Sleeper - Issue 89

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

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Arctic Bath

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&Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

052

Great Scotland Yard

059

The Newt

067

The Fantauzzo

076

The Prince Akatoki

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Ruby Lucy

089

Harads

© Ben Carpenter

Namibia London

Somerset

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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

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Events 163 096

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Outdoor Furniture & Accessories

177

Smart Revolution

195

Specifier 201 Check-Out

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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

OT T I CH A ISE A ND ROUND OCC ASION A L TA BL E D ESIGNED BY V INC ENT VA N DU YSEN CUSHIONS BY P ERENNI A L S | SUTHE RL AN DFURN ITURE .COM | PE RENN I AL SFABR I C S.COM

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

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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

EDITORIAL

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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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DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

DRAWING BOARD

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

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DRAWING BOARD

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

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“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

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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

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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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056

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

www.aliseo.de

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.

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

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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.

Great British carpet since 1968

Creating beautiful carpets for the hotel and leisure sector.

Proudly designing and manufacturing quality carpet since 1968.

w: newheycarpets.co.uk t: +44 (0)1706 846 375

Staybridge Suites London – Heathrow Bath Road

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.

085

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.

086

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

CAYONO DUO/CAYONOPLAN/PURO WASHBASIN

THE NEW REFERENCE IN THE BATH.

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kaldewei.com

14.02.20 08:59

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

089

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

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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

100

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

106

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

108

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

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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.”

116

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

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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

123

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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128

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.

132

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.

000

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.

The Beyond Collection

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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.

Smart network The JUNG KNX system: Comfortable, safe and future-proof in an elegant design.

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31.01.20 12:43

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

C

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CM

MY

CY

MY

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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

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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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2.

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.

182

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

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SPOTLIGHT

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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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2.

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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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

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SPOTLIGHT

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2.

3.

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

202

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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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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SPECIFIER

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

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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

SPECIFIER

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

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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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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.