their memory for ever more.
to the dazzling surroundings, not to mention the resort’s
Bill Bensley talks about the power of the unexpected; James
minimal impact on the environment and forward-thinking
Lohan and Tamara Herber-Percy – aka Mr & Mrs Smith –
sustainability practices, to me, it’s luxury hospitality at its
remember the small gestures that made a big difference; and
best. The stand-out moment though was one that harks back
others speak of the journey, whether that be the building
to the notion that hospitality is first and foremost about
anticipation en route to their destination, or the journey of
people. Returning to my room after dinner, I opened the door
discovery within. Furthermore, almost everyone we spoke to
to a bubble-filled bath decorated with tropical flowers from
recalled experiences that took place outside the perimeter of
the gardens, a chilled bottle of champagne and some delicate
the hotel itself, further reinforcing the belief that hospitality
pastries from the chef. The occasion? There wasn’t one. One
is no longer just about bed and board.
of those unexpected moments I’ll never forget.
Hotels that elicit an emotional response are undoubtedly make a mark too. André Fu recalls a hotel he visited as a teenager, that made such an impression it inspired him to pursue a career in hospitality design, while Jean-Philippe Nuel’s most memorable hotel tells the story of a bygone era.
Catherine Martin • Managing Editor
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Weaving Stories
Learn more about our hospitality & contract offerings.
There’s an art to it
844.40.STARK | starkhospitalityandcontract.com
GUEST BOOK
067
076
089
173
076 Vincent Fantauzzo
089 Michael Struck
067 Karen Roos
173 Yuichiro Hori
Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo is best known for capturing a life in pictures, having drawn awardwinning portraits of acting icons such as the late Heath Ledger. The painter’s latest acclaim comes in the form of The Fantauzzo – a new addition to the collection of Art Series Hotels in Australia. Set on the Brisbane River waterfront, the property pays homage to the man himself, showcasing three of his original paintings and more than 500 giclée prints across an environment as dramatic as the depictions he creates.
Michael Struck has quite the CV when it comes to running hotel chains. Having established groups like Kameha, Gold Inn and Dormero, he went on to launch Ruby Hotels in 2013 – a brand that dares to do things differently under the guiding principle of ‘lean luxury’. With eight hotels open and an active pipeline, Struck has now brought his philosophy to London’s Southbank with Ruby Lucy, where a carnival theme sees rich, dark tones and bright brass accents combined with playful props such as circus drums and juggling pins.
Having applied a distinctly horticultural style to Babylonstoren, a vineyard, hotel and 3.5-acre garden in the Cape Winelands, Karen Roos – former editor of Elle Decoration South Africa – has now turned her creative attention to the verdant countryside of Somerset in south-west England. The writerturned-designer has transformed a Grade II-listed Georgian mansion into The Newt, a stylish country house hotel that reimagines its past by offsetting historical elements with contemporary architecture and pristine gardens.
Born in Nagoya, Yuichiro Hori is the founder and CEO of Stellar Works – a Shanghai-based furniture brand that operates under the slogan ‘Asian sensibility, timeless craft’. Established in 2012, the company has inspired a renaissance in Asian aesthetics and features in prestigious hotel projects from Alila Yangshuo to The Stratford in London. On a recent trip to Shanghai, Sleeper was invited to visit the brand’s firstclass production facility in Jiading to witness how its collections and bespoke pieces are made.
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FRONT DESK @SleeperMagazine
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CHECK-IN
Lyon Porter and Jersey Banks Ahead of launching a wilderness retreat in New York’s Catskill Mountains, the co-founders of Urban Cowboy escape to a far-flung refuge for a fantasy break immersed in nature.
Where are you?
Describe the hotel, your room and the view...
What’s your essential travel companion?
On a remote island.
Nature is the star of the show. The interior and
A good book is a must.
exterior design is inspired by the environment How did you get there?
surrounding the property. The room connects
Would you like a newspaper or magazine in
By sailboat, manned by our favourite captains
us with the ocean and there is a freestanding
the morning?
from vacation specialists Sailing Collective.
bathtub too. One-of-a-kind objects are dotted
The New York Times.
throughout, making it feel special, unlike Who is there to greet you on arrival?
anything else that has ever been created before.
is slightly levitating as he welcomes us.
What toiletries would you like to freshen up with?
Brian Jones, founder and CEO of Kin Travel, who Who designed it?
Botanical toiletries by Khus + Khus.
New York-based artist and designer Dror And who’s at the concierge desk?
Benshetrit has created the interiors, while
Early morning alarm call or late check-out?
Chris Mahoney, the ultimate safari guy and
architecture is by the one and only Antoni Gaudí.
Late check-out.
Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in the Maasai Mara,
What’s the restaurant and bar like?
Bath or power shower?
and he’s now the General Manager at Ololo
Fire sets the ambience, with elemental lighting
Bath.
Lodge in Nairobi.
from fire to water to stars. Every element is
outdoor experience leader. We met him at
Who are you sharing your room with?
based based around lighting, whether that be
Full English, continental or something a little
from a candle or a fire.
different? Lobster Benedict.
Just each other. Who are you dining with this evening? Is there anything you would like waiting for
Ernest Hemingway; singer-songwriter Prince;
Swimming pool, spa or gym?
you in your room?
American writer and philosopher, Susan Sontag;
All of the above!
Two dirty gin martinis please.
Cleopatra; and spiritual leader Gautama Buddha. Who’s manning the stoves? Argentine chef Francis Mallmann heads up the kitchen, while the bar programme is run by Michael Mcllroy and Sam Ross from cocktail bar Attaboy in New York City.
NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Urban Cowboy, Brooklyn; Urban Cowboy, Nashville; The Dive Motel & Swim Club, Nashville; Urban Cowboy Lodge, Catskill Mountains www.urbancowboy.com
And what’s on the menu? Anything local. Would you like something to drink with that? A bottle of Giuseppe Quintarelli Amarone.
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Habitas NAMIBIA
Experience-led hospitality group Habitas has
bespoke furnishings, earthen elements and
announced the opening of its first hotel outside
traditional crafts. Elsewhere, the main lobby
of the Americas. Set within 50,000-hectares
will overlook the lodge and feature communal
of private land formerly used as a hunting
gathering areas, fire pits, a swimming pool,
lodge – which is now being rehabilitated as
library, spa and restaurant serving up locally
a wildlife reserve – Habitas Namibia draws
sourced organic food, helmed by two-time
inspiration from the world’s oldest desert and
Namibian chef-of-the-year David Thomas.
its indigenous tribes. The lodge will be tied to
Aiming to connect people, nature and wildlife,
the local wildlife, nature and culture, though
the property’s activities programme will feature
its social architecture and DNA will remain
safari drives, animal tracking and walks led by
consistent with the brand’s flagship in Tulum.
local guide San Bushmen, as well as cooking
With sustainability at its core, the hotel’s
and medicinal plant workshops, and talks and
15 guestrooms – each a custom-built private
training on conservation with anti-poaching
lodge constructed with minimal impact on the
units. Further experiences include an outdoor
surrounding environment – is developed in line
cinema showing educational films, live music
with the natural terrain along the ridge of a
and dance gatherings, and wellness classes
hillside, offering views of the region’s landscape
such as yoga and native meditation techniques.
and wildlife. An existing private villa will also
Habitas has also partnered with non-profit
sleep ten guests, with interiors across both
enterprise Saira Hospitality to source, train and
room types celebrating a sense of place through
hire staff from the local community.
DRAWING BOARD
Six Senses
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has announced
including a biophilic-inspired ground floor
its debut UK property will open in 2023, with
comprising a lounge and courtyard. On the
LONDON
Six Senses London set to occupy the former Art
second floor, meanwhile, the Six Senses
Deco department store Whiteleys.
Spa will showcase a new type of social and
Comprising 110 guestrooms and suites, the
wellness club, featuring a central bar and
property’s interiors will be designed by AvroKO
lounge, a swimming pool, coworking spaces,
in conjunction with executive architects EPR,
Alchemy Bar, wellness rooms and a relaxation
whilst the redevelopment of Whiteleys is
space with vaulted ceilings. Recalling an old-
being overseen by real estate firm Finchatton
fashioned Underground station, the facility will
in collaboration with Foster + Partners. The
be designed in-line with AvroKO’s desire to
structure’s original Grade II-listed façade,
combine nostalgic touches and Great Exhibition-
central courtyard and dome will all be preserved,
inspired visuals with brand standards.
as will the statement internal staircase, notably modelled on Milan’s La Scala.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Investor: Meyer Bergman Developer: Finchatton Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: Foster + Partners Executive Architect: EPR Architects Interior Design: AvroKO www.sixsenses.com
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“Six Senses London will be a first, not only having best-in-class spa and amenities, but
“I feel nostalgic when talking about
also a new kind of social and wellness club
Whiteleys,” says Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs.
unlike anything we have seen in London or in a
“I grew up in the neighbourhood and my
new development,” says Finchatton Co-founder
parents used to bring me here. It is a wonderful
Alex Michelin. “We identified Six Senses as the
opportunity to pay homage to this heritage and
ideal partner for the Whiteleys redevelopment
bring our brand values to life in this part of
with wellness at its core and also experiential
town, while celebrating our first port of call for
pioneering programmes. These are things which
Six Senses in the UK.”
will be at the heart of the new Whiteleys offer
The project is set to feature an all-day restaurant along with 1,300m2 of public space
and we look forward to creating something really incredible together.”
DRAWING BOARD
8850 Sunset
Los Angeles-based architecture and design
Aiming to achieve a LEED Gold rating, the
firm Morphosis and Silver Creek Commercial
project’s design seeks to incorporate strategies
LOS ANGELES
Development have revealed design details
to reduce water and energy usage whilst
for 8850 Sunset, a mixed-use project on
minimising environmental impact, with a
Hollywood’s Sunset Strip. Set to feature a luxury
green roof atop the podium and landscaped
hotel element alongside a public banquet hall,
areas acting as a buffer for rainwater. All
condominiums and F&B outlets, the site will also
spaces within are designed to maximise natural
house a re-envisioned Viper Room nightclub,
ventilation and daylight, with the insulative
with construction set to begin in 2021.
façade and exterior surfaces constructed with
Taking the form of a 15-storey bridged
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Investor: Silver Creek Commercial Development Developer: Plus Development Architecture: Morphosis www.8850sunsetblvd.com
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high-performance glass.
structure, the design seeks to maintain
“In approaching this project, we wanted the
open space connections and afford sunlight
design to reflect the spirit of what makes Sunset
throughout the site. At street level sits a two-
Boulevard the iconic destination that it is, while
storey podium with cafés and retail space –
pushing towards a 21st century Los Angeles
echoing the granularity of the street’s traditional
that is greener, denser, more sustainable and
storefronts – bookended by two rising volumes
more pedestrian-oriented,” explains Thom
separated by a 100ft-wide gap intending to
Mayne, Pritzker Prize-winning architect and
break up the structure’s mass. The eastern
Morphosis Founding Partner. “8850 Sunset is
building will contain residences – comprising 31
both a response to the history of the site and
condominiums and 10 housing units – with the
a model for future urban developments that
hotel set in the western portion. The skybridge
bridge commercial, social and residential life
connecting the two, meanwhile, is set to feature
while engaging with the public.”
a restaurant and bar with an outdoor terrace, a swimming pool and events spaces.
Liz Outdoor. Ludovica + Roberto Palomba —— Photographer: Meritxell Arjalaguer ©
www.expormim.com
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DRAWING BOARD
Millennium & Copthorne
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s
one of Central London’s prime locations,” says
Planning Committee has granted Singapore-
Say Kwek Leng Beng, Executive Chairman of
LONDON
listed City Developments Limited (CDL) –
CDL. “We are tremendously excited by this and
which owns Millennium & Copthorne Hotels
the value it will bring to our London portfolio
– planning consent for the regeneration of an
and our valued clients.”
NCP car park site on Pavilion Road in the heart of Knightsbridge, London. The proposed £300 million scheme will
the capital, following the launch of six venues in
include a luxury hotel designed by Hamilton
Kensington and Chelsea, including a Millennium
Architects, comprising 120 guestrooms across
Hotel directly opposite the new venture.
eight above-ground floors and three basement
The current freehold site is owned by City
levels, as well as 23,000ft2 of retail space, a spa
Developments Limited through its subsidiary
and a bar on the top floor. And while the property
Beaumont Properties and is represented in the
is located just one minutes’ walk from Harrods
UK by Dartmouth Capital Advisors.
department store, a disused underground pedestrian and goods tunnel linking the two sites will be reinstated to provide direct access for added convenience. “This site offers CDL one of the best opportunities to develop an outstanding hotel in
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: City Developments Limited, Dartmouth Capital Advisors Operator: Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Architecture: Hamilton Architects www.cdl.com
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The development will mark the seventh opening for Millennium & Copthorne Hotels in
W W W. L AU F EN.CO.U K L AU F EN 1 8 9 2 | SWI T Z ERL A ND
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Wyndham Grand Algarve QUINTA DO LAGO
Following the news of Wyndham Hotels
custom-designed food display counters and
& Resorts’ entrance into Portugal with
oversized plants, will create the feel of a vibrant
Wyndham Grand Quinta do Lago, details of
farmhouse kitchen.
its refurbishment plans have been revealed.
The property’s 132 guestrooms will adopt a
The brand recently took over operations of an
design that is smart and modern, with mid-
existing hotel, appointing London-based studio
20th century-style furnishings, textured fabrics,
Twenty2degrees to imagine a new, elegant
warm timbers and contemporary outdoor
interior scheme that will evoke a relaxed resort
seating set on generously sized balconies.
ambience with an urban touch.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Interior Design: Twenty2degrees www.wyndhamhotels.com
038
“This is a great opportunity for us – our
The materials used throughout will be of high
first project for Wyndham, a resort hotel and
quality, combining Calacatta marble, antiqued
in a remarkable location,” comments Nick
brass and leather upholstery with warm timber
Stoupas, Director of Twenty2degrees. “We took
flooring and fluted and hammered glass
our design cues from the tranquillity of the
screens. A palette of terracotta, stone and sand
surrounding landscape and the very pleasant
will also be paired with splashes of colour and
year-round climate, resulting in a classic,
an abundance of greenery – a nod to the hotel’s
contemporary response to the vernacular of
proximity to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
the brand.”
Among the resort’s many F&B options, the all-day dining restaurant is designed to stand out. Patterned Portuguese tiling will adorn the floors and walls and, together with rich colours,
MEETING…
Meeting… Vincent Van Duysen Having completed his first hotel project – a converted monastery in the heart of Antwerp – Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen talks of the fundamental synergy between architecture, interiors and product design.
Words: Catherine Martin • Portrait Photography: © Fred Debrock
I
n hospitality, there are few who can turn
driving force since the very beginning, and one
their hand to the varying disciplines of
that permeates all of Van Duysen’s projects,
architecture, interior design and product
whether a department store in Rome in which
design. At least, not to the same level as
the structural grid frames the various retail
Vincent Van Duysen. As a trained architect
zones, or an apartment in Paris, where a
with a substantial portfolio of high-end
contemporary layer of rich materials update a
residential projects, he’s also masterminded
classic Haussmannian building.
furniture and lighting collections for a host
After graduating from Ghent’s Sint-Lucas
of international brands, and more recently,
School of Architecture in 1985, Van Duysen
realised a long-held ambition to design a hotel,
began his career with Aldo Cibic and Jean De
where every element – from the structure and
Meulder. But it wasn’t long before his calling
space planning to the taps and tableware –
came and he set up his own studio in the city of
benefitted from his personal touch.
Antwerp, building a portfolio that spans retail,
“I’m not the type of person who works in
residential and office spaces. He’s also designed
one single direction,” Van Duysen begins.
collections for B&B Italia, Sutherland, Tribu and
“For me, architecture is not only about the
Poliform to name but a few, and more recently
structural space; interiors are immediately
was appointed Art Director for Sahco following
part of the vision.” He goes on to explain that
its acquisition by Kvadrat.
he believes all buildings should be considered
It was while designing an office development
as a whole, rather than exterior and interior:
in Saudi Arabia that his career took a new turn.
“We never separate the two; there’s a constant
Italian brand Molteni & C had won the contract
interconnection.”
to produce furniture for the project, creating
It’s this philosophy that has been the
bespoke pieces to Van Duysen’s specifications.
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MEETING…
© Robert Rieger
MEETING…
The chapel of the former Augustinian cloister has been converted to a bar and lounge at August
They were suitably impressed, and asked the designer to create a new collection for them. Commitments to other brands ruled out the initial collaboration, but Molteni & C persevered, and in time, the studios began working together. “We started with Ribbon, a textile bed with a tall headboard upholstered in natural materials,” Van Duysen explains, going on to describe some of his other early pieces – the Gliss Master walk-in closet system, and Paul, a linear sofa with a single seat cushion. “Soon after, the Molteni family came to visit me in
“For me, architecture is not only about the structural space; interiors are immediately part of the vision... there’s a constant interconnection.”
The same can be said for Van Duysen’s interiors. When I ask what good design should do, his response is almost instinctive. “It’s about comfort and awareness,” he explains. “I want to make people aware of the beauty and essence of architecture. Of course I’m creating spaces in an architectural way, but I’m also creating for the people who live in those spaces.” With a catalogue of residential projects to his name, Van Duysen is accustomed to designing for couples or families – he recently worked with Kim and Kanye West to design some of
Antwerp; they fell in love with my home and
the rooms at their California home – but what
asked me to design a booth for IMM,” he
of hotels, where there’s owners, operators and
continues. “I decided to create a space that
investors to please. “I’ve been approached by
looked more like a home than a showroom; it
many of the big hotel operators but it never
was a huge success and they offered me the role
really happened,” he tells. “I was always a
of Creative Director.”
little scared of the corporate attitude and rigid
Despite his surprise at being asked to guide
structure; all the different parties you have to
the brand as a non-Italian, Van Duysen accepted
deal with. I’m used to working one-to-one;
and took up the challenge in 2016, with his remit
even with Molteni, I work for a family, and
involving the design of several new furniture
that’s what I wanted for a hotel.”
collections as well as the creation of the spaces
And then along came Mouche Van Hool, a
in which they’re showcased. In recent years he’s
former PR executive who, having successfully converted an Antwerp residence into Hotel
designed exhibition booths at Salone del Mobile and IMM, and flagship stores in LA, Miami and
part of Italian heritage, such as stucco, travertine
Julien, was on the lookout for her next project.
Milan. When we meet, it’s at Molteni Group’s
flooring, warm woods and rich fabrics. We want
Van Hool and her husband invested in a former
new showroom in Chelsea, London, another
to create a serene environment that is timeless,
Augustinian cloister, and familiar with Van
flagship that once again demonstrates his flair
elegant and sophisticated.”
Duysen’s work, approached him to lead its
for connecting interiors to exterior architecture.
A tour of the showroom highlights Van
transformation. “It has long been a dream of
The 700m2 space remains faithful to the original
Duysen’s new pieces; the Hubert occasional
mine to design a hotel and I knew this was the
features of the building, which dates back to
table with walnut top and leather detail, and
time to do it,” he tells, adding that he felt the
the 1800s, while floor-to-ceiling windows wrap
Gillis, a low armchair designed specifically for
location, existing architecture and relationship
around the ground floor bringing in plenty of
the hospitality sector. “My latest collection is
with the owners were a perfect fit.
natural daylight. The concept – played out
the one we’re sitting on here,” he continues,
Van Duysen and his team took on the entire
across two levels linked by a dramatic staircase
stroking the plush upholstery of Gregor, a
scheme, working with listed monuments
– marries Italian style with the intimacy of a
generously proportioned sofa system featuring
specialist Callebaut Architecten on the
private residence, with a series of roomsets
his signature raised stitching. “The concept of
renovation and restoration of the five heritage
providing a backdrop to the collections.
these pieces relates to mid-century architecture,
buildings, and guiding the space planning,
“In the stores, the aim is to create a home,”
so they’re lighter and more transparent,” he
interior design and furnishings. The result is
Van Duysen confirms. “We don’t want to show
adds, though is quick to point out that it’s the
August, a destination hotel with 44 guestrooms,
the pieces in a soulless environment, so we
end-user he’s ultimately designing for: “It’s
a bar, restaurant and spa, where every element
design zones such as a living room, kitchen and
about guaranteeing the wellbeing and comfort
is perfectly attuned to Van Duysen’s guiding
bedroom, layering each with materials that are
of the people who are living with our pieces.”
principles of comfort and awareness.
043
MEETING…
“My ultimate goal is to reach people’s hearts and souls. I want to do that by creating beautiful spaces.”
For instance, the restaurant – a narrow space
architectural interventions, but the focus was
between two of the buildings – is designed as
to maintain the authenticity of the destination;
a walled winter garden fostering an awareness
that was the biggest challenge.”
of the red-brick architecture that envelops it.
In a rare opportunity to design a hotel and
And the scale of the chapel, now the hotel bar,
everything within its walls, August is furnished
impels those who step inside to look up and take
with brands that Van Duysen has designed
in the soaring arched windows and turn-of-
collections for over the years. The loose
the-century mouldings. Van Duysen has been
furniture is Molteni & C; lighting is Flos; outdoor
careful not to over-design, letting the natural
furniture and custom-designed tableware is by
beauty of the architecture do the talking. “It was
Serax; and faucets are Fantini, following a 2016
a very difficult and complex project, converting
alliance. The hotel is not only a showcase for its
a building that wasn’t designed as a hotel,”
owners, but for Van Duysen’s skill as a designer
he notes. “As much as possible we wanted to
too, and will no doubt pave the way for more
respect the original features of the cloister – its
hotel projects going forward.
tiles, glasswork and mouldings.”
Gillis, one of Van Duysen’s pieces for Molteni & C, is a low armchair designed specifically for the hospitality sector
As our time together comes to an end, I ask
The comfort factor comes not only from
Van Duysen about future aspirations. There’s
the furniture but the contentment felt when
plenty more to come from his collaboration with
spending time at August. There’s a serenity to
Molteni & C, and whisperings of another hotel
the spaces, perhaps a hangover from their former
project in the pipeline. Whatever his next move,
use, or the sensitive touch of an architect who
the objective is the same: “My ultimate goal is
respects what’s gone before. “We didn’t want
to reach people’s hearts and souls. I want to do
to interfere with the building too strongly,” Van
that by creating beautiful spaces.”
Duysen confirms. “We made some very subtle
© Max Rommel
044
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Arctic Bath HARADS Sweden’s Lule river welcomes a new floating spa complex and cabins, which freeze into the ice when temperatures cool. Words: Lisa Kjellsson • Photography: © Daniel Holmgren
T
he story of how a tiny village in Swedish Lapland inspired some of the quirkiest hotel designs in Scandinavia is really quite remarkable. Located just
50km south of the Arctic Circle, Harads, a community with fewer than 600 residents, has been put firmly on the map over the past decade thanks to Treehotel – a collection of seven uniquely designed treehouses created by Sweden’s Bolle Tham and Martin Videgård, Finnish architect Sami Rintala and the uber-cool Norwegian firm Snøhetta. The idea, however, was dreamt up by local couple Britta and Kent Lindvall, and came together after Kent casually mentioned it during a fishing trip to Russia with three friends, who just so happened to be Swedish architects Bertil Harström, Thomas Sandell and Mårten Cyrén. Since its launch in 2010, Treehotel has featured on countless hot lists, but what no-one knew was that there was something missing from the concept. Since the very beginning, there had been plans to build a floating sauna on the Lule River to complement the lofty living quarters. Initially, the vision was for a glass cube on a raft, but Harström, who created Treehotel’s Bird’s Nest suite, had other ideas. Having taken over the project in 2013, he and interior architect Johan Kauppi designed a log-covered circular building likened to a bird’s nest. The project was complex to say the least, but eventually made its debut earlier this year as Arctic Bath.
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Split-level, elevated suites hug the tree-lined shore, with all featuring a floor-toceiling window that faces out onto the riverscape
048
Floating or frozen depending on the season,
The idea is to appeal to luxury travellers
the design concept represents a log jam – a
drawn to Lapland by its acres and acres of
reference to the river’s timber-transporting
untouched wilderness, pure air and tranquillity.
past. The main building houses a restaurant as
Eco-conscious guests will no doubt also
well as a spa comprising a steam room, two
appreciate the lengths the designers have gone
saunas and a treatment room, and is designed
in order to keep the environmental footprint at
around an open-air plunge pool filled with
a minimum. No trees were felled to make space
unheated river water. The Swedes call it a
for the development, while the six shoreside
cold bath, something of an understatement in
cabins are elevated so as not to damage the
winter, when temperatures can drop to -30c
land, as well as safeguarding against floods. In
and the water – once a hole has been hacked in
addition to the focus on sustainable materials –
the ice – is just a few degrees above freezing.
primarily pine, slow-dried the traditional way
However popular the concept would prove
and treated with eco-friendly tar and oils rather
with hardy wellness seekers, it was decided
than harsh chemicals – even the lorries and
that the outdoor bath and sauna would work
diggers used during the build ran on biofuel.
better with accommodation on site, and so six
It’s an ambitious project – especially
floating cabins – accessed from the shore via
considering that none of the six original owners,
a footbridge and outside wooden decks – were
apart from Treehotel’s Kent Lindvall, had any
added to form the ideal retreat for keeping watch
prior experience in the hospitality sector – and
of the Northern Lights. A further six split-level
until tour operator Nordic stepped in to invest, a
suites designed by Annkathrin Lundqvist also
lack of funds and technical issues caused major
hug the tree-lined shore, all featuring a floor-
delays. “It’s been a real challenge building a
to-ceiling window that faces the riverscape.
floating hotel in this Arctic climate,” admits
049
Lundqvist. “The water level fluctuates by as
are locally sourced and organic, with dishes
much as two metres, so we have had to factor a
including delicacies like creamed salsify with
lot of flexibility into the build.”
smoked marrowbone and moose heart.
Inside, the locally sourced theme continues
Though the lobby lounge and bar are
with pine-clad walls, Baltic limestone flooring,
compact – it seems there just wasn’t enough
and Carpe Diem beds draped in grey linen and
space for a separate quiet nook – chances are
sheepskin, as well as furniture by Karl Andersson
guests will prefer to spend their time outside,
& Söner, Swedese and &Tradition, and lighting
where an action-packed activities programme
by Örsjö, Ifö Electric and Ateljé Lyktan in the
ranges from dog sledding, snow-shoe hiking,
cabins. Eco-friendly wood pellet burners add a
ice skating and cross-country skiing to bike
cosy touch, while the overall effect is Scandi-
excursions, bear watching, fishing and wildlife
minimalist. Bathrooms are spacious and stocked
photography. And the beauty of Arctic Bath
with Kerstin Florian products, which can also be
is how it changes throughout the seasons –
found in the spa.
international visitors will no doubt be fascinated
In the main building meanwhile, a 24-cover
by the snow-draped winter landscape or the
restaurant is furnished by Swedish brands
light-filled summer nights, but for Lundqvist,
such as Stolab, Blå Station and Norrgavel. The
it looks particularly striking in the autumn:
kitchen is headed up by Sámi chef Kristoffer
“Even each season varies from month to month
Åström, who has made a name for himself by
– we have eight rather than four seasons here,
introducing indigenous flavours to restaurants
so depending on the time of year guests visit,
across the country, and Maarten De Wilde,
they’ll have a totally different experience.”
whose CV includes a string of Michelin-starred eateries in his native Belgium. Ingredients
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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: Arctic Bath Investor: Nordic Architecture: Bertil Harström and Johan Kauppi (water cabins and main building), Annkathrin Lundqvist (land cabins and suites) Interior Design: Annkathrin Lundqvist, Input Interior Lighting Design: Ateljé Lyktan Graphic Design: Mera Media Main Contractor: Vittjärvshus www.arcticbath.se
DEFINING SPA. SINCE 1928.
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Photos: Hanno Mackowitz
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&Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge NAMIBIA South African design firm Fox Browne Creative teams up with emerging architect Jack Alexander to revamp a luxury retreat in the Namib Desert.. Words: Emma Love • Photography: Courtesy of &Beyond
W
ith an otherworldly landscape of constantly shifting rust-red sand dunes, gravel plains, and jagged granite and limestone hills, the coastal
Namib Desert – which dates back 50-88 million years – is staggering in its vastness and stunning in its beauty. It is for this reason, that when emerging Johannesburg-based architect Jack Alexander and long-established design agency Fox Browne Creative were tasked with revamping &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, they didn’t even try to compete. “The overriding principle was to connect guests with the natural environment; the experience of being immersed in the desert informed all the decisions that came afterwards,” explains Alexander of the two-decades-old property, which is flanked by the Nubib Mountains and sits on a private 15-hectare concession neighbouring the NamibRand Nature Reserve, Africa’s only International Dark Sky Reserve. After a nine-month refresh, the lodge reopened at the end of last year. The low-rise main space housing the restaurant, bar and social living zones has been extended outwards, with a new terrace at the front, and a spa treatment room and gym upstairs. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls on three sides bring the outside in and, at the rear, a curving stone wall is reminiscent of Roman ruins. “It was incredibly simple in many respects: it’s an open-plan pavilion with a modernist glass front juxtaposed with beautiful rocks. We’ve refined the building but there was no need for architectural gymnastics,”
053
Suites feature super king-sized beds with a skylight directly above for stargazing
054
Alexander says. Deliberately rusted steel triangular
glow at night conjure up the notion of star bursts,
shading devices sit on top of the flat roof with a laser
and an installation of handmade ceramic plates on the
cut configuration that mirrors the constellations
back wall from Pret-a-Pot in South Africa represent
of the Milky Way. “The thought behind those was
the cracked mud of nearby Deadvlei.
predominantly the silhouettes of the mountains
One of the most significant changes is that the 10
around the lodge; the peaks and valleys that you see
sleek, standalone 85m2 suites and new two-bedroom
when looking out,” he adds. “The idea is that during
Star Dune suite are now all designed to be entirely
the day you still get that reflected pattern of stars.”
solar powered. “Sustainability was a key driver,”
Inside, the neutral palette and natural materials
confirms Debra Fox, fellow co-founder of Fox Browne
– linen sofas and cushions with accents of hand-
Creative. “Each suite has its own solar plant to
embroidered welwitschia plants, tree-trunk tables
generate power and a system to recycle water, which
with raffia-backed chairs, oversized ceramic urns and
is then used for the waterhole at the front of the lodge
a straw floor light based on the nests of sociable weaver
and to flush the loo.” Much like the architecture of
birds – were also determined by the surroundings.
the main space, each suite combines stone and glass,
“The inspiration for the interiors was the desert
with sliding doors at the front that open onto the pool
– that vista, the light, the dunes – it couldn’t be
terrace. The hero piece of the room is a super king-
anything else,” says Chris Browne, co-founder of
sized bed with a skylight above for stargazing, but
Fox Browne Creative. The shapes of the grey-brown
there are other considered design details too, from
rocks also influenced the design of the central faceted
the globe bedside lighting that nods to the planets, to
timber-clad bar with a marble counter, while silver
the floor light – by South Africa’s Mud Studio – that
geometric lights hanging from the mirrored ceiling
imitates a bird’s wing, with each individual feather
above reference desert cacti. Elsewhere, low hexagonal
a separate piece of clay. In the bathroom, lighting is
tables with backlit glass panels that appear to softly
intuitively labelled while the double vanity takes on an
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angular form. “If you look at the shape of each
When guests do want to explore, high-
basin, the geometry is integral to the design,”
adrenaline activities include quad biking on a
Fox continues. “We spent a lot of time tracing
designated circuit across the dunes, e-biking
the lines and forms of the environment and
to caves to glimpse markings made by San
bringing them into the interior in miniscule.”
Bushmen, taking a helicopter ride over the
There are plenty of cocooning touches too:
Namib-Naukluft National Park, and hiking up
a steel and rope chair, perfectly angled for an
Big Daddy – the tallest dune in the area – at
afternoon snooze; a grey cotton-linen curtain
sunrise. Yet one of the most fascinating ways
with an embroidered Quiver Tree – similar to
to connect to the surroundings is by spending
the one at the entrance to the lodge – that can
evenings at the circular stone observatory
be pulled across to hide the wardrobe, and a
located at the back of the property, where it’s
wooden hatch, from which a butler can deliver a
possible to peer through a telescope and zoom
morning cappuccino without disturbing guests.
in on the craters of the moon and the rings of
“The intention is that guests will check-in
Saturn. Thanks to a lack of light pollution –
and never want to leave. Jack has opened up the
even the lamps that illuminate the paths to the
panorama, so you’re not sure if you’re looking
suites at night are red to minimise the glow
at it or you’re in it. The desert can be harsh and
– the inky sky is dense with constellations.
out of people’s comfort zone, so the suites are
It’s just another way that this lodge puts its
almost like an oasis that you can retreat to while
surroundings first. “The design was conceived
still feeling part of the environment,” says Fox,
to link guests to the landscape in every respect;
citing the in-suite paint set and mini-bar, the
we wanted to keep the buildings subtle and let
latter stocked with African-made spirits and
the desert speak,” concludes Alexander. And
another enticing reason for staying put.
there’s no doubt they’ve succeeded.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Operator: &Beyond Travel Architecture: Jack Alexander Interior Design: Fox Browne Creative Landscaping: Gordon W. Kershaw Main Contractor: OJ Construction Engineering: De Villiers Sheard Lighting Design: Fox Browne Creative, Streamlight Lighting www.andbeyond.com
Great Scotland Yard LONDON Hyatt’s Unbound Collection makes its UK debut, with a narrative by EPR Architects and HBA that aims to unlock secrets of London’s past. Words: Catherine Martin Photography: Courtesy of Hyatt (unless otherwise stated)
O
nce the home of the Metropolitan Police,
Nam Nghi in Phu Quoc and Hôtel du Louvre in
Great Scotland Yard is synonymous
Paris as a member of The Unbound Collection.
with law and order. The street – a
Each has its own narrative, manifested in the
150m throughway between Whitehall and
architecture and design or the services and
Northumberland Avenue – was little more
experiences on offer. In London, that narrative
than a courtyard between buildings back in
has been brought to life by EPR Architects and
the 1800s, but its surroundings are steeped in
HBA, and with the site’s storied past, there’s
history; it was here that the crimes of Britain’s
certainly no shortage of tales to tell.
most notorious villains were investigated, from
The hotel occupies an Edwardian building from
the violent heists of West End gangs to the grisly
1910, originally built as an army recruitment
murders of Jack the Ripper.
office and more recently used by the Ministry
Although The Met’s original headquarters
of Defence. Its transformation into a hotel has
actually only backed on to Great Scotland Yard –
been a lengthy one, taking almost a decade
its entrance was around the corner on Whitehall
from start to finish. During that time there were
– the two became so intrinsically linked that
additional planning applications to be made
the moniker continues to this day, despite the
and a change in ownership, but with plenty of
force vacating the site over a century ago. It’s
experience in converting London landmarks
this association that informs the identity of
into luxury hotels, EPR Architects took it all in
the street’s new resident, a 152-key hotel from
their stride. On board from the very beginning,
Hyatt’s collection brand.
the team were responsible for the architectural
As one of a new wave of properties that
conversion of the building, restoring the façade
champions individuality, Great Scotland Yard
to its former glory, defining a new internal
joins Chicago Athletic Association in Illinois,
layout and adding a rooftop extension.
059
At the heart of the hotel, The Forty Elephants tells the story of an all-female crime syndicate, with a key feature being the ‘Evidence Table’ designed by Rochdale Spears
060
“The starting point for us was to make sure we kept
simply have borrowed from its earlier works – the
the best bits,” explains EPR’s Director Nick Rayner,
scale of Kimpton Fitzroy for example, or the multi-
who took the lead on the project with Associate
venue dining room at The Ned – but Great Scotland
Director Giselle Shelton. “The character of the building
Yard called for a different approach altogether. “Part
really speaks for itself; it’s a fabulous example of
of our role was to make the layouts work, to create
Edwardian architecture so we were deeply invested
that bespoke feel,” explains Shelton. “We wanted the
in restoring it,” he continues, pointing out the
public areas to be approachable and feel comfortable,
Portland stone, glazed brickwork and sash windows,
so rather than a large, open-plan space, we’ve divided
the latter of which were removed and refurbished
it up into a series of smaller, more intimate zones,
off-site before taking pride of place alongside the
each with a different offer.”
trademark green doors. “When it came to extending
It’s worth noting that these decisions were made
the building, we added two storeys to the top to house
before the operator was in place, which could have
extra guestrooms,” notes Rayner. “We were careful
proved disastrous should certain bids have been
to match the stonework to the original structure and
successful. “We designed the building in a way
added a Westmorland slate mansard roof in keeping
that would suit a number of different brands,” says
with the neighbours.”
Rayner. “However any interest from operators with a
Inside, the building was stripped back to its
rigid brand concept fell away very quickly due to the
structural shell, with excavation two levels down to
nature of the project. The building and ground floor
make way for a gym, co-working space and back-of-
spaces really demanded something like The Unbound
house. Plenty of thought has gone into the layout of
Collection to be able to embrace the unique character.”
the ground floor too, with a welcoming lounge greeting
In 2016, part-way through construction, Great
guests on arrival, and check-in discreetly tucked away
Scotland Yard changed ownership, with Twenty14
around the corner. For the F&B spaces, EPR could
Holdings – the hospitality investment arm of Abu
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FF&E throughout Great Scotland Yard has been thoughtfully selected from a host of international brands, including lighting from Chelsom, bathroom fittings from Lefroy Brooks, furniture by Porada and fabrics from P/Kaufmann
Dhabi-based Lulu Group International – stepping in
detective unit that once occupied this site, as a suspect
with fresh investment. Various brands were rumoured
in the hunt for Jack the Ripper.
to have shown interest but it was Hyatt that triumphed,
The crime theme continues in the lobby lounge,
bringing The Unbound Collection to the UK for the
where an artwork by Nicola Green – part of a
first time. For the interiors, Twenty14 appointed HBA,
600-strong collection curated by Hollandridge Group
with David T’Kint, Partner of the newly-formed EMEA
– features mugshots of characters associated with
studio taking the lead. “We were challenged to keep
the area, from gangsters and criminals to prominent
the soul of the building and pay homage to its heritage
judges and police personnel. Elsewhere, an installation
rather than just bringing new life to old walls,” he
by prison charity Koestler Arts showcases the works of
explains. “Our design team created a destination
serving offenders; a cabinet of memorabilia displays
that invites guests to experience the rich history of
police helmets through the ages; and paintings by
the building through new eyes as they enter a place
Brazilian artist Julio Alan Lepez bring a touch of
where the past and present merge, to journey through
humour to quintessential British icons.
various aspects of local culture, unlocking the secrets of the storied Great Scotland Yard along the way.”
062
At the heart of the hotel, The Forty Elephants tells the story of an all-female crime syndicate known for
The anecdotes begin in the entrance hall, where
its skill in dodging police detention. Set beneath a
a 450kg clock crafted from glass and stainless steel
central lightwell, the cocktail bar features a chandelier
hangs overhead. Made by Preciosa, the installation
of broken glass, designed by Lasvit to represent the
shows the inner mechanisms of the clock and the
smash-and-grab crimes of the gang, while a stylised
perpetual time of 6pm – tea time in Alice’s Adventures
portrait of The Bob Haired Bandit – aka accomplice
in Wonderland. If you’re wondering about the
Lillian Rose Goldstein – hangs over the fireplace.
connection to Great Scotland Yard, the book’s author,
Sibin meanwhile is a secret whisky bar concealed
Lewis Carroll, was hauled in for questioning by the
behind a door disguised as bookshelves; the kind
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of place you might expect illicit whisperings over a
and those up in the eaves are particularly special – and
single malt. Whisky-filled display cabinets divide the
there’s also a five-storey Georgian townhouse next
space into three seating areas, while a rich palette of
door that serves as a standalone suite. Interiors follow
distressed timber flooring, oak panelling and copper
a pared back scheme with a neutral colour palette and
detail creates a speakeasy feel to accompany a ceiling
high-quality materials, though on closer inspection
installation of 1,935 glass bottles.
there’s subtle touches that reference the history of
“The building has such a rich and colourful history;
the building and its surroundings; nightstands are
it was imperative that we capture its legacy and
finished in a shade of blue veneer synonymous with
heritage,” says T’Kint of the eclectic series of spaces
the British police force; wardrobes are concealed
that make up the food and beverage offer. “Our
behind a false bookcase in a nod to the MOD library
inspiration came from the architecture and location;
that was once located here; robe hooks are shaped
the area has hosted so many important ‘guests’ so
as keys; and artworks see the iconic police helmet
their stories were woven into the design too.”
transformed into a graphic pattern and embellished
In a departure from the law and order theme, The Parlour draws on Britain’s explorative past and
The narrative touches every aspect of the property
transports guests to the West Indies with tropical
from the logo to the uniforms – a sophisticated take
prints and wicker furniture, while The Yard – curated
on the jailbird stripe; in fact Great Scotland Yard has
by chef Robin Gill – is reminiscent of a country escape.
enough stories to fill an entire book. For those who’ve
Vaulted ceilings and exposed brickwork set the scene
worked on the project, there’s a palpable sense of
for a changing menu of modern British fare, devised
pride, one that’s shared by the owners, who had close
around local micro-farmers and their produce.
involvement in the final product and a passion for
Guestrooms come in a variety of shapes and sizes, adding to the bespoke feel of the hotel – corner rooms
064
with gold leaf.
creating a hotel that relates to its locale. It’s fair to say they’ve succeeded.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Twenty14 Holdings Developer: Galliard Operator: Hyatt Architecture: EPR Architects Interior Design: HBA Brand Strategy: Brash Graphic Design: Imaginateur Lighting Design: Illuminate, LEDFlex Uniform Design: Studio 104 Art Consultant: Hollandridge Group F&B Consultant: Gorgeous Group www.hyatt.com
WHEN
GERMAN HOSPITALITY TRADITION Since 1985
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MIRRORS
MATTER
DESIGN MEETS PERFORMANCE S T R EG IS ROME · PIER R E-Y V E S ROCHON · PHOTOG R A PH Y BY ER IC L A IG NE Y PHOTOG R A PH Y
The Newt SOMERSET South African business magnates Koos Bekker and Karen Roos convert a Georgian mansion into a country house hotel immersed in the locale. Words: Ben Thomas Photography: Courtesy of The Newt
M
eandering through southwest England
with Bristol-born lawyer Henry Hobhouse II
towards the small town of Bruton, the
purchasing the property in 1785, adding a façade
sight of motorway traffic eventually
of local limestone shortly after. Hobhouse’s
gives way to verdant countryside, grazing
descendants – a family of activists, politicians
livestock and rustic farmhouses. While this
and conservationists referenced throughout
vast, rolling scenery may not be for everyone,
the interior scheme – went on to occupy the
to billionaire businessman Koos Bekker and his
mansion for the next two centuries, making
wife Karen Roos – former Editor-in-Chief of
further modifications to the building as well as
Elle Decoration South Africa – it felt a little like
creating more naturalistic parkland.
home. Having first ventured into hospitality
“Restoring the house had its challenges,”
with Babylonstoren, a vineyard, stylish hotel
Roos begins, before explaining how The Newt
and 3.5-acre garden in the Cape Winelands,
took its name from the animal, which can be
the couple were keen to emulate their success
spotted in the estate’s freshwater pools during
overseas, acquiring the Grade II-listed Hadspen
the warmer months. “Discovering the newts
House and its 800-acre estate in 2013, having
delayed building work by about a year, but in
come across an advert in Country Life. Before
the end, we saw them as friends. I love watching
long, plans were drawn up to revitalise its
children searching for them in the ponds.”
gardens, while proposals for a boutique hotel,
Occupying Hadspen House and its adjacent
spa, farm shop, cyder press and horticultural
stable yard, the hotel embraces country living
museum soon followed.
with a focus on the local and sustainable,
Originally built between 1687-1690 by
encouraging guests to explore the estate and
barrister William Player, Hadspen House was
its surrounding area – a boot room provides rain
extensively remodelled during the Georgian era,
macs and wellies to help combat the elements.
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Painted in deep teal, the hotel’s bar is furnished with a gold bar and bamboo chairs by Sebastian Herkner
As a result, every aspect of the design is rooted
with shades of sage and emerald contrasted by bursts
in respect for the land, environment and creatures
of vivacious colour. Elsewhere, original oak panelling
living on it, from the 23 guestrooms and suites, to the
in 70-cover restaurant The Botanical Rooms is lit by
garden-to-table menu in the restaurant, the botanical
statement Tom Dixon fittings – which also hang over
sensibilities of the spa, and even the Georgian-inspired
the staircase in the form of an oversized chandelier–
uniforms crafted by Lois Hill of The Uniform Studio.
while a vintage record player in the Croquet Room is
Taking creative inspiration from her work on
accompanied by vibrant Moroso chairs. An adjacent
Babylonstoren, Roos reimagined the past by combining
library serves high tea amidst the warmth of a log
historical elements with contemporary architecture and
fire and cosy sofas, while outside, guests can play
playful details. The writer-turned-designer also chose
croquet on the lawn or enjoy a game of badminton
to incorporate orange coloured Hadspen limestone
in Old Knobbly, a private grass court named after the
and Blue Lias quarried nearby, while blacksmiths,
cloud-shaped yew hedge that surrounds it.
carpenters, architects and stonemasons were brought in from the area in line with the property’s ethos.
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Upstairs in the main house, individually designed guestrooms have retained many of their original
“I’ve always loved England and for me, Somerset
Georgian features including sash windows and
is at its heart” Roos adds. “Locality is therefore
fireplaces. Several offer four-poster beds, toilets
everything to us, from hiring our staff to partnering
from Laufen’s Palomba collection and freestanding
with British designers such as Tom Dixon.”
baths by Catchpole & Rye, along with thermostatic
This blend of old and new continues throughout
showers from British manufacturer Samuel Heath.
the public spaces, where antiques complement
Continuing the community theme, larders stocked
bespoke pieces and modern additions. A palette of
with homemade and local treats such as spiced apple
subtle greens pays further homage to the location,
cake, fire roasted peanuts and Westcombe Cheddar
mirroring the lush gardens dotted around the estate,
straws tip their hat to the area’s agricultural heritage.
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Built from Hadspen stone, the estate’s original horse yard has been transformed into guestrooms that hark back to its equestrian past
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The estate’s original horse yard, built from honey-
F&B programme. Every plate of food served features
coloured Hadspen stone, has also been transformed into
something grown, foraged, distilled or baked on-site,
guest accommodation that harks back to its equestrian
with a team of gardeners and chefs working closely
past. The Hengroen and Llamrei rooms – taking
together to harvest fresh ingredients daily. At The
their name from King Arthur’s most famous mares
Botanical Rooms – comprising the Glass Room, filled
– occupy the ground floor and feature hay mangers,
with orange trees and greenery, and the adjoining
wood-burning stoves and tie-rings, while Stable Lofts
Oak Room, flanked by dried botanicals and leather
on the first floor above draw inspiration from their
banquette seating – Head Chef Ben Abercrombie’s
farriers and grooms. Likewise, an elevated Georgian
menu is shaped by the lifecycle of the grounds,
granary has been converted into a cosy hideaway
with small sharing plates like freshly-picked fruit
complete with a futon-style king size bed, exposed
and vegetables from the garden. Meanwhile, a grill
stone walls and a shower room concealed beneath
designed especially for the kitchen is fired by the
the granary floor. Other refurbished 18th century farm
estate’s woodland and prepares meats from the shire
buildings include the Clock House and the Hayloft and
county. Abercrombie is in charge of Horns & Pigtails
Woolsack rooms – the latter previously used to store
too, a private dining space set within the original
hay and wool, forming a source of Somerset’s wealth
vaulted cellar of the house, which serves up an 18th
over the years. And the owners aren’t finished there,
century-inspired menu to 16 diners.
with plans in place to renovate a former dairy farm
On the opposite side of the manor, a bar is similarly
on site, creating an additional 17 bedrooms that offer
guided by its history, offering fine wines, artisan
more of a laid back, private experience with a separate
beers and homemade cyder alongside punches,
swimming pool and dining facilities.
cocktails and aperitifs popular in the 1800s, with
Aside from celebrating its bucolic setting through
signatures concoctions including Penelo-pea – a mix
design, the hotel also honours the estate across its
of homemade apple gin and peas from the garden.
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Painted in deep teal and furnished with a gold
and coffees for those going teetotal, together
bar and vibrant bamboo chairs by Sebastian
with piping hot pies and pastries, roasted and
Herkner for Ames, the bar also plates up small
pickled vegetables, and cakes and tarts, to fuel
dishes wrapped in curious ways – in vine leaves,
visitors as they wander the grounds.
kohlrabi, Scotched or en croute.
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After kicking off their muddy boots, guests are
Venturing outside, The Garden Café is set
encouraged to visit the hotel’s spa for a spot of
against a sea of towering trees and provides
relaxation. Housed in a row of former cow barns,
a vantage point of the kitchen gardens and
the space combines Hadspen stone with forest
orchards below, from which the food is sourced.
marble, glass and natural oak, while treatments
Wooden tables and bench seating go hand-in-
make use of locally made botanical ingredients
hand with a menu led by what’s in crop, from
inspired by an English country garden. Other
crisp green leaves to sweet root vegetables and
facilities include an indoor swimming pool and
freshly picked berries, with the team aiming to
hydro pool, together with a sauna, halotherapy
be sustainable all year round. As Roos explains:
room, hammam and a private couples’ chamber,
“We try to care for the land that feeds us, so
where signature treatments include a mud
are very careful about recycling, reducing plastic
rasul experience. In line with The Newt’s
and ensuring that nothing much goes to waste.”
distinct philosophy, F&B offerings at the spa
Joining the café is a bakery, butchery and
are designed to promote nutritional health, with
cheese room, as well as a cyder bar showcasing
kombucha and pickles for the gut, and olives
six varieties made at the estate’s very own
and chickpeas for soothing the skin. There’s
press, which can be explored along with a cellar
also a gym located opposite, built by Invisible
and bottling plant on a twice-daily guided tour
Studio with one giant window to offer views
and tasting. There’s also fresh juices, fine teas
over the hotel’s private kitchen garden.
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The estate’s crowning glory is undoubtedly
Porky Hefer, which have proven popular with
its formal gardens, designed by Italo-French
hotel guests and the resident chickens alike.
architect Patrice Taravella and cared for by
The latest addition to the experience is The
an expert horticultural team. Supplying all
Story of Gardening, an immersive exploration
restaurants on the estate with herbs, flowers,
of horticulture, from courtyards of the ancient
fruit and vegetables, the grounds have built a
world to the hanging gardens of today’s cities.
reputation for providing new and rare plants,
After crossing The Viper, a treetop canopy
with three varieties – Astrantia ‘Hadspen
walkway suspended over woodland below,
Blood’, Lobelia ‘Hadspen Purple’ and Anemone
visitors can step through a series of rooms
‘Hadspen Abundance’ – created in years gone by
featuring interactive installations, games and
and still thriving today. Agricultural aficionados
Virtual Reality pods, each studying the evolution
can take a journey through time during a
of gardening trends and techniques.
daily Garden Tour, which navigates through a
With so much on offer across Hadspen House
Victorian fragrance garden, coloured plots and
and the wider estate, it’s hard to single out one
a 3,000m2 parabola-shaped walled garden, the
element as the pick of the bunch. And the owners
latter featuring 460 apple trees of 267 varieties,
are looking to make that choice even harder in
arranged in a maze and trained to ensure the
the coming months. As spring flowers begin to
best possible results. Wildflower meadows,
blossom, Bekker and Roos have plans to reopen
an ancient woodland and a deer park add to
the cyder bar and launch a new gelateria in the
the discovery trail, along with a contemporary
Gardener’s Cottage, serving seasonal tipples and
moving installation by Amsterdam’s Studio
sweet treats to those basking in the Somerset
Drift – on display in the Threshing Barn – and
sun. Here’s hoping the British weather can live
interactive nests from South-African designer
up to the couple’s ambitions.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Koos Bekker, Karen Roos Interior Design: Karen Roos Landscaping: Patrice Taravella, The Newt in-house gardening team Uniforms: The Uniform Studio www.thenewtinsomerset.com
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Hotel The Ritz Carlton Berlin
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The Fantauzzo BRISBANE Designed by SJB, a new addition to the collection of Art Series Hotels in Australia celebrates the work of acclaimed portrait artist Vincent Fantauzzo. Words: Mandi Keighran • Photography: © Tom Blachford
U
ntil recently, the formerly neglected Howard Smith
Terrando, Director of Interior Design at SJB. “The concept
Wharves on the Brisbane River waterfront wouldn’t
and colour palette were then used to choose the artist.” As a
have been a likely place to stumble across an homage
result, SJB drew inspiration from the surrounding landscape
to one of Australia’s most celebrated painters. Last year
to create a richly textured setting that would be suitable to
however, this collection of abandoned 1930s sheds, offices
showcase works of art.
and yards underwent a dramatic redevelopment and the area
The strikingly faceted building is informed by the structure
was transformed into a dining and entertainment hub with
of the cantilevered bridge and the jagged cliff face, while
spectacular views across the water to the city. One of the
the façade panels reference the earthy, mineral colours of
defining features of this new precinct is The Fantauzzo – an
the rocks and vegetation. The result is a hotel with strong
Art Series Hotel, with architecture and interiors by SJB, which
identity, which seamlessly blends into its surroundings
is dedicated to the work of Vincent Fantauzzo, best known
despite its size. “The architects wanted to develop a rhythm
for his award-winning portraiture.
in the façade,” Terrando adds. “We also looked to maximise
Nestled into a cliff face beneath 6.7 acres of natural
the number of rooms and so we challenged the boundaries as
parkland and the iconic Story Bridge, The Fantauzzo is the
much as possible.” The form of the exterior was shaped by
eighth addition to Art Series Hotel’s portfolio of four- and
the constraints of the site too, such as the irregular footprint,
five-star hotels and residences dotted across Australia. Each
the need to leave space between the cliff and the building,
property celebrates a different contemporary artist, with
and the height of the bridge above.
previous collaborations including the likes of John Olsen, Charles Blackman and Tommy Watson. Given this approach, it might be assumed that SJB would
This almost theatrical moment of entry signals to guests that
take inspiration from Fantauzzo’s work. However, the design
they are entering the world of The Fantauzzo, a luxurious
team was unaware of which artist would be featured in the
refuge home to three original paintings by Fantauzzo himself
hotel until after the concept had been developed. “We had
and more than 500 giclée prints of the artist’s work.
to approach the project with a gallery mindset,” says Léo
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Entry to the hotel is marked by a dramatic contrast between the bright, sunny streetscape and cool, dark lobby.
The lobby – which Terrando refers to as a transition zone –
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Fantauzzo’s portraits accompany rich, jewel-toned furnishings that pick up on the surrounding greenery
is a dark, concrete space with a monochromatic palette that works to focus attention on the art. Its glossy black floors and mirrored walls reflect select pieces as well as a sculptural lighting feature, creating an immersive, experiential environment akin to an art installation itself. “Even though we didn’t know which artist we would be working with, we wanted to develop something that was more than just white walls,” says Terrando. Meanwhile, the boulder-like form of the bespoke reception desk takes inspiration from the cliff, which is visible through a large window and dramatically illuminated at night. Divided into three parts, the window frames the crags in a similar way to a triptych painting, transforming the landscape into a dynamic work of art. The sophisticated dark palette continues into the lift and up to the corridors on the accommodation floors. In stark contrast, guestrooms are flooded with natural light and boast views of either the cliff or the Howard Smith Wharves and the Brisbane
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River. Rich, jewel-toned furnishings pick up
quarters even have views over the river visible
on the surrounding greenery and bright blue
from the shower, bringing the surroundings
of the water, further strengthening the hotel’s
even closer to the interior.
connection to place.
restaurant accessed from the lobby, a rooftop
types but, given the irregular shape of the
bar called Fiume, and an infinity-edge pool.
building, each is unique in its format. “It was
Inspired by the rooftops of LA’s resorts, Fiume
very tricky but also very interesting,” Terrando
offers vistas over the river to the Brisbane city
explains of the challenges faced. “Every room
skyline, as well as an intriguing angle of the
has its own personality, which gives the hotel
underside of the bridge and the cliff face.
plenty of character.”
“The setting for The Fantauzzo is different
To create a cohesive interior despite the
from that of a typical urban city,” Terrando
unique floor plan, SJB devised bespoke modular
concludes. “Here, the sun hits the cliff and
furniture pieces – such as a vibrant green sofa –
you get all these different colours at different
that can be used in various room configurations.
times of the day, and you also have the sunlight
Similarly, the mini-bar is a simple black-clad
dancing on the surface of the water. This hotel
cube that can be adapted to different sizes
offers such a unique perspective of Brisbane.”
depending on the format.
Not only this, but it also provides a dramatic
Sliding doors have also been deployed throughout the project to give guests the option of creating an interconnecting, openplan space without the obstruction caused by swing doors. When opened up in this way, some
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Other spaces include Polpetta, an Italian
There are 166 guestrooms and nine different
environment to showcase the work of one of the country’s most celebrated artists.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Deague Group Operator: Accor, Art Series Hotels Architecture: SJB Architecture Interior Design: SJB Interiors Landscaping: Urbis Main Contractor: Hutchinson Builders Project Manager: Gaskin Construction Services Art Consultant: Vincent Fantauzzo, Asher Keddie www.artserieshotels.com.au
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The Prince Akatoki LONDON Introducing western guests to Japan’s Prince Hotels & Resorts, Marylebone’s Akatoki emphasises serene minimalism and nuanced detail. Words: Kristofer Thomas • Photography: © Ben Carpenter
Z
en is a state of mind. The word itself derives from the Japanese pronunciation of the ancient Chinese character Chán, which in turn is drawn from the
Indian dhyāna – Sanskrit for meditation, or the clearing of one’s mind. Inherently subjective, the practice encourages restraint, insight, and the personal expression of this insight for the betterment of others. Traditionally, Zen is a school of Buddhism, though since its emergence in the 6th century has gone on to gather devotees even amongst the non-religious, become enshrined in western mindfulness, and now finds itself increasingly used as shorthand for relaxation, peacefulness and serenity. Its translation to hotel design, then, makes sense in an era where the elements of aesthetics, hospitality and experience are considered in tandem. Set on Marylebone’s Great Cumberland Place, a stone’s throw from Marble Arch, The Prince Akatoki marks the first property beyond the borders of its native Japan for Prince Hotels & Resorts. A chain of 43 projects under the Seibu Group’s ownership with significant presence in Tokyo, The Prince has been a familiar name to Japanese guests since its incorporation in 1953 thanks to both a spine of large-scale projects running the length of the country, and association
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with Seibu’s dominance in railways, real estate and
decorative branches for skeletal deviations from the
other markets, but less so to those overseas save for
grid. As a welcome, this trio of spaces speaks of the
a trio of outposts in Hawaii. As such, for Londoners,
wider project’s tranquil atmosphere as well as its
The Prince Akatoki is something of an introduction to
streamlined functionality – the latter a necessary
a Japanese institution in more ways than one.
factor within the conversion process thanks to the
With Akatoki suitably translating to sunrise, the
twisting footprint of the seven conjoined structures.
82-key project is billed as a fusion of Eastern and
“From the design point of view, we looked at
Western hospitality, culture, service and design; a
designing the spaces to be calming, welcoming and
slice of Japanese luxury occupying a row of seven
hospitable, to complement the brand’s hospitality
quintessentially London townhouses. Converted from
values,” Bithrey adds. “We also paid strong attention
The Arch by B3 Designers, both the hotel’s branding
to detail, another Japanese value that influences every
and interior schemes follow this thread throughout,
aspect of the hotel.”
emphasising calming tones and an undercurrent of detailed minimalism.
The Prince Akatoki’s F&B offer unfolds behind this area, with guests guided first past TOKii, the in-house
“The brief for the interiors and branding was to
restaurant, then the Malt Lounge & Bar. In the latter, a
bring nuances of Japanese aesthetics and culture
compact layout is countered by intelligently designed
to the West,” explains Mark Bithrey, founder of B3
fittings that allow the space to shift easily between its
Designers. “We explored Japanese forms, proportions
dual functions. A sliding backbar can retract to allow
and principles, and reimagined them for a London
light through windows set behind during the day, or
setting, following ideals of strong design, attention
showcase an impressive selection of whiskies and
to detail, craftsmanship, wellbeing, and both natural
spirits by night. To the side, meanwhile, a concealed
and sensory elements to bring these spaces to life.”
cabinet built into the wall holds the hotel’s rarest
In the lobby this means a seating area refined to
bottles, which guests can purchase, have a plaque
basic essentials; low profile chairs spread around a
beneath engraved with their claiming initials, and
single table, wicker cases carrying candles, a textured
return to whenever they pass through.
carpet underfoot chequered with earthy shades of
Darker furnishings and materials are introduced
sand, beige and cream, and not a sharp edge in sight.
here as a primer for the seductive TOKii, wherein the
The fireplace – carved as a linear recess in the wall –
timber drops a few shades and the softness of leather
seems to float in place, and the few interventions of
and fabric is replaced by more robust alternatives. The
art and flora sedately blend in as opposed to popping
sushi bar is stacked atop bricks formed of volcanic
with colour. Adjacent is the pleasing symmetry of
rock nearly a century old, whilst a metal sheet mural
a trio of check-in desks – the sole feature in the
spanning the wall behind has been laser-engraved
otherwise uncluttered central section – constructed
with visuals of silhouetted fish.
in slats of pale wood afforded definition by layers of
The slatted sudare screens typical of Japanese
ambient light peering out below the desks and through
design divide the space into banquets and booths,
a punctuation of panels behind.
whilst a fusion menu serves up rising sun classics
A communal workspace by the elevators orbits a
from a western angle – think Wagyu beef served with
lengthy slab of timber, with linear iron shelving
truffle fries, scallops with wasabi dressing and lobster
behind stacked with Japanese ornaments and
sliders with yuzu hollandaise.
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For three storeys above, The Prince Akatoki’s
“Lighting has played a significant role,” Bithrey
serene guestrooms are arranged as a puzzle
notes. “In the bedrooms we designed lighting to
of varying shapes, with a custom scent built
mimic the rising and setting of the sun, which
on notes of lavender lining the halls, and a
the guests are able to customise in order to
bespoke carpet by Ege depicting abstracted tree
curate the feeling of warmth or freshness within
branches underfoot. Ranging from 21-47m2, the
their tranquil rooms.”
rooms pick up and run with the lighter tone
What affords Zen its unique emotional and
of the lobby. Incorporating Sleepeezee beds
experiential resonance has historically been the
constructed on platforms that appear suspended
emphasis on personal discovery, and that, by
in mid-air, schemes feature B&B Italia and
diving into a state of peace and an empty mind,
Furniture Fusion pieces in brick red leather
one can find endless detail within the lack of
and pale timber – sourced in collaboration with
clutter. And so it is apt for The Prince Akatoki
online procurement platform Clippings – as well
to subscribe to this philosophy too; a hotel
as expansive headboards printed with softened
that appears to lean towards a surface ideal of
graphic visuals of sunrises over mountains.
minimalism yet hides substantial depth that is
Interactive TVs from Nonius meanwhile, nod
revealed only when guests take the time to sit
to the hotel’s forward-thinking digital element,
back, relax, and truly look.
acting as an easy portal to services and facilities.
Whilst Marylebone stands as one of the
The property’s Dawn Suite is perhaps the
quieter, less chaotic districts of Central London,
most succinct encapsulation of the overall
the creation of what is essentially a pocket of
tone, unfolding in a residential style, with a
blissful quiet amidst the restless noise is an
corridor seating area, kitchenette and living
achievement in itself.
room flowing gently into a softly lit bedroom.
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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner / Developer: Prince Hotels & Resorts Investor: Seibu Holdings Operator: StayWell Holdings Interior Design: B3 Designers Contractor: Phelan Construction Project Manager: JLL Lighting Design: Foundry Graphics: Interbrand www.theprinceakatokilondon.com
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Ruby Lucy LONDON Ruby Hotels brings its ‘lean luxury’ philosophy to Southbank’s Lower Marsh, launching a carnivalesque bolthole inspired by the area’s bustling fairs and theatrical past. Words: Matt Turner Photography: © Gregor Hofbauer
A
real-life, resplendently moustachioed,
of fabrics and furnishings, as well as playful
Victorian-era strongman is striking a
props including circus drums and juggling pins.
musclebound pose by the bed. It’s not
By contrast, the design of the 75 guestrooms
the first thing you expect to see when you
above is simple, pared back and in keeping with
enter a hotel room, but this was just one of the
the Munich-based hotel brand’s philosophy of
surprises awaiting the first guests to tour Ruby
‘lean luxury’. Full soundproofing, effective
Hotels’ debut London property in February. In
blackout curtains, high-quality linens and
other rooms around the hotel, there were tarot
custom mattresses are amongst the brand
cards being read, candy floss being spun and
signatures that aim to guarantee guests a good
folksy singers strumming guitars.
night’s sleep. Rooms range in size from cosy 14-
Ruby Hotels’ Head of Design, Matthew Balon,
15m2 ‘Nests’ to more expansive 21-23m2 ‘Lofts’.
has taken his inspiration from the fairs, markets
That soundproofing will certainly be put to the
and theatre performances that have historically
test by another quirkier signature of the brand;
taken place in the surrounding Southbank
all rooms feature full-size Marshall guitar amps,
area, developing a carnival theme that runs
in addition to the more conventional wireless
throughout the hotel. Upon entry, a dramatic
speakers, with guitars available to borrow from
red curved banquette sits beneath strip lighting
reception and a Ruby Radio station streamable
reminiscent of a circus big top, while neon
online. Other notable features include Kartell’s
signage above invites guests to ‘Enjoy the Ride’.
Bourgie lamps and ironwork wheels above the
In the lobby bar and breakfast room beyond,
bed – a reference to the “comings and goings
there are fairground horses, vintage fortune-
of the carnival” according to Balon.
telling machines (think ‘Zoltar Speaks’ in the
Such fripperies aside, the ‘lean luxury’ ethos
Tom Hanks film Big) and a carnivalesque mix
focuses on stripping out the superfluous and
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090
concentrating on the essential. Breakfast is
building close to Waterloo station, rather than
a simple yet high quality and healthy offer,
one of the city’s more traditionally prestigious
produced without the need for a full kitchen or
addresses typically favoured by big brands.
chef. Larders on the guestroom floors replace
Inside, personalised tablets are pre-loaded with
minibars, while shared ironing stations reduce
a guide to London and various social media apps,
the need for in-room amenities still further,
while a self check-in system reduces waiting
and cleverly planned glass-cube bathrooms –
times to under one minute, leaving travellers
equipped with Kaldewei’s Superplan shower
free to explore the capital.
trays – maximise the available space.
Ruby’s vision is clear and its ambition follows
“We accommodate luxury in a relatively
suit; the Munich-based brand has announced
condensed space, similar to luxury yachts,
plans to unveil a total of eleven new hotels
and we forego unnecessary services,” explains
– including a second London property – by
Michael Struck, Ruby Hotels founder and CEO.
2022. With its sights set on further openings
“Thanks to proprietary technical innovations,
in Zurich, Helsinki, Cologne, Frankfurt and
we plan, build and organise ourselves differently
Shanghai before the end of the year, and Ruby
from conventional hotels. To be precise, we
Stella expected to arrive in London’s Clerkenwell
plan and build in a very modular way, and
district in early 2021, the group is showing no
centralise and automate processes behind the
signs of slowing down. Watch this space.
scenes wherever possible. This helps us create a luxurious and unique hotel experience at an affordable price.” In line with Struck’s strategy, Ruby Lucy is modular in build, occupying a former office
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Operator: Ruby Hotels Developer: The Max Barney Estate Architecture: Studio Kyson Interior Design and Graphic Design: Ruby Hotels in-house design team Main Contractor: Red Construction Group Project Manager: Matthew Balon www.ruby-hotels.com
091
LOCATION REPORT INDIA Ripe for innovation and diversification, India’s hospitality scene calls for hotels that embrace the experiential and the authentic. Words: Neena Dhillon
F
rom sumptuous landscapes to its myriad of cuisines, rich cultural traditions and world-class
International expansion
Bullish plans are afoot for international chains too.
heritage sites, India holds the potential to deliver
Having opened the country’s second Ritz-Carlton
remarkably diverse experiences, plugging into modern
in Pune, Marriott International has signed six new
demands for truly transformative travel. Yet its power
properties in partnership with developer Prestige
to attract international tourists lags behind other
Group, augmenting its national portfolio of 100
leading Asian countries of a similar or smaller size. In
hotels. These launches are shared across its W, JW
2018, it registered 10.56 million foreign tourist arrivals
Marriott, Tribute Portfolio and Moxy brands. Hyatt
– an annual increase of 5.2% – and while the 2019
is also looking to unveil an additional 11 hotels by
figure is predicted to be slightly higher, factors such
2021, under Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Place and Hyatt
as political tension with Pakistan, security concerns
Regency. IHG meanwhile has announced 41 properties
and the collapse of Jet Airways have restricted growth.
expected by 2022, with the primary focus on its mid-
Still, there is cause for optimism, with India moving
scale segment. And Accor is set to debut 20 hotels
up the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism
across India by 2024, again prioritising its mid-scale
Competitiveness Report to position 34, and its target
to economy brands. The group has identified fewer
of 15 million foreign arrivals by 2025 remaining
opportunities in the luxury space, but is on schedule to
realistic. As part of the government’s strategy, priority
launch Raffles into India later this year. In partnership
is being given to initiatives that tap into eco-travel,
with owner Ratankant Sharma, Raffles Udaipur sits on
spirituality, adventure, rural or tribal experiences,
a 21-acre private island with 101 lake-facing rooms.
and medical tourism. Overriding factors such as poor infrastructure, political instability and travellers’ safety will however need to be more comprehensively
Tuning in to trends
While this report demonstrates notable evolutions
addressed if the country is to evolve into one of
in design and hospitality, the market has room for
Asia’s top five destinations. Of equal consideration is
greater innovations and creative products that exploit
domestic tourism. Last year, India’s Prime Minister
the latest travel trends, including catering to demand
implored its citizens to visit up to 15 sites within the
for non-hotel accommodation and local homestays.
country by 2022 as a means of firing up the economy
There is, of course, still a place for the luxury
and stimulating interest. If a reasonable percentage of
experiential hotel in iconic destinations, whether the
the middle classes respond, then the figure of almost
urban sophistication of GHM’s The Chedi Mumbai,
1.9 billion trips recorded in 2018 – at a growth rate of
due to open in the next six months, or the all-villa
11.9% – will climb with promising pace.
New World Jaipur Resort. The latter, set amid the
Pipeline & performance
heritage splendour of the pink city, is being developed by Goyal Group’s subsidiary Keemaya Resorts &
India has one of the largest hotel pipelines in Asia.
Spas, and introduces Rosewood Hotel Group to the
According to STR, there are 319 properties on the
Indian subcontinent in 2023. With interest growing
drawing board, representing the equivalent of over
in spiritual enrichment, veganism and religious
45,000 new rooms. However, occupancy as of November
pilgrimage, hoteliers have the opportunity to further
2019 stood at 65.9%, with ADR at INR5,942.92
develop destinations such as yoga capital Rishikesh
and RevPAR at INR3,915.53; these indicators are
and the temple sites of Puri, Varanasi, Tirupati and
marginally lower in comparison to competitor
Rameswaram. Genuine eco-tourism offers such as
countries. It is mid-scale and value proposition brands
intimate forest lodges or jungle camps are today
from both international and homegrown chains that
limited in scope, but visionary hoteliers are taking
are currently fuelling the pipeline. For instance, The
note; Kapil Chopra, for one, is collaborating with
Indian Hotels Company Limited’s ‘lean luxe’ brand,
Luxury Frontiers under his Postcard Hotel brand. Spa,
Ginger, reached a milestone of 50 properties at the
wellness and health-based hospitality remains another
end of 2019, spelling a buoyant year for the country’s
key opportunity; in this, India has the authentic
largest hospitality group, which has also unveiled five
alternative healing system Ayurveda, a talent pool of
Taj properties in recent months.
mindfulness mentors and clean environments suited to digital detox and personal transformation. The challenge for hoteliers is now to weave these components into wellbeing destinations that target a variety of purse strings and deliver on an authenticity that is unique to India.
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1.
2.
3.
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094
1. Six Senses Fort Barwara
2. King’s Mansion Goa
3. Grand Hyatt Gurgaon
On the site of a 700-year-old Rajasthani fort with palaces and temples, Six Senses’ first resort in India is undergoing painstaking conservation. The 5.5-acre project – comprising 48 suites, two restaurants and a 2,800m2 spa – is owned by the noble Barwara family, including Prithviraj Singh, who is leading restoration efforts along with architects Parul Zaveri and the late Nimish Patel.
Located on the Arabian Sea, King’s Mansion combines heritage, design and holistic wellbeing on a frangipani tree-lined plot. With 17 suites and five dining areas, the retreat aims to facilitate holistic longevity through a mix of eastern and western spa philosophies. It is the brainchild of entrepreneur Sachiin Joshi and architect Rajiv Parekh, both of who see India as a luxury wellbeing destination.
Part of Ireo City – a sustainable 30-acre, mixed-use site masterplanned by Foster + Partners – the dramatic form of the 442-key Grand Hyatt begins with a soaring 17m-high atrium and goes on to accommodate restaurants, expansive banqueting facilities, and a spa. For the interiors, hospitality design luminary Tony Chi promises something “gamechanging” for India.
Developer: Espire Group Operator: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Architecture: Abhikram / Panika Architects Interior Design: ASA Design, Design By QU
Owner / Operator: Viiking Ventures Architecture: Red Architects Interior Design: Gauri Khan Designs Spa Consultant: Moss Wellness
Developer: Ireo Operator: Hyatt Hotels Corporation Architecture: Foster + Partners Interior Design: Tony Chi
For more information on new hotel projects in planning or under construction, visit: www.tophotelprojects.com
Ribbed velvet wallcover ing collection LUSH pattern WILDFLOWER
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Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa UTTARAKHAND Gracefully complementing its mesmerising natural setting, a resort made from noble materials pays architectural tribute to fort temples and Himalayan villages. Words: Neena Dhillon • Photography: Courtesy of Taj Hotels
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T
o reach Badrinath, one of India’s holiest towns
glacial waters – Mehra started to sketch out his vision
and temples, pilgrims in the past would have
for a resort that would meet sustainable development
committed to an arduous trek up steep mountain
principles while fitting seamlessly into its magnificent
passes on foot, pausing for rest in temporary shelters
natural surroundings. “We envisioned a design
during journeys that lasted between three months to
that incorporates elements of the local Himalayan
a year. These flimsy refuges and narrow paths are still
architecture, as seen in both ancient fort temples and
visible today on the majestic site that plays host to
villages,” he continues. “We wanted to use materials
the first five-star resort located on the Ganges, set in
that followed the same concept. In essence, we wanted
the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, upriver from
our resort to be seen as a natural extension of the
the city of Rishikesh. More than eight years in the
Ganges River, albeit with luxurious modern comforts.”
making, Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa started life as an
Partnering with Montreal-based YH2 Architects,
plot of agricultural land spotted by Canadian-Indian
whose work on Hotel Gault he greatly admired, Mehra
entrepreneur Arjun Mehra, who, while white-water
asked principals Marie-Claude Hamelin and Loukas
rafting around a double bend in the river, realised this
Yiacouvakis to develop an architectural language for the
would have been the route that his great grandmother
hotel following two fact-finding journeys to northern
took more than a century ago: “It felt very nostalgic
India. “These near-ethnographic trips allowed us to
to sit and observe the exact path where she found the
soak in this particular culture, which is rooted in raw
motivation to undertake such a difficult pilgrimage,”
stone and carved wood, and is the basis of Uttarakhand
he explains. “The view across to the awe-inspiring
and Himachal Pradesh architecture,” explain the duo.
Himalayan mountains that have stood for so many
“Guiding our approach was the reinterpretation of
generations proved both humbling and invigorating.”
traditional Kath-khuni construction techniques,
To realise the potential of the sun-dappled site –
decorative Himalayan motifs, and the positioning of
enclosed on three sides by the alluring emerald green
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the buildings on successive, stepped terraces.”
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In the library, a harmonious interplay of timber, stone and slate channels the aesthetic of a residential mountain lodge
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Working around stringent building regulations
courtyard. Guests are invited to take complimentary
governing considerations such as proximity to, and
high mountain tea in the Magnolia Courtyard each
construction heights around the Ganges, YH2’s
day, its design characterised by a multiple-flight
conceptual vision plugs into the area’s architectural
staircase framed by a screen with a distinctive
vernacular while transforming hand-chiselled
diamond pattern, mirroring the embroidery on local
Himalayan river stone, Himachal slate and wood
Himalayan headgear.
species from both India and Canada into noble
In the reception lounge, a harmonious interplay of
materials – the building blocks of Taj Rishikesh.
timber, stone and slate speaks of a residential mountain
Blurring lines between exterior and interior, with
lodge, with subdued organic colours complementing
structures cascading down the 12.5-acre plot to
the visual scope of the exterior landscape yet injecting
provide framed river views from different points,
a contemporary ambience. Sim Boon Yang, founding
the resort begins at its pinnacle with the Welcome
partner and Director of Singapore-based Eco-id,
House. “When we looked at traditional Himalayan
elaborates on the interior concept: “We wanted to
villages, we noted how dwellings are grouped around
evoke a feeling of being a guest in someone’s private
the temple fort palaces of royal families,” observe
mountain lodge rather than a typical hotel. Let’s say
Hamelin and Yiacouvakis. “Named darbargadhs, these
a place with a discreet and elegant style befitting a
forts included both the residence of the Maharajah and
cultured and well-travelled host, who has built his
common spaces accessible to the community for their
own Himalayan escape. Due to the majestic setting,
protection during times of war.”
we felt it was important to adopt a rustic minimalism
Accommodating guestrooms, reception, restaurant,
in public areas, allowing for contemplation of the
lounge and conference hall, the Welcome House is
physical beauty all around, encouraging guests to
inspired by a 400-year-old fort and realised in a
find resonance in this spiritual mood.” Set against
cantilevered structure arranged around a central open
the feature walls that alternate between stone courses
Breathtaking carpets engineered to last
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Guestooms feature paredback detailing, rugs in neutral tones and rattan furniture befitting of the mountainous destination
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and carved timber panels, display shelves hold
Corridors leading up to guestrooms in the
collections of books and quirkier arrangements
Welcome House are left open to the elements
such as river pebbles, wild flowers, pottery,
for natural ventilation, with white decorative
measuring jugs and baskets.
screens adorning picture windows, doors and
Part of the Welcome House, all-day dining
full-height glazing. Rooms are contemporary
restaurant Rock Flour benefits from double-
and bright, with pared-back detailing, rugs
height ceilings, airy interiors and decorative
in neutral tones and Nest chairs by Cane-line
features including a tasselled timber fringe
befitting of the lodge experience. “In a location
installation that lends visual interest to the
such as this, where there is a sense of remoteness
space. Eco-id took inspiration for this element
and wilderness, rooms are designed to feel
from the ornamental roof eaves of mountain
secure and comforting,” says Sim Boon Yang.
houses, while the restaurant’s name is derived
“The atmosphere we’ve achieved is refined yet
from the glacial silt that gives the river its
rustic, with furniture appearing as though it
distinctive green hue. The accompanying
could have been built by a local carpenter or
alfresco dining deck is surrounded by jaw-
carried up the mountain on horseback.”
dropping mountain views, with chocolate pansy
Adding to the room inventory is a succession
butterflies and dragonflies fluttering through
of spacious premium villas set along the contour
the air, as farm-fresh cuisine is served to the
lines of the stepped terraces, with stone walls
sound of The Beatles classics played live on a
demarcating each plateau and a meandering,
Himalayan stringed instrument. The soundtrack
sloped, grass-lined path taking guests down to
is a reminder of the connection that the fab four
this central section of the resort. Indigenous
have to the Rishikesh region, their visit in 1968
trees have been absorbed into the landscaping
representing the genesis of ‘The White Album’.
and one particular spot, where five species
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emerge intriguingly from one base, remains
dishes from the mountainous belt stretching
the site of a small holy temple tended to by
from the east to the west of India.
local villagers. From here, the lower part of the
Driven by Taj Hotels’ commitment to
property opens to a series of meadows, terraced
environmental awareness, the resort operates
lawns and pavilions including two that house
its own sewage plant, recycles grey water
the Jiva Spa. Daily yoga in a classical open-
and feeds food waste into a biodigester. Plans
air pavilion is an integral part of the routine
are also afoot for organic gardens to include
at Taj Rishikesh, while a similar pavilion
aphrodisiacal Ayurvedic herbs common to the
invites guests down a central feature staircase
Himalayas, such as ginseng, which will be
to the spa reception. Contemplative, white
incorporated into dining and spa experiences
and generously sized, with Scandinavian and
that convey a quintessential river lifestyle.
Romanesque touches, the spa is embedded into
Combined with the architectural, spatial and
the site close to the river, its interior spaces
landscaping sensitivity of the project, which
opening out to vantage points of the landscape
fosters authentic connections to the towering
below. A short walk takes visitors to the infinity
mountains and swiftly flowing waters at every
pool, its colour matched to the water of the river,
turn, Taj Rishikesh maximises its monumental
and its edges appearing to spill onto the pebble
setting while affording the quiet comforts of a
beach found at the foot of Taj Rishikesh. It is
luxury retreat designed for respite and renewal.
on this boulder-laced beach that travellers can take wildlife walks while attending the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset. A speciality Himalayan restaurant is due to open soon, overlooking the beach and serving indigenous
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EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Darrameks Hotels & Developers Operator: Taj Hotels, IHCL Architecture: YH2 Architecture (concept), Edifice Interior Design: Eco-id Landscaping: Burega Farnell Main Contractor: VKJ Projects Lighting Design: GA Group www.tajhotels.com
Four Seasons Hotel at Embassy One BENGALURU A new opening from Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts encapsulates the progressive attitude of India’s hightech hotspot by balancing geometry, scale, glamour and greenery in a myriad of experiences. Words: Neena Dhillon • Photography: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
O
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ften referred to as India’s Silicone Valley as a result
“precisely because we wanted their signature contemporary
of its thriving information technology ecosystem
style to represent today’s dynamic India”.
and robust start-up culture, Bengaluru (formerly
Glenn Pushelberg, one half of the Canadian design
Bangalore) has seen unprecedented change during the
duo, recalls this evolution over a ten-year period: “The
past 15 years. Along with the inward investment, economic
city of Bengaluru has changed massively since we first
momentum and innovation associated with such high-tech
conceptualised the hotel project in 2008, requiring us to
dynamism, the city has equally faced more problematic
pause and look periodically at our design direction to ensure
issues such as saturation on its overpopulated southern side,
that the vision remained forward-looking, not just from
and heavy traffic congestion that regularly brings its roads
our perspective but those of Embassy and Four Seasons too.
to a complete standstill. Fortuitously, real estate developer
The teams we worked with on all sides maintained vigilant
Embassy Group recognised the potential of a site along the
dedication to the concept of this property being at the
city’s northern corridor – a convenient 30-minutes from the
forefront of design, construction and hospitality, through
international airport – more than a decade ago. Investing in
to 2019 and what it is today.”
the land and then constructing an ambitious mixed-used
Eschewing clutter, stuffiness and outdated design
development on the plot, Embassy Group has since witnessed
statements, the hotel seeks to focus on the life and culture
its address transition from one outside the city centre to a
of metropolitan Bengaluru while keeping traditional
strategic position within Bengaluru proper.
sensibilities. As always, Yabu Pushelberg considered the
These sweeping changes have thrown up interesting
development’s core and shell to first absorb the project’s
challenges for Four Seasons and its design partners.
“predominant genes”. Pushelberg explains how the firm
Comprising three sleek skyscrapers, in which premium
responded: “The palatial architectural scale of Embassy One,
offices, private residences, dining and retail are all
pared-down with layers of monolithic materials, furniture
accommodated, Embassy One is home to the second Four
and accessories, balance the traditional versus contemporary
Seasons in India, set amid five acres of landscaped gardens
in harmony within a single space.”
and water features. To ensure that the 230-room project
One of those monolithic materials is travertine, which
evoked the modern nation in all its complexity, Four
paves walls and floors throughout extravagant public spaces,
Seasons’ Vice President of Design, Dana Kalczak, turned to
the palette kept simple and neutral. To this, the firm has
trusted partner Yabu Pushelberg to conceive the interiors
added recurring motifs and architectural installations, as
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Guestrooms feature toned-down colours, geometric patterns and objects that contrast purposefully with views of the city’s greenery
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George Yabu describes: “We introduced floor-to-
Drawn naturally into the food and beverage venues
ceiling Jali screens in brass across the hotel to serve
on this floor, including the lobby lounge and The
as a motif that delicately entices people on either side
Collection – the latter serving whiskies from around
of the veil, connecting the city to the hotel oasis. The
the world – visitors get their first glance of the estate’s
screens visually integrate the immediate surroundings
landscaped garden elements from the associated
of booming Bengaluru, providing intimate moments
outdoor terraces. Celebrating Bengaluru’s status as
and architectural cues.” Metal fretwork, superbly
the Garden City of India, these patios, lawns and
executed, brings visual flair to spaces like the lobby,
glass-lined walkways, along with the 30m swimming
where vitrines display branded works of art and floral
pool, create a resort-like vibe at the heart of the
arrangements bloom in vivid colour combinations.
complex, with surprising green spaces including a
Chic glassware and ceramics are sparingly injected
Butterfly Garden and the undulating Ribbon Mall.
into the scheme too. In contrast, contemporary
Next to reflective lotus ponds, modern gazebos serve
art plays a key role in public spaces, the collection
as private dining spots for couples on date nights.
curated by respected artist Riyas Komu, who was hired
The pool’s cascading waterfall-effect curtain
by Bengaluru’s Gallery G. One such piece, situated
doubles as a secret entrance to Infuse Spa, where
behind the textured metal reception desk, represents
fluidity is a key theme, playing on qualities of water,
a geographic depiction of the city from Google Maps,
movement and immersion. “Drawn from all the
embellished and reproduced on stained recycled teak
incredible architectural stone columns in the region,
by Saju Kunhan. Corridors act as gallery spaces for
we designed pillars to serve as a focal point for each
more maverick Indian art, with Sumedh Rajendran’s
corridor leading into the spa,” describes Yabu. “Within
thought-provoking sculptural installations depicting
the arched and vaulted spa area itself, we have created
a hybrid of animals, found objects and bodies, while
a space that feels intimate and soothing.” Timber
GR Iranna’s modernist paintings are more ethereal.
screens contrast with textured stone in the cosseting
Photo by Richard Gooding Photography
www.hmd-interiors.com instagram h m d _ i n t e r i o r s
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Level 21 on the top floor houses a destination cocktail bar and Asian brasserie, each given a unique identity by LW Design Group
hideaway, while duck-egg blue enlivens the organic
geometric brass and glass lighting fixtures. As with the
form of the welcome desk, accessorised here with a
rest of the public spaces, Yabu Pushelberg has custom
contemporary ceiling mobile that dances overhead.
designed all of the furniture, favouring “an eclectic
Elsewhere, gold glass mosaics pave the vitality pool
mix of contemporary pieces that sit very comfortably
and wet areas, while treatment rooms are soothingly
in pared-back architecture”.
neutral and feature striated marble.
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To further enhance the dining offering, Level 21 at
One of the hotel’s big ambitions is to establish itself
the top of the hotel houses a destination cocktail bar
as the leading venue in the city for innovative food and
and Asian brasserie specialising in Chinese, Japanese
beverage experiences. All-day dining restaurant Cur8
and Thai dishes. Each venue has been given its own
is large, accommodating 239 covers, and designed
unique identity by LW Design Group, representing an
as a series of interactive spaces where live kitchens,
aesthetic departure from the rest of the estate.
custom-made ovens, a super-sized charcoal-powered
Sharing details of the concept for Far & East, Pia
grill, smoky tandoor, patisserie counter, bread section
Lakshmi Sen, an associate at the firm, says: “As part
and all manner of fresh food displays are transformed
of the client brief, it was decided the restaurant should
into the stars of the show. Social in nature, given the
not include any real obvious presence of Bengaluru,
feel of a Scandinavian living room via stacked log-
because it serves a fusion of other Asian cuisines.
effect feature walls, open-plan layouts and outdoor
So we have used dark and sophisticated materials,
terraces, Cur8 is also characterised by timber-framed
including honed marble floors inset with timber rug-
displays of spray-painted milk urns and tiffins as
effect panels depicting a pattern inspired by Louis
well as exuberant, kitsch, pop-art pieces by Thukral
Vuitton luggage. The bar’s three-dimensional metal
& Tagra. Two private dining rooms ramp up the
basket-weave detail brings out the veins beautifully
sophistication, their metalwork screens framing red
in the Nero Portoro marble, while the interlinking
sandstone walls that are offset by contemporary
brass screens are notably Asian.” Achieving a level
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of textural sophistication, the scheme very
property. The spacious 230 guestrooms and
subtly hints at its home in India through rail
suites are replete with hidden tech including
travel references – think detailing on glamorous
the Lutron comfort control system, which
luggage trunks or the ceiling feature that pays
provides intuitive mastery of lights, shade
abstract homage to train tracks – as well as
and temperature. Meanwhile, the interiors
vibrant orange upholstery and tropical wall
are a masterclass in toned-down colours and
murals, which tip their hat to the country’s
understated luxury, with geometric patterns and
gardens and floral garlands.
objects that contrast purposefully with the green
Artisanal cocktail bar Copitas, meanwhile,
views seen from windows. Yabu elaborates:
upholds the same level of allure and exclusivity,
“Guestrooms are intended to provide an escape
but achieves this with white marble floors and
from the public world, continuing the design
counters, contemporary bronze decorative
narrative through subtle hints of geometry. The
details inspired by jewellery and fashion, velvet
wallcoverings for example are adorned with
upholstery and tactile fabrics in midnight blue
jewel-like geometries, aesthetically linking the
and lime yellow hues. Sen adds: “One of my
guest experience from arrival to room.”
favourite features is the large light fixture above
And it is this harmony, balance and continuity
the bar counter, because it feels more like a
of narrative that makes Four Seasons Hotel
sculpture than a chandelier, with the globes
Bengaluru a groundbreaking project in the
giving an illusion of a starlit sky.”
city; the finishes and workmanship executed
Away from the public spaces, guest
to a notably high level, the experiences multi-
accommodation dials down the design drama
faceted, the architectural scale impressive and
yet upholds the same key qualities that Yabu
the micro details well-crafted, enduringly
Pushelberg has instilled through much of the
stylish and indicative of a modern Indian city.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Developer: Embassy Group Operator: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Architecture: HKS Architects, Studio U+A Interior Design: Yabu Pushelberg, LW Design Group (Level 21) Landscaping: P Landscape Art Consultant: Gallery G www.fourseasons.com
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Soho House MUMBAI As part of robust global expansion plans, Soho House has put its members’ network on the map in Asia, marking the 23rd club worldwide. Words: Neena Dhillon • Photography: © Simon Brown
S
oho House’s first outpost in Asia has proven to be the longest in the making, with founder Nick Jones and his team overcoming the challenges of complex building
regulations and red tape, unpredictable climatic conditions and the forging of multiple relationships with new suppliers over a ten-year period. For Design Director Linda Boronkay, working on this house in India’s second most populous city must have seemed like fate. She first came into contact with the project during her tenure at Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. By 2016, she’d joined Soho House to take responsibility for design in the group’s UK, European and Asian territories, and Mumbai was back in her orbit. “We inherited the 11-storey building in Juhu – an area popular with Mumbai residents during weekends and holidays – which meant we had to work with the existing exterior architecture but had a blank space in terms of interiors,” explains Boronkay. “Our typical approach is to be respectful and relevant to the environment, looking to local cultural motifs for a relaxed design aesthetic, but always with a contemporary twist. It still feels like you’re in a Soho House where the homely pieces have been collected over years.” Eschewing any tendencies for Bollywood bling or palatial pretension, the design team spent many months in India, travelling around Rajasthan in particular to connect with craftspeople. “It was quite a fluid process and we quickly
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The main member’s floor offers uninterrupted views of the Arabian Sea through triple-height windows
learned that, rather than forcing our ideas
The result is a layered approach, incorporating
on suppliers, we should instead respond to
items from the Soho Home interiors collection,
their individual strengths to create something
restored furniture and lighting sourced from
unique,” she continues. “So it became about
vintage fairs and markets, plus bespoke pieces
tapping into these traditional methods and
that embody contemporary Indian patterning.
applying them to our Soho House aesthetic.”
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Set against a backdrop of sustainable teak and
At times, there were cultural differences to
Rajasthani stone, Soho House Mumbai comprises
overcome, not least the bemused reaction of
38 generously sized guestrooms, their heights
Indian makers to the idea of producing aged-
lowered by inset timber ceilings, with floors
looking furniture. Elaborating on the story,
below covered by woven sisal carpets. Block
Boronkay explains: “We tend to like timber
printed curtains and cushions complement
finishes without lacquer, just polished with
shell-inlaid side tables, rattan armchairs and
beeswax, for a lived-in feel. But our Indian
cool cement tiles in bathrooms – the patterns
suppliers are used to applying layers and layers
devised by the Soho House team, who have
of lacquer to make things appear brand new and
found influences in old Bollywood cinemas and
last longer in the country’s climate. With this in
colonial Art Deco motifs. Lampshades crafted
mind, we tweaked some of our specifications to
from sari fabrics are a particular highlight, as is
accommodate these more traditional methods.
the inclusion of chintz and paisley fabrics with
At the same time, craft is so alive in India that
a modern finish, and Vintage basins by Kohler.
you never have any trouble finding people to
On the ground floor, Cecconi’s takes a
make furniture from scratch. So, when we
prime beachfront location, the restaurant
chanced upon a one-off vintage piece, we would
awash with planting, rattan wall panelling,
use it as a prototype and ask them to recreate.”
studded velvet and leather flourishes, more
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118
block printed fabrics, cement tiles and antique
triple-height windows offer uninterrupted
brass lighting for an injection of glam. Soho
views of the captivating Arabian Sea, but that
House Mumbai’s commitment to contemporary
bright light can be quite daunting too,” points
Indian art is introduced here too, with Head of
out Boronkay. “So we have softened the space
Collections Kate Bryan selecting contributions
with curtains, blinds and stunning crystal glass
from Subodh Gupta, Bharti Kher, Thukral &
chandeliers sourced from a fabulous vintage
Tagra, Raqib Shaw and Princess Pea, their work
warehouse in Mumbai. It’s like they were made
dotted around the property. At the opposite end
especially for us.”
of the house on the rooftop, poolside cabanas
Another key consideration has been the
are subtle interpretations of the city’s many
choice of colours, which needed to be vibrant
temple roofs, their silhouettes framing views
without becoming garish when bathed in light.
to the sea beyond, while terrazzo tables, wicker
Farrow & Ball’s Oval Room Blue covers the
lighting and locally produced cane furniture fill
wall panelling, with teak flooring rendered
the intimate bar and restaurant.
in an English herringbone pattern. Lewis &
As the natural light in this part of Mumbai
Wood fabrics meanwhile introduce gentle
can be quite exposing, Boronkay’s team has
Indian motifs in pleasing paisley shades to the
installed handmade woven rattan blinds into
lounge. As always, the bar plays a central role
the Crittall windows of public areas, including
on these club floors, and here, the marble-clad
Allis café on ground level. But it is the main
centrepiece accommodates quirky sari lamps
members’ floor, higher up, which has required
and plush salmon-hued leather bar stools. The
the biggest balancing act in terms of maximising
overall effect is of a haven in the city that is
sunlight whilst ensuring that warmth is not
already proving popular with Mumbai’s creative
absent from this social environment. “The
and networking types.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Manas Properties Developer: Junobo Hotels Operator: Soho House & Co Architecture and Interior Design: Soho House Design Landscaping: Thrive Garden Design Studio www.sohohousemumbai.com
DE SIGNS INSPIRED BY NATURE AND ENGINEERED TO MEET IT S RE SILIENCE
CELEBRATING TWO DE CADE S OF SHADE REVOLUTION
tuuci-sleeper-jan-2020.indd 2
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Strategy & Concept Architecture & Interiors Identity & Wayfinding Artwork & Styling
606 Octagon Point 5 Cheapside London EC2V 6AA www.adassociates.london
LOCATION REPORT
The Roseate Ganges
S
RISHIKESH Conceived to meld seamlessly into the surrounding mountain landscape, The Roseate Ganges harnesses monastic minimalism to put nature centrestage. Words: Neena Dhillon Photography: Courtesy of Roseate Hotels & Resorts
panning India and the UK, Roseate Hotels
the Bhatias decided to collaborate once more
& Resorts has expanded its portfolio to six
with Studio Organon, a firm that had worked on
properties with the opening of a bucolic
the notable Chidya Ghar Bar at Roseate House
boutique retreat in the foothills of The Garhwal
New Delhi. “Our goal at The Roseate Ganges
Himalayas. Situated close to Rishikesh, it was
was to reduce visual noise, creating austere yet
the serene setting on the River Ganges that
warm spaces for reflection and introspection,”
caught the attention of Ankur Bhatia, who,
says Bhatia. “For us, the starting point of the
along with his architect wife Smriti, saw the
design was both a sense of nostalgia and a
potential of the verdant forest plot as a quiet
subtle nod to modernist India.”
place of refuge from urban life.
Comprising 16 standalone villas and a
Bhatia, who is Executive Director of New
reception complex housing a restaurant, bar,
Delhi-based Bird Group, explains the location’s
café, spa and 17m infinity swimming pool, the
appeal: “Set amidst the mountains on the
retreat is an architectural statement of clean,
pristine waters of the Ganges, the Rishikesh
sleek lines, open glazing and home comforts
region has seen substantial growth in travellers
– its structures rendered in a striking hue of
due to its scenic landscapes, its recognised
grey inspired by the Indian elephant. Saurabh
status as the yoga capital of the world, and its
Dakshini, founder of Studio Organon, describes
accessibility as a convenient weekend escape for
the approach: “We’ve thoughtfully used natural
Indians, complete with adventure sports and the
materials such as hardwood, granite, marble
potential for pilgrimage. We found this existing
and brass to lend a sense of permanence to
property some years ago but have taken our
the buildings, which are designed inside-out
time to redevelop it to suit our brand concept.”
with the aim of taking away the focus from the
As design is such a core aspect of the brand,
manmade and placing it firmly on nature. In
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LOCATION REPORT
Bungalows awash with marble, raw textured concrete plaster, oak and brass accents are purposefully orientated towards the forest
juxtaposing old and new, raw and finished, hard
Dakshini outlines: “With the colours and
and soft, we’ve worked towards an experience
furniture, we wanted to touch upon an old India.
of restrained luxury, with our design references
Hence the choice of peacock blue, the red oxide
varying from the ghats (riverfront steps)
floor, cast-iron tables and plantation furniture
along the Ganges to the image of plantation
complete with cane weaving. We have also used
bungalows as well as India’s famed modernist
large glazing panels that open out to seamless
city of Chandigarh.”
views of the hills.” Studio Organon has designed
Bijoux bungalows awash in Arabescato marble, raw textured concrete plaster, oak and brass
all of the furniture too, taking influence from India’s colonial past in places.
accents are purposefully orientated towards the
Meanwhile, interconnecting public spaces
sprawling forest, which encloses large external
lead first to a pool deck overlooking the Ganga
balconies positioned for maximum privacy.
valley and eventually to an open-top rooftop
Compact black marble bathrooms each have a
bar, where guests are invited to sample drinks
skylight or picture window that invites in natural
under a canopy of stars. Remaining constant
light, while artwork by Thukral & Tagra, drop
throughout is this reverence for the natural
pendant lighting and rattan furniture soften the
world, which allows guests to become more
interiors. Layouts are linear, uncluttered and
than just spectators – instead, they are absorbed
point towards the green panorama beyond.
into the landscape to feel a genuine part of it.
This desire to forge a connection with nature continues as guests weave their way around indigenous planting and towering trees to the central resort block. At Chidya Ghar restaurant, there is an abstract play on a bygone era, as
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Bird Group Operator: Roseate Hotels & Resorts Architecture: Concept Works Interior Design and Landscaping: Studio Organon, Smriti Bhatia Lighting Design: Studio Organon Main Contractor: Build Con www.roseatehotels.com
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In the first of a series of articles to celebrate our 20th anniversary year, we take a look back at the major trends and projects that have defined the hospitality design industry over the last two decades, and ask a few of our loyal supporters: what’s your most memorable hotel experience?
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It’s time we put #RetroFirst
Beds, Brands and Boutiques 20 YEARS OF HOSPITALITY DESIGN For two decades now, Sleeper has charted the shifting sands of an evolving hospitality design market. Our longest serving contributor takes a look back on the major changes. Words: Guy Dittrich
A
lot can happen in 20 years, and indeed it has. When
around the world. Along the way we’ve been lucky enough
Sleeper was founded in 1999, it was 40 pages light
to visit some of the most seminal – many of which will be
and held together by staples. But look at us now – a
mentioned in this series of articles; a look back and forwards
generation later – and you’ll see this title has evolved in
at the industry’s past and future, spanning three issues in
tandem with the industry it charts.
this, Sleeper’s 20th anniversary year.
Tracing the influence of the niche boutique sector, Sleeper
As the design of hotel projects became more considered,
expanded as part of the zeitgeist, following the thread of
ambitious, narrative-driven and innovative, Sleeper was
hotel design from its time as a provision of the ultra-luxury
there to explore the projects and people driving the medium
to its proliferation at all levels of the market.
forward. When the monopoly of giant hospitality groups
Initially edited by Paul Day before being relaunched in
fractured into the soft-branded landscape we see today,
2004 by now Editor-in-Chief Matt Turner – at which point it
Sleeper was there too. And when the elements of hotel F&B
swapped a quarterly release date for the current bi-monthly
and hospitality on the move began to thrive, Sleeper was
schedule – the Sleeper brand soon came to encompass the
there with the launch of sister titles Supper and Starboard,
Sleep trade show (now owned by Informa Markets) and an
ensuring these emergent dimensions of the industry were
awards series that recently gone global.
deservedly celebrated.
What was once the European Hotel Design Awards is now
20 years later and hotels are no longer simply rooms upon
AHEAD – the Awards for Hospitality Experience and Design
rooms, but instead at the heart of global movements – those
– this change of name serving to recognise the burgeoning
of wellness, of environmentalism and of technology – as well
experience economy that has come to be so intrinsically
as necessary social anchors to colossal development projects
linked with hotel life.
that will define cities for generations to come.
And with this brave new world came a wave of brave new
The models may have changed, so too the styles, but
hotels, as well as an influx of hoteliers prepared to re-examine
Sleeper’s commitment to celebrating the achievements of
the traditional models in pursuit of improved or abstracted
hotel designs and the people behind them has not. Welcome
forms. The effects of globalisation saw a community born,
to Sleeper 2020 – enjoy your stay, and here’s to twenty more.
with fresh ideas of what a hotel could be cross-pollinating
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Morgans, New York Ian Schrager’s Morgans introduced the world to the boutique hotel sector, with Andrée Putman’s chequerboard patterns becoming an iconic interior motif for the 1980s.
The Royalton, New York Philippe Starck’s debut hotel project contained early hints of his playful aesthetic, combining boutique lifestyle and luxury elements with tongue-in-cheek sensibilities.
W Hotels As a younger demographic entered the market, Marriott and designer David Rockwell developed a brand emphasising social spaces and a Whatever/Whenever service philosophy.
1983
1988
1999
THE CLASSICS
architecture. Not to everyone’s taste, but that
When Sleeper debuted in 1999, momentum had
was exactly the point.
Since then, the industry has seen a long wave of growth with only a minor correction in 2018-
been building for some time in the hotel sector
From Ed Tuttle’s Amanpuri (1988) to Christian
19. The COVID-19 virus outbreak looks to be the
as maverick hoteliers pushed the boundaries.
Liagre’s furniture at the Grace Leo-designed
next major crisis, with several groups including
For independents, design was increasingly seen
Hotel Montalembert (1989) in Paris, the value
IHG and Hilton downgrading their forecasts for
as a way to differentiate themselves from the
of design was gaining traction. Other must-sees
the current year.
perceived sameness of the so-called cookie-
of the time included Hôtel Costes (1991) also
During the previous two decades, hotels
cutter chain hotels.
in Paris; The Hempel (1996) and Metropolitan
became a respected asset, and, as such, the
Blakes London (1978) was arguably ahead
(1997) both in London; The Standard Hollywood
industry saw several major changes that have
of its time, and soon came others. Andree
(1999) and Mondrian Los Angeles (1996) both in
all served to encourage ideas from the fringes
Putman’s chequerboard patterning at Morgans
California; the first Ace Hotel in Seattle (1999);
of hotel design to permeate the mainstream.
(1983) and two from Philippe Starck in Royalton
and Babington House (1999), the first property
(1988) and Paramount (1990) defined a new era
from Nick Jones, founder of the members’ club
SHIFTING MODELS
for Manhattan, as well as the wider market.
Soho House.
An early catalyst for this sea change was a
Starck’s use of oversized and tongue-in-
Overall, the last two decades have been kind
dramatic alteration to the business model for
cheek aesthetic sensibilities were already in
to the world of hospitality, with the travel
larger hotel groups, with the move towards
evidence, and the movement was such that a
sector outperforming the general economy.
an asset light approach seeing the operator
hospitality services business known as Design
Hotel performance closely correlates with GDP,
separating from the property owner. Colloquially
Hotels was set up in Sausalito, California to
and has therefore followed its cyclical nature
known as the Opco Propco model – wherein the
cater for this new audience. Across the pond,
and been subject to its shocks. The terrorist
company is divided into two, the former owning
meanwhile, husband-and-wife team James
atrocities of 9/11 in 2001 produced sharp
the real estate assets with the latter using these
Lohan and Tamara Heber-Percy launched Mr.
declines, so too the SARS virus in Southeast Asia
to drive sales – the strategy allowed hotel
& Mrs. Smith, kickstarting the British wave.
(2002-3) from which the region bounced back
groups to concentrate on what they do best –
By and large, hospitality projects of the time
relatively quick. The second Gulf War began in
looking after guests – whilst leading owners
followed a minimalist, monochrome aesthetic
2003 and continued for most of the following
and operators to recognise the potential impact
and were juxtaposed by something quirky
decade, during which time the global financial
to bottom line that thoughtful design could have
– art pieces, striking furniture, theatrical
crisis of 2007-8 occurred.
on their portfolio.
Ace Hotel A favourite of the creative class, Ace Hotel launched in Seattle, ushering hotel design into the new millennium with siganture industrial styling and cool minimalism.
25hours Hotels Christoph Hoffmann’s 25hours burst onto the scene with vibrant saturated colours in tow, breaking convention to differentiate the brand by way of maximalist visuals.
Mama Shelter Kitcsh styling met communal principles for Mama Shelter’s debut project, signalling the recognition and embrace of a new millenial market by the mainstream.
1999
2003
2008
hotel interiors still need to be functional, yet
on the wall of your Paris guestroom. With
increasingly are used to create an experience.
growing subtlety, the layering of any number
Secondly, consolidation became rife in search of net rooms growth. Bigger was – and still is – seen as better, or at least more profitable.
Perhaps the industry’s defining buzzword
of stories can give hotels a slow reveal effect,
The two best examples of this are Accor and
throughout the previous decade, experience
as Tristan Auer achieved at The Sinner, Paris
Marriott. Accor hoovered up well established
can drive memory creation, produces points
(2019). Alternatively, the super-saturated
brands such as Movenpick, Fairmont, Swissotel
of difference and generates a degree of guest
interiors of the 25hours Hotels by Dreimeta or
and Raffles, whilst also adding more alternative
loyalty, ultimately delivering the holy grail for
Stylt Trampoli can take several visits to absorb
players such as Mama Shelter and 25Hours.
hoteliers – repeat guests.
everything being communicated. Such layering
Then a more seminal instance in 2016, when
gives staff points of note to tell guests, again
Starwood Hotels & Resorts was acquired by
THE EXPERIENCE OF DESIGN
Marriott International to create a now 31-strong
The experience of design can be viewed through
Equally, the design reflects an increased
brand powerhouse.
many lenses. One is the idea of design becoming
casualism in guest behaviour. The Whatever /
generating a connection to the hotel.
Thirdly, brand proliferation became rampant.
more holistic, in that the medium considers not
Whenever mantra of the W Insider (concierge)
A new brand or label allowed hotel operators to
just the interiors and FF&E, but the sensory
at a W hotel is a strong example of this, as is
overcome the geographical restrictions imposed
experience too, by way of art, scent, music
the variety of seating in a hotel restaurant –
upon them by the owners (no other hotel of the
and lighting. Further still, the hotel’s visual
lounge, dining or counter. It can also be seen
same brand could be opened within a specified
identity, logo, menu design, graphics and staff
in the ideas of less is more, and imperfect being
distance). However, any new brands needed to
uniforms all play into the final product. Stand-
the new perfect.
be clearly distinct, and focused on a particular
out projects are those that deliver a cohesive
This has allowed a very cost-effective style
market segment – design was able to help each
whole, whether that is the work of a single
of hotel design to take hold, with an industrial
brand keep to its own swim lane.
practice or a mix of talents that have managed
slant of exposed utilities and unfinished wall
to follow the ‘red thread’ of the aesthetic.
treatments such as the faux approach at The
Many of the aesthetic trends ignited by independent hoteliers in the last 20 years have
Narrative is the now hackneyed word to
Westin Singapore’s Cook & Brew bar (2013).
since been adopted by the large operators to
convey such holistic design concepts to all
Or the more subtle minimalist / maximalist
help them differentiate brands. Ideas of that
stakeholders, concepts that often include hotels
approach taken at Palazzo Daniele (2019) –
time – hotels being theatre, and design having
being local, connected, and authentic beyond
set in the heel of Italy with crumbling walls
a narrative – are still relevant today, and
the pastiche of a photograph of the Eiffel Tower
counterpoised by the grandeur of 150-year-
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CitizenM, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Revolutionising hotel construction with its prefabricated approach – and checking in with airport inspired kiosks – CitizenM pioneered a new form of hotel design and build.
Andaz, Amsterdam Referencing the locale as much as it did a fantastical dream world, the Marcel Wanders-designed Andaz Amsterdam eschewed trends in favour of a bold artistic direction.
Amanzoe, Agios Panteleimonas Launched shortly before the brand expanded into urban destinations, Aman’s Greek resort struck a delicate balance between considered design and peaceful ambience.
2008
2012
2012
old ceiling frescoes. Casualism also equals
of specialist hotel designers. Product visionaries
check-in kiosks streamlining the process to
more fun, with the playful plagiarism of witty
from Philippe Starck to Marcel Wanders and
60 seconds. Fast forward a decade, at a Moxy
collateral and signage at CitizenM hotels
Jouin Manku to Karim Rashid are all in on the
you now check-in at the bar. Hotels adopted
proving the point.
act now.
a personalised stand-up, or in-room check-
This new line of thinking has been driven, in
Whilst multi-disciplinary practices such as
in, and further automation via technology has
part, by the rise of affordable travel due to low-
Koncept and Jestico & Whiles transfer their
largely done away with the process altogether.
cost flights. Guests on a budget are now better
knowledge from other sectors to hospitality,
As for robotic welcomes, they are still hit-and-
served than ever before. For designers being
owners are increasingly turning to non-
miss. How clever it is to lose one of the key
more creative when constrained, you only have
experts to produce something different. In
tenets of hospitality remains to be seen.
to look at the solutions for Generator Hostels
London, Universal Design Studio looked at the
In a similar technological vein, guestroom
and Superbude, Hamburg (2008).
medium with fresh eyes to turn a former Crown
access is now available via mobile device,
The blurring of boundaries at all levels of the
Plaza hotel into the Ace Hotel London (2013)
and as far back as 2004 Paris’ Murano
market became prevalent. The ‘bleisure’ society
– creating one of the most referenced hotels
Urban Resort trialled doors opening on facial
– fusing business and leisure – has evolved and
of recent times in the process. In particular,
recognition. Guests found it too intrusive, but
brought with it more urban resorts, whilst the
the success of the lobby as a co-working space
to Murano’s credit, these features still worked
impact of inter-generational travel – families
gave everyone else the catch up, and saw the
with fingerprint recognition. Now that facial
of different age groups using interconnecting
beginning of the demise 0f the hotel business
recognition can be synthesised with personal
room complexes – can be seen at Scandic’s
centre as we know it.
devices, expect it to make a return.
CHANGING SPACES
other public spaces more compelling came
with some aligned with fashion brands such as
Co-working is just one of a series of changes
about as the result of smaller guestrooms.
Bulgari Milan (2004) and the Christian Lacroix-
the lobby has undergone. Early hints of
Arch exponents of this are CitizenM; game-
designed Hotel du Petit Moulin, Paris (2005).
transformation could be found at the original
changers who cleaned up with three statues
The lobby of each CitizenM, meanwhile – the
Lydmar in Stockholm (1993), where the
and the Hotel of the Year trophy at Sleeper’s
first at Schiphol, Amsterdam in 2008 – doubles
difference between the bar and reception
European Hotel Design Awards (now AHEAD)
as a de facto showroom. This blurring also sees
was minimal. A new perspective emerged in
in 2008. The brand’s shipping container-sized
the field of hotel design no longer the domain
2008, with CitizenM’s use of airport-inspired
rooms are modular build at its best, and, along
Downtown Camper (2018) in Stockholm. The world of retail now permeates hotels too,
130
Part of the reason for making the lobby and
Lanserhof Tegernsee, Waakirchen Reflecting the rise of wellness across the hotel sector, Lanserhof’s celebrated health resort instilled hospitality design with a dedicated holistic factor.
Palazzo Daniele, Gagliano del Capo Palazzo Daniele found beauty in a fusion of original history and restored splendour, winning the AHEAD Europe 2019 Hotel of the Year trophy for its efforts.
The Standard, London Twenty years after the first Standard in Hollywood, the brand made its first venture outside of the USA with the transformation of an unsung brutalist icon.
2014
2019
2019
with maximising the use of space, also serve to
The increasing greening of hotels has largely
both with IHG. True medical hotels have existed
come about because of the proven health
for eons, but for the best, look no further than
Other significant changes in guestrooms
benefits of connecting with nature. In a resort
Lanserhof Tergernsee (2014) – another big
saw the demise of the bulky CRT TV, replaced
context this has been the case immemorial,
winner of Sleeper’s award programme.
by flatscreen equivalents that are themselves
even before the contemporary examples of the
The dimensions of location, convenience,
disappearing as guest bring their own devices.
Asian-based Aman resorts. Early adopters such
luxury, comfort and value for money remain
Likewise, the days of the desk are numbered,
as the luxurious Pershing Hall Hotel (2001) in
powerful drivers, but there is little doubt that,
and even windows are under threat as the 28
Paris and Il Sereno (2016) on Lago di Como
amongst a broader, increasingly discerning and
windowless guestrooms at The Standard London
incorporate this amenity via vertical gardens,
literate market, the power of design continues
(2019) prove popular with the night crowd.
both created by specialist Patrick Blanc. High
to grow. The mainstream’s adoption of ideas
key count hotels are getting in on the act too,
trialled by independents is an inevitable drip
A GREEN STANDARD
as are budget spaces, not least the large-scale
down effect – a good thing, even if those ideas
Smaller rooms and more of them is certainly
wall-installation at Marriott’s 800-plus room
become diluted. Design within hotels now
a step in the right direction when it comes to
AC Hotel Bella Sky Copenhagen (2011). No
operates in a more nuanced way, better allowing
the environmental impact of hotel development.
longer unique to resorts, biophilia has become
the hotel to be understood, and the design to
A decade ago, greenwashing was rife despite
increasingly prevalent in urban settings; see
be experienced by guests. Free thinkers and
the prescient warnings of Al Gore’s 2006
Hotel Icon in Hong Kong – home to Asia’s
innovators will undoubtedly light up the next
documentary An Inconvenient Truth, and
largest indoor plant wall – and the expansive
two decades. The anticipation is tangible, and
plenary sessions at hotel industry conferences
rooftop farm at the family-friendly Yooma
let’s face it – in the words of Claus Sendlinger,
with an environmental focus would see two-
Urban Lodge (2017), Paris.
founder of Design Hotels – “no one needs
encourage guests down to the lobby.
thirds of attendees disappear.
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There has also been a rise in wellness brands.
another badly designed hotel”.
Nowadays, this topic is thankfully an
Spa focused groups such as Six Senses, Banyan
essential part of any discussion, and greater
Tree and Anantara dominate in the resort
consideration is placed on reducing emissions,
context, though, aside from acquisition, the
energy consumption, and waste – from the
major players have been creating brands in
The Sleeper 2020 series will continue next issue
elimination of single-use plastic straws to
this space too – Element (2006) from Marriott,
with a look at the design studios and architecture
closed-loop menus recycling leftover food.
Even Hotels (2012) and QO Amsterdam (2018)
practices that defined a generation of hospitality.
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A HOTEL TO REMEMBER
Kelly Hoppen One of my most memorable hotel stays in the last 20 years was at Hotel La Scalinatella in Capri. The reason? It is uncomplicated in so many ways; it’s not modern and doesn’t have the latest inventions – it is simply a classic, Italian, family-run hotel with the best service and food you could ask for. Nothing is too much trouble, plus the beds and linen there are sublime. Its position is unreal; right at the top of Capri with views that are simply spectacular. What’s more, in all of the years I have stayed there, it still has the same staff. In a fast-moving world where everything and everyone is striving for the next best new design or thing, there is something rather special in just being somewhere with simplicity and timeless luxury. Sometimes, less is so much more. With a wealth of residential projects to her name, Kelly Hoppen first ventured into the hospitality sector in 2008. She’s currently designing a new flagship for The Lux Collective, due to open in Mauritius in 2021.
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Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu The one place that we both really like is not the fanciest, nor the most designed – if there is such a term. We went to Sri Lanka two years ago with our children and spent two nights at the The Lunuganga Estate, which was the country house of the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. The property was a cinnamon estate during the Dutch era and became a rubber plantation under British rule. Bawa bought it in 1949 and turned it into his country home outside of his main residence in Colombo city. Bawa worked on the property for 40 years; the gardens are now open to the public and many of the buildings have been converted to a country house hotel.
© Andrew Rowat
Anchoring their work on the dynamic interaction between material, form and light, Neri & Hu have created interiors for The Opposite House in Beijing and Tsingpu Yangzhou Retrea in China, the latter the winner of an AHEAD Asia award in 2019.
Bill Bensley The most memorable hotel experience I’ve had in the last 20 years is Awasi San Pedro de Atacama, in Chile. With just seven quaint rooms, it’s not about the hotel, but the huge variety of adventures on offer as part of the all-inclusive rates. Every room comes with a four-wheel drive, a guide and trailer for the mountain bikes or kayaks, and as the Atacama Desert is so vast, so many one-of-a-kind landscapes can be discovered. I fondly recall one late afternoon when we witnessed thousands of pink flamingos feasting on pink shrimp in just inches of water flooding the great Salar de Uyuni salt flats on the Bolivian-Chilean border. Our jovial guide pulled the 4WD onto a grassy patch on the side of mountain to give us the best view, and moments later had the armchairs set up and the sauvignon blanc served with no-one else in sight. As a designer and hotelier, I learnt of the great power of the unexpected surprise that day. Known for his whimsical designs as seen at Capella Ubud in Bali and Shinta Mani in Cambodia, Bill Bensley was the recipient of AHEAD Asia’s Outstanding Contribution Award in 2019.
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André Fu The most memorable hotel stay I have had is when I first visited Park Hyatt Tokyo as a teenager, an experience that inspired me to pursue a career in hotel design. At the time, it was one of the first sky hotels in Asia and I believe it was the predecessor for a new generation of design-led luxury hotels in the region. John Morford’s design of the hotel is truly timeless, even though it has been 25 years since the property first opened. There are many components of the hotel that I personally find particularly memorable – the lush bamboo plantation at the sky lobby, the swimming pool set below Kenzo Tange’s skylight and the mesmerising black-and-white photography at Girandole. I am particularly fond of the hotel’s New York Grill – its sense of scale and unique open kitchen concept expresses an unparalleled level of urban lifestyle. My favourite room within the property is the Tokyo Suite, one of its most iconic guest accommodations. The use of geometry and the juxtaposition of contemporary Art Deco aesthetics with a post-modern twist is very powerful. The décor is upscale zen: a curated library with 1,000 artisan books, rare Yokkaido water elm screens, Washi paper lamp shades and a cotton Japanese yukata hanging in the closet. For me, it also provokes a strong sense of emotion knowing that the likes of Karl Lagerfeld have stayed in the very same environment. Founder of AFSO, André Fu credits his design style to his cultural upbringing in both Europe and Asia, as evidenced in his vast portfolio of projects, including The Upper House in Hong Kong, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok and Andaz Singapore.
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Adam Tihany I started making regular visits to Hamburg when I took on the role of Creative Director for Italy’s Costa Cruises. I love the city for its museums and galleries, incredible food and waterways, as well as the iconic architecture – Herzog & de Meuron’s Elbphilharmonie is one of my favourite concert halls – but when I’m staying at Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, I’m perfectly content within its walls. The hotel has everything I need and like, and is impeccably run with old-school discretion and the highest level of service. The staff can anticipate your needs five minutes before you even know what you’re looking for. When the Elbphilharmonie opened and tickets were near-impossible to find, the concierge approached my wife Marnie and I to ask if we wanted to visit the new concert hall. Thanks to this gesture of hospitality, we had an unforgettable experience. The hotel itself is beautiful with an old-world charm. Walking into the lobby lounge always feels like Christmas with its warm woods, grand fireplace and intricate detailing. The restaurants are some of the best in the city. I love the doubleheight Art Deco ceilings and impeccable food and wine of the Jahreszeiten Grill, the brilliant contemporary Asian fusion restaurant, and bar lounge Nikkei Nine in the basement. The tiny and charming bar off the lobby, stocked with rare whiskeys, even allows customers to light up a cigar – how civilised! To top it all, there is a great spa and a rooftop summer lounge overlooking the water. I cannot say enough about this hotel and always look forward to my next visit.
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© Peter Murphy
With a portfolio spanning hotels, bars, restaurants and criuse ships, Adam Tihany’s projects regularly feature in the pages of Sleeper and its sister titles.
Jean-Philippe Nuel I remember Le Dupleix in Pondicherry, India, very fondly. This hotel is a beautiful experience because it expresses perfectly the soul of the place, of India and of Pondicherry, which is undoubtedly one of the most charming small towns in the country. In the heart of the old town in a former historic residence, the hotel is far from the codes of international luxury. Other than a few contemporary touches, the interiors are splendid with their intricate wooden furniture and antiques that tell the story of a bygone era. On my first night there, I was awakened by noises with the feeling that someone was in my bedroom; it turned out to be monkeys jumping from the garden to the roof as the sun was rising – a unique and exotic way to start my stay!” Passionate about hospitality, Jean-Philippe Nuel has designed for the likes of Accor, Hilton, Marriott and Radisson. Sleeper profiled the French architect in 2013, and again in 2019.
© JF Jaussaud
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Naomi Cleaver
We’ve been incredibly lucky to have visited some truly special, one-of-a-kind hotels over the last 15 years with Mr & Mrs Smith – so it’s hard to pick just one. But a trip that really stands out is a family holiday to Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa in Brazil, where we stayed in a beautiful three-storey treehouse decked out with hammocks and surrounded by jungle and peaceful lagoons. We spent our days on a pristine stretch of endless beach, riding horses and exploring the bay on canoes and paddle boards. Although it’s not specifically geared for families, the staff couldn’t have been more welcoming – even making our son a cricket bat out of reclaimed wood so we could play on the sand and putting on a chocolate-making class for us. What made it so memorable, though, was its sense of place. The hotel forms part of Trancoso, a small coastal town centred on a broad quadrado with a perimeter of pastel-coloured bungalows and pretty little shops capped at the far end by a bright white church. There are no cars allowed here, so the kids spent time running around with the local Brazilian children, who played football on the quad every day after school. Situated right on the square, Uxua Casa is an integral part of the community, offering training schemes for locals to work with the property and the wider tourism industry. The owners even started their own NGO to lobby the government for more sustainable tourism practices. You can really feel their passion running deep. We loved every aspect of our stay, from the fresh Bahian food to the old fishing boat that’s been reimagined as a bar. One of the owners behind the design vision is Wilbert Das, former creative director of Diesel, and we were impressed by how every staff member had embraced the notion of upcycling. Uxua Casa strikes the perfect balance between luxury and laid-back style. To us, it will always be special.
The most memorable hotel experience I have had in the last 20 years is actually quite recent and close to home. It is Hotel Endsleigh in Devon, where I love Olga Polizzi’s dexterous work, and particularly the very-difficult-to-achieve alchemy of magic and modesty, sensitivity and ambition. This Edwardian fishing lodge is rich in idiosyncrasies – vertebra mosaics for example – and deeply comfortable, with enriching art from Adam Ellis, who I work with on my own projects. It has a brilliant eat-as-much-as-you-like afternoon cream tea every day – my favourite meal – and thoughtful service, all couched in dreamy gardens and English exotica landscape where I very much enjoyed learning to fly fish on the adjacent River Tamar last summer with Endsleigh’s engaging ghillie.
James Lohan and Tamara Heber-Percy founded Mr & Mrs Smith – a guide to a new breed of independent, design-led hotels – in 2003, at around the same time Sleeper was masterminding its relaunch.
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© Ed Reeve
© Rachel Juarez-Carr
Mr & Mrs Smith
A long-time friend of Sleeper, interior designer Naomi Cleaver took on some freelance assignments for the magazine in its early days. In 2004, she had the enviable task of reporting on a number of new hotels in the Caribbean.
Tara Bernerd I am fortunate enough to spend much of my time travelling, and hotels inevitably become my homeaway-from-home. The hospitality industry has evolved a great deal in the last 20 years and with more choice than ever, it is a challenge to identify just one remarkable place. With that said, my thoughts go to the Hotel Cala di Volpe in Sardinia, a benchmark that stands out as an example of resort hospitality and design at its best that has certainly stood the test of time – a feat in itself. For me, the most important aspect of design is creating spaces that are indigenous to their surroundings and respond to the needs of the guest. Hotel Cala di Volpe illustrates this philosophy perfectly while simultaneously introducing a magical and unique architectural setting. With an almost fantasy-like design being set by Jacques Couëlle in 1962, the hotel’s structure so gracefully combines the rustic, organic shapes of the landscape, while interiors still twinkle with the glamour and charm of the 1960s and 70s in a low-key yet seductive manner. Beyond design, however, what makes Cala di Volpe so truly special is its unique energy. Be it the sea with its mineral, spa-like qualities, the wild Mediterranean landscape or the locally sourced food, I always leave with a sense of rejuvenation. This energy would be nothing without the fantastic team of people who provide the most impeccable service. I often feel like I’m visiting old friends and everyone contributes to making your stay truly memorable. For me, a hotel is like an orchestra, if one component is missing, the whole piece will be compromised, and the magic of Cala di Volpe is the way in which it brings authenticity and excellence across each element.
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© Philip Vilet
Describing her signature style as one of approachable luxury with an industrial edge, British designer Tara Bernerd has featured often in Sleeper – most recently for the sensitive scheme at Kimpton Fitzroy in London.
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Mary Gostelow
A relaxing retreat in the outback or a vibrant hub in the heart of the city? We also asked our longestserving editors and globetrotting team of contributors about their most memorable hotel stay of the last 20 years.
The most memorable hotel experience I have had in the last 20 years is one of escape, defined by the true luxury of space and tranquillity that remoteness brings. Briol is a 13-room, family-owned house in the heart of the Dolomites. Several hours from the nearest airport, the isolated property is reached by a track, so guests must park in a field and wait for the local taxi – Herr Torggler in his Lada – to rattle up the last kilometre. Add in the shared showers, no TV and, best of all, no WiFi and your company is of a particular type – those who appreciate the skill required to convert a 1920s farmhouse into a rationalist Bauhaus block. Bright and airy, the design marries spartan furnishings with bare spruce floorboards and chalk-washed walls. Form follows function here, with less being so much more. There are house rules too; when the bell rings at 7pm, guests dutifully attend their allocated table so as not to miss the truly delicious Tyrolean cuisine, perfect after a day hiking the trails. As Sleeper’s longest serving contributor, Guy Dittrich has been commentating on hotels for 15 years. He now serves as Editorat-Large and hosts the AHEAD awards ceremonies.
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An authority on luxury travel, Mary Gostelow has been reporting on hotels since founding her own market intelligence report in 1992.
© On The Brink
Guy Dittrich
After a 2.5-hour drive from Hobart, you emerge from the forest to be faced with a 100m-wide, greysilver sculpture of a stingray by Robert Morris Nunn. This is the unique public building of Saffire Freycinet in Tasmania, Australia – fly in by helicopter to see in its full glory. Walking through the lobby, you reach the 20 futuristic detached villas – all a minimum of 86m2 and looking east over Oyster Bay. Immediately outside are the five-summit Hazards mountains. Guests can pay extra for a celebrity Marionne De Candia facial, but otherwise this is all-inclusive at its best. The F&B sees freshest Tasmanian produce paired with Australian gastronomy, and awardwinning local wines any hour of the day. And you can choose from 14 complimentary experiences to make the most of your stay; the best-seller is the oyster excursion, wading through shallows to learn about and watch dormitories, then leaning against the in-water white linen-clad table as you shuck and eat Tasmania Blues until you can do so no more, despite endless glasses of chilled sauvignon blanc.
Matt Turner Now that so many new hotel concepts are some kind of hip hostel-hotel hybrid, it’s easy to forget what a game-changer Michelberger in Berlin was when it opened in 2009. And just how nervous we were inviting some 60+ hotel industry veterans to stay there for a new event we were launching called Sleepover; I worried they might find the hotel’s rough-around-the-edges aesthetic too challenging for their tastes and walk out en-masse. Thankfully they didn’t. Over 24 hours, we drove a convoy of Trabis from East to West. We enjoyed rooftop drinks overlooking Prenzlauer Berg. And we heard a truly inspirational Claus Sendlinger give insight into his first pop-up project. The highlight was dinner at the Michelberger Restaurant. The food wasn’t great to be honest (pork knuckle and perch pike anyone?) but everything else about it was. When founders Tom and Nadine spoke with such passion about their project, it was clear they’d hit on a winning formula, one that’s gone from strength-to-strength… and the food is a lot better these days too. Matt Turner was appointed Editor of Sleeper in 2004 and now oversees the entire Sleeper Media portfolio.
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, furnished by SNS Group.
www.snsgroup.eu
Juliet Kinsman
The most memorable hotel stay I’ve had is discovering the showstopping drama of Waldorf Astoria Bangkok, masterminded by AvroKO. Exploring ideas of duality across three destination bars and restaurants, the firm’s selection of finishes certainly seduced. But what proved most intriguing was learning about the contextual stories behind the design. Traversing two geographic universes, Thailand is celebrated by the work of artisans while the spirit of New York is conveyed through Art Nouveau flourishes. With a feature staircase connecting the venues, you can slink your way between the masculine sophistication of Bull & Bear and the artsy, feminine vibe of The Loft. The best surprise though is reserved for last. A secret button activates a sliding door to The Champagne Bar, then it’s time for your own Studio 54 moment as you pass through an undulating mirrored walkway into the eclectic bar, bursting with objects to browse as you sample drinks. The whole journey of discovery left me giddy with excitement.
A tiny rugged island just south of Greenland and the Arctic Circle wasn’t the obvious choice as a honeymoon destination for someone whose job as Editorin-Chief of Mr & Mrs Smith was reviewing the world’s sexiest hotels. Throwing sweaters and socks into a suitcase had me questioning my choice, but ever since I’d heard Zita Cobb, the creator of Fogo Island Inn, speak about the reasons why she built an architecturally-arresting hotel on the Atlantic isle where she grew up, I’d wanted to go. Innkeeper Cobb didn’t just create a striking 29-suite hotel and restaurant on stilts, she’s since taught all of us how strong, sensitive, quality design can kickstart a lagging economy, especially when it’s part of a community-owned enterprise. Make no mistake – getting there is a mission. However, this lengthy journey makes the impact of the incredible design all the more powerful, and when you do finally reach these rural outlands and see the strong rectangular silhouette perched at the edge of the Atlantic, it is all worthwhile.
A self-confessed Asiaphile, Neena Dhillon regularly reports on the continent’s new hotel openings; this issue she’s in India.
Lauren Ho The most memorable hotel experience I have had in the last 20 years is staying at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. Beloved by travel writers, royalty and basically anyone who has had the pleasure of visiting, it’s not until you have experienced this property in person that you will understand what makes it so special. Over the years, I have often been asked to name my favourite hotel; with the world so full of amazing properties, the more I experience, the more difficult it has become to choose. The one thing I can say, is that you know you’re onto something when you find yourself returning to a hotel time and time again. The hotel’s 143-year heritage as The Oriental Hotel and the longest standing property in the Mandarin Oriental portfolio, together with its location on the banks of the lively Chao Phraya River and the legendary service makes for a very potent combination. It’s hardly surprising that my ambition is to one day follow in the footsteps of some of the hotel’s regulars, who move in for months at a time, or in my case, maybe forever. A freelance travel writer, Lauren Ho spends much of her time on the road, checking out the world’s best new hotels along the way.
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Passionate about sustainability, Juliet Kinsman recently founded Bouteco, helping hotels do their bit for the environment.
© Gareth Gardner
Neena Dhillon
Bethan Ryder Selecting my ultimate hotel stay is a tough choice; being a journalist has granted me some fantastic experiences, but my most memorable was in 2005 when my partner and I spent January in South Africa. It was dusk, we arrived late and road-weary at our destination in the whale-watching coastal town of Hermanus, but were immediately lulled into relaxation mode by James, our host. More like a private home than a hotel, Birkenhead House is actually three beach houses combined in one incredible clifftop location, meaning the sound of the waves breaking is a constant soothing sonic companion. Interiors are perfectly pitched, a comfortable blend of colonial style and shabby chic with a touch of safari. There are only 11 rooms, and no restaurant as such, but a parlour and terrace where meals are served whenever you wish. What left an indelible impression was the relaxed, intuitive hospitality that raised our relaxation levels to peerless home-from-home heights that I’ve never experienced before in a hotel. One day I hope to return. A travel and design journalist, Bethan Ryder was Sleeper’s specialist drinks writer when it first launched in 1999.
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WUHAN 29 PROJECTS
XIAN 28 PROJECTS
SHANGHAI 47 PROJECTS
HANGZHOU 35 PROJECTS CHENGDU 60 PROJECTS SHENZHEN 30 PROJECTS SANYA 29 PROJECTS
BANGKOK 39 PROJECTS
BALI 31 PROJECTS
MELBOURNE 37 PROJECTS
Asia Pacific Hotel Construction Pipeline After hitting an all-time high in 2019, Sleeper takes a look at the Asia Pacific hotel construction pipeline, identifying the cities and countries leading growth.
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TOTAL Projects: 2,444 Rooms: 587,542
BUSINESS CENTRE
Hilton Hotels & Resorts pushes ahead with the construction of new hotels in Asia Pacific, in spite of temporarily closing 150 of its properties in China amidst growing concerns over the coronavirus.
Despite a recent economic slowdown, China tops the rankings when it comes to hotel projects in the pipeline, building on record-breaking figures in 2019.
TOP 10 BRANDS
TOP 10 COUNTRIES PROJECTS
ROOMS
1,162
283,462
AUSTRALIA
181
35,795
INDONESIA
147
27,329
INDIA
144
23,341
13,813
VIETNAM
123
45,525
47
10,922
THAILAND
123
31,098
44
10,483
MALAYSIA
91
26,374 18,382
PROJECTS
ROOMS
HILTON HOTELS & RESORTS
82
21,894
CHINA
CITADINES APART’HOTELS
58
11,095
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON
57
13,798
SHERATON HOTELS & RESORTS
54
15,569
MARRIOTT HOTELS & RESORTS
51
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON HOLIDAY INN HOTELS & RESORTS HYATT REGENCY
39
10,342
SOMERSET SERVICED RESIDENCES
37
7,613
CROWNE PLAZA HOTELS & RESORTS
36
8,726
JAPAN
83
RUSSIA
65
12,061
PHILIPPINES
62
16,772
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
1%
11%
VISION 14 PROJECTS
24%
57%
7%
PRE-PLANNING
PLANNING
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
PRE-OPENING
277 PROJECTS
589 PROJECTS
1,394 PROJECTS
170 PROJECTS
Tophotelprojects data is categorised by phase, with 57% of Asia Pacific’s pipeline falling into the Under Construction bracket.
YEAR OF OPENING 2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
912 PROJECTS
557 PROJECTS
377 PROJECTS
128 PROJECTS
470 PROJECTS
37%
23%
16%
5%
19%
For more information Tophotelprojects and its hotel construction pipeline, visit: www.tophotelprojects.com
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WE CELEBRATE TWENTY YEARS OF SUCCESSFULL HOTEL DEVELOPMENT. FEURING Hotel Development Europa GmbH is a Project Management and Development Company based in Germany and specialised in 4 and 5 star projects for the Hospitality Industry throughout Europe. Our mission is to ensure the completion of the highest standard on time and within the budget.
FEURING Hotel Development Europa GmbH / Heinkelstr. 19-21 / DE-73230 Kirchheim u. Teck / +49 (0) 7021 73 60-0 / www.feuring.info Ameron Hotel, Davos, Switzerland / Andaz Hotel, Amsterdam, Netherlands / Munich, Germany / Concorde La Fayette, Paris, France / Concorde St. Lazare, Paris, France / Dolce Hotel, Munich, Germany / Dolce La Hulpe, Brussels, Belgium / Doubletree by Hilton, Košice, Slovakia / Grand Hotel Kempinski, High Tatras, Slovakia / Hilton Garden Inn, Davos, Switzerland / Hyatt Place, Frankfurt, Germany / Zurich Airport, Switzerland / Hyatt Regency, Düsseldorf, Germany / Mainz, Germany / Zurich Airport, Switzerland / InterContinental, Davos, Switzerland / Geneva, Switzerland / Jaz, Stuttgart, Germany / Jumeirah Hotel, Frankfurt, Germany / Mallorca, Spain / Kameha Hotel, Zurich, Switzerland / Kempinski Hotel River Park, Bratislava, Slovakia / Le Méridien, Barcelona, Spain / Munich, Germany / Split, Croatia / Stuttgart, Germany / Vienna, Austria / Le Méridien Domhotel, Cologne, Germany / Le Méridien Etoile, Paris, France / Le Royal Méridien, Hamburg, Germany / Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, Spain / Bodrum, Turkey / Geneva, Switzerland / Munich, Germany / Paris, France / Prague, Czech Republic / Mövenpick Hotel & Casino, Geneva, Switzerland / Mövenpick Hotel, Basel, Switzerland / Stuttgart Airport, Germany / Zurich Airport, Switzerland / Radisson SAS, Rostock, Germany / Rosewood Hotel, Amsterdam, Netherlands / SOHO, Amsterdam, Netherlands / Swissôtel Bremen, Germany / Dresden, Germany / Geneva, Switzerland / Sochi, Russia / The Ritz Carlton, Berlin, Germany / Budapest, Hungary ...
The Ritz Carlton Berlin / Photograph: Cape Pembroke Ltd. / www.matthewshaw.co.uk
BUSINESS CENTRE
The intelligence source for the hotel investment community
Topline conditions prove tough
book with us direct.” Among the group’s now
happy to look at it, the same as in France. But at
18 brands, Nassetta singled out its strongly
the moment, I would say it’s more likely that we
Supply growing faster than demand has
performing economy brand Tru for praise. “Tru
do something in the UK and Germany.” Nissen
created a challenging environment for hotels
is performing very well, but it’s still ramping
also declared himself a fan of the upheaval
in the US and Europe, but profits at the
up.” In response to questions about potential
within the EU. “Brexit has been our best friend
strongest owners and brand companies are
cannibalisation of customers from other brands,
so far. A lot of people still believe that the UK is
continuing to grow. Hilton and Pandox last
he acknowledged: “Keeping these 18 brands in
an uncertain place to be, which we are already
week reported similar conditions and gave
their swim lanes is very difficult,” but said
happy about. In London, the investors are
similar outlooks: weakening revpar but robust
Tru remains 15-20% cheaper than Hampton.
more than back. They’re crazier than ever, and
profitability. Hilton’s adjusted EBITDA for the
“Hampton is still the best hotel brand in the
the yields are very low to buy hotels. You see
final quarter of 2019 was up in the high single
world; Tru is going to do incredibly well, at a
them closing deals for 2%. So, people are very
digits while revpar was down 1%, greater than
lower price point.”
hungry. In the UK regions, there is the same
expected. For the full year, Hilton EBITDA
At Pandox, despite declining revpar, CEO
sort of interest they’ve seen in the last couple
was up 10%. Rates slipped in all regions but
Anders Nissen described a Goldilocks-style
of years. People are a little bit uncertain what
fell 5.7% in the Middle East and 3.9% in Asia
landscape of opportunity. 2019 had been, he
will happen, and they are still attractive yields.”
Pacific. Occupancy dropped in the USA and the
said, a year “we cemented our position as one
Americas, while actually improving in Europe
of the leading European hotel companies”. The
HA PERSPECTIVE
and the Middle East. Across the portfolio of
group spent SEK537m on acquisitions, adding
By Chris Brown: What a contrast. At Hilton, all
brands, just three recorded positive revpar in
three new partners, five new brands and seven
the talk was about what will further knock the
the quarter. Tru delivered strongly, up 8.7%;
new city markets to its portfolio, taking it to
flat performance expected for the rest of the year.
Waldorf Astoria was up 3.8%; while Home2Suites
156 properties. Full year EBITDA for 2019
Still dominated by its US revenues, the hotel group
improved 1.2%. With softer business transient
was SEK3,215m, up 11% year-on-year, with
is now in the hands of a flatter US growth graph
demand in the US towards the end of the year,
cash earnings up 14% to SEK2,161m. Of its net
– unless Trump can pull another rabbit out of his
outlook has been pencilled in at 0-1% revpar
operating income, 18% came from operator
debt-laden hat. All the talk was around what other
growth. CEO Chris Nassetta instead focused on
activities, with 82% from property management.
– negative – impacts there would be, from events
growth, noting net unit growth of 6.6% in 2019.
Pandox is now spread with 41% of its business
such as coronavirus. Nissen, meanwhile, remains
“We opened more than a hotel a day, growing
in the Nordics, 38% in central Europe and 19%
confident that his mix of European market exposure
our portfolio to more than 6,100 properties.
in the UK and Ireland. Revpar performance had
will continue to deliver growth – though perhaps
What matters most to developers is absolute
been broadly positive, reported Nissen, despite
he was a little more confident than others about
market share, and we have the highest by a
some short-term weakness in markets with
the performance of German hotels over the next
long stretch. Despite a weaker US marketplace,
oversupply of new rooms. Nissen promised
year or two. And with the increasing scale, comes
we are still ultimately doing very well. We’re
more investment and more acquisitions. “We
an increasing appetite for more acquisitions. The
getting a bigger piece of a smaller pool.” He
have a capacity for something around SEK 10bn
company’s last cash call was well received and
also pointed to Hilton Honors, the loyalty
and we’re spending this in two areas. One is
quickly executed – giving Nissen confidence.
programme, as a key advantage in tougher
value-adding investment in existing hotels,
conditions. “We’re trying to build a programme
and we do so much as we can. The big one is,
By Andrew Sangster: It should be noted that while
where we can not only get membership up but
of course, acquisitions. And as you know, we
the topline was problematic for Hilton, profits
build a higher level of engagement.” Alongside
did SEK5.5bn last year. We are active in looking
beat estimates and the forecast for EBITDA was
a best price, best value offer, the company is
at other possibilities.” When pressed, Nissen
fractionally higher than consensus as well. The
adding access to ‘money can’t buy’ experiences.
added: “At the moment, we are active and we
contrast is not between Hilton doing badly and
“This is the thing that we’ve been really crazy
try to figure out in which market, in which sort
Pandox doing well, but one where brand and owner
focused on for the last five years. Once they
of acquisitions we most likely would focus on. If
are both making more money despite a difficult
become an Honors member, we know they will
there comes a profitable deal in Spain, we’ll be
market. This has to be good news for those investors
155
who have backed these particular horses. Final
in the country. There are reports that some
China tend to stay in economy hotels, not in
quarter EBITDA at Hilton was forecast by Morgan
hotels may be used to assist in the quarantine
Pandox properties.
Stanley analysts to come in at USD579m, but in the
operation. In nearby Macau, authorities have requested
as the UNWTO reported international tourist
to be down 0.1% (consensus was flat), but the actual
closure of the state’s 41 casinos for two weeks
arrivals grew 3.8% in 2019, to 1.5 billion. It
1.0% drop in revpar was worse. Morgan Stanley said
to help halt the spread of disease. In contrast,
notes the strong growth globally was up despite
it was stronger than expected fee income coupled
hoteliers in Hong Kong have complained of
weaker figures in Europe. The Middle Eastern
with lower than expected central overheads that
being given no guidance on how to proceed.
region led growth, with arrivals up 8%, followed
led to the profit improvement. Net Unit Growth is
Singapore is already pencilling in a 25-30%
expected to still be in the 6% to 7% range in 2020
fall in tourists, with city officials worrying out
In Cuba, tourism is continuing to feel the
despite coronavirus. Meanwhile, owner Pandox
loud that the impact will be greater than the SARS
heat from the American government, which is
appears to have made hay in the Brexit fields of
outbreak in 2003. The Malaysian Association of
doubling down on its restrictions against US and
uncertainty. That opportunity looks to be closing
Tour and Travel Agents has reported 95,000
international businesses active in that market.
by its own admission, at least in London, but it
hotel bookings had been cancelled.
American nationals are effectively denied access
by Asia Pacific, up 5%.
remains bullish on the potential of the UK as a whole,
Australia’s largest trading partner is China,
to Cuba, while using the Helms Burton Act, US
contradicting the received wisdom of capital good,
and some are already warning that a downturn
authorities have already challenged ownership
provinces bad. It is interesting that the other market
in business will hurt. Sarah Hunter, economist
of properties in Cuba that were appropriated
Pandox is keen on is Germany which, if anything, has
at BIS Oxford Economics, told the Financial
from American owners in years past.
an even more problematic supply outlook than the UK
Times: “There is a very real risk that GDP will
Now, Spanish hotelier Melia has revealed that
regions. With the German economy flatlining in the
contract as a result of the combined drag from
US authorities sent out a demand in October
final quarter of 2020 and forecast by many to go into
the bushfires and coronavirus. Whether we go
2019, requiring CEO Gabriel Escarrer to comply
recession next year, this looks a brave call. Morgan
from this to a recession critically depends on
with certain conditions, or be banned from travel
Stanley noted that Pandox shares currently trade at a
how the outbreak unfolds.”
to the US. It says it believes around 50 such
16% premium to net asset value, but it considers this
In Europe, several airlines have halted flights
demands were sent to various businesses with
justified “given track record”. It is hard to disagree.
to China altogether, while other airlines, and
interests in Cuba. In Melia’s case, allegations
cruise liners, are trimming operations.
have been made that two hotels it operates sit
Politics and pestilence
156
Thoughts of trimmed visitor numbers come
end USD586m was reported. Revpar was anticipated
Coronavirus was a major topic at Hilton’s quarterly results presentation. CEO Chris
on land owned, prior to the Cuban revolution, by a US family.
Nassetta said 150 of the group’s Chinese
The company said: “The conditions imposed
Problems both medical and political are weighing
properties had been closed: “We would estimate
by the US State Department were not acceptable
on the travel industry, with the expectation of a
a potential 100-basis-point impact to comp
to the company. Furthermore, compliance
major hit on short term revenues.
systemwide revpar growth assuming closed
with them would also have been contrary to
With Chinese outbound tourism fuelling
hotels ultimately wind up being non-comp. We
European regulations (known as the Blocking
growth in many destinations, all eyes are now
would expect roughly a half-a-point impact to
Statute), which consider the Helms Burton Act
on the expanding coronavirus outbreak in the
net unit growth, which would be largely within
a violation of the most elementary principles
country, and its likely impact on global travel.
our guidance range, and a US$25-50 million
of international law.” It has reiterated its
Some are remaining tight-lipped, joining the
impact to full-year adjusted EBITDA.”
confidence that matters will ultimately be
camp that doesn’t want to scare, while as
In contrast, Europe-based owner and operator
the crisis unfolds, others are revealing local
Pandox said it had seen no impact so far. “What
Archipelago International is one operator
impacts. When Hotel Analyst went to press,
we follow is number of flights and arrivals from
thriving on Cuba, despite the US restrictions.
media reports suggest the number of new cases
Northeast Asia,” said CEO Anders Nissen. “And
The company operates a 726-room five-star
in China is reducing, vindicating the tough
if we put it in the context, they stand for about
Grand Aston in the Cayos, and has two hotels
quarantining approach of Chinese authorities.
3% of the total capacity of arriving in Europe.
scheduled to open next year, with negotiations
Hilton has reported 150 of its Chinese hotels
And on this 3%, we see globally the number
ongoing regarding further projects. Norbert Vas,
closed, one statistic of few available to gauge the
of flights, the number of passengers coming
VP business development, told Hotel Analyst:
immediate impact of the outbreak on business
down.” He also noted that tour groups from
“There are ways to succeed even without the US
resolved by Spanish authorities.
BUSINESS CENTRE
easyHotel finesses growth plans
market. We have no American guests and cannot
industry, as the UNWTO figures reported above show.
distribute via most OTA’s such as Expedia. But
This is the tenth consecutive year of growth. The
we are selling well on the Chinese language
average over the decade is 5.1% and this year it is
Super budget hotel brand easyHotel has set its
site of Ctrip, have uncovered various South
forecast to be in a range slightly below this, hitting
sights on building its presence in mainland
American markets such as a recent charter deal
between 3% and 4% in 2020, most likely still above
European cities, as the company adjusts to a
with Columbia, and are doing very well in the
the 3.4% global economic growth forecast by the
new senior team.
Canadian and European markets.”
IMF. In Europe, tourism is expected to grow at the
The change in strategy will see it deploy
same rate as the global forecast, but this is likely
its own capital building the portfolio in key
twice as fast as economic growth on the continent.
tier one cities, relying on franchisees to grab
Vas said that while he would love occupancy to be higher than the current 50+%, his business is ahead of budget.
These figures are despite Brexit, Trump and
opportunities in secondary locations. New
“Our Cuban friends are very resilient and we
other populist governments often taking aim at
management has now been put in place,
are absolutely committed to helping them. The
foreigners. With politics it is more about the missed
following last year’s shift in ownership, which
more the US boycotts them, the more determined
opportunity with tourism. Allowing travel usually
effectively saw easyHotel taken into private
and patriotic they are. My take is that the US is
brings significant economic benefits, particularly
ownership.
achieving nothing other than hurting its own
for countries like Cuba that have been excluded from
Total system sales were up 27.5% year-on-
hotel operators - thanks to the embargo we do
the global tourism marketplace for most advanced
year at GBP47.6m. Margins were compromised
not have to compete with them.”
economies.
by increasing use of OTAs, which nevertheless
In 2019, Cuba saw a 9.3% drop in overseas
helped drive topline revenue outperformance.
HA PERSPECTIVE
visitors, according to the ONEI (statistics office). It
Adjusted EBITDAR margin at 27.7% was down
By Chris Brown: Whether it’s political jostling, terror
had been hoped that the five million visitor number
1.9% from the 2018 figure. But an overspend on
attacks or new virus strains, rolling with disruptive
could be breached but in the end, it was 4.3 million
the development of a new hotel in Ipswich, UK,
punches has become the new norm for the global
that arrived thanks to actions taken by the Trump
led to a GBP3m loss, combined with a further
hospitality industry. The lessons of recent history tell
administration, notably restricting transport links.
one-off charge of GBP1.4m covering the costs
us that it rarely turns out as bad as the doommongers
Meanwhile, the UNWTO’s positive outlook will
of the ownership changes – resulting in a
would have us believe, and travellers have short
quickly look misplaced if c oronavirus – or COVID-19
combined GBP3.57m loss.
memories.
as it is now styled – makes a global impact. But unless
Like for like revpar was up 4.6% at owned
With coronavirus, we’re all still in the dark, relying
the disease impacts in a much more meaningful
hotels, but down 1.7% at franchised properties.
on information from Chinese authorities about the
way than is currently anticipated, the effects will be
Six hotels opened during the period, while a
spread of the disease there. Comparisons with the
relatively minor on the global picture.
further 2,000 rooms are in the pipeline.
earlier SARS outbreak may be helpful, but the one will
Hilton gave some guidance suggesting that, if the
Meanwhile, news of a positive performance
not match the other tidily in its impact. Meantime,
outbreak is over within six-months with a further
came from midmarket hotel group PPHE, in a
in the west, we can marvel at the impact of “super
six-month recovery period, then its group revpar
year-end trading update. Buoyed by continued
spreaders”, such as the Brit who left Singapore to
will be down just one percentage point and impact
investment in growing and refurbishing their
drop coronavirus in an Alpine ski resort before
EBITDA less than 2% for the full year.
owned estate, PPHE reported total revenues up
Hilton has limited exposure to China (just 3% of
5.9% to GBP250m, with like for like revpar up
We’re also now used to the Trumpian era and
revenues), according to analysts at Bernstein. IHG
5.1%. Park Plazas in Amsterdam and Utrecht
the US bullying its way around the world - whether
has the biggest China presence of the global majors
reopened, while the non-branded Holmes hotel
that’s threatening tariffs, wanting to decide who
with 7% of revenues, but Accor has the biggest
in London started delivering after a relaunch in
buys new 5G from who, or deciding who’s allowed
exposure to the wider APAC region with 19% of
May. PPHE’s portfolio has a London bias, but
to trade with Cuba. Be sure to visit the place before
revenues plus 3% in China.
the pipeline includes a new foray into New York.
infecting folk around his hometown of Brighton.
it gets overrun by cruise liners and branches of McDonald’s.
So, if Hilton’s revpar is going to go down 1%, IHG’s
Following the ownership change at easyHotel,
is likely to fall 1.8% and Accor’s by 2%, all other
there have been a number of executive changes
things being equal.
too. CEO Guy Parsons, who successfully got
By Andrew Sangster: At times it seems that
the brand onto its current growth path, left in
politicians do all they can to hamper the travel and
November and will be replaced by incoming ex-
tourism industry. But tourism is a remarkably robust
easyJet executive Francois Bacchetta. Jonathan
157
BUSINESS CENTRE
Lane OBE also left the board in the autumn,
as the direct developments have burned through
laid off in its domestic market of India. Staff in the UK
after five years, and has been replaced by Harm
GBP88m raised from shareholders in 2016 and 2018
are understood to be in a consultation period.
Meijer as non-exec chairman. New to the board
equity raisings.
The Financial Times said it has spoken to more
are Michael Neuman, representing investor
At the same time, selling an easyHotel franchise
than 15 independent hotel operators and each one
Cadim Fonds, and Charles Persello, who is a
ought to be easier than a decade ago. The brand has
had either made a complaint or ended their contract.
director of ICAMAP.
visibility internationally, the model has been honed
The problems ranged from overdue or reduced
“We are excited by the development pipeline
and is proving it works, and head office is working
payments to excessively discounting rates to meet
and the potential for the brand in Europe,”
hard to sharpen its direct sales, both via a better
sales targets.
said Scott Christie, interim CEO. “With
online experience, and aggressive marketing of a
strong supportive shareholders behind us, the
loyalty programme.
The comparison with easyHotel, which is pitched at a similar market level to OYO, flatters easyHotel.
significant investments we have made in the
The interest for observers, is in how well, and for
If anything, it could be argued that Guy Parsons was
business will ensure we have the resources to
how long, the company’s owners can rub along. While
not being radical enough – he should have signed
continue to expand and enhance the business
still listed – at the insistence of minority shareholder
more and spent more on marketing.
and deliver the board’s ambitious strategy for
Sir Stelios – the company is 69% owned by the
The billionaire behind easyHotel, Sir Stelios Haji-
targeted growth.”
investors behind Citrus, which bid to take it private.
Ioannou, is obviously not willing to take the same
The pair will doubtless now struggle over who should
approach as the billionaire backer of OYO, Masayoshi
pony up the cash for future developments.
Son of Softbank.
A weaker performance from franchised hotels was put down to softer demand in the UK regions, and a mixed European performance.
The group remains listed on London’s junior AIM
The group says it has taken steps to drive more
market, at the insistence of 28% shareholder Stelios.
direct bookings, including a better customer
But, with ICAMAP holding over 68% of the stock, the
booking experience. Development will now look
shares are not exactly actively traded, or widely held.
towards mainland European cities, starting with
This uncomfortable setup means that share issues,
France and Spain.
used in the past to help fund growth, will not be so
“The success of our flagship hotel in Barcelona
easy, unless these two major parties agree. They
provides us with confidence in a strategy of
have already clashed over ownership status, and
expanding the easyHotel owned hotel network
over the value of the company and its brand.
through investment in centrally located, high quality hotels in major European cities.”
The GBP3m loss as costs got out of control building the Ipswich hotel is another development misstep,
In the UK, the group plans to focus its own
comparable with the previous attempt to add rooms
development activities only in primary cities,
at Old Street, when the local authority subsequently
with franchising for wider sites. The group is
refused consent after the work had been completed.
also looking to grow a loyalty following, and
The focus on seeking a presence in major markets
until the end of March 2020 is offering new
makes sense. While Parsons presided over a period
signups a 25% booking discount. Thereafter,
of faster growth, it was at the cost of signing some
members of Clubbedzzz will enjoy a 10%
pretty randomly located sites. The group will save
discount, plus free WiFi during their stays.
its euros for key cities, hoping to persuade plucky franchisees to try their luck in secondary and tertiary
HA PERSPECTIVE
locations.
By Chris Brown: Like a whirling spendthrift dervish, Guy Parsons set the becalmed easyHotel on a
By Andrew Sangster: There is a big contrast between
speeding course. Now, the new guard are going to be
the mild hiccup at easyHotel and the meltdown that
a little more finessed in how they develop the brand.
appears to be happening with OYO, the upstart that
A more disciplined approach is being taken
158
hails from India.
to developing owned sites, with the hope that
OYO has announced job cuts and is running a
franchisees will be prepared to jump in and add
barrage of negative press comment. About a third of
hotels in second and third tier locations. Fair enough,
its people in the US are going and 2,000 have been
Hotel Analyst is the news analysis service for those involved with financing hotel property or hotel operating companies. For more information and to subscribe visit: www.hotelanalyst.co.uk
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08/01/2020 12:19:22
Goa, India Following a sluggish 2019 marred by a drop in demand (-4.9%), Goa has had a strong start to the year, reporting a 6.1% jump in the number of rooms sold during January 2020, pushing occupancy growth of 5.2%. STR analysts largely attributed demand declines to increased competition from destinations such as the Maldives, Sri Lanka and markets in Southeast Asia, as well as notable supply growth (+3.0% in 2019). However, the steady climb in inventory slowed in the first month of 2020 (+0.8%), marking the lowest year-over-year comparison since late 2018. Another challenge in Goa has been a lack of growth in average daily rate (ADR), which was down 0.2% in 2018, 0.1% in 2019 and 5.0% for January 2020. Room rates have actually trended well when considering the sluggish demand; that has been especially true in the luxury and upper upscale segments as well as certain submarkets. As a leisure-dependent market, Goa’s performance is stronger during the weekends, and that has been evident across the three key performance metrics over the past year. For example, in January 2020, overall market occupancy was 78.7%. On Fridays and Saturdays however, absolute occupancy was 84.6% and 87.5% respectively. ADR was INR9,134.57 for the full month, but INR9,723.21 on Fridays and INR9,568.20 on Saturdays. Looking ahead, nine hotels are projected to open in Goa through the remainder of 2020, adding 1,270 rooms to the market.
STR is the source for premium global data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights, tracking 8 million rooms worldwide. www.str.com
160
BUSINESS CENTRE
Goa Projected Supply Growth
16.5% through 2024
Existing Supply 15,095 rooms Pipeline 2,487 rooms
Goa – Hotel Performance
India – Hotel Performance
Occupancy 78.7% 5.2%
Occupancy 70.3% 0.6%
ADR* INR9,134.57 5.0%
ADR* INR6,554.85 0.8%
RevPAR* INR7,189.67 0.0%
RevPAR* INR4,607.83 1.3%
January 2020
January 2020
*Local Currency
161
17338 Junea Sofa Advert for Sleeper Mar_Apr 2020 OUTLINED.indd 1
17/02/2020 10:27
EVENTS DIARY
8-13 MAR
4
MAY
4-6 MAY
5-7
MAY
London Design Week at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour www.dcch.co.uk
Top Hotel World Tour Los Angeles www.thpworldtour.com
IHIF Berlin www.ihif.com
HD Expo Las Vegas www.hdexpo.com
11-12 MAY
12-14 MAY
14-20 MAY
17-20 MAY
CHRIS Miami www.burba.com/chris
HOLA Miami www.burba.com/hola
WantedDesign NYC New York www.wanteddesignnyc.com
ICFF New York www.icff.com
19-21 MAY
26-29 MAY
27-28 MAY
27-28 MAY
Clerkenwell Design Week London www.clerkenwelldesignweek.com
Design Shanghai Shanghai www.designshanghai.com
Hospitality Design Fair Sydney www.hospitalitydesignfair.com.au
NoVacancy Sydney www.novacancy.com.au
163
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04.02.20 12:35
EVENTS
AHEAD Asia 12 March 2020 Rosewood Hotels & Resorts triumphs in Asia as AHEAD announces winners via a webcast. Words: Donna Salek and Ben Thomas
From a hidden retreat in the heart of Tasmania,
The star of the show however was Rosewood
to a series of lodges across Bhutan’s striking
Hotels & Resorts, which took home a combined
landscape and the eagerly anticipated return
total of five accolades; Rosewood Bangkok
of a colonial-era icon in Singapore, the AHEAD
was victorious in the Bar, Club or Lounge,
Asia 2020 winners have been revealed by way
and Restaurant categories, while Rosewood
of a webcast, held in association with Global
Hong Kong – a Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates-
Founder Sponsor Grohe.
designed property featuring interiors by Tony
Triumphant projects showcased the heritage,
Chi – was described by judges as a “landmark
innovation and creativity prevalent across the
opening for the global market” and lifted the
Asia Pacific hotel scene, with many projects
Lasvit-designed trophies for Hotel Newbuild,
channelling local culture to create extraordinary
Event Spaces and Suite.
spaces and memorable experiences.
Winners of AHEAD Asia were announced via
Bill Bensley’s theatrical scheme at Hôtel de
webcast after this year’s ceremony, scheduled
la Coupole in Vietnam prevailed in the Spa &
to take place on 12 March, was cancelled due
Wellness category, while Hotel Renovation &
to uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus.
Restoration went to Raffles Singapore following
A celebratory event will now be held on 7
its sensitive refurbishment. Meanwhile,
September at Andaz Singapore, where the
characterised by an undulating roof that reflects
AHEAD Asia Hotel of the Year will be unveiled
the mountains of New Zealand’s South Island,
to nominees, winners, judges, sponsors and
The Lindis scooped the Lodges, Cabins & Tented
ticket holders.
Camps prize – a new category for Asia – praised by the judges for its “integration of experience,
A full list of winners can be seen overleaf or
hospitality and unique design”.
viewed online at www.aheadawards.com/asia.
165
EVENTS
BAR, CLUB OR LOUNGE Lennon’s at Rosewood Bangkok – Thailand Rende Development Company / Rosewood Hotel Group Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / AvroKO EVENT SPACES Grand Ballroom and Junior Ballroom at Rosewood Hong Kong New World Development / Rosewood Hotel Group Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Tonychi Studio GUESTROOMS Grand Hyatt Xi’an – China Maike Group / Hyatt Hotels Corporation CallisonRTKL / LTW Designworks HOTEL CONVERSION Sunyata Hotel Meili – Yunnan, China Lai Guoping / Zhao Yang Architects / Ke Xie
166
HOTEL NEWBUILD Rosewood Hong Kong New World Development / Rosewood Hotel Group Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Tonychi Studio Bar Studio / Parts & Labor Design HOTEL RENOVATION & RESTORATION Raffles Singapore Katara Hospitality / AccorHotels / Aedas / Studio Lapis Champalimaud Design / Aedas Interiors / Jouin Manku LANDSCAPING & OUTDOOR SPACES Capella Sanya – China Capella Hotel Group / Denniston / Bensley LOBBY & PUBLIC SPACES Grand Hyatt Xi’an – China Maike Group / Hyatt Hotels Corporation CallisonRTKL / LTW Designworks
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EVENTS
LODGES, CABINS & TENTED CAMPS The Lindis – New Zealand The Lindis Group / Architecture Workshop RESORT HOTEL Six Senses Bhutan Bhutan Ventures & Hospitality Six Senses Hotels Resorts / Spas Habita Architects RESTAURANT Nan Bei at Rosewood Bangkok – Thailand Rende Development Company / Rosewood Hotel Group / Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates Tandem Architects / AvroKO SPA & WELLNESS Hôtel de la Coupole – Sapa, Vietnam Sun Group / AccorHotels / Bensley
168
SUITE Grand Harbour Corner Suite at Rosewood Hong Kong New World Development / Rosewood Hotel Group Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates / Tonychi Studio TRANSPORT The Oracle – Indonesia Blue Karma / Alexa Genoyer VISUAL IDENTITY OF THE YEAR Moss Hotel – Hobart, Australia Peter Behrakis / Circa Morris Nunn Architects Studio Ongarato NEW CONCEPT OF THE YEAR Hanare – Tokyo, Japan Hagi Studio / Rowboat / Zu Architects / Fuji Solar House Co
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interior - lighting design
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19.02.2020 15:30:50
SPOTLIGHT
Stellar Performance Created in Shanghai to connect East and West, Stellar Works invites Sleeper on a trip to China to experience the journey of its products from conception to completion. Words: Donna Salek
S
ince its inception in 2012, Stellar Works
felt drawn to the city, becoming enamoured by
has bridged the gap between East and
the opportunities it offered, as well as the skill
West, old and new, creating timeless
and determination of its workforce. So, when he
furniture pieces that blend heritage, modernity,
had the idea to create a luxury furniture brand
craft and industry. With a Japanese founder,
to counter the uninspiring offering of the time,
Shanghai headquarters and a partnership with
Shanghai was the perfect location to nurture his
high-end French furniture manufacturer Laval,
vision. With the help of interdisciplinary design
the brand is a truly global operation. Its designs
practice Neri & Hu – appointed as the brand’s
follow suit, taking inspiration from forms, styles
Creative Directors in 2015 – Stellar Works has
and motifs central to the Japanese aesthetic and
furnished hotels worldwide, collaborating
combining them with European tradition.
with distinguished designers such as Yabu
Having first visited Shanghai as a young designer, Nagoya-born founder Yuichiro Hori
Pushelberg, Tom Fereday and David Rockwell for some of its latest collections.
173
174
SPOTLIGHT
Embracing tradition and innovation, Stellar
custom creation of beautiful bespoke pieces
– furniture that will augment interiors and
Works’ designs are executed with enduring
that meet any design brief. A tour of Shanghai’s
architecture as items that are not only meant
craftsmanship by experts, most of whom are
most prominent hotels later revealed both
to be seen but also experienced. “At your
young, eager to learn and originate from nearby
Stellar Works’ bespoke and stock collections in
grandmother’s place, there’s always a certain
villages known for specialising in different
properties such as The Sukothai Hotel – which
object that is placed in the corner of the room,”
trades. During Sleeper’s time in Shanghai, Hori
features the Utility, James and Bund ranges; The
Hu explains. “It’s not so much the function of
proudly recounts tales of his team; the most
Shanghai Edition – with Rén and Utility; and W
it or how pretty it is, but there’s a reflective,
memorable being of a young man raised in a
Shanghai – with Taylor, Exchange and James.
nostalgic relationship between that object in
small village known for its woodworking, who
A subsequent trip to the firm’s downtown
that place and how you weave your body around
was not only highly skilled in this craft, but could
Shanghai showroom highlighted the next step
it, which brings it to life. We’re hoping that the
also tell the material’s moisture content with
in the process. Incorporating industrial concrete
Stellar Works pieces become these objects in 50
only the touch of his hand. It’s these talented
pillars and exposed ceiling vents, the stylish
or 100 years time; they’ll be talked about for
recruits, together with French technicians – a
space displays furniture including the curvaceous
years to come.”
result of the Laval partnership – and Japanese
Taylor sofa designed by Yabu Pushelberg; the
Designed by leading names such as
managers overseeing quality control, that make
Dawn bed with its rounded wooden frame, slim
Sebastian Herkner, Space Copenhagen, Hallgeir
the brand what it is today.
legs and leather-upholstered headboard by
Homstvedt, Nendo, Luca Nichetto, OEO Studio,
Challenging the perception that China
Space Copenhagen; the Cabinet of Curiosity, a
DeLucchi and of course Neri & Hu, the new
churns out low-quality, mass produced stock,
wheeled unit crafted from solid walnut, veneer
products and extended Stellar Works collections
the Stellar Works offer boasts lasting quality,
laminated panels and clear glass, designed by
are set to debut later this year. Neri and Hu say
wearing its ‘Made in Shanghai’ badge with
Neri & Hu; and an impressive glass cabinet wall
that each designer was chosen for their ability
pride. Where others turn to machines to reduce
showcasing the brand’s most iconic seats.
to create characters, and that all items have a
costs, the brand’s Jiading base and commitment
Conveniently located next door is Neri & Hu’s
tale and fascination that will speak for itself.
to a skilled local workforce allow for the creation
office, where new products are envisioned in line
“Certain classical pieces are still needed for
of handmade and hand-finished furnishings.
with the Stellar Works mantra: Asian sensibility,
people to understand the DNA of the brand – this
Recognising that sustainability is central to
timeless craft. Speaking with Lyndon Neri and
is key,” comments Neri. “Through the voice of
today’s design landscape, the company operates
Rosanna Hu, the practice’s Founding Partners,
the designer and the narrative of Stellar Works,
with integrity, putting transparent sourcing and
about the design trajectory of the brand over the
these articles will come to life by themselves.”
manufacturing at its heart. On an exclusive tour
coming years, they revealed that Stellar Works’
It is this charm and value that ultimately
of the factory in January, Sleeper was invited
next move will be an increased emphasis on
define the brand. Years from now, Stellar
to experience the place where its designs are
unique, singular pieces. “For the past three
Works pieces will continue to resonate, as the
brought to life. The facility complies with
years, we have been focusing on collections
company builds on its legacy for quality crafted
international standards regarding technology,
that designers create as a complete set,
furniture, stays true to Asian sensibilities, yet
sustainability and working conditions, whilst
however, there needs to be some primadonna
is international in its scope.
operations have been streamlined for an
pieces that might not immediately fit with a
impressive and efficient rate of production
particular design scheme, but will click in the
without compromising on the workers’
right setting.”
wellbeing and – thanks to quality control at every step – the brand’s premium standard.
A conscious move away from overly coordinated articles, the new Stellar Works
The site allows for end-to-end control over
pieces will each have a story to tell. Neri &
the entire manufacturing process, enabling the
Hu describe these as “objects of encounter”
175
Layout by Natalie de Leval & Andrew Jones
Salone del Mobile Milan, Hall 6 - C45
Award-winning outdoor furniture since 1920 +44 (0)1376 557 600
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SPOTLIGHT
Outdoor Furniture & Accessories Striking exteriors go hand-in-hand with striking interiors. Here’s our top pick of products that enhance the great outdoors.
Named after actress Elizabeth Taylor, Expormim’s Liz collection takes inspiration from 1950s elegance
SPOTLIGHT
1.
2.
3.
178
4.
1. Saparella Ligne Roset
2. The Forest by Fast Sanipex Group
3. Jeko Gervasoni
4. Concreto Ethimo
A re-release of a pioneering model from 1965, Saparella consists of a fireside chair, a diabolo and a footstool. The modular range of seating is versatile, allowing users to create and alter different compositions in a range of outdoor settings. Defined by rounded lines, the range boasts an inviting and relaxing look. The diabolo draws inspiration from the toy it is named after, while its concave outline fits with the convex shape of the fireside chairs, allowing pieces to be slotted together. A settee can also be created from two chairs by placing a diabolo in the centre – each element held together by linking pieces made from mirror-polished stainless steel. www.ligne-roset.com
Sanipex Group provides an extensive range of outdoor living products to enhance exterior spaces, including illuminating day beds, planters, lighting and dining collections. Part of the group’s latest range, The Forest collection from Fast is an explicit reference to the graphic patterns that occur between light and shadow within wood. Recalling light shining through the breaks of trees in a forest, the range features an intricate design and is available in multiple colours. The chairs are stackable and can withstand the rigour of hospitality settings, while models can also be created with legs on castors, a swivel base or cushions upon request. www.sanipexgroup.co.uk
The Jeko collection is part of Gervasoni’s new outdoor furniture division, launched during Maison & Objet 2020. The result of a careful selection of natural and technical materials, the range has been skilfully crafted by experts, reflecting the brand’s high standards of production and style. The pieces include armchairs, tables, sofas and – available also in the canopy version – occasional tables made with an EcoTeak frame. The material, with sinuous forms and an impressionable texture, has been obtained sustainably from the controlled and authorised demolition of traditional wooden homes on the island of Java, and brings to mind distant places full of character. www.gervasoni1882.it
Ethimo has collaborated with Luca Nichetto to create Concreto, a series of tables formed from a solid cement base with an aluminium structure and tops in either a teak or black ceramic finish – the latter available in both round and square versions. Lending a modern twist to bistro tables, the sturdy, versatile collection takes its name from its minimal shapes. A taller version completes the range which is also offered with a rounded or square top. Concreto tables provide an acrossthe-board solution suitable for a wide range of outdoor settings, meeting the diverse and complex furnishing needs of the hospitality sector while offering pure, refined aesthetics. www.ethimo.com
BIE NVE NUE BY EG O PARIS
LUXU RY O UT D O O R F U R NITU R E
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SPOTLIGHT
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180
3.
1. Pergola Gandia Blasco
2. Kodo Vincent Sheppard
3. Rock Garden Janus et Cie
Gandia Blasco’s Pergola collection is made up of a variety of modules that create outdoor extensions to indoor spaces. The structures are ideal for shady areas, places of passage, porches, bars, and seating and dining areas, creating private areas that are protected from the sun. Highly versatile, the range can be organised in different layouts and customised with a selection of finishes, materials and colours. The linear and architectural structures can be presented in classic anodised and natural aluminium finishes, or in 20 coloured thermolacquers available in different shades including white, sand, olive green, terracotta, grey and bronze. www.gandiablasco.com
Created with Studio Segers, Vincent Sheppard’s Kodo collection is inspired by the multiple possibilities of mixing materials into unique designs. Natural ceramic, industrial aluminium and tactile acrylic rope play leading roles throughout the collection. These materials are weather-resistant and add a contemporary feel to the furniture, while the soft curves and rounded backs lend a warm and inviting ambience. The series comprises a lounge chair, sofa, cocoon, footrest, side table, coffee table, dining chair and dining table. Founded in 1992, Vincent Sheppard works with the locals of Cirebon in Indonesia, who are skilled weavers and benders of rattan. www.vincentsheppard.com
Designed by acclaimed Hong Kong-based architect and designer André Fu, the dynamic and contemporary Rock Garden collection marks the first collaboration between Fu and Janus et Cie. Characterised by an interplay of soft curves and angular lines, the ensemble of dining and lounge pieces express serenity and balance in a host of settings. “Rock Garden is a collection that embraces the poetic qualities of the authentic Japanese garden, where the masculinity of rocks and the sensuality of sand patterns juxtapose to create a unique language of visual tension,” comments Fu. Crafted in teak with a driftwood finish, the dining, café and side tables are topped with a textured Alabama ceramic, while the range’s sculptural modular and lounge pieces pair durable teak frames with woven Janusfiber in a Smoke shade, creating a rich display of deep grey hues complemented with light and dark tones. A selection of ample cushions for the seating elements add further comfort. Rock Garden’s balance of light, proportion and clarity create an impression both in and outdoors. The collection recently featured at St. Regis Hong Kong, designed by Fu’s multidisciplinary studio, AFSO. “Fu has always been ahead of his time,” says Janice Feldman, founder and CEO of Janus et Cie. “We are thrilled that he has created a new collection that embodies the spirit of our brand.” www.janusetcie.com
HOSHINOYA Guguan
LUXURY BESPOKE OUTDOOR FURNITURE
SPOTLIGHT
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2. 1.
3.
4.
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1. Oh, it Rains! B&B Italia
2. Nautical Teak Parasol Tuuci
3. Verona RH Contract
4. Sealine by Dedon Leisure Plan
Designed by Philippe Starck, the Oh, it Rains! collection comprises a sofa and an outdoor armchair. The range complements a variety of public or private spaces, featuring a generous backrest with considered ergonomics, optional cushions and elegant lines. Form and function combine in a quick movement, allowing for the backrest to be reclined during bad weather. The materials used are available in a mix of warm and natural tones ranging from beige to brown, while the raffia-inspired fabrics are waterrepellent. All elements, including the backrest, are customisable and the seat structure can be integrated with a side table in Mediterranean stone. www.bebitalia.com
Inspired by the natural world, Tuuci’s Nautical Teak Hardwood Parasol is crafted from high-quality materials for a luxurious finish. The design revisits the brand’s roots – taking cues from concepts, qualities and durability requirements of the marine industry – and comes in a choice of two different masts, made either entirely of fine teakwood or featuring an aluminium core with a natural teak finish. With its authentic and elegant look, the generously proportioned shade system adds a sense of sophistication to outdoor areas, complementing both private and commercial environments, whether that be on the beach, on a patio, in spas or in gardens. www.tuuci.com
The Verona collection by RH Contract subtly evokes a mid-century aesthetic with a contemporary Californian approach. Seamlessly integrating a mix of materials, the products in the range possess a slender aluminium frame laced with a double-layered weave of all-weather rope, and an open grid pattern that complements the curved, sculptural contours. Encompassing a 60” sofa, 84” sofa, lounge chair, chaise and armchair, the series complements the brand’s concrete Parker dining, coffee or side tables. Known for creating timeless, updated classics from luxurious materials, RH Contract’s outdoor offering brings elegance to exteriors. www.restorationhardware.com
Dedon’s Sealine collection – available in the UK through Leisure Plan – comprises two and three-seater modules, extended daybeds, a bench, and coffee tables with stone or marble tops. Designed by Jean-Marie Massaud, the range features handcrafted teak frames, plush cushions and a backrest in a choice of weatherproof Italian maritime rope or extra-wide Dedon fibre. To ensure easy maintenance and added durability, the products are assembled using high-quality diecast aluminium connectors. “The idea behind Sealine was to propose a collection that would be suitable for every season and latitude,” says Chief Creative Officer, Sonja van der Hagen. www.leisureplan.co.uk / www.dedon.de
FEUERRING.CH
FOTOGR AFIE: DANIEL A KIENZLER
THE ORIGINAL
FR-Ins_Sleeper_236x275mm_cmyk-coated.indd 1
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SPOTLIGHT
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2.
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184
1. Moai Fast
2. Eugenio Luteca
3. Sol+Luna Extremis
4. Ming Chair Stellar Works
Inspired by the peculiar shapes of a stone pine tree spreading its roots in the ground, the Moai collection – designed by Lievore Altherr for Fast – has been created with versatility in mind. The tables’ slender frame is accompanied by legs that act as sturdy roots to support elegant aluminium stoneware or natural stone table tops. Produced to accompany Fast’s existing chairs and ideal for contract use, the range’s shapes include a round table with aluminium or stone top; rectangular table with aluminium or stone top; and square table with aluminium top. Established in 1955, Fast produces elegant and timeless products that complement outdoor living spaces. www.fastspa.com
Named after Eugenio Escudero, a Spanish Civil War refugee who started a furniture company and showroom in the 1940s, Luteca’s Eugenio dining chair is suitable for both in- and outdoor use. Escudero’s signature, mid-century style and organic, sculptural aesthetic is reflected throughout the collection, which also takes cues from a vintage piece originally designed for a project in Acapulco, Mexico. Exemplifying Luteca’s approach to design, the chair can be customised to suit various design schemes, with variations including a walnut, maple or teak frame; velvet, leather or COM upholstery; and a Satin Varnish, Matte Oil, Matte Varnish or Black Oil finish. www.luteca.com
Sol+Luna, translating to ‘Sun+Moon’, reflects the double purpose of Extremis’ new piece of furniture. The single recliner doubles as a three-seater sofa, allowing for versatility depending on the time of day, occasion and situation. The series is fitted with a convenient side shelf, which also acts as a backrest, whilst the addition of cushions brings additional comfort to the three-seater sofa. A compact, adjustable shade also functions as a light, fitted to the sofa with a simple plug-in system, while extra small tables are provided with the same plug-in system. Users can choose from two versions: Australis and Borealis, each available in different finishes. www.extremis.com
Drawing from the past to inspire the present, Stellar Works’ Ming Chair revisits China’s traditional decorative arts to create a crisp and contemporary style. Designed by the brand’s Creative Directors Neri&Hu, the chair looks to the duo’s Asian heritage, mixing ornamental motifs with modern western functionality. The result is a series of intricate stacking chairs that work effectively as solo pieces as well as in a family grouping. The Ming chair was originally crafted from wood, though an aluminium version was introduced shortly after, catering for outdoor use. Available in black, grey and white, the chairs can be paired with the Ming aluminium dining or café table. www.stellarworks.com
Bistroo For every small balcony, to celebrate new and older love.
Carefully made in Belgium Designed by Dirk Wynants
w w w.ex tremis.com — info@ex tremis.com — T + 32 57 34 6020
SPOTLIGHT
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3.
4.
186
1. Liz Expormim
2. Paralel Point
3. Sorento Alexander Rose
4. Silhouette Nanimarquina
Expormim’s Liz collection, named after the cinema icon Elizabeth Taylor, is a project inspired by the elegance of the 1950s. Designed by Ludovica Serafini and Roberto Palomba, the range consists of an armchair, a sofa and an XL sofa, as well as a new armchair and dining armchair. The elastic fabric stretching along the metallic tubular structure marks lines and transparencies, whilst giving rise to a play of light and shadow that creates a softened look. Liz offers multiple customisation possibilities through a wide variety of technical fabrics suitable for outdoor use, which incorporate a new range of colours such as orange, red, taupe, green and navy blue. www.expormim.com
Point’s Paralel collection – designed by Gabriel Texidó – comprises a wealth of details and materials to provide the necessary comfort for outdoor and indoor spaces. Creating visual impact, the collection is made up of 15 pieces, with its chairs, armchairs, stools, sofas and tables all crafted from teak wood and synthetic rope, and characterised by their distinguishable backs that draw the eye when viewed from different angles. Founded in Alicante in 1920, Point will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year, continuing its century-long reputation for supporting Spanish and international designers to create furniture collections that enhance outdoor spaces. www.point1920.com
Alexander Rose has launched the Sorento deep seating modular lounge set. Made from sustainable, elegantly-finished teak, the collection is hardwearing and features a naturally high oil content, meaning maintenance is not necessary. Its drop-in backs and multi-purpose base units also allow for a number of configurations of any shape or size, while the wide slatted back adds a signature design feature, and the low, large coffee table can double as a footstool. Sorento’s cushions, meanwhile, come in a choice of high-performance Sunbrella fabrics and are placed inside a waterproof liner. They are also made using a high specification reflex foam for added comfort. www.alexander-rose.co.uk
Having first collaborated with designer Jaime Hayón in 2017, Nanimarquina now presents Silhouette, a collection of indoor and outdoor rugs that highlight the casual style of the Valencian artist. The rug’s illustration defines the silhouettes of several imaginary characters that intertwine and coexist, with nine faces distributed at different angles, while Hayón also introduces subtle colour through delicate strokes. Available in two standard sizes, with the indoor model featuring a tapestry piece that can be hung vertically, the series has been created using the embroidery on kilim technique – a laborious process carried out in Pakistan to add texture and volume. www.nanimarquina.com
SORRENTO LOUNGE
Salone del Mobile Milano Hall 12 Stand E24 www.alexander-rose.co.uk
+44 1444 258 928
SPOTLIGHT
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2.
3.
4.
188
1. Outdoor Pendants Palecek
2. Soul Outdoor Pedrali
3. Molo Kettal
4. Tao Tribù
Palecek’s launch of a range of outdoor floor lamps has inspired the brand to create a collection of complementary pendants. Featuring designs woven from nylon and all-weather wicker, the series can be paired with the brand’s existing collections. “The market has really responded to our interpretation of outdoor furniture,” says founder Andrew Palecek. “As designers look to accessorise outdoor environments, we are partnering with them by fully engaging with a complete outdoor environment. Side tables, lighting and accessories inspired by natural materials and built to sustain the elements let designers fully achieve their visions.” www.palecek.com
Soul Outdoor evolved from an original chair constructed in bent wood by Eugeni Quitllet in 2019. The inspiration for the new model was the same as the last, described by Quitllet as a “link between the concrete and abstract, between the real world and that of dreams, and between past and future – the unspoiled state of creation”. Boasting simplicity and creativity, the armchair’s curved aluminium tubular frame features classical shapes with solid proportions, whilst an ergonomic seat made from shaped teak slats creates additional comfort. The contrasting materials, together with the aluminium’s sheen, make the armchair stand out within outdoor environments. www.pedrali.it
Manufactured in aluminium, teak, concrete and terrain fabrics, the Molo collection by Kettal comprises sofas, a deck chair and a centre table. Designed by Rodolfo Dordoni, the modular sofa features orthogonal geometry based on a rectangular modularity design, and can be easily adapted to meet the needs of various situations and optimise the space in which it sits. Each compartment can also be taken apart and rearranged, creating new uses. 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. www.kettal.com
The Tao table collection, designed by Monica Armani, is characterised by contrasts. The dining table has a thick central pedestal that supports a finely milled round table top, whilst the coffee table plays tricks with symmetry by setting the square table top off-centre. The use of refined concrete lends an elegant yet solid look as well as robust qualities. Available in warm, natural linen and wengé tones, the tables have all been treated with a colourless conditioner in order to ensure minimal moisture and stain absorption, and to make sure they will dry quickly during wet weather. The concrete is shaded in mass, which ensures a long-lasting original colour. www.tribu.com
INDOOR & OUTDOOR FURNITURE - DECORATION WWW.GOMMAIRE.COM
GOMMAIRE ad Sleeper 236x275.indd 1
19/02/2020 10:44
SPOTLIGHT
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190
4.
1. Noah Gommaire
2. Tulip Feuerring
3. Noss PS Interiors
4. Otti Sutherland Furniture
The Noah armchair is a new model within Gommaire’s Outdoor 2020 collection. Due to its lightweight and weatherresistant choice of materials, the chair boasts comfort and durability; the frame has been crafted from powder-coated aluminium, whilst the braid of the seat is made of high-quality rope, and filled with quick dry foam to ensure that there is no need for a seat cushion. Founded in 2015, Gommaire was established following a fusion of ideas and experience from Gommaire Cleybergh, Bert Verelst and Laurent De Greef. The brand now produces collections of interior and exterior furniture as well as a large composition of decorative items. www.gommaire.com
Feuerring’s Tulip fire pit is characterised by its spring-flower shape. Made from steel in the form of a bowl, guests may sit on the ledge, whilst the inner ring serves as a grill. The components are seamlessly connected by a special welding technique that distributes heat evenly and prevents any potential deformation as a result of temperature differences. Tulip comes in five different sizes, ranging from Tulip 40, with a 100cm diameter and 40cm height, to Tulip 80, with a 135cm diameter and 80cm height. The products have been designed with a sculptural aesthetic to complement a range of outdoor spaces and create an inviting source of warmth for people to gather around. www.feuerring.ch
Produced by Italian furniture manufacturer Varaschin and distributed by PS Interiors, the Noss armchair features an aluminium tube frame and a seat in powder-coated aluminium. The chair’s hand-woven back rest is crafted from synthetic fibre rope and comes in light or brown line colourways, while an optional cushion with Dryfeel foam padding is suitable for outdoor use. The structure of the seating is also available in five shades: white, grey, silk grey, bronze and black. Combining tradition and modernity, the Noss armchair balances comfort, functionality and innovative materials, all while paying homage to the ancient craft of weaving. www.ps-interiors.co.uk
Designed by Vincent Van Duysen as his second collection for Sutherland Furniture, Otti comprises 11 pieces that boast slender aluminium frames and woven components – characteristics which allude to the range’s namesake Otti Berger. The series marks the first time the brand has employed Perennials’ highperformance solution-dyed acrylic rope, used within the products’ woven details. Van Duysen’s love of pure materials is reflected throughout the Otti range, with seven lava stone top tables – available in Smoke and Eggshell – sourced from the grounds of Mount Vesuvius, adding mystique to the sculpted frame as well as a sense of rich heritage and history. www.sutherlandfurniture.com
Silhouette Outdoor 100% recyclable PET
Silhouette The new Indoor and Outdoor rug design by Jaime Hayon
Quick ship for standard products and tailor made solutions available. nanimarquina.com sleeper_marรง.indd 1
28/2/20 12:12
SPOTLIGHT
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2.
3.
192
4.
1. Leaf Ferreira de Sá
2. Marlin Coated Fabric Spradling
3. Secret Bay x Barlow Tyrie Barlow Tyrie
4. Bespoke Service 7Oceans Designs
Launched during Maison & Objet in Paris – where Portuguese manufacturer Ferreira de Sá created a stand based on nature, social responsibility and a change of mindset in relation to the planet – the hand-tufted Leaf rug is crafted from a composition of polyester and measures in at 125x250cm per piece, though other colours, sizes, materials and shapes are available upon request. Suitable for interior and exterior spaces, from stair-runner and presidential suite to terrace and gardens, the rug joins a wider collection of over 500 striking carpets and patterns, each of which can be produced in a variety of textures such as high pile and low pile, cut and loop. www.ferreiradesa.pt
Spradling’s Marlin Coated Fabric collection has been created as a response to evolving trends and colour demands. 12 new tones include up-todate neutrals, retro blue and turquoise, as well as a selection of fresh greens and a choice of grey colourways. The faux leather design is finished with a vinyl topcoat, lending impressive weatherresistant properties that make the fabrics suitable for use in a host of different outdoor settings. Furthermore, the product boasts antibacterial protection, an anti-static and anti-stain finish, and is resistance to mildew and UV – making it an ideal match for demanding hospitality environments and extreme climates. www.spradling.eu
Secret Bay, an exclusive, luxury resort situated in Dominica with stunning views across the Caribbean landscape, approached Barlow Tyrie in search of outdoor furniture for its property that would encompass its resort experience and values. The brand proved to be a perfect match for the resort’s objectives, with Secret Bay choosing Haven deep seating and Horizon sun loungers and chairs – each product selected for its build quality, durability and luxurious comfort. The resulting harmonious collaboration between Barlow Tyrie’s furniture and Secret Bay’s villas embodies luxury and exclusivity, all set in a beautiful location. www.teak.com
Founded in 2005, 7Oceans Designs has established itself as a leading brand for supplying bespoke high-end outdoor furniture worldwide. A collaboration with Fieldworks Consultancy Group in 2019 saw the firm supply pieces for the pool area, cliff bar and outdoor theatre at Six Senses Uluwatu, a five-star resort located atop the cliffs at the southernmost tip of Bali. To match the eco-friendly ethos of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, 7Oceans Designs used local materials such as Indonesian teak and lava stone from the island. The in-house designers and engineering teams also provide design support, bespoke services, and highquality products that meet specific needs. www.7oceansdesigns.com
Suppliers of contemporary interior and exterior furniture and lighting Head Office, 11 Cecil Road, Hale, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA15 9NY T +44 (0) 161 926 9398 www.ps-interiors.co.uk sales@ps-interiors.co.uk
AppLess™ Mobile Deliver superb digital guest services directly to your guests’ mobile devices, without the need to download a mobile App.
POINT CAMERA TO SCAN
crave-emenu.com info@crave-emenu.com (0)330 403 0144
SPOTLIGHT
Smart Revolution Smart technology is introducing new ways to enhance the guest experience, with efficiency, ease of use and personalisation placed centrestage.
W
ith data breaches, machine learning and
established behind the scenes as a means to calculate
facial recognition software all in the news,
rates, study loyalty profiles and dictate occupancy-
even the staunchest of technophobes are
boosting strategies gleaned from troves of guest data,
beginning to accept the impact smart technology will
though beyond a few in-room tablets and lighting
have on their lives. Whilst the prefixed ‘smart’ has
interfaces, has yet to spill into the guest experience in
been used to describe everything from a kettle that
a major way. For years guests have been the subject,
can be set to boil from anywhere in the world to the
with smart systems used to translate their data into
vast networks of interlinking digital cloud services
both operational and commercial benefits for the
that allow entire sectors to function smoothly, a
hotel, but a brave new world beckons, and these same
loose definition can be drawn from its acronym:
guests could now see their experience transformed.
Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology.
As guest-facing smart technology becomes
It may now be shorthand for any product that
more accessible, its usage within the context of
improves on outdated analogue equipment, provides
hospitality could serve to generate more of a two-
a new degree of efficiency, removes human effort
way relationship, and whilst few can predict what the
and error, or communicates with analysis software to
hotel of the future will truly look like, this affinity
generate insights, but at its core stand the elements
between guest, hotel and technology will be a key
of information, intuition and control.
presence – here are the products that may well
In the hotel sector, technology in this vein has been
balance the scale.
000
SPOTLIGHT
Chargifi’s SmartSpots can be placed throughout a hotel to ensure guests are never far from a source of power
POWER TRIP
available, increasingly prominent elements of the
Picture the scene: you’re half a world away, surrounded
design scheme itself. Currently starring in the 82
by unfamiliar sockets with no charging cables in
guestrooms of London’s Japanese-inspired Prince
sight. You need access to your maps, your messages,
Akatoki, an interactive television from Portuguese
your schedule – but that last slice of charge on your
specialist Nonius showcases how much more there can
phone faded before border control. Regular travellers
be to these devices than the morning news. Having
will know this scenario all too well, and where some
developed a series of digital features as the hotel’s
hotels might keep a spare adapter behind the desk,
preferred technology partner – including the internet
or have guestrooms with universal ports, there are
service, an online check-in platform and the project’s
nonetheless swathes yet to catch up. Enter Chargifi;
dedicated app – the brand’s interactive television
a wireless charging solution that sees unobtrusive
provides a gateway to the digital guest experience.
SmartSpots deployed throughout hotels to ensure
Supporting all major channel vendors – as well as
guests are never far from a source of power. Bundled
guest content from casting to Netflix – the televisions
alongside the charging function are a series of features
come with cloud capabilities, can be customised with
for use by the hotel, with Chargifi’s smart capabilities
a property’s branding, and incorporates programme
including engagement analytics, content delivery and
guide automation as well as a dashboard for the hotel
targeted advertising services that allow operators to
containing insights extracted from usage data.
deliver personalised value. Offering both parties a way to enhance the stay, Chargifi could prove as useful for
CUSTOMER CUSTOMISATION
hoteliers as it does their guests.
With mass customisation now firmly ingrained in the desires of 21st century guests, allowing them to
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SCREEN MACHINES
personalise everything from check-in time to their
Save for the bed, at the heart of every guestroom is
surroundings has become a powerful driver of both
a television. Rooms are oriented to face it, and, with
emotion and business. Providing a means for guests
sleekly imagined flatscreen and plasma models now
to adjust lighting and temperature levels, as well as
CURTAIN SYSTEM solutions for SMART HOTELS
Engineered for optimal ease of use. Open or close your curtains by using voice control.
Curtain engineering by Forest FOR_Sleeper_advertentie_StayCityBerlin_wowfactor_236x275_190220.indd 1
Easy to incorporate into any hotel automation system.
Forest ShuttleÂŽ: the next level motorised curtain system. Works with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant
www.forestgroup.com
21-02-20 15:09
SPOTLIGHT
control blinds and curtains, Lutron’s myRoom is an
with manual controls, as well as fully automated or
integrated solution that can be tailored to specific
custom-programmed settings to ensure it can be
performance and budget requirements. Available in
enjoyed by the full-spectrum of technology users.
two tiers – Prime and Plus – the system is operated from a guestroom dashboard whilst simultaneously
SHINY, APPY PEOPLE
allowing hoteliers to review energy usage and enable
Whilst hotel apps have become invaluable tools for
full automation. If you know how warm and bright a
hotels seeking to appease the digital generations,
repeat guest takes their room, predicting and tailoring
even those from the largest chains with the deepest
this before they even arrive could be the homely touch
pockets can still feel muddled and stale, usually
that cements their loyalty.
ending up deleted come check-out. It doesn’t help that elements beyond the typical booking services,
Left: Nonius’ Interactive TV can be customised with hotel branding and colours Right: Crave Appless allows frictionless access to digital guest services on personal devices via a simple QR code
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ROLLING BLACKOUT
loyalty programme access and property guides are
As Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant made their
often spread across multiple mediums or devices.
way into our homes, the initial novelty of voice
Guest technology specialist Crave seeks to change
activated services quickly became a key feature of
this with its Appless platform, a solution that sees
smart technology with an interactive slant. Created
guests accessing a hotel’s digital services on their own
to sync with these command hubs as well as most
device via a simple QR code placed in guestrooms,
hotel automation systems, Forest Group’s motorised
relegating the need for downloading a bulky app.
Shuttle curtain responds to a guest’s vocal cues for
Guests can access the usual fare, as well as elements
seamless control over drapery, blinds and curtains.
not traditionally included on these applications –
A silent motor and Kevlar-based belt-drive ensure
think conference offerings, reservation services, local
smooth and durable function, whilst the modular
news bulletins, alarms and TV remote folded into one
motor is able to connect with various other control
– all from the comfort of their phone.
options including wall switches and radio frequency. Beyond voice activation, Shuttle can also be equipped
Luxury Hotel Collection
Since 1924, Sleepeezee is proud to have been working in partnership with world-class hotels to find the perfect sleep experience for their guests. www.sleepeezee.com/contract contract@sleepeezee.com E V E R Y T H I N G’S E A S Y W H E N YO U S L E E P E E Z E E
INTRODUCING
TRAVELER COLLECTION
Erudite woven wonders featuring a combination of unique and arresting designs, adding to Brentano’s renowned collection of fabrics while continuing to highlight our commitment to Beauty + Performance.
BRENTANOFABRICS.COM
SPECIFIER
SPECIFIER
Bolon The Art of Performance Swedish flooring company Bolon has introduced The Art of Performance, a new approach that aims to rediscover the beauty and function of its product lines. Built around four key virtues of designability, sustainability, cleanability and durability, the initiative explores the belief that design goes beyond what meets the eye, with Bolon set to unveil new styles throughout 2020 that prove how woven flooring can become a piece of art. “For us, great design is design that lasts,” explains Annica Eklund, Chief Creative Officer and third-generation member of owners the Eklund family. “You can only achieve that when performance and aesthetics are equally important, when effortless cleanability and maintenance come naturally, and when honest sustainability stands above it all.” www.bolon.com
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SPECIFIER
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Kaldewei Cayonoplan
Klafs Sauna S1
As life expectancy increases and the older generation travel more, the bathroom space must adapt to meet the needs of this advancing age, removing any trip hazards or obstacles that restrict freedom of movement. To combat the problem, Kaldewei has released a series of practical solutions that cater to all generations while remaining stylish. The floor-level Cayonoplan shower surface creates a seamless transition from shower to floor, improving safety and visual appeal. The enamelled XXL surfaces also make the bathroom appear larger and eliminate any edges to trip over, while slip-resistant coatings including Kaldewei Secure Plus offer additional safety at no extra cost. Developers looking to replace bathtubs with floor-level showers can benefit from stress-free and inexpensive installation, with the position of the waste outlet removing the need to shift existing waste pipes. Alongside the Cayonoplan range, Kaldewei’s steel enamel washbasins are available in a variety of sizes and designs, including wheelchair accessible wall-hung models, while its countertop washbasins with wall-hung furniture come in four different designs and are suited to bathrooms where extra utility space is essential. www.kaldewei.com
Measuring no more than a conventional household refrigerator when retracted, the S1 Sauna by Klafs expands across its entire 160cm depth in just 20 seconds thanks to the brand’s patented eMove Technology. The flexible connection technology between the individual elements also ensures that the S1 can easily overcome small uneven surfaces, while its reclining mechanism allows it to be pulled forward by 10 centimetres after the cabin has been extended. Adding to the offer is its ‘frame stability construction’, a wooden sandwich wall structure that weighs in 40% than a conventional sauna yet can handle the same high temperatures and humidity fluctuations. The S1 is available in four sizes with five different styles of external panelling – white, white satin, Swiss stone pine, walnut and oak – and four different fronts: fully glazed with clear safety glass, bronze safety glass, mirror safety glass or with a side window. Meanwhile, naturally grown, knot-free hemlock wood, as well as waxed walnut wood or the marked Swiss stone pine are options for the sauna’s interior panelling. www.klafs.com
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Living Design AB Brovägen 1, 18276 Stocksund, Sweden T: +46 8 755 17 65 info@livingdesign.com
FIND OUT MORE AT LIVINGDESIGN.COM
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Naturalmat House Linen Naturalmat has launched House Linen, a new organic and environmentally-friendly collection for its upholstered beds, such as the Dartmouth range. The heavyweight linen is made from pure Belgian flax certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which incorporates both ecological and social benefits. Based out of Devon in southwest England, Naturalmat has built a reputation for its sustainability efforts over the last 20 years, creating a sleep environment that not only benefits the health and wellbeing of those using its products, but also the environment by forging an ongoing commitment to cleaner supply, manufacture and disposal processes. www.naturalmat.co.uk
&Tradition &Tradition Collect Designed by Space Copenhagen, &Tradition Collect is a new accessories line comprising cushions, throws and planters in subdued, earthy tones of burgundy, slate and sand. Coordinating with other items from the Danish furniture brand’s wider product range, the classic and contemporary pieces come in natural textures such as linen, merino wool and organic cotton, which further accentuate a rustic aesthetic. “As architects, our work pivots around spatial composition and ambiance as we seek to create harmony in a space,” explain Signe Bindslev Henriksen and Peter Bundgaard Rützou, founders of Space Copenhagen. “This collection is a natural extension of that – an architectural fragment that softens and completes the atmosphere that we are always striving to create.” www.andtradition.com
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What a Viu
Welcome to the bathroom of tomorrow. The idea: Soft, organic inner forms meet geometric, precise outer contours. A fusion of different materials – ceramics, wood, metal, glass. The purpose: Perfection from every angle, technology for maximum comfort. The result: Viu. Design by sieger design, realised by Duravit. What a Viu! Duravit London, open now. For more information visit pro.duravit.co.uk
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Astro Lighting Capsule Collection Volume 01 British lighting brand Astro is set to launch its first ever capsule collection of design-led, limited edition pieces. Created by cofounder and Design Director James Bassant in collaboration with Senior Designer Riley Sanders, the range’s three products – the Orb, io Pendant and Halftone – have been produced in line with the company’s ethos that ‘good design demands simplicity’. A fusion between art, technology and science, the Halftone wall light focuses on the simple form of a circle with an etched pattern on a translucent, clear acrylic. Its subtle, gradient pattern begins from the edge of the disc and increases with intensity, creating a vivid ring of light. The transparency of the acrylic also allows the wall to still be visible, both when the light is switched on or off. Designed in two sizes and depths, Halftone can be layered to
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produce more intense and striking illumination. The io Pendant, meanwhile, takes inspiration from the fluted detailing of the ancient Greek Ionic pillars. Using a unique production process of gravityfed glass extrusion, the product takes a circular 2D design and extrudes the glass downwards to create a ribbed cylindrical form. The luminaire’s components are discreetly hidden, allowing the light to subtly reflect and refract. Finally, inspired by the mechanical perfection of an orrery lamp, the Orb light features an illuminated spherical ball, as well as a fully adjustable and magnifying mirror that orbits around the luminaire at its centre. The delicate moving parts are robust with a sense of lightness, masking the complex engineering solution behind them. www.astrolighting.com
Inspiration that covers the world
COATED FABRICS ENGINEERED TO RESIST THE TOUGHEST OUTDOOR CONDITIONS W W W. S P R A D L I N G . E U
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Wewood Vasco Table Designed by Italian studio Variaforma for Wewood, the Vasco Table is inspired by the nautical world and pays tribute to Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Its marine connection is expressed by way of a double-crossed arch structure, which simulates the union between the keel and its traverses, characteristic of wooden boat hulls. The structure further conveys the solidity of the product, with the presence of tensions and opposing forces giving the series strength and design rigour. The table also features a marble or glass top that rests on a wooden pedestal base. www.wewood.eu
MuralsWallpaper Vintage Botanicals MuralsWallpaper has released four new mural designs created using detailed vintage paintings by Pierre-Joseph Redouté. Made up of wallpaper styles named after Redouté’s works, the Vintage Botanicals collection gives new life to his small, intricate illustrations, reimagining them as scenes of jungle-like plant life and flourishing patterns. Original drawings by Redouté from his 200-year-old book ‘Les Liliacées’ are also incorporated into the range. “Everyone is eager to explore botanical curiosities in interior design this year,” says Lead Designer, Jess Howard. “The ‘New Exoticism’ mega-trend identified by WGSN is continuing to emerge, and the Vintage Botanicals wall mural collection embodies its core elements of ‘Surreal Combinations’, ‘Historical Etchings’ and ‘Panorama Walls’.” www.muralswallpaper.co.uk
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Tessello, Rough Concrete, Rising Tide, Leaves, Sorrento, Envy
Newmor collaborate with the 2 Lovely Gays Wallcoverings for commercial interiors, made in the UK 01938 551 990, sales@newmor.com
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Okha Laguna Okha’s Laguna coffee table takes cues from bodies of water, with its organic form and smooth black metal tabletop reflecting the still surface and unknown depths. The table can be customised in a range of materials including wood, stone, metal, mirror and reinforced glass. “The shape of the table was motivated by the area’s landscape as well as the project’s internal spatial layout,” says Adam Court, Creative Director of Okha. The piece was born out of a collaboration with interior design studio Arrcc for Cheetah Plains, a luxury safari destination in South Africa’s Sabi Sands Game Reserve, for which the two created a series of bespoke furniture. www.okha.com
Claybrook Glimmer Stone The Glimmer Stone collection by Claybrook pairs the tactile honed marble surface of tiles with the elegance of polished brass. Sophisticated and contemporary, the series is available in Calacatta Borghini, Nero Marquina and Grey Fousanna marble, while five distinctive geometric forms with delicate brass inlay allow users to play with the layout on installation and customise interior spaces. The ethereal tiles are suitable for walls and floors in bathrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, reception areas and lobbies. www.claybrookinteriors.com
Walter Knoll Muud Sofa Designed by Martin Bergmann, Gernot Bohmann and Harald Gründl of Austrian firm Eoos, Muud is a variable sofa, freestanding or as a cosy corner, for smaller-scale urban floor plans. The seating features soft upholstery and a natural look, while the reduction of materials further benefits it in terms of comfort. The récamière can also be swivelled freely over the floor, while a new down-filled Dream cushion provides the corner of the sofa with a soft and stable padding. “We were determined to create a soft, airy look with as little material as possible,” says Bergmann. “This sofa can do a lot and is very striking in aesthetic terms.” www.walterknoll.de
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FROST by Esti Barnes In collaboration with Nicolas Galtier www.topfloorrugs.com +44 20 7795 3333
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Q&A
Robert Lancaster Gaye Tradelinens Sleeper caught up with Robert Lancaster Gaye, co-founder of Tradelinens, to discuss the company’s approach to design, most recent hospitality projects and plans for the future. How did you get involved in the premium linen industry? I had to choose between seven years of studying architecture or having a job with a textile wholesaler in South London, so I took the job. Having done that for 12 years, I left to run the UK operations for a weaver based in Ireland, before doing a similar role for Frette, and then eventually setting up Tradelinens with my colleague Joe Molloy. Can you describe the philosophy of Tradelinens? Our whole ethos has always been to listen to people in the industry and gauge what they want. It sounds so simple, but what most companies do is have a warehouse full of textiles and sell them to clients. With all the hotels we supply, there are no two buying exactly the same, so our philosophy is to listen and design to fit their needs. What role does linen play in the luxury guest experience? The first thing anybody ever asks of a hotel is ‘did you have a good night’s sleep?’, so it’s massively important. There’s also been a shift towards sustainability as clients now look at the consequences of their purchasing decisions. We’ve been doing the Better Cotton Initiative for a couple of years and were the first to initiate it with our products, helping those growing and weaving the cotton to create something that is as green and carbon efficient as possible. Design: Studiofibre Photography: © Pantling Studio
Rochdale Spears Projects SpeakEasy Phonebooth Designed by Studiofibre for Farfetch and produced by custom contract manufacturer Rochdale Spears Projects, the SpeakEasy Phonebooth is fashioned from vertical layers of high-grade maple plywood slats, its body recalling a visual image of the compressed bellows of an accordion. Born from a fusion of cutting-edge design technology and artistic craft, the sculptural private pod – suitable for open-plan hospitality settings – offers a quiet spot for calls thanks to single-pane glass double doors, a laptop ledge, a leather upholstered lean-seat, lighting and a self-ventilation system. www.rochdalespears.com
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Tell us about some of your recent hospitality projects... We are currently working with Dorchester Collection on two or three projects worldwide, as well as supplying Nobu and Soho House properties across the globe. Here in the UK, we’ve been lucky enough to be involved in Kimpton Fitzroy, The Ned and Belmond Cadogan, as well as The Fife Arms, Grantley Hall and most recently The Pig at Harlyn Bay. What does the future hold for Tradelinens? The legacy for me with Tradelinens is that it’s got a great attitude of looking forward and doing things correctly, both on a personal and ethical level, and that is what it will continue to do going forward. As a company, we’re gradually changing and morphing, looking at some of the products we sell, how it is packaged and who we are working with, but what we won’t do is rush into it. Things will be accurate, they’ll be correct, and they’ll stand the test of time. www.tradelinens.co.uk
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Duravit Happy D.2 Plus Duravit has teamed up with Sieger Design to create Happy D.2 Plus, a new bathroom series comprising above-counter wash bowls, standalone consoles and matching semi-tall cabinets, as well as circular mirrors and bathtubs. The range combines current trends in colour, design and finishes with the archetypical open oval of the brand’s original Happy D collection. Washbasins are characterised by narrow flattened rims and come in three widths, whilst the bathroom furniture features subtly rounded contours, handle-free fronts, low material thicknesses and optional interior lighting for the pull-out compartments and drawers. www.duravit.co.uk
Kvadrat Airfield Designed by Alfredo Häberli for Kvadrat, Airfield is a refined curtain that showcases the designer’s love for chequered patterns. Meeting an increasing demand for curtains that offer the same tight, elegant weave typically associated with upholstery textiles, the range is characterised by a sculptural drape crafted from two differently coloured yarns that form a rhythmic, graphic pattern of small checks. Slightly translucent, it also reveals glimpses of its construction as the light comes in through the window. The palette on offer underlines Häberli’s approach to colour, comprising deep neutrals as well as highlight notes and tone-on-tone contrasts. www.kvadrat.dk
Clippings Product Procurement Clippings is an online marketplace that streamlines the process of furniture and product procurement, delivery and installation for architects and interior designers. The digital platform recently collaborated with B3 Designers – who were up against tight timescales at The Prince Akatoki in London – to find furniture from a catalogue of luxury brands, source alternatives, optimise lead times and reduce costs. To ensure a smooth installation phase, given that the hotel continued operating throughout, the designers also used Clippings’ consolidation service to store all items off-site and organise the delivery of furniture as required. www.clippings.com
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CASE STUDY
CASE STUDY
Trevira Textile Future by Studio Aisslinger
Unidrain Nobis Hotel, Copenhagen
For this year’s Heimtextil exhibition in Frankfurt, Trevira collaborated with Berlin-based Studio Aisslinger to create Textile Future – a special display offering interior designers an opportunity to find out more about the group’s choice of innovative applications, as well as highlighting current and future hospitality trends. Known for his experimental approach to product design and architectural concepts, studio founder Werner Aisslinger – who besides focusing on furniture, has recently completed interior schemes for leading brands such as 25hours Hotels – was particularly interested in exploring how the latest technologies and unusual materials could be integrated into fabric design. To create the stand, situated immediately next to the wider fair’s Interior. Architecture. Hospitality hall, Trevira invited its customers to submit their newest Trevira CS articles in a specific colour range, with over 600 items viewed by the firm’s designers, who then selected around 250 for the show. Studio Aisslinger also gave special recognition to materials – traditionally selected by a neutral jury every year – it deemed to be particularly creative or innovative, which went on to become highlights of the booth. www.trevira.de
Working in partnership with Dennis Bagge, Architectural Advisor at the recently refurbished Nobis Hotel in central Copenhagen, Unidrain created and supplied designer drains for shower cubicles in the entire hotel. 80 bathrooms were fitted with linear models, each with customisable options, while 20 larger spaces were equipped with extra-long drains. The latter required a single drain to cover an expanse of more than two metres, which Unidrain was able to produce to the specific dimensions. “When liaising with the architect on this project, the bathroom solutions were easy to create,” explains Bagge. “This was due to Unidrain’s ability to craft and install bespoke solutions.” Designed with Scandinavian elegance in mind, the bathrooms at Nobis Hotel feature a large bathtub surrounded by marble tiles, a large single mirror positioned above a dark framed washing area, and a washbasin that reflects light back into the room. The shower cubicle maintains this sense of minimalism and is enclosed by a sheet of glass, with the water falling from an oversized shower head before disappearing into the drains. www.unidrain.com
Designed for sleep Creating beautiful long-lasting beds and sofa beds, sustainably designed to maximise comfort, guaranteeing guests have a memorable night’s sleep and leave positive five-star reviews. Working in partnership with hoteliers to deliver tailored sleep solutions and outstanding value. Crowne Plaza Rocco Forte
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Vibia Halo Wall With the introduction of the Halo Wall light, designer Martín Azúa has continued to expand upon his collection of the same name for Vibia. Inspired by the minimalist styles of the 1960s, the wall lamp’s basic unit is a simple light rod resting upon an aluminium base and measuring a metre in length. The fixture can be adjusted by hand into vertical, horizontal, or diagonal positions, while its crisp linear geometry is softened by an ambient glow. The diffuser also ensures that the LEDs imbedded in the rods are invisible, lending the lamp an ethereal look as it washes walls in subtle illumination. www.vibia.com
Sleepeezee More Than A Bed Sleepeezee has drastically reduced its carbon emissions and energy and water consumption, leading to recognition by the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme. As the first UK mattress manufacturer to receive the Planet Mark accreditation, the company has sent zero waste to landfill since 2012 and went fully carbon-neutral in 2017. In addition, its timber is now sustainably sourced under European Union Timber Regulations and is Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, while the firm also champions the Campaign for Real Wool, supporting sustainable practices in sheep farming and promoting the renewable benefits of wool. www.sleepeezee.com/contract/
Santa & Cole Lámina Created by Antoni Arola for Santa & Cole, the Lámina pendant features a black metal structure and matte finish, together with a line of light and thin metal sheet that create soft and effective diffusion. Taking inspiration from painter Mariano Fortuny Madrazo – who deemed reflective lighting essential in achieving the right colour for his iconic homonymous lamp – the collection exploits the virtues of reflected light with simple, clean lines in varying shades and sizes, which are laid bare and fully exposed. Manufactured in Spain, Lámina defines and harmonises interior spaces, whether used alone or as a system in smaller and larger versions. www.santacole.com
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You’ll Like the Cut of This Jib When chic staterooms transform into sprawling verandas with the push of a button, you know cruise lines are sparing no expense in creating extravagant interior designs. With over 100 ships in the orderbook, and countless more due for retrofitting, only the most lavish and luxurious interiors will suffice. Seatrade Cruise Global is the place to provide your passengers with an unforgettable, aesthetically-attractive onboard environment. Design world-class interiors that are as alluring as they are memorable. Save your spot at the only event to bring the entire cruise industry together.
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Jungle Fever
Anantara launches its new jungle bubbles, allowing guests to observe the elephants of Northern Thailand from the comfort of their suite.
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What’s a jungle bubble, you ask? Well, curious
The fully air-conditioned bubbles feature a
reader, a jungle bubble is one of those transparent
bedroom and living space with king-sized bed
domes that have been popping up around the
and seating area, as well as an enclosed shower
world in recent times, either as a novel dining
and vanity, kitted out with bathrobes, slippers
experience or for glamping with a difference. For
and signature amenities.
Anantara however, the structures are a new guest
Guests can stay overnight in these jungle
initiative that enable visitors to spend the night
bubbles with the THB17,700 rate including
with the local wildlife.
a dinner basket and bubble service. And
Installed at the brand’s Golden Triangle
visitors will not only rest easy thanks to the
Elephant Camp & Resort in Northern Thailand,
comfortable interiors; the resort itself was set
the two jungle bubbles offer a unique opportunity
up in collaboration with the Golden Triangle
to watch the area’s native elephants marching on
Asian Elephant Foundation, primarily to care for
by through their natural habitat.
animals that have been abused, or whose original
Perched on a raised wooden deck and clocking
owners can no longer look after them.
in at 22m 2, the jungle bubbles are custom
As hotels seek new ways in which to forge a
designed by Eye in the Sky and constructed from
connection with the local community – whether
an innovative fabric that makes use of Serge
human or otherwise – Anantara has certainly set
Ferrari’s Précontraint technology.
the bar high.